Foldable electronic device

Abstract

The embodiment of the application provides a kind of foldable electronic equipment, when the second shell and the third shell are relatively folded, the second rotating shell is rotated relative to the second shell, and the second sliding shell is slid relative to the second rotating shell towards the direction of approaching the first shell, when the foldable electronic equipment is switched from the first folding state to the second folding state, the first rotating shell is rotated relative to the first shell, and the first sliding shell is slid relative to the first rotating shell towards the direction of approaching the first shell, so that the constant length of the screen of the foldable electronic equipment during folding and unfolding is realized, and the problems such as stretching or extrusion of the screen in the foldable electronic equipment are avoided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of terminal device technology, and in particular to a foldable electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] With the gradual maturation of flexible screen technology, the way electronic devices are displayed has undergone tremendous changes. One of these changes is the emergence of foldable phones, computers, and other electronic devices. The displays of foldable electronic devices can flexibly switch modes according to different usage scenarios, while also having a high screen-to-body ratio and high clarity. For example, a foldable phone can be folded to the size of a traditional phone, making it easy to carry, while unfolding it can have the display size of a tablet. These features have made foldable electronic devices one of the most sought-after products.

[0003] In related technologies, for tri-fold electronic devices, foldable electronic devices typically include a first structural component, a second structural component, a third structural component, and two hinge structures. The first and second structural components, as well as the second and third structural components, are rotatably connected via hinge structures, allowing relative rotation between them to achieve folding or unfolding. Furthermore, a flexible screen covers the first, second, and third structural components and the hinge structures. When the first and second structural components, as well as the second and third structural components, rotate relative to each other via the hinge structures to a flattened state on the same plane, the flexible screen unfolds accordingly; when the first and second structural components, as well as the second and third structural components, rotate relative to each other via the hinge structures to a folded state, the flexible screen folds.

[0004] However, during the folding and unfolding process of the aforementioned tri-fold electronic device, the flexible screen is stretched or compressed, which makes the flexible screen prone to tightness or arching. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a foldable electronic device that maintains a constant screen length during folding and unfolding, thus avoiding stretching or compression of the screen.

[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a foldable electronic device, which includes at least: a flexible display screen, a first housing, a second housing, a third housing, a first pivot assembly, and a second pivot assembly; the first housing and the second housing are folded or unfolded relative to each other via the first pivot assembly, and the second housing and the third housing are folded or unfolded relative to each other via the second pivot assembly;

[0007] The flexible display screen includes: a continuous first display area, a second display area, and a third display area; the first display area covers one side of the first housing, the second display area covers one side of the second housing, and the third display area covers one side of the third housing;

[0008] The second housing includes: a first rotating housing and a first sliding housing slidably connected to the first rotating housing; the first rotating shaft assembly is rotatably connected to the first rotating housing and is fixedly connected to the first housing; the third housing includes: a second rotating housing and a second sliding housing slidably connected to the second rotating housing; the second rotating shaft assembly is rotatably connected to the second rotating housing and is fixedly connected to the first sliding housing of the second housing;

[0009] When the foldable electronic device is in the first folded state, the second housing and the third housing are stacked sequentially, and the second display area is positioned opposite to the third display area; when the foldable electronic device is in the second folded state, the first housing, the third housing and the second housing are stacked sequentially, and the second display area is positioned opposite to the third display area, and the second display area is positioned opposite to the first display area.

[0010] During the process of the second housing and the third housing being folded relative to each other, the second rotating housing rotates relative to the second housing, and the second sliding housing slides relative to the second rotating housing toward the direction of the first housing; during the process of the foldable electronic device switching from the first folded state to the second folded state, the first rotating housing rotates relative to the first housing, and the first sliding housing slides relative to the first rotating housing toward the direction of the first housing.

[0011] The foldable electronic device provided in this application embodiment has a second rotating housing that rotates relative to the first housing via a first rotating shaft assembly during the folding process of the second and third housings. The second sliding housing also slides relative to the second rotating housing towards the first housing via the first rotating shaft assembly. When the foldable electronic device switches from a first folded state to a second folded state, the first rotating housing rotates relative to the first housing via the second rotating shaft assembly, and the first sliding housing slides relative to the first rotating housing towards the first housing via the second rotating shaft assembly.

[0012] In this way, during the process of switching the foldable electronic device from a flattened state to a first folded state, when the second rotating shell of the third shell rotates relative to the second shell, the second sliding shell of the third shell slides relative to the second rotating shell towards the first shell. This avoids stretching or compression between the second display area covering the second shell and the third display area covering the third shell, thereby preventing the second and third display areas from becoming tight or arched. Similarly, during the process of switching the foldable electronic device from a first folded state to a second folded state, when the first rotating shell of the second shell rotates relative to the first shell, the first sliding shell of the second shell slides relative to the first rotating shell towards the first shell. This avoids stretching or compression between the first display area covering the first shell and the second display area covering the second shell, thereby preventing the first and second display areas from becoming tight or arched. Therefore, the embodiments of this application can improve the user experience of using the foldable electronic device to a certain extent.

[0013] In one possible implementation, during the process of the foldable electronic device switching from the second folded state to the first folded state, the first rotating housing rotates relative to the first housing, and the first sliding housing slides relative to the first rotating housing in a direction away from the first housing;

[0014] During the unfolding of the second housing and the third housing, the second rotating housing rotates relative to the second housing, and the second sliding housing slides relative to the second rotating housing in a direction away from the first housing;

[0015] Furthermore, when the second housing and the third housing are unfolded relative to each other until the foldable electronic device is in a flattened state, the first housing, the second housing, and the third housing are all located on the same plane.

[0016] In this way, during the process of switching the foldable electronic device from the second folded state to the first folded state, when the first rotating shell of the second housing rotates relative to the first housing, the first sliding shell of the second housing slides away from the first housing relative to the first rotating shell. This avoids stretching or compression between the first display area covering the first housing and the second display area covering the second housing, thus preventing the first and second display areas from becoming taut or arched. Similarly, during the process of switching the foldable electronic device from the first folded state to the flattened state, when the second rotating shell of the third housing rotates relative to the second housing, the second sliding shell of the third housing slides away from the first housing relative to the second rotating shell. This avoids stretching or compression between the second display area covering the second housing and the third display area covering the third housing, thus preventing the second and third display areas from becoming taut or arched.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the first rotating shaft assembly includes: a first main shaft, a first chain assembly, a first rotating member, a first sliding member, and a first synchronization mechanism; the first main shaft is fixedly connected to the first housing, the first rotating member is fixedly connected to the first rotating housing, and the first sliding member is fixedly connected to the first sliding housing; one end of the first chain assembly is fixedly connected to the first main shaft, and the other end of the first chain assembly is rotatably connected to the first synchronization mechanism.

[0018] The first synchronization mechanism is provided with a first gear section and a second gear section, the first rotating member is provided with a first rack, and the first sliding member is provided with a second rack. The first gear section meshes with the first rack, and the second gear section meshes with the second rack.

[0019] The first pivot assembly uses a first chain assembly and a first synchronization mechanism as the transmission mechanism. During the process of switching the foldable electronic device from the first folded state to the second folded state, or from the second folded state to the first folded state, the first sliding member is driven by the first chain assembly and the first synchronization mechanism. This makes the movement speed of the first sliding member match the movement speed of the end of the flexible display screen (i.e., the end of the second display area close to the first display area). This can reduce the tension on the flexible display screen, thereby reducing the arching of the flexible display screen or the pulling force on the flexible display screen, and thus affecting the user experience to a certain extent.

[0020] In one possible implementation, the rotation radius of the first gear is R1, the rotation radius of the second gear is R2, the moving speed of the first rotating member is V1, and the moving speed of the first sliding member is V2.

[0021] V1 / V2 = (R1 + R2) / R2.

[0022] In this way, the moving speed of the first rotating member is less than the moving speed of the first sliding member. The first chain assembly and the first synchronization mechanism can serve as displacement amplification mechanisms, so that the moving speed of the first sliding member matches the moving speed of the end of the flexible display screen (i.e., the end of the second display area close to the first display area), thereby reducing the arching of the flexible display screen or reducing the tensile force on the flexible display screen.

[0023] In one possible implementation, the second rotating shaft assembly includes: a second main shaft, a second chain assembly, a second rotating member, a second sliding member, and a second synchronization mechanism; the second main shaft is fixedly connected to the second housing, the second rotating member is fixedly connected to the second rotating housing, and the second sliding member is fixedly connected to the second sliding housing; one end of the second chain assembly is fixedly connected to the second main shaft, and the other end of the second chain assembly is rotatably connected to the second synchronization mechanism.

[0024] The second synchronization mechanism is provided with a third gear section and a fourth gear section, the second rotating member is provided with a third rack, and the second sliding member is provided with a fourth rack. The third gear section meshes with the third rack, and the fourth gear section meshes with the fourth rack.

[0025] The second pivot assembly uses a second chain assembly and a second synchronization mechanism as the transmission mechanism. During the process of switching from the flattened state to the first folded state, or from the first folded state to the flattened state, the second sliding member is driven by the second chain assembly and the second synchronization mechanism. This makes the movement speed of the second sliding member match the movement speed of the end of the flexible display screen (i.e., the end of the third display area close to the second display area). This can reduce the tension on the flexible display screen, thereby reducing the arching of the flexible display screen or the pulling force on the flexible display screen, which can affect the user experience to a certain extent.

[0026] In one possible implementation, the rotation radius of the third gear is R3, the rotation radius of the fourth gear is R4; the moving speed of the second rotating member is V3, and the moving speed of the second sliding member is V4.

[0027] V3 / V4 = (R3 + R4) / R4.

[0028] In this way, the moving speed of the second rotating member is less than the moving speed of the second sliding member. The second chain assembly and the second synchronization mechanism can serve as displacement amplification mechanisms, so that the moving speed of the second sliding member matches the moving speed of the end of the flexible display screen (i.e., the end of the third display area close to the second display area), thereby reducing the arching of the flexible display screen or reducing the tensile force on the flexible display screen.

[0029] In one possible implementation, it further includes: a locking tongue mechanism; the locking tongue mechanism includes: a locking tongue assembly and a fastening assembly that cooperates with the locking tongue assembly; the locking tongue assembly is movably connected to the first sliding housing, and the fastening assembly is fixed to the first rotating housing;

[0030] During the folding process of the second housing and the third housing, the locking tongue assembly engages and locks with the fastening assembly to prevent the first sliding housing from sliding relative to the first rotating housing; when the foldable electronic device is in the first folded state, the locking tongue assembly disengages from the fastening assembly to allow the first sliding housing to slide relative to the first rotating housing.

[0031] When the locking tongue assembly and the fastening assembly are engaged and locked, the first sliding housing cannot slide relative to the first rotating housing. When the locking tongue assembly and the fastening assembly are disengaged, the first sliding housing can slide relative to the first rotating housing. In other words, when the second rotating housing rotates relative to the first sliding housing, the first sliding housing cannot slide relative to the first rotating housing; when the second rotating housing does not rotate relative to the first sliding housing, and the second housing and the third housing are positioned opposite each other, the first sliding housing can slide relative to the first rotating housing. This allows for management of the rotation sequence of the first and second rotating shaft assemblies. During the process of the foldable electronic device changing from a flattened state to a folded state, the second rotating shaft assembly first drives the third housing to fold relative to the second housing, and then the first rotating shaft assembly drives the second housing to fold relative to the first housing.

[0032] In one possible implementation, the latch assembly includes: a latch body and a first magnet array fixed to the latch body; a second magnet array is disposed on the second sliding housing, and both the first magnet array and the second magnet array are arranged along the extension direction of the second main shaft; when the second rotating housing rotates around the second rotating shaft assembly, the latch body engages and locks with the fastening assembly; when the foldable electronic device is in a first folded state, the first magnet array and the second magnet array are close to each other and repel each other, and the first magnet array drives the latch assembly to disengage from the fastening assembly.

[0033] When the second rotating housing rotates relative to the first sliding housing around the second rotating shaft assembly, the third housing is at a distance from the second housing. Therefore, there is a distance between the first magnet array and the second magnet array, and no magnetic induction can be generated between the first magnet array and the second magnet array. Thus, the locking tongue body and the fastening assembly are locked together. When the foldable electronic device is in the first folded state (i.e., the second rotating housing does not rotate relative to the first sliding housing, and the second housing and the third housing are arranged opposite each other), the first magnet array and the second magnet array are close to each other, and magnetic induction is generated between the first magnet array and the second magnet array. Since the first magnet array and the second magnet array repel each other, the first magnet array can drive the locking tongue assembly and the fastening assembly to disengage from each other, thereby realizing the management of the rotation sequence of the first rotating shaft assembly and the second rotating shaft assembly.

[0034] In one possible implementation, it further includes: at least one elastic element; one end of the elastic element is connected to the latch assembly, and the other end of the elastic element is connected to the first sliding housing. The elastic element provides an elastic force for the movable connection between the latch assembly and the first sliding housing.

[0035] In one possible implementation, it further includes: at least one guide member; the elastic member is sleeved on the guide member, and one end of the guide member is fixed to the latch assembly. The guide member can provide guiding force in the elastic elongation direction and contraction direction of the elastic member, preventing the elastic member from bending and affecting the fit between the latch assembly and the first sliding housing.

[0036] In one possible implementation, when the foldable electronic device is in a first folded state, the distance between the second display area and the third display area in a first direction is less than the minimum size of the first housing in the first direction; the first direction is the stacking direction of the second housing and the third housing;

[0037] The first housing has a clearance opening on the side facing away from the first display area; in the second folded state, the third housing, the third display area, the second pivot assembly, the second housing, and at least a portion of the second display area are located within the clearance opening.

[0038] By creating a clearance opening on the side of the first housing facing away from the first display area, when the foldable electronic device is in its second folded state, the third housing, the third display area, the second hinge assembly, the second housing, and at least a portion of the second display area are all located within the clearance opening. Furthermore, when the foldable electronic device is in its first folded state, the second and third display areas are positioned opposite each other, and the distance between the second and third display areas in the first direction (i.e., the stacking direction of the second and third housings) is less than the minimum dimension of the first housing in the first direction. Thus, the first housing has an unequal thickness design, with the thinner end of the first housing having the clearance opening. In the folded state, the third housing, the third display area, the second hinge assembly, the second housing, and at least a portion of the second display area are all housed within the clearance opening, resulting in a smaller volume for the foldable electronic device in its folded state. Additionally, the foldable electronic device can achieve a three-section fold through the above configuration. In the unfolded state, the first, second, and third display areas can form a larger display screen. Therefore, the foldable electronic device provided in this embodiment has a larger screen in the unfolded state and a smaller volume in the folded state, significantly improving the user experience.

[0039] In one possible implementation, when the foldable electronic device is in a second folded state, the distance between the second display area and the first display area in the first direction is less than or equal to the maximum size of the first housing in the first direction.

[0040] When the foldable electronic device is in its second folded state, the distance between the second display area and the first display area in the first direction is less than or equal to the maximum dimension of the thick end of the first housing in the first direction. This ensures that the third housing, the third display area, the second hinge assembly, the second housing, and at least a portion of the second display area are completely housed within the clearance opening. This ensures that the second housing and the portion of the second display area parallel to the first display area do not protrude from the clearance opening. In other words, the portion of the second display area parallel to the first display area is flush with or slightly recessed into the thick end of the first housing. This helps to improve the overall aesthetics of the foldable electronic device.

[0041] In one possible implementation, the dimensions of the second housing in the first direction are the same as those of the third housing in the first direction.

[0042] In this way, the side of the second housing that is away from the second display area is flush with the side of the third housing that is away from the third housing, which helps to improve the overall aesthetics of the foldable electronic device in the flattened state.

[0043] In one possible implementation, the second display area includes a first sub-display area and a second sub-display area connected to the first sub-display area; the third display area includes a third sub-display area and a fourth sub-display area connected to the third sub-display area; the first sub-display area is located between the first display area and the second sub-display area, and the third sub-display area is located between the second sub-display area and the fourth sub-display area; the first display area is fixed to the first housing, the first sub-display area covers the first rotating housing, the second sub-display area is fixed to the first sliding housing, the third sub-display area covers the second rotating housing, and the fourth sub-display area is fixed to the second sliding housing.

[0044] In one possible implementation, the sliding distance of the first slider relative to the first rotating member matches the curling distance of the first sub-display area on the first main axis of the first rotating shaft assembly; the sliding distance of the second slider relative to the second rotating member matches the curling distance of the third sub-display area on the second main axis of the second rotating shaft assembly.

[0045] The sliding distance of the first slider relative to the first rotating member matches the curling distance of the first sub-display area on the first main shaft of the first rotating shaft assembly, ensuring that the tensile force on the end of the second display area closer to the first display area is smaller. The sliding distance of the second slider relative to the second rotating member matches the curling distance of the third sub-display area on the second main shaft of the second rotating shaft assembly, ensuring that the tensile force on the end of the third display area closer to the second display area is smaller.

[0046] In one possible implementation, it further includes: a battery and at least one camera module; the battery and the at least one camera module are both located inside the first housing.

[0047] Since the dimensions of the first housing in the first direction are larger than those of the second and third housings in the first direction, by placing the battery and at least one camera module inside the first housing, it is possible to accommodate a larger battery and camera module. Thus, the thickness space of the entire device can be fully utilized to maximize the stacking space and camera capability of the foldable electronic device. Attached Figure Description

[0048] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of the first housing, second housing, and third housing in a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application when they are in a flattened state;

[0049] Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application, in which the first housing and the second housing are in a flattened state and the third housing is in a folded state relative to the second housing.

[0050] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application, in which the second housing is folded relative to the first housing and the third housing is folded relative to the second housing.

[0051] Figure 4 This is a simplified schematic diagram of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application, in which the second housing is folded relative to the first housing and the third housing is folded relative to the second housing.

[0052] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the structure of the first housing, second housing, and third housing in a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application when they are in a flattened state;

[0053] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application when the first display area, the second display area, and the third display area are in a flattened state;

[0054] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first hinge assembly in a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0055] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first hinge assembly in a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0056] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the structure of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application when the first housing and the third housing are in a flattened state;

[0057] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application when the second housing is folded relative to the first housing;

[0058] Figure 11 A schematic diagram of the structure of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application when the first housing and the third housing are in a flattened state;

[0059] Figure 12 for Figure 11 Enlarged view of point A;

[0060] Figure 13 A schematic diagram of the structure of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application when the first housing and the third housing are in a flattened state;

[0061] Figure 14 for Figure 13 Enlarged diagram of point B.

[0062] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0063] 100 - Foldable electronic device; 110 - First housing; 111 - Clearance opening;

[0064] 112 - Thin end; 113 - Thick end; 120 - Second shell;

[0065] 121 - First rotating housing; 122 - First sliding housing; 130 - Third housing;

[0066] 131-Second rotating housing; 132-Second sliding housing; 1321-Second magnet array;

[0067] 140 - First pivot assembly; 141 - First spindle; 142 - First chain assembly;

[0068] 143-First rotating component; 1431-First rack; 144-First sliding component;

[0069] 1441 - Second rack; 145 - First synchronizing mechanism; 1451 - First gear section;

[0070] 1452 - Second gear section; 150 - Second shaft assembly; 160 - Flexible display screen;

[0071] 161 - First display area; 162 - Second display area; 1621 - First sub-display area;

[0072] 1622 - Second sub-display area; 163 - Third display area; 1631 - Third sub-display area;

[0073] 1632 - Fourth sub-display area; 170 - Locking tongue mechanism; 171 - Locking tongue assembly;

[0074] 1711-Lock tongue body; 1712-First magnet array; 172-Activation assembly;

[0075] 180 - Elastic element; 190 - Guide element; L1 - First direction. Detailed Implementation

[0076] The terminology used in the implementation section of this application is only for explaining specific embodiments of this application and is not intended to limit this application. The implementation of the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0077] The emergence of flexible screen foldable terminal electronic devices has broken the original display method of display devices. By simply folding once or multiple times, the efficiency of information interaction can be multiplied. In the future, multiple folding and roll-up designs can completely subvert the way information interacts. Foldable electronic displays can not only flexibly change and switch modes according to different usage scenarios, but also provide high screen ratio and clarity, gradually becoming a hot research topic.

[0078] Taking a foldable electronic device that can be folded into three layers (i.e., a tri-fold electronic device) as an example, currently, foldable electronic devices such as foldable phones typically include a first structural component, a second structural component, a third structural component, and two hinge structures. The hinge structure is the core mechanism used to realize the folding and unfolding of the foldable phone. The first and second structural components are located on opposite sides of one of the hinge mechanisms, while the second and third structural components are located on opposite sides of the other hinge mechanism. The first and second structural components, as well as the second and third structural components, are rotatably connected through the hinge structures, allowing relative rotation between them. This enables the folding and unfolding of the first and second structural components, as well as the folding and unfolding of the second and third structural components. The flexible screen of the foldable electronic device generally covers the first, second, and third structural components and the two hinge structures.

[0079] When the first and second structural components, as well as the second and third structural components, rotate towards each other via hinges to achieve a folded state, a portion of the flexible screen is folded between the first and second structural components, and another portion is folded between the second and third structural components. When the first and second structural components, as well as the second and third structural components, rotate away from each other via hinges to achieve a flattened state, until the two structural components are flattened on the same horizontal plane, the flexible screen of the foldable electronic device also flattens out. However, in existing foldable electronic devices, the flexible screen is stretched or compressed during folding and unfolding, making it prone to tautness or arching.

[0080] To address the aforementioned problems, this application provides a novel foldable electronic device, such as a foldable screen phone or a foldable screen computer, to solve the above-mentioned technical issues.

[0081] It should be noted that the foldable electronic devices in this application embodiment may include, but are not limited to, mobile or fixed terminals with foldable functions such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops, ultra-mobile personal computers (UMPCs), handheld computers, walkie-talkies, netbooks, POS machines, personal digital assistants (PDAs), wearable devices, and virtual reality devices.

[0082] The specific structure of the foldable electronic device 100 will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and different embodiments.

[0083] Reference Figure 1 As shown, this application provides a foldable electronic device 100, which may include at least: a first housing 110, a second housing 120, a third housing 130, a first pivot assembly 140, and a second pivot assembly 150, wherein the first housing 110 and the second housing 120 are folded or unfolded relative to each other through the first pivot assembly 140, and the second housing 120 and the third housing 130 are folded or unfolded relative to each other through the second pivot assembly 150.

[0084] Specifically, Figure 1 In the case of the foldable electronic device 100, when it is in a flattened state, the first housing 110, the first pivot assembly 140, the second housing 120, the second pivot assembly 150, and the third housing 130 are all located on a single plane. Figure 2 In the first folded state, the third housing 130 is folded relative to the second housing 120, and the first housing 110, the first pivot assembly 140 and the second housing 120 are all located on the same plane. Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the second folded state, the second housing 120 is folded relative to the first housing 110, and the third housing 130 is folded relative to the second housing 120.

[0085] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown in the embodiments of this application, the foldable electronic device 100 may further include a flexible display screen 160. Specifically, the flexible display screen 160 may include a continuous first display area 161, a second display area 162, and a third display area 163, wherein the first display area 161 covers one side of the first housing 110, the second display area 162 covers one side of the second housing 120, and the third display area 163 covers one side of the third housing 130.

[0086] In this embodiment, the second housing 120 may include a first rotating housing 121 and a first sliding housing 122, wherein the first sliding housing 122 is slidably connected to the first rotating housing 121, and the first rotating shaft assembly 140 is fixedly connected to the first housing 110. The third housing 130 may include a second rotating housing 131 and a second sliding housing 132, wherein the second sliding housing 132 is slidably connected to the second rotating housing 131, and the second rotating shaft assembly 150 is fixedly connected to the first sliding housing 122 of the second housing 120.

[0087] When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the first folded state, the second housing 120 and the third housing 130 are stacked sequentially, and the second display area 162 and the third display area 163 are positioned opposite each other. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the second folded state, the first housing 110, the third housing 130, and the second housing 120 are stacked sequentially, and the second display area 162 and the third display area 163 are positioned opposite each other, as are the first display area 161.

[0088] During the folding of the second housing 120 and the third housing 130, the second rotating housing 131 rotates relative to the second housing 120, and the second sliding housing 132 slides relative to the second rotating housing 131 toward the first housing 110. This prevents stretching or compression between the second display area 162 covering the second housing 120 and the third display area 163 covering the third housing 130, thus preventing tension or arching of the second and third display areas 162 and 163.

[0089] During the transition from a first folded state to a second folded state, the first rotating housing 121 rotates relative to the first housing 110, and the first sliding housing 122 slides relative to the first rotating housing 121 toward the first housing 110. This prevents stretching or compression between the first display area 161 covering the first housing 110 and the second display area 162 covering the second housing 120, thus avoiding tightness or arching of the first and second display areas 161 and 162. Therefore, this embodiment of the application can improve the user experience of using the foldable electronic device 100 to a certain extent.

[0090] During the transition from the second folded state to the first folded state, the first rotating housing 121 rotates relative to the first housing 110, and the first sliding housing 122 slides relative to the first rotating housing 121 in a direction away from the first housing 110. This prevents stretching or compression between the first display area 161 covering the first housing 110 and the second display area 162 covering the second housing 120, thereby preventing tension or arching of the first and second display areas 161 and 162.

[0091] Similarly, as the second housing 120 and the third housing 130 unfold relative to each other, the second rotating housing 131 rotates relative to the second housing 120, and the second sliding housing 132 slides relative to the second rotating housing 131 in a direction away from the first housing 110. In this way, during the transition of the foldable electronic device 100 from the first folded state to the flattened state, stretching or compression between the second display area 162 covering the second housing 120 and the third display area 163 covering the third housing 130 can be avoided, thereby preventing the second display area 162 and the third display area 163 from becoming taut or arched.

[0092] Additionally, it is understood that when the second housing 120 and the third housing 130 are unfolded relative to each other to the foldable electronic device 100 being in a flattened state, the first housing 110, the second housing 120, and the third housing 130 are all located on the same plane.

[0093] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown in the embodiment of this application, the first rotating shaft assembly 140 may include: a first main shaft 141, a first chain assembly 142, a first rotating member 143, a first sliding member 144, and a first synchronization mechanism 145. The first main shaft 141 is fixedly connected to the first housing 110, the first rotating member 143 is fixedly connected to the first rotating housing 121, the first sliding member 144 is fixedly connected to the first sliding housing 122, one end of the first chain assembly 142 is fixedly connected to the first main shaft 141, and the other end of the first chain assembly 142 is rotatably connected to the first synchronization mechanism 145.

[0094] The first synchronization mechanism 145 is provided with a first gear part 1451 and a second gear part 1452. The first rotating member 143 is provided with a first rack 1431, and the first sliding member 144 is provided with a second rack 1441. The first gear part 1451 meshes with the first rack 1431, and the second gear part 1452 meshes with the second rack 1441. In this way, when the first rotating member 143 rotates around the first main shaft 141, the first chain assembly 142 drives the first synchronization mechanism 145 to move, and the first sliding member 144 slides relative to the first rotating member 143.

[0095] In this way, the first pivot assembly 140 uses the first chain assembly 142 and the first synchronization mechanism 145 as the transmission mechanism. During the process of switching the foldable electronic device 100 from the first folded state to the second folded state, or from the second folded state to the first folded state, the transmission mechanism of the first chain assembly 142 and the first synchronization mechanism 145 drives the first sliding member 144, so that the movement speed of the first sliding member 144 matches the movement speed of the end of the flexible display screen 160 (i.e., the end of the second display area 162 near the first display area 161), which can reduce the tension on the flexible display screen 160, thereby reducing the arching of the flexible display screen 160 or reducing the pulling force on the flexible display screen 160, and thus affecting the user experience to a certain extent.

[0096] Similarly, the second rotating shaft assembly 150 may include (not shown in the figure) a second main shaft, a second chain assembly, a second rotating member, a second sliding member, and a second synchronization mechanism, wherein the second main shaft is fixedly connected to the second housing, the second rotating member is fixedly connected to the second rotating housing, the second sliding member is fixedly connected to the second sliding housing, one end of the second chain assembly is fixedly connected to the second main shaft, and the other end of the second chain assembly is rotatably connected to the second synchronization mechanism.

[0097] The second synchronization mechanism is provided with a third gear section and a fourth gear section, the second rotating member is provided with a corresponding third rack, and the second sliding member is provided with a corresponding fourth rack. The third gear section meshes with the third rack, and the fourth gear section meshes with the fourth rack.

[0098] The second rotating shaft assembly uses a second chain assembly and a second synchronization mechanism as the transmission mechanism. During the process of switching from the flattened state to the first folded state, or from the first folded state to the flattened state, the second sliding member is driven by the second chain assembly and the second synchronization mechanism. This makes the movement speed of the second sliding member match the movement speed of the end of the flexible display screen 160 (i.e., the end of the third display area 163 near the second display area 162). This can reduce the tension on the flexible display screen 160, thereby reducing the arching of the flexible display screen 160 or reducing the pulling force on the flexible display screen 160, which can affect the user experience to a certain extent.

[0099] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, the first synchronization mechanism 145 and the second synchronization mechanism can be gears.

[0100] In one possible implementation, the first spindle 141 of the first rotating shaft assembly 140 may be connected to the first housing 110 by screws, and the second spindle of the second rotating shaft assembly 150 may be connected to the second housing 120 by screws.

[0101] In the embodiments of this application, the rotation radius of the first gear 1451 may be smaller than the rotation radius of the second gear 1452, and the meshing radius of the first rack 1431 may be smaller than the meshing radius of the second rack 1441.

[0102] In this way, the lateral movement of the synchronization mechanism 145 of the first rotating shaft assembly 140 relative to the first rotating member 143 will be converted into the rotation of the first synchronization mechanism 145 through the first rack 1431 on the first rotating member 143, thereby driving the second rack 1441 on the first sliding member 144 to move laterally in a certain transmission ratio. Since the first sliding member 144 of the first rotating shaft assembly 140 is connected to the first sliding housing 122, the second display area 162 covering the first sliding housing 122 will also slide, thereby matching the length lost by the second display area 162 around the first main shaft 141 when the second housing 120 is folded relative to the first housing 110, thereby achieving a constant screen length for the second display area 162 and avoiding stretching or squeezing of the flexible display screen 160.

[0103] Similarly, the rotation radius of the third gear can be smaller than that of the fourth gear, and the meshing radius of the third rack can be smaller than that of the fourth rack.

[0104] In this way, the lateral movement of the second synchronization mechanism of the second rotating shaft assembly 150 relative to the second rotating member will be converted into the rotation of the second synchronization mechanism through the third rack on the second rotating member, thereby driving the fourth rack on the second sliding member to move laterally in a certain transmission ratio. Since the second sliding member of the second rotating shaft assembly 150 is connected to the second sliding housing 132, the third display area 163 covering the second sliding housing 132 will also slide, thereby matching the length lost by the third display area 163 around the second main shaft when the third housing 130 is folded relative to the second housing 120, thus achieving a constant screen length for the third display area 163.

[0105] It should be noted that the embodiments of this application do not limit the relationship between the rotation radius of the first gear 1451 and the rotation radius of the second gear 1452, the relationship between the rotation radius of the third gear and the rotation radius of the fourth gear, the size relationship between the meshing radius of the first rack 1431 and the meshing radius of the second rack 1441, and the size relationship between the meshing radius of the third rack and the meshing radius of the fourth rack. The size relationship between the two depends on the needs of the actual application scenario.

[0106] For example, the rotation radius of the first gear section 1451 may be equal to or greater than the rotation radius of the second gear section 1452, and the meshing radius of the first rack 1431 may be equal to or greater than the meshing radius of the second rack 1441. The relationship between the rotation radius of the first gear section 1451 and the rotation radius of the second gear section 1452, and the relationship between the meshing radius of the first rack 1431 and the meshing radius of the second rack 1441, depends on the final magnification ratio.

[0107] In this embodiment of the application, the rotation radius of the first gear part 1451 can be R1, the rotation radius of the second gear part 1452 can be R2, the moving speed of the first rotating member 143 can be V1, and the moving speed of the first sliding member 144 can be V2. The relationship between the four can satisfy: V1 / V2=(R1+R2) / R2.

[0108] In this way, the moving speed of the first rotating member 143 is less than the moving speed of the first sliding member 144. The first chain assembly 142 and the first synchronization mechanism 145 can serve as displacement amplification mechanisms, so that the moving speed of the first sliding member 144 matches the moving speed of the end of the flexible display screen 160 (i.e., the end of the second display area 162 near the first display area 161), thereby reducing the arching of the flexible display screen 160 or reducing the tensile force on the flexible display screen 160.

[0109] Similarly, the rotation radius of the third gear can be R3, the rotation radius of the fourth gear can be R4, the moving speed of the second rotating member can be V3, and the moving speed of the second sliding member can be V4. The relationship between the four can satisfy: V3 / V4=(R3+R4) / R4.

[0110] In this way, the moving speed of the second rotating member is less than the moving speed of the second sliding member. The second chain assembly and the second synchronization mechanism can serve as displacement amplification mechanisms, so that the moving speed of the second sliding member matches the moving speed of the end of the flexible display screen 160 (i.e., the end of the third display area close to the second display area), thereby reducing the arching of the flexible display screen 160 or reducing the tensile force on the flexible display screen 160.

[0111] In this embodiment of the application, the foldable electronic device 100 may further include: a locking tongue mechanism 170, specifically, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, the locking tongue mechanism 170 may include a locking tongue assembly 171 and a fastening assembly 172, wherein the fastening assembly 172 cooperates with the locking tongue assembly 171, the locking tongue assembly 171 is movably connected to the first sliding housing 122, and the fastening assembly 172 is fixed to the first rotating housing 121.

[0112] During the folding process of the second housing 120 and the third housing 130, the locking tongue assembly 171 and the fastening assembly 172 engage and lock, preventing the first sliding housing 122 from sliding relative to the second rotating housing 131. Furthermore, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in the first folded state, the locking tongue assembly 171 and the fastening assembly 172 disengage, allowing the first sliding housing 122 to slide relative to the first rotating housing 121.

[0113] When the locking tongue assembly 171 and the fastening assembly 172 are engaged and locked, the first sliding housing 122 cannot slide relative to the first rotating housing 121. When the locking tongue assembly 171 and the fastening assembly 172 disengage, the first sliding housing 122 can slide relative to the first rotating housing 121. In other words, when the second rotating housing 131 rotates relative to the first sliding housing 122, the first sliding housing 122 cannot slide relative to the first rotating housing 121. When the second rotating housing 131 does not rotate relative to the first sliding housing 122, and the second housing 120 and the third housing 130 are positioned opposite each other, the first sliding housing 122 can slide relative to the first rotating housing 121.

[0114] In this way, the rotation sequence of the first pivot assembly 140 and the second pivot assembly can be managed. During the process of the foldable electronic device 100 changing from a flattened state to a folded state, the first pivot assembly 140 is locked, and the second housing 120 cannot be folded relative to the first housing 110. The second pivot assembly 150 first drives the third housing 130 to fold freely relative to the second housing 120. After the third housing 130 has been folded relative to the second housing 120, the first pivot assembly 140 is unlocked, and the first pivot assembly then drives the second housing 120 to fold relative to the first housing 110.

[0115] Reference Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, the latch assembly 171 may include a latch body 1711 and a first magnet array 1712, wherein the first magnet array 1712 is fixed to the latch body 1711. In addition, a second magnet array 1321 may be provided on the second sliding housing 132, and the first magnet array 1712 and the second magnet array 1321 may both be arranged along the extension direction of the second main axis.

[0116] When the second rotating housing 131 rotates around the second rotating shaft assembly 150, the locking tongue body 1711 engages and locks with the fastening assembly 172. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the first folded state, the first magnet array 1712 and the second magnet array 1321 are close together, and the first magnet array 1712 and the second magnet array 1321 repel each other. The first magnet array 1712 causes the locking tongue assembly 171 to disengage from the fastening assembly 172.

[0117] When the second rotating housing 131 rotates around the second rotating shaft assembly 150 relative to the first sliding housing 122, the third housing 130 is at a distance from the second housing 120. Therefore, there is a distance between the first magnet array 1712 and the second magnet array 1321, and no magnetic induction can be generated between the first magnet array 1712 and the second magnet array 1321. As a result, the locking tongue body 1711 is engaged and locked with the fastening assembly 172. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the first folded state (i.e., the second rotating housing 131 does not rotate relative to the first sliding housing 122, and the second housing 120 and the third housing 130 are arranged opposite each other), the first magnet array 1712 and the second magnet array 1321 are close to each other, and magnetic induction is generated between the first magnet array 1712 and the second magnet array 1321. Since the first magnet array 1712 and the second magnet array 1321 repel each other, the first magnet array 1712 can drive the locking tongue assembly 171 and the fastening assembly 172 to disengage from each other, thereby realizing the management of the rotation sequence of the first rotating shaft assembly 140 and the second rotating shaft assembly 150.

[0118] It is understood that in some embodiments, there may be a phase difference between the first magnet array 1712 and the second magnet array 1321. When the second rotating housing 131 rotates relative to the first sliding housing 122, the locking tongue body 1711 and the fastening assembly 172 are engaged and locked. The second rotating housing 131 does not rotate relative to the first sliding housing 122. Moreover, when the second housing 120 and the third housing 130 are arranged opposite each other, the first magnet array 1712 and the second magnet array 1321 are close to each other. The first magnet array 1712 drives the locking tongue assembly 171 and the fastening assembly 172 to disengage from each other.

[0119] Specifically, see Figure 14 As shown, the first magnet array 1712 is arranged in an NSNS pattern along the extension direction of the main axis 141, and the second magnet array 1321 is arranged in an SNSN pattern along the extension direction of the main axis 141. There is a phase difference between the first magnet array 1712 and the second magnet array 1321.

[0120] Additionally, in some embodiments, the foldable electronic device 100 may further include at least one elastic element 180, wherein one end of the elastic element 180 is connected to the latch assembly 171, and the other end of the elastic element 180 is connected to the first sliding housing 122. The elastic element 180 is capable of providing an elastic force for the movable connection between the latch assembly 171 and the first sliding housing 122.

[0121] The elastic element 180 can be a spring or a sheet, etc. This application embodiment does not limit this, as long as it can provide elastic force.

[0122] When the second rotating housing 131 rotates relative to the first sliding housing 122, the third housing 130 is at a distance from the second housing 120. Therefore, there is a distance between the first magnet array 1712 and the second magnet array 1321, and no magnetic induction can be generated between the first magnet array 1712 and the second magnet array 1321. The locking tongue body 1711 is located at the position where the elastic member 180 is pushed out. Therefore, the locking tongue body 1711 is locked with the fastening assembly 172, preventing the first sliding housing 122 from sliding relative to the first rotating housing 121, thereby preventing the first rotating housing 121 from rotating relative to the first housing 110.

[0123] The second rotating housing 131 does not rotate relative to the first sliding housing 122. When the second housing 120 and the third housing 130 are positioned opposite each other (i.e., when the second rotating housing 131 is folded and fits against the first sliding housing 122), magnetic induction is generated between the first magnet array 1712 and the second magnet array 1321. Due to the phase difference between the first magnet array 1712 and the second magnet array 1321, the attraction between them causes the phase difference to change, thereby causing the latch body 1711 to retract. The first magnet array 1712 can drive the latch assembly 171 to disengage from the fastening assembly 172, and the first rotating housing 121 and the first sliding housing 122 can achieve relative sliding unlocking. Thus, the first rotating housing 121 and the first housing 110 can also rotate relative to each other. At this time, the foldable electronic device 100 can be completely folded, thereby managing the rotation sequence of the first rotating shaft assembly 140 and the second rotating shaft assembly 150.

[0124] It should be noted that the number of the first magnet array 1712 can be one, two, three, or more, and this embodiment does not limit this. Correspondingly, the number of the second magnet array 1321 can also be one, two, three, or more, and this embodiment does not limit this.

[0125] In one possible implementation, the foldable electronic device 100 may further include at least one guide member 190, wherein an elastic member 180 is sleeved on the guide member 190, and one end of the guide member 190 is fixed to the latch assembly 171. The guide member 190 can provide guiding force in the elastic elongation and contraction directions of the elastic member 180, preventing the elastic member 180 from bending and affecting the engagement between the latch assembly 171 and the first sliding housing 122.

[0126] In addition, it is understandable that in the folding process of existing foldable electronic devices, the hinge structure needs to cross the middle part to realize the sequential folding of the two side structural components. The hinge structure occupies a lot of the thickness space of the whole device. In addition, the first, second and third structural components are usually designed with equal thickness. The thickness of the whole device is limited by the stacking of the first, second and third structural components and the hinge structure that crosses the axis. Therefore, the existing foldable electronic devices are relatively thick when folded, resulting in a large overall size and inconvenience for carrying.

[0127] In this embodiment of the application, the foldable electronic device 100 in its first folded state, see [reference needed]. Figure 2 or Figure 3 As shown, the distance between the second display area 162 and the third display area 163 in the first direction L1 can be less than the minimum dimension of the first housing 110 in the first direction L1. Here, the first direction L1 is the stacking direction of the second housing 120 and the third housing 130.

[0128] In one possible implementation, the first display area 161 can be covered on one side of the first housing 110 by adhesive bonding. Similarly, the second display area 162 can be covered on one side of the second housing 120 by adhesive bonding, and the third display area 163 can be covered on one side of the third housing 130 by adhesive bonding.

[0129] Reference Figure 5 As shown, a clearance opening 111 may be provided on the side of the first housing 110 facing away from the first display area 161. In the second folded state, the third housing 130, the third display area 163, the second hinge assembly 150, the second housing 120, and at least a portion of the second display area 162 are all located within the clearance opening 111 (see [reference]). Figure 3 (As shown).

[0130] Thus, the first housing 110 has an unequal thickness design, and the thinner end 112 of the first housing 110 has a clearance opening 111. In the second folded state, the third housing 130, the third display area 163, the second hinge assembly 150, the second housing 120, and at least a portion of the second display area 162 are all housed within the clearance opening 111, resulting in a smaller volume for the foldable electronic device 100 in the second folded state. Furthermore, the foldable electronic device 100 can achieve a three-section fold through the above configuration. In the flattened state, the first display area 161, the second display area 162, and the third display area 163 can form a larger display screen. Therefore, the foldable electronic device 100 provided in this embodiment has a larger screen in the flattened state and a smaller volume in the folded state, which can significantly improve the user experience.

[0131] Continue to refer to Figure 2 or Figure 3 As shown, in the second folded state, the distance between the second display area 162 and the first display area 161 in the first direction L1 of the foldable electronic device 100 can be less than or equal to the maximum dimension of the first housing 110 in the first direction L1. Specifically, Figure 2 In the first display area 161, the distance between the second display area 162 and the first display area 161 in the first direction L1 is less than the maximum size of the first housing 110 in the first direction L1.

[0132] This ensures that the third housing 130, the third display area 163, the second hinge assembly 150, the second housing 120, and at least a portion of the second display area 162 are completely housed within the clearance opening 111. This ensures that the second housing 120 and the portion of the second display area 162 parallel to the first display area 161 do not protrude from the clearance opening 111. In other words, the portion of the second display area 162 parallel to the first display area 161 is flush with or slightly recessed into the thick end 113 of the first housing 110. This helps to improve the overall aesthetics of the foldable electronic device 100.

[0133] In some embodiments, the dimensions of the second housing 120 in the first direction L1 may be the same as those of the third housing 130 in the first direction L1. This way, the side of the second housing 120 facing away from the second display area 162 is flush with the side of the third housing 130 facing away from the third housing 130, which helps improve the overall aesthetics of the foldable electronic device 100 in its flattened state.

[0134] like Figure 6 As shown in the embodiment of this application, the second display area 162 may include: a first sub-display area 1621 and a second sub-display area 1622 connected to the first sub-display area 1621, and the third display area 163 may include: a third sub-display area 1631 and a fourth sub-display area 1632 connected to the third sub-display area 1631, wherein the first sub-display area 1621 is located between the first display area 161 and the second sub-display area 1622, and the third sub-display area 1631 is located between the second sub-display area 1622 and the fourth sub-display area 1632.

[0135] The first display area 161 is fixed to the first housing 110, the first sub-display area 1621 covers the first rotating housing 121, the second sub-display area 1622 is fixed to the first sliding housing 122, the third sub-display area 1631 covers the second rotating housing 131, and the fourth sub-display area 1632 is fixed to the second sliding housing 132.

[0136] It is understood that, in the embodiments of this application, the sliding distance of the first sliding member 144 relative to the first rotating member 143 can be matched with the curling distance of the first sub-display area 1621 on the first main shaft 141 of the first rotating shaft assembly 140, so as to ensure that the end of the second display area 162 close to the first display area 161 is subjected to less pulling force.

[0137] Similarly, the sliding distance of the second slider relative to the second rotating member is matched with the curling distance of the third sub-display area 1631 on the second main shaft of the second rotating shaft assembly 150, which can ensure that the end of the third display area 163 close to the second display area 162 is subjected to less pulling force.

[0138] Specifically, see Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, taking the second housing 120 rotating relative to the first housing 110 via the first rotating shaft assembly 140 as an example, when the second display area 162 rotates around the first main shaft 141 of the first rotating shaft assembly 140, a portion of the second display area 162 (i.e., the first sub-display area 1621) will wrap around the first main shaft 141. The sliding distance of the first sliding housing 122 must match the circumference of the portion of the first sub-display area 1621 that wraps around the first main shaft 141, as shown by the dotted line in the figure. This is to ensure that the flexible display screen 160 will not arch or stretch.

[0139] In addition, in this embodiment of the application, the foldable electronic device 100 may also include a battery and at least one camera module (not shown in the figure), both of which are located inside the first housing 110.

[0140] Since the size of the first housing 110 in the first direction L1 is larger than that of the second housing 120 and the third housing 130 in the first direction L1, by placing the battery and at least one camera module inside the first housing 110, it is possible to accommodate a larger battery and camera module. Therefore, the thickness space of the whole device can be fully utilized to maximize the stacking space and camera capability of the foldable electronic device 100.

[0141] In existing three-fold electronic devices, the first, second, and third shells are designed with equal thickness. When a camera module is installed inside the electronic device, the camera module can only use one-third of the overall thickness, which cannot fully utilize the overall thickness to improve camera capabilities.

[0142] It is understood that in the embodiments of this application, the first housing 110 accommodates stacked components (such as batteries and camera modules), and the second housing 120 and the third housing 130 accommodate mechanisms (such as the first pivot assembly 140 and the second pivot assembly 150), thereby maximizing the overall space utilization of the device.

[0143] It should be noted that in the embodiments of this application, the number of camera modules can be one, or in some embodiments, the number of camera modules can be two, in which case one camera module is a front camera module and the other camera module is a rear camera module.

[0144] In some embodiments, the number of front-facing camera modules and rear-facing camera modules disposed within the foldable electronic device 100 can be 1 or N, where N is a positive integer greater than or equal to 1.

[0145] It is understood that the structures illustrated in the embodiments of this application do not constitute a specific limitation on the foldable electronic device 100. In other embodiments of this application, the foldable electronic device 100 may include more or fewer components than illustrated, or combine some components, or separate some components, or have different component arrangements. The illustrated components may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of software and hardware.

[0146] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0147] The devices or elements referred to in the embodiments of this application or implied herein must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of this application. In the description of the embodiments of this application, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise precisely specified.

[0148] The terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," etc. (if present) in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that embodiments of the present application described herein can be implemented, for example, in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms "may include" and "have," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that includes a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.

[0149] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although the embodiments of this application have been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features. These modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A foldable electronic device, characterized in that, At least including: Flexible display screen, first housing, second housing, third housing, first pivot assembly, and second pivot assembly; The first housing and the second housing are folded or unfolded relative to each other via the first pivot assembly, and the second housing and the third housing are folded or unfolded relative to each other via the second pivot assembly; The flexible display screen includes: a continuous first display area, a second display area, and a third display area; the first display area covers one side of the first housing, the second display area covers one side of the second housing, and the third display area covers one side of the third housing; The second housing includes: a first rotating housing and a first sliding housing slidably connected to the first rotating housing; The first rotating shaft assembly is rotatably connected to the first rotating housing, and the first rotating shaft assembly is fixedly connected to the first housing; The third housing includes: a second rotating housing and a second sliding housing slidably connected to the second rotating housing; The second rotating shaft assembly is rotatably connected to the second rotating housing, and the second rotating shaft assembly is fixedly connected to the first sliding housing of the second housing; When the foldable electronic device is in the first folded state, the second housing and the third housing are stacked in sequence, and the second display area and the third display area are arranged opposite to each other; When the foldable electronic device is in the second folded state, the first housing, the third housing, and the second housing are stacked sequentially, and the second display area is positioned opposite to the third display area and opposite to the first display area. During the process of the second housing and the third housing being folded relative to each other, the second rotating housing rotates relative to the second housing, and the second sliding housing slides relative to the second rotating housing toward the first housing; During the process of switching the foldable electronic device from the first folded state to the second folded state, the first rotating housing rotates relative to the first housing, and the first sliding housing slides relative to the first rotating housing toward the first housing.

2. The foldable electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that, During the process of the foldable electronic device switching from the second folded state to the first folded state, the first rotating housing rotates relative to the first housing, and the first sliding housing slides relative to the first rotating housing in a direction away from the first housing; During the unfolding of the second housing and the third housing, the second rotating housing rotates relative to the second housing, and the second sliding housing slides relative to the second rotating housing in a direction away from the first housing; Furthermore, when the second housing and the third housing are unfolded relative to each other until the foldable electronic device is in a flattened state, the first housing, the second housing, and the third housing are all located on the same plane.

3. The foldable electronic device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first rotating shaft assembly includes: a first main shaft, a first chain assembly, a first rotating component, a first sliding component, and a first synchronization mechanism; The first main shaft is fixedly connected to the first housing, the first rotating component is fixedly connected to the first rotating housing, and the first sliding component is fixedly connected to the first sliding housing; One end of the first chain assembly is fixedly connected to the first main shaft, and the other end of the first chain assembly is rotatably connected to the first synchronization mechanism; The first synchronization mechanism is provided with a first gear section and a second gear section, the first rotating member is provided with a first rack, and the first sliding member is provided with a second rack. The first gear section meshes with the first rack, and the second gear section meshes with the second rack.

4. The foldable electronic device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The rotation radius of the first gear is R1, and the rotation radius of the second gear is R2; the moving speed of the first rotating member is V1, and the moving speed of the first sliding member is V2. V1 / V2 = (R1 + R2) / R2.

5. The foldable electronic device according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, The second rotating shaft assembly includes: a second main shaft, a second chain assembly, a second rotating component, a second sliding component, and a second synchronization mechanism; The second main shaft is fixedly connected to the second housing, the second rotating component is fixedly connected to the second rotating housing, and the second sliding component is fixedly connected to the second sliding housing; One end of the second chain assembly is fixedly connected to the second main shaft, and the other end of the second chain assembly is rotatably connected to the second synchronization mechanism; The second synchronization mechanism is provided with a third gear section and a fourth gear section, the second rotating member is provided with a third rack, and the second sliding member is provided with a fourth rack. The third gear section meshes with the third rack, and the fourth gear section meshes with the fourth rack.

6. The foldable electronic device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The rotation radius of the third gear is R3, and the rotation radius of the fourth gear is R4; the moving speed of the second rotating member is V3, and the moving speed of the second sliding member is V4. V3 / V4 = (R3 + R4) / R4.

7. The foldable electronic device according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, Also includes: Locking tongue mechanism; The latch mechanism includes: a latch assembly and a fastening assembly that cooperates with the latch assembly; The locking tongue assembly is movably connected to the first sliding housing, and the fastening assembly is fixed to the first rotating housing; During the relative folding of the second housing and the third housing, the locking tongue assembly engages and locks with the fastening assembly, so that the first sliding housing cannot slide relative to the first rotating housing; When the foldable electronic device is in the first folded state, the latch assembly disengages from the fastening assembly, so that the first sliding housing can slide relative to the first rotating housing.

8. The foldable electronic device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The latch assembly includes: a latch body and a first magnet array fixed to the latch body; A second magnet array is provided on the second sliding housing, and both the first magnet array and the second magnet array are arranged along the extension direction of the second main shaft; When the second rotating housing rotates around the second rotating shaft assembly, the locking tongue body engages and locks with the fastening assembly; Furthermore, when the foldable electronic device is in the first folded state, the first magnet array and the second magnet array are close to each other and repel each other, and the first magnet array drives the locking tongue assembly to disengage from the fastening assembly.

9. The foldable electronic device according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, Also includes: At least one elastic element; one end of the elastic element is connected to the latch assembly, and the other end of the elastic element is connected to the first sliding housing.

10. The foldable electronic device according to claim 9, characterized in that, Also includes: At least one guide member; the elastic member is sleeved on the guide member, and one end of the guide member is fixed to the locking tongue assembly.

11. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that, When the foldable electronic device is in a first folded state, the distance between the second display area and the third display area in the first direction is less than the minimum size of the first housing in the first direction; The first direction is the stacking direction of the second shell and the third shell; An avoidance opening is provided on the side of the first housing that is away from the first display area; In the second folded state, the third housing, the third display area, the second hinge assembly, the second housing, and at least a portion of the second display area are located within the clearance opening of the foldable electronic device.

12. The foldable electronic device according to claim 11, characterized in that, When the foldable electronic device is in the second folded state, the distance between the second display area and the first display area in the first direction is less than or equal to the maximum size of the first housing in the first direction.

13. The foldable electronic device according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The dimensions of the second housing in the first direction are the same as those of the third housing in the first direction.

14. The foldable electronic device according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, The second display area includes: a first sub-display area and a second sub-display area connected to the first sub-display area; The third display area includes: a third sub-display area and a fourth sub-display area connected to the third sub-display area; The first sub-display area is located between the first display area and the second sub-display area, and the third sub-display area is located between the second sub-display area and the fourth sub-display area; The first display area is fixed to the first housing, the first sub-display area covers the first rotating housing, the second sub-display area is fixed to the first sliding housing, the third sub-display area covers the second rotating housing, and the fourth sub-display area is fixed to the second sliding housing.

15. The foldable electronic device according to claim 14, characterized in that, The sliding distance of the first slider relative to the first rotating member matches the curling distance of the first sub-display area on the first main shaft of the first rotating shaft assembly; The sliding distance of the second slider relative to the second rotating member matches the curling distance of the third sub-display area on the second main shaft of the second rotating shaft assembly.

16. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 1-15, characterized in that, Also includes: Battery and at least one camera module; The battery and the at least one camera module are both located inside the first housing.

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