Damping mechanism, rotating shaft mechanism and terminal

Abstract

The application provides a damping mechanism, a rotating shaft mechanism and a terminal. The damping mechanism comprises a support, a synchronous assembly and a damping assembly. The synchronous assembly comprises two synchronous rods rotationally connected with the support. The damping assembly comprises a floating block and two elastic assemblies. The floating block is slidingly connected with the support and can slide along the thickness direction of the support. The two elastic assemblies are arranged on the two sides of the floating block. The two ends of each elastic assembly are rotationally connected with the synchronous rod and the floating block on the same side, and the elastic force of the elastic assembly presses against the floating block and the synchronous rod on the same side. When the synchronous rods rotate synchronously, the elastic assemblies push the floating block to slide in a first direction. In the process of pushing the floating block to slide, the elastic assemblies provide damping force for the terminal when being folded or unfolded by deforming, so that the damping force can be flexibly adjusted. In addition, the elastic force of the elastic assemblies is enclosed between the floating block and the synchronous rod, which is beneficial to the modular design of the damping mechanism and can reduce the material requirements of other parts.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of terminal technology, and in particular to a damping mechanism, a rotating shaft mechanism and a terminal. Background Technology

[0002] The maturity of flexible screen technology has led to significant changes in the way terminals display information, with foldable phones being one of the most prominent applications. Other applications of flexible screens include rollable, side-sliding, and other terminal forms. Because its display can flexibly switch modes according to different usage scenarios, it is becoming the main direction for next-generation mobile phone development by mainstream device manufacturers.

[0003] For flexible terminal devices to achieve different form factors, the most crucial component is the hinge in the middle. Depending on the product's form, it can achieve functions such as folding, rolling, and sliding. Generally, users directly operate the hinge by hand when switching between these forms in consumer electronics. When a user performs a folding operation (opening, holding, closing), the feedback force or tactile feedback from the folding mechanism is a crucial technical characteristic of the folding device. The tactile feedback can determine whether a user is willing to buy and use the phone. However, existing damping mechanisms cannot provide adequate damping, resulting in a poor user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a damping mechanism, a rotating shaft mechanism, and a terminal, which improve the structure of the damping mechanism and enhance the damping effect.

[0005] In a first aspect, a damping mechanism is provided to provide damping force when a terminal is folded or unfolded. The damping mechanism includes a support, a synchronization assembly, and a damping assembly; wherein the support serves as a support structure to support the synchronization assembly and the damping assembly. The synchronization assembly includes two synchronously rotating rods, each of which can be connected to two housings of the terminal to achieve synchronous rotation of the two housings. The two synchronous rods are located on both sides of the support and are rotatably connected to the support. The damping assembly includes a floating block and two elastic components; wherein the floating block is slidably connected to the support and can slide along a first direction, the thickness direction of the support. The two elastic components are located on both sides of the floating block, and a first end of each elastic component is rotatably connected to the end of a synchronization rod located on the same side away from the support, and a second end is rotatably connected to the floating block. Each of the synchronizing rods is parallel to the rotation axis of the support, each of the elastic components is parallel to the rotation axis of the synchronizing rod on the same side, and each of the elastic components is parallel to the rotation axis of the floating block. One end of each elastic component presses against the floating block, and the other end presses against the end of the synchronizing rod on the same side away from the support. This allows the floating block, the synchronizing rod on the same side, and the elastic components to form a slider-linkage mechanism. When the two synchronizing rods rotate synchronously, the elastic components can push the floating block to slide in a first direction. Furthermore, during the sliding of the floating block, the deformation of the elastic components changes, thereby providing damping force when the terminal is folded or unfolded. This structure provides a novel damping structure, allowing for flexible adjustment of the damping force by adjusting the elastic force of the elastic components. Additionally, the elastic force of the elastic components is confined between the floating block and the synchronizing rod, which facilitates modular design of the damping mechanism and prevents the force on the elastic components from affecting parts outside the damping mechanism, thus appropriately reducing the material requirements for other parts.

[0006] In one specific implementation, the floating block can slide along the first direction to a first predetermined position and a second predetermined position; along the first direction, the first predetermined position is away from the rotation axis of the synchronizing rod and the bracket; the second predetermined position is close to the rotation axis of the synchronizing rod and the bracket; the deformation of each elastic component when the floating block is in the first predetermined position is less than the deformation when the floating block is in the second predetermined position. Different damping forces can be provided by different deformations when the terminal is folded.

[0007] In one specific implementation scheme, each synchronizing rod is rotatably connected to the bracket via a first rotating shaft; the first end of each elastic component is rotatably connected to the synchronizing rod located on the same side via a third rotating shaft, and the second end is rotatably connected to the floating block via a second rotating shaft; at the first set position, the distance between the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft is d1; the distance between the second rotating shaft and the third rotating shaft is d2; at the second set position, the distance between the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft is d3; the distance between the second rotating shaft and the third rotating shaft is d4; wherein d1, d2, d3, and d4 satisfy: d1 > d3, and d2 > d4. Different damping forces can be provided through different deformations when the terminal is folded.

[0008] In one specific implementation, at the second set position, the axes of the first and second rotating shafts coincide. As the mobile terminal continues to fold, the damping mechanism provides a constant damping force.

[0009] In one specific implementation, the floating block can slide along the first direction to a first predetermined position, a second predetermined position, and a third predetermined position; wherein, along the first direction, the first predetermined position and the third predetermined position are located on opposite sides of the second predetermined position; the first predetermined position is away from the rotation axis of the synchronizing rod and the bracket; the third predetermined position is close to the rotation axis of the synchronizing rod and the bracket; the deformation of each elastic component in the second predetermined position is greater than the deformation of the elastic component in the first predetermined position and greater than the deformation of the elastic component in the third predetermined position. This allows for the provision of damping force during both folding and unfolding.

[0010] In one specific implementation scheme, each synchronizing rod is rotatably connected to the bracket via a first rotating shaft; the first end of each elastic component is rotatably connected to the synchronizing rod located on the same side via a third rotating shaft, and the second end is rotatably connected to the floating block via a second rotating shaft; at the first set position, the distance between the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft is d1; the distance between the second rotating shaft and the third rotating shaft is d2; at the second set position, the distance between the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft is d3; the distance between the second rotating shaft and the third rotating shaft is d4; at the third set position, the distance between the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft is d5; the distance between the second rotating shaft and the third rotating shaft is d6; wherein d1, d2, d3, d4, d5, and d6 satisfy: d1 > d3; d2 > d4; d5 > d3; d6 > d4.

[0011] In one specific implementation, the bracket is provided with a limiting protrusion for limiting the floating block at the first predetermined position. The limiting protrusion limits the maximum displacement of the floating block's sliding.

[0012] In one specific implementation, each elastic component includes: an adapter, a spring, and a spring frame; wherein the spring frame is rotatably connected to the floating block; the adapter is rotatably connected to a synchronizing rod located on the same side; and the adapter is slidably connected to the spring frame and can slide along a second direction, the second direction being perpendicular to the rotation axis of the elastic component relative to the floating block; the spring is located between the spring frame and the adapter, and both ends of the spring respectively abut against the spring frame and the adapter. Damping force is provided by the spring.

[0013] In one specific implementation, the spring frame includes a body and a guide post disposed on the body; the spring is fitted onto the guide post; the adapter is provided with a through hole that slides with the guide post.

[0014] In one specific implementation, the adapter is a U-shaped structure, and an elongated hole is provided on the side wall of the U-shaped structure; the synchronizing rod on the same side is provided with a pin that is inserted into the elongated hole and can slide and rotate within the elongated hole. This facilitates the connection between the adapter and the synchronizing rod.

[0015] In one specific implementation, there are multiple springs arranged along a third direction parallel to the first axis of the support. This provides a larger damping force.

[0016] In one specific implementation, the elastic component is a leaf spring or a plastic spring; the first end of the leaf spring or plastic spring is rotatably connected to a synchronizing rod located on the same side, and the second end is rotatably connected to the floating block. This also achieves the provision of damping force.

[0017] In one specific implementation, the support is provided with a guide rail extending along the first direction, and the floating block is provided with a groove that mates with the guide rail. This facilitates the sliding effect between the floating block and the support.

[0018] In one specific implementation scheme, gears are respectively provided at the opposite ends of the two synchronizing rods, each damping rod is rotatably connected to the bracket through the gear, and the two synchronizing rods achieve synchronous rotation through gear meshing.

[0019] Secondly, a rotating shaft mechanism is provided, comprising a main shaft assembly, a swing assembly, and a damping mechanism as described in any of the above embodiments; the swing assembly includes two swing plates located on both sides of the axis of the main shaft assembly, and two synchronizing rods are rotatably connected to the two swing plates respectively. In the above structure, a novel damping structure is provided, which allows for flexible adjustment of the damping force and can provide a smaller damping force when no damping force is required.

[0020] In one specific implementation, the bracket and the spindle assembly are an integral structure.

[0021] Thirdly, a terminal is provided, comprising a first housing, a second housing, and a rotating shaft mechanism; wherein the first housing and the second housing are respectively arranged on both sides of the rotating shaft mechanism, and the first housing and the second housing are rotatably connected through the rotating shaft mechanism; the rotating shaft mechanism is the aforementioned rotating shaft mechanism. In the above structure, the damping force can be flexibly adjusted by adjusting the elastic force of the elastic component. In addition, the elastic force of the elastic component is confined between the floating block and the synchronous connecting rod, which on the one hand facilitates the modular design of the damping mechanism, and on the other hand, the force on the elastic component will not affect the parts outside the damping mechanism, thus appropriately reducing the material requirements of other parts. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a display device in the prior art;

[0023] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the display device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0024] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the damping mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0025] Figure 4 This is an exploded view of an embodiment of this application;

[0026] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the bracket provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0027] Figure 6 This is an exploded view of a floating block provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0028] Figure 7 An exploded view of the first elastic component and the floating block provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0029] Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the first elastic component provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0030] Figure 9A schematic diagram of the state of the damping mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application when the terminal is deployed;

[0031] Figure 10 for Figure 9 The diagram shows the equivalent slider linkage of the damping mechanism.

[0032] Figure 11 A schematic diagram of the state of the damping mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application during the terminal folding process;

[0033] Figure 12 for Figure 11 The diagram shows the equivalent slider linkage of the damping mechanism.

[0034] Figure 13 A schematic diagram of the damping force provided by the damping mechanism in the embodiments of this application;

[0035] Figures 14-17 This is a schematic diagram of a slider link, which is an equivalent of another damping mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application, during the terminal folding process. Detailed Implementation

[0036] To facilitate understanding of the damping mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application, several terms related to the damping mechanism will be introduced first:

[0037] In the embodiments of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used only for the convenience of distinguishing components and do not represent actual meanings.

[0038] To facilitate understanding of the hinge mechanism provided in this application embodiment, its application scenario is first described below. This hinge mechanism is used in terminals, especially terminals with bendable screens, such as mobile phones, PdA devices, laptops, or tablets. However, regardless of the type of terminal used, it includes the following... Figure 1 The structure shown includes: a first housing 20, a rotating shaft mechanism 10, a second housing 30, and a flexible screen 40. See also: Figure 1 and Figure 2 , Figure 2 The diagram shows an exploded view of the terminal. The pivot mechanism 10 is connected to both the first housing 20 and the second housing 30. Rotation of the pivot mechanism 10 allows the first housing 20 and the second housing 30 to rotate relative to each other. The flexible screen 40 covers the first housing 20, the second housing 30, and the pivot mechanism 10, and is bonded to both the first housing 20, the second housing 30, and the pivot mechanism 10, forming a structure as shown in the diagram. Figure 1 The structure shown is as follows. During use, the terminal has two states: an unfolded state and a folded state. Figure 1The image shows the unfolded state of the terminal. The first housing 20 and the second housing 30 are positioned on either side of the pivot mechanism 10 and are approximately on the same plane, while the flexible screen 40 unfolds along with the first housing 10 and the second housing 30. During bending, the first housing 20 and the second housing 30 move along... Figure 1 As shown by the arrow in the diagram, the first housing 20 and the second housing 30 are folded together and stacked opposite each other, while the flexible screen 40 follows the bending of the first housing 20 and the second housing 30. It should be understood that the terminal provided in this embodiment can be folded outwards (e.g., Figure 1 As shown in the diagram, when the terminal is folded, the flexible screen 40 is located on the outside of the terminal; the terminal can also be folded inward, meaning that when the terminal is folded, the flexible screen 40 is located on the inside of the terminal. Regardless of whether the terminal folds outward or inward, a damping mechanism is provided in the hinge mechanism to improve the feel of the terminal when folding. The folding mechanism is described in detail below with reference to the specific attached diagram.

[0039] Please refer to the above. Figure 3 and Figure 4 , Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the damping mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 4 An exploded view of the damping mechanism is shown. The damping mechanism is located at... Figure 2 In the rotating shaft mechanism, a damping force is provided for the first and second housings during rotation. The damping mechanism includes a support 100, a synchronization component 300, and a damping component 200. The support 100 serves as a support structure, supporting the synchronization component 300 and the damping component 200. The synchronization component 300 provides synchronized movement for the first and second housings and drives the damping component 200; two synchronization components 300 are illustrated in this embodiment. The damping component 200 provides a damping force during the rotation of the first and second housings.

[0040] Applications of damping mechanisms Figure 2 In the structure shown, the bracket 100 is fixed within the main shaft of the rotating shaft mechanism, and the length direction of the bracket 100 is the same as the length direction of the main shaft. For ease of description of the damping mechanism's structure, a first axis a, a second axis b, and a third axis c of the bracket 100 are defined. These three axes are mutually perpendicular. The first axis a is the axis of the bracket 100 along its length, and it is also the axis of the rotating shaft mechanism along its length. The second axis b is the axis of the bracket 100 along its thickness direction; the thickness direction of the bracket 100 is the same as the thickness direction of the rotating shaft mechanism, and can also be understood as the thickness direction of the end. The third axis c is the axis of the bracket 100 along its width direction, and it is perpendicular to the first axis a and the second axis b.

[0041] The synchronizing component 300 and the damping component 200 are arranged along the first axis a. In this embodiment, two synchronizing components 300 are shown, positioned on either side of the damping component 200 along the first axis a. It should be understood that in this embodiment, other numbers of synchronizing components 300 may be used, such as two, three, four, etc., depending on the specific needs.

[0042] Different synchronization components 300 have the same structure; the following description uses one of them as an example. Synchronization component 300 includes two synchronously rotating rods, which can be connected to the two housings of the terminal respectively to achieve synchronous rotation of the two housings. For ease of description, the two synchronous rods are named the first synchronous rod 310 and the second synchronous rod 340. The first synchronous rod 310 and the second synchronous rod 340 are located on both sides of the bracket 100, as shown in the reference... Figure 3 In the structure shown, the first synchronizing rod 310 and the second synchronizing rod 340 are arranged along the third axis c. Figure 3 In the structure shown, the length directions of the first synchronizing rod 310 and the second synchronizing rod 340 are parallel to the third axis c.

[0043] The first synchronizing rod 310 and the second synchronizing rod 340 are rotatably connected to the bracket 100, respectively. For example, the first synchronizing rod 310 has a first gear 320 at its end near the bracket 100, and the first synchronizing rod 310 is rotatably connected to the bracket 100 via the first gear 320. During assembly, the first gear 320 and the bracket 100 are rotatably connected via a first rotating shaft 311, and the axis around which the first synchronizing rod 310 rotates (the axis of the first rotating shaft 311) is parallel to the first axis a. The second synchronizing rod 340 has a second gear 330 at its end near the bracket 100, and the second synchronizing rod 340 is rotatably connected to the bracket 100 via the second gear 330. During assembly, the second gear 330 and the bracket 100 are rotatably connected via a fourth rotating shaft 342, and the axis around which the second synchronizing rod 340 rotates (the axis of the fourth rotating shaft 342) is parallel to the first axis a. The first gear 320 and the second gear 330 mesh, and the first synchronizing rod 310 and the second synchronizing rod 340 achieve synchronous rotation through the meshing of the first gear 320 and the second gear 330.

[0044] The end of the first synchronizing rod 310 away from the bracket 100 is connected to the first housing, and the end of the second synchronizing rod 340 away from the bracket 100 is connected to the second housing. When the first housing and the second housing rotate, the first synchronizing rod 310 and the second synchronizing rod 340 rotate with the first housing and the second housing respectively, and the meshing of the first gear 320 and the second gear 330 ensures that the first housing and the second housing rotate synchronously.

[0045] The damping assembly 200 includes a floating block 220 and two elastic components. The two elastic components are named a first elastic component 210 and a second elastic component 230, respectively. The floating block 220 is slidably mounted on the bracket 100, as shown in the reference. Figure 3 As shown in the structure, the floating block 220 is slidably connected to the support 100 and can slide along the first direction, which is the thickness direction of the support 100, that is, the floating block 220 can slide along the thickness direction of the support 100.

[0046] The first elastic component 210 and the second elastic component 230 are positioned on either side of the floating block 220. Figure 3 In the structure shown, the first elastic component 210 and the second elastic component 230 are arranged along the third axis c, with the first elastic component 210 and the second elastic component 230 positioned on opposite sides of the support. Figure 3 As can be seen from the synchronizer assembly 300 and damping assembly 200 shown, the first elastic component 210 and the first synchronizer 310 are located on the same side of the bracket 100, and the second elastic component 230 and the second synchronizer 340 are located on the same side of the bracket 100.

[0047] For ease of description, the first elastic component 210 is defined with a first end and a second end. The first end is the end of the first elastic component 210 furthest from the first axis a, and the second end is the end of the first elastic component 210 closest to the first axis a. The first end of the first elastic component 210 is rotatably connected to the end of the synchronizing rod (first synchronizing rod 310) located on the same side, furthest from the bracket 100. During assembly, the first end of the first elastic component 210 is rotatably connected to the first synchronizing rod 310 via a third rotating shaft 312. The axis around which the first end rotates relative to the first synchronizing rod 310 (the axis of the third rotating shaft 312) is parallel to the first axis a. The second end of the first elastic component 210 is rotatably connected to the floating block 220. Specifically, the second end of the first elastic component 210 is rotatably connected to the floating block 220 via a second rotating shaft 214. The axis around which the second end rotates relative to the floating block 220 (the axis of the second rotating shaft 214) is parallel to the first axis a. Combining the connection structure of the first synchronizing rod 310 and the bracket 100, it can be seen that the rotation axis of the first synchronizing rod 310 relative to the bracket 100 (the axis of the first rotating shaft 311), the rotation axis of the first elastic component 210 relative to the synchronizing rod on the same side (the axis of the third rotating shaft 312), and the rotation axis of the first elastic component 210 relative to the floating block 220 (the axis of the second rotating shaft 214) are parallel to each other, thus forming a triangular structure.

[0048] The second elastic component 230 and the first elastic component 210 are assembled in the same way. The first end of the second elastic component 230 is rotatably connected to the synchronizing rod (second synchronizing rod 340) located on the same side, and the second end of the second elastic component 230 is rotatably connected to the floating block 220. Specifically, the second end of the second elastic component 230 is rotatably connected to the floating block 220 through the fifth rotating shaft 234, and the first end of the second elastic component 230 is rotatably connected to the second synchronizing rod 340 through the sixth rotating shaft 341. Combining the connection structure of the second synchronizing rod 340 and the bracket 100, it can be seen that the rotation axis of the second synchronizing rod 340 relative to the bracket 100 (the axis of the fourth rotating shaft 342), the rotation axis of the second elastic component 230 relative to the synchronizing rod on the same side (the axis of the sixth rotating shaft 341), and the rotation axis of the second elastic component 230 relative to the floating block 220 (the axis of the fifth rotating shaft 341) are parallel to each other, thus forming a triangular structure.

[0049] refer to Figure 5 , Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the support 100 is shown. The support 100 includes a body 180 and multiple receiving gaps on the body 180. The length direction of the body 180 is along a first axis a, and when assembled on a rotating shaft mechanism, the length direction of the body 180 is the same as the length direction of the rotating shaft mechanism. Multiple protrusions are provided on the body 180, which are named, for convenience, a first protrusion 110, a second protrusion 120, a third protrusion 130, and a fourth protrusion 140. The first protrusion 110 to the fourth protrusion 140 are arranged along the first axis a, and the aforementioned receiving gaps are formed between adjacent protrusions. For example, a first receiving gap 150 for assembling a synchronization assembly is formed between the first protrusion 110 and the second protrusion 120, and the first and second synchronization rods of the synchronization rod assembly can be located in the first receiving gap 150. A second receiving gap 160 for accommodating a floating block is formed between the second protrusion 120 and the third protrusion 130, and a third receiving gap 170 for accommodating another synchronization component is formed between the third protrusion 130 and the fourth protrusion 140. The first and second synchronization rods of the other synchronization rod assembly can be located in the first receiving gap 150.

[0050] The floating block is slidably assembled within the second receiving gap 160, and the bracket 100 is provided with a guide rail that slides with the floating block. For example, the second protrusion 120 is provided with a first guide rail 121, and the third protrusion 130 is provided with a second guide rail 131 for engaging with the floating block; the first guide rail 121 and the second guide rail 131 are positioned opposite each other. Figure 4Exploded view of the damping mechanism shown in the figure. A slider 190 is slidably assembled on the first guide rail 121. After the slider 190 is slidably assembled to the first guide rail 121, it is fixedly connected to the first guide rail. On one side of the slider 190 facing away from the first guide rail 121, a third guide rail 191 is provided. The second guide rail 131 and the third guide rail 191 are arranged opposite to each other and are respectively slidably connected to two opposite surfaces of the floating block.

[0051] When setting the above-mentioned third guide rail 191 and second guide rail 131, the third guide rail 191 and the second guide rail 131 extend in the first direction to define the sliding direction of the floating block.

[0052] As an optional solution, a limiting protrusion for limiting the sliding distance of the floating block is provided on the bracket 100. The limiting protrusion is provided on the third guide rail 191, so that the third guide rail 191 is a T-shaped guide rail, and a limiting protrusion is formed at the end of the third guide rail 191. The limiting protrusion is used to limit the sliding distance of the floating block in the first direction. After the floating block slides to the set position, the floating block is limited from continuing to slide through the limiting protrusion. Similarly, a limiting protrusion for limiting the floating block is also provided on the second guide rail 131.

[0053] During assembly, first, the floating block is slidably assembled on the second guide rail 131, and one end of the floating block is limited by the limiting protrusion of the third guide rail 131. Then, the slider 190 is assembled. One side of the slider 190 is slidably配合 with the first guide rail 121, and the other side is配合 with the floating block. After the slider 190 is fixed to the first guide rail 121, the limiting protrusion of the third guide rail 191 limits the other end of the floating block, so that the two ends of the floating block are respectively limited by the two limiting protrusions.

[0054] Reference Figure 6 , Figure 6 shows the structure of the floating block 220. The floating block 220 includes a body and a plurality of grooves provided on the body. The plurality of grooves are arranged opposite to each other to form a space for accommodating the first elastic component and the second elastic component. For the convenience of description, the plurality of grooves are respectively named the first groove 225, the second groove 227, the third groove 226 and the fourth groove 228. The first groove 225 and the second groove 227 are arranged opposite to each other, and the third groove 226 and the fourth groove 228 are arranged opposite to each other. When forming the above-mentioned grooves, a plurality of ribs are formed on the body. For the convenience of description, they are respectively named the first rib 221, the second rib 224, the third rib 222 and the fourth rib 223. The first rib 221 and the second rib 224 are located at both ends of the body, and the third rib 222 and the fourth rib 223 cross each other. The above four ribs form a "king" character structure to form the above four grooves.

[0055] When the first elastic component and the second elastic component are rotatably connected to the floating block 220, in combination with Figure 4In the structure shown, the second end of the first elastic component is located within the first groove 225 and the third groove 226, and is rotatably connected to the first rib 221, the third rib 222, and the second rib 224 via a second rotating shaft, respectively. The second end of the second elastic component is located within the second groove 227 and the fourth groove 228, and is rotatably connected to the first rib 221, the third rib 222, and the second rib 224 via a fifth rotating shaft, respectively.

[0056] In addition, a first sliding groove 2211 is provided on the first protruding rib 221, and a second sliding groove 2241 is provided on the second protruding rib 224. Combined Figure 4 As shown in the structure, the first slide groove 2211 is slidably engaged with the third guide rail 191, and the second slide groove 2241 is slidably engaged with the second guide rail 131, thereby making the floating block 220 slidably connected with the bracket 100.

[0057] As an alternative, when the second guide rail 131 and the third guide rail 191 are T-shaped slide rails, the first slide groove 2211 and the second slide groove 2241 are both T-shaped slide grooves, so that the distance the floating block 220 slides along the first direction is limited by the cooperation of the first guide rail and the first slide groove 2211.

[0058] To simplify the description of the structural diagram of the elastic component, the first elastic component will be used as an example. (Reference) Figure 7 and Figure 8 , Figure 7 An exploded view of the first elastic component and the floating block is shown; Figure 8 A partial cross-sectional view of the first elastic component is shown.

[0059] The first elastic component 210 includes a connector 213, a spring 212, and a spring frame 211, which are arranged along a third axis. The connector 213 is located at the first end of the first elastic component 210 and is rotatably connected to the first synchronizing rod 310. The spring frame 211 is located at the second end of the first elastic component 210 and is rotatably connected to the floating block 220. The spring 212 is located between the connector 213 and the spring frame 211 and is compressed by the spring frame 211 and the connector 213.

[0060] The spring frame 211 includes a body and a guide post 2111 disposed on the body. The length direction of the body is along the first axis direction, and the body is rotatably connected to the floating block 220 through a second rotating shaft. The length direction of the guide post 2111 is along a second direction (the second direction is perpendicular to the rotation axis of the elastic component relative to the floating block 330, which can also be understood as perpendicular to the first axis). The adapter 213 is provided with a through hole 2132 for sliding engagement with the guide post 2111. Through the engagement of the guide post 2111 and the through hole 2132, the sliding connection between the adapter 213 and the spring frame 211 is realized.

[0061] Spring 212 is located between spring frame 211 and adapter 213, and both ends of spring 212 press against spring frame 211 and adapter 213 respectively. For example, spring 212 is fitted on guide post 2111, one end of spring 212 presses against the body of spring frame 211, and the other end presses against adapter 213.

[0062] When the adapter 213 slides relative to the spring frame 211, when the adapter 213 slides relative to the spring frame 211, when the adapter 213 slides toward the direction closer to the spring frame 211, the spring 212 is compressed by the adapter 213 and undergoes elastic deformation. When the adapter 213 slides toward the direction away from the spring frame 211, the elastic deformation of the spring 212 pushes the adapter 213 to move.

[0063] As an optional solution, the number of guide posts 2111 can be multiple, and these multiple guide posts 2111 are arranged along the first axis. Correspondingly, the number of springs 212 can also be multiple, and these multiple springs 212 are arranged along the first axis. Figure 7 The image shows four springs 212, but the number of springs 212 is not specifically limited in this embodiment. The number of springs 212 in the first elastic component 210 can be one, two, three, or other different numbers, and there can be multiple springs 212. The multiple springs 212 are arranged along a third direction, which is parallel to the first axis of the bracket.

[0064] As an optional solution, the adapter 213 has a U-shaped structure, with the open side of the U-shape facing the spring frame 211. A through hole 2132, which mates with the guide post 2111, is located in the horizontal portion of the U-shape. The bent sidewalls on both sides are used for rotatable connection with the first synchronizing rod 310. Elongated holes 2131 are provided on the bent sidewalls on both sides. The first synchronizing rod 310 has a third rotating shaft that inserts into the elongated hole 2131 and can slide and rotate within it. This connection between the elongated hole and the third rotating shaft facilitates the connection between the adapter 213 and the first synchronizing rod 310.

[0065] As an optional solution, adapter 213 can correspond to two spring brackets 211, such as Figure 8 As shown, the two spring brackets 211 are located in the first groove and the third groove respectively, and are rotatably connected to the floating block 220.

[0066] Combination Figure 4 and Figure 8 The connection of the adapter 231, spring 232 and spring frame 231 in the second elastic component 230 can be referenced to the same components in the first elastic component 210, and will not be described in detail here.

[0067] When the floating block slides along the first direction, it can slide to a first predetermined position and a second predetermined position. Along the first direction, the first predetermined position is away from the rotation axis of the synchronizing rod and the bracket; this first predetermined position can also be called the upper limit position of the floating block. The upper limit position is defined by a limiting protrusion on the bracket, which limits the highest position the floating block can slide. The second predetermined position is close to the rotation axis of the synchronizing rod and the bracket; this second predetermined position can also be called the lower limit position of the floating block. The lower limit position is defined by the main structure of the bracket, which limits the lowest position the floating block can slide downwards.

[0068] refer to Figure 9 and Figure 10 , Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the damping mechanism corresponding to the terminal in the deployed state is shown; Figure 10 This is an equivalent slider-link mechanism for the damping mechanism. When the terminal is in the unfolded state, the first and second housings are positioned on either side of the rotating shaft mechanism. The corresponding first and second synchronizing rods of the damping mechanism are also located on either side of the first axis, with the length directions of the first and second synchronizing rods along the third axis. The floating block 220 is limited by the bracket 100 to the upper limit of its sliding stroke. Figure 10 The floating structure shown is placed in the reference direction. When the floating block 220 is at the upper limit position, the first elastic component 210 and the second elastic component are in their longest extended state.

[0069] refer to Figure 10 The damping mechanism can be equivalent to a slider-linkage mechanism. Taking the first synchronizing rod 310, the first elastic component 210, and the floating block 220 as examples, the first synchronizing rod 310 can be equivalent to the first connecting rod, the first elastic component 210 can be equivalent to the second connecting rod, the bracket can be equivalent to the third connecting rod, and the floating block 220 can be equivalent to a slider. When the first elastic component 210, the first synchronizing rod 310, the bracket, and the floating block 220 are equivalent to a slider-linkage mechanism, the first synchronizing rod 310 is perpendicular to the second axis b of the bracket, the floating block 220 is located at the upper limit position of the sliding stroke (the first set position), and the length of the first elastic component 210 is greater than the length of the first synchronizing rod 310.

[0070] For ease of description, axis B, axis A, and axis C are introduced. Axis B represents the first rotating shaft connecting the first synchronizing rod 310 to the bracket; axis C represents the third rotating shaft connecting the first synchronizing rod 310 to the first elastic component 210; and axis A represents the second rotating shaft connecting the first elastic component 210 to the floating block 220. (Refer to...) Figure 10 It can be seen that axis A, axis B and axis C form a triangle.

[0071] In the first predetermined position, the distance between axis A and axis B is d1, that is, the distance between the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft is d1. d1 can also be understood as the distance from the upper limit position of the floating block 220 to the first rotating shaft. The distance between axis A and axis C is d2, that is, the distance between the second rotating shaft and the third rotating shaft is d2. d2 can also be regarded as the length of the first elastic component 210. The length of the first synchronizing rod 310 is d0, that is, the distance between axis B and axis C. Figure 10 It can be seen that the length d2 of the first elastic component 210 is greater than the length d0 of the first synchronizing rod 310, that is, d2 > d0.

[0072] The damping mechanism provided in this embodiment, when in the flattened state, can form a triangle through the rotation axes (axis A, axis B, axis C) between the first synchronizing rod 310, the first spring frame, the floating block 220, and the first adapter. The spring is compressed between axis A and axis C, forcing axis A and axis C to tend to move away from each other, that is, the first synchronizing rod 310 tends to rotate clockwise around axis B. If the first synchronizing rod 310 is to rotate counterclockwise around axis B (the direction of rotation when the terminal is closed), it is necessary to overcome the elastic force of the spring and further compress the spring. This force is the damping force required by the closing damping mechanism, which, when placed inside the terminal, manifests as the operating force (operating feel) when closing and folding.

[0073] When the terminal folds, the first and second housings rotate relative to each other, causing the damping mechanism to move. Taking the first synchronizing rod 310 and the first elastic component 210 as examples, the first housing drives the first synchronizing rod 310 to rotate counterclockwise, and the first synchronizing rod 310 drives the first elastic component 210 to rotate counterclockwise. The length of the first elastic component 210 is compressed, and the first elastic component 210 pushes the floating block 220 to slide downward along the second axis b of the bracket (e.g., Figure 10 (The arrow direction is shown).

[0074] refer to Figure 11 and Figure 12 , Figure 11 A schematic diagram of the damping mechanism's state during the folding process is shown. Figure 12 It shows Figure 11 The slider linkage mechanism corresponds to the damping mechanism. As the first housing rotates, the first elastic component 210 is compressed, the floating block 220 slides downward along the third axis, the axis B slides towards the axis A, and the floating block 220 is located at the lower limit position of the sliding stroke (second set position).

[0075] refer to Figure 12 At the second set position, the distance from axis A to axis B is d3, which can also be understood as the distance between the first and second rotating shafts being d3. Figure 12The central axis A and central axis B overlap, i.e., d3 = 0. The distance from central axis A to central axis C is d4. Figure 12 In the above, d4 = d0, meaning that the length of the first elastic component 210 is equal to the length of the first synchronizing rod 310.

[0076] It should be understood that in the second predetermined position, the axes of the first and second rotating shafts coincide, i.e., axis A and axis B coincide, which is an optional configuration. In actual settings, the first rotating shaft can also be selected to not coincide with the second rotating shaft, i.e., when the floating block is at the lower limit position, axis A and axis B do not coincide. For example, with... Figure 12 The damping mechanism shown is placed in a reference direction, and axis A can be located above or below axis B.

[0077] contrast Figure 10 and Figure 12 As can be seen, during the folding process of the terminal, as the first synchronizing rod 310 drives the first elastic component 210 to rotate, the first elastic component 210 is compressed (d2 > d4). Simultaneously, the floating block 220 slides from the upper limit position to the lower limit position under the elastic force of the first elastic component 210. In this process, the deformation of the first elastic component 210 when the floating block 220 is in the first set position is less than the deformation of the first elastic component 210 when the floating block 220 is in the second set position, i.e., d2 > d4. At the same time, the distance from the upper limit position of the floating block 220 to the first rotating shaft is less than the distance from its lower limit position to the first rotating shaft, i.e., d1 > d3.

[0078] As can be seen from the above description, the spring force is confined inside the damping mechanism. On the one hand, this is beneficial for the modular design of the damping mechanism, and on the other hand, the force of the spring will not affect the parts outside the damping mechanism. The material requirements for other parts can be appropriately reduced, which helps to simplify the solution.

[0079] Since the axis A around which the spring frame and the floating block 220 rotate can change position as the floating block 220 floats, when the first synchronizing rod 310 rotates counterclockwise around the axis B, the direction of the spring force on the axis A will change, and the floating block 220 will move downward. Therefore, different feel can be obtained by appropriately setting the lower limit position of the floating block 220.

[0080] During the terminal folding process, when the damping mechanism is in the flattened position, the compressed spring exerts an upward force on axis A, and the floating block 220 will remain at the upper limit position under the action of the spring force. When the synchronizing rod rotates a certain angle, and the spring force on axis A begins to have a downward component, the floating block 220 will move to the lower limit position under the action of the spring force and stop at the lower limit position. In this example, when the lower limit position of the floating block 220 is set, the axes of axis A and axis B are coaxial. After axis A and axis B overlap, when the first synchronizing rod 310 continues to rotate, the spring will not have additional compression, so from Figure 12 When the state shown is fully folded, the force output by the damping mechanism is relatively constant.

[0081] To facilitate understanding of the damping force provided by the damping mechanism in the embodiments of this application, a simulation of the damping mechanism was performed, and the simulation results are as follows. Figure 13 As shown. By Figure 13 It can be seen that in the flattened state, the damping mechanism requires a relatively large force to keep the device flat. When folding the terminal, slightly compressing the spring within the damping mechanism and breaking the internal triangular mechanism significantly reduces the operating force; only the internal friction of the mechanism needs to be overcome to bend the terminal. Therefore, the damping mechanism provided in this embodiment can provide a relatively large supporting force to ensure the flattened state of the terminal. When folding the terminal, a large force is only required at the beginning of folding; the operating force decreases rapidly after folding beyond a certain angle, improving the operating feel. At the same time, the internal friction of the damping mechanism is not too large, which is beneficial to improving the wear life of the mechanism.

[0082] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the spring is compressed in the second direction, and the number of springs is not limited by the thickness direction (first direction) or bending radius of the damping mechanism. This provides significant elasticity, which helps overcome the problem of insufficient flattening force caused by unstable external factors (screen bending force). Additionally, the damping mechanism provides significant resistance when the terminal begins to fold, and less resistance during the folding process, greatly improving the user experience. Simultaneously, the synchronization component, support, and damping component in the damping mechanism form a floating triangle mechanism, effectively overcoming the phenomenon of excessive process damping.

[0083] refer to Figures 14-17 , Figures 14-17 Another damping mechanism is provided, which is similar to... Figure 3 The only difference in the damping mechanism shown is the change in the stroke of the floating block 220, so only the equivalent slider-link mechanism will be used as an example for explanation.

[0084] The floating block 220 can slide along a first direction to a first set position (upper limit position), a second set position (middle position), and a third set position (lower limit position). Along the first direction, the first set position and the third set position are located on opposite sides of the second set position; the first set position is away from the rotation axis of the synchronizing rod and the bracket; the third set position is close to the rotation axis of the synchronizing rod and the bracket.

[0085] refer to Figure 14 At the first set position, the corresponding terminal is in the unfolded state. Axis A is located at the upper limit position (point E) of the sliding stroke of floating block 220, and the distance between axis A and axis B is d1. The distance between axis A and axis C is d2, that is, the length of the first elastic component 210 is d2.

[0086] refer to Figure 15 In the second set position, axis A is located at the middle position (point F) of the sliding stroke of floating block 220, and the corresponding end is in the folding process position. The distance between axis A and axis B is d3. Figure 15 In the diagram, axis A and axis B are both located at point F, meaning axis A and axis B overlap, and d3 = 0. The distance between axis A and axis C is d4, which is the length of the first elastic component 210.

[0087] refer to Figure 16 In the third set position, axis A is located at the lower limit position (point D) of the sliding stroke of floating block 220, and the corresponding end is in the folding process position. The distance between axis A and axis B is d5. The distance between axis A and axis C is d6, that is, the length of the first elastic component 210 is d6.

[0088] refer to Figure 17 , Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the damping mechanism when the terminal is in the folded state. Axis A, B, and C are located on the same axis, which is parallel to the first direction. At this time, the length of the first elastic component 210 is d7, the length of the first synchronizing rod 310 is d0, and the distance between axis A and axis B is d5. Therefore, d5, d7, and d0 satisfy the following condition: d0 + d5 = d7.

[0089] refer to Figures 12-16It can be seen that d1, d2, d3, d4, d5, and d6 satisfy the following conditions: d1 > d3; d2 > d4; d5 > d3; d6 > d4. That is, during the folding process of the terminal, the floating block 220 slides along the direction of point E-point F-point D, and during this sliding process, the first elastic component 210 first compresses and then extends: the deformation of the first elastic component 210 at the second set position is greater than the deformation of the elastic component at the first set position (d2 > d4), and the deformation of the first elastic component 210 at the second set position is greater than the deformation of the elastic component at the third set position (d6 > d4). Therefore, it can be seen that during the folding process, the first elastic component 210 in the damping mechanism first overcomes the stability of the triangular mechanism, providing a certain damping force, and then, after overcoming the stability of the triangular mechanism, only provides a small damping force (the travel distance between point E and point F). As the terminal continues to fold, the spring of the first elastic component 210 extends (the travel between point F and point D). The first elastic component 210 can provide a component force that facilitates the folding of the terminal. After the terminal is folded, refer to Figure 17 In the structure shown, axes A, B, and C are aligned in a straight line. When the terminal opens, the spring force of the first elastic component 210 needs to be overcome to push the floating block 220 from point D to point F. Therefore, a certain force is required to open the terminal. In other words, the damping mechanism provided in this embodiment can also provide damping force when the terminal opens. Furthermore, the force of the first elastic component 210 can also ensure the stability of the terminal after folding, preventing it from unfolding unexpectedly due to external force.

[0090] As can be seen from the above description, the damping mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application can achieve... Figure 3 In addition to the effect of the damping mechanism shown, by changing the stroke of the floating block 220, the damping mechanism can also provide damping force when the terminal is unfolded, improving the user's feel when opening it.

[0091] Furthermore, it should be understood that in the above embodiments, the first elastic component adopts a structure consisting of a spring, a spring frame, and a connector. However, the structure of the first elastic component is not specifically limited in this application embodiment, and other structural components with variable lengths can be used to replace the above structure. For example, a plastic spring can be used to replace the above component, or an elastic sheet can be used to replace the above structure. When using a plastic spring and an elastic sheet, the two ends of the plastic spring or elastic sheet can be rotatably connected to the floating block and the first synchronizing rod, respectively. Of course, in addition to the above plastic spring or elastic sheet, other elastic forms can also be used, such as a compressed cylinder, in which the cylinder body and piston rod are rotatably connected to the floating block and the first synchronizing rod, respectively, and damping force is provided by compressing the air in the cylinder body during rotation.

[0092] This application also provides a rotating shaft mechanism, which includes a main shaft assembly, a swing assembly, and a damping mechanism as described above. The swing assembly includes two swing plates located on both sides of the axis of the main shaft assembly, and two synchronizing rods are rotatably connected to the two swing plates respectively. In the above structure, a novel damping structure is provided, which allows for flexible adjustment of the damping force by adjusting the elastic force of the elastic component. Furthermore, the elastic force of the elastic component is confined between the floating block and the synchronizing rods. This facilitates the modular design of the damping mechanism and ensures that the force applied to the elastic component does not affect parts outside the damping mechanism, thus appropriately reducing the material requirements for other parts.

[0093] This application also provides a terminal, such as... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown in the illustration, this application embodiment also provides a terminal, which can be a foldable mobile phone or tablet computer, etc. The terminal includes the pivot mechanism described above, and two housings (a first housing 20 and a second housing 30), wherein the two housings are arranged on both sides of the pivot mechanism 10 and are respectively connected to two swing components. In the above solution, the stability of the virtual pivot during rotation is ensured by the real axis swing arm and the connecting rod, thus ensuring the reliability of the pivot mechanism during operation.

[0094] The terminal includes a first housing, a second housing, and a rotating shaft mechanism; wherein the first housing and the second housing are located on opposite sides of the rotating shaft mechanism and are rotatably connected via the rotating shaft mechanism; the rotating shaft mechanism is the aforementioned rotating shaft mechanism. In the above structure, a novel damping structure is provided, which allows for flexible adjustment of the damping force by adjusting the elastic force of the elastic component. Furthermore, the elastic force of the elastic component is confined between the floating block and the synchronous connecting rod, which facilitates the modular design of the damping mechanism and ensures that the force applied to the elastic component does not affect components outside the damping mechanism, thus appropriately reducing the material requirements for other components.

[0095] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to this application without departing from the spirit and scope of this application. Therefore, if such modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalents, this application also intends to include such modifications and variations.

Claims

1. A damping mechanism, characterized in that, include: The support structure, synchronization components, and damping components; among them, The synchronization component includes two synchronously rotating rods, which are arranged on both sides of the bracket and are rotatably connected to the bracket respectively. The damping assembly includes a floating block that is slidably connected to the bracket and can slide along a first direction, and two elastic components arranged on both sides of the floating block. Each elastic component has its first end rotatably connected to the end of a synchronizing rod located on the same side away from the support, and its second end rotatably connected to the floating block; the first direction is the thickness direction of the support, and the rotation axes of each synchronizing rod relative to the support, each elastic component relative to the rotation axis of the synchronizing rod on the same side, and each elastic component relative to the rotation axis of the floating block are parallel to each other; the elastic force of one end of each elastic component presses against the floating block, and the elastic force of the other end presses against the end of the synchronizing rod located on the same side away from the support; As the two synchronizing rods rotate, the two elastic components push the floating block to slide along the first direction.

2. The damping mechanism as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The floating block can slide along the first direction to a first set position and a second set position; along the first direction, the first set position is away from the rotation axis of the synchronizing rod and the bracket; the second set position is close to the rotation axis of the synchronizing rod and the bracket. The deformation of each elastic component when the floating block is in the first set position is less than the deformation when the floating block is in the second set position.

3. The damping mechanism as described in claim 2, characterized in that, Each synchronizing rod is rotatably connected to the bracket via a first rotating shaft; the first end of each elastic component is rotatably connected to the synchronizing rod located on the same side via a third rotating shaft, and the second end is rotatably connected to the floating block via a second rotating shaft; At the first designated position, the distance between the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft is d1; the distance between the second rotating shaft and the third rotating shaft is d2; At the second predetermined position, the distance between the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft is d3; the distance between the second rotating shaft and the third rotating shaft is d4; wherein... d1, d2, d3, and d4 satisfy: d1 > d3, and d2 > d4.

4. The damping mechanism as described in claim 3, characterized in that, In the second designated position, the axes of the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft coincide.

5. The damping mechanism as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The floating block can slide along the first direction to a first set position, a second set position, and a third set position; wherein, along the first direction, the first set position and the third set position are located on opposite sides of the second set position; the first set position is away from the rotation axis of the synchronizing rod and the bracket; the third set position is close to the rotation axis of the synchronizing rod and the bracket. The deformation of each elastic component at the second set position is greater than the deformation of the elastic component at the first set position and greater than the deformation of the elastic component at the third set position.

6. The damping mechanism as described in claim 5, characterized in that, Each synchronizing rod is rotatably connected to the bracket via a first rotating shaft; the first end of each elastic component is rotatably connected to the synchronizing rod located on the same side via a third rotating shaft, and the second end is rotatably connected to the floating block via a second rotating shaft; At the first designated position, the distance between the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft is d1; the distance between the second rotating shaft and the third rotating shaft is d2; At the second predetermined position, the distance between the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft is d3; the distance between the second rotating shaft and the third rotating shaft is d4; At the third predetermined position, the distance between the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft is d5; the distance between the second rotating shaft and the third rotating shaft is d6; wherein... d1, d2, d3, d4, d5, and d6 satisfy: d1>d3; d2>d4; d5>d3; d6>d4.

7. The damping mechanism according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that, The bracket is provided with a limiting protrusion for limiting the floating block at the first set position.

8. The damping mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, Each elastic component includes: an adapter, a spring, and a spring frame; wherein... The spring frame is rotatably connected to the floating block; the adapter is rotatably connected to the synchronizing rod located on the same side; and the adapter is slidably connected to the spring frame and can slide along a second direction, the second direction being perpendicular to the rotation axis of the elastic component relative to the floating block; The spring is located between the spring frame and the adapter, and both ends of the spring abut against the spring frame and the adapter, respectively.

9. The damping mechanism as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The spring frame includes a body and a guide post disposed on the body; the spring is fitted onto the guide post. The adapter is provided with a through hole that slides with the guide post.

10. The damping mechanism as described in claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The adapter is a U-shaped structure, and the side wall of the U-shaped structure is provided with an elongated hole; the synchronizing rod on the same side is provided with a pin that is inserted into the elongated hole and can slide and rotate within the elongated hole.

11. The damping mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The elastic component is a leaf spring or a plastic spring; the first end of the leaf spring or plastic spring is rotatably connected to the synchronizing rod located on the same side, and the second end is rotatably connected to the floating block.

12. A rotating shaft mechanism, characterized in that, Includes a spindle assembly, a swing assembly, and a damping mechanism as described in any one of claims 1 to 11; The swing assembly includes two swing plates located on both sides of the main shaft assembly, and the two synchronizing rods are rotatably connected to the two swing plates in a one-to-one correspondence.

13. The rotating shaft mechanism as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The bracket and the spindle assembly are an integral structure.

14. A terminal, characterized in that, It includes a first housing, a second housing, and a rotating shaft mechanism; wherein the first housing and the second housing are arranged on both sides of the rotating shaft mechanism, and the first housing and the second housing are rotatably connected through the rotating shaft mechanism; the rotating shaft mechanism is the rotating shaft mechanism as described in claim 12 or 13.

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