Electronic device, locking mechanism

Abstract

This application provides a locking mechanism and an electronic device. It relates to the field of foldable screen electronic devices. The main purpose is to improve the locking mechanism's reliability and user experience. The electronic device includes a first housing, a second housing, and a locking mechanism disposed on the first housing. The button includes a first rack located within the first housing, and the latch includes a second rack located within the first housing. The extension direction of the first rack is perpendicular to the extension direction of the second rack. Both the first and second racks are engaged with a meshing transmission structure. When the latch is in a slot, pressing the button moves the button relative to the first housing, causing the first rack to drive the meshing transmission structure to move. The moving meshing transmission structure, through the second rack, causes the latch to disengage from the slot in a direction perpendicular to the button's movement direction, thus changing the first and second housings from a locked state to a unlocked state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of electronic device technology, and more particularly to a foldable electronic device and a locking mechanism that can be applied to the electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, foldable screens are widely used in mobile terminals, such as foldable phones and foldable tablets. Generally, folding methods are divided into outward folding and inward folding. Outward folding means that the flexible screen is on the outside of the electronic device during the transition from a flat to a closed state, and also when the device is closed; that is, the flexible screen remains visible to the user during the folding process and when closed. Inward folding means that the flexible screen is on the inside of the electronic device during the transition from a flat to a closed state, and also when the device is closed; that is, the flexible screen gradually becomes invisible to the user during the folding process.

[0003] Figure 1a This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an outward-folding electronic device in its flattened state. Figure 1b This is a schematic diagram of an outward-folding electronic device in its closed state. (Together with...) Figure 1a and Figure 1b When the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 used to fix the flexible screen 400 rotate relative to the rotating shaft mechanism 100, the flexible screen 400 can be folded or unfolded along with the first housing 200 and the second housing 300.

[0004] When electronic devices are in Figure 1b When the screen is in the closed state, the locking mechanism 500 is used to lock the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 to maintain the closed state. When the flexible screen 400 needs to be unfolded, it can be unlocked by the locking mechanism 500 to separate the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 and rotate relative to the rotating shaft mechanism 100.

[0005] How to design a locking mechanism that not only achieves locking and unlocking functions but also improves reliability and user experience is a problem that urgently needs to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application provides an electronic device and a locking mechanism, the main purpose of which is to provide a locking mechanism that can improve reliability and user experience and can be applied to electronic devices.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the embodiments of this application adopt the following technical solutions:

[0008] In one aspect, this application provides an electronic device that can be a foldable electronic device, such as one that can be used in foldable screen phones, foldable screen tablets, and other devices.

[0009] The electronic device includes a first housing, a second housing, and a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is disposed on the first housing and includes a button, a latch, and a meshing transmission structure. The second housing has a slot for inserting the latch. When the latch is in the slot, the first and second housings are in a locked state. When the latch is removed from the slot, the first and second housings are in a unlocked state. The button includes a first rack located in the first housing, and the latch includes a second rack located in the first housing. The extension direction of the first rack is perpendicular to the extension direction of the second rack. Both the first and second racks are meshed with the meshing transmission structure, forming a gear transmission mechanism. When the latch is in the slot, pressing the button moves the button relative to the first housing, which in turn moves the meshing transmission structure via the first rack. The moving meshing transmission structure then moves the latch out of the slot in a direction perpendicular to the button's movement direction via the second rack, thus changing the first and second housings from a locked state to an unlocked state.

[0010] The electronic device provided in this application includes a locking mechanism for locking a first housing and a second housing. When the first housing and the second housing are folded, the locking mechanism prevents the first housing and the second housing from moving relative to each other, thus maintaining a closed state.

[0011] In the locking mechanism provided in this application, the first rack on the button, the meshing transmission structure, and the second rack on the latch cooperate to form a gear transmission mechanism. That is, when the button is pressed, causing it to move in the same direction as the extension direction of the first rack, the latch moves linearly through the meshing transmission, and the direction of movement of the latch is perpendicular to the direction of movement of the button. Using a gear transmission mechanism improves the stability of the latch's movement; furthermore, when the button is pressed, the latch responds quickly and moves, thus avoiding jamming during button operation and reducing the user experience.

[0012] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the meshing transmission structure includes a first gear, the axis of rotation of which is perpendicular to the extension direction of both the first and second racks; both the first and second racks mesh externally with the first gear.

[0013] This can be understood as follows: when the button is pressed, the first rack, which moves synchronously with the button, drives the first gear to rotate around its axis. The rotating first gear, through a second rack meshing with it, drives the latch to move, causing the latch to disengage from the slot. In other words, by setting a first gear that meshes with both the first and second racks, the connection state of the first and second housings can be switched (i.e., from locked to unlocked). This meshing transmission structure is simple in structure, its interaction with the button and latch is also simple, and it occupies relatively little space.

[0014] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the meshing transmission structure includes a first gear and a second gear arranged coaxially, the rotation axis of the first gear being perpendicular to the extension direction of both the first rack and the second rack; the second gear being coaxially arranged with the first gear via a connecting shaft, the first gear being able to drive the second gear to rotate synchronously via the connecting shaft; the first gear meshes externally with the first rack, and the second gear meshes externally with the second rack; wherein the linear velocity of the second gear driving the second rack to move is greater than the linear velocity of the first rack to move.

[0015] This allows the latch to retract a large amount when the button is pressed with a small amount of pressure.

[0016] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the diameter of the second gear is larger than the diameter of the first gear, and the module of the second gear is equal to the module of the first gear.

[0017] In this embodiment, the meshing transmission structure includes a first gear and a second gear arranged coaxially, and the tooth diameter of the second gear is larger than that of the first gear. With this design, since the first and second gears are coaxial, the angular velocities of the first and second gears are equal. Based on the relationship between linear velocity v and angular velocity ω (v = ωr), it can be concluded that the linear velocity of the second gear is greater than that of the first gear. Therefore, when the button has a small movement distance, the latch has a large movement distance, thus further improving the user experience.

[0018] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the diameter of the second gear is D1, and the diameter of the first gear is D2. for example, For example

[0019] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the meshing transmission structure further includes a third gear, which is coaxially arranged with the first gear via a connecting shaft. The first gear can drive the second and third gears to rotate synchronously via the connecting shaft. The second and third gears are arranged on opposite sides of the first gear.

[0020] By setting a second gear and a third gear on opposite sides of the first gear, the balance of the buckle movement can be further improved, so that the buckle moves smoothly.

[0021] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the third gear has the same diameter and the same number of teeth as the second gear.

[0022] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the electronic device further includes a resilient reset element; when the latch is disengaged from the slot and the button is released, the resilient reset element can move the latch toward the slot so that the latch is inserted into the slot.

[0023] In other words, in its natural state, the snap-fit ​​can be in the slot. When the button is pressed, the snap-fit ​​is pushed out of the slot, and the elastic reset component is compressed from the first deformation to the second deformation. That is, the elastic reset component accumulates elastic force. If the pressure on the button is released, the snap-fit ​​will move towards the slot under the action of the accumulated elastic force, so that the snap-fit ​​is inserted into the slot and locks the first and second housings together.

[0024] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the elastic reset member includes a spring, a support rod is formed on the buckle, the extension direction of the support rod is consistent with the extension direction of the second rack, one end of the spring is sleeved on the support rod, and the other end is connected to the first housing.

[0025] This application provides a method using a spring as an elastic reset element; of course, other feasible elastic structures can also be used.

[0026] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the snap-fit ​​is formed with a receiving groove into which a movable first rack passes.

[0027] Because the latch has a receiving groove for the first rack to pass through, when the button moves, the receiving groove formed on the latch provides a larger moving space for the button, preventing the latch from blocking the button from moving.

[0028] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the buckle includes an insertion portion capable of being inserted into a slot, and a second transmission portion located on the side of the insertion portion away from the slot and connected to the insertion portion, with a receiving groove formed on the second transmission portion; the second rack includes a first engagement portion and a second engagement portion formed on the second transmission portion and parallel to each other, with the first engagement portion and the second engagement portion disposed on opposite sides of the receiving groove.

[0029] By forming a first engagement portion and a second engagement portion on the second transmission part, the balance of the latch movement is improved.

[0030] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the locking mechanism further includes a mounting frame with an isolation plate inside to divide the space inside the mounting frame into a first chamber and a second chamber. A first gear is rotatably disposed in the first chamber, and a latch is disposed in the second chamber. A slot is provided on the isolation plate that passes through the first chamber and the second chamber. A portion of the first gear passes through the slot and is located in the second chamber. A movable first rack can pass through the slot and be located in the second chamber.

[0031] In other words, the movable latch is placed in one chamber, while the first gear and other structures are placed in another chamber to prevent the movable latch from interfering with other structures and affecting the movement of the latch.

[0032] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, a guide structure is provided at the position where the button mates with the first housing. The guide structure is used to guide the button to move relative to the first housing in a direction consistent with the extension direction of the first rack.

[0033] By setting up a guide structure to guide the movement of the button, the stability of the button movement can be improved.

[0034] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the guide structure includes a guide groove and a guide block. The guide groove is formed on the button and extends in a direction consistent with the extension direction of the first rack. The guide block is disposed on the first housing and is slidably disposed in the guide groove.

[0035] The linear movement of the button is guided by the sliding of the guide block within the guide block. In some other embodiments, the guide block can be mounted on the button, and the guide groove can be formed on the first housing, that is, the positions of the guide block and the guide groove can be interchanged.

[0036] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the extension direction of the first rack is consistent with the thickness direction of the first housing.

[0037] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the electronic device further includes a pivot mechanism; both the first housing and the second housing are connected to the pivot mechanism; when the latch is in the slot, the first housing and the second housing are in a folded state relative to each other; when the latch is disengaged from the slot, at least one of the first housing and the second housing rotates relative to the pivot mechanism, causing the first housing and the second housing to be in an unfolded state. This electronic device could be a foldable mobile phone, a foldable computer, etc.

[0038] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the electronic device further includes a flexible screen; the first housing has opposing first and third surfaces, the second housing has opposing second and third surfaces, and the first and second surfaces are located on the same side; the flexible screen is disposed on the first and second surfaces; when the first and second housings are in a folded state, the flexible screen is exposed to the outside of the electronic device.

[0039] The resulting electronic device is an outward-folding electronic device.

[0040] Secondly, this application provides a locking mechanism that can be used in electronic devices, such as foldable screen phones, foldable screen tablets, and other devices.

[0041] The locking mechanism includes a button, a latch, and an engagement transmission structure. The button includes a first rack, and the latch includes a second rack. The extension direction of the first rack is perpendicular to the extension direction of the second rack. Both the first rack and the second rack are engaged with the engagement transmission structure. When the button is pressed, the moving button drives the engagement transmission structure to move via the first rack. The moving engagement transmission structure drives the latch to move in a direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the button via the second rack.

[0042] The locking mechanism disclosed in this application can be applied to electronic devices, such as foldable mobile phones. By introducing this locking mechanism, the folded phone remains closed. Furthermore, this locking mechanism utilizes a gear transmission structure composed of a first rack, a meshing transmission structure, and a second rack. This gear transmission structure converts the linear motion of the button into the linear motion of the latch, with the latch's motion direction perpendicular to the button's motion direction. Compared to friction transmission, the gear transmission in this locking mechanism reduces motion resistance, thereby improving the reliability of the locking mechanism.

[0043] In a possible implementation of the second aspect, the meshing transmission structure includes a first gear, the axis of rotation of which is perpendicular to the extension direction of both the first and second racks; both the first and second racks mesh externally with the first gear.

[0044] This can be understood as follows: when the button is pressed, the first rack that moves synchronously with the button will drive the first gear to rotate around its axis of rotation. The rotating first gear will drive the latch to move through the second rack that meshes with it. When this structure is applied in a folding device, the switching of the connection state between the first housing and the second housing in the electronic device can be achieved by setting a first gear that meshes with both the first rack and the second rack. This meshing transmission structure is simple in structure, has a simple relationship with the button and the latch, and occupies a small space.

[0045] In a possible implementation of the second aspect, the meshing transmission structure includes a first gear and a second gear arranged coaxially. The rotation axis of the first gear is perpendicular to the extension direction of both the first rack and the second rack. The second gear is coaxially arranged with the first gear via a connecting shaft, and the first gear can drive the second gear to rotate synchronously via the connecting shaft. The first gear meshes externally with the first rack, and the second gear meshes externally with the second rack. The linear velocity of the second gear driving the second rack to move is greater than the linear velocity of the first rack to move.

[0046] In this embodiment, the meshing transmission structure includes a first gear and a second gear arranged coaxially, wherein the diameter of the second gear is larger than the diameter of the first gear, and the module of the second gear is equal to the module of the first gear. With this design, the latch can travel a larger distance when the button has a small travel distance.

[0047] In a possible implementation of the second aspect, the diameter of the second gear is D1, and the diameter of the first gear is D2. for example, For example,

[0048] In a possible implementation of the second aspect, the meshing transmission structure further includes a third gear, which is coaxially arranged with the first gear via a connecting shaft. The first gear can drive the second and third gears to rotate synchronously via the connecting shaft; and the second and third gears are arranged on opposite sides of the first gear.

[0049] By setting a second gear and a third gear on opposite sides of the first gear, the balance of the buckle movement can be further improved, so that the buckle moves smoothly.

[0050] Thirdly, this application provides an electronic device, which may also be a foldable electronic device.

[0051] The electronic device includes a first housing, a second housing, and a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is disposed on the first housing and includes a button, a rotating shaft, a latch, and a meshing transmission structure. The second housing has a slot for inserting the latch. When the latch is in the slot, the first and second housings are in a locked state. When the latch is removed from the slot, the first and second housings are in a unlocked state. The button is rotatably mounted on the first housing via the rotating shaft. The button has a meshing part that can rotate around the rotating shaft and is located within the first housing. The latch includes a second rack located within the first housing. The extension direction of the rotating shaft is perpendicular to the extension direction of the second rack. Both the meshing part and the second rack are meshed with the meshing transmission structure. When the latch is in the slot, pressing the button causes the button, which rotates around the rotating shaft, to drive the meshing transmission structure through the meshing part. The moving meshing transmission structure, through the second rack, causes the latch to move in a direction perpendicular to the rotating shaft and exit the slot, thereby changing the first and second housings from a locked state to an unlocked state.

[0052] The electronic device provided in this application includes a locking mechanism for locking a first housing and a second housing. When the first housing and the second housing are folded, the locking mechanism prevents the first housing and the second housing from moving relative to each other, thus maintaining a closed state.

[0053] In the locking mechanism provided in this application, the engaging part on the button, the engaging transmission structure, and the second rack on the latch cooperate to form a gear transmission mechanism. That is, when the button is pressed, the button rotates around the pivot, and the linear movement of the latch is achieved through the engaging transmission. Using a gear transmission mechanism can improve the stability of the latch's movement; in addition, when the button is pressed, the latch responds quickly and generates movement, thereby avoiding the phenomenon of jamming when the user operates the button, which reduces the user experience.

[0054] In a possible implementation of the third aspect, the meshing transmission structure includes a first gear, the axis of rotation of the first gear being parallel to the extension direction of the shaft; the meshing part and the second rack both mesh externally with the first gear.

[0055] This can be understood as follows: when the button is pressed, the meshing part, which rotates synchronously with the button around the axis, will drive the first gear to rotate around its axis of rotation. The rotating first gear will drive the buckle to move through the rack meshing with it, so that the buckle will disengage from the slot.

[0056] In a possible implementation of the third aspect, the meshing transmission structure includes a first gear and a second gear arranged coaxially, with the rotation axis of the first gear parallel to the extension direction of the shaft; the second gear is coaxially arranged with the first gear via a connecting shaft, and the first gear can drive the second gear to rotate synchronously via the connecting shaft; the first gear meshes externally with the meshing part, and the second gear meshes externally with the second rack; wherein the diameter of the second gear is larger than the diameter of the first gear, and the module of the second gear is equal to the module of the first gear.

[0057] In this embodiment, the meshing transmission structure includes a first gear and a second gear arranged coaxially, and the tooth diameter of the second gear is larger than that of the first gear. With this design, based on the relationship between linear velocity v and angular velocity ω (v = ωr), since the first and second gears are coaxial, their angular velocities are equal. Therefore, the linear velocity of the second gear is greater than that of the first gear. This means that while the button has a small movement distance, the latch has a large movement distance, further improving the user experience.

[0058] In a possible implementation of the third aspect, the diameter of the second gear is D1, and the diameter of the first gear is D2. for example, For example,

[0059] In a possible implementation of the third aspect, the meshing transmission structure further includes a third gear, which is coaxially arranged with the first gear via a connecting shaft. The first gear can drive the second and third gears to rotate synchronously via the connecting shaft; and the second and third gears are arranged on opposite sides of the first gear.

[0060] By setting a second gear and a third gear on opposite sides of the first gear, the balance of the buckle movement can be further improved, so that the buckle moves smoothly.

[0061] In a possible implementation of the third aspect, the second and third gears have the same diameter and the same number of teeth.

[0062] In a third possible implementation, the electronic device also includes a resilient reset element; when the latch is disengaged from the slot and the button is released, the resilient reset element can move the latch toward the slot so that the latch is inserted into the slot.

[0063] In other words, in its natural state, the snap-fit ​​can be in the slot. When the button is pressed, the snap-fit ​​is pushed out of the slot, and the elastic reset component is compressed from the first deformation to the second deformation. That is, the elastic reset component accumulates elastic force. If the pressure on the button is released, the snap-fit ​​will move towards the slot under the action of the accumulated elastic force, so that the snap-fit ​​is inserted into the slot and locks the first and second housings together.

[0064] In a possible implementation of the third aspect, the elastic reset member includes a spring, a support rod is formed on the buckle, the extension direction of the support rod is consistent with the extension direction of the second rack, one end of the spring is sleeved on the support rod, and the other end is connected to the first housing.

[0065] This application provides a method using a spring as an elastic reset element; of course, other feasible elastic structures can also be used.

[0066] In a possible implementation of the third aspect, the extension direction of the rotating shaft is perpendicular to the thickness direction of the first housing.

[0067] Fourthly, this application provides a locking mechanism that can be used in electronic devices, such as foldable screen phones, foldable screen tablets, and other devices.

[0068] The locking mechanism includes a button, a rotating shaft, a latch, and an engagement transmission structure. The button is rotatable around the rotating shaft and has an engagement part that is rotatable around the rotating shaft. The latch includes a second rack, the extension direction of the rotating shaft is perpendicular to the extension direction of the second rack, and both the engagement part and the rack are engaged with the engagement transmission structure. When the button is pressed, the button, which rotates around the rotating shaft, drives the engagement transmission structure to move through the engagement part. The moving engagement transmission structure drives the latch to move in a direction perpendicular to the rotating shaft through the second rack.

[0069] The locking mechanism disclosed in this application can be applied to electronic devices, such as foldable mobile phones. By introducing this locking mechanism, the folded phone remains closed. Furthermore, this locking mechanism utilizes a gear transmission structure composed of an engaging part, an engaging transmission structure, and a rack and pinion to convert the rotation of the button into the linear motion of the latch. Compared to friction transmission, the gear transmission in this locking mechanism reduces motion resistance and improves the reliability of the locking mechanism.

[0070] In a possible implementation of the fourth aspect, the meshing transmission structure includes a first gear, the axis of rotation of the first gear being parallel to the extension direction of the shaft; the meshing part and the second rack both mesh externally with the first gear.

[0071] This can be understood as follows: when the button is pressed, the meshing part, which rotates synchronously with the button, drives the first gear to rotate around its axis of rotation. The rotating first gear, through a second rack meshing with it, drives the latch to move, causing the latch to disengage from the slot. In other words, by setting a first gear that meshes with both the meshing part and the second rack, the switching of the connection state between the first and second housings in the electronic device can be achieved. This meshing transmission structure is simple in structure, its interaction with the button and latch is also simple, and it occupies relatively little space.

[0072] In a possible implementation of the fourth aspect, the meshing transmission structure includes a first gear and a second gear arranged coaxially, with the rotation axis of the first gear parallel to the extension direction of the rotating shaft; the second gear is coaxially arranged with the first gear via a connecting shaft, and the first gear can drive the second gear to rotate synchronously via the connecting shaft; the first gear meshes externally with the meshing part, and the second gear meshes externally with the second rack; wherein the diameter of the second gear is larger than the diameter of the first gear, and the module of the second gear is equal to the module of the first gear.

[0073] In this embodiment, the meshing transmission structure includes a first gear and a second gear arranged coaxially, and the tooth diameter of the second gear is larger than the diameter of the first gear. This design allows the latch to travel a larger distance even with a small rotation angle of the button, thus further improving the user experience.

[0074] In one possible implementation of the fourth aspect, the diameter of the second gear is D1, and the diameter of the first gear is D2. for example, For example,

[0075] In a possible implementation of the fourth aspect, the meshing transmission structure further includes a third gear, which is coaxially arranged with the first gear via a connecting shaft. The first gear can drive the second and third gears to rotate synchronously via the connecting shaft; and the second and third gears are arranged on opposite sides of the first gear.

[0076] By setting a second gear and a third gear on opposite sides of the first gear, the balance of the buckle movement can be further improved, so that the buckle moves smoothly. Attached Figure Description

[0077] Figure 1a This is a structural diagram of an existing electronic device in a flattened state.

[0078] Figure 1b This is a structural diagram of an existing electronic device in a closed state.

[0079] Figure 2This application provides a structural diagram of an electronic device in a closed state according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0080] Figure 3 This is a structural diagram of an electronic device in a flattened state, provided as an embodiment of this application.

[0081] Figure 4 A structural diagram of an electronic device in an intermediate state, provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0082] Figure 5 This is a partial structural diagram of a locking mechanism in an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0083] Figure 6 An exploded view of an electronic device including a locking mechanism, provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0084] Figure 7 An exploded view of a locking mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0085] Figure 8 A schematic diagram illustrating the connection relationship between the button and the engagement transmission structure in a locking mechanism provided in this application embodiment;

[0086] Figure 9 This application provides a schematic diagram illustrating the connection relationship between the latch and the engagement transmission structure in a locking mechanism.

[0087] Figure 10 An exploded view of a locking mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0088] Figure 11 A cross-sectional view of a locking mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0089] Figure 12a A cross-sectional view of a first gear in a locking mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0090] Figure 12b A cross-sectional view of another first gear in a locking mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0091] Figure 13 This is a partial structural diagram of another locking mechanism in an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0092] Figure 14 An exploded view of a locking mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0093] Figure 15 A schematic diagram illustrating the connection relationship between the button and the engagement transmission structure in a locking mechanism provided in this application embodiment;

[0094] Figure 16 This application provides a schematic diagram illustrating the connection relationship between the latch and the engagement transmission structure in a locking mechanism.

[0095] Figure 17a A cross-sectional view of a first gear in a locking mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0096] Figure 17b A cross-sectional view of a second gear in a locking mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0097] Figure 18 An exploded view of a locking mechanism in an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0098] Figure 19 This application provides a structural diagram of a latch in a locking mechanism of an electronic device.

[0099] Figure 20 This application provides a schematic diagram illustrating the connection relationship between a latch and a button in a locking mechanism of an electronic device.

[0100] Figure 21 This is a partial structural diagram of another locking mechanism in an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0101] Figure 22 An exploded view of a locking mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0102] Figure 23 A schematic diagram illustrating the connection relationship between the button and the engagement transmission structure in a locking mechanism provided in this application embodiment;

[0103] Figure 24 This application provides a schematic diagram illustrating the connection relationship between the latch and the engagement transmission structure in a locking mechanism.

[0104] Figure 25 A structural diagram of a mounting bracket in a locking mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0105] Figure 26 This is an exploded view of a locking mechanism in an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0106] Figure label:

[0107] 100-Rotating shaft mechanism;

[0108] 200 - First housing; 201 - First surface; 202 - Third surface; 203 - Support frame; 2031 - Mounting cavity;

[0109] 300 - Second housing; 301 - Second surface; 302 - Fourth surface;

[0110] 400-Flexible screen;

[0111] 500-Locking mechanism;

[0112] 01-Button; 011-First transmission part; 012-Pressing part; C1-First rack; 013-Guide groove; D1-Meshing part;

[0113] 02-Snap-on; 021-Second transmission part; 022-Insertion part; C2-Second rack; C21-First engagement part; C22-Second engagement part

[0114] Combined parts; 023-accommodating groove; 024-limiting block;

[0115] 03-Meshing transmission structure; 031-First gear; 032-Second gear; 033-Connecting shaft; 034-Third gear;

[0116] 04-Card slot;

[0117] 05-Mounting bracket; 051-First opening; 052-Second opening; 053-Slot; 054-Guide block; 055-Isolation plate; 0561-First chamber; 0562-Second chamber; 057-Third opening; 058-Mounting groove; 059-Slotting;

[0118] 06-Shaft;

[0119] 07-Elastic reset component;

[0120] 08-Support rod;

[0121] 09-Spring cover plate;

[0122] 10-Fasteners. Detailed Implementation

[0123] The following embodiments of this application will be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0124] This application provides an electronic device. This electronic device includes, but is not limited to, foldable electronic devices. Foldable electronic devices can include various electronic devices with flexible screens and capable of changing the unfolded or folded shape of the flexible screen and itself, such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops, e-book readers, cameras, wearable devices, and home electronic devices. For ease of understanding, in the embodiments of this application, a foldable mobile phone is used as an example for description.

[0125] Depending on the usage requirements, foldable electronic devices can be unfolded into a flat state or folded into a closed state. That is, foldable electronic devices have at least two states: a flat state and a closed state. In some cases, a third state can be further included, namely an intermediate state between the flat and closed states. It is understood that the intermediate state is not unique; it can be any one or more states between the flat and closed states of the electronic device. For example, Figure 2 The diagram shown is a structural diagram of the electronic device when it is in the closed state. Figure 3 The diagram shown is a structural diagram of the electronic device in its flattened state. Figure 4 The diagram shows the structure of the electronic device in an intermediate state.

[0126] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 The electronic device may include a pivot mechanism 100, a first housing 200, and a second housing 300. The first housing 200 and the second housing 300 are disposed on opposite sides of the pivot mechanism 100 and are respectively connected to the pivot mechanism 100. The pivot mechanism 100 is movable to allow the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 to fold or unfold relative to each other. Furthermore, Figures 2 to 4 The electronic device shown may also include a flexible screen 400, which is disposed on the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 as a display device.

[0127] The first housing 200 and / or the second housing 300 can each form an installation space for mounting electronic components such as circuit boards, batteries, receivers, speakers, and cameras. The circuit board can integrate electronic components such as the main controller, storage unit, antenna module, and power management module of the electronic device, while the battery can power the flexible screen 400, circuit board, receiver, speaker, camera, and other electronic components.

[0128] In one possible design, both the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 may have mounting spaces, distributing the electronic components of the aforementioned electronic device within the two housings. In another possible design, mounting spaces may be provided only in the first housing 200, concentrating the electronic components within it. In yet another possible design, both the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 may have mounting spaces, but with most of the electronic components housed in the first housing 200 and a smaller portion in the second housing 300, making the second housing 300 lighter and thus allowing for easier folding and unfolding.

[0129] The flexible screen 400 can be used to display information and provide an interactive interface for users. In various embodiments of this application, the flexible screen 400 may be, but is not limited to, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) screen, an active-matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) screen, a mini organic light-emitting diode (MLED) screen, a micro organic light-emitting diode (MOLED) screen, a quantum dot light-emitting diode (QLED) screen, etc.

[0130] Continue to refer to Figure 4 The first housing 200 has a first surface 201 and a third surface 202 disposed opposite to the first surface 201, and the second housing 300 has a second surface 301 and a fourth surface 302 disposed opposite to the second surface 301. The first surface 201 and the second surface 301 are located on the same side, and the third surface 202 and the fourth surface 302 are located on the same side.

[0131] In one implementation, such as Figure 4 The first surface 201 of the first housing 200 and the second surface 301 of the second housing 300 can be used together to support the flexible screen 400. That is, when the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 are in a closed state, the flexible screen 400 is still visible to the user. In the closed state, the user can also perform some operations on the flexible screen 400. Such an electronic device is a foldable electronic device with an outward folding method.

[0132] In another embodiment, the third surface 202 of the first housing 200 and the fourth surface 302 of the second housing 300 can be used together to support the flexible screen 400, and the first surface 201 of the first housing 200 and the second surface 301 of the second housing 300 can serve as the exterior surface of the electronic device. That is, when the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 are in a closed state, the flexible screen 400 will be housed between the two housings and hidden. Such an electronic device is a foldable electronic device with an inward folding method.

[0133] Regardless of Figure 4Whether it's the outward-folding foldable electronic device shown or the inward-folding foldable electronic device of other embodiments, when the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 are in a closed state, the two housings need to be relatively fixed and will not rotate relative to the pivot mechanism 100, thereby maintaining the closed state. For example, as... Figure 4 The outward-folding foldable phone improves portability by fixing the first shell 200 and the second shell 300 in the closed state.

[0134] Therefore, in order to achieve structural stability of the electronic device when the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 are in a closed state, and to avoid damage to the flexible screen 400, such as Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the electronic device provided in this application includes a pivot mechanism 100, a first housing 200, a second housing 300, and a flexible screen 400, as well as a locking mechanism 500. The locking mechanism 500 enables the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 to be in two states: a locked state, in which the first housing 200 and the second housing 300, which are in a closed state, are relatively fixed to maintain the closed state; and a unlocked state, in which the locked first housing 200 and the second housing 300 can be unlocked, so that the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 can rotate relative to the pivot mechanism 100.

[0135] For ease of understanding, this application uses an outward-folding electronic device equipped with a locking mechanism 500 as an example to introduce the main components and working principle that the locking mechanism 500 may involve. Of course, the locking mechanism 500 involved in this application can also be applied to an inward-folding electronic device. In addition, the locking mechanism 500 can be disposed on the first housing 200 or on the second housing 300. Regardless of whether the locking mechanism 500 is disposed on the first housing 200 or the second housing 300, its working principle is the same. The following description will use the example of the locking mechanism 500 being disposed on the first housing 200.

[0136] The structure that can be achieved by the locking mechanism 500 is described below.

[0137] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a partial structure of a locking mechanism 500 is shown. Figure 6 For inclusion Figure 5 An exploded view of the electronic device of the locking mechanism 500. (See diagram below.) Figure 5 The locking mechanism 500 includes: a button 01, a latch 02, and an engagement transmission structure 03. The button 01, latch 02, and engagement transmission structure 03 are all disposed on the first housing 200. To enable the second housing 300 to engage with the latch 02 on the first housing 200, as shown... Figure 6 The second housing 300 has a slot 04 for inserting the latch 02. When the button 01 is pressed, the latch 02 can be moved by the engagement transmission mechanism 03. For example, when the button 01 is pressed, the latch 02 can move away from the second housing 300 and can exit from the slot 04 of the second housing 300, so that the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 are in a non-locked state, thereby allowing either the first housing 200 or the second housing 300 to rotate around the rotating shaft mechanism 100. When the pressure on the button 01 is released, the latch 02 can move towards the second housing 300 and can be inserted into the slot 04 of the second housing 300, so that the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 are in a locked state, achieving relative fixation of the first housing 200 and the second housing 300.

[0138] In other words, in the locking mechanism 500 provided in this application, the movement of the latch 02 is achieved through meshing transmission when the button 01 is pressed. Compared with friction transmission, meshing transmission can reduce motion resistance. When the button 01 is pressed, the degree of resistance is significantly reduced, and the pressing is smoother, thereby improving the user experience. Furthermore, the reliability of the locking mechanism 500 will not decrease rapidly due to repeated use. Therefore, the locking mechanism 500 provided in this application can improve the performance of electronic devices.

[0139] In one implementation, such as Figure 6 A support frame 203 can be provided on the third surface 202 of the first housing 200. The support frame 203 is used to install the locking mechanism 500, that is, the support frame 203 serves as a support structure for the locking mechanism 500. For example... Figure 6 An installation cavity 2031 can be formed within the support frame 203, and a locking mechanism 500 is disposed within the installation cavity 2031.

[0140] Continue to combine Figure 6 The support frame 203 can be disposed at the end of the first housing 200 away from the rotating shaft mechanism 100. In other possible implementations, the support frame 203 can be disposed at other locations within the first housing 200. The support frame 203 and the first housing 200 can be fastened together by screws or other fasteners, or bonded together by adhesives such as glue, or otherwise... Figure 6 The structure shown is integrally formed with the first housing 200.

[0141] In addition, when setting the external structure of the support frame 203, the projection of the support frame 203 on the first housing 200 can partially coincide with the outer contour line of the first housing 200, or the support frame 203 can form a housing structure with a smooth outer contour with the second housing 300, so that the foldable electronic device has a beautiful and neat appearance.

[0142] like Figure 7 , Figure 7 For inclusion Figure 5 The exploded view of the locking mechanism 500 shown is illustrated in this embodiment. The locking mechanism 500 may further include a mounting bracket 05. The button 01, the latch 02, and the engagement transmission structure 03 are all disposed within the mounting bracket 05. The mounting bracket 05 is positioned within the mounting bracket. Figure 6 Within the mounting cavity 2031, for example, the mounting bracket 05 and the support bracket 203 can be fastened together by screws or other fasteners, or bonded together by adhesives such as glue, or they can be integrally formed with the support bracket 203.

[0143] For easy pressing of button 01, such as Figure 7 The mounting bracket 05 has a first opening 051. A portion of the button 01 passes through the first opening 051 and is located inside the mounting bracket 05, while the remaining portion is located outside the first opening 051. Furthermore, to allow the movable latch 02 to be inserted into the slot 04 of the second housing 300, as... Figure 7 A second opening 052 can be made on the mounting bracket 05, and part of the buckle 02 can pass through the second opening 052 and be inserted into the slot 04, so that the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 are relatively fixed.

[0144] Figure 8 A schematic diagram showing the connection relationship between button 01 and engagement transmission structure 03 in locking mechanism 500 is provided. Figure 8 The portion of button 01 located inside the mounting bracket 05 and engaging with the meshing transmission structure 03 can be referred to as the first transmission part 011, and the portion of button 01 located outside the mounting bracket 05 can be formed as the pressing part 012. In this way, the user can press the pressing part 012 located outside the mounting bracket 05 to achieve relative movement between button 01 and the first housing 200.

[0145] Figure 9 A schematic diagram showing the connection relationship between the latch 02 and the engagement transmission structure 03 in the locking mechanism 500 is shown. Figure 9 The portion of the buckle 02 located outside the mounting bracket 05 can be called the insertion portion 022, and the portion of the buckle 02 located inside the mounting bracket 203 and engaging with the engagement transmission structure 03 can be called the second transmission portion 021.

[0146] It should be noted that: Figure 8 The first transmission part 011 and the pressing part 012 of the button 01 shown are only approximate positions given by way of example and do not constitute an absolute limitation of the positions of the first transmission part 011 and the pressing part 012 in this application. Similarly, Figure 9The second transmission part 021 and the insertion part 022 of the buckle 02 shown are also given as approximate positions by way of example and do not constitute an absolute limitation of the position of the second transmission part 021 and the position of the insertion part 022 in this application.

[0147] In this application, when button 01 is pressed, button 01 has at least two modes of movement. For example, one mode of movement is that button 01 moves relative to the first housing 200; another mode of movement is that button 01 rotates relative to the first housing 200. The following analyzes the structure and working principle that the locking mechanism 500 can achieve when button 01 moves, and the structure and working principle that the locking mechanism 500 can achieve when button 01 rotates.

[0148] Figure 10 An exploded view of one possible structure of the locking mechanism 500 when the button 01 moves relative to the first housing 200 is shown. In this embodiment, the first transmission part 011 of the button 01 can be a rack structure, and the second transmission part 021 of the latch 02 can also be a rack structure. It can be understood that both the first transmission part 011 and the second transmission part 021 are strip-shaped structures, with meshing teeth arranged along their extension direction to form a rack structure. For clarity in describing the connection and positional relationships between the different structures below, the first transmission part 011, which is a rack structure, is referred to as the first rack C1, and the second transmission part 021, which is a rack structure, is referred to as the second rack C2.

[0149] Figure 11 It shows Figure 10 A cross-sectional view showing the connection relationship between the middle button 01, the latch 02, and the engagement transmission structure 03. In this embodiment, the extending direction of the first rack C1 (e.g., Figure 11 The L2 direction) and the extension direction of the second rack C2 (e.g. Figure 11 (perpendicular to the L3 direction). In one possible design, it is combined with... Figure 11 and Figure 4 When the first housing 200 has a cuboid structure, the first rack C1 extends along the Z direction, which is consistent with the thickness direction of the first housing 200 (i.e., the L2 direction is parallel to the Z direction), and the second rack C2 extends along the X direction, which is consistent with the length direction of the first housing 200 (i.e., the L3 direction is parallel to the X direction). In another possible design, the first rack C1 can extend along the X direction, which is consistent with the length direction of the first housing 200, and the second rack C2 can extend along the Z direction, which is consistent with the thickness direction of the first housing 200. In specific implementation, the extension directions of the first rack C1 and the second rack C2 can be selected according to the structure of the first housing 200 and the second housing 300. In short, it is sufficient to ensure that the first rack C1 and the second rack C2 are perpendicular.

[0150] It should be explained that the thickness direction of the first housing 200 involved in this application refers to the direction relative to the thickness direction of the housing. Figure 4 The direction perpendicular to the first surface 201 or the third surface 202; the length direction of the first housing 200 refers to the direction in which the longer side of the first surface 201 or the third surface 202 extends; the width direction of the first housing 200 refers to the direction in which the shorter side of the first surface 201 or the third surface 202 extends.

[0151] Combined Figure 10 and Figure 11 In this embodiment, the meshing transmission structure 03 includes a first gear 031, and the rotation axis L1 of the first gear 031 is perpendicular to the extension direction L2 of the first rack C1 and the extension direction L3 of the second rack C2. For example, as shown in... Figure 11 and Figure 4 When the first rack C1 extends along the Z direction, which is consistent with the thickness direction of the first housing 200, and the second rack C2 extends along the X direction, which is consistent with the length direction of the first housing 200, then the rotation axis L1 of the first gear 031 extends along the Y direction, which is consistent with the width direction of the first housing 200. Furthermore, the first gear 031 is externally meshed with both the first rack C1 and the second rack C2.

[0152] Based on the above Figure 10 and Figure 11 The description of the button 01, latch 02, and engagement transmission structure 03 in the locking mechanism 500 is as follows: the working principle of the locking mechanism 500 is as follows: when the insertion part 022 of the latch 02 is located in the slot 04, along... Figure 11 The pressing part 012 of the button 01 in the -Z direction is driven by the meshing of the first rack C1 and the first gear 031, which drives the first gear 031 along the Z direction. Figure 11 The P direction is rotated, and then through the meshing transmission of the first gear 031 and the second rack C2, the buckle 02 is driven along... Figure 11 The movement in the -X direction causes the insertion part 021 of the latch 02 to exit from the slot 04, thereby unlocking the first housing 200 and the second housing 300, changing from a locked state to a unlocked state.

[0153] The first gear 031 can have various possible structures. For example, the first gear 031 can adopt... Figure 12a The cross-section shown is a complete gear structure with a circular structure. For example, such as... Figure 12b As shown, the first gear 031 can be a gear structure with a circular arc cross-section. In other words, in... Figure 12a By cutting the gear structure shown, a shape like this can be formed. Figure 12b The gear structure shown. When using Figure 12b When the gear structure shown is used as the first gear 031, it can make Figure 12b The meshing tooth A1 shown engages externally with the first rack C1. Figure 12b The shown meshing tooth A2 portion engages externally with the second rack C2, however, Figure 12b This is merely an illustrative example and does not constitute an absolute limitation on any specific meshing position.

[0154] In this embodiment, when the locking mechanism 500 is in operation, the button 01 moves only about 1mm to 2mm, and the first gear 031 rotates only about 30° to 40°. Therefore, in order to reduce the space occupied by the first gear 031, while still enabling the latch 02 to move, a [missing information - likely a space measurement method] can be used. Figure 12b The gear structure shown makes the locking mechanism 500 of this embodiment more compact and occupies less space, which is in line with the miniaturized design of foldable electronic devices.

[0155] Figure 13 The diagram shows a structural diagram of another possible configuration of the locking mechanism 500 when button 01 can move relative to the first housing 200. Figure 14 for Figure 13 The exploded diagram, Figure 15 for Figure 14 The connection relationship between button 01 and meshing transmission structure 03 is shown in the structural diagram. Figure 16 for Figure 14 A structural diagram showing the connection relationship between the middle snap fastener 02 and the meshing transmission structure 03. (Combined with...) Figure 13 , Figure 14 and Figure 15 ,as well as Figure 16 The locking mechanism 500 shown in this embodiment and the above-mentioned Figure 10 , Figure 11 The locking mechanism 500 shown shares the following similarities: the button 01 includes a first rack C1, and the latch 02 includes a second rack C2 perpendicular to the extending direction of the first rack C1. The locking mechanism 500 shown in this embodiment is similar to the one described above. Figure 10 and Figure 11 The differences in the locking mechanism 500 shown include: the meshing transmission structure 03 of this embodiment includes not only the first gear 031, but also the second gear 032, and the second gear 032 is coaxially arranged with the first gear 031 via a connecting shaft 033, for example, as... Figure 14 The first gear 031 and the second gear 032 can both be sleeved on the connecting shaft 033 and fixed relative to the connecting shaft 033. For example, in some embodiments, the first gear 031 and the connecting shaft 033 are integrally formed, and the second gear 032 is fixed to the connecting shaft 033 by a connector (e.g., a rivet). Or in other embodiments, the first gear 031, the second gear 032 and the connecting shaft 033 are integrally formed.

[0156] When both the first gear 031 and the second gear 032 are fixed relative to the connecting shaft 033, the first gear 031 and the second gear 032 can rotate synchronously. Furthermore, the first gear 031 can mesh externally with the first rack C1, and the second gear 032 can mesh externally with the second rack C2.

[0157] To improve the balance of the movement of latch 02, such as Figure 16 The meshing transmission structure 03 includes a first gear 031, a second gear 032, and a third gear 034. The first gear 031, second gear 032, and third gear 034 are coaxially arranged via a connecting shaft 033, and the third gear 034 is also fixed relative to the connecting shaft 033. Thus, the first gear 031, second gear 032, and third gear 034 can rotate synchronously. Furthermore, the second gear 032 and third gear 034 are located on opposite sides of the first gear 031. Therefore, if... Figure 16 Correspondingly, the latch 02 includes a first engagement portion C21 that meshes with the second gear 032, and a second engagement portion C22 that meshes with the third gear 034. In this way, with the second gear 032 and the third gear 034 engaging with the corresponding first engagement portion 021a and second engagement portion 021b, the pushing force applied to the latch 02 is relatively symmetrical and balanced, enabling the latch 02 to move smoothly in a straight line relative to the first housing 200.

[0158] Figure 13 The working principle of the locking mechanism 500 shown is the same as described above. Figure 10 The working principle of the locking mechanism 500 shown is similar, specifically: when the insertion part 022 of the latch 02 is located in the slot 04, along... Figure 13 Pressing the pressing part 012 of button 01 in the -Z direction, through the meshing transmission of the first rack C1 and the first gear 031, drives the first gear 031 along... Figure 13 The first gear 031 rotates in the P direction. Since the first gear 031 is coaxially arranged with the second gear 032 and the third gear 034, the second gear 032, the third gear 034, and the first gear 031 all rotate synchronously in the P direction. Through the meshing transmission of the second gear 032 with the first meshing part C21 and the meshing transmission of the third gear 034 with the second meshing part C22, the latch 02 will be driven to rotate in the P direction. Figure 13 The movement in the -X direction causes the insertion part 021 of the latch 02 to exit from the slot 04, thereby unlocking the first housing 200 and the second housing 300, changing from a locked state to a unlocked state.

[0159] Continue to combine Figure 15 and Figure 16In this embodiment, the diameter of the second gear 032 is larger than the diameter of the first gear 031, and the module of the second gear 032 is equal to the module of the first gear 031 (that is, the size of the teeth of the second gear 032 is equal to the size of the teeth of the first gear 031). Figure 17a A cross-sectional view of the second gear 032 is shown. Figure 17b A cross-sectional view of the first gear 031 is shown, as follows. Figure 17a and Figure 17b In some designs, the diameter of the first gear 031 can refer to the diameter of its addendum circle, D11, and the diameter of the second gear 032 can also refer to the diameter of its addendum circle, D21. In other designs, the diameter of the first gear 031 can also refer to the diameter of its dedendum circle, D12, and the diameter of the second gear 032 can also refer to the diameter of its dedendum circle, D22. That is to say, when the diameter of the second gear 032 is the addendum circle diameter, the diameter of the first gear 031 is also the addendum circle diameter; when the diameter of the second gear 032 is the dedendum circle diameter, the diameter of the first gear 031 is also the dedendum circle diameter.

[0160] Since the first gear 031 and the second gear 032 are coaxial, the angular velocities ω1 and ω2 of the first gear 031 and the second gear 032 are equal. Based on the relationship between linear velocity v and angular velocity ω (v = ωr), and the fact that the diameter of the second gear 032 is larger than the diameter of the first gear 031, we can conclude that the linear velocity v2 of the second gear 032 is greater than the linear velocity v1 of the first gear 031. (And the above...) Figure 10 In contrast, when button 01 moves the same distance, Figure 13 The latch 02 shown can travel a large distance, so when the user presses button 01, the latch 02 will retract significantly from the slot 04, further improving the user experience. For example, when the ratio of the diameter of the second gear 032 to the diameter of the first gear 031 is 1.5, if the required retraction of the latch 02 is 1mm, only the movement of button 01 needs to be about 0.67mm, thus significantly reducing the amount of pressure required on button 01.

[0161] For example, the diameter of the second gear 032 is D1, and the diameter of the first gear 031 is D2. Another example, Another example, For example, D1 is 2mm, and D2 is 0.8mm. The above refers to... The limitations are merely illustrative. Other numerical ranges can also be selected. Also, when the module of the second gear is equal to the module of the first gear, such as... Figure 17b In the first gear 031, the number of teeth can be 10. Figure 17aIn this configuration, the second gear 032 can have 12 teeth. Of course, other numbers of first gears 031 and second gears 032 can also be selected.

[0162] In Figure 12, Figure 13 The first gear 031 and the second gear 032 shown are both complete gear structures. In another embodiment, as described above, one of the first gear 031 and the second gear 032, or both the first gear 031 and the second gear 032, can be set as an arc-shaped gear structure cut from a complete gear structure. This reduces the space occupied by the locking mechanism 500, making the structure of the locking mechanism 500 more compact and meeting the miniaturization design requirements of electronic devices such as foldable phones and foldable computers.

[0163] It should be noted that when both the first gear 031 and the second gear 032 are arc-shaped gear structures cut from a complete gear structure, it can be understood that "the number of teeth of the second gear 032 is greater than the number of teeth of the first gear 031". For example, the number of teeth of the complete second gear 032 is determined based on the number of teeth of the cut arc-shaped gear structure of the second gear 032, and the number of teeth of the complete first gear 031 is determined based on the number of teeth of the cut arc-shaped gear structure of the first gear 031. That is, the number of teeth of the complete second gear 032 is greater than the number of teeth of the complete first gear 031, only then is the number of teeth of the second gear 032 considered to be greater than the number of teeth of the first gear 031.

[0164] exist Figure 15 and Figure 16 In the meshing transmission structure, the diameter of the third gear 034 can be the same as the diameter of the second gear 032, or the number of teeth of the third gear 034 can be the same as the number of teeth of the second gear 032.

[0165] The above Figure 14 One feasible structure is given so that the moving speed of the latch 02 is greater than the moving speed of the button 01. Of course, other feasible structures can also be used. For example, other meshing structures can be set to change the transmission ratio so that the moving speed of the latch 02 is greater than the moving speed of the button 01.

[0166] The above Figure 10 and Figure 13 In both different embodiments, button 01 needs to move linearly relative to the first housing 200. In order to make button 01 move smoothly and without deviation in a straight line, the locking mechanism 500 also includes a guide structure. The guide structure is used to guide button 01 to move linearly along the extension direction of the first rack C1. This can avoid the phenomenon of jamming or unsmooth pressing when the user presses button 01.

[0167] The guide structure has a variety of implementable structures. For example, such as... Figure 18 As shown, Figure 18 An exploded view of the locking mechanism is shown. The guide structure includes a guide groove 013 and a guide block 054 slidably disposed within the guide groove 013. The guide groove 013 is formed on the button 01, and its extension direction is consistent with the extension direction of the first rack C1. The guide block 054 is disposed on the mounting bracket 05. Alternatively, the positions of the guide groove 013 and the guide block 054 can be interchanged, with the guide groove 013 formed on the mounting bracket 05 and the guide block 054 disposed on the button 01.

[0168] exist Figure 18 In the structure shown, the guide block 054 is detachably mounted on the mounting bracket 05. Specifically, a slot 053 is provided on the mounting bracket 05, and the guide block 054 extends through the slot 053 into the guide groove 013. From an assembly process perspective, this design simplifies the assembly process. After the first rack C1 on the button 01 is engaged with the first gear 031 of the meshing transmission structure, the guide block 054 is inserted through the slot 051 into the guide groove 013 to connect the button 01 and the mounting bracket 05. Similarly, it also facilitates disassembly and inspection when checking and maintaining the locking mechanism 500.

[0169] The above Figure 10 and Figure 13 In this process, both latch 02 and button 01 need to move linearly, and their directions of movement are orthogonal. To prevent interference between latch 02 and button 01 during movement, such as... Figure 19 , Figure 19 A schematic diagram of a buckle 02 is shown. A receiving groove 023 is formed on the buckle 02 into which the first toothed rack C1 of the movable button 01 passes. The receiving groove 023 can be a through hole structure that penetrates the buckle 02 as shown in Figure 19, or it can be a blind hole structure that does not penetrate the buckle 02. That is, by setting the receiving groove 023, the buckle 02 is prevented from obstructing the movement of the button 02.

[0170] Furthermore, when the first rack C1 is inserted into the receiving groove 023, as... Figure 20 , Figure 20 Another view is shown after the latch 02 and button 01 are connected, in the direction of movement of latch 02 ( Figure 20 On the +X) in the middle, the first rack C1 needs to have a gap (e.g., in the middle) with the side wall of the receiving groove 023. Figure 20 The spacing S shown is used to reserve space for the buckle 02 to move, so as to prevent the first rack C1 of the button 01 from obstructing the movement of the buckle 02.

[0171] Based on the above Figure 10 and Figure 13In the description of the two different embodiments, the button 01 moves linearly relative to the first housing 200. The linear motion of the button 01 is converted into the linear motion of the latch 02 by the meshing transmission structure 03. At the same time, the movement direction of the latch 02 is perpendicular to the movement direction of the button 01 by the meshing transmission structure 03. Figure 21 Another locking mechanism 500 is provided. In this embodiment, the button 01 in the locking mechanism 500 does not move linearly, but rotates relative to the first housing 200. The following is a detailed description of this embodiment with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0172] Figure 22 yes Figure 21 The exploded diagram, Figure 23 It shows Figure 22 A schematic diagram showing the connection relationship between the middle button 01 and the meshing transmission structure. Figure 24 It shows Figure 22 A schematic diagram showing the connection relationship between the middle latch 02 and the meshing transmission structure 03. (Together) Figure 22 , Figure 23 and Figure 24 In this embodiment, the locking mechanism 500 also includes a button 01, a latch 02, and an engagement transmission structure 03. The latch 02 also includes a second rack C2. (The last sentence appears to be incomplete and possibly refers to a different embodiment.) Figure 10 and Figure 13 Unlike the previous embodiment, this embodiment also includes a rotating shaft 06. The button 01 is rotatably mounted on the rotating shaft 06, and the rotating shaft 06 is fixed on the first housing 200. That is, the button 01 can rotate relative to the first housing 200 through the rotating shaft 06.

[0173] In addition, such as Figure 21 The first transmission part 011 of button 01 has an arc-shaped structure, and meshing teeth are formed on this arc-shaped structure, that is, the first transmission part 011 is an arc-shaped meshing part D1. So, when button 01 rotates around the rotating shaft 06, the meshing part D1 will also rotate synchronously around the rotating shaft 06.

[0174] In some embodiments, the engaging portion D1 and the pressing portion 012 of button 01 are two independent structures, fixed together by a connector. In other embodiments, the engaging portion D1 and the pressing portion 012 of button 01 are an integral structure.

[0175] In this embodiment, the meshing transmission structure 03 includes a first gear 031, a second gear 032, and a third gear 034. The second gear 032 and the third gear 034 are coaxially arranged with the first gear 031 via a connecting shaft 033. Furthermore, the second gear 032, the third gear 034, and the first gear 031 are all fixed relative to the connecting shaft 033, meaning that the first gear 031, the second gear 032, and the third gear 034 can rotate synchronously. Also, as... Figure 22The first gear 031 meshes externally with the meshing part D1, the second gear 032 meshes externally with the first meshing part C21 on the buckle 02, and the third gear 034 meshes externally with the second meshing part C22.

[0176] In this embodiment, the extending direction of the rotating shaft 06 is perpendicular to the extending direction of the second rack C2 on the latch 02. In one possible design, it is combined with... Figure 21 and Figure 4 If the rotating shaft 06 extends in the Y direction, which is consistent with the width direction of the first housing 200, then the second rack C2 on the latch 02 extends in the X direction, which is consistent with the length direction of the first housing 200. In another possible design, if the rotating shaft 06 extends in the X direction, which is consistent with the length direction of the first housing 200, then the rack on the latch 02 extends in the Y direction, which is consistent with the width direction of the first housing 200. In specific implementation, the extension directions of the rotating shaft 06 and the second rack C2 can be selected according to the structure of the first housing 200 and the second housing 300. In short, it is necessary to ensure that the extension direction of the rotating shaft 06 is perpendicular to the extension direction of the second rack C2 on the latch 02.

[0177] Based on the above Figure 21 and Figure 22 The description of the locking mechanism 500, including the button 01, latch 02, and engagement transmission structure 03, illustrates the working principle of the locking mechanism 500 as follows: When the insertion part 022 of the latch 02 is located in the slot 04, pressing the pressing part 012 of the button 01 causes the button 01 to rotate around the pivot 06 in the P2 direction. Through the engagement of the engagement part D1 of the button 01 and the first gear 031, the first gear 031 is driven to rotate along... Figure 21 The gear 031 rotates in the P direction. Since the first gear 031, the second gear 032, and the third gear 034 are coaxially arranged, the second gear 032, the third gear 034, and the first gear 031 all rotate synchronously in the P direction. Through the meshing transmission between the second gear 032 and the first meshing part C21, and the meshing transmission between the third gear 034 and the second meshing part C22, the latch 02 is driven to rotate in the P direction. Figure 21 The movement in the -X direction causes the insertion part 021 of the latch 02 to exit from the slot 04, thereby unlocking the first housing 200 and the second housing 300, changing from a locked state to a unlocked state.

[0178] exist Figure 21 and Figure 22 In the illustrated embodiment, the first gear 031, the second gear 032, and the third gear 034 can be complete gear structures or arc-shaped gear structures cut from complete gears. This reduces the space occupied by the entire locking mechanism 500, achieving a miniaturized design. For example, in Figure 22The image shows that both the second gear 032 and the third gear 034 are arc-shaped gear structures cut from complete gears.

[0179] In this embodiment, the diameter of the second gear 032 is larger than the diameter of the first gear 031, the module of the second gear 032 is equal to the module of the first gear 031, and the number of teeth of the second gear 032 is greater than the number of teeth of the first gear 031. The technical effects achieved by having the diameter of the second gear 032 larger than the diameter of the first gear 031 have already been analyzed above, and will not be repeated here.

[0180] Furthermore, the ratio of the diameter of the second gear 032 to the diameter of the first gear 031 can be selected as described in the above embodiment. Of course, other numerical ranges can also be selected, which will not be elaborated here.

[0181] In some embodiments, the meshing transmission structure 03 may include a first gear 031 but excludes a second gear 032 and a third gear 034. In this case, the first gear 031 externally meshes with both the meshing portion D1 on the button 01 and the second rack C2 on the latch 02. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the meshing transmission structure 03 includes a first gear 031 and a second gear 032 but excludes a third gear 034. In this case, the first gear 031 externally meshes with the meshing portion D1 on the button 01, and the second gear 032 externally meshes with the first meshing portion C21 of the second rack C2.

[0182] As button 01 rotates around pivot 06, when latch 02 is inserted into slot 04, as... Figure 23 This allows button 01 to be tilted for easier operation.

[0183] like Figure 10 , Figure 13 and Figure 21 This application provides at least three different locking structures 500, and also provides various meshing transmission structures 03 implemented in the locking mechanism 500. This application is not limited to the meshing transmission structures 03 shown, and other meshing structures may also be used, such as using more gear meshing transmissions, or using worm gear meshing transmissions, etc.

[0184] In the locking mechanisms 500 with different structures mentioned above, such as Figure 21 The locking mechanism 500 also includes a resilient reset member 07. When the latch 02 is disengaged from the slot 04 and the button 01 is released, the resilient reset member 07 can move the latch 02 toward the slot 04 so that the latch 02 is inserted into the slot 04.

[0185] The elastic reset element 07 has a variety of feasible structures; for example, it can adopt... Figure 21The spring shown is used as the elastic reset element 07; for example, a structural component made of an elastic material can also be used as the elastic reset element 07.

[0186] There can be one elastic reset element 07, or at least two. When there are multiple elastic reset elements 07, they can be arranged symmetrically about the latch 02.

[0187] Figure 21 The connection relationship between the spring and the latch 02 is given when a spring is used as the elastic reset element 07. A support rod 08 is formed on the latch 02, one end of the spring is sleeved on the support rod 08, and the other end abuts against the first housing 200. Furthermore, Figure 19 Two springs are provided, and correspondingly two support rods 08 are formed on the buckle 02, with a spring connected to each support rod 08.

[0188] exist Figure 10 , Figure 13 and Figure 21 In the locking mechanism 500 shown, since the latch 02 moves linearly relative to the first housing 200, in order to limit the movement position of the latch 02, as follows: Figure 24 A limiting block 024 is also provided on the buckle 02. When the buckle 02 moves toward the slot 04, the limiting block 024 will abut against the first housing 200 to prevent the buckle 02 from continuing to move or even moving out of the first housing 200.

[0189] exist Figure 10 , Figure 13 and Figure 21 In the locking mechanism 500 shown, the buckle 02, button 01, engagement transmission structure 03, elastic reset element 07, and other structural components are arranged in the mounting bracket 05 in the following manner: Figure 25 As shown in the diagram. Specifically, the mounting frame 05 is equipped with an isolation plate 055, which divides the mounting frame 05 into a first chamber 0561 and a second chamber 0562, as shown. Figure 26 , Figure 26 An exploded view of the locking mechanism is shown, in which button 01 extends through first opening 051 into first chamber 0561, and latch 02 is located in second chamber 0562 and can extend out from second opening 052.

[0190] The first gear 031, the second gear 032, and the third gear 034 in the meshing transmission structure 03 are all installed in the first chamber 0561. For example, an installation groove 058 is provided on the wall of the isolation plate 055 facing the first chamber 0561. The shaft for installing the first gear 031 is rotatably installed in the installation groove 058 and connected to the isolation plate 055 through the gear cover plate.

[0191] In order for the first gear 031 to mesh with the second rack C2 on the snap-fit ​​located in the second chamber 0562, a slot 059 is provided on the partition plate 055 at the position opposite to the first gear 031, and a portion of the first gear 031 extends into the second chamber 0562 to mesh externally with the second rack C2.

[0192] Continue to combine Figure 26 The mounting bracket 05 also has a third opening 057 opposite to the second opening 052, so that when the buckle 02 is assembled, the elastic reset member 07 and the buckle 02 pass through the third opening 057 and are placed in the second chamber 0562.

[0193] To secure the resilient reset member 07, the locking mechanism 500 also includes a spring cover plate 09, secured by fasteners 10 (e.g., ...). Figure 26 The screws in the middle fix the spring cover plate 09 to the mounting bracket 05, so that the end of the elastic reset member 07 abuts against the spring cover plate 09.

[0194] Figure 26 One assembly structure for setting up button 01, snap-fit ​​02 and engagement transmission structure 03 is given. Of course, other assembly methods can also be selected.

[0195] The aforementioned structural components, such as button 01, buckle 02, engagement transmission structure 03, and mounting bracket 05, can be made of plastic materials, such as silicone.

[0196] In the description of this specification, specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0197] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An electronic device, characterized in that, include: First shell (200); Second housing (300); A locking mechanism (500) is provided on the first housing (200); The locking mechanism (500) includes: a button (01), a latch (02), and an engagement transmission structure (03); The second housing (300) has a slot (04) for inserting the buckle (02); When the buckle (02) is located in the slot (04), the first housing (200) and the second housing (300) are in a locked state; When the buckle (02) is disengaged from the slot (04), the first housing (200) and the second housing (300) are in a non-locking state; The button (01) includes a first rack (C1) located inside the first housing (200), and the buckle (02) includes a second rack (C2) located inside the first housing (200). The extending direction of the first rack (C1) is perpendicular to the extending direction of the second rack (C2). The meshing transmission structure (03) includes: The first gear (031) has a rotation axis that is perpendicular to the extension direction of the first rack (C1) and the extension direction of the second rack (C2). The second gear (032) is coaxially arranged with the first gear (031) via a connecting shaft (033), and the first gear (031) can drive the second gear (032) to rotate synchronously via the connecting shaft (033); The first gear (031) meshes externally with the first rack (C1), and the second gear (032) meshes externally with the second rack (C2); Wherein, the linear velocity at which the second gear (032) drives the second rack (C2) to move is greater than the linear velocity at which the first rack (C1) moves; When the buckle (02) is located in the slot (04), pressing the button (01) causes the button (01), which moves relative to the first housing (200), to drive the engagement transmission structure (03) to move via the first rack (C1). The moving engagement transmission structure (03) then drives the buckle (02) to exit from the slot (04) in a direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the button (01) via the second rack (C2), so that the first housing (200) and the second housing (300) change from the locked state to the unlocked state.

2. The electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The diameter of the second gear (032) is greater than the diameter of the first gear (031), and the module of the second gear (032) is equal to the module of the first gear (031).

3. The electronic device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The diameter of the second gear (032) is D1, and the diameter of the first gear (031) is D2, wherein, 4. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The meshing transmission structure (03) also includes: The third gear (034) is coaxially arranged with the first gear (031) via the connecting shaft (033). The first gear (031) can drive the second gear (032) and the third gear (034) to rotate synchronously via the connecting shaft (033). The second gear (032) and the third gear (034) are arranged on opposite sides of the first gear (031).

5. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The electronic device further includes: a resilient reset element (07); When the latch (02) is disengaged from the slot (04) and the button (01) is released, the elastic reset member (07) can drive the latch (02) to move toward the slot (04) so ​​that the latch (02) is inserted into the slot (04).

6. The electronic device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The elastic reset member (07) includes a spring, and a support member (08) is formed on the buckle (02). The extension direction of the support member (08) is consistent with the extension direction of the second rack (C2). One end of the spring is sleeved on the support member (08), and the other end abuts against the first housing (200).

7. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The latch (02) has a receiving groove (023) into which the movable first rack (C1) passes.

8. The electronic device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The buckle (02) includes an insertion part (022) that can be inserted into the slot (04), and a second transmission part (021) located on the side of the insertion part (022) away from the slot (04) and connected to the insertion part (022), and the receiving groove (023) is formed on the second transmission part (021); The second rack (C2) includes a first engagement portion (C21) and a second engagement portion (C22) formed on the second transmission part (021) and parallel to each other, the first engagement portion (C21) and the second engagement portion (C22) being disposed on opposite sides of the receiving groove (023).

9. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, A guide structure is provided at the position where the button (01) mates with the first housing (200). The guide structure is used to guide the button (01) to move relative to the first housing (200) in a direction consistent with the extension direction of the first rack (C1).

10. The electronic device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The guiding structure includes: A guide groove (013) is formed on the button (01), and the guide groove (013) extends in a direction consistent with the extension direction of the first rack (C1); A guide block (054) is disposed on the first housing (200), and the guide block (054) is slidably disposed in the guide groove (013).

11. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that, The extension direction of the first rack (C1) is consistent with the thickness direction of the first housing (200).

12. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The electronic device also includes a rotating shaft mechanism (100); Both the first housing (200) and the second housing (300) are connected to the rotating shaft mechanism (100); When the buckle (02) is located in the slot (04), the first housing (200) and the second housing (300) are opposite to each other and in a closed state; When the buckle (02) is disengaged from the slot (04), at least one of the first housing (200) and the second housing (300) can rotate relative to the rotating shaft mechanism (100), so that the first housing (200) and the second housing (300) are in a flattened state.

13. The electronic device according to claim 12, characterized in that, The electronic device also includes a flexible screen (400); The first housing (200) has opposing first surfaces (201) and third surfaces (202), and the second housing (300) has opposing second surfaces (301) and fourth surfaces (302), with the first surfaces (201) and the second surfaces (301) located on the same side. The flexible screen (400) is disposed on the first surface (201) and the second surface (301); When the first housing (200) and the second housing (300) are in the closed state, the flexible screen (400) is exposed to the outside of the electronic device.

14. A locking mechanism, characterized in that, include: Button (01), buckle (02), and engagement transmission structure (03); The button (01) includes a first rack (C1), and the buckle (02) includes a second rack (C2), wherein the extending direction of the first rack (C1) is perpendicular to the extending direction of the second rack (C2); The meshing transmission structure (03) includes: The first gear (031) has a rotation axis that is perpendicular to the extension direction of the first rack (C1) and the extension direction of the second rack (C2). The second gear (032) is coaxially arranged with the first gear (031) via a connecting shaft (033), and the first gear (031) can drive the second gear (032) to rotate synchronously via the connecting shaft (033); The first gear (031) meshes externally with the first rack (C1), and the second gear (032) meshes externally with the second rack (C2); Wherein, the linear velocity at which the second gear (032) drives the second rack (C2) to move is greater than the linear velocity at which the first rack (C1) moves; Pressing the button (01) causes the moving button (01) to drive the meshing transmission structure (03) to move via the first rack (C1), and the moving meshing transmission structure (03) causes the buckle (02) to move in a direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the button (01) via the second rack (C2).

15. The locking mechanism according to claim 14, characterized in that, The diameter of the second gear (032) is greater than the diameter of the first gear (031), and the module of the second gear (032) is equal to the module of the first gear (031).

16. An electronic device, characterized in that, include: First shell (200); Second housing (300); A locking mechanism (500) is provided on the first housing (200); The locking mechanism (500) includes: a button (01), a rotating shaft (06), a buckle (02), and an engagement transmission structure (03); The second housing (300) has a slot (04) for inserting the buckle (02); When the buckle (02) is located in the slot (04), the first housing (200) and the second housing (300) are in a locked state; When the buckle (02) is disengaged from the slot (04), the first housing (200) and the second housing (300) are in a non-locking state; The button (01) is rotatably mounted on the first housing (200) via the pivot (06). The button (01) has an engaging part (D1) that is rotatable around the pivot (06) and located inside the first housing (200). The buckle (02) includes a second rack (C2) located inside the first housing (200). The extending direction of the pivot (06) is perpendicular to the extending direction of the second rack (C2). The meshing transmission structure (03) includes: The first gear (031) has a rotation axis that is parallel to the extension direction of the shaft (06); The second gear (032) is coaxially arranged with the first gear (031) via a connecting shaft (033), and the first gear (031) can drive the second gear (032) to rotate synchronously via the connecting shaft (033); The first gear (031) meshes externally with the meshing part (D1), and the second gear (032) meshes externally with the second rack (C2); The linear velocity of the second gear (032) is greater than that of the first gear (031); When the buckle (02) is located in the slot (04), pressing the button (01) causes the button (01) to rotate around the pivot (06), which in turn drives the engagement transmission structure (03) to move through the engagement part (D1). The moving engagement transmission structure (03) then drives the buckle (02) to exit from the slot (04) in a direction perpendicular to the pivot (06) through the second rack (C2), so that the first housing (200) and the second housing (300) change from the locked state to the unlocked state.

17. The electronic device according to claim 16, characterized in that, The diameter of the second gear (032) is greater than the diameter of the first gear (031), and the module of the second gear (032) is equal to the module of the first gear (031).

18. The electronic device according to any one of claims 16-17, characterized in that, The electronic device further includes: a resilient reset element (07); When the latch (02) is disengaged from the slot (04) and the button (01) is released, the elastic reset member (07) can drive the latch (02) to move toward the slot (04) so ​​that the latch (02) is inserted into the slot (04).

19. The electronic device according to claim 18, characterized in that, The elastic reset member (07) includes a spring, and a support member (08) is formed on the buckle (02). The extension direction of the support member (08) is consistent with the extension direction of the second rack (C2). One end of the spring is sleeved on the support member (08), and the other end abuts against the first housing (200).

20. The electronic device according to any one of claims 16-19, characterized in that, The extension direction of the rotating shaft (06) is perpendicular to the thickness direction of the first housing (200).

21. A locking mechanism, characterized in that, include: Button (01), pivot (06), buckle (02), and engagement transmission structure (03); The button (01) is rotatable about the pivot (06), and the button (01) has an engaging part (D1) that is rotatable about the pivot (06); the buckle includes a second rack (C2), and the extending direction of the pivot (06) is perpendicular to the extending direction of the second rack (C2); The meshing transmission structure (03) includes: The first gear (031) has a rotation axis that is parallel to the extension direction of the shaft (06); The second gear (032) is coaxially arranged with the first gear (031) via a connecting shaft (033), and the first gear (031) can drive the second gear (032) to rotate synchronously via the connecting shaft (033); The first gear (031) meshes externally with the meshing part (D1), and the second gear (032) meshes externally with the second rack (C2); Wherein, the module of the second gear (032) is equal to the module of the first gear (031), and the diameter of the second gear (032) is greater than the diameter of the first gear (031); Pressing the button (01) causes the button (01) to rotate around the pivot (06), which in turn drives the meshing transmission structure (03) to move through the meshing part (D1). The moving meshing transmission structure (03) then drives the buckle (02) to move in a direction perpendicular to the pivot (06) through the second rack (C2).

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