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OPPO’s zero-feel crease technology in Find N6 minimizes creasing by an impressive 82%

oppo Find N6
Photo: oppo Find N6- Divulgação

Mobile technology giant OPPO recently revealed crucial details about the hinge and display innovations that will power its next foldable smartphone, the highly anticipated Find N6. The company aims to solve one of the biggest challenges facing flexible devices: the visibility of the crease on the screen.

To this end, OPPO introduced an industry-first technology, “Zero-Feel Crease”, designed to eradicate the bend mark. Esta solution combines a second-generation titanium hinge with a unique 3D printing process, achieving a level of flatness that transcends hitherto conventional capabilities.

The global launch of the Find N6 is scheduled for March 17th, and the expectation is that this device will mark a new level for the foldable smartphone category, promising an unprecedented user experience for consumers. Innovation focused on user experience and durability can redefine the market.

Innovative hinge redefines folding screen experience

The internal support structure, which is critical to the flatness of the screen, received special attention in the development of the Find N6. Para ensure maximum uniformity, the device incorporates the advanced second generation Titanium Flexion hinge. Este component is manufactured using a 3D liquid printing process, a new technique in the smartphone industry.

This innovative approach begins with the creation of a high-precision digital model, which is generated using laser scanning. Pequenas drops of photocurable resin, measuring just 5 picoliters, are then sprayed to fill any minute imperfections in the surface.

Manufacturing precision: the liquid 3D printing revolution

The 3D liquid printing method used in the Find N6 hinge involves a meticulous curing process. The pulverized resin is subjected to a UV light curing cycle that is repeated more than 20 times. Essa repetition guarantees the solidification and leveling of the surface with extreme precision.

Thanks to this strict manufacturing control, OPPO’s engineering team was able to reduce the variation in the height of the hinge parts by approximately 75%. Anteriormente, the variation was 0.2 mm, but was reduced to a notable 0.05 mm, a significant advance that directly impacts the quality of the screen.

Essa precision resulted in the smoothing of the joints of the support structure located under the screen, to a level that becomes visually indistinguishable to the user. Além Additionally, the teardrop hinge design has been expanded by 11%, which amplifies the bending radius and consequently reduces the mechanical stress applied to the panel. This optimization contributes to a longer display lifespan and a more fluid visual experience.

Self-smoothing glass ensures strength and durability

The newly developed technology, called “Auto-Smoothing Flex Glass”, is one of the big stars of the Find N6, ensuring the original flatness of the screen glass. Este exclusive material features an innovative composition that differentiates it from conventional ultra-thin glasses (UTG) used in other foldable devices.

Compared to standard UTG, the Find N6’s “Auto-Smoothing Flex Glass” is 50% thicker, which naturally contributes to greater sturdiness without compromising flexibility. However, its main advantage lies in its elastic and shape recovery properties.

The new glass demonstrates approximately 100% better shape recovery, allowing the screen to return to its original condition more efficiently after being bent. Adicionalmente, its resistance to deformation is an impressive 338% greater, which makes it considerably more resilient to the pressures and mechanical stresses of daily use.

The material is designed to act as a structural spring, offering superior elasticity to compensate for any minor misalignment that may occur in the adhesive layer when the device is opened. Essa feature is vital to prevent the deepening of screen wrinkles over time, a common problem that affects the longevity of foldable smartphones and the user’s visual experience.

Exceptional durability: rigorous testing and certifications

The pursuit of durability is a priority for OPPO, and the Find N6 has undergone rigorous testing to ensure its longevity. The results of these tests are remarkable and demonstrate the company’s commitment to the quality and resistance of its products.

Independent tests, conducted by the renowned TÜV Rheinland, of Alemanha, confirm the effectiveness of the new technology. The data shows that the innovation is capable of reducing the depth of creases in the long term by up to 82% when compared to conventional foldable smartphone models, demonstrating a significant advance.

Rugged construction and advanced protection of the Find N6

To ensure the resistance of the Find N6 against the wear and tear of continuous use, the device adopts a comprehensive protective structure, named “Armor Shield”. Esta armor is made up of a combination of high-performance materials and advanced engineering.

Key elements of the “Armor Shield” structure:
– Liga grade 5 titanium: used in the hinge box and wings, manufactured by 3D printing, provides lightness and high resistance.
– Aço of ultra-high resistance: with 2200 MPa, it makes up the main internal structure, offering support and rigidity.
– Alumínio aerospace grade 7000 series: used in the external structure, guarantees durability without adding excessive weight.

The TÜV Rheinland certification confirms that the Find N6’s screen maintains its flatness even after 600,000 folds, and the device has been tested to withstand an impressive 1 million folds. Além In addition, the smartphone received triple water and dust resistance certification: IP56, IP58 and IP59, guaranteeing protection against splashes, daily immersion and even high temperature and pressure water jets. The external screen is equipped with nanocrystalline glass, 20% more resistant to drops, and the back cover, made of aircraft-grade fiber, is 43% thinner than conventional glass, maintaining high durability in impact and drop tests.

Potential impact on the foldable smartphone market

By resolving screen crease challenges and durability concerns, OPPO’s Find N6 is positioned to catalyze greater acceptance of foldable smartphones. By integrating advanced manufacturing technology and innovative materials, OPPO not only enhances user experience but also sets new standards for the flexible device industry. The expectation is that this launch will stimulate innovation and growth in the segment, making foldables a more attractive and viable option for a wider audience.