Overview
IEC 62715-6-22:2026 is an international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), which specifies measurement methods and conditions for evaluating mechanical deformations-specifically, crease and waviness-on the surfaces of foldable displays. As flexible and foldable display technologies advance, reliable, repeatable methods for assessing geometric distortions are critical to ensure product quality and user satisfaction. This standard applies to foldable display panels and modules, with provisions that focus on parallel folding axes. The current second edition introduces expanded coverage for multiple-folding configurations and updated data analysis techniques, superseding the previous 2023 edition.
Key Topics
- Scope of Evaluation: Defines how surface creases (permanent or temporary linear distortions) and waviness (long-wavelength surface deviations) are identified and quantified on foldable displays.
- Measurement Conditions: Standardized atmospheric and pre-conditioning guidelines to ensure consistency, including temperature, humidity, and specimen preparation protocols.
- Test Methods:
- Non-contact topography using phase measuring deflectometry (PMD), suitable for high-precision, large-area assessment.
- Non-contact profilometry using laser apparatus for detailed profile data capture.
- Contact profilometry utilizing a stylus, generally reserved for matte surfaces where non-contact methods are unfeasible.
- Specimen Preparation: Step-by-step guidance on mounting, handling, and preparing foldable display specimens for testing, ensuring test reproducibility and minimizing mechanical influence from jigs or adhesives.
- Measurement Locations: Rules for defining and reporting test areas for both crease and waviness, according to panel fold geometry and customer-supplier agreement.
- Data Analysis: Clear protocols for interpreting and reporting the altitude and curvature data that indicate surface creasing and waviness.
Applications
IEC 62715-6-22:2026 is essential for:
- Product Development and Quality Control
Manufacturers of foldable smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other portable devices use these measurement methods to evaluate the longevity and visual integrity of display surfaces after repeated folding.
- R&D and Materials Evaluation
The standard helps researchers compare and improve flexible materials and construction techniques by quantifying how different layer compositions and cover films respond to folding stresses.
- Supplier-Customer Agreements
By establishing clear, repeatable measurement criteria, the standard supports consistent communication and performance verification throughout the supply chain.
- Certification and Compliance
Enables companies to demonstrate compliance with international best practices for foldable display quality during third-party inspection or certification audits.
Related Standards
- IEC 62715-6-1: Mechanical test methods-Deformation tests for flexible display devices
- IEC 62715-5-3: Visual assessment of image quality and defects for flexible displays
- IEC 62341-6-2: Measuring methods of visual quality and ambient performance for OLED displays
- IEC 60050-845: International Electrotechnical Vocabulary-Lighting
- ISO 4287: Geometrical Product Specifications (GPS)-Surface texture: Profile method
- ISO 16610-21: Filtration-Gaussian profile filters for surface texture
- ASME B46.1-2019: Surface Texture (Surface Roughness, Waviness, and Lay)
Practical Value
Implementing IEC 62715-6-22:2026 ensures:
- Consistent Quality: Standardized protocols minimize variability in mechanical testing and reporting, supporting reliable product performance in foldable display applications.
- Enhanced User Experience: Quantitative assessments of crease and waviness help maintain top-tier visual quality-important for brands and end users alike.
- Streamlined Development: Common measurement language and procedures reduce time to market and facilitate global manufacturing partnerships within the flexible electronics industry.
For manufacturers, laboratories, and researchers in the display technology sector, adherence to IEC 62715-6-22:2026 is integral to producing robust, high-quality foldable devices that meet rising global expectations.
Open preview (PDF)Flexible displays - Part 6-22: Mechanical test methods - Crease and waviness measurement methods for foldable displays
