A foldable electronic device

By introducing the design of slide chutes and sliders into the hinge assembly of foldable electronic devices, the connection gap and imaginary position problems are solved, and the reliability and thinness of the equipment are improved, thereby avoiding component staggering and display damage caused by drop or collision.

CN115988111BActive Publication Date: 2025-07-08HUAWEI TECH CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202111198214.0
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2021-10-14
Publication Date
2025-07-08
Estimated Expiration
2041-10-14

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

There are connection gaps and imaginary positions in the hinge components of existing foldable electronic devices, which cause parts to move in the event of drop or collision, affecting the reliability of the equipment and damage to the flexible display.

Method used

The design of introducing a slide chute and a slider into the hinge assembly makes the slide slid in the slide chute and abutting with the inner wall of the slide chute, reducing the gap and imaginary position between the connecting member and the swing member, improving the connection stability through the support action of the slider, and embedding into the slide chute in a folded state to enhance the support strength.

Benefits of technology

It effectively reduces the staggered movement of the connector when falling or colliding, avoids damage to the flexible display, and improves the reliability of the equipment and lightweight design.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

An embodiment of the present application provides a foldable electronic device, including a hinge assembly and two middle frames rotatably connected through the hinge assembly. The hinge assembly includes a main shaft mechanism and two rotating mechanisms rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism. Each rotating mechanism includes at least one swinging member and at least one connecting member. The first end of the swinging member is connected to the main shaft mechanism, the second end of the swinging member is rotatably connected to the connecting member, and the connecting member is connected to the middle frame of the electronic device. A chute is provided on one of the swinging member and the connecting member, and a sliding member cooperating with the chute is provided on the other. When the swinging member rotates relative to the connecting member, the sliding member slides in the chute, and the side of the sliding member facing away from the main shaft mechanism abuts against the chute. The sliding member can play a role in supporting and abutting the connecting member, reducing the connection gap and play between the connecting member and the swinging member, thereby reducing or avoiding the crosstalk of the connecting member towards the main shaft mechanism direction in scenarios such as dropping or collision, and improving the reliability of the electronic device.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the technical field of terminals, and particularly to a foldable electronic device. Background Art

[0002] With the gradual maturity of flexible screen technology, it has promoted a very huge change in the display mode of electronic devices. One of them is the emergence of foldable electronic devices such as mobile phones and computers. The flexible screen of the foldable electronic device can flexibly change and switch modes according to different usage scenarios, and at the same time has a high screen occupation ratio and clarity. Taking a foldable mobile phone as an example, the mobile phone can be as small as a traditional mobile phone after folding, which is convenient to carry, and can have the display size of a tablet after unfolding. These features make foldable devices one of the products deeply sought after by people.

[0003] Currently, for foldable electronic devices, taking a foldable two-layer electronic device as an example, it generally includes two middle frames, and the two middle frames are rotationally connected through a hinge assembly, so that the two middle frames can rotate relative to each other, and then the two middle frames can be overlapped or unfolded with each other. The hinge assembly usually includes a main shaft mechanism and rotating mechanisms located on both sides of the main shaft mechanism. The rotating mechanism includes a swing member and a connecting member. One end of the swing member is rotationally connected to the main shaft mechanism, the other end of the swing member is connected to the connecting member, and the connecting member is connected to the middle frame. When the swing member rotates relative to the main shaft mechanism, the middle frame is driven by the connecting member to rotate relative to the main shaft mechanism, so that the two middle frames can rotate relative to each other.

[0004] However, there will be connection gaps and play between the swing member, the connecting member and the main shaft mechanism in the hinge assembly. In scenarios such as the foldable electronic device falling or colliding, it may cause the misalignment of the above-mentioned components, such as the misalignment of the connecting member towards the main shaft mechanism, reducing the reliability of the foldable electronic device. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The embodiments of this application provide a foldable electronic device, which solves the problem that there are connection gaps and play in the hinge assembly of the existing electronic device, resulting in the misalignment of components easily occurring in scenarios such as collision or fall, which affects the reliability of the electronic device.

[0006] The embodiments of this application provide a foldable electronic device, including: a flexible display screen, a hinge assembly, and two middle frames located on both sides of the hinge assembly. The two middle frames are rotationally connected through the hinge assembly, and the flexible display screen is laid on the hinge assembly and the middle frames;

[0007] The hinge assembly includes a main shaft mechanism and two rotating mechanisms located on both sides of the main shaft mechanism. The two rotating mechanisms are respectively rotationally connected to the main shaft mechanism;

[0008] Each of the rotation mechanisms includes at least one swing member and at least one connecting member. The first end of the swing member is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism, the second end of the swing member is rotatably connected to the connecting member, and the connecting member is connected to the middle frame;

[0009] A chute is provided on the connecting member. The opening of the chute faces the flexible display screen. The chute extends from the side of the connecting member facing the flexible display screen to the side of the connecting member facing away from the flexible display screen; a sliding member is provided on the swing member and is matched with the chute. The side of the sliding member facing away from the main shaft mechanism abuts against the inner wall of the chute;

[0010] When the electronic device is in a flattened state, the sliding member is partially located in the chute through the notch; when the electronic device is being folded, the sliding member slides along the extending direction of the chute, and when the electronic device is in a folded state, the sliding member is embedded in the chute.

[0011] That is to say, during the entire process of the rotation mechanism rotating relative to the main shaft mechanism, the sliding member on the swing member slides in the chute, and at the same time, the side of the sliding member facing away from the main shaft mechanism abuts against the inner wall of the chute. That is to say, when the electronic device is in a folded state and a flattened state, and during the process of switching between the above states, the side of the sliding member facing away from the main shaft mechanism abuts against the inner wall of the chute. In this way, the swing member can play a role of abutting and supporting the connecting member, reducing the connection gap and play between the swing member and the connecting member, and thus reducing the connection gap and play within the hinge assembly. During the process of the electronic device falling or colliding, the sliding member of the swing member abuts against and supports the chute of the connecting member, which can reduce or avoid the dislocation of the connecting member towards the main shaft mechanism, improving the reliability of the electronic device. At the same time, it also avoids the reduction of the screen accommodation space due to the dislocation of the connecting member when the electronic device is in a folded state, reducing or avoiding damage to the flexible display screen during processes such as falling or colliding, and further improving the reliability of the electronic device.

[0012] In a possible implementation manner, the second end is connected to the end of the connecting member facing away from the main shaft mechanism;

[0013] Two opposite chutes are provided on the surface of the connecting member facing the flexible display screen, and the sliding members are provided on the end faces on the opposite sides of the second end. This helps to further enhance the abutting and supporting effect of the swing member on the connecting member, further reducing or avoiding the movement of the connecting member and improving the reliability of the electronic device.

[0014] In addition, connecting the second end of the swing member to the end of the connecting member facing away from the main shaft mechanism can reduce the total connection length of the connecting member and the swing member in the x direction, helping to reduce the width of the hinge assembly and contributing to the thin and light design of the electronic device.

[0015] In a possible implementation, an assembly groove is formed on a surface of the connecting member facing the flexible display screen. The assembly groove includes at least opposite first side wall and second side wall, and sliding grooves are respectively formed on the first side wall and the second side wall;

[0016] The assembly groove further includes a third side wall adjacent to the first side wall and the second side wall. The third side wall is located at an end of the connecting member facing away from the main shaft mechanism. The second end is rotatably provided on the third side wall, and end faces on both sides of the second end are respectively abutted against the first side wall and the second side wall. In this way, the second end can play a role in abutting and supporting the assembly groove, that is, the swinging member can support the connecting member in the y direction, reducing the connection gap and virtual position between the connecting member and the swinging member in the y direction, and reducing and avoiding the crosstalk of the connecting member in the y direction in scenarios such as the dropping or collision of the electronic device, further improving the reliability of the electronic device.

[0017] In a possible implementation, a first pin shaft is further included. A first rotating portion is provided on the second end, and a connecting portion is provided on the third side wall. The first rotating portion and the connecting portion are rotatably connected through the first pin shaft. Thereby, the rotational connection between the second end of the swinging member and the connecting member is realized.

[0018] In a possible implementation, the first rotating portion includes a first rotating arm and a second rotating arm, and a gap is provided between the first rotating arm and the second rotating arm;

[0019] A first avoidance hole and a second avoidance hole are formed on the third side wall. The connecting portion is located on an outer wall surface of the third side wall and between the first avoidance hole and the second avoidance hole. The first rotating arm and the second rotating arm respectively pass through the first avoidance hole and the second avoidance hole, and the first rotating arm and the second rotating arm are rotatably connected to the connecting portion through the first pin shaft. Thereby, the rotational fit between the second end of the swinging member and the third side wall of the assembly groove of the connecting member is realized. At the same time, the connection position between the second end of the swinging member and the connecting member is farther away from the main shaft mechanism, which helps to further reduce the total connection length between the connecting member and the swinging member in the x direction, reduce the width of the hinge assembly, and contribute to the thin and light design of the electronic device.

[0020] In a possible implementation, an abutting surface is formed on a side surface of the sliding member facing away from the main shaft mechanism. A side wall surface of the sliding groove facing away from the main shaft mechanism abuts against the abutting surface. Both the abutting surface and the side wall surface are arc-shaped surfaces, and the shape of the side wall surface matches that of the abutting surface. This helps to increase the contact area between the sliding groove and the sliding member, improve the abutting support strength, and further improve the support strength of the swinging member for the connecting member, which helps to further reduce the connection gap and play between the connecting member and the swinging member, and improve the reliability of the electronic device.

[0021] In a possible implementation, the sliding member is a wedge-shaped block, and the thin end of the wedge-shaped block is disposed adjacent to the bottom of the sliding groove. This helps to increase the contact area between the sliding member and the sliding groove, further improve the abutting support strength therebetween, further reduce the connection gap and play in the hinge assembly, and improve the reliability of the electronic device.

[0022] In a possible implementation, a second rotating portion is provided on the first end. Arc-shaped surfaces are provided on outer edges on both sides of the second rotating portion. An arc-shaped portion that rotatably cooperates with the arc-shaped surfaces is provided in the main shaft mechanism. The swinging member is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism through the second rotating portion.

[0023] In a possible implementation, each of the rotating mechanisms further includes at least one linkage member. One end of the linkage member is connected to the connecting member, and the other end of the linkage member is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism. The two linkage members in two of the rotating mechanisms are rotatably connected through the main shaft mechanism, so that when one linkage member rotates relative to the main shaft mechanism, it drives the other linkage member to rotate relative to the main shaft mechanism. In this way, the linkage between the first middle frame and the second middle frame is realized, enabling the first middle frame and the second middle frame to rotate synchronously. When unfolding or folding the electronic device, only by driving one of the middle frames to rotate can the other middle frame be driven to rotate, realizing the folding or unfolding of the electronic device, with more convenient operation, which helps to improve the user experience.

[0024] In a possible implementation, a coordination groove is formed in the connecting member. The coordination groove extends from an end of the connecting member facing the main shaft mechanism to an end of the connecting member facing away from the main shaft mechanism. One end of the linkage member is inserted into the coordination groove. In this way, one end of the linkage member is disposed in the coordination groove by insertion, which is convenient for disassembly and installation and easy to implement.

[0025] In addition, since the coordination groove runs through the width direction (x-direction) of the connecting member, one side of one end of the linkage member facing away from the main shaft mechanism can be located on the end of the connecting member facing away from the main shaft mechanism. While realizing the connection between the linkage member and the connecting member, it can also enhance the connection strength between the linkage member and the connecting member, and reduce the total length between the linkage member and the connecting member in the x-direction, which helps to reduce the width of the hinge assembly and is conducive to the thin and light design of the electronic device.

[0026] In a possible implementation manner, the main shaft mechanism includes a gear assembly, a gear portion is provided on the other end of the linkage member, the gear portion is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism, and the gear portion meshes with the gear assembly.

[0027] In a possible implementation manner, each of the rotating mechanisms further includes a support member, one end of the support member is disposed adjacent to the main shaft mechanism, the connecting member is located on the end of the support member facing away from the main shaft mechanism, and the connecting member is rotatably connected to the support member.

[0028] In a possible implementation manner, an arc-shaped guide rail member is provided on the support member, arc-shaped guide rail grooves are formed at both ends of the connecting member, the arc-shaped guide rail member is in rotational cooperation with the arc-shaped guide rail grooves, and the support member and the connecting member are rotatably connected through the cooperation of the arc-shaped guide rail grooves and the arc-shaped guide rail member.

[0029] In a possible implementation manner, the rotating mechanism further includes at least one linkage member, one end of the linkage member is connected to the connecting member, the other end of the linkage member is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism, and the two linkage members in the two rotating mechanisms are rotatably connected through the main shaft mechanism, so that when one linkage member rotates relative to the main shaft mechanism, it drives the other linkage member to rotate relative to the main shaft mechanism;

[0030] The linkage member is rotatably connected to the support member. This can reduce the motion redundancy of the support member, thereby reducing the setting gap and virtual position of the support member, further reducing the connection gap and virtual position inside the hinge assembly, and further improving the reliability of the electronic device.

[0031] In a possible implementation manner, a second pin shaft is further included, an arc-shaped track groove is provided on the support member, the second pin shaft is inserted into the arc-shaped track groove and moves along the arc-shaped track groove, and the second pin shaft is connected to the linkage member, so that the linkage member is rotatably connected to the support member through the cooperation of the second pin shaft and the arc-shaped track groove. Description of the Drawings

[0032] Figure 1 It is a schematic structural diagram of a foldable electronic device provided by an embodiment of the present application in a folded state;

[0033] Figure 2 A schematic structural view of a foldable electronic device provided by an embodiment of the present application in an intermediate state;

[0034] Figure 3 A schematic structural view of a foldable electronic device provided by an embodiment of the present application in a flattened state;

[0035] Figure 4 A schematic inner structural view of a hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application when in a flattened state;

[0036] Figure 5 A schematic outer structural view of a hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application when in a flattened state;

[0037] Figure 6 A schematic side view of a hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application when in a flattened state;

[0038] Figure 7 A schematic side view of a hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application when in a folded state;

[0039] Figure 8 is Figure 5 a partially enlarged structural view;

[0040] Figure 8a A partially disassembled schematic view of a hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0041] Figure 9 A schematic view of a partial structure inside a hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0042] Figure 10 A schematic view of a partial cross-sectional structure of an electronic device provided by an embodiment of the present application when in a flattened state;

[0043] Figure 11 A schematic view of a partial cross-sectional structure of an electronic device provided by an embodiment of the present application when in an intermediate state;

[0044] Figure 12 A schematic view of a partial cross-sectional structure of an electronic device provided by an embodiment of the present application when in a folded state;

[0045] Figure 13 A front cross-sectional view of an electronic device provided by an embodiment of the present application when in a folded state;

[0046] Figure 14 A schematic view of a connecting member provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0047] Figure 15Schematic structural diagram of a swinging member provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0048] Figure 15a Partial exploded view of another hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0049] Figure 15b Partial cross-sectional structural diagram at the sliding member when a hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application is in a flattened state;

[0050] Figure 16 Assembly diagram of the swinging member and the connecting member when a hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application is in a flattened state;

[0051] Figure 16a Partial cross-sectional structural diagram at the assembly groove when a hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application is in a flattened state;

[0052] Figure 16b Another partial cross-sectional structural diagram at the assembly groove when a hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application is in a flattened state;

[0053] Figure 16c Partial cross-sectional structural diagram at the assembly groove when a hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application is in a folded state;

[0054] Figure 17 Assembly diagram of the swinging member and the connecting member when a hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application is in a folded state;

[0055] Figure 18 Partial exploded view of yet another hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0056] Figure 18a Partial structural diagram of a hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0057] Figure 19 Partial exploded view of still another hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0058] Figure 19a Enlarged partial structural diagram of the cooperation between a linkage member and a connecting member provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0059] Figure 19b Schematic rear view structural diagram of a linkage member provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0060] Figure 19c Partial cross-sectional structural diagram of a hinge assembly at the linkage member and the connecting member provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0061] Figure 20Schematic front view of a linkage member provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0062] Figure 21 Schematic cross-sectional view of a hinge assembly at the linkage member provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0063] Figure 22 Schematic partial exploded view of another hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0064] Figure 23 Schematic assembly view of a support member and a linkage member provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0065] Description of reference numerals:

[0066] 100 - Electronic device; 10 - First middle frame; 20 - Second middle frame;

[0067] 30 - Hinge assembly; 31 - Main shaft mechanism; 311 - Main inner shaft;

[0068] 312 - Main outer shaft; 313 - Arc portion; 314 - Gear assembly;

[0069] 32a - First rotating mechanism; 32b - Second rotating mechanism; 321 - Swing member;

[0070] 3211 - Sliding member; 3211a - Contact surface; 3212 - First rotating portion;

[0071] 3212a - First rotating arm; 3212b - Second rotating arm; 3213 - Second rotating portion;

[0072] 3213a - Arc surface; 322 - Connecting member; 3221 - Slide groove;

[0073] 3222 - Assembly groove; 3222a - First side wall; 3222b - Second side wall;

[0074] 3222c - Third side wall; 3223 - Connecting portion; 3226 - Coordination groove;

[0075] 3227 - Arc-shaped guide groove; 323 - Linkage member; 3231 - Gear portion;

[0076] 3231a - Tooth structure; 324 - Support member; 3241 - Arc-shaped guide member;

[0077] 3242 - Arc-shaped track groove; 325 - First pin shaft; 326 - Second pin shaft;

[0078] 327 - Rotating shaft; 33 - Screen-containing space; 40 - Flexible display screen. Detailed implementation manners

[0079] The terms used in the implementation manners part of this application are only used to explain the specific embodiments of this application, rather than aiming to limit this application. The implementation manners of the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0080] Among them, the foldable electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application may include, but is not limited to, foldable fixed terminals or mobile terminals such as mobile phones, tablet computers, laptop computers, ultra-mobile personal computers (UMPCs), handheld computers, touch TVs, walkie-talkies, netbooks, POS machines, personal digital assistants (PDAs), wearable devices, virtual reality devices, etc.

[0081] In the embodiments of this application, the foldable mobile phone is taken as an example for illustration. Among them, the foldable mobile phone may be a foldable mobile phone with an outward-folded screen, or the foldable mobile phone may also be a foldable mobile phone with an inward-folded screen, or the foldable mobile phone may also be a foldable mobile phone with an inward-folded screen plus an external screen.

[0082] Taking the foldable mobile phone with an inward-folded screen as an example below, the foldable electronic device and the hinge assembly provided in the embodiments of this application will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0083] Figure 1 FIG. is a schematic structural diagram of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application in a folded state, Figure 2 FIG. is a schematic structural diagram of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application in an intermediate state, Figure 3 FIG. is a schematic structural diagram of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application in a flattened state.

[0084] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the foldable electronic device 100 may at least include a hinge assembly 30 and two middle frames. For example, a first middle frame 10 and a second middle frame 20. The first middle frame 10 and the second middle frame 20 are located on both sides of the hinge assembly 30, and the first middle frame 10 and the second middle frame 20 are respectively connected to the hinge assembly 30. Specifically, the first middle frame 10 and the second middle frame 20 may be connected to the connecting member in the hinge assembly 30.

[0085] Moreover, the two middle frames are rotationally connected through the hinge assembly 30, so that the two middle frames can rotate relative to each other, that is, the first middle frame 10 and the second middle frame 20 can rotate relative to each other.

[0086] Referring to Figure 1As shown, the first middle frame 10 and the second middle frame 20 can be folded relative to each other to a closed state. Exemplarily, when the first middle frame 10 and the second middle frame 20 are in the closed state, they can be completely folded together to be parallel to each other (a slight deviation is also allowed). At this time, the electronic device 100 is in the closed state, also known as the folded state.

[0087] See Figure 2 As shown, the first middle frame 10 and the second middle frame 20 can be rotated relative to each other (folded or unfolded) to an intermediate state, so that the electronic device 100 is in the intermediate state.

[0088] See Figure 3 As shown, the first middle frame 10 and the second middle frame 20 can be unfolded relative to each other to an open state. Exemplarily, when the first middle frame 10 and the second middle frame 20 are in the open state, they can be approximately at 180° (a slight deviation is also allowed, for example, 165°, 177° or 185°). At this time, the electronic device is in the open state, also known as the flattened state.

[0089] Wherein, Figure 2 The intermediate state shown can be any state between the open state and the closed state. That is, the electronic device 100 can be switched between the open state (i.e., the flattened state) and the closed state (i.e., the folded state) through the movement of the hinge assembly 30.

[0090] In the embodiments of the present application, as Figure 1 and Figure 3 shown, when the electronic device 100 is in the flattened state or the folded state, the width direction of the electronic device 100 is the x direction, the length direction of the electronic device 100 is the y direction, and the thickness direction of the electronic device 100 is the z direction.

[0091] It should be noted that the electronic device 100 can only include two middle frames, that is, the number of the first middle frame 10 and the second middle frame 20 can both be one. When the electronic device 100 is in the folded state, the first middle frame 10 and the second middle frame 20 are folded relative to each other into two layers. See Figure 1 As shown, the electronic device 100 includes a first middle frame 10, a second middle frame 20 and a hinge assembly 30. The first middle frame 10 and the second middle frame 20 are rotationally connected through the hinge assembly 30, and the first middle frame 10 and the second middle frame 20 are folded relative to each other, so that the electronic device 100 is in a two-layer form.

[0092] Alternatively, the electronic device 100 may also include multiple middle frames. That is, the number of the first middle frame 10, the second middle frame 20, and the hinge assembly 30 may be multiple. Adjacent first middle frame 10 and second middle frame 20 are connected by a hinge assembly 30, enabling the electronic device 100 to be folded into a multi-layer form. For example, the electronic device 100 may include two first middle frames, one second middle frame, and two hinge assemblies. The two first middle frames are located on both sides of the second middle frame, and the two first middle frames are respectively rotatably connected to the second middle frame through a hinge assembly. One of the first middle frames can be folded relative to the second middle frame, and the other first middle frame can also be folded relative to the second middle frame. When the electronic device 100 is in the folded state, the first middle frame and the second middle frame are relatively folded into a three-layer form. When one of the first middle frames and the second middle frame are relatively unfolded to the flat state (such as being approximately 180°), the electronic device 100 is in the flat state.

[0093] See Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the electronic device 100 may further include a foldable flexible display screen 40. Among them, the flexible display screen 40 is laid on the hinge assembly 30 and two middle frames. Specifically, the flexible display screen 40 may be disposed on the same side surface of the first middle frame 10, the second middle frame 20, and the hinge assembly 30. When the first middle frame 10 and the second middle frame 20 are relatively folded, the flexible display screen 40 adheres to the first middle frame 10 and the second middle frame 20, and the part of the flexible display screen 40 opposite to the hinge assembly 30 is bent. The hinge assembly 30 encloses a screen-containing space 33, and at least part of the bent flexible display screen 40 is located in the screen-containing space 33 (refer to Figure 13 shown). When the first middle frame 10 and the second middle frame 20 are relatively unfolded, the flexible display screen 40 is also unfolded accordingly.

[0094] Among them, for the foldable electronic device 100 with an in-folded screen, the flexible display screen 40 is disposed on the inner side surface of the first middle frame 10, the second middle frame 20, and the hinge assembly 30. For example, as Figure 2 and Figure 3 shown, in the embodiments of the present application, the case where the flexible display screen 40 is located on the inner side surface of the first middle frame 10, the second middle frame 20, and the hinge assembly 30 is taken as an example for description. For the foldable electronic device 100 with an out-folded screen, the flexible display screen 40 is disposed on the outer side surface of the first middle frame 10, the second middle frame 20, and the hinge assembly 30.

[0095] It should be noted that when the electronic device 100 is in a folded state, the adjacent and opposite surfaces of the first middle frame 10 and the second middle frame 20 are respectively the inner surfaces of the first middle frame 10 and the second middle frame 20, and the surface of the hinge assembly 30 on the same side as the inner surfaces of the first middle frame 10 and the second middle frame 20 is the inner surface of the hinge assembly 30. The two opposite surfaces of the first middle frame 10 and the second middle frame 20 are respectively the outer surfaces of the first middle frame 10 and the second middle frame 20, and the surface of the hinge assembly 30 on the same side as the outer surfaces of the first middle frame 10 and the second middle frame 20 is the outer surface of the hinge assembly 30.

[0096] Among them, in some embodiments, the foldable electronic device 100 may also be a laptop computer, which may include a first middle frame and a second middle frame. The first middle frame and the second middle frame can be relatively folded to a closed state, making the laptop computer in a closed state (i.e., a folded state). Correspondingly, when the first middle frame and the second middle frame are relatively unfolded from the folded state to an open state, the laptop computer is in an open state (i.e., a flattened state). Among them, in the flattened state, at least part of the flexible display screen on the first middle frame can be used for displaying images, etc., and at least part of the flexible display screen on the second middle frame can be used as a virtual keyboard, etc.

[0097] In the embodiments of the present application, the first middle frame 10 may include a first middle plate and a first frame, and the first frame is disposed around the outer peripheral edge of the first middle plate. The second middle frame 20 may also include a second middle plate and a second frame, and the second frame is disposed around the outer peripheral edge of the second middle plate. The connecting member 322 in the hinge assembly 30 can be respectively connected to the first middle plate and the second middle plate.

[0098] Figure 4 It is a schematic diagram of the inner structure of a hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application when in a flattened state. Figure 5 It is a schematic diagram of the outer structure of a hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application when in a flattened state. Figure 6 It is a schematic side view structure diagram of a hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application when in a flattened state. Figure 7 It is a schematic side view structure diagram of a hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application when in a folded state. Figure 8 For Figure 5 partial enlarged structure diagram of Figure 8a It is a partial disassembled schematic diagram of a hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0099] See Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, the hinge assembly 30 may include a main shaft mechanism 31 and two rotating mechanisms. The two rotating mechanisms are located on both sides of the main shaft mechanism 31 and are respectively rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism 31, so that the two rotating mechanisms can rotate relative to each other. The connecting member 322 in the rotating mechanism can be connected to the middle frame of the electronic device 100.

[0100] Among them, for example, refer to Figure 4 and 5 As shown, the two rotating mechanisms are respectively a first rotating mechanism 32a and a second rotating mechanism 32b. The first rotating mechanism 32a and the second rotating mechanism 32b are located on both sides of the main shaft mechanism 31. Among them, the first rotating mechanism 32a can be adjacent to the first middle frame 10, and the first rotating mechanism 32a can be connected to the first middle frame 10, so that the first middle frame 10 can be rotationally matched with the main shaft mechanism 31 through the first rotating mechanism 32a. The second rotating mechanism 32b can be adjacent to the second middle frame 20, and the second rotating mechanism 32b can be connected to the second middle frame 20, so that the second middle frame 20 can be rotationally matched with the main shaft mechanism 31 through the second rotating mechanism 32b.

[0101] Among them, when the two middle frames rotate relative to each other, for example, when the two middle frames are unfolded relative to each other, the two middle frames respectively drive the two rotating mechanisms to unfold relative to each other. When the electronic device 100 is in a flattened state, the first rotating mechanism 32a, the second rotating mechanism 32b and the main shaft mechanism 31 are in an open state. Exemplarily, refer to Figure 6 As shown, the included angle between two adjacent ones of the first rotating mechanism 32a, the second rotating mechanism 32b and the main shaft mechanism 31 can be approximately 180°. At this time, the hinge assembly 30 is also in a flattened state.

[0102] When the two middle frames are folded relative to each other, the two middle frames respectively drive the two rotating mechanisms to fold relative to each other. When the electronic device 100 is in a folded state, refer to Figure 7 As shown, the first rotating mechanism 32a and the second rotating mechanism 32b are closed to a closed state. At this time, the hinge assembly 30 is also in a folded state.

[0103] Among them, each rotating mechanism includes a swing member 321 and a connecting member 322. As Figure 8 shown, taking the first rotating mechanism 32a as an example, the first rotating mechanism 32a includes a swing member 321 and a connecting member 322. Specifically, the connecting member 322 can be located at one end of the swing member 321 facing away from the main shaft mechanism 31.

[0104] Among the two opposite ends of the swing member 321, the end closer to the main shaft mechanism 31 is the end of the swing member 321 facing the main shaft mechanism 31, and the end farther from the main shaft mechanism 31 is the end of the swing member 321 facing away from the main shaft mechanism 31. Correspondingly, in the embodiments of the present application, the end (or side) facing a certain structural component refers to the end (or side) closer to the structural component, and the end (or side) facing away from a certain structural component refers to the end (or side) farther from the structural component.

[0105] It should be noted that the number of the swing member 321 and the connecting member 322 can both be one, or both can be multiple. For example, each rotating mechanism includes three connecting members 322 and three swing members 321 (refer to Figure 5 shown). The three connecting members 322 can be arranged at intervals along the axial direction of the main shaft mechanism 31. Correspondingly, the three swing members 321 can also be arranged at intervals along the axial direction of the main shaft mechanism 31.

[0106] Among them, in combination with Figure 8 and Figure 8a shown, the first end 321a of the swing member 321 is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism 31, the second end 321b of the swing member 321 is rotatably connected to the connecting member 322, and the connecting member 322 can be fixedly connected to the first middle frame 10. In this way, the swing member 321 is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism 31, and the swing member 321 can drive the first middle frame 10 to rotate relative to the main shaft mechanism 31 through the connecting member 322, so that the two middle frames of the electronic device 100 can realize relative rotation through the hinge assembly 30.

[0107] Since the hinge assembly 30 is formed by connecting components such as the main shaft mechanism 31, the swing member 321, and the connecting member 322, the overall dimension chain is relatively long. And to meet the rotation requirements, most of the components in the hinge assembly 30 are rotationally connected, resulting in a large number of connection gaps and play between components such as the swing member 321, the connecting member 322, and the main shaft mechanism 31. When the foldable electronic device 100 drops or collides, due to the existence of gaps and play in the hinge assembly 30, the positions of the components may be misaligned. For example, the connecting member 322 is prone to misalignment towards the main shaft mechanism 31, reducing the reliability of the foldable electronic device 100. Especially when the electronic device 100 is in the folded state, the bent part of the flexible display screen 40 is located in the screen-containing space 33 formed by the hinge assembly 30. The misalignment of the connecting member 322 towards the main shaft mechanism 31 is likely to cause a reduction in the screen-containing space 33, damaging the flexible display screen 40 and making the flexible display screen 40 prone to failure, having a huge impact on the reliability of the electronic device 100.

[0108] Figure 9 It is a schematic diagram of a partial structure inside a hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application. Among them,Figure 9 Schematic diagram of the structure after removing the support member from the inner side of the hinge assembly Figure 10 Partial cross-sectional structure schematic diagram of an electronic device provided by an embodiment of the present application when in a flattened state Figure 11 Partial cross-sectional structure schematic diagram of an electronic device provided by an embodiment of the present application when in an intermediate state Figure 12 Partial cross-sectional structure schematic diagram of an electronic device provided by an embodiment of the present application when in a folded state Figure 13 Front view of the cross-section of an electronic device provided by an embodiment of the present application when in a folded state

[0109] In the embodiment of the present application, referring to Figure 9 As shown, the first end of the swing member 321 is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism 31, and the second end of the swing member 321 is rotatably connected to the connecting member 322. A sliding member 3211 is provided on the swing member 321, and a sliding groove 3221 is provided on the connecting member 322. The sliding member 3211 is located in the sliding groove 3221 and cooperates with the sliding groove 3221.

[0110] Combined with Figure 10 As shown, the notch of the sliding groove 3221 faces the flexible display screen 40. The sliding groove 3221 extends from the side of the connecting member 322 facing the flexible display screen 40 to the side of the connecting member 322 facing away from the flexible display screen 40, that is, the sliding groove 3221 extends and is distributed in the thickness direction (z direction) of the connecting member 322. The sliding member 3211 can slide along the sliding groove 3221, and when the sliding member 3211 slides in the sliding groove 3221, the side of the sliding member 3211 facing away from the main shaft mechanism 31 abuts against the inner wall of the sliding groove 3221.

[0111] Among them, the shape of the sliding groove 3221 is not limited in the embodiment of the present application. As long as it can accommodate the sliding member 3211 under the condition of satisfying the rotational cooperation between the connecting member 322 and the swing member 321, and make the side of the sliding member 3211 facing away from the main shaft mechanism 31 abut against the inner wall of the sliding groove 3221.

[0112] Specifically, when the electronic device 100 is in a flattened state, referring to Figure 10 As shown, the sliding member 3211 can be located in the sliding groove 3221 through the notch part, and at the same time, the side of the sliding member 3211 facing away from the main shaft mechanism 31 abuts against the inner wall of the sliding groove 3221 facing away from the main shaft mechanism 31. The sliding member 3211 can play a role of supporting and abutting against the connecting member 322, that is, the swing member 321 can exert a supporting force on the connecting member 322 in the x direction as shown in the figure, reducing the connection gap and play between the connecting member 322 and the swing member 321 in the x direction, thereby reducing or avoiding the movement of the connecting member 322 towards the main shaft mechanism 31 in scenarios such as dropping or collision, and improving the reliability of the electronic device 100.

[0113] See Figure 11 As shown, during the folding process of the electronic device 100, the first middle frame drives the connecting member 322 to rotate. When the connecting member 322 rotates relative to the swinging member 321, the sliding member 3211 rotates in cooperation with the sliding groove 3221. The sliding member 3211 can slide along the extending direction of the sliding groove 3221. At the same time, the side of the sliding member 3211 facing away from the main shaft mechanism 31 abuts against the inner wall of the side of the sliding groove 3221 facing away from the main shaft mechanism 31. Combining Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, during the folding process, the sliding member 3211 slides from the notch along the extending direction of the sliding groove 3221 towards the bottom of the sliding groove 3221.

[0114] See Figure 12 As shown, when the electronic device 100 is in the folded state, the sliding member 3211 slides into the sliding groove 3221 and is integrally embedded in the sliding groove 3221. Similarly, the side of the sliding member 3211 facing away from the main shaft mechanism 31 still abuts against the inner wall of the side of the sliding groove 3221 facing away from the main shaft mechanism 31. The sliding member 3211 exerts a supporting force in the x direction on the connecting member 322, reducing the connection gap and play between the connecting member 322 and the swinging member 321 in the x direction, reducing or avoiding the crosstalk of the connecting member 322 in scenarios such as dropping or collision, and improving the reliability of the electronic device 100.

[0115] That is, when the electronic device is in the folded state and the flattened state, and during the process of switching between the above states, the side of the sliding member 3211 facing away from the main shaft mechanism 31 abuts against the inner wall of the sliding groove 3221. In this way, the swinging member 321 can play a role of abutting and supporting the connecting member 322, reducing the connection gap and play between the swinging member 321 and the connecting member 322, and thus reducing the connection gap and play within the hinge assembly 30. During the dropping or collision of the electronic device 100, the abutting and supporting of the sliding member 3211 of the swinging member 321 against the sliding groove 3221 of the connecting member 322 can reduce or avoid the misalignment of the connecting member 322 towards the main shaft mechanism 31, improving the reliability of the electronic device 100.

[0116] In addition, it also avoids the reduction of the capacitive screen space 33 due to the misalignment of the connecting member 322 when the electronic device 100 is in the folded state, reducing or avoiding damage to the flexible display screen 40 during processes such as dropping or collision, and further improving the reliability of the electronic device 100. See Figure 13As shown, when the electronic device 100 is in the folded state, the connecting member 322, the swinging member 321, and the main shaft mechanism 31 are all used to form a screen-containing space 33, and the flexible display screen 40 opposite to the hinge assembly 30 is bent and located within the screen-containing space 33. When the sliding member 3211 is integrally embedded in the sliding groove 3221 in the folded state, the contact area between the sliding member 3211 and the sliding groove 3221 can be increased, thereby enhancing the support strength of the swinging member 321 for the connecting member 322 in the folded state. This can further ensure that the connecting member 322 is prevented from moving in the direction towards the main shaft mechanism 31, reducing or avoiding the impact on the screen-containing space 33 when the electronic device 100 drops or collides, etc., thereby reducing the damage to the flexible display screen 40 bent within the screen-containing space 33 and further enhancing the reliability of the electronic device 100.

[0117] Figure 14 FIG. is a schematic structural view of a connecting member provided by an embodiment of the present application. Figure 15 FIG. is a schematic structural view of a swinging member provided by an embodiment of the present application. Figure 15a FIG. is a partial exploded schematic view of another hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application. Figure 15b FIG. is a partial cross-sectional structural view of a hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application at the sliding member when in the flattened state. Figure 16 FIG. is an assembled schematic view of the swinging member and the connecting member of a hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application when in the flattened state. Figure 16a FIG. is a partial cross-sectional structural view of a hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application at the assembly groove when in the flattened state. Figure 16b FIG. is a partial cross-sectional structural view of another hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application at the assembly groove when in the flattened state. Figure 16c FIG. is a partial cross-sectional structural view of a hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application at the assembly groove when in the folded state. Figure 17 FIG. is an assembled schematic view of the swinging member and the connecting member of a hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application when in the folded state.

[0118] Combined with Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, at least two opposite sliding grooves 3221 can be provided on the connecting member 322, and sliding members 3211 can be provided on the end faces on both sides of the second end 321b of the swinging member 321. Specifically, the second end 321b is connected to the end of the connecting member 322 facing away from the main shaft mechanism 31, and sliding grooves 3221 can be provided on the surface of the connecting member 322 facing the flexible display screen 40 (refer to Figure 11 shown), which helps to further enhance the abutting and supporting effect of the swinging member 321 on the connecting member 322, further reducing or avoiding the movement of the connecting member 322 and enhancing the reliability of the electronic device 100.

[0119] In addition, the second end 321b of the swing member 321 is connected to one end of the connecting member 322 facing away from the main shaft mechanism 31, which can reduce the total connection length of the connecting member 322 and the swing member 321 in the x direction, contribute to reducing the width of the hinge assembly 30, and contribute to the thin and light design of the electronic device 100.

[0120] Among them, referring to Figure 15 As shown, a first rotating portion 3212 is provided on the second end 321b of the swing member 321, and the second end 321b of the swing member 321 is rotationally connected to the connecting member 322 through the first rotating portion 3212. A second rotating portion 3213 may be provided on the first end 321a of the swing member 321, and the first end 321a of the swing member 321 is rotationally connected to the main shaft mechanism 31 through the second rotating portion 3213.

[0121] Specifically, arc surfaces 3213a may be provided on both outer edges of the second rotating portion 3213, and an arc portion 313 (refer to Figure 13 shown) that is rotationally engaged with the arc surface 3213a may be provided inside the main shaft mechanism 31. The swing member 321 may be rotationally connected to the main shaft mechanism 31 through the rotational engagement of the arc surface 3213a and the arc portion 313.

[0122] For example, the main shaft mechanism 31 may include a main inner shaft 311 and a main outer shaft 312, which are connected to each other. An arc portion 313 may be defined between the main inner shaft 311 and the main outer shaft 312. The arc surface 3213a of the second rotating portion 3213 may be located inside the arc portion 313 and move along the arc portion.

[0123] Among them, in combination with Figure 15a and Figure 15b shown, one side surface of the sliding member 3211 facing away from the main shaft mechanism 31 is an abutting surface 3211a, and one side wall surface 3221a of the sliding groove 3221 facing away from the main shaft mechanism 31 abuts against the abutting surface 3211a, so as to realize the abutting and supporting function of the swing member 321 on the connecting member 322. Specifically, both the abutting surface 3211a and the side wall surface 3221a may be arc surfaces, and the shapes of the abutting surface 3211a and the side wall surface 3221a are matched. For example, referring to Figure 15b shown, the abutting surface 3211a is an arc surface protruding toward the main shaft mechanism 31, and the side wall surface 3221a is also an arc surface protruding toward the main shaft mechanism 31. This helps to increase the contact area between the sliding groove 3221 and the sliding member 3211, improve the abutting and supporting strength, and further improve the supporting strength of the swing member 321 on the connecting member 322, which helps to further reduce the connection gap and play between the connecting member 322 and the swing member 321, and improve the reliability of the electronic device 100.

[0124] Specifically, the sliding member 3211 can be a wedge (refer to Figure 15 as shown). A wedge refers to a structural member with different thicknesses at both ends. Among them, the thin end of the wedge can be arranged adjacent to the bottom of the sliding groove 3221, which is convenient for realizing the abutment and relative sliding between the sliding member 3211 and the sliding groove 3221. Making the sliding member 3211 a wedge helps to increase the contact area between the sliding member 3211 and the sliding groove 3221 when the depth of the sliding groove 3221 is certain, thereby enhancing the abutment support strength between the two, further reducing the connection gap and play in the hinge assembly 30, and improving the reliability of the electronic device 100.

[0125] Of course, in some examples, the sliding member 3211 can also be a square block, a cylinder, etc. Or, the shape of the sliding member 3211 can also be other regular or irregular shapes.

[0126] Among them, in the embodiment of the present application, referring to Figure 14 and Figure 15a as shown, an assembly groove 3222 can be formed on the surface of the connecting member 322 facing the flexible display screen 40. The assembly groove 3222 can at least include opposite first side walls 3222a and second side walls 3222b, and the above-mentioned sliding grooves 3221 are respectively formed on the first side wall 3222a and the second side wall 3222b.

[0127] Referring to Figure 15a as shown, the assembly groove 3222 further includes a third side wall 3222c. The third side wall 3222c is adjacent to the first side wall 3222a and the second side wall 3222b, and the third side wall 3222c is located at one end of the connecting member 322 facing away from the main shaft mechanism 31. The second end 321b of the swinging member 321 is rotatably arranged on the third side wall 3222c. The assembly groove 3222 can also include a bottom wall 3222d (refer to Figure 16b as shown). The first side wall 3222a, the second side wall 3222b, and the third side wall 3222c surround the bottom wall 3222d, and there is an avoidance opening on the side of the assembly groove 3222 opposite to the third side wall 3222c, and there is also an avoidance opening on the side of the assembly groove 3222 opposite to the bottom wall 3222d to avoid the swinging member 321 and facilitate the rotation of the swinging member 321.

[0128] Among them, referring to Figure 16 and Figure 16aAs shown, when the second end 321b of the swing member 321 is rotationally engaged with the third side wall 3222c, the end faces on both sides of the second end 321b can respectively abut against the first side wall 3222a and the second side wall 3222b. In this way, the second end 321b can abut against and support the assembly groove 3222, that is, the swing member 321 can support the connecting member 322 in the y direction, reducing the connection gap and play between the connecting member 322 and the swing member 321 in the y direction, and reducing and avoiding the crosstalk of the connecting member 322 in the y direction in scenarios such as when the electronic device 100 drops or collides, further improving the reliability of the electronic device 100.

[0129] For example, when the electronic device 100 is in a flattened state, refer to Figure 16b As shown, a part of the second end 321b of the swing member 321 is located inside the assembly groove 3222, and the second end 321b is rotationally engaged with the third side wall 3222c. Combining Figure 16a As shown, the end faces on both sides of the part where the second end 321b is engaged with the third side wall 3222c respectively abut against the first side wall 3222a and the second side wall 3222b. The swing member 321 can support the connecting member 322 in the y direction, reducing the connection gap and play between the two in the y direction. At the same time, a part of the sliding member 3211 on the swing member 321 is located inside the sliding groove 3221, and the side of the sliding member 3211 facing away from the main shaft mechanism 31 abuts against the inner wall of the sliding groove 3221. The swing member 321 can support the connecting member 322 in the x direction, reducing the connection gap and play between the two in the x direction.

[0130] When the electronic device 100 rotates from the flattened state to the folded state, combining Figure 16b and Figure 16c As shown, the second end 321b of the swing member 321 can slide toward the bottom wall 3222d of the assembly groove 3222. When the electronic device 100 is in the folded state, combining Figure 16c and Figure 17 As shown, the second end 321b can be embedded in the assembly groove 3222, and the end faces on the relative two sides of the second end 321b can still respectively abut against the first side wall 3222a and the second side wall 3222b (refer to Figure 16a As shown), and the swing member 321 supports the connecting member 322 in the y direction. At the same time, the sliding member 3211 on the swing member 321 is embedded in the sliding groove 3221, and the side of the sliding member 3211 facing away from the main shaft mechanism 31 abuts against the inner wall of the sliding groove 3221, and the swing member 321 supports the connecting member 322 in the x direction.

[0131] Figure 18 This is a partial exploded view of another hinge assembly provided by the embodiment of the present application.

[0132] Refer toFigure 18 As shown, a connecting portion 3223 is provided on the third side wall 3222c. The first rotating portion 3212 on the second end 321b of the swinging member 321 and the connecting portion 3223 can be rotatably connected through a first pin shaft 325, so that the swinging member 321 and the connecting member 322 are rotatably connected.

[0133] Specifically, the first rotating portion 3212 may include a first rotating arm 3212a and a second rotating arm 3212b. There is a gap between the first rotating arm 3212a and the second rotating arm 3212b. A first avoiding hole and a second avoiding hole are formed on the third side wall 3222c. The connecting portion 3223 is located on the outer wall surface of the third side wall 3222c, and the connecting portion 3223 is located between the first avoiding hole and the second avoiding hole.

[0134] Among them, the first rotating arm 3212a may have a first connecting hole, the second rotating arm 3212b may have a second connecting hole, and a third connecting hole is formed on the connecting portion 3223. When the swinging member 321 is arranged on the assembly groove 3222 through the first rotating portion 3212, after the first rotating arm 3212a and the second rotating arm 3212b respectively pass through the first avoiding hole and the second avoiding hole, the first pin shaft 325 is sequentially inserted into the first connecting hole, the second connecting hole and the third connecting hole, so that the first rotating arm 3212a and the second rotating arm 3212b are rotatably connected to the connecting portion 3223 through the first pin shaft 325, and further the swinging member 321 and the connecting member 322 are rotatably connected. In this way, the connection position between the second end of the swinging member 321 and the connecting member 322 is farther away from the main shaft mechanism 31, which helps to further reduce the total connection length of the connecting member 322 and the swinging member 321 in the x direction, reduce the width of the hinge assembly 30, and contribute to the thinning design of the electronic device 100.

[0135] Figure 18a It is a partial structural schematic diagram of a hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application. Figure 19 It is a partial disassembled schematic diagram of another hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application. Figure 19a It is an enlarged partial structural diagram of the cooperation between a linkage and a connecting member provided by an embodiment of the present application. Figure 19b It is a schematic diagram of the back structure of a linkage provided by an embodiment of the present application. Figure 19c It is a partial sectional structural schematic diagram of a hinge assembly at the linkage and the connecting member provided by an embodiment of the present application. Figure 20 It is a schematic diagram of the front structure of a linkage provided by an embodiment of the present application. Figure 21 It is a sectional structural schematic diagram of a hinge assembly at the linkage provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0136] In the embodiment of the present application, refer to Figure 18aAs shown, each rotating mechanism further includes at least one linkage 323. The number of linkages 323 in each rotating mechanism can be one, or can also be multiple. The number of linkages 323 can be the same as the number of connecting members 322 or the number of swinging members 321. For example, when the number of connecting members 322 is three (refer to Figure 5 shown), the number of linkages 323 can also be three.

[0137] Combined with Figure 19 shown, one end of the linkage 323 is connected to the connecting member 322, and the other end of the linkage 323 is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism 31. Specifically, a coordination groove 3226 can be formed on the connecting member 322. The coordination groove 3226 extends from one end of the connecting member 322 facing the main shaft mechanism 31 to the other end of the connecting member 322 facing away from the main shaft mechanism 31. One end of the linkage 323 can be inserted into the coordination groove 3226, so that the connecting member 322 is connected to the linkage 323. When the connecting member 322 rotates relative to the main shaft mechanism 31, it drives the linkage 323 to rotate relative to the main shaft mechanism 31. One end of the linkage 323 is arranged in the coordination groove 3226 by insertion, which is convenient for disassembly and installation and easy to achieve.

[0138] Specifically, combined with Figure 19a and Figure 19b shown, on both outer walls on one side of one end of the linkage 323, insertion members 323a can be provided. On opposite side walls of the coordination groove 3226, there are insertion grooves 3226a. Combined with Figure 19a and Figure 19c shown, the insertion members 323a can be inserted into the insertion grooves 3226a. One end of the linkage 323 can be connected to the connecting member 322 through the insertion fit between the insertion members 323a and the insertion grooves 3226a.

[0139] Since the coordination groove 3226 runs through the width direction (x direction) of the connecting member 322, the side of the linkage 323 facing away from the main shaft mechanism 31 can be located on the end of the connecting member 322 facing away from the main shaft mechanism 31. In this way, while realizing the connection between the linkage 323 and the connecting member 322, the connection strength between the linkage 323 and the connecting member 322 can also be enhanced, and the total length between the linkage 323 and the connecting member 322 in the x direction can be reduced, which helps to reduce the width of the hinge assembly 30 and is conducive to the thin and light design of the electronic device 100.

[0140] See Figure 20 shown, on the other end of the linkage 323, there can be a gear portion 3231. Combined with Figure 21 shown, the gear portion 3231 can be rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism 31 through a rotating shaft 327.

[0141] Among them, two linkage members 323 located in two rotating mechanisms are rotationally connected through a main shaft mechanism 31. For example, referring to Figure 21 as shown, taking the linkage member in the first rotating mechanism 32a as the first linkage member 3230a and the linkage member in the second rotating mechanism 32b as the second linkage member 323b, the first linkage member 3230a and the second linkage member 323b are rotationally connected through the main shaft mechanism 31. When the first middle frame 10 is rotated, the connecting member 322a in the first rotating mechanism 32a driven by the first middle frame 10 rotates, and the connecting member 322a drives the first linkage member 3230a to rotate relative to the main shaft mechanism 31. Further, the first linkage member 3230a drives the second linkage member 323b to rotate relative to the main shaft mechanism 31. The second linkage member 323b can drive the second middle frame 20 to rotate through the connecting member 322b in the second rotating mechanism 32b, realizing the linkage between the first middle frame 10 and the second middle frame 20, and enabling the first middle frame 10 and the second middle frame 20 to rotate synchronously. In this way, when unfolding or folding the electronic device 100, only by driving the middle frame on one side to rotate can the middle frame on the other side be driven to rotate, realizing the folding or unfolding of the electronic device 100, with more convenient operation and helping to improve the user experience.

[0142] Specifically, referring to Figure 21 as shown, a gear assembly 314 can be arranged inside the main shaft mechanism 31, and the gear portion 3231 of the linkage member 323 can be meshed with the gear assembly 314. When the first linkage member 3230a rotates relative to the main shaft mechanism 31, the first linkage member 3230a drives the gear assembly 314 to rotate through the gear portion 3231, and further drives the second linkage member 323b to rotate through the gear assembly 314.

[0143] Among them, as Figure 21 shown, a tooth structure 3231a can be provided only on a part of the outer surface of the gear portion 3231 of the linkage member 323. Or, in some examples, a tooth structure can also be provided on the outer surface of the entire gear portion 3231.

[0144] Figure 22 is a partial exploded view of another hinge assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application, Figure 23 is an assembly view of a support member and a linkage member provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0145] In the embodiment of the present application, referring to Figure 22 as shown, each rotating mechanism further includes a support member 324, and one end of the support member 324 is arranged adjacent to the main shaft mechanism 31 (refer to Figure 8 as shown). Among them, the support member 324 can be located on the side of the swing member 321 and the linkage member 323 adjacent to the flexible display screen 40, and the connecting member 322 is located at one end of the support member 324 facing away from the main shaft mechanism 31.

[0146] The connecting member 322 is rotatably connected to the supporting member 324. When the connecting member 322 rotates, the connecting member 322 first rotates relative to the supporting member 324, and then drives the supporting member 324 to rotate relative to the main shaft mechanism 31. The connecting member 322, the swinging member 321 and the supporting member 324 jointly form a screen accommodating space 33 for accommodating the flexible display screen 40 (refer to Figure 13 as shown).

[0147] The supporting member 324 can be a supporting door panel, and the supporting door panel extends along the axial direction of the main shaft mechanism 31. Each rotating mechanism can include a supporting member 324. The supporting member 324 can be an integral supporting door panel, or the supporting member 324 can also be formed by splicing a plurality of door panels.

[0148] Specifically, refer to Figure 22 as shown. A plurality of arc-shaped guide members 3241 can be arranged on the supporting member 324. Arc-shaped guide grooves 3227 are formed at both ends of the connecting member 322. The arc-shaped guide members 3241 can be inserted into the arc-shaped guide grooves 3227 and slide along the arc-shaped guide grooves 3227, so that the arc-shaped guide members 3241 and the arc-shaped guide grooves 3227 achieve rotational cooperation, and further the supporting member 324 and the connecting member 322 are rotatably connected through the cooperation of the arc-shaped guide members 3241 and the arc-shaped guide grooves 3227.

[0149] Among them, the linkage member 323 and the supporting member 324 can be rotatably connected, which can reduce the movement redundancy of the supporting member 324, thereby reducing the setting gap and virtual position of the supporting member 324, further reducing the connection gap and virtual position in the hinge assembly 30, and improving the reliability of the electronic device 100.

[0150] Refer to Figure 22 and Figure 23 as shown. An arc-shaped track groove 3242 can be arranged on the supporting member 324. The second pin shaft 326 can be inserted into the arc-shaped track groove 3242 and move along the arc-shaped track groove 3242, and the linkage member 323 can be connected to the second pin shaft 326, so that the linkage member 323 and the supporting member 324 can be rotatably connected through the cooperation of the second pin shaft 326 and the arc-shaped track groove 3242.

[0151] Specifically, one end of the linkage member 323 can include a first connecting arm 3232a and a second connecting arm 3232b, and there is a gap between the first connecting arm 3232a and the second connecting arm 3232b. Refer to Figure 23As shown, the arc-shaped track groove 3242 is located between the first connecting arm 3232a and the second connecting arm 3232b. Fourth connecting holes are respectively provided on the first connecting arm 3232a and the second connecting arm 3232b. The middle section of the second pin shaft 326 is inserted into the arc-shaped track groove 3242, and both ends of the second pin shaft 326 are respectively inserted into the fourth connecting holes. Thus, the rotating connection between the linkage member 323 and the support member 324 is realized through the second pin shaft 326 and the arc-shaped track groove 3242, which is convenient to achieve and is also convenient for disassembly and installation.

[0152] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, it should be noted that unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms "installation", "connection", and "linkage" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, it can be a fixed connection, or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or the communication inside two components or the interaction relationship between two components. For those of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in the embodiments of the present application can be understood according to specific situations.

[0153] The devices or components indicated in the embodiments of the present application or implied must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, so it cannot be understood as a limitation to the embodiments of the present application. In the description of the embodiments of the present application, the meaning of "a plurality" is two or more, unless otherwise precisely and specifically defined.

[0154] The terms "first", "second", "third", "fourth", etc. (if any) in the description of the specification, claims, and the above drawings of the embodiments of the present application are used to distinguish similar objects, and do not necessarily need to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such used data can be interchanged under appropriate circumstances, so that the embodiments of the present application described here, for example, can be implemented in an order other than those illustrated or described here. In addition, the terms "including" and "having" and any variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or device that includes a series of steps or units does not necessarily have to be limited to those steps or units clearly listed, but may include other steps or units not clearly listed or inherent to these processes, methods, products, or devices.

[0155] Finally, it should be noted that: the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, rather than to limit them; although the technical solutions of the present application have been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those of ordinary skill in the art should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions recorded in the foregoing embodiments, or perform equivalent replacements on some or all of the technical features; and these modifications or replacements do not make the essence of the corresponding technical solutions deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application.

Claims

1. A foldable electronic device, characterized in that, Comprising: A flexible display screen (40), a hinge assembly (30), and two middle frames located on both sides of the hinge assembly (30). The two middle frames are rotatably connected by the hinge assembly (30), and the flexible display screen (40) is laid on the hinge assembly (30) and the middle frames; The hinge assembly (30) includes a main shaft mechanism (31) and two rotating mechanisms located on both sides of the main shaft mechanism (31). The two rotating mechanisms are respectively rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism (31); Each rotating mechanism includes at least one swinging member (321) and at least one connecting member (322). The first end of the swinging member (321) is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism (31), the second end of the swinging member (321) is rotatably connected to the connecting member (322), and the connecting member (322) is connected to the middle frame; A chute (3221) is provided on the connecting member (322). The notch of the chute (3221) faces the flexible display screen (40), and the chute (3221) extends from the side of the connecting member (322) facing the flexible display screen (40) towards the side of the connecting member (322) facing away from the flexible display screen (40); A sliding member (3211) cooperating with the chute (3221) is provided on the swinging member (321), and the side of the sliding member (3211) facing away from the main shaft mechanism (31) abuts against the inner wall of the chute (3221); When the electronic device is in a flattened state, the sliding member (3211) is partially located in the chute (3221) through the notch; When the electronic device is being folded, the sliding member (3211) slides along the extending direction of the chute (3221), and when the electronic device is in a folded state, the sliding member (3211) is embedded in the chute (3221).

2. The foldable electronic device according to claim 1, wherein The second end is connected to one end of the connecting member (322) facing away from the main shaft mechanism (31); Two opposite chutes (3221) are provided on the surface of the connecting member (322) facing the flexible display screen (40), and sliding members (3211) are provided on the end faces on both sides of the second end; 3. The foldable electronic device according to claim 2, wherein An assembly groove (3222) is formed on the surface of the connecting member (322) facing the flexible display screen (40). The assembly groove (3222) at least includes opposite first side walls (3222a) and second side walls (3222b), and the chutes (3221) are respectively formed on the first side wall (3222a) and the second side wall (3222b); The assembly groove (3222) further includes a third side wall (3222c) adjacent to the first side wall (3222a) and the second side wall (3222b). The third side wall (3222c) is located at one end of the connecting member (322) facing away from the main shaft mechanism (31). The second end is rotatably provided on the third side wall (3222c), and the end faces on both sides of the second end are respectively abutted against the first side wall (3222a) and the second side wall (3222b).

4. The foldable electronic device according to claim 3, wherein It further includes a first pin shaft (325). The second end is provided with a first rotating portion (3212), and the third side wall (3222c) is provided with a connecting portion (3223). The first rotating portion (3212) and the connecting portion (3223) are rotatably connected by the first pin shaft (325).

5. The foldable electronic device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first rotating portion (3212) includes a first rotating arm (3212a) and a second rotating arm (3212b), and there is a gap between the first rotating arm (3212a) and the second rotating arm (3212b); A first avoidance hole and a second avoidance hole are formed on the third side wall (3222c). The connecting portion (3223) is located on the outer wall surface of the third side wall (3222c), and the connecting portion (3223) is located between the first avoidance hole and the second avoidance hole. The first rotating arm (3212a) and the second rotating arm (3212b) respectively pass through the first avoidance hole and the second avoidance hole, and the first rotating arm (3212a) and the second rotating arm (3212b) are rotatably connected to the connecting portion (3223) by the first pin shaft (325).

6. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, One side surface of the sliding member (3211) facing away from the main shaft mechanism (31) forms an abutting surface (3211a), and one side side wall surface of the sliding groove (3221) facing away from the main shaft mechanism (31) abuts against the abutting surface (3211a); Both the abutting surface (3211a) and the side wall surface are arc-shaped surfaces, and the shape of the side wall surface matches that of the abutting surface (3211a).

7. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The sliding member (3211) is a wedge-shaped block, and the thin end of the wedge-shaped block is arranged adjacent to the bottom of the sliding groove (3221).

8. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The first end is provided with a second rotating portion (3213). Arc surfaces (3213a) are provided on the outer edges on both sides of the second rotating portion (3213). An arc portion (313) that is rotationally matched with the arc surfaces (3213a) is provided in the main shaft mechanism (31). The swinging member (321) is rotationally connected to the main shaft mechanism (31) through the second rotating portion (3213).

9. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, Each of the rotating mechanisms further includes at least one linkage member (323); One end of the linkage member (323) is connected to the connecting member (322), the other end of the linkage member (323) is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism (31), and the two linkage members (323) in the two rotation mechanisms are rotatably connected through the main shaft mechanism (31), so that when one linkage member (323) rotates relative to the main shaft mechanism (31), it drives the other linkage member (323) to rotate relative to the main shaft mechanism (31).

10. The foldable electronic device according to claim 9, wherein, A coordination groove (3226) is formed in the connecting member (322), the coordination groove (3226) extends from one end of the connecting member (322) facing the main shaft mechanism (31) to the other end of the connecting member (322) facing away from the main shaft mechanism (31), and one end of the linkage member (323) is inserted into the coordination groove (3226).

11. The foldable electronic device according to claim 9, wherein, The main shaft mechanism (31) includes a gear assembly (314), a gear portion (3231) is provided on the other end of the linkage member (323), the gear portion (3231) is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism (31), and the gear portion (3231) meshes with the gear assembly (314).

12. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, Each rotation mechanism further includes a support member (324), one end of the support member (324) is arranged adjacent to the main shaft mechanism (31), the connecting member (322) is located on the other end of the support member (324) facing away from the main shaft mechanism (31), and the connecting member (322) is rotatably connected to the support member (324).

13. The foldable electronic device according to claim 12, wherein, An arc-shaped guide rail member (3241) is arranged on the support member (324), arc-shaped guide rail grooves (3227) are formed at both ends of the connecting member (322), the arc-shaped guide rail member (3241) is in rotational cooperation with the arc-shaped guide rail grooves (3227), and the support member (324) and the connecting member (322) are rotatably connected through the cooperation of the arc-shaped guide rail grooves (3227) and the arc-shaped guide rail member (3241).

14. The foldable electronic device according to claim 12, wherein, The rotation mechanism further includes at least one linkage member (323), one end of the linkage member (323) is connected to the connecting member (322), the other end of the linkage member (323) is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism (31), and the two linkage members (323) in the two rotation mechanisms are rotatably connected through the main shaft mechanism (31), so that when one linkage member (323) rotates relative to the main shaft mechanism (31), it drives the other linkage member (323) to rotate relative to the main shaft mechanism (31); The linkage member (323) is rotatably connected to the support member (324).

15. The foldable electronic device according to claim 14, wherein, It further includes a second pin shaft (326), an arc-shaped track groove (3242) is arranged on the support member (324), the second pin shaft (326) is inserted into the arc-shaped track groove (3242) and moves along the arc-shaped track groove (3242), and the second pin shaft (326) is connected to the linkage member (323).

Citation Information

Patent Citations

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