Rotating shaft mechanism and electronic device

Abstract

A rotating shaft mechanism and electronic equipment. The rotating shaft mechanism comprises a base (10) and two support assemblies (20), the two support assemblies (20) are respectively connected with two sides of the base (10); the support assembly (20) comprises a rotating plate (21) and a shielding plate (25), the rotating plate (21) is pivotally connected with the base (10); the shielding plate (25) is located on one side of the rotating plate (21) and can slide relative to the rotating plate (21) in the direction of approaching or moving away from the base (10), when the rotating shaft mechanism is in a flat state, the normal projection of the base (10) on the plane where the shielding plate (25) is located at least partially overlaps the shielding plate (25). The shielding plate (25) can slide relative to the rotating plate (21) in the direction of approaching or moving away from the base (10), when the rotating shaft mechanism is folded, the shielding plate (25) is slid in the direction of moving away from the base (10), the base (10) is exposed, the shielding plates (25) of the two support assemblies (20) are prevented from being too close to each other and affecting each other, so that the rotating shaft mechanism can be smoothly folded. The rotating shaft mechanism is shielded by the shielding plate (25), protection is provided, the rotating shaft mechanism can be prevented from being damaged, and the service life of the rotating shaft mechanism is prolonged.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of electronic devices, and in particular to a rotating shaft mechanism and an electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] Foldable electronic devices typically include a flexible display panel, a hinge mechanism, and two housings. The two housings are connected to both sides of the hinge mechanism, and the flexible display panel sits on the two housings. The two housings can open and close relative to each other. When the electronic device is in a flattened state, the two housings unfold, and the flexible display panel lies flat on the two housings and the hinge mechanism; when the electronic device is in a folded state, the two housings close together, the flexible display panel bends, and the two housings are positioned between the two folded parts of the flexible display panel.

[0003] When electronic devices are in a flattened state, the internal structure of the hinge mechanism is easily exposed, which not only affects the appearance but also makes the hinge mechanism susceptible to damage. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure provides a rotating shaft mechanism and an electronic device that can protect the internal structure of the rotating shaft mechanism. The technical solution is as follows:

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a rotating shaft mechanism, the rotating shaft mechanism including a base and two support components, the two support components being respectively connected to both sides of the base;

[0006] The support assembly includes a rotating plate and a shielding plate, wherein the rotating plate is pivotally connected to the base;

[0007] The shield is located on one side of the rotating plate and can slide relative to the rotating plate in a direction close to or away from the base. When the rotating shaft mechanism is in a flattened state, the orthographic projection of the base onto the plane where the shield is located at least partially overlaps with the shield.

[0008] Optionally, the support assembly further includes a sliding plate and a linkage component;

[0009] The sliding plate is located on the side of the rotating plate away from the shielding plate, and can slide relative to the rotating plate in a direction close to or away from the base;

[0010] The linkage component is located between the sliding plate and the shielding plate, and is rotatably connected to the rotating plate, for enabling the sliding plate and the shielding plate to move together.

[0011] Optionally, the sliding plate has a first driving groove, and the shielding plate has a second driving groove;

[0012] The linkage includes a main body, a first pin, and a second pin. The main body is rotatably connected to the rotating plate. The first pin and the second pin are located on both sides of the main body and are respectively located in the first drive groove and the second drive groove.

[0013] Optionally, the second drive groove is a strip groove, the extension direction of which is parallel to the rotation axis of the rotating plate, or the angle between the extension direction of which is acute and the rotation axis of the rotating plate.

[0014] Optionally, the second drive groove is a V-shaped groove; or, the second drive groove includes a strip-shaped portion and a V-shaped portion, wherein the V-shaped portion is located at one end of the strip-shaped portion, and one end of the V-shaped portion is connected to one end of the strip-shaped portion.

[0015] Optionally, the first driving groove is an arc-shaped groove;

[0016] The linkage includes two first pins, the two first pins are equidistant from the rotation axis of the main body, and both first pins are located in the first drive groove.

[0017] Optionally, the sliding plate further has a first guide groove, the extension direction of which is perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating plate;

[0018] The side of the shielding plate near the sliding plate is connected to a guide protrusion, which is located in the first guide groove.

[0019] Optionally, the support assembly further includes a housing drive plate located between the rotating plate and the shielding plate, and capable of sliding relative to the rotating plate in a direction close to or away from the base, the housing drive plate having a third drive groove;

[0020] The linkage also includes a third pin, which is located on the same side of the main body as the second pin and is located in the third drive groove.

[0021] Optionally, at least one of the first drive groove and the third drive groove is an arc-shaped groove.

[0022] Optionally, the middle part of the arcuate groove bends toward the side away from the rotation axis of the main body.

[0023] Optionally, one of the first drive groove and the third drive groove is a strip groove, and its extension direction is parallel to the rotation axis of the rotating plate, or the angle between it and the rotation axis of the rotating plate is an acute angle.

[0024] Optionally, the side of the rotating plate near the sliding plate has a protrusion;

[0025] The sliding plate has a second guide groove that extends from one side of the sliding plate near the base to the other side, and the protrusion is located in the second guide groove.

[0026] Optionally, the base includes a mounting base and a connector, the middle part of the connector is connected to the mounting base, the two ends of the connector extend to the sides of the mounting base respectively and can be bent relative to the mounting base, and the two ends of the connector are respectively connected to the sliding plates of the two support components.

[0027] Optionally, the connector is a chain, the chain comprising multiple links, the edges of the links having teeth, and the teeth of adjacent links meshing with each other.

[0028] Secondly, embodiments of this disclosure also provide an electronic device comprising two housings and any of the aforementioned rotating shaft mechanisms, wherein the two housings are respectively connected to two support components of the rotating shaft mechanism.

[0029] The beneficial effects of the technical solutions provided in this disclosure include at least the following:

[0030] When the pivot mechanism is in its flattened state, the orthographic projection of the base onto the plane of the baffle plate at least partially overlaps with the baffle plate, thus the baffle plate shields the structure within the base, providing protection. The baffle plate can slide relative to the pivot plate in a direction closer to or further away from the base. When folding the pivot mechanism, the baffle plate slides away from the base, exposing the base and preventing the baffle plates of the two support components from getting too close and interfering with each other, allowing the pivot mechanism to fold smoothly. By shielding the pivot mechanism with the baffle plate, damage can be prevented, which helps extend the service life of the pivot mechanism. Attached Figure Description

[0031] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this disclosure, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this disclosure. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0032] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0033] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0034] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a rotating shaft mechanism in a flattened state according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0035] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a rotating shaft mechanism in a flattened state according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0036] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a pivot mechanism in a folded state according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0037] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a rotating shaft mechanism in a flattened state according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0038] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a base provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0039] Figure 8 This is an assembly diagram of a rotating plate and a linkage component provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0040] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a support component provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0041] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a support component provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0042] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a support component provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0043] Figure 12 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a shielding plate provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0044] Figure 13 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a shielding plate provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0045] Figure 14 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a shielding plate provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0046] Figure 15 This is an assembly diagram of a sliding plate and a rotating plate provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0047] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a connector provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0048] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0049] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a shell provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0050] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this disclosure clearer, the embodiments of this disclosure will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0051] Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used herein shall have the ordinary meaning understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” and similar terms used in this patent application specification and claims do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different components. Similarly, the terms “an” or “a” and similar terms do not indicate a quantity limitation, but rather indicate the presence of at least one. The terms “comprising” or “including” and similar terms mean that the element or object preceding “comprising” or “including” encompasses the element or object listed following “comprising” or “including” and its equivalents, and do not exclude other elements or objects. The terms “connected” or “linked” and similar terms are not limited to physical or mechanical connections, but can include electrical connections, whether direct or indirect. The terms “upper,” “lower,” “left,” “right,” etc., are used only to indicate relative positional relationships, and these relative positional relationships may change accordingly when the absolute position of the described object changes.

[0052] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. For example... Figure 1 As shown, this disclosure provides an electronic device that is foldable, which may be, but is not limited to, a mobile phone or a tablet computer. This disclosure uses a mobile phone as an example. The electronic device includes a flexible display panel 1000, a hinge mechanism 2000, and two housings 3000. The hinge mechanism 2000 and the two housings 3000 are located on the same side of the flexible display panel 1000. The two housings 3000 are located on both sides of the hinge mechanism 2000 and are connected to the hinge mechanism 2000. The two housings 3000 are also connected to the flexible display panel 1000. The two housings 3000 can open and close relative to each other, driving the flexible display panel 1000 during the opening and closing process. When the electronic device is in a flattened state, the two housings 3000 unfold, and the flexible display panel 1000 lies flat on the two housings 3000 and the hinge mechanism 2000.

[0053] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 2 As shown, the rotating shaft mechanism includes a base 10 and two support components 20, which are respectively connected to both sides of the base 10. The two support components 20 can rotate relative to the base 10, thereby realizing the relative opening and closing of the two support components 20.

[0054] An electronic device may include one hinge mechanism, or it may include two or more hinge mechanisms. When an electronic device includes two hinge mechanisms, for example... Figure 2 As shown, the bases 10 of the two rotating shaft mechanisms are connected.

[0055] The support assembly 20 includes a rotating plate 21 and a shielding plate 25, with the rotating plate 21 pivotally connected to the base 10.

[0056] The baffle 25 is located on one side of the rotating plate 21 and can slide relative to the rotating plate 21 in a direction close to or away from the base 10. When the rotating shaft mechanism is in a flattened state, the orthographic projection of the base 10 onto the plane where the baffle 25 is located at least partially overlaps with the baffle 25.

[0057] Figure 3 and Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a rotating shaft mechanism in a flattened state, provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 3 The image shows one side of the hinge mechanism used to support the flexible display panel. Figure 4 The image shows the other side of the rotating shaft mechanism. (See image below.) Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, when the rotating shaft mechanism is in a flattened state, the orthographic projection of the base 10 onto the plane of the shield 25 overlaps with the shield 25 at least partially, thereby shielding the structure in the base 10 by the shield 25 and playing a protective role.

[0058] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a rotating shaft mechanism in a folded state, as provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 5 As shown, the baffle plate 25 can slide relative to the rotating plate 21 in a direction close to or away from the base 10. When folding the rotating shaft mechanism, the baffle plate 25 is slid away from the base 10, exposing the base 10. This prevents the baffle plates 25 of the two support components 20 from getting too close and interfering with each other, allowing the rotating shaft mechanism to fold smoothly. By shielding the rotating shaft mechanism with the baffle plate 25, protection is provided, preventing damage to the rotating shaft mechanism and extending its service life.

[0059] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a rotating shaft mechanism in a flattened state according to an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 6 The image shows the side of the hinge mechanism away from the flexible display panel, with the obscuring plate 25 omitted for comparison. Figure 4 and Figure 6 It can be seen that, in the flattened state, the shielding plate 25 can at least shield the base 10.

[0060] like Figure 2As shown, the support assembly 20 also includes a sliding plate 22 and a linkage 23. The sliding plate 22 is located on the side of the rotating plate 21 away from the shielding plate 25, and the sliding plate 22 can slide relative to the rotating plate 21 in a direction close to or away from the base 10.

[0061] Linkage component 23 is located between sliding plate 22 and baffle plate 25, and is rotatably connected to rotating plate 21. Linkage component 23 is used to link sliding plate 22 and baffle plate 25 together.

[0062] During the folding pivot mechanism, the sliding plate 22 will slide relative to the rotating plate 21. By setting the linkage 23, the sliding plate 22 drives the linkage 23, thereby causing the blocking plate 25 to move relative to the rotating plate 21.

[0063] like Figure 2 As shown, the support assembly 20 also includes a housing drive plate 24, which is located between the rotating plate 21 and the shielding plate 25. The housing drive plate 24 is capable of sliding relative to the rotating plate 21 in a direction close to or far from the base 10. For example... Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the housing drive plate 24 has a groove 24c on the side near the rotating plate 21, and the rotating plate 21 is located in the groove 24c, so that the housing drive plate 24 can slide relative to the rotating plate 21. The linkage 23 is also used to link the housing drive plate 24 with the sliding plate 22.

[0064] The housing drive plate 24 is used to connect to the housing 3000. When the electronic device is folded, the housing drive plate 24 slides relative to the rotating plate 21 in a direction close to or away from the base 10, thereby driving the housing 3000 to move. This can prevent the flexible display panel 1000 from being damaged by excessive pulling when folding.

[0065] like Figure 2 As shown, the sliding plate 22 has a first driving groove 22a, and the shielding plate 25 has a second driving groove 25a.

[0066] The linkage 23 includes a main body 230, a first pin 231, and a second pin 234. The main body 230 is rotatably connected to the rotating plate 21. The first pin 231 and the second pin 234 are located on both sides of the main body 230, and are respectively located in the first drive groove 22a and the second drive groove 25a.

[0067] When the sliding plate 22 slides relative to the rotating plate 21, the first drive groove 22a and the first pin 231 cooperate to drive the linkage 23 to rotate. During the rotation of the linkage 23, the second pin 234 cooperates with the second drive groove 25a to drive the baffle plate 25 to slide relative to the rotating plate 21.

[0068] like Figure 2As shown, the housing drive plate 24 has a third drive groove 24a. The linkage 23 also includes a third pin 232, which is located on the same side of the main body 230 as the second pin 234, and is located in the third drive groove 24a.

[0069] During the rotation of the linkage 23, the housing drive plate 24 slides relative to the rotating plate 21 through the cooperation of the third pin 232 and the third drive groove 24a.

[0070] For example, the shapes of the first drive groove 22a, the third drive groove 24a and the second drive groove 25a can be designed by simulation so that the movement of the housing drive plate 24 and the shield plate 25 meets the design requirements.

[0071] When an electronic device includes two rotating shaft mechanisms, for example Figure 2 As shown, in the two rotating shaft mechanisms, the two sliding plates 22 located on the same side of the base 10 can be connected, and the two blocking plates 25 located on the same side of the base 10 can also be connected. To facilitate understanding of the relationships between the various structures in the support assembly 20, Figure 2 The support component 20 located on one side of the base 10 was disassembled.

[0072] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a base provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. To facilitate the explanation of the fit between the base 10 and the rotating plate 21, Figure 7 A rotating plate 21 is also shown. (As shown) Figure 7 As shown, the base 10 includes a mounting base 11 and two rotating shafts 12. The two rotating shafts 12 are arranged in parallel and spaced apart on the mounting base 11. The rotating plates 21 of the two support assemblies 20 are respectively connected to the two rotating shafts 12, so that the rotating plates 21 can rotate about the axis of the rotating shafts 12.

[0073] The end of the rotating shaft 12 can be coaxially connected to a first synchronizing gear 121. (Refer to...) Figure 3 As shown, the first synchronous gear 121 on the two rotating shafts 12 is connected by two second synchronous gears 122, enabling the two rotating shafts 12 to rotate synchronously. A gear mounting groove can be provided on the mounting base 11 to accommodate the first synchronous gear 121 and the second synchronous gear 122.

[0074] The two support components 20 are symmetrically distributed about the base 10. Taking one of the support components 20 as an example, as follows... Figure 7As shown, the rotating plate 21 includes a first plate body 211 and a plurality of connecting arms 212. Exemplarily, in this embodiment of the present disclosure, the rotating plate 21 includes three connecting arms 212. The plurality of connecting arms 212 extend from the same side of the first plate body 211 and are all connected to the first plate body 211. One end of each connecting arm 212 away from the first plate body 211 is sleeved on a rotating shaft 12 and circumferentially fixed to the rotating shaft 12, such that when folded, the rotating plate 21 and the rotating shaft 12 can rotate together around the axis of the rotating shaft 12, i.e., the axis of rotation of the rotating plate 21 is the axis of the rotating shaft 12. When circumferentially fixed, the shape of the cross-section of the rotating shaft 12 is the same as the shape of the cross-section of the corresponding hole on the connecting arm 212, for example, both are arc-shaped. Of the three connecting arms 212, the middle connecting arm 212 has a plurality of protrusions 2121 on both sides, and the other two connecting arms 212 have a plurality of protrusions 2121 on the side closest to the middle connecting arm 212.

[0075] The base 10 also includes multiple damping components 13, each damping component 13 including an elastic element 131 and two end face cams 132. The end face cams 132 are sleeved on the rotating shaft 12, and the end face cams 132 and the rotating shaft 12 can rotate relative to each other, and the end face cams 132 can move axially relative to the rotating shaft 12. The elastic element 131, for example, can be a spring, is sleeved on the rotating shaft 12 and located between the two end face cams 132. The end face cams 132 are used to cooperate with multiple protrusions 2121 on the connecting arm 212.

[0076] like Figure 7 As shown, the damping component 13 is located between two adjacent connecting arms 212. Two end face cams 132 engage with multiple protrusions 2121 on the two adjacent connecting arms 212. When the rotating plate 21 drives the rotating shaft 12 to rotate, the protrusions 2121 push the end face cams 132, causing the elastic element 131 to be compressed and deformed, thereby creating damping. When the protrusions 2121 are located in the recessed position on the end face cams 132, after the external force bending the electronic device is removed, the elastic force of the elastic element 131 keeps the rotating plate 21 in its current state, preventing the electronic device from spontaneously flattening or closing.

[0077] Figure 8 This is an assembly diagram of a rotating plate and a linkage component provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 8As shown, the first plate 211 of the rotating plate 21 has a receiving groove 211a for accommodating the main body 230 of the linkage 23. A pin hole 211b is also provided at the bottom of the receiving groove 211a, which is used to connect with the linkage 23, allowing the linkage 23 to rotate relative to the rotating plate 21 around the axis of the pin hole 211b. The axis of the pin hole 211b is the rotation axis of the main body 230 of the linkage 23. At the bottom of the receiving groove 211a, on both sides of the pin hole 211b, two arc-shaped clearance grooves 211c with the pin hole 211b as the center are also provided.

[0078] In addition to the receiving groove 211a, the first plate 211 also has two strip grooves 211d, which are located on both sides of the receiving groove 211a. The extending direction of the strip grooves 211d is perpendicular to the rotating shaft 12, that is, perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21.

[0079] like Figure 8 As shown, the linkage 23 includes a main body 230, a first pin 231, a third pin 232, a fourth pin 233, and a second pin 234. The main body 230 is plate-shaped, with the first pin 231 located on one side of the main body 230, and the third pin 232, fourth pin 233, and second pin 234 located on the other side of the main body 230. The fourth pin 233 is located in the middle of the main body 230, with the third pin 232 and second pin 234 located on either side of the fourth pin 233.

[0080] During assembly, the linkage 23 engages with the rotating plate 21. Specifically, the main body 230 of the linkage 23 is located in the receiving groove 211a on the first plate 211, and the fourth pin 233 is inserted into the pin hole 211b. The third pin 232 and the second pin 234 are respectively located in the two clearance grooves 211c at the bottom of the receiving groove 211a. When the linkage 23 rotates in the receiving groove 211a with the fourth pin 233 as its axis, the third pin 232 and the second pin 234 move in the two clearance grooves 211c respectively.

[0081] In the depth direction of the receiving groove 211a, the thickness of the main body 230 of the linkage 23 may not exceed the depth of the receiving groove 211a, so that the main body 230 can be completely accommodated in the receiving groove 211a, thereby making the structure of the support assembly 20 more compact. The third pin 232 extends to the other side of the first plate 211 through the clearance groove 211c to cooperate with the third drive groove 24a of the housing drive plate 24. The second pin 234 extends to the other side of the first plate 211 through the clearance groove 211c to cooperate with the second drive groove 25a of the baffle plate 25.

[0082] Optionally, the distance from the first pin 231 to the rotation axis O of the main body 230 is less than the distance from the third pin 232 to the rotation axis O of the main body 230.

[0083] The first pin 231 engages with the first drive groove 22a on the sliding plate 22. When the sliding plate 22 moves relative to the rotating plate 21, the engagement of the first drive groove 22a and the first pin 231 drives the linkage 23 to rotate, which in turn drives the housing drive plate 24 to move via the third pin 232. The relatively small distance between the first pin 231 and the rotation axis O of the main body 230 allows the linkage 23 to amplify the movement. With the sliding plate 22 moving the same distance, the smaller the distance between the first pin 231 and the rotation axis O of the main body 230, the larger the rotation angle of the linkage 23, and the greater the distance the third pin 232 moves, thus allowing the housing drive plate 24 to move a greater distance. By adjusting the ratio of the distance between the first pin 231 and the rotation axis O of the main body 230 to the distance between the third pin 232 and the rotation axis O of the main body 230, the housing drive plate 24 can move a sufficient distance during the folding process to avoid the flexible display panel being stretched, and also to avoid the housing drive plate 24 moving too far, causing the center of the flexible display panel to bulge.

[0084] In some other possible examples, the distance from the first pin 231 to the rotation axis O of the body 230 may also be greater than or equal to the distance from the third pin 232 to the rotation axis O of the body 230.

[0085] Similarly, the distance from the first pin 231 to the rotation axis O of the main body 230 is less than the distance from the second pin 234 to the rotation axis O of the main body 230, allowing the shield 25 to move a greater distance during the folding of the electronic device. In other examples, the distance from the first pin 231 to the rotation axis O of the main body 230 may also be greater than or equal to the distance from the second pin 234 to the rotation axis O of the main body 230. The relationship between the distances from the first pin 231 to the rotation axis O of the main body 230 and the second pin 234 to the rotation axis O of the main body 230 is provided so that when the electronic device is unfolded, the shields 25 of the two support components 20 can form a sufficiently large shielding range on the base 10, and when the electronic device is folded, a sufficiently large gap can be formed between the shields 25 of the two support components 20 to avoid mutual interference between the two shields 25 and hinder the folding of the electronic device.

[0086] Optionally, the linkage 23 includes two first pins 231, and the distances from the two first pins 231 to the rotation axis O of the main body 230 are equal. When the first drive groove 22a is an arc-shaped groove, both first pins 231 are located in the first drive groove 22a.

[0087] When the first drive groove 22a is set as an arc-shaped groove, the force exerted on the first pin 231 by the sidewall of the arc-shaped groove varies depending on its position. Therefore, the force exerted by the sliding plate 22 on the linkage 23 is unstable. By setting two first pins 231, both first pins 231 will be subjected to the force exerted by the sidewall of the arc-shaped groove. Since there is a certain gap between the two first pins 231, the magnitude of the force will be different, making the sum of the forces exerted on the two first pins 231, that is, the force exerted by the sliding plate 22 on the linkage 23, more stable.

[0088] For example, with the rotation axis O of the main body 230 of the linkage 23 as the center, the circumferential distance between the two first pins 231 is half the length of the first drive groove 22a. When one first pin 231 is located at the end of the first drive groove 22a, the other first pin 231 is located in the middle of the first drive groove 22a. This makes the force exerted on the linkage 23 by the sidewall of the arc-shaped groove more stable during the folding process, thereby making the movement of the linkage 23 smoother.

[0089] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a support component provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 9 The image shown shows the side of the support component away from the flexible display panel, and the obscuring plate 25 is omitted. Figure 9 As shown, the housing drive plate 24 is located on the side of the rotating plate 21 away from the linkage 23. Multiple connection holes 24b are distributed along the edge of the housing drive plate 24, which are used to connect with the housing 3000. For example, screws are installed in the connection holes 24b, and the housing drive plate 24 is connected to the middle frame of the housing 3000 by the screws.

[0090] like Figure 9 As shown, the third pin 232 extends into the third drive groove 24a. At least one of the first drive groove 22a and the third drive groove 24a is an arc-shaped groove.

[0091] For example, the third drive groove 24a is an arc-shaped groove. When the electronic device is folded, the linkage 23 rotates in the direction shown by arrow n in the figure. The third pin 232 drives the housing drive plate 24 to move through the side wall of the third drive groove 24a. During the movement, the third pin 232 also moves relative to the third drive groove 24a, and the third pin 232 has a motion component parallel to the rotating shaft 12 and a motion component perpendicular to the rotating shaft 12 relative to the third drive groove 24a. Since the third drive groove 24a is an arc-shaped groove, the motion components in both directions are variable. The motion component perpendicular to the rotating shaft 12 affects the movement of the housing drive plate 24 towards or away from the base 10, thus causing the movement of the housing drive plate 24 towards or away from the base 10 to also vary. For example, if the linkage 23 starts from different positions and rotates by the same angle in the same direction, the distance the housing drive plate 24 moves relative to the rotating plate 21 will be different. If we assume that the rotation of the linkage 23 is uniform, then the movement of the housing drive plate 24 relative to the rotating plate 21 is non-uniform. By adjusting the arc groove, such as adjusting the curvature at different positions of the arc groove, the trajectory of the arc groove is adjusted so that the movement of the housing drive plate 24 relative to the base 10 is more matched to the stress on the flexible display panel during the folding process of the electronic device, so that the stretching of the flexible display panel is minimized during the entire folding process and the bulging of the flexible display panel is avoided.

[0092] Figure 9 The dashed line 'm' indicates the extension direction of the third drive groove 24a. The middle part of the third drive groove 24a bends away from the rotation axis of the main body 230 of the linkage 23. The rotation axis of the main body 230 of the linkage 23 is also the axis of the fourth pin 233, or the axis of the pin hole 211b.

[0093] The different bending directions of the arc-shaped groove affect the movement of the housing drive plate 24. By bending the middle of the arc-shaped groove away from the rotation axis of the main body 230, that is, by making the arc-shaped groove protrude away from the rotation axis of the main body 230, the speed at which the housing drive plate 24 moves relative to the rotating plate 21 gradually increases during the closing of the two support components 20. Here, speed refers to the distance that the housing drive plate 24 moves relative to the rotating plate 21 per unit angle of rotation of the rotating plate 21. The gradually increasing speed means that the ratio of the distance the housing drive plate 24 moves relative to the rotating plate 21 to the angle of rotation of the rotating plate 21 gradually increases. Thus, when folding from the flat state, the speed of the housing drive plate 24 is relatively slow at the beginning of the folding process, which can prevent the flexible display panel from bulging. Subsequently, the speed of the housing drive plate 24 gradually increases, which can prevent the flexible display panel from being stretched, thereby better matching the flexible display panel.

[0094] like Figure 9 As shown, the angle α between the line connecting the two ends of the arc groove and the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21 is 50° to 80°.

[0095] The angle between the extension direction of the drive groove and the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21 affects the speed of the housing drive plate 24 during the folding process. Setting the angle α between 50° and 80° is to avoid the housing drive plate 24 moving too fast or too slow during the movement process, which would prevent it from matching the flexible display panel well.

[0096] Optionally, one of the first drive groove 22a and the third drive groove 24a is a strip groove.

[0097] For example, Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a support component provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 10 The image shows the side of the support assembly away from the flexible display panel, with the obscuring plate 25 omitted. (As shown...) Figure 10 As shown, the third drive groove 24a is a strip groove, and the extension direction of the strip groove is parallel to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21.

[0098] When the sliding plate 22 moves relative to the rotating plate 21, the first drive groove 22a drives the first pin 231, thereby causing the linkage 23 to rotate. Then, the third pin 232 of the linkage 23 engages with the third drive groove 24a, driving the housing drive plate 24 to move. Since the third drive groove 24a is a strip groove and its extension direction is parallel to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21, the moving speeds of the housing drive plate 24 and the third pin 232 in the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21 are the same.

[0099] The strip-shaped groove structure simplifies the design. With the structure of the linkage 23 already determined—that is, the distances from the first pin 231 to the rotation axis of the main body 230 and from the third pin 232 to the rotation axis of the main body 230 are both fixed—only the shape of the first drive groove 22a of the sliding plate 22 needs to be adjusted to accurately control the movement of the housing drive plate 24. This allows the movement of the housing drive plate 24 to better match the flexible display panel, preventing the flexible display panel from bulging or being stretched.

[0100] In other examples, the direction of the extension of the slot can also form an acute angle with the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21. For example... Figure 10 The strip grooves 24a' and 24a' shown can make the third pin 232 and the housing drive plate 24 move at different speeds in the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21.

[0101] For example Figure 10As shown, during the process of the housing drive plate 24 approaching the base 10 relative to the rotating plate 21, the third pin 232 moves relative to the housing drive plate 24 along the slot 24a' or slot 24a'". The movement of the third pin 232 relative to the housing drive plate 24 has components in the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21 and in the direction parallel to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21, and the magnitudes of these two components are constant. The velocity component of the third pin 232 in the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21 is the velocity difference between the third pin 232 and the housing drive plate 24 in the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21. During the process... When the folding is performed, if the velocity component of the third pin 232 in the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21 points towards the base 10, then the moving speed of the third pin 232 in the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21 is greater than the moving speed of the housing drive plate 24, which allows the housing drive plate 24 to move at a slower speed; if the velocity component of the third pin 232 in the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21 points away from the base 10, then the moving speed of the third pin 232 in the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21 is less than the moving speed of the housing drive plate 24, which allows the housing drive plate 24 to move at a faster speed.

[0102] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a support component provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. For example... Figure 11 As shown, the first drive groove 22a is an arc-shaped groove. By setting the first drive groove 22a as an arc-shaped groove, the speed difference between the first pin 231 and the sliding plate 22 in the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21 varies. By adjusting the curvature of different positions of the arc-shaped groove, the movement speed of the first pin 231 can be changed, thus changing the rotation speed of the linkage 23, and the movement speeds of the housing drive plate 24 and the baffle plate 25 are also adjusted accordingly.

[0103] like Figure 11 As shown, the tangent at the middle position of the first drive groove 22a is perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21. This is to ensure that the movement of the linkage 23 is smoother when the two first pins 231 of the linkage 23 engage with the first drive groove 22a.

[0104] In other examples, both the first drive groove 22a and the third drive groove 24a can be arc-shaped grooves. By setting both the first drive groove 22a and the third drive groove 24a as arc-shaped grooves, the shapes of the two drive grooves are adjusted, making the movement of the housing drive plate 24 more compatible with the flexible display panel, thereby preventing the flexible display panel from bulging or being stretched.

[0105] Figure 12 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a shielding plate provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. For example... Figure 12As shown, the second drive groove 25a includes a strip-shaped portion 251 and a V-shaped portion 251. The V-shaped portion 251 is located at one end of the strip-shaped portion 251, and one end of the V-shaped portion 251 is connected to one end of the strip-shaped portion 251. Exemplarily, the extending direction of the strip-shaped portion 251 may be parallel to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21.

[0106] When the rotating shaft mechanism is in the flattened state, the second pin 234 is located at the end of the strip portion 251 away from the V-shaped portion 251. When the rotating shaft mechanism is in the folded state, the second pin 234 is located at the end of the V-shaped portion 251 away from the strip portion 251. During the folding process, the linkage 23 rotates under the drive of the sliding plate 22. When the second pin 234 engages with the strip portion 251, it can drive the baffle plate 25 to move at a uniform speed. When the second pin 234 engages with the V-shaped portion 251, it can drive the baffle plate 25 to move at a variable speed. When the second pin 234 moves in the two parts of the V-shaped portion 251, the movement speed of the baffle plate 25 is different.

[0107] Figure 13 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a shielding plate provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. For example... Figure 13 As shown, in the baffle plate 25, the second drive groove 25a is a V-shaped groove.

[0108] When the rotating shaft mechanism is in the flattened state, the second pin 234 is located at one end of the V-groove. When the rotating shaft mechanism is in the folded state, the second pin 234 is located at the other end of the V-groove. During the folding process, the linkage 23 rotates under the drive of the sliding plate 22. The second pin 234 engages with the V-groove, driving the baffle plate 25 to move at different speeds. When the second pin 234 moves in the two parts of the V-groove, the movement speed of the baffle plate 25 is different.

[0109] Figure 14 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a shielding plate provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. For example... Figure 14 As shown, in the baffle plate 25, the second drive groove 25a is a strip-shaped groove, and the extending direction of the strip-shaped groove is parallel to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21. The angle between the extending direction of the strip-shaped groove and the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21 is an acute angle, for example... Figure 14 "Strip groove 25a' and strip groove 25a in the middle".

[0110] When the rotating shaft mechanism is in the flattened state, the second pin 234 is located at one end of the strip groove. When the rotating shaft mechanism is in the folded state, the second pin 234 is located at the other end of the strip groove. During the folding process, the linkage 23 rotates under the drive of the sliding plate 22, and the second pin 234 cooperates with the strip groove to drive the baffle plate 25 to move at a uniform speed.

[0111] When the extension direction of the strip groove is parallel to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21, the sliding plate 22 drives the linkage 23 to rotate. The linkage 23 drives the baffle plate 25 to slide relative to the rotating plate 21 through the second pin 234. The speed of the baffle plate 25 in the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21 is the same as the speed of the second pin 234 in the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21.

[0112] When the extension direction of the strip groove forms an angle with the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21, the sliding plate 22 drives the linkage 23 to rotate. The linkage 23 drives the baffle plate 25 to slide relative to the rotating plate 21 via the second pin 234. The movement of the second pin 234 relative to the baffle plate 25 has a motion component parallel to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21 and a motion component perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21, and the magnitudes of these two components are constant. The velocity component of the second pin 234 in the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21 is the velocity difference between the second pin 234 and the baffle plate 25 in the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21.

[0113] During folding, if the velocity component of the second pin 234 in the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21 points towards the base 10, then the moving speed of the second pin 234 in the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21 is greater than the moving speed of the baffle 25, which allows the baffle 25 to move at a slower speed; if the velocity component of the second pin 234 in the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21 points away from the base 10, then the moving speed of the second pin 234 in the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21 is less than the moving speed of the baffle 25, which allows the baffle 25 to move at a faster speed.

[0114] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly of a sliding plate and a rotating plate according to an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 15 As shown, the sliding plate 22 includes a second plate body 221 and two sliders 222, which are located on the side of the second plate body 221 near the rotating plate 21. A first drive groove 22a is located between the two sliders 222. The two sliders 222 are respectively located in two strip grooves 211d on the first plate body 211 of the rotating plate 21.

[0115] Since the extension direction of the strip groove 211d is perpendicular to the rotating shaft 12, that is, perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21, the slider 222 can only move in the strip groove 211d in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21, thereby restricting the movement direction of the sliding plate 22 relative to the rotating plate 21.

[0116] Optionally, the sliding plate 22 also has a second guide groove 22b, which extends from one side of the sliding plate 22 near the base 10 to the other side. The rotating plate 21 has a protrusion 213 on the side near the sliding plate 22, which is located in the second guide groove 22b.

[0117] The protrusion 213 engages with the second guide groove 22b, which can also restrict the movement direction of the sliding plate 22 relative to the rotating plate 21.

[0118] like Figure 15 As shown, the sliding plate 22 also has a first guide groove 22c. The extending direction of the first guide groove 22c is perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21. A guide protrusion 253 is connected to the side of the baffle plate 25 near the sliding plate 22, and the guide protrusion 253 is located in the first guide groove 22c.

[0119] For example, guide protrusion 253 is a screw.

[0120] The guide protrusion 253 and the first guide groove 22c cooperate to restrict the movement direction of the baffle 25, making the movement of the baffle 25 more stable.

[0121] like Figure 15 As shown, the base 10 also includes a connector 14, the middle of which is connected to the mounting base 11, and both ends of the connector 14 extend toward the sides of the mounting base 11. Both ends of the connector 14 can be bent relative to the mounting base 11. Both ends of the connector 14 are connected to the sliding plates 22 of the two support assemblies 20 respectively. For example, the end of the connector 14 is hinged to the side of the sliding plate 22 near the base 10. Ear plates can be provided on the side of the sliding plate 22 near the base 10 to facilitate connection with the connector 14.

[0122] During the process of closing the two support components 20 relative to each other, the rotating plate 21 rotates around the axis of the rotating shaft 12, and the sliding plate 22 rotates together with the rotating plate 21. The sliding plate 22 is also pulled by the connecting piece 14, which causes the sliding plate 22 to move relative to the rotating plate 21 towards the base 10, thereby driving the linkage 23 to rotate. Then, the third pin 232 of the linkage 23 drives the housing drive plate 24 to move towards the base 10, and the second pin 234 of the linkage 23 drives the shielding plate 25 to move towards the base 10.

[0123] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a connector provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 16 As shown, exemplarily, the connector 14 is a chain. The chain includes a plurality of links 141, the edges of which have teeth, and the teeth of adjacent links 141 mesh with each other.

[0124] By making the chain links 141 mesh with teeth, each chain link 141 can move simultaneously, preventing the chain from arching and damaging the flexible display panel.

[0125] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. For example... Figure 17 As shown, the electronic device also includes an isolation structure. The isolation structure is located on the side of the hinge mechanism that supports the flexible display panel. The isolation structure includes a flexible support pad 41, a plurality of first support strips 42, and two second support strips 43.

[0126] The flexible support pad 41 is located on the side of the rotating shaft mechanism used to support the flexible display panel. The two sides of the flexible support pad 41 are connected to the two housings 3000 respectively.

[0127] Multiple first support bars 42 are located on the side of the flexible support pad 41 near the rotating shaft mechanism and are arranged in parallel at intervals. The first support bars 42 are parallel to the rotation axis of the rotating plate 21.

[0128] Two second support bars 43 are located at both ends of the base 10, and the two ends of the second support bars 43 are connected to the two housings 3000 respectively.

[0129] For example, the flexible support pad 41 can be a rubber pad. The first support strip 42 is a metal component, such as a steel strip. The second support strip 43 is a flexible component, such as a rubber strip. This allows the flexible support pad 41 and the second support strip 43 to bend smoothly during folding. Making the first support strip 42 a metal component helps prevent the flexible support pad 41 from collapsing.

[0130] The isolation structure separates the flexible display panel from the hinge mechanism to prevent damage to the flexible display panel during movement and to support the flexible display panel so that it remains flat when unfolded.

[0131] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a housing provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. For example... Figure 18 As shown, the housing 3000 includes a front frame 3001, a middle frame 3002, and a rear housing 3003. The front frame 3001 and the rear housing 3003 are located on opposite sides of the middle frame 3002 and are both connected to the middle frame 3002. The flexible display panel 1000 is located between the front frame 3001 and the middle frame 3002. The front frame 3001 shields the edges of the flexible display panel 1000 to provide protection. The middle frame 3002 supports the flexible display panel 1000. The middle frame 3002 is also used to connect to the housing drive plate 24, allowing the housing 3000 to move under the drive of the housing drive plate 24. The space formed between the rear housing 3003 and the middle frame 3002 is used to accommodate electronic devices, such as circuit boards. Other structures can also be accommodated, such as... Figure 18The housing drive plate 24 is shown in dashed lines. When connected to the housing 3000, the housing drive plate 24 is located between the middle frame 3002 and the rear cover 3003. Furthermore, in the flattened state, the baffle plate 25 extends relative to the housing 3000. In the folded state, the baffle plate 25 moves away from the base 10, thereby entering between the middle frame 3002 and the rear cover 3003.

[0132] The above description is merely an optional embodiment of this disclosure and is not intended to limit this disclosure. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this disclosure should be included within the protection scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A rotating shaft mechanism, characterized in that, It includes a base (10) and two support components (20), the two support components (20) being connected to both sides of the base (10); The support assembly (20) includes a rotating plate (21), a shielding plate (25), a sliding plate (22), and a linkage (23), wherein the rotating plate (21) is pivotally connected to the base (10); The shield (25) is located on one side of the rotating plate (21) and can slide relative to the rotating plate (21) in a direction close to or away from the base (10). When the rotating shaft mechanism is in a flattened state, the orthographic projection of the base (10) on the plane where the shield (25) is located at least partially overlaps with the shield (25). The sliding plate (22) is located on the side of the rotating plate (21) away from the shielding plate (25), and can slide relative to the rotating plate (21) in a direction close to or away from the base (10); The linkage component (23) is located between the sliding plate (22) and the shielding plate (25) and is rotatably connected to the rotating plate (21) to enable the sliding plate (22) and the shielding plate (25) to move together. The rotating plate (21) has a protrusion (213) on the side near the sliding plate (22); The sliding plate (22) has a second guide groove (22b) extending from one side of the sliding plate (22) near the base (10) to the other side, and the protrusion (213) is located in the second guide groove (22b).

2. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sliding plate (22) has a first drive groove (22a), and the shielding plate (25) has a second drive groove (25a); The linkage component (23) includes a main body (230), a first pin (231) and a second pin (234). The main body (230) is rotatably connected to the rotating plate (21). The first pin (231) and the second pin (234) are located on both sides of the main body (230) and are respectively located in the first drive groove (22a) and the second drive groove (25a).

3. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second drive groove (25a) is a strip groove, the extension direction of which is parallel to the rotation axis of the rotating plate (21), or the angle between the extension direction of which is acute and the rotation axis of the rotating plate (21).

4. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second drive groove (25a) is a V-shaped groove; or, the second drive groove (25a) includes a strip-shaped portion (251) and a V-shaped portion (251), wherein the V-shaped portion (251) is located at one end of the strip-shaped portion (251), and one end of the V-shaped portion (251) is connected to one end of the strip-shaped portion (251).

5. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, The first drive groove (22a) is an arc-shaped groove; The linkage (23) includes two first pins (231), the two first pins (231) are equidistant from the rotation axis (O) of the main body (230), and both first pins (231) are located in the first drive groove (22a).

6. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The sliding plate (22) also has a first guide groove (22c), the extension direction of which is perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating plate (21); The shield (25) has a guide protrusion (253) connected to the side of the sliding plate (22) near the sliding plate (22), and the guide protrusion (253) is located in the first guide groove (22c).

7. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, The support assembly (20) further includes a housing drive plate (24), which is located between the rotating plate (21) and the shielding plate (25) and is slidable relative to the rotating plate (21) in a direction close to or away from the base (10). The housing drive plate (24) has a third drive groove (24a). The linkage (23) also includes a third pin (232), which is located on the same side of the main body (230) as the second pin (234), and is located in the third drive groove (24a).

8. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 7, characterized in that, At least one of the first drive groove (22a) and the third drive groove (24a) is an arc-shaped groove.

9. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 8, characterized in that, The middle part of the arc-shaped groove bends toward the side away from the rotation axis of the main body (230).

10. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 7, characterized in that, One of the first drive groove (22a) and the third drive groove (24a) is a strip groove, and its extension direction is parallel to the rotation axis of the rotating plate (21), or the angle between it and the rotation axis of the rotating plate (21) is an acute angle.

11. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The base (10) includes a mounting base (11) and a connector (14). The middle part of the connector (14) is connected to the mounting base (11). The two ends of the connector (14) extend to the sides of the mounting base (11) respectively and can be bent relative to the mounting base (11). The two ends of the connector (14) are respectively connected to the sliding plates (22) of the two support components (20).

12. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 11, characterized in that, The connector (14) is a chain, which includes multiple links (141), the edges of which have teeth, and the teeth of adjacent links (141) mesh with each other.

13. An electronic device, characterized in that, It includes two housings (3000) and a rotating shaft mechanism (40) as described in any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the two housings (3000) are respectively connected to two support components (20) of the rotating shaft mechanism (40).

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