Transverse Compression Cam for Foldable Display Angle Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing handheld touch screen devices are cumbersome for physical interaction, have limited viewing capacity, and are not easily portable due to their rigid nature, necessitating a solution for adjusting size and stabilizing the folded angle of a foldable device.
Innovation Solution
A foldable touch screen display device with flexible segments and a transverse compression cam mechanism that allows the device to be folded from a compact state to an expanded state, stabilizing the folded angle and locking the device in either state using a compression spring and pin mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the display device is made rigid to maintain structural stability, then the structural stability is improved, but the portability and flexibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The display device is divided into multiple flexible segments that can be folded relative to each other around a hinge. Each segment maintains structural integrity while the overall device becomes adaptable through folding configurations, resolving the contradiction between rigidity and flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The device transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic foldable structure. The hinge mechanism allows the display to change its configuration between folded and unfolded states, providing both structural stability when closed and portability when folded.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the display device is made foldable to improve portability, then the portability is improved, but the stability of the folded angle deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The compression spring automatically engages with the cam mechanism to lock the display at desired angles without requiring external intervention. The spring force maintains continuous pressure on the cam, ensuring the folded angle remains stable and self-regulating.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a hinge mechanism is added to enable folding, then the flexibility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism is integrated directly into the hinge structure, combining the folding function with the angle stabilization function in a single unified component. This merging reduces the overall complexity compared to having separate hinge and locking mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism serves multiple functions: it acts as part of the hinge structure, provides angle stabilization through spring compression, and enables locking at various folded positions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components.
4Area of stationary object
If the display size is increased to improve viewing capacity, then the viewing capacity is improved, but the portability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The large display is segmented into multiple sections that can be folded together. When unfolded, the segments form a large viewing area; when folded, they compact into a smaller portable form factor, resolving the contradiction between display size and portability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables a device that can be easily adjusted in size for convenience and portability, while maintaining stability and optimal viewing angles, enhancing user interaction and application usability.
Implementation Method 1
a mechanism for stabilizing the folded angle at any angle including at the fully unfolded or folded state would be advantageous
Implementation Method 2
a cam mechanism to stabilize the folded angle of the device's display segments as they are folded along their hinge and to lock the device in an unfolded or folded state through the utilization of a compression spring to force a pin against a cam
Data Source
AI summary
A foldable touch screen display device made up of flexible segments that can be folded from a compact state to an expanded state which also includes a transverse compression cam mechanism is described. The form factor of the compact state is roughly the size of a typical handheld phone or smaller. The form factor of the expanded state is roughly the size of a larger phone or tablet computer, which may also have the size and mechanical functionality of a laptop. The device form factor may also be a flip phone configuration. Both folded states may include an integrated speaker and microphone. The transverse compression cam mechanism is utilized to stabilize the folded angle of the device's display segments as they are folded along their hinge and to lock the device in an unfolded or folded state. The device may further include sensors to indicate the position of each display segment.