Apple's Latest Patent reveals a Self-Retracting Folding Device Hinge that partially or fully closes during a Drop Event to protect its display

Over the years, Apple has applied for a variety of patents relating to foldable technology. Earlier this year on Feb 16, 2023 we covered about apple’s patent indicating a Folding iPhone or iPad and a Waterfall Display. On Mar 16, 2023, a new patent application (US20230079485A1) was added to the list, this one explaining the capability of the object to fold itself up if it notices that a user has dropped it. According to the patent application (US20230079485A1), this is a strategy to reduce harm in the event that such an accident occurs. Tech giant Apple is looking for ways to prevent serious damage to its screen if the device is dropped. 

Here below are basic details about published patent application.

Title: Self-retracting display device and techniques for protecting screen using drop detection

Publication Date: Mar 16, 2023

Applicant: Apple Inc.

It operates just as it is intended to do; a sensor inside the apparatus, most likely a phone, notices an abrupt rise in vertical acceleration. The phone receives this information and employs a "electronically adjustable latching mechanism" to fold the phone up.

The reasoning for this is because if the phone doesn't contact the ground screen first, display damage can be prevented. The Apple patent states that this is acceptable even if dropped from a low height and does not give the gadget enough time to entirely fold. The gadget will still land on its frame on the sides rather than the delicate screen even with a small fold.

The Apple patent shows the potential for not really having a single foldable display element in addition to the self-folding mechanism. Instead, the device is shown in the patent as having two independent screens that connect when they are unfolded, giving the impression of being one continuous display. Having said that, the patent application itself makes no mention of how this mechanism would operate; only its illustrations describe it.

It is yet unclear whether any of these patents will result in a product that consumers may purchase. Even if it does, it might take some time.