Hinge assembly and electronic device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a hinge assembly and an electronic device. The hinge assembly comprises a fixed support, a rotating assembly movably connected with the fixed support, the rotating assembly comprising a first limiting part, and a locking mechanism arranged on the fixed support, the locking mechanism comprising a limiting part comprising a second limiting part matched with the first limiting part. In the rotating process of the rotating assembly, the fixed support slides relative to the rotating assembly in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotating assembly, so that the first limiting part and the second limiting part are connected or separated. When the first limiting part and the second limiting part are connected, the rotation of the rotating assembly is limited by the matching of the first limiting part and the second limiting part. When the first limiting part and the second limiting part are separated, the limiting of the rotating assembly is released.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of terminal technology, and more particularly to a hinge assembly and an electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of flexible OLED display technology and the combination of the portability of ordinary electronic devices and the ultimate experience of large-screen display when unfolded, foldable electronic devices have gradually become an important trend in the development of mobile terminals and have become an important area of ​​competition among major terminal manufacturers.

[0003] Currently, the state switching of foldable electronic devices mainly relies on hinge components, which drive the electronic devices to fold and unfold through the folding and unfolding of the hinge components. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure provides a hinge assembly and an electronic device to address the shortcomings of the related art.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a hinge assembly is provided, comprising:

[0006] Fixed support components;

[0007] A rotating assembly, which is movably connected to the fixed support member, includes a first limiting part;

[0008] A locking mechanism is disposed on the fixed support member, and the locking mechanism includes a limiting member, the limiting member including a second limiting member that cooperates with the first limiting member;

[0009] During the rotation of the rotating assembly, the fixed support slides relative to the rotating assembly in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotating assembly, so that the first limiting part and the second limiting part are connected or separated; when the first limiting part and the second limiting part are connected, the rotation of the rotating assembly is limited by the cooperation of the first limiting part and the second limiting part; when the first limiting part and the second limiting part are separated, the limitation on the rotating assembly is released.

[0010] Optionally, the locking mechanism includes an elastic element, one end of which is connected to or abuts against the fixed support, and the other end of which is connected to the limiting element. The deformation direction of the elastic element is parallel to the axial direction of the rotating assembly.

[0011] Optionally, the fixed support includes a receiving groove and a first rotating shaft located within the receiving groove;

[0012] The elastic element includes a first elastic arm, a second elastic arm, and a first connecting portion connecting the first elastic arm and the second elastic arm. The first connecting portion is arranged around the first rotating shaft. The first elastic arm is connected to the limiting member. An elastic gap is provided between the first elastic arm and the second elastic arm.

[0013] The first limiting part protrudes through the first inner wall of the receiving groove, and the second elastic arm abuts against the second inner wall of the receiving groove, which is opposite to the first inner wall.

[0014] Optionally, a bending portion is provided at the connection between the first elastic arm and the first connecting portion and / or at the connection between the second elastic arm and the first connecting portion;

[0015] The end of the second elastic arm away from the first connecting part bends toward the second inner wall to abut against the second inner wall.

[0016] Optionally, one of the first limiting portion and the second limiting portion includes at least one protrusion arranged side by side in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotating assembly, and the other includes at least one recess, wherein the same protrusion is used to cooperate with different recesses to limit the first rotating portion at different angles.

[0017] The fixed support slides in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the rotating assembly during the rotation of the rotating assembly, such that the rotation of the rotating assembly is limited when the protrusion is at least partially located in the recess, and the limitation is released when the protrusion is separated from the recess.

[0018] Optionally, the rotating assembly includes:

[0019] seat body;

[0020] A first pull rod, one end of which is rotatably connected to the base body, and the other end of which is slidably connected to the fixed support member, wherein the first limiting part is located at the end of the first pull rod away from the base body;

[0021] The second pull rod has one end movably connected to the base body and the other end rotatably connected to the fixed support member;

[0022] When the second pull rod moves relative to the seat, it drives the fixed support to rotate relative to the seat and move closer to or further away from the seat. The fixed support slides relative to the first pull rod to switch the relative positional relationship between the first limiting part and the second limiting part.

[0023] Optionally, the first pull rod includes a first rotating part and a first mating part connected to the first rotating part. The first rotating part is rotatably connected to the seat body, the first mating part is slidably connected to the fixed support member, and the first limiting part is disposed on the first mating part.

[0024] Optionally, one of the first mating part and the fixed support member includes a first slide groove, and the other includes a first slide rail.

[0025] Optionally, the first mating part includes a first portion and a second portion that are respectively connected to the first rotating part and are spaced apart along the axial direction of the first rotating part. The fixed support includes a first recessed groove, a second recessed groove, and a first extension located between the first recessed groove and the second recessed groove. The first portion is disposed in the first recessed groove and is slidably connected to the inner wall of the first recessed groove. The second portion is disposed in the second recessed groove and is slidably connected to the inner wall of the second recessed groove.

[0026] Optionally, the first limiting part is disposed in the first portion, the fixed support includes a receiving groove, the receiving groove is connected to the first recessed groove, and the locking mechanism is disposed in the receiving groove.

[0027] Optionally, the rotating assembly includes multiple first pull rods, each of which is rotatably connected to the seat body and includes a first rotating part and a first mating part. The first rotating part includes a first guide groove that extends obliquely about the axial direction of the first rotating part. At least one first pull rod is located on a first side of the seat body, and at least one pull rod is located on a second side of the seat body. The first side and the second side are arranged opposite to each other.

[0028] The rotating assembly further includes a slider, which includes a first protrusion and a second protrusion disposed on two opposite surfaces. The first protrusion extends into a first guide groove of a first pull rod located on a first side of the seat, and the second protrusion extends into a first guide groove of a first pull rod located on a second side of the seat. When either of the first pull rods rotates relative to the seat, it drives the slider to slide, causing the other to rotate relative to the seat.

[0029] Optionally, one of the seat and the slider includes a guide block, and the other includes a second guide groove that mates with the guide block.

[0030] Optionally, the fixed support includes a first fixed support and a second fixed support, wherein the first fixed support is slidably connected to a first pull rod located on a first side of the seat, and the second fixed support is slidably connected to a first pull rod located on a second side of the seat;

[0031] The locking mechanism is disposed on the first fixed support and / or the second fixed support. The locking mechanism disposed on the first fixed support cooperates with the first pull rod located on the first side of the seat to limit the movement. The locking mechanism disposed on the second fixed support cooperates with the first pull rod located on the second side of the seat to limit the movement.

[0032] Optionally, the second pull rod includes a movable part, a second rotating part, and a second connecting part. The second connecting part connects the movable part and the second rotating part. The movable part is movably connected to the seat body, and the second rotating part is rotatably connected to the fixed support member.

[0033] Optionally, the seat includes a first arc-shaped track, the movable part includes an arc-shaped movable part, the arc-shaped movable part is on the first arc-shaped track, and when the movable part moves along the first arc-shaped track, the fixed support gradually moves away from or closer to the seat, and the first mating part slides relative to the fixed support.

[0034] Optionally, the seat includes a support and a cover. The support includes a first arc-shaped recess, and the cover includes a first arc-shaped protrusion. The first arc-shaped protrusion is disposed within the first arc-shaped recess to cooperate in forming the first arc-shaped track.

[0035] Optionally, the rotating assembly further includes:

[0036] A screen support component, wherein the screen support component and the fixed support component are stacked together, and the screen support component includes a plate-shaped body, a second extension portion extending from the plate-shaped body, and an oblique groove disposed in the second extension portion;

[0037] The third pull rod has one end rotatably connected to the base and the other end slidably connected to the fixed support. The third pull rod includes a third protrusion that extends into the inclined groove. When the third pull rod rotates relative to the base, the third protrusion slides in the inclined groove and pushes the screen support to rotate relative to the base.

[0038] Optionally, the hinge assembly further includes a support plate cover, the fixed support includes a second arc-shaped recess, the second arc-shaped recess is located at the edge of the fixed support away from the first pull rod, the support plate cover includes a second arc-shaped protrusion, the second arc-shaped protrusion is disposed in the second arc-shaped recess to cooperate in forming a second arc-shaped track;

[0039] The screen support includes an arc-shaped guide disposed on the edge of the plate-shaped body. The plate-shaped body and the fixed support are stacked together, and the arc-shaped guide cooperates with the second arc-shaped track.

[0040] Optionally, the thickness of the fixed support increases from the end closest to the rotating assembly to the end furthest from the rotating assembly.

[0041] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic device is provided, comprising:

[0042] case;

[0043] As described in any of the above embodiments, in a hinge assembly, the fixed support is connected to the housing to drive the housing to rotate.

[0044] The technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this disclosure may include the following beneficial effects:

[0045] As can be seen from the above embodiments, the present disclosure enables relative movement between the rotating component, the fixed support, and the locking mechanism through the kinematic relationship between them. The first limiting part and the second limiting part can be connected or separated. The rotation of the rotating component can be restricted by the cooperation between the first limiting part and the second limiting part, so as to maintain the hinge component in the target position. When the first limiting part and the second limiting part are separated, the state of the hinge component can be switched. In this way, when the hinge component is applied to a foldable electronic device, the foldable electronic device can be maintained in the target bent state, thus enriching the folding methods of the foldable electronic device.

[0046] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not intended to limit this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0047] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure.

[0048] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a hinge assembly in an unfolded state according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0049] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A partial structural diagram of the hinge assembly.

[0050] Figure 3 This is an exploded schematic diagram of a hinge assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0051] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a hinge assembly in a folded state according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0052] Figure 5 This is a partial schematic diagram of a hinge assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0053] Figure 6 This is an exploded schematic diagram of a locking mechanism according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0054] Figure 7 This is a locked state of a hinge assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0055] Figure 8 This is another locking state of a hinge assembly as illustrated in an exemplary embodiment.

[0056] Figure 9 This is yet another locking state of a hinge assembly as illustrated in an exemplary embodiment.

[0057] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first pull rod according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0058] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of a first cross-section of a hinge assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0059] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 A three-dimensional cross-sectional diagram of the central hinge assembly.

[0060] Figure 13 This is a schematic second cross-sectional view of a hinge assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0061] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of a third cross-section of a hinge assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0062] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a third tie rod according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0063] Figure 16 This is a schematic block diagram illustrating an electronic device in an unfolded state according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0064] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 A schematic block diagram of an electronic device in a folded state.

[0065] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the engagement of a housing and a hinge assembly according to an exemplary embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0066] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description relates to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numerals in different drawings denote the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this disclosure. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of this disclosure as detailed in the appended claims.

[0067] The terminology used in this disclosure is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. The singular forms “a,” “the,” and “the” as used in this disclosure and the appended claims are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the term “and / or” as used herein refers to and includes any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0068] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used in this disclosure to describe various information, such information should not be limited to these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish information of the same type from one another. For example, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, first information may also be referred to as second information, and similarly, second information may also be referred to as first information. Depending on the context, the word "if" as used herein may be interpreted as "when," "when," or "in response to determination."

[0069] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a hinge assembly 100 in an unfolded state according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A partial structural diagram of the hinge assembly 100. Figure 3 This is an exploded schematic diagram of a hinge assembly 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a hinge assembly 100 in a folded state according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 5 This is a partial schematic diagram of a hinge assembly 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 6 This is an exploded schematic diagram illustrating a locking mechanism 3 according to an exemplary embodiment. For example... Figures 1-6 As shown, the hinge assembly 100 can fix the support member 1, the rotating assembly 2, and the locking mechanism 3. The rotating assembly 2 may include a first limiting part 21, and the rotating assembly 2 is movably connected to the fixed support member 1. Moreover, along the axial direction of the rotating assembly 2 (i.e., Figure 2 When rotated in the direction indicated by arrow A, the state of hinge assembly 100 can be switched, and the fixed support 1 can be pushed relative to the rotating assembly 2 to slide in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the rotating assembly 2, that is, when the rotating assembly 2 rotates, it can slide in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the rotating assembly 2. Figure 2 The direction indicated by the middle arrow B pushes the fixed support 1 to slide.

[0070] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the locking mechanism 3 can be disposed on the fixed support member 1. The locking mechanism 3 may include a limiting member 31, which may include a second limiting part 311. Since the locking mechanism 3 is disposed on the fixed support member 1, when the rotating component 2 rotates, the locking mechanism 3 can move synchronously with the fixed support member 1. Thus, the locking mechanism 3 can also move relative to the rotating component 2 relative to the fixed support member 1. Figure 2 The movement in the direction indicated by arrow B, during the relative movement between the rotating assembly 2 and the locking mechanism 3, allows the first limiting part 21 and the second limiting part 311 to either connect or separate. When the first limiting part 21 and the second limiting part 311 are connected, they can cooperate to limit the rotation of the rotating assembly 2, allowing the hinge assembly 100 to maintain its current state, such as being in an unfolded state, a folded state, or any bent state between these states. When the first limiting part 21 and the second limiting part 311 separate, the limiting on the rotating assembly 2 is released, and under the action of an external force, the rotating assembly 2 can continue to rotate to switch the current state of the hinge assembly 100.

[0071] Based on this, through the motion relationship between the rotating component 2, the fixed support 1, and the locking mechanism 3, relative motion can be generated between the rotating component 2 and the locking mechanism 3. The first limiting part 21 and the second limiting part 311 can be connected or separated. The rotation of the rotating component 2 can be restricted by the cooperation between the first limiting part 21 and the second limiting part 311, so as to maintain the hinge component 100 in the target position. When the first limiting part 21 and the second limiting part 311 are separated, the state of the hinge component 100 can be switched. In this way, when the hinge component 100 is applied to a foldable electronic device, the foldable electronic device can be maintained in the target bending state, enriching the folding methods of the foldable electronic device.

[0072] In the embodiments provided in this disclosure, the first limiting part 21 includes recesses arranged side-by-side in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotating assembly 2, and the second limiting part 311 includes a plurality of protrusions arranged side-by-side in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the first rotating part 231. During the rotation of the rotating assembly 2, the fixed support 1 slides in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotating assembly 2, so that when at least a portion of the protrusion is located in the recess, the rotating assembly 2 can be limited; if an external force drives the sliding member to continue sliding, the protrusion can slide out from the current recess and release the limitation. As the rotating assembly 2 continues to rotate, the protrusion can engage with another recess, at which point the hinge assembly 100 can be limited to another angle. That is, when the same recess engages with different protrusions for limitation, the rotating assembly 2 can be limited to different angles, thereby restricting the hinge assembly 100 to different target bending positions.

[0073] The more recesses and protrusions there are, the more angles the rotating component 2 can be limited, and the more hovering states the hinge component 100 can achieve. Furthermore, multiple sets of cooperating recesses and protrusions at the same time can improve the stability of limiting the first rotating part 231 to the target angle. In some other embodiments, the first limiting part 21 may include a single recess, while the second limiting part 311 may include multiple protrusions, thus achieving multi-angle limiting of the rotating component 2; or, the first limiting part 21 may include multiple recesses, and the second limiting part 311 may include a single protrusion, thus achieving multi-angle limiting of the rotating component 2; or, in still other embodiments, when the limiting angle requirement for the rotating component 2 is not high, the first limiting part 21 may include a single recess, and the second limiting part 311 may include a single protrusion, thus achieving single-angle limiting of the rotating component 2.

[0074] The specific movement process is illustrated using the hinge assembly 100 switching from the unfolded state to the folded state as an example. Figure 7 As shown, the hinge assembly 100 is in the unfolded state at this time, and the limiting member 31 is located in... Figure 7 Two protrusions in the middle, from left to right, engage with corresponding recesses on the rotating assembly 2, confining the hinge assembly 100 to the unfolded state; and as the rotating assembly 2 rotates, the fixed support 1 and the rotating assembly 2 slide relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the rotating assembly 2, i.e., in the direction indicated by arrow B. Figure 7 The mating protrusions and recesses disengage, and the hinge assembly 100 bends to... Figure 8 As shown in the diagram, at this time, the limiting member 31 is located in... Figure 8The three protrusions in the middle, from left to right, engage with the corresponding recesses on the rotating assembly 2, at which point the hinge assembly 100 can be confined to a 120° bent position; as the rotating assembly 2 rotates again, the fixed support 1 and the rotating assembly 2 slide relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the rotating assembly 2, i.e., in the direction indicated by arrow B. Figure 8 The mating protrusions and recesses disengage, and the hinge assembly 100 bends to... Figure 9 As shown, the limiting member 31 is in the position indicated. Figure 8 The four protrusions in the center, from left to right, engage with the corresponding recesses on the rotating assembly 2, thus confining the hinge assembly 100 to the folded state. Similarly, the switching process of the hinge assembly 100 from the folded state to the unfolded state can be referred to... Figure 9 , Figure 8 and Figure 7 The relative sequence of motion.

[0075] It should be noted that, in the embodiments provided in this disclosure, the first limiting part 21 includes a recess and the second limiting part 311 includes a protrusion as an example. In other embodiments, the first limiting part 21 may include a protrusion and the second limiting part 311 may include a recess. Furthermore, the number of recesses and protrusions can be referenced from the embodiments provided in this disclosure, and this disclosure does not impose any limitations on this. In some other embodiments, one of the first limiting part 21 and the second limiting part 311 may also include a hook and the other a groove, with the limiting achieved through the cooperation of the hook and the groove. Of course, the first limiting part 21 and the second limiting part 311 may also include other structures for cooperating and limiting, which will not be described in detail here.

[0076] Specifically, in the embodiments provided in this disclosure, in order to improve the feel during the folding or unfolding of the hinge assembly 100, the locking mechanism 3 may further include an elastic member 32. One end of the elastic member 32 is connected to or abuts against the fixed support member 1, and the other end can be connected to the limiting member 31. The deformation direction of the elastic member 32 is parallel to the axial direction of the rotating assembly 2. Thus, during the relative sliding of the fixed support member 1 and the rotating assembly 2, when the protrusion and the recess are in a separated state, the plane of the rotating assembly 2 can press against the protrusion of the limiting member 31, and the elastic member 32 is compressed. At the moment when the protrusion and the recess are about to engage, due to the gap provided by the recess, the elastic member can be reset, thereby pushing the protrusion into the recess to achieve limiting.

[0077] The elastic element 32 may include a compression spring, one end of which may be connected to the limiting element 31, and the other end of which may be connected to the fixed support element 1. Alternatively, the fixed support element 1 may include a receiving groove 11 and a first rotating shaft 12 located within the receiving groove 11; as shown Figure 6As shown, the elastic element 32 may include a first elastic arm 321, a second elastic arm 322, and a first connecting portion 323. The first connecting portion 323 connects the first elastic arm 321 and the first elastic arm 322. The first connecting portion 323 may be arranged around the first rotating shaft 12. The first elastic arm 321 is connected to the limiting member 31. The first limiting portion 31 protrudes through the first inner wall of the receiving groove 11. The second elastic arm 322 abuts against the second inner wall of the receiving groove 11, which is opposite to the first inner wall. An elastic gap is provided between the first elastic arm 321 and the second elastic arm 322. Based on this, during the sliding process of the rotating assembly 2, the first elastic arm 321 can deform and compress towards the second elastic arm 322. At the moment when the concave part and the protrusion are about to engage, the first elastic arm 321 returns to its original position, pushing the protrusion into the concave part to limit the rotation assembly 2.

[0078] Furthermore, a bend 324 can be provided at the connection between the first elastic arm 321 and the first connecting portion 323. Similarly, a bend 324 can also be provided at the connection between the second elastic arm 322 and the first connecting portion 323. The bend 324 is concave inward radially around the first rotating shaft 12, thereby reducing the diameter between the two ends of the first connecting portion 323, preventing the first rotating shaft from dislodging from the first connecting portion 323, and improving the stability of the elastic element 32 during installation. In the embodiments of this disclosure, the example given is that both the connection between the first elastic arm 321 and the first connecting portion 323 and the connection between the second elastic arm 322 and the first connecting portion 323 are provided with bends 324. Of course, in other embodiments, the bend 324 can also be provided at the connection between the first elastic arm 321 and the first connecting portion 323 or at the connection between the second elastic arm 322 and the first connecting portion 323. This disclosure does not impose any limitations on this. The end of the second elastic arm 322 away from the first connecting part 323 is bent toward the second inner wall to abut against the second inner wall, thereby limiting the second elastic arm 322 while leaving a certain gap, which is beneficial to the deformation of the elastic element 32.

[0079] In the above embodiments, the example is that the limiting member 31 and the elastic member 32 are connected and cooperate with the fixed support member 1. In other embodiments, the limiting member 31 included in the locking mechanism 3 can be directly set on the fixed support member 1, for example, it can be set in the area where the fixed support member 1 and the rotating component 2 are slidably connected.

[0080] Further, in the embodiments provided in this disclosure, the rotating assembly 2 may include a seat 22, a first pull rod 23, and a second pull rod 24. One end of the first pull rod 23 is rotatably connected to the seat 22, and the other end is slidably connected to the fixed support 1. One end of the second pull rod 24 is movably connected to the seat 22, and the other end is rotatably connected to the fixed support 1. A first limiting part 21 of the rotating assembly 2 is disposed at the end of the first pull rod 23 away from the seat 22. When the second pull rod 24 moves relative to the seat 22, it can drive the fixed support 1 to rotate relative to the seat 22, causing the fixed support 1 to simultaneously move closer to or away from the seat 22. Simultaneously, relative sliding can occur between the first pull rod 23 and the fixed support 1 in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotating assembly 2. This allows for the switching of the state of the hinge assembly 100 while simultaneously achieving hovering, based on the relative positional relationship between the first limiting part 21 and the second limiting part 211. The axial direction of the rotating assembly 2 may refer to the axial direction when the first pull rod 23 is rotatably connected to the seat 22.

[0081] like Figure 10 As shown, the first pull rod 23 may include a first rotating part 231 and a first mating part 232 connected to the first rotating part 231. The first rotating part 231 can be rotatably connected to the seat 22, and the first mating part 232 can be slidably connected to the fixed support member 1. The first limiting part 21 of the rotating assembly 2 may be disposed on the first mating part 232. For example, in the embodiments provided in this disclosure, the first mating part 232 may include a first guide rail 2321, and the fixed support member 1 may include a first sliding groove 13. The sliding connection between the fixed support member 1 and the first mating part 232 is realized through the cooperation of the first guide rail 2321 and the first sliding groove 13. In some embodiments, the first sliding groove 13 may be disposed on the surface of the fixed support member 1. In other embodiments, the fixed support member 1 may include a groove structure recessed in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotating assembly 2. The first mating part 232 may partially extend into the groove structure and be slidably connected to the inner wall of the groove structure, thereby helping to reduce the thickness of the hinge assembly 100.

[0082] For example, in the embodiments provided in this disclosure, in order to reduce the overall thickness of the hinge assembly 100, the first mating part 232 may include a first portion 2322 and a second portion 2323, which are respectively connected to the first rotating part 231. Furthermore, a certain interval is provided between the first portion 2322 and the second portion 2323 along the axial direction of the first rotating part 231. The fixed support member 1 may include a first recessed groove 14 and a second recessed groove 1. 5 and a first extension 16, the first extension 16 being located between the first recess 14 and the second recess 15. When the first mating part 232 is engaged with the fixed support 1, the first portion 2322 can extend into the first recess 14 and slide against the inner wall of the first recess 14, and the second portion 2323 can extend into the second recess 15 and slide against the inner wall of the second recess 15. The first extension 16 can be located between the first portion 2322 and the second portion 2323. The sliding connection between the first portion 2322 and the inner wall of the first recess 14 can be as follows: Figure 5 The surface of the inner wall of the first extension 16 forming the first recessed groove 14 forms a first guide rail 2321 or a first sliding groove 13; in other embodiments, the inner wall of the first recessed groove 14 opposite to the surface of the first extension 16 may also form the first guide rail 2321 or the first sliding groove 13, and this disclosure does not limit this; similarly, the sliding connection between the second portion 2323 and the inner wall of the second recessed groove 15 can refer to the first portion 2322, and the sliding connection method between the second portion 2323 and the inner wall of the second recessed groove 15 and the sliding connection method between the first portion 2322 and the inner wall of the first recessed groove 14 may be the same or different.

[0083] Regarding the structure of the first mating part 232, which includes a first portion 2322 and a second portion 2323, the receiving groove 11 of the fixed support member 1 can communicate with the first recessed groove 14. The locking mechanism 3 is disposed within the receiving groove 11, and the first limiting part 21 is disposed on the side of the first portion 2322. For example, a protrusion or a recess can be formed on the side of the first portion 2322 facing the receiving groove 11. Based on this, when the first portion 2322 slides relative to the inner wall of the first recessed groove 14, the first portion 2322 and the bracket 222 of the locking mechanism 3 can generate relative movement, thereby switching the positional relationship between the first limiting part 21 and the second limiting part 311 to switch the state of the hinge assembly 100. Based on this structural arrangement, it is beneficial to the integrated setting of the overall structure on the fixed support member 1.

[0084] Understandably, in line with current development trends, this hinge assembly 100 can typically be applied to foldable electronic devices. Therefore, in order to fold the screens on both sides of the electronic device simultaneously, the rotating assembly 2 may include multiple first pull rods 23, wherein at least one first pull rod 23 is located on a first side of the base 22, and at least one pull rod is located on a second side of the base 22, with the first side and the second side being arranged opposite each other. For example, as... Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, assuming the first side is Figure 11 and Figure 12 The left and second sides are Figure 11 and Figure 12 On the right side, the plurality of first pull rods 23 may include a left first pull rod and a right first pull rod. The left first pull rod and the right first pull rod may have the same structure, that is, the left first pull rod and the right first pull rod may each include a first rotating part 231 and a first mating part 232. The structure of the first mating part 232 may refer to the structure disclosed in the above embodiments. The first rotating part 231 may also include a first guide groove 2311 extending obliquely around the axial direction of the first rotating part 231.

[0085] To achieve synchronized movement of the left and right first pull rods, the rotating assembly 2 may further include a slider 4. The slider 4 may include a first protrusion 42 and a second protrusion 43, which are disposed on two opposing surfaces of the slider 4. The first protrusion 42 faces the left first pull rod and can extend into the first guide groove 2311 of the left first pull rod; the second protrusion 43 faces the right first pull rod and can extend into the first guide groove 2311 of the right first pull rod. Based on this, when the left first pull rod rotates relative to the base 22, the slider 4 can be driven to slide along the base 22 via the first protrusion 42, and then the right first pull rod can be driven to rotate relative to the base 22 via the second protrusion 43. Similarly, when the right first pull rod rotates relative to the base 22, the slider 4 can be driven to slide along the base 22 via the second protrusion 43, and then the left first pull rod can be driven to rotate relative to the base 22 via the first protrusion 42, thus achieving synchronous movement of the left and right first pull rods. Compared to the related technology that uses gear sets to achieve synchronous movement, the thickness of the hinge assembly 100 can be reduced by decreasing the shaft diameter of the first rotating part 231 and the thickness of the slider 4, which is beneficial for making the hinge assembly 100 thinner and lighter.

[0086] The sliding connection between the seat 22 and the slider 4 can be achieved in the following way: the seat 22 may include a guide block 221, and the slider 4 may include a second guide groove 41. The guide block 221 can extend into the second guide groove 41, so that with the cooperation of the guide block 221 and the second guide groove 41, when any of the first pull rods 23 rotates relative to the seat 22, the slider 4 can be driven to slide along the axial direction of the first rotating part 231. Of course, in other embodiments, the seat 22 may include the second guide groove 41, and the slider 4 may include the guide block 221. This disclosure does not limit this. In order to improve the aesthetics of the hinge assembly 100, the seat 22 may include a bracket 222 and a cover 223 assembled with the bracket 222. The first rotating part 231 can be rotatably connected with the shaft hole formed by the bracket 222 and the cover 223 to reduce the assembly difficulty of the first pull rod 23. The guide block 221 can be disposed between the cover 223 and the bracket 222 to avoid the protrusion of the guide block 221 from interfering with other parts.

[0087] The fixed support 1 may include a first fixed support located on the first side of the seat 22 and a second fixed support located on the second side when the hinge assembly 100 is in the unfolded state. The first fixed support can be rotatably connected to the first pull rod on the left side, and the second fixed support can be rotatably connected to the first pull rod on the right side. The first fixed support can be connected to one side of the electronic device's housing, and the second fixed support can be connected to the other side of the electronic device's housing. Thus, when the first and second fixed supports move relative to the seat 22, they can drive the two housings of the electronic device to move closer to or further away from each other, thereby realizing the folding and unfolding of the electronic device.

[0088] In this embodiment, the hinge assembly 100 may include multiple locking mechanisms 3. One locking mechanism 3 is disposed on the first fixed support member, and the locking mechanism 3 disposed on the first fixed support member can cooperate with the left first pull rod for limiting movement. Another locking mechanism 3 is disposed on the second fixed support member, and the locking mechanism 3 disposed on the second fixed support member can cooperate with the right second pull rod 24 for limiting movement. By simultaneously acting with multiple locking mechanisms 3, the stability of the position hinge assembly 100 in any state can be improved. The cooperation between the first fixed support member and the left first pull rod can refer to the aforementioned embodiment, and the cooperation between the second fixed support member and the right first pull rod can also refer to the aforementioned embodiment. In the embodiments of this disclosure, locking mechanisms 3 are respectively disposed on the first fixed support member and the second fixed support member. In other embodiments, locking mechanisms 3 can be disposed on either the first fixed support member or the second fixed support member; this disclosure does not impose any limitation on this.

[0089] like Figure 13As shown, the second pull rod 24 may include a movable part 241, a second rotating part 242, and a second connecting part 243. The second connecting part 243 connects the movable part 241 and the second rotating part 242. The movable part 241 is movably connected to the seat 22, and the second rotating part 242 is rotatably connected to the fixed support member 1. Therefore, when the movable part 241 moves relative to the seat 22, it can push the second rotating part 242 to move along the length of the second pull rod 24. Through the second rotating part 242, while driving the fixed support member 1 to rotate relative to the seat 22, it can also push the fixed support member 1 closer to or away from the seat 22. Thus, when fixed support members 1 are arranged on both sides of the seat 22, taking the first side of the seat 22 as... Figure 13 The left and second sides are Figure 14 On the right side, the rotating assembly 2 may include a left second pull rod and a right second pull rod. One end of the left second pull rod can be movably connected to the seat 22, and the other end is rotatably connected to the first fixed support member. One end of the right second pull rod can be movably connected to the seat 22, and the other end is rotatably connected to the second fixed support member. Thus, the left second pull rod pushes the first fixed support member to move, and the right second pull rod pushes the second fixed support member to move. When the hinge assembly 100 switches from the folded state to the unfolded state, both the first fixed support member and the second fixed support member can move closer to the seat 22. The first fixed support member and the second fixed support member can move closer to each other on the back of the seat 22 to cover the seat 22, making the back of the hinge assembly 100 flat and improving its aesthetics. When the hinge assembly 100 switches from the unfolded state to the folded state, both the first fixed support member and the second fixed support member can move away from the seat 22 until... Figure 4 The folded state shown can prevent the first and second fixed supports from interfering with the flexible screen.

[0090] Regarding the movable connection between the movable part 241 and the seat 22, specifically, the seat 22 may include a first arc-shaped track 224, and the movable part 241 may include an arc-shaped movable part 241, such as a semi-circular arc-shaped movable part 241. The arc-shaped movable part 241 extends from its end into the first arc-shaped track 224 to cooperate with the first arc-shaped track 224. Based on this, when the arc-shaped movable part 241 moves within the first arc-shaped track 224, it can realize the relative rotation between the second pull rod 24 and the seat 22. At the same time, the position change between the arc-shaped movable part 241 and the first arc-shaped track 224 causes the second rotating part 242 to move away from or towards the seat 22, thereby driving the fixed support member 1 to move away from or towards the seat 22.

[0091] For ease of installation, the support 222 of the base 22 may include a first arc-shaped recess 2221, and the cover 223 of the base 22 may include a first arc-shaped protrusion 2231. For example, the first arc-shaped recess 2221 may be semi-circular, and the first arc-shaped protrusion 2231 may also be semi-circular. However, the radius of the first arc-shaped protrusion 2231 is smaller than the radius of the first arc-shaped recess 2221. Thus, when the first arc-shaped protrusion 2231 engages with the first arc-shaped recess 2221, the difference in radius can form a first arc-shaped track 224. Of course, this is only an example where both the first arc-shaped protrusion 2231 and the first arc-shaped recess 2221 are semi-circular. In other embodiments, they may be formed in other ways, as long as the movable part 241 can generate a displacement change while rotating relative to the first arc-shaped track 224.

[0092] In the above embodiments, such as Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, the rotating assembly 2 may further include a screen support 25 and a third pull rod 26. The screen support 25 can be stacked with the fixed support 1. The screen support 25 includes a plate-shaped body 251, a second extension 252 extending from the plate-shaped body 251, and an inclined groove 253 disposed in the second extension 252. One end of the third pull rod 26 is rotatably connected to the base 22, and the other end is slidably connected to the fixed support 1. The third pull rod 26 includes a third protrusion 261, which can extend into the inclined groove 253. Based on this, when the third pull rod 26 rotates relative to the base 22, the third protrusion 261 slides in the inclined groove 253 and pushes the screen support 25 to rotate relative to the base 22. Thus, when the hinge assembly 100 is in a folded state, the flexible screen of the electronic device on which the hinge assembly 100 is configured can be supported by the screen support, reducing the deformation of the flexible screen. For example, Figure 15 As shown, a second guide rail 262 can be provided at one end of the third pull rod 26 near the fixed support member 1, and a second sliding groove can be provided on the fixed support member 1. The sliding connection between the third pull rod 26 and the fixed support member 1 is realized through the cooperation of the second sliding groove and the second guide rail 262.

[0093] To guide and limit the movement of the screen support 25 relative to the base 22, the hinge assembly 100 may further include a support plate cover 5. The support plate cover 5 may include a second arcuate protrusion 51, and the fixed support 1 may include a second arcuate recess located on the edge of the fixed support 1 away from the first pull rod 23. The second arcuate protrusion 51 of the support plate cover 5 may be disposed within the second arcuate recess to cooperate with the second arcuate recess to form a second arcuate track. The screen support 25 may include an arcuate guide 254 disposed on the edge of the plate-shaped body 251, which is stacked with the fixed support 1. The arcuate guide 254 cooperates with the second arcuate track. Therefore, during the movement of the fixed support 1 relative to the base 22, the screen support 25 can move adaptively, preventing jamming.

[0094] The second arc-shaped protrusion 51 can be hemispherical, and the cross-section of the second arc-shaped recess can be semicircular. Furthermore, the radius of the second arc-shaped protrusion 51 can be smaller than the radius of the second arc-shaped recess, thus forming a second arc-shaped track when the second arc-shaped protrusion 51 is located within the second arc-shaped recess. The arc-shaped guide 254 of the screen support 25 can be an arc-shaped plate with a semicircular cross-section. Of course, this description only uses the example of both the second arc-shaped track and the arc-shaped guide 254 being semicircular. In other embodiments, the second arc-shaped track and the arc-shaped guide 254 can also be other arc-shaped configurations, and this disclosure does not impose any limitations on this.

[0095] In the above embodiment, using the third pull rod 26 to move the screen support 25 avoids the need for a structure on the first pull rod 23 to move the screen support 25, thus solving the problems of complex force distribution and limited space on the first pull rod 23. In other embodiments, the screen support 25 can also be moved using the first pull rod 23. Specific implementation methods can refer to the cooperation between the third pull rod 26 and the screen support 25. Compared to the scheme of using the third pull rod 26 to move the screen support 25, the structure of the hinge assembly 100 can be simplified. In the embodiments provided in this disclosure, in order to adapt to the application objects of the first fixed support, the second fixed support, and the hinge assembly 100, the rotating assembly 2 may include multiple screen support members 25 and multiple third pull rods 26. One screen support member 25 is configured to cooperate with the first fixed support member, and one end of one third pull rod 26 is rotatably connected to the base 22 and the other end is slidably connected to the first fixed support member. Another screen support member 25 is configured to cooperate with the second fixed support member, and one end of one third pull rod 26 is rotatably connected to the base 22 and the other end is slidably connected to the second fixed support member.

[0096] In the embodiments provided in this disclosure, the thickness of the fixing support 1 increases from the side closest to the seat 22 to the side of the seat 22 furthest away from the seat 22, that is, in Figure 11 The thickness of the right-side fixed support 1 increases from left to right, and the thickness of the left-side fixed support 1 also increases from left to right. Thus, as... Figure 10 As shown, when the hinge assembly 100 switches to the folded state, the bending radius of the flexible screen's bending portion 324 is the largest, while the flexible screen away from the bending portion 324 is positioned relative to it. In this way, by setting the thickness of the fixed support 1 in an increasing manner, the area with a smaller thickness of the fixed support 1 is closer to the bending area of ​​the flexible screen relative to the area with a larger thickness, so as to adapt to the shape change of the flexible screen from the unfolded state to the folded state and avoid the fixed support 1 from squeezing the flexible screen.

[0097] Based on the technical solution disclosed herein, such as Figures 16-18 As shown, this disclosure also provides an electronic device 200, which may include a housing 201, a flexible screen 202, and a hinge assembly 100. The flexible screen 202 can be laid flat on the housing 201. The rotating component 2 of the hinge assembly 100, at one end away from the first rotating part 231, is connected to the housing 201. For example, the first rotating part 231 can be connected to the housing 201 through a fixed support 1 to drive the housing 201 to rotate, thereby enabling the electronic device 200 to rotate. Figure 13 The unfolded state shown and Figure 14 The switching between the folded states shown.

[0098] Specifically, the housing 201 may include a left housing and a right housing. The flexible screen 202 is laid flat on the left and right housings. The left housing can be connected to a fixed support 1 on one side of the hinge assembly 100, and the right housing can be connected to a fixed support 1 on the other side of the hinge assembly 100. Based on this, when the hinge assembly 100 bends, the two fixed supports 1 of the hinge assembly 100 will move closer or further apart, thereby causing the left and right housings to move closer or further apart, so that the flexible screen 202 is simultaneously bent or unfolded.

[0099] Other embodiments of this disclosure will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the disclosure herein. This disclosure is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this disclosure that follow the general principles of this disclosure and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The specification and examples are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of this disclosure are indicated by the following claims.

[0100] It should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the precise structures described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from its scope. The scope of this disclosure is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A hinge assembly, characterized in that, include: Fixed support components; A rotating assembly, which is movably connected to the fixed support member, includes a first limiting part; A locking mechanism is disposed on the fixed support member, and the locking mechanism includes a limiting member, the limiting member including a second limiting member that cooperates with the first limiting member; During the rotation of the rotating assembly, the fixed support slides relative to the rotating assembly in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotating assembly, so that the first limiting part and the second limiting part are connected or separated; when the first limiting part and the second limiting part are connected, the rotation of the rotating assembly is limited by the cooperation of the first limiting part and the second limiting part; when the first limiting part and the second limiting part are separated, the limitation on the rotating assembly is released. The rotating assembly includes a base and a plurality of first pull rods. One end of the first pull rod is rotatably connected to the base, and the other end is slidably connected to the fixed support. The first limiting part is located at the end of the first pull rod away from the base. At least one first pull rod is located on a first side of the seat body, and at least one pull rod is located on a second side of the seat body, with the first side and the second side being arranged opposite to each other; The hinge assembly also includes a slider, which drives the slider to slide relative to the seat when the first pull rod located on the first side or the second side rotates relative to the seat, and drives the first pull rod located on the other side to rotate relative to the seat through the slider.

2. The hinge assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The locking mechanism includes an elastic element, one end of which is connected to or abuts against the fixed support, and the other end of which is connected to the limiting element. The deformation direction of the elastic element is parallel to the axial direction of the rotating assembly.

3. The hinge assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The fixed support includes a receiving groove and a first rotating shaft located within the receiving groove; The elastic element includes a first elastic arm, a second elastic arm, and a first connecting portion connecting the first elastic arm and the second elastic arm. The first connecting portion is arranged around the first rotating shaft. The first elastic arm is connected to the limiting member. An elastic gap is provided between the first elastic arm and the second elastic arm. The first limiting part protrudes through the first inner wall of the receiving groove, and the second elastic arm abuts against the second inner wall of the receiving groove, which is opposite to the first inner wall.

4. The hinge assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, A bend is provided at the connection point between the first elastic arm and the first connecting part and / or at the connection point between the second elastic arm and the first connecting part; The end of the second elastic arm away from the first connecting part bends toward the second inner wall to abut against the second inner wall.

5. The hinge assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, One of the first limiting portion and the second limiting portion includes at least one protrusion arranged side by side in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotating assembly, and the other includes at least one recess, wherein the same protrusion is used to cooperate with different recesses to limit the rotating assembly at different angles; The fixed support slides in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the rotating assembly during the rotation of the rotating assembly, such that the rotation of the rotating assembly is limited when the protrusion is at least partially located in the recess, and the limitation is released when the protrusion is separated from the recess.

6. The hinge assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rotating assembly includes: The second pull rod has one end movably connected to the base body and the other end rotatably connected to the fixed support member; When the second pull rod moves relative to the seat, it drives the fixed support to rotate relative to the seat and move closer to or further away from the seat. The fixed support slides relative to the first pull rod to switch the relative positional relationship between the first limiting part and the second limiting part.

7. The hinge assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first pull rod includes a first rotating part and a first mating part connected to the first rotating part. The first rotating part is rotatably connected to the seat body, and the first mating part is slidably connected to the fixed support member. The first limiting part is disposed on the first mating part.

8. The hinge assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that, One of the first mating part and the fixed support member includes a first slide groove, and the other includes a first slide rail.

9. The hinge assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first mating part includes a first portion and a second portion that are respectively connected to the first rotating part and are spaced apart along the axial direction of the first rotating part. The fixed support includes a first recessed groove, a second recessed groove, and a first extension located between the first recessed groove and the second recessed groove. The first portion is disposed in the first recessed groove and is slidably connected to the inner wall of the first recessed groove. The second portion is disposed in the second recessed groove and is slidably connected to the inner wall of the second recessed groove.

10. The hinge assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first limiting part is disposed in the first portion, the fixed support includes a receiving groove, the receiving groove is connected to the first recessed groove, and the locking mechanism is disposed in the receiving groove.

11. The hinge assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that, Each first pull rod is rotatably connected to the seat body and includes a first rotating part and a first mating part, wherein the first rotating part includes a first guide groove that extends obliquely about the axial direction of the first rotating part; The slider includes a first protrusion and a second protrusion disposed on two opposite surfaces. The first protrusion extends into a first guide groove of a first pull rod located on a first side of the seat, and the second protrusion extends into a first guide groove of a first pull rod located on a second side of the seat. When either of the first pull rods rotates relative to the seat, it drives the slider to slide, causing the other to rotate relative to the seat.

12. The hinge assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that, One of the base and the slider includes a guide block, and the other includes a second guide groove that mates with the guide block.

13. The hinge assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that, The fixed support includes a first fixed support and a second fixed support. The first fixed support is slidably connected to a first pull rod located on the first side of the seat, and the second fixed support is slidably connected to a first pull rod located on the second side of the seat. The locking mechanism is disposed on the first fixed support and / or the second fixed support. The locking mechanism disposed on the first fixed support cooperates with the first pull rod located on the first side of the seat to limit the movement. The locking mechanism disposed on the second fixed support cooperates with the first pull rod located on the second side of the seat to limit the movement.

14. The hinge assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, The second pull rod includes a movable part, a second rotating part, and a second connecting part. The second connecting part connects the movable part and the second rotating part. The movable part is movably connected to the seat body, and the second rotating part is rotatably connected to the fixed support member.

15. The hinge assembly according to claim 14, characterized in that, The seat includes a first arc-shaped track, and the movable part includes an arc-shaped movable part. The arc-shaped movable part is connected to the first arc-shaped track. When the movable part moves along the first arc-shaped track, the fixed support gradually moves away from or closer to the seat.

16. The hinge assembly according to claim 15, characterized in that, The seat includes a support and a cover. The support includes a first arc-shaped recess, and the cover includes a first arc-shaped protrusion. The first arc-shaped protrusion is disposed within the first arc-shaped recess to cooperate in forming the first arc-shaped track.

17. The hinge assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, The rotating assembly further includes: A screen support component, wherein the screen support component and the fixed support component are stacked together, and the screen support component includes a plate-shaped body, a second extension portion extending from the plate-shaped body, and an oblique groove disposed in the second extension portion; The third pull rod has one end rotatably connected to the base and the other end slidably connected to the fixed support. The third pull rod includes a third protrusion that extends into the inclined groove. When the third pull rod rotates relative to the base, the third protrusion slides in the inclined groove and pushes the screen support to rotate relative to the base.

18. The hinge assembly according to claim 17, characterized in that, The hinge assembly further includes a support plate cover, the fixed support includes a second arc-shaped recess, the second arc-shaped recess is located at the edge of the fixed support away from the first pull rod, the support plate cover includes a second arc-shaped protrusion, the second arc-shaped protrusion is disposed in the second arc-shaped recess to cooperate in forming a second arc-shaped track; The screen support includes an arc-shaped guide disposed on the edge of the plate-shaped body. The plate-shaped body and the fixed support are stacked together, and the arc-shaped guide cooperates with the second arc-shaped track.

19. The hinge assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thickness of the fixed support increases from the end closest to the rotating assembly to the end furthest from the rotating assembly.

20. An electronic device, characterized in that, include: case; The hinge assembly as described in any one of claims 1-19, wherein the fixed support is connected to the housing to drive the housing to rotate.

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