Apple obtains new patent: Using chemically textured glass to prevent screen cracks and improve screen flexibility

Recently, Apple obtained a patent for folding screen technology, which describes a new method of using chemical means to create textured glass at the folds of the folding screen. This technology is designed to effectively prevent the glass from breaking during the folding process. The U.S. Trademark and Patent Office published the patent, further demonstrating Apple’s research and innovation capabilities in the field of folding screen technology. Obtaining this patent will provide Apple with more possibilities and competitive advantages in the development of future folding screen devices.

According to the patent content, Apple’s technology uses flexible screen technology to form a display panel through a pixel array. When the device is folded, the display panel naturally bends and the hinge portion acts as a support. The covering is made of special glass material.

This layer of glass is designed to contain a series of elongated grooves that run parallel to and overlap the screen’s curved axis. This design creates a flexible, locally thinned section in the glass layer that allows the device to bend more freely when folded and unfolded, improving its flexibility.

To improve the durability and visual appeal of this area, Apple filled the grooves with polymer and added a rough texture to the thinned inside of the display cover. This design can not only increase the wettability of the polymer in the groove, but also effectively reduce screen reflection and improve the user's viewing experience.

According to the editor’s understanding, Apple shows two schematic diagrams of devices with different configurations in this patent. Figure 1 shows a foldable device, which can be a portable electronic device such as a mobile phone, tablet or laptop. Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the device, clearly showing the device in its folded state. These schematics show Apple’s thinking and exploration of possible design solutions for future foldable devices.

This design allows users to fold the device into a more compact form when they need to store or carry it, saving space and making storage easier. When they need to view the screen content, users only need to unfold the device around the folding axis and lay the screen flat to enjoy a flat image viewing experience. This ability to fold in both directions, both inside and outside, highlights Apple's innovative capabilities and forward-looking layout in the field of flexible screen technology.

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