Development and evaluation of bend-testing techniques for flexible-display applications

Two different approaches to automated bend testing of flexible substrates for display applications were implemented and characterized: a conventional collapsing radius geometry and a novel technique called the “X-Y-” geometry. Indium tin oxide (ITO) coated polymer substrates were used to compare the performance of the two automated systems by in-situ electrical-resistance measurements. Manual bending on fixed-diameter mandrels was used to help interpret the results. The advantages and drawbacks of the two systems for providing information of practical use to flexible display R&D are discussed.