Folding mechanism and electronic equipment

Abstract

An embodiment of the present application provides a folding mechanism and an electronic device. The folding mechanism includes: a first shell, provided with a first magnetic member; a second shell, rotatably connected to the first shell, the second shell being rotatable relative to the first shell to switch the folding mechanism between a folded state and an unfolded state. The second shell is provided with a second magnetic member. During the process of switching the folding mechanism from the unfolded state to the folded state, a repulsive force is formed between the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member, and the repulsive force pushes the second magnetic member to move, thereby forming an attractive force between the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member. During the process of the folding mechanism switching from the unfolded state to the folded state, the repulsive force formed between the magnetic members can slow down the speed of the second shell moving toward the first shell, preventing the second shell from colliding with the first shell due to excessive speed. The repulsive force can also push the second magnetic member to move, and the repulsive force between the magnetic members is converted into an attractive force, so that the folding mechanism remains in the folded state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of electronic technology, and in particular to a folding mechanism and an electronic device. Background Art

[0002] Foldable devices are popular because they meet users' demands for larger screens while avoiding the portability issues that come with larger screens. However, to meet dust and water resistance requirements when folded, foldable devices require a high closing force. This creates a significant impact between the two screens during folding, resulting in a poor user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0003] An embodiment of the present application provides a folding mechanism and an electronic device. When the folding mechanism moves from an unfolded state to a folded state, the repulsive force formed between the magnetic parts can slow down the speed at which the second shell moves toward the first shell, thereby preventing the second shell from hitting the first shell due to excessive speed, thereby improving the user experience.

[0004] An embodiment of the present application provides a folding mechanism, comprising:

[0005] A first shell is provided with a first magnetic member;

[0006] The second shell is rotatably connected to the first shell, and the second shell can be rotated relative to the first shell to switch the folding mechanism between a folded state and an unfolded state. The second shell is provided with a second magnetic member. During the switching process of the folding mechanism from the unfolded state to the folded state, a repulsive force is formed between the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member, and the repulsive force pushes the second magnetic member to move, so that an attractive force is formed between the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member.

[0007] The embodiment of the present application further provides a folding mechanism, comprising:

[0008] A first shell is provided with a first magnetic member;

[0009] a second housing, rotatably connected to the first housing, the second housing being rotatable relative to the first housing to switch the folding mechanism between a folded state and an unfolded state, the second housing being provided with a second magnetic member;

[0010] When the folding mechanism is in the unfolded state, the magnetic poles of the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member close to the folding direction side are the same poles. During the switching process of the folding mechanism from the unfolded state to the folded state, the magnetic poles of the second magnetic member close to the folding direction side change, so that when the folding mechanism is in the folded state, the magnetic poles of the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member close to the folding direction side are opposite poles.

[0011] An embodiment of the present application further provides a folding mechanism, comprising: the folding mechanism as described above and a foldable display screen, wherein the foldable display screen is arranged on the folding mechanism.

[0012] An embodiment of the present application provides a folding mechanism and an electronic device. The folding mechanism includes: a first shell, provided with a first magnetic member; a second shell, rotatably connected to the first shell, the second shell being rotatable relative to the first shell to switch the folding mechanism between a folded state and an unfolded state. The second shell is provided with a second magnetic member. During the process of switching the folding mechanism from the unfolded state to the folded state, a repulsive force is formed between the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member, and the repulsive force pushes the second magnetic member to move, thereby forming an attractive force between the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member. During the process of the folding mechanism switching from the unfolded state to the folded state, the repulsive force formed between the magnetic members can slow down the speed of the second shell moving toward the first shell, preventing the second shell from colliding with the first shell due to excessive speed. The repulsive force can also push the second magnetic member to move, and the repulsive force between the magnetic members is converted into an attractive force, so that the folding mechanism remains in the folded state. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for describing the embodiments. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present application. Those skilled in the art can also derive other drawings based on these drawings without inventive effort.

[0014] Figure 1 This is a structural schematic diagram of an electronic device in a folded state provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0015] Figure 2 A structural schematic diagram of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application switching from an unfolded state to a folded state.

[0016] Figure 3 This is a structural schematic diagram of an electronic device in an unfolded state provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0017] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the position change between the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member during the switching process of the folding mechanism from the unfolded state to the folded state in an embodiment of the present application.

[0018] Figure 5 A schematic structural diagram of the second magnetic component provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0019] Figure 6 for Figure 5 The diagram shows the position change of the second magnetic member and the first magnetic member when the folding mechanism switches from the unfolded state to the folded state.

[0020] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the positional relationship among the first magnetic member, the second magnetic member, and the third magnetic member when the folding mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application is in a folded state.

[0021] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing the positional relationship among the first magnetic member, the second magnetic member, and the third magnetic member when the folding mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application is in an intermediate state.

[0022] Figure 9 A diagram showing the position changes of the first magnetic member, the second magnetic member, and the third magnetic member during the switching process of the folding mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application from a folded state to an unfolded state.

[0023] Figure 10 A diagram showing the position changes of the first magnetic member, the second magnetic member, and the third magnetic member during the switching process of the folding mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application from the unfolded state to the folded state.

[0024] Figure 11 A diagram showing the positional relationship between the first magnetic member, the second magnetic member, and the third magnetic member when the folding mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application is in a folded state.

[0025] Figure 12 A schematic diagram of an exploded structure of the folding mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0026] Figure 13 for Figure 12 A schematic structural diagram of the first magnetic component, the second magnetic component and the damping structure of the folding mechanism shown.

[0027] Figure 14 for Figure 13 Schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the structure shown.

[0028] Figure 15 for Figure 14 A schematic structural diagram of the second magnetic component and part of the damping structure is shown.

[0029] Figure 16 for Figure 15 A structural schematic diagram of another perspective of the structure shown.

[0030] Figure 17 for Figure 13 A structural schematic diagram of another perspective of the structure shown.

[0031] Figure 18 for Figure 17 Schematic cross-sectional view of the structure along the PP direction.

[0032] Figure 19Schematic diagram comparing the rotation angle and angular velocity of the casing of the folding mechanism in the related art with the rotation angle and angular velocity of the casing of the folding mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] The following will be combined with the drawings in the embodiments of the present application to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the embodiments described are only part of the embodiments of the present application, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in the present application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0034] See also Figures 1 to 3 , Figure 1 This is a structural schematic diagram of an electronic device in a folded state provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 2 A structural schematic diagram of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application switching from an unfolded state to a folded state. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device in an unfolded state provided by an embodiment of the present application. Figure 1 The electronic device 20 may be a computing device such as a laptop computer, a computer monitor containing an embedded computer, a tablet computer, a cellular phone, a media player, or other handheld or portable electronic device, a smaller device (such as a wristwatch device, a pendant device, a headset or earpiece device, a device embedded in glasses or other devices worn on the user's head, or other wearable or miniature devices), a television, a computer display that does not contain an embedded computer, a gaming device, a navigation device, an embedded system (such as a system in which an electronic device with a display is installed in an information kiosk or a car), a device that implements the functionality of two or more of these devices, or other electronic device. Figure 1 In the exemplary configuration of FIG, electronic device 20 is a portable device, such as a cellular phone, a media player, a tablet computer, or other portable computing device. Other configurations can be used for electronic device 20 if desired. Figure 1 The examples are illustrative only.

[0035] An electronic device 20 such as that described above can be configured as a foldable device. The foldable device includes a folding mechanism such as a folding mechanism 200, which is used to form the outer contour of the foldable device. The folding mechanism 200 may include a plurality of shells connected to each other. For example, the folding mechanism 200 may include a first shell such as a first shell 210 and a second shell such as a second shell 220. The second shell 220 may be connected to the first shell 210 via a rotating member such as a rotating member 280. The first shell 210 may be rotated relative to the second shell 220 via the rotating member 280, so that the folding mechanism 200 can switch between a folded state and an unfolded state. When the folding mechanism 200 is in a folded state, the first shell 210 and the second shell 220 fit together (such as Figure 1 As shown in FIG), the electronic device 20 occupies a smaller space, making it easier to carry and store the electronic device 20. When the folding mechanism 200 is in the intermediate state between the folded state and the unfolded state, an angle is formed between the first shell 210 and the second shell 220 (as shown in FIG). Figure 2 When the folding mechanism 200 is in the unfolded state, the first shell 210 and the second shell 220 are away from each other (as shown). Figure 3 As shown), the electronic device 20 can have a larger display area, thereby facilitating the user's operation and reading of the electronic device 20.

[0036] It should be noted that the second shell 220 may have one rotation direction, which is the folding direction of the electronic device 20, and the electronic device 20 can be folded in one direction; the second shell 220 may have two rotation directions, which are the folding directions of the electronic device 20, and the electronic device 20 can be folded in two directions.

[0037] The first shell 210 and the second shell 220 can be formed of plastic, glass, ceramic, fiber composite material, metal (e.g., stainless steel, aluminum, etc.), other suitable materials, or a combination of any two or more of these materials. The first shell 210 and the second shell 220 can be formed using an integrated configuration, in which some or all of the first shell 210 and the second shell 220 are processed or molded into a single structure, or can be formed using multiple structures (e.g., an inner frame structure, one or more structures forming the outer shell surface, etc.). It should be noted that the structure and manufacturing materials of the first shell 210 and the second shell 220 can be the same or different.

[0038] In related technologies, foldable electronic devices need to be designed with a larger closing force to meet the dust and water resistance requirements after the screen is closed. The two relatively folded shells will produce a larger impact force and generate a larger noise. In addition, the larger closing force will also cause the risk of pinching hands or foreign objects, resulting in puncture of the screen.

[0039] In order to solve the defects in the related art, the embodiment of the present application provides a folding mechanism 200, including a first shell 210 and a second shell 220, the first shell 210 is provided with a first magnetic member 230, and the second shell is provided with a second magnetic member 240. When the folding mechanism 200 switches from the unfolded state to the folded state, a repulsive force (such as Figure 2 As shown), the repulsive force pushes the second magnetic member 240 to move, so that an attractive force is formed between the first magnetic member 230 and the second magnetic member 240 (as shown Figure 1 As the folding mechanism 200 moves from the unfolded state to the folded state, the repulsive force formed between the magnetic members can slow down the movement of the second housing 220 toward the first housing 210, preventing the second housing 220 from colliding with the first housing 210 due to excessive speed. The repulsive force can also push the second magnetic member 240 to move, and the repulsive force between the magnetic members is converted into an attractive force, which keeps the folding mechanism 200 in the folded state.

[0040] The repulsive force propels the second magnetic member 240 to rotate, causing the magnetic pole of the second magnetic member proximate to the first magnetic member to change from the same magnetic pole as the magnetic pole of the first magnetic member 230 proximate to the second magnetic member 240 to a different magnetic pole. For example, the first magnetic member 230 includes different first and second magnetic poles, the second magnetic pole is positioned proximate to the second magnetic member 240, and the second magnetic member 240 includes different third and fourth magnetic poles. The repulsive force propels the second magnetic member 240 to rotate, causing the positions of the third and fourth magnetic poles to change.

[0041] For details, please refer to Figure 4 , Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the position change between the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member during the switching process of the folding mechanism from the unfolded state to the folded state in an embodiment of the present application.

[0042] During the switching process of the folding mechanism from the unfolded state to the folded state, when the second shell rotates relative to the first shell to a position close to the folded state, such as Figure 4 As shown in part a, a repulsive force is formed between the first magnetic member 230 and the second magnetic member 240. At this time, the magnetic pole of the first magnetic member 230 close to the second magnetic member 240 is the same as the magnetic pole of the second magnetic member 240 close to the first magnetic member 230, and they are the same magnetic poles. For example, the first magnetic member includes different first magnetic poles N and second magnetic poles S, and the magnetic pole of the first magnetic member 230 close to the second magnetic member 240 is the second magnetic pole S pole. The second magnetic member 240 includes different third magnetic poles S and fourth magnetic poles N. At this time, the magnetic pole of the second magnetic member 240 close to the first magnetic member 230 is the third magnetic pole S. The repulsive force formed between the two same-name magnetic poles of the second magnetic pole S and the third magnetic pole S can push the second magnetic member 240 to move, as shown in FIG. Figure 4As shown in parts b and c of FIG, after a repulsive force is formed between the second magnetic member 240 and the first magnetic member 230, as the second shell continues to approach the first shell, the second magnetic member 240 continues to approach the first magnetic member 230. The repulsive force between the second magnetic member 240 and the first magnetic member 230 drives the second magnetic member 240 to rotate, so that the magnetic pole of the second magnetic member 240 close to the first magnetic member 230 changes from the same magnetic pole as the magnetic pole of the first magnetic member close to the second magnetic member to the opposite magnetic pole. For example, after the second magnetic member 240 rotates, the third magnetic pole S close to the first magnetic member 230 changes to the fourth magnetic pole N, which is the opposite magnetic pole to the second magnetic pole S of the first magnetic member 230 close to the second magnetic member 240 (as shown in FIG. Figure 4 As shown in part d in the figure, the repulsive force formed between the two opposite magnetic poles is transformed into an attractive force, which can make the first shell and the second shell buckle and fold together to keep the folding mechanism in the folded state.

[0043] It can be understood that in some other embodiments, in the initial state, the second magnetic pole of the first magnetic member close to the second magnetic member can be magnetic pole N, and the corresponding first magnetic pole is magnetic pole S, and the third magnetic pole of the second magnetic member close to the first magnetic member can be magnetic pole N, and the corresponding fourth magnetic pole is magnetic pole S.

[0044] In some embodiments, in order to facilitate the rotation of the second magnetic member, the second magnetic member may be a columnar structure. Figure 5 , Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the structure of the second magnetic member provided in an embodiment of the present application is shown. The second magnetic member 240 may be a cylindrical structure, and the repulsive force may cause the cylindrical structure to rotate about its central axis.

[0045] Take the second magnetic member as an example of a cylindrical structure, please continue to refer to Figure 6 , Figure 6 for Figure 5 The diagram shows the position change of the second magnetic member and the first magnetic member when the folding mechanism switches from the unfolded state to the folded state.

[0046] During the switching process of the folding mechanism from the unfolded state to the folded state, when the second shell rotates relative to the first shell to a position close to the folded state, such as Figure 6As shown in part e, a repulsive force is formed between the first magnetic member 230 and the second magnetic member 240. At this time, the magnetic pole of the first magnetic member 230 close to the second magnetic member 240 is the same as the magnetic pole of the second magnetic member 240 close to the first magnetic member 230, and they are the same magnetic poles. For example, the first magnetic member 230 includes different first magnetic poles N and second magnetic poles S, and the magnetic pole of the first magnetic member 230 close to the second magnetic member 240 is the second magnetic pole S pole. The second magnetic member 240 includes different third magnetic poles S and fourth magnetic poles N. At this time, the magnetic pole of the second magnetic member 240 close to the first magnetic member 230 is the third magnetic pole S. The repulsive force formed between the two same-name magnetic poles of the second magnetic pole S and the third magnetic pole S can drive the cylindrical second magnetic member 240 to rotate with the central axis as the rotation axis, as shown in FIG. Figure 6 As shown in parts f and g in FIG, after a repulsive force is formed between the second magnetic member 240 and the first magnetic member 230, as the second shell continues to approach the first shell, the second magnetic member 240 continues to approach the first magnetic member 230. The repulsive force between the second magnetic member 240 and the first magnetic member 230 drives the second magnetic member 240 to rotate, so that the magnetic pole of the second magnetic member 240 close to the first magnetic member 230 changes from the same magnetic pole as the magnetic pole of the first magnetic member close to the second magnetic member to the opposite magnetic pole. For example, after the second magnetic member 240 rotates, the third magnetic pole S close to the first magnetic member 230 changes to the fourth magnetic pole N, which is the opposite magnetic pole to the second magnetic pole S of the first magnetic member 230 close to the second magnetic member 240 (as shown in FIG. Figure 6 As shown in part h in the figure, the repulsive force formed between the two opposite magnetic poles is transformed into an attractive force, which can make the first shell and the second shell buckle and fold together to keep the folding mechanism in the folded state.

[0047] An embodiment of the present application provides a folding mechanism 200, including a first shell 210 and a second shell 220. The first shell 210 is provided with a first magnetic component 230, and the second shell 220 is provided with a second magnetic component 240. When the folding mechanism 200 is in the unfolded state, the magnetic poles of the first magnetic component 230 and the second magnetic component 240 close to the folding direction side are the same poles. During the switching process of the folding mechanism 200 from the unfolded state to the folded state, the magnetic poles of the second magnetic component 240 close to the folding direction side change, for example, the second magnetic component 240 rotates, so that when the folding mechanism 200 is in the folded state, the magnetic poles of the first magnetic component 230 and the second magnetic component 240 close to the folding direction side are opposite poles. Specifically, when the folding mechanism is in the process of moving from the unfolded state to the folded state, when the second shell 220 rotates to a position close to a certain position, the mutual repulsion between the second shell 220 and the first magnetic member 230's like poles can slow down the speed of the second shell 220 moving toward the first shell 210, thereby preventing the second shell 220 from hitting the first shell 210 due to excessive speed. Since the first magnetic member 230 and the second magnetic member 240 repel each other, the second magnetic member 240 can be moved, changing the magnetic pole of the second magnetic member 240 close to the folding direction side, so that the mutual repulsion between the first magnetic member 230 and the second magnetic member 240 is transformed from like poles to opposite poles. At this time, the folding mechanism 200 is in the folded state. In some embodiments, in order to allow the second magnetic member to reset during the switching process of the folding mechanism from the folded state to the unfolded state, a third magnetic member is also provided on the second shell. Please continue to refer to Figures 7 and 8 , Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the positional relationship among the first magnetic member, the second magnetic member, and the third magnetic member when the folding mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application is in a folded state. Figure 8 This is a diagram showing the positional relationship among the first magnetic member, the second magnetic member, and the third magnetic member when the folding mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application is in an intermediate state.

[0048] The second shell 220 is also provided with a third magnetic part 250, which is arranged adjacent to the second magnetic part 240. A reset force can be formed between the third magnetic part 250 and the second magnetic part 240. During the switching process of the folding mechanism 200 from the folded state to the unfolded state, the reset force is used to push the second magnetic part 240 to move so as to reset the second magnetic part.

[0049] For details, please combine Figure 9 , Figure 9 for Figure 8 The diagram shows the position changes of the first magnetic member, the second magnetic member and the third magnetic member during the switching process of the folding mechanism from the folded state to the unfolded state. Figure 9The first shell 210 and the second shell 220 are only partially shown, as an explanation to facilitate understanding of the position change of the first shell 210 and the second shell 220, wherein the right side of the first shell 210 and the second shell 220 is Figure 8 The folding mechanism 200 is shown on one side of the connection end of the first shell 210 and the second shell 220. Figure 9 As shown in part i), the attraction between the first magnetic member 230 and the second magnetic member 240 is greater than the repulsion between the second magnetic member 240 and the third magnetic member 250. Therefore, the repulsion between the second magnetic member 240 and the third magnetic member 250 cannot reset the second magnetic member 240, so that the folding mechanism 200 can be kept in the folded state. When the user needs to switch the folding mechanism 200 from the folded state to the unfolded state, the external force that separates the first shell 210 and the second shell 220 is greater than the attraction between the first magnetic member 230 and the second magnetic member 240, so that the first shell 210 and the second shell 220 are unfolded, wherein the external force can be the force applied by the user to the folding mechanism or the driving force of the driving device provided in the folding mechanism 200. When the second shell 220 is unfolded relative to the first shell 210, one end of the second shell 220 gradually moves away from one end of the first shell 210 (as shown in part i). Figure 9 As shown in the j part, since the attraction between the first magnetic member 230 and the second magnetic member 240 gradually decreases, when the repulsive force between the third magnetic member 250 and the second magnetic member 240 is greater than the attraction between the first magnetic member 230 and the second magnetic member 240, the repulsive force between the third magnetic member 250 and the second magnetic member 240 can be used as a reset force to drive the second magnetic member 240 to rotate. Figure 9 k portion shown), in order to prepare for the repulsive force to be formed between the first magnetic member 230 and the second magnetic member 240 when the folding mechanism 200 switches from the unfolded state to the folded state next time.

[0050] To explain the positional relationship between the first magnetic member, the second magnetic member, and the third magnetic member when the folding mechanism switches from the unfolded state to the folded state, please continue to refer to Figure 10 , Figure 10 for Figure 8 The diagram shows the position changes of the first magnetic member, the second magnetic member and the third magnetic member during the switching process of the folding mechanism from the unfolded state to the folded state. Figure 10 The first shell 210 and the second shell 220 are only partially shown, as an explanation to facilitate understanding of the position change of the first shell 210 and the second shell 220, wherein the right side of the first shell 210 and the second shell 220 is Figure 8 The folding mechanism shown is on one side of the connection end of the first shell 210 and the second shell 220.

[0051] When the folding mechanism 200 is in the unfolded state and switches to a position from the folded state (eg Figure 10 As shown in the l part), the repulsive force between the first magnetic member 230 and the second magnetic member 240 is greater than the attractive force between the second magnetic member 240 and the third magnetic member 250. Therefore, the repulsive force between the first magnetic member 230 and the second magnetic member 240 can drive the second magnetic member 240 to rotate (as shown in the l part). Figure 10 As shown in the m part), the repulsive force between the first magnetic member 230 and the second magnetic member 240 can slow down the speed at which the second shell 220 moves toward the first shell 210, thereby avoiding the problem that the second shell 220 hits the first shell 210 due to the fast movement speed of the second shell 220 toward the first shell 210. The rotation of the second magnetic member 240 can change the magnetic pole position of the second magnetic member, and the magnetic pole of the second magnetic member 240 close to the first magnetic member 230 changes from the same magnetic pole as the first magnetic member 230 close to the second magnetic member 240 to the opposite magnetic pole (as shown in the m part). Figure 10 As shown in part o), an attractive force is formed between the first magnetic member 230 and the second magnetic member 240 so that the folding mechanism can be maintained in the folded state.

[0052] It can be understood that the magnetic force and position design of the first magnetic part 230, the second magnetic part 240 and the third magnetic part 250 can meet the requirements of the embodiment of the present application that the movement speed of the second shell toward the first shell is slowed down when the folding mechanism is in the unfolded state to the folded state, and the second magnetic part can be reset when the folding mechanism is in the folded state to the unfolded state.

[0053] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 11 , Figure 11 for Figure 10 The diagram shows the positional relationship between the first magnetic member, the second magnetic member, and the third magnetic member when the folding mechanism is in the folded state. To improve the rotational efficiency of the second magnetic member, when the folding mechanism is in the folded state, the first magnetic member 230 is aligned with the second magnetic member 240, and the third magnetic member 250 is offset from the second magnetic member 240. For example, the distance between the centerline L1 of the first magnetic member 230 and the centerline L2 of the second magnetic member 240 is smaller than the distance between the centerline L3 of the third magnetic member 250 and the centerline L2 of the second magnetic member 240.

[0054] Please combine Figures 9 to 11 , the folding mechanism switches from the unfolded state to the folded state (e.g. Figure 10As shown), when the second shell 220 moves toward the first shell 210, since the distance between the portion of the second magnetic member 240 close to the connection end of the first shell 210 and the second shell 220 and the first magnetic member 230 is smaller than the distance between the portion of the second magnetic member 240 away from the connection end of the first shell 210 and the second shell 220 and the first magnetic member 230, the repulsive force exerted on the portion of the second magnetic member 240 close to the connection end of the first shell 210 and the second shell 220 is greater than the repulsive force exerted on the portion of the second magnetic member 240 away from the connection end of the first shell 210 and the second shell 220. Since the second magnetic member 240 is subjected to uneven repulsive force as a whole and the portion of the second magnetic member 240 close to the connection end of the first shell 210 and the second shell 220 is subjected to greater force, the second magnetic member 240 rotates counterclockwise, and the attraction between the offset third magnetic member 250 and the second magnetic member 240 can assist the second magnetic member 240 in rotating counterclockwise.

[0055] During the process of the folding mechanism switching from the folded state to the unfolded state (such as Figure 9 As shown), when the second shell 220 moves away from the first shell 210, the distance between the portion of the second magnetic member 240 close to the connection end of the first shell 210 and the second shell 220 and the first magnetic member 230 is smaller than the distance between the portion of the second magnetic member 240 away from the connection end of the first shell 210 and the second shell 220 and the first magnetic member 230. The attraction of the second magnetic member 240 close to the connection end of the first shell 210 and the second shell 220 by the first magnetic member 230 is greater than the attraction of the second magnetic member 240 away from the connection end of the first shell 210 and the second shell 220 by the first magnetic member 230. Therefore, the second magnetic member 240 rotates clockwise, and the repulsive force between the offset third magnetic member 250 and the second magnetic member 240 can assist the second magnetic member 240 in rotating clockwise.

[0056] In some embodiments, in order to improve the stability of the rotation of the second magnetic member, the folding mechanism further includes a damping structure, see 12, Figure 12 A schematic diagram of an exploded structure of the folding mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0057] The second shell 220 is also provided with a damping structure 260, which is used to make the rotation speed of the second magnetic member (not shown in the figure) provided in the damping structure 260 different from the rotation speed of the second magnetic member during the switching process of the folding mechanism 200 from the unfolded state to the folded state. Figures 13 to 18 , Figure 13 for Figure 12 A schematic structural diagram of the first magnetic component, the second magnetic component and the damping structure of the folding mechanism shown. Figure 14 for Figure 13Schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the structure shown. Figure 15 for Figure 14 A schematic structural diagram of the second magnetic component and part of the damping structure is shown. Figure 16 for Figure 15 A structural schematic diagram of another perspective of the structure shown. Figure 17 for Figure 13 A structural schematic diagram of another perspective of the structure shown. Figure 18 for Figure 17 Schematic cross-sectional view of the structure along the PP direction.

[0058] The damping structure 260 includes a housing 261 and a damping member 262. The housing 261 defines a sealed space 2611 filled with a damping fluid, such as damping oil. The damping member 262 is fixedly connected to the second magnetic member 240 and disposed within the sealed space 2611 together with the second magnetic member 240. When the second magnetic member 240 rotates, the damping member 262 and the damping fluid work together to limit the rotational speed of the second magnetic member 240. This satisfies the requirement that the second magnetic member 240 rotates to decelerate the second housing 220 when the second housing 220 moves toward the first housing 210, and the requirement that the second magnetic member 240 rotates at a faster speed to reset the second housing 220 when the second housing 220 moves away from the first housing 210.

[0059] Among them, the damping member 262 includes a metal member 2621 and a deformable member 2622, the metal member 2621 is fixedly arranged at the end 2401 of the second magnetic member 240, the metal member 2621 includes a first part 6211 and a second part 6212, the first part 6211 is provided with an opening 6213, the deformable member 2622 includes a fixed portion 6221 fixedly connected to the second part 6212 and a deformable portion 6222 arranged adjacent to the opening 6213, when the second magnetic member 240 rotates toward the first direction (clockwise direction), the damping fluid pushes the deformable portion 6222 through the opening to deform the deformable portion, when the second magnetic member rotates toward the second direction (counterclockwise direction), the first part 6211 of the metal member 2621 blocks the deformation of the deformable portion 6222, and the speed at which the second magnetic member 240 rotates toward the first direction is greater than the speed at which the second magnetic member rotates toward the second direction. In actual application scenarios, the second magnetic member 240 rotates toward the first direction when the folding mechanism 200 switches from the folded state to the unfolded state, and the second magnetic member 240 rotates toward the second direction when the folding mechanism 200 rotates from the unfolded state to the folded state. The deformable member 2622 may be a deformable structure such as a rubber sheet, a plastic sheet, or a spring.

[0060] Specifically, when the second magnetic member 240 rotates toward the first direction during the switching process of the folding mechanism 200 from the unfolded state to the folded state, the metal member 2621 fixed to the second magnetic member 240 rotates toward the first direction under the drive of the second magnetic member 240. At this time, since the deformable member 2622 is located on one side of the rotation direction of the metal member 2621, the first portion 6211 of the metal member 2621 blocks the deformation of the deformable portion 6222. Under the action of the damping fluid, the second magnetic member 240 rotates at a slower speed. When the second magnetic member 240 rotates in the second direction during the transition of the folding mechanism 200 from the folded state to the unfolded state, the metal member 2621 fixed to the second magnetic member 240 rotates in the second direction driven by the second magnetic member 240. At this time, because the deformable member 2622 is located on the side opposite to the rotation direction of the metal member 2621, the damping fluid pushes the deformable portion 6222 through the opening, causing the deformable portion 6222 to deform. After the deformable portion 6222 is pushed open, the blocking effect on the damping fluid is reduced. Under the action of the damping fluid, the second magnetic member 240 rotates at a relatively fast speed, which can achieve a rapid reset of the second magnetic member 240.

[0061] In some embodiments, the two metal members are disposed along the central axis of the second magnetic member 240 at opposite ends of the second magnetic member 240 , and each metal member is provided with a corresponding deformable member, thereby improving the stability of the damping effect of the second magnetic member 240 .

[0062] In some embodiments, the third magnetic component 250 can be set in the shell 261. For example, a receiving groove 2612 is set on the outside of the shell 261, and the third magnetic component 250 is set in the receiving groove 2612. The third magnetic component 250 can be offset from the second magnetic component 240. For example, the receiving groove 2612 can be set at the edge of the shell 261, so that the third magnetic component 250 and the second magnetic component 240 are offset, thereby improving the rotation efficiency of the second magnetic component 240.

[0063] In some embodiments, in order to prevent the shell 261 from affecting the magnetism of the third magnetic component 250 and the second magnetic component 240 , the shell 261 may be demagnetized, for example, by using metal powder injection molding technology to manufacture the demagnetized shell 261 .

[0064] In order to improve the stability of the folding and unfolding of the folding mechanism, the second magnetic member, the third magnetic member and the damping structure can be arranged at the end of the second shell away from the connection with the first shell, and correspondingly, the first magnetic member can be arranged at the end of the first shell away from the connection with the second shell, for example, see Figure 3The first housing 210 includes a first end 211 rotatably connected to the second housing 220 and a second end 212 remote from the first end 211. The first magnetic member 230 is disposed at the second end 212. The second housing 220 includes a third end 221 connected to the first housing 210 and a fourth end 222 remote from the third end 221. The second magnetic member 240 is disposed at the fourth end 222. Correspondingly, the third magnetic member 250 and the damping structure 260 that cooperate with the second magnetic member 240 are also disposed at the fourth end 222.

[0065] In some embodiments, the second end 212 of the first shell 210 can be provided with two or more first magnetic parts, and accordingly, the fourth end 222 of the second shell 220 can be provided with two or more second magnetic parts, third magnetic parts and damping structures corresponding to the first magnetic parts. The number and position of the first magnetic parts, second magnetic parts, third magnetic parts and damping structures can be set according to actual needs.

[0066] In a specific usage scenario, when a user needs to fold an electronic device including the above-mentioned folding mechanism (such as a folding screen mobile phone), the first shell and the second shell can be brought closer manually or electrically to achieve folding of the first shell and the second shell. When the second shell approaches the first shell to a position, the repulsive force between the second magnetic part on the second shell and the first magnetic part on the first shell slows down the speed of the second shell moving toward the first shell. The repulsive force between the second magnetic part and the first magnetic part can push the second magnetic part to rotate. Under the action of the damping structure, the second magnetic part rotates counterclockwise at a slower speed, and the repulsive force between the first magnetic part and the second magnetic part gradually decreases, and the repulsive force between the second magnetic part and the first magnetic part gradually turns into an attractive force. Since the attractive force formed between the first magnetic part and the second magnetic part is greater than the repulsive force formed between the second magnetic part and the third magnetic part, the first shell and the second shell can be maintained in a tightly fitted folded state, and the screen of the first shell fits tightly with the screen of the second shell, so that the folding screen can be waterproof and dustproof.

[0067] To illustrate the effect of the folding device provided by the embodiment of the present application, please refer to Figure 19 , Figure 19 Schematic diagram comparing the rotation angle and angular velocity of the casing of the folding mechanism in the related art with the rotation angle and angular velocity of the casing of the folding mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0068] As can be seen from the figure, in the related art, during the process of the folding mechanism switching from the unfolded state to the folded state, the angular velocity of the rotation continues to increase as the angle between the casings decreases, until the angular velocity reaches a peak when it is close to 0°, and the casing is prone to a large collision. In the process of the folding mechanism provided in the embodiment of the present application switching from the unfolded state to the folded state, as the angle between the casings decreases, the angular velocity increases and then gradually decreases. When the angle between the casings is about 10 degrees, due to the action of the magnetic parts and the damping structure, the angular velocity of the casing gradually decreases, which not only reduces the noise generated by a large collision when the casing is folded, but also avoids pinching of hands and damage to the screen due to collision of the casing.

[0069] Please continue reading Figure 1 Electronic device 20 may also include a foldable display, such as foldable display 400. Foldable display 400 may be a flexible OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) display, a flexible Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), or other types of foldable displays. Foldable display 400 is used to display images. Foldable display 400 may have a regular shape, such as a rectangular parallelepiped or a rounded rectangular structure, or an irregular shape.

[0070] It should be noted that when the first shell 210 and the second shell 220 are in a closed state, the foldable display screen 400 can be outside the first shell 210 and the second shell 220 , or hidden inside the first shell 210 and the second shell 220 .

[0071] In some embodiments, the electronic device 20 may include two foldable displays, one foldable display 400 is arranged on one side of the first shell and the second shell, and the other foldable display 400 is arranged on the other side of the first shell and the second shell, that is, the two foldable displays are arranged on opposite sides of the electronic device, and the two foldable displays are arranged relative to each other. In this case, the electronic device can be a bidirectional foldable electronic device.

[0072] The above describes in detail the folding mechanism and electronic device provided in the embodiments of the present application. Specific examples are used herein to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of the present application. The description of the above embodiments is intended only to facilitate understanding of the present application. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that variations in the specific implementation methods and scope of application may occur based on the concepts of the present application. In summary, the contents of this specification should not be construed as limiting the present application.

Claims

1. A folding mechanism, characterized in that: Applicable to electronic equipment, the electronic equipment includes a foldable display screen; the folding mechanism includes: A first shell is provided with a first magnetic member; a second housing rotatably connected to the first housing, the second housing being rotatable relative to the first housing to switch the folding mechanism between a folded state and an unfolded state; wherein, in the folded state, the foldable display is disposed within the first and second housings; and the second housing is provided with a second magnetic member and a third magnetic member disposed adjacent to each other; During the switching process of the folding mechanism from the unfolded state to the folded state, a repulsive force is generated between the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member, and the repulsive force pushes the second magnetic member to move, so that an attractive force is formed between the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member, and a repulsive force is formed between the third magnetic member and the second magnetic member; During the switching process of the folding mechanism from the folded state to the unfolded state, a repulsive restoring force is formed between the third magnetic member and the second magnetic member, and the restoring force is used to push the second magnetic member to move, and to reset the second magnetic member and form an attractive force with the third magnetic member, and a repulsive force is formed between the second magnetic member and the first magnetic member.

2. The folding mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that: The repulsive force pushes the second magnetic member to rotate, so that the magnetic pole of the second magnetic member close to the first magnetic member changes from the same magnetic pole as the magnetic pole of the first magnetic member close to the second magnetic member to the opposite magnetic pole.

3. The folding mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that: The first magnetic member includes different first and second magnetic poles, the second magnetic pole is arranged close to the second magnetic member, and the second magnetic member includes different third and fourth magnetic poles. The repulsive force drives the second magnetic member to rotate so that the positions of the third and fourth magnetic poles change.

4. The folding mechanism according to claim 3, characterized in that: The second magnetic member is a cylindrical structure, and the repulsive force can cause the cylindrical structure to rotate with the central axis of the cylindrical structure as the rotation axis.

5. The folding mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: When the folding mechanism is in a folded state, the first magnetic member is aligned with the second magnetic member, and the third magnetic member is offset from the second magnetic member.

6. The folding mechanism according to claim 5, characterized in that: The distance between the center line of the first magnetic component and the center line of the second magnetic component is smaller than the distance between the center line of the third magnetic component and the center line of the second magnetic component.

7. The folding mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The second shell is also provided with a damping structure, which is used to make the rotation speed of the second magnetic member different from the rotation speed of the second magnetic member when the folding mechanism switches from the unfolded state to the folded state.

8. The folding mechanism according to claim 7, characterized in that: The damping structure includes a shell and a damping member. The shell forms a confined space filled with a damping fluid. The damping member is fixedly connected to the second magnetic member and is arranged in the confined space together with the second magnetic member. When the second magnetic member rotates, the damping fluid and the damping member work together to limit the rotation speed of the second magnetic member.

9. The folding mechanism according to claim 8, characterized in that: The damping member includes a metal member and a deformable member, the metal member is fixedly arranged at the end of the second magnetic member, the metal member includes a first part and a second part, the first part is provided with an opening, the deformable member includes a fixed part fixedly connected to the second part and a deformable part arranged adjacent to the opening, when the second magnetic member rotates toward the first direction, the damping fluid pushes the deformable part through the opening to deform the deformable part, when the second magnetic member rotates toward the second direction, the metal member blocks the deformable part from deforming, and the speed at which the second magnetic member rotates toward the first direction is greater than the speed at which the second magnetic member rotates toward the second direction.

10. The folding mechanism according to claim 9, characterized in that: The second magnetic member rotates toward the first direction when the folding mechanism switches from the folded state to the unfolded state, and the second magnetic member rotates toward the second direction when the folding mechanism rotates from the unfolded state to the folded state.

11. The folding mechanism according to claim 9, characterized in that: The two metal parts are respectively arranged at two opposite ends of the second magnetic part along the central axis of the second magnetic part, and each of the metal parts is correspondingly provided with one deformable part.

12. The folding mechanism according to claim 1, wherein: The first shell includes a first end rotatably connected to the second shell and a second end away from the first end, the first magnetic member is arranged at the second end, the second shell includes a third end connected to the first shell and a fourth end away from the third end, and the second magnetic member is arranged at the fourth end.

13. A folding mechanism, characterized in that: Applicable to electronic equipment, the electronic equipment includes a foldable display screen; the folding mechanism includes: A first shell is provided with a first magnetic member; a second housing rotatably connected to the first housing, the second housing being rotatable relative to the first housing to switch the folding mechanism between a folded state and an unfolded state; wherein, in the folded state, the foldable display is disposed within the first and second housings; and the second housing is provided with a second magnetic member and a third magnetic member disposed adjacent to each other; During the switching process of the folding mechanism from the unfolded state to the folded state, a repulsive force is formed between the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member. During the switching process of the folding mechanism from the folded state to the unfolded state, a restoring force is formed between the third magnetic member and the second magnetic member. Under the action of the repulsive force or the restoring force, the magnetic pole of the second magnetic member closer to the folding direction changes, so that: When the folding mechanism is in the unfolded state, the magnetic poles of the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member on the side close to the folding direction are the same magnetic poles, and the magnetic poles of the second magnetic member and the third magnetic member on the side close to the folding direction are the opposite magnetic poles; When the folding mechanism is in a folded state, the magnetic poles of the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member close to the folding direction are opposite magnetic poles, and the magnetic poles of the second magnetic member and the third magnetic member close to the folding direction are the same magnetic poles.

14. An electronic device, characterized in that: It comprises a folding mechanism as described in any one of claims 1 to 13 and a foldable display screen, wherein the foldable display screen is arranged on the folding mechanism.

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