What causes creases in foldable screens?

Lens adapted to this topic: The hinge and support structure are central

A different engineering emphasis treats hinge geometry and the supporting layers beneath the display as the main practical causes of creasing. In this view, the hinge determines how tightly the screen folds and whether the middle section is supported or allowed to sag. Teardrop hinges, movable supports, and stiffer backing materials can therefore substantially reduce the crease, even though they cannot eliminate material fatigue entirely.

• Some analyses attribute much of the visible crease to a hinge’s tight radius and geometry.
• Teardrop hinges create more room for a gentler bend and can lessen crease visibility.
• Support structures that let the display bow or buttress its middle section are designed to reduce bending stress.
• A support layer that stretches or loses tension can allow the panel to sag into the hinge area and develop a more pronounced crease over time.
• The crease can indicate a focal point for material fatigue, although it is not necessarily itself evidence of imminent failure.

Featured sourceGalaxy Z Fold 4 to address the display crease9to5google.com4 sourcesView sources