Hinge assembly and foldable electronic device

Abstract

The embodiment of the present application provides a hinge assembly and a foldable electronic device. The hinge assembly is provided with a linear slide and a sliding member on the support member and the swing member, respectively, and the two ends of the slide along the sliding direction of the sliding member are closed. In this way, the high-pair cooperation of the cylindrical pin and the arc-shaped trajectory groove between the support member and the gear connecting rod is replaced by the low-pair cooperation of the linear slide and the sliding member between the support member and the swing member. The virtual position between the slide and the sliding member is reduced, so that the angle control accuracy of the support member is higher, and the support member moves into place in both the unfolded and folded states. When the two ends of the slide are closed, when the electronic device is in the unfolded state, the support member overlaps the inner shaft of the main shaft mechanism, ensuring that the flatness of the hinge assembly area is better when the electronic device is in the flattened state. In addition, the swing member is a passively stressed part, and the movement process is smooth. In this way, when the support member is attached to the swing member, the movement of the support member will also be smoother.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of terminal technology, and in particular to a hinge assembly and a foldable electronic device. Background Art

[0002] With the continuous development of mobile devices such as mobile phones, users are increasingly demanding larger screens. However, these devices are notoriously difficult to carry. Therefore, foldable phones with extendable and deformable screens have become a key area of focus for improving portability. To meet the diverse needs of different users, various foldable phones with inward-folding and outward-folding screens have emerged.

[0003] Currently, foldable phones generally consist of two structural components connected by a hinge assembly, allowing the two structural components to rotate relative to each other, thereby allowing the two structural components to overlap or unfold. To better support the foldable display and ensure that the foldable display is not excessively stretched or squeezed during folding, the hinge assembly typically includes a main shaft mechanism and a rotation mechanism located on either side of the main shaft mechanism. The rotation mechanism includes a support plate, a linkage member, and a connector. The linkage member is connected to the main shaft mechanism and the connector, and the connector is connected to the structural component and the support plate. The support plate and the linkage member are rotatably engaged by a cylindrical pin and an arc-shaped track groove.

[0004] However, in the above-mentioned foldable mobile phone, the under-screen support plate in the screen bending area moves unsteadily during the folding or unfolding of the mobile phone, and the angle control accuracy of the support plate is poor. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The embodiments of the present application provide a hinge assembly and a foldable electronic device, which achieve smooth movement of the support mechanism during the unfolding or folding process of the electronic device, achieve better flatness of the hinge assembly area when the electronic device is in a flattened state, ensure higher control accuracy of the support mechanism angle, and enable the foldable electronic device to move into place in both unfolded and folded working states.

[0006] A first aspect of an embodiment of the present application provides a hinge assembly, comprising:

[0007] A main shaft mechanism, and two rotating mechanisms located on both sides of the main shaft mechanism and rotationally connected to the main shaft mechanism;

[0008] Each of the rotating mechanisms comprises: a supporting member, at least one connecting member and at least one swinging member;

[0009] The support member is arranged close to the spindle mechanism, the connecting member is located at an end of the support member away from the spindle mechanism, and the connecting member is connected to the support member;

[0010] One end of the swing member is rotatably connected to the spindle mechanism, and the other end of the swing member is rotatably connected to the connecting member;

[0011] One of the swing member and the support member is provided with a linear slide groove, and the other of the swing member and the support member is provided with a sliding member that cooperates with the slide groove, and both ends of the slide groove along the sliding direction of the sliding member are closed ends.

[0012] The hinge assembly provided in the embodiments of the present application includes a swinging member, a linear slide groove disposed on one of the support member and a sliding member disposed on the other, and both ends of the slide groove along the sliding direction of the sliding member are closed. In this way, the high-pair fit between the cylindrical pin and the arcuate track groove is replaced with a low-pair fit between the linear slide groove and the sliding member. This reduces the virtual distance between the slide groove and the sliding member, allowing for more precise control of the support member's angle, and allowing the support member to move into position in both the unfolded and folded states.

[0013] In addition, both ends of the slide are closed ends. When the slide cooperates with the sliding member so that the electronic device is in a flattened state (that is, the electronic device is in a fully unfolded state), the support member overlaps the inner shaft of the main shaft mechanism, ensuring that the screen flatness of the area corresponding to the hinge assembly when the electronic device is in the unfolded state is better. In addition, the swing member is a passively stressed part, so the movement process is smooth. In this way, when the support member is attached to the swing member, the movement of the support member will also be smoother. Therefore, the foldable electronic device provided by the embodiment of the present application realizes a smooth movement process of the support mechanism during the unfolding or folding process of the electronic device, ensures a higher control accuracy of the angle of the support mechanism, and enables the foldable electronic device to move into place in the two working states of unfolding or folding, ensuring that the screen flatness of the area corresponding to the hinge assembly when the electronic device is in the unfolded state is better.

[0014] In a possible implementation, the chute includes at least two opposite and parallel planar chute walls and two opposite end chute walls located between the two planar chute walls.

[0015] In a possible implementation, the end groove wall is an arc-shaped groove wall.

[0016] In a possible implementation, the two planar groove walls and the two end groove walls form a continuous annular sliding groove.

[0017] In a possible implementation, at least two opposing protrusions are provided on one surface of the support member, and the sliding groove is formed on the protrusions.

[0018] In a possible implementation, the sliding groove is inclined toward the connecting member.

[0019] In a possible implementation, the sliding member is a cylindrical pin that passes through the swinging member, and both ends of the cylindrical pin are respectively located in two opposite sliding grooves.

[0020] In one possible implementation, the swinging member has a first rotating portion at one end facing the spindle mechanism, outer edges of both sides of the first rotating portion have arc surfaces, the spindle mechanism has an arc portion that rotates with the arc surface, and the spindle mechanism is rotatably connected to the spindle mechanism via the first rotating portion;

[0021] The other end of the swinging member has a second rotating portion, and the second rotating portion is rotatably connected to the connecting member.

[0022] In a possible implementation, each of the rotating mechanisms further includes: at least one linkage member, one end of the connecting member is rotationally connected to the main shaft mechanism, and the other end of the connecting member is rotationally engaged with the support member.

[0023] In a possible implementation, the support member has an arcuate track groove, and the linkage member and the support member are rotatably connected by a cylindrical pin that cooperates with the arcuate track groove.

[0024] In a possible implementation, one end of the linkage member has a first gear, which is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism via a rotating shaft, and the main shaft mechanism has two second gears that mesh with each other, and the second gears mesh with the first gear.

[0025] In a possible implementation, the support member has a plurality of virtual axes, the connecting member has an arcuate groove that cooperates with the virtual axes, and the support member and the connecting member are rotationally connected through the cooperation between the virtual axes and the arcuate grooves.

[0026] A second aspect of an embodiment of the present application provides a foldable electronic device, comprising at least: a first structural member, a second structural member, and the hinge assembly described above;

[0027] The first structural member and the second structural member are respectively located on both sides of the hinge assembly, and the first structural member and the second structural member are respectively fixedly connected to the connecting member in the hinge assembly;

[0028] Furthermore, it includes: a battery cover and a foldable first display screen; the battery cover and the first display screen are respectively located on both side surfaces of the hinge assembly, the first structural member and the second structural member.

[0029] The foldable electronic device provided in the embodiment of the present application includes the above-mentioned hinge assembly, so that the angle control accuracy of the support member in the hinge assembly is higher, and the support member moves into place in both the unfolded and folded states. It ensures that the screen flatness of the area corresponding to the hinge assembly is better when the electronic device is in the unfolded state. In addition, it ensures that the movement of the support member 323 is smoother. Therefore, the foldable electronic device provided in the embodiment of the present application realizes a smooth movement process of the support mechanism during the unfolding or folding process of the electronic device, ensures a higher control accuracy of the angle of the support mechanism, enables the foldable electronic device to move into place in both the unfolded or folded working states, and ensures that the screen flatness of the area corresponding to the hinge assembly is better when the electronic device is in the unfolded state.

[0030] In a possible implementation, it further includes: a second display screen, the first display screen is located on one side surface of the hinge assembly, the first structural member, and the second structural member, and the second display screen and the battery cover are respectively located on the other side surfaces of the first structural member and the second structural member. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] Figure 1 A schematic structural diagram of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0032] Figure 2 A schematic structural diagram of a foldable electronic device in a semi-folded state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0033] Figure 3 A schematic structural diagram of a foldable electronic device in a folded state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0034] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the exploded structure of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0035] Figure 5 A schematic structural diagram of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application when the hinge assembly is in an unfolded state;

[0036] Figure 6 A side view of a hinge assembly of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application switching between an unfolded state and a folded state;

[0037] Figure 7 A schematic structural diagram of a hinge assembly of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application, wherein one of the rotating mechanisms and the main axis mechanism are disassembled;

[0038] Figure 8 An exploded schematic diagram of one of the rotating mechanisms in the hinge assembly of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0039] Figure 9 A partial schematic diagram of the cooperation between a support member and a gear connecting rod in a hinge assembly of a foldable electronic device;

[0040] Figure 10 A schematic diagram of a partially disassembled structure of a swinging member and a supporting member in a hinge assembly of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0041] Figure 11 A schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of a swinging member in a hinge assembly of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0042] Figure 12 A partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of a longitudinal section of a hinge assembly of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application at a swinging member;

[0043] Figure 13 Another schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the swing member in the hinge assembly of the foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0044] Figure 14 Another partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of a longitudinal section of the hinge assembly of the foldable electronic device provided by an embodiment of the present application at the swinging member;

[0045] Figure 15 A schematic diagram of a partially disassembled structure of a connecting member and a supporting member in a hinge assembly of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0046] Figure 16 A partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of a longitudinal section of a hinge assembly at a connecting member of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0047] Figure 17 Another disassembled schematic diagram of the rotating mechanism in the hinge assembly of the foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0048] Figure 18 A schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of a linkage member in a hinge assembly of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0049] Figure 19 A schematic structural diagram of a hinge assembly of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application after the linkage member is assembled on a support member;

[0050] Figure 20 A partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of a longitudinal section of a hinge assembly at a linkage member of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0051] Description of reference numerals:

[0052] 10-first display screen; 10a-second display screen; 11-first display area; 12-second display area; 13-third display area;

[0053] 21-first structural member; 211-first metal middle plate; 212-first frame; 22-second structural member; second metal middle plate-221; second frame-222;

[0054] 30-hinge assembly; 31-spindle mechanism; 311-external shaft; 3112-arc portion; 312-inner shaft; 313, 314-second gear; 32-rotation mechanism;

[0055] 321-connector; 3211-arc groove;

[0056] 322 - swinging member; 3221 - sliding member; 3222a - first sliding plane; 3222b - second sliding plane; 3223 - arcuate surface;

[0057] 323 - support member; 3231 - slide groove; 3232 - arc-shaped track groove; 3233 - bump; 3231a, 3231b - plane groove wall; 3234 - virtual axis;

[0058] 324- linkage member; 3241- first gear; 3242- tooth structure; 3243- pin hole;

[0059] 325-pin; 326-cylindrical pin;

[0060] 40-Battery cover. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0061] The terms used in the implementation section of this application are only used to explain the specific embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application. The implementation of the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0062] Among them, the foldable electronic devices provided in the embodiments of the present application may include but are not limited to foldable fixed terminals or mobile terminals such as mobile phones, tablet computers, laptops, ultra-mobile personal computers (UMPCs), handheld computers, touch-screen TVs, walkie-talkies, netbooks, POS machines, personal digital assistants (PDAs), wearable devices, and virtual reality devices.

[0063] In the embodiment of the present application, a mobile phone is taken as the above-mentioned foldable electronic device for explanation, and the mobile phone is a foldable mobile phone with an inner folding screen and an additional outer screen.

[0064] The following describes in detail the hinge assembly and the foldable electronic device provided in the embodiments of the present application, taking the foldable screen mobile phone as an example.

[0065] See also Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the foldable screen mobile phone may include at least: a first structural member 21, a second structural member 22 and a hinge assembly 30, wherein the first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22 are respectively located on both sides of the hinge assembly 30, and the first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22 are respectively fixedly connected to the hinge assembly 30. Specifically, the first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22 are respectively fixedly connected to the connecting member in the hinge assembly 30.

[0066] It should be noted that the first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22 can be fixedly connected to the connecting member by welding, bonding or screw locking.

[0067] When the first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22 rotate toward each other and overlap each other, the foldable screen mobile phone is in the folded state. Conversely, when the first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22 rotate away from each other from the overlapping state until the first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22 cannot rotate (for example, the first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22 are in the same plane), the foldable screen mobile phone is in the unfolded state. The transition from the folded state to the unfolded state is the unfolding process, and the transition from the unfolded state to the folded state is the folding process.

[0068] In addition, it should be noted that the number of the first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22 can both be one, so that the foldable screen mobile phone can be folded into two layers. Specifically, Figure 1 As shown, the foldable screen mobile phone may only include a first structural member 21, a second structural member 22 and a hinge assembly 30 for connecting the first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22. The first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22 are rotated to overlap each other, so that the foldable electronic device is in the form of two layers.

[0069] Alternatively, the number of the first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22 can be multiple (not shown), and a hinge assembly 30 for connecting the first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22 is provided between adjacent first structural members 21 and second structural members 22, so that the foldable electronic device can be folded into multiple layers. For example, the foldable electronic device may include two second structural members 22, one first structural member 21 and two hinge assemblies 30 for connecting the first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22, the two second structural members 22 are located on both sides of the first structural member 21, and are respectively rotatably connected to the first structural member 21 through the hinge assembly 30, one of the second structural members 22 can be rotated with the first structural member 21 to stack, and the other second structural member 22 can also be rotated relative to the first structural member 21 to stack, so that the foldable electronic device presents a three-layer folded form, and when two of the first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22 are rotated to the same plane, the foldable electronic device is in an unfolded state.

[0070] See also Figure 1 As shown, the foldable electronic device provided in the embodiment of the present application may further include: a foldable first display screen 10, wherein the foldable first display screen 10 may be disposed on the surfaces of the hinge assembly 30, the first structural member 21, and the second structural member 22. When the first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22 are folded, the foldable first display screen 10 is bent and attached between the first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22. When the first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22 are unfolded, the foldable first display screen 10 also unfolds.

[0071] In actual applications, the foldable first display screen 10 can be bonded to the surfaces of the hinge assembly 30, the first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22 to ensure that at least part of the foldable first display screen 10 is stably covered on the inner side of the hinge assembly 30, thereby improving the stability of the foldable first display screen 10 in the foldable electronic device.

[0072] See also Figure 1 As shown, the first display screen 10 may include: a first display area 11, a second display area 12, and a third display area 13 located between the first display area 11 and the second display area 12, wherein the first display area 11 may be located on the surface of the first structural member 21, the second display area 12 may be located on the surface of the second structural member 22, and the third display area 13 is located on the surface of the hinge assembly 30.

[0073] Of course, in some embodiments, the foldable electronic device may also be a laptop computer, which may also include a first structural member 21 and a second structural member 22. The first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22 can rotate toward each other to overlap each other, placing the laptop computer in a folded state. Conversely, when the first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22 are rotated away from each other from the overlapping state until they cannot rotate, the laptop computer is in an unfolded state. In the unfolded state, the portion of the foldable first display screen 10 on the first structural member 21 can be used to display images, etc., while the portion of the foldable first display screen 10 on the second structural member 22 can be used as a virtual keyboard.

[0074] See also Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the electronic device may further include: a second display screen 10a, the second display screen 10a and the first display screen may be located on both sides of the first structural member 21 or the second structural member 22, for example, see Figure 2 As shown, the second display screen 10a is opposite to the second display area 12 of the first display screen, and the second display screen 10a and the second display area 12 of the first display screen are respectively located on both sides of the second structural member 22. Figure 3 As shown, when the electronic device is in the folded state, the second display screen 10a can be used as an external screen. Of course, in some examples, the second display screen 10a may not be provided.

[0075] The second display screen 10a may be a liquid crystal display screen. Of course, the second display screen 10a may also be a flexible screen.

[0076] In the examples of this application, see Figure 2 As shown, the first structure 21 may further include a battery cover 40 . The battery cover 40 and the first display area 11 of the first display screen 10 may be located on both sides of the first structure 21 , respectively.

[0077] In the examples of this application, see Figure 4 As shown, the first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22 may be middle frames, wherein the first structural member 21 may include a first metal middle plate 211 and a first frame 212 surrounding the outer edge of the first metal middle plate 211, and the second structural member 22 may include a second metal middle plate 221 and a second frame 222 surrounding the outer edge of the second metal middle plate 221. The hinge assembly 30 is fixedly connected to the first metal middle plate 211 and the second metal middle plate 221, respectively.

[0078] The hinge assembly 30 used for the foldable electronic device in the embodiment of the present application is described in detail below.

[0079] Combine Figure 5As shown, the hinge assembly 30 may include: a main shaft mechanism 31, and two rotating mechanisms 32 located on both sides of the main shaft mechanism 31 and rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism 31. Figure 5 As shown, the two rotating mechanisms 32 can be symmetrically arranged relative to the main shaft mechanism 31. The two rotating mechanisms 32 can be arranged along Figure 5 The two dotted arrows in FIG rotate relative to the spindle mechanism 31, for example, see Figure 6 As shown, when the two rotating mechanisms 32 are in the folded state, the two rotating mechanisms 32 can face each other, and when the two rotating mechanisms 32 are in the unfolded state, the two rotating mechanisms 32 are back to back relative to the main shaft mechanism 31 .

[0080] See also Figure 7 As shown, when each rotating mechanism 32 is rotationally connected to the main shaft mechanism 31 , the rotating mechanism 32 and the main shaft mechanism 31 can be detachably connected.

[0081] See also Figure 8 As shown, each rotating mechanism 32 may include: a connecting member 321 and a supporting member 323, the supporting member 323 is used to support the third display area 13 of the first display screen 10, one end of the connecting member 321 in each rotating mechanism 32 is fixedly connected to the first structural member 21 and the second connecting member 321 respectively, the supporting member 323 is arranged close to the main shaft mechanism 31, the connecting member 321 is located at the end of the supporting member 323 away from the main shaft mechanism 31, and the connecting member 321 is rotatably connected to the supporting member 323.

[0082] In the embodiment of the present application, the number of the connecting member 321 can be one or more, for example Figure 8 In the embodiment, the number of the connecting members 321 in each rotating mechanism is three, and the three connecting members 321 can be spaced apart along the axial direction of the main shaft mechanism 31. The supporting member 323 can be a supporting plate, and the supporting plate extends along the axial direction of the main shaft mechanism 31.

[0083] In some studies, see Figure 9 As shown, the other end of the connecting member 321 is rotatably connected to one end of the gear connecting rod 322a, and the other end of the gear connecting rod 322a is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism 31. In order to ensure that the angle control accuracy of the support member 323 is higher and the operation is smooth during the folding and unfolding process, see Figure 9As shown, a cylindrical pin 322b is provided on the gear connecting rod 322a, and an arcuate track groove 323a is provided on the support member 323. Cylindrical pin 322b moves within arcuate track groove 323a as the rotating mechanism 32 rotates. However, as cylindrical pin 322b moves within arcuate track groove 323a, due to line contact between cylindrical pin 322b and arcuate track groove 323a, cylindrical pin 322b and arcuate track groove 323a are in a high-pair fit. As a result, during the movement of the support member 323, there is a significant amount of vacant space between cylindrical pin 322b and arcuate track groove 323a. This results in poor control accuracy of the rotation angle of the support member 323 when the cylindrical pin 322b drives the support member 323 during movement. Furthermore, the cam fit between the gear connecting rod 322a and the spindle mechanism 31 causes the support member 323 to move unsteadily.

[0084] To address the above-mentioned problem, in the embodiment of the present application, a swinging member 322 is included, and a linear slide groove 3231 is provided on one of the support member 323 and the swinging member 322, while a sliding member 3221 is provided on the other. Furthermore, both ends of the slide groove 3231 along the sliding direction of the sliding member 3221 are closed. In this way, the high-pair fit between the cylindrical pin 322b and the arcuate track groove 323a is replaced with a low-pair fit between the linear slide groove 3231 and the sliding member 3221. This reduces the virtual space between the slide groove 3231 and the sliding member 3221, thereby increasing the precision of the angle control of the support member 323 and allowing the support member 323 to move into place in both the unfolded and folded states.

[0085] In addition, both ends of the slide groove 3231 are closed ends, so the slide groove 3231 and the sliding member 3221 cooperate with each other so that when the electronic device is in the unfolded state, the support member 323 overlaps the inner shaft 312 of the main shaft mechanism 31 (see Figure 12 ) ensures that the screen flatness of the area corresponding to the hinge assembly is better when the electronic device is in the unfolded state.

[0086] Furthermore, the swing member 322 is a passively stressed component, so its movement is smooth. Thus, when the support member 323 is attached to the swing member 322, the movement of the support member 323 is also smoother. Therefore, the foldable electronic device provided by the embodiment of the present application achieves smooth movement of the support mechanism during the unfolding or folding process, ensuring higher precision in controlling the angle of the support mechanism, and allowing the foldable electronic device to move into position in both unfolded and folded working states.

[0087] The rotating mechanism 32 provided in the embodiment of the present application is described in detail below.

[0088] See also Figure 10As shown, the rotating mechanism 32 further includes a swinging member 322 , one end of the swinging member 322 is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism 31 , and the other end of the swinging member 322 is rotatably connected to the connecting member 321 .

[0089] A linear slide groove 3231 is provided on one of the support member 323 and the swing member 322, and a sliding member 3221 is provided on the other. Figure 10 As shown, a linear slide groove 3231 is provided on the support member 323, for example, the slide groove 3231 is a linear slide groove, and a sliding member 3221 is provided on the swing member 322. The sliding member 3221 moves in the slide groove 3231 during the swinging process of the swing member 322. Among them, since the slide groove 3231 is linear, not arc-shaped, when the sliding member 3221 moves in the slide groove 3231, the sliding member 3221 moves along the linear groove wall of the slide groove 3231, thus realizing the low-pair motion between the sliding member 3221 and the slide groove 3231, and Figure 9 Compared with the high-pair motion shown in , in the embodiment of the present application, the low-pair cooperation of the linear slide groove and the sliding member 3221 is achieved between the swing member 322 and the support member 323, so that the virtual position of the sliding member 3221 is reduced when the sliding member 3221 moves in the slide groove 3231. During the folding and unfolding process, the angle control accuracy of the support member 323 is higher. In addition, the swing member 322 is a passively stressed part, and the movement process is smooth. When the support member 323 is attached to the swing member 322, the movement will also be smoother.

[0090] Also, see Figure 10 As shown, both ends of the slide groove 3231 along the sliding direction of the sliding member 3221 are closed ends. For example, the top and bottom ends of the slide groove 3231 are closed, and the sliding member 3221 is in the slide groove 3231 and cannot slide out of the slide groove 3231.

[0091] By setting both ends of the slide groove 3231 as closed ends, the slide groove 3231 and the sliding member 3221 are mutually limited, so that when the electronic device is in the unfolded state, the support member 323 is overlapped on the main inner axis of the main axis mechanism 31, ensuring that the screen flatness of the area corresponding to the hinge assembly is better when the electronic device is in the unfolded state.

[0092] Of course, in some examples, a sliding groove 3231 may be provided on the swinging member 322 , and a sliding member 3221 may be provided on the supporting member 323 .

[0093] In one possible implementation, see Figure 10 As shown, the support member 323 is provided with at least two opposite sliding grooves 3231, and a portion of the swing member 322 is located between the two sliding grooves 3231 (see Figure 12), for example, one end of the swing member 322 is located in the spindle mechanism 31, and the other end of the swing member 322 passes through the space between the two slide grooves 3231 and is connected to the connecting member 321. Figure 10 As shown, sliding members 3221 are respectively provided on both side edges of the swing member 322 .

[0094] Among them, see Figure 10 As shown, at least two opposing protrusions 3233 are provided on one surface of the support member 323, and a slide groove 3231 is defined on the protrusions 3233. The protrusions 3233 define a through groove along the axial direction of the spindle mechanism 31 to form the slide groove 3231. For example, the slide groove 3231 extends axially through the spindle mechanism 31 and is closed at both ends when the sliding member 3221 is moving.

[0095] In the embodiment of the present application, in order to facilitate the movement of the sliding member 3221 in the sliding groove 3231 as the swing member 322 rotates, the sliding groove 3231 is inclined toward the connecting member 321. Figure 10 As shown, the slide groove 3231 is an inclined linear slideway, and the angle formed between the slide groove 3231 and the support member 323 is less than 90°, and the size of the angle is set according to actual needs.

[0096] The protrusion 3233 and the support member 323 may be an integrated structure.

[0097] In one possible implementation, see Figure 12 As shown, the slide groove 3231 includes at least two opposite and parallel planar groove walls, for example, a planar groove wall 3231b and a planar groove wall 3231a, and two opposite end groove walls are provided between the two ends of the planar groove wall 3231b and the planar groove wall 3231a.

[0098] By making the slide groove 3231 include two opposite planar groove walls, it is ensured that the two groove walls of the slide groove 3231 are straight lines. In this way, the virtual position of the sliding member 3221 is reduced when moving on the planar groove walls, ensuring higher angle control accuracy of the support member 323.

[0099] In the examples of this application, see Figure 12 As shown, the two end groove walls located between the plane groove wall 3231b and the plane groove wall 3231a can both be arc-shaped groove walls.

[0100] In the embodiment of the present application, the plane groove wall 3231b, the plane groove wall 3231a and the two end groove walls form a continuous annular sliding groove 3231. For example, see Figure 12 As shown, the sliding groove 3231 is a closed long annular groove.

[0101] In the embodiment of the present application, when both ends of the slide groove 3231 are closed ends, in order to facilitate the assembly of the sliding member 3221 in the slide groove 3231, see Figure 11 As shown, the sliding member 3221 is a cylindrical pin that is inserted into the swing member. Figure 12 As shown, the two ends of the cylindrical pin are respectively located in two opposite sliding grooves 3231. This realizes the effect of convenient assembly of the sliding member 3221 in the sliding groove 3231.

[0102] In the examples of this application, see Figure 11 As shown, the end of the swing member 322 facing the main shaft mechanism 31 has a first rotating portion 3224, and the outer edges of both sides of the first rotating portion 3224 have arc surfaces 3225. The main shaft mechanism 31 has an arc portion 3112 that rotates with the arc surface 3225 (see Figure 12 ), the spindle mechanism 31 is connected to the spindle mechanism 31 through the first rotating portion 3224; the other end of the swing member 322 has a second rotating portion 3226, and the second rotating portion 3226 and the connecting member 321 are connected by a pin 325 (see below Figure 15 and Figure 16 ) are connected by rotation.

[0103] See also Figure 12 As shown, the main shaft mechanism 31 may include: an inner shaft 312 and multiple outer shafts 311, and the inner shaft 312 is connected to the outer shaft 311, wherein the first rotating portion 3224 of the swinging member 322 is rotationally connected to the main shaft mechanism 31 through the limitation of the inner shaft 312 and the outer shaft 311. For example, a circular arc portion 3112 is defined between the inner shaft 312 and the outer shaft 311, and the first rotating portion 3224 of the swinging member 322 can rotate around the circular arc portion 3112.

[0104] See also Figure 12 As shown, when the support member 323 and the spindle mechanism 31 are in the unfolded state (i.e., the electronic device is in the unfolded state), the sliding member 3221 abuts against the planar groove wall 3231b. Furthermore, when the support member 323 and the spindle mechanism 31 are in the flattened state, since both ends of the slide groove 3231 are closed, the sliding member 3221 acts to pull the slide groove 3231, allowing the support member 323 to overlap the inner shaft 312, ensuring that the screen flatness of the area corresponding to the hinge assembly is improved when the electronic device is in the unfolded state.

[0105] Continue to see Figure 12As shown, when the support member 323 and the spindle mechanism 31 are in a folded state (i.e., the electronic device is in a folded state), the sliding member 3221 abuts against the planar groove wall 3231a. This ensures that when the electronic device is in an unfolded state, the sliding member 3221 can abut against the planar groove wall 3231b, ensuring that the support member 323 moves into place during the unfolding movement. When the electronic device is in a folded state, the sliding member 3221 abuts against the other planar groove wall 3231a, ensuring that the support member 323 moves into place during the folding movement, achieving higher precision in controlling the angle of the support member 323.

[0106] In a possible implementation, the structure of the sliding member 3221 is not limited to Figure 11 The cylinder shown, for example, see Figure 13 As shown, in the embodiment of the present application, the sliding member 3221 can be a wedge block, and the thick end of the wedge block (that is, the end of the wedge block with a larger thickness) faces the bottom of the sliding groove 3231.

[0107] The sliding member 3221 has a first sliding plane 3222a (see Figure 13 ) and the second sliding plane 3222b (see Figure 14 ), and the extension directions of the first sliding plane 3222a and the second sliding plane 3222b intersect to form an angle, for example, the first sliding plane 3222a and the second sliding plane 3222b are not parallel. This ensures that the swing member 322 can move in the sliding groove 3231 during the rotation process.

[0108] In the examples of this application, see Figure 13 As shown, one end of the wedge block facing the bottom of the chute 3231 is an arcuate surface 3223, see Figure 14 The end groove wall of the slide groove 3231 is an arc-shaped wall that cooperates with the arc-shaped surface. This ensures that when the electronic device is in the folded state, the contact between the arc-shaped surface of the sliding member 3221 and the arc-shaped wall of the slide groove 3231 is surface contact, and it is not easy to cause the problem of large wear when some position points are in contact.

[0109] In the examples of this application, see Figure 14 As shown, when the support member 323 and the spindle mechanism 31 are in the unfolded state (ie, the electronic device is in the unfolded state), the second sliding plane 3222b is in contact with the plane groove wall 3231b, and the first sliding plane 3222a forms a first angle with the plane groove wall 3434a.

[0110] When the support member 323 and the main shaft mechanism 31 are in a folded state (that is, the electronic device is in a folded state), the first sliding plane 3222a is in contact with the plane groove wall 3231a, and the second sliding plane 3222b forms a second angle with the plane groove wall 3231b. It should be noted that the first angle and the second angle can be equal, and the specific angle size is set based on actual needs.

[0111] By cooperating with the two planar groove walls of the slide groove 3231, it is ensured that when the electronic device is in the unfolded state, the second sliding plane 3222b can abut against the planar groove wall 3231b, ensuring that the support member 323 moves into place during the unfolding movement. When the electronic device is in the folded state, the first sliding plane 3222a abuts against the other planar groove wall 3231a, ensuring that the support member 323 moves into place during the folding movement, thereby achieving higher control accuracy of the angle of the support member 323.

[0112] In the embodiment of the present application, when the connecting member 321 and the supporting member 323 rotate together, Figure 15 As shown, the support member 323 has multiple virtual shafts 3234, and the connecting member 321 has an arc groove 3211 that cooperates with the virtual shaft 3234. The support member 323 and the connecting member 321 are rotatably connected through the cooperation between the virtual shaft 3234 and the arc groove 3211.

[0113] For example, participate Figure 16 As shown, when the electronic device is in the unfolded state, one end of the virtual axis 3234 of the support member 323 is located in the arc groove 3211 on the connecting member 321, and there is additional space in the arc groove 3211. When the electronic device is in the folded state, the virtual axis 3234 of the support member 323 moves in the arc groove 3211 on the connecting member 321. Through the rotational cooperation between the arc groove 3211 and the virtual axis 3234, the connecting member 321 and the support member 323 are rotationally connected. In this way, the movement of the support member 323 depends on the connecting member 321 and the swinging member 322, and the swinging member 322 is a passive force-bearing member and moves smoothly. In this way, the support member 323 attached to the connecting member 321 and the swinging member 322 moves smoothly.

[0114] In the examples of this application, see Figure 17 As shown, each rotating mechanism 32 further includes: at least one linkage member 324. It should be noted that, Figure 17 Only one linkage member 324 is shown. In actual assembly, the number of linkage members 324 can be consistent with the number of connecting members 321. For example, when the number of connecting members 321 is two, the number of linkage members 324 can also be two.

[0115] One end of the linkage member 324 is rotatably connected to the spindle mechanism 31, and the other end of the linkage member 324 is rotatably matched with the support member 323. Figure 17 As shown, the support member 323 has an arc-shaped track groove 3232, see Figure 18 As shown, the linkage member 324 is provided with a pin hole 3243, see Figure 19 As shown, the linkage member 324 and the support member 323 are connected to each other in rotation by the cylindrical pin 326 passing through the pin hole 3243 and cooperating with the arc-shaped track groove 3232.

[0116] By providing at least one linkage member 324 and an arc-shaped track groove 3232 , the movement of the support member 323 is redundantly controlled, so that the angular virtual position of the support member 323 is reduced, and the angular control accuracy of the support member 323 is ensured.

[0117] See also Figure 20 As shown, one end of the linkage member 324 has a first gear 3241, and the first gear 3241 is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism 31 through a rotating shaft 3244, and the main shaft mechanism 31 has two second gears that are meshed with each other, and the two second gears are, for example, a second gear 313 and a second gear 314, and the second gear 313 is meshed with the first gear 3241, and the second gear 314 is meshed with the first gear 3241 of the linkage member 324 in another rotating mechanism 32.

[0118] It should be noted that, see Figure 20 As shown, a tooth structure 3242 is provided on a portion of the outer surface of the first gear 3241 . Of course, in some examples, the tooth structure 3242 may also be provided on the entire outer surface of the first gear 3241 .

[0119] See also Figure 20 As shown, when the electronic device is in the unfolded state, the cylindrical pin 326 is located at one end of the arc-shaped track groove 3232. When the electronic device is in the folded state, the cylindrical pin 326 moves to the other end of the arc-shaped track groove 3232 during rotation. During rotation, the linkage member 324 drives the second gear 3241 to rotate. The two first gears 3241 on either side rotate synchronously via the second gear 313 and the second gear 314, thus ensuring that the rotating parts on both sides of the main shaft mechanism 31 can rotate synchronously.

[0120] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," and "connected" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they may refer to a fixed connection, an indirect connection via an intermediate medium, internal communication between two components, or an interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of the above terms in the embodiments of this application based on specific circumstances.

[0121] In the embodiments of the present application, any device or element referred to or implied must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operate in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be understood as limiting the embodiments of the present application. In the description of the embodiments of the present application, the meaning of "plurality" is two or more, unless otherwise specifically specified.

[0122] The terms "first", "second", "third", "fourth", etc. (if any) in the specification and claims of the embodiments of the present application and the above-mentioned drawings are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequential order. It should be understood that the data used in this way can be interchangeable where appropriate, so that the embodiments of the embodiments of the present application described herein can, for example, be implemented in an order other than those illustrated or described herein. In addition, the terms "including" and "having" and any of their variations are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions, for example, a process, method, system, product or device comprising a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units clearly listed, but may include other steps or units that are not clearly listed or inherent to these processes, methods, products or devices.

[0123] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, rather than to limit them. Although the embodiments of the present application have been described in detail with reference to the aforementioned embodiments, ordinary technicians in this field should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions recorded in the aforementioned embodiments, or replace some or all of the technical features therein with equivalents. These modifications or replacements do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application.

Claims

1. A hinge assembly, characterized in that: include: A main shaft mechanism, and a first rotating mechanism and a second rotating mechanism located on both sides of the main shaft mechanism; The first rotating mechanism includes: a first supporting member, a first connecting member, a first swinging member and a first linkage member; The first connecting member is rotatably connected to the first supporting member; One end of the first swing member is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism, and the other end of the first swing member is rotatably connected to the first connecting member; One end of the first linkage member is rotatably connected to the spindle mechanism, and the other end of the first linkage member is rotatably connected to the first support member; The first support member is provided with a first linear sliding groove, the first swing member is provided with a first sliding member, the first sliding member is slidably connected to the first sliding groove, and both ends of the first sliding groove along the sliding direction of the first sliding member are closed ends; The second rotating mechanism includes: a second supporting member, a second connecting member, a second swinging member and a second linkage member; The second connecting member is rotatably connected to the second supporting member; One end of the second swing member is rotatably connected to the spindle mechanism, and the other end of the second swing member is rotatably connected to the second connecting member; One end of the second linkage member is rotatably connected to the spindle mechanism, and the other end of the second linkage member is rotatably connected to the second support member; The second support member is provided with a second linear slide groove, the second swing member is provided with a second sliding member, the second sliding member is slidably connected to the second slide groove, and both ends of the second slide groove along the sliding direction of the second sliding member are closed ends.

2. The hinge assembly according to claim 1, wherein: When the hinge assembly is in a flattened state, the first support member has a first support surface, the first slide groove is located on a surface of the first support member facing away from the first support surface, the distance between the first end of the first slide groove and the spindle mechanism is greater than the distance between the second end of the first slide groove and the spindle mechanism, and the distance between the first end of the first slide groove and the first support surface is greater than the distance between the second end of the first slide groove and the first support surface; When the hinge assembly is in a flattened state, the second support member has a second support surface, the second slide groove is located on the surface of the second support member facing away from the second support surface, the distance between the first end of the second slide groove and the spindle mechanism is greater than the distance between the second end of the second slide groove and the spindle mechanism, and the distance between the first end of the second slide groove and the second support surface is greater than the distance between the second end of the second slide groove and the second support surface.

3. The hinge assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The first chute comprises at least two opposite and parallel first planar groove walls, and two opposite first end groove walls located between the two first planar groove walls; The second chute includes at least two opposite and parallel second planar groove walls and two opposite second end groove walls located between the two second planar groove walls.

4. The hinge assembly according to claim 3, wherein: The first end groove wall is an arc-shaped groove wall, and the second end groove wall is an arc-shaped groove wall.

5. The hinge assembly according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that: The two first plane groove walls and the two first end groove walls form a continuous annular first sliding groove; The two second plane groove walls and the two second end groove walls form a continuous annular second sliding groove.

6. The hinge assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: At least two opposite first protrusions are provided on one surface of the first support member, and the first sliding groove is formed on the first protrusion; At least two opposite second protrusions are provided on one surface of the second support member, and the second sliding groove is formed on the second protrusion.

7. The hinge assembly according to claim 5, wherein: At least two opposite first protrusions are provided on one surface of the first support member, and the first sliding groove is formed on the first protrusion; At least two opposite second protrusions are provided on one surface of the second support member, and the second sliding groove is formed on the second protrusion.

8. The hinge assembly according to claim 6, wherein: The first sliding groove is inclined toward the first connecting member; The second sliding groove is inclined toward the second connecting member.

9. The hinge assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, or claim 7 or 8, characterized in that: The first sliding member is a first cylindrical pin provided on the first swinging member, and two ends of the first cylindrical pin are respectively located in two opposite first sliding grooves; The second sliding member is a second cylindrical pin provided on the second swinging member, and two ends of the second cylindrical pin are respectively located in two opposite second sliding grooves.

10. The hinge assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, or claim 7 or 8, characterized in that: The first swinging member has a first rotating portion at one end thereof facing the spindle mechanism, the outer edges of both sides of the first rotating portion have arc surfaces, the spindle mechanism has an arc portion inside thereof that rotates with the arc surface, and the spindle mechanism is rotatably connected to the spindle mechanism via the first rotating portion; The other end of the first swinging member has a second rotating portion, and the second rotating portion is rotatably connected to the first connecting member; The second swinging member has a third rotating portion at one end thereof facing the spindle mechanism, the outer edges of both sides of the third rotating portion have arc surfaces, the spindle mechanism has an arc portion inside thereof that rotates with the arc surfaces, and the spindle mechanism is rotatably connected to the spindle mechanism via the first rotating portion; The other end of the second swinging member has a fourth rotating portion, and the fourth rotating portion is rotatably connected to the second connecting member.

11. The hinge assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The first supporting member is provided with a first arc-shaped track groove, and the first linkage member and the first supporting member are rotatably connected by a third cylindrical pin cooperating with the first arc-shaped track groove; The second supporting member is provided with a second arc-shaped track groove, and the second linkage member and the second supporting member are rotatably connected by cooperating with the second arc-shaped track groove through a fourth cylindrical pin.

12. The hinge assembly according to claim 11, wherein: When the hinge assembly is in the expanded state, the third cylindrical pin is located at the first end of the first arc trajectory groove, and the fourth cylindrical pin is located at the first end of the second arc trajectory groove; when the hinge assembly is in the folded state, the third cylindrical pin is located at the second end of the first arc trajectory groove, and the fourth cylindrical pin is located at the second end of the second arc trajectory groove; the distance between the first end of the first arc trajectory groove and the spindle mechanism is greater than the distance between the second end of the first arc trajectory groove and the spindle mechanism; the distance between the first end of the second arc trajectory groove and the spindle mechanism is greater than the distance between the second end of the second arc trajectory groove and the spindle mechanism.

13. The hinge assembly according to claim 12, wherein: The first linkage member is slidably connected to the first support member, and the second linkage member is slidably connected to the second support member.

14. The hinge assembly according to claim 1, wherein: One end of the first linkage member has a first gear, the first gear is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism via a rotating shaft, and the main shaft mechanism has two second gears meshing with each other, the second gears meshing with the first gear; One end of the second linkage member is provided with a third gear, the third gear is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism via a rotating shaft, and the third gear is meshed with the second gear.

15. The hinge assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, or claim 7 or 8, or any one of claims 11 to 14, characterized in that: The first supporting member has a plurality of virtual axes, the first connecting member has an arcuate groove matched with the virtual axes, and the first supporting member and the first connecting member are rotatably connected through the virtual axes and the arcuate grooves; The second supporting member is provided with a plurality of virtual shafts, the second connecting member is provided with an arcuate groove matched with the virtual shafts, and the second supporting member and the second connecting member are rotationally connected through the cooperation between the virtual shafts and the arcuate grooves.

16. A foldable electronic device, characterized in that: At least: A first structural member, a second structural member, and a hinge assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 15; The first structural member and the second structural member are respectively located on both sides of the hinge assembly, and the first structural member and the second structural member are respectively fixedly connected to the connecting members in the hinge assembly.

17. The electronic device according to claim 16, wherein: The electronic device further includes: a battery cover and a foldable first display screen; the battery cover and the first display screen are respectively located on both side surfaces of the hinge assembly, the first structural member, and the second structural member.

18. The foldable electronic device according to claim 17, wherein: Also includes: The second display screen is located on one side surface of the hinge assembly, the first structural member and the second structural member, and the second display screen and the battery cover are located on the other side surfaces of the first structural member and the second structural member respectively.

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