Foldable display device

A foldable display device is provided. The foldable display device includes: a supporting plate and a flexible display screen arranged on the supporting plate. The supporting plate includes at least two supporting sub-plates and at least one restraining structure, in which the restraining structure is configured to connect target side surfaces of adjacent supporting sub-plates, and the target side surfaces are lateral surfaces at edges of the flexible display screen. The restraining structure includes at least two sub restraining structures and a first flexible strap configured to connect adjacent inward-bend restraining structures. When the flexible display screen is bent away from the supporting plate, the at least two sub restraining structures are capable of restraining relative positions of the adjacent supporting sub-plates. The damages to the flexible display screen may be reduced by restraining the positions through the at least two sub restraining structures.

This application is a 371 of PCT Patent Application Serial No. PCT/CN2017/106633 filed Oct. 18, 2017, which claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 201710272778.1, filed with the State Intellectual Property Office on Apr. 24, 2017 and titled “FOLDABLE DISPLAY DEVICE,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a foldable display device.

BACKGROUND

With the continuous development of communication technology, mobile display devices, such as mobile phones and intelligent wearable devices, (for example, smart watches or smart bracelets) are widely used. To guarantee the portability of display devices, some foldable display devices have emerged.

Traditional foldable display devices can achieve the folding function through an articulated connection based on flexible display screens. For example, a foldable display device comprises a folding shaft and supporting plates located on two sides of the folding shaft. The flexible display screen covers the folding shaft and the supporting plates. Any part, covering the supporting plates, of the flexible display screen can rotate around the folding shaft along with the supporting plates to realize the folding of the display device.

However, during the folding of the foldable display device employing the articulated connection, when the flexible display screen is inward bent by an excessively large angle (the angle of bending away from the supporting plates is excessively large), the problem that the flexible display screen is damaged by the excessive bending of the flexible display screen may arise.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a foldable display device capable of solving the problem that the flexible display screen is damaged by the excessive bending of the flexible display screen when the flexible display screen is inward bent by an excessively large angle in the prior art. The technical solutions are as follows:

There is provided a foldable display device, comprising: a supporting plate and a flexible display screen arranged on the supporting plate; wherein the supporting plate comprises at least two supporting sub-plates and at least one restraining structure, wherein the restraining structure is configured to connect target side surfaces of adjacent supporting sub-plates, and the target side surfaces are lateral surfaces at edges of a display surface of the flexible display screen; the restraining structure comprises at least two inward-bend restraining structures and a first flexible strap configured to connect adjacent inward-bend structures; and when the flexible display screen is bent away from the supporting plate, the at least two sub restraining structures are capable of restraining relative positions of the adjacent supporting sub-plates.

In some embodiments, in each restraining structure, when the flexible display screen at the restraining structure is in an unfolded state, the side, facing the flexible display screen, of each of the sub restraining structures at the restraining structure is a plane, and when the flexible display screen at the restraining structure is bent away from the supporting plate, the sides, facing the flexible display screen, of all the sub restraining structures in the restraining structure are combined to form a curved surface of which the bending degree matches with the bending degree of the flexible display screen.

In some embodiments, each of the sub restraining structures comprises a first cubic structure and a first quad-prismoid arranged on a first surface of the first cubic structure, wherein the bottom surface, with a larger area, of the two bottom surfaces of the first quad-prismoid is connected with the first surface of the first cubic structure; the bottom surface with a smaller area is in contact with the flexible display screen; a first longitudinal section of the first quad-prismoid is trapezoidal; and the first longitudinal section is a section parallel to the extending direction of the first flexible strap and perpendicular to the display surface of the flexible display screen.

In some embodiments, the first longitudinal section of the first quad-prismoid is in the shape of an isosceles trapezoid of which base angles are greater than 72 degrees.

In some embodiments, the target side surface of the supporting sub-plate connected with the inward-bend restraining structure comprises a first inclined plane and a first vertical plane. When the flexible display screen is bent away from the supporting plate, the first inclined plane is attached to a side surface of the first quad-prismoid, and when the flexible display screen is in an unfolded state, the first vertical plane is attached to a side surface of the first cubic structure.

In some embodiments, each of the sub restraining structures further comprises a second quad-prismoid arranged on a second surface of the first cubic structure. The bottom surface, with a larger area, of the two bottom surfaces of the second quad-prismoid is connected with the second surface of the first cubic structure. The second surface is opposite to the first surface. The second longitudinal section of the second quad-prismoid is trapezoidal. The target side surface of the supporting sub-plate connected with the inward-bend restraining structure comprises a second inclined plane, which is attached to a side surface of the second quad-prismoid when the flexible display screen is bent toward the supporting plate until the surfaces of the two supporting sub-plates are attached to each other.

In some embodiments, the restraining structure comprises at least two outward-bend restraining structures and a second flexible strap configured to connect adjacent outward-bend restraining structures. When the flexible display screen is bent toward the supporting plate until the surfaces of the two supporting sub-plates are attached to each other, the at least two outward-bend restraining structures are capable of restraining relative positions of the two supporting sub-plates.

In some embodiments, a second surface of the second cubic structure is in contact with the flexible display screen and is opposite to the first surface.

In some embodiments, a trapezoid formed by the first longitudinal section of the third quad-prismoid is an isosceles trapezoid of which base angles range from 60 degrees to 90 degrees.

In some embodiments, the target side surface of the supporting sub-plate connected with the sub restraining structure comprises a third inclined plane and a second vertical plane; when the flexible display screen is bent toward the supporting plate until the surfaces of the two supporting sub-plates are attached to each other, the second inclined plane is attached to a side surface of the third quad-prismoid; and when the flexible display screen is in an unfolded state, the second vertical plane is attached to a side surface of the second cubic structure.

In some embodiments, the at least two supporting sub-plates comprise a plurality of supporting sub-plates arranged in a matrix when the flexible display screen is in an unfolded state. The plurality of supporting sub-plates comprise n-row and m-column supporting sub-plates, and both m and n are integers greater than 1.

When the flexible display screen is in the unfolded state, a gap is formed between two adjacent supporting sub-plates, which are not connected through the restraining structure, of the supporting sub-plates, and clearances are formed in positions on the flexible display screen corresponding to the gaps.

The widths of the restraining structures are smaller than the widths of the supporting sub-plates which are connected through the restraining structures.

In some embodiments, the plurality of supporting sub-plates are connected through the restraining structures to form an S-shaped structure.

In some embodiments, the flexible display screen is a transparent screen, and a preset pattern is formed on a side, close to the flexible display screen, of the supporting plate.

In some embodiments, the supporting plate and the restraining structures are made of a transparent material.

In some embodiments, the foldable display device further comprises a flexible printed circuit FPC, wherein a driver control chip of the flexible display screen is arranged on the FPC; one end of the FPC is electrically connected with one side of the flexible display screen; and the other end of the FPC is bent to one side, away from the flexible display screen, of the supporting plate.

In some embodiments, the foldable display device further comprises a flexible protective shell, which coats the supporting plate, the FPC and the edge of the flexible display screen.

In some embodiments, the foldable display device further comprises a signal output component, wherein the signal output component is provided with a signal output port. The signal output port is in a detachable connection with a signal input port of the flexible display screen, and the signal output component is configured to provide the flexible display screen with a display signal.

In some embodiments, the foldable display device further comprises a power supply component configured to supply power for the flexible display screen.

In some embodiments, the power supply component comprises a power input port connected with an external power supply; and/or a power supply battery.

The technical solutions provided by the present disclosure may include the following advantageous benefits: in accordance with the foldable display device provided by the embodiments of the disclosure, when the flexible display screen is bent away from the supporting plate, two sides of the at least two sub restraining structures are propped against the supporting sub-plates, so that when the flexible display screen is bent to a certain degree, the at least two sub restraining structures perform restraintto avoid excessive bending. Therefore, damages to the flexible display screen may be reduced.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure will be described in further detail with reference to the enclosed drawings, to clearly present the objects, technical solutions, and advantages of the present disclosure.

The present disclosure provides a foldable display device00. The foldable display device00can protect and support the flexible display screen and can realize matrix folding. As shown inFIG. 1-1, the device00may comprise: a supporting plate10and a flexible display screen20arranged on the supporting plate10. Exemplarily, the flexible display screen20may be a Flexible Organic Light Emitting Diode (FOLED) display screen, a Flexible Electrophoretic Display (FEPD) display screen or a Flexible Liquid Crystal Display (FLCD) display screen.

The supporting plate10comprises at least two supporting sub-plates101and at least one restraining structure102. The restraining structure102is configured to connect target side surfaces of adjacent supporting sub-plates101, and the target side surfaces are not parallel with the display surface of the flexible display screen20. For example, the target side surfaces may include at least one surface perpendicular to the display surface of the flexible display screen20. It should be noted that in the present disclosure, the restraining structure is configured to fold the foldable display device. Based on the restraining structure, the foldable display device may realize at least one of the bending modes of being inward-bent and being outward-bent. The restraining structure comprises at least two sub restraining structures and a first flexible strap configured to connect adjacent sub restraining structures. The subsequent embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated by taking an example in which the restraining structure comprises inward-bend restraining structures and outward-bend restraining structures and the restraining structure is not limited hereto.

FIG. 1-2is a structural schematic diagram of a partial structure of the foldable display device00shown inFIG. 1-1after it's folded. As shown inFIG. 1-2, the restraining structure102may comprise at least two inward-bend restraining structures1022and a first flexible strap1021configured to connect adjacent inward-bend restraining structures1022. When the flexible display screen20is bent to a preset angle away from the supporting plate10, the at least two inward-bend restraining structures1022are capable of restraining relative positions of the adjacent supporting sub-plates101. That is, the inward-bend restraining structure may fix the adjacent supporting sub-plates. The preset angle may be 0 degree to 180 degrees. The structure of the inward-bend restraining structure1022may be made reference toFIG. 1-3. As shown inFIG. 1-3, each of the inward-bend restraining structures1022may comprise: a first cubic structure1022aand a first quad-prismoid1022barranged on the first surface of the first cubic structure1022a.

In some embodiments, the first flexible strap may be made of a deformable material with a “viscoelastic property”, for example, rubber, resin, etc.

In practice, the adjacent inward-bend restraining structures may be connected through the first flexible strap in various ways. Exemplarily, the first way is as shown inFIG. 1-1: two adjacent supporting sub-plates101may be connected through a first flexible strap1021, and the inward-bend restraining structures1022may sleeve the first flexible strap1021. For example, a through groove is formed in each inward-bend restraining structure1022, and the inward-bend restraining structures1022are connected in series through the through grooves on the first flexible strap1021. The second way is as shown inFIG. 1-4: the first flexible strap1021may comprise a plurality of flexible sub-straps, and two adjacent inward-bend restraining structures1022may be connected through one of the first flexible sub-straps, and the two inward-bend restraining structures1022adjacent to the supporting sub-plate may be respectively connected with the corresponding supporting sub-plates101through one of the first sub-straps. The way to connect the inward-bend restraining structures and the first flexible straps is not limited in the embodiments of the disclosure.

In conclusion, in accordance with the foldable display device provided by the embodiments of the disclosure, when the flexible display screen is bent to a preset angle away from the supporting plate, two sides of the at least two inward-bend restraining structures are propped against the supporting sub-plates, so that when the flexible display screen is bent to a certain degree, the at least two inward-bend restraining structures perform restraint to avoid excessive bending. Therefore, damages to the flexible display screen may be reduced.

In some embodiments, the at least two supporting sub-plates may comprise a plurality of supporting sub-plates arranged in a matrix when the flexible display screen is in an unfolded state. The plurality of supporting sub-plates may comprise n-row and m-column supporting sub-plates, wherein both m and n are integers greater than 1. Exemplarily, as shown inFIG. 2-1, a supporting plate10comprises a plurality of supporting sub-plates which may include three-row three-column nine supporting plates. The nine supporting sub-plates may be respectively marked with101a,101b,101c,101d,101e,101f,101g,101hand101i. When the flexible display screen is in the unfolded state, a gap γ is formed between every two adjacent supporting sub-plates, which are not connected through a restraining structure102, in the supporting sub-plates. In some embodiments, the nine supporting sub-plates may be connected through the restraining structures102to form an S-shaped structure. Here, the gap γ is formed between the supporting sub-plate101band the supporting sub-plate101e, between the supporting sub-plate101cand the supporting sub-plate101f, between the supporting sub-plate101dand the supporting sub-plate101g, and between the supporting sub-plate101eand the supporting sub-plate101h. The supporting plate is generally made of a metal material or a polymer with high strength, and therefore the supporting plate has high rigid intensity. When the flexible display screen is in the unfolded state, the evenness of the supporting plate at the gaps γ can be guaranteed. Generally, the narrower the gaps γ are, the better. For example, the widths of the gaps γ are generally within 0.2 mm. Small gaps can guarantee the supporting role of the supporting plate to the flexible display screen, and thereby the reliability of the display device is improved. In practice, the supporting plate may also be made of plastic, glass, etc., to guarantee the demand on rigidity, which is not limited herein.

Correspondingly, the shape of the flexible display screen20matches with the shape of the supporting plate10. As shown inFIG. 2-2, a clearance γ′ is formed in the position, corresponding to the gap γ, on the flexible display screen20on the supporting plate10shown inFIG. 2-1. When the nine supporting sub-plates are connected to be the S-shaped structure through the restraining structures102, the flexible display screen20is also S-shaped. The clearance γ′ formed in the flexible display screen may guarantee that the foldable display device can be effectively folded. The narrower the clearance γ′ is, the better. Generally, the width of the clearance γ′ is equal to the width of the corresponding gap γ. For example, the width of the clearance γ′ is generally within 0.2 mm. The clearance γ′ in the flexible display screen is small enough, and the display effect of the display device can be guaranteed when the flexible display screen is in the unfolded state.

It should be noted that in order to guarantee effective folding of the supporting plate, as shown in a locally enlarged area A of the supporting plate inFIG. 2-1, the width x of the restraining structure is smaller than the width y of the supporting sub-plate connected by the restraining structure. Therefore, when the supporting plate10comprises at least four supporting sub-plates arranged in a matrix, an opening g as shown inFIG. 2-1may be formed between every four supporting sub-plates arranged in a matrix and the restraining structures connected therewith.

The restraining structures in the present disclosure may enable the flexible display screen to bend away from the supporting plate and/or toward the supporting plate. In the embodiments of the disclosure, the following four restraining structures are taken as examples for explanation:

A first restraining structure: this restraining structure may enable the flexible display screen corresponding to two adjacent supporting sub-plates to bend away from the supporting plate (also referred to as inward-bending). As shown inFIG. 1-2, the restraining structure102may comprise a first flexible strap1021and at least two inward-bend restraining structures1022sleeving the first flexible strap1021. As shown inFIG. 1-1, in each restraining structure, when the flexible display screen20at the restraining structure is in an unfolded state, the side, facing the flexible display screen20, of each inward-bend restraining structure1022at the restraining structure is a plane and may be attached to the flexible display screen to play a supporting role on the flexible display screen. As shown inFIG. 1-2, when the flexible display screen20at the restraining structure is bent to a preset angle away from the supporting plate10, the sides, facing the flexible display screen20, of all the inward-bend restraining structures1022at the restraining structure may be combined to form a curved surface of which the bending degree matches with that of the flexible display screen20The curved surface may be partially or totally attached to the flexible display screen.

As shown inFIG. 1-3, each of the inward-bend restraining structures1022may comprise: a first cubic structure1022aand a first quad-prismoid1022barranged on the first surface of the first cubic structure1022a. The bottom surface with a larger area of two bottom surfaces of the first quad-prismoid1022bis connected with the first surface of the first cubic structure1022a. In some embodiments, the bottom surface with a larger area of the two bottom surfaces of the first quad-prismoid1022bis attached to the first surface of the first cubic structure1022a, and the bottom surface with a smaller area is in contact with the flexible display screen20. The first longitudinal section of the first quad-prismoid1022bis trapezoidal. The first longitudinal section is a section parallel to the extending direction of the first flexible strap1021and is perpendicular to the display surface of the flexible display screen. In practice, each of the inward-bend restraining structures1022is manufactured integrally.

In some embodiments, to improve the stability of a bendable device which is bent inward, a buckling structure for instance a buckle, may be arranged between the first quad-prismoids in the adjacent two inward-bend restraining structures. A bulge and a groove may also be correspondingly and respectively formed in the attaching faces of the two first quad-prismoids when the flexible display screen is bent inward. When the side surfaces of the two first quad-prismoids are attached to each other, the bulge of one of the first quadrangular structures may be clamped with the groove of the other one. Therefore, the stability of the folded display device is improved.

In some embodiments, the first longitudinal section of the first quad-prismoid is in the shape of an isosceles trapezoid, of which the base angles are greater than 72 degrees. When the flexible display screen is bent away from the supporting plate, the smaller the base angles of the trapezoids are, the smaller the bending radius R1of the supporting plate as shown inFIG. 1-2is (the smaller the bending radius of the flexible display screen is), and the smaller the thickness of the folded display device is. However, the bending radius of the flexible display screen is in a negative correlation with its bending angle. That is, the smaller the bending radius is, the larger the bending angle is. Generally, the limit value of the bending angle of the flexible display screen is 180 degrees. Here, refer toFIG. 1-2, when four inward-bend restraining structures1022are provided, the base angles of the isosceles trapezoids may be 72 degrees.

In some embodiments, the height of the restraining structure102(the height obtained after the first cubic structures are connected with the corresponding quad-prismoids) may be the same as those of the supporting sub-plates, so that when the flexible display screen is unfolded, the restraining structure may well support the flexible display screen. The evenness of the flexible display screen in the display device is guaranteed.

It should be noted that the side surface of the supporting sub-plate connected with the inward-bend restraining structure may comprise: a first inclined plane L1and a first vertical plane H1. In practice, as shown inFIG. 1-2, when the flexible display screen is bent away from the supporting plate, the first inclined plane L1is attached to the side surface of the first quad-prismoid1022b. When the flexible display screen is in an unfolded state as shown in inFIG. 1-3, the first vertical plane H1is attached to the side surface of the first cubic structure1022a, such that the display device00may bend from 0 degree to 180 degrees.

A second restraining structure: this restraining structure may enable the flexible display screen corresponding to the two adjacent supporting sub-plates to bend toward the supporting plate (also referred to as outward-bending). As shown inFIG. 3-1, the restraining structure102may comprise at least two outward-bend restraining structures1024and a second flexible strap1023configured to connect the adjacent outward-bend restraining structures1024. When the flexible display screen20is bent toward the supporting plate until the surfaces of the two supporting sub-plates are attached to each other, the at least two outward-bend restraining structures1024can restrain the relative positions of the two supporting sub-plates101. That is, the two supporting sub-plates may be fixed by the outward-bend restraining structures. The at least two outward-bend restraining structures may play a certain limiting role on the two supporting sub-plates when the flexible display screen is bent toward the supporting plate until the surfaces of the two supporting sub-plates are attached to each other. The two supporting sub-plates are prevented from slight displacement such as shaking and particularly the deflection in the horizontal direction shown inFIG. 3-1.

In some embodiments, refer to the way that the adjacent inward-bend restraining structures are connected through the first flexible strap, the way that the adjacent outward-bend restraining structures are connected through the second flexible strap may comprise the following procedures: the adjacent two supporting sub-plates are connected through the second flexible strap; the outward-bend restraining structures may sleeve the second flexible strap; or the second flexible strap may comprise a plurality of second flexible sub-straps, the adjacent two outward-bend restraining structures may be connected through one of the second flexible sub-straps; and the two outward-bend restraining structures adjacent to the supporting sub-plate are respectively connected with the supporting sub-plate through one of the second flexible sub-straps. The way for connecting the outward-bend restraining structures and the second flexible strap is not limited in the embodiments of the disclosure.

As shown inFIG. 3-2, each of the outward-bend restraining structures1024may comprise: a second cubic structure1024aand a third quad-prismoid1024barranged on the first surface of the second cubic structure1024a. The bottom surface, with a larger area, of two bottom surfaces of the third quad-prismoid1024bis connected with the first surface of the second cubic structure1024a. In some embodiments, the bottom surface with a larger area of two bottom surfaces of the third quad-prismoid1024bis totally overlapped with the first surface of the second cubic structure1024a. The side surface of the third quad-prismoid1024bis propped against the target side surfaces of the two supporting sub-plates101when the flexible display screen20is bent toward the supporting plate10until the surfaces of the two supporting sub-plates101are attached to each other, as shown inFIG. 3-1. The first longitudinal section of the third quad-prismoid1024bis trapezoidal. The first longitudinal section is a section parallel to the extending direction of the second flexible strap1023and is perpendicular to the display surface of the flexible display screen. In practice, each of the outward-bend restraining structures1024is manufactured integrally.

In some embodiments, in order to improve the stability of the bendable device which is bent outward, a buckling structure, for instance a buckle, may be arranged between the third quad-prismoids in the two adjacent outward-bend restraining structures. A bulge and a groove may be correspondingly and respectively formed in attaching faces of the two third quad-prismoids when the flexible display screen is bent outward. When side surfaces of the two third quad-prismoids are attached to each other, the bulge of one of the third quad-prismoids may be clamped with the groove of the other one. Therefore, the stability of the folded display device is improved.

It should be noted that the second surface of the second cubic structure1024ais in contact with the flexible display screen20. When the flexible display screen20is in an unfolded state, the second surface of the second cubic structure is attached to the flexible display screen. As the second cubic structure is attached to the flexible display screen, a supporting role may be played on the flexible display screen, and accordingly, undesirable display caused by collapse of the flexible display screen is avoided. When the flexible display screen is in a folded state, the second surface of the second cubic structure is in contact with a part of the flexible display screen, and the supporting role may also be played on the flexible display screen. The second surface is opposite to the first surface.

In some embodiments, the first longitudinal sections of the third quad-prismoids may be in the shape of isosceles trapezoids of which the base angles range from 60 degrees to 90 degrees. When the flexible display screen is bent toward the supporting plate, the smaller the base angles of the trapezoids are, the smaller the bending radius R2of the supporting plate as shown inFIG. 3-1is (the smaller the bending radius of the flexible display screen is), and the smaller the thickness of the folded display device is. However, the bending radius of the flexible display screen is in a negative correlation with its bending angle. That is, the smaller the bending radius is, the larger the bending angle is. Generally, the limit value of the bending angle of the flexible display screen is 180 degrees. When the flexible display screen is bent toward the supporting plate till the two supporting sub-plates are attached to each other, the thickness of the folded display device is minimal. That is, when the flexible display screen is bent to the limit value (180 degrees) of the bending angle, refer toFIG. 3-1, and when the number of the outward-bend restraining structures is two, the base angles of the isosceles trapezoids may be 60 degrees.

In some embodiments, the height of the restraining structure102(the height obtained after the second cubic structures are connected with the corresponding second quad-prismoids) may be smaller than those of the supporting sub-plates, so that the purpose of further reducing the gap between the two supporting sub-plates is achieved. Therefore, the size of the foldable display device which is folded is reduced.

It should be noted that the target side surfaces of the supporting sub-plates connected with the outward-bend restraining structures may comprise a second inclined plane L2and a second vertical plane H2. In practical application, as shown inFIG. 3-1, when the flexible display screen is bent toward the supporting plate till the surfaces of the two supporting sub-plates are attached to each other, the second inclined plane L2is attached to the side surface of the third quad-prismoid. When the flexible display screen is in an unfolded state, as shown inFIG. 3-2, the second vertical plane H2is attached to the side surface of the second cubic structure1024a. The display device0may be bent by 0-180 degrees.

A third restraining structure: this restraining structure ensures that the flexible display screen corresponding to the two adjacent supporting sub-plates may be bent not only away from the supporting plate but also toward the supporting plate. The restraining structure may be regarded as a structure formed by adding a second quad-prismoid on the second surface of the first cubic structure1022aof the inward-bend restraining structure1022in the first restraining structure shown inFIG. 1-3. That is, the inward-bend restraining structure further comprises: a second quad-prismoid arranged on the second surface of the first cubic structure. The bottom surface with a larger area of the two bottom surface of the second quad-prismoid is connected with the second surface of the first cubic structure. The second surface is opposite to the first surface. The second longitudinal section of the second quad-prismoid is trapezoidal. Correspondingly, the target side surfaces of the supporting sub-surfaces connected with the inward-bend restraining structures comprise: a second inclined surface. When the flexible display screen is bent toward the supporting plate until the surfaces of the two supporting sub-plates are attached to each other, the second inclined surface is attached to the side surface of the second quad-prismoid.

As the inward-bend restraining structures added with the second quad-prismoids have inward and outward bending functions, this form of inward-bend restraining structure is called as a bending and restraining structure in the embodiments of the disclosure.

As shown inFIG. 4, the restraining structure102may comprises a third flexible strap1025and at least two bending and restraining structures1026sleeving the third flexible strap1025.

As shown inFIG. 4, each bending and restraining structure1026may comprise a first cubic structure1026a, a first quad-prismoid1026barranged on the first surface of the first cubic structure1026aand a second quad-prismoid1026carranged on the second surface of the first cubic structure1026a.

The bottom surface, with a larger area, of the two bottom surfaces of the first quad-prismoid1026bis connected with the first surface of the first cubic structure1026a. In some embodiments, the bottom surface, with a larger area, of the two bottom surfaces of the first quad-prismoid1026bcompletely overlaps the first surface of the first cubic structure1026a. The bottom surface with a smaller area is in contact with the flexible display screen20. The first longitudinal section of the first quad-prismoid1026bis trapezoidal and is a section parallel to the extending direction of the first flexible strap1025and perpendicular to the display surface of the flexible display screen. The bottom surface, with the larger area, of the two bottom surfaces of the second quad-prismoid1026cis connected with the second surface of the first cubic structure1026a. In some embodiments, the bottom surface, with a larger area, of the two bottom surfaces of the second quad-prismoid1026ccompletely overlaps the second surface of the first cubic structure1026a. The second surface is opposite to the first surface. The second longitudinal section of the second quad-prismoid1026cis trapezoidal. The base angle of the trapezoid of the first longitudinal section of the first quad-prismoid1026bis different from that of the trapezoid of the second longitudinal section of the second quad-prismoid1026c.

It should be noted that the target side surface of the supporting sub-plate connected with the bending and restraining structure may comprise: a third inclined plane L3, a third vertical plane H3and a fourth vertical plane L4. In practice, when the flexible display screen is in an unfolded state, as shown inFIG. 4, the third vertical plane H3is attached to the side surface of the first cubic structure1026a. When the flexible display screen is bent toward the supporting plate, the third inclined plane L3is attached to the side surface of the first quad-prismoid1026b. When the flexible display screen is bent toward the supporting plate until the surfaces of the two supporting sub-plates are attached to each other, the fourth inclined plane L4is attached to the side surface of the second quad-prismoid1026c.

In some embodiments, the structure of the first quad-prismoid inFIG. 4may be made reference to the structure of the first quad-prismoid inFIG. 1-3, and the structure of the second quad-prismoid inFIG. 4may be made reference to the structure of the second quad-prismoid inFIG. 3-2, which are not repeated here.

A fourth restraining structure: this restraining structure ensures that the flexible display screen corresponding to the two adjacent supporting sub-plates may be bent not only away from the supporting plate but also toward the supporting plate. As shown inFIG. 5, the restraining structure102may comprise at least two inward-bend restraining structures1022, a first flexible strap1021configured to connect the adjacent inward-bend restraining structures1022, at least two outward-bend restraining structures1024, and a second flexible strap1023configured to connect the adjacent outward-bend restraining structures1024. The first flexible strap is parallel to the second flexible strap.

In some embodiments, the way for connecting the inward-bend restraining structures and the first flexible strap may refer to the specific ways in the embodiments of the first restraining structure, and the way for connecting the outward-bend restraining structures and the second flexible strap may refer to the specific ways in the embodiments of the second restraining structure, which will not be repeated herein.

Each of the inward-bend restraining structures1022may comprise a first cubic structure1022aand a first quad-prismoid1022barranged on the first surface of the first cubic structure1022a. The bottom surface, with a larger area, of the two bottom surfaces of the first quad-prismoid1022bis connected with the first surface of the first cubic structure1022a, and the bottom surface with a smaller area is in contact with the flexible display screen20. In some embodiments, the bottom surface with a larger area of the two bottom surfaces of the first quad-prismoid1022btotally overlaps the first surface of the first cubic structure1022a. Each of the outward-bend restraining structures1024may comprise a second cubic structure1024aand a third quad-prismoid1024barranged on the first surface of the second cubic structure1024a. The bottom surface with a larger area of the two bottom surfaces of the third quad-prismoid1024bis connected with the first surface of the second cubic structure1024a. In some embodiments, the bottom surface with a larger area of the two bottom surfaces of the third quad-prismoid1024btotally overlaps the first surface of the second cubic structure1024a. When the flexible display screen20is bent toward the supporting plate10until the surfaces of the two supporting sub-plates101are attached to each other, the side surface of the third quad-prismoid1024bpropped against the target surfaces of the two supporting sub-plates101. The first surface of the second cubic structure1024ais a surface way from the flexible display screen.

It should be noted that a gap is formed between the second surface of the first cubic structure and the second surface of the second cubic structure so as to ensure that the supporting plate may be effectively folded. The second surface of the first cubic structure is opposite to the first surface of the first cubic structure, and the second surface of the second cubic structure is opposite to the first surface of the second cubic structure.

In some embodiments, the specific structure of the inward-bend restraining structure may refer to the first restraining structure, and the specific structure of the outward-bend restraining structure may refer to the second restraining structure, which will not be repeated herein.

Known from the four restraining structures, the design of the restraining structure between the supporting sub-plates meet the demands for different bending directions and bending radii of the flexible display screen, as well as the demand for evenness of the foldable display device after it is unfolded.

In practice, the supporting plate comprises a plurality of supporting sub-plates and a plurality of restraining structures. The plurality of restraining structures may adopt either only one of or at least two of the above restraining structures. As shown inFIG. 6-1andFIG. 6-2, assuming that the plurality of restraining structures in the foldable display device00adopt the first restraining structure and the second restraining structure, theFIG. 6-1is a structural schematic view of the foldable display device00after it is folded, andFIG. 6-2is a structural schematic view of the foldable display device00after it is unfolded.

It should be noted that when the flexible display screen is in an unfolded state, if the supporting plate comprises a plurality of supporting sub-plates arranged in a matrix, the plurality of supporting sub-plates may comprise n-row and m-column supporting sub-plates, and both m and n are integers greater than 1. Thus, the foldable display device in the embodiments of the present disclosure may be folded in various ways to realize display of display interfaces of different sizes. The area of the display interface may be larger than or equal to the area of one supporting sub-plate and smaller than or equal to the areas of m*n+1 supporting sub-plates. Exemplarily, the area of the display interface after the foldable display device is completely folded are approximately equal to the area of one supporting sub-plate, and the area of the display interface after the foldable display device is totally unfolded is approximately equal to the areas of m*n supporting sub-plates, and is generally slightly larger than the areas of the m*n supporting sub-plates. Exemplarily, taking the foldable display device with 3*3 supporting sub-plates for example, as shown inFIG. 7-1, when the display device is completely folded, the area of the display interface W1is approximately equal to the area of one supporting sub-plate. Besides, the display device may be partially folded to realize the image display on the display interfaces on 1*2 supporting sub-plates as shown inFIG. 7-2(the display interfaces are W2), the image display on the display interfaces on 2*2 supporting sub-plates as shown inFIG. 7-3(the display interfaces are W3), the image display on the display interfaces on 2*3 supporting sub-plates as shown inFIG. 7-4(the display interfaces are W4), etc. The display area may be adjusted in accordance with actual demands of users to satisfy various demands of the users. The display interfaces with larger sizes can meet the demand for big-screen display of the users. The display interfaces with smaller sizes may reduce the power consumption and thereby the life time of the foldable display device can be prolonged.

Exemplarily, the foldable display device may be an electronic map including 3*3 supporting sub-plates. When the electronic map is completely unfolded, the flexible display screen displays the map of XX country. The flexible display screen on the 1*2 supporting sub-plates obtained after folding displays the map of a certain region of the XX country, for example, the map of a province. The flexible display screen on the 1*1 supporting sub-plates obtained after folding displays the map of a smaller region, for example, the map of a city.

It should be noted that the plurality of supporting sub-plates in the supporting plate provided in the embodiments of the disclosure may have equal or unequal areas, which is not limited herein, so long as the supporting plate is foldable.

In some embodiments, the flexible display screen may be a transparent screen, generally an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) screen. A Preset pattern may be formed on the side, close to the flexible display screen, of the supporting plate. The patterns on the supporting plate may be formed through vapor deposition, coating and lamination of a film layer or through a patterning process on the supporting plate. The flexible display screen may display the patterns while not displaying images, so that the interestingness of the display device is improved. The patterns may be user-defined before the manufacture of the foldable display device, so that the patterns are customized.

In some embodiments, the supporting plate and the restraining structures may be made of transparent materials, so that the display device is of a transparent structure on the whole. Thus, its customer loyalty is improved.

The flexible display screen of any one of the foldable display devices inFIGS. 1-1 to 1-4andFIGS. 3-1 to 7-4may be equipped with a signal input port. When an external display signal is input from the signal input port, image display can be performed, and thereby the function of the display device is achieved.

In practice, the foldable display device may integrate a display driving function and perform image display under the drive of the display signal per se. The foldable display device integrating the display driving function may have various implementation modes. In the embodiments of the present disclosure, the following two implementation modes are taken as examples for explanation:

A first implementation mode: as shown inFIG. 8-1, the foldable display device00further comprises a flexible printed circuit (FPC)30on which a driver control chip301of the flexible display screen20is arranged. One end of the FPC30is electrically connected with one side of the flexible display screen20, and the other end thereof is bent to the side, away from the flexible display screen20, of the supporting plate10. In some embodiments, the FPC30may be electrically connected with one side of the flexible display screen20through a connector. The driver control chip301may output a display signal to the flexible display screen20to drive the flexible display screen20to display images. Exemplarily, the driver control chip may be provided with a memory configured to store image data to be displayed.

It should be noted that as shown inFIG. 8-2, the foldable display device00may further comprise a flexible protection shell40, which coats the supporting plate (not shown inFIG. 7-2), the FPC (not shown inFIG. 7-2) and the edge of the flexible display screen20. The flexible protection shell40can effectively protect the supporting plate, the FPC and the flexible display screen20against damage. Exemplarily, the protection shell may be a detachable protection shell. After the flexible display screen20is unfolded (in an unfolded state) in the mode shown inFIG. 8-2, the protection shell may be mounted outside the supporting plate, the FPC, the flexible display screen, etc. which are mutually connected. When the flexible display screen needs to be folded, the protection shell may be detached. Or, the protection shell is a housing with one end opened. The area of the bottom surface of the protection shell is slightly larger than that of one supporting sub-plate. The depth of the protection shell is larger than the sum of the thickness of m*n supporting sub-plates and the thickness of m*n flexible display screens. When the flexible display screen is completely folded into the shape, for example shown inFIG. 7-1, the supporting plate, the FPC and the flexible display screen which are mutually connected may be placed in the protection shell through the opening of the protection shell. When the flexible display screen needs to be unfolded, the supporting plate, the FPC and the flexible display screen which are mutually connected can be taken out.

Furthermore, foam may be arranged in the flexible protection shell40to play a buffering role, so that the FPC, the flexible display screen, etc. can be prevented from damages. In the second implementation mode, as shown inFIG. 8-3, the foldable display device further comprises a signal output component50with a signal output port in a detachable connection with the signal input port of the flexible display screen20. The signal output component50is configured to provide the flexible display screen20with a display signal. It should be noted that the size of the signal output component50may matches with the size of the foldable display device. In some embodiments, the length of the signal output component50may be an integer multiple of the length or width of one supporting sub-plate. For example, the length of the signal output component50may be equal to the length or width of one supporting sub-plate.

Furthermore, as shown inFIG. 8-4, the foldable display device00may further comprise a power supply component60configured to supply power for the flexible display screen. The power supply component60may comprise a power input port connected with an external power supply and/or a power supply battery. When the power supply component60comprises a power input port, the power input port may be arranged on one side surface of the flexible display screen and may be a universal serial bus (USB) interface. When the power supply component60comprises a power supply battery, the power supply battery may be arranged at the back (the side away from the flexible display screen) of a certain supporting plate, and may be a lithium battery.

Besides, the foldable display device provided by the embodiments of the disclosure further comprises a control component configured to display a prompt message through the flexible display screen. The prompt message prompts users to select a current display mode from various display modes of the flexible display screen, and controls the flexible display screen to display images in the current display mode after the current display mode selected by the users is received. Thus, the users can select the display modes, and the user experience is improved. The various display modes are in a one-to-one correspondence with the various display interfaces supported by the flexible display screen. For example, the display interfaces on x*y supporting sub-plates correspond to x*y display mode. In the x*y display mode, the display interfaces on the corresponding x*y supporting sub-plates in the flexible display screen display images while other interfaces do not display images, wherein 1≤x≤m, 1≤y≤n, m represents the total row number of the supporting sub-plates in the foldable display device, and n represents the total column number of the supporting sub-plates in the foldable display device.

TakingFIG. 7-2for an example, the display interfaces on the 1*2 supporting sub-plates correspond to a 1*2 display mode. In the 1*2 display mode, the display interfaces on the corresponding 1*2 supporting sub-plates in the flexible display screen display images while other interfaces do not display images.

Certainly, the control component may also be configured to determine the current display interface based on the folding mode of the flexible display screen, so that automatic adaptation of the display modes can be realized, and the user experience is improved. The control component also controls the flexible display screen to adopt the current display mode corresponding to the current display interface to display images. The current display mode is determined among the various display modes. The various display modes may refer to the above explanation, which will not be repeated herein.

Still takingFIG. 7-2for an example, when the control component determines that the current display interface is display interfaces on the 1*2 supporting sub-plates based on the folding mode of the flexible display screen, a 1*2 display mode corresponding to the display interface is determined. In the 1*2 display mode, the display interfaces on the 1*2 supporting sub-plates in the flexible display screen display images while other interfaces do not display images.

In practice, the control component may be a processor or a processing chip. The control component may be arranged at the back of a supporting sub-plate and be electrically connected with the flexible display screen. Of course, when the foldable display device comprises a FPC, the control component may be arranged on the side of the FPC, which is bent till the supporting plate is away from the flexible display screen.

The foldable display device provided in the embodiments of the present disclosure may be an electronic map, an electronic paper, a mobile phone, a tablet computer, a display, a laptop computer, a wearable device or any other product or part with a foldable display function.

FIG. 9is a block diagram of a foldable display device900shown in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The foldable display device900may be the same device as the above foldable display device00. Referring toFIG. 9, the device900includes one or more of the following components: a processing component902, a memory904, a power supply component906, a multimedia component908, an audio component910, an input/output (I/O) interface912, a sensor component914, and a communication component916.

The processing component902generally may control the overall operation of the device900, such as operations associated with display, phone call, data communication, camera operation, and recording operation. The processing component902may include one or more processors920to execute instructions. In addition, the processing component902may include one or more modules to facilitate the interactions between the processing component902and other components. For example, the processing component902may include a multimedia module to facilitate interaction between the multimedia component908and the processing component902.

The memory904may be configured to store various types of data to support the operation of the device900. Examples of such data can include instructions of any application or method operating on the device900, contact data, phonebook data, messages, pictures, videos, and the like. The memory904may be implemented by any type of volatile or nonvolatile memory device or a combination thereof, such as static random access memory (SRAM), electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM), programmable read only memory (PROM), read only memory (ROM), magnetic memory, flash memory, disk or CD.

The power supply component906may provide power to the various components of the device900. The power supply component906may include a power management system, one or more power supplies, and other components associated with generating, managing, and distributing power for the device900.

The multimedia component908may include a screen providing an output interface between the device900and the user. In some embodiments, the screen may include the above flexible display device and a touch panel (TP). If the screen includes a touch panel, the screen may be implemented as a touch screen to receive input signals from the user. The touch panel may include one or more touch sensors to sense touches, slides, and gestures on the touch panel. The touch sensors may sense not only the boundary of the touch or slide actions, but also the duration and pressure associated with the touch or slide operation. In some embodiments, the multimedia component908may include a front camera and/or a rear camera. When the device900is in an operating mode, such as a shooting mode or a video mode, the front camera and/or the rear camera can receive external multimedia data. Each front camera and rear camera can be a fixed optical lens system or have focal length and optical zoom capability.

The audio component910may be configured to output and/or input an audio signal. For example, the audio component910may include a microphone (MIC) that is configured to receive external audio signals when the device900is in the operating mode, such as a call mode, a recording mode, and a voice recognition mode. The received audio signals may be further stored in the memory904or transmitted via the communication component916. In some embodiments, the audio component910can also include a speaker for outputting the audio signals.

The I/O interface912may provide an interface between the processing component902and a peripheral interface module. The peripheral interface module may be a keyboard, a mouse, a button, or the like. The button may include, but is not limited to, a home button, a volume button, a start button, and a lock button.

The sensor component914may include one or more sensors for providing condition assessments of the various aspects of the device900. For example, the sensor component914may detect the on/off state of the device900, the relative positioning of the components. For example, the components may be a display and a keypad of the device900. The sensor component914may also detect position changes of the device900or any component thereof, presence or absence of the user contact with the device900, orientation, acceleration/deceleration, or the temperature changes of the device900. The sensor component914may include a proximity sensor configured to detect the presence of a nearby object without any physical contact. The sensor component914may also include a light sensor, such as a CMOS or CCD image sensor, for imaging applications. In some embodiments, the sensor component914may also include acceleration sensors, gyro sensors, magnetic sensors, pressure sensors, or temperature sensors.

The communication component916may be configured to facilitate wired or wireless communication between the device900and other devices. The device900may access a wireless network based on a communication standard, such as WiFi, 2G or 3G or a combination thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, the communication component916may receive broadcast signals or broadcast-related information from an external broadcast management system via broadcast channels. In an exemplary embodiment, the communication component916can also include a near field communication (NFC) module to facilitate short-range communication. For example, the NFC module may be implemented based on radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, infrared data association (IrDA) technology, ultra wideband (UWB) technology, Bluetooth (BT) technology and other techniques.

In an exemplary embodiment, the device900may be implemented by one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), digital signal processing devices (DSPDs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field programmable gate array (FPGA), a controller, a microcontroller, a microprocessor, or other electronic components.

In conclusion, in accordance with the foldable display device provided in the embodiments of the disclosure, when the flexible display screen is bent to a preset angle away from the supporting plate, two sides of the at least two inward-bend restraining structures are propped against the supporting sub-plates, so that when the flexible display screen is bent to a certain degree, the at least two inward-bend restraining structures perform restraint to avoid excessive bending. Therefore, damages to the flexible display screen may be reduced and the life time of the flexible display device is prolonged.

The foregoing are only some embodiments of the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. Within the spirit and principles of the disclosure, any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., are within the scope of protection of the present disclosure.