Apple patents a hinge for foldable devices with interlocking fingers: see images
Apple has patented a hinge mechanism designed for foldable devices. The hinge designed by the company can be used on a range of devices and may not be limited to the so-called foldable smartphone. While the company’s rivals Samsung and Huawei have already introduced foldable devices with two and three screens respectively, Apple is yet to launch its first foldable device. According to recent reports, it works on smartphones, tablets and computers with foldable screens.
Apple patents a hinge mechanism designed to prevent excessive rotation
Details of Apple’s new hinge design are available in a document published on the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) website (via GSMArena). It describes an electronic device equipped with a hinge structure that bends around an axis, together with a flexible display divided into two sections (Fig. 4).
The company’s patent includes figures showing a hinge mechanism with multiple links designed to rotate relative to each other (Fig. 21), to allow for folding and unfolding of the device. It is also equipped with a friction clutch mechanism with interlocking ‘fingers’ and crescent-shaped slots that can control the movement of the aforementioned links while ensuring that it is not extended beyond a certain limit.
Figures showing Apple’s patented hinge design (tap to expand)
Photo credit: USPTO/Apple
According to Apple, the new hinge mechanism also features two sets of rotating sync gears (Fig. 10), and it appears these are designed to provide precise control over how the device unfolds. The document includes drawings that show the odd and even links that work together to achieve this functionality.
The company has also described a “counterbalance mechanism,” which consists of a spring, a pad, and a roller (Fig. 17). These components would provide a folding torque that counteracts the torque applied when the screen is unfolded, creating controlled (and smooth) motion during this process.
Like other mechanical components, the hinge mechanism would also be subject to wear and tear over time. To minimize impact, the links in the hinge feature curved surfaces, which also allow for smoother rotation. The operation of the mechanism can be seen from figure 22 to figure 25.
The company also describes other components that could be part of the foldable device: these include a camera that is covered when the screen is folded, as well as a two-dimensional array of haptic devices to provide feedback. It would also support audio playback through speakers located on the corners of the flexible screen.
Apple’s latest patent for a hinge mechanism is not indicative of the company’s plans to launch a foldable phone. Given the company’s tendency to keep its plans under wraps until it launches new devices, we’ll have to wait for an official announcement from the company on when it will launch its first foldable device.
