Folding device, housing assembly and electronic device

Abstract

The application provides a folding device, a shell assembly and an electronic device. The folding device comprises a support, two rotating mechanisms and a supporting mechanism. The two rotating mechanisms are arranged on opposite sides of the support. Each rotating mechanism comprises a first rotating member, a second rotating member and a connecting member. The first rotating member and one end of the second rotating member are rotatably connected to the support. The other end of the first rotating member and the second rotating member is slidably connected to the connecting member. The sliding directions of the first rotating member and the second rotating member relative to the connecting member are not parallel. The supporting mechanism comprises two supporting members arranged on opposite sides of the support. One end of each supporting member is rotatably connected to the connecting member. The other end of each supporting member is slidably and rotatably connected to the support. The mutual folding and unfolding of the two supporting members can be realized by the cooperation of the above components. The supporting members have more diversified folding trajectories and are more likely to form the required folding mode.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of folding structure technology, specifically relating to folding devices, housing assemblies, and electronic devices. Background Technology

[0002] With the continuous development of display technology, various types of electronic devices have been launched. Foldable electronic devices, which can achieve a small overall size and a large display area, are increasingly favored by users. Currently, most foldable electronic devices use folding mechanisms for folding, but the fixed size of these mechanisms limits their folding trajectory and shape. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of this, the first aspect of this application provides a folding device, comprising:

[0004] support;

[0005] Two rotating mechanisms are disposed on opposite sides of the bracket. Each rotating mechanism includes a first rotating member, a second rotating member, and a connecting member. One end of both the first and second rotating members is rotatably connected to the bracket, and the other end of both rotating members is slidably connected to the connecting member. The sliding directions of the first and second rotating members relative to the connecting member are not parallel.

[0006] The support mechanism includes two support members disposed on opposite sides of the bracket, one end of each support member being rotatably connected to the connector, and the other end being slidably and rotatably connected to the bracket;

[0007] The connecting member can rotate relative to the bracket, thereby causing the first rotating member and the second rotating member to rotate, and the connecting member can also slide relative to the first rotating member and the second rotating member, thereby causing the support member to slide and rotate relative to the bracket, so as to cause the two support members to fold or unfold with each other.

[0008] The folding device provided in the first aspect of this application achieves the mutual folding and unfolding of two supporting members through the cooperation of a bracket, a rotating mechanism, and a supporting mechanism, thus realizing the folding and unfolding functions of the folding device. Furthermore, the sliding directions of the first and second rotating members relative to the connecting member are not parallel, allowing the connecting member to slide relative to the first and second rotating members during rotation, thereby causing the supporting member to slide synchronously and changing the overall size of the folding device. The cooperation between the supporting member and the bracket in sliding and rotating allows the supporting member to have more diverse folding trajectories, making it easier to form the desired folding shape.

[0009] In addition, since the support can also slide, the size of the receiving space formed by the folding device in the folded state can be changed, thereby reducing the bending stress of the subsequent flexible parts.

[0010] A second aspect of this application provides a housing assembly comprising two housings and a folding device as provided in the first aspect of this application, wherein at least portions of the two housings are disposed on opposite sides of the folding device, and a connector of the folding device is fixed to the housings.

[0011] The housing assembly provided in the second aspect of this application can change the overall size of the housing assembly and form a variety of motion trajectories by adopting the folding device provided in the first aspect of this application.

[0012] A third aspect of this application provides an electronic device comprising a flexible element and a housing assembly as provided in the second aspect of this application, the flexible element being disposed on one side of the housing assembly.

[0013] The electronic device provided in the third aspect of this application, by employing the housing assembly provided in the second aspect of this application, can change the overall size of the electronic device and form diverse motion trajectories, making it easier for flexible components to be formed into the desired shape. Furthermore, it can reduce the bending stress of the flexible components. Attached Figure Description

[0014] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments of this application will be described below.

[0015] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the folding device in the unfolded state according to one embodiment of this application.

[0016] Figure 2 for Figure 1 The folding device shown is a three-dimensional structural diagram from another perspective.

[0017] Figure 3 for Figure 1 Exploded view of the folding device.

[0018] Figure 4 for Figure 1 The front view of the folding device shown.

[0019] Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the bracket in one embodiment of this application.

[0020] Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the folding device in a folded state according to one embodiment of this application.

[0021] Figure 7 for Figure 6 The folding device shown is a three-dimensional structural diagram from another perspective.

[0022] Figure 8for Figure 6 The front view of the folding device shown.

[0023] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the cooperation of the support member, bracket, and rolling shaft in one embodiment of this application.

[0024] Figure 10 for Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the support, bracket, and rolling shaft from another perspective.

[0025] Figure 11 for Figure 9 The exploded view of the support components, brackets, and rolling shafts shown.

[0026] Figure 12 for Figure 9 The front view of the support, bracket, and rolling shaft shown.

[0027] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the fit between the support member and the connector in one embodiment of this application.

[0028] Figure 14 for Figure 13 The exploded view of the support and connecting parts shown.

[0029] Figure 15 for Figure 9 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the support, bracket, and rolling shaft in a folded state.

[0030] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram showing the cooperation between the bracket and the two support members in one embodiment of this application.

[0031] Figure 17 for Figure 16 The top view of the bracket and two support members shown.

[0032] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram showing the cooperation of the first rotating member, the second rotating member, and the connecting member in one embodiment of this application.

[0033] Figure 19 for Figure 18 The exploded view of the first rotating component, the second rotating component, and the connecting component is shown.

[0034] Figure 20 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the first rotating member and the supporting member in one embodiment of this application.

[0035] Figure 21 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the second rotating member and the supporting member in one embodiment of this application.

[0036] Figure 22This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the folding device in the unfolded state according to one embodiment of this application.

[0037] Figure 23 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the folding device in a folded state according to one embodiment of this application.

[0038] Figure 24 This is a front view of the first rotating member, the second rotating member, and the bracket in one embodiment of this application.

[0039] Figure 25 This is a schematic diagram showing the cooperation of the bracket, the first rotating member, and the second rotating member in one embodiment of this application.

[0040] Figure 26 for Figure 25 The exploded view of the bracket, the first rotating component, and the second rotating component is shown.

[0041] Figure 27 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the housing assembly in the unfolded state according to one embodiment of this application.

[0042] Figure 28 for Figure 27 The exploded view of a portion of the housing assembly is shown.

[0043] Figure 29 for Figure 27 The front view of the housing assembly shown.

[0044] Figures 30-31 They are respectively Figure 27 The diagram shows cross-sectional views of different parts of the housing assembly.

[0045] Figure 32 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the housing assembly in a folded state according to one embodiment of this application.

[0046] Figure 33 for Figure 32 The front view of the housing assembly shown.

[0047] Figures 34-35 They are respectively Figure 32 The diagram shows cross-sectional views of different parts of the housing assembly.

[0048] Figure 36 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the fit between the housing assembly and the decorative element in one embodiment of this application.

[0049] Figure 37 for Figure 36 The diagram shows an exploded view of the housing assembly and decorative parts.

[0050] Figure 38 This is an exploded view of the first rotating member, the second rotating member, and the decorative member in one embodiment of this application.

[0051] Figure 39 This is an exploded view of the first rotating member, the second rotating member, and the decorative member in another embodiment of this application.

[0052] Figure 40 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the electronic device in the unfolded state according to one embodiment of this application.

[0053] Figure 41 for Figure 40 The diagram shows a partial exploded view of the electronic device.

[0054] Figures 42-44 They are respectively Figure 40 The diagram shows cross-sectional views of different parts of the electronic device.

[0055] Figure 45 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the electronic device in a folded state according to one embodiment of this application.

[0056] Figures 46-48 They are respectively Figure 45 The diagram shows cross-sectional views of different parts of the electronic device.

[0057] Label Explanation:

[0058] Folding device-1, housing assembly-2, electronic device-3, bracket-10, top surface-101, bottom surface-102, first side surface-103, second side surface-104, rolling shaft mounting hole-105, receiving space-11, protrusion-12, rotating mechanism-20, first rotating member-21, first rotating part-210, first rotating shaft-2100, first rotating hole-2101, first receiving hole-2102, first receiving hole-2103, first sliding part-211, first slider-2110, first sliding groove-2111, first groove-212, first rotating axis centerline-C1, second rotating member-22, second rotating part-220, second rotating shaft-2200, second rotating hole-2201, second receiving hole-2202, second receiving hole-2203, second sliding part-221, second sliding... Block-2210, Second slide groove-2211, Second groove-222, Second rotation axis-C2, Connector-23, Support mechanism-30, Support member-31, Support surface-310, Non-support surface-311, Peripheral side surface-312, Support part-313, Rolling part-314, Rolling groove-3140, First limiting end-3140a, Second limiting end-3140b, Connecting end-3140 c, Rolling shaft - 3141, Guide part - 315, Arc groove - 3150, Arc rail - 3151, Housing - 40, Body - 41, Front - 410, Back - 411, Side - 412, Mounting space - 413, Protrusion - 42, Decorative part - 50, Bottom wall - 51, Side wall - 52, Clearance part - 53, Clearance space - 54, Flexible part - 60, Bending area - 61, Non-bending area - 62. Detailed Implementation

[0059] The following are preferred embodiments of this application. It should be noted that, for those skilled in the art, several improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the principles of this application, and these improvements and modifications are also considered to be within the scope of protection of this application.

[0060] Before introducing the technical solution of this application, let's go over the technical issues in related technologies in detail.

[0061] With the continuous development of display technology, users have increasingly higher requirements for electronic devices, leading to the development and launch of various electronic devices, such as foldable electronic devices, sliding electronic devices, and rollable electronic devices. Among them, foldable electronic devices, due to their unique folding performance, have a large display area when unfolded and a small overall size when folded, and are now increasingly popular among users. Foldable electronic devices can be divided into inward folding and outward folding in terms of bending direction. Inward folding means that the two halves of the flexible screen are close to each other and protected by the shell, so that the flexible screen is not visible to the user when folded. Outward folding means that the two halves of the flexible screen are far apart from the shell. Although the flexible screen is not protected by the shell, the user can still view its display in the folded state. Furthermore, for inward folding, based on the cross-sectional shape of the folded flexible screen, it can be divided into U-shaped and teardrop-shaped. The U-shaped shape is named because the cross-sectional shape of the flexible screen after bending resembles the letter U. The teardrop-shaped shape is named because the cross-sectional shape of the flexible screen after bending resembles the shape of a teardrop. In other words, the teardrop-shaped flexible screen has a smaller gap between the two halves of the screen at the top and a larger gap at the bottom.

[0062] Whether folding inwards or outwards, whether forming a U-shape or a teardrop shape, current methods for achieving the folding function of foldable electronic devices typically employ a folding mechanism installed within the device itself. This folding mechanism relies on the movement of its support relative to the frame, and through the cooperation of other structural components, moves along a pre-set trajectory, thus constraining the flexible component into a U-shape or teardrop shape when folded. However, current folding mechanisms have complex structures and fixed dimensions, resulting in a relatively fixed and singular movement trajectory for the support, thus limiting the folding trajectory of the device.

[0063] Therefore, in order to solve the above problems, this application provides a folding device. Please refer to the following: Figures 1-8 , Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the folding device in the unfolded state according to one embodiment of this application. Figure 2 for Figure 1 The folding device shown is a three-dimensional structural diagram from another perspective. Figure 3 for Figure 1 Exploded view of the folding device. Figure 4 for Figure 1 The front view of the folding device shown. Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the bracket in one embodiment of this application. Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the folding device in a folded state according to one embodiment of this application. Figure 7 for Figure 6 The folding device shown is a three-dimensional structural diagram from another perspective. Figure 8 for Figure 6The front view of the folding device shown.

[0064] The folding device 1 provided in this embodiment includes a bracket 10, two rotating mechanisms 20, and a support mechanism 30. The two rotating mechanisms 20 are located on opposite sides of the bracket 10. Each rotating mechanism 20 includes a first rotating member 21, a second rotating member 22, and a connecting member 23. One end of each of the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 is rotatably connected to the bracket 10, and the other ends of each are slidably connected to the connecting member 23. The sliding directions of the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 relative to the connecting member 23 are not parallel. The support mechanism 30 includes two support members 31 located on opposite sides of the bracket 10. One end of each support member 31 is rotatably connected to the connecting member 23, and the other end is slidably and rotatably connected to the bracket 10. The connection 23 can rotate relative to the bracket 10 to drive the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 to rotate, and the connection 23 can also slide relative to the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22, and drive the support member 31 to slide and rotate relative to the bracket 10, so as to drive the two support members 31 to fold or unfold with each other.

[0065] The folding device 1 is a device capable of relative rotation to achieve folding and unfolding, possessing a folding function. The folding device 1 provided in this embodiment can be applied to various fields, such as door locks, vehicles, machinery, and electronic products. This embodiment only illustrates the application of the folding device 1 to a foldable electronic device in the field of electronic products. Of course, applications of the folding device 1 to other fields should also fall within the scope of protection of this application.

[0066] Furthermore, the aforementioned electronic devices include, but are not limited to, mobile terminals such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops, PDAs, personal computers (PCs), personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable media players (PMPs), navigation devices, wearable devices, smart bracelets, and pedometers, as well as fixed terminals such as digital TVs and desktop computers. This embodiment is only illustrative when the electronic device is a mobile phone. Of course, in other embodiments, the electronic device can be of other types, and should also fall within the protection scope of this application.

[0067] The folding device 1 mainly includes a bracket 10, a rotating mechanism 20, and a supporting mechanism 30. This embodiment can solve the aforementioned technical problems using only the bracket 10, the rotating mechanism 20, and the supporting mechanism 30. However, this does not mean that the folding device 1 can only have the above-mentioned mechanisms. The folding device 1 can also have other mechanisms, such as a synchronization mechanism, a hovering mechanism, etc. Next, this embodiment will describe the bracket 10, the rotating mechanism 20, and the supporting mechanism 30 in detail.

[0068] The bracket 10 is a basic structural component in the folding device 1, mainly serving to support and mount other structural components in the folding device 1. In some embodiments, the bracket 10 can also support flexible components. This embodiment does not limit the shape, structure, material, or other parameters of the bracket 10, as long as it provides a foundation for assembling other structural components.

[0069] Optionally, the bracket 10 has a top surface 101 and a back surface arranged opposite to each other, two first side surfaces 103 bent and connected between the top surface 101 and the bottom surface 102, and two second side surfaces 104. The two first side surfaces 103 are spaced apart, and the two second side surfaces 104 are spaced apart, with the two second side surfaces 104 bent and connected to opposite sides of the two first side surfaces 103. The first side surfaces 103 are close to the subsequent rotating mechanism 20, and the shape of the first side surfaces 103 is arc-shaped so that the width of the top surface 101 is greater than the width of the bottom surface 102. Since the top surface 101 needs to be equipped with various structural components, while the bottom surface 102 usually does not need to assemble components or has fewer components, making the top surface 101 larger and the bottom surface 102 smaller can reduce the size of the bracket 10 and accommodate more structural components. In addition, the arc-shaped design of the first side surfaces 103 can avoid other structural components such as the rotating mechanism 20 or the housing 40 during movement, preventing interference problems during movement. The second side 104 can be designed as a plane so that other structural components, such as a steering mechanism, a synchronization mechanism, a hovering mechanism, etc., can be installed on the second side 104 later.

[0070] The rotating mechanism 20 is one of the core mechanisms in the folding device 1. It primarily enables the folding device 1 to rotate, and through its rotation, drives and limits the components connected to it, causing these components to move along a preset trajectory. The rotating mechanism 20 mainly includes a first rotating member 21, a second rotating member 22, and a connecting member 23. The first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 primarily function as rotational components, while the connecting member 23 primarily serves as an intermediate connection and is subsequently fixed to the housing 40. One end of the first rotating member 21 is rotatably connected to the support 10, meaning the end of the first rotating member 21 closest to the support 10 is rotatably connected to it. In other words, the support 10 is typically fixed, therefore the first rotating member 21 can rotate relative to the support 10. Similarly, one end of the second rotating member 22 is also rotatably connected to the support 10, meaning the end of the second rotating member 22 closest to the support 10 is rotatably connected to it. In other words, the support 10 is typically fixed, therefore the second rotating member 22 can rotate relative to the support 10. The specific rotational structure of the first rotating member 21, the second rotating member 22, and the bracket 10 will be described in detail later in this application.

[0071] The other end of the first rotating member 21 is slidably connected to the connecting member 23, that is, the end of the first rotating member 21 away from the bracket 10 is slidably connected to the connecting member 23. In other words, since one end of the first rotating member 21 is rotatably connected to the bracket 10, and the bracket 10 is fixed, the first rotating member 21 can only rotate relative to the bracket 10 and cannot slide. Therefore, the connecting member 23 slides relative to the first rotating member 21. Similarly, the other end of the second rotating member 22 is also slidably connected to the connecting member 23, that is, the end of the second rotating member 22 away from the bracket 10 is slidably connected to the connecting member 23. In other words, since one end of the second rotating member 22 is rotatably connected to the bracket 10, and the bracket 10 is fixed, the second rotating member 22 can only rotate relative to the bracket 10 and cannot slide. Therefore, the connecting member 23 slides relative to the second rotating member 22. The specific connection structure between the first rotating member 21, the second rotating member 22, and the bracket 10 will be described in detail later in this application.

[0072] The connector 23 can be fixed to the housing 40, thereby enabling the connector 23 to rotate when the housing 40 rotates. In some embodiments, the connector 23 and the housing 40 can be an integral structure or a separate structure. When the connector 23 and the housing 40 are an integral structure, they are manufactured in one process; however, for ease of understanding, the connector 23 and the housing 40 are given different names. When the connector 23 and the housing 40 are separate structures, they are manufactured separately and then fixed to the housing 40 by various methods such as bonding, screw connection, and snap-fit ​​connection. This embodiment is only illustrated with the example of the connector 23 and the housing 40 being separate structures.

[0073] This embodiment does not limit the shape, structure, material, or other parameters of the first rotating member 21, the second rotating member 22, and the connecting member 23. As long as one end of the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 can be rotatably connected to the bracket 10 and the other end of the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 can be slidably connected to the connecting member 23, it is acceptable.

[0074] Furthermore, when the first rotating member 21 and the connecting member 23 are slidably connected, the connecting member 23 has a first sliding direction relative to the first rotating member 21 (e.g., Figure 3 (As shown in the D1 direction). When the second rotating member 22 and the connecting member 23 are slidably connected, the connecting member 23 has a first sliding direction relative to the second rotating member 22 (e.g., Figure 3 (As shown in the D2 direction). Figure 3 The dashed line between D1 and D2 is Figure 3 The horizontal line. This embodiment allows the first sliding direction to be non-parallel to the second sliding direction; in other words, the first sliding direction and the second sliding direction can form an angle greater than 0°, meaning they intersect. The above design has several beneficial effects: First, when the folding device 1 is stationary, because the first sliding direction and the second sliding direction are not parallel, the connecting member 23 is restricted from sliding relative to the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22, thus improving the stability of the folding device 1. However, when the folding device 1 is in motion, because the first sliding direction and the second sliding direction are not parallel, the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 cooperate to allow the connecting member 23 to slide relative to them.

[0075] The support mechanism 30 in the folding device 1 is mainly used to support the flexible component. As a driven mechanism of the folding device 1, the support mechanism 30 can move under the constraint of the rotation mechanism 20's motion trajectory, ultimately achieving the desired folding shape, thereby causing the flexible component to bend and form the required shape. In this embodiment, the support mechanism 30 includes two support members 31, each supporting the flexible component and having a support surface 310 for supporting the flexible component. Optionally, the flexible component can abut against the support surface 310, or there can be a gap between the flexible component and the support surface 310. One end of the support member 31 is rotatably connected to the connector 23, meaning the end of the support member 31 away from the bracket 10 is rotatably connected to the connector 23; in other words, the support member 31 can rotate relative to the connector 23. The other end of the support member 31 is slidably and rotatably connected to the bracket 10, meaning the end of the support member 31 near the bracket 10 can be slidably connected to the bracket 10 and rotatably connected to the bracket 10; in other words, the support member 31 can slide and rotate relative to the bracket 10.

[0076] It's important to note that the rotation mentioned above can be understood as two moving parts undergoing circular motion around a rotation axis, while sliding can be understood as two moving parts moving in parallel, with only changes in displacement and no changes in angle. However, the ability of two moving parts to both slide and rotate means that they experience both changes in displacement and angle; this combination of sliding and rotation can also be termed rolling.

[0077] This embodiment does not limit the shape, structure, material or other parameters of the support member 31, as long as the support member 31 can support the flexible member, rotatably connect the connector 23, and slide and rotatably connect the bracket 10.

[0078] The folding device 1 provided in this embodiment includes a support mechanism 30 and two rotating mechanisms 20. The support mechanism 30 and the two rotating mechanisms 20 constitute an integrated mechanism, which is located on the side of the support member 31 in the support mechanism 30 facing away from the support surface 310. In other embodiments, the folding device 1 includes two support mechanisms 30 and four rotating mechanisms 20. Each support mechanism 30 and two rotating mechanisms 20 constitute an integrated mechanism. Both integrated mechanisms are located on the side of the support member 31 in the support mechanism 30 facing away from the support surface 310 and are spaced apart along the length direction of the support member 31. Of course, in other embodiments, the folding device 1 may also include three or more support mechanisms 30 and six or more rotating mechanisms 20. Each support mechanism 30 and two rotating mechanisms 20 constitute an integrated mechanism, and the three or more integrated mechanisms are located on the side of the support member 31 in the support mechanism 30 facing away from the support surface 310 and are spaced apart along the length direction of the support member 31.

[0079] Based on the aforementioned connection relationship, the folding device 1 can not only fold but also move according to a preset folding trajectory to obtain the desired folding shape. Specifically: when the connecting member 23 rotates relative to the bracket 10, since the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 are slidably connected to the connecting member 23, and the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 are rotatably connected to the bracket 10, the connecting member 23 can drive the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 to rotate relative to the bracket 10. At the same time, since the sliding directions of the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 relative to the connecting member 23 are not parallel, the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 can also drive the connecting member 23 to slide relative to the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 when rotating. Therefore, the connecting member 23 can both rotate and slide. Since the connecting member 23 is also connected to the support member 31, the connecting member 23 can drive the support member 31 to slide and rotate relative to the bracket 10 when rotating and sliding, so that the two support members 31 can fold and unfold relative to each other.

[0080] When the two support members 31 are parallel to each other, and at least a portion of the two support members 31 are located on opposite sides of the bracket 10, it can also be understood that when the support members 31 are close to the first side 103 of the bracket 10, the two support members 31 are in a fully unfolded state. In other words, the folding device 1 is in an unfolded state. Figure 4 As shown. When the two support members 31 are parallel to each other, and at least a portion of both support members 31 is located on one side of the bracket 10, it can also be understood that at least a portion of both support members 31 is located on the top surface 101 of the bracket 10. In this case, it is understood that the two support members 31 are in a completely folded state, in other words, the folding device 1 is in a folded state, as shown. Figure 8 As shown. When the two support members 31 fold together, that is, the process of the folding device 1 changing from the unfolded state to the folded state, can also be understood as from... Figures 4 to 8 During this process, the two connecting pieces 23 rotate and move closer to each other. Simultaneously, the two connecting pieces 23 can slide relative to the first rotating piece 21 and the second rotating piece 22 in a direction away from the bracket 10, thereby causing the two supporting pieces 31 to slide and rotate relative to the bracket 10, thus achieving mutual approach and folding. When the two supporting pieces 31 unfold, that is, the process of the folding device 1 moving from a folded state to an unfolded state, can also be understood as moving from... Figures 8 to 4 During the process, the two connecting pieces 23 rotate relative to each other and move away from each other. At the same time, the two connecting pieces 23 can also slide relative to the first rotating piece 21 and the second rotating piece 22 in the direction close to the bracket 10, thereby driving the two supporting pieces 31 to slide and rotate relative to the bracket 10, so as to achieve mutual separation and unfolding.

[0081] When the folding device 1 is in the folded state, the two support members 31 and the bracket 10 can jointly form a receiving space 11 for receiving the flexible part. The folding device 1 provided in this embodiment can make the cross-sectional shape of the flexible part U-shaped or teardrop-shaped.

[0082] In summary, the folding device 1 provided in this embodiment, through the cooperation of the bracket 10, the rotating mechanism 20, and the supporting mechanism 30, can realize the mutual folding and unfolding of the two supporting members 31, thus achieving the folding and unfolding function of the folding device 1. Furthermore, the sliding directions of the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 relative to the connecting member 23 are not parallel, allowing the connecting member 23 to slide relative to the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 during rotation, thereby causing the supporting member 31 to slide synchronously, changing the overall size of the folding device 1. The cooperation of the supporting member 31 sliding and rotating relative to the bracket 10 gives the supporting member 31 not only a rotational motion trajectory but also a sliding motion trajectory, allowing for more diverse folding trajectories and making it easier to form the desired folding shape. For example, by controlling various parameters, the sliding distance of the connecting member 23 can be adjusted, thereby changing the height of the supporting member 31 from the bracket 10 in the folded state, thus allowing the supporting member 31 to have more folding shapes compared to solutions that can only rotate and not slide.

[0083] In addition, from another perspective, since the support member 31 can also slide, the size of the receiving space 11 formed by the folding device 1 in the folded state can be changed, thereby reducing the bending stress of the subsequent flexible component. For example, when in the folded state, the support member 31 can slide away from the bracket 10, thereby increasing the height of the receiving space 11. Therefore, the flexible component can be bent in a larger space, thereby reducing the bending stress of the flexible component and preventing creases from appearing on the flexible component.

[0084] Optionally, when the folding device 1 is in the unfolded state, the support surface 310 of the support member 31 can be coplanar with the top surface 101 of the bracket 10, so that the flexible member can abut against the support surface 310 of the support member 31 and the top surface 101 of the bracket 10. Of course, in other embodiments, the support mechanism 30 may also include a carrier member (not shown in the figure) disposed between the two support members 31. The carrier member is mounted on the top surface 101 of the bracket 10 and also has a carrier surface for supporting the flexible member. When the folding device 1 is in the unfolded state, the support surface 310 of the support member 31 and the carrier surface are coplanar, so that the flexible member can abut against the support surface 310 of the support member 31 and the carrier surface.

[0085] Furthermore, the descriptions of various embodiments of this application are based on the accompanying illustrations, which are used to illustrate specific embodiments that can be implemented in this application. Directional terms mentioned in this application, such as "up," "down," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "inner," "outer," and "side 412," are merely for reference to the accompanying illustrations. Therefore, the directional terms used are for better and clearer explanation and understanding of this application, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the referred device or element must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0086] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "set on" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integral connections; they can refer to mechanical connections; they can refer to direct connections or indirect connections through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances. For example, the various connections in this embodiment include both direct and indirect connections. For instance, the connection of two structural components includes a direct connection between the two structural components or a connection through a third or more other structural components. Connections also include both integrated and non-integrated connections. An integrated connection refers to two components being formed and connected as a single unit, while a non-integrated connection refers to A and B being formed and connected as separate units.

[0087] Please refer to this again. Figure 4 and Figure 8 In this embodiment, the support member 31 also rotates relative to the connector 23 so that when the two support members 31 are in a fully folded state, both support members 31 are located on the same side of the bracket 10, and the distance between the two support members 31 at the end away from the bracket 10 is less than the distance between the two support members 31 at the end close to the bracket 10.

[0088] When the folding device 1 is in motion, in addition to sliding and rotating relative to the bracket 10, the support member 31 can also rotate relative to the connecting member 23. Specifically, the end of the support member 31 closest to the bracket 10 can rotate towards the end closest to the connecting member 23, so that when the folding device 1 is in the folded state, the distance between the two support members 31 at the ends away from the bracket 10 is less than the distance between the two support members 31 at the ends closest to the bracket 10, that is, a gap is formed between the two support members 31 that is smaller at the top and larger at the bottom. In other words, the receiving space 11 formed by the two support members 31 and the bracket 10 is shaped like a teardrop, which makes the cross-sectional shape of the flexible part teardrop-shaped. As for how to design the structure of the folding device 1 to limit the movement trajectory of the support member 31 and ultimately achieve the teardrop-shaped cross-sectional shape of the flexible part, this application will describe it in detail below.

[0089] Please refer to this as well. Figures 9-12 In this embodiment, Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the cooperation of the support member, bracket, and rolling shaft in one embodiment of this application. Figure 10 for Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the support, bracket, and rolling shaft from another perspective. Figure 11 for Figure 9 The exploded view of the support components, brackets, and rolling shafts shown. Figure 12 for Figure 9 The diagram shows a front view of the support member, bracket, and rolling shaft. In this embodiment, the support member 31 includes a support portion 313 and a rolling portion 314 connected to the periphery of the support portion 313. The rolling portion 314 is slidably and rotatably connected to the bracket 10, and the support portion 313 is farther away from the bracket 10 relative to the rolling portion 314. The rolling portion 314 and the bracket 10 are connected by a rolling groove 3140 and a rolling shaft 3141. The rolling groove 3140 is provided in one of the rolling portion 314 and the bracket 10, and the rolling shaft 3141 is provided in the other of the rolling portion 314 and the bracket 10.

[0090] The support member 31 may include a support portion 313 and a rolling portion 314. The support portion 313 is used to support the flexible member, and therefore has a support surface 310 for supporting the flexible member. The rolling portion 314 is disposed on the periphery of the bracket 10 and is slidably and rotatably connected to the bracket 10. Specifically, in this embodiment, the support member 31 is rectangular plate-shaped. In addition to the support surface 310 and the non-support surface 311 opposite to the support surface 310, the support member 31 also has a peripheral side surface 312 disposed between the support surface 310 and the non-support surface 311. The rolling portion 314 is connected to the peripheral side surface 312 and is closer to the bracket 10 than the support portion 313, that is, the support portion 313 is farther away from the bracket 10 than the rolling portion 314.

[0091] Furthermore, the support portion 313 and the rolling portion 314 can be either an integral structure or a separate structure. When the support portion 313 and the rolling portion 314 are an integral structure, they are manufactured in a single process; however, for ease of understanding, the support portion 313 and the rolling portion 314 are given different names. When the support portion 313 and the rolling portion 314 are separate structures, they are manufactured separately and then connected together using various methods. This embodiment is only illustrated illustratively with the support portion 313 and the rolling portion 314 being a separate structure.

[0092] Therefore, the end of the aforementioned support member 31 near the bracket 10 is slidably and rotatably connected to the bracket 10, which is the rolling part 314 slidably and rotatably connected to the bracket 10. Specifically, the rolling part 314 and the bracket 10 are connected by a rolling groove 3140 and a rolling shaft 3141. The rolling groove 3140 is provided on one of the rolling part 314 and the bracket 10, and the rolling shaft 3141 is provided on the other. For example, when the rolling groove 3140 is provided on the rolling part 314, the rolling shaft 3141 is provided on the bracket 10, and when the rolling groove 3140 is provided on the bracket 10, the rolling shaft 3141 is provided on the rolling part 314. This embodiment is only illustrated with the rolling groove 3140 provided on the rolling part 314 and the rolling shaft 3141 provided on the bracket 10. Specifically, the rolling shaft 3141 is disposed on the second side surface 104 of the bracket 10, and the rolling part 314 is provided with a rolling groove 3140. The rolling groove 3140 can rotate relative to the rolling shaft 3141, thereby causing the support member 31 to rotate relative to the bracket 10. At the same time, the rolling shaft 3141 can also slide within the rolling groove 3140, thereby causing the support member 31 to slide relative to the bracket 10, so that the support member 31 can slide and rotate relative to the bracket 10. Of course, in other embodiments, the rolling groove 3140 may also be disposed on the second side surface 104 of the bracket 10, and the rolling shaft 3141 may be mounted on the rolling part 314. Optionally, the rolling shaft 3141 may include, but is not limited to, a pin.

[0093] Furthermore, the rolling shaft 3141 and the rolling part 314 or the bracket 10 can be either fixedly connected or rotatably connected. For example, in this embodiment, the rolling shaft 3141 is disposed on the bracket 10. The rolling shaft 3141 can be fixedly disposed on the bracket 10 so that the rolling shaft 3141 and the bracket 10 remain relatively stationary, thereby allowing the rolling groove 3140 to slide and rotate relative to the rolling shaft 3141. Alternatively, the rolling shaft 3141 can also be rotatably connected to the bracket 10 so that the rolling shaft 3141 and the bracket 10 remain relatively rotating, thus still allowing the rolling groove 3140 to slide and rotate relative to the rolling shaft 3141. Optionally, when the rolling shaft 3141 is fixedly disposed on the bracket 10, the rolling shaft 3141 and the bracket 10 can be an integral structure or a separate structure. When the rolling shaft 3141 and the bracket 10 are an integral structure, the rolling shaft 3141 and the bracket 10 are manufactured in one process; however, for ease of understanding, the rolling shaft 3141 and the bracket 10 have been given different names. When the rolling shaft 3141 and the support 10 are separate structures, the rolling shaft 3141 and the support 10 are manufactured separately and then connected together by various methods. This embodiment is only illustrated illustratively using the case of a separate structure for the rolling shaft 3141 and the support 10. Figure 11 As shown, a rolling shaft mounting hole 105 is provided on the second side 104, and the rolling shaft 3141 can be inserted into the rolling shaft mounting hole 105.

[0094] It is worth noting that this embodiment and the following text only illustrate half of the structure of the folding device 1. In other words, only the right half of the structure of the folding device 1 is illustrated. For example, this embodiment only illustrates one support member 31 and bracket 10. The other support member 31 and bracket 10 can be understood in the same way as one support member 31 and bracket 10 in this embodiment. This embodiment will not be described in detail here.

[0095] Please refer to this as well. Figures 13-14 , Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the fit between the support member and the connector in one embodiment of this application. Figure 14 for Figure 13 The exploded view of the support member and the connector is shown. In this embodiment, the end of the support member 31 away from the bracket 10 is connected to the connector 23 through an arc groove 3150 and an arc rail 3151. The arc groove 3150 is provided in one of the support member 31 and the bracket 10, and the arc rail 3151 is provided in the other of the support member 31 and the bracket 10.

[0096] In addition to sliding and rotating with the bracket 10, the support member 31 is also rotatably connected to the connector 23, meaning that the end of the support member 31 away from the bracket 10 is rotatably connected to the connector 23. Specifically, in addition to the support portion 313 and the rolling portion 314, the support member 31 may also include a guide portion 315. The guide portion 315 is used to achieve a rotatable connection with the connector 23; therefore, the rotatable connection between the support member 31 and the connector 23 is the same as the rotatable connection between the guide portion 315 and the connector 23. The guide portion 315 is located on the side of the support portion 313 opposite to the support surface 310, which is the non-support surface 311.

[0097] Optionally, the guide portion 315 and the support portion 313 can be an integral structure or a separate structure. When the guide portion 315 and the support portion 313 are an integral structure, they are manufactured in one process; however, for ease of understanding, the guide portion 315 and the support portion 313 are given different names. When the guide portion 315 and the support portion 313 are separate structures, they are manufactured separately and then connected together by various methods. This embodiment is only illustrated illustratively with the guide portion 315 and the support portion 313 being an integral structure. Further optionally, the support portion 313, the rolling portion 314, and the guide portion 315 can all be an integral structure, that is, the support portion 313, the rolling portion 314, and the guide portion 315 are all manufactured in one process. Alternatively, all three components may be separate structures, meaning the support part 313, rolling part 314, and guide part 315 are manufactured separately and then joined together using various methods. Alternatively, some of the three components may be integral structures, while the remaining components may be separate structures, meaning some parts of the support part 313, rolling part 314, and guide part 315 are manufactured in a single process, while the remaining parts are manufactured separately and then joined together using various methods.

[0098] Therefore, the end of the support member 31 furthest from the bracket 10 is connected to the connector 23 via an arc groove 3150 and an arc rail 3151. This means the guide portion 315 and the connector 23 are connected via the arc groove 3150 and the arc rail 3151. The guide portion 315 and the connector 23 are connected via the arc groove 3150 and the arc rail 3151. The arc groove 3150 is located on one of the guide portion 315 and the connector 23, and the arc rail 3151 is located on the other. For example, when the arc groove 3150 is located on the guide portion 315, the arc rail 3151 is located on the connector 23; when the arc groove 3150 is located on the connector 23, the arc rail 3151 is located on the guide portion 315. This embodiment is only illustrated with the arc groove 3150 located on the guide portion 315 and the arc rail 3151 located on the connector 23. Specifically, the guide portion 315 has an arc-shaped groove on its surface near the connector 23. The connector 23 has a corresponding arc-shaped block inserted into the arc groove 3150. The arc rail 3151 can be disposed within the arc groove 3150 and abut against its inner wall. The axis of the arc groove 3150 is collinear with the axis of the arc rail 3151, and the axis of the arc groove 3150 is collinear with the axis of rotation between the support member 31 and the connector 23, allowing the support member 31 to rotate relative to the connector 23. The dimensions of the arc groove 3150 and the arc rail 3151 can be adjusted according to the teardrop shape.

[0099] Of course, in other embodiments, the arc groove 3150 can also be provided on the connector 23, and the arc rail 3151 can also be provided on the guide portion 315.

[0100] Optionally, the non-supporting surface 311 of the support portion 313 is provided with a guide portion 315 on the side away from the bracket 10, and the guide portion 315 is an arc-shaped block. Further optionally, the guide portion 315 is provided with an arc groove 3150 on the side facing the connector 23, and the opposite ends of the arc groove 3150 penetrate through the side surface of the guide portion 315 near the support portion 313 and the side surface of the guide portion 315 away from the bracket 10.

[0101] Optionally, in some embodiments, the non-supporting surface 311 of the support portion 313 is provided with guide portions 315 at opposite ends of the corresponding connector 23. The surfaces of the two guide portions 315 facing each other are provided with arc grooves 3150, and the center lines of the two arc grooves 3150 are collinear. Arc rails 3151 are provided on opposite sides of the connector 23, and the two arc rails 3151 can be respectively inserted into the arc grooves 3150.

[0102] Please refer to this as well. Figure 12 and Figure 15 , Figure 15 for Figure 9The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the support member, bracket, and rolling shaft in a folded state. In this embodiment, the support portion 313 has a support surface 310 for supporting the flexible member, and the rolling groove 3140 has a first limiting end 3140a and a second limiting end 3140b opposite to each other. The first limiting end 3140a is closer to the support portion 313 than the second limiting end 3140b, and the first limiting end 3140a is farther away from the support surface 310 than the second limiting end.

[0103] When the two support members 31 are fully extended, the rolling shaft 3141 is positioned at the first limiting end 3140a; when the two support members 31 are fully folded, the rolling shaft 3141 is positioned at the second limiting end 3140b.

[0104] The support surface 310 of the support portion 313 has been described in detail above, and will not be repeated here. The rolling groove 3140 has two oppositely arranged ends: a first limiting end 3140a and a second limiting end 3140b. Since the rolling shaft 3141 slides within the rolling groove 3140, the sidewalls 52 of the first limiting end 3140a and the second limiting end 3140b can be used to restrict the sliding of the rolling shaft 3141, causing it to stop sliding when it reaches the first limiting end 3140a and the second limiting end 3140b, preventing further sliding. For example... Figure 12 As shown, the first limiting end 3140a is closer to the support portion 313 than the second limiting end 3140b, meaning the first limiting end 3140a is further to the right than the second limiting end 3140b. Simultaneously, the first limiting end 3140a is further away from the support surface 310 than the second limiting end 3140b, meaning the first limiting end 3140a is further down than the second limiting end 3140b. Therefore, the first limiting end 3140a is located in the lower right position, while the second limiting end 3140b is located in the upper left position.

[0105] During the entire movement of the folding device 1, when the two support members 31 are fully unfolded (i.e., when the folding device 1 is in the unfolded state), the rolling shaft 3141 is positioned at the first limiting end 3140a to prevent the support members 31 from folding back and damaging the subsequent flexible components. When the two support members 31 are fully folded (i.e., when the folding device 1 is in the folded state), the rolling shaft 3141 is positioned at the second limiting end 3140b to prevent the support members 31 from bending further and damaging the subsequent flexible components. In other words, when the support members 31 are fully unfolded, the rolling shaft 3141 is located at the lower right; when the support members 31 are fully folded, the rolling shaft 3141 is located at the upper left.

[0106] Therefore, during the process of the folding device 1 from the unfolded state to the folded state, the connecting member 23 slides away from the support 10 with the cooperation of the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22. That is, the connecting member 23 slides to the right, which drives the rolling groove 3140 of the support member 31 to slide to the right as well. This is equivalent to the rolling shaft 3141 sliding to the left. The rolling shaft 3141 moves from the lower right to the upper left in the rolling groove 3140. At this time, the rolling shaft 3141 will come into contact with the side wall 52 of the rolling groove 3140, thereby driving the support member 31 to rotate relative to the connecting member 23 through the arc groove 3150 and the arc rail. This allows the two support members 31 and the support 10 to work together to form a teardrop-shaped receiving space 11, thus realizing the miniaturized folding device 1.

[0107] Please refer to this again. Figure 12 and Figure 15 In this embodiment, the rolling groove 3140 also has a connecting end 3140c that connects the first limiting end 3140a and the second limiting end 3140b, and the connecting end 3140c protrudes in a direction away from the support surface 310.

[0108] The rolling groove 3140 is a sliding groove with a certain length. Therefore, in addition to the first limiting end 3140a and the second limiting end 3140b, the rolling groove 3140 also has a connecting end 3140c that connects the first limiting end 3140a and the second limiting end 3140b. The rolling shaft 3141 is located in the connecting end 3140c in all states except the unfolded state and the folded state. In this embodiment, the connecting end 3140c can be made to protrude in the direction away from the support surface 310, that is, the shape of the connecting end 3140c is arc-shaped and the arc protrudes outward. This allows for smoother movement of the support member 31. During the transition of the folding device 1 from the unfolded state to the folded state, when the rolling shaft 3141 just leaves the first limiting end 3140a, it moves downward to the left. Then, after reaching its lowest point, it moves upward to the left until it reaches the same height as the first limiting end 3140a on the left. When the rolling shaft 3141 moves again, the support member 31 will rotate relative to the connecting member 23, thus forming a teardrop shape. Therefore, the shape designed in this embodiment can reduce the rotation of the support member 31 in the initial stage of movement, thereby effectively protecting the flexible component.

[0109] Of course, in other embodiments, the shape of the connecting end 3140c can also be a straight line or other shapes, as long as the positions of the first limiting end 3140a and the second limiting end 3140b are guaranteed.

[0110] Please refer to this as well. Figures 16-17 , Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram showing the cooperation between the bracket and the two support members in one embodiment of this application. Figure 17 for Figure 16The diagram shows a top view of the bracket and two support members. In this embodiment, the two support portions 313 are arranged symmetrically about the bracket 10, and the two rolling portions 314 are located on the same side or opposite sides of the bracket 10.

[0111] Regarding the two rotating mechanisms 20 and the support 10, the two rotating mechanisms 20 can be designed symmetrically or asymmetrically with respect to the support 10, and this embodiment does not limit this. Specifically, the two first rotating members 21 in the two rotating mechanisms 20 can be designed symmetrically or asymmetrically, and the two second rotating members 22 in the two rotating mechanisms 20 can also be designed symmetrically or asymmetrically. The two connecting members 23 in the two rotating mechanisms 20 are symmetrically designed. The two supporting members 31 in the two rotating mechanisms 20 can also be designed symmetrically or asymmetrically. For example, in this embodiment, the supporting portion 313 of the two supporting members 31 is axially symmetrical about the support 10, and the two rolling portions 314 are provided on the same side or opposite sides of the support 10. If the two rolling portions 314 are also axially symmetrical about the support 10, then the two supporting members 31 are symmetrically designed. If the two rolling portions 314 are asymmetrically arranged about the support 10, then the two supporting members 31 are asymmetrically designed.

[0112] Please refer to this again. Figure 5 , Figures 16-17 In this embodiment, two rolling portions 314 are disposed on the same side of the bracket 10, one rolling portion 314 is closer to the bracket 10 than the other rolling portion 314, and the orthographic projection of one rolling portion 314 on the bracket 10 at least partially overlaps with the orthographic projection of the other rolling portion 314 on the bracket 10.

[0113] This embodiment is illustrated by showing two rolling portions 314 arranged non-axially symmetrically about the bracket 10. Specifically, the two rolling portions 314 are located on the same side of the bracket 10, that is, the two rolling portions 314 are located on one second side 104 of the bracket 10, while other components can be installed on the other second side 104, thereby improving the utilization rate of the bracket 10 and allowing more structural components to be mounted on the bracket 10. Alternatively, the other second side 104 can abut against other structural components to serve as a limit, preventing the folding device 1 from moving in the axial direction.

[0114] Of the two rolling portions 314, one rolling portion 314 is closer to the support 10 than the other rolling portion 314. That is, the two rolling portions 314 are stacked on the second side surface 104, with one rolling portion 314 closer to the support 10 and the other rolling portion 314 farther away from the support 10. Furthermore, the orthographic projection of one rolling portion 314 onto the support 10 at least partially overlaps with the orthographic projection of the other rolling portion 314 onto the support 10, meaning that in the direction perpendicular to the second side surface 104, the two rolling portions 314 at least partially coincide. This allows the two rolling portions 314 to be longer, thereby enabling the connecting member 23 to slide a longer distance relative to the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22.

[0115] Specifically, a protrusion 42 can be provided on the second side 104 of the bracket 10. One rolling shaft 3141 is provided on the protrusion 12, and the other rolling shaft 3141 is provided on the bracket 10. When the rolling shaft 3141 cooperates with the rolling groove 3140, the rolling part 314 provided on the protrusion 12 is further away from the second bracket 10 than the other rolling part 314 provided on the second side 104 of the bracket 10. Therefore, the two rolling parts 314 can be designed to be longer, thereby preventing the two rolling parts 314 from interfering with each other when rotating.

[0116] In some embodiments, when the folding device 1 includes two spaced-apart supports 10, the two supports 10 are arranged at intervals along the length direction of the support member 31, and the rolling portions 314 on the two supports 10 are arranged face to face. Of course, in other embodiments, the rolling portions 314 on the two supports 10 may also be arranged back to back, or the rolling portion 314 on one support 10 may be closer to the other support 10 than the other support 10, and the rolling portion 314 on the other support 10 may be farther away from the other support 10 than the other support 10.

[0117] Please refer to this as well. Figures 18-19 , Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram showing the cooperation of the first rotating member, the second rotating member, and the connecting member in one embodiment of this application. Figure 19 for Figure 18 The exploded view shows the first rotating member, the second rotating member, and the connecting member. In this embodiment, the first rotating member 21 includes a first rotating part 210 of the rotating connecting bracket 10 and a first sliding part 211 of the sliding connecting member 23. The first sliding part 211 and the connecting member 23 are connected by a first slider 2110 and a first sliding groove 2111. The first slider 2110 is provided in one of the first sliding part 211 and the connecting member 23, and the first sliding groove 2111 is provided in the other of the first sliding part 211 and the connecting member 23.

[0118] As mentioned above, the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 can rotate relative to the bracket 10 and slide relative to the connecting member 23. This embodiment will first describe the sliding of the first rotating member 21, the second rotating member 22, and the connecting member 23. The first rotating member 21 includes a first rotating part 210 and a first sliding part 211 connected together. The first rotating part 210 is closer to the bracket 10 than the first sliding part 211, that is, the first sliding part 211 is closer to the connecting member 23 than the first rotating part 210. The first rotating part 210 is used to rotatably connect to the bracket 10. Therefore, the first rotating part 21's end near the bracket 10 is rotatably connected to the bracket 10. The first sliding part 211 is used to slidably connect to the connecting member 23. Therefore, the first rotating part 21's end away from the bracket 10 is slidably connected to the connecting member 23.

[0119] Furthermore, the first rotating part 210 and the first sliding part 211 can be either an integral structure or a separate structure. When the first rotating part 210 and the first sliding part 211 are an integral structure, they are manufactured in a single process; however, for ease of understanding, the first rotating part 210 and the first sliding part 211 are given different names. When the first rotating part 210 and the first sliding part 211 are separate structures, they are manufactured separately and then connected together using various methods. This embodiment is only illustrated illustratively using the example of the first rotating part 210 and the first sliding part 211 being an integral structure.

[0120] The first sliding portion 211 and the connecting member 23 are connected by a first slider 2110 and a first groove 2111. The first slider 2110 is disposed on one of the first sliding portion 211 and the connecting member 23, and the first groove 2111 is disposed on the other. For example, when the first slider 2110 is disposed on the first sliding portion 211, the first groove 2111 is disposed on the connecting member 23. When the first slider 2110 is disposed on the connecting member 23, the first groove 2111 is disposed on the first sliding portion 211. This embodiment is only illustrated by the first slider 2110 being disposed on the first sliding portion 211 and the first groove 2111 being disposed on the connecting member 23. Specifically, the first sliding portion 211 as a whole can be regarded as the first slider 2110, or the first slider 2110 can be disposed at opposite ends of the first sliding portion 211. The opposite ends of the first groove 2111 can respectively penetrate the surface of the connector 23 near the bracket 10 and the surface of the connector 23 away from the bracket 10. The first slider 2110 is inserted into the first groove 2111 and slides within the first groove 2111, thereby realizing the sliding connection between the first rotating member 21 and the connector 23. Of course, in other embodiments, the first groove 2111 can also be formed on the first sliding part 211, and the first slider 2110 can be provided on the connector 23. The first slider 2110 is inserted into the first groove 2111, thereby realizing the sliding connection between the first rotating member 21 and the connector 23.

[0121] Optionally, in other embodiments, the connector 23 may also be provided with a first groove 212 penetrating the surface near the support portion 313, and the first sliding groove 2111 also penetrating the side wall 52 of the first groove 212. The first groove 212 is used to accommodate the first rotating portion 210, thereby preventing the first rotating portion 210 and the connector 23 from interfering with each other and hindering the sliding of the connector 23 when the first rotating portion 210 and the connector 23 slide.

[0122] Please refer to this again. Figures 18-19 In this embodiment, the second rotating member 22 includes a second rotating part 220 of the rotating connecting bracket 10 and a second sliding part 221 of the sliding connecting member 23. The second sliding part 221 and the connecting member 23 are connected by a second slider 2210 and a second sliding groove 2211. The second slider 2210 is disposed on one of the second sliding part 221 and the connecting member 23, and the second sliding groove 2211 is disposed on the other of the second sliding part 221 and the connecting member 23.

[0123] The second rotating member 22 includes a second rotating portion 220 and a second sliding portion 221 connected together. The second rotating portion 220 is closer to the bracket 10 than the second sliding portion 221, meaning the second sliding portion 221 is closer to the connector 23 than the second rotating portion 220. The second rotating portion 220 is used to rotatably connect to the bracket 10; therefore, the end of the second rotating member 22 closest to the bracket 10 is rotatably connected to the bracket 10. The second sliding portion 221 is used to slidably connect to the connector 23; therefore, the end of the second rotating member 22 opposite to the bracket 10 is slidably connected to the connector 23; therefore, the second sliding portion 221 is slidably connected to the connector 23.

[0124] Furthermore, the second rotating part 220 and the second sliding part 221 can be either an integral structure or a separate structure. When the second rotating part 220 and the second sliding part 221 are an integral structure, they are manufactured in a single process; however, for ease of understanding, the second rotating part 220 and the second sliding part 221 are given different names. When the second rotating part 220 and the second sliding part 221 are separate structures, they are manufactured separately and then connected together using various methods. This embodiment is only illustrated illustratively using the case where the second rotating part 220 and the second sliding part 221 are an integral structure.

[0125] The second sliding portion 221 and the connecting member 23 are connected by a second slider 2210 and a second sliding groove 2211. The second slider 2210 is disposed on one of the second sliding portion 221 and the connecting member 23, and the second sliding groove 2211 is disposed on the other of the second sliding portion 221 and the connecting member 23. For example, when the second slider 2210 is disposed on the second sliding portion 221, the second sliding groove 2211 is disposed on the connecting member 23. When the second slider 2210 is disposed on the connecting member 23, the second sliding groove 2211 is disposed on the second sliding portion 221. This embodiment is only illustrated by the second slider 2210 being disposed on the second sliding portion 221 and the second sliding groove 2211 being disposed on the connecting member 23. Specifically, the second sliding portion 221 as a whole can be regarded as the second slider 2210, or the second slider 2210 can be disposed at opposite ends of the second sliding portion 221. The two opposite ends of the second groove 2211 can respectively penetrate the surface of the connector 23 near the bracket 10 and the surface of the connector 23 away from the bracket 10. The second slider 2210 is inserted into the second groove 2211 and slides within the second groove 2211, thereby realizing the sliding connection between the second rotating member 22 and the connector 23. Of course, in other embodiments, the second groove 2211 can also be formed on the second sliding part 221, and the second slider 2210 can be provided on the connector 23. The second slider 2210 is inserted into the second groove 2211, thereby realizing the sliding connection between the second rotating member 22 and the connector 23.

[0126] Optionally, in other embodiments, the connector 23 may also be provided with a second groove 222 penetrating the surface near the support portion 313, and the second sliding groove 2211 also penetrating the side wall 52 of the second groove 222. The second groove 222 is used to accommodate the second rotating portion 220, thereby preventing the second rotating portion 220 and the connector 23 from interfering with each other and hindering the sliding of the connector 23 when the second rotating portion 220 and the connector 23 slide.

[0127] Please refer to this as well. Figures 20-23 , Figure 20 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the first rotating member and the supporting member in one embodiment of this application. Figure 21 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the second rotating member and the supporting member in one embodiment of this application. Figure 22 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the folding device in the unfolded state according to one embodiment of this application. Figure 23This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the folding device in a folded state according to one embodiment of this application. In this embodiment, the support member 31 has a support surface 310 for supporting the flexible member. The distance between the end of the first slider 2110 near the first rotating part 210 and the support surface 310 is greater than the distance between the end of the first slider 2110 away from the first rotating part 210 and the support surface 310; the distance between the end of the second slider 2210 near the second rotating part 220 and the support surface 310 is less than the distance between the end of the second slider 2210 away from the second rotating part 220 and the support surface 310.

[0128] As mentioned above, this embodiment allows the sliding directions of the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 relative to the connecting member 23 to be non-parallel, thereby restricting the sliding of the connecting member 23 relative to the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 in a stationary state. During rotation, the non-parallel sliding directions are used to drive the connecting member 23 to slide relative to the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 through the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22. Furthermore, this application can utilize a slider and a groove to achieve the sliding of the first rotating member 21, the second rotating member 22, and the connecting member 23.

[0129] This embodiment achieves non-parallel sliding directions by designing the angle between the first slider 2110 and the second slider 2210. Specifically, the distance between the end of the first slider 2110 near the first rotating part 210 and the support surface 310 is greater than the distance between the end of the first slider 2110 away from the first rotating part 210 and the support surface 310. In other words, the distance between the first slider 2110 and the support surface 310 decreases from the direction near the first rotating part 210 to the direction away from the first rotating part 210. This can also be understood as... Figure 20 As shown, the distance between the first slider 2110 and the support surface 310 gradually decreases from left to right, meaning the first slider 2110 is inclined upwards. Correspondingly, the first groove 2111 is also inclined upwards, i.e., towards the support member 31.

[0130] The distance between the end of the second slider 2210 closer to the second rotating part 220 and the support surface 310 is smaller than the distance between the end of the second slider 2210 farther from the second rotating part 220 and the support surface 310. In other words, the distance between the second slider 2210 and the support surface 310 increases from the direction closer to the second rotating part 220 to the direction farther from the second rotating part 220. This can also be understood as... Figure 21 As shown, the distance between the second slider 2210 and the support surface 310 gradually increases from left to right, meaning the second slider 2210 is inclined downwards. Correspondingly, the second groove 2211 is also inclined downwards, i.e., away from the support member 31.

[0131] Therefore, the first slider 2110 is tilted upwards and the second slider 2210 is tilted downwards, meaning the first slider 2110 and the second slider 2210 are staggered. This ensures that the directions of the first slider 2110 and the second slider 2210 are not parallel, thus limiting the sliding of the connecting member 23 in a static state and driving the sliding of the connecting member 23 during movement. Furthermore, the staggered arrangement of the first slider 2110 and the second slider 2210 reduces the tilt angle of each slider, simplifying the structure of the folding device 1 and reducing its thickness. For example, if the sliding directions of the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 differ by 10° according to design requirements, this application can tilt the first slider 2110 upwards by 5° and the second slider 2210 downwards by 5°, thereby achieving a total tilt difference of 10° between the first slider 2110 and the second slider 2210, reducing the overall thickness of the folding device 1.

[0132] Optionally, the first slider 2110 and the second slider 2210 are arranged at intervals on the connector 23 along the length direction of the connector 23.

[0133] In other embodiments, the tilting directions of the first slider 2110 and the second slider 2210 can also be interchanged. For example, the first slider 2110 can be tilted downwards and the second slider 2210 can be tilted upwards.

[0134] In some embodiments, the first slider 2110 and the second slider 2210 have the same tilt direction. For example, both the first slider 2110 and the second slider 2210 are tilted upwards, meaning the distance between the end of the first slider 2110 near the first rotating part 210 and the support surface 310 is greater than the distance between the end of the first slider 2110 away from the first rotating part 210 and the support surface 310. Similarly, the distance between the end of the second slider 2210 near the second rotating part 220 and the support surface 310 is greater than the distance between the end of the second slider 2210 away from the second rotating part 220 and the support surface 310. If the sliding directions of the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 2210 differ by 10°, then the first slider 2110 can be tilted upwards by 5° and the second slider 2210 by 15°, so that the sum of the tilt differences between the first slider 2110 and the second slider 2210 reaches 10°.

[0135] Alternatively, both the first slider 2110 and the second slider 2210 can be tilted downwards, meaning the distance between the end of the first slider 2110 closest to the first rotating part 210 and the supporting surface 310 is less than the distance between the end of the first slider 2110 furthest from the first rotating part 210 and the supporting surface 310. Similarly, the distance between the end of the second slider 2210 closest to the second rotating part 220 and the supporting surface 310 is less than the distance between the end of the second slider 2210 furthest from the second rotating part 220 and the supporting surface 310. If the sliding directions of the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 are to differ by 10°, then the first slider 2110 can be tilted downwards by 5° and the second slider 2210 by 15°, thus making the sum of the tilt differences between the first slider 2110 and the second slider 2210 reach 10°.

[0136] In summary, because the first slider 2110 and the second slider 2210 have different inclination directions, when the connecting member 23 rotates, the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 will drive the connecting member 23 to slide relative to the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22. Figures 22-23 As shown, this embodiment is illustrated using the second rotating member 22. During the process of the folding device 1 moving from the unfolded state to the folded state, the connecting member 23 slides away from the support 10, causing the support member 31 to rotate relative to the connecting member 23, ultimately forming a teardrop-shaped receiving space 11 with the two support members 31 and the support 10. During the process of the folding device 1 moving from the folded state to the unfolded state, the connecting member 23 slides towards the support 10, causing the support member 31 to rotate relative to the connecting member 23, ultimately causing the two support members 31 to fully unfold relative to each other, making the two support surfaces 310 flush.

[0137] Please refer to Figure 24 , Figure 24 This is a front view of the first rotating member, the second rotating member, and the bracket according to an embodiment of this application. In this embodiment, the first rotation axis C1 between the first rotating member 21 and the bracket 10 is parallel to the second rotation axis C2 between the second rotating member 22 and the bracket 10.

[0138] Both the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 can rotate relative to the bracket 10. This can be understood as the first rotating member 21 rotating relative to the bracket 10 along the first rotation axis C1, and the second rotating member 22 rotating relative to the bracket 10 along the second rotation axis C2. In this embodiment, the first rotation axis C1 is parallel to the second rotation axis C2. Firstly, the parallelism of the two axes allows the connecting member 23 to rotate smoothly, and when the connecting member 23 rotates, it drives both the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 to rotate relative to the bracket 10, preventing jamming or other problems during rotation. Secondly, the parallel arrangement of the first rotation axis C1 and the second rotation axis C2 means that the first rotation axis C1 and the second rotation axis C2 do not coincide, and there is a certain distance between them. This ensures that the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 remain stationary when the folding device 1 is in a static state, such as an unfolded state, a folded state, or any state in between. This prevents the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 from rotating freely relative to the support 10, improving the stability of the folding device 1 and enabling it to perform functions such as hovering and self-locking in a certain state. Furthermore, the parallel arrangement of the first rotation axis C1 and the second rotation axis C2 further drives the connecting member 23 to slide relative to the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22.

[0139] Optionally, in some embodiments, in the horizontal direction, the first rotation axis C1 is further inward than the second axis, that is, the first rotation axis C1 is closer to the center line of the bracket 10 than the second axis (e.g., Figure 24 (As shown in Figure C). Alternatively, the first rotation axis C1 is further outward than the second axis, meaning the first rotation axis C1 is farther from the center line of the bracket 10 compared to the second axis. In other embodiments, in the vertical direction, the first rotation axis C1 is closer to the bottom surface 102 of the bracket 10 than the second axis, meaning the first rotation axis C1 is lower than the second axis. Alternatively, the first rotation axis C1 is farther from the bottom surface 102 of the bracket 10 than the second axis, meaning the first rotation axis C1 is higher than the second axis. This embodiment is only illustrated with the first rotation axis C1 being further to the upper right than the second axis.

[0140] Optionally, in some embodiments, the first rotation axis C1 and the second axis may be located inside the bracket 10. In other embodiments, the first rotation axis C1 and the second axis may also be located outside the bracket 10, for example, the first rotation axis C1 and the second axis may be located above the bracket 10.

[0141] Optionally, in some embodiments, the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 are arranged at intervals on the bracket 10 along the direction of the rotation axis.

[0142] Of course, in other embodiments, the first rotation axis C1 and the second axis can also be set to coincide, which will not affect the movement process of the folding device 1.

[0143] Please refer to this as well. Figures 25-26 , Figure 25 This is a schematic diagram showing the cooperation of the bracket, the first rotating member, and the second rotating member in one embodiment of this application. Figure 26 for Figure 25 The exploded view shows the bracket, the first rotating member, and the second rotating member. In this embodiment, the first rotating member 21 is connected to the bracket 10 through a first rotating shaft 2100 and a first rotating hole 2101. The first rotating shaft 2100 is located in one of the first rotating member 21 and the bracket 10, and the first rotating hole 2101 is located in the other of the first rotating member 21 and the bracket 10.

[0144] In related technologies, various structural methods can be adopted to achieve the connection between the first rotating member 21, the second rotating member 22, and the support 10. For example, if it is necessary for the rotation axis between the first rotating member 21 and the support 10 to be located outside the support 10, such as above the support 10, an arc-shaped groove can be used. The arc-shaped groove forms a virtual center, thereby overcoming the positional limitation of the rotation center and placing the rotation center above the support 10, thus ensuring that there is no interference with the flexible component after folding. However, the aforementioned arc-shaped virtual groove requires a large space, increasing the size of the support 10 and affecting the miniaturization of the folding device 1. Furthermore, the size and gap of the arc-shaped virtual groove are difficult to control, which can easily cause wobbling during movement and reduce the stability of the folding device 1.

[0145] Therefore, in this embodiment, the first rotating member 21 and the bracket 10 can be connected through a first rotating shaft 2100 and a first rotating hole 2101. In other words, the first rotating part 210 and the bracket 10 are connected through a first rotating shaft 2100 and a first rotating hole 2101. The axis of the first rotating shaft 2100 coincides with the axis of the first rotating hole 2101, and the axis of the first rotating shaft 2100 coincides with the first rotating axis C1 between the first rotating member 21 and the bracket 10, thereby realizing the rotatable connection of the first rotating member 21 to the bracket 10. For example, when the first rotating shaft 2100 is provided on the first rotating part 210, the first rotating hole 2101 is provided on the bracket 10, or when the first rotating shaft 2100 is provided on the bracket 10, the first rotating hole 2101 is provided on the first rotating part 210. This embodiment is only illustrated by the example of the first rotating shaft 2100 being provided on the first rotating part 210 and the first rotating hole 2101 being provided on the bracket 10. Specifically, the first rotating shaft 2100 protrudes from the opposite sides of the first rotating member 21. The bracket 10 is provided with a first receiving hole 2102 that simultaneously penetrates the top surface 101, the bottom surface 102, and the first side surface 103. The first rotating hole 2101 is provided on the two opposite side walls 52 of the first receiving hole 2102. The first rotating shaft 2100 is inserted into the first rotating hole 2101 so that the first rotating shaft 2100 can rotate within the first rotating hole 2101, thereby causing the first rotating member 21 to rotate relative to the bracket 10.

[0146] Therefore, this embodiment employs a cooperative method between the first rotating shaft 2100 and the first rotating hole 2101, positioning both within the bracket 10, which lowers the position of the first rotating axis centerline C1. Compared to the structure of an arc-shaped virtual slide, only the first rotating hole 2101 or the first rotating shaft 2100 needs to be provided on the bracket 10, eliminating the need for an arc-shaped slide. This reduces the size of the bracket 10 and the overall size of the folding device 1, achieving miniaturization of the folding device 1. Furthermore, the cooperative rotation method between the first rotating shaft 2100 and the first rotating hole 2101 allows for better control of size and clearance, reducing the risk of wobbling during movement of the folding device 1.

[0147] Of course, in other embodiments, the first rotating shaft 2100 may also be provided on the two opposite side walls 52 of the first receiving hole 2102, and the first rotating hole 2101 is provided on the opposite sides of the first rotating part 210. The first rotating shaft 2100 is inserted into the first rotating hole 2101 so that the first rotating shaft 2100 can rotate in the first rotating hole 2101, thereby causing the first rotating member 21 to rotate relative to the bracket 10.

[0148] It is worth noting that the first rotating hole 2101 mentioned in this embodiment can be a through hole or a blind hole. A through hole refers to the first rotating hole 2101 penetrating both opposite surfaces of the structural member, while a blind hole refers to the first rotating member 21 penetrating only one surface of the structural member. Therefore, a blind hole can also be called a groove.

[0149] Optionally, in some embodiments, the two first rotating portions 210 located on opposite sides of the bracket 10 are arranged symmetrically about the bracket 10. In other embodiments, the two first rotating portions 210 may also be arranged asymmetrically, for example, the two axis lines of the two first rotating portions 210 may coincide with each other.

[0150] Furthermore, the first rotating shaft 2100 and the first rotating part 210 or the bracket 10 can be either fixedly connected or rotatably connected. For example, in this embodiment, the first rotating shaft 2100 is disposed on the first rotating part 210. The first rotating shaft 2100 can be fixedly disposed on the first rotating part 210 so that the first rotating shaft 2100 and the first rotating part 210 remain relatively stationary. The first rotating shaft 2100 is inserted into the first rotating hole 2101 and rotates relative to the first rotating hole 2101, thereby causing the first rotating member 21 to rotate relative to the bracket 10. Alternatively, the first rotating shaft 2100 can also be rotatably connected to the first rotating part 210 so that the first rotating shaft 2100 and the first rotating part 210 remain relatively rotating. In this way, the first rotating shaft 2100 can still rotate within the first rotating hole 2101, thereby causing the first rotating member 21 to rotate relative to the bracket 10. For example, the first rotating part 210 has a first receiving hole 2103 that extends through its opposite sides, the first rotating shaft 2100 extends through the first receiving hole 2103, and the opposite ends of the first rotating shaft 2100 protrude from the opposite sides of the first rotating part 210.

[0151] Optionally, when the first rotating shaft 2100 is fixed to the first rotating part 210, the first rotating shaft 2100 and the first rotating part 210 can be an integral structure or a separate structure. When the first rotating shaft 2100 and the first rotating part 210 are an integral structure, they are manufactured in one process; however, for ease of understanding, the first rotating shaft 2100 and the first rotating part 210 are given different names. When the first rotating shaft 2100 and the first rotating part 210 are separate structures, they are manufactured separately and then connected together by various methods, such as insertion. This embodiment is only illustrated illustratively using the example of the first rotating shaft 2100 and the first rotating part 210 being separate structures.

[0152] Please refer to this again. Figures 25-26In this embodiment, the second rotating member 22 and the bracket 10 are connected by a second rotating shaft 2200 and a second rotating hole 2201. The second rotating shaft 2200 is provided in one of the second rotating member 22 and the bracket 10, and the second rotating hole 2201 is provided in the other of the second rotating member 22 and the bracket 10.

[0153] Since the second rotating member 22 can be connected to the rotating member of the bracket 10, in this embodiment, the second rotating member 22 and the bracket 10 can be connected through the second rotating shaft 2200 and the second rotating hole 2201. In other words, the second rotating part 220 and the bracket 10 are connected through the second rotating shaft 2200 and the second rotating hole 2201. The axis of the second rotating shaft 2200 coincides with the axis of the second rotating hole 2201, and the axis of the second rotating shaft 2200 coincides with the second rotating axis C2 between the second rotating member 22 and the bracket 10, thereby realizing the rotatable connection of the second rotating member 22 to the bracket 10. For example, when the second rotating shaft 2200 is provided on the second rotating part 220, the second rotating hole 2201 is provided on the bracket 10, or when the second rotating shaft 2200 is provided on the bracket 10, the second rotating hole 2201 is provided on the second rotating part 220. This embodiment is only illustrated by the second rotating shaft 2200 being disposed on the second rotating part 220 and the second rotating hole 2201 being disposed on the bracket 10. Specifically, the second rotating shaft 2200 protrudes from the opposite sides of the second rotating member 22. The bracket 10 is provided with a second receiving hole 2202 that simultaneously penetrates the top surface 101, the bottom surface 102, and the second side surface 104. The second rotating hole 2201 is disposed on the two opposite side walls 52 of the second receiving hole 2202. The second rotating shaft 2200 is inserted into the second rotating hole 2201 so that the second rotating shaft 2200 can rotate within the second rotating hole 2201, thereby causing the second rotating member 22 to rotate relative to the bracket 10.

[0154] Therefore, this embodiment employs a combination of the second rotating shaft 2200 and the second rotating hole 2201, positioning the first rotating shaft 2100 and the first rotating hole 2101 within the bracket 10, thereby lowering the position of the first rotating axis centerline C1. Compared to the structure of an arc-shaped virtual slide groove, only the second rotating hole 2201 or the second rotating shaft 2200 needs to be provided on the bracket 10, eliminating the need for an arc-shaped slide groove. This reduces the size of the bracket 10 and the overall size of the folding device 1, achieving miniaturization of the folding device 1. Furthermore, the combination of the second rotating shaft 2200 and the second rotating hole 2201 allows for better control of size and clearance, reducing the risk of wobbling during the movement of the folding device 1.

[0155] Of course, in other embodiments, the second rotating shaft 2200 may also be provided on the two opposite side walls 52 of the second receiving hole 2202, and the second rotating hole 2201 may be provided on the opposite sides of the second rotating part 220. The second rotating shaft 2200 is inserted into the second rotating hole 2201 so that the second rotating shaft 2200 can rotate in the second rotating hole 2201, thereby causing the second rotating member 22 to rotate relative to the bracket 10.

[0156] It is worth noting that the second rotating hole 2201 mentioned in this embodiment can be a through hole or a blind hole. A through hole refers to the second rotating hole 2201 penetrating both opposite surfaces of the structural member, while a blind hole refers to the second rotating member 22 penetrating only one surface of the structural member. Therefore, a blind hole can also be called a groove.

[0157] Optionally, in some embodiments, the two second rotating portions 220 located on opposite sides of the bracket 10 are arranged symmetrically about the bracket 10. In other embodiments, the two second rotating portions 220 may also be arranged asymmetrically, for example, the two axis lines of the two second rotating portions 220 are arranged to coincide with each other.

[0158] Furthermore, the second rotating shaft 2200 and the second rotating part 220 or the bracket 10 can be either fixedly connected or rotatably connected. For example, in this embodiment, the second rotating shaft 2200 is disposed on the second rotating part 220. The second rotating shaft 2200 can be fixedly disposed on the second rotating part 220 so that the second rotating shaft 2200 and the second rotating part 220 remain relatively stationary. The second rotating shaft 2200 is inserted into the second rotating hole 2201 and rotates relative to the second rotating hole 2201, thereby causing the second rotating member 22 to rotate relative to the bracket 10. Alternatively, the second rotating shaft 2200 can also be rotatably connected to the second rotating part 220 so that the second rotating shaft 2200 and the second rotating part 220 remain relatively rotating. In this way, the second rotating shaft 2200 can still rotate within the second rotating hole 2201, thereby causing the second rotating member 22 to rotate relative to the bracket 10. For example, the second rotating part 220 has a second receiving hole 2203 that extends through its opposite sides, the second rotating shaft 2200 extends through the second receiving hole 2203, and the opposite ends of the second rotating shaft 2200 protrude from the opposite sides of the second rotating part 220.

[0159] Optionally, when the second rotating shaft 2200 is fixed to the second rotating part 220, the second rotating shaft 2200 and the second rotating part 220 can be an integral structure or a separate structure. When the second rotating shaft 2200 and the second rotating part 220 are an integral structure, they are manufactured in one process; however, for ease of understanding, the second rotating shaft 2200 and the second rotating part 220 are given different names. When the second rotating shaft 2200 and the second rotating part 220 are separate structures, they are manufactured separately and then connected together by various methods, such as insertion. This embodiment is only illustrated illustratively using the example of the second rotating shaft 2200 and the second rotating part 220 being separate structures.

[0160] Optionally, as mentioned above, if the first rotation axis C1 between the first rotating member 21 and the bracket 10 and the second rotation axis C2 between the second rotating member 22 and the bracket 10 coincide and are collinear, then the first rotating shaft 2100 and the second rotating shaft 2200 can be an integral structure. This integral rotating shaft is simultaneously inserted into the first rotating hole 2101 and the second rotating hole 2201, thereby realizing that the first rotating member 21 rotates to connect to the bracket 10, and the second rotating member 22 rotates to connect to the bracket 10.

[0161] The above is a detailed description of the specific structure of the folding device 1. In addition to the aforementioned structural components, the folding device 1 may also include a synchronization mechanism or a suspension mechanism. The synchronization mechanism allows the support member 31 on the other side of the support 10 to move synchronously and in opposite directions when the connecting member 23 on one side of the bracket 10 rotates, thereby achieving synchronous folding and unfolding of the two support members 31. The suspension mechanism ensures that when the connecting member 23 rotates to a certain angle, if the external force is removed, the connecting member 23 remains stationary and will not automatically fall back. The specific structures of the synchronization mechanism and the suspension mechanism will not be described in detail here. Furthermore, in addition to providing a folding device 1, this application also provides a housing assembly 2 assembled using the folding device 1.

[0162] Please refer to this as well. Figures 27-35 , Figure 27 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the housing assembly in the unfolded state according to one embodiment of this application. Figure 28 for Figure 27 The exploded view of a portion of the housing assembly is shown. Figure 29 for Figure 27 The front view of the housing assembly shown. Figures 30-31 They are respectively Figure 27 The diagram shows cross-sectional views of different parts of the housing assembly. Figure 32This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the housing assembly in a folded state according to one embodiment of this application. Figure 33 for Figure 32 The front view of the housing assembly shown. Figures 34-35 They are respectively Figure 32 The diagram shows cross-sectional views of different parts of the housing assembly.

[0163] This embodiment provides a housing assembly 2, which includes two housings 40 and a folding device 1 as provided in the above embodiments of this application. At least a portion of the two housings 40 are disposed on opposite sides of the folding device 1, and the connector 23 of the folding device 1 is fixed to the housings 40.

[0164] The housing assembly 2 is a modular component, meaning it comprises at least two parts. In this embodiment, the housing assembly 2 mainly includes the housing 40 and the folding device 1 described in the above embodiment. The folding device 1 will not be elaborated further in this embodiment. The housing 40 primarily serves to mount and support structural components. For example, flexible components can be mounted on the housing 40, and structural components such as circuit boards, batteries, and cameras can be housed within the housing 40. Therefore, the housing 40 mainly functions as a mounting and protective element. In some embodiments, the surface of the housing 40 can also serve as an aesthetic surface; therefore, the surface of the housing 40 can be designed accordingly to give it a unique appearance. This embodiment does not limit the shape, material, structure, or other parameters of the housing 40, as long as it fulfills the functions of mounting and protection. For example, the material of the housing 40 can be entirely metal, entirely plastic, or partially metal and partially plastic.

[0165] The connector 23 of the folding device 1 can be fixed to the housing 40. In other words, the housing 40 and the connector 23 can be an integral structure or a separate structure. When the housing 40 and the connector 23 are an integral structure, they are manufactured in one process. However, for ease of understanding, the housing 40 and the connector 23 are given different names. When the housing 40 and the connector 23 are separate structures, they are manufactured separately and then assembled together by various methods such as screw connection, bonding, snap-fit, etc. This embodiment is only illustrated with the example of the housing 40 and the connector 23 being a separate structure.

[0166] Furthermore, at least a portion of the two housings 40 are disposed on opposite sides of the folding device 1. In some embodiments, all of the two housings 40 may be disposed on opposite sides of the folding device 1, for example, each housing 40 may be disposed on the first side 103 of the support 10. In other embodiments, portions of the two housings 40 may be disposed on opposite sides of the folding device 1, while the remaining portions may be disposed on other sides of the folding device 1. For example, a portion of each housing 40 may be disposed on the first side 103 of the support 10, with the remainder disposed on the bottom surface 102 of the support 10.

[0167] When the housing 40 is fixed to the connector 23, when the housing 40 is subjected to an external force applied by the user or by other mechanisms, the housing 40 rotates, thereby causing the connector 23 to rotate. The rotation of the connector 23 causes the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 to rotate. At the same time, the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 drive the connector 23 to slide relative to the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22, causing the support member 31 and the housing 40 to also slide relative to the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22, so that the support member 31 slides and rotates relative to the bracket 10. At the same time, the support member 31 can also rotate relative to the connector 23 during the process of sliding and rotating relative to the bracket 10, until the two support members 31 and the bracket 10 are bent into a teardrop shape or unfolded into a horizontal shape.

[0168] The housing assembly 2 provided in this embodiment can change the overall size of the housing assembly 2 and form a variety of motion trajectories by adopting the folding device 1 provided in the above embodiment of this application.

[0169] Please refer to this as well. Figures 36-37 , Figure 36 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the fit between the housing assembly and the decorative element in one embodiment of this application. Figure 37 for Figure 36 The diagram shows an exploded view of the housing assembly and the decorative element. In this embodiment, the housing assembly 2 also includes a decorative element 50, which includes a bottom wall 51 and a side wall 52 that is bent and connected to the periphery of the bottom wall 51. The bracket 10 of the folding device 1 is fixed to the bottom wall 51.

[0170] In addition to the housing 40 and the folding device 1, the housing assembly 2 may also include a decorative element 50. The mounting element is mainly used to mount the folding device 1, providing a mounting base for the folding device 1. The decorative element 50 also protects the folding device 1, preventing it from being damaged by contact with the outside environment. Simultaneously, the decorative element 50, together with the two housings 40, forms the exterior surface of the housing assembly 2. Therefore, the surface of the decorative element 50 can be designed in the same way, thereby improving the appearance performance of the housing assembly 2. This embodiment does not limit the material, shape, structure, or other parameters of the decorative element 50, as long as the decorative element 50 can achieve its functions of mounting, protection, and appearance.

[0171] The decorative element 50 may include a bottom wall 51 and a side wall 52 that is bent and connected to the periphery of the bottom wall 51. In this embodiment, the bracket 10 can be fixed to the bottom wall 51. In some embodiments, the bracket 10 can be screwed to the bottom wall 51 by means of screws or the like. In other embodiments, it can also be fixed by means of adhesive, snap-fit ​​connection or the like.

[0172] Optionally, the housing assembly 2 may include two or more folding devices 1, with the plurality of folding devices 1 spaced apart on the bottom wall 51 along the length direction of the bottom wall 51.

[0173] Please refer to this as well. Figures 38-39 , Figure 38 This is an exploded view of the first rotating member, the second rotating member, and the decorative member in one embodiment of this application. Figure 39 This is an exploded view of the first rotating member, the second rotating member, and the decorative member in another embodiment of this application. In this embodiment, the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 of the folding device 1 include a clearance portion 53, which is used to clearance the side wall 52; or, the side wall 52 is provided with a clearance space 54, and the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 can be disposed in the clearance space 54.

[0174] Due to the presence of the sidewall 52 of the decorative member 50, the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 in the housing assembly 2 may interfere with the sidewall 52 when they move to the flattened state, thereby hindering the rotation of the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22. Therefore, this embodiment provides two solutions. In one embodiment, a clearance portion 53 can be provided on the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 to avoid the sidewall 52. Specifically, the clearance portion 53 can be provided on the side of the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 near the bottom wall 51, and the clearance portion 53 can be made to protrude in a direction away from the sidewall 52, thereby preventing the sidewall 52 from interfering with the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22. Optionally, the clearance portion 53 can be provided on the first rotating portion 210 of the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating portion 220 of the second rotating member 22.

[0175] In the second embodiment, two clearance spaces 54 can be provided on the side wall 52. When the two supports 31 are fully unfolded, the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 can each be located within a clearance space 54, thereby preventing interference between the side wall 52 and the first and second rotating members 21 and 22. Specifically, the clearance space 54 can simultaneously penetrate the side surface of the side wall 52 facing away from the bottom wall 51, the side surface of the side wall 52 close to the bracket 10, and the side surface of the side wall 52 away from the bracket 10. The bottom wall 51 may not have clearance spaces 54, preventing the user from seeing the interior of the housing assembly 2 through the bottom wall 51, thus more effectively protecting the housing assembly 2.

[0176] In addition, whether the avoidance part 53 is provided on the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 or the avoidance space 54 is provided on the side wall 52, in addition to having the avoidance function, the above-mentioned avoidance design can also be used to make the first rotating member 21, the second rotating member 22 and the side wall 52 contact each other when the two support members 31 are in a fully extended state. The side wall 52 is used to limit the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22, preventing the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 from folding back and damaging the housing assembly 2.

[0177] Please refer to this again. Figures 27-28 In this embodiment, the housing 40 includes a body 41 and a protrusion 42 provided on one side of the body 41. The connector 23 is fixed on the protrusion 42. When the two support members 31 are in a fully unfolded state, the two protrusions 42 are provided on the side of the decorative member 50 away from the folding device 1.

[0178] This embodiment provides a specific structure in which two housings 40 are partially disposed on opposite sides of a folding device 1. Each housing 40 includes a body 41 and a protrusion 42. The body 41 carries a flexible component and has space within it for accommodating and mounting various structural components, such as batteries, circuit boards, camera modules, etc. Since this embodiment includes two housings 40, each housing 40 can have different structural components within its body 41. The protrusion 42 is mainly used to mount the connector 23 in the folding device 1, and also serves to protect the folding device 1. In other embodiments, smaller structural components, such as small plates, can also be provided within the protrusion 42.

[0179] The body 41 and the protrusion 42 can be either an integral structure or a separate structure. When the body 41 and the protrusion 42 are an integral structure, they are manufactured in a single process; however, for ease of understanding, the body 41 and the protrusion 42 are given different names. When the body 41 and the protrusion 42 are separate structures, they are manufactured separately and then connected together by various methods, such as insertion. This embodiment is only illustrated illustratively using the case where the body 41 and the protrusion 42 are an integral structure.

[0180] Regarding the positions of the body 41 and the protrusion 42, the body 41 has a front side 410, a back side 411, and a side side 412 that is bent between the front side 410 and the back side 411 and is close to the folding device 1. The front side 410 is subsequently used to support the flexible component, the back side 411 serves as the exterior surface of the housing assembly 2, and the side side 412 is used to house the protrusion 42. Specifically, the protrusion 42 is located on the side side 412 and close to the back side 411, so that the protrusion 42 and the body 41 can form a stepped structure, that is, form an upward mounting space 413, and the connector 23 and part of the support 31 can be located in the mounting space 413, and the connector 23 is fixed to the surface of the protrusion 42 close to the front side 410. Optionally, the surface of the protrusion 42 facing away from the front side 410 is flush with the back side of the body 41, which can improve the flatness of the surface of the housing 40.

[0181] When the two support members 31 are fully extended, i.e., when the housing assembly 2 is in the extended state, the two protrusions 42 can be located on the side of the decorative member 50 away from the folding device 1. This allows the entire folding device 1 to be housed within the mounting space 413 of the two housings 40, and the two protrusions 42 can be used to conceal the decorative member 50 and the folding device 1, making the housing assembly 2 more visually concise. Optionally, when the two support members 31 are fully extended, the two protrusions 42 can abut against each other, or there can be a certain gap between the two protrusions 42.

[0182] When the two support members 31 are fully folded together, i.e., when the housing assembly 2 is in the folded state, the two protrusions 42, together with their respective connected bodies 41, are located on opposite sides of the folding device 1 and the decorative member 50, and the two housings 40 and the decorative member 50 together constitute the decorative member 50 of the housing assembly 2. Optionally, the sidewall 52 of the decorative member 50 is arc-shaped, so that the housing 40 avoids the other housing during the rotation of the housing 40, preventing interference between the housing 40 and the sidewall 52.

[0183] The above describes the specific structure of housing assembly 2. In addition to describing housing assembly 2, this application also provides an electronic device 3 assembled using the aforementioned housing assembly 2. Please refer to the following: Figures 40-48 , Figure 40 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the electronic device in the unfolded state according to one embodiment of this application. Figure 41 for Figure 40 The diagram shows a partial exploded view of the electronic device. Figures 42-44 They are respectively Figure 40 The diagram shows cross-sectional views of different parts of the electronic device. Figure 45 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the electronic device in a folded state according to one embodiment of this application. Figures 46-48 They are respectively Figure 45The diagram shows cross-sectional views of different parts of the electronic device.

[0184] This embodiment provides an electronic device 3, which includes a flexible member 60 and a housing assembly 2 as provided in the above embodiments of this application. The flexible member 60 is disposed on one side of the housing assembly 2.

[0185] The electronic device 3 provided in this embodiment includes, but is not limited to, mobile terminals such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops, PDAs, personal computers (PCs), personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable media players (PMPs), navigation devices, wearable devices, smart bracelets, and pedometers, as well as fixed terminals such as digital TVs and desktop computers. This embodiment does not limit the type of electronic device 3. This embodiment only uses a mobile phone as an illustrative example.

[0186] The electronic device 3 includes a flexible component 60 and a housing assembly 2. The housing assembly 2 has been described in detail above and will not be repeated here. The flexible component 60 is a structural component with a certain degree of flexibility, allowing it to be bent compared to a rigid component. For example, the flexible component 60 includes, but is not limited to, flexible displays, flexible touchscreens, flexible touch displays, and other flexible components with corresponding functions, or flexible components fixedly attached to a flexible support plate, such as flexible displays and flexible touchscreens attached to a flexible steel plate. The flexible component 60 is located on one side of the housing assembly 2 and can be bent or flattened along with the housing assembly 2. Specifically, the flexible component 60 has a bending area 61 and non-bending areas 62 located on opposite sides of the bending area 61. The bending area 61 corresponds to the folding device 1, and the non-bending areas 62 are fixed to the front surface 410 of the housing 40. Since the flexible element 60 in the bending area 61 is attached to the folding device 1, the shape of the folding device 1 changes when it moves, thus causing the flexible element 60 in the bending area 61 to bend as well, thereby bending or flattening with the movement of the electronic device 3. Since the non-bending area 62 is fixed to the housing 40, the housing 40 only undergoes relative rotational movement, and the shape of the housing 40 itself does not change. Therefore, even if the housing 40 rotates, the flexible element 60 on the housing 40 will not bend.

[0187] The electronic device 3 also has an unfolded state and a folded state. The unfolded state refers to the state where the two support members 31 are fully unfolded, which can also be understood as the state where the flexible member 60 is flattened, or the state where the display surface of the flexible member 60 is flush. The folded state refers to the state where the two support members 31 are fully folded, which can also be understood as the state where the flexible member 60 is bent and the two halves of the flexible member 60 are close to each other, or the state where the display surface of the flexible member 60 is bent. When the electronic device 3 wants to go from the unfolded state to the folded state, that is, when the electronic device 3 needs to be bent, it is only necessary to push or pull the housing 40 towards the center of the electronic device 3 to make the housing 40 rotate. During the rotation of the housing 40, the connecting member 23 and the flexible member 60 fixed on the housing 40 will rotate, which in turn will cause the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 connected to the connecting member 23 to rotate relative to the bracket 10. Since the sliding directions of the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 on the connecting member 23 are not parallel, the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 can drive the connecting member 23 to slide outward relative to the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22, and together drive the housing 40 and the support member 31 to slide away from the bracket 10. During the sliding and rotating process of the connecting member 23, one end of the support member 31 can be driven to slide and rotate relative to the bracket 10 through the rolling groove 3140 and the rolling shaft 3141. Since the first limiting end 3140a of the rolling groove 3140 is in the lower right position and the second limiting end 3140b is in the upper left position, when the rolling shaft 3141 moves from the first limiting end 3140a to the second limiting end 3140b, it can also drive the end of the support member 31 near the bracket 10 to rotate relative to the connecting member 23 in the direction of approaching the connecting member 23, and similarly cause the flexible member 60 on the support member 31 to bend in the direction of approaching the connecting member 23. Finally, after the housing 40 rotates 90°, the flexible parts 60 of the non-bending areas 62 on the two housings 40 abut against each other, so that the electronic device 3 has no gap at the two housings 40 and can be completely abutted. This not only effectively protects the flexible parts 60 but also reduces the thickness of the electronic device 3. The flexible parts 60 of the bending area 61 on the folding device 1 are formed into a teardrop shape that is smaller at the top and larger at the bottom.

[0188] When the electronic device 3 wants to return from its folded state to its unfolded state, the user only needs to pull the housing 40 outwards, causing it to rotate. During this rotation, the connector 23 and flexible member 60 fixed to the housing 40 will also rotate, causing the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 connected to the connector 23 to rotate relative to the bracket 10. Since the sliding directions of the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 on the connector 23 are not parallel, the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22 can drive the connector 23 to slide inwards relative to the first rotating member 21 and the second rotating member 22, simultaneously causing the housing 40 and the support member 31 to slide closer to the bracket 10. During the sliding and rotating process of the connector 23, one end of the support member 31 can slide and rotate relative to the bracket 10 through the rolling groove 3140 and the rolling shaft 3141. During the movement of the rolling shaft 3141 from the second limiting end 3140b to the first limiting end 3140a, it can also drive the end of the support member 31 near the bracket 10 to rotate relative to the connecting member 23 in a direction away from the connecting member 23, causing the support member 31 to return to its flattened position. This, in turn, causes the flexible member 60 on the support member 31 to bend in the opposite direction away from the connecting member 23, giving the flexible member 60 a tendency to return to its flattened state. Finally, when the housing 40 rotates 90° in the opposite direction, the two support members 31 return to their fully unfolded state, and the flexible member 60 also returns to its flat surface shape.

[0189] In summary, the electronic device 3 provided in this embodiment, by employing the housing assembly 2 provided in the above-described embodiments of this application, can change the overall size of the electronic device 3 and form diverse motion trajectories, making it easier for the flexible component 60 to be formed into the desired shape. Furthermore, it can reduce the bending stress of the flexible component 60.

[0190] The above provides a detailed description of the embodiments provided in this application. This document elucidates and explains the principles and implementation methods of this application. The above description is only intended to help understand the methods and core ideas of this application. At the same time, for those skilled in the art, there will be changes in the specific implementation methods and application scope based on the ideas of this application. Therefore, the content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

Claims

1. A folding device, characterized in that, include: support; Two rotating mechanisms are provided on opposite sides of the bracket. Each rotating mechanism includes a first rotating component, a second rotating component, and a connecting component. One end of the first rotating component and the second rotating component are rotatably connected to the bracket, and the other end of the first rotating component and the second rotating component are slidably connected to the connecting component. The sliding directions of the first rotating component and the second rotating component relative to the connecting component are not parallel. as well as The support mechanism includes two support members disposed on opposite sides of the bracket, one end of each support member being rotatably connected to the connector, and the other end being slidably and rotatably connected to the bracket; The connecting member can rotate relative to the bracket, thereby causing the first rotating member and the second rotating member to rotate, and the connecting member can also slide relative to the first rotating member and the second rotating member, thereby causing the support member to slide and rotate relative to the bracket, so as to cause the two support members to fold or unfold with each other.

2. The folding device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The support member also rotates relative to the connector so that when the two support members are in a fully folded state, both support members are located on the same side of the bracket, and the distance between the two support members at the end away from the bracket is less than the distance between the two support members at the end closer to the bracket.

3. The folding device as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The support member includes a support portion and a rolling portion connected to the periphery of the support portion. The rolling portion is slidably and rotatably connected to the bracket. The support portion is farther away from the bracket than the rolling portion. The rolling portion and the bracket are connected by a rolling groove and a rolling shaft. The rolling groove is located in one of the rolling portion and the bracket, and the rolling shaft is located in the other of the rolling portion and the bracket.

4. The folding device as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The support portion has a support surface for supporting the flexible component, and the rolling groove has a first limiting end and a second limiting end opposite to each other. The first limiting end is closer to the support portion than the second limiting end, and the first limiting end is farther away from the support surface than the second limiting end. When the two support members are fully extended, the rolling shaft is positioned at the first limiting end; when the two support members are fully folded, the rolling shaft is positioned at the second limiting end.

5. The folding device as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The rolling groove also has a connecting end that connects the first limiting end and the second limiting end, and the connecting end protrudes in a direction away from the supporting surface.

6. The folding device as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that, The two support portions are arranged symmetrically about the bracket, and the two rolling portions are located on the same side or opposite sides of the bracket.

7. The folding device as claimed in claim 6, characterized in that, The two rolling portions are located on the same side of the bracket, one rolling portion is closer to the bracket than the other rolling portion, and the orthographic projection of one rolling portion on the bracket at least partially overlaps with the orthographic projection of the other rolling portion on the bracket.

8. The folding device according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The first rotating member includes a first rotating part rotatably connected to the bracket and a first sliding part slidably connected to the connector. The first sliding part and the connector are connected by a first slider and a first sliding groove. The first slider is disposed in one of the first sliding part and the connector, and the first sliding groove is disposed in the other of the first sliding part and the connector.

9. The folding device as claimed in claim 8, characterized in that, The second rotating member includes a second rotating part rotatably connected to the bracket and a second sliding part slidably connected to the connector. The second sliding part and the connector are connected by a second slider and a second sliding groove. The second slider is disposed in one of the second sliding part and the connector, and the second sliding groove is disposed in the other of the second sliding part and the connector.

10. The folding device as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that, The support member has a support surface for supporting the flexible member. The distance between the end of the first slider near the first rotating part and the support surface is greater than the distance between the end of the first slider away from the first rotating part and the support surface. The distance between the end of the second slider near the second rotating part and the support surface is less than the distance between the end of the second slider away from the second rotating part and the support surface.

11. The folding device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The first rotation axis between the first rotating member and the bracket is parallel to the second rotation axis between the second rotating member and the bracket.

12. The folding device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The first rotating member and the bracket are connected by a first rotating shaft and a first rotating hole. The first rotating shaft is located in one of the first rotating member and the bracket, and the first rotating hole is located in the other of the first rotating member and the bracket.

13. The folding device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The second rotating member is connected to the bracket via a second rotating shaft and a second rotating hole. The second rotating shaft is located in one of the second rotating member and the bracket, and the second rotating hole is located in the other of the second rotating member and the bracket.

14. The folding device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The end of the support member away from the bracket is connected to the connector through an arc groove and an arc rail. The arc groove is provided in one of the support member and the bracket, and the arc rail is provided in the other of the support member and the bracket.

15. A housing assembly, characterized in that, The housing assembly includes two housings and a folding device as described in any one of claims 1-14, wherein at least portions of the two housings are disposed on opposite sides of the folding device, and the connector of the folding device is fixed to the housings.

16. The housing assembly as claimed in claim 15, characterized in that, The housing assembly also includes a decorative element, which includes a bottom wall and a side wall that is bent and connected to the periphery of the bottom wall, and the bracket of the folding device is fixed to the bottom wall.

17. The housing assembly as claimed in claim 16, characterized in that, The first and second rotating members of the folding device include a clearance portion for clearance of the side wall; or, the side wall is provided with a clearance space, and the first and second rotating members can be disposed within the clearance space.

18. The housing assembly as claimed in claim 16, characterized in that, The housing includes a body and a protrusion on one side of the body. The connector is fixed on the protrusion. When the two support members are in a fully unfolded state, the two protrusions are located on the side of the decorative member away from the folding device.

19. An electronic device, characterized in that, The electronic device includes a flexible element and a housing assembly as described in any one of claims 15-16, wherein the flexible element is disposed on one side of the housing assembly.

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