Folding device and electronic device

Abstract

This application discloses a folding device and an electronic device. The folding device has a flattened state and a folded state. The folding device includes two door panels, which move with the folding device during unfolding and folding. The door panels are used to shield the main shaft at a position in the middle of the rear shell in the flattened state, and overlap with the rear shell in the folded state. Through the connection structure between the door panels, the main shaft, and the mounting plate, the folding device has a simple structure, saves space, and provides a stable and reliable door panel movement trajectory.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to electronic devices with flexible displays, and more particularly to a folding device and electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of flexible display technology, folding devices based on flexible displays have become an emerging technological innovation point in the industry. The outward folding scheme of a folding device is defined as follows: two main bodies are rotatably connected by a main shaft, allowing them to be folded or unfolded relative to each other. In the folded state, the flexible display is located on the outer surface of the two folded main bodies, and the rear shells of the two main bodies are face-to-face or in contact. For outward folding devices, a shielding panel is required. In the flattened state, the shielding panel is located between the rear shells of the two main bodies and shields the main shaft of the folding device. Regarding the structural design of the shielding panel of the folding device, how to save space in electronic devices while meeting its functional requirements is a direction for industry research and development. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides a folding device and an electronic device.

[0004] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a folding device, including a first mounting plate, a second mounting plate, a main shaft, a first door panel, a second door panel, a first rotating arm, and a second rotating arm. The main shaft is rotatably connected to the first mounting plate and forms a first axis, and the main shaft is rotatably connected to the second mounting plate and forms a second axis. Specifically, the rotation center at the rotatable connection between the main shaft and the first mounting plate is the first axis. The first door panel is slidably connected to the first mounting plate, and the first rotating arm is rotatably connected to the main shaft and forms a third axis. Specifically, the rotation center at the rotatable connection between the first rotating arm and the main shaft is the third axis. The third axis and the first axis are not collinear. The first door panel and the first rotating arm are movably connected, allowing for... This can be understood as the connection between the first door panel and the first rotating arm having a degree of freedom, so that the first rotating arm can push the first door panel to slide relative to the first mounting plate during its rotation relative to the main shaft; the second door panel is slidably connected to the second mounting plate, and the second rotating arm is rotatably connected to the main shaft and forms a fourth axis. Specifically, the rotation center of the rotatable connection between the second rotating arm and the main shaft is the fourth axis, and the fourth axis and the second axis are not collinear. The second door panel and the second rotating arm are movably connected, which can be understood as the connection between the first door panel and the first rotating arm having a degree of freedom, so that the second rotating arm can push the second door panel to slide relative to the second mounting plate during its rotation relative to the main shaft.

[0005] When the folding device is in the flattened state, the first door panel and the second door panel are joined together and together form an exterior component for concealing the main shaft; when the folding device is in the folded state, the first door panel and the second door panel are stacked between the first mounting plate and the second mounting plate.

[0006] This application embodiment proposes that by setting the positions of the first, second, third, and fourth axes, the first and second door panels of the folding device can be opened and closed smoothly, while also achieving a small size in the width direction and a thin profile in the thickness direction. Specifically, the positions of the first and second axes determine the movement trajectory of the first and second mounting plates during unfolding and folding. In the thickness direction of the electronic device, if the first and second axes are controlled on the inner side of the first and second door panels (referring to the inner surface of these two door panels or between the inner surface and the main shaft or on the main shaft), the first rotating component can have a smaller size. If the first and second axes are controlled on the outer side of the first and second door panels (referring to the outer surface of these two door panels or the space on the side of the outer surface away from the inner surface), the size of the first rotating component in the width direction will be relatively large, occupying a larger space in the electronic device. Therefore, by making the first and third axes non-collinear and the second and fourth axes non-collinear, this application embodiment can control the sliding connection structure of the two door panels and two mounting plates within an ideal range in the width direction, achieving a miniaturized design of the electronic device.

[0007] In one possible implementation, the first door panel includes a first inner surface and a first outer surface disposed opposite to each other, the first inner surface facing the first rotating arm, and the third axis located on the first outer surface or on the side of the first outer surface away from the first inner surface. Similarly, the fourth axis can also be located on one side of the outer surface of the second door panel. By arranging the third and fourth axes on one side of the outer surfaces of the first and second door panels, this application can achieve a small size in the thickness direction while ensuring that the first and second door panels do not interfere with the main shaft.

[0008] In one possible implementation, the first rotating arm and the first door panel are rotatably connected. This application, through the design of the degree of freedom at the connection between the first door panel and the first rotating arm, allows the relative position between the first door panel and the first mounting plate to be adjusted during the rotation of the first rotating arm relative to the main shaft. This solution achieves the degree of freedom through a rotatable connection, offering advantages such as space saving and reliable connection.

[0009] In other embodiments, the first door panel and the first rotating arm can also be connected in other ways, such as a sliding connection. They can be connected by a combination of a sliding groove and a slider. As long as the trajectory of the sliding block in the sliding groove is limited, the position of the first door panel and the first rotating arm can be adjusted. During the position adjustment process, the first rotating arm can generate a pushing force on the first door panel, thereby increasing the sliding speed of the first door panel relative to the first mounting plate.

[0010] In one possible implementation, the first rotating arm includes a first arc-shaped arm, which cooperates with the main shaft to achieve a rotational connection between the first rotating arm and the main shaft, and the third axis is the arc center of the first arc-shaped arm. This solution provides a specific rotational connection scheme between the first rotating arm and the main shaft, which has a simple structure and can provide a stable and reliable movement trajectory.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the folding device further includes a first slider, through which the first door panel is slidably connected to the first mounting plate, and through which the first door panel is rotatably connected to the first rotating arm. The first door panel and the first slider are detachably connected. This solution uses the first slider as the connection structure between the first door panel, the first mounting plate, and the first rotating arm. The detachable connection design allows for easy replacement of the first door panel.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the folding device further includes a first fixing plate, which is fixedly connected to the slider. The first door panel and the first fixing plate are detachably connected. The surface area of ​​the first fixing plate used to connect to the first door panel is larger than the surface area of ​​the first slider facing the first door panel. This solution, by setting the first fixing plate between the first slider and the first door panel, can ensure the stability and reliability of the connection of the first door panel.

[0013] In one possible implementation, the first fixing plate and the first door panel are connected by magnetic attraction. When the folding device is in the flattened state, the first door panel and the second door panel are magnetically connected. When the folding device is in the flattened state, the first door panel and the second door panel are magnetically attracted to form a seamless joint. This ensures that there are no gaps at the connection between the first door panel and the second door panel in the flattened state, improving the appearance integrity of the electronic device and the customer experience.

[0014] In one possible implementation, the first slider includes a sliding engagement portion, a door panel fixing portion, and a rotating connection portion. The sliding engagement portion is used for sliding engagement with the first mounting plate, and the sliding engagement portion is flat. Specifically, the sliding engagement portion is parallel to the first door panel. Regarding the definition of parallelism, this application does not limit it to absolute parallelism; this definition can be understood as basically parallel, allowing for non-absolute parallelism due to factors such as assembly tolerances and structural flatness. These situations may lead to non-absolute parallelism between the sliding engagement portion and the first door panel, but this application also defines such situations as parallelism. This solution, through the flat design of the sliding engagement portion, simplifies the sliding engagement between the first slider and the first mounting plate, not only facilitating processing and assembly but also ensuring a stable and reliable movement trajectory for the first mounting plate and the first door panel.

[0015] In one possible implementation, when the folding device is in the folded state, the first door panel and the second door panel are stacked, and at least a portion of the rear shell of the electronic device is housed in the space between the first door panel and the second door panel. That is, the space between the first door panel and the second door panel is used to house the rear shell of the electronic device. This can be understood as follows: in the folded state, the first door panel moves to one side of the inner surface of the first rear shell, and the second door panel moves to one side of the inner surface of the second rear shell. The outer surfaces of the first and second rear shells are positioned opposite each other, and there may be a gap between them, or they may be in contact. The first and second door panels of the folding device provided in this solution occupy the internal space of the first and second rear shells, which is beneficial for achieving a small-size design in the thickness direction of the folding device.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the first door panel includes an adjacent first part and a second part. When the folding device is in an intermediate state, the intermediate state is a state during the switching process between the flattened state and the folded state. The first part is located on one side of the inner surface of the rear shell, and the second part is disposed on the outer side corresponding to the side of the rear shell. The first part is covered by the rear shell of the electronic device, and the second part is exposed as an appearance component of the electronic device. The first part includes a first body and a first protrusion. The first protrusion protrudes from the surface of the first body and is used to contact the rear shell so that a gap is formed between the first body and the rear shell. The second part is connected to the first body. When the folding device is in the folded state, the second part is located on one side of the inner surface of the rear shell and forms a gap with the rear shell. This solution establishes contact between the first protrusion and the first rear shell, while the second part of the first door panel and the other parts of the first part, excluding the first protrusion, form gaps with the first rear shell. This solution helps to reduce the area of ​​the friction interface between the outer surface of the first door panel and the inner surface of the first rear shell. For the first door panel, even when it is in a flat state, the outer surface of the first door panel can still maintain a gap with the first rear shell during the folding process, and there is no friction between the two, which can keep the appearance of the first door panel from wear.

[0017] In one possible implementation, a groove is provided at the connection between the first body and the first protrusion, and the inner wall of the groove is provided with an adhesive material. Friction between the first protrusion and the first rear shell can easily generate debris; the groove is used to collect the debris, and the adhesive material is used to absorb the debris, preventing it from scattering to other parts of the electronic device and affecting the user experience.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the first door panel includes an adjacent first part and a second part. When the folding device is in an intermediate state (a state during the switching process between the flattened state and the folded state), the first part contacts the inner surface of the rear shell of the electronic device, and the second part is located on the outer side of the rear shell, i.e., exposed, serving as an exterior component of the electronic device. When the folding device is in the folded state, both the first part and the second part are in contact with the inner surface of the rear shell, and the coefficient of friction between the second part and the rear shell is lower than a preset value. It can be understood that this embodiment, by limiting the low coefficient of friction between the first door panel and the first rear shell, ensures that during the opening and closing process of the folding device, the friction between the contact surfaces of the first door panel and the first rear shell does not produce obvious scratches, and the movement of the first door panel relative to the first rear shell is smoother. Specifically, a super-slip material layer can be provided on the surface of the first door panel, for example, by spraying Teflon material to form a super-slip material layer, or a super-slip material layer can be provided on the inner surface of the first rear shell, so that the coefficient of friction between the first door panel and the first rear shell is lower than a preset value. This solution is advantageous for achieving small dimensions in the thickness direction of the folding device.

[0019] In one possible implementation, the first door panel includes a first side surface and a first inclined surface. The first side surface is used to engage with the second door panel, and the first inclined surface connects the first side surface and the first inner surface of the first door panel. The first inclined surface avoids the main shaft. When the folding device is in a flattened state, the distance between the first inclined surface and the main shaft is greater than the distance between the first inner surface and the main shaft. This solution effectively solves the problem of interference between the first door panel and the main shaft during the opening and closing of the folding device by using the first inclined surface, which can achieve a smaller gap between the first door panel and the main shaft, thus facilitating the thinner design of electronic devices.

[0020] Secondly, this application provides an electronic device including a flexible display screen, a back cover, and a folding device as described in any possible embodiment of the first aspect. The flexible display screen and the back cover are respectively assembled on opposite sides of the folding device, and in the folded state, the flexible display screen is located on the outside of the folding device. The electronic device provided by this application, due to having the folding device described in the first aspect, has the advantages of small size and thinness.

[0021] Thirdly, this application provides an electronic device, including a flexible display screen, a back cover, and a folding device, wherein the flexible display screen and the back cover are respectively assembled on opposite sides of the folding device, and the folding device includes:

[0022] The system comprises a first mounting plate, a second mounting plate, and a main shaft, wherein the main shaft is rotatably connected to the first mounting plate and the central axis of relative rotation between the two is the first axis, and the main shaft is rotatably connected to the second mounting plate and the central axis of relative rotation between the two is the second axis.

[0023] A first door panel and a first rotating arm, the first door panel being slidably connected to the first mounting plate, the first rotating arm being rotatably connected to the main shaft and the central axis of relative rotation between the two being a third axis, the third axis being not collinear with the first axis, the first door panel and the first rotating arm being movably connected, and during the rotation of the first rotating arm relative to the main shaft, the first door panel sliding relative to the first mounting plate;

[0024] The second door panel and the second rotating arm are slidably connected to the second mounting plate. The second rotating arm and the main shaft are rotatably connected and the central axis of their relative rotation is the fourth axis. The fourth axis and the second axis are not collinear. The second door panel and the second rotating arm are movably connected. During the rotation of the second rotating arm relative to the main shaft, the second door panel slides relative to the second mounting plate.

[0025] When the folding device is in the flattened state, the first door panel and the second door panel are joined together.

[0026] When the folding device is in the folded state, the first door panel and the second door panel are stacked between the first mounting plate and the second mounting plate, and the flexible display screen is located on the outside of the folding device. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device in a flattened state according to a specific embodiment of this application;

[0028] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the electronic device in a folded state;

[0029] Figure 3A This is a perspective cross-sectional view of the folding device and the rear shell of the electronic device provided in one embodiment of this application assembled together. Figure 3A The second door panel, which incorporates a folding mechanism, has been omitted.

[0030] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A A magnified view of a portion of the document;

[0031] Figure 4A This is a planar cross-sectional view of the folding device and the rear shell of the electronic device provided in one embodiment of this application assembled together;

[0032] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A A magnified view of a portion of the document;

[0033] Figure 4C This is a partially enlarged planar cross-sectional view of the rear shell of the folding device and the electronic device assembled together according to another embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the folding device provided in one embodiment of this application in a flattened state;

[0035] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the folding device provided in one embodiment of this application in an intermediate state;

[0036] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the folding device provided in one embodiment of this application in a folded state;

[0037] Figure 8 This is an assembly schematic diagram of the second rotating component of the folding device provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 An exploded perspective view of the second rotating component shown.

[0039] Figure 10 yes Figure 8 An exploded perspective view of the second rotating component from another direction;

[0040] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the relevant structures of the first and second door panels of the folding device provided in one embodiment of this application in a flattened state;

[0041] Figure 12 This is an assembly schematic diagram of the first rotating component of the folding device provided in one embodiment of this application.

[0042] Figure 13 This is an assembly schematic diagram of the first rotating component of the folding device provided in one embodiment of this application.

[0043] Figure 14 This is an exploded view of the structure of the first rotating component of the folding device provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 15 This is an exploded view of part of the structure and main shaft of the first rotating component of the folding device provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0045] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of an electronic device provided in one embodiment of this application in a flattened state;

[0046] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of an electronic device provided in one embodiment of this application in a folded state;

[0047] Figure 18 yes Figure 17 Enlarged view of part of the image;

[0048] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of an electronic device provided in one embodiment of this application in an intermediate state;

[0049] Figure 20 yes Figure 19 Enlarged view of part of the image;

[0050] Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram of the first door panel in a folding device provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0051] Figure 22 This is a partially enlarged schematic diagram of an electronic device provided in one embodiment of this application in an intermediate state. Detailed Implementation

[0052] Explanation of terms

[0053] Parallelism: The parallelism defined in this application is not limited to absolute parallelism. This definition of parallelism can be understood as basic parallelism, allowing for situations where the parallelism is not absolute due to factors such as assembly tolerances, design tolerances, and structural flatness. These situations may lead to the sliding mating part and the first door panel not being absolutely parallel, but this application also defines such situations as parallelism.

[0054] Perpendicularity: The perpendicularity defined in this application is not limited to an absolute perpendicular intersection (with an included angle of 90 degrees). It is permissible for non-absolute perpendicular intersections caused by factors such as assembly tolerances, design tolerances, and structural flatness. It is permissible for errors within a small angular range, such as an assembly error range of 80 to 100 degrees, which can all be understood as a perpendicular relationship.

[0055] Flattened state: This can be understood as the angle between the first and second planar regions of an electronic device being close to 180 degrees. It does not limit the angle between the first and second planar regions to an absolute 180-degree angle. It is permissible for the angle between the two regions to be less than 180 degrees due to factors such as assembly tolerances, design tolerances, and structural flatness. For example, it can be an angle greater than 180 degrees, such as 183 degrees, or an angle less than 180 degrees, such as 178 degrees.

[0056] Folded state: This can be understood as a near-parallel stacking relationship between the first and second planar regions of an electronic device, not limited to an absolute parallel relationship, referring to the aforementioned definition of parallelism.

[0057] The embodiments of this application are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0058] This application provides a folding device and an electronic device. The electronic device includes a folding device, a flexible display screen fixed to the folding device, and a rear shell. The rear shell and the flexible display screen are disposed opposite to each other, and the flexible display screen and the rear shell are the two exterior surfaces of the electronic device. The flexible display screen is fixed to the front of the folding device, and the rear shell is fixed to the back of the folding device. The folding device can be unfolded to a flattened state, folded to a closed state, or in an intermediate state between the flattened and closed states. The folding device includes two door panels. During the unfolding and folding process, these two door panels move with the folding device. The door panels are used to shield the main shaft at a position in the middle of the rear shell in the flattened state, and overlap with the rear shell in the folded state. This application provides a specific drive structure and structure for the door panels, which makes the folding device space-saving and provides a stable and reliable door panel movement trajectory.

[0059] Please refer to the following: Figure 1 and Figure 2 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device 100 in a flattened state according to a specific embodiment of this application; Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the electronic device 100 in a folded state. Figure 1 The electronic device 100 shown is illustrated using a mobile phone as an example. The electronic device 100 includes a first planar region 1001, a bending region 1002, and a second planar region 1003 connected sequentially. The bending region 1002 is deformable, causing the first planar region 1001 to unfold or fold relative to the second planar region 1003. Figure 1 As shown, the first planar region 1001 unfolds relative to the second planar region 1003, and the electronic device 100 is in a flattened state. Figure 2 As shown, the second planar region 1003 is folded relative to the second planar region 1003, and the electronic device 100 is in a folded state. When the bending region 1002 deforms, the first planar region 1001 and the second planar region 1003 can rotate around the rotation axis 1004 of the bending region 1002 (see reference). Figure 1 Rotation. Specifically, the width direction X of the electronic device 100 is defined to be perpendicular to the rotation axis 1004 of the bending region 1002; the length direction Y of the electronic device 100 is parallel to the rotation axis 1004 of the bending region 1002; and the thickness direction Z of the electronic device 100 is perpendicular to both the width direction X and the length direction Y of the electronic device 100. Figure 1 and Figure 2 All are plan views. Figure 1 The thickness direction Z in the figure is perpendicular to the paper surface. Figure 2The length direction Y in the figure is perpendicular to the plane of the paper.

[0060] See Figure 1 and Figure 2 The electronic device 100 includes a flexible display screen 10, a folding device 20, and a back cover 30. The flexible display screen 10 is mounted on one side of the folding device 20, and the back cover 30 is mounted on the other side of the folding device 20. Specifically, in the unfolded state, the folding device 20 forms a flat structure, and the flexible display screen 10 and the back cover 30 are respectively assembled to the front and back of the folding device 20. In the folded state, the flexible display screen 10 is located on the outer surface of the folding device 20 (the flexible display screen 10 surrounds the folding device 20), and the back cover 30 is sandwiched in the middle by the folding device 20. Figure 1 The image shows a plan view of the electronic device 100, specifically one side of the rear cover 30. The rear cover 30 includes a first rear cover 31 and a second rear cover 32. In the flattened state, the first rear cover 31 and the second rear cover 32 are connected by a first door panel 20A and a second door panel 20B of a folding device 20. The first door panel 20A and the second door panel 20B are the exterior components of the electronic device.

[0061] The flexible display screen 10 is used to display images, videos, etc. The flexible display screen 10 is bendable. The two parts of the folding device 20 can rotate relative to each other to fold or unfold the flexible display screen 10. The electronic device 100 has an outward-folding screen structure. Figure 2 As shown, when the electronic device 100 is in a folded state, the flexible display screen 10 is located outside the folding device 20 and exposed outside the electronic device 100, allowing the user to touch the flexible display screen 10 even when the electronic device 100 is in a folded state. The flexible display screen 10 includes a first flat portion 101, a curved portion 102, and a second flat portion 103. The curved portion 102 of the flexible display screen 10 connects the first flat portion 101 and the second flat portion 103 of the flexible display screen 10. The first flat portion 101 of the flexible display screen 10 is located in a first planar region 1001. The curved portion 102 of the flexible display screen 10 is located in a bending region 1002. The second flat portion 103 of the flexible display screen 10 is located in a second planar region 1003. Figure 1 As shown, when the electronic device 100 is in a flattened state, the first flat portion 101, the curved portion 102, and the second flat portion 103 of the flexible display screen 10 can be displayed simultaneously to achieve a large-screen display and improve the user's viewing experience. Figure 2As shown, when the electronic device 100 is in a folded state, its size in the width direction X is reduced, making it easier to store and carry. At this time, one or more of the first flat portion 101, the curved portion 102, and the second flat portion 103 of the flexible display screen 10 can be used for display. For example, the curved portion 102 of the flexible display screen 10 can be used for display, achieving side display of the electronic device 100. The first flat portion 101 or the second flat portion 103 of the flexible display screen 10 can be used for display, achieving single-side display of the electronic device 100. The flexible display screen 10 can integrate touch functionality. The electronic device 100 can respond to a user's touch gesture on the flexible display screen 10, activating the corresponding portion of the flexible display screen 10.

[0062] For example, the flexible display screen 10 can be an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display screen, an active matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) display screen, a mini organic light-emitting diode (MLED) display screen, a micro organic light-emitting diode (MOLED) display screen, a quantum dot light-emitting diode (QLED) display screen, etc.

[0063] Figure 3A This is a perspective cross-sectional view showing the folding device 20 and the rear housing 30 of the electronic device assembled together according to one embodiment of this application. The view is intended to clearly illustrate the characteristics of the main shaft of the folding device. Figure 3A The second door panel of the folding device 20 is omitted. Figure 3B yes Figure 3A A magnified view of a portion of the image. Figure 4A A plan view of a folding device 20 and the rear shell 30 of an electronic device assembled together according to one embodiment of this application. Figure 4B yes Figure 4A A magnified view of a portion of the image.

[0064] See Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 4A , Figure 4BThe folding device 20 includes a frame assembly 201, a first rotating assembly 202, and a second rotating assembly 203. The frame assembly 201 includes a first middle frame 21, a second middle frame 22, a first mounting plate 23, a second mounting plate 24, and a main shaft 25. The main shaft 25 extends in the length direction Y of the electronic device 100. The first mounting plate 23 and the second mounting plate 24 are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the main shaft 25 in the width direction X. The first middle frame 21 and the first mounting plate 23 are fixedly connected, with the first middle frame 21 located on the side of the first mounting plate 23 away from the main shaft 25. The second middle frame 22 and the second mounting plate 24 are fixedly connected, with the second middle frame 22 located on the side of the second mounting plate 24 away from the main shaft 25. That is, along the width direction X of the electronic device 100, the first middle frame 21, the first mounting plate 23, the main shaft 25, the second mounting plate 24, and the second middle frame 22 are arranged sequentially. The first middle frame 21 and the second middle frame 22 are used to assemble the flexible display screen 10, batteries or other electronic devices (such as camera modules, audio modules, antenna modules, etc.) within the electronic device 100.

[0065] The first mounting plate 23 and the main shaft 25 are rotatably connected by the first rotating assembly 202, and the second mounting plate 24 and the main shaft 25 are also rotatably connected by the first rotating assembly 202. Therefore, the first middle frame 21 and the second middle frame 22 can be folded or unfolded relative to each other, and the folding device 20 can switch between the flattened state and the folded state. Figure 3A The location of the first rotating assembly 202 is schematically indicated by an elliptical dashed box, but this does not represent its specific detailed structure. The detailed structure of the first rotating assembly 202 will be described in detail later. The second rotating assembly 203 is used to assemble the first door panel 20A and the second door panel 20B to the frame assembly 201. The second rotating assembly 203 is used to slide the first door panel 20A to the first mounting plate 23 and rotatably connect it to the main shaft 25. The second rotating assembly 203 is used to slide the second door panel 20B to the second mounting plate 24 and rotatably connect it to the main shaft 25. Figure 3A The location of the second rotating component 203 is schematically indicated by an elliptical dashed box, but it does not represent its specific detailed structure. The detailed structure of the second rotating component 203 will be described in detail later.

[0066] Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 The diagram schematically illustrates the flattened state, intermediate state, and folded state of the folding device 20, and schematically illustrates the position and operation process of the first rotating component 202 and the second rotating component 203 in each state.

[0067] See Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7When the folding device 20 is in its flattened state, the first mounting plate 23 and the main shaft 25 are rotatably connected via the first rotating assembly 202, forming a first axis C1. The second mounting plate 24 and the main shaft 25 are also rotatably connected via the first rotating assembly 202, forming a second axis C2. During the opening and closing process (i.e., the unfolding or folding process) of the first mounting plate 23 and the second mounting plate 24, the first mounting plate 23 rotates relative to the main shaft 25 with the first axis C1 as its center, and the second mounting plate 24 rotates relative to the main shaft 25 with the second axis C2 as its center. The first door panel 20A and the main shaft 25 are rotatably connected via the second rotating assembly 203, forming a third axis C3. The second door panel 20B and the main shaft 25 are also rotatably connected via the second rotating assembly 203, forming a fourth axis C4. The first axis C1 and the third axis C3 are not collinear, and the second axis C2 and the fourth axis C4 are not collinear. The first axis C1, the second axis C2, the third axis C3, and the fourth axis C4 all extend in the length direction Y of the electronic device, and the main axis 25 also extends in the length direction Y of the electronic device. Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 The first axis C1, the second axis C2, the third axis C3, and the fourth axis C4 are represented by the center of the dashed circle.

[0068] The first door panel 20A includes a first inner surface S1 and a first outer surface S2, and the second door panel 20B includes a second inner surface S3 and a second outer surface S4. The first inner surface S1 is the surface of the first door panel 20A facing the main shaft 25 and the first mounting plate 23 in the flattened state, and the first outer surface S2 is the surface of the first door panel 20A facing away from the first mounting plate 23 and the main shaft 25 in the flattened state, i.e., the outer surface of the first door panel 20A. Similarly, the second inner surface S3 is the surface of the second door panel 20B facing the main shaft 25 and the second mounting plate 24 in the flattened state, and the second outer surface S4 is the surface of the second door panel 20B facing away from the second mounting plate 24 and the main shaft 25 in the flattened state, i.e., the outer surface of the second door panel 20B.

[0069] Figure 5In the flattened state shown, the first axis C1 and the second axis C2 are arranged with a gap between them in the width direction X, and the third axis C3 and the fourth axis C4 are arranged with a gap between them. In the flattened state, the first door panel 20A and the second door panel 20B are joined together to form an integral plate-like structure for jointly shielding the main shaft 25. The first axis C1 is located on one side of the inner surface of the first door panel 20A (i.e., on the first inner surface S1, or between the first inner surface S1 and the main shaft 25, or in the main shaft 25), and the second axis C2 is located on one side of the inner surface of the second door panel 20B (i.e., on the second inner surface S3, or between the second inner surface S3 and the main shaft 25, or in the main shaft 25). The third axis C3 is located on the first outer surface S2 or on the side of the first outer surface S2 away from the first inner surface S1, and the fourth axis C4 is located on the second outer surface S4 or on the side of the second outer surface S4 away from the second inner surface S3.

[0070] See Figure 6 In the intermediate state, an angle is formed between the first mounting plate 23 and the second mounting plate 24, and an angle is formed between the first door panel 20A and the second door panel 20B. The first shaft C1 is located on the side of the first inner surface S1 away from the first outer surface S2, the third shaft C3 is located on the side of the first outer surface S2 away from the first inner surface S1, the second shaft C2 is located on the side of the second inner surface S3 away from the second outer surface S4, and the fourth shaft C4 is located on the side of the second outer surface S4 away from the second inner surface S3.

[0071] See Figure 7 In the folded state, the first door panel 20A and the second door panel 20B are stacked opposite each other, and the first door panel 20A and the second door panel 20B are located between the first mounting plate 23 and the second mounting plate 24. The first shaft C1 is located on the side of the first inner surface S1 away from the first outer surface S2, the third shaft C3 is located on the side of the first outer surface S2 away from the first inner surface S1, the second shaft C2 is located on the side of the second inner surface S3 away from the second outer surface S4, and the fourth shaft C4 is located on the side of the second outer surface S4 away from the second inner surface S3.

[0072] Specifically, the positions of the first axis C1 and the second axis C2 determine the movement trajectories of the first mounting plate 23 and the second mounting plate 24 during unfolding and folding. In the thickness direction Z of the electronic device 100, if the first axis C1 and the second axis C2 are controlled inside the first door panel 20A and the second door panel 20B (referring to the inner surfaces of these two door panels, or between the inner surfaces and the main shaft, or on the main shaft), the first rotating component 202 can have a smaller size. If the first axis C1 and the second axis C2 are controlled outside the first door panel 20A and the second door panel 20B (referring to the outer surfaces of these two door panels, or the space on the side of the outer surface away from the inner surface), the first rotating component 202 will have a larger size in the width direction X, occupying more space in the electronic device. Therefore, in this embodiment, by making the first axis C1 and the third axis C3 non-collinear, and the second axis C2 and the fourth axis C4 non-collinear, the second rotating component 203 and the first rotating component 202 can be controlled within a more ideal range in the width direction X, achieving a miniaturized design of the electronic device.

[0073] Since the first axis C1 and the second axis C2 are located inside the first door panel 20A and the second door panel 20B, if the first axis C1 and the third axis C3 are collinear, and the second axis C2 and the fourth axis C4 are collinear, and if there is insufficient clearance between the first door panel 20A, the second door panel 20B, and the main shaft 25 in the thickness direction Z, the first door panel 20A and the second door panel 20B will interfere with the main shaft 25 during unfolding or folding. This application addresses this by placing the third axis C3 and the fourth axis C4 on one side of the outer surface of the first door panel 20A and the second door panel 20B, thereby achieving a small dimension in the thickness direction Z while preventing interference between the first door panel 20A and the second door panel 20B and the main shaft 25.

[0074] Therefore, by setting the positions of the first axis C1, the second axis C2, the third axis C3 and the fourth axis C4 in this embodiment, the first door panel 20A and the second door panel 20B of the folding device can be opened and closed smoothly, while also achieving a small size in the width direction X and a thin profile in the thickness direction Z.

[0075] When the first axis C1 and the third axis C3 are not collinear, to prevent both the first door panel 20A and the first mounting plate 23 from rotating smoothly during folding or unfolding, a structure P1 with a degree of freedom needs to be provided at the connection between the first door panel 20A and the second rotating assembly 203. This allows the second rotating assembly 203 to push the first door panel 20A relative to the first mounting plate 23 to slide relative to the first mounting plate 23 during rotation relative to the main axis 25, thus adjusting the relative position between the first door panel 20A and the first mounting plate 23. Similarly, when the second axis C2 and the fourth axis C4 are not collinear, to prevent both the second door panel 20B and the second mounting plate 24 from rotating smoothly during folding or unfolding, a structure P2 with a degree of freedom needs to be provided at the connection between the second door panel 20B and the second rotating assembly 203. This allows the second rotating assembly 203 to push the second door panel 20B relative to the second mounting plate 24 to slide relative to the second mounting plate 24 during rotation relative to the main axis 25, thus adjusting the relative position between the second door panel 20B and the second mounting plate 24.

[0076] The connection between the second rotating assembly 203 and the first door panel 20A, with a degree of freedom structure P1, can be understood as follows: the second rotating assembly 203 and the first door panel 20A are movably connected (e.g., a rotational connection or a sliding connection), allowing them to rotate or move relative to each other. This degree of freedom structure P1 is used to overcome the interference problem caused by the non-collinearity of the first axis C1 and the third axis C3 during folding or unfolding. Specifically, the first door panel 20A and the first mounting plate 23 are slidably connected, and the second door panel 20B and the second mounting plate 24 are slidably connected.

[0077] During the transition between the flattened and folded states, the position of the main axis 25 remains fixed. Relative to the position of the main axis 25, the positions of the first axis C1, second axis C2, third axis C3, and fourth axis C4 remain unchanged. (Comparison) Figure 6 The state shown and Figure 5 In the flattened state shown, the first mounting plate 23 rotates clockwise around the first axis C1, the second mounting plate 24 rotates counterclockwise around the second axis C2, the first door panel 20A rotates clockwise around the third axis C3, and the second door panel 20B rotates counterclockwise around the fourth axis C4. The first mounting plate 23 and the first door panel 20A rotate at the same angle, and the first door panel 20A slides relative to the first mounting plate 23 in the width direction X.

[0078] Since the first axis C1 and the third axis C3 are not collinear, during the folding process, the second rotating component 203 exerts a pushing force on the first door panel 20A, which accelerates the sliding speed of the first door panel 20A relative to the first mounting plate 23, allowing the first door panel 20A to move quickly to the folded state, thereby improving the folding efficiency.

[0079] For details on the structure of the second rotating assembly 203, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 3B , Figure 4B , Figure 8 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 , Figure 3B and Figure 4B The displayed cross-section is the cross-sectional structure of the second rotating component 203. Figure 8 This is an assembly diagram of the various parts of the second rotating assembly 203. Figure 9 for Figure 8 An exploded perspective view of the second rotating component 203 shown. Figure 10 for Figure 8 An exploded perspective view of the second rotating component 203 from another direction.

[0080] See Figure 3B , Figure 4B The second rotating assembly 203 includes assembly 203A and assembly 203B. Assembly 203A is used to connect to the first door panel 20A, and assembly 203B is used to connect to the second door panel 20B. In one embodiment, the specific structures of assembly 203A and assembly 203B can be the same. The detailed structure of assembly 203A will be described below.

[0081] Component 203A includes a first slider 3A1 and a first rotating arm 3A2. The first rotating arm 3A2 is rotatably connected to the main shaft 25, and the rotation center of the rotatable connection between the first rotating arm 3A2 and the main shaft 25 is a third axis C3. The first slider 3A1 is fixedly connected to the first door panel 20A, and the first slider 3A1 is slidably connected to the first mounting plate 23. The connection between the first slider 3A1 and the first rotating arm 3A2 has a degree of freedom, so that during the rotation of the first rotating arm 3A2 relative to the main shaft 25, it can push the first slider 3A1 and the first door panel 20A to slide relative to the first mounting plate 23. Figure 3B and Figure 4B In the illustrated embodiment, the first slider 3A1 and the first rotating arm 3A2 are rotatably connected via a pivot D1. Thus, during the rotation of the first rotating arm 3A2 relative to the main shaft 25, the relative rotation between the first slider 3A1 and the first rotating arm 3A2 adjusts the interference caused by the non-collinearity of the first axis C1 and the third axis C3. In other embodiments, the first slider 3A1 and the first rotating arm 3A2 can also be movably connected, for example, by sliding through a groove and slider mechanism. By limiting the trajectory of the groove block within the groove, the positions of the first slider 3A1 and the first rotating arm 3A2 can be adjusted. Furthermore, during the position adjustment process, the first rotating arm 3A2 can exert a pushing force on the first slider 3A1, increasing the sliding speed of the first door panel 20A and the first slider 3A1 relative to the first mounting plate 23.

[0082] Component 203B includes a second slider 3B1 and a second rotating arm 3B2. The second rotating arm 3B2 is rotatably connected to the main shaft 25, and the rotation center of the rotatable connection between the second rotating arm 3B2 and the main shaft 25 is the fourth axis C4. The second slider 3B1 is fixedly connected to the second door panel 20B, and the second slider 3B1 is slidably connected to the second mounting plate 24. The connection between the second slider 3B1 and the second rotating arm 3B2 has a degree of freedom, so that during the rotation of the second rotating arm 3B2 relative to the main shaft 25, it can push the second slider 3B1 and the second door panel 20B to slide relative to the second mounting plate 24. Figure 3B and Figure 4B In the illustrated embodiment, the second slider 3B1 and the second rotating arm 3B2 are rotatably connected via a pivot D2. Thus, during the rotation of the second rotating arm 3B2 relative to the main shaft 25, the relative rotation between the second slider 3B1 and the second rotating arm 3B2 addresses the interference caused by the non-collinearity of the second axis C2 and the fourth axis C4. In other embodiments, the second slider 3B1 and the second rotating arm 3B2 can also be movably connected, for example, through a sliding connection using a groove and slider. By limiting the trajectory of the groove block within the groove, the positions of the second slider 3B1 and the second rotating arm 3B2 can be adjusted. Furthermore, during the position adjustment process, the second rotating arm 3B2 can exert a pushing force on the second slider 3B1, increasing the sliding speed of the second door panel 20B and the second slider 3B1 relative to the second mounting plate 24.

[0083] See Figure 4C , Figure 4C In the embodiment shown, the second slider 3B1 and the second rotating arm 3B2 are slidably connected. The second rotating arm 3B2 is provided with a groove D3, and the second slider 3B1 has a rotating shaft D2. The rotating shaft D2 and the groove D3 cooperate to limit the movement trajectory of the rotating shaft D2 by limiting the shape of the groove D3, so that the position of the second slider 3B1 and the second rotating arm 3B2 can be adjusted.

[0084] See Figure 8 , Figure 9 and Figure 10These three figures illustrate the structure of the second rotating arm 3B2 in component 203A, the main shaft 25, and component 203B. The main shaft 25 includes a mounting base 251 and a mounting cover 252. Along its thickness direction, the mounting cover 252 is fixedly connected to the top of the mounting base 251. The mounting base 251 has a first arcuate groove 2511 and a second arcuate groove 2512 on its surface facing the mounting cover 252. The first arcuate groove 2511 and the second arcuate groove 2512 are arranged in the Y-direction along their length and can be arranged adjacent to each other. The mounting cover 252 has a first arcuate surface 2521 and a second arcuate surface 2522 on its surface facing the mounting base 251. The mounting cover 252 and the mounting base 251 are fixedly connected; specifically, they can be fixed with screws or glue. It is understood that: the first arc surface 2521 and the first arc-shaped groove 2511 are arranged opposite to each other, and the two together form a first rotating groove for receiving the first rotating arm 3A2; the second arc surface 2522 and the second arc-shaped groove 2512 are arranged opposite to each other, and the two together form a second rotating groove for receiving the second rotating arm 3B2. The first rotating groove and the first rotating arm 3A2 cooperate to form a rotational connection between component one 203A and the main shaft 25; the second rotating groove and the second rotating arm 3B2 cooperate to form a rotational connection between component two 203B and the main shaft 25.

[0085] The first rotating arm 3A2 includes a first arc-shaped arm 3A21 and a first hinge portion 3A22. The first rotating arm 3A2 is a one-piece structure. The first hinge portion 3A22 is located at one end of the first arc-shaped arm 3A21. The first arc-shaped arm 3A21 is used to cooperate with the first rotating groove. The third axis is the arc center of the first arc-shaped arm. The rotational connection between the first rotating arm and the main shaft is achieved through the cooperation of the first arc-shaped arm and the first rotating groove, which has the advantages of simple and reliable movement trajectory. The first hinge portion 3A22 is used to rotately connect with the first slider 3A1. The second rotating arm 3B2 has the same structure as the first rotating arm 3A2. The second rotating arm 3B2 includes a second arc-shaped arm 3B21 and a second hinge portion 3B22. The second rotating arm 3B2 is a one-piece structure. The second hinge portion 3B22 is located at one end of the second arc-shaped arm 3B21. The second arc-shaped arm 3B21 is used to cooperate with the second rotating groove. The second hinge portion 3B22 is used to rotately connect with the second slider 3B1.

[0086] The first slider 3A1 includes a sliding engagement portion 3A11, a door panel fixing portion 3A12, and a rotating connection portion 3A13. The sliding engagement portion 3A11 is used for sliding engagement with the first mounting plate 23. The sliding engagement portion 3A11 is flat and can be parallel to the first door panel 20A. The flat design of the sliding engagement portion 3A11 simplifies the sliding engagement between the first slider 3A1 and the first mounting plate 23, facilitating processing and assembly, and ensuring a stable and reliable movement trajectory for both the first mounting plate 23 and the first door panel 20A. The rotating connection portion 3A13 is used for rotatable connection with the first hinge portion 3A22 of the first rotating arm 3A2. The door panel fixing portion 3A12 is used for fixed connection to the first door panel 20A.

[0087] In one specific embodiment, a first fixing plate 3A3 is fixedly connected to the door panel fixing part 3A12. The first fixing plate 3A3 serves as an intermediate component for the fixed connection between the first slider 3A1 and the first door panel 20A. The surface area of ​​the first fixing plate 3A3 used to connect the first door panel 20A is larger than the area of ​​the door panel fixing part 3A12. By fixing the first door panel 20A to the first fixing plate 3A3, the stability and reliability of the connection of the first door panel 20A can be ensured.

[0088] In one specific embodiment, the first door panel 20A and the first fixing plate 3A3 are detachably connected. This detachable connection design allows the first door panel 20A to be easily replaced.

[0089] The specific structure of component 203B is the same as that of component 1 203A, and will not be described again.

[0090] See Figure 11In one specific embodiment, the first fixing plate 3A3 is connected between the first slider 3A1 and the first door panel 20A. The first fixing plate 3A3 and the first door panel 20A are connected by magnetic attraction. When the folding device is in the flattened state, the first door panel 20A and the second door panel 20B are connected by magnetic attraction. Specifically, the first door panel 20A has a first magnetic element M1, the first fixing plate 3A3 has a second magnetic element M2 (or the first fixing plate 3A3 itself is a magnetic structure), and the second door panel 20B has a third magnetic element M3. The second fixing plate 3A4 is connected between the second slider 3B1 and the second door panel 20B, and the second fixing plate 3A4 has a fourth magnetic element M4 (or the second fixing plate 3A4 itself is a magnetic structure). The first door panel 20A and the first fixing plate 3A3 are fixedly connected by the magnetic attraction between the first magnetic element M1 and the second magnetic element M2. The second door panel 20B and the second fixing plate 3A4 are fixedly connected by the magnetic attraction between the third magnetic element M3 and the fourth magnetic element M4. When the folding device is in the flattened state, the first door panel 20A and the second door panel 20B are seamlessly joined by the magnetic attraction of the first magnetic component M1 and the third magnetic component M3. This ensures that there is no gap at the connection between the first door panel 20A and the second door panel 20B in the flattened state, thereby improving the appearance integrity of the electronic device and the customer experience.

[0091] The specific structure of the first rotating component is shown below. Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 and Figure 15 Please elaborate. Figure 12 and Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the first rotating assembly 202, the first mounting plate 23, the second mounting plate 24, and part of the main shaft 25. Figure 14 yes Figure 12 The diagram shows a three-dimensional exploded view of the structure. Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of two sliding parts and part of the main shaft 25 in the first rotating assembly 202.

[0092] See Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 and Figure 15 The first rotating assembly 202 includes a first sliding portion 2021, a second sliding portion 2022, a first rotating portion 2023, and a second rotating portion 2024. The main shaft 25 includes a fixed base 251 and a fixed cover 252. The fixed base 251 includes a first flip bar 2513, a second flip bar 2514, and a main body 2515, all extending along the length direction. The fixed cover 252 is fixed to the top of the main body 2515, and a portion of the first sliding portion 2021 and a portion of the second sliding portion 2022 are accommodated between the fixed cover 252 and the main body 2515. (See also...) Figure 12 and Figure 15 , Figure 12 The main body is omitted in the text. Figure 15 The main body 2515 in the middle can be understood as Figure 12 The main body is located between the first flip bar 2513 and the second flip bar 2514. In the flattened state, the first flip bar 2513 and the second flip bar 2514 are respectively arranged on both sides of the main body 2515 along the width direction X. Both the first flip bar 2513 and the second flip bar 2514 are rotatably connected to the main body 2515. When the folding device switches from the flattened state to the folded state, both the first flip bar 2513 and the second flip bar 2514 flip relative to the main body 2515 to adjust the posture of the main shaft 25. The surface of the main shaft 25 that supports the flexible display screen is planar in the flattened state and arc-shaped in the folded state.

[0093] The first sliding part 2021 is slidably connected to the first mounting plate 23, and the first sliding part 2021 is rotatably connected to the main body 2515. Specifically, as follows: Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, the first sliding part 2021 includes a sliding body 0211 and a main shaft rotating arm 0212. The main shaft rotating arm 0212 is located at one end of the sliding body 0211. The sliding body 0211 cooperates with the slide rail 2311 on the first mounting plate 23. The main shaft rotating arm 0212 is slidably engaged with the first mating part 5152 on the main seat 2515. Specifically, the main shaft rotating arm 0212 is located between the main seat 2515 and the fixed cover 252 and forms a rotatable connection structure. During the unfolding or folding process of the folding device, the sliding body 0211 slides relative to the first mounting plate 23, and the main shaft rotating arm 0212 and the first mating part 5152 slide relative to each other, so that the first sliding part 2021 rotates relative to the main shaft 25. The structure and connection relationship of the second sliding part 2022 are the same as those of the first sliding part 2021. The second sliding part 2022 is slidably connected to the second mounting plate 24, and the second sliding part 2022 is rotatably connected to the main seat 2515 of the main shaft 25.

[0094] The first rotating part 2023 is fixedly connected to the first mounting plate 23, and the first rotating part 2023 is rotatably connected to the first flip bar 2513. The first rotating part 2023 and the first flip bar 2513 are rotatably connected through an arc-shaped arm contact. The structure and connection relationship of the second rotating part 2024 are the same as those of the first rotating part 2023, that is, the second rotating part 2024 is fixedly connected to the second mounting plate 24, and the second rotating part 2024 is rotatably connected to the second flip bar 2514.

[0095] See Figure 16The dashed boxes in the figure represent the first rotating assembly 202 and the second rotating assembly 203. In one embodiment, there are two of each of the first rotating assembly 202 and the second rotating assembly 203. Along the length Y direction of the folding device, the two first rotating assemblies 202 are located near both ends of the main shaft 25. The two second rotating assemblies 203 are located between the two first rotating assemblies 202. One second rotating assembly 203 is adjacent to one of the first rotating assemblies 202, and the other second rotating assembly 203 is adjacent to the other first rotating assembly 202.

[0096] See Figure 17 and Figure 18 , Figure 18 for Figure 17 A partially enlarged view. In one embodiment, when the folding device is in the folded state, a first door panel 20A and a second door panel 20B are stacked in the thickness direction Z. The space between the first door panel 20A and the second door panel 20B is used to accommodate the rear shell (first rear shell 31 and second rear shell 32) of the electronic device. It can be understood that, in the folded state, the first door panel 20A moves to one side of the inner surface of the first rear shell 31, and the second door panel 20B moves to one side of the inner surface of the second rear shell 32. The outer surfaces of the first rear shell 31 and the second rear shell 32 are positioned opposite each other, and a gap may be provided between the outer surfaces of the first rear shell 31 and the second rear shell 32, or they may be in contact with each other. The first and second door panels of the folding device provided in this solution occupy the internal space of the first and second rear shells, which is beneficial for achieving a small-size design in the thickness direction of the folding device. In the width direction X, a first gap G1 is provided between the first door panel 20A and the first middle frame 21, and a second gap G2 is provided between the second door panel 20B and the second middle frame 22. The setting of the first gap G1 and the second gap G2 can ensure that the first door panel 20A will not collide with the first middle frame 21 and the second door panel 20B will not collide with the second middle frame 22 during the flattening and folding of the electronic device.

[0097] See Figure 19 and Figure 20 , Figure 20 for Figure 19 A partially enlarged view. In one embodiment, in an intermediate state between a folded state and a flattened state, an angle is formed between the first middle frame 21 and the second middle frame 22. A portion of the first door panel 20A moves to one side of the inner surface of the first rear shell 31, and the portion of the first door panel 20A is located outside the first rear shell 31 and is not obscured by the first rear shell 31. A portion of the second door panel 20B moves to one side of the inner surface of the second rear shell 32, and the portion of the second door panel 20B is located outside the second rear shell 32 and is not obscured by the second rear shell 32.

[0098] See Figure 20The first door panel 20A includes an adjacent first portion A1 and a second portion A2. When the folding device is in an intermediate state (a state during the switching process between the flattened state and the folded state), the first portion A1 is located on one side of the inner surface of the first rear shell 31 and is covered by the first rear shell 31. The second portion A2 is located on the outer side of the side of the first rear shell 31, meaning that the second portion A2 is not covered by the first rear shell 31 and is exposed. In this state, the second portion A2 serves as the external appearance component of the electronic device. The first portion A1 includes a first body A11 and a first protrusion A12. The first protrusion A12 protrudes from the surface of the first body A11 and is used to contact the first rear shell 31, forming a gap between the first body A11 and the first rear shell 31. The second portion A2 is connected to the first body A11, and the surface of the second portion A2 facing the first rear shell 31 is coplanar with the surface of the first body A11 facing the first rear shell 31. When the folding device is in the folded state, a gap is formed between the second portion A2 and the first rear shell 31. This solution establishes contact between the first protrusion A12 and the first rear shell 31, while the second part A2 and the first part A1 of the first door panel 20A, excluding the first protrusion (the first main body A11), form gaps with the first rear shell 31. This solution helps to reduce the area of ​​the friction interface between the outer surface of the first door panel 20A and the inner surface of the first rear shell 31. For the first door panel 20A, even when it is in a flattened state, the outer surface of the first door panel 20A can still maintain a gap with the first rear shell 31 during the folding process, and there is no friction between the two, which can keep the appearance of the first door panel 20A from wear.

[0099] In one implementation, see [reference] Figure 21 A groove A13 is provided at the connection between the first main body A11 and the first protrusion A12. An adhesive material A14 is provided on the inner wall of the groove A13. The friction between the first protrusion A12 and the first rear shell 31 can easily generate debris. The groove A14 is used to collect the debris, and the adhesive material is used to absorb the debris to prevent the debris from scattering to other parts of the electronic device and affecting the user experience.

[0100] See Figure 22The first door panel 20A includes an adjacent first portion A1 and a second portion A2. When the folding device is in an intermediate state (a state during the transition between the flattened and folded states), the first portion A1 is in contact with the inner surface of the first rear shell 31, and the second portion A2 is located on the outer side of the first rear shell 31. That is, the second portion A2 is not obscured by the first rear shell 31 and is exposed. In this state, the second portion A2 serves as the external appearance component of the electronic device. When the folding device is in the folded state, both the first portion A1 and the second portion A2 are in contact with the inner surface of the first rear shell 31. This design, by having both the first portion A1 and the second portion A2 in contact with the inner surface of the first rear shell 31, facilitates the miniaturization of the folding device's thickness.

[0101] The coefficient of friction between the first door panel 20A and the first rear shell 31 is lower than a preset value. This means that by limiting the coefficient of friction between the first door panel 20A and the first rear shell 31 to a low value, this embodiment ensures that during the opening and closing process of the folding device, the contact surfaces between the first door panel 20A and the first rear shell 31 will not produce obvious scratches, and the movement of the first door panel 20A relative to the first rear shell 31 will be smoother. Specifically, a super-slippery material layer can be provided on the surface of the first door panel 20A, for example, by spraying Teflon material to form a super-slippery material layer. Alternatively, a super-slippery material layer can be provided on the inner surface of the first rear shell 31 to ensure that the coefficient of friction between the first door panel 20A and the first rear shell 31 is lower than a preset value. This solution achieves a smaller folding device in the thickness direction by making the surface of the first part A1 of the first door panel 20A facing the first rear shell 31 and the surface of the second part A2 of the first door panel 20A facing the first rear shell 31 coplanar. That is, there is no protruding structure on the surface of the first door panel 20A facing the first rear shell 31, and the first door panel 20A and the first rear shell 31 are in direct surface contact.

[0102] See Figure 21 In one embodiment, the first door panel 20A includes a first side surface A3 and a first inclined surface A4. The first side surface A3 is used to abut the second door panel 20B, and the first inclined surface A4 connects the first side surface A3 and the first inner surface S1 of the first door panel 20A. The first inclined surface A4 is used to avoid the main shaft 25. Specifically, Figure 21In the diagram, the main shaft 25 is represented by a rectangle. The distance between the first inner surface S1 and the main shaft 25 is less than the distance between the first inclined surface A4 and the main shaft 25. The distance between the first inclined surface A4 and the main shaft 25 refers to the average distance between the two ends of the first inclined surface A4 (one end connected to the first inner surface S1 and the other end away from the first inner surface S1) and the main shaft 25. This solution effectively solves the problem of interference between the first door panel 20A and the main shaft 25 during the opening and closing of the folding device by using the first inclined surface A4. This allows for a smaller gap between the first door panel 20A and the main shaft 25, which is beneficial for the thinner design of electronic devices.

[0103] The terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," and various numerical designations used herein are merely for descriptive convenience and are not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0104] It should be understood that in the various embodiments of this application, the order of the above-mentioned processes does not imply the order of execution. The execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of this application.

[0105] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit it. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A folding device (20), characterized in that, include: The system comprises a first mounting plate (23), a second mounting plate (24), and a main shaft (25). The main shaft (25) is rotatably connected to the first mounting plate (23). The rotation center of the rotatable connection between the main shaft (25) and the first mounting plate (23) is the first axis (C1). The main shaft (25) is rotatably connected to the second mounting plate (24). The rotation center of the rotatable connection between the main shaft (25) and the second mounting plate (24) is the second axis (C2). The first door panel (20A) and the first rotating arm (3A2) are slidably connected to the first mounting plate (23). The first rotating arm (3A2) is rotatably connected to the main shaft (25). The rotation center of the rotation connection between the first rotating arm (3A2) and the main shaft (25) is the third axis (C3). The third axis (C3) and the first axis (C1) are not collinear. The first door panel (20A) and the first rotating arm (3A2) are movably connected. During the rotation of the first rotating arm (3A2) relative to the main shaft (25), the first door panel (20A) slides relative to the first mounting plate (23). The second door panel (20B) and the second rotating arm (3B2) are slidably connected to the second mounting plate (24) and the second rotating arm (3B2) is rotatably connected to the main shaft (25). The rotation center of the rotation connection between the second rotating arm (3B2) and the main shaft (25) is the fourth axis (C4). The fourth axis (C4) and the second axis (C2) are not collinear. The second door panel (20B) and the second rotating arm (3B2) are movably connected. During the rotation of the second rotating arm (3B2) relative to the main shaft (25), the second door panel (20B) slides relative to the second mounting plate (24). The extension directions of the first axis (C1), the second axis (C2), the third axis (C3), and the fourth axis (C4) are all the same as the extension direction of the main axis (25). When the folding device (20) is in the flattened state, the first door panel (20A) and the second door panel (20B) are joined together; When the folding device (20) is in the folded state, the first door panel (20A) and the second door panel (20B) are stacked between the first mounting plate (23) and the second mounting plate (24), and the space between the first door panel (20A) and the second door panel (20B) is used to store the back shell (30) of the electronic device.

2. The folding device (20) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first door panel (20A) includes a first inner surface (S1) and a first outer surface (S2) disposed opposite to each other. The first inner surface (S1) faces the first rotating arm (3A2), and the third shaft (C3) is located on the first outer surface (S2) or on the side of the first outer surface (S2) away from the first inner surface (S1).

3. The folding device (20) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first rotating arm (3A2) and the first door panel (20A) are rotatably connected; or the first rotating arm (3A2) and the first door panel (20A) are slidably connected.

4. The folding device (20) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first rotating arm (3A2) includes a first arc arm (3A21), the first arc arm (3A21) and the main shaft (25) cooperate to realize the rotational connection between the first rotating arm (3A2) and the main shaft (25), and the third shaft (C3) is the arc center of the first arc arm (3A21).

5. The folding device (20) according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a first slider (3A1), the first door panel (20A) is slidably connected to the first mounting plate (23) through the first slider (3A1), the first door panel (20A) is rotatably connected to the first rotating arm (3A2) through the first slider (3A1), and the first door panel (20A) and the first slider (3A1) are detachably connected.

6. The folding device (20) according to claim 5, characterized in that... It also includes a first fixing plate (3A3), which is fixedly connected to the first slider (3A1). The first door panel (20A) and the first fixing plate (3A3) are detachably connected. The area of ​​the surface of the first fixing plate (3A3) used to connect to the first door panel (20A) is greater than the area of ​​the surface of the first slider (3A1) facing the first door panel (20A).

7. The folding device (20) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first fixing plate (3A3) and the first door panel (20A) are connected by magnetic attraction. When the folding device (20) is in the flat state, the first door panel (20A) and the second door panel (20B) are connected by magnetic attraction.

8. The folding device (20) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first slider (3A1) includes a sliding engagement part (3A11), a door panel fixing part (3A12), and a rotating connection part (3A13). The sliding engagement part (3A11) is used to slide with the first mounting plate (23), and the sliding engagement part (3A11) is flat.

9. The folding device (20) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first door panel (20A) includes an adjacent first part (A1) and a second part (A2). When the folding device (20) is in an intermediate state, the intermediate state is a state during the switching process between the flattened state and the folded state. The first part (A1) is located on one side of the inner surface of the rear shell. The second part (A2) is disposed on the outer side of the side of the first rear shell (31). The first part (A1) includes a first body (A11) and a first protrusion (A12). The first protrusion (A12) protrudes from the surface of the first body (A11) and is used to contact the first rear shell (31) so that a gap is formed between the first body (A11) and the first rear shell (31). The second part (A2) is connected to the first body (A11). When the folding device (20) is in the folded state, the second part (A2) is located on one side of the inner surface of the first rear shell (31) and forms a gap with the first rear shell (31).

10. The folding device (20) according to claim 9, characterized in that, A groove (A13) is provided at the connection between the first body (A11) and the first protrusion (A12), and an adhesive material (A14) is provided on the inner wall of the groove (A13).

11. The folding device (20) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first door panel (20A) includes an adjacent first part (A1) and a second part (A2). When the folding device (20) is in an intermediate state, the intermediate state is a state during the switching process between the flattened state and the folded state. The first part (A1) is in contact with the inner surface of the first rear shell (31) of the electronic device. The second part (A2) is located on the outer side of the side of the first rear shell (31) of the electronic device. When the folding device (20) is in the folded state, both the first part (A1) and the second part (A2) are in contact with the inner surface of the first rear shell (31) of the electronic device.

12. The folding device (20) according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The first door panel (20A) includes a first side surface (A3) and a first inclined surface (A4). The first side surface (A3) is used to connect with the second door panel (20B). The first inclined surface (A4) is connected between the first side surface (A3) and the first inner surface (S1) of the first door panel (20A). When the folding device (20) is in the flattened state, the distance between the first inclined surface (A4) and the main shaft (25) is greater than the distance between the first inner surface (S1) and the main shaft (25).

13. An electronic device, characterized in that, The device includes a flexible display screen (10), a back cover (30), and a folding device (20). The flexible display screen (10) and the back cover (30) are respectively assembled on opposite sides of the folding device (20). The folding device (20) includes: The first mounting plate (23), the second mounting plate (24), and the main shaft (25) are rotatably connected to the first mounting plate (23) and the central axis of relative rotation between the two is the first axis (C1), and the central axis of relative rotation between the main shaft (25) and the second mounting plate (24) is the second axis (C2). The first door panel (20A) and the first rotating arm (3A2) are slidably connected to the first mounting plate (23). The first rotating arm (3A2) and the main shaft (25) are rotatably connected and the central axis of their relative rotation is the third axis (C3). The third axis (C3) and the first axis (C1) are not collinear. The first door panel (20A) and the first rotating arm (3A2) are movably connected. During the rotation of the first rotating arm (3A2) relative to the main shaft (25), the first door panel (20A) slides relative to the first mounting plate (23). The second door panel (20B) and the second rotating arm (3B2) are slidably connected to the second mounting plate (24). The second rotating arm (3B2) and the main shaft (25) are rotatably connected and the central axis of relative rotation between them is the fourth axis (C4). The fourth axis (C4) and the second axis (C2) are not collinear. The second door panel (20B) and the second rotating arm (3B2) are movably connected. During the rotation of the second rotating arm (3B2) relative to the main shaft (25), the second door panel (20B) slides relative to the second mounting plate (24). The extension directions of the first axis (C1), the second axis (C2), the third axis (C3), and the fourth axis (C4) are all the same as the extension direction of the main axis (25). When the folding device (20) is in the flattened state, the first door panel (20A) and the second door panel (20B) are joined together; When the folding device (20) is in the folded state, the first door panel (20A) and the second door panel (20B) are stacked between the first mounting plate (23) and the second mounting plate (24). The space between the first door panel (20A) and the second door panel (20B) is used to store the back shell (30) of the electronic device. The flexible display screen (10) is located on the outside of the folding device (20).

14. The electronic device according to claim 13, characterized in that, The first door panel (20A) includes a first inner surface (S1) and a first outer surface (S2) disposed opposite to each other. The first inner surface (S1) faces the first rotating arm (3A2), and the third shaft (C3) is located on the first outer surface (S2) or on the side of the first outer surface (S2) away from the first inner surface (S1).

15. The electronic device according to claim 13, characterized in that, The first rotating arm (3A2) and the first door panel (20A) are rotatably connected; or the first rotating arm (3A2) and the first door panel (20A) are slidably connected.

16. The electronic device according to claim 13, characterized in that, The first rotating arm (3A2) includes a first arc arm (3A21), the first arc arm (3A21) and the main shaft (25) cooperate to realize the rotational connection between the first rotating arm (3A2) and the main shaft (25), and the third shaft (C3) is the arc center of the first arc arm (3A21).

17. The electronic device according to claim 13, characterized in that, It also includes a first slider (3A1), the first door panel (20A) is slidably connected to the first mounting plate (23) through the first slider (3A1), the first door panel (20A) is rotatably connected to the first rotating arm (3A2) through the first slider (3A1), and the first door panel (20A) and the first slider (3A1) are detachably connected.

18. The electronic device according to claim 17, characterized in that... It also includes a first fixing plate (3A3), which is fixedly connected to the first slider (3A1). The first door panel (20A) and the first fixing plate (3A3) are detachably connected. The area of ​​the surface of the first fixing plate (3A3) used to connect to the first door panel (20A) is greater than the area of ​​the surface of the first slider (3A1) facing the first door panel (20A).

19. The electronic device according to claim 18, characterized in that, The first fixing plate (3A3) and the first door panel (20A) are connected by magnetic attraction. When the folding device (20) is in the flat state, the first door panel (20A) and the second door panel (20B) are connected by magnetic attraction.

20. The electronic device according to claim 17, characterized in that, The first slider (3A1) includes a sliding engagement part (3A11), a door panel fixing part (3A12), and a rotating connection part (3A13). The sliding engagement part (3A11) is used to slide with the first mounting plate (23), and the sliding engagement part (3A11) is flat.

21. The electronic device according to claim 13, characterized in that, The first door panel (20A) includes an adjacent first part (A1) and a second part (A2). When the folding device (20) is in an intermediate state, the intermediate state is a state during the switching process between the flattened state and the folded state. The first part (A1) is located on one side of the inner surface of the rear shell. The second part (A2) is disposed on the outer side of the side of the first rear shell (31). The first part (A1) includes a first body (A11) and a first protrusion (A12). The first protrusion (A12) protrudes from the surface of the first body (A11) and is used to contact the first rear shell (31) so that a gap is formed between the first body (A11) and the first rear shell (31). The second part (A2) is connected to the first body (A11). When the folding device (20) is in the folded state, the second part (A2) is located on one side of the inner surface of the first rear shell (31) and forms a gap with the first rear shell (31).

22. The electronic device according to claim 21, characterized in that, A groove (A13) is provided at the connection between the first body (A11) and the first protrusion (A12), and an adhesive material (A14) is provided on the inner wall of the groove (A13).

23. The electronic device according to claim 13, characterized in that, The rear shell (30) includes a first rear shell (31), and the first door panel (20A) includes an adjacent first part (A1) and a second part (A2). When the folding device (20) is in an intermediate state, the intermediate state is a state during the switching process between the flattened state and the folded state. The first part (A1) is in contact with the inner surface of the first rear shell (31), and the second part (A2) is located on the outer side of the side of the first rear shell (31). When the folding device (20) is in the folded state, both the first part (A1) and the second part (A2) are in contact with the inner surface of the first rear shell (31).

24. The electronic device according to claim 13, characterized in that, The first door panel (20A) includes a first side surface (A3) and a first inclined surface (A4). The first side surface (A3) is used to connect with the second door panel (20B). The first inclined surface (A4) is connected between the first side surface (A3) and the first inner surface (S1) of the first door panel (20A). When the folding device (20) is in the flattened state, the distance between the first inclined surface (A4) and the main shaft (25) is greater than the distance between the first inner surface (S1) and the main shaft (25).

25. The electronic device according to any one of claims 13-24, characterized in that, The folding device (20) includes a frame assembly (201), which includes a first middle frame (21), a second middle frame (22), a first mounting plate (23), a second mounting plate (24), and a main shaft (25). The first middle frame (21) is located on the side of the first mounting plate (23) away from the main shaft (25) and is fixedly connected to the first mounting plate (23). The second middle frame (22) is located on the side of the second mounting plate (24) away from the main shaft (25) and is fixedly connected to the second mounting plate (24). One side of the first middle frame (21) and the second middle frame (22) is connected to the flexible display screen (10), and the other side is connected to the rear shell (30).

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