electronic devices

Abstract

The present application relates to an electronic device, which includes a first housing, a second housing, a third housing, a first folding mechanism, a second folding mechanism, and a braking mechanism. The first folding mechanism is connected between the first housing and the second housing, and the second folding mechanism is connected between the second housing and the third housing. When the first housing and the second housing are in an unfolded state, and the second housing and the third housing are in an unfolded state, the braking mechanism is used to prevent the second housing and the third housing from folding relative to each other; when the first housing and the second housing are in a closed state, the braking mechanism releases the lock on the second folding mechanism, and the second housing and the third housing can fold relative to each other. By providing a braking mechanism, the electronic device of the present application enables the multi-fold electronic device to be folded in a certain order, thereby improving the service life of the electronic device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of electronic products, and in particular to an electronic device. Background Art

[0002] With the development of foldable screen mobile phones, mobile phones that fold up and down, inward and outward are becoming more and more popular, and mobile phones that fold more than three times will gradually appear in front of consumers.

[0003] The multiple folding mechanisms of a multi-folding mobile phone are strictly consistent with the opening and closing actions of the mobile phone. If the opening sequence is incorrect, the folding mechanism is easily damaged, resulting in a short life of the mobile phone.

[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a multi-folding device with folding sequence constraints to improve the service life of the device. Summary of the Invention

[0005] An embodiment of the present application provides an electronic device. The electronic device of the present application is a multi-fold (at least three-fold) foldable device. By providing a braking mechanism, the present application enables the multi-fold electronic device to fold in a predetermined order, thereby avoiding damage to the folding mechanism and improving the service life of the electronic device.

[0006] An embodiment of the present application provides an electronic device, comprising a first housing, a second housing, a third housing, a first folding mechanism, a second folding mechanism, and a braking mechanism; the first folding mechanism is connected between the first housing and the second housing to enable the first housing and the second housing to be relatively unfolded or folded; the second folding mechanism is connected between the second housing and the third housing to enable the second housing and the third housing to be relatively unfolded or folded. When the electronic device is in the unfolded state, the first housing, the first folding mechanism, the second housing, the second folding mechanism, and the third housing are sequentially arranged to provide support for the flexible display screen of the electronic device.

[0007] When the first shell and the second shell are in the expanded state, and the second shell and the third shell are in the expanded state, the braking mechanism is used to lock the second folding mechanism to prevent the second shell and the third shell from folding relative to each other; when the first shell and the second shell are in the closed state, the braking mechanism releases the lock on the second folding mechanism, and the second shell and the third shell can be folded relative to each other.

[0008] The present application can achieve orderly opening and closing of electronic devices by setting a braking mechanism, thereby avoiding damage to the electronic devices. In some electronic devices, due to the size of the first folding mechanism and the second folding mechanism or other reasons, the electronic devices need to be folded in a certain order, such as folding the first shell first and then folding the third shell, otherwise the electronic devices will be damaged. The braking mechanism in the embodiment of the present application can hinder the movement of the second folding mechanism when the first shell and the second shell are not closed, so that the third shell cannot be closed. When the first shell and the second shell are closed, the obstruction to the second folding mechanism is released, so that the third shell can be closed, thereby achieving orderly opening and closing of the electronic devices and improving the service life of the electronic devices.

[0009] In some possible embodiments, the second folding mechanism includes a second moving member that is capable of moving when the second folding mechanism is deformed. When the second housing and the third housing are in an unfolded state, and when the first housing and the second housing are relatively unfolded from a closed state to an unfolded state, the braking mechanism is configured to prevent movement of the second moving member, thereby locking the second folding mechanism. The braking mechanism prevents movement of the second moving member and thus prevents folding of the second folding mechanism, such that the third housing cannot be closed when the first housing and the second housing are not closed, thereby achieving orderly opening and closing of the electronic device.

[0010] In some possible embodiments, the second folding mechanism includes a third bracket and a fourth bracket, the third bracket being fixedly connected to the second housing, the fourth bracket being fixedly connected to the third housing, and the second movable member being slidably connected to the third bracket, or the second movable member being slidably connected to the fourth bracket. In this embodiment, the second movable member is slidable, and the braking mechanism acting on the sliding second movable member facilitates control of the second folding mechanism.

[0011] In some possible embodiments, the second folding mechanism includes a second main shaft, a third swing arm and a fourth swing arm, the third swing arm includes a third rotating end and a third sliding end, the third rotating end is rotatably connected to the second main shaft, the third sliding end is slidably connected to the third bracket, the fourth swing arm includes a fourth rotating end and a fourth sliding end, the fourth rotating end is rotatably connected to the second main shaft, the fourth sliding end is slidably connected to the fourth bracket, the second moving part includes the third swing arm, or the second moving part includes the fourth swing arm. It can be understood that during the opening and closing of the second folding mechanism, the second moving part can rotate relative to the second main shaft and slide relative to the second bracket, and the braking mechanism is used to control the sliding of the second moving part to hinder the opening and closing of the second folding mechanism. The controlled sliding movement is easy to control, the control accuracy is high, and the braking effect is significant. In other embodiments, the second moving part can also be other movable structures in the second folding mechanism, and this application does not limit this.

[0012] In some possible embodiments, the third bracket is provided with a slide groove, and the sliding end of the third swing arm is mounted in the slide groove on the third bracket, thereby achieving a sliding connection between the third swing arm and the third bracket. In other embodiments, the third swing arm may be provided with a slide groove, and the third bracket may be provided with a slider, and the slide groove of the third swing arm cooperates with the slider on the third bracket to achieve a sliding connection. The third bracket and the third swing arm may also be slidably connected in other ways, which are not limited in this application.

[0013] In some possible embodiments, the second main shaft is provided with an axis, the rotating end of the third swing arm is provided with a through hole, the axis of the second main shaft passes through the through hole of the third swing arm, thereby realizing the rotational connection between the third swing arm and the second main shaft. In other embodiments, the second main shaft and the third swing arm can also be rotationally connected through a virtual axis or other connection methods, which is not limited in this application.

[0014] In some possible embodiments, the fourth bracket is provided with a slide groove, and the sliding end of the fourth swing arm is mounted in the slide groove on the fourth bracket, thereby achieving a sliding connection between the fourth swing arm and the fourth bracket. In other embodiments, the fourth swing arm may be provided with a slide groove, and the fourth bracket may be provided with a slider, and the slide groove of the fourth swing arm cooperates with the slider on the fourth bracket to achieve a sliding connection. The fourth bracket and the fourth swing arm may also be slidably connected in other ways, which are not limited in this application.

[0015] In some possible embodiments, the second main shaft is provided with an axis, the rotating end of the fourth swing arm is provided with a through hole, the axis of the second main shaft passes through the through hole of the fourth swing arm, thereby realizing the rotational connection between the fourth swing arm and the second main shaft. In other embodiments, the second main shaft and the fourth swing arm can also be rotationally connected through a virtual axis or other connection methods, which is not limited in this application.

[0016] In some possible embodiments, when the first and second shells are in an expanded state, and the second and third shells are in an expanded state, the second moving member extends from the third bracket, and the braking mechanism locks the second moving member. Alternatively, when the second moving member extends from the fourth bracket, the braking mechanism locks the second moving member. When the first and second shells are folded relative to each other from the expanded state to the closed state via the first folding mechanism, the braking mechanism releases the lock on the second moving member.

[0017] For example, when the second folding mechanism is closed, the third swing arm moves away from the second housing. When the second folding mechanism is deployed, the third swing arm moves toward the second housing. The third sliding end may slide relative to the third sliding end, and the braking mechanism interacts with the third sliding end to prevent the third swing arm from sliding, ensuring precise braking.

[0018] In some possible embodiments, the second moving member is provided with a groove, and a portion of the braking mechanism can extend into the groove to lock the second folding mechanism, or move out of the groove to unlock the second folding mechanism. The groove extends in a direction that forms an angle with the direction of movement of the second moving member. For example, the angle between the groove and the direction of movement of the second moving member can be 90°, greater than 90°, or less than 90°, as long as the groove and the direction of movement of the second moving member are different.

[0019] In some possible embodiments, the electronic device includes a monitoring mechanism configured to monitor the relative position of the first and second housings or the state of the first folding mechanism. When the monitoring mechanism detects that the first and second housings are in an extended state or that the first folding mechanism is in an extended state, the braking mechanism locks the second folding mechanism, preventing the second and third housings from folding relative to each other. When the monitoring mechanism detects that the first and second housings are in a closed state or that the first folding mechanism is in a closed state, the braking mechanism releases the lock on the second folding mechanism, allowing the second and third housings to fold relative to each other. It is understood that when the first and second housings are in a closed state, the first folding mechanism is in a closed state, and when the first and second housings are in an extended state, the first folding mechanism is in an extended state. During the opening and closing process of the first and second housings, the angle, distance, light intensity, and other parameters between the first and second housings may change. The monitoring mechanism can determine the relative position of the first and second housings by monitoring these parameters. During the opening and closing process of the first folding mechanism, some structures within the first folding mechanism may move. The monitoring mechanism can monitor the state of the first folding mechanism by monitoring the moving structures within the first folding mechanism. The monitoring mechanism in the embodiment of the present application can be a sensor, and the present application does not limit the specific embodiment of the monitoring mechanism. The monitoring mechanism and the braking mechanism cooperate to control the movement of the second folding mechanism, thereby achieving orderly opening and closing of the electronic device, with a simple structure and precise braking.

[0020] In some possible embodiments, the monitoring mechanism includes a first sensor fixedly connected to the first shell or the second shell and configured to monitor the relative position of the first and second shells. For example, the first sensor may be an angle sensor. When the first shell and the second shell are closed, the angle between the first shell and the second shell is at its minimum. As the first and second shells are extended from the closed state to the extended state, the angle between the first and second shells gradually increases. The first sensor may be a distance sensor. When the first shell and the second shell are closed, the distance between the first shell and the second shell is at its minimum. As the first and second shells are extended from the closed state to the extended state, the distance between the first and second shells gradually increases. The first sensor may be a light intensity sensor. When the first shell and the second shell are closed, the light intensity between the first and second shells is at its minimum. As the first and second shells are extended from the closed state to the extended state, the light intensity between the first and second shells gradually increases. The scheme of monitoring the first and second shells using the first sensor in the embodiments of the present application has a simple structure and the first sensor occupies little space, which facilitates miniaturization and thinness of the electronic device.

[0021] In some possible embodiments, the monitoring mechanism includes a second sensor fixedly connected to the first housing, the second housing, or the first folding mechanism for monitoring the status of the first folding mechanism. The second sensor can be a distance sensor, fixed to a location on the first housing, the second housing, or the first folding mechanism, for detecting changes in the distance between the moving structure of the first folding mechanism and the location of the second sensor to determine the status of the second folding mechanism. This embodiment provides a simple monitoring mechanism, requiring only a sensor and resulting in low cost.

[0022] In some possible implementations, the braking mechanism is an electric locking mechanism, which includes a driving member and a locking member. The driving member drives the locking member to move so that the locking member locks the second folding mechanism, or releases the lock on the second folding mechanism. The driving member can be controlled by an electrical signal. When the electrical signal is turned on or off, the driving member is in different states. The driving member provides power for the movement of the locking member to drive the movement of the locking member. The electric locking mechanism of the present application has a simple structure and precise driving action, and the driving method controlled by electrical signals is easy to implement. In other implementations, the braking mechanism can also be a manual locking mechanism, which cooperates with a monitoring mechanism to achieve manual braking. The present application does not limit the specific form of the braking mechanism.

[0023] In some possible embodiments, the driving member includes a motor and a screw, the screw is fixed to the motor, and the motor is used to drive the screw to rotate; the locking member includes a first locking block and a first locking rod, the first locking rod is fixed to the first locking block, the first locking block is provided with a threaded hole, the screw passes through the threaded hole, the screw drives the first locking block to move to control the movement of the first locking rod, and the first locking rod can lock the second moving member, or release the lock on the second moving member. Exemplarily, the second moving member is provided with a groove, the second shell and the third shell are in the expanded state, when the first shell and the second shell are in the state of relative expansion from the closed state to the expanded state through the first folding mechanism, the motor controls the first locking rod to move into the groove; the second shell and the third shell are in the expanded state, when the first shell and the second shell are in the state of relative folding from the expanded state to the closed state through the first folding mechanism, the motor controls the locking rod to move out of the groove. In the embodiment of the present application, the second folding mechanism is locked and unlocked by driving the first locking rod by a motor, which has a simple structure, low cost, precise control action and good braking effect.

[0024] In some possible embodiments, the locking member includes a second locking block and a second locking rod, the second locking rod being fixed to the second locking block, and the driving member includes a first elastic member and a memory metal member, the first elastic member being located on the side of the second locking block facing away from the second moving member, and the memory metal member being located on the side of the second locking block facing the second moving member; when the second housing and the third housing are in an unfolded state, and the first housing and the second housing are relatively unfolded from a closed state to an unfolded state, the first elastic member controls the second locking rod to lock the second moving member; when the second housing and the third housing are in an unfolded state, and the first housing and the second housing are relatively folded from an unfolded state to a closed state, the memory metal member controls the second locking rod to release the lock on the second moving member. The first elastic member can be a spring, and the memory metal member expands when power is applied and returns to its original size when power is removed. The memory metal member of the present application is formed of a memory metal wire, which can be wound into a spiral shape. This allows for more memory metal wire to be arranged within a limited space, providing sufficient power for driving the second locking block. The embodiments of the present application drive the locking member through the first elastic member and the memory metal member, resulting in a simple driving method and a small number of mating components. In the embodiment of the present application, the second locking rod is driven by the first elastic member and the memory metal member to achieve locking and unlocking of the second folding mechanism. The structure is simple, the cost is low, and it occupies less space in the shell device, which is conducive to the lightweight and miniaturization of the shell device.

[0025] In other embodiments, the first elastic member is located on the side of the second locking block facing the second moving member, and the memory metal member is located on the side of the second locking block facing away from the second moving member. When the second housing and the third housing are in the expanded state and the first housing and the second housing are folded relative to each other from the expanded state to the closed state, the power connection of the memory metal member is disconnected, the length of the memory metal member decreases, and the first elastic member pushes the second locking block to move away from the second moving member, that is, the second locking rod moves away from the second moving member, thereby releasing the brake on the second moving member. When the second housing and the third housing are in the expanded state and the first housing and the second housing are expanded relative to each other from the closed state to the expanded state, the power supply is supplied to the memory metal member, the memory metal member extends, and the memory metal member pushes the second locking block to move toward the second moving member, that is, the second locking rod moves toward the second moving member, and the second locking rod engages with the locking portion to achieve the brake on the second moving member, at which time the first elastic member is compressed.

[0026] In some possible embodiments, the locking member includes a third locking block and a third locking rod, the third locking rod is fixed to the third locking block, and the third locking block is magnetic; the driving member includes a second elastic member and an electromagnetic member, the second elastic member is located on the side of the third locking block away from the second moving member, and the electromagnetic member is located on the side of the third locking block facing the second moving member; when the second shell and the third shell are in the unfolded state and the first shell and the second shell are in the relative unfolding from the closed state to the unfolded state, the second elastic member controls the third locking rod to lock the second moving member; when the second shell and the third shell are in the unfolded state and the first shell and the second shell are in the relative folding from the unfolded state to the closed state, there is a repulsive force between the electromagnetic member and the third locking block, and the electromagnetic member controls the third locking rod to release the lock on the second moving member. In the embodiment of the present application, the second folding mechanism is locked and unlocked by driving the third locking rod by the second elastic member and the electromagnetic member, which has a simple structure, low cost, and takes up little space in the shell device.

[0027] In other embodiments, the second elastic member can be located on the side of the third locking block facing the second moving member, and the electromagnetic member can be located on the side of the third locking block facing away from the second moving member. When the second shell and the third shell are in the expanded state, and the first shell and the second shell are folded relative to each other from the expanded state to the closed state, the power connection of the electromagnetic member is disconnected, the magnetism of the electromagnetic member disappears, and the second elastic member pushes the third locking block to move away from the second moving member, that is, the third locking rod moves away from the second moving member, thereby releasing the lock on the second moving member. When the second shell and the third shell are in the expanded state, and the first shell and the second shell are expanded relative to each other from the closed state to the expanded state, the power supply supplies power to the electromagnetic member, the electromagnetic member has magnetism, and the electromagnetic member repels the third locking block, and the electromagnetic member pushes the third locking block to move toward the second moving member, that is, the third locking rod moves toward the second moving member, and the third locking rod approaches the locking portion to achieve braking of the second moving member, at which time the second elastic member is compressed.

[0028] In the embodiment of the present application, the second elastic member may be a spring, and the third locking block may be a magnetic member. The electromagnetic member is magnetic when powered on and non-magnetic when powered off. The effect of the electromagnetic member on the third locking block can be controlled by turning the power on and off. For example, when the power is on, the electromagnetic member is magnetic and has an opposite magnetic property to that of the third locking block, repelling the electromagnetic member and the third locking block, causing the third locking block and the third locking rod to move away from the second moving member. The embodiment of the present application drives the locking member through the second elastic member and the memory metal member, resulting in a simple driving method and a small number of cooperating structural components.

[0029] In some possible implementations, the driving member includes a piezoelectric member, and the locking member includes a fourth locking rod, one end of which is fixedly connected to the piezoelectric member; when the second shell and the third shell are in the expanded state, and the first shell and the second shell are in the expanded state relative to each other from the closed state to the expanded state, the piezoelectric member drives the fourth locking rod to lock the second moving member; when the second shell and the third shell are in the expanded state, and the first shell and the second shell are in the folded state relative to each other from the expanded state to the closed state, the piezoelectric member drives the fourth locking rod to release the lock on the second moving member. The piezoelectric member is made of piezoelectric material. When the power is turned on, the piezoelectric material will deform to drive the locking rod to move. When the power is disconnected, the piezoelectric material will return to its original shape to drive the locking rod to move. The embodiment of the present application drives the locking member through a piezoelectric member, and the driving method is simple and the number of structural parts is small.

[0030] In some possible embodiments, the braking mechanism is a linkage mechanism, one end of which is connected to the first folding mechanism, and the other end of which can move closer to or farther from the second folding mechanism. The linkage mechanism can be used to brake the second folding mechanism, resulting in precise braking and good braking effect.

[0031] In some possible embodiments, the first folding mechanism includes a first moving member. When the first folding mechanism is deformed, the first moving member is capable of moving. One end of the linkage mechanism is connected to the first moving member, and the first moving member is capable of driving the linkage mechanism to lock or unlock the second folding mechanism. Movement of the first moving member drives movement of the linkage mechanism, thereby avoiding the need for a separate drive structure, resulting in precise braking action, fewer structural components, and cost savings.

[0032] In some possible embodiments, the first folding mechanism includes a first bracket and a second bracket, the first bracket being fixedly connected to the first housing, the second bracket being fixedly connected to the second housing, and the first movable member being slidably connected to the second bracket. The first movable member is slidable, and the movement of the linkage mechanism is controlled by the sliding of the first movable member, thereby simplifying the control action.

[0033] In some possible embodiments, the first folding mechanism includes a first main shaft, a first swing arm, and a second swing arm, the first swing arm and the second swing arm can be relatively folded or opened, the second swing arm includes a second rotating end and a second sliding end, the second rotating end is rotationally connected to the first main shaft, the second sliding end is slidingly connected to the second bracket, and the first moving part includes the second swing arm. One end of the linkage mechanism is connected to the first moving part, the second shell and the third shell are in the expanded state, when the first shell and the second shell are in the expanded state, the end of the first moving part away from the first main shaft approaches the second shell, and the first moving part can drive the linkage mechanism to lock the second folding mechanism; when the second shell and the third shell are in the expanded state, when the first shell and the second shell are in the expanded state, when the first shell and the second shell are in the folded state, the end of the first moving part away from the first main shaft is away from the second shell, and the first moving part can drive the linkage mechanism to unlock the second folding mechanism. In the embodiment of the present application, the driving structure that drives the linkage mechanism to move is the first moving part, and the first moving part drives the linkage mechanism to move when it slides.

[0034] In some possible embodiments, the linkage mechanism includes a first connecting rod and a second connecting rod, one end of the first connecting rod being rotatably connected to the first moving member, and the other end of the first connecting rod being rotatably connected to the second connecting rod; when the second shell and the third shell are in the expanded state and the first shell and the second shell are in the expanded state relative to each other from the closed state, the first moving member is used to push the first connecting rod toward the second folding mechanism, and the first connecting rod is used to push the second connecting rod toward the second folding mechanism to lock the second moving member; when the second shell and the third shell are in the expanded state and the first shell and the second shell are in the expanded state and relative to each other from the expanded state to the closed state, the first moving member is used to drive the first connecting rod away from the second folding mechanism, and the first connecting rod is used to drive the second connecting rod away from the second folding mechanism to release the lock on the second moving member. The embodiment of the present application achieves braking of the second folding mechanism through two connecting rods, which has a simple structure and precise braking action.

[0035] In some possible embodiments, the linkage mechanism includes a first rack, a second rack, and a gear, one end of the first rack being connected to the first moving member, the gear meshing with the teeth of the first rack and the teeth of the second rack; when the second housing and the third housing are in the unfolded state and the first housing and the second housing are in the relative unfolding from the closed state to the unfolded state, the first moving member is used to push the first rack to move, the first rack is used to rotate the gear, and the gear is used to move the second rack close to the second moving member to lock the second moving member; when the second housing and the third housing are in the unfolded state and the first housing and the second housing are in the relative folding from the unfolded state to the closed state, the first moving member is used to move the first rack, the first rack is used to rotate the gear, and the gear is used to move the second rack away from the second moving member to release the lock on the second moving member. The number of gears in the embodiments of the present application can be one, two, or three, etc. The embodiments of the present application achieve locking of the second moving member by meshing, and the movement mechanism is simple and the braking action is precise.

[0036] In some possible implementations, the electronic device further includes a flexible display screen, and the first housing, the second housing, the third housing, the first folding mechanism, and the second folding mechanism jointly support the flexible display screen. The electronic device may be a foldable electronic product such as a mobile phone, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a wearable device, or the like. The electronic device of the present application is a multi-fold folding device, which refers to a folding device that folds three or more times. The first housing, the second housing, the third housing, the first folding mechanism, and the second folding mechanism can drive the flexible display screen to fold or unfold.

[0037] By providing a braking mechanism, the present application can achieve orderly opening and closing of electronic equipment, avoid damage to the electronic equipment, and help improve the reliability and service life of the electronic equipment. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the background technology, the drawings required for use in the embodiments of the present invention or the background technology will be described below.

[0039] Figure 1 This is a schematic structural diagram of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0040] Figure 2 is a schematic structural diagram of another electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0041] Figure 3 is a schematic structural diagram of another electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0042] Figure 4 This is a schematic structural diagram of an electronic device in a closed state provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0043] Figure 5 This is a schematic structural diagram of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0044] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of orderly opening and closing of an electronic device provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0045] Figure 7 is a schematic structural diagram of another electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0046] Figure 8A This is a structural schematic diagram of a first folding mechanism in an unfolded state provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0047] Figure 8B This is a schematic structural diagram of a partial structure of a first folding mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application in an unfolded state;

[0048] Figure 9 yes Figure 8A A schematic structural diagram of the first folding mechanism from another angle is shown;

[0049] Figure 10A This is a structural diagram of the first folding mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application in a folded state;

[0050] Figure 10B This is a structural schematic diagram of another angle of the first folding mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application in a folded state;

[0051] Figure 11A This is a structural schematic diagram of a second folding mechanism in an unfolded state provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0052] Figure 11B for Figure 11A A schematic structural diagram of the second folding mechanism 25 from another angle is shown;

[0053] Figure 12 This is a schematic structural diagram of an electronic device in an unfolded state provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0054] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 A schematic diagram of the structure of the electronic device shown is in an intermediate state;

[0055] Figure 14 This is a schematic structural diagram of an electronic device in an unfolded state provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0056] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 A schematic diagram of the structure of the electronic device shown is in an intermediate state;

[0057] Figure 16 This is a structural schematic diagram of a first folding mechanism in an unfolded state provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0058] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 A schematic structural diagram of the first folding mechanism shown in FIG. 1 is in a folded state;

[0059] Figure 18 This is a structural schematic diagram of a first folding mechanism in an unfolded state provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0060] Figure 19 yes Figure 18 A schematic structural diagram of the first folding mechanism shown in a folded state;

[0061] Figure 20 This is a structural diagram of an electric locking mechanism locking a second folding mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0062] Figure 21 This is a structural diagram of an electric locking mechanism unlocking the second folding mechanism provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0063] Figure 22 This is a structural diagram of an electric locking mechanism locking a second folding mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0064] Figure 23 This is a structural diagram of an electric locking mechanism unlocking the second folding mechanism provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0065] Figure 24 This is a structural diagram of an electric locking mechanism locking a second folding mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0066] Figure 25 This is a structural diagram of an electric locking mechanism unlocking the second folding mechanism provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0067] Figure 26 This is a schematic structural diagram of an electric locking mechanism locking a second folding mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0068] Figure 27 This is a structural diagram of an electric locking mechanism unlocking the second folding mechanism provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0069] Figure 28 This is a structural diagram of a linkage mechanism locking a second folding mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0070] Figure 29 This is a structural diagram of a linkage mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application that releases the lock on the second folding mechanism;

[0071] Figure 30 This is a structural diagram of a linkage mechanism locking a second folding mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0072] Figure 31 It is a structural schematic diagram of a linkage mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application that releases the lock on the second folding mechanism. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0073] The following will be combined with the drawings in the embodiments of this application to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application. Obviously, the embodiments described are only part of the embodiments of this application, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0074] The present application provides an electronic device, which can be a foldable electronic product such as a mobile phone, tablet computer, laptop computer, wearable device, etc. The present application embodiment is described using a mobile phone as an example. The electronic device 100 of the present application is a multi-fold folding device, which refers to a folding device that folds three times or more. The present application uses a three-fold structure as an example for description.

[0075] like Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, Figure 1 is a structural diagram of an electronic device 100 provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 2 is a structural diagram of another electronic device 100 provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 3 It is a structural diagram of another electronic device 100 provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0076] The electronic device 100 includes a flexible display 10 and a housing device 20. The flexible display 10 is mounted on the housing device 20. The housing device 20 is used to support the flexible display 10 and can drive the flexible display 10 to fold or unfold. The housing device 20 includes a first housing 21, a second housing 22, a third housing 23, a first folding mechanism 24, and a second folding mechanism 25. The first folding mechanism 24 is connected between the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 to enable the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 to be relatively unfolded or folded. The second folding mechanism 25 is connected between the second housing 22 and the third housing 23 to enable the second housing 22 and the third housing 23 to be relatively unfolded or folded. In other words, the electronic device 100 can be folded or unfolded twice through the first folding mechanism 24 and the second folding mechanism 25.

[0077] The first housing 21 is fixedly connected to the first folding mechanism 24, one side of the second housing 22 is fixedly connected to the first folding mechanism 24, the other side of the second housing 22 is fixedly connected to the second folding mechanism 25, and the third housing 23 is fixedly connected to the second folding mechanism 25. The fixed connection methods between the first housing 21 and the first folding mechanism 24, between one side of the second housing 22 and the first folding mechanism 24, between the other side of the second housing 22 and the second folding mechanism 25, and between the third housing 23 and the second folding mechanism 25 include, but are not limited to, screws, bolts, welding, bonding, snap-fit connections, and the like. It is understood that the first housing 21, the second housing 22, the third housing 23, the first folding mechanism 24, and the second folding mechanism 25 collectively support the flexible display 10.

[0078] Figure 1 The electronic device 100 shown is an inward-folding device. Figure 1 The electronic device 100 is shown in an intermediate state between the unfolded state and the folded state. Figure 1 After the electronic device 100 shown is folded (the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are folded inward relative to the first folding mechanism 24, and the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 are folded inward relative to the second folding mechanism 25), the flexible display screen 10 is on the inner side of the shell device 20 of the electronic device 100. The shell device 20 plays a role in protecting the flexible display screen 10 on the inside, which can prevent the flexible display screen 10 from being scratched, damaged by collision, etc.

[0079] Figure 2 The electronic device 100 shown is an external folding device. Figure 2 The electronic device 100 is shown in an intermediate state between the unfolded state and the folded state. Figure 2After the electronic device 100 shown is folded (the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are folded outward relative to the first folding mechanism 24, and the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 are folded outward relative to the second folding mechanism 25), the flexible display screen corresponding to the first shell 21 is outside the first shell 21, and the flexible display screens corresponding to the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 are outside the shell device 20 of the electronic device 100 and are exposed.

[0080] Figure 3 The electronic device 100 shown is an S-type device. Figure 3 The electronic device 100 is shown in an intermediate state between the unfolded state and the folded state. Figure 3 After the electronic device 100 shown is folded (the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are folded inward relative to the first folding mechanism 24, and the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 are folded outward relative to the second folding mechanism 25), part of the flexible display screen is located on the inner side between the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 of the electronic device 100, and the other part of the flexible display screen 10 is located on the outer side of the third shell 23 of the electronic device 100.

[0081] When the first folding mechanism 24 is deformed, it can drive the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 to fold to a closed state or unfold to an unfolded state. When the second folding mechanism 25 is deformed, it can drive the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 to fold to a closed state or unfold to an unfolded state. The flexible display screen 10 is folded or unfolded along with the shell device 20 to realize the folding or unfolding of the electronic device 100.

[0082] Among them, the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 can also be relatively unfolded or relatively folded to an intermediate state, and the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 can also be relatively unfolded or relatively folded to an intermediate state. The intermediate state can be any state between the unfolded state and the closed state, and the flexible display screen 10 moves with the shell device 20.

[0083] When the electronic device 100 is in a flattened state, that is, the housing device 20 is in a flattened state, the flexible display screen 10 is unfolded along with the housing device 20 and is in a flattened state. For example, the first housing 21, the second housing 22, and the third housing 23 can be in the same plane. In other words, the angles between the first housing 21 and the second housing 22, and between the second housing 22 and the third housing 23 can all be approximately 180°. In other embodiments, when the housing device 20 is in a flattened state, the angles between the first housing 21 and the second housing 22, and between the second housing 22 and the third housing 23 can also be 179°, 184°, or 167°, etc., that is, the angles between the first housing 21 and the second housing 22, and between the second housing 22 and the third housing 23 can deviate slightly from 180°. In this case, the first housing 21, the second housing 22, and the third housing 23 can also be considered to be flat. Among them, the angle between the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 is defined as the angle between the side of the first shell 21 facing the flexible display screen 10 and the side of the second shell 22 facing the flexible display screen 10, and the angle between the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 is defined as the angle between the side of the second shell 22 facing the flexible display screen 10 and the side of the third shell 23 facing the flexible display screen 10.

[0084] In this embodiment, when the electronic device 100 is in the open state, the flexible display 10 is flattened, and the flexible display 10 can display a full screen, so that the electronic device 100 has a larger display area, thereby improving the user's viewing and operating experience. When the electronic device 100 is in the closed state, the planar size of the electronic device 100 is smaller, making it easier for the user to carry and store. In this case, the user can also view and operate the exposed flexible display 10 to meet different application scenarios.

[0085] The flexible display screen 10 can be used for image display. The flexible display screen 10 can be an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display screen, an active-matrix organic light-emitting diode or an active-matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) display screen, a mini organic light-emitting diode (MID) display screen, a micro light-emitting diode (MID) display screen, a micro organic light-emitting diode (MID) display screen, or a quantum dot light-emitting diode (QLED) display screen, etc.

[0086] In some embodiments, the electronic device 100 may further include multiple modules (not shown in the figure), and the multiple modules may be housed inside the housing device 20. The multiple modules of the electronic device 100 may include, but are not limited to, a motherboard, a processor, a memory, a battery, a camera module, an earpiece module, a speaker module, a microphone module, an antenna module, a sensor module, etc. The embodiments of the present application do not specifically limit the number, type, location, etc. of the modules of the electronic device 100.

[0087] like Figure 4 As shown, Figure 4 : is a structural diagram of an electronic device 100 in a closed state. In this embodiment, the plane where the upper end of the second shell 22 is located is defined as a reference plane, and the direction perpendicular to the reference plane is defined as the thickness direction of the shell device 20. The upper end of the second shell 22 can be the end point of a ridge structure or a flat upper surface. In this embodiment, the maximum dimension of the first folding mechanism 24 in the thickness direction is defined as a first thickness, and the maximum dimension of the second folding mechanism 25 in the thickness direction is defined as a second thickness. The first thickness of the first folding mechanism 24 is less than the second thickness of the second folding mechanism 25. Therefore, if the third shell 23 is folded before the first shell 21 is folded, there is no support from the first shell 21 between the third shell 23 and the second shell 22, and the second folding mechanism 25 is difficult to support the third shell 23 alone. The second folding mechanism 25 will be subjected to excessive pressure, which will easily damage the second folding mechanism 25 and shorten the service life of the second folding mechanism 25. In addition, if the third shell 23 is folded first and then the first shell 21 is folded, the third shell 23 is added between the first shell 21 and the second shell 22, causing the first folding mechanism 24 to be subjected to excessive tension and the flexible display screen 10 to be subjected to excessive pressure, thereby easily damaging the first folding mechanism 24 and the flexible display screen 10. Due to size limitations, if the third shell 23 is folded first and then the first shell 21 is folded, it may also cause the first shell 21 to not be able to fold flatly to the side of the third shell 23 away from the second shell 22, causing the electronic device 100 to be unstable in the folded state and easy to be damaged.

[0088] Therefore, in the present embodiment of the application, based on the size design of the first folding mechanism 24 and the second folding mechanism 25, when folding the electronic device 100, it is necessary to fold the first housing 21 first and then the third housing 23 to achieve orderly opening and closing of the electronic device 100 to avoid damage to the electronic device 100. It is understandable that in other embodiments, by adjusting the size design of the first folding mechanism 24 and the second folding mechanism 25, or designing the structure of the first folding mechanism 24 and the second folding mechanism 25, when folding the electronic device 100, the third housing 23 may be folded first and then the first housing 21, or the first housing 21 and the third housing 23 may be folded simultaneously, and this application is not limited to this.

[0089] In the embodiment of this application, Figure 4 The example of an inner folding device is used for explanation. An outer folding device, an S-shaped device or other multi-folding device may also have size limitations or other problems and need to meet the requirements of orderly opening and closing.

[0090] In some embodiments, the housing device 20 further includes a braking mechanism 26, which is used to achieve orderly opening and closing of the first housing 21, the second housing 22, and the third housing 23. Exemplarily, when the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are in the expanded state and the second housing 22 and the third housing 23 are in the expanded state, the braking mechanism 26 is used to lock the second folding mechanism 25 to prevent the second housing 22 and the third housing 23 from folding relative to each other. When the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are in the closed state, the braking mechanism 26 releases the lock on the second folding mechanism 25, and the second housing 22 and the third housing 23 can be folded relative to each other. That is, in the embodiment of the present application, the orderly opening and closing of the electronic device 100 can be achieved by setting the braking mechanism 26. The solutions for achieving orderly closure of the electronic device 100 in the present application include but are not limited to the following two:

[0091] The first one, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, Figure 5 is a structural diagram of an electronic device 100, Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the orderly opening and closing of an electronic device. The housing assembly 20 includes a monitoring mechanism 27 for monitoring the relative position of the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 (i.e., whether the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are relatively open or closed) or the state of the first folding mechanism 24. It is understood that when the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are in the open state, the first folding mechanism 24 is also in the open state, and when the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are in the closed state, the first folding mechanism 24 is also in the closed state.

[0092] If the monitoring mechanism 27 detects that the first and second housings 21 and 22 are in an unfolded state or that the first folding mechanism 24 is in an unfolded state, the braking mechanism 26 brakes the second folding mechanism 25, locking the second folding mechanism 25 so that it cannot close. Specifically, the braking mechanism 26 prevents the second and third housings 22 and 23 from folding relative to the second folding mechanism 25. If the monitoring mechanism 27 detects that the first and second housings 21 and 22 are in a closed state or that the first folding mechanism 24 is in a closed state, the braking mechanism 26 releases the brakes on the second folding mechanism 25, allowing the second folding mechanism 25 to close. Specifically, the second and third housings 22 and 23 can fold relative to the second folding mechanism 25. In this embodiment of the present application, the braking mechanism 26 is provided to achieve orderly folding of the electronic device 100. Specifically, in this embodiment of the present application, the first housing 21 is closed first, followed by the third housing 23, to avoid damage to the folding mechanism and the flexible display 10. The monitoring mechanism 27 and the braking mechanism 26 cooperate to control the movement of the second folding mechanism 25, resulting in a simple structure and precise braking.

[0093] It should be understood that Figure 5 The positions of the monitoring mechanism 27 and the braking mechanism 26 in the electronic device 100 are only schematic representations, and this application does not limit the positions of the monitoring mechanism 27 and the braking mechanism 26. In the embodiment of this application, the braking mechanism 26 can be an electric locking mechanism that drives the electric locking mechanism to move by controlling the electrical signal.

[0094] In other embodiments, the braking mechanism 26 can also be a manual locking mechanism. After the monitoring mechanism 27 monitors the relative position status of the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 or the status of the first folding mechanism 24, the user can manually operate to drive the manual locking mechanism to move, thereby locking or unlocking the second folding mechanism 25.

[0095] The second type, such as Figure 7 As shown, Figure 7 2 is a schematic diagram of the structure of another electronic device 100. The brake mechanism 26 is a linkage mechanism. When the first folding mechanism 24 is opened, the moving member of the first folding mechanism 24 drives the brake mechanism 26 to move, thereby locking the second folding mechanism 25. When the first folding mechanism 24 is closed, the moving member of the first folding mechanism 24 drives the brake mechanism 26 to release the lock on the second folding mechanism 25. In the embodiment of the present application, the movement of the brake mechanism 26 is driven by the moving member of the first folding mechanism 24, resulting in a simple structure and low cost.

[0096] Due to the size design of the first folding mechanism 24 and the second folding mechanism 25, the electronic device 100 needs to fold the first housing 21 first and then the third housing 23. The present application provides a braking mechanism 26 to control the movement of the second folding mechanism 25, so that the electronic device 100 can be folded in a certain order, avoiding excessive tension on the first folding mechanism 24 and the flexible display screen 10, thereby avoiding damage to the first folding mechanism 24, the second folding mechanism 25 and the flexible display screen 10, and improving the service life and reliability of the electronic device 100.

[0097] The first folding mechanism 24 , the second folding mechanism 25 , and the braking mechanism 26 , as well as the connection relationship therebetween, will be described in detail below.

[0098] like Figure 8A 、 Figure 8B and Figure 9 As shown, Figure 8A is a structural diagram of the first folding mechanism 24 in the unfolded state, Figure 8B FIG. 2 is a schematic structural diagram of a portion of the first folding mechanism 24 in an unfolded state. Figure 9 for Figure 8A The schematic diagram of the structure of the first folding mechanism 24 is shown in another angle. It should be noted that, Figure 8A The first folding mechanism 24 is a structural diagram from a side perspective of the first folding mechanism 24 facing the flexible display screen. Figure 9 The first folding mechanism 24 is a structural diagram from the perspective of the side of the first folding mechanism 24 facing away from the flexible display screen. Figure 8B This is a structural diagram of the first main axis, the first bracket and the second bracket from a side perspective facing the flexible display screen. Figure 8B The supporting plate, the first door panel and the second door panel are not included.

[0099] The first folding mechanism 24 includes a first moving member 245. The first moving member 245 can move when the first folding mechanism 24 is deformed. The first moving member 245 can be a structure that moves when the first folding mechanism 24 is deformed, including but not limited to some structural members that play a connecting role.

[0100] In some possible embodiments, the first folding mechanism 24 includes a first bracket 242-1 and a second bracket 242-2. The first bracket 242-1 is fixedly connected to the first housing 21, the second bracket 242-2 is fixedly connected to the second housing 22, and the first moving member 245 is slidably connected to the second bracket 242-2. The first folding mechanism 24 also includes a first main shaft 241, a first support plate 243, a first door panel 244-1, a second door panel 244-2, a first swing arm 240-1, and a second swing arm 240-2. The first bracket 242-1 and the second bracket 242-2 are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the first main shaft 241. When the first bracket 242-1 and the second bracket 242-2 move relative to the first main shaft 241, the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 fold or unfold. It is understood that in other embodiments, the first folding mechanism 24 may not include the first support plate 243 and the first door panel 244-1 and the second door panel 244-2, and this is not limited in this application.

[0101] The first door panel 244-1 corresponds to the first bracket 242-1, and the second door panel 244-2 corresponds to the second bracket 242-2. The first door panel 244-1 covers the side of the first bracket 242-1 facing the flexible display screen, and the second door panel 244-2 covers the side of the second bracket 242-2 facing the flexible display screen.

[0102] The first bracket 242-1 is connected to the first main shaft 241 via the first swing arm 240-1. The first swing arm 240-1 includes a first rotating end 240-3 and a first sliding end 240-4. The first rotating end 240-3 is rotationally connected to the first main shaft 241, and the first sliding end 240-4 is slidingly connected to the first bracket 242-1. During the process of unfolding or folding the first folding mechanism 24, the first swing arm 240-1 rotates relative to the first main shaft 241 and slides relative to the first bracket 242-1. During the process of opening or closing the first folding mechanism 24, the end of the first swing arm 240-1 away from the first main shaft 241 (i.e., the first sliding end 240-4) can move toward or away from the first housing 21.

[0103] In some possible embodiments, the first bracket 242-1 is provided with a slide groove, and the first sliding end 240-4 of the first swing arm 240-1 is mounted in the slide groove of the first bracket 242-1, thereby achieving a sliding connection between the first swing arm 240-1 and the first bracket 242-1. In other embodiments, the first swing arm 240-1 may be provided with a slide groove, and the first bracket 242-1 may be provided with a slider, and the slide groove of the first swing arm 240-1 cooperates with the slider on the first bracket 242-1 to achieve a sliding connection. The first bracket 242-1 and the first swing arm 240-1 may also be slidably connected in other ways, which are not limited in this application.

[0104] In some possible embodiments, the first main shaft 241 is provided with an axis, and the first rotating end 240-3 of the first swing arm 240-1 is provided with a through hole. The axis of the first main shaft 241 passes through the through hole of the first swing arm 240-1 to realize the rotational connection between the first swing arm 240-1 and the first main shaft 241. In other embodiments, the first main shaft 241 and the first swing arm 240-1 can also be rotationally connected through a virtual axis or other connection methods, which is not limited in this application.

[0105] The second bracket 242-2 is connected to the first main shaft 241 via a second swing arm 240-2. The second swing arm 240-2 includes a second rotating end 240-5 and a second sliding end 240-6. The second rotating end 240-5 is rotationally connected to the first main shaft 241, and the second sliding end 240-6 is slidingly connected to the second bracket 242-2. During the unfolding or folding process of the first folding mechanism 24, the second swing arm 240-2 rotates relative to the first main shaft 241 and slides relative to the second bracket 242-2. During the opening or closing process of the first folding mechanism 24, the end of the second swing arm 240-2 away from the first main shaft 241 (the second sliding end 240-6) can move toward or away from the second housing 22.

[0106] In some possible embodiments, the second bracket 242-2 is provided with a slide groove, and the second sliding end 240-6 of the second swing arm 240-2 is mounted in the slide groove of the second bracket 242-2, thereby achieving a sliding connection between the second swing arm 240-2 and the second bracket 242-2. In other embodiments, the second swing arm 240-2 may be provided with a slide groove, and the second bracket 242-2 may be provided with a slider, and the slide groove of the second swing arm 240-2 cooperates with the slider on the second bracket 242-2 to achieve a sliding connection. The second bracket 242-2 and the second swing arm 240-2 may also be slidably connected in other ways, which are not limited in this application.

[0107] In some possible embodiments, the first main shaft 241 is provided with an axis, and the second rotating end 240-5 of the second swing arm 240-2 is provided with a through hole. The axis of the first main shaft 241 passes through the through hole of the second swing arm 240-2 to realize the rotational connection between the second swing arm 240-2 and the first main shaft 241. In other embodiments, the first main shaft 241 and the second swing arm 240-2 can also be rotationally connected through a virtual axis or other connection methods, which is not limited in this application.

[0108] The first swing arm 240-1 and the second swing arm 240-2 can be folded or unfolded relative to each other. In the embodiment of the present application, the first moving member 245 includes the second swing arm 240-2.

[0109] The first folding mechanism 24 also includes a synchronization device 246, which can be installed on the first main shaft 241. The first swing arm 240-1 and the second swing arm 240-2 can both engage with the synchronization device 246. The synchronization device 246 is used to enable the first bracket 242-1 and the second bracket 242-2 to maintain synchronous movement during the movement of the shell device 20. The first bracket 242-1 and the second bracket 242-2 drive the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 to move synchronously, thereby realizing the synchronous relative folding or relative unfolding of the first shell 21 and the second shell 22, so as to improve the mechanical operation experience of the shell device 20 and the electronic device 100.

[0110] In some embodiments, the synchronization device 246 can be a synchronization gear, and the first swing arm 240-1 and the second swing arm 240-2 are both provided with teeth at one end that is rotatably connected to the first main shaft 241, and the teeth of the first swing arm 240-1 and the second swing arm 240-2 are both engaged with the synchronization gear to achieve synchronous movement.

[0111] The first folding mechanism 24 also includes a first connecting member 247-1 and a second connecting member 247-2. One end of the first connecting member 247-1 is rotatably connected to the first main shaft 241, and the other end of the first connecting member 247-1 is rotatably connected to the first bracket 242-1. The first connecting member 247-1 can rotate relative to both the first main shaft 241 and the first bracket 242-1. During folding or unfolding of the first folding mechanism 24, the first connecting member 247-1 rotates to fold or unfold the first bracket 242-1. One end of the second connecting member 247-2 is rotatably connected to the first main shaft 241, and the other end of the second connecting member 247-2 is rotatably connected to the second bracket 242-2. The second connecting member 247-2 can rotate relative to both the first main shaft 241 and the second bracket 242-2. During folding or unfolding of the first folding mechanism 24, the second connecting member 247-2 rotates to fold or unfold the second bracket 242-2.

[0112] In the embodiment of the present application, the first connecting member 247-1 and the first main shaft 241 can form a virtual axis rotational connection structure. The first connecting member 247-1 and the first main shaft 241 are rotationally connected via the virtual axis, which can reduce the design difficulty of the first folding mechanism 24, reduce the size requirements of the first folding mechanism 24, and facilitate the lightweight and thinness of the first folding mechanism 24 and the housing device 20. In other embodiments, the first bracket 242-1 and the first main shaft 241 can also be rotationally connected via a physical axis, which is not limited in this application.

[0113] The first support plate 243 and the first main shaft 241 can be connected by an elastic connector. During the folding process of the first folding mechanism 24, the elastic connector drives the first support plate 243 to move in the direction close to the first main shaft 241, thereby increasing the screen space after the first folding mechanism 24 is folded. During the unfolding process of the first folding mechanism 24, the elastic connector drives the first support plate 243 to move in the direction away from the first main shaft 241. The first support plate 243 and the first door panel 244-1 and the second door panel 244-2 together form a support surface to carry the flexible display screen and provide support for the flexible display screen. The elastic connector is used to realize the lifting and lowering of the first support plate 243. This application only provides a connection method between the first support plate 243 and the first main shaft 241. The first support plate 243 and the first main shaft 241 can also be connected in other ways, which is not limited in this application.

[0114] The first door panel 244-1 is mounted on the first bracket 242-1 for rotational connection thereto, and is also mounted on the first main shaft 241 for sliding connection thereto. During the unfolding or folding process of the first folding mechanism 24, the first door panel 244-1 is capable of rotation relative to the first bracket 242-1 and sliding relative to the first main shaft 241. The installation of the second door panel 244-2 is similar to that of the first door panel 244-1 and will not be further described here.

[0115] It should be noted that the present application only provides an exemplary structure of a first main shaft 241, a first bracket 242-1, a second bracket 242-2, a first support plate 243, a first door panel 244-1, a second door panel 244-2, a first swing arm 240-1 and a second swing arm 240-2 and their mutual connection relationship. The present application does not limit the specific structure of each structural component of the first folding mechanism 24 and their connection relationship.

[0116] like Figure 8A 、 Figure 9 、 Figure 10A and Figure 10B As shown, Figure 10A is a structural diagram of the first folding mechanism 24 in a folded state, Figure 10B It is a structural schematic diagram of the first folding mechanism 24 at another angle when in the folded state.

[0117] When the first folding mechanism 24 is in the flattened state, the first door panel 244-1, the first support panel 243, and the second door panel 244-2 are arranged side by side and constitute a support surface for supporting the flexible display screen 10, thereby jointly providing support for the flexible display screen 10. In the embodiment of the present application, the first folding mechanism 24 adopts a three-plate structure. As a result, when the electronic device 100 is in the flattened state, when a user presses the flexible display screen 10 while using the electronic device 100, the flexible display screen 10 is less likely to dent or be damaged by the user's pressure, thereby improving the service life and reliability of the flexible display screen 10.

[0118] The flexible display 10 includes a flattened portion and a bent portion. There are three flattened portions, corresponding to the first housing 21, the second housing 22, and the third housing 23, and two bent portions, corresponding to the first folding mechanism 24 and the second folding mechanism 25. When the first folding mechanism 24 is in the flattened state, the first door panel 244-1, the first support panel 243, and the second door panel 244-2 jointly support the bent portion of the flexible display 10. The bent portion of the flexible display 10 is in the flattened state. When the first folding mechanism 24 is in the folded state, the first door panel 244-1, the first support panel 243, and the second door panel 244-2 together form a storage space to accommodate the bent portion of the flexible display 10.

[0119] Taking the second bracket 242-2 fixedly connected to the second housing 22 as an example, when the second housing 22 and the third housing 23 are in the deployed state and the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are relatively unfolded from the closed state to the deployed state, the end of the second swing arm 240-2 away from the first main axis 241 gradually approaches the second housing 22. When the second housing 22 and the third housing 23 are in the deployed state and the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are relatively folded from the deployed state to the closed state, the end of the second swing arm 240-2 away from the first main axis 241 gradually moves away from the second housing 22.

[0120] During the folding process of the first folding mechanism 24 of the present application, the first door panel 244-1, the first support panel 243, and the second door panel 244-2 automatically move out of the way to form a storage space for the flexible display. The area of the storage space adjacent to the first support panel 243 is relatively large. As a result, after the first folding mechanism 24 is folded, the crease corresponding to the flexible display provided on the first folding mechanism 24 is not obvious, thus preventing damage to the flexible display during the folding process. In addition, the electronic device 100 using this first folding mechanism has no gaps on the sides after folding, and has excellent waterproof, dustproof, and foreign body-proof properties.

[0121] like Figure 11A and Figure 11B As shown, Figure 11A is a structural diagram of the second folding mechanism 25 in the unfolded state, Figure 11Bfor Figure 11A A schematic structural diagram of the second folding mechanism 25 from another angle is shown. The second folding mechanism 25 includes a second moving member 255, which is capable of moving when the second folding mechanism 25 is deformed. The second moving member 255 may be a structure that moves during the deformation of the second folding mechanism 25, including but not limited to connecting components. When the second housing 22 and the third housing 23 are in the expanded state, and the first and second housings 21 and 22 are relatively expanded from a closed state to an expanded state, the braking mechanism 26 is used to prevent movement of the second moving member 255, thereby locking the second folding mechanism 25.

[0122] The second folding mechanism 25 includes a third bracket 252-1 and a fourth bracket 252-2. The third bracket 252-1 is fixedly connected to the second housing 22, and the fourth bracket 252-2 is fixedly connected to the third housing 23. A second moving member 255 is slidably connected to the third bracket 252-1, or the second moving member 255 is slidably connected to the fourth bracket 252-2. The second folding mechanism 25 also includes a second main shaft 251, a second support plate 253, a third door panel 254-1, a fourth door panel 254-2, a third swing arm 250-1, and a fourth swing arm 250-2. The third bracket 252-1 and the fourth bracket 252-2 are respectively arranged on opposite sides of the second main shaft 251. When the third bracket 252-1 and the fourth bracket 252-2 rotate relative to the second main shaft 251, the second housing 22 and the third housing 23 are folded or unfolded relative to each other. The third door panel 254-1 corresponds to the third bracket 252-1, and the fourth door panel 254-2 corresponds to the fourth bracket 252-2. The third door panel 254-1 covers the side of the third bracket 252-1 facing the flexible display screen, and the fourth door panel 254-2 covers the side of the fourth bracket 252-2 facing the flexible display screen. It is understood that in other embodiments, the second folding mechanism 25 may not include the second support plate 253, the third door panel 254-1, and the fourth door panel 254-2.

[0123] The third bracket 252-1 is connected to the second main shaft 251 via a third swing arm 250-1. The third swing arm 250-1 includes a third rotating end 250-3 and a third sliding end 250-4. The third rotating end 250-3 is rotationally connected to the second main shaft 251, and the third sliding end 250-4 is slidingly connected to the third bracket 252-1. During the unfolding or folding process of the second folding mechanism 25, the third swing arm 250-1 rotates relative to the second main shaft 251 and slides relative to the third bracket 252-1. During the opening or closing process of the second folding mechanism 25, the end of the third swing arm 250-1 away from the second main shaft 251 (i.e., the third sliding end 250-4) can move toward or away from the second housing 22.

[0124] In some possible embodiments, the third bracket 252-1 is provided with a slide groove, and the third sliding end 250-4 of the third swing arm 250-1 is mounted in the slide groove of the third bracket 252-1, thereby achieving a sliding connection between the third swing arm 250-1 and the third bracket 252-1. In other embodiments, the third swing arm 250-1 may be provided with a slide groove, and the third bracket 252-1 may be provided with a slider, and the slide groove of the third swing arm 250-1 cooperates with the slider on the third bracket 252-1 to achieve a sliding connection. The third bracket 252-1 and the third swing arm 250-1 may also be slidably connected in other ways, which are not limited in this application.

[0125] In some possible embodiments, the second main shaft 251 is provided with an axis, and the third rotating end 250-3 of the third swing arm 250-1 is provided with a through hole. The axis of the second main shaft 251 passes through the through hole of the third swing arm 250-1 to realize the rotational connection between the third swing arm 250-1 and the second main shaft 251. In other embodiments, the second main shaft 251 and the third swing arm 250-1 can also be rotationally connected through a virtual axis or other connection methods, which is not limited in this application.

[0126] The fourth bracket 252-2 is connected to the second main shaft 251 via a fourth swing arm 250-2. The fourth swing arm 250-2 includes a fourth rotating end 250-5 and a fourth sliding end 250-6. The fourth rotating end 250-5 is rotationally connected to the second main shaft 251, and the fourth sliding end 250-6 is slidingly connected to the fourth bracket 252-2. During the expansion or folding of the second folding mechanism 25, the fourth swing arm 250-2 rotates relative to the second main shaft 251 and slides relative to the fourth bracket 252-2. During the opening or closing of the first folding mechanism 24, the end of the fourth swing arm 250-2 away from the second main shaft 251 (i.e., the fourth sliding end 250-6) can move toward or away from the third housing 23.

[0127] In some possible embodiments, the fourth bracket 252-2 is provided with a slide groove, and the fourth sliding end 250-6 of the fourth swing arm 250-2 is mounted in the slide groove of the fourth bracket 252-2, thereby achieving a sliding connection between the fourth swing arm 250-2 and the fourth bracket 252-2. In other embodiments, the fourth swing arm 250-2 may be provided with a slide groove, and the fourth bracket 252-2 may be provided with a slider, and the slide groove of the fourth swing arm 250-2 cooperates with the slider on the fourth bracket 252-2 to achieve a sliding connection. The fourth bracket 252-2 and the fourth swing arm 250-2 may also be slidably connected in other ways, which are not limited in this application.

[0128] In some possible embodiments, the second main shaft 251 is provided with an axis, and the fourth rotating end 250-5 of the fourth swing arm 250-2 is provided with a through hole. The axis of the second main shaft 251 passes through the through hole of the fourth swing arm 250-2 to realize the rotational connection between the fourth swing arm 250-2 and the second main shaft 251. In other embodiments, the second main shaft 251 and the fourth swing arm 250-2 can also be rotationally connected through a virtual axis or other connection methods, which is not limited in this application.

[0129] The third swing arm 250-1 and the fourth swing arm 250-2 can be folded or unfolded relative to each other. In the embodiment of the present application, the second moving member 255 includes the third swing arm 250-1, or the second moving member 255 and the fourth swing arm 250-2.

[0130] The second support plate 253 and the second main shaft 251 can be connected by an elastic connector. During the folding process of the second folding mechanism 25, the elastic connector drives the second support plate 253 to move in the direction close to the second main shaft 251, thereby increasing the screen space after the second folding mechanism 25 is folded. During the unfolding process of the second folding mechanism 25, the elastic connector drives the second support plate 253 to move in the direction away from the second main shaft 251. The second support plate 253 and the third door panel 254-1 and the fourth door panel 254-2 together form a support surface to carry the flexible display screen and provide support for the flexible display screen. The elastic connector is used to realize the lifting and lowering of the second support plate 253. This application only provides a connection method between the second support plate 253 and the second main shaft 251. The second support plate 253 and the second main shaft 251 can also be connected in other ways, which is not limited in this application.

[0131] The third door panel 254-1 is mounted on the third bracket 252-1 for rotational connection thereto, and is also mounted on the second main shaft 251 for sliding connection thereto. During the unfolding or folding process of the second folding mechanism 25, the third door panel 254-1 is capable of rotating relative to the third bracket 252-1 and sliding relative to the second main shaft 251. The installation of the fourth door panel 254-2 is similar to that of the third door panel 254-1 and will not be further described here.

[0132] The structures and interconnectedness of the second main shaft 251, the third bracket 252-1, the fourth bracket 252-2, the second support plate 253, the third door panel 254-1, the fourth door panel 254-2, the third swing arm 250-1, and the fourth swing arm 250-2 are similar to the structures and interconnectedness of the first main shaft 241, the first bracket 242-1, the second bracket 242-2, the first support plate 243, the first door panel 244-1, the second door panel 244-2, the first swing arm 240-1, and the second swing arm 240-2, and are not further described here. In the embodiment of the present application, the sizes of the first folding mechanism 24 and the second folding mechanism 25 may be different.

[0133] It should be noted that the structures of the first folding mechanism 24 and the second folding mechanism 25 described above are merely exemplary of some possible folding structures. In other embodiments, the structures of the first folding mechanism 24 and the second folding mechanism 25 may not be limited thereto. This application does not limit the specific structures of the first folding mechanism 24 and the second folding mechanism 25. The structures of the first folding mechanism 24 and the second folding mechanism 25 may be the same or different, and this application does not limit this.

[0134] like Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, Figure 12 is a structural diagram of an electronic device 100 in an unfolded state. Figure 13 yes Figure 12 The diagram shows the structure of the electronic device 100 in an intermediate state. The monitoring mechanism 27 includes a first sensor 271, which is used to monitor the relative position of the first housing 21 and the second housing 22. When the first sensor 271 detects that the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are in the extended state, it transmits a signal to the system of the electronic device 100, which controls the braking mechanism 26 to lock the second folding mechanism 25. When the first sensor 271 detects that the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are in the closed state, it transmits a signal to the system of the electronic device 100, which controls the braking mechanism 26 to release the lock of the second folding mechanism 25. In this embodiment, the monitoring mechanism 27 has a simple structure, requiring only a sensor, and is low-cost.

[0135] Figure 12 and Figure 13The first sensor 271 in the figure can be a sensor for measuring the angle between the first shell 21 and the second shell 22. There are two first sensors 271, one first sensor 271 is fixed to the first shell 21, and the other first sensor 271 is fixed to the second shell 22. For example, the first shell 21 is provided with a groove, and the second shell 22 is provided with a groove. One first sensor 271 is located in the groove of the first shell 21, and the other first sensor 271 is located in the groove of the second shell 22. By providing the grooves in the first shell 21 and the second shell 22, the first sensors 271 are prevented from protruding from the surfaces of the first shell 21 and the second shell 22, forming a protrusion, which would cause the surfaces of the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 to be uneven and affect the performance of the flexible display 10.

[0136] The first sensor 271 may be a magnetometer and a gyroscope, which are used to measure the angle between the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 to determine the open or closed state of the first shell 21 and the second shell 22. For example, in some embodiments, when the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are in the closed state, the angle between the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 is 0°, or close to 0°. When the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are relatively unfolded from the closed state to the unfolded state by the first folding mechanism 24, the angle between the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 gradually increases to 180°, or close to 180°. It is understood that when the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are in the unfolded state, the angle between the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 is 180°, or close to 180°. When the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are relatively folded from the unfolded state to the closed state by the first folding mechanism 24, the angle between the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 gradually decreases to 0°, or close to 0°. The first sensor 271 monitors the angle change between the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 to determine the state between the first shell 21 and the second shell 22, so that the electronic device 100 controls the braking mechanism 26 to lock or unlock the second folding mechanism 25 according to the state between the first shell 21 and the second shell 22.

[0137] like Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, Figure 14 is a structural diagram of an electronic device 100 in an unfolded state, Figure 15 yes Figure 14 The electronic device 100 is shown in a schematic diagram of an intermediate state. In the embodiment of the present application, the first sensor 271 is a sensor that measures the light intensity between the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 or the distance between the first housing 21 and the second housing 22. The first sensor 271 can be fixed to the first housing 21 or the second housing 22.

[0138] Exemplarily, the first sensor 271 may be an ambient light sensor, located either in the first housing 21 or the second housing 22. The first sensor 271 detects the light intensity between the first and second housings 21, 22 to determine the open / closed state of the first and second housings 21, 22. When the first and second housings 21, 22 are in a closed state, the light intensity between the first and second housings 21, 22 is weak or absent. As the first and second housings 21, 22 are relatively unfolded from the closed state to the unfolded state by the first folding mechanism 24, the light intensity between the first and second housings 21, 22 gradually increases. It is understood that as the first and second housings 21, 22 are relatively folded from the unfolded state to the closed state by the first folding mechanism 24, the light intensity between the first and second housings 21, 22 gradually decreases. The first sensor 271 monitors the change in light intensity between the first and second housings 21, 22 to determine the state between the first and second housings 21, 22. The electronic device 100 then controls the braking mechanism 26 to lock or unlock the second folding mechanism 25 based on the state between the first and second housings 21, 22.

[0139] Exemplarily, the first sensor 271 may be a proximity light sensor, an ultrasonic proximity sensor, or a capacitive sensor, and is configured to detect changes in the distance between the first and second housings 21, 22 to determine the open or closed state of the first and second housings 21, 22. When the first and second housings 21, 22 are in a closed state, the distance between them is zero, or close to zero. As the first and second housings 21, 22 are relatively unfolded from the closed state to the unfolded state by the first folding mechanism 24, the distance between them gradually increases. It is understood that as the first and second housings 21, 22 are relatively folded from the unfolded state to the closed state by the first folding mechanism 24, the distance between them gradually decreases to zero, or close to zero. The first sensor 271 monitors the change in the distance between the first and second housings 21, 22 to determine the state of the first and second housings 21, 22. The electronic device 100 then controls the braking mechanism 26 to lock or unlock the second folding mechanism 25 based on the state of the first and second housings 21, 22.

[0140] The monitoring mechanism 27 includes a second sensor 272 for monitoring the status of the first folding mechanism 24. When the first sensor 271 detects that the first folding mechanism 24 is in the extended state, it transmits a signal to the electronic device 100 system, which controls the braking mechanism 26 to lock the second folding mechanism 25. When the first sensor 271 detects that the first folding mechanism 24 is in the closed state, it transmits a signal to the electronic device 100 system, which controls the braking mechanism 26 to unlock the second folding mechanism 25. In this embodiment, the monitoring mechanism 27 is simple in structure, requiring only a sensor, and is low-cost.

[0141] like Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, Figure 16 This is a structural diagram of the first folding mechanism 24 in an unfolded state. Figure 17 yes Figure 16 The first folding mechanism 24 is shown in a schematic structural diagram in a folded state. Figure 16 A portion of the first main shaft 241 is shown, Figure 17 The first main shaft is not shown in FIG. The structure of the first main shaft is shown in FIG. Figures 8B-10B , I will not go into details here. Figure 16 and Figure 17 The second sensor 272 can be a Hall sensor, a proximity light sensor, an ultrasonic proximity sensor, or a capacitive sensor, and is used to measure the change in distance between the motion mechanism of the first folding mechanism 24 and the second sensor 272 to determine the opening and closing state of the first folding mechanism 24. The second sensor 272 can be fixed to the first housing 21 or the second housing 22. The second sensor 272 can monitor the change in distance between the first swing arm 240-1 and the second sensor 272 or the change in distance between the second swing arm 240-2 and the second sensor 272. The embodiment of the present application is described using an example in which the first moving member 245 includes the second swing arm 240-2, and the second sensor 272 monitors the distance between the second swing arm 240-2 and the second sensor 272.

[0142] See Figure 16 When the first folding mechanism 24 is in the unfolded state, the distance between the second swing arm 240-2 and the second sensor 272 is the first distance. Figure 17When the first folding mechanism 24 is in the closed state, the distance between the second swing arm 240-2 and the second sensor 272 is the largest, at the second distance. When the first folding mechanism 24 folds from the expanded state to the closed state, the second swing arm 240-2 moves away from the second sensor 272, and the distance between the second swing arm 240-2 and the second sensor 272 gradually increases. The second sensor 272 detects the change in the distance between the second swing arm 240-2 and the second sensor 272 and determines the state of the first folding mechanism 24. The system then controls the braking mechanism 26 to lock or unlock the second folding mechanism 25 based on the state of the first folding mechanism 24.

[0143] like Figure 18 and Figure 19 As shown, Figure 18 This is a structural diagram of the first folding mechanism 24 in an unfolded state. Figure 19 yes Figure 18 The first folding mechanism 24 is shown in a schematic structural diagram in a folded state. Figure 18 and Figure 19 Only partial structural diagrams of the first folding mechanism 24 are shown. Figure 18 and Figure 19 The second sensor 272 can be a Hall sensor, a proximity light sensor, an ultrasonic proximity sensor, or a capacitive sensor, and is used to measure the change in distance between the motion mechanism of the first folding mechanism 24 and the second sensor 272 to determine the opening and closing state of the first folding mechanism 24. The second sensor 272 can be fixed to the first housing 21, the second housing 22, or the first folding mechanism 24, and can monitor the change in distance between the first door panel 244-1 and the second sensor 272.

[0144] See Figure 18 When the first folding mechanism 24 is in the unfolded state, the distance between the first door panel 244-1 and the second sensor 272 is the first distance. Figure 19When the first folding mechanism 24 is in the closed state, the distance between the first door panel 244-1 and the second sensor 272 is the smallest, at the second distance. When the first folding mechanism 24 folds from the expanded state to the closed state, the first door panel 244-1 moves closer to the second sensor 272, and the distance between the first door panel 244-1 and the second sensor 272 gradually decreases. Alternatively, when the first folding mechanism 24 unfolds from the closed state to the expanded state, the first door panel 244-1 moves closer to the second sensor 272, and the distance between the first door panel 244-1 and the second sensor 272 gradually increases. The second sensor 272 detects the change in the distance between the first door panel 244-1 and the second sensor 272 and determines the state of the first folding mechanism 24. In this way, the system controls the braking mechanism 26 to lock or unlock the second folding mechanism 25 based on the state of the first folding mechanism 24.

[0145] In some possible embodiments, the second moving member 255 includes a third swing arm 250-1, and the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are in the expanded state. When the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 are in the expanded state, the second moving member 255 extends out of the third bracket 252-1 at one end away from the second main shaft 251 (i.e., the third sliding end 250-4 of the third swing arm 250-1), and the braking mechanism 26 can lock the third sliding end 250-4.

[0146] In some possible embodiments, the second moving member 255 includes a fourth swing arm 250-2, and when the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are in the expanded state and the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 are in the expanded state, the second moving member 255 extends out of the fourth bracket 252-2 at one end away from the second main shaft 251 (i.e., the fourth sliding end 250-6 of the fourth swing arm 250-2), and the braking mechanism 26 locks the fourth sliding end 250-6.

[0147] The end of the second moving member 255 away from the second main shaft 251 can slide relatively. The braking mechanism 26 acts on the end of the second moving member 255 away from the second main shaft 251 to prevent the sliding of the second moving member 255, and the braking action is precise.

[0148] In some possible embodiments, the braking mechanism 26 may be an electric locking mechanism 260. The electric locking mechanism 260 includes a driving member 261 and a locking member 262. The locking member 262 is connected to the driving member 261. The driving member 261 provides power for the movement of the locking member 262 to drive the movement of the locking member 262. The locking member 262 is used to lock the second folding mechanism 25, preventing it from folding, or unlock the second folding mechanism 25, allowing it to fold. The electric locking mechanism 260 of the present application has a simple structure, precise driving action, and is easy to implement through a driving method controlled by an electrical signal.

[0149] In the embodiment of the present application, the second moving member 255 includes the fourth swing arm 250-2 as an example. A groove 2550 is provided at one end of the second moving member 255 away from the second main shaft 251. The extending direction of the groove 2550 is arranged at an angle to the sliding direction of the second moving member 255, that is, the extending direction of the groove 2550 is different from the sliding direction of the second moving member 255.

[0150] The locking member 262 can extend into the groove 2550 to lock the second folding mechanism 25, or move out of the groove 2550 to unlock the second folding mechanism 25. It is understood that in addition to the groove 2550, the second moving member 255 can also be locked by other structures, and this application is not limited to this. The structure and implementation of the electric locking mechanism 260 include but are not limited to the following four solutions:

[0151] The first one: Figure 20 and Figure 21 As shown, Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electric locking mechanism 260 locking the second folding mechanism 25. Figure 21 It is a structural schematic diagram of the electric locking mechanism 260 releasing the lock on the second folding mechanism 25 .

[0152] The driving member 261 includes a motor 31 and a screw 32. The screw 32 is fixedly connected to the motor 31, and the motor 31 can drive the screw 32 to rotate. For example, when the motor 31 is powered on, it drives the screw 32 to rotate. The rotation direction of the screw 32 is controlled by controlling the motor 31. The surface of the screw 32 can be provided with a thread.

[0153] The locking member 262 includes a first locking block 33 and a first locking rod 34. The first locking rod 34 is fixed to the first locking block 33. The first locking block 33 is provided with a threaded hole 331. The inner wall of the threaded hole 331 can be threaded. The screw rod 32 passes through the threaded hole 331. The screw rod 32 and the first locking block 33 are matched through threads. When the screw rod 32 rotates, it drives the first locking block 33 to move along the axial direction of the screw rod 32 to control the first locking rod 34 to move along the axial direction of the screw rod 32.

[0154] The electric locking mechanism 260 also includes a first support member 35, a second support member 36, and a guide post 37. The first support member 35 is located on the side of the first locking block 33 facing away from the motor 31. The second support member 36 is located between the first locking block 33 and the motor 31. The guide post 37 is fixedly connected between the first support member 35 and the second support member 36. The first locking block 33 has a through hole, through which the guide post 37 passes. The guide post 37 serves as a guide, allowing the first locking block 33 to move along the guide post 37, preventing the first locking block 33 from tilting during movement, which could result in the first locking rod 34 being unable to accurately lock the second folding mechanism 25. The first support member 35 has a through hole, into which the first locking rod 34 can extend. The through hole of the first locking rod 34 is used to limit the circumferential position of the first locking rod 34, preventing the first locking rod 34 from shaking during movement, which could lead to poor stability of the electric locking mechanism 260. The first support member 35 can also limit the position of the first locking block 33, and the second support member 36 also plays a role in limiting the position of the first locking block 33, so as to prevent the first locking block 33 from moving out of the screw rod 32 or contacting the motor 31 and generating friction when moving in the axial direction of the screw rod 32.

[0155] It is understood that the electric locking mechanism 260 of the embodiment of the present application can be located in the second housing 22 or the third housing 23. For example, when the electric locking mechanism 260 is used to lock the fourth swing arm 250-2, the electric locking mechanism 260 can be located in the third housing 23. When the electric locking mechanism 260 is used to lock the third swing arm 250-1, the electric locking mechanism 260 can be located in the second housing 22. Taking the electric locking mechanism 260 located in the third housing 23 as an example, the third housing 23 can be provided with a mounting slot, and the electric locking mechanism 260 is located in the mounting slot of the third housing 23. The first support member 35 can be fixed to the mounting slot of the third housing 23, and the motor 31 can also be fixedly mounted to the mounting slot of the third housing 23, so that the electric locking mechanism 260 is stably mounted in the third housing 23. By installing the electric locking mechanism 260 in the mounting slot in the third housing 23, the embodiment of the present application can fully utilize the space in the third housing 23, avoid occupying additional space in the housing device 20, and facilitate reducing the size of the housing device 20, thereby facilitating the miniaturization of the electronic device 100.

[0156] See Figure 20 When the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are in the unfolded state, and the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 are in the unfolded state, that is, the second folding mechanism 25 is in the unfolded state, the end of the second moving part 255 away from the second main shaft 251 extends out of the fourth bracket 252-2, and the first locking rod 34 is engaged with the groove 2550, that is, the first locking rod 34 can lock the second moving part 255, so that the second moving part 255 cannot move, thereby realizing the orderly folding of the first folding mechanism 24 and the second folding mechanism 25.

[0157] See Figure 21 When the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are in the closed state, the second folding mechanism 25 can be in the expanded state or the closed state. The first locking bar 34 moves away from the groove 2550 of the second moving member 255, releasing the lock on the second moving member 255, allowing the second moving member 255 to move and the second folding mechanism 25 to close.

[0158] When the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 are in the expanded state, and the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are folded from the expanded state to the closed state by the first folding mechanism 24, the motor 31 drives the screw rod 32 to rotate, the screw rod 32 drives the first locking block 33 to move, and the first locking block 33 drives the first locking rod 34 to move, that is, the motor 31 controls the movement of the first locking rod 34, and the motor 31 controls the first locking rod 34 to move out of the groove 2550 of the second moving part 255.

[0159] When the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 are in the expanded state, and the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are in the expanded state from the closed state through the first folding mechanism 24, the motor 31 drives the screw rod 32 to rotate, the screw rod 32 drives the locking block 33 to move, and the first locking block 33 drives the first locking rod 34 to move, that is, the motor 31 controls the movement of the first locking rod 34, and the motor 31 controls the first locking rod 34 to move into the groove 2550 of the second moving part 255.

[0160] In the embodiment of the present application, the first locking rod 34 is driven by the motor 31 to lock and unlock the second folding mechanism 25. When the first folding mechanism 24 is in the unfolded state, the second folding mechanism 25 is controlled to be unable to close. When the first folding mechanism 24 is in the closed state, the lock of the second folding mechanism 25 is released so that the second folding mechanism 25 can be closed. The structure is simple, the cost is low, the control action is precise, and the braking effect is good.

[0161] The second type: Figure 22 and Figure 23 As shown, Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electric locking mechanism 260 locking the second folding mechanism 25. Figure 23 It is a structural schematic diagram of the electric locking mechanism 260 releasing the lock on the second folding mechanism 25 .

[0162] The driving member 261 includes a first elastic member 41 and a memory metal member 42. The first elastic member 41 can be a spring. The memory metal member 42 will extend when the power is turned on. When the power is turned off, the memory metal member 42 will retract and shorten.

[0163] The locking member 262 includes a second locking block 43 and a second locking rod 44, which is fixedly connected to the second locking block 43. For example, the second locking rod 44 passes through the second locking block 43. The first elastic member 41 and the memory metal member 42 are respectively located on opposite sides of the second locking block 43 and are both sleeved on the second locking rod 44. In this embodiment, the first elastic member 41 is located on the side of the second locking block 43 facing away from the second movable member 255. The memory metal member 42 is located on the side of the second locking block 43 facing the second movable member 255.

[0164] The electric locking mechanism 260 further includes a first frame 45 , and the first elastic member 41 , the memory metal member 42 , the second locking block 43 and the second locking rod 44 are mounted on the first frame 45 .

[0165] It is understood that the electric locking mechanism 260 of the embodiment of the present application can be located in the second housing 22 or the third housing 23. For example, when the electric locking mechanism 260 is used to lock the fourth swing arm 250-2, the electric locking mechanism 260 can be located in the third housing 23. When the electric locking mechanism 260 is used to lock the third swing arm 250-1, the electric locking mechanism 260 can be located in the second housing 22. Taking the electric locking mechanism 260 located in the third housing 23 as an example, the third housing 23 can be provided with a mounting groove, and the electric locking mechanism 260 can be located in the mounting groove of the third housing 23. The first frame 45 can be fixed to the mounting groove of the third housing 23 to ensure that the electric locking mechanism 260 is stably mounted on the third housing 23. By mounting the electric locking mechanism 260 in the mounting groove of the third housing 23, the embodiment of the present application can fully utilize the space of the third housing 23, avoid occupying additional space in the housing device 20, and facilitate reducing the size of the housing device 20, thereby facilitating the miniaturization of the electronic device 100.

[0166] See Figure 22 When the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are in the unfolded state, and the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 are in the unfolded state, that is, the second folding mechanism 25 is in the unfolded state, the second locking rod 44 is located in the groove 2550 of the second moving part 255, preventing the movement of the second moving part 255, thereby realizing the orderly folding of the first folding mechanism 24 and the second folding mechanism 25.

[0167] See Figure 23 When the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are in the closed state, the second folding mechanism 25 can be in the expanded state or the closed state. The second locking rod 44 moves out of the groove 2550 of the second moving member 255, the second moving member 255 can move, and the second folding mechanism 25 can be closed.

[0168] When the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 are in the expanded state, and the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are in the state of being folded relative to each other from the expanded state to the closed state, the power supply supplies power to the memory metal part 42, the memory metal part 42 extends, and the memory metal part 42 pushes the second locking block 43 to move away from the second moving part 255, that is, the second locking rod 44 moves away from the second moving part 255, and the second locking rod 44 releases the brake on the second moving part 255, and the second folding mechanism 25 can be opened and closed freely. At this time, the first elastic part 41 is compressed.

[0169] When the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 are in the expanded state, and the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are in the expanded state relative to each other from the closed state, the power connection of the memory metal part 42 is disconnected, the length of the memory metal part 42 is reduced, and the first elastic part 41 pushes the second locking block 43 to move toward the direction close to the second moving part 255, that is, the second locking rod 44 moves toward the direction close to the second moving part 255, and the second locking rod 44 is engaged with the groove 2550 of the second moving part 255 to brake the second moving part 255.

[0170] In other embodiments, the first elastic member 41 may be located on the side of the second locking block 43 facing the second moving member 255, and the memory metal member 42 may be located on the side of the second locking block 43 facing away from the second moving member 255. When the second housing 22 and the third housing 23 are in the expanded state, and the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are folded relative to each other from the expanded state to the closed state via the first folding mechanism 24, the power connection of the memory metal member 42 is disconnected, the length of the memory metal member 42 is reduced, and the first elastic member 41 pushes the second locking block 43 away from the second moving member 255, i.e., the second locking rod 44 moves away from the second moving member 255, thereby releasing the brake on the second moving member 255. When the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 are in the expanded state, and the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are in the expanded state from the closed state through the first folding mechanism 24, the power supply supplies power to the memory metal part 42, the memory metal part 42 extends, and the memory metal part 42 pushes the second locking block 43 to move toward the direction close to the second moving part 255, that is, the second locking rod 44 moves toward the direction close to the second moving part 255, and the second locking rod 44 is clamped in the groove 2550 of the second moving part 255 to achieve braking of the second moving part 255. At this time, the first elastic part 41 is compressed.

[0171] In the embodiment of the present application, the first elastic member 41 and the memory metal member 42 drive the second locking rod 44 to lock and unlock the second folding mechanism 25. When the first folding mechanism 24 is in the expanded state, the second folding mechanism 25 is prevented from closing. When the first folding mechanism 24 is in the closed state, the second folding mechanism 25 is unlocked, allowing it to close. This has a simple structure, low cost, and occupies little space in the housing device 20. The memory metal member 42 in the embodiment of the present application can be spiral, which facilitates the installation of a longer memory metal wire in a limited space, so that when the memory metal member 42 is energized, it can provide sufficient force and travel for the second locking block 43.

[0172] The third type: Figure 24 and Figure 25 As shown, Figure 24 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electric locking mechanism 260 locking the second folding mechanism 25. Figure 25 It is a structural schematic diagram of the electric locking mechanism 260 releasing the lock on the second folding mechanism 25 .

[0173] The driving member 261 includes a second elastic member 51 and an electromagnetic member 52. The second elastic member 51 may be a spring, and the electromagnetic member 52 may be a coil. The electromagnetic member 52 is magnetic when powered on and becomes non-magnetic when powered off. The second elastic member 51 may also be another elastic component, and the electromagnetic member 52 may also be another component that becomes magnetic when powered on. This application does not limit the elastic and electromagnetic components.

[0174] The locking member 262 includes a third locking block 53 and a third locking rod 54. The third locking rod 54 is fixedly connected to the third locking block 53. The third locking block 53 may be a magnetic member, that is, the third locking block 53 has magnetism. For example, the third locking rod 54 passes through the third locking block 53. The second elastic member 51 and the electromagnetic member 52 are respectively located on opposite sides of the third locking block 53. The second elastic member 51 and the electromagnetic member 52 can both be mounted on the third locking rod 54. In the embodiment of this application, the second elastic member 51 is located on the side of the third locking block 53 facing away from the second movable member 255. In this embodiment, the electromagnetic member 52 is located on the side of the third locking block 53 facing the second movable member 255.

[0175] The electric locking mechanism 260 further includes a second frame 55 , and the second elastic member 51 , the electromagnetic member 52 , the third locking block 53 and the third locking rod 54 are mounted on the second frame 55 .

[0176] It is understood that the electric locking mechanism 260 of the embodiment of the present application can be located in the second housing 22 or the third housing 23. For example, when the electric locking mechanism 260 is used to lock the fourth swing arm 250-2, the electric locking mechanism 260 can be located in the third housing 23. When the electric locking mechanism 260 is used to lock the third swing arm 250-1, the electric locking mechanism 260 can be located in the second housing 22. Taking the electric locking mechanism 260 located in the third housing 23 as an example, the third housing 23 can be provided with a mounting groove, and the electric locking mechanism 260 can be located in the mounting groove of the third housing 23. The second frame 55 can be fixed to the mounting groove of the third housing 23 to ensure that the electric locking mechanism 260 is stably mounted on the third housing 23. By mounting the electric locking mechanism 260 in the mounting groove of the third housing 23, the embodiment of the present application can fully utilize the space of the third housing 23, avoid occupying additional space in the housing device 20, and facilitate reducing the size of the housing device 20, thereby facilitating the miniaturization of the electronic device 100.

[0177] See Figure 24 When the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are in the unfolded state, and the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 are in the unfolded state, that is, the second folding mechanism 25 is in the unfolded state, the third locking rod 54 is located in the groove 2550 of the second moving part 255, preventing the movement of the second moving part 255, so that the second moving part 255 cannot move, thereby realizing the orderly folding of the first folding mechanism 24 and the second folding mechanism 25.

[0178] See Figure 25 When the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are in the closed state, the second folding mechanism 25 can be in the expanded state or the closed state. The third locking rod 54 moves out of the groove 2550 of the second moving member 255, the second moving member 255 can move, and the second folding mechanism 25 can be closed.

[0179] When the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 are in the expanded state, and the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are in the closed state from the expanded state through the first folding mechanism 24, the power supply is supplied to the electromagnetic component 52, the electromagnetic component 52 is magnetic, and the electromagnetic component 52 and the third locking block 53 repel each other, and there is a repulsive force. The electromagnetic component 52 pushes the third locking block 53 to move away from the second moving component 255, that is, the third locking rod 54 moves away from the second moving component 255, and the third locking rod 54 moves away from the groove 2550 of the second moving component 255 to release the brake on the second moving component 255, and the second folding mechanism 25 can open and close freely. At this time, the second elastic component 51 is compressed.

[0180] When the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 are in the expanded state, and the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are in the expanded state from the closed state through the first folding mechanism 24, the power connection of the electromagnetic part 52 is disconnected, the magnetism of the electromagnetic part 52 disappears, and the second elastic part 51 pushes the third locking block 53 to move toward the direction close to the second moving part 255, that is, the third locking rod 54 moves toward the direction close to the second moving part 255, and the third locking rod 54 is engaged with the groove 2550 of the second moving part 255 to lock the second folding mechanism 25.

[0181] In other embodiments, the second elastic member 51 may be located on a side of the third locking block 53 that is closer to the second moving member 255, and the electromagnetic member 52 may be located on a side of the third locking block 53 that is farther from the second moving member 255. When the second housing 22 and the third housing 23 are in the unfolded state, and the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are folded relative to each other from the unfolded state to the closed state via the first folding mechanism 24, the power connection of the electromagnetic member 52 is disconnected, the magnetism of the electromagnetic member 52 disappears, and the second elastic member 51 pushes the third locking block 53 to move away from the second moving member 255, i.e., the third locking rod 54 moves away from the second moving member 255, thereby releasing the brake on the second moving member 255. When the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 are in the expanded state, and the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are in the expanded state from the closed state through the first folding mechanism 24, the power supply is supplied to the electromagnetic member 52, the electromagnetic member 52 is magnetic, and the electromagnetic member 52 and the third locking block 53 repel each other, and there is a repulsive force. The electromagnetic member 52 pushes the third locking block 53 to move toward the direction close to the second moving member 255, that is, the third locking rod 54 moves toward the direction close to the second moving member 255 to achieve braking of the second moving member 255. At this time, the second elastic member 51 is compressed.

[0182] In the embodiment of the present application, the second elastic member 51 and the electromagnetic member 52 drive the third locking rod 54 to lock and unlock the second folding mechanism 25. When the first folding mechanism 24 is in the unfolded state, the second folding mechanism 25 is controlled to be unable to close. When the first folding mechanism 24 is in the closed state, the lock on the second folding mechanism 25 is released so that the second folding mechanism 25 can be closed. The structure is simple, the cost is low, and it occupies less space in the shell device 20.

[0183] The fourth type: Figure 26 and Figure 27 As shown, Figure 26 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electric locking mechanism 260 locking the second folding mechanism 25. Figure 27 It is a structural schematic diagram of the electric locking mechanism 260 releasing the lock on the second folding mechanism 25 .

[0184] The driving member 261 includes a piezoelectric member 61, which is made of a piezoelectric material. The locking member 262 includes a fourth locking rod 62, one end of which is fixedly connected to the piezoelectric member 61. The electric locking mechanism 260 also includes a third frame 63, on which the piezoelectric member 61 and the fourth locking rod 62 are mounted. It should be noted that Figure 26 and Figure 27 The piezoelectric sheet in the figure is only a schematic representation, and this application does not limit the size of the piezoelectric sheet.

[0185] It is understood that the electric locking mechanism 260 of the embodiment of the present application can be located in the second housing 22 or the third housing 23. For example, when the electric locking mechanism 260 is used to lock the fourth swing arm 250-2, the electric locking mechanism 260 can be located in the third housing 23. When the electric locking mechanism 260 is used to lock the third swing arm 250-1, the electric locking mechanism 260 can be located in the second housing 22. Taking the electric locking mechanism 260 located in the third housing 23 as an example, the third housing 23 can be provided with a mounting slot, and the electric locking mechanism 260 can be located in the mounting slot of the third housing 23. The third frame 63 can be fixed to the mounting slot of the third housing 23 to ensure that the electric locking mechanism 260 is stably mounted on the third housing 23. By mounting the electric locking mechanism 260 in the mounting slot of the third housing 23, the embodiment of the present application can fully utilize the space of the third housing 23, avoid occupying additional space in the housing device 20, and facilitate reducing the size of the housing device 20 and miniaturizing the electronic device 100.

[0186] See Figure 26 When the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are in the unfolded state, and the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 are in the unfolded state, that is, the second folding mechanism 25 is in the unfolded state, the fourth locking rod 62 is located in the groove 2550 of the second moving part 255, preventing the movement of the second moving part 255, so that the second moving part 255 cannot move, thereby realizing the orderly folding of the first folding mechanism 24 and the second folding mechanism 25.

[0187] See Figure 27 When the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are in the closed state, the second folding mechanism 25 can be in the expanded state or the closed state. The fourth locking bar 62 moves out of the groove 2550 of the second moving member 255, the second moving member 255 can move, and the second folding mechanism 25 can be closed.

[0188] When the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 are in the expanded state, and the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are folded from the expanded state to the closed state by the first folding mechanism 24, the power connection of the piezoelectric element 61 is disconnected, the piezoelectric element 61 recovers its deformation, and the piezoelectric element 61 drives the fourth locking rod 62 to move away from the second moving part 255. The fourth locking rod 62 moves away from the second moving part 255 to release the brake on the second moving part 255, and the second folding mechanism 25 can be opened and closed freely.

[0189] When the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 are in the expanded state, and the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are in the expanded state from the closed state through the first folding mechanism 24, the power supply supplies power to the piezoelectric element 61, and the piezoelectric element 61 pushes the fourth locking rod 62 to move toward the direction close to the second moving part 255. The fourth locking rod 62 is engaged with the groove 2550 of the second moving part 255 to brake the second moving part 255, thereby locking the second folding mechanism 25.

[0190] In the embodiment of the present application, the fourth locking rod 62 is driven by the piezoelectric element 61 to lock and unlock the second folding mechanism 25. When the first folding mechanism 24 is in the unfolded state, the second folding mechanism 25 is controlled to be unable to close. When the first folding mechanism 24 is in the closed state, the lock on the second folding mechanism 25 is released so that the second folding mechanism 25 can be closed. The structure is simple, the cost is low, and it occupies less space in the shell device 20.

[0191] In some possible embodiments, the braking mechanism 26 may be a linkage mechanism 270. One end of the linkage mechanism 270 is connected to the first folding mechanism 24. For example, one end of the linkage mechanism 270 is connected to the first moving member 245, and the first moving member 245 can drive the linkage mechanism 270 to move. The other end of the linkage mechanism 270 can approach or move away from the second moving member 255 of the second folding mechanism 25 to lock the second folding mechanism 25 or unlock the second folding mechanism 25. When the linkage mechanism 270 locks the second folding mechanism 25, the second folding mechanism 25 cannot be folded, or the second folding mechanism 25 is unlocked so that the second folding mechanism 25 can be folded. The embodiment of the present application realizes the linkage between the first folding mechanism 24 and the second folding mechanism 25 through the linkage mechanism 270, and can realize the orderly opening and closing of the first folding mechanism 24 and the second folding mechanism 25. The embodiment of the present application realizes the control of the second folding mechanism 25 through the mechanical structure of the linkage mechanism 270, and has a simple structure. The structure and implementation method of the linkage mechanism 270 include but are not limited to the following two schemes:

[0192] The first one: Figure 28 and Figure 29 As shown, Figure 28This is a structural diagram of a linkage mechanism 270 locking the second folding mechanism 25. Figure 29 It is a structural diagram of the linkage mechanism 270 releasing the lock on the second folding mechanism 25 .

[0193] The linkage mechanism 270 includes a first connecting rod 71 and a second connecting rod 72. One end of the first connecting rod 71 is rotatably connected to the first moving member 245, and the other end of the first connecting rod 71 is rotatably connected to the second connecting rod 72. The second connecting rod 72 can rotate relative to the first connecting rod 71. The first connecting rod 71 and the second connecting rod 72 can be rotatably connected via a pin 73. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the first connecting rod 71 is provided with a through hole, and the second connecting rod 72 is provided with a protruding shaft, which passes through the through hole of the first connecting rod 71 to achieve rotatable connection. The present application does not limit the rotational connection method of the first connecting rod 71 and the second connecting rod 72. It is understandable that one end of the first connecting rod 71 and the first moving member 245 can also be rotatably connected via a pin. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the first connecting rod 71 is provided with a through hole, and the first moving member 245 is provided with a protruding shaft, which passes through the through hole of the first connecting rod 71 to achieve rotatable connection. The present application does not limit the rotational connection method of the first connecting rod 71 and the first moving member 245.

[0194] The linkage mechanism 270 of the embodiment of the present application can be located in the second housing 22. For example, the second housing 22 can be provided with a mounting slot, and the linkage mechanism 270 is located in the mounting slot of the second housing 22, and the linkage mechanism 270 can slide in the mounting slot of the second housing 22. By installing the linkage mechanism 270 in the mounting slot of the second housing 22, the embodiment of the present application can fully utilize the space of the second housing 22, avoid occupying additional space in the housing device 20, and help reduce the size of the housing device 20, thereby facilitating the miniaturization of the electronic device 100.

[0195] See Figure 28 When the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are in the unfolded state, and the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 are in the unfolded state, that is, the second folding mechanism 25 is in the unfolded state, the second connecting rod 72 extends into the groove 2550 of the second moving part 255, preventing the movement of the second moving part 255, so that the second moving part 255 cannot move, thereby realizing the orderly folding of the first folding mechanism 24 and the second folding mechanism 25.

[0196] See Figure 29 When the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are in the closed state, the second folding mechanism 25 can be in the expanded state or the closed state. The second connecting rod 72 moves out of the groove 2550 of the second moving member 255, the second moving member 255 can move, and the second folding mechanism 25 can be closed.

[0197] When the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 are in the expanded state, and the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are folded from the expanded state to the closed state by the first folding mechanism 24, the first moving part 245 moves in the direction away from the second folding mechanism 25, and the first moving part 245 drives the first connecting rod 71 to move in the direction away from the second folding mechanism 25, and the first connecting rod 71 drives the second connecting rod 72 to move in the direction away from the second folding mechanism 25, and the second connecting rod 72 rotates relative to the first connecting rod 71, and the second connecting rod 72 moves out of the groove 2550 of the second moving part 255, and the second folding mechanism 25 can be opened and closed freely.

[0198] When the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 are in the expanded state and the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are in the expanded state from the closed state through the first folding mechanism 24, the first moving part 245 moves toward the direction close to the second folding mechanism 25, and the first moving part 245 pushes the first connecting rod 71 to move toward the direction close to the second folding mechanism 25. The first connecting rod 71 pushes the second connecting rod 72 to move toward the direction close to the second folding mechanism 25, and the second connecting rod 72 rotates relative to the first connecting rod 71, and the second connecting rod 72 moves into the groove 2550 of the second moving part 255 to lock the second moving part 255.

[0199] In the embodiment of the present application, the first connecting rod 71 and the second connecting rod 72 are driven by the first moving part 245 to achieve locking and unlocking of the second folding mechanism 25. When the first folding mechanism 24 is in the unfolded state, the second folding mechanism 25 is controlled to be unable to close. When the first folding mechanism 24 is in the closed state, the lock of the second folding mechanism 25 is released so that the second folding mechanism 25 can be closed. The structure is simple, the cost is low, and it occupies less space in the shell device 20.

[0200] The second type: Figure 30 This is a structural diagram of a linkage mechanism 270 locking the second folding mechanism 25. Figure 31 It is a structural diagram of the linkage mechanism 270 releasing the lock on the second folding mechanism 25 .

[0201] The linkage mechanism 270 includes a first rack 81, a second rack 82 and a gear 83. One end of the first rack 81 is connected to the first moving part 245. The gear 83 meshes with the teeth of the first rack 81 and the teeth of the second rack 82. The number of gears 83 can be two, and the two gears 83 mesh with each other. In other embodiments, the number of gears 83 can also be one, or three, etc., which is not limited in this application. The teeth on the first rack 81 mesh with the teeth on the gear 83 away from the second rack 82, the teeth on the gear 83 away from the second rack 82 mesh with the teeth on the gear 83 close to the second rack 82, and the teeth on the gear 83 close to the second rack 82 mesh with the teeth on the second rack 82 to achieve linkage.

[0202] The linkage mechanism 270 of the embodiment of the present application can be located in the second housing 22. The second housing 22 can be provided with a mounting slot, and the linkage mechanism 270 is located in the mounting slot of the second housing 22. The linkage mechanism 270 can slide in the mounting slot of the second housing 22. By installing the linkage mechanism 270 in the mounting slot of the second housing 22, the embodiment of the present application can fully utilize the space of the second housing 22, avoid occupying additional space in the housing device 20, and help reduce the size of the housing device 20, thereby facilitating the miniaturization of the electronic device 100.

[0203] See Figure 30 When the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are in the unfolded state, and the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 are in the unfolded state, that is, the second folding mechanism 25 is in the unfolded state, the second rack 82 extends into the groove 2550 of the second moving member 255, preventing the movement of the second moving member 255, so that the second moving member 255 cannot move, thereby realizing the orderly folding of the first folding mechanism 24 and the second folding mechanism 25.

[0204] See Figure 31 When the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are in the closed state, the second folding mechanism 25 can be in the expanded state or the closed state. The second rack 82 moves out of the groove 2550 of the second moving member 255, the second moving member 255 can move, and the second folding mechanism 25 can be closed.

[0205] When the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 are in the expanded state, and the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are folded from the expanded state to the closed state by the first folding mechanism 24, the first moving part 245 moves in the direction away from the second folding mechanism 25, and the first moving part 245 drives the first rack 81 to move in the direction away from the second folding mechanism 25, and the first rack 81 drives the two gears 83 to rotate, and the two gears 83 rotate to drive the second rack 82 to move, so that the second rack 82 moves out of the groove 2550 of the second moving part 255, so as to release the lock on the second moving part 255, and the second folding mechanism 25 can be opened and closed freely.

[0206] When the second shell 22 and the third shell 23 are in the expanded state, and the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are in the expanded state from the closed state through the first folding mechanism 24, the first moving part 245 moves toward the direction close to the second folding mechanism 25, and the first moving part 245 pushes the first rack 81 to move toward the direction close to the second folding mechanism 25. The first rack 81 drives the two gears 83 to rotate, and the rotation of the two gears 83 drives the second rack 82 to move, so that the second rack 82 is close to the second moving part 255, so as to move into the groove 2550 of the second moving part 255, thereby locking the second folding mechanism 25.

[0207] In the embodiment of the present application, the first moving part 245 drives the first rack 81, the second rack 82 and the gear 83 to achieve locking and unlocking of the second folding mechanism 25. When the first folding mechanism 24 is in the unfolded state, the second folding mechanism 25 is controlled to be unable to close. When the first folding mechanism 24 is in the closed state, the lock of the second folding mechanism 25 is released so that the second folding mechanism 25 can be closed. The structure is simple, the cost is low, and it occupies less space in the shell device 20.

[0208] In other embodiments, the braking mechanism 26 in the embodiment of the present application may also be driven by an electrically controlled micro-liquid pump or an air pump, or may be driven by a belt drive to achieve locking or unlocking of the second folding mechanism 25 .

[0209] The present application realizes locking or unlocking of the second folding mechanism 25 by setting a braking mechanism 26. When the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are relatively unfolded, the second folding mechanism 25 can be locked, so that the third shell 23 cannot be closed. When the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are relatively closed, the lock of the second folding mechanism 25 is released, so that the third shell 23 can be closed, thereby realizing orderly opening and closing of the electronic device 100.

[0210] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of the present application, but the scope of protection of the present application is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions that can be easily conceived by a person skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be included in the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be based on the scope of protection of the claims.

Claims

1. An electronic device (100), characterized in that It comprises a first housing (21), a second housing (22), a third housing (23), a first folding mechanism (24), a second folding mechanism (25) and a braking mechanism (26); The first folding mechanism (24) is connected between the first shell (21) and the second shell (22) and is used to enable the first shell (21) and the second shell (22) to be relatively unfolded or relatively folded; the second folding mechanism (25) is connected between the second shell (22) and the third shell (23) and is used to enable the second shell (22) and the third shell (23) to be relatively unfolded or relatively folded; The braking mechanism (26) is a linkage mechanism (270), one end of the linkage mechanism (270) is connected to the first folding mechanism (24), and the other end of the linkage mechanism (270) can be moved closer to or farther away from the second folding mechanism (25); When the first shell (21) and the second shell (22) are in an unfolded state, and the second shell (22) and the third shell (23) are in an unfolded state, the braking mechanism (26) is used to lock the second folding mechanism (25) to prevent the second shell (22) and the third shell (23) from folding relative to each other, and the first shell (21) and the second shell (22) can be folded relative to each other; When the first shell (21) and the second shell (22) are in a closed state, the braking mechanism (26) releases the lock on the second folding mechanism (25), and the second shell (22) and the third shell (23) can be folded relative to each other.

2. The electronic device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that The second folding mechanism (25) includes a second moving member (255), and when the second folding mechanism (25) is deformed, the second moving member (255) is capable of moving; When the second shell (22) and the third shell (23) are in the unfolded state, and the first shell (21) and the second shell (22) are in the state of relative unfolding from the closed state to the unfolded state, the braking mechanism (26) is used to prevent the movement of the second moving member (255) to lock the second folding mechanism (25).

3. The electronic device (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that The second folding mechanism (25) includes a third bracket (252-1) and a fourth bracket (252-2), the third bracket (252-1) is fixedly connected to the second shell (22), the fourth bracket (252-2) is fixedly connected to the third shell (23), and the second moving member (255) is slidably connected to the third bracket (252-1), or the second moving member (255) is slidably connected to the fourth bracket (252-2).

4. The electronic device (100) according to claim 3, characterized in that The second folding mechanism (25) includes a second main shaft (251), a third swing arm (250-1) and a fourth swing arm (250-2), the third swing arm (250-1) includes a third rotating end (250-3) and a third sliding end (250-4), the third rotating end (250-3) is rotatably connected to the second main shaft (251), and the third sliding end (250-4) is slidably connected to the third bracket (252-1), the fourth swing arm (250-2) includes a fourth rotating end (250-5) and a fourth sliding end (250-6), the fourth rotating end (250-5) is rotatably connected to the second main shaft (251), and the fourth sliding end (250-6) is slidably connected to the fourth bracket (252-2), the second moving member (255) includes the third swing arm (250-1), or the second moving member (255) includes the fourth swing arm (250-2).

5. The electronic device (100) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that When the first shell (21) and the second shell (22) are in the expanded state, and the second shell (22) and the third shell (23) are in the expanded state, the second moving member (255) extends out of the third bracket (252-1), and the braking mechanism (26) locks the second moving member (255); or, the second moving member (255) extends out of the fourth bracket (252-2), and the braking mechanism (26) locks the second moving member (255).

6. The electronic device (100) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that: The second moving member (255) is provided with a groove (2550), and part of the braking mechanism (26) can extend into the groove (2550) to lock the second folding mechanism (25), or move out of the groove (2550) to unlock the second folding mechanism (25).

7. The electronic device (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that The first folding mechanism (24) includes a first moving member (245). When the first folding mechanism (24) is deformed, the first moving member (245) can move. One end of the linkage mechanism (270) is connected to the first moving member (245). The first moving member (245) can drive the linkage mechanism (270) to lock the second folding mechanism (25) or unlock the second folding mechanism (25).

8. The electronic device (100) according to claim 7, characterized in that The first folding mechanism (24) comprises a first bracket (242-1) and a second bracket (242-2), wherein the first bracket (242-1) is fixedly connected to the first shell (21), the second bracket (242-2) is fixedly connected to the second shell (22), and the first moving member (245) is slidably connected to the second bracket (242-2).

9. The electronic device (100) according to claim 8, characterized in that The first folding mechanism (24) includes a first main shaft (241), a first swing arm (240-1) and a second swing arm (240-2); the first swing arm (240-1) and the second swing arm (240-2) can be folded or unfolded relative to each other; the second swing arm (240-2) includes a second rotating end (240-5) and a second sliding end (240-6); the second rotating end (240-5) is rotatably connected to the first main shaft (241); the second sliding end (240-6) is slidably connected to the second bracket (242-2); and the first moving member (245) includes the second swing arm (240-2).

10. The electronic device (100) according to any one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that: The linkage mechanism (270) includes a first connecting rod (71) and a second connecting rod (72), one end of the first connecting rod (71) is rotatably connected to the first moving member (245), and the other end of the first connecting rod (71) is rotatably connected to the second connecting rod (72); When the second shell (22) and the third shell (23) are in an unfolded state, and the first shell (21) and the second shell (22) are in a relatively unfolded state from a closed state, the first moving member (245) is used to push the first connecting rod (71) close to the second folding mechanism (25), and the first connecting rod (71) is used to push the second connecting rod (72) close to the second folding mechanism (25) to lock the second moving member (255); When the second shell (22) and the third shell (23) are in an unfolded state, and the first shell (21) and the second shell (22) are in a state of relative folding from the unfolded state to a closed state, the first moving member (245) is used to drive the first connecting rod (71) to move away from the second folding mechanism (25), and the first connecting rod (71) is used to drive the second connecting rod (72) to move away from the second folding mechanism (25) to release the lock on the second moving member (255).

11. The electronic device (100) according to any one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that: The linkage mechanism (270) includes a first rack (81), a second rack (82) and a gear (83), one end of the first rack (81) is connected to the first moving member (245), and the gear (83) is engaged with the teeth of the first rack (81) and the teeth of the second rack (82); When the second housing (22) and the third housing (23) are in an expanded state, and the first housing (21) and the second housing (22) are in a state of relative expansion from a closed state to an expanded state, the first moving member (245) is used to push the first rack (81) to move, the first rack (81) is used to rotate the gear (83), and the gear (83) is used to move the second rack (82) close to the second moving member (255) to lock the second moving member (255); When the second shell (22) and the third shell (23) are in an unfolded state, and the first shell (21) and the second shell (22) are folded relative to each other from the unfolded state to a closed state, the first moving member (245) is used to move the first rack (81), the first rack (81) is used to rotate the gear (83), and the gear (83) is used to move the second rack (82) away from the second moving member (255) to release the lock on the second moving member (255).

12. The electronic device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that The electronic device (100) further includes a flexible display screen (10), and the first shell (21), the second shell (22), the third shell (23), the first folding mechanism (24) and the second folding mechanism (25) jointly support the flexible display screen (10).

Images