Opening and closing device and terminal machine applying the same

Abstract

The present application provides an opening and closing device capable of improving its operability and a terminal machine using the same. The opening and closing device is configured to open and close first and second housings of the terminal machine, and includes a first bracket installed on the first housing, a second bracket installed on the second housing, and a pair of synchronous rotation mechanisms provided in a frame and connected to the first and second brackets to synchronously open and close the first and second housings. The pair of synchronous rotation mechanisms each include first and second hinge shafts arranged in parallel at positions facing each other in an axial direction to be rotatable, and a gear-type driving force transmission mechanism connected between the first and second hinge shafts to be interlocked. The first and second brackets each have a curved guide portion having first and second curved guide grooves or slits along an opening and closing direction thereof, and a driving gear adjacent to the curved guide portion and interlocked with a driven gear provided in the first and second hinge shafts.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an opening and closing device and a terminal machine using the opening and closing device, wherein the opening and closing device is connected to a first housing and a second housing that form the terminal machine so as to be opened and closed. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, mobile phones and other terminal devices made of flexible organic EL (electro-optical polymer) display panels have been developed and sold on the market. These flexible display panels are single sheets spanning both surfaces of the first and second housings of the terminal device. In such cases, when the first and second housings are closed, the opening and closing mechanism creates a bend in the flexible display panel at its bending portion, aiming to prevent damage to the flexible display panel. The applicant of this invention has also filed an application for an invention as described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-203524.

[0003] The aforementioned Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-203524 discloses an opening and closing device with a gear-type synchronous rotation mechanism. This gear-type synchronous rotation mechanism causes a first bracket and a second bracket mounted on a first housing and a second housing to rotate synchronously in opposite directions, thereby opening and closing the first and second housings. Furthermore, when closed, the first and second housings form a curved portion that allows the flexible display panel to bend correctly. While this device is functionally complete, there is a market demand for a cheaper and more user-friendly opening and closing device. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide an opening and closing device that improves operability and a terminal machine using this opening and closing device. To achieve the above objective, the opening and closing device of this invention is configured to form a first housing and a second housing of the terminal machine for opening and closing. It includes a first bracket, a second bracket, and a pair of synchronous rotation mechanisms. The first bracket is mounted on the first housing side; the second bracket is mounted on the second housing side; the pair of synchronous rotation mechanisms are disposed on a frame and connect the first bracket and the second bracket for synchronous opening and closing. The pair of synchronous rotation mechanisms each include: a first hinge shaft and a second hinge shaft, which are arranged parallel to each other in opposite axial directions for rotation; and a gear-type drive force transmission mechanism that links the first hinge shaft and the second hinge shaft. The first bracket and the second bracket each have: a curved guide portion having a first curved guide groove or slit and a second curved guide groove or slit respectively along their opening and closing direction; and a drive gear adjacent to the curved guide portion and meshing with a driven gear disposed on the first hinge shaft and the second hinge shaft. The first hinge shaft is inserted into the first curved guide groove or slit; the curved guide portion of the guide member mounted on the frame side is inserted into the second curved guide groove or slit. Each of the pair of synchronous rotation mechanisms includes a rotational force-applying mechanism, respectively disposed on the first hinge shaft and the second hinge shaft, and respectively applying force to rotate in a specific rotational direction. The rotational force-applying mechanism includes: a cam groove into which the first hinge shaft and the second hinge shaft are respectively inserted to allow rotation; a connecting member, respectively fixed to the first hinge shaft and the second hinge shaft and engaging with the cam groove; and an elastic member that applies force to the connecting member towards the cam groove. As the first housing and the second housing approach their closed positions, the rotational force-applying mechanism applies force to the first hinge shaft and the second hinge shaft in a direction preceding the closed position of the first housing and the second housing, causing them to rotate.

[0005] In this invention, the frame is mounted on a cover member that covers its rear.

[0006] In this invention, the rear ends of the first housing and the second housing, which are mounted on the frame and can be opened and closed, move along the periphery of the cover member when they are opened and closed.

[0007] In this invention, the driving force transmission mechanism includes, on the first hinge shaft and the second hinge shaft, two synchronous rotating gears that rotate synchronously in the same direction with each of the driven gears and are fixed in position; and at least two transmission gears that transmit the rotation of one of the two synchronous rotating gears to the other synchronous rotating gear, causing it to rotate in opposite directions.

[0008] In this invention, each of the pair of synchronous rotating mechanisms includes a friction torque generating mechanism, which includes: a friction torque plate that generates friction torque when the driven gear disposed on the first hinge shaft and the second hinge shaft rotates; and an elastic member that applies force to the driven gear side by the friction torque plate.

[0009] In this invention, an arc-shaped inner surface is formed on the frame, which guides the curved guide portion to slide on the outer surface of the frame.

[0010] In this invention, a terminal machine uses the opening and closing device described above.

[0011] In this invention, the terminal device includes a flexible display panel that is mounted across two surfaces of the first housing and the second housing.

[0012] In this invention, a space is formed between the first bracket and the second bracket and the synchronous rotation mechanism to accommodate the folded portion of the flexible display panel.

[0013] According to the present invention, the first hinge shaft is inserted into the first curved guide groove or slit; the curved guide portion of the guide member mounted on the frame side is inserted into the second curved guide groove or slit. Therefore, compared with the prior art, the operability of the first housing and the second housing when opening and closing can be improved. In addition, a pair of synchronous rotation mechanisms each have the first hinge shaft and the second hinge shaft, and each has a rotational force-applying mechanism that applies force to rotate in a specific rotational direction, thereby improving the operability of the first housing and the second housing when opening and closing.

[0014] According to the present invention, the frame is mounted on a cover member that covers its rear, thus protecting the frame.

[0015] According to the present invention, the rear ends of the first housing and the second housing, which are mounted on the frame and can be opened and closed, move along the periphery of the cover member during opening and closing, thereby allowing the first housing and the second housing to be opened and closed smoothly.

[0016] According to the present invention, a simpler construction can be made to transmit driving force.

[0017] According to the present invention, each of the pair of synchronous rotating mechanisms has a friction torque generating mechanism, thereby enabling the opening and closing actions of the first housing and the second housing to be carried out stably.

[0018] According to the present invention, an arc-shaped inner surface is formed on the frame, and the guiding bending guide slides on the outer surface of the frame, thereby making the opening and closing action of the first housing and the second housing more stable.

[0019] According to the present invention, a terminal machine using the opening and closing device described above can be provided.

[0020] According to the present invention, a terminal machine comprising a flexible display panel is provided, the flexible display panel being mounted across two surfaces of a first housing and a second housing.

[0021] According to the present invention, a space is formed between the first bracket and the second bracket and the synchronous rotation mechanism to accommodate the folded portion of the flexible display panel, thereby preventing damage to the flexible display panel. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1A This is a perspective view of a mobile phone with a flexible display panel using the opening and closing device of the present invention, when the first housing and the second housing are closed.

[0023] Figure 1B This is a perspective view of a mobile phone with a flexible display panel using the opening and closing device of the present invention, with the first and second housings partially open.

[0024] Figure 1C This is a perspective view of a mobile phone with a flexible display panel using the opening and closing device of the present invention, when the first and second housings are opened.

[0025] Figure 2 yes Figure 1C The image shown is a partial exploded perspective view of a mobile phone with the flexible display panel and protective film removed while it is powered on.

[0026] Figure 3 yes Figure 1C An exploded perspective view of the opening and closing mechanism of the mobile phone shown.

[0027] Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional view of the first guiding component from above.

[0028] Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional view of the second guide component from above.

[0029] Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional view of the second guide component from below.

[0030] Figure 7 This is a three-dimensional view of the third guiding component from above.

[0031] Figure 8 This is a three-dimensional view of the fourth guiding component from above.

[0032] Figure 9 This is a three-dimensional view of the fourth guiding component from below.

[0033] Figure 10 This is an exploded perspective view of the opening and closing mechanism from below.

[0034] Figure 11This is a bottom view of the opening and closing device when it is in the open state.

[0035] Figure 12 This is a three-dimensional view of the assembled opening and closing mechanism from above.

[0036] Figure 13 This is an exploded three-dimensional view of the first synchronous rotating mechanism.

[0037] Figure 14 This is a bottom view of the first synchronous rotating mechanism.

[0038] Figure 15 This is a three-dimensional view of the first synchronous rotating mechanism from above.

[0039] Figure 16 This is a three-dimensional view of the first synchronous rotating mechanism from below.

[0040] Figure 17A It is an exploded perspective view of the frame, the second bracket, the second guide component, and the fourth guide component.

[0041] Figure 17B It is an exploded perspective view showing the assembly method of the second guide member, the curved guide part and the inner surface of the arc.

[0042] Figure 18 This is an exploded perspective view showing the assembly method of the first hinge shaft and the first curved guide groove.

[0043] Figure 19 It is a partially enlarged side cross-sectional view showing the positional relationship between the first curved guide groove and the first hinge shaft, the second curved guide groove and the curved guide part, and the curved guide part and the inner surface of the arc.

[0044] Figure 20 It is a three-dimensional view of the opening and closing device when the first and second housings are removed in the closed state.

[0045] Figure 21 This is an overall side view of the opening and closing device when the first and second housings are removed in the closed state.

[0046] Figure 22 yes Figure 21 The overall view of the opening and closing mechanism from direction F.

[0047] Figure 23 yes Figure 22 The cross-sectional view of line segment B-B in the diagram.

[0048] Figure 24 yes Figure 22 The cross-sectional view of line segment E-E in the diagram.

[0049] Figure 25It is a plan view of the flexible display panel with the opening and closing device in the open state, represented by dashed lines.

[0050] Figure 26 This is a side view of the opening and closing device when it is in the open state.

[0051] Figure 27A This is a partially enlarged side cross-sectional view showing the positional relationship between the bending guide section, the drive gear, the driven gear, the first bending guide groove and the first hinge shaft, and the second bending guide groove and the bending guide section in the open state of the opening and closing device.

[0052] Figure 27B This is a partially enlarged side cross-sectional view showing the positional relationship between the bending guide section, the drive gear, the driven gear, the first bending guide groove and the first hinge shaft, and the second bending guide groove and the bending guide section in the half-open state of the opening and closing device.

[0053] Figure 27C This is a partially enlarged side cross-sectional view showing the positional relationship between the bending guide section, the drive gear, the driven gear, the first bending guide groove and the first hinge shaft, and the second bending guide groove and the bending guide section in the closed state of the opening and closing device. Detailed Implementation

[0054] The following is one example of an electronic device using a mobile phone to illustrate the opening and closing device of the present invention and an electronic device using the opening and closing device; however, as mentioned above, the opening and closing device of the present invention is not only applicable to mobile phones, but can also be widely used in electronic devices whose structure consists of a flexible display panel mounted on the surface connecting a first housing and a second housing so that they can be opened and closed with each other, such as electronic notebooks, PDAs, e-books, or even laptops.

[0055] Figures 1A-2 This is a schematic diagram of a mobile phone using the opening and closing device of the present invention. Furthermore, in the diagram, the opening side of the first housing 2 and the second housing 3 is considered the front end side, and the side connected by the opening and closing device 6 is considered the rear end side. Also, when viewed from the front end side of the first housing 2, the left and right sides are defined as left and right, and the upper and lower sides as upper and lower.

[0056] As described below, the mobile phone 1 of the present invention includes a first housing 2 and a second housing 3, a flexible display panel 5, and an opening / closing device 6. The flexible display panel 5 is made of, for example, organic EL and is mounted by a flexible protective film 4 spanning the surfaces of the two upper sides of the first housing 2 and the second housing 3. The opening / closing device 6 connects to the rear end sides of the first housing 2 and the second housing 3. In particular, as Figure 2 As shown, the opening and closing device 6 connects the first housing 2 and the second housing 3 to the lower side of the protective film 4 and the flexible display panel 5, enabling them to open and close.

[0057] like Figures 2 to 26 As shown, the opening and closing device 6 of the present invention is connected to form the first housing 2 and the second housing 3 of the mobile phone 1 so that it can be opened and closed. The opening and closing device 6 includes: a first bracket 18N1112 installed on the side of the first housing 2; a second bracket 18N2122 installed on the side of the second housing 3; and a pair of synchronous rotation mechanisms 14N1 and 14N2 provided on the frame 12 and connecting the first bracket 18N1112 and the second bracket 18N2122 so that they can be opened and closed synchronously.

[0058] A pair of synchronous rotating mechanisms 14N1 and 14N2 each include: a first hinge shaft 32N1 and a second hinge shaft 32N2 that are arranged in parallel and opposite to each other in the axial direction and are capable of rotation (see also...). Figure 10 ); a gear-type drive force transmission mechanism 36N1122 that links the first hinge shaft 32N1 and the second hinge shaft 32N2 (see also...) Figure 14 ).

[0059] The first bracket 18N1112 and the second bracket 18N2122 each include: a first curved guide groove (e.g., 19N112, which can be referred to simultaneously) along their opening and closing directions. Figure 19 The curved guide portion (e.g., 19N11) of the second curved guide groove (e.g., 19N111); and the drive gears 21N11 and 21N21 adjacent to the curved guide portion (e.g., 19N11) and meshing with the driven gears 22N11 and 22N22 provided on the first hinge shaft 32N1 and the second hinge shaft 32N2 (see also...) Figure 14 ).

[0060] The first hinge shaft 32N1 is inserted and engaged with the first curved guide groove (e.g., 19N112); the curved guide portion (17N11, which can also be referred to) of the guide member (e.g., 16N11) mounted on the side of the frame 12 is also present. Figure 4 The insertion connection is made on the second curved guide groove (e.g., 19N111) (see also...) Figure 19 ).

[0061] like Figure 3 As shown, between the first bracket 18N1112 and the second bracket 18N2122 and the first housing 2 and the second housing 3, there are first guide members 16N11 to fourth guide members 16N21, a pair of synchronous rotation mechanisms 14N1 and 14N2, a frame 12, and a cover member 10. The first bracket 18N1112 and the second bracket 18N2122 are connected to the first housing 2 and the second housing 3 by the first guide members 16N11 to fourth guide members 16N21, a pair of synchronous rotation mechanisms 14N1 and 14N2, the frame 12, and the cover member 10, and are installed by screws 20.

[0062] The lower sides of the first bracket 18N1112 and the second bracket 18N2122 are mounted on the first housing 2 and the second housing 3; the upper sides of the first bracket 18N1112 and the second bracket 18N2122 are mounted on the folded portion FP of the flexible display panel 5 via a protective film 4. Figure 1C The display section 2D on one side and the display section 3D on the other side are divided based on the reference. Figure 1C ).

[0063] The frame 12 is mounted on the cover member 10 that covers its rear. The rear ends 2B and 3B of the first housing 2 and the second housing 3 are mounted on the frame 12 and can be opened and closed, and move along the periphery 10G of the cover member 10 when they are opened and closed.

[0064] Next, each component of the opening and closing device 6 will be described in detail.

[0065] First, the first bracket 18N1112 and the second bracket 18N2122 and the frame 12 are explained.

[0066] like Figure 3 As shown, the first bracket 18N1112 has a first left bracket body 18N11 and a first right bracket body 18N12 connected together; the second bracket 18N2122 has a second left bracket body 18N21 and a second right bracket body 18N22 connected together.

[0067] like Figure 10 As shown, the lower left side of the first left bracket body 18N11 of the first bracket 18N1112 has a bending guide portion 19N11 and a drive gear 21N11 adjacent to the bending guide portion 19N11. The lower left side of the first right bracket body 18N12 of the first bracket 18N1112 has a bending guide portion 19N12 and a drive gear 21N12 adjacent to the bending guide portion 19N12. As described above, the structure of the first right bracket body 18N12 is the same as that of the first left bracket body 18N11.

[0068] The lower right side of the second left bracket body 18N21 of the second bracket 18N2122 has a bending guide portion 19N21 and a drive gear 21N21 adjacent to the bending guide portion 19N21. The lower right side of the second right bracket body 18N22 of the second bracket 18N2122 has a bending guide portion 19N22 and a drive gear 21N22 adjacent to the bending guide portion 19N22. As described above, the structure of the second right bracket body 18N22 is the same as that of the second left bracket body 18N21.

[0069] The frame 12 has an arc-shaped inner surface around the bending guide parts 19N11 and 19N12, which guides the bending guide parts 19N11 and 19N12 to rotate about a first axis. The frame 12 also has an arc-shaped inner surface around the bending guide parts 19N21 and 19N22, which guide the bending guide parts 19N21 and 19N22 to rotate about a second axis. For example, such as... Figure 17B As shown, the frame 12 forms an arc-shaped inner surface 15N21 around the periphery of the bending guide portion 19N21, which guides the bending guide portion 19N21 to rotate about the second axis. Therefore, the bending guide portions 19N11 and 19N12 rotate about the first axis, while the bending guide portions 19N21 and 19N22 rotate about the second axis.

[0070] like Figure 19 As shown, the curved guide portion 19N11 of the first left bracket body 18N11 has a first curved guide groove 19N112 and a second curved guide groove 19N111, both centered on the first axis RC. The curved guide portion 19N12 of the first right bracket body 18N12 also has a first curved guide groove and a second curved guide groove, both centered on the first axis RC.

[0071] like Figure 17B As shown, the curved guide portion 19N21 of the second left side bracket body 18N21 has a first curved guide groove 19N212 and a second curved guide groove 19N211 in an arc shape centered on the second axis. Figure 17A As shown, the curved guide portion 19N22 of the second right side bracket body 18N22 also has a first curved guide groove and a second curved guide groove that are respectively arc-shaped around the second axis.

[0072] Secondly, refer to Figures 4-9 The first guide member 16N11 to the fourth guide member 16N21 installed on the side of the frame 12 will be described.

[0073] like Figure 4 As shown, the first guiding member 16N11 has a curved guiding portion 17N11. For example... Figure 19 As shown, the curved guide portion 17N11 slides through the second curved guide groove 19N111 of the curved guide portion 19N11 of the first left side bracket body 18N11. The curved guide portion 17N11 has an upper curved surface 17N111 and a lower curved surface 17N112. The upper curved surface 17N111 and the lower curved surface 17N112 are respectively formed on the curved guide portion 19N11 provided on the lower left side of the first left side bracket body 18N11 of the first bracket 18N1112 (see reference). Figure 10 ), and such Figure 19The upper curved surface 19N1111 and the lower curved surface 19N1112 of the second curved guide groove 19N111 shown correspond to each other. Specifically, the upper curved surface 17N111 and the lower curved surface 17N112 are formed in an arc shape with the first axis RC of the first left bracket body 18N11 as the center. Since the first guide member 16N11 is installed on the side of the frame 12, the curved guide portion 17N11 is fixed. Therefore, when the first left bracket body 18N11 (curved guide portion 19N11) of the first bracket 18N1112 rotates, the curved guide portion 17N11 can prevent the rotation center of the first left bracket body 18N11 from deviating from the first axis RC. That is, the curved guide portion 17N11 can maintain the positional relationship between the rotation center of the first left bracket body 18N11 and the first axis RC.

[0074] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the second guiding member 16N12 has a curved guiding portion 17N12. For example... Figure 17B As shown, the curved guide portion 17N12 slides through the second curved guide groove 19N211 of the curved guide portion 19N21 of the second left side bracket body 18N21. When the second left side bracket body 18N21 (curved guide portion 19N21) rotates, the curved guide portion 17N12 prevents the rotation center of the second left side bracket body 18N21 from deviating from the second axis. That is, the curved guide portion 17N12 maintains the positional relationship between the rotation center of the second left side bracket body 18N21 and the second axis.

[0075] like Figure 7 As shown, the third guide member 16N22 has a curved guide portion 17N22. The curved guide portion 17N22 slides through the second curved guide groove of the curved guide portion 19N12 of the first right side bracket body 18N12. When the first right side bracket body 18N12 (curved guide portion 19N12) rotates, the curved guide portion 17N22 prevents the rotation center of the first right side bracket body 18N12 from deviating from the first axis. That is, the curved guide portion 17N22 maintains the positional relationship between the rotation center of the first right side bracket body 18N12 and the first axis.

[0076] like Figure 8 and Figure 9As shown, the fourth guide member 16N21 has a curved guide portion 17N21. The curved guide portion 17N21 slides through the second curved guide groove of the curved guide portion 19N22 of the second right side bracket body 18N22. When the second right side bracket body 18N22 (curved guide portion 19N22) rotates, the curved guide portion 17N21 prevents the rotation center of the second right side bracket body 18N22 from deviating from the second axis. That is, the curved guide portion 17N21 maintains the positional relationship between the rotation center of the second right side bracket body 18N22 and the second axis.

[0077] Next, refer to Figures 11-16 The construction of a pair of synchronous rotating mechanisms 14N1 and 14N2 is described below. The pair of synchronous rotating mechanisms 14N1 and 14N2 are mounted on frame 12, connecting the first bracket 18N1112 and the second bracket 18N2122 so that they can open and close synchronously. Since the construction of synchronous rotating mechanisms 14N1 and 14N2 is identical, only the construction of synchronous rotating mechanism 14N1 is described, omitting the description of the construction of synchronous rotating mechanism 14N2.

[0078] The synchronous rotation mechanism 14N1 includes a first hinge shaft 32N1 and a second hinge shaft 32N2 that are arranged in parallel and opposite to each other in the axial direction and are able to rotate.

[0079] like Figure 13 As shown, the first hinge shaft 32N1 and the second hinge shaft 32N2 are separated by a specific interval and can rotate through the upper left shaft bracket 24N11 and the lower left shaft bracket 24N12, the upper right shaft bracket 44N21 and the lower right shaft bracket 44N22.

[0080] The synchronous rotation mechanism 14N1 includes driven gears 22N11 and 22N22 disposed on the first hinge shaft 32N1 and the second hinge shaft 32N2. Driven gears 22N11 and 22N22, located on the first left-side bracket 18N11 and the second left-side bracket 18N21, mesh with drive gears 21N11 and 21N21 disposed on adjacent bending guide portions 19N11 and 19N21. Furthermore, the component designated 42N22 is a shaft frame.

[0081] The synchronous rotation mechanism 14N1 includes a gear-type drive force transmission mechanism 36N1122, which links the first hinge shaft 32N1 and the second hinge shaft 32N2. The drive force transmission mechanism 36N1122 includes two fixed synchronous rotating gears 36N11 and 36N21, respectively located on the first hinge shaft 32N1 and the second hinge shaft 32N2, causing the driven gears 22N11 and 22N22 to rotate synchronously in the same direction. The drive force transmission mechanism 36N1122 includes at least two transmission gears 36N12 and 36N22, which transmit the rotation of one of the synchronous rotating gears 36N11 and 36N21 to the other synchronous rotating gear, causing the two synchronous rotating gears to rotate in opposite directions. Although this embodiment includes two transmission gears 36N12 and 36N22, an even number other than two is also possible, such as four, six, etc.

[0082] The synchronous rotation mechanism 14N1 includes a first friction torque generating mechanism 2628N1 and a second friction torque generating mechanism 2628N2 respectively disposed on the first hinge shaft 32N1 and the second hinge shaft 32N2. The first friction torque generating mechanism 2628N1 and the second friction torque generating mechanism 2628N2 each have springs denoted as 28N1 and 28N2, and friction torque plates denoted as 26N1 and 26N2, respectively. Since the first friction torque generating mechanism and the second friction torque generating mechanism 2628N2 have the same structure, only the structure of the first friction torque generating mechanism 2628N1 will be described below, omitting the description of the structure of the second friction torque generating mechanism 2628N2. The first friction torque generating mechanism 2628N1 includes a friction torque plate 26N1 and a spring 28N1. The friction torque plate 26N1 causes the driven gear 22N11, which is located on the first hinge shaft 32N1, to generate friction torque due to rotation. The spring 28N1 causes the friction torque plate 26N1 to apply force to the driven gear 22N11. The friction torque plate 26N1 and the spring 28N1 are arranged between the upper left shaft bracket 24N11 and the lower left shaft bracket 24N12 and the synchronously rotating gear 36N11.

[0083] In this way, the first friction torque generating mechanism 2628N1 and the second friction torque generating mechanism 2628N2 will cause the driven gears 22N11 and 22N22 on the first hinge shaft 32N1 and the second hinge shaft 32N2 to generate friction torque due to rotation. Therefore, the first friction torque generating mechanism 2628N1 and the second friction torque generating mechanism 2628N2 can provide a certain resistance to the opening and closing of the first housing 2 and the second housing 3, so that the first housing 2 and the second housing 3 can stop at any angle during the opening and closing process, and prevent the first housing 2 and the second housing 3 from opening or closing naturally under unexpected circumstances.

[0084] The synchronous rotation mechanism 14N1 includes rotational force-applying mechanisms 384042N1 and 384042N2, each mounted on a first hinge shaft 32N1 and a second hinge shaft 32N2, respectively, and rotating in a specific rotational direction. Rotational force-applying mechanism 384042N1 has a spring 42N1, a cam groove 38N1, and a connecting member 40N1; rotational force-applying mechanism 384042N2 has a spring 42N2, connecting members 38N2 and 40N2. Furthermore, the component indicated by the symbol 30N1 is the cam groove of rotational force-applying mechanism 384042N2. Since the structures of rotational force-applying mechanisms 384042N1 and 384042N2 are identical, only the structure of rotational force-applying mechanism 384042N1 will be described below, omitting the description of the structure of rotational force-applying mechanism 384042N2.

[0085] The rotary force-applying mechanism 384042N1 includes: a cam groove 38N1 into which a first hinge shaft 32N1 is inserted and rotated; a connecting member 40N1 fixed to the first hinge shaft 32N1 and engaging with the cam groove 38N1; and a spring 42N1 that applies force to the connecting member 40N1 toward the cam groove 38N1. The rotary force-applying mechanism 384042N1 is disposed between the upper right shaft bracket 44N21 and the lower right shaft bracket 44N22 and the synchronous rotating gear 36N11. The cam groove 38N1 is supported by a bracket 30N2. The bracket 30N2 also supports the shafts 34N1 and 34N2 of the transmission gears 36N12 and 36N22, enabling them to rotate.

[0086] The cam groove 38N1 is located at a position where the first housing 2 can be closed by rotating the first hinge shaft 32N1 when the engaging member 40N1 engages with the cam groove 38N1. Therefore, as the first housing 2 approaches the position where it is about to close, the rotational force application mechanism 384042N1 will apply force to the first hinge shaft 32N1 to rotate it in a direction that precedes the position where the first housing 2 is closed.

[0087] Next, the mechanism on the first hinge shaft 32N1 that prevents the rotation centers of the first left bracket body 18N11 and the first right bracket body 18N12 from deviating from the first axis, and the mechanism on the second hinge shaft 32N2 that prevents the rotation centers of the second left bracket body 18N21 and the second right bracket body 12N22 from deviating from the second axis will be described.

[0088] As mentioned above and Figure 19 As shown, the curved guide portion 19N11 of the first left-side bracket body 18N11 has an arc-shaped first curved guide groove 19N112 centered on the first axis RC. Specifically, the first curved guide groove 19N112 is fixed by respective arc-shaped curved surfaces centered on the first axis RC, namely the upper curved surface 19N1121 and the lower curved surface 19N1122. Figure 11 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 As shown, the first hinge shaft 32N1 is inserted into the first curved guide groove 19N112. The synchronous rotation mechanism 14N1 is equipped with the first hinge shaft 32N1, which, because it is mounted on the frame 12, can be fixed. Therefore, when the first left side bracket body 18N11 of the first bracket 18N112 rotates, the first hinge shaft 32N1 can prevent the rotation center of the first left side bracket body 18N11 from deviating from the first axis RC. That is, the first hinge shaft 32N1 can maintain the positional relationship between the rotation center of the first left side bracket body 18N11 and the first axis RC.

[0089] Similarly, when the first right side bracket body 18N12 of the first bracket 18N1112 rotates, the first hinge shaft 32N1 can prevent the rotation center of the first right side bracket body 18N12 from deviating from the first shaft RC. That is, the first hinge shaft 32N1 can maintain the positional relationship between the rotation center of the first right side bracket body 18N12 and the first shaft RC.

[0090] Similarly, when the second left bracket body 18N21 and the second right bracket body 18N22 of the second bracket 18N2122 rotate, the second hinge shaft 32N2 can prevent the rotation centers of the second left bracket body 18N21 and the second right bracket body 18N22 from deviating from the second axis. That is, the second hinge shaft 32N2 can maintain the positional relationship between the rotation centers of the second left bracket body 18N21 and the second right bracket body 18N22 and the second axis.

[0091] Figures 20-24 This is a schematic diagram of the closed state of the opening and closing device 6, omitting the first housing 2 and the second housing 3. (As shown...) Figure 21 , Figure 23 , Figure 24 As shown, the opening and closing device 6 forms a folding portion FP for accommodating the flexible display panel 5 between the first bracket (first left bracket body 18N11 and second right bracket body 18N12) and the second bracket (second left bracket body 18N21 and second right bracket body 18N22) and the synchronous rotation mechanisms 14N1 and 14N2 (see also [reference]). Figure 1C The space section S.

[0092] The operation of the opening and closing device 6 of the present invention will be described below.

[0093] For example, if the user is using the opening and closing device 6, Figure 25 , Figure 26 When the first housing 2 and the second housing 3 are closed in the open state as shown, Figures 27A-27CAs shown, the first left-side bracket 18N11 will rotate to the left around the first shaft RC as the first housing 2 rotates in the closing direction. When the first left-side bracket 18N11 rotates to the left as described above, the drive gear 21N11 of the first left-side bracket 18N11 will rotate to the left. And when the drive gear 21N11 rotates to the left, the driven gear 22N11 will rotate to the right. When the driven gear 22N11 rotates to the right (which can be seen simultaneously...), Figure 14 The first hinge shaft 32N1 and the synchronous rotating gear 36N11 will also rotate to the right. When the synchronous rotating gear 36N11 rotates to the right, the transmission gear 36N12 will rotate to the left, and the transmission gear 36N22 will rotate to the right, while the synchronous rotating gear 36N21 will rotate to the left. When the synchronous rotating gear 36N21 rotates to the left, the second hinge shaft 32N2 and the driven gear 22N22 will rotate to the left, and the drive gear 21N21 will rotate to the right. When the drive gear 21N21 rotates to the right, the second left side bracket 18N21 will rotate to the right. Furthermore, the first right side bracket 18N12 and the second right side bracket 18N22 will also rotate in the same way. In summary, the second housing 3 will rotate in the closing direction. In this way, when the user wants to close the first housing 2 and the second housing 3, the second housing 3 will rotate in the closing direction along with the first housing 2; similarly, the first housing 2 will rotate in the closing direction along with the second housing 3. Conversely, when the user wants to open the first housing 2 and the second housing 3, the second housing 3 will rotate in the opening direction along with the first housing 2; similarly, the first housing 2 will rotate in the opening direction along with the second housing 3.

[0094] As described above, the bending guide portion 17N11 and the bending guide portion 17N22 prevent the rotation centers of the first left-side bracket body 18N11 and the first right-side bracket body 18N12 from deviating from the first axis. The bending guide portion 17N12 and the bending guide portion 17N21 prevent the rotation centers of the second left-side bracket body 18N21 and the second right-side bracket body 18N22 from deviating from the second axis. Furthermore, the first hinge axis 32N1 prevents the rotation centers of the first left-side bracket body 18N11 and the first right-side bracket body 18N12 from deviating from the first axis. The second hinge axis 32N2 prevents the rotation centers of the second left-side bracket body 18N21 and the second right-side bracket body 18N22 from deviating from the second axis.

[0095] Therefore, when the first left-side bracket 18N11 and the first right-side bracket 18N12 rotate with the second left-side bracket 18N21 and the second right-side bracket 18N22, the above components will not wobble, allowing the first housing 2 and the second housing 3 to open and close smoothly. Thus, compared to prior art, the operability of opening and closing the first and second housings can be improved.

[0096] As described above, the first friction torque generating mechanism 2628N1 and the second friction torque generating mechanism 2628N2 can provide a certain resistance to the opening and closing of the first housing 2 and the second housing 3, so that the first housing 2 and the second housing 3 can stop at any angle during the opening and closing process, and prevent the first housing 2 and the second housing 3 from opening or closing naturally under unexpected circumstances.

[0097] Furthermore, as mentioned above, as the rotating force-applying mechanisms 384042N1 and 384042N2 approach the position where the first housing 2 and the second housing 3 are about to close, they will apply force to the first hinge shaft 32N1 and the second hinge shaft 32N2 in a direction that is earlier than the closing position of the first housing 2 and the second housing 3, causing them to rotate.

[0098] In this embodiment, although a flexible display panel 5 spanning the two upper side surfaces of the first housing 2 and the second housing 3 is installed, a non-flexible and separable first display device and second display device can also be installed.

[0099] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the first curved guide groove and the second curved guide groove are formed as grooves, but are not limited to grooves, and may also be formed as slits (first curved guide slit groove and second curved guide slit groove).

[0100] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the rotating force-applying mechanisms 384042N1 and 384042N2 apply force to the first hinge shaft 32N1 and the second hinge shaft 32N2 to rotate them in a direction that precedes the closed position of the first housing 2 and the second housing 3. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the rotating force-applying mechanisms 384042N1 and 384042N2 may also apply force to the first hinge shaft 32N1 and the second hinge shaft 32N2 to rotate them in a direction that precedes the open position of the first housing 2 and the second housing 3.

[0101] Because of the above-described structure, the present invention allows the first housing 2 and the second housing 3 to open and close smoothly and synchronously, and generates frictional torque during the opening and closing process so that it can stop at any angle. In addition, the present invention has the function of applying force to rotate in a specific direction, and forms the necessary radius of curvature for the folded portion of the flexible display panel provided across the two surfaces of the first housing and the second housing. It is particularly suitable for opening and closing devices and terminal machines that use this opening and closing device.

Claims

1. An opening and closing device, comprising a first housing and a second housing forming a terminal machine, wherein the opening and closing device includes: A first bracket is mounted on the side of the first housing. The second bracket is mounted on the side of the second housing. A pair of synchronous rotating mechanisms are provided on the frame, connecting the first bracket and the second bracket so that they can open and close synchronously; The pair of synchronous rotating mechanisms each include: The first hinge axis and the second hinge axis are arranged in parallel and are positioned opposite each other in the axial direction, allowing them to rotate; and The driving force transmission mechanism is a gear-type driving force transmission mechanism that links the first hinge shaft and the second hinge shaft together. The first bracket and the second bracket each have: A curved guide portion, which has a first curved guide groove or slit and a second curved guide groove or slit respectively along its opening and closing direction; and A drive gear, which is adjacent to the curved guide portion and meshes with the driven gear disposed on the first hinge shaft and the second hinge shaft; The first hinge shaft is inserted into the first curved guide groove or slit, and the curved guide portion of the guide member mounted on the frame side is inserted into the second curved guide groove or slit. The pair of synchronous rotating mechanisms each includes a rotating force-applying mechanism, which is respectively disposed on the first hinge axis and the second hinge axis and respectively applies force to rotate in a specific rotation direction. The rotating force-applying mechanism includes: A cam groove into which the first hinge shaft and the second hinge shaft are respectively inserted to allow rotation; A connecting member, which is respectively fixed to the first hinge shaft and the second hinge shaft and engages with the cam groove; and An elastic member that causes the engaging member to exert force toward the cam groove side; As the first housing and the second housing approach their closed positions, the rotational force-applying mechanism applies force to the first hinge axis and the second hinge axis in a direction that precedes the closed positions of the first housing and the second housing, causing them to rotate.

2. The opening and closing device according to claim 1, wherein the frame is mounted on a cover member covering its rear portion.

3. The opening and closing device according to claim 1, wherein the rear ends of the first housing and the second housing, which are mounted on the frame and thus openable and closable, move along the periphery of the cover member during opening and closing.

4. The opening and closing device according to claim 1, wherein the driving force transmission mechanism comprises, respectively, the first hinge shaft and the second hinge shaft: Two synchronously rotating gears, which rotate synchronously in the same direction and in a fixed position with each of the driven gears; and At least two transmission gears transmit the rotation of one of the two synchronous rotating gears to the other synchronous rotating gear, causing it to rotate in opposite directions.

5. The opening and closing device according to claim 1, wherein each of the pair of synchronous rotating mechanisms includes a friction torque generating mechanism, the friction torque generating mechanism comprising: A friction torque plate that generates friction torque when the driven gears disposed on the first and second hinge shafts rotate; and An elastic member that causes the friction torque plate to apply force to the driven gear side.

6. The opening and closing device according to claim 1, wherein an arcuate inner surface is formed on the frame, which guides the curved guide portion to slide on the outer surface of the frame.

7. A terminal machine comprising an opening / closing device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The terminal machine according to claim 7, comprising a flexible display panel mounted across two surfaces of the first housing and the second housing.

9. The terminal machine according to claim 8, wherein a space is formed between the first bracket and the second bracket and the synchronous rotation mechanism to accommodate the folded portion of the flexible display panel.

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