Earlier this week, a patent application that Apple had previously applied for had been granted. The patent was for a new foldable device which features a unique hinge mechanism that allows the flaps to move, preventing the device’s display from creasing or getting damaged when folding.
The patent was published by the US Patent and Trademark Office and provides a description of the new hinge mechanism. According to the Apple patent, the hinge is capable of providing separation between the two halves of the display from the middle, allowing for the flap to converge when unfolded and separate when being folded inward.
The new hinge mechanism is being implemented to tackle a fundamental issue that plagues smartphones with a foldable display, i.e creasing. Examples of this would be Samsung Galaxy Fold and Huawei Mate X. These handsets are successful in implementing the display but still suffer from the crease problem. However, the new hinge mechanism detailed by Apple seeks to prevent this altogether.
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From the images, it can be observed that the hinge is not a centralized and singular mechanism. The images detail its functioning and movement that cojoins both halves of the display via a twin movable mechanism.
Foldable smartphones target a niche market of smartphone enthusiasts. As it stands right now, the handsets are not commercially viable for a broader audience and market. But, innovation and further development could lead to a few unique and affordable designs being adopted in the future. Apple seems to be looking into the design as well, considering this isn’t its first foldable smartphone patent.
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(Via)
