Variable-Mask Etching for Reliable Foldable Glass Windows
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for manufacturing foldable windows, particularly those using ultra-thin glass, lack efficiency and reliability in achieving a foldable characteristic.
Innovation Solution
An etching device with a stage, nozzle, and a mask part comprising first and second masks that operate in different modes to control the spacing between them, allowing precise etching of windows with varying widths, using a fluorine-based etchant and controlled movement speeds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing methods are used to manufacture foldable windows, then the manufacturing process can be completed, but the reliability and efficiency of achieving foldable characteristics are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The mask part transitions from a static configuration to a dynamic one, where the second mask can be moved between a first position (spaced from the first mask by a first width) and a second position (spaced from the first mask by a second width greater than the first width). This dynamic adjustment allows precise control over the etching width to reliably achieve foldable characteristics while maintaining manufacturing efficiency through automated positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the spacing parameter between the first mask and second mask during the etching process. By adjusting the distance from a first width to a second width (where the second width is greater), the etching width is precisely controlled. This parameter change enables reliable formation of foldable characteristics while optimizing the etching process efficiency.
2Manufacturing precision
If a fixed mask spacing is used during etching, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the precision of etching width control is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The mask part incorporates a movable second mask that can be positioned at different distances from the first mask. This dynamic positioning system, controlled by a moving device, allows precise adjustment of the etching width while maintaining relatively simple device structure through straightforward mechanical or automated positioning mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the mask part operates in a single mode with fixed spacing, then the device structure is simple, but the adaptability to different etching requirements is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The mask part is designed with dynamic adjustability, allowing the second mask to be moved between different positions to create varying spacing from the first mask. This enables the same mask part to adapt to different etching width requirements without changing the overall device structure, maintaining simplicity while achieving versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The mask part serves multiple functions: it can operate in a first mode with a first spacing for standard etching, and in a second mode with a second spacing for enhanced foldable characteristic formation. This multi-functionality allows a single mask part design to handle various etching requirements, improving adaptability without requiring multiple specialized components.
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 the production of foldable windows with improved reliability and efficiency through a simple process, enhancing the foldable characteristics of display devices.
Implementation Method 1
providing an etchant on the target substrate through a gap between the first mask and the second mask... The etchant may include a compound including or consisting of fluorine, such as hydrofluoric acid
Data Source
AI summary
An etching device includes a stage on which a target substrate is disposed, a nozzle which opposes the stage with the target substrate therebetween and injects an etchant toward the stage, and a mask part including a first mask and a second mask and disposed between the target substrate and the nozzle. The mask part operates in one of a first mode and a second mode. In the first mode, the second mask is spaced from the first mask by a first width in a first direction, and in the second mode, the second mask is spaced from the first mask by a second width in the first direction. The second width is greater than the first width.