Viscoelastic Fluid Layers for Flexible Display Impact Resistance

The patent applies shear-thickening fluid (STF) material whose mechanical properties dynamically change based on applied stress. Under normal bending conditions, the STF remains soft and flexible, but upon impact, it rapidly increases in stiffness to provide protection. This parameter change allows the same material to satisfy both flexibility and impact resistance requirements

The patent creates a composite structure by combining STF with fabric layers to form an STF-coated fabric layer. This composite material integrates the flexibility of fabric with the shear-thickening properties of STF, achieving both adaptability for bending and strength for impact resistance through the synergistic combination of different materials

The STF layer provides dynamic protection by remaining soft during normal use and bending, then rapidly stiffening upon impact to protect against external forces. This eliminates the need for rigid outer glass while maintaining protection capabilities when needed

The STF-coated fabric layer serves as an intermediary protective layer between the display panel and external environment, replacing traditional outer glass. It provides the necessary protection against external forces while maintaining flexibility and enabling bending capability

The patent places STF-filled protective layers at critical locations including near the hinge structure. These layers provide beforehand cushioning that activates upon impact to protect the hinge from damage, reducing vulnerability before actual damage occurs

The STF-coated fabric layers act as intermediary protective elements between external impact forces and the hinge structure. They absorb and distribute impact forces, protecting the hinge from direct damage while maintaining its bending assistance function