A damping module, a rotating shaft mechanism and an electronic device

Abstract

The application provides a damping module, a rotating shaft mechanism and an electronic device. The damping module comprises a first damping support, a first rotating component, a second rotating component and a first elastic module. The first rotating component and the second rotating component are arranged on opposite sides of the first damping support. The first rotating component comprises a first rotating part, and the second rotating component comprises a second rotating part. The end of the first damping support facing the first rotating part has a first supporting part, and the end of the first damping support facing the second rotating part has a second supporting part. The first supporting part is rotationally connected with the first rotating part, and the second supporting part is rotationally connected with the second rotating part. Under the elastic force of the first elastic module, the supporting part on the corresponding side is in frictional contact with the rotating part. During the rotation of the two rotating parts relative to the first damping support, the frictional force generated at the position of the frictional contact can provide a certain damping force, which can act on the two housings of the electronic device to keep them at the corresponding rotating positions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of foldable electronic device technology, and more particularly to a damping module, a pivot mechanism, and an electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] With the gradual maturation of flexible display technology, the way electronic devices display technology has undergone tremendous changes. Foldable flexible screen mobile phones, foldable flexible screen tablets, and wearable electronic devices with foldable flexible screens are a major direction for the evolution of future smart electronic devices.

[0003] As a key component in the folding mode switching process of foldable electronic devices, the hinge mechanism's performance largely determines the folding reliability and user experience. For example, maintaining the folded, unfolded, and intermediate states of a foldable electronic device relies on the damping force provided by the damping module within the hinge mechanism. However, some current damping modules provide relatively low damping force. While they can effectively dampen the folded and unfolded states, they struggle to achieve hovering in the intermediate state, significantly impacting the user experience.

[0004] Therefore, how to achieve hovering in the intermediate state of foldable electronic devices has become a major problem that needs to be solved by those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a damping module, a pivot mechanism, and an electronic device to enable the electronic device to hover in an intermediate state, thereby improving the user experience.

[0006] In a first aspect, this application provides a damping module, which may include a first damping bracket, a first rotating assembly, a second rotating assembly, and a first elastic module. The first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the first damping bracket. The first rotating assembly includes a first rotating member, and the second rotating assembly includes a second rotating member. Furthermore, the end of the first damping bracket facing the first rotating assembly has a first support portion, and the first rotating member is rotatably connected to the first support portion, thereby achieving a rotatable connection between the first rotating member and the first damping bracket. Similarly, the end of the first damping bracket facing the second rotating assembly has a second support portion, and the second rotating member is rotatably connected to the second support portion, thereby achieving a rotatable connection between the second rotating member and the first damping bracket. Along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member, under the action of the elastic force of the first elastic module, the first support portion and the first rotating member are in frictional contact, and the second support portion and the second rotating member are in frictional contact. Using the damping module provided in this application, during the rotation of the first rotating member and the second rotating member relative to the first damping bracket, the frictional force generated at the friction surfaces of each friction contact can provide damping force for the rotation of the two rotating members. This damping force can act on the housing of the foldable electronic device with the damping module, thereby serving as a holding force for the folded state of the electronic device, which is beneficial for the electronic device to achieve the function of hovering in the intermediate state and improve the user experience.

[0007] To enable the damping module to provide greater damping force, in this application, the first rotating assembly may further include a first friction plate group, which may include a first friction plate and a second friction plate. In the rotation direction of the first rotating member, the first friction plate is fixed relative to the first rotating member, thereby allowing the first friction plate to rotate synchronously with the first rotating member. Additionally, in the rotation direction of the first rotating member, the second friction plate is fixed relative to the first damping bracket, enabling relative rotation between the first rotating member and the second friction plate. The end of the first rotating member facing the first damping bracket has a first receiving groove, and at least a portion of the first support, the first friction plate, and the second friction plate are disposed within the first receiving groove, with the first friction plate located between the first support and the second friction plate.

[0008] Similarly, the second rotating assembly may further include a second friction plate group, which may include a third friction plate and a fourth friction plate. In the rotational direction of the second rotating member, the third friction plate is fixed relative to the second rotating member, thereby allowing the third friction plate to rotate synchronously with the second rotating member. Additionally, in the rotational direction of the second rotating member, the fourth friction plate is fixed relative to the first damping bracket, enabling relative rotation between the second rotating member and the fourth friction plate. The end of the second rotating member facing the first damping bracket has a second receiving groove, within which at least a portion of the second support, the third friction plate, and the fourth friction plate are disposed, with the third friction plate located between the second support and the fourth friction plate.

[0009] Thus, along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member, under the elastic force of the first elastic module, the adjacent first support portion and the first friction plate, the first friction plate and the second friction plate, and the second friction plate and the first rotating member come into frictional contact. Additionally, the second support portion and the third friction plate, the third friction plate and the fourth friction plate, and the fourth friction plate and the second rotating member come into frictional contact. Therefore, during the rotation of the first and second rotating members, corresponding frictional forces are generated at the friction surfaces in contact. It is understood that the damping module employing this solution, due to the increased friction surfaces, can provide greater damping force, thereby improving the stability of the electronic device in maintaining the corresponding rotational state.

[0010] Furthermore, in this application, along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member, the first friction plate can move relative to the first rotating member, and the second friction plate can move relative to the first damping support. Similarly, the third friction plate can move relative to the second rotating member, and the fourth friction plate can move relative to the first damping support. This allows adjacent structures to be compressed under the elastic force of the first elastic module, enabling them to fit tightly together and thus resulting in a more stable frictional force.

[0011] In one possible implementation of this application, a first mounting portion with a first mounting groove may be provided at the end of the first rotating member facing the first damping bracket. The first friction plate has a first insertion portion that can be inserted into the first mounting groove, and the first insertion portion is clearance-fitted with the first mounting groove along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member. This allows the first friction plate to move relative to the first rotating member in this direction.

[0012] Similarly, the end of the second rotating member facing the first damping bracket is also provided with a second mounting part, the second mounting part having a second mounting groove; the third friction plate has a second insertion part, the second insertion part being inserted into the second mounting groove; and along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the second rotating member, the second insertion part and the second mounting groove are in clearance fit, thereby realizing the movement of the third friction plate relative to the second rotating member in this direction.

[0013] In this application, in order to fix the second friction plate and the first damping bracket relative to each other in the rotation direction of the first rotating member, a first stop groove can be provided on the first friction plate, and a first stop part can be provided on the first damping bracket. This allows the first stop part to engage with the first stop groove to stop both in that direction. It is worth mentioning that in some possible implementations of this application, the first stop groove can also be provided on the first damping bracket, and the first stop part can be provided on the first friction plate. Similarly, the first stop part can engage with the first stop groove to stop the second friction plate and the first damping bracket in that direction.

[0014] Similarly, a second stop groove can be provided on the fourth friction plate, and a second stop portion can be provided on the first damping bracket. The second stop portion engages with the second stop groove to stop the fourth friction plate and the first damping bracket in the rotational direction of the second rotating member. It is worth mentioning that in some possible implementations of this application, the second stop groove can also be provided on the first damping bracket, and the second stop portion can be provided on the fourth friction plate. Similarly, the second stop portion can engage with the second stop groove to stop the fourth friction plate and the first damping bracket in that direction.

[0015] In one possible implementation of this application, the end of the first rotating member facing the first elastic module further has a first cam surface, and the end of the second rotating member facing the first elastic module further has a second cam surface. Additionally, the damping module includes a first integrated cam located between the first rotating member and the first elastic module, and the first integrated cam has a third cam surface and a fourth cam surface. Under the elastic force of the first elastic module, the first cam surface can engage with the third cam surface, and the second cam surface can engage with the fourth cam surface. Thus, during the rotation of the first and second rotating members, a corresponding damping force is generated between the engaging cam surfaces, thereby enabling the damping module to provide greater damping force to the electronic device, allowing the electronic device to be more stably maintained in an unfolded, closed, or intermediate state.

[0016] In addition, the first rotating component may also be equipped with a first driving gear, and the second rotating component may also be equipped with a second driving gear. The first driving gear and the second driving gear mesh with each other, so that when one rotating component rotates, it drives the other rotating component to rotate synchronously in opposite or opposite directions. It can be understood that when the first rotating component is equipped with a first driving gear and the second rotating component is equipped with a second driving gear, the first cam surface can be set at the end of the first driving gear facing the first elastic module, and the second cam surface can be set at the end of the second driving gear facing the first elastic module, so as to improve the structural integration of the damping module.

[0017] The damping module may also include driven gears. The first driving gear and the second driving gear can mesh with an even number of driven gears to improve the stability of the synchronous rotation of the first rotating component and the second rotating component.

[0018] In one possible implementation of this application, the damping module may further include a gear support plate and a first intermediate shaft. The gear support plate may be located between the first damping bracket and the driven gear. The first intermediate shaft may be mounted on the gear support plate and pass through the driven gear, thereby improving the stability of the driven gear's movement. Additionally, a first elastic module may also be fitted onto the first intermediate shaft to enhance the motion stability of the first elastic module.

[0019] In one possible implementation of this application, the first rotating component may further include a first floating cam. In the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member, the first floating cam is in clearance fit with the first rotating member, and under the elastic force of the first elastic module, the first floating cam makes frictional contact with the first support portion. Furthermore, in the rotation direction of the first rotating member, the first floating cam is relatively fixed to the first rotating member. This allows the first support portion to achieve indirect contact with the first rotating member through the first floating cam, so that during the rotation of the first rotating member, friction is generated between the first floating cam and the first support portion. This friction can serve as the damping force output provided by the damping module.

[0020] Similarly, the first rotating assembly may also include a second floating cam. In the extension direction of the rotation axis of the second rotating member, the second floating cam is in clearance fit with the second rotating member, and under the elastic force of the first elastic module, the second floating cam makes frictional contact with the second support portion. Furthermore, in the rotation direction of the second rotating member, the second floating cam is relatively fixed to the second rotating member. In this way, the second support portion can achieve indirect contact with the second rotating member through the second floating cam, so that during the rotation of the second rotating member, friction is generated between the second floating cam and the second support portion. This friction can serve as the damping force output provided by the damping module.

[0021] In order to achieve a clearance fit between the first floating gear and the first rotating member in the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member, the first floating cam can have a first limiting groove, the first rotating member can have a first limiting part, and the first limiting part can be inserted into the first limiting groove. In addition, the first limiting part and the first limiting groove are in clearance fit in the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member.

[0022] Similarly, the second floating cam can have a second limiting groove, and the second rotating member can have a second limiting part, with the second limiting part inserted into the second limiting groove. Furthermore, in the extension direction of the rotation axis of the second rotating member, the second limiting part and the second limiting groove are in clearance fit, thereby achieving clearance fit between the second floating gear and the first rotating member.

[0023] In one possible implementation of this application, the end of the first floating cam facing away from the first elastic module has a fifth cam surface, and the end of the second floating cam facing away from the first elastic module has a sixth cam surface. Additionally, the damping module may include a second integrated cam, which has a seventh and an eighth cam surface. Under the elastic force of the first elastic module, the fifth and seventh cam surfaces engage, and the sixth and eighth cam surfaces engage. Thus, during the rotation of the first and second rotating components, by increasing the damping force generated between the engaging fifth and seventh cam surfaces and the sixth and eighth cam surfaces, the damping module can provide greater damping force to the electronic device, enabling the electronic device to be more stably maintained in an unfolded, closed, or intermediate state.

[0024] In one possible implementation of this application, the damping module may further include a second damping bracket and a second elastic module. The first and second damping brackets are located between the first and second elastic modules along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member. The end of the second damping bracket facing the first rotating member has a third support portion, and the end of the second damping bracket facing the second rotating member has a fourth support portion. This allows the first rotating member to be rotatably connected to the third support portion, achieving a rotatable connection between the first rotating member and the second damping module. Alternatively, the second rotating member can be rotatably connected to the fourth support portion, achieving a rotatable connection between the second rotating member and the second damping module. By simultaneously rotatably connecting the first rotating member to both the first and second damping brackets, and simultaneously rotatably connecting the second rotating member to both the first and second damping brackets, the rotational stability of the first and second rotating members can be improved.

[0025] Additionally, the first rotating assembly may further include a third friction plate group located on the side of the third support portion opposite to the first damping bracket. The third friction plate group includes a fifth friction plate and a sixth friction plate. In the rotational direction of the first rotating member, the fifth friction plate is fixed relative to the first rotating member, and the sixth friction plate is fixed relative to the second damping bracket. The end of the first rotating member facing the second damping bracket may have a first receiving groove. At least a portion of the third support portion, the fifth friction plate, and the sixth friction plate are disposed within the first receiving groove, with the fifth friction plate located between the second support portion and the sixth friction plate.

[0026] Similarly, the second rotating assembly may further include a fourth friction plate group located on the side of the fourth support portion opposite to the first damping bracket. The fourth friction plate group includes a seventh friction plate and an eighth friction plate. In the rotational direction of the second rotating member, the seventh friction plate is fixed relative to the second rotating member, and the eighth friction plate is fixed relative to the second damping bracket. The end of the second rotating member facing the second damping bracket has a second receiving groove. At least a portion of the fourth support portion, the seventh friction plate, and the eighth friction plate are disposed within the second receiving groove, with the seventh friction plate located between the fourth support portion and the eighth friction plate.

[0027] Thus, along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating component, under the elastic force of the second elastic module, the adjacent third support part and the fifth friction plate, the fifth friction plate and the sixth friction plate, and the sixth friction plate and the first rotating component are in frictional contact; the adjacent fourth support part and the seventh friction plate, the seventh friction plate and the eighth friction plate, and the eighth friction plate and the second rotating component are in frictional contact. During the rotation of the first and second rotating components relative to the second damping bracket, the frictional force generated at each contacting friction surface can provide damping force for the rotation of the two rotating components. This damping force can act on the housing of the foldable electronic device equipped with the damping module, thereby serving as a holding force for the folded state of the electronic device, facilitating the device's ability to hover in an intermediate state and improving the user experience.

[0028] Furthermore, in this application, along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member, the fifth friction plate can move relative to the first rotating member, and the sixth friction plate can move relative to the second damping support. Similarly, the seventh friction plate can move relative to the second rotating member, and the eighth friction plate can move relative to the second damping support. This allows adjacent structures to be compressed under the elastic force of the first elastic module, enabling them to fit tightly together and thus resulting in a more stable frictional force.

[0029] In one possible implementation of this application, a third mounting portion with a third mounting groove may be provided at the end of the first rotating member facing the second damping bracket. The fifth friction plate has a third insertion portion that can be inserted into the third mounting groove, and the third insertion portion and the third mounting groove are in clearance fit along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member, thereby enabling the fifth friction plate to move relative to the first rotating member in this direction.

[0030] Similarly, the end of the second rotating member facing the second damping bracket is also provided with a fourth mounting part, which has a fourth mounting groove; the seventh friction plate has a fourth insertion part, which is inserted into the fourth mounting groove; and along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the second rotating member, the fourth insertion part and the fourth mounting groove are in clearance fit, thereby realizing the movement of the seventh friction plate relative to the second rotating member in this direction.

[0031] In this application, in order to fix the sixth friction plate and the second damping bracket relative to each other in the rotation direction of the first rotating member, a third stop groove can be provided on the sixth friction plate, and a third stop part can be provided on the second damping bracket. This allows the third stop part to engage with the third stop groove to stop both in that direction. It is worth mentioning that in some possible implementations of this application, the third stop groove can also be provided on the second damping bracket, and the third stop part can be provided on the sixth friction plate, which can also achieve the same stopping effect by engaging with the third stop groove.

[0032] Similarly, a fourth stop groove can be provided on the eighth friction plate, and a fourth stop portion can be provided on the second damping bracket. The fourth stop portion engages with the fourth stop groove to achieve stopping of the eighth friction plate and the second damping bracket in the rotational direction of the second rotating member. It is worth mentioning that in some possible implementations of this application, the fourth stop groove can also be provided on the second damping bracket, and the fourth stop portion can be provided on the eighth friction plate. Similarly, the fourth stop portion can engage with the second stop groove to achieve stopping of the eighth friction plate and the second damping bracket in that direction.

[0033] In one possible implementation of this application, the first rotating member is further provided with a first clearance groove, and the first support portion and the third support portion are accommodated in the first clearance groove, with the first support portion and the second support portion dividing the first accommodating groove into two parts. This allows the first friction plate and the second friction plate to be accommodated in the portion of the first accommodating groove located on the first support portion opposite to the third support portion, and the fifth friction plate and the sixth friction plate to be accommodated in the portion of the first accommodating groove located on the third support portion opposite to the first support portion. Similarly, the second rotating member is further provided with a second clearance groove, and the second support portion and the fourth support portion are accommodated in the second clearance groove, with the second support portion and the fourth support portion dividing the second accommodating groove into two parts. This allows the third friction plate and the fourth friction plate to be accommodated in the portion of the second accommodating groove located on the second support portion opposite to the fourth support portion, and the seventh friction plate and the eighth friction plate to be accommodated in the portion of the second accommodating groove located on the fourth support portion opposite to the second support portion. This allows for a more compact structure of the damping module, reducing the space it occupies in the rotating shaft mechanism, which is beneficial for miniaturizing the rotating shaft mechanism.

[0034] As can be understood from the above description of the damping module provided in this application, the damping force provided by the damping module can be adjusted by adjusting the number of friction surfaces in the friction contact. Based on this, in this application, the number of friction plates in each friction plate group in the damping module can be adjusted according to the specific damping force requirements of the electronic device. For example, when a larger damping force is required, the first friction plate group can include at least two first friction plates and at least two second friction plates, with the number of first and second friction plates being the same. Along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member, at least two first friction plates and at least two second friction plates are arranged alternately. The second friction plate group includes at least two third friction plates and at least two fourth friction plates, with the number of third and fourth friction plates being the same; along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the second rotating member, at least two third friction plates and at least two fourth friction plates are arranged alternately.

[0035] Additionally, the third friction plate group may include at least two fifth friction plates and at least two sixth friction plates, with the same number of fifth and sixth friction plates. Along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member, at least two fifth and at least two sixth friction plates are arranged alternately. Furthermore, the fourth friction plate group includes at least two seventh and at least two eighth friction plates, with the same number of seventh and eighth friction plates; along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the second rotating member, at least two seventh and at least two eighth friction plates are arranged alternately. This further increases the damping force provided by the damping module.

[0036] In one possible implementation of this application, the end of the first rotating member facing the second elastic module may have a ninth cam surface, and the end of the second rotating member facing the second elastic module may have a tenth cam surface. Additionally, the damping module may include a third integrated cam, which has an eleventh and a twelfth cam surface. Under the elastic force of the second elastic module, the ninth cam surface engages with the eleventh cam surface, and the tenth cam surface engages with the twelfth cam surface, thereby providing a greater damping force through these engaging cam surfaces.

[0037] Additionally, the damping module may include a first pin and a second pin. The first pin passes through the first rotating member, the first support portion, and the third support portion, thereby enabling the first rotating member to be rotatably connected to the first and second support portions via the first pin. The second pin may pass through the second rotating member, the second support portion, and the fourth support portion, thereby enabling the second rotating member to be rotatably connected to the third and fourth support portions via the second pin.

[0038] In addition, the damping module includes a first retaining ring and a second retaining ring. The first retaining ring is located between the first damping bracket and the second damping bracket; the first pin has a first retaining groove, and the first retaining ring is engaged in the first retaining groove. The second retaining ring is located between the first damping bracket and the second damping bracket; the second pin has a second retaining groove, and the second retaining ring is engaged in the second retaining groove. This avoids interference between the forces generated by the first elastic module and the second elastic module, thereby ensuring stable contact between the structures in frictional contact, resulting in a more stable damping force.

[0039] In any of the possible implementations described above in this application, in order to achieve a rotatable connection between the first rotating member and the first damping bracket, the end of the first rotating member facing the first damping bracket may have two first connecting arms. Thus, the rotatable connection between the first rotating member and the first damping bracket can be achieved through the rotatable connection of these two first connecting arms. Furthermore, the two first connecting arms are spaced apart to form a first receiving groove between them.

[0040] Similarly, the end of the second rotating member facing the first damping bracket has two second connecting arms, thereby achieving a rotational connection between the second rotating member and the first damping bracket through the rotational connection of the two second connecting arms. Furthermore, the two second connecting arms are spaced apart to form a second receiving groove between them.

[0041] Secondly, this application also provides a pivot mechanism, which may include a spindle module and a damping module as described in the first aspect. The spindle module may include a base with a receiving cavity, and the damping module can be installed in the receiving cavity. Using the pivot mechanism provided in this application, a larger damping force can be output, thereby meeting the state-maintaining force requirements of electronic devices in unfolded, closed, and intermediate states.

[0042] Thirdly, this application also provides an electronic device, which includes a first housing, a second housing, and a rotating shaft mechanism as described in the second aspect. The first housing and the second housing are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the rotating shaft mechanism, and a first rotating member is slidably connected to the first housing, and a second rotating member is slidably connected to the second housing.

[0043] In the electronic device of this application, the damping force provided by the damping module can be transmitted to the first housing through the first rotating member, and to the second housing through the second rotating member. Because the damping force provided by the damping module is relatively large, this not only allows the electronic device to maintain both the unfolded and closed states, but also enables the electronic device to achieve a hovering function in an intermediate state, thereby improving the user experience. Attached Figure Description

[0044] Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device in a closed state according to an embodiment of this application;

[0045] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the electronic device in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the end face cam of a damping module provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of two end face cams in contact in a damping module provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figures 5a to 5c This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a damping module provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 6 for Figure 5c An exploded view of the damping module shown in the diagram;

[0050] Figure 7 for Figure 5c Enlarged view of the local structure at point A;

[0051] Figure 8 for Figure 7 Sectional view at point BB;

[0052] Figure 9 for Figure 5c Sectional view at CC;

[0053] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a damping module provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0054] Figures 11a to 11c This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a damping module provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0055] Figure 12 for Figure 11c An exploded view of the damping module shown in the diagram;

[0056] Figure 13 A schematic diagram illustrating the cooperation relationship between the first friction plate and the first rotating member according to an embodiment of this application;

[0057] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the cooperation relationship between the second friction plate and the first damping bracket according to an embodiment of this application;

[0058] Figure 15 for Figure 11b The DD cross-sectional view of the damping module shown;

[0059] Figures 16a to 16cThis is a schematic diagram of the structure of a damping module provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0060] Figure 17 for Figure 16c An exploded view of the damping module shown;

[0061] Figure 18 for Figure 16c A partial structural diagram of the damping module at point E shown;

[0062] Figure 19 for Figure 18 A cross-sectional view at FF;

[0063] Figure 20 A schematic diagram illustrating the cooperation relationship between the sixth friction plate and the second damping bracket according to an embodiment of this application;

[0064] Figure 21 for Figure 16c A cross-sectional view of the damping module at point GG shown;

[0065] Figure 22 A comparison curve of damping forces of different damping modules provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0066] Figure 23 for Figure 2 An exploded view of the electronic device shown;

[0067] Figure 24 for Figure 23 Enlarged view of the local structure at point H;

[0068] Figure 25 for Figure 23 The image shows a magnified view of the local structure at point H when the electronic device is in a closed state.

[0069] Figure label:

[0070] 1-Rotating shaft mechanism; 11-First end face cam; 1101-First inclined plane; 1102-First plane; 12-Second end face cam;

[0071] 1201 - Second inclined plane; 1202 - Second plane; 101 - Damping module; 1011 - First damping bracket; 10111 - First support part;

[0072] 10112 - First stop part; 1012 - First rotating member; 10121 - First connecting arm; 10122 - First receiving groove;

[0073] 10123 - First mounting part; 101231 - First mounting groove; 10124 - First drive gear; 101241 - First cam surface;

[0074] 10125 - First limiting part; 10126 - Third mounting part; 101261 ​​- Third mounting groove; 10127 - First clearance groove;

[0075] 10128 - Ninth cam surface; 10129 - Tenth cam surface;

[0076] 1013 - Second rotating component; 10131 - Second drive gear; 101311 - Second cam surface; 1014a - First pin;

[0077] 10141 - First slot; 1014b - Second pin;

[0078] 1015 - First friction plate group; 10151 - First friction plate; 101511 - First insertion part; 10152 - Second friction plate;

[0079] 101521 - First stop groove; 1016 - First elastic module; 1017a - First friction surface; 1017b - Second friction surface;

[0080] 1017c - Third friction surface; 1017d - Fourth friction surface; 1018 - First integrated cam; 10181 - Second cam surface;

[0081] 1019-Driven gear; 1020-Gear support plate; 1021-First intermediate shaft; 1022-First retaining ring; 1023-Integrated snap ring;

[0082] 1024a - First floating cam; 10241 - First limiting groove; 10242 - Fifth cam surface; 10243 - Sixth cam surface;

[0083] 1024b - Second floating cam; 1025 - Second integrated cam; 10251 - Seventh cam surface; 10252 - Eighth cam surface;

[0084] 1026-Second damping bracket; 10261-Third support part; 10262-Third stop part;

[0085] 1027 - Second elastic module; 1028 - Third friction plate group; 10281 - Fifth friction plate; 102811 - Second insertion part;

[0086] 10282 - Sixth friction plate; 102821 - Third stop groove; 1029 - First snap ring; 1030 - Third integrated cam;

[0087] 10301 - Eleventh cam surface; 10302 - Twelfth cam surface; 1031 - Second retaining ring; 1032 - Second intermediate shaft;

[0088] 102-Base; 10201-Circular arc groove; 103-Swing arm; 1033-Circular arc shaft;

[0089] 2-First housing; 3-Second housing; 4-Flexible display screen. Detailed Implementation

[0090] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the application will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0091] To facilitate understanding of the damping module, hinge mechanism, and electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application, their application scenarios are first described below. The hinge mechanism can be applied to, but is not limited to, foldable electronic devices such as mobile phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), laptops, or tablets. When applying the hinge mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application to electronic devices, please refer to... Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the electronic device is in a closed state. Besides the pivot mechanism 1, the electronic device may also include two housings and a flexible display screen. Figure 1 (Not shown in the image). For ease of explanation, in this application, the two housings of the electronic device can be named the first housing 2 and the second housing 3, respectively. The first housing 2 and the second housing 3 are located on opposite sides of the rotating shaft mechanism 1 and can rotate around the rotating shaft mechanism 1. During use, the electronic device can be closed and opened according to different usage scenarios.

[0092] Additionally, you can refer to Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the electronic device in its unfolded state. In this state, the first housing 2 and the second housing 3 are still located on both sides of the pivot mechanism 1, and the first housing 2 and the second housing 3 can support the flexible display screen 4 so that the flexible display screen 4 is in a flat state.

[0093] Understandably, this electronic device is made by Figure 2 The unfolded state shown Figure 1 The closed state shown, or by Figure 1 The closed state shown Figure 2 The unfolded state shown is the process of the first housing 2 and the second housing 3 rotating around the pivot mechanism 1. The pivot mechanism 1, as a key functional component in the foldable electronic device, is designed to correspond to the foldable portion of the flexible display screen 4; therefore, it plays a crucial role in... Figure 2 The support for the foldable portion of the flexible display screen 4 in the unfolded state, as shown, and in... Figure 1The closed state shown plays an important role in accommodating the foldable portion of the flexible display screen 4.

[0094] Furthermore, the reliable structure of the rotating shaft mechanism 1 plays a crucial role in ensuring the reliable movement of the electronic device and maintaining its state during movement. For example, the electronic device can maintain... Figure 1 The closed state shown and Figure 2 The unfolded state shown largely depends on the damping force provided by the damping module 101 in the pivot mechanism 1. Currently, the damping module 101 of some foldable electronic devices often employs... Figure 3 The end-face cam structure shown provides the damping force. Figure 3 The diagram illustrates a possible embodiment of a first end face cam 11 and / or a second end face cam 12. When the electronic device is in a closed state and an unfolded state, it can be referred to... Figure 4 , Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the damping module 101 provided in one embodiment of this application, showing the contact between the two end face cams. In this embodiment, an effective state-holding force can be provided through the contact between the first inclined surface 1101 of the first end face cam 11 and the second inclined surface 1201 of the second end face cam 12 of the damping module 101. However, when the electronic device moves to an intermediate state between the closed state and the unfolded state, the first plane 1102 of the first end face cam 11 and the second plane 1202 of the second end face cam 12 of the damping module 101 contact each other. At this time, the damping force provided is small, and since the rebound force generated by the flexible display screen 4, which is in a bent state at this time, is applied to the two housings, it is difficult for the electronic device to maintain this intermediate state, which greatly reduces the user experience.

[0095] The damping module provided in this application aims to solve the above-mentioned problems by providing a sufficiently large damping force when the electronic device is in an intermediate state, thereby enabling the electronic device to maintain the corresponding intermediate state and improving the user experience. To facilitate understanding of the damping module provided in the embodiments of this application, its specific structure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0096] The terminology used in the following embodiments is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this application. As used in the specification and appended claims of this application, the singular expressions “a,” “an,” “the,” “the,” “the,” and “this” are intended to also include expressions such as “one or more” unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0097] References to "one embodiment" or "some embodiments" as described in this specification mean that one or more embodiments of this application include a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment. Therefore, the phrases "in one embodiment," "in some embodiments," "in other embodiments," "in still other embodiments," etc., appearing in different parts of this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, but rather mean "one or more, but not all, embodiments," unless otherwise specifically emphasized. The terms "comprising," "including," "having," and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to," unless otherwise specifically emphasized.

[0098] First, you can refer to Figures 5a to 5c , Figures 5a to 5c This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a damping module 101 provided in one embodiment of this application. Figure 5a This is a schematic diagram of the damping module 101 when the electronic device is in the closed state. Figure 5b This is a schematic diagram of the damping module 101 when the electronic device is in an intermediate state. Figure 5c This is a schematic diagram of the damping module 101 when the electronic device is in the deployed state. In this embodiment, the damping module 101 may include two rotating components and a first damping bracket 1011. For ease of explanation, the two rotating components can be named the first rotating component and the second rotating component, respectively. The first rotating component and the second rotating component are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the first damping bracket 1011, and the two rotating components can be symmetrically arranged with respect to the damping rotating member. The first rotating component includes a first rotating member 1012, and the second rotating component includes a second rotating member 1013. The first rotating member 1012 and the second rotating member 1013 are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the first damping bracket 1011, and the first rotating member 1012 and the second rotating member 1013 can rotate around the first damping bracket 1011 in opposite or opposite directions.

[0099] Through the Figures 5a to 5c By comparing the structure of the damping module 101 shown, it can be seen that the process of the electronic device changing from a closed state to an unfolded state is the process of the first rotating member 1012 and the second rotating member 1013 rotating around the first damping bracket 1011 in opposite directions. Furthermore, it can be understood that the process of the electronic device changing from an unfolded state to a closed state is the process of the first rotating member 1012 and the second rotating member 1013 rotating around the first damping bracket 1011 in opposite directions.

[0100] For a clearer explanation of the structure of the damping module 101, please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 6 , Figure 6 for Figure 5cThe exploded view of the damping module 101 shown is provided. Two first connecting arms 10121 are provided at the end of the first rotating member 1012 facing the first damping bracket 1011. These two first connecting arms 10121 are rotatably connected to the first damping bracket 1011 to achieve a rotatable connection between the first rotating member 1012 and the first damping bracket 1011. Furthermore, the two first connecting arms 10121 are spaced apart to form a first receiving groove 10122 between them. The end of the first damping bracket 1011 facing the first rotating member 1012 has a first support portion 10111, which is accommodated within the first receiving groove 10122 of the first rotating member 1012, and the two first connecting arms 10121 are rotatably connected to the first support portion 10111.

[0101] In addition, the damping module 101 may also include a first pin 1014a, which passes through the first support portion 10111. Then, the two first connecting arms 10121 of the first rotating member 1012 can be rotatably connected to the first support portion 10111 through the first pin 1014a, thereby realizing the rotatable connection between the first rotating member 1012 and the first damping bracket 1011.

[0102] You can continue to refer to Figure 5c and Figure 6 The damping module 101 provided in this application may further include a first elastic module 1016. In this embodiment of the application, the first elastic module 1016 can generate an elastic force in the extension direction along the rotation axis of the first rotating member 1012. Specifically, the first elastic module 1016 may include multiple springs arranged side-by-side, and these springs can be compressed in the extension direction along the rotation axis of the first rotating member 1012, thereby generating an elastic force in that direction.

[0103] Can be referred to together Figure 5c and Figure 6 In this application, the first elastic module 1016 can be sleeved on the first pin 1014a, so that the first elastic module 1016 can move along the pin 1014, thereby effectively improving the reliability of the movement of the first elastic module 1016.

[0104] You can continue to refer to Figure 6In this application, a drive gear may also be provided on the side of the first rotating member 1012 facing the first elastic module 1016. Similarly, a drive gear may also be provided on the side of the second rotating member 1013 facing the first elastic module 1016. For ease of description, the drive gear of the first rotating member 1012 may be referred to as the first drive gear 10124, and the drive gear of the second rotating member 1013 may be referred to as the second drive gear 10131. The first drive gear 10124 and the second drive gear 10131 can mesh with each other. In this way, as the first rotating member 1012 rotates around the first damping bracket 1011, it can drive the second rotating member 1013 to rotate in the opposite or opposite direction, so as to achieve synchronous rotation of the first rotating member 1012 and the second rotating member 1013, thereby improving the reliability of the movement of the damping module 101 and enhancing the user experience.

[0105] In this application, the damping module 101 may further include a second pin 1014b, a first drive gear 10124 which may be sleeved on the first pin 1014a, and a second drive gear 10131 which may be sleeved on the second pin 1014b. Additionally, a first cam surface 101241 may be provided at the end of the first drive gear 10124 facing the first elastic module 1016, and a second cam surface 101311 may be provided at the end of the second drive gear 10131 facing the first elastic module 1016. Furthermore, a first integrated cam 1018 may be provided between the first drive gear 10124 and the first elastic module 1016, and the first integrated cam 1018 may be sleeved on the first pin 1014a and the second pin 1014b. The first integrated cam 1018 is provided with a third cam surface 10181 corresponding to the first cam surface 101241 of the first drive gear 10124, and a fourth cam surface 10182 corresponding to the second cam surface 101311 of the second drive gear 10131. The first elastic module 1016 can press the first integrated cam 1018 against the first drive gear 10124 and the second drive gear 10131, thereby matching the first cam surface 101241 of the first drive gear 10124 with the third cam surface 10181, and engaging the second cam surface 101311 of the second drive gear 10131 with the fourth cam surface 10182.

[0106] It should be noted that in some possible embodiments of this application, the first rotating member 1012 and the second rotating member 1013 may not be provided with a drive gear. In this case, the first cam surface 101241 can be directly disposed at the end of the first rotating member 1012 facing the first elastic module 1016, and the second cam surface 101311 can be disposed at the end of the second rotating member 1013 facing the first elastic module 1016.

[0107] In this application, the cam surface may include a protrusion and a recess, with an inclined surface present during the transition from the protrusion to the recess, or from the recess to the protrusion. Based on the above... Figure 4 As can be understood from the description of the two end face cams in the illustrated embodiment providing damping force when their inclined surfaces contact each other, during the rotation of the first rotating member 1012 and the second rotating member 1013 around the first damping bracket 1011, a corresponding damping force can be generated when the inclined surfaces of the two abutting cam surfaces contact each other.

[0108] Additionally, a driven gear 1019 may be provided between the first driving gear 10124 and the second driving gear 10131. The number of driven gears 1019 may be even; for example, they may be... Figure 6 The two shown can also be four, six, or eight, depending on the dimensions of the damping module 101. See also... Figure 5b and Figure 6 The even number of driven gears 1019 mesh with each other, and the even number of driven gears 1019 can mesh with the first driving gear 10124 and the second driving gear 10131. In this way, the motion stability of the first rotating member 1012 and the second rotating member 1013 can be improved during their rotation in opposite or opposite directions.

[0109] Depend on Figure 6 It can be seen that a cam surface can also be provided at the end of the driven gear 1019 facing the first integrated cam 1018, and a cam surface can also be provided at the position of the first integrated cam 1018 corresponding to the driven gear 1019. Thus, under the elastic force of the first elastic module 1016, the corresponding cam surfaces of the driven gear 1019 and the first integrated cam 1018 can also abut against each other. Therefore, during the rotation of the first rotating member 1012 and the second rotating member 1013 relative to the first damping bracket 1011, a corresponding damping force is generated between the driven gear 1019 and the first integrated cam 1018, thereby allowing the damping module 101 to provide a greater damping force. This allows electronic devices using the damping module 101 to reliably maintain an unfolded state, a closed state, or an intermediate state, thereby improving the user experience.

[0110] In addition, the damping module 101 may also include a first intermediate shaft 1021, which can be installed on the first damping bracket 1011 and can pass through the driven gear 1019 so that the driven gear 1019 can rotate around the corresponding first intermediate shaft 1021, thereby improving the reliability of the movement of the driven gear 1019.

[0111] You can continue to refer to Figure 6At least a portion of the first elastic module 1016 can be sleeved on the first intermediate shaft 1021, allowing the first elastic module 1016 to deform along the first intermediate shaft 1021, which helps improve the stability of the movement of the first elastic module 1016. Additionally, the first integrated cam 1018 can also be sleeved on the first intermediate shaft 1021. Thus, under the action of the first elastic module 1016, the first integrated cam 1018 can reliably contact the driven gear 1019.

[0112] In this application, the damping module 101 may further include a first retaining ring 1022, and the first elastic module 1016 may be located between the first integrated cam 1018 and the first retaining ring 1022. The first retaining ring 1022 may also be sleeved on the first intermediate shaft 1021 to compress the first elastic module 1016, thereby allowing the first elastic module 1016 to accumulate elastic force.

[0113] You can continue to refer to Figure 5c and Figure 6 In this application, the damping module 101 may further include a snap ring 1023. The first elastic module 1016 is located between the first integrated cam 1018 and the snap ring 1023, and the snap ring 1023 can be locked onto the first intermediate shaft 1021 to limit the first elastic module 1016 and the first integrated cam 1018, thereby preventing the first elastic module 1016 from falling off the first intermediate shaft 1021. In addition, the snap ring 1023 can also be locked onto the pin 1014, which helps to keep the compression of the first elastic module 1016 consistent at all points, thereby making the elastic force provided by the first elastic module 1016 more stable.

[0114] It is understood that in this application, the compression amount of the first elastic module 1016 can also be adjusted by adjusting the thickness of the first retaining ring 1022 and the integrated retaining spring 1023 in the extension direction along the first intermediate shaft 1021, as well as the setting position of the integrated retaining spring 1023 on the first intermediate shaft 1021, thereby achieving the adjustment of the elastic force accumulated in the first elastic module 1016.

[0115] You can continue to refer to Figure 6In the damping module 101, a first floating cam 1024a can be provided corresponding to the first rotating member 1012, and a second floating cam 1024b can be provided corresponding to the second rotating member 1013. Specifically, on the side of the first rotating member 1012, a first support portion 10111 can be located between the second floating cam 1024b and the first elastic module 1016. Along the rotation direction of the first rotating member 1012, the first floating cam 1024a rotates synchronously with the first rotating member 1012. Furthermore, along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member 1012, the first rotating member 1012 and the first floating cam 1024a are in clearance fit.

[0116] Reference Figure 7 , Figure 7 for Figure 5c A magnified view of the partial structure at point A of the damping module 101 shown. Figure 7 This can be used to demonstrate the mating relationship between the first rotating member 1012 and the first floating cam 1024a. The first floating cam 1024a may be provided with a first limiting groove 10241, and the first rotating member 1012 may be provided with a first limiting part 10125, which can be inserted into the first limiting groove 10241. In the extension direction along the rotation axis of the first rotating member 1012, the first limiting part 10125 and the first limiting groove 10241 are in clearance fit, thereby allowing the first floating cam 1024a to move relative to the first rotating member 1012 in this direction.

[0117] Additionally, you can refer to Figure 8 , Figure 8 for Figure 7 A cross-sectional view at point BB. Along the rotational direction of the first rotating member 1012, the first limiting portion 10125 can fit against the groove wall of the first limiting groove 10241. Thus, as the first rotating member 1012 rotates relative to the first damping bracket 1011, it can drive the first floating cam 1024a to rotate synchronously.

[0118] You can continue to refer to Figure 6 In this application, the first limiting part 10125 can be disposed on a first connecting arm 10121 of the first rotating member 1012, which can facilitate the connection between the first rotating member 1012 and the first floating cam 1024a, and make the structure of the damping module 101 more compact.

[0119] Can be referred to together Figure 5c and Figure 6As can be understood from the above description of the cooperation relationship between the first support portion 10111 and the first rotating member 1012, the first support portion 10111 of the first damping bracket 1011 is housed in the first receiving groove 10122 of the first rotating member 1012, so the first support portion 10111 can fit against the end face of the first floating cam 1024a. Furthermore, since the first floating cam 1024a is in clearance fit with the first rotating member 1012 in the extension direction of the rotation direction of the first rotating member 1012, under the elastic force of the first elastic module 1016, the first floating cam 1024a can move relative to the first rotating member 1012 in this direction, which helps to improve the reliability of the contact between the first support portion 10111 and the first floating cam 1024a. Thus, refer to... Figure 9 , Figure 9 for Figure 5c The diagram shows a CC cross-sectional view of the damping module. Under the elastic force of the first elastic module 1016, the first support portion 10111 and the first floating cam 1024a come into frictional contact, thereby enabling the first support portion 10111 to achieve frictional contact with the first rotating member 1012 through the first floating cam 1024a. This forms a first friction surface 1017a between the first support portion 10111 and the first floating cam 1024a, and a second friction surface 1017b between the first support portion 10111 and the groove wall of the first receiving groove 10122. Thus, during the rotation of the first rotating member 1012 relative to the first damping bracket 1011, the first friction surface 1017a and the second friction surface 1017b work together to provide a constant damping force.

[0120] It should be noted that the above embodiments only described the rotatable connection between the first rotating member 1012 and the first damping bracket 1011 via the first pin 1014a and the first support portion 10111, and the principle of the damping force generated by the first rotating member 1012 during rotation. In this application, the rotation of the second rotating member 1013 around the first damping bracket 1011 and the generation of damping force can be achieved by symmetrically arranging the second rotating member 1013 side with the first rotating member 1012 side. Specifically, to achieve the rotatable connection between the second rotating member 1013 and the first damping bracket 1011, a second support portion can be provided at the end of the first damping bracket facing the second rotating member 1013. The second rotating member 1013 can then be rotatably connected to this second support portion via the second pin 1014b. Furthermore, the positional relationship between the second support and the second rotating member 1013 can be set with reference to the first rotating member 1012 side. For example, the end of the second rotating member 1013 facing the first damping bracket 1011 can be provided with two second connecting arms, which can be rotatably connected to the first damping bracket 1011 to realize the rotatable connection between the second rotating member 1013 and the first damping bracket 1011. In addition, the two second connecting arms are spaced apart to form a second receiving groove between the two second connecting arms, and the second support can be received in the second receiving groove. The structure of the second floating cam 1024b on the second rotating member 1013 side and the cooperation relationship between the second floating cam 1024b and the second rotating member 1013 can be set with reference to the first rotating member 1012 side, etc., and will not be described in detail here. Thus, based on the above description of the principle of damping force generation on the side of the first rotating member 1012, under the action of the elastic force of the first elastic module 1016, a friction surface can be formed between the second rotating member 1013 and the first support portion 10111 provided on that side, thereby providing a corresponding damping force on the side of the second rotating member 1013.

[0121] The damping module 101 provided in this application provides damping force not only from the relative motion of the cooperating cam surfaces but also from the friction surfaces, thus enabling the damping module 101 to provide a larger damping force. When applied to the hinge mechanism of electronic devices, the damping module 101 can provide reliable damping force not only for maintaining the electronic device in its closed and unfolded states but also for maintaining it in an intermediate state, thereby meeting the user's requirements for different folded states and improving the user experience.

[0122] Additionally, you can continue to refer to Figure 6The first floating cam 1024a can be sleeved on the first pin 1014a, and the second floating cam 1024b can be sleeved on the second pin 1014b. A fifth cam surface 10242 is provided at the end of the first floating cam 1024a facing away from the first elastic module 1016, and a sixth cam surface 10243 is provided at the end of the second floating cam 1024b facing away from the first elastic module 1016. In this application, the damping module 101 may further include a second integrated cam 1025, which may have a seventh cam surface 10251 corresponding to the first floating cam 1024a and an eighth cam surface 10252 corresponding to the second floating cam 1024b. Along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member 1012, under the elastic force of the first elastic module 1016, the correspondingly arranged fifth cam surface 10242 and seventh cam surface 10251 cooperate, and the sixth cam surface 10243 and eighth cam surface 10252 cooperate. In this way, during the rotation of the first rotating member 1012 and the second rotating member 1013 around the first damping bracket 1011, corresponding damping forces are generated between the first floating cam 1024a and the second floating cam 1024b and the second integrated cam 1025, thereby enabling the damping module 101 to provide greater damping force.

[0123] In this application, the second integrated cam 1025 can also be fitted onto the pin 1014. For specific implementation, please refer to... Figure 6 The portion of the second integrated cam 1025 with the seventh cam surface 10251 can be fitted onto the first pin 1014a, and the portion of the second integrated cam 1025 with the eighth cam surface 10252 can be fitted onto the second pin 1014b. This makes the structure of the damping module 101 more stable and improves the reliability of the contact between the corresponding cam surfaces.

[0124] It is worth mentioning that, in addition to being respectively disposed on the first floating cam 1024a and the second floating cam 1024b, the fifth cam surface 10242 and the sixth cam surface 10243 can also be referenced. Figure 10 , Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a damping module provided in another possible embodiment of this application. In this embodiment, the damping module 101 does not have a first floating cam 1024a and a second floating cam 1024b. In this case, the fifth cam surface can be directly set on the end face of the first rotating member 1012 that is opposite to the first elastic module 1016, and the sixth cam surface can be set on the end face of the second rotating member 1013 that is opposite to the first elastic module 1016, thereby simplifying the structure of the damping module 101.

[0125] Reference Figures 11a to 11c , Figures 11a to 11cThis is a schematic diagram of the structure of a damping module 101 provided in another embodiment of this application. Figure 11a This is a schematic diagram of the damping module 101 when the electronic device is in the closed state. Figure 11b This is a schematic diagram of the damping module 101 when the electronic device is in an intermediate state. Figure 11c This is a schematic diagram of the damping module 101 when the electronic device is in the deployed state. (This is based on...) Figures 11a to 11c The damping module 101 shown is Figures 5a to 5c By comparing the damping module 101 shown, it can be seen that, Figures 11a to 11c In the provided damping module 101, the first rotating component may further include a first friction plate group 1015. Apart from this, the other structures of the damping module 101 can refer to the above description. Figures 5a to 5c The damping module 101 shown is configured, and will not be described in detail here.

[0126] When specifically setting the first friction plate group 1015, refer to Figure 12 , Figure 12 for Figure 11c An exploded view of the damping module 101 shown. Figure 12 It can be seen that the first friction plate assembly 1015 may include a first friction plate 10151 and a second friction plate 10152. Specifically, the first friction plate 10151 can rotate synchronously with the first rotating member 1012 in the rotation direction along the first rotating member 1012. Furthermore, in the extension direction along the rotation axis of the first rotating member 1012, the first friction plate 10151 is clearance-fitted with the first rotating member 1012, so that the first friction plate 10151 can move relative to the first rotating member 1012 in this direction.

[0127] Additionally, you can refer to Figure 13 , Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the engagement relationship between the first friction plate 10151 and the first rotating member 1012, provided for one possible embodiment of this application. See also... Figure 12 and Figure 13 The end of the first rotating member 1012 facing the first damping bracket 1011 is also provided with a first mounting portion 10123, which has a first mounting groove 101231. The first friction plate 10151 has a first insertion portion 101511, which can be inserted into the first mounting groove 101231. In the extension direction along the rotation axis of the first rotating member 1012, the first insertion portion 101511 can be clearance-fitted with the first mounting groove 101231, thereby realizing the clearance fit between the first friction plate 10151 and the first rotating member 1012.

[0128] You can continue to refer to Figure 12In this application, the first friction plate 10151 can be located between the first support portion 10111 and the second friction plate 10152, and the first pin 1014a can also pass through the first friction plate 10151 and the second friction plate 10152, so that the first friction plate 10151, the second friction plate 10152 and the first support portion 10111 are coaxially arranged. Furthermore, in the rotation direction along the first rotating member 1012, the second friction plate 10152 is relatively fixed to the first damping bracket 1011. To achieve the relative fixation of the second friction plate 10152 and the first damping bracket 1011 in this direction, refer to... Figure 14 , Figure 14 This diagram illustrates the engagement relationship between the second friction plate 10152 and the first damping bracket 1011, according to one possible embodiment of this application. In this embodiment, the second friction plate 10152 may be provided with a first stop groove 101521, and the first damping bracket 1011 may be provided with a first stop portion 10112. Thus, by engaging the first stop portion 10112 within the first stop groove 101521, the second friction plate 10152 and the first damping bracket 1011 can be stopped in this direction. It is worth noting that in some possible embodiments, the first stop groove 101521 can also be provided on the first damping bracket 1011, while the first stop portion 10112 can be provided on the second friction plate 10152. Similarly, by engaging the first stop portion 10112 within the first stop groove 101521, the second friction plate 10152 and the first damping bracket 1011 can be stopped in this direction.

[0129] Furthermore, in the direction extending along the rotation axis of the first rotating member 1012, the second friction plate 10152 can be clearance-fitted with the first damping bracket 1011, so that the second friction plate 10152 can move relative to the first damping bracket 1011 in this direction. As can be seen from the above description of the embodiments, since the first rotating member 1012 can rotate around the first damping bracket 1011, the first rotating member 1012 can rotate relative to the second friction plate 10152.

[0130] Can be referred to together Figure 11c and Figure 12 In this embodiment of the application, the first support 10111, the first friction plate 10151 and the second friction plate 10152 can all be housed in the first receiving groove 10122 of the first rotating member 1012, thereby making the structure of the damping module 101 more compact, so that it occupies less space in the rotating shaft mechanism 1, which is conducive to realizing the miniaturization design of the rotating shaft mechanism 1.

[0131] You can continue to refer to Figure 11c and Figure 12In this embodiment of the application, the first friction plate group 1015 may be located between the first support portion 10111 and the first elastic module 1016. In addition, the first elastic module 1016 may generate an elastic force in the extending direction along the rotation axis of the first rotating member 1012.

[0132] Additionally, you can refer to Figure 15 , Figure 15 for Figure 11c The image shows a DD cross-sectional view of the damping module 101. As can be understood from the above embodiment, in the extending direction along the rotation direction of the first rotating member 1012, the first friction plate 10151 is in clearance fit with the first rotating member 1012, and the second friction plate 10152 is in clearance fit with the first damping bracket 1011. Thus, under the elastic force of the first elastic module 1016, the first friction plate 10151 can move relative to the first rotating member 1012, and the second friction plate 10152 can move relative to the first damping bracket 1011. This allows adjacent first rotating members 1012 and first support portion 10111, first support portion 10111 and first friction plate 10151, first friction plate 10151 and second friction plate 10152, and second friction plate 10152 and first rotating member 1012 to be mutually compressed. This allows for frictional contact between the first rotating member 1012 and the first support portion 10111, between the first support portion 10111 and the first friction plate 10151, between the first friction plate 10151 and the second friction plate 10152, and between the second friction plate 10152 and the first rotating member 1012. This results in the formation of a first friction surface 1017a between the first rotating member 1012 and the first support portion 10111, a second friction surface 1017b between the first support portion 10111 and the first friction plate 10151, a third friction surface 1017c between the first friction plate 10151 and the second friction plate 10152, and a fourth friction surface 1017d between the second friction plate 10152 and the first rotating member 1012. These four friction surfaces work together to provide a constant damping force.

[0133] It should be noted that in the above embodiments, when the damping module 101 is provided with a floating cam, the first rotating member and the first support portion 10111 can indirectly contact each other through the first floating cam. However, when the damping module 101 is not provided with a floating cam, the first rotating member and the first support portion 10111 can directly contact each other.

[0134] It is worth noting that, in the above embodiments of this application, only the arrangement of the first friction plate group 1015 including one first friction plate 10151 and one second friction plate 10152, and the number of friction surfaces formed in the damping module 101 are shown. In some possible embodiments of this application, when the damping module 101 needs to provide a greater damping force, the number of the first friction plate 10151 and the second friction plate 10152 in the first friction plate group 1015 can be increased. For example, the first friction plate group 1015 can include at least two first friction plates 10151 and at least two second friction plates 10152. The number of first friction plates 10151 and second friction plates 10152 in the first friction plate group 1015 is the same, and the first friction plates 10151 and second friction plates 10152 are alternately arranged. In this way, the damping force can be increased by increasing the number of friction surfaces.

[0135] It should be noted that the above embodiments only described the rotatable connection between the first rotating component and the first damping bracket 1011, and the principle of the damping force generated by the first rotating component during rotation. In this embodiment of the application, the rotation of the second rotating component around the first damping bracket 1011 and the generation of damping force on the second rotating component side can be achieved by symmetrically arranging the second rotating component side with the first rotating component side. Specifically, the second rotating component may include a second friction plate group, which may include a third friction plate and a fourth friction plate. The third friction plate in the second friction plate group can be configured with reference to the first friction plate, and the fourth friction plate can be configured with reference to the second friction plate. Furthermore, the positional and mating relationships between the second friction plate group, the second support portion, and the second rotating member 1013 can be configured with reference to the first rotating component side. For example, a second mounting portion with a second mounting groove is provided at the end of the second rotating member 1013 facing the first damping bracket 1011. The third friction plate is provided with a second insertion part, which is inserted into the second mounting groove and extends along the rotation axis of the second rotating member. The second insertion part and the second mounting groove are in clearance fit, so that the third friction plate can move relative to the second rotating member in this direction; and the fourth friction plate can move relative to the first damping bracket in this direction. In addition, the fourth friction plate may be provided with a second stop groove, and the first damping bracket 1011 may be provided with a second stop part, so that the fourth friction plate and the first damping bracket 1011 are stopped in the rotation direction by the second stop part being engaged with the second stop groove, etc., which will not be described in detail here. In this way, based on the above description of the principle of damping force generation on the first rotating component side, under the action of the elastic force of the first elastic module 1016, multiple friction surfaces can be formed between the second rotating member 1013, the second support part, and the second friction plate group, so that the second rotating component side can provide corresponding damping force. It should be noted that in this application, the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member is the same as the extension direction of the rotation axis of the second rotating member.

[0136] You can continue to refer to Figure 12 In this embodiment of the application, a first drive gear can be provided on the side of the first rotating member 1012 facing the first elastic module 1016, and a second drive gear can also be provided on the side of the second rotating member 1013 facing the first elastic module 1016, with the first drive gear 10124 and the second drive gear 10131 meshing. During the rotation of the first rotating member 1012 around the first damping bracket 1011, the second rotating member 1013 is driven to rotate in opposite or opposite directions, achieving synchronous rotation of the first rotating member 1012 and the second rotating member 1013. This improves the reliability of the damping module 101's movement and enhances the user experience.

[0137] Furthermore, in this embodiment of the application, both the first drive gear 10124 and the second drive gear 10131 can be configured as described in the above embodiment. For example, the end of the first drive gear 10124 facing the first elastic module 1016 may be provided with a first cam surface 101241, the end of the second drive gear 10131 facing the first elastic module 1016 may be provided with a second cam surface 101311, and the first integrated cam 1018 may be provided with a third cam surface 10181 and a fourth cam surface 10182. The first elastic module 1016 can press the first integrated cam 1018 against the first drive gear 10124 and the second drive gear 10131, thereby allowing the first cam surface 101241 of the first drive gear 10124 to engage with the third cam surface 10181, and the second cam surface 101311 of the second drive gear 10131 to engage with the fourth cam surface 10182.

[0138] Additionally, a driven gear 1019 may be provided between the first driving gear 10124 and the second driving gear 10131. The driven gear 1019 can be configured as described in the above embodiment, and will not be repeated here. This allows the first driving gear 10124 and the second driving gear 10131 to mesh with the driven gear 1019, thereby improving the motion stability of the first rotating member 1012 and the second rotating member 1013 as they rotate in opposite or opposing directions.

[0139] You can continue to refer to Figure 12 In this embodiment of the application, the damping module 101 may further include a gear support plate 1020, which may be located between the first damping bracket 1011 and the driven gear 1019. Additionally, the damping module 101 may also include a first intermediate shaft 1021, which may be mounted on the gear support plate 1020 and pass through the driven gear 1019, allowing the driven gear 1019 to rotate around the corresponding first intermediate shaft 1021, thereby improving the reliability of the driven gear 1019's movement.

[0140] You can continue to refer to Figure 12 At least a portion of the first elastic module 1016 can be sleeved on the first intermediate shaft 1021, allowing the first elastic module 1016 to deform along the first intermediate shaft 1021, which helps improve the stability of the movement of the first elastic module 1016. Additionally, the first integrated cam 1018 can also be sleeved on the first intermediate shaft 1021. Thus, under the action of the first elastic module 1016, the first integrated cam 1018 can reliably contact the driven gear 1019.

[0141] From the above embodiments describing the structure of the damping module 101 provided in this application and the principle by which the damping module 101 generates damping force, it can be seen that in the design of the damping module 101 provided in this application, the damping force provided by the damping module 101 can be adjusted through the contact of the friction plate group, the elastic module, and the cam surface. Thus, according to specific needs, by adjusting the damping force provided by the damping module 101, sufficient holding force can be provided for maintaining the closed, unfolded, and intermediate states of the electronic device using the damping module 101, thereby improving the user experience.

[0142] Based on the damping module provided in the above embodiments, please refer to Figures 16a to 16c , Figures 16a to 16c This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a damping module 101 provided for another possible embodiment of this application. Figure 16a This is a schematic diagram of the damping module 101 when the electronic device is in the closed state. Figure 16b This is a schematic diagram of the damping module 101 when the electronic device is in an intermediate state. Figure 16c This is a schematic diagram of the damping module 101 when the electronic device is in the deployed state. (This is based on...) Figures 16a to 16c The damping module 101 shown is Figures 11a to 11c By comparing the damping module 101 shown, it can be seen that, Figures 16a to 16c The damping module 101 shown includes a first damping bracket 1011 and a first elastic module 1016, and may also include a second damping bracket 1026 and a second elastic module 1027. Specifically, along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member 1012, the first damping bracket 1011 and the second damping bracket 1026 are located between the first elastic module 1016 and the second elastic module 1027, with the first damping bracket 1011 and the second damping bracket 1026 spaced apart. Furthermore, the structure of the first damping bracket 1011 facing the first elastic module 1016, and the specific cooperation relationships between the various structures, can be referred to the above description. Figures 11a to 11c The damping module 101 shown is configured in a manner that includes, for example, a first friction plate group 1015, etc., between the first support portion 10111 of the first damping bracket 1011 and the first elastic module 1016. These details will not be elaborated upon here. The following mainly focuses on... Figures 16a to 16c The structure of the second damping bracket 1026 of the damping module 101 facing the second elastic module 1027 will be described.

[0143] It should be noted that, in all embodiments of this application, the structure of the first damping bracket 1011 and the second damping bracket 1026 is not specifically limited, as long as they can support the rotation of the first rotating member 1012 and the second rotating member 1013. Furthermore, the structures of the first damping bracket 1011 and the second damping bracket 1026 can be the same or different, and can be designed according to specific application scenarios.

[0144] For reference Figure 17 , Figure 17 for Figure 16c The exploded view of the damping module 101 shown is illustrated. In this embodiment of the application, the second damping bracket 1026 is provided with a third support portion 10261, and the first rotating member 1012 is rotatably connected to the third support portion 10261. Furthermore, as described above in the embodiment regarding the implementation of the rotatable connection between the first rotating member 1012 and the first support portion 10111, the first rotating member 1012 can achieve a rotatable connection with the first damping bracket 1011 via a first pin 1014a passing through the first support portion 10111. Based on this, in this embodiment, the first pin 1014a can also be simultaneously inserted into the first support portion 10111 and the second support portion 10261, so that the first rotating member 1012 can achieve a rotational connection with the first damping bracket 1011 and the second damping bracket 1026 through the first pin 1014a simultaneously inserted into the first support portion 10111 and the second support portion 10261. This can effectively improve the rotational stability of the first rotating member 1012 and simplify the structure of the damping module 101.

[0145] You can continue to refer to Figure 17 The first rotating assembly may further include a third friction plate group 1028, which may be located between the second support portion 10261 and the second elastic module 1027. The third friction plate group 1028 may include a fifth friction plate 10281 and a sixth friction plate 10282, wherein, in the rotation direction along the first rotating member 1012, the fifth friction plate 10281 may rotate synchronously with the first rotating member 1012. In addition, in the extension direction along the rotation axis of the first rotating member 1012, the fifth friction plate 10281 is clearance-fitted with the first rotating member 1012 so that the fifth friction plate 10281 may move relative to the first rotating member 1012 in this direction.

[0146] In this embodiment of the application, the engagement method between the fifth friction plate 10281 and the first rotating member 1012 can be set with reference to the engagement method between the first friction plate and the first rotating member 1012 described in the above embodiments. For example, refer to... Figure 18 , Figure 18 for Figure 16cThe diagram shows a partial structural schematic of the damping module 101 at point E. The end of the first rotating member 1012 facing the second damping bracket 1026 may have a third mounting portion 10126, which has a third mounting groove 101261. The fifth friction plate 10281 has a third insertion portion 102811, which can be inserted into the aforementioned third mounting groove 101261. Along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member 1012, the third insertion portion 102811 can be clearance-fitted with the third mounting groove 101261, thereby achieving a clearance fit between the fifth friction plate 10281 and the first rotating member 1012.

[0147] Additionally, you can refer to Figure 19 , Figure 19 for Figure 18 A cross-sectional view at FF. (By...) Figure 19 It can be seen that, along the rotation direction of the first rotating member 1012, the third insertion part 102811 is in contact with the groove wall of the third mounting groove 101261, so that the fifth friction plate 10281 can rotate synchronously with the first rotating member 1012.

[0148] You can continue to refer to Figure 17 In this application, the fifth friction plate 10281 may be located between the third support portion 10261 and the sixth friction plate 10282. Alternatively, the first pin 1014a may also pass through the fifth friction plate 10281 and the sixth friction plate 10282, so that the fifth friction plate 10281, the sixth friction plate 10282, and the third support portion 10261 are coaxially arranged. In the rotational direction along the first rotating member 1012, the sixth friction plate 10282 is relatively fixed to the second damping bracket 1026. To achieve relative fixation between the sixth friction plate 10282 and the second damping bracket 1026 in this direction, it can be configured as described in the above embodiment regarding the cooperation method between the second friction plate and the first damping bracket 1011. For example, refer to... Figure 20 , Figure 20This diagram illustrates the engagement relationship between the sixth friction plate 10282 and the second damping bracket 1026, according to a possible embodiment of this application. In this embodiment, the sixth friction plate 10282 may be provided with a third stop groove 102821, and the second damping bracket 1026 may be provided with a third stop portion 10262. Thus, by engaging the third stop portion 10262 within the third stop groove 102821, the sixth friction plate 10282 and the second damping bracket 1026 can be stopped in this direction. It is worth noting that in some possible embodiments, the third stop groove 102821 can also be provided on the second damping bracket 1026, while the third stop portion 10262 can be provided on the sixth friction plate 10282. Similarly, by engaging the third stop portion 10262 within the third stop groove 102821, the sixth friction plate 10282 and the second damping bracket 1026 can be stopped in this direction.

[0149] Furthermore, in the extension direction along the rotation axis of the first rotating member 1012, the sixth friction plate 10282 can be clearance-fitted with the second damping bracket 1026, so that the sixth friction plate 10282 can move relative to the second damping bracket 1026 in that direction. As can be seen from the above description of the embodiments, since the first rotating member 1012 can rotate around the second damping bracket 1026, the first rotating member 1012 can rotate relative to the sixth friction plate 10282.

[0150] It is worth mentioning that the third friction plate group 1028 may include only one fifth friction plate 10281 and one sixth friction plate 10282, or it may include at least two fifth friction plates 10281 and at least two sixth friction plates 10282. When the third friction plate group 1028 includes at least two fifth friction plates 10281 and at least two sixth friction plates 10282, the at least two fifth friction plates 10281 and at least two sixth friction plates 10282 can be arranged alternately. In addition, the third insertion portion 102811 of the at least two fifth friction plates 10281 can be simultaneously inserted into a third mounting groove 101261 ​​to simplify the structure of the damping module 101.

[0151] In this application, the fifth friction plate 10281 may have the same structure as the first friction plate 10151, and the sixth friction plate 10282 may have the same structure as the second friction plate 10152. This can help save on the molds for manufacturing the damping module 101 and simplify the structure of the damping module 101.

[0152] Can be referred to together Figure 16c and Figure 17In this embodiment of the application, the first rotating member 1012 may be provided with a first clearance groove 10127, and the first support portion 10111 and the third support portion 10261 may be accommodated in the first clearance groove 10127. In addition, the first support portion 10111 and the third support portion 10261 may divide the first receiving groove 10122 of the first rotating member 1012 into two parts, so that the first friction plate 10151 and the second friction plate 10152 may both be accommodated in the portion of the first receiving groove 10122 of the first rotating member 1012 located in the first support portion 10111 opposite to the third support portion 10261, and the fifth friction plate 10281 and the sixth friction plate 10282 may both be accommodated in the portion of the first receiving groove 10122 of the first rotating member 1012 located in the third support portion 10261 opposite to the first support portion 10111. Similarly, in this application, the second rotating member may be provided with a second clearance groove, and the second support portion and the fourth support portion may be accommodated within the second clearance groove, so that the second support portion and the fourth support portion can divide the second accommodating groove of the second rotating member into two parts. This allows the third friction plate and the fourth friction plate to be accommodated within the portion of the second accommodating groove located on the second support portion opposite to the fourth support portion, and the seventh friction plate and the eighth friction plate to be accommodated within the portion of the second accommodating groove located on the fourth support portion opposite to the second support portion. This makes the structure of the damping module 101 more compact, thus occupying less space in the rotating shaft mechanism 1, which is beneficial for achieving a miniaturized design of the rotating shaft mechanism 1.

[0153] In the damping module 101 provided in this embodiment of the application, the second elastic module 1027 can generate an elastic force along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member 1012. The second elastic module 1027 can be configured with reference to the first elastic module 1016. For example, the second elastic module 1027 may include multiple springs arranged side by side, and these springs can be compressed along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member 1012, thereby generating an elastic force in that direction. Alternatively, the second elastic module 1027 can also be sleeved on the first pin 1014a and the second pin 1014b, allowing the second elastic module 1027 to move along the first pin 1014a and the second pin 1014b, thereby effectively improving the reliability of the movement of the second elastic module 1027.

[0154] Reference Figure 21 , Figure 21 for Figure 16c The diagram shows a cross-sectional view at point GG of the damping module 101. Figure 21In the illustrated embodiment, the first friction plate group 1015 includes two first friction plates 10151 and two second friction plates 10152, and the third friction plate group 1028 includes two fifth friction plates 10281 and two sixth friction plates 10282. Under the elastic force of the first elastic module 1016, the first support portion 10111 and the first friction plates 10151, adjacent first friction plates 10151 and second friction plates 10152, and the second friction plates 10152 and the first rotating member 1012 can be mutually compressed. Under the elastic force of the second elastic module 1027, the first rotating member 1012 and the fifth friction plates 10281, adjacent fifth friction plates 10281 and sixth friction plates 10282, and the sixth friction plates 10282 and the third support portion 10261 can be mutually compressed.

[0155] In this way, the first support portion 10111 and the first friction plate 10151, adjacent first friction plates 10151 and second friction plates 10152, and second friction plates 10152 and the first rotating member 1012 can be in frictional contact, so as to form friction surfaces between each frictionally contacting structure. Furthermore, the first rotating member 1012 and the sixth friction plate 10282, adjacent fifth friction plates 10281 and the sixth friction plate 10282, and the fifth friction plate 10281 and the third support portion 10261 can be in frictional contact, so as to form friction surfaces between each frictionally contacting structure. Figure 21 As can be seen, ten friction surfaces can be formed in the damping module 101 provided in this embodiment. These ten friction surfaces work together to provide a constant damping force.

[0156] You can continue to refer to Figure 17 and Figure 21 In this embodiment of the application, the damping module 101 may further include a first retaining spring 1029, which may be disposed between the first support portion 10111 and the second support portion 10261, and the first retaining spring 1029 is engaged with the first pin 1014a. In a specific implementation, a first retaining groove 10141 may be provided on the first pin 1014a, so that the first retaining spring 1029 can be engaged with the first retaining groove 10141. In addition, a second retaining spring is also provided corresponding to the second pin 1014b, and the second pin 1014b is provided with a second retaining groove, so that the second retaining spring can be engaged with the second retaining groove.

[0157] Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that in this embodiment of the application, the way the integrated retaining spring 1023 is arranged is the same as described above. Figures 11a to 11cThe integrated retaining spring 1023 of the damping module 101 in the illustrated embodiment may differ slightly. Specifically, in this embodiment, the integrated retaining spring 1023 may only be engaged with the first intermediate shaft 1021, thus avoiding the mutual influence between the elastic force generated by the first elastic module 1016 and the elastic force generated by the second elastic module 1027. This allows the elastic force generated by the first elastic module 1016 to be applied to the first damping bracket 1011, thereby generating a constant damping force between the first damping bracket 1011 and the first rotating member 1012 and the second rotating member 1013. Additionally, the elastic force generated by the second elastic module 1027 may be applied to the second damping bracket 1026, thereby generating a constant damping force between the second damping bracket 1026 and the first rotating member 1012 and the second rotating member 1013.

[0158] It should be noted that the above embodiments only described the rotatable connection between the first rotating component and the second damping bracket 1026, and the principle of the damping force generated by the first rotating component under the elastic force of the second elastic module 1027. In this application, the rotation of the second rotating component around the second damping bracket 1026 can be achieved by symmetrically arranging the second rotating component side and the first rotating component side, thereby enabling the second rotating component side to generate a corresponding damping force. Specifically, to achieve the rotatable connection between the second rotating member 1013 and the second damping bracket 1026, a fourth support portion can be provided at the end of the second damping bracket 1026 facing the second rotating member 1013. This allows the second rotating member 1013 to be rotatably connected to the fourth support portion, thus achieving the rotatable connection between the second rotating member 1013 and the second damping bracket 1026. Additionally, the second rotating assembly may be provided with a fourth friction plate group, which may include a seventh friction plate and an eighth friction plate. The seventh friction plate in this fourth friction plate group 1 may be configured with reference to the fifth friction plate, and the eighth friction plate may be configured with reference to the sixth friction plate. Furthermore, the positional and mating relationships between this fourth friction plate group, the fourth support portion, and the second rotating member 1013 can be configured with reference to the first rotating assembly side. For example, the end of the second rotating member facing the second damping bracket has a fourth mounting portion with a fourth mounting groove. The seventh friction plate has a fourth insertion portion inserted into the fourth mounting groove, and along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the second rotating member, the fourth insertion portion and the fourth mounting groove are in clearance fit, allowing the seventh friction plate to move relative to the second rotating member in this direction; while the eighth friction plate can move relative to the second damping bracket in this direction. Furthermore, the eighth friction plate may be provided with a fourth stop groove, and the second damping bracket may be provided with a fourth stop portion, so that the eighth friction plate and the second damping bracket can be stopped in the rotational direction by the fourth stop portion engaging with the fourth stop groove, etc., which will not be described in detail here. In this way, based on the above introduction of the principle of damping force generation on the first rotating component side, under the action of the elastic force of the first elastic module 1016 and the second elastic module 1027, multiple friction surfaces can be formed between the second rotating member 1013 and the second support portion, the second friction plate group, the fourth support portion, and the fourth friction plate group, so that the second rotating component side can provide corresponding damping force.

[0159] You can continue to refer to Figure 17In this embodiment of the application, the end of the first rotating member 1012 facing the second elastic module 1027 may be provided with a ninth cam surface 10128, and the end of the second rotating member 1013 facing the second elastic module 1027 may be provided with a tenth cam surface 10129. The ninth cam surface 10128 may be provided on the first connecting arm of the first rotating member 1012, and the tenth cam surface 10129 may be provided on the second connecting arm of the second rotating member 1013, but is not limited to being provided on it. In addition, the damping module 101 may also include a third integrated cam 1030, which has an eleventh cam surface 10301 corresponding to the position of the ninth cam surface 10128 and a twelfth cam surface 10302 corresponding to the position of the tenth cam surface 10129. Under the elastic force of the second elastic module 1027, the corresponding ninth cam surface 10128 and eleventh cam surface 10301 abut against each other, and the tenth cam surface 10129 and twelfth cam surface 10302 abut against each other. Thus, during the rotation of the first rotating member 1012 and the second rotating member 1013, a corresponding damping force is generated between the first rotating member 1012 and the second rotating member 1013 and the third integrated cam 1030, thereby allowing the damping module 101 to provide a greater damping force.

[0160] In this application, the third integrated cam 1030 can be sleeved on the first pin 1014a and the second pin 1014b. In a specific implementation, the portion of the third integrated cam 1030 with the eleventh cam surface 10301 can be sleeved on the first pin 1014a, and the portion of the third integrated cam 1030 with the twelfth cam surface 10302 can be sleeved on the second pin 1014b. This can help improve the reliability of the movement of the third integrated cam 1030.

[0161] You can continue to refer to Figure 17 The damping module 101 provided in this embodiment may further include a second retaining ring 1031, with the second elastic module 1027 located between the third integrated cam 1030 and the second retaining ring 1031. The second retaining ring 1031 can stop the second elastic module 1027, thereby preventing it from falling off. Furthermore, in the extension direction along the rotation axis of the first rotating member 1012, the thickness of the second retaining ring 1031 can be designed to adjust the compression of the second elastic module 1027, thereby adjusting the elastic force applied by the second elastic module 1027 to the third integrated cam 1030.

[0162] In this application, when the second elastic module 1027 includes two or more springs arranged side by side, a second intermediate shaft 1032 can also be provided between the two pins 1014. The second intermediate shaft 1032 can pass through the second retaining ring 1031 and is fixedly connected to the third integrated cam 1030. In this way, part of the springs of the second elastic module 1027 can be sleeved on the second intermediate shaft 1032, thereby improving the stability of the movement of the second elastic module 1027.

[0163] Reference Figure 22 , Figure 22 A comparison diagram of torque curves for different damping modules provided in one possible embodiment of this application. (The diagram shows...) Figures 5a to 5c The embodiment shown is referred to as Implementation 1. Figures 11a to 11c The embodiment shown is referred to as Embodiment Two. Figures 16a to 16c The embodiment shown is referred to as Embodiment Three. Figure 22 It can be seen that, within the rotation angle range of 0° to 180°, the torque generated by the damping module provided in Embodiment 3 is greater than the torque generated by the damping module provided in Embodiment 2, and the torque generated by the damping module provided in Embodiment 2 is greater than the torque generated by the damping module provided in Embodiment 1. Figure 22 Taking the rotation range of 45° to 135° circled by the dashed box as an example, within this rotation range, the damping module provided in Embodiment 1 can provide an average torque of 0.134 kgf / cm, the damping module provided in Embodiment 2 can provide an average torque of 0.496 kgf / cm, and the damping module provided in Embodiment 3 can provide an average torque of 0.760 kgf / cm.

[0164] Therefore, it can be seen that, with the same number of mating cam surfaces in the damping module, increasing the number of friction surfaces can effectively increase the damping force provided by the damping module. Thus, by using the damping module provided in this application, the number of friction surfaces can be adjusted to provide sufficient damping force for the electronic device to maintain its unfolded, closed, and intermediate states, thereby enabling the electronic device to stably maintain the corresponding state and improving the user experience.

[0165] The damping module 101 provided in the above embodiments of this application can be applied to, for example... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The electronic setup is shown. For specific implementation, please refer to... Figure 23 , Figure 23 Can be Figure 2The diagram shows an exploded view of the electronic device. The damping module 101 provided in the above embodiments of this application can be specifically disposed in the rotating shaft mechanism 1 of the electronic device. The rotating shaft mechanism 1 may include one or more damping modules, which can be specifically arranged according to the available space in the rotating shaft mechanism 1. When the rotating shaft mechanism 1 includes multiple damping modules 101, these multiple damping modules 101 can be spaced apart along the length direction of the rotating shaft mechanism 1. The length direction of the rotating shaft mechanism 1 can be the extension direction of the axis of rotation of the first housing 2 and the second housing 3 of the electronic device around the rotating shaft mechanism 1.

[0166] Reference Figure 24 , Figure 24 for Figure 23 Enlarged view of the local structure at point H in the middle. Figure 24 This can be used to demonstrate the specific arrangement of the damping module 101 in the rotating shaft mechanism 1. The rotating shaft mechanism 1 may include a base 102, which may have a receiving cavity in which the damping module 101 can be installed. Furthermore, when the damping module 101 adopts the above-described... Figures 5a to 5c as well as Figures 11a to 11c In the embodiment shown, the first damping bracket 1011 of the damping module 101 can be fixed to the receiving cavity. If the damping module 101 adopts... Figures 16a to 16c In the illustrated embodiment, the first damping bracket 1011 and the second damping bracket 1026 of the damping module 101 can both be fixed to the receiving cavity. It is understood that the rotating shaft mechanism 1 may have only one damping module 101 or at least two damping modules 101, depending on specific requirements. When multiple damping modules 101 are required in the rotating shaft mechanism 1, these multiple damping modules 101 can be spaced apart along the extending direction of the rotating shaft mechanism 1. Furthermore, the various damping modules 101 provided in the rotating shaft mechanism 1 can be identical or different.

[0167] In this application, the first rotating member 1012 and the second rotating member 1013 of the damping module 101 can be slidably connected to the housing located on the same side, respectively. For example, the first rotating member 1012 can be slidably connected to the first housing 2, and the second rotating member 1013 can be slidably connected to the second housing 3. There are various ways in which the first rotating member 1012 and the second rotating member 1013 can be slidably connected to the housing. For example, sliders can be provided on the first rotating member 1012 and the second rotating member 1013, and grooves can be provided on the corresponding housings. The sliding connection between the corresponding rotating member and the housing can be achieved by the slider sliding along the groove. To improve the reliability of the connection between the rotating member and the housing on the corresponding side, the slider can also be locked in the groove to prevent it from falling off during the sliding process.

[0168] As can be seen from the above description of the damping module 101 provided in this application, the damping module 101 can provide a large damping force. This damping force can be transmitted to the housing on the corresponding side through the first rotating member 1012 and the second rotating member 1013, thereby enabling the electronic device to be stably maintained. Figure 24 The unfolded state shown, or Figure 25 The closed state shown, or the intermediate state between the open and closed states, helps to improve the user experience.

[0169] You can continue to refer to Figure 24 and Figure 25 In this application, the rotating shaft mechanism 1 may also include two swing arms 103, which are respectively disposed on both sides of the base 102. One end of each swing arm 103 is rotatably connected to the base 102, and the other end is rotatably connected to the housing located on the same side of the base 102. This can help improve the stability of the two housings rotating around the base 102.

[0170] Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that in this application, the swing arm 103 and the base 102 can be rotatably connected via, but not limited to, a virtual axis. Specifically, the end of the swing arm 103 used for connecting to the base 102 can be provided with an arc-shaped shaft 1033, while the base 102 is provided with an arc-shaped groove 10201. The arc-shaped shaft 1033 can be installed in the arc-shaped groove 10201, and during the rotation of the swing arm 103 relative to the base 102, the arc-shaped shaft 1033 can slide along the groove wall of the arc-shaped groove 10201, thereby achieving a rotatable connection between the swing arm 103 and the base 102. By rotatably connecting the swing arm 103 and the base 102 via a virtual axis, the volume of the rotating shaft mechanism 1 can be effectively reduced, facilitating a miniaturized design of the rotating shaft mechanism 1. In some possible embodiments of this application, the swing arm 103 and the base 102 can also be rotatably connected via a physical shaft to improve the reliability of the connection between the swing arm 103 and the base 102.

[0171] The above are merely specific embodiments of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A damping module, characterized in that, It includes a first damping bracket, a first rotating assembly, a second rotating assembly, and a first elastic module, wherein: The first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the first damping bracket. The first rotating assembly includes a first rotating member, and the second rotating assembly includes a second rotating member. The first damping bracket has a first support portion at the end facing the first rotating assembly, and the first rotating member is rotatably connected to the first support portion; the first damping bracket has a second support portion at the end facing the second rotating assembly, and the second rotating member is rotatably connected to the second support portion. Along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member, under the action of the elastic force of the first elastic module, the first support part and the first rotating member are in frictional contact; the second support part and the second rotating member are in frictional contact. The first rotating assembly further includes a first friction plate group, which includes a first friction plate and a second friction plate. In the rotation direction of the first rotating member, the first friction plate is fixed relative to the first rotating member, and the second friction plate is fixed relative to the first damping bracket. The end of the first rotating member facing the first damping bracket has a first receiving groove. At least a portion of the first support, the first friction plate, and the second friction plate are disposed in the first receiving groove, and the first friction plate is located between the first support and the second friction plate. The second rotating assembly further includes a second friction plate group, which includes a third friction plate and a fourth friction plate. In the rotation direction of the second rotating member, the third friction plate is fixed relative to the second rotating member, and the fourth friction plate is fixed relative to the first damping bracket. The end of the second rotating member facing the first damping bracket has a second receiving groove. At least a portion of the second support, the third friction plate, and the fourth friction plate are disposed in the second receiving groove, and the third friction plate is located between the second support and the fourth friction plate. Along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member, under the action of the elastic force of the first elastic module, the adjacent first support portion and the first friction plate, the first friction plate and the second friction plate, and the second friction plate and the first rotating member are in frictional contact; the second support portion and the third friction plate, the third friction plate and the fourth friction plate, and the fourth friction plate and the second rotating member are in frictional contact.

2. The damping module as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member, the first friction plate can move relative to the first rotating member, and the second friction plate can move relative to the first damping bracket; The third friction plate is movable relative to the second rotating member, and the fourth friction plate is movable relative to the first damping bracket.

3. The damping module as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first rotating member is provided with a first mounting part at the end facing the first damping bracket, and the first mounting part has a first mounting groove; the first friction plate has a first insertion part, and the first insertion part is inserted into the first mounting groove; and along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member, the first insertion part is clearance-fitted with the first mounting groove. The end of the second rotating member facing the first damping bracket is also provided with a second mounting part, the second mounting part having a second mounting groove; the third friction plate has a second insertion part, the second insertion part being inserted into the second mounting groove; and along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the second rotating member, the second insertion part and the second mounting groove are in clearance fit.

4. The damping module as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The second friction plate is provided with a first stop groove, and the first damping bracket is provided with a first stop part, which is engaged in the first stop groove. The fourth friction plate is provided with a second stop groove, and the first damping bracket is provided with a second stop part, which is engaged in the second stop groove.

5. The damping module as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first friction plate group includes at least two first friction plates and at least two second friction plates, the number of first friction plates and second friction plates being the same; along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member, at least two first friction plates and at least two second friction plates are arranged alternately; The second friction plate group includes at least two third friction plates and at least two fourth friction plates, the number of third friction plates and fourth friction plates being the same; along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the second rotating member, at least two third friction plates and at least two fourth friction plates are arranged alternately.

6. The damping module as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The end of the first rotating member facing the first elastic module has a first cam surface, and the end of the second rotating member facing the first elastic module has a second cam surface; the damping module further includes a first integrated cam, which is located between the first rotating member and the first elastic module, and the first integrated cam has a third cam surface and a fourth cam surface; Under the elastic force of the first elastic module, the first cam surface engages with the third cam surface, and the second cam surface engages with the fourth cam surface.

7. The damping module as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first rotating assembly further includes a first floating cam. In the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member, the first floating cam is in clearance fit with the first rotating member, and under the action of the elastic force of the first elastic module, the first floating cam is in frictional contact with the first support portion. In the rotation direction of the first rotating member, the first floating cam is relatively fixed to the first rotating member. The second rotating component further includes a second floating cam. In the extension direction of the rotation axis of the second rotating member, the second floating cam is in clearance fit with the second rotating member, and under the action of the elastic force of the first elastic module, the second floating cam is in frictional contact with the second support portion. In the rotation direction of the second rotating member, the second floating cam is relatively fixed to the second rotating member.

8. The damping module as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The first floating cam has a first limiting groove, the first rotating member has a first limiting part, the first limiting part is inserted into the first limiting groove, and in the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member, the first limiting part and the first limiting groove are in clearance fit. The second floating cam has a second limiting groove, the second rotating member has a second limiting part, the second limiting part is inserted into the second limiting groove, and in the extension direction of the rotation axis of the second rotating member, the second limiting part and the second limiting groove are in clearance fit.

9. The damping module as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The end of the first floating cam that is away from the first elastic module has a fifth cam surface, and the end of the second floating cam that is away from the first elastic module has a sixth cam surface; The damping module further includes a second integrated cam, which has a seventh cam surface and an eighth cam surface; under the action of the elastic force of the first elastic module, the fifth cam surface cooperates with the seventh cam surface, and the sixth cam surface cooperates with the eighth cam surface.

10. The damping module as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The damping module further includes a second damping bracket and a second elastic module. Along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member, the first damping bracket and the second damping bracket are located between the first elastic module and the second elastic module. The second damping bracket has a third support portion at the end facing the first rotating member, and a fourth support portion at the end facing the second rotating member; the first rotating member is rotatably connected to the third support portion, and the second rotating member is rotatably connected to the fourth support portion.

11. The damping module as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The first rotating assembly further includes a third friction plate group, which is located on the side of the third support portion opposite to the first damping bracket. The third friction plate group includes a fifth friction plate and a sixth friction plate. In the rotation direction of the first rotating member, the fifth friction plate is fixed relative to the first rotating member, and the sixth friction plate is fixed relative to the second damping bracket. The end of the first rotating member facing the second damping bracket has a first receiving groove. At least a portion of the third support portion, the fifth friction plate, and the sixth friction plate are disposed in the first receiving groove, and the fifth friction plate is located between the second support portion and the sixth friction plate. The second rotating assembly further includes a fourth friction plate group, which is located on the side of the fourth support portion opposite to the first damping bracket. The fourth friction plate group includes a seventh friction plate and an eighth friction plate. In the rotation direction of the second rotating member, the seventh friction plate is fixed relative to the second rotating member, and the eighth friction plate is fixed relative to the second damping bracket. The end of the second rotating member facing the second damping bracket has a second receiving groove. At least a portion of the fourth support portion, the seventh friction plate, and the eighth friction plate are disposed in the second receiving groove, and the seventh friction plate is located between the fourth support portion and the eighth friction plate. Along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member, under the action of the elastic force of the second elastic module, the adjacent third support part and the fifth friction plate, the fifth friction plate and the sixth friction plate, and the sixth friction plate and the first rotating member are in frictional contact. The fourth support portion and the seventh friction plate, the seventh friction plate and the eighth friction plate, and the eighth friction plate and the second rotating member are in frictional contact.

12. The damping module as described in claim 11, characterized in that, Along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member, the fifth friction plate can move relative to the first rotating member, and the sixth friction plate can move relative to the second damping bracket; The seventh friction plate is movable relative to the second rotating member, and the eighth friction plate is movable relative to the second damping bracket.

13. The damping module as described in claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The end of the first rotating member facing the second damping bracket is also provided with a third mounting part, the third mounting part having a third mounting groove; the fifth friction plate has a third insertion part, the third insertion part being inserted into the third mounting groove; and along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member, the third insertion part and the third mounting groove are in clearance fit. The end of the second rotating member facing the second damping bracket is also provided with a fourth mounting part, the fourth mounting part having a fourth mounting groove; the seventh friction plate has a fourth insertion part, the fourth insertion part being inserted into the fourth mounting groove; and along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the second rotating member, the fourth insertion part and the fourth mounting groove are in clearance fit.

14. The damping module as described in claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The sixth friction plate is provided with a third stop groove, and the second damping bracket is provided with a third stop part, which is engaged in the third stop groove. The eighth friction plate is provided with a fourth stop groove, and the second damping bracket is provided with a fourth stop part, which is engaged in the fourth stop groove.

15. The damping module as described in claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The first rotating member is also provided with a first clearance groove, the first support part and the third support part are accommodated in the first clearance groove, and the first support part and the third support part divide the first accommodating groove into two parts; The second rotating member is also provided with a second clearance groove, the second support part and the fourth support part are accommodated in the second clearance groove, and the second support part and the fourth support part divide the second accommodating groove into two parts.

16. The damping module as described in claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The third friction plate group includes at least two fifth friction plates and at least two sixth friction plates, with the same number of fifth and sixth friction plates; along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating member, at least two fifth friction plates and at least two sixth friction plates are arranged alternately. The fourth friction plate group includes at least two seventh friction plates and at least two eighth friction plates, with the same number of seventh and eighth friction plates; along the extension direction of the rotation axis of the second rotating member, at least two seventh friction plates and at least two eighth friction plates are arranged alternately.

17. The damping module as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The end of the first rotating member facing the second elastic module has a ninth cam surface, and the end of the second rotating member facing the second elastic module has a tenth cam surface; The damping module further includes a third integrated cam, which has an eleventh cam surface and a twelfth cam surface; under the elastic force of the second elastic module, the ninth cam surface cooperates with the eleventh cam surface, and the tenth cam surface cooperates with the twelfth cam surface.

18. The damping module as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The damping module further includes a first pin and a second pin, the first pin passing through the first rotating member, the first support portion and the third support portion, and the second pin passing through the second rotating member, the second support portion and the fourth support portion.

19. The damping module as described in claim 18, characterized in that, The damping module further includes a first retaining ring and a second retaining ring, the first retaining ring being located between the first damping bracket and the second damping bracket; the first pin has a first retaining groove, and the first retaining ring is engaged in the first retaining groove; The second retaining ring is located between the first damping bracket and the second damping bracket; the second pin has a second retaining groove, and the second retaining ring is engaged in the second retaining groove.

20. The damping module as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The end of the first rotating member facing the first damping bracket has two first connecting arms, which are rotatably connected to the first damping bracket; and the two first connecting arms are spaced apart to form a first receiving groove between the two first connecting arms. The end of the second rotating member facing the first damping bracket has two second connecting arms, which are rotatably connected to the first damping bracket; and the two second connecting arms are spaced apart to form a second receiving groove between the two second connecting arms.

21. A rotating shaft mechanism, characterized in that, The invention includes a spindle module and a damping module as described in any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein: the spindle module includes a base, the base has a receiving cavity, and the damping module is mounted in the receiving cavity.

22. An electronic device, characterized in that, It includes a first housing, a second housing, and a rotating shaft mechanism as described in claim 21, wherein: the first housing and the second housing are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the rotating shaft mechanism, the first rotating member is slidably connected to the first housing, and the second rotating member is slidably connected to the second housing.

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