An electronic device
By setting an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection structure on the mid-frame, static electricity on the display screen is guided to the mid-frame ground, solving the problem of damage to flexible circuit boards caused by ESD in thin and light displays, and achieving higher ESD protection reliability and compatibility with antenna signals.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Patents(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- HUAWEI TECH CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2021-01-29
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-14
AI Technical Summary
As displays become thinner and lighter, electrostatic discharge damages the bending areas of flexible circuit boards, causing display failure, and existing protective measures are insufficient to prevent this.
An electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection structure is installed on the mid-frame, and the static electricity on the display screen is guided to the mid-frame ground through the guide section and grounding pin, so as to avoid damage to the bending area of the flexible circuit board by static electricity.
It effectively prevents static electricity from damaging the flexible circuit board, extends the lifespan of the display screen, and does not affect the antenna radiation signal, meeting the needs of the trend towards thinner and lighter designs.
Smart Images

Figure CN116471772B_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] This application is a divisional application. The original application has the application number 202110130650.8 and the original application date is January 29, 2021. The entire contents of the original application are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field
[0002] This invention relates to the field of display technology, and more particularly to an electronic device. Background Technology
[0003] With the continuous development of display technology for mobile terminal devices such as mobile phones, the trend of display technology development has become towards thinner and lighter displays. However, as displays become thinner and lighter, it becomes increasingly difficult to improve their tolerance to electrostatic discharge effects. In particular, some electrostatic sensitive devices (ESSD) are prone to failure due to electrostatic discharge effects during use if reasonable protective measures are not taken.
[0004] Currently, some terminals employ anti-static measures for the display components themselves to ensure their electrostatic withstand capability. However, with the trend towards thinner and lighter displays, implementing electrostatic protection measures for the display components themselves is becoming increasingly difficult. Furthermore, some terminal devices use a non-fully laminated display design, with the display and motherboard connected via a flexible printed circuit (FPC). The FPC is bent at the side of the terminal to connect with the circuit board, creating a gap between the terminal's side and the display. This gap allows static electricity to enter the device through the gap, easily damaging the bent area of the FPC and causing display failure. Summary of the Invention
[0005] This application provides an electronic device that grounds static electricity entering the electronic device, thereby preventing static electricity from damaging the bending area of the flexible circuit board inside the electronic device.
[0006] The electronic device provided in this application includes: an insulating top cover, a middle frame, a display screen, and a flexible circuit board electrically connected to one end of the display screen, wherein one side of the insulating top cover is located above the outer edge of the display screen, and the other side of the insulating top cover is connected to the middle frame;
[0007] It also includes an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection structure for grounding static electricity entering the electronic device from between the display screen and the insulating top cover at the mid-frame.
[0008] In this embodiment, by setting an electrostatic protection structure, the static electricity on the display screen is guided to the ground of the middle frame, which avoids the problem of static electricity generating electricity in the bending area of the flexible circuit board and causing the display screen to fail. The technical solution of this application has a simple process and can withstand higher electrostatic risks, making it more reliable. In addition, the technical solution of this application can also avoid the influence of the electrostatic protection structure on the antenna radiation signal, which is more in line with the development of thinner and lighter products such as mobile phones.
[0009] The electrostatic discharge protection structure includes: a guide portion and at least one grounding pin electrically connected to the guide portion, wherein the guide portion is electrically connected to the middle frame through the grounding pin.
[0010] In one possible implementation, the flexible circuit board has a bending area near one of the edges of the middle frame, and the electrostatic protection structure is disposed near the bending area.
[0011] In one possible implementation, the mid-frame includes at least a metal outer frame and an insulating inner frame, with at least a portion of the metal outer frame located outside the insulating inner frame, and the electrostatic protection structure electrically connected to the metal outer frame.
[0012] In one possible implementation, the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection structure is disposed on the inner wall of the insulating inner frame near the bending area, the guide portion of the ESD protection structure extends along the width direction of the flexible circuit board, and the grounding pin of the ESD protection structure is electrically connected to the metal outer frame.
[0013] In one possible implementation, the distance between the guide portion of the electrostatic protection structure and the outer edge of the display screen is less than the distance between the bending area and the outer edge of the display screen.
[0014] In one possible implementation, the electrostatic protection structure is disposed on the inner surface of the insulating top cover corresponding to the flexible circuit board, one end of the electrostatic protection structure is close to the end of the insulating top cover away from the middle frame, and the other end of the electrostatic protection structure is electrically connected to the metal outer frame.
[0015] In one possible implementation, it further includes: at least one conductive spring, the conductive spring being connected to one end of the insulating top cover near the middle frame, and the conductive spring being in electrical contact with the electrostatic protection structure, the electrostatic protection structure being electrically connected to the metal outer frame through the conductive spring.
[0016] In one possible implementation, the conductive spring has at least one first abutment portion for electrically contacting the middle frame to electrically connect the conductive spring to the middle frame.
[0017] In one possible implementation, the conductive spring also has at least one second abutment portion for electrical contact with the electrostatic protection structure, so as to electrically connect the conductive spring to the electrostatic protection structure.
[0018] In one possible implementation, the insulating top cover has a clearance groove on the side wall at the end connected to the middle frame, and the clearance groove is opposite to the side wall of the conductive spring where the first abutment portion is located.
[0019] In one possible implementation, the grounding pin of the electrostatic protection structure includes two sub-pins, with a gap between adjacent sub-pins, and the gap is opposite to the clearance groove.
[0020] In one possible implementation, the conductive spring also has at least one engaging portion for engaging one end of the insulating top cover connected to the middle frame, so that the conductive spring is disposed on the insulating top cover.
[0021] In one possible implementation, the engaging portion is an engaging groove, and the width of the engaging groove is less than the wall thickness of the end of the insulating top cover connected to the middle frame.
[0022] In one possible implementation, the conductive spring also has a limiting portion, and the end of the insulating top cover connected to the middle frame has a limiting groove that mates with the limiting portion.
[0023] In one possible implementation, the limiting portion is a hook structure formed by extending the engaging sidewall of the engaging portion.
[0024] In one possible implementation, the middle frame has a mounting groove at one end near the insulating top cover, and the end of the insulating top cover connected to the middle frame is located in the mounting groove.
[0025] In one possible implementation, the electrostatic protection structure is a conductive layer formed of a conductive material, and the resistance of the electrostatic protection structure is less than 5 ohms.
[0026] In one possible implementation, the middle frame near the electrostatic protection structure includes a first metal frame, a second metal frame, and a third metal frame spaced apart from each other.
[0027] The second metal frame is disposed between the first metal frame and the third metal frame, both of which are antenna radiators;
[0028] The grounding pin of the electrostatic protection structure is electrically connected to the second metal frame, and the grounding pin is far away from the first metal frame and the third metal frame.
[0029] In one possible implementation, the gap between the two ends of the second metal frame and the first metal frame and the third metal frame is greater than 0.8 mm.
[0030] In one possible implementation, the distance between the guide portion of the electrostatic protection structure and the first metal frame and the third metal frame is greater than 0.8 mm.
[0031] In one possible implementation, the insulating cover includes a suspended portion and a connecting portion surrounding the outer edge of the suspended portion;
[0032] The suspended portion and the outer edge of the display screen at least partially overlap in the thickness direction of the electronic device, and there is a gap between the suspended portion and the display screen; the connecting portion is connected to the middle frame.
[0033] The guide portion of the electrostatic protection structure is disposed on the inner surface of the suspended portion, and the grounding pin of the electrostatic protection structure is electrically connected to the middle frame along the inner surface of the connecting portion.
[0034] In one possible implementation, the outer surface of the suspended portion is a plane, and the outer surface of the connecting portion is an inclined surface or an arc surface.
[0035] These and other aspects, embodiments, and advantages of the exemplary embodiments will become apparent from the accompanying drawings and the examples described below. However, it should be understood that the specification and drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this application; details are provided in the appended claims. Other aspects and advantages of this application will be set forth in the following description, and in part will be obvious from the description or may be learned by practice of the application. Furthermore, various aspects and advantages of this application may be realized and obtained by means and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. Attached Figure Description
[0036] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0037] Figure 2 This is an exploded structural diagram of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0038] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A partial cross-sectional view of the side where the electrostatic protection structure of the electronic device is installed when the device is cut along the AA direction.
[0039] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the split structure of the mid-frame and electrostatic protection structure of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0040] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A partial cross-sectional view of the side where the electrostatic protection structure of the electronic device is installed when the device is cut along the BB direction.
[0041] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of an electrostatic protection structure provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0042] Figure 7 This is another structural schematic diagram of the electrostatic protection structure provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0043] Figure 8 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0044] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 Exploded view;
[0045] Figure 10 This is an exploded structural diagram of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0046] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 The provided electronic equipment along Figure 1 A partial cross-sectional view of the side of the electronic device with electrostatic protection structure when cut along the AA direction;
[0047] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram showing the split structure of the mid-frame and electrostatic protection structure of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0048] Figure 13 yes Figure 10 The provided electronic equipment along Figure 1 A partial sectional view of the side with the electrostatic protection structure when cut along the BB direction;
[0049] Figure 14 This is an exploded structural diagram of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0050] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 The provided electronic equipment is in accordance with Figure 1 A partial sectional view of the side where the electrostatic protection structure is set when the section is cut along the AA direction;
[0051] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 Enlarged view of the dashed box;
[0052] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of a conductive spring sheet provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0053] Figure 18 This application Figure 17A schematic diagram of the conductive spring sheet from another angle;
[0054] Figure 19 yes Figure 18 Front view of the conductive spring sheet;
[0055] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of an electrostatic protection structure provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0056] Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the conductive spring, electrostatic protection structure and insulating cover provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0057] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the conductive spring, electrostatic protection structure and insulating cover provided in another direction according to an embodiment of this application;
[0058] Figure 23 This is a partial structural diagram of the combination of the conductive spring, the electrostatic protection structure and the insulating cover provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0059] Figure 24 This is a side view of a conductive spring sheet provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0060] Figure 25 This is a side view of a conductive spring sheet provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0061] Figure 26 This is a side view of a conductive spring sheet provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0062] Figure 27 This is a schematic diagram of an electrostatic protection structure provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0063] Figure 28 yes Figure 27 A partial structural diagram of the combination of the conductive spring, the electrostatic protection structure, and the insulating top cover.
[0064] Figure 29 This is a schematic diagram of an electrostatic protection structure provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0065] Figure 30 yes Figure 29 A partial structural diagram of the combination of the conductive spring, the electrostatic protection structure, and the insulating top cover.
[0066] Figure 31 This is a schematic diagram of another structure of the conductive spring provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0067] Figure 32 This is an assembly diagram of an embodiment of the electrostatic protection structure, insulating top cover, conductive spring sheet, and middle frame provided in this application;
[0068] Figure 33 yes Figure 14 The provided electronic equipment is in accordance with Figure 1 A partial sectional view of the side with the electrostatic protection structure when cut along the BB direction;
[0069] Figure 34 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application when it is folded;
[0070] Figure 35 yes Figure 34 A schematic diagram of the exploded structure of electronic equipment.
[0071] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:
[0072] 10-Mobile phone; 20-Display screen; 21-Flexible circuit board; 21a-Bending area;
[0073] 22 - Circuit board; 30 - Insulating top cover; 301 - Suspended part; 302 - Connecting part;
[0074] 3021 - Receiving groove; 302a - Limiting groove; 302b - Assembly end; 302c - Clearance groove;
[0075] 31-Electrostatic protection structure; 311-Guide section; 312-Grounding pin; 312a, 312b-Sub-pins;
[0076] 312c - Spacing; 32a - Conductive spring; 321 - Engaging part; 322 - First abutting part;
[0077] 3221 - Side wall; 323 - Limiting part; 324 - Second abutting part; 325 - Engaging side wall;
[0078] 40 - Middle frame; 41 - Metal outer frame; 42 - Insulated inner frame; 411 - First metal frame;
[0079] 412 - Second metal frame; 413 - Third metal frame; 414a, 414b - Spacers;
[0080] 401 - Assembly groove; 50 - Battery cover; 20a - Glass cover; 20b - Display module. Detailed Implementation
[0081] This application provides an electronic device, which may include, but is not limited to, mobile terminals, fixed terminals, or foldable terminals with displays such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops, ultra-mobile personal computers (UMPCs), handheld computers, walkie-talkies, netbooks, POS machines, personal digital assistants (PDAs), dashcams, and security equipment.
[0082] In this embodiment of the application, a mobile phone is used as an example of the above-mentioned electronic device for explanation, and the mobile phone is an anti-static mobile phone with a non-fully laminated display screen.
[0083] In existing non-fully laminated display mobile phones, the display screen and the motherboard are connected by a flexible printed circuit board (FPC). The FPC is bent at one side of the terminal to connect with the motherboard. Since there is often a gap between the terminal shell and the display screen, static electricity can enter the device from the gap between the display screen and the terminal shell, which can easily damage the motherboard circuit or the flexible printed circuit board, thereby affecting the display touch function and thus affecting the lifespan of the terminal device.
[0084] In this embodiment, by setting an electrostatic protection structure on the mid-frame, static electricity entering the phone from the gap between the display screen and the phone casing can be guided to ground, thereby effectively preventing the display screen from failing due to electrostatic discharge and extending the service life of the display screen and the phone.
[0085] The structure of the mobile phone provided in the embodiments of this application will be described in detail through the following scenarios. The technical solution of this application is applicable to both candybar phones and foldable phones (foldable phones can include inward-folding and outward-folding phones). Scenario 1 mainly uses a candybar phone as an example, while Scenario 2 mainly uses a foldable phone as an example.
[0086] Scene 1
[0087] See Figure 1 As shown, the mobile phone 10 may include: a display screen 20, an insulating top cover 30, a mid-frame 40, and a flexible circuit board 21 and a circuit board 22 located inside the mobile phone 10. The flexible circuit board 21 is located on one side of the mobile phone 10. See details below. Figure 1 In the area indicated by the dotted line, the flexible circuit board 21 is positioned near one side of the mid-frame 40, with one end of the flexible circuit board 21 also positioned near one side of the mid-frame 40. One end of the flexible circuit board 21 is electrically connected to one side of the display screen 20, and the other end of the flexible circuit board 21 is connected to the circuit board 22 inside the mobile phone 10 (see below). Figure 2 Electrical connection.
[0088] See Figure 2As shown, it also includes: a battery cover 50, the battery cover 50 and the display screen 20 are located on the upper and lower sides of the middle frame 40 respectively, and the inner surfaces of the display screen 20, the insulating top cover 30, the middle frame 40 and the battery cover 50 form a cavity, which contains devices such as a battery, a flexible circuit board 21 and a circuit board 22.
[0089] like Figure 2 As shown, the display screen 20 and the circuit board 22 are connected on the flexible circuit board 21 (see below). Figure 2 The flexible circuit board 21 has a bending area 21a at a certain location, and the bending area 21a is close to one side of the middle frame 40, for example... Figure 2 In the middle, the bending area 21a is close to the right side of the middle frame 40.
[0090] When the anti-static electronic device is a folding device, because the folding mechanism needs to be bent back and forth, the display screen 20 cannot be fixedly connected to the mid-frame 40 and the insulating cover 30. That is to say, there are gaps between the display screen 20, the mid-frame 40, and the insulating cover 30. Or, during some drop tests, when the insulating cover 30 is fixedly connected to the display screen 20, the impact force received by the insulating cover 30 during the drop test can easily damage the display screen 20. Therefore, in the above situation, if the static electricity on the display screen 20 is not grounded, it may enter the inside of the phone through the gaps between the display screen 20, the mid-frame 40, and the insulating cover 30, damaging the phone's circuit board 22, flexible circuit board 21, and display screen 20.
[0091] See details as follows Figure 3 As shown, one side of the insulating cover 30 covers the top of the display screen 20, and the other side is connected to the mid-frame 40. The insulating cover 30 is used to protect the display screen 20. There is a gap h between the insulating cover 30 and the display screen 20 in the thickness direction of the phone. This allows static electricity generated on the user's hand or the display screen 20 when using the phone 10 to enter the interior of the phone 10 through the gap h (see...). Figure 3 (The dotted arrows in the image indicate the electrostatic conduction path). The static electricity entering the inside of the phone 10 may cause a discharge effect that could damage the components on the internal circuit board 22 or flexible circuit board 21 of the phone 10, thereby damaging the display screen 20 or even causing damage to the phone 10.
[0092] To address this issue, in this embodiment, see... Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, it also includes an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection structure 31, which is used to ground the static electricity entering from the gap h, thereby preventing environmental static electricity from damaging the flexible circuit board 21.
[0093] In this scenario, see Figure 2As shown, the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection structure 31 can be disposed on the middle frame 40 and located on the side of the middle frame 40 near the bending area 21a of the flexible circuit board. In this embodiment, the middle frame 40 can be a metal middle frame. When the middle frame 40 is a metal middle frame, the middle frame 40 can serve as a reference ground. Thus, when the ESD protection structure 31 is disposed on the middle frame 40, the ESD protection structure 31 is electrically connected to the middle frame 40, and the ESD protection structure 31 is grounded through the middle frame 40.
[0094] Alternatively, in some examples, when the middle frame 40 is a non-metallic middle frame, one end of the electrostatic protection structure 31 can be grounded by connecting it to a grounding point on the circuit board 22 or a reference ground in the mobile phone 10 (e.g., a support plate used to support the display screen 20 and located between the display screen 20 and the battery (not shown)).
[0095] By placing the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection structure 31 on the inner frame of the middle frame 40, the overall appearance, antenna radiator performance, and other performance characteristics of the device are not affected. Furthermore, by setting the ESD protection structure 31, static electricity on the display screen 20 is guided to the ground of the middle frame 40, providing ESD protection for the display screen 20 and electronic components on the circuit board 22. The technical solution of this application has a simple process and can withstand higher ESD risks, resulting in higher reliability.
[0096] Among them, in order to... Figure 3 Static electricity entering through the gap h is guided to the electrostatic discharge protection structure 31 for grounding, see [link / reference]. Figure 3 As shown, the distance from the edge of the display screen to the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection structure 31 is r, and the distance from the edge of the display screen 20 to the flexible circuit board bending area 21a is r', where r is less than r'. Thus, static electricity is transferred from... Figure 3 When the gap h enters, the static electricity will be conducted to the electrostatic discharge protection structure 31, which has a shorter discharge path, thereby preventing static electricity from damaging the bending area 21a of the flexible circuit board. The edge of the display screen can be the edge of the side where the display screen 20 is connected to the flexible circuit board 21.
[0097] In this embodiment, see Figure 3 As shown, the conduction path of static electricity is shown in the figure. Figure 3 As shown by the dashed arrow, after static electricity enters through the gap h, it is transmitted along the display screen 20 to one end of the display screen 20 where the flexible circuit board 21 is located. Since the static electricity protection structure 31 is closer to one end of the display screen 20, the static electricity will be transmitted to the static electricity protection structure 31. The static electricity protection structure 31 is grounded through the middle frame 40.
[0098] As an explanation, in the circuit board 22 of the mobile phone, all "grounds" are connected. The copper foil, shielding solder joints, and negative terminal of the battery holder on the circuit board 22 are all "grounds" of the mobile phone. The middle frame 40 of the mobile phone is connected to the "ground" of the mobile phone.
[0099] It should be noted that, see Figure 3 As shown, the display screen 20 may include a glass cover plate 20a and a display module 20b. The glass cover plate 20a is located on the display module 20b. The flexible circuit board 21 is electrically connected to the display screen 20, specifically, the flexible circuit board 21 is electrically connected to the display module 20b of the display screen 20. Therefore, the gap h between the display screen 20 and the suspended portion 301 of the insulating top cover 30 is specifically the gap h between the glass cover plate 20a and the suspended portion 301 of the insulating top cover 30. See also... Figure 3 As shown, the outer edge of the glass cover 20a extends toward the frame of the middle frame 40.
[0100] It should be noted that in some embodiments, such as foldable phones, the gap h between the insulating cover 30 and the display screen 20 is greater than zero. In this case, static electricity can enter the interior of the phone 10 through the gap h between the insulating cover 30 and the display screen 20. In other embodiments, such as candybar phones, the suspended part 301 is in contact with the display screen 20. Due to limitations in the manufacturing process, the insulating cover 30 and the display screen 20 are in contact but not sealed. In this case, the gap h between the insulating cover 30 and the display screen 20 approaches zero but is not zero. Therefore, static electricity can still enter the interior of the phone 10 through the contact surface between the insulating cover 30 and the display screen 20.
[0101] In other words, as long as the display screen 20 and the suspended portion 301 of the insulating cover 30 are not sealed, the gap h can exist, only the value will differ. In other words, any technical solution where static electricity enters the phone 10 through the edge of the display screen 20 and is grounded by the electrostatic protection structure 31 falls within the protection scope of this application.
[0102] In order to ensure that the distance (i.e., r) from the outer edge of the end where the display screen 20 is electrically connected to the flexible circuit board 21 to the electrostatic protection structure 31 is less than the distance from that end to the bending area 21a of the flexible circuit board ( Figure 2 (r' in the text), see also Figure 3 As shown, the outer edge of the glass cover plate 20a of the display screen 20 can be extended toward the middle frame 40, thereby reducing the distance between the display screen 20 and the middle frame 40. Alternatively, the distance between the flexible circuit board bending area 21a and the end of the glass cover plate 20a of the display screen 20 can be increased. The specific settings can be determined according to the specific circumstances, and no specific limitations are made in this application.
[0103] In this embodiment, the electrostatic protection structure 31 is a conductive layer, such as a metal layer formed of a metal material, and the resistance of the electrostatic protection structure can be less than 5 ohms.
[0104] For example, the electrostatic protection structure 31 can be made of a highly conductive metal material, such as conductive silver paste, which may include a resin binder and silver powder. The proportions of the conductive silver paste, resin binder, and silver powder are not specifically limited in this embodiment. After curing, the resistance of the metal layer can be less than 5 ohms, and the cured metal layer has sufficient adhesion to be fixed to the insulating cover 30. For example, the metal layer can be made of silver, which has good conductivity and strong oxidation resistance. This ensures both the high conductivity of the electrostatic protection structure 31, facilitating the introduction of static electricity from the display screen 20 into the electrostatic protection structure 31, and the oxidation resistance, extending the service life of the electrostatic protection structure 31.
[0105] It should be noted that the material of the electrostatic protection structure 31 in this application is not limited to silver, but can also be other materials with high conductivity, such as copper, aluminum, gold, etc.
[0106] In this embodiment, conductive material can be applied to the inner surface of the insulating cover 30 by printing, spraying, or laser direct forming processes.
[0107] In this embodiment, when the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection structure 31 is grounded through the middle frame 40, the middle frame 40 can be a metal middle frame, which is electrically connected to the ground of the circuit board 22 of the mobile phone 10. In this way, after static electricity enters through the gap h, it can discharge along the ESD protection structure 31 on the metal middle frame 40. Of course, in some examples, the middle frame 40 can also be an integral structure composed of metallic and non-metallic materials, with one end of the ESD protection structure 31 electrically connected to the metallic material of the middle frame 40 to achieve grounding.
[0108] For example, see Figure 2 As shown, the middle frame 40 may include a metal outer frame 41 and an insulating inner frame 42. At least a portion of the metal outer frame 41 is located outside the insulating inner frame 42. The end of the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection structure 31 facing the middle frame 40 is electrically connected to the metal outer frame 41. Alternatively, in some examples, the ESD protection structure 31 may also be electrically connected to a metal middle plate (not shown) of the middle frame 40. The insulating inner frame 42 may be a border formed during plastic injection molding of the metal outer frame 41.
[0109] In this embodiment, the electrostatic protection structure 31 can be disposed on the inner wall of the insulating inner frame 42 near the bending area 21a of the flexible circuit board.
[0110] In the embodiments of this application, see Figure 3 The insulating top cover 30 may include a suspended portion 301 and a connecting portion 302, the connecting portion 302 being disposed on the outer edge of the suspended portion 301, see [reference]. Figure 3 As shown, there is a gap between the suspended part 301 and the display screen 20, for example, Figure 3In this configuration, the suspended portion 301 and the outer edge of the display screen 20 at least partially overlap in the thickness direction of the electronic device, and a gap h exists between the suspended portion 301 and the display screen 20. It should be noted that in some embodiments, the suspended portion 301 can contact the display screen 20. The connecting portion 302 is connected to the middle frame 40; for example, the connection between the connecting portion 302 and the middle frame 40 can be achieved through snap-fitting, adhesive bonding (e.g., adhesive backing), or other connection methods.
[0111] The suspended part 301 and the connecting part 302 can be integrally formed. The outer surface of the suspended part 301 can be a plane, and the outer surface of the connecting part 302 can be a slope or an arc.
[0112] The structure of the insulating cover 30 shown in the accompanying drawings of this embodiment is one of many structures of the insulating cover 30. The specific shape and size of the insulating cover 30 do not constitute a limitation on the protection scope of the technical solution of this application. As long as the insulating cover 30 is disposed on one side of the display screen 20, it falls within the protection scope of this application.
[0113] In the embodiments of this application, see Figure 2 The electrostatic discharge protection structure 31 may include: a guide portion 311 and at least one grounding pin 312 connected to the guide portion 311, for example, Figure 2 In this example, there can be two ground pins 312. Of course, in some other examples, one or more ground pins 312 can also be set.
[0114] In this embodiment, the guide portion 311 is located on the inner surface of the middle frame 40 along the width direction of the bending area 21a (i.e., Figure 2 (a) extends in the direction of, for example, see Figure 2 As shown, the width direction of the bending region 21a is... Figure 2 The insulating cover 30 is positioned along its length direction a, therefore, the guide portion 311 can extend along the length direction a of the insulating cover 30 on the inner surface of the insulating cover 30. See also Figure 3 As shown, the guide part 311 can be provided on the inner surface of the suspended part 301 corresponding to the flexible circuit board 21, the grounding pin 312 can be provided on the inner surface of the connecting part 302, and one end of the grounding pin 312 is electrically connected to the metal frame of the middle frame 40.
[0115] In this embodiment, the guide portion 311 is a long strip structure, and two grounding pins 312 are spaced apart on one side of the guide portion 311. In this embodiment, since the grounding pins 312 are used for grounding, the size of the grounding pins 312 only needs to be electrically connected to the metal outer frame 41 of the middle frame 40. The area of the grounding pins 312 can be smaller than the area of the guide portion 311.
[0116] The length of the guide portion 311 can be greater than or equal to the width of the bending area 21a of the flexible circuit board 21. In this way, the guide portion 311 can cover at least both ends of the bending area 21a of the flexible circuit board 21 in the length direction, ensuring that the flexible circuit board 21 located below the display screen 20 is not damaged by static electricity.
[0117] It should be noted that the specific shape and thickness of the electrostatic protection structure 31 do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of the technical solution of this application. As long as it can introduce static electricity into the middle frame 40 and ground it through the middle frame 40, it falls within the scope of protection of the technical solution of this application. In addition, the structure of the guide part 311 does not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of the technical solution of this application. The guide part 311 can be a rectangular strip structure as shown in this embodiment, or it can be a strip structure of other shapes, such as a trapezoidal strip structure, etc. The guide part 311 can cover the bending area of the flexible circuit board 21. The shape of the grounding pin 312 is not limited to the rectangular sheet structure and the arc sheet structure shown in the figure. It can also be a sheet structure of other shapes, such as a trapezoidal sheet structure, a triangular sheet structure, etc., as long as it can realize the electrical connection between the guide part 311 and the middle frame 40.
[0118] In this embodiment, when the electrostatic protection structure 31 is electrically connected to the middle frame 40 through the grounding pin 312, the grounding pin 312 and the middle frame 40 can be electrically connected through conductive adhesive, conductive foam or conductive spring.
[0119] In the embodiments of this application, see Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the middle frame 40 has a mounting groove 401 on one end facing the insulating top cover 30, and one end of the connecting portion 302 of the insulating top cover 30 is located in the mounting groove 401. In this embodiment, an adhesive backing can be provided between one end of the connecting portion 302 of the insulating top cover 30 and the mounting groove 401 of the middle frame 40 to achieve the connection between the insulating top cover 30 and the middle frame 40.
[0120] In the embodiments of this application, see Figure 4 As shown, the metal outer frame 41 near the electrostatic protection structure 31 may include a first metal frame 411, a second metal frame 412 and a third metal frame 413 that are spaced apart from each other. The second metal frame 412 may be located between the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413. The first metal frame 411 may serve as the radiator of the first antenna and the third metal frame 413 may serve as the radiator of the second antenna. That is, both the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413 are antenna radiators, while the second metal frame 412 is not an antenna radiator.
[0121] In this embodiment, when both the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413 are antenna radiators, the second metal frame 412, being made of metal, interferes with the radiation of the antenna radiators. Therefore, the first metal frame 411 and the second metal frame 412 are separated by a non-conductive spacer 414a, and the second metal frame 412 and the third metal frame 413 are separated by a non-conductive spacer 414b. In this embodiment, the spacing width b between the spacers 414a and 414b can be greater than 0.8 mm. For example, the first metal frame 411 and the second metal frame 412 can be spaced 1 mm apart, and the third metal frame 413 and the second metal frame 412 can be spaced 0.9 mm apart. This ensures that the second metal frame 412 does not affect the radiation of the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413.
[0122] Furthermore, since the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection structure 31 is often a metal layer, when the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413 are antenna radiators, if the grounding pin 312 of the ESD protection structure 31 is electrically connected to the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413, the ESD protection structure 31 will often interfere with the antenna radiator. Therefore, in this embodiment, see... Figure 4 As shown, the grounding pin 312 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 can be electrically connected to the second metal frame 412. In addition, when the grounding pin 312 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 is electrically connected to the second metal frame 412, the grounding pin 312 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 can be set away from the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413. In this way, the electrostatic protection structure 31 achieves anti-static effect while avoiding interference with the antenna radiator.
[0123] Therefore, in this embodiment of the application, by setting the electrostatic protection structure 31 to guide the static electricity on the display screen 20 to the ground of the middle frame 40, electrostatic protection measures are taken for the electronic components on the display screen 20 and the circuit board 22. The technical solution of this application has a simple process and can withstand higher electrostatic risks, with higher reliability. Moreover, the technical solution of this application can also avoid the influence of the electrostatic protection structure 31 on the antenna radio frequency signal, which is more in line with the development of thinner and lighter products such as mobile phones.
[0124] In this embodiment, when the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413 serve as antenna radiators, the antenna radiators often require a certain clearance, that is, the metal surrounding the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413 must be at a certain distance from the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413. In this embodiment, the guide portion 311 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 is provided along the extension direction of the first metal frame 411, the second metal frame 412, and the third metal frame 413. Therefore, when the distance between the guide portion 311 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 and the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413 is close, the guide portion 311 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 will affect the radiation of the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413.
[0125] To reduce or avoid the influence of the guide portion 311 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 on the radiation of the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413, see [reference needed]. Figure 5 As shown, the shortest distance L1 between the guide portion 311 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 and the first metal frame 411 is greater than 0.8 mm. Correspondingly, the shortest distance between the guide portion 311 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 and the third metal frame 413 is also greater than 0.8 mm. This ensures that the electrostatic protection structure 31 is located outside the clearance of the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413, so that the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413 have a certain clearance when acting as antenna radiators.
[0126] It should be noted that the distance between the guide portion 311 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 and the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413 does not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of the technical solution of this application. This distance may be greater than 0.8mm, or even greater than 1mm, 2mm, etc., on different models and types of terminals, as long as the guide portion 311 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 does not affect the radiation of the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413. This distance can be specifically set according to the specific circumstances.
[0127] In this embodiment, the first metal frame 411, the second metal frame 412, and the third metal frame 413 are often formed as a whole by nano-injection molding. During nano-injection molding, plastic is injected into the gaps between the second metal frame 412 and the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413 to form spacers 414a and 414b, respectively. After nano-injection molding, an insulating inner frame 42 (e.g., a plastic frame) is formed on the inner side of the first metal frame 411, the second metal frame 412, and the third metal frame 413. Therefore, in this embodiment, the insulating inner frame 42, the spacers 414a, and the spacers 414b are integrally formed.
[0128] In this embodiment of the application, since the insulating inner frame 42 is often made of plastic material, it is easier to open slots or holes on the insulating inner frame 42 than to open slots or holes on the inner wall of the metal outer frame. Therefore, by setting the insulating inner frame 42, it is convenient to fix the components inside the mobile phone to the middle frame 40.
[0129] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, the frame serving as the antenna radiator includes, but is not limited to, the first metal frame 411 and the second metal frame 412. For example, in some examples, the first metal frame 411 and the second metal frame 412 can also be used as the antenna radiator, and the grounding pin 312 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 can be electrically connected to the third metal frame 413. Alternatively, the second metal frame 412 and the third metal frame 413 can also be used as the antenna radiator, and the grounding pin 312 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 can be electrically connected to the first metal frame 411.
[0130] It should be noted that the number of antenna radiators in this embodiment is not limited to two; it can also be one, three, or four, as long as it meets the signal reception and transmission requirements of the electronic device.
[0131] In the embodiments of this application, see Figure 6 As shown, the grounding pin 312 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 can be one, and the shape of the grounding pin 312 includes, but is not limited to, […]. Figure 6 and Figure 7 The structure shown is illustrated. In this application, as... Figure 7 As shown, there can be one grounding pin 312. This grounding pin 312 is connected to the guide portion 311 and extends along the insulating cover 30 away from the guide portion 311. By setting a single grounding pin 312, the electrostatic protection structure 31 is electrically connected to the middle frame 40. The grounding pin 312 is small in size, which saves materials. Furthermore, the position of the grounding pin 312 can be flexibly set according to the position of the middle frame 40, which facilitates connection with the middle frame 40 and avoids the influence of the electrostatic protection structure 31 on the antenna radiator.
[0132] Unlike the scenarios described above, in this scenario, the solution can be applied to foldable devices. See [link / reference]. Figure 8 As shown, phone 10 is an inward-folding folding phone. (See attached image) Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the mobile phone 10 may include a display screen 20, an insulating top cover 30, a mid-frame 40, and a flexible circuit board 21. The flexible circuit board 21 is located on one side of the mobile phone 10. See details below. Figure 8 The flexible circuit board 21 is located near one side of the mid-frame 40, within the area indicated by the dashed line. One end of the flexible circuit board 21 is electrically connected to one side of the display screen 20, and the other end is connected to the circuit board 22 inside the mobile phone 10 (see...). Figure 9 The flexible circuit board 21 has a bending area 21a, and the electrostatic protection structure 31 is located on the inner surface of the middle frame 40 near the bending area 21a of the flexible circuit board 21. The structure and arrangement of the electrostatic protection structure 31 can be referred to the description in Scenario 1 above, and will not be repeated in this scenario.
[0133] Unlike the scenarios described above, in this scenario, because the phone needs to be folded, the insulating top cover 30 consists of two parts, left and right, which can be connected by a flexible connector. The middle frame 40 includes two middle frames, left and right, which are hinged together by a hinge structure.
[0134] Scene 2
[0135] In this scenario, see Figure 10 The electrostatic protection structure 31 can be disposed on the inner surface of the insulating cover 30 corresponding to the flexible circuit board 21. Figure 11 As shown, one end of the electrostatic protection structure 31 is close to the opening end of the gap h between the insulating top cover 30 and the display screen 20, and the other end of the electrostatic protection structure 31 extends toward the middle frame 40 and is electrically connected to the middle frame 40 to achieve discharge.
[0136] The bending area 21a of the flexible circuit board 21 is located near one side of the middle frame 40, for example, the bending area 21a of the flexible circuit board 21 is located near the right side of the middle frame 40 (see...). Figure 10 (As shown), therefore, when the electrostatic protection structure 31 is provided on the inner surface of the insulating cover 30, it can be provided on the inner surface of the insulating cover 30 near the bending area 21a of the flexible circuit board 21. For example, it can be provided along... Figure 2 An electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection structure 31 is provided on the inner right surface of the insulating cover 30 along its length direction a (i.e., the width direction of the flexible circuit board 21). This ESD protection structure 31 protects the bending area 21a of the flexible circuit board 21, preventing electrostatic discharge in the bending area 21a and thus preventing damage to it.
[0137] In the embodiments of this application, see Figure 11 As shown, the guide portion 311 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 can extend along the length direction a of the insulating cover 30 (see Figure 1). Figure 10 It extends onto the inner surface of the insulating cover 30. See also Figure 11 As shown, the guide part 311 can be provided on the inner surface of the suspended part 301 of the insulating cover 30 corresponding to the flexible circuit board 21, and the grounding pin 312 can be provided on the inner surface of the connecting part 302, and one end of the grounding pin 312 is electrically connected to the metal frame of the middle frame 40.
[0138] In this embodiment, when the electrostatic protection structure 31 is electrically connected to the middle frame 40 via the grounding pin 312, see [reference needed]. Figure 11 As shown, the grounding pin 312 and the middle frame 40 can be electrically connected via conductive adhesive 32. Alternatively, in some examples, the grounding pin 312 and the middle frame 40 can be electrically connected via conductive foam or conductive spring.
[0139] In the embodiments of this application, see Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the middle frame 40 has a mounting groove 401 on one end facing the insulating top cover 30. One end of the connecting portion 302 of the insulating top cover 30 is located in the mounting groove 401. One end of the grounding pin 312 extends into the mounting groove 401 along with the connecting portion 302. Conductive adhesive 32 is located in the mounting groove 401. It should be noted that the bottom of the mounting groove 401 with conductive adhesive 32 is made of metal, so that the grounding pin 312 is electrically connected to the middle frame 40 through the conductive adhesive 32. In this embodiment, an adhesive layer can be provided between one end of the connecting portion 302 of the insulating top cover 30 and the mounting groove 401 of the middle frame 40 to achieve the connection between the insulating top cover 30 and the middle frame 40.
[0140] In the embodiments of this application, see Figure 12 As shown, the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413 can be antenna radiators, so the grounding pin 312 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 can be electrically connected to the second metal frame 412. In this way, the electrostatic protection structure 31 achieves electrostatic protection while avoiding interference with the antenna radiator.
[0141] Therefore, in this embodiment of the application, by setting the electrostatic protection structure 31 to guide the static electricity on the display screen 20 to the ground of the middle frame 40, electrostatic protection measures are taken for the electronic components on the display screen 20 and the circuit board 22. The technical solution of this application has a simple process and can withstand higher electrostatic risks, with higher reliability. Moreover, the technical solution of this application can also avoid the influence of the electrostatic protection structure 31 on the antenna radio frequency signal, which is more in line with the development of thinner and lighter products such as mobile phones.
[0142] In this embodiment, when the electrostatic protection structure 31 is disposed on the inner surface of the insulating cover 30, in order to reduce or avoid the influence of the guide portion 311 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 on the radiation of the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413, the distance between the guide portion 311 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 and the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413 is greater than 0.8 mm. For example, see... Figure 13As shown, the shortest distance L between the guide portion 311 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 and the first metal frame 411 is greater than 0.8 mm. Correspondingly, the shortest distance between the guide portion 311 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 and the third metal frame 413 is also greater than 0.8 mm. This ensures that the guide portion 311 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 is located outside the clearance of the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413, so that the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413 have a certain clearance when acting as antenna radiators.
[0143] It should be noted that the distance between the guide portion 311 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 and the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413 does not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of the technical solution of this application. This distance may be greater than 0.8mm, or even greater than 1mm, 2mm, etc., on different models and types of terminals, as long as the guide portion 311 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 does not affect the radiation of the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413. This distance can be specifically set according to the specific circumstances.
[0144] In this scenario, the specific setting and structure of the first metal frame 411, the second metal frame 412, and the third metal frame 413 can be referred to the above scenario, and will not be repeated in this scenario.
[0145] It should be noted that the above-described solution can also be applied to the embodiments of this application. Figure 8 and Figure 9 The folding machine shown can be configured as described above.
[0146] Scene 3
[0147] In this scenario, the grounding pin 312 of the electrostatic discharge protection structure 31 is electrically connected to the middle frame 40 via a conductive spring. For example, see... Figure 14 As shown, it also includes: at least one conductive spring piece 32a, for example, Figure 14 In this embodiment, the number of conductive springs 32a can be two, so that the two conductive springs 32a can electrically connect the two grounding pins 312 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 to the middle frame 40 respectively. In this embodiment, the number of conductive springs 32a can be the same as the number of grounding pins 312 of the electrostatic protection structure 31.
[0148] In this embodiment, the conductive spring 32a is fixed to one end of the connecting portion 302 of the insulating cover 30, and the conductive spring 32a is in electrical contact with the grounding pin 312 provided on the insulating cover 30. See [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 15 and Figure 16As shown, the conductive spring 32a, one end of the connecting part 302 of the insulating cover 30, and part of the grounding pin 312 are located in the mounting groove 401 on the middle frame 40, and the conductive spring 32a is in electrical contact with the metal outer frame 41 of the middle frame 40. In this way, static electricity is transmitted to the grounding pin 312 along the guide part 311 of the electrostatic protection structure 31. The grounding pin 312 transmits the static electricity to the metal outer frame 41 of the middle frame 40 through the conductive spring 32a to achieve discharge, thereby avoiding the discharge of static electricity at the bending area 21a of the flexible circuit board 21, which would cause damage to the flexible circuit board 21.
[0149] After assembly, see Figure 16 As shown, the conductive spring 32a, under its own elastic force, ensures the first contact portion 322 (see below for details). Figure 17-19 (as described below) and the inner wall of the mounting groove 401 of the middle frame 40 are in close contact. In addition, the reaction force of the inner wall of the mounting groove 401 of the middle frame 40 on the first abutment 322 causes the second abutment 324 of the conductive spring piece 32a (see below) to be in close contact with the inner wall of the mounting groove 401 of the middle frame 40. Figure 17-19 (as described) achieves close electrical contact with ground pin 312.
[0150] In this embodiment, the conductive spring 32a is fixed on the connecting part 302 of the insulating top cover 30. Therefore, after the insulating top cover 30 and the middle frame 40 are assembled, the grounding pin 312 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 can be electrically connected to the metal outer frame 41. This avoids the problem of complicated assembly and low assembly efficiency caused by reassembling the grounding pin 312 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 and the middle frame 40 to achieve electrical connection.
[0151] In addition, in this embodiment, since the conductive spring 32a has a certain elasticity, after assembly, the elasticity of the conductive spring 32a ensures that the conductive spring 32a and the inner wall of the mounting groove 401 of the middle frame 40 are tightly abutted. This ensures that the grounding pin 312 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 achieves a good electrical connection with the metal outer frame 41 through the conductive spring 32a, avoiding the problem of loosening or aging between the grounding pin 312 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 and the metal outer frame 41, which would otherwise prevent the grounding pin 312 from being electrically connected to the metal outer frame 41.
[0152] Therefore, in this embodiment of the application, the conductive spring 32a achieves a good electrical connection between the grounding pin 312 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 and the metal outer frame 41. Moreover, the conductive spring 32a has a simple structure, is easy to install, and has a reliable connection, which is conducive to mass production and beneficial to the large-scale production of the mobile phone 10.
[0153] In the embodiments of this application, see Figure 17 and Figure 18As shown, the conductive spring 32a has at least one engaging portion 321, and the conductive spring 32a is engaged with the connecting portion 302 of the insulating cover 30 via the engaging portion 321. See also the embodiment of this application. Figure 17 As shown, the conductive spring 32a has two engaging portions 321, which are located at both ends of the conductive spring 32a. In this embodiment, the engaging portions 321 can be... Figure 17 As shown in the locking groove, one end of the connecting portion 302 of the insulating cover 30 is engaged in the locking groove. In this embodiment, the locking portion 321 can be a "U"-shaped groove, which can be formed by the locking sidewall 325. Of course, in some other examples, the locking portion 321 can also be other locking components that engage with the connecting portion 302 of the insulating cover 30.
[0154] In this embodiment, since the conductive spring 32a is in electrical contact with the grounding pin 312 of the insulating top cover 30, in order to achieve a tight electrical contact between the conductive spring 32a and the metal outer frame, see [reference needed]. Figure 17 As shown, the conductive spring 32a has at least one first abutment portion 322, for example... Figure 17 In this example, there is one first abutment portion 322; in other examples, there may be two or more first abutment portions 322 (see below). Figure 26 In this embodiment, the first abutting portion 322 is used to abut against the inner wall of the mounting groove 401 of the middle frame 40 (see above). Figure 16 This makes the electrical contact between the conductive spring 32a and the metal outer frame of the middle frame 40 tighter, thereby achieving a good electrical connection between the conductive spring 32a and the metal outer frame.
[0155] It should be noted that the part connecting the mounting groove 401 and the conductive spring 32a is made of metal. Therefore, as long as the conductive spring 32a is connected to the side wall of the mounting groove 401, the electrical connection between the electrostatic protection structure 31 and the middle frame 40 can be achieved.
[0156] The outer surface of the first abutment portion 322 can be an outwardly convex arc surface, for example, the outer surface of the first abutment portion 322 can be a spherical surface. In this way, it is easier to assemble the outer surface of the first abutment portion 322 with the assembly groove 401. Of course, in some other examples, the outer surface of the first abutment portion 322 can also be set as a plane.
[0157] In the embodiments of this application, see Figure 19 As shown, the conductive spring 32a has at least one second abutment portion 324, for example... Figure 19The number of second abutment portions 324 is two; however, in some examples, the number of second abutment portions 324 may be one or more. The second abutment portions 324 are used for electrical contact with the grounding pin 312 of the electrostatic discharge protection structure 31 (see [link]). Figure 16 As shown, when the grounding pin 312 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 is located on the inner surface of the insulating cover 30, the conductive spring 32a is snapped onto the connecting part 302 of the insulating cover 30, and the second abutting part 324 of the conductive spring 32a and the grounding pin 312 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 are in close electrical contact, thereby achieving a good electrical connection between the conductive spring 32a and the grounding pin 312.
[0158] In the embodiments of this application, see Figure 19 As shown, the outer surface of the second abutment portion 324 can be an outwardly convex arc surface, for example, the outer surface of the second abutment portion 324 can be a spherical surface.
[0159] It should be noted that the shapes of the first contact part 322 and the second contact part 324 are not limited to the spherical shape shown in the figure, but can also be other shapes, such as: oval, rectangular, triangular, trapezoidal, etc., as long as they can achieve reliable electrical connection with the electrostatic protection structure 31 and the middle frame 40.
[0160] In this embodiment of the application, each ground pin 312 may include two sub-pins, for example, see Figure 20 As shown, each grounding pin 312 includes two sub-pins arranged side-by-side, namely sub-pin 312a and sub-pin 312b. A gap 312c exists between sub-pins 312a and 312b. This gap 312c helps to avoid compression deformation of the conductive spring piece 32a. See details... Figure 28 The description.
[0161] It should be noted that by designing the grounding pin 312 to include two sub-pins, a reliable electrical connection can be maintained through the other sub-pin even when the connection between one sub-pin and the conductive spring 32a is broken. This ensures a reliable electrical connection between the electrostatic discharge protection structure 31 and the middle frame 40 via the conductive spring 32a. Furthermore, the number of sub-pins is not a limitation on the scope of protection of this application. Multiple sub-pins can be provided, or no sub-pins may be provided, as long as a reliable electrical connection between the grounding pin 312 and the conductive spring 32a can be achieved.
[0162] In this embodiment, since the inner surface of the connecting portion 302 of the insulating cover 30 is arc-shaped, the grounding pin 312 is a curved structure that matches the arc-shaped inner surface of the connecting portion 302, so that the electrostatic protection structure 31 and the insulating cover 30 fit tightly together.
[0163] In this embodiment of the application, when assembling the conductive spring 32a with the connection portion 302 of the insulating top cover 30, reference can be made to Figure 21 As shown, the connecting part 302 of the insulating top cover 30 has an assembly end 302b at one end facing the middle frame 40, and the conductive spring piece 32a is specifically locked on the assembly end 302b of the connecting part 302.
[0164] In order to achieve a secure engagement between the conductive spring 32a and the assembly end 302b of the connecting part 302, see [reference needed]. Figure 21 As shown, the conductive spring 32a has a limiting part 323, and the assembly end 302b of the connecting part 302 is provided with a limiting groove 302a. In this way, when the two engaging parts 321 of the conductive spring 32a engage with the assembly end 302b of the connecting part 302, the limiting part 323 and the limiting groove 302a cooperate with each other to prevent the conductive spring 32a from falling off the assembly end 302b of the connecting part 302. Therefore, in this embodiment of the application, by setting the limiting part 323 and the limiting groove 302a, it is ensured that the conductive spring 32a is not easy to fall off after engaging with the assembly end 302b of the connecting part 302, thereby ensuring that the conductive spring 32a maintains good electrical contact with the grounding pin 312 of the electrostatic protection structure 31.
[0165] In the embodiments of this application, see Figure 21 As shown, the conductive spring sheet 32a has an engaging portion 321, which includes an engaging sidewall 325. A limiting portion 323 is provided on the engaging sidewall 325. The limiting portion 323 can be a part of the engaging sidewall 325, and is a hook-shaped structure extending from one end of the engaging sidewall 325. In this embodiment, the limiting portion 323 is provided on the engaging sidewall 325 of the engaging portion 321. Of course, the limiting portion 323 can also be provided on the opposite sidewall of the engaging sidewall 325. Additionally, in this embodiment, see... Figure 21 As shown, the limiting part 323 is a hook-shaped structure formed by extending one end of the engaging sidewall 325. Therefore, when the engaging part 321 of the conductive spring 32a engages, in order to facilitate the tight engagement between the engaging sidewall and the surface of the assembly end 302b of the connecting part 302, a receiving groove 3021 communicating with the limiting groove 302a can be provided on the assembly end 302b of the connecting part 302. In this way, when the conductive spring 32a engages at the assembly end 302b, the engaging sidewall 325 of the conductive spring 32a is located in the receiving groove 3021, and the limiting part 323 is located in the limiting groove 302a.
[0166] It should be noted that the shape and position of the limiting part 323 are not limited to those described in the above embodiments. As long as it can limit the conductive spring 32a, its specific shape can be set according to the specific situation, and will not be described in detail here.
[0167] In this embodiment of the application, when the conductive spring 32a is assembled with the insulating cover 30, see [reference needed]. Figure 22 As shown, the electrostatic protection structure 31 is first set on the inner surface of the insulating cover 30. The sub-pins 312a and 312b of the electrostatic protection structure 31 extend to the assembly end 302b of the connection part 302 of the insulating cover 30. An avoidance groove 302c is formed on the inner wall opposite to the interval 312c between the assembly end 302b and the sub-pins 312a and 312b.
[0168] Thus, when the conductive spring 32a is assembled at the assembly end 302b, see... Figure 23 As shown, a clearance space is formed between the side wall 3221 of the first abutment portion 322 on the conductive spring piece 32a and the clearance groove 302c. Since the conductive spring piece 32a mates with the mounting groove 401 of the middle frame 40 along with the insulating top cover 30, in order to achieve tight contact between the first abutment portion 322 of the conductive spring piece 32a and the inner wall of the mounting groove 401, the width b2 of the mounting groove 401 of the middle frame 40 is often (see...) Figure 16 The width b1 of the conductive spring 32a is less than that of the conductive spring (see...). Figure 23 Therefore, during assembly, the first contact part 322 is often subjected to an external force applied by the inner wall of the mounting groove 401 of the middle frame 40. Under the action of the external force, the conductive spring 32a can deform at the avoidance groove 302c, so that the conductive spring 32a installed on the insulating cover 30 can be inserted into the mounting groove 401 of the middle frame 40.
[0169] After assembly, see Figure 16 As shown, the conductive spring 32a ensures that the first abutment portion 322 is tightly abutted against the inner wall of the mounting groove 401 of the middle frame 40 under its own elastic force. In addition, the reaction force of the inner wall of the mounting groove 401 of the middle frame 40 on the first abutment portion 322 enables the second abutment portion 324 of the conductive spring 32a to achieve tight electrical contact with the grounding pin 312.
[0170] Therefore, in this embodiment, the interval 312c between the sub-pin 312a and the sub-pin 312b makes the side of the avoidance groove 302c facing the conductive spring 32a open. This interval 312c plays a role in avoiding the side wall 3221 of the conductive spring 32a where the first abutment portion 322 is provided, when it undergoes elastic deformation, thus ensuring that the conductive spring 32a is assembled into the assembly groove 401 of the middle frame 40.
[0171] It should be noted that during the assembly of the entire machine, the conductive spring 32a can be installed onto the insulating cover 30 first. This is because the conductive silver paste on the electrostatic protection structure 31 is prone to powdering when scratched, which reduces its conductivity and prevents reliable electrical contact between the electrostatic protection structure 31 and the conductive spring 32a. Therefore, the conductive spring 32a can be installed onto the insulating cover 30 first, and then the insulating cover 30 can be installed with other components. During the installation process, there will be some scratching between the conductive spring 32a and the middle frame 40, but the conductive spring 32a and the electrostatic protection structure 31 remain relatively stationary and will not scratch, thus ensuring effective electrical contact between the conductive spring 32a and the electrostatic protection structure 31.
[0172] In the embodiments of this application, see Figure 16 and Figure 24 As shown, the first abutment portion 322 and the second abutment portion 324 are disposed on the same side wall of the conductive spring piece 32a (e.g., Figure 24 In other examples, the first abutment 322 and the second abutment 324 are not limited to being disposed on the same sidewall of the conductive spring 32a, for example, as Figure 25 As shown, the first abutment portion 322 and the second abutment portion 324 can also be provided on two opposite sidewalls of the conductive spring piece 32a, or... Figure 26 As shown, the first abutment portion 322 can be provided on both opposite sidewalls of the conductive spring piece 32a. In this embodiment, the first abutment portion 322 protrudes towards the middle frame 40 and is electrically connected to the middle frame 40, and the second abutment portion 324 protrudes towards the grounding pin 312 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 and is electrically connected to the grounding pin 312 of the electrostatic protection structure 31.
[0173] In the embodiments of this application, see Figure 27 As shown, the grounding pin 312 of the electrostatic discharge protection structure 31 can also be an integral sheet structure, for example, it can include a sub-pin 312a (see...). Figure 20 As shown), when assembling in this way, see Figure 28 As shown, each conductive spring 32a may be provided with a second contact portion 324 that makes electrical contact with the grounding pin 312.
[0174] See Figure 29 As shown, the grounding pin 312 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 can be a single pin. Therefore, during assembly, refer to... Figure 30 As shown, a conductive spring 32a can be provided, and the conductive spring 32a has a second abutment 324 that makes electrical contact with the grounding pin 312.
[0175] By setting a grounding pin 312, the electrostatic protection structure 31 can be electrically connected to the middle frame 40. The grounding pin 312 is small in size, which can save materials. On the other hand, the position of the grounding pin 312 can be flexibly set according to the position of the middle frame 40, which is convenient for connection with the middle frame 40, and can avoid the influence of the electrostatic protection structure 31 on the antenna radiator.
[0176] In one possible implementation, the structure of the conductive spring 32a includes, but is not limited to, the above-described features. Figure 17 The structure shown, for example, in the embodiments of this application, the structure of the conductive spring 32a can also be as follows: Figure 31 As shown, the conductive spring 32a has a locking portion 321, which is a through groove. A first abutment portion 322 is provided on the outer side wall of the locking portion 321, and a second abutment portion 324 is provided on the inner side wall of the locking portion 321. The second abutment portion 324 can be a structure formed by the outer side wall of the locking portion 321 protruding towards the inner side wall of the locking portion 321. Wherein, Figure 31 A limiting structure can also be provided on the conductive spring 32a shown, so that the conductive spring 32a is not easy to fall off after being installed on the insulating cover 30.
[0177] In the embodiments of this application, see Figure 32 As shown, the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413 can be antenna radiators, and the grounding pin 312 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 is electrically connected to the second metal frame 412 through the conductive spring 32a.
[0178] In order to reduce or avoid the influence of the guide portion 311 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 on the radiation of the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413, the distance between the guide portion 311 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 and the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413 is greater than 0.8 mm. For example, see [reference needed]. Figure 33 As shown, the shortest distance L between the guide portion 311 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 and the first metal frame 411 is greater than 0.8 mm. Correspondingly, the shortest distance between the guide portion 311 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 and the third metal frame 413 is also greater than 0.8 mm. This ensures that the guide portion 311 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 is located outside the clearance of the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413, so that the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413 have a certain clearance when acting as antenna radiators.
[0179] It should be noted that the distance between the guide portion 311 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 and the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413 does not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of the technical solution of this application. This distance may be greater than 0.8mm, or even greater than 1mm, 2mm, etc., on different models and types of terminals, as long as the guide portion 311 of the electrostatic protection structure 31 does not affect the radiation of the first metal frame 411 and the third metal frame 413. This distance can be specifically set according to the specific circumstances.
[0180] Figure 34 and Figure 35 The schematic diagram from a folding machine can also be applied to this scenario. In a folding machine, due to the need for bending, there is often a gap between the display screen 20 and the insulating cover 30 (see reference). Figure 33 In this embodiment, an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection structure 31 is provided, and the grounding pin 312 of the ESD protection structure 31 is electrically connected to the middle frame 40 of the folding machine through a conductive spring 32a. In this way, after static electricity enters through the gap, it is transferred to the middle frame through the ESD protection structure 31 to achieve grounding, thus preventing static electricity from entering through the gap and causing damage to the bending area 21a of the flexible circuit board 21.
[0181] In the folding machine, the bending area 21a of the flexible circuit board 21 can be set close to any edge of the middle frame 40 of the folding machine, and the electrostatic protection structure 31 is set on the inner surface of the insulating cover 30 corresponding to the flexible circuit board 21.
[0182] By setting up the electrostatic protection structure 31, the anti-static function of the folding machine is achieved, ensuring the normal use of the folding machine. In addition, the setting of the electrostatic protection structure 31 avoids interference with the radiation of the frame antenna in the folding machine.
[0183] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or the internal communication between two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.
[0184] The devices or elements referred to in this application or implied herein must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as limiting this application. In the description of this application, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise precisely specified.
[0185] The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” etc. (if present) in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a particular order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of this application described herein can be implemented, for example, in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms “comprising” and “having,” and any variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.
[0186] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.
Claims
1. A folding device, characterized in that, include: An insulating top cover, a middle frame, a display screen, and a flexible circuit board electrically connected to one end of the display screen, wherein a first part of the insulating top cover is located above the display screen, a second part of the insulating top cover is connected to the middle frame, the middle frame includes a metal component, and the metal component is electrically connected to the ground of the folding device; The middle frame includes a first border; The flexible circuit board is positioned close to the first frame. The insulating top cover includes a first side, which is disposed corresponding to the first frame; The folding device further includes: an electrostatic protection structure disposed on the inner surface of the first side; The electrostatic protection structure includes: a guide portion and a grounding pin electrically connected to the guide portion. The grounding pin includes a first grounding pin and a second grounding pin spaced apart. The guide portion is a conductive layer that fits against the inner surface of the first side. There is a gap between the guide part and the display screen, and there is a gap between the grounding pin and the display screen; The grounding pin is electrically connected to the metal component.
2. The folding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The length of the guide portion is greater than or equal to the width of the bending area of the flexible circuit board.
3. The folding device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The conductive layer comprises conductive silver paste.
4. The folding device according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The flexible circuit board has a bending area near the first frame, and the electrostatic protection structure is disposed near the bending area.
5. The folding device according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The middle frame includes at least a metal outer frame and an insulating inner frame. The metal component includes the metal outer frame, at least a portion of which is located outside the insulating inner frame. The electrostatic protection structure is electrically connected to the metal outer frame.
6. The folding device according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The distance between the guide portion of the electrostatic protection structure and the outer edge of the display screen is less than the distance between the bending area and the outer edge of the display screen.
7. The folding device according to claim 5, characterized in that, One end of the electrostatic protection structure is close to the end of the insulating top cover away from the middle frame, and the other end of the electrostatic protection structure is electrically connected to the metal outer frame.
8. The folding device according to claim 7, characterized in that, Also includes: At least one conductive spring is connected to one end of the insulating top cover near the middle frame, and the conductive spring is in electrical contact with the electrostatic protection structure, which is electrically connected to the metal outer frame through the conductive spring.
9. The folding device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The conductive spring has at least one first abutting portion for electrical contact with the middle frame, so that the conductive spring is electrically connected to the middle frame.
10. The folding device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The conductive spring also has at least one second abutment portion, which is used to make electrical contact with the electrostatic protection structure so that the conductive spring is electrically connected to the electrostatic protection structure.
11. The folding device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The insulating top cover has a clearance groove on one side wall connected to the middle frame, and the clearance groove is opposite to the side wall of the conductive spring sheet where the first abutment portion is located.
12. The folding device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The first grounding pin and the second grounding pin of the electrostatic protection structure each include two sub-pins, and there is a gap between two adjacent sub-pins, and the gap is opposite to the clearance groove.
13. The folding device according to any one of claims 8-12, characterized in that, The conductive spring also has at least one engaging portion for engaging with one end of the insulating top cover connected to the middle frame, so that the conductive spring is disposed on the insulating top cover.
14. The folding device according to claim 13, characterized in that, The engaging part is an engaging groove, and the end of the insulating top cover connected to the middle frame is engaged in the engaging groove.
15. The folding device according to claim 14, characterized in that, The conductive spring also has a limiting part, and the end of the insulating top cover connected to the middle frame has a limiting groove that cooperates with the limiting part.
16. The folding device according to claim 15, characterized in that, The limiting part is a hook structure formed by extending the engaging sidewall of the engaging part.
17. The folding device according to any one of claims 1-3, 7-12, and 14-16, characterized in that, The middle frame has an assembly groove at one end near the insulating top cover, and the end of the insulating top cover connected to the middle frame is located in the assembly groove.
18. The folding device according to any one of claims 1-3, 7-12, and 14-16, characterized in that, The resistance of the electrostatic protection structure is less than 5 ohms.
19. The folding device according to any one of claims 1-3, 7-12, and 14-16, characterized in that, The middle frame near the electrostatic protection structure includes a first metal frame, a second metal frame, and a third metal frame that are spaced apart from each other. The second metal frame is disposed between the first metal frame and the third metal frame, both of which are antenna radiators; The grounding pin of the electrostatic protection structure is electrically connected to the second metal frame, and the grounding pin is far away from the first metal frame and the third metal frame.
20. The folding device according to claim 19, characterized in that, The distance between the two ends of the second metal frame and the first metal frame and the third metal frame is greater than 0.8 mm.
21. The folding device according to claim 20, characterized in that, The distance between the guide portion of the electrostatic protection structure and the first metal frame is greater than 0.8 mm, and the distance between the guide portion of the electrostatic protection structure and the third metal frame is greater than 0.8 mm.
22. The folding device according to any one of claims 1-3, 7-12, 14-16, and 20-21, characterized in that, The first portion of the insulating cover at least partially overlaps with the display screen in the thickness direction of the folding device, and there is a gap between the first portion of the insulating cover and the display screen.