Hinges and foldable electronic devices

Abstract

This disclosure relates to a hinged and foldable electronic device, wherein a damping mechanism includes a chamber, a movable sealing element, and a power structure. At least a portion of the movable sealing element is located within the chamber and encloses the inner wall of the chamber to form a damping fluid cavity. A damping fluid outlet is provided on the chamber and / or the movable sealing element, communicating with the damping fluid cavity. The power structure abuts against the movable sealing element and is configured to drive the movable sealing element to move relative to the chamber, thereby changing the volume of the damping fluid cavity. The damping fluid outlet restricts the flow velocity of the damping fluid, thereby providing damping force to the movement of the power structure, enabling the power structure to move smoothly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of electronic devices, and more particularly to a hinge and folding electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of science and technology, foldable electronic devices have been widely used. In order to achieve their foldable form, hinges are usually set in foldable electronic devices to switch between unfolded and folded forms.

[0003] However, the aforementioned foldable electronic devices have a poor feel when switching between forms and a short lifespan. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To overcome the problems existing in the related technologies, this disclosure provides a hinge and a foldable electronic device.

[0005] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, a hinge is provided, including an intermediate support and a rotating connecting member rotatably connected to the intermediate support. The rotating connecting member includes a damping mechanism as described above, the damping mechanism being used to provide rotational damping force when the rotating connecting member rotates relative to the intermediate support. The damping mechanism includes a chamber, a movable sealing element, and a power structure.

[0006] At least a portion of the structure of the movable sealing member is located within the cavity and encloses the inner wall of the cavity to form a damped fluid cavity;

[0007] The chamber and / or the movable sealing member are provided with a damping fluid flow port, which is connected to the damping fluid cavity;

[0008] The power structure abuts against the movable sealing member, and the power structure is configured to drive the movable sealing member to move relative to the chamber, thereby changing the volume of the damping fluid cavity.

[0009] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the movable plugging member is slidably engaged with the chamber so that the movable plugging member can slide along the extension direction of the chamber.

[0010] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the flow area of ​​the damping fluid outlet is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the damping fluid cavity.

[0011] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the chamber is provided with at least one opening, the power structure includes a transmission member, the transmission member is provided with a first rotating connection portion, the transmission member is rotatable about the rotation axis of the first rotating connection portion, and the first end of the transmission member in the rotation direction is connected to the movable sealing member through the opening.

[0012] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the first end of the transmission member in the rotation direction abuts against one end of the movable sealing member to apply pressure along the first direction to the movable sealing member;

[0013] The power structure also includes an elastic reset member disposed in the cavity, the elastic reset member abutting against the other end of the movable sealing member, and the elastic reset member being used to apply pressure to the movable sealing member in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0014] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the movable sealing member includes: a sealing part and a guide rod part connected to the sealing part, both the sealing part and the guide rod part being located within the cavity, and the sealing part being sealed to the cavity; a stepped surface is provided at the connection between the sealing part and the guide rod part, the first end of the transmission member abuts against the sealing part, and the elastic reset member is sleeved on the guide rod part and abuts against the stepped surface.

[0015] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the damping mechanism further includes a fixed seat, the fixed seat including a fixed seat body forming the cavity, and the fixed seat further including a second rotatable connection portion located on one side of the fixed seat body, the first rotatable connection portion cooperating with the second rotatable connection portion to rotatably connect the transmission member to the fixed seat.

[0016] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the fixed base is provided with a guide portion, and the power structure further includes a driving member that slides with the guide portion, the driving member being connected to the second end of the transmission member in the rotation direction.

[0017] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the transmission member has a first rotational position and a second rotational position, wherein the volume of the damping fluid cavity corresponding to the first rotational position is greater than the volume of the damping fluid cavity corresponding to the second rotational position.

[0018] The driving component includes a driving part, which includes a first mating surface and a second mating surface that are connected and arranged at an angle. The second end of the transmission component in the direction of rotation is adapted to the first mating surface and the second mating surface.

[0019] When the transmission member is in the first rotational position, the second end of the transmission member in the rotational direction engages with the first mating surface; when the transmission member is in the second rotational position, the second end of the transmission member in the rotational direction engages with the second mating surface; or, the driving unit is connected to the transmission member through a first connecting rod to drive the transmission member to rotate between the first rotational position and the second rotational position.

[0020] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the second end of the transmission member in the direction of rotation is provided with a roller or a transition structure adapted to the first mating surface and the second mating surface.

[0021] In some embodiments of this disclosure, openings are provided at both ends of the chamber, a movable sealing member is provided at each opening, and a transmission member is provided for each movable sealing member;

[0022] Two second rotating connecting parts are provided at intervals, each cooperating with the first rotating connecting parts of the two transmission components. The guide part is provided between the two second rotating connecting parts, and the driving component is connected to the second end of the two transmission components respectively.

[0023] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the guide portion includes: a protruding structure extending from the fixed base body toward a side away from the chamber, the cross-sectional shape of the protruding structure being I-shaped, the protruding structure including two limiting plate portions and a guide strip located between the two limiting plate portions and connecting the two limiting plate portions;

[0024] The driving part of the driving component is provided with a guide groove;

[0025] Part of the drive unit is located between the two limiting plates, and the guide strip slides in conjunction with the guide groove.

[0026] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the driving part is provided with a groove adapted to the limiting plate part, and the limiting plate part slides in conjunction with the groove.

[0027] In some embodiments of this disclosure, two second rotating connecting portions are provided at intervals, and the protruding structure is located between the two second rotating connecting portions and / or on one side of one of the second rotating connecting portions.

[0028] In some embodiments of this disclosure, a sealing structure is provided between the movable sealing member and the inner wall surface of the chamber.

[0029] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the rotating connection component includes a second link, the second link including a third rotating connection portion rotatably connected to the intermediate support, a fourth rotating connection portion rotatably connected to the fixed seat of the damping mechanism, and a connecting rod portion connecting the third rotating connection portion and the fourth rotating connection portion;

[0030] In the direction of the rotation axis of the third rotating connection, the third rotating connection is offset from the fourth rotating connection, and the third rotating connection is closer to the chamber than the fourth rotating connection.

[0031] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the connecting rod portion is constructed as a bent or curved structure.

[0032] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the fixed base is provided with a connecting rod connection part, the connecting rod connection part is arranged side by side with the chamber, and the fourth rotating connection part is rotatably connected to the connecting rod connection part.

[0033] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the driving component of the damping mechanism includes a fifth rotating connection portion, which is rotatably connected to the intermediate support, and the fifth rotating connection portion is connected to the driving portion of the driving component through a bending structure.

[0034] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, a foldable electronic device is provided, including a foldable screen and at least one hinge as described above.

[0035] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the foldable electronic device includes a first middle frame and a second middle frame, the foldable screen is disposed on the first middle frame and the second middle frame, and the hinge is provided with the rotating connecting component on both sides of the intermediate support.

[0036] The first middle frame is provided with a first mounting groove, and the second middle frame is provided with a second mounting groove. The fixing seats of the rotating connecting components on both sides are respectively provided in the first mounting groove and the second mounting groove.

[0037] The technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this disclosure can include the following beneficial effects: a damping fluid cavity is formed by enclosing a movable sealing member and a chamber, and a damping fluid flow port is provided on the chamber and / or the movable sealing member to communicate with the damping fluid cavity. When the power structure drives the movable sealing member to move to change the volume of the damping fluid cavity, the damping fluid can flow between the damping fluid cavity and the outside through the damping fluid flow port. The damping fluid flow port can limit the flow velocity of the damping fluid, thereby providing damping force to the movement of the power structure, enabling the power structure to move smoothly. When this damping mechanism is applied to the hinge of a foldable electronic device, it can provide damping force when the foldable electronic device changes form, effectively improving the feel, and at the same time, it can avoid the impact on the structure of the foldable electronic device due to excessive force during form changes, thereby improving the service life of the hinge and the foldable electronic device.

[0038] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not intended to limit this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0039] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0040] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of a damping mechanism according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0041] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows the damping mechanism when the transmission component is in the first rotational position.

[0042] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows the damping mechanism when the transmission component is in the intermediate position between the first rotational position and the second rotational position.

[0043] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows the damping mechanism when the transmission component is in the second rotational position.

[0044] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the fixed seat in the damping mechanism shown;

[0045] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a damping mechanism according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0046] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a damping mechanism in a first rotational position, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0047] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a damping mechanism in a second rotational position, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0048] Figure 9 This is a perspective view showing the hinge engaging with the left and right middle frames according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0049] Figure 10 This is a top view illustrating the engagement of the hinge with the left and right middle frames according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0050] Figure 11 This is an exploded view of the hinge, left middle frame, and right middle frame according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0051] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the motion principle of a hinge according to an exemplary embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0052] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description relates to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numerals in different drawings denote the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with the present invention. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of the invention as detailed in the appended claims.

[0053] In related technologies, the hinge of a foldable electronic device typically includes a central support and support parts located on both sides of the central support and rotatably connected to it. Each of the two support parts supports two mid-frames of the foldable electronic device. The support parts and the central support are rotatably connected through the cooperation of a pivot and a shaft hole. To ensure smooth rotation of the pivot, the surface of the pivot and the wall of the shaft hole are made relatively smooth. This results in a poor feel when the foldable electronic device is switched between modes, and if the user applies too much force when switching modes, it can also impact the structure of the foldable electronic device, affecting its lifespan.

[0054] To address the aforementioned technical issues, this disclosure provides a damping mechanism, comprising a damping fluid cavity formed by a movable sealing element and a chamber, and a damping fluid outlet connecting the damping fluid cavity to the outside. When the power structure drives the movable sealing element to move, the damping fluid outlet restricts the flow velocity of the damping fluid, thereby providing damping force to the movement of the power structure and ensuring smooth movement. When this damping mechanism is used in foldable electronic devices, it provides damping force during form switching, effectively improving the feel and preventing excessive force from impacting the structure of the foldable electronic device during form switching, thus extending the service life of the foldable electronic device.

[0055] This disclosure provides a damping mechanism, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the damping mechanism includes a chamber 10, a movable sealing element 20, and a power structure 30. At least a portion of the movable sealing element 20 is located within the chamber 10 and forms a damping fluid cavity with the inner wall of the chamber 10, which is used to contain damping fluid. The chamber 10 and / or the movable sealing element 20 are provided with a damping fluid outlet 11, which communicates with the damping fluid cavity, allowing the damping fluid cavity to exchange damping fluid with the outside environment (the space outside the damping fluid cavity) through the fluid outlet 11.

[0056] The power structure 30 abuts against the movable sealing member 20. The power structure 30 is configured to drive the movable sealing member 20 to move relative to the chamber 10, thereby changing the volume of the damping fluid cavity. For example, the power structure 30 can drive the sealing member 20 to move relative to the chamber 10 to reduce the volume of the damping fluid cavity. In this case, the damping fluid in the damping fluid cavity is compressed and discharged to the outside through the damping fluid outlet 11. As another example, the power structure 30 can drive the sealing member 20 to move relative to the chamber 10 to increase the volume of the damping fluid cavity. In this case, under negative pressure, the damping fluid from the outside enters the damping fluid cavity through the damping fluid outlet 11.

[0057] In the damping mechanism provided in this embodiment, a damping fluid cavity is formed by the movable sealing member 20 and the chamber 10. A damping fluid flow port 11 is provided on the chamber 10 and / or the movable sealing member 20 to communicate with the damping fluid cavity. When the power structure 30 drives the movable sealing member 20 to change the volume of the damping fluid cavity, the damping fluid can flow between the damping fluid cavity and the outside through the damping fluid flow port 11. The damping fluid flow port 11 can limit the flow velocity of the damping fluid, thereby providing damping force to the movement of the power structure 30, enabling the power structure 30 to move smoothly. When this damping mechanism is applied to the hinge of a foldable electronic device, it can provide damping force when the foldable electronic device changes form (see the following description), effectively improving the feel, and at the same time, it can avoid the impact on the structure of the foldable electronic device due to excessive force during form changes, thereby improving the service life of the hinge and the foldable electronic device.

[0058] It is understood that the movable sealing member 20 may be partially located within the chamber 10, or it may be completely located within the chamber 10, or it may move between a position completely located within the chamber 10 and a position partially located within the chamber 10 under the drive of the power structure 30. This disclosure does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0059] According to an exemplary embodiment, such as Figure 1 As shown, the chamber 10 has an elongated structure. Here, an elongated structure refers to a structure where the dimension along one direction (i.e., the extension direction) is larger than the dimensions in other directions, such as a cylindrical structure. It is understood that this "one direction" can be a straight line or a curve, and this disclosure does not limit this. The movable sealing member 20 slides with the chamber 10, allowing the movable sealing member 20 to slide along the extension direction of the chamber 10. For example, as... Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the movable sealing member 20 includes a sealing portion 21 adapted to the shape of the chamber 10. The sealing portion 21 can slide along the extending direction of the chamber 10, so that the sealing portion 21 and the inner wall surface of the chamber 10 enclose an elongated damping fluid cavity. When the sealing portion 21 slides along the extending direction of the chamber 10, the length of the elongated damping fluid cavity can be changed, thereby changing the volume of the damping fluid cavity.

[0060] For example, the chamber 10 has a structure with equal cross-sectional area at all locations, thereby ensuring that the volume of the damping fluid cavity changes approximately linearly when the movable plug 20 moves, so as to provide uniform damping force to the power structure 30.

[0061] In one embodiment, a sealing structure is provided between the movable sealing member 20 and the inner wall surface of the chamber 10, thereby ensuring the airtightness between the movable sealing member 20 and the inner wall surface of the chamber 10 during the movement of the movable sealing member 20, so that the damping fluid can only flow from the damping fluid flow port 11, thereby using the damping fluid flow port 11 to limit the flow velocity of the damping fluid and prevent the damping fluid from leaking between the movable sealing member 20 and the inner wall surface of the chamber 10.

[0062] For example, such as Figure 2 As shown, an annular groove is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the sealing part 21, and the sealing structure includes a sealing ring 40 disposed in the annular groove. The outer peripheral surface of the sealing ring 40 is in contact with the inner wall surface of the chamber 10, thereby achieving a seal between the movable sealing part 20 and the inner wall surface of the chamber 10.

[0063] The flow area of ​​the damping fluid inlet 11 is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the damping fluid cavity. Here, the flow area of ​​the damping fluid inlet 11 refers to the area of ​​the cross-section of the damping fluid inlet 11 perpendicular to the flow direction of the damping fluid. Because the flow area of ​​the damping fluid inlet 11 is small, the flow rate of the damping fluid at the damping fluid inlet 11 is restricted when the sealing part 21 slides along the extension direction of the chamber 10, thereby damping and delaying the movement of the sealing part 21.

[0064] In one embodiment, the damping fluid flow port 11 is disposed on the movable sealing member 20. When the movable sealing member 20 moves, the damping fluid flows between the damping fluid cavity and the outside through the damping fluid flow port 11 on the movable sealing member 20. In other embodiments, the damping fluid flow port 11 is disposed on the chamber 10, for example, as shown in the figure. Figure 1 As shown, it is positioned at the middle of the extending direction of the chamber 10. Of course, it is understandable that both the movable sealing member 20 and the chamber 10 may be provided with damping fluid flow ports 11, and this disclosure does not limit this.

[0065] In one exemplary embodiment, the chamber 10 is provided with an opening 12 through which a movable sealing member 20 can be inserted into the chamber. In an embodiment where the chamber 10 has an elongated structure, the opening 12 may be provided at one end of the chamber 10, and a corresponding movable sealing member 20 may be provided. The movable sealing member 20 is inserted into the chamber 10 through the opening 12, and the other end of the chamber 10 is closed. The movable sealing member 20 moves toward the closed end of the chamber 10 to reduce the volume of the damping fluid cavity, and moves away from the closed end to increase the volume of the damping fluid cavity.

[0066] In other embodiments, opening 12 may also be as follows: Figure 1 As shown, two movable sealing members 20 are respectively arranged at both ends of the chamber 10. The two movable sealing members 20 are inserted into the chamber 10 through the openings 12 at both ends of the chamber 10. The movement of the two movable sealing members 20 towards each other (refer to...) Figure 3 and Figure 4 The volume of the damping fluid cavity is reduced by the movement of the two movable sealing elements 20 away from each other to increase the volume of the damping fluid cavity.

[0067] The power structure 30 includes a transmission member 31, which has a first rotating connection portion (described in detail later). The transmission member 31 is rotatable about the axis of the first rotating connection portion. The first end 311 of the transmission member 31 in the rotational direction is connected to the movable sealing member 20 via an opening 12, and the second end 312 of the transmission member 31 in the rotational direction is the force-bearing end. Thus, when the second end 312 of the transmission member 31 is subjected to force, the transmission member 31 rotates about the axis of the first rotating connection portion, causing the first end 311 of the transmission member 31 to drive the movable sealing member 20 to move. Exemplarily, the transmission member 31 has the following characteristics: Figure 2 The first rotational position shown and as Figure 4 The second rotational position shown in the figure indicates that, in the first rotational position, the damping fluid cavity has a larger volume, such as... Figure 3 As shown, when the transmission member 31 rotates from the first rotational position to the second rotational position, the first end 311 of the transmission member 31 pushes the movable sealing member 20 to move, thereby squeezing the damping fluid in the damping fluid cavity. The damping fluid is discharged through the damping fluid outlet 11, as shown. Figure 4 As shown, when the transmission component rotates to the second rotation position, the volume of the damping fluid cavity decreases.

[0068] The first end 311 is connected to the movable sealing member 20 through the opening 12. This connection can be either the movable sealing member 20 is located inside the chamber 10, with the first end 311 passing through the opening 12 and connected to it, or a portion of the movable sealing member 20 is exposed through the opening 12, with the first end 311 connected to the exposed portion of the movable sealing member 20. The connection between the first end 311 and the movable sealing member 20 can be either mutual abutment or a flexible connection formed by rotation or other means.

[0069] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the first end 311 of the transmission member 31 in the rotation direction abuts against the movable sealing member 20 to apply pressure along the first direction to the movable sealing member 20. For example, when the second end of the transmission member 31 in the first rotation position is subjected to force, the transmission member 31 rotates to the second rotation position to push the movable sealing member 20 to move, thereby changing the volume of the damping fluid cavity. In this embodiment, since the transmission member 31 and the movable sealing member 20 are in contact, the transmission member 31 cannot drive the movable sealing member 20 to move together when it moves from the second rotation position to the first rotation position. Therefore, the power structure 30 also includes an elastic reset member 33 disposed in the chamber 10. The elastic reset member 33 is used to apply pressure in the second direction opposite to the first direction to the movable sealing member 20, thereby using the elastic reset member 33 to push the movable sealing member 20 to reset.

[0070] Exemplarily, the movable sealing member 20 includes a guide rod portion 22 located within the chamber 10. The guide rod portion 22 is connected to the inner side of the sealing portion 21, and the sealing portion 21 is sealed to the chamber 10. A stepped surface is provided at the connection between the sealing portion 21 and the guide rod portion 22. For example, the sealing portion 21 and the guide rod portion 22 form a stepped shaft, and the stepped surface of the stepped shaft constitutes a stepped surface. The first end 311 of the transmission member 31 abuts against the sealing portion 21, and the elastic reset member 33 is sleeved on the guide rod portion 22 and abuts against the stepped surface. Thus, when the transmission member 31 drives the movable sealing member 20 to move, the guide rod portion 22 guides and limits the movement of the elastic reset member 33, ensuring the smoothness of its movement. The elastic reset member 33 can be, for example, a coil spring.

[0071] In one embodiment, the free end of the guide rod portion 22 is provided with a guide structure for guiding the insertion of the elastic reset member 33, thereby facilitating the insertion of the elastic reset member 33. For example, the free end of the guide rod portion 22 is a frustum-shaped or hemispherical structure.

[0072] In other embodiments, the transmission member 31 is rotatably connected to the movable sealing member 20, thereby enabling the transmission member 31 to drive the movable sealing member 20 to move synchronously. For example, when the transmission member 31 rotates from the first rotational position to the second rotational position, it can drive the movable sealing member 20 to compress the damping fluid cavity, and when the transmission member 31 rotates from the second rotational position to the first rotational position, it can drive the movable sealing member 20 to move in the opposite direction to increase the damping fluid cavity. In other embodiments, the transmission member 31 can also be connected to the movable sealing member 20 using other flexible connection methods, for example, the transmission member 31 can be connected to the movable sealing member 20 through a telescopic bellows.

[0073] According to one exemplary embodiment, the damping mechanism further includes a fixed base 60, referenced to Figure 5 The fixed base 60 includes a fixed base body 64, which forms a cavity 10. The fixed base 60 also includes a second rotating connection part located on one side of the cavity 10. The first rotating connection part cooperates with the second rotating connection part to enable the transmission member 31 to be rotatably connected to the fixed base 60. By using the fixed base 60, both the cavity 10 can be formed and the rotatable connection with the transmission member 31 can be achieved, resulting in a simpler and more compact structure.

[0074] For example, such as Figure 5 As shown, the fixing base body 64 has an elongated block structure, and a through hole extending along its extension direction is provided inside the elongated block structure. Thus, the elongated block structure with the through hole constitutes the aforementioned chamber 10. The second rotating connection part includes two first limiting plate parts 61 extending from one side of the fixing base body 64 and spaced apart. Each of the two first limiting plate parts 61 is provided with a first pin hole 611. Figure 1 As shown, the first rotating connection part includes a connecting plate part 313 and a second pin hole (not shown in the figure) provided on the connecting plate part 313. In the assembled state, the connecting plate part 313 is located between the two first limiting plate parts 61, the first pin hole 611 and the second pin hole are correspondingly provided, and the pin 314 passes through the first pin hole 611 and the second pin hole, thereby realizing the rotating connection between the transmission member 31 and the fixed seat 60.

[0075] In other embodiments, the first rotating connection part can also be a rotating shaft provided on the transmission member 31, and the second rotating connection part is a rotating shaft hole with an opening on one side provided on the fixed base 60. The rotating shaft on the transmission member 31 can be inserted into the rotating shaft hole through the opening, which can also realize the rotating connection between the transmission member 31 and the fixed base 60.

[0076] In one exemplary embodiment, a guide portion 62 is provided on the fixed base 60, and the power structure 30 further includes a driving member 32 that slides with the guide portion 62. The driving member 32 is connected to a second end 312 in the rotational direction of the transmission member 31. Exemplarily, the driving member 32 includes a driving portion that slides with the guide portion 62 and is connected to the second end 312 in the rotational direction of the transmission member 31. Thus, the driving member 32 can move along the guide portion 62. Exemplarily, as... Figure 5 As shown, the guide portion 62 and the second rotating connection portion are located on the same side of the chamber 10. The guide portion 62 includes a protruding structure extending from the fixed base body towards the side away from the chamber 10. The cross-sectional shape of the protruding structure is I-shaped. The protruding structure includes two spaced-apart second limiting plate portions 621, and the opposite sides of the two second limiting plate portions 621 are connected by a guide strip 622. Correspondingly, the drive portion is provided with a guide groove 3211. In the assembled state, part of the structure of the drive portion is located between the two second limiting plate portions 621, and the guide strip 622 slides in cooperation with the guide groove 3211. Thus, through the cooperation of the second limiting plate portions 621 and the guide strip 622 with the drive portion, the relative movement of the drive member 32 and the fixed base 60 can be well limited and guided, ensuring the reliability of their relative movement.

[0077] For example, such as Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the drive unit includes a guide plate 321 and a guide groove 3211 disposed on the guide plate 321. In the assembled state, the guide plate 321 is located between two second limiting plates 621, and the guide bar 622 is located in the guide groove 3211 and can slide along the guide groove 3211, thereby realizing the sliding engagement between the guide unit 62 and the drive member 32.

[0078] refer to Figure 2 The driving part of the driving member 32 is provided with a groove 322 that is adapted to the second limiting plate part 621. The bottom wall of the groove 322 constitutes the aforementioned guide plate part 321. In the assembled state, the second limiting plate part 621 is located in the groove 322. Thus, when the guide part 62 and the driving member 32 slide relative to each other, the guide bar 622 slides along the guide groove 3211, and the second limiting plate part 621 slides along the groove 322, thereby improving the smoothness of their sliding.

[0079] In some embodiments, the drive member 32 includes a first mating surface 323 and a second mating surface 324 connected and arranged at an angle. When the transmission member 31 is in a first rotational position, the transmission member 31 engages with the first mating surface 323; when the transmission member 31 is in a second rotational position, the transmission member 31 engages with the second mating surface 324. Because there is an angle between the first mating surface 323 and the second mating surface 324, the transmission member 31 can be maintained in either the first rotational position or the second rotational position.

[0080] For example, such as Figure 2 As shown, the protruding direction of the guide portion 62 is perpendicular to the extending direction of the chamber 10. Both the first mating surface 323 and the second mating surface 324 have an angle with the protruding direction of the guide portion 62, and the second mating surface 324 is positioned closer to the chamber 10 than the first mating surface 323. Figure 1 As shown, the transmission component 31 has a bent structure. A hook is provided at the first end 311 of the transmission component 31. The hook extends into the cavity 10 through the opening 12 and abuts against the movable sealing member 20 inside the cavity 10. For example, the surface of the hook that abuts against the movable sealing member 20 is an arc surface, thereby improving the smoothness of the relative movement between the hook and the movable sealing member 20 when the transmission component 31 rotates. The first rotating connection part is located at the bent position of the transmission component 31, thereby ensuring good torque transmission between the first end 311 and the second end 312 of the transmission component 31. For example, continuing to refer to... Figure 1 The connecting plate portion 313 is formed by protruding from the bent position of the transmission member 31 toward the fixed seat 60.

[0081] The second end 312 of the transmission component 31 abuts against the driving component 32. For example... Figure 2 As shown, when the transmission component 31 is in the first rotational position, the transmission component 31 abuts against the first mating surface 323, as... Figure 3 As shown, when the driving member 32 moves away from the chamber 10 along the guide portion 62, the transmission member 31 slides along the first mating surface 323. The first mating surface 323 lifts the transmission member 31, causing it to rotate in the second rotation direction. After the transmission member 31 passes the sharp angle between the first mating surface 323 and the second mating surface 324, as... Figure 4 As shown, the transmission member 31 abuts against the second mating surface 324, stabilizing the transmission member 31 in the second rotational position. When the driving member 32 moves in the opposite direction along the guide portion 62, the operation process of the transmission member 31 is the reverse of the above process, and will not be described again here.

[0082] To better cooperate with the drive member 32, in some embodiments, the second end 312 of the transmission member 31 is provided with a transition structure adapted to the first mating surface 323 and the second mating surface 324. For example, Figure 2 As shown, the transition structure includes a third mating surface 315 and a fourth mating surface 316 connected and arranged at an angle. When the transmission member 31 is in the first rotational position, the third mating surface 315 of the transmission member 31 is fitted with the first mating surface 323 of the drive member 32. When the transmission member 31 is in the second rotational position, the fourth mating surface 316 of the transmission member 31 is fitted with the second mating surface 324 of the drive member 32, thereby ensuring the positional reliability of the transmission member 31 in the first rotational position and the second rotational position.

[0083] In other embodiments, such as Figure 6 As shown, a roller 317 is provided at the second end 312 of the transmission component 31 in the rotation direction. The roller 317 rolls along the first mating surface 323 and the second mating surface 324 to realize the rotation of the transmission component 31 driven by the drive component 32. Since the roller 317 has rolling friction with the first mating surface 323 and the second mating surface 324, the wear resistance and service life of the damping mechanism can be improved, while also having a good damping function.

[0084] Of course, it is understandable that the second end 312 of the transmission component 31 can also be connected to the drive component 32 via a connecting structure, for example, in Figure 7 and Figure 8 In the illustrated embodiment, the driving member 32 is connected to the transmission member 31 via a first connecting rod 318, thereby driving the transmission member 31 to rotate between a first rotational position and a second rotational position. Exemplarily, one end of the first connecting rod 318 is rotatably connected to the driving member 32, and the other end is rotatably connected to the second end 312 of the transmission member 31. The transmission member 31, the first connecting rod 318, the driving member 32, and the guide portion 62 constitute a crank-slider mechanism. (Reference) Figure 8 As shown, when the driving member 32 slides along the guide portion 62 away from the chamber 10, the driving member 32 drives the transmission member 31 to rotate in the second rotation direction via the first connecting rod 318, so that the movable sealing member 20 compresses the damping fluid cavity. Conversely, when the driving member 32 slides along the guide portion 62 towards the chamber 10, the driving member 32 drives the transmission member 31 to rotate in the first rotation direction via the first connecting rod 318, so that the movable sealing member 20 moves in the opposite direction under the action of the transmission member 31 or the elastic reset member 33 to expand the damping fluid cavity.

[0085] In some embodiments, the chamber 10 has an opening 12 at one end, and a movable sealing member 20 and a transmission member 31 are correspondingly provided. In other embodiments, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the chamber 10 has openings 12 at both ends, and each opening 12 is equipped with a movable sealing member 20. Each movable sealing member 20 is equipped with a corresponding transmission member 31. Accordingly, two second rotating connecting parts are provided at intervals, which respectively cooperate with the first rotating connecting parts of the two transmission members 31. The guide part 62 can be provided between the two second rotating connecting parts, or on one side of one of the second rotating connecting parts, or both between the two second rotating connecting parts and on one side of one of the second rotating connecting parts.

[0086] In the embodiment where the guide portion 62 is disposed between the two second rotating connecting portions, the driving member 32 is connected to the second ends of the two transmission members 31 respectively. This arrangement allows one driving member 32 to synchronously drive the two transmission members 31, resulting in a simpler and more compact structure. For example, as... Figure 4 As shown, the driving part of the driving member 32 has an overall plate-like structure. The groove 322 and the guide groove 3211 are provided in the middle of the driving part. Both sides of the driving part are provided with a combination surface of the first mating surface 323 and the second mating surface 324, so as to cooperate with the transmission members 31 on both sides respectively.

[0087] In one embodiment, guide grooves are provided on both sides of the drive unit. The bottom surface of the guide groove forms a first mating surface 323 and a second mating surface 324. The second end of the transmission member 31 extends into the guide groove and mates with the bottom surface of the guide groove. The provision of guide grooves can further improve the motion reliability between the transmission member 31 and the drive member 32.

[0088] This disclosure also provides a hinge, such as Figures 9 to 11 As shown, the hinge includes a central support 200 and a rotating connecting component rotatably connected to the central support 200. The rotating connecting component includes a damping mechanism as described in the above embodiments. The damping mechanism provides rotational damping force when the rotating connecting component rotates relative to the central support 200, thereby improving the feel of the hinge during rotation and preventing excessive force on the hinge, which could impact its internal structure and extend the hinge's service life. In some embodiments, the rotating connecting component is located on one side of the central support 200; in other embodiments, rotating connecting components are located on both sides of the central support 200.

[0089] In one embodiment, such as Figure 11 As shown, the rotating connection component includes a second link 300. One end of the second link 300 is rotatably connected to the intermediate support 200, and the other end is rotatably connected to the fixed seat 60 of the damping mechanism. The driving member 32 of the damping mechanism is rotatably connected to the intermediate support 200. There is a predetermined distance between the rotation axis of the second link 300 relative to the intermediate support 200 and the rotation axis of the driving member 32 relative to the intermediate support 200. Thus, referring to... Figure 12As shown, the intermediate support 200, the second connecting rod 300, the driving member 32, and the guide portion 62 on the fixed seat 60 form a crank-slider mechanism. When both the second connecting rod 300 and the driving member 32 rotate relative to the intermediate support 200, since there is a predetermined distance between the rotation axis of the second connecting rod 300 relative to the intermediate support 200 and the rotation axis of the driving member 32 relative to the intermediate support 200, and the second connecting rod 300 is rotatably connected to the fixed seat 60, the driving member 32 will slide along the guide portion 62 on the fixed seat 60. As described above, when the driving member 32 slides along the guide portion 62, it will drive the transmission member 31 to rotate, thereby changing the volume of the damping fluid cavity. When the volume of the damping fluid cavity changes, the damping fluid can flow between the damping fluid cavity and the outside through the damping fluid flow port 11. The damping fluid flow port 11 can limit the flow velocity of the damping fluid, thereby providing damping force for the opening and closing action of the hinge.

[0090] In one embodiment, the second link 300 includes a third rotating connection portion 310 rotatably connected to the intermediate support 200, a fourth rotating connection portion 320 rotatably connected to the fixed seat 60 of the damping mechanism, and a connecting rod portion 330 connecting the third rotating connection portion 310 and the fourth rotating connection portion 320. Figure 10 As shown, in the direction of the rotation axis of the third rotating connection 310, the third rotating connection 310 and the fourth rotating connection 320 are offset, and the third rotating connection 310 is closer to the chamber 10 than the fourth rotating connection 320. The damping mechanism has a larger dimension in the direction of the rotation axis of the third rotating connection 310, while the fourth rotating connection 320 needs to be connected to the fixed base 60 and also occupies some space. Therefore, by offsetting the third rotating connection 310 and the fourth rotating connection 320, the transmission torque between the third rotating connection 310 and the fourth rotating connection 320 can be ensured, while making the overall structure of the hinge more compact. For example, the connecting rod portion 330 is constructed as a bent or curved structure to ensure the structural strength of the second connecting rod 300.

[0091] The intermediate support 200 is used to form a rotatable connection with the second connecting rod 300 and the driving member 32 respectively. For example, Figure 11 As shown, the intermediate support 200 includes a support body 210 and a cover 220 that are interlocked. The support body 210 and the cover 220 are fixedly connected, for example, by snap-fit ​​or fastener connection. The two interlock to form a sixth rotating connection part for cooperating with the second connecting rod 300 and a seventh rotating connection part for cooperating with the driving member 32.

[0092] In one embodiment, such as Figure 11As shown, a third rotating connection portion 310 is disposed at one end of the second connecting rod 300. The third rotating connection portion 310 has a convex arc surface and a concave arc surface. The fifth rotating connection portion includes a first columnar groove 221 disposed on the cover 220 for engaging with the convex cylindrical surface, and a columnar protrusion (not shown) disposed on the bracket body 210 for engaging with the concave cylindrical surface. After the cover 220 and the bracket body 210 are fastened together, a space for the third rotating connection portion 310 to rotate is formed between the first columnar groove 221 and the columnar protrusion. Of course, in other embodiments, the third rotating connection portion 310 can also be a rotating shaft, and the sixth rotating connection portion can be a rotating shaft hole adapted to the rotating shaft.

[0093] Continue to refer to Figure 11 The driving component 32 also includes a fifth rotating connection portion 325 connected to the driving part. The fifth rotating connection portion 325 is rotatably connected to the intermediate support 200. The fifth rotating connection portion 325 is connected to the driving part through a bending structure 326. The bending structure 326 causes the driving part to shift outward from the intermediate support 200, thereby forming more accommodating space on the inner side of the driving part when the hinge folds inward. This accommodating space can, for example, accommodate the bending area of ​​the foldable screen. Exemplarily, the fifth rotating connection portion 325 includes a first rotating shaft, and the seventh rotating connection portion includes a second columnar groove 222 disposed on the cover 220 and the support body 210. After the cover 220 and the support body 210 are fastened together, a space is formed between the two second columnar grooves 222 for the first rotating shaft of the driving component 32 to rotate. Of course, in other embodiments, the fifth rotating connection portion 325 can also be a bearing-shaped structure similar to the third rotating connection portion 310, and the cover 220 and the support body 210 can be configured with a corresponding mating structure.

[0094] In one embodiment, such as Figure 5 As shown, the sixth rotating connection includes a connecting rod connection 63 disposed on the fixed base 60. The connecting rod connection 63 is arranged side by side with the chamber 10, and the fourth rotating connection 320 is rotatably connected to the connecting rod connection 63. Exemplarily, the fourth rotating connection 320 includes a second rotating shaft disposed at the other end of the second connecting rod 300. A third pin hole (not shown in the figure) is disposed within the second rotating shaft, and a fourth pin hole 631 is disposed on the connecting rod connection 63. A pin passes through the third pin hole and the fourth pin hole 631, thereby achieving a rotatable connection between the second connecting rod 300 and the fixed base 60. Of course, in other embodiments, two short shafts can be disposed on the connecting rod connection 63. The second rotating shaft 320 can be inserted between the two short shafts, and the two short shafts can be respectively inserted into the third pin hole, thereby using the two short shafts to support the second rotating shaft 320 and simultaneously achieving a rotatable connection between the second connecting rod 300 and the fixed base 60.

[0095] This disclosure also provides a foldable electronic device, including a foldable screen and a hinge as described in the above embodiments. The foldable screen is, for example, a flexible OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) screen, and the hinge enables the folding of the foldable screen. Because the hinge is equipped with a damping mechanism, it provides damping force when the foldable screen switches between a folded state and a flattened state, improving the feel of the foldable electronic device during state switching and preventing excessive force from impacting its internal structure, thereby extending the lifespan of the foldable electronic device.

[0096] For example, such as Figures 9 to 11 As shown, the foldable electronic device includes a first middle frame 400 and a second middle frame 500. The fixing seats 60 on both sides of the hinge's central support 200 are fixedly connected to the first middle frame 400 and the second middle frame 500, respectively. For example, the fixing seats 60 can be fixedly connected to the first middle frame 400 and the second middle frame 500 by welding, screw connection, or other methods. When the foldable electronic device is in a flattened state, the transmission component 31 is in a first rotational position. When the foldable electronic device changes from a flattened state to a folded state, the first middle frame 400 and the second middle frame 500 respectively drive the fixing seats 60 on both sides to rotate relative to each other, causing the driving component 32 to slide relative to the guide portion 62 on the fixing seat 60, thereby driving the transmission component 31 to rotate to a second rotational position. The movable sealing component 20 in contact with the transmission component 31 compresses the damping fluid cavity. The change in the volume of the damping fluid cavity provides damping force to the rotation of the first middle frame 400 and the second middle frame 500, thereby improving the feel of the foldable electronic device when folded.

[0097] Conversely, when the foldable electronic device is unfolded, the first middle frame 400 and the second middle frame 500 drive the fixed seats 60 on both sides to rotate in opposite directions. This causes the driving member 32 to slide in the opposite direction relative to the guide portion 62 on the fixed seat 60, thereby driving the transmission member 31 to rotate to the first rotation position. The movable sealing member 20 can move in the opposite direction under the action of the transmission member 31 or the elastic reset member 33 to expand the volume of the damping fluid cavity. The change in the volume of the damping fluid cavity provides damping force to the rotation of the first middle frame 400 and the second middle frame 500, thereby improving the feel of the foldable electronic device when unfolded. In addition, the damping force provided by the damping mechanism can also prevent the foldable electronic device from being subjected to excessive force during state changes, which could impact its internal structure and thus improve the service life of the foldable electronic device.

[0098] For example, foldable electronic devices can be mobile phones, e-readers, or other electronic devices, and this disclosure does not limit them.

[0099] In one embodiment, a first mounting groove 410 is provided on the first middle frame 400, and a second mounting groove 510 is provided on the second middle frame 500. The fixing seats 60 of the rotating connecting components on both sides are respectively disposed in the first mounting groove 410 and the second mounting groove 510. By providing the first mounting groove 410 and the second mounting groove 510, the fixing seats 60 are offset to the outside of the middle support 200, thereby forming more accommodating space on the inside of the fixing seats 60 when the hinge folds inward. This accommodating space can accommodate the bending area of ​​the foldable screen.

[0100] The hinges provided on the foldable electronic device can be one or more. In some embodiments, the foldable electronic device has a vertically folding structure and includes one hinge. In other embodiments, the foldable electronic device has a horizontally folding structure and includes multiple hinges arranged side by side.

[0101] Other embodiments of the invention will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. This application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention that follow the general principles of the invention and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The specification and examples are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of the invention are indicated by the following claims.

[0102] It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the precise structure described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from its scope. The scope of the invention is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A hinge, characterized in that, It includes an intermediate support and a rotating connection component rotatably connected to the intermediate support. The rotating connection component includes a damping mechanism, which provides a rotational damping force when the rotating connection component rotates relative to the intermediate support. The damping mechanism includes a chamber, a movable sealing element, and a power structure. At least a portion of the structure of the movable sealing member is located within the cavity and encloses the inner wall of the cavity to form a damped fluid cavity; The chamber and / or the movable sealing member are provided with a damping fluid flow port, which is connected to the damping fluid cavity; The power structure abuts against the movable sealing member, and the power structure is configured to drive the movable sealing member to move relative to the chamber, thereby changing the volume of the damping fluid cavity.

2. The hinge according to claim 1, characterized in that, The movable sealing member slides into the chamber so that the movable sealing member can slide along the extension direction of the chamber.

3. The hinge according to claim 2, characterized in that, The flow area of ​​the damping fluid inlet is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the damping fluid cavity.

4. The hinge according to claim 1, characterized in that, The chamber has at least one opening, the power structure includes a transmission component, the transmission component has a first rotating connection part, the transmission component is rotatable about the rotation axis of the first rotating connection part, and the first end of the transmission component in the rotation direction is connected to the movable sealing component through the opening.

5. The hinge according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first end of the transmission component in the rotation direction abuts against one end of the movable sealing component to apply pressure along the first direction to the movable sealing component; The power structure also includes an elastic reset member disposed in the cavity, the elastic reset member abutting against the other end of the movable sealing member, and the elastic reset member being used to apply pressure to the movable sealing member in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

6. The hinge according to claim 5, characterized in that, The movable sealing member includes: a sealing part and a guide rod part connected to the sealing part, both the sealing part and the guide rod part are located in the cavity, and the sealing part is sealed to the cavity; a stepped surface is provided at the connection between the sealing part and the guide rod part, the first end of the transmission member abuts against the sealing part, and the elastic reset member is sleeved on the guide rod part and abuts against the stepped surface.

7. The hinge according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, The damping mechanism further includes a fixed seat, which includes a fixed seat body forming the cavity. The fixed seat also includes a second rotatable connection portion located on one side of the fixed seat body. The first rotatable connection portion cooperates with the second rotatable connection portion to rotatably connect the transmission member to the fixed seat.

8. The hinge according to claim 7, characterized in that, The fixed base is provided with a guide portion, and the power structure further includes a driving component that slides with the guide portion. The driving component is connected to the second end of the transmission component in the rotation direction.

9. The hinge according to claim 8, characterized in that, The transmission component has a first rotational position and a second rotational position, wherein the volume of the damping fluid cavity corresponding to the first rotational position is greater than the volume of the damping fluid cavity corresponding to the second rotational position. The driving component includes a driving part, which includes a first mating surface and a second mating surface that are connected and arranged at an angle. The second end of the transmission component in the direction of rotation is adapted to the first mating surface and the second mating surface. When the transmission component is in the first rotational position, the second end of the transmission component in the rotational direction engages with the first mating surface; when the transmission component is in the second rotational position, the second end of the transmission component in the rotational direction engages with the second mating surface. Alternatively, the drive unit is connected to the transmission component via a first connecting rod to drive the transmission component to rotate between the first rotational position and the second rotational position.

10. The hinge according to claim 9, characterized in that, The second end of the transmission component in the direction of rotation is provided with a roller or a transition structure adapted to the first and second mating surfaces.

11. The hinge according to claim 9, characterized in that, The chamber has openings at both ends, each opening is provided with a movable sealing member, and each movable sealing member is provided with a corresponding transmission member; Two second rotating connecting parts are provided at intervals, each cooperating with the first rotating connecting parts of the two transmission components. The guide part is provided between the two second rotating connecting parts, and the driving part is connected to the second end of the two transmission components respectively.

12. The hinge according to claim 9, characterized in that, The guide portion includes: a protruding structure extending from the fixed base body to the side away from the chamber, the cross-sectional shape of the protruding structure is I-shaped, the protruding structure includes two limiting plate portions and a guide strip located between the two limiting plate portions and connecting the two limiting plate portions; The driving part of the driving component is provided with a guide groove; Part of the drive unit is located between the two limiting plates, and the guide strip slides in conjunction with the guide groove.

13. The hinge according to claim 12, characterized in that, The driving part is provided with a groove that is adapted to the limiting plate part, and the limiting plate part slides in conjunction with the groove.

14. The hinge according to claim 12, characterized in that, The second rotating connection portion is provided in two spaced intervals, and the protruding structure is located between the two second rotating connection portions and / or on one side of one of the second rotating connection portions.

15. The hinge according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, A sealing structure is provided between the movable sealing member and the inner wall surface of the chamber.

16. The hinge according to claim 9, characterized in that, The rotating connection component includes a second connecting rod, the second connecting rod including a third rotating connection part rotatably connected to the intermediate support, a fourth rotating connection part rotatably connected to the fixed seat of the damping mechanism, and a connecting rod part connecting the third rotating connection part and the fourth rotating connection part; In the direction of the rotation axis of the third rotating connection, the third rotating connection is offset from the fourth rotating connection, and the third rotating connection is closer to the chamber than the fourth rotating connection.

17. The hinge according to claim 16, characterized in that, The connecting rod is constructed in a bent or curved shape.

18. The hinge according to claim 16, characterized in that, The fixed base is provided with a connecting rod connection part, which is arranged side by side with the chamber, and the fourth rotating connection part is rotatably connected to the connecting rod connection part.

19. The hinge according to claim 16, characterized in that, The driving component of the damping mechanism includes a fifth rotating connection part, which is rotatably connected to the intermediate support. The fifth rotating connection part is connected to the driving part of the driving component through a bending structure.

20. A foldable electronic device, characterized in that, It includes a foldable screen and at least one hinge as described in any one of claims 1 to 19.

21. The foldable electronic device according to claim 20, characterized in that, The foldable electronic device includes a first middle frame and a second middle frame, the foldable screen is disposed on the first middle frame and the second middle frame, and the hinge is provided with the rotating connecting component on both sides of the middle support. The first middle frame is provided with a first mounting groove, and the second middle frame is provided with a second mounting groove. The fixing seats of the rotating connecting components on both sides are respectively provided in the first mounting groove and the second mounting groove.

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