Foldable structure and foldable terminal equipment

Abstract

This application relates to the field of terminal technology, specifically a folding structure and a foldable terminal device. The folding structure includes a hinge assembly, a first mid-frame assembly, and a second mid-frame assembly. The hinge assembly includes a base, a hinge unit, a first connecting unit, and a second connecting unit. The hinge unit includes a first base, a connecting bracket, a first arc arm, and a second arc arm. The first base is fixed to the base, and the first and second arc arms are rotatably connected to the first base. The two ends of the connecting bracket are rotatably connected to the first and second arc arms, respectively. The first arc arm is slidably connected to the first connecting unit, and the second arc arm is slidably connected to the second connecting unit. When the first arc arm rotates relative to the first base, and the second arc arm rotates in the opposite direction relative to the first base, the first and second arc arms can be relatively unfolded or folded, thereby causing the connecting bracket to move closer to or further away from the base. This facilitates the folding structure forming a larger accommodating space in the folded state, capable of accommodating the bending area of ​​a flexible screen.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] As flexible foldable screen technology matures, it is driving significant changes in the display methods of terminal devices using flexible screens. Taking foldable phones as an example, their flexible screens can flexibly change to switch usage modes according to different usage scenarios, which is also the current research and development direction of mobile phone manufacturers.

[0003] For terminal devices such as foldable phones, the flexible screen is only one part of its structure; a folding structure is also needed to achieve the foldability of the entire terminal device. Generally, in flexible foldable terminal products, the flexible foldable screen is folded and unfolded through a folding structure. The folding structure must provide support for the flexible foldable screen when the foldable terminal device is unfolded, and also provide storage space for the bent part of the flexible foldable screen when the foldable terminal device is folded. However, in existing folding technologies, the folding structure is complex, which not only limits the design space of other mechanisms, but also has disadvantages such as high manufacturing difficulty, high cost, and susceptibility to wear. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a folding structure and a foldable terminal device, which can provide a larger space for the flexible screen when the foldable terminal device is folded.

[0005] Firstly, this application provides a folding structure having a folded state and an unfolded state, which can be applied in foldable devices, such as foldable mobile phones and foldable laptops. The folding structure includes a hinge assembly, a first mid-frame assembly, and a second mid-frame assembly. The hinge assembly is used to realize folding and unfolding, and can be connected between the first and second mid-frame assemblies. The first and second mid-frame assemblies can be unfolded or folded relative to each other, thereby supporting a flexible screen. The hinge assembly includes a base, a hinge unit, a first connecting unit, and a second connecting unit. The first connecting unit is fixed to the first mid-frame assembly, and the second connecting unit is fixed to the second mid-frame assembly. The hinge unit includes a first base, a connecting bracket, a first arc arm, and a second arc arm. The first base is fixed to the base, and the first and second arc arms are disposed opposite each other on both sides of the first base, providing support for the hinge unit. The first end of the first arc arm is rotatably connected to the first base relative to a first axis, meaning the first end of the first arc arm and the first base can rotate relative to each other around the first axis. The second arc arm is rotatably connected to the first base relative to the second axis, meaning the second arc arm and the first base can rotate relative to each other around the second axis. Simultaneously, the second end of the first arc arm is slidably connected to the first connecting unit, and the second end of the second arc arm is slidably connected to the second connecting unit. The first end of the connecting bracket is rotatably connected to the first end of the first arc arm relative to the third axis, meaning the first end of the connecting bracket and the first end of the first arc arm can rotate relative to each other around the third axis. The second end of the connecting bracket is rotatably connected to the first end of the second arc arm relative to the fourth axis, meaning the second end of the connecting bracket and the second end of the second arc arm can rotate relative to each other around the fourth axis. The aforementioned first, second, third, and fourth axes are parallel and not collinear. During the rotation of the first and second arc arms relative to the first base, they can drive the connecting bracket to move. When the first and second arc arms rotate relative to the first base, the first connecting unit can slide relative to the first arc arm and rotate around the base, and the second connecting unit can slide relative to the second arc arm and rotate around the base, causing changes in the relative distance and shape between the first and second connecting units, thus altering the screen-accommodating space of the folding structure. The first base has a bottom surface facing away from the flexible screen, and the connecting bracket has a support surface facing away from the first base. When the first arc arm rotates relative to the first base, the second arc arm rotates in the opposite direction relative to the first base due to the linkage of the connecting bracket. When the folding structure transitions from the unfolded state to the folded state, the support surface of the connecting bracket moves towards the bottom surface of the first base; when the folding structure transitions from the folded state to the unfolded state, the support surface of the connecting bracket moves away from the bottom surface of the first base. When the folding structure is in the unfolded state, the support surface is parallel to the flexible screen. The connection structure between the first base, the connecting bracket, the first arc arm, and the second arc arm can be regarded as a four-bar linkage. The rotation of the first arc arm and the second arc arm relative to the first base can realize the relative unfolding or folding of the first arc arm and the second arc arm, thereby realizing the unfolding and folding of the folding structure.Applying this folding structure to foldable terminal devices enables easy folding and unfolding. The folding and unfolding of the first and second arc arms cause the connecting bracket to move closer to and further away from the base, which helps the folding structure form a larger accommodating space for the flexible screen's bending area when folded. It can be seen that the folding structure in this application can achieve folding and unfolding through simple mechanical constraints, reducing the space occupied by the structure and further reducing the thickness of the foldable terminal device. When folded, the structure also provides a larger accommodating space, increasing the screen's accommodating space and providing protection for the flexible screen.

[0006] To provide good support for the flexible screen, the hinge assembly also includes a mid-frame support plate, a first side support plate, and a second side support plate. The mid-frame support plate is fixed to the support surface of the connecting bracket, the first side support plate is fixed to the first connecting unit, and the second side support plate is fixed to the second connecting unit. When the foldable terminal device is in the folded state, the mid-frame support plate, the first side support plate, and the second side support plate form a receiving space to accommodate the bending area of ​​the flexible screen. When the foldable terminal device is in the unfolded state, the mid-frame support plate, the first side support plate, and the second side support plate remain flush with the first mid-frame assembly and the second mid-frame assembly, thus supporting the flexible screen together. When the folding structure transitions from the folded state to the unfolded state or vice versa, the rotation angle of the first arc arm relative to the first base is the same as the rotation angle of the second arc arm relative to the first base, which ensures the synchronization of the first and second arc arms during the folding and unfolding process.

[0007] Specifically, when the folding structure is in the folded state, the support surface is perpendicular to the direction from the first middle frame component to the second middle frame component, which is beneficial for supporting the flexible screen.

[0008] The plane containing the first and second axes is parallel to the bottom surface of the first base. This structural design allows the folded structure to have a relatively small thickness when the first and second arc arms are unfolded relative to each other.

[0009] In addition, when the folding structure is in the unfolded state, the connecting bracket does not protrude from the bottom surface of the first base, preventing structural interference between the connecting bracket and the base.

[0010] In some possible implementations, the first arc arm includes a first sliding arm and a first rotating part. The first sliding arm is slidably connected to the first connecting unit. The first rotating part is specifically disposed at the end of the first sliding arm facing the first base, and is used to connect the first base and the connecting bracket. Specifically, the first rotating part has a first base rotating assembly rotatably connected to the first base and a first bracket rotating assembly rotatably connected to the connecting bracket. The rotatable connection between the first base rotating assembly and the first base can be a hole-shaft fit, and the rotatable connection between the first bracket rotating assembly and the connecting bracket can also be a hole-shaft fit. The second arc arm includes a second sliding arm and a second rotating part. The second sliding arm is slidably connected to the second connecting unit. The second rotating part is specifically disposed at the end of the second sliding arm facing the first base, and is used to connect the first base and the connecting bracket. Specifically, the second rotating part has a second base rotating assembly rotatably connected to the second base and a second bracket rotating assembly rotatably connected to the connecting bracket. The rotatable connection between the second base rotating assembly and the first base can be a hole-shaft fit, and the rotatable connection between the second bracket rotating assembly and the connecting bracket can also be a hole-shaft fit.

[0011] In some possible implementations, the first base rotating assembly is fixed to the first sliding arm, and the first bracket rotating assembly is fixed to the first base rotating assembly via a first connecting member. The second base rotating assembly is fixed to the second sliding arm, and the second bracket rotating assembly is fixed to the second base rotating assembly via a second connecting member.

[0012] Possibly, a first structural member is provided between the first sliding arm and the first rotating part. The first structural member has a curved portion protruding towards the flexible screen, which can be used to avoid the base and prevent structural interference between the first sliding arm and the base. A second structural member is provided between the second sliding arm and the second rotating part. The second structural member has a curved portion protruding towards the flexible screen, which can be used to avoid the base and prevent structural interference between the second sliding arm and the base.

[0013] In some possible implementations, the first arc arm has a first mounting groove with two opposing sidewalls. A connecting bracket can be accommodated between the two sidewalls of the first mounting groove, enhancing the connection stability of the structure and reducing the structural space. The second arc arm has a second mounting groove with two opposing sidewalls. A connecting bracket can also be accommodated between the two sidewalls of the second mounting groove, enhancing the connection stability of the structure and reducing the structural space.

[0014] The first arc arm may also be provided with a first clearance groove, and the second arc arm correspondingly provided with a second clearance groove. When the folding structure is in the folded state, the distance between the first clearance groove and the second clearance groove gradually increases along the direction from the free end of the first arc arm towards the base. The free end of the first arc arm refers to the end of the first arc arm away from the first base, and the free end of the second arc arm refers to the end of the second arc arm away from the first base. When the folding structure is in the folded state, the first clearance groove and the second clearance groove can form a larger space, which is beneficial to increasing the screen-accommodating space of the folding structure.

[0015] In some possible implementations, the first base includes a first base body and a second base body, which are fixed relative to each other on the base along a second direction parallel to the first axis. A first arc arm is rotatably connected to both the first and second base bodies, and a second arc arm is also rotatably connected to both the first and second base bodies. The arrangement of the first and second base bodies provides symmetrical support for the rotation of the first and second arc arms, enhancing the structural stability of the rotating shaft unit.

[0016] The first connecting unit is provided with a first sliding groove, the extension direction of which is perpendicular to the first axis. Correspondingly, the first arc arm is provided with a first sliding part, which is slidably connected to the first sliding groove. The second connecting unit is provided with a second sliding groove, the extension direction of which is perpendicular to the first axis. Correspondingly, the second arc arm is provided with a second sliding part, which is slidably connected to the second sliding groove.

[0017] To achieve a damping effect, a first damping unit is provided between the first connecting unit and the first arc arm. When the first arc arm slides relative to the first connecting unit, the first damping unit provides a damping force between the first connecting unit and the first arc arm. A second damping unit is provided between the second connecting unit and the second arc arm. When the second arc arm slides relative to the second connecting unit, the second damping unit provides a damping force between the second connecting unit and the second arc arm.

[0018] In some possible implementations, the first damping unit includes a first damping slider and a first damping spring. The first damping slider is slidably connected to the first connecting unit in a second direction, parallel to the first axis; the first damping spring is disposed between the first damping slider and the first connecting unit. The end of the first damping slider opposite to the first damping spring engages with the cam surface of a first arc arm. When the first arc arm slides relative to the first connecting unit, the sliding direction between them is perpendicular to the second direction, and the first arc arm can push the first damping slider to slide along the second direction. The second damping unit includes a second damping slider and a second damping spring. The second damping slider is slidably connected to the second connecting unit in a second direction, parallel to the first axis; the second damping spring is disposed between the second damping slider and the second connecting unit. The end of the second damping slider opposite to the second damping spring engages with the cam surface of a second arc arm. When the second arc arm slides relative to the second connecting unit, the sliding direction between them is perpendicular to the second direction, and the second arc arm can push the second damping slider to slide along the second direction.

[0019] Specifically, a first convex surface protruding towards the first arc arm can be provided on the first damping slider, and a first corrugated surface facing the first damping slider can be provided on the first arc arm. The first convex surface abuts against the first corrugated surface, realizing a cam surface engagement between the first damping slider and the first arc arm. When the first connecting unit slides relative to the first arc arm, the first damping slider will be pushed by the first arc arm to slide along a second direction. When the first damping spring is compressed, the first damping spring generates elastic potential energy to provide damping force. Correspondingly, a second convex surface protruding towards the second arc arm can be provided on the second damping slider, and a second corrugated surface facing the second damping slider can be provided on the second arc arm. The second convex surface abuts against the second corrugated surface, realizing a cam surface engagement between the second damping slider and the second arc arm. When the second connecting unit slides relative to the second arc arm, the second damping slider will be pushed by the second arc arm to slide along a second direction. When the second damping spring is compressed, the second damping spring generates elastic potential energy to provide damping force.

[0020] To improve the stability of the first and second damping springs in the extension and contraction direction, the first damping slider is provided with a first guide post, and the first damping spring is sleeved on the first guide post. Multiple first guide posts can be provided, with one first damping spring sleeved on each guide post. Similarly, the second damping slider is provided with a second guide post, and the second damping spring is sleeved on the second guide post. Multiple second guide posts can be provided, with one second damping spring sleeved on each second guide post.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the first connecting unit is provided with a first receiving groove for accommodating a first damping unit, and a first opening is provided on the first connecting unit connecting the first receiving groove and a first arc arm. A first convex surface of the first damping unit can extend from the first opening to abut against a first corrugated surface on the first arc arm. The second connecting unit is provided with a second receiving groove for accommodating a second damping unit, and a second opening is provided on the second connecting unit connecting the second receiving groove and a second arc arm. A second convex surface of the second damping unit can extend from the second opening to abut against a second corrugated surface on the second arc arm.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the first connecting unit includes a first fixed frame and a first connecting rotating arm. The first fixed frame is fixed to the first middle frame assembly, one end of the first connecting rotating arm is rotatably connected to the base, and the other end of the first connecting rotating arm is slidably connected to the first fixed frame. When the first connecting rotating arm rotates relative to the base, the first fixed frame simultaneously slides relative to the first arc arm and the first connecting rotating arm. The second connecting unit includes a second fixed frame and a second connecting rotating arm. The second fixed frame is fixed to the second middle frame assembly, one end of the second connecting rotating arm is rotatably connected to the base, and the other end of the second connecting rotating arm is slidably connected to the second fixed frame. When the second connecting rotating arm rotates relative to the base, the second fixed frame simultaneously slides relative to the second arc arm and the second connecting rotating arm.

[0023] Secondly, this application provides a foldable terminal device, including a flexible screen and any of the folding structures provided by the above-described technical solutions; the flexible screen has a first fixed area, a second fixed area, and a bending area, the bending area being connected between the first fixed area and the second fixed area. The first fixed area is fixed to a first mid-frame assembly, and the second fixed area is fixed to a second mid-frame assembly. The folding structure provides good support for the folding and unfolding of the flexible screen, and provides a larger screen-accommodating space when folded, protecting the flexible screen and improving the service life of the foldable terminal device. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1a This is a schematic diagram of a foldable terminal device in an unfolded state, provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0025] Figure 1b This is a schematic diagram of a foldable terminal device in a folded state, provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0026] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0027] Figure 3a This is a schematic diagram of a folding structure in which the pivot assembly is in an unfolded state, provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0028] Figure 3b A schematic diagram of the structure of a pivot assembly in a folding structure provided in this application during the switching process between an unfolded state and a folded state;

[0029] Figure 3c This is a schematic diagram of a folding structure in which the pivot assembly is in a folded state, provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0030] Figure 4a This is a partial structural diagram of a rotating shaft assembly in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 4b for Figure 4a Enlarged schematic diagram of the middle section structure;

[0032] Figure 4c An exploded view of a portion of the rotating shaft assembly in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 5a This is a partial structural diagram of a rotating shaft assembly in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 5b for Figure 5a Enlarged schematic diagram of the middle section structure;

[0035] Figure 6a This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a rotating shaft unit in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 6b An exploded view of a rotating shaft unit in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0037] Figure 7a This is a schematic diagram of a folding structure in which the pivot unit is in an unfolded state, provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0038] Figure 7b This is a schematic diagram of a folding structure in which the pivot unit is in a folded state, provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0039] Figure 8a A simplified structural diagram of a rotating shaft unit in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 8b A simplified structural diagram of a rotating shaft unit in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first base in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0042] Figure 10This is a schematic diagram of the connecting bracket in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0043] Figure 11a This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first arc arm in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 11b This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first arc arm in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0045] Figure 12a This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second arc arm in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 12b This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second arc arm in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 13a This is a schematic diagram of the connection between the first arc arm, the second arc arm, and the base in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 13b This is a schematic diagram of the connection between the first arc arm, the second arc arm, and the base in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 14a This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first fixing frame in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 14b This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first fixing frame in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0051] Figure 14c This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first connecting arm in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0052] Figure 14d This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first connecting arm in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0053] Figure 15a This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first damping unit in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0054] Figure 15b An exploded view of the first damping unit in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0055] Figure 16a This is a schematic diagram of the connection structure between the first connecting unit and the first arc arm in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0056] Figure 16bThis is a schematic diagram of the connection structure between the first connecting unit and the first arc arm in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0057] Figure 17a This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second fixing frame in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0058] Figure 17b This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second fixing frame in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0059] Figure 17c This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second connecting arm in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0060] Figure 17d This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second connecting arm in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0061] Figure 18a This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second damping unit in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0062] Figure 18b An exploded view of a second damping unit in a folded structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0063] Figure 19a This is a schematic diagram of the connection structure between the second connecting unit and the second arc arm in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0064] Figure 19b This is a schematic diagram of the connection structure between the second connecting unit and the second arc arm in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0065] Figure 20a This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second base in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0066] Figure 20b This application provides a schematic diagram of the connection structure between the first connecting arc arm, the second connecting arc arm, and the second base in a folding structure.

[0067] Figure 21a This is a schematic diagram of a folding structure in which the pivot assembly is in an unfolded state, provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0068] Figure 21b A top view of a hinge assembly in an unfolded state in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0069] Figure 22a for Figure 21b A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure at point C1-C1;

[0070] Figure 22bfor Figure 21b Schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure at point C2-C2;

[0071] Figure 22c for Figure 21b Schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure at C3-C3;

[0072] Figure 22d for Figure 21b Schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure at C4-C4;

[0073] Figure 22e for Figure 21b Schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure at C5-C5;

[0074] Figure 22f for Figure 21b A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure at point C6-C6;

[0075] Figure 22g for Figure 21b Schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure at point C7-C7;

[0076] Figure 22h for Figure 21b Schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure at C8-C8;

[0077] Figure 23a This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a rotating shaft assembly in a folding structure, provided in an embodiment of this application, during the switching process between an unfolded state and a folded state.

[0078] Figure 23b A top view of a pivot assembly in a folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application during the switching process between an unfolded state and a folded state;

[0079] Figure 24a for Figure 23b Schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure at point D1-D1;

[0080] Figure 24b for Figure 23b Schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure at point D2-D2;

[0081] Figure 24c for Figure 23b Schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure at point D3-D3;

[0082] Figure 24d for Figure 23b A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure at point D4-D4;

[0083] Figure 24e for Figure 23b A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure at point D5-D5;

[0084] Figure 24f for Figure 23b A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure at point D6-D6;

[0085] Figure 24g for Figure 23b Schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure at point D7-D7;

[0086] Figure 24h for Figure 23b Schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure at point D8-D8;

[0087] Figure 25a This is a schematic diagram of a folding structure in which the pivot assembly is in a folded state, provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0088] Figure 25b A top view of a hinge assembly in a folded structure provided in an embodiment of this application, in a folded state;

[0089] Figure 26a for Figure 25b A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure at point E1-E1;

[0090] Figure 26b for Figure 25b Schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure at point E2-E2;

[0091] Figure 26c for Figure 25b A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure at point E3-E3;

[0092] Figure 26d for Figure 25b Schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure at E4-E4;

[0093] Figure 26e for Figure 25b A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure at point E5-E5;

[0094] Figure 26f for Figure 25b A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure at point E6-E6;

[0095] Figure 26g for Figure 25b Schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure at point E7-E7;

[0096] Figure 26h for Figure 25b Schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure at point E8-E8;

[0097] Figure 27a A schematic diagram of the connection structure between the first arc arm, the second arc arm, and the first base in another folding structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0098] Figure 27bAn exploded view of the connection structure between the first arc arm, the second arc arm, and the first base in another folding structure provided in this application embodiment;

[0099] Figure 28a A schematic diagram of the connection structure between the first arc arm, the second arc arm, and the first base in another folding structure provided in this application embodiment;

[0100] Figure 28b An exploded view of the connection structure between the first arc arm, the second arc arm, and the first base in another folding structure provided in this application embodiment.

[0101] Reference numerals: 100-Folding structure; 200-Flexible screen; 10-Hinge assembly; 20-First middle frame assembly; 30-Second middle frame assembly; 1-Base; 11-Second base; 2-Hinge unit; 2a-Hinge unit; 2c-Hinge unit; 21-First base; 211-First seat body; 2111a-First seat body shaft hole; 2111b-First seat body shaft hole; 212-Second seat body; 2121a-Second seat body shaft hole; 2121b-Second seat body shaft hole; 22-Connecting bracket; 221-First bracket shaft hole; 222-Second bracket shaft hole; 23-First arc arm; 231-First sliding arm; 232-First rotating part; 2321-First base 2322-First support rotating assembly; 233-First structural component; 234-First arm; 235-First connector; 24-Second arc arm; 241-Second sliding arm; 242-Second rotating part; 2421-Second base rotating assembly; 2422-Second support rotating assembly; 243-Second structural component; 244-Second arm; 245-Second connector; 251-First pin; 252-Second pin; 31-First connecting unit; 31a-First connecting unit; 31b-First connecting unit; 31c-First connecting unit; 311-First fixing frame; 3111-First fixing component; 31111-First structural part; 31112-First... Connecting part; 3112-First connecting arm; 31121-First fixed end; 31122-First connecting end; 31123-First connecting segment; 312-First connecting rotating arm; 3121-First connecting plate; 3122-First rotating plate; 32-Second connecting unit; 32a-Second connecting unit; 32b-Second connecting unit; 32c-Second connecting unit; 321-Second fixing frame; 3211-Second fixing member; 32111-Second structural part; 32112-Second connecting part; 3212-Second connecting arm; 32121-Second fixed end; 32122-Second connecting end; 32123-Second connecting segment; 322-Second connecting rotating arm; 3221-Second connecting plate; 3222-Second rotating plate; 41-First damping unit; 411-First damping slider; 4111-First sliding plate; 4112-First guide post; 4113-First slider; 41131-First mounting post; 4114-First protrusion; 412-First damping spring; 42-Second damping unit; 421-Second damping slider; 4211-Second sliding plate; 4212-Second guide post; 4213-Second slider; 42131-Second mounting post; 4214-Second protrusion; 422-Second damping spring; 5-Support plate unit; 51-Middle frame support plate; 521-First side support plate; 522-Second side support plate;

[0102] a - Bottom surface; b - Support surface; c1 - First mounting groove; c2 - Second mounting groove; d1 - First clearance groove; d2 - Second clearance groove; e11 - First sliding groove; e12 - Second sliding groove; e21 - First sliding part; e22 - Second sliding part; f11 - First convex surface; f12 - Second convex surface; f21 - First corrugated surface; f22 - Second corrugated surface; h1 - First opening; h2 - Second opening; j11 - First rotating end; j12 - Second rotating end; j21 - First connecting arc groove; j22 - Second connecting arc groove; k11 - First connecting sliding groove; k12 - Second connecting sliding groove; k21 - First connecting sliding part; k 22 - Second connecting sliding part; m1 - First surface; m2 - Second surface; n1 - First receiving groove; n2 - Second receiving groove; p1 - First end face; p2 - Second end face; q1 - First platform; q2 - Second platform; s11 - First mounting hole; s12 - Second mounting hole; s21 - First mating hole; s22 - Second mating hole; v11 - First rotating arc surface; v12 - Second rotating arc surface; v21 - First connecting arc surface; v22 - Second connecting arc surface; u1 - First edge; u2 - Second edge; w11 - First arc-shaped sliding part; w12 - Second arc-shaped sliding part; w21 - First arc-shaped groove; w22 - Second arc-shaped groove. Detailed Implementation

[0103] In foldable terminal devices, a folding structure is used to achieve the folding and unfolding of the flexible screen. The folding structure not only needs to provide support for the flexible screen, but also needs to provide space to accommodate the flexible screen when folded. Current folding structures use linkage structures such as gear sets to achieve the folding and unfolding of the two mid-frames. These structures are complex and bulky, which is not conducive to achieving the thinness and lightness of foldable terminal devices.

[0104] Based on this, the present application provides a folding structure and a foldable terminal device having the folding structure. In addition to realizing the function of supporting the unfolding or folding of a flexible screen, it has a relatively simple structure and small size, which is suitable for the miniaturization development of foldable terminal devices.

[0105] The terminology used in the following embodiments is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this application. As used in the specification and appended claims of this application, the singular expressions “a,” “an,” “the,” “the,” “the,” and “this” are intended to also include expressions such as “one or more” unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0106] References to "one embodiment" or "some embodiments" as described in this specification mean that one or more embodiments of this application include a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment. Therefore, the phrases "in one embodiment," "in some embodiments," "in other embodiments," "in still other embodiments," etc., appearing in different parts of this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, but rather mean "one or more, but not all, embodiments," unless otherwise specifically emphasized. The terms "comprising," "including," "having," and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to," unless otherwise specifically emphasized.

[0107] like Figure 1a and Figure 1b The example describes a foldable terminal device, which can specifically be a foldable electronic device, such as a foldable mobile phone or a foldable computer. Specifically, the foldable terminal device includes a flexible screen 200 and a folding structure 100. The flexible screen 200 is used for image display and can be a flexible organic light-mitting diode (OLED) screen. The flexible screen 200 is bendable, enabling the structure to fold and unfold under external force. The folding structure 100 has a first surface m1 and a second surface m2, with the flexible screen 200 disposed on one side of the first surface m1. Here, the folding structure 100 provides support for the flexible screen 200 during the folding and unfolding process. The flexible screen 200 has a first fixed area A1, a bending area A2, and a second fixed area A3. The bending area A2 connects the first fixed area A1 and the second fixed area A3. The folding structure 100 has a first support area B1, a pivot area B2, and a second support area B3. The pivot area B2 connects the first support area B1 and the second support area B3. The first fixed area A1 of the flexible screen 200 is fixed to the first support area B1 of the folding structure 100, and the second fixed area A2 is fixed to the second support area B2. The bending area A2 is separate from the pivot area B2.

[0108] Figure 1a A schematic diagram of the foldable terminal device in its flat state is shown. At the center of the pivot region B2 of the folding structure 100, the distance between the first surface m1 and the second surface m2 is a first distance h1. When the terminal device is folded to... Figure 1bIn the shown state, the first fixed area A1 and the second fixed area A3 of the flexible screen 200 are folded relative to each other and almost touching, and the bending area A2 is bent into a shape similar to a "water droplet". At this time, the pivot area B2 of the folding structure 100 changes shape to form a space that can accommodate the "water droplet" shaped bending area A2. At the center of the pivot area B2, the distance between the first surface m1 and the second surface m2 is reduced to a second distance h2, which is smaller than the first distance h1. On both sides of the center of the pivot area B2, along the direction from the terminal device support area B1 to the pivot area B2, the distance between the two parts of the first surface m1 gradually increases. The "water droplet" shaped screen-accommodating space formed by the folding structure 100 allows the bending area A2 of the flexible screen 200 to have a large bending curvature, preventing creases or damage and protecting the flexible screen 200.

[0109] It should be understood that, Figure 1a In the example, the foldable terminal device is in its unfolded state, and the angle between the first support area B1 and the second support area B2 of the folding structure 100 is approximately 180°. At this time, the folding structure 100 can provide a support environment with better flatness for the flexible screen 200, thereby improving the reliability of the flexible screen. Of course, when the foldable terminal device is in its unfolded state, the angle between the first support area B1 and the second support area B2 of the folding structure 100 may deviate slightly from 180°, for example, to 178° or 183°, and such cases can also be considered as the foldable terminal device being in its unfolded state. Figure 1b In the example, the foldable terminal device is in a folded state, with the first support region B1 and the second support region B2 of the folding structure 100 close to each other and approximately parallel. The folding structure 100 can fold in this state. Of course, when the foldable terminal device is in a folded state, there may be a slight angle between the first support region B1 and the second support region B2 of the folding structure 100, such as 1° or 2°; this can also be considered as the foldable terminal device being in a folded state.

[0110] Based on the aforementioned morphological changes of the foldable terminal device in its folded and unfolded states, such as Figure 2As shown, the folding structure 100 provided in this embodiment includes a hinge assembly 10, a first middle frame assembly 20, and a second middle frame assembly 30, with the hinge assembly 10 connected between the first middle frame assembly 20 and the second middle frame assembly 30. With the folding terminal device in its unfolded state as a reference, the first middle frame assembly 20 and the second middle frame assembly 30 are disposed opposite each other on both sides of the hinge assembly 10 along a first direction X. The first direction X is the direction from the first middle frame assembly 20 to the second middle frame assembly 30 or vice versa when the folding terminal device is in its unfolded state. The hinge assembly 10 is used to realize the folding and unfolding of the folding structure 100, corresponding to the hinge region B2 of the folding structure 100. The first middle frame assembly 20 is used to connect to the first fixed region A1 of the flexible screen 200, and the second middle frame assembly 30 is used to connect to the second fixed region A2 of the flexible screen 200. The first middle frame assembly 20 corresponds to the first support region B1 of the folding structure 100, and the second middle frame assembly 30 corresponds to the second support region B2 of the folding structure 100. Among them, the surfaces of the first mid-frame assembly 20 and the second mid-frame assembly 30 facing away from the flexible screen 200, as well as the surface of the hinge assembly 10 facing away from the flexible screen 200, are exposed. In order to improve the appearance of the foldable terminal device, when the foldable terminal device is in the unfolded state, the surfaces of the first mid-frame assembly 20 facing away from the flexible screen 200, the surfaces of the second mid-frame assembly 30 facing away from the flexible screen 200, and the surfaces of the hinge assembly 10 facing away from the flexible screen 200 are kept as flush as possible.

[0111] Combination Figure 2 Based on the foldable terminal device being in the unfolded state, a first direction X, a second direction Y, and a third direction Z that are perpendicular to each other are defined. Among them, the second direction Y is the length extension direction of the pivot assembly 10, and the third direction Z is the thickness direction of the foldable terminal device.

[0112] Figure 3a This diagram shows a schematic of the rotating shaft assembly 10 in its unfolded state according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 3b This diagram illustrates the structure of the pivot assembly 10 in this embodiment of the application, showing its transition from an unfolded state to a folded state. Figure 3c A schematic diagram of the hinge assembly 10 in a folded state according to an embodiment of this application is shown. The hinge assembly 10 includes a base 1, a hinge unit 2, a first connecting unit 31, and a second connecting unit 32. The hinge unit 2 is connected to the base 1, the first connecting unit 31 is connected between the base 1 and the first middle frame assembly 20, the second connecting unit 32 is connected between the base 1 and the second middle frame assembly 30, and the hinge unit 2 is connected between the first connecting unit 31 and the second connecting unit 32.

[0113] For structural integrity and aesthetics, the hinge assembly 10 also includes a support plate unit 5 mounted on the hinge unit 2. The support plate unit 5 is located on the side of the hinge assembly 10 used to support the flexible screen 200. Figures 3a to 3c As shown, the support plate unit 5 includes a middle frame support plate 51, a first side support plate 521, and a second side support plate 522, with the middle frame support plate 51 located between the first side support plate 521 and the second side support plate 522. When the foldable terminal device is in... Figure 2 When unfolded as shown, the surfaces of the middle frame support plate 51, the first side support plate 521, and the second side support plate 522 that are away from the base 1 remain flush, and the surfaces of the middle frame support plate 51, the first side support plate 521, and the second side support plate 522 that are away from the base 1 remain flush with the surfaces of the first middle frame assembly 20 and the second middle frame assembly 30, so as to provide better support for the flexible screen 200.

[0114] For ease of understanding, in this embodiment, with reference to the pivot unit 2, one side of the mid-frame support plate 51 is designated as the top side of the foldable terminal device, and the side facing away from the mid-frame support plate 51 is designated as the bottom side of the foldable terminal device. It can be considered that the side of the foldable terminal device used to mount the flexible screen 200 is the top side.

[0115] Please refer to the above. Figure 2 , Figures 3a to 3c The number of pivot units 2 and the number of first connecting units 31 and second connecting units 32 between the first middle frame assembly 20 and the second middle frame assembly 30 are not limited. The first connecting units 31 and the second connecting units 32 are configured in pairs, thereby providing a good connection between the base 1 and the first middle frame assembly 20 and the second middle frame assembly 30. See, for example... Figures 3a to 3c A pivot unit 2 can be provided between a pair of corresponding first connecting units 31 and second connecting units 32. Of course, the pivot unit 2 may not be provided between a pair of corresponding first connecting units 31 and second connecting units 32. It should be understood that whether or not the pivot unit 2 is provided in the first connecting units 31 and second connecting units 32, the structure of the first connecting units 31 and second connecting units 32 needs to be adjusted accordingly, and the specific structure will be described in detail later.

[0116] During the unfolding or folding of the foldable terminal device, the pivot unit 2 unfolds or folds relative to the base 1, the first connecting unit 31 and the second connecting unit 32 unfold or folds relative to the base 1, the first middle frame assembly 20 and the second middle frame assembly 30 also unfold or fold relative to the base 1, the first connecting unit 31 and the first middle frame assembly 20 keep their actions synchronized, and the second connecting unit 32 and the second middle frame assembly 30 keep their actions synchronized.

[0117] Combination Figures 3a to 3cPlease refer to Figure 4a The structure shown is the hinge assembly 10 after concealing the support plate unit 5. The side of the hinge assembly 10 facing the flexible screen 200 is designated as the top side, and the side of the hinge assembly 10 facing away from the flexible screen 200 is designated as the bottom side. Figure 4a This shows a schematic diagram of the structure of the pivot assembly 10 from a top side view. Figure 4a Along the second direction Y, the rotating shaft assembly 10 is provided with three sets of first connecting units 31 and second connecting units 32. Along the second direction Y, the three sets of first connecting units 31 and second connecting units 32 are respectively: a first set of first connecting units 31a and second connecting units 32a, a second set of first connecting units 31b and second connecting units 32b, and a third set of first connecting units 31c and second connecting units 32c. A rotating shaft unit 2a is provided between the first connecting units 31a and second connecting units 32a in the first set, and a rotating shaft unit 2c is provided between the first connecting units 31c and second connecting units 32c in the third set. No rotating shaft unit 2a is provided between the first connecting units 31b and second connecting units 32b in the second set. Both rotating shaft units 2a and 2c are mounted on the base 1.

[0118] For example, please refer to Figure 4b The figure shown Figure 4a The rotating shaft assembly consists of 10 parts. Figure 4b The example illustrates a set of corresponding first connecting units 31 and second connecting units 32, with a pivot unit 2 disposed between the first connecting units 31 and the second connecting units 32. A second base 11 is disposed on the side of the base 1 facing the flexible screen 200. The first connecting unit 31 includes a first fixing frame 311 and a first connecting rotating arm 312, one end of which is rotatably connected to the second base 11, and the other end is slidably connected to the first fixing frame 311. The second connecting unit 32 includes a second fixing frame 321 and a second connecting rotating arm 322, one end of which is rotatably connected to the second base 11, and the other end is slidably connected to the second fixing frame 321. The pivot unit 2 includes a first base 21, a connecting bracket 22, a first arc arm 23, and a second arc arm 24. The base 1 is in the shape of an open slot, and the first base 21 is fixed in the open slot of the base 1, providing support for the connecting bracket 22, the first arc arm 23, and the second arc arm 24. One end of the first arc arm 23 is rotatably connected to the first base 21, and the other end is slidably connected to the first fixing frame 311. One end of the second arc arm 24 is rotatably connected to the first base 21, and the other end is slidably connected to the second fixing frame 321. A connecting bracket 22 connects the first arc arm 23 and the second arc arm 24. Specifically, one end of the connecting bracket 22 is rotatably connected to the first arc arm 23, and the other end of the connecting bracket 22 is rotatably connected to the second arc arm 24.

[0119] Further reference Figure 4cThe diagram shows a partial exploded view of the rotating shaft assembly 10. A first damping unit 41 is also provided between the first connecting unit 31 and the first arc arm 23. When the first arc arm 23 slides relative to the first connecting unit 31, the first damping unit 41 provides damping force. A second damping unit 42 is also provided between the second connecting unit 32 and the second arc arm 24. When the second arc arm 24 slides relative to the second connecting unit 32, the second damping unit 42 provides damping force. The damping units 4 provide a suspension and damping effect for the folding structure 100 during folding and unfolding.

[0120] Combining Figure 4b and Figure 4c As shown, when the shaft assembly 10 is assembled, the first damping unit 41 is blocked by the first fixing frame 311 and the first arc arm 23, and the second damping unit 42 is blocked by the second fixing frame 321 and the second arc arm 24.

[0121] Figure 5a This shows a schematic diagram of the structure of the rotating shaft assembly 10 from a bottom side view. Figure 5b A partial structural schematic of the pivot assembly 10 is shown from a bottom side view. For ease of understanding, Figure 5a and Figure 5b The third arrow pointing to Z in the middle Figure 4a The arrow pointing from the middle third to Z points in the opposite direction. It can be assumed that... Figure 4a and Figure 5a The diagram shows the top and bottom surfaces of the rotating shaft assembly 10. Figure 5a In the middle, the rotating shaft unit 2a and the rotating shaft unit 2c are obscured by the base 1 and are not shown.

[0122] exist Figure 5b In this configuration, the first damping unit 41 is installed between the first fixed frame 311 and the first arc arm 23, and can generate damping force when the first arc arm 23 slides relative to the first fixed frame 311. The second damping unit 42 is installed between the second fixed frame 321 and the second arc arm 24, and can generate damping force when the second arc arm 24 slides relative to the second fixed frame 321.

[0123] Figure 6a The diagram shows the structure of the hinge unit 2 in the unfolded state of the foldable terminal device. Figure 6bAn exploded view of the pivot unit 2 is shown. The first base 21 has a bottom surface a, which is used to fix it to the base 1. When the folding structure 100 supports the flexible screen 200, the bottom surface a of the first base 21 is located on the side away from the flexible screen 200. It should be understood that the bottom surface a is not necessarily a plane; the bottom surface a here is only an example. The bottom surface a can be a plane or a curved surface. In this embodiment, the bottom surface a having at least a partial plane is used as an example. When it is said that a structure is parallel to the bottom surface a, it refers to the planar portion of the structure parallel to the bottom surface a. When the pivot unit 2 is installed on the base 1, the bottom surface a is the surface facing the base 1. Along the second direction Y, the connecting bracket 22 has a support surface b on the side away from the bottom surface a of the first base 21, which is used to support the aforementioned middle frame support plate 51. Specifically, the middle frame support plate 51 can be fixed to the support surface b by means of adhesive, screws, etc.

[0124] Combination Figure 6a and Figure 6b As shown, the first base 21 may include a first base body 211 and a second base body 212. When the first base body 211 and the second base body 212 are installed opposite each other along the second direction Y, both the first base body 211 and the second base body 212 can be fixed to the base 1 with screws, and the first base body 211 and the second base body 212 are fixed relative to each other. There is a gap between the first base body 211 and the second base body 212, and the first arc arm 23, the second arc arm 24 and the connecting bracket 22 can be installed between the first base body 211 and the second base body 212. The first arc arm 23 is rotatably installed on the first base 21 about the first axis L1, and the second arc arm 24 is rotatably installed on the first base 21 about the second axis L2. One end of the connecting bracket 22 is installed on the first arc arm 23 through the first pin 251. The axis of the first pin 251 is the third axis L3, and the connecting bracket 22 is rotatably connected to the first arc arm 23 about the third axis L3. The other end of the connecting bracket 22 is mounted to the second arc arm 24 via the second pin 252. The axis of the second pin 252 is the fourth axis L4, and the connecting bracket 22 is rotatably connected to the second arc arm 24 around the fourth axis L4. The first axis L1 is perpendicular to the first direction X and parallel to the bottom surface a of the first base 21. The first axis L1, the second axis L2, the third axis L3, and the fourth axis L4 are parallel to each other and not collinear.

[0125] Combination Figure 6a and Figure 6b , Figure 7a A schematic diagram of the planar structure of the rotating shaft unit 2 in its unfolded state is shown. Figure 7b The planar structure of the pivot unit 2 in the folded state is shown. Figure 7aThe diagram shows that when the foldable terminal device is in the unfolded state, the first arc arm 23 and the second arc arm 24 are unfolded relative to the base 1, and the included angle between the first arc arm 23 and the second arc arm 24 is approximately 180°. At this time, the folding structure 100 with the pivot unit 2 can provide flat support for the flexible screen 200. Figure 7b The diagram shows that when the foldable terminal device is in a folded state, the first arc arm 23 and the second arc arm 24 are folded relative to each other, with the first arc arm 23 and the second arc arm 24 respectively approximately perpendicular to the bottom surface a of the first base 21. At this time, the folding structure 100 with the pivot unit 2 can form a receiving space that can accommodate the flexible screen 200. It should be understood that in order to achieve the folding and unfolding of the folding structure 100, the pivot unit 2... Figure 7a The structure shown is converted to Figure 7b In the structure shown, the rotation angle of the first arc arm 23 relative to the first base 21 and the rotation angle of the second arc arm 24 relative to the first base 21 can be the same.

[0126] Combination Figure 7a , Figure 7b , Figure 8a and Figure 8b A simplified structural diagram of the rotating shaft unit 2 is shown. The first base 21, connecting bracket 22, first arc arm 23, and second arc arm 24 form a four-bar linkage. The first base 21 is equivalent to a frame, and to the rotating shaft unit 2, it is a fixed component. The connecting bracket 22 is equivalent to a connecting rod, and is not directly connected to the first base 21. The first arc arm 23 and the second arc arm 24 are equivalent to two connecting rods, connecting the first base 21 and the connecting bracket 22. The first arc arm 23 can rotate relative to the first base 21 about a first axis L1, and the second arc arm 24 can rotate relative to the first base 21 about a second axis L2, simultaneously causing the connecting bracket 22 to move relative to the first base 21. When the first arc arm 23 rotates relative to the first base 21, the second arc arm 24 can be driven by the connecting bracket 22 to rotate relative to the first base 21, thereby realizing the linkage between the first arc arm 23 and the second arc arm 24.

[0127] It should be understood that the first arc arm 23 can act as the driving member of the four-bar linkage, and the second arc arm 24 can also act as the driving member of the four-bar linkage. Specifically, when the first arc arm 23 rotates relative to the first base 21, the second arc arm 24 can rotate in the opposite direction relative to the first base 21, which can cause the first arc arm 23 and the second arc arm 24 to fold or unfold relative to each other. When the second arc arm 24 rotates relative to the first base 21, the first arc arm 23 can rotate in the opposite direction relative to the first base 21, which can also cause the first arc arm 23 and the second arc arm 24 to fold or unfold relative to each other. That is to say, in the folding structure 100 provided in this application embodiment, the first arc arm 23 and the second arc arm 24 of the pivot assembly 10 have the characteristic of synchronous movement. Here, synchronization refers to the linkage of simultaneous actions, and does not limit the direction and angle of rotation of the first arc arm 23 and the second arc arm 24. The four-bar linkage composed of the pivot unit 2 provided in this application embodiment has fewer parts, lower processing difficulty, and can reduce the cost of the folding structure 100. At the same time, it can ensure high assembly accuracy, reduce assembly difficulty, reduce wear between parts during movement, and improve the service life of the folding structure 100.

[0128] Further reference Figure 8a and Figure 8b In the rotating shaft unit 2 Figure 7a The structure shown is converted to Figure 7b In the process shown in the structure, the first arc arm 23 rotates clockwise relative to the first base 21 about the first axis L1, and the third axis L3 moves towards the bottom surface a of the first base 21. The second arc arm 24 rotates counterclockwise relative to the first base 21 about the second axis L2, and the fourth axis L4 moves towards the bottom surface a of the first base 21. The first arc arm 23 and the second arc arm 24 drive the support surface b of the connecting bracket 22 to move closer to the bottom surface a of the first base 21. In the rotating shaft unit 2... Figure 7b The structure shown is converted to Figure 7a In the process shown, the first arc arm 23 rotates counterclockwise relative to the first base 21 around the first axis L1, and the third axis L3 moves away from the bottom surface a of the first base 21. The second arc arm 24 rotates clockwise relative to the first base 21 around the second axis L2, and the fourth axis L4 moves away from the bottom surface a of the first base 21. The first arc arm 23 and the second arc arm 24 cause the support surface b of the connecting bracket 22 to move away from the bottom surface a of the first base 21. Therefore, during the folding and unfolding of the rotating shaft unit 2, the distance and angle between the support surface b of the connecting bracket 22 and the bottom surface a of the first base 21 can change.

[0129] When the foldable terminal device transitions between its unfolded and folded states, the distance between the support surface b and the bottom surface a changes. When the foldable terminal device is in its unfolded state, the distance between the support surface b and the bottom surface a is larger. The support surface b can maintain the alignment of the mid-frame support plate 51, the first side support plate 521, and the second side support plate 522, thus providing flat support for the flexible screen 200. This state can be referenced in conjunction with... Figure 1a , Figure 3a as well as Figure 7a When the foldable terminal device is in the folded state, the distance between the supporting surface b and the bottom surface a is small. At this time, there is a large space between the first arc arm 23, the second arc arm 24, and the connecting bracket 22, so that the middle frame support plate 51, the first side support plate 521, and the second side support plate 522 can form a space to accommodate the flexible screen 200. Its state can be combined with... Figure 1b , Figure 3c and Figure 7b As shown.

[0130] Combination Figure 6b , Figure 9 The structure of a first base 21 is illustrated. The first base 21 may include two bodies, a first body 211 and a second body 212, disposed opposite each other along a second direction Y. The first body 211 has a first body shaft hole 2111a and a first body shaft hole 2111b on the side facing the second body 212, and the second body 212 has a second body shaft hole 2121a and a second body shaft hole 2121b on the side facing the first body 211. When the first body 211 and the second body 212 are mounted to the base 1, the first body shaft holes 2111a and 2121a are coaxial, and the first body shaft holes 2111b and 2121b are also coaxial. The first body shaft holes 2111a and 2121a can be fitted together to mount a first arc arm 23, and the first body shaft holes 2111b and 2121b can be fitted together to mount a second arc arm 24. Figure 9 In the diagram, only one of the first base body 211 shaft holes 2111a is shown; the first base body shaft hole 2111b is obscured by the viewing angle and is shown as a dashed line. The first base body 211 and the second base body 212 can provide symmetrical support for the first arc arm 23 and the second arc arm 24, enhancing the structural stability of the rotating shaft unit 2, and also providing stable support for the rotation of the first arc arm 23 and the second arc arm 24.

[0131] Combination Figure 6b , Figure 10The structure of the connecting bracket 22 is shown. The connecting bracket 22 has a first bracket shaft hole 221 and a second bracket shaft hole 222. The first bracket shaft hole 221 is used for rotatable engagement with the first arc arm 23 via a first pin 251, and the second bracket shaft hole 222 is used for rotatable engagement with the second arc arm 24 via a second pin 252. When the folding structure 100 is in the unfolded or folded state, the support surface b of the connecting bracket 22 needs to provide good support for the flexible screen 200 through the mid-frame support plate 51. Therefore, when the folding structure 100 is in the unfolded state, the support surface b of the connecting bracket 22 is parallel to the flexible screen 200, or can be considered parallel to the first mid-frame assembly 20 and the second mid-frame assembly 30, serving as the surface supporting the flexible screen. When the folding structure 100 is in the folded state, the support surface b is perpendicular to the first mid-frame assembly 20 and points towards the second mid-frame assembly 30. Alternatively, if the bottom surface a of the first base 21 is flat, it can be assumed that when the folding structure 100 is in the folded or unfolded state, the support surface b of the connecting bracket 22 is parallel to the bottom surface a of the first base 21. However, during the unfolding or folding process of the folding structure 100, the support surface b of the connecting bracket 22 does not necessarily need to remain parallel to the bottom surface a of the first base 21. In addition, when the folding structure 100 is in the unfolded state, the connecting bracket 22 needs not protrude from the bottom surface a of the first base 21 to prevent interference between the connecting bracket 22 and the base 1, which would affect the unfolding of the folding structure 100.

[0132] Figure 11a A schematic diagram of the first arc arm 23 in the folding structure 100 provided in this embodiment is shown. The first arc arm 23 includes a first sliding arm 231 and a first rotating part 232. The first sliding arm 231 has a large length-to-diameter ratio, and the first rotating part 232 is disposed at the end of the first sliding arm 231 facing the first base 21. Two opposing first sliding arms 231 are provided, and the structures of the two first sliding arms 231 may be different. The two first sliding arms 231 are connected by a first arm rod 234, and a space is formed between the two first sliding arms 231 to accommodate the first fixing frame 311. The first rotating part 232 is fixed to the first arm rod 234, and the first rotating part 232 is used for rotatable connection with the first base 21 and the connecting bracket 22. It should be understood that the two first sliding arms 231 may also be directly connected to the first rotating part 232, without the need for the first arm rod 234.

[0133] For example, in the first arc arm 23, there are two first rotating parts 232. Along the second direction Y, the two first rotating parts 232 are symmetrically arranged and a first mounting groove c1 is formed between them. The opposite sides of the two first rotating parts 232 are equivalent to the two opposite sidewalls of the first mounting groove c1. After the first rotating arm 23 is installed together with the connecting bracket 22, the first mounting groove c1 can accommodate the connecting bracket 22.

[0134] Specifically, the first rotating part 232 of the first arc arm 23 is provided with a first base rotating assembly 2321 and a first bracket rotating assembly 2322. The first base rotating assembly 2321 is rotatably connected to both the first base shaft hole 2111a on the first base 211 and the second base shaft hole 2121a on the second base 212. The first base rotating assembly 2321 is exemplarily a rotating shaft, which can rotatably engage with both the first base shaft hole 2111a on the first base 211 and the second base shaft hole 2121a on the second base 212. The first bracket rotating assembly 2322 is exemplarily a shaft hole, which can rotatably engage with the first bracket shaft hole 221 on the connecting bracket 22 via a first pin 251. The first base rotating assembly 2321 is shown in the form of a rotating shaft, and the first base rotating assemblies 2321 on the two first rotating parts 232 extend in mutually opposite directions to avoid the mounting groove c1. (Refer to reference...) Figure 4b and Figure 11a The first arc arm 23 needs to rotate relative to the first base 21. When the rotating shaft assembly 10 is in the extended state, the first arc arm 23 is located to the left of the base 1 in the first direction X. In order to avoid the base 1, a first structural member 233 is provided between the first rotating part 232 of the first arc arm 23 and the first sliding arm 231. The first structural member 233 is connected between the first arm 234 and the first rotating part 232. The first structural member 233 has a U-shaped structure, and the curved part of the U-shaped structure protrudes towards the flexible screen 200.

[0135] To achieve a sliding connection between the first fixing frame 311 of the first connecting unit 31 and the first arc arm 23, continue referring to... Figure 11a The first arc arm 23 is provided with a first sliding part e21, through which the first arc arm 23 is slidably connected to the first fixed frame 311. On the one hand, the relative sliding between the first sliding arm 231 and the first fixed frame 311 ensures that the unfolding or folding process of the foldable terminal device remains smooth, thereby providing relatively stable support for the flexible screen 200. On the other hand, the relative sliding between the first sliding arm 231 and the first fixed frame 311 increases the distance between the first fixed frame 311 and the second fixed frame 321, forming a "teardrop" shape, providing a larger space for the flexible screen 200.

[0136] Combination Figure 11bThe diagram shows another angle of the first arc arm 23. To improve the stability of the sliding of the first arc arm 23 relative to the first connecting unit 31, each first sliding arm 231 is provided with a first sliding part e21, and the first sliding parts e21 on the two first sliding arms 231 are opposite each other. The first fixing frame 311 can be slidably connected to both first sliding parts e21 at the same time. It should be understood that the shape of the two first sliding parts e21 is not limited, nor does it need to be the same, as long as it can limit the sliding of the first arc arm 23 relative to the first fixing frame 311 in a set direction. The first arc arm 23 may also be provided with a first corrugated surface f21. Here, the first corrugated surface f21 is exemplaryly provided on the side of one of the first sliding parts e21. Along the extension direction of the first sliding arm 231, the first corrugated surface f21 continuously undulates in a wave shape.

[0137] Further reference Figure 12a The structure of the second arc arm 24 shown includes a second sliding arm 241 and a second rotating part 242. The second sliding arm 241 has a large length-to-diameter ratio, and the second rotating part 242 is disposed at the end of the second sliding arm 241 facing the first base 21. Two opposing second sliding arms 241 are provided, and the structures of the two second sliding arms 241 may be different. The two second sliding arms 241 are connected by a second arm rod 244, forming a space between them to accommodate the second fixing frame 321. The second rotating part 242 is fixed to the second arm rod 244 and is used for rotatable connection with the first base 21 and the connecting bracket 22. It should be understood that the two second sliding arms 241 can also be directly connected to the second rotating part 242, without the need for the second arm rod 244.

[0138] For example, in the second arc arm 24, there are two second rotating parts 242. Along the second direction Y, the two second rotating parts 242 are symmetrically arranged and a second mounting groove c2 is formed between them. The opposite sides of the two second rotating parts 242 are equivalent to the two opposite sidewalls of the second mounting groove c2. After the second rotating arm 24 is installed together with the connecting bracket 22, the second mounting groove c2 can accommodate the connecting bracket 22.

[0139] Specifically, the second rotating part 242 of the second arc arm 24 is provided with a second base rotating assembly 2421 and a second support rotating assembly 2422. The second base rotating assembly 2421 is rotatably connected to both the first base shaft hole 2111b on the first base 211 and the second base shaft hole 2121b on the second base 212. The second support rotating assembly 2422 is rotatably connected to the second support shaft hole 222 on the connecting bracket 22 via a second pin 252. The second base rotating assembly 2421 is exemplarily a rotating shaft, which can rotatably engage with both the first base shaft hole 2111b on the first base 211 and the second base shaft hole 2121b on the second base 212. The second base rotating assembly 2421 is exemplarily a shaft hole, and the second support rotating assembly 2422 can rotatably engage with the second support shaft hole 222 on the connecting bracket 22 via a second pin 252. The second base rotating assembly 2421 is shown in the form of a rotating shaft, and the second bracket rotating assemblies 2422 on the two second rotating parts 242 extend in mutually opposite directions to avoid the second mounting groove c2. (Refer to reference...) Figure 4b and Figure 12a The second arc arm 24 needs to rotate relative to the first base 21. When the pivot assembly 10 is in the extended state, the second arc arm 24 is located to the right of the base 1 in the first direction X. To avoid the base 1, a second structural member 243 is provided between the second rotating part 242 and the second sliding arm 241 of the second arc arm 24. The second structural member 243 is connected between the second arm 244 and the second rotating part 242. The second structural member 243 has a U-shaped structure, and the curved part of the U-shaped structure protrudes towards the flexible screen 200.

[0140] To achieve a sliding connection between the second fixing frame 321 of the second connecting unit 32 and the second arc arm 24, continue referring to... Figure 12a The second arc arm 24 is provided with a second sliding part e22, through which the second arc arm 24 is slidably connected to the second fixing frame 321. On the one hand, the relative sliding between the second sliding arm 241 and the second fixing frame 321 ensures a smooth unfolding or folding process for the foldable terminal device, thereby providing a relatively flat support for the flexible screen 200. On the other hand, the relative sliding between the second sliding arm 241 and the second fixing frame 321 increases the distance between the first fixing frame 311 and the second fixing frame 321, forming a "teardrop" shape, providing a larger accommodating space for the flexible screen 200.

[0141] Combination Figure 12bThe diagram shows another angle of the second arc arm 24. To improve the stability of the sliding of the second arc arm 24 relative to the second connecting unit 32, each second sliding arm 241 is provided with a second sliding part e22, and the second sliding parts e22 on the two second sliding arms 241 are opposite each other. The second fixing frame 321 can be slidably connected to both second sliding parts e22 simultaneously. It should be understood that the shape of the two second sliding parts e22 is not limited, nor does it need to be the same, as long as it can limit the sliding of the second arc arm 24 relative to the second fixing frame 321 in a set direction. The second arc arm 24 may also be provided with a second corrugated surface f22. Here, the second corrugated surface f22 is exemplaryly provided on the side of one of the second sliding parts e22. Along the extension direction of the second sliding arm 241, the second corrugated surface f22 continuously undulates in a wave-like shape.

[0142] Combination Figure 11a , Figure 11b , Figure 12a as well as Figure 12b Please refer to Figure 13a and Figure 13b The diagram shows the structure after the rotating shaft unit 2 is installed on the base 1. Figure 13a The rotating shaft unit 2 is in the unfolded state. Figure 13b The pivot unit 2 is in a folded state. Due to viewing angle limitations, only the first base 211 is shown, which is fixed to the base 1. Taking the plane containing the bottom surface a of the base 1 as parallel to the first direction X as an example, the direction perpendicular to the bottom surface a is the second direction Y. The base 1 has a first edge u1 and a second edge u2 on both sides along the first direction X. The first edge u1 extends along the second direction Y, and the second edge u2 extends along the second direction Y. The first edge u1 is close to the first arc arm 23, and the second edge u2 is close to the second arc arm 24. When the foldable terminal device is in the unfolded state, the first structural member 233 of the first arc arm 23 overlaps the end face of the first edge u1 away from the bottom surface a, and the second structural member 243 of the second arc arm 24 overlaps the end face of the second edge u2 away from the bottom surface a. At this time, the bent portion of the U-shaped structure on the first structural member 233 can avoid the first edge u1, preventing structural interference between the first arc arm 23 and the base 1. The bent portion of the U-shaped structure on the second structural member 243 can avoid the second edge u2, preventing structural interference between the second arc arm 24 and the base 1. In addition, the first structural member 233 and the second structural member 243 do not protrude from the support surface b of the connecting bracket 22, and the first sliding arm 231 and the second sliding arm 241 do not protrude from the bottom surface a of the base 1.

[0143] Combination Figure 13a and Figure 13b As shown, a first sliding arm 231 of the first arc arm 23, the connecting bracket 22, and the second sliding arm 241 of the second arc arm 24 can form a connection. Figure 1bThe space is shaped like a teardrop. To accommodate the first side support plate 521, a first clearance groove d1 is provided on one side of the top surface of the first sliding arm 231, and a second clearance groove d2 is provided on one side of the top surface of the second sliding arm 241. Figure 13b In the first arc arm 23, the first clearance groove d1 faces the second sliding arm 241, and the second clearance groove d2 of the second arc arm 24 faces the first sliding arm 231. The end of the first sliding arm 231 furthest from the base 1 is designated as the free end, and the end of the second sliding arm 241 furthest from the base 1 is also designated as the free end. Along the direction from the free end of the first sliding arm 231 towards the base 1, the distance between the first clearance groove d1 and the second clearance groove d2 gradually increases, making the space between the first sliding arm 231, the second sliding arm 241, and the support surface b of the connecting bracket 22 have a shape similar to a teardrop, narrower at the top and wider at the bottom. This hinge unit 2 allows the folding structure 100 to have a larger screen-accommodating space when folded, which can accommodate the bending area A2 of the flexible screen 200. The free end of the first sliding arm 231 pointing towards the base 1 can also be considered as the free end of the second sliding arm 241 pointing towards the base 1, or as the connecting bracket 22 pointing towards the base 1.

[0144] Combination Figure 12a and Figure 12b The structure of the first arc arm 23 shown in the example, Figure 14aThe structure of the first fixing frame 311 is shown. The first fixing frame 311 includes a first fixing member 3111 with an integral structure and a first connecting arm 3112. The first fixing member 3111 has first sliding grooves e11 on both sides, and the two first sliding grooves e11 are used to slide in a one-to-one correspondence with two first sliding parts e21 on the first arc arm 23, that is, one first sliding groove e11 corresponds to one first sliding part e21. When the first fixing frame 311 is slidably connected to the first arc arm 23, the first fixing member 3111 can be accommodated between the two first sliding parts e21 on the first arc arm 23. The first fixing member 3111 has a first structural part 31111 and a first connecting part 31112 facing the flexible screen 200, and the first structural part 31111 and the first connecting part 31112 are stepped together. When the first fixing frame 311 is slidably connected to the first arc arm 23, the first connecting part 31112 can be used to accommodate the first arm 234 on the first arc arm 23. The first connecting arm 3112 includes a first fixed end 31121, a first connecting end 31122, and a first connecting segment 31123 connecting the first fixed end 31121 and the first connecting end 31122. The first fixed end 31121 is connected to the first fixing member 3111. The first fixed end 31121 and the first connecting end 31122 are arranged opposite to each other, and the first fixed end 31121, the first connecting segment 31123, and the first connecting end 31122 form a concave shape. A first connecting groove k11 is provided at the connection between the first connecting segment 31123 and the first fixed end 31121, and a first connecting groove k11 is also provided at the connection between the first connecting segment 31123 and the first connecting end 31122. The two first connecting grooves k11 are used for sliding engagement with the first connecting arm 312. Further reference... Figure 14b The first fixing bracket 311 is shown from another angle. On the side of the first fixing member 3111 of the first fixing bracket 311 facing away from the flexible screen 200, a first receiving groove n1 is provided. The first receiving groove n1 communicates with one of the first sliding grooves e11 through a first opening h1. The first receiving groove n1 is used to receive a first damping unit 41, which can pass through the first opening h1 and cooperate with the first corrugated surface f21 on the first arc arm 23.

[0145] The structure of the first connecting arm 312 of the first connecting unit 31 can be referred to Figure 14c and Figure 14dAs shown. The first connecting arm 312 is provided with a first connecting plate 3121 and a first rotating plate 3122. The first connecting plate 3121 is used for sliding engagement with the first fixed frame 311, and the first connecting plate 3121 is provided with two opposing first connecting sliding parts k21, which are used for sliding engagement with two first connecting sliding grooves k11 on the first fixed frame 311. The first rotating plate 3122 is used for rotatable connection with the first and second bases 11. Figure 14d As shown, the first rotating plate 3122 has a first rotating arc surface v11 on the side opposite to the flexible screen 200 and two first rotating ends j11 located on both sides of the first rotating arc surface v11.

[0146] Combination Figure 14a and Figure 14b , refer to Figure 15a The structure of the first damping unit 41 shown and Figure 15b The exploded view of the first damping unit 41 is shown. The first damping unit 41 includes a first damping slider 411 and a first damping spring 412. The first damping slider 411 is movably accommodated in a first receiving groove n1 on the first fixing frame 311 along the second direction Y. The first damping slider 411 specifically includes a first sliding plate 4111, a first guide post 4112, a first slider 4113, and a first protrusion 4114. The first guide post 4112 and the first slider 4113 are respectively disposed on both sides of the first sliding plate 4111 along the second direction Y. A first mounting post 41131 is disposed on the first slider 4113, and the first protrusion 4114 is mounted on the first mounting post 41131. The side of the first protrusion 4114 facing away from the first sliding plate 4111 forms a first convex surface f11, which is used to abut against the first corrugated surface f21 on the first arc arm 23. The first damping spring 412 can be sleeved on the first guide post 4112. For example, three first damping springs 412 are arranged side by side, and three first guide posts 4112 are also arranged side by side, with each first guide post 4112 corresponding to a first damping spring 412. The first guide posts 4112 can guide the first damping springs 412, improving the stability of the first damping springs 412 during compression.

[0147] Figure 16aAn example is given of the mating structure of the first fixed frame 311, the first arc arm 23, and the first connecting rotating arm 312. The two first sliding arms 231 of the first arc arm 23 are slidably engaged with the first fixed frame 311, and the first arm 234 of the first arc arm 23 is located on the first connecting portion 31112 of the first fixed frame 311. The first connecting sliding portion k21 on the first connecting rotating arm 312 is slidably engaged with the first connecting sliding groove k11 on the first fixed frame 311. The first rotating arm 312 includes a first fixing member 3111 composed of the first structural portion 31111 and the first connecting portion 31112, and a first connecting arm 3112 composed of a first fixing end 31121, a first connecting end 31122, and a first connecting section 31123. Figure 16b A schematic diagram of the bottom structure of the first fixed frame 311, the first arc arm 23, the first damping unit 41, and the first rotating arm 312 is shown. The first damping unit 41 is housed in the first receiving groove n1 of the first fixed frame 311. The first damping unit 41 specifically includes a first sliding plate 4111, a first guide post 4112, a first slider 4113, and a first protrusion 4114. The first convex surface f11 on the first protrusion 4114 passes through the first opening h1 on the first fixed member 3111 and abuts against the first corrugated surface f21 on the first arc arm 23. When the first sliding arm 231 of the first arc arm 23 slides relative to the first fixed frame 311, the first protrusion 4114 slides with the first fixed frame 311 relative to the first arc arm 23, and the first convex surface f11 moves relative to the first corrugated surface f21 along the extension direction of the first corrugated surface f21. Due to the undulations of the first corrugated surface f21, the first convex surface f11 will cause the first protrusion 4114 to move along the length of the first guide post 4112. When the first protrusion 4114 moves away from the first corrugated surface f21 along the length of the first guide post 4112, the first sliding plate 4111 compresses the first damping spring 412, and the first damping spring 412 generates elastic potential energy, providing damping force between the first arc arm 23 and the first fixed frame 311. Figure 12a and Figure 12b The structure of the second arc arm 24 as exemplified, Figure 17aThe structure of the second fixing frame 321 is shown. The second fixing frame 321 includes a second fixing member 3211 with an integral structure and a second connecting arm 3212. The second fixing member 3211 has second sliding grooves e12 on both sides, and the two second sliding grooves e12 are used to slide in a one-to-one correspondence with two second sliding portions e22 on the second arc arm 24, i.e., one second sliding groove e12 corresponds to one second sliding portion e22. When the second fixing frame 321 is slidably connected to the second arc arm 24, the second fixing member 3211 can be accommodated between the two first sliding portions e21 on the second arc arm 24. The second fixing member 3211 has a second structural portion 32111 and a second connecting portion 32112 facing the flexible screen 200, and the second structural portion 32111 and the second connecting portion 32112 are stepped. When the second fixing frame 321 is slidably connected to the second arc arm 24, the second connecting portion 32112 can be used to accommodate the second arm 244 on the second arc arm 24. The second connecting arm 3212 includes a second fixed end 32121, a second connecting end 32122, and a second connecting segment 32123 connecting the second fixed end 32121 and the second connecting end 32122. The second fixed end 32121 is connected to the second fixing member 3211. The second fixed end 32121 and the second connecting end 32122 are arranged opposite to each other, and the second fixed end 32121, the second connecting segment 32123, and the second connecting end 32122 form a concave shape. A second connecting groove k12 is provided at the connection between the second connecting segment 32123 and the second fixed end 32121, and a second connecting groove k12 is also provided at the connection between the second connecting segment 32123 and the second connecting end 32122. The two second connecting grooves k12 are used for sliding engagement with the second connecting arm 322. Further reference... Figure 17b The second mounting bracket 321 is shown from another angle. On the side of the second mounting bracket 321 opposite to the flexible screen 200, a second receiving groove n2 is provided. The second receiving groove n2 communicates with one of the second sliding grooves e12 through a second opening h2. The second receiving groove n2 is used to receive a second damping unit 42, which can pass through the second opening h2 and cooperate with the second corrugated surface f22 on the second arc arm 24.

[0148] The structure of the second connecting arm 322 of the second connecting unit 32 can be referred to Figure 17c and Figure 17d As shown. The second connecting arm 322 is provided with a second connecting plate 3221 and a second rotating plate 3222. The second connecting plate 3221 is used for sliding engagement with the second fixed frame 321, and the second connecting plate 3221 is provided with two opposing second connecting sliding parts k22, which are used for sliding engagement with two second connecting sliding grooves k12 on the second fixed frame 321. The second rotating plate 3222 is used for rotatable connection with the second base 11. Figure 17dAs shown, the second rotating plate 3222 has a second connecting arc surface v22 and two second rotating ends j12 located on both sides of the second connecting arc surface v22.

[0149] Combination Figure 17a and Figure 17b , refer to Figure 18a and Figure 18b The structure of the second damping unit 42 shown is as follows: Figure 18b The exploded view of the second damping unit 42 is shown. The second damping unit 42 includes a second damping slider 421 and a second damping spring 422. The second damping slider 421 is movably accommodated in the second receiving groove n2 on the second fixing frame 321 along the second direction Y. The second damping slider 421 specifically includes a second sliding plate 4211, a second guide post 4212, a second slider 4213, and a second protrusion 4214. The second guide post 4212 and the second slider 4213 are respectively disposed on both sides of the second sliding plate 4211 along the second direction Y. A second mounting post 42131 is provided on the second slider 4213, and the second protrusion 4214 is mounted on the second mounting post 42131. The side of the second protrusion 4214 facing away from the second sliding plate 4211 forms a second convex surface f12, which is used to abut against the second corrugated surface f22 on the second arc arm 24. The second damping spring 422 can be sleeved on the second guide post 4212. For example, three second damping springs 422 are arranged side by side, and three second guide posts 4212 are also arranged side by side, with each second guide post 4212 corresponding to a second damping spring 422. The second guide posts 4212 can guide the second damping springs 422, improving the stability of the second damping springs 422 during compression.

[0150] Figure 19a An example is given of the mating structure of the second fixed frame 321, the second arc arm 24, and the second connecting rotating arm 322. The two second sliding arms 241 of the second arc arm 24 are slidably engaged with the second fixed frame 321, and the second arm 244 of the second arc arm 24 is located on the second connecting portion 32112 of the second fixed frame 321. The second connecting sliding portion k22 on the second connecting rotating arm 322 is slidably engaged with the second connecting sliding groove k12 on the second fixed frame 321. The second fixed frame 321 includes a second fixing member 3211 composed of a second structural portion 32111 and a second connecting portion 32112, and a second connecting arm 3212 composed of a second fixing end 32121, a second connecting end 32122, and a second connecting section 32123. Figure 19bA schematic diagram of the bottom structure of the second fixing frame 321, the second arc arm 24, the second damping unit 42, and the second connecting swing arm 322 is illustrated. The second damping unit 42 is housed within the second receiving groove n2 of the second fixing frame 321. The second damping unit 42 specifically includes a second sliding plate 4211, a second guide post 4212, a second slider 4213, and a second protrusion 4214. The second convex surface f12 on the second protrusion 4214 passes through the second opening h2 on the second fixing member 3211 and abuts against the second corrugated surface f22 on the second arc arm 24. When the second sliding arm 241 of the second arc arm 24 slides relative to the second fixing frame 321, the second protrusion 4214 slides with the second fixing frame 321 relative to the second arc arm 24, and the second convex surface f12 moves relative to the second corrugated surface f22 along the extending direction of the second corrugated surface f22. Due to the undulations of the second corrugated surface f22, the second convex surface f12 will cause the second protrusion 4214 to move along the length of the second guide post 4212. When the second protrusion 4214 moves away from the second corrugated surface f22 along the length of the second guide post 4212, the second slide plate 4211 compresses the second damping spring 422, and the second damping spring 422 generates elastic potential energy, providing damping force between the second arc arm 24 and the second fixed frame 321.

[0151] Based on the structure of the first connecting arm 312 and the second connecting arm 322, the base 1 is provided with the following... Figure 20a The second base 11 shown has a first connecting arc surface v21 and a second connecting arc surface v22. The first connecting arc surface v21 is used to rotatably engage with a first rotating arc surface v11 on the first connecting rotating arm 312. The second connecting arc surface v22 is used to rotatably engage with a second rotating arc surface v12 on the second connecting rotating arm 322. The second base 11 also has two first connecting arc grooves j21, located at opposite ends of the axis of the first connecting arc surface v21. These two first connecting arc grooves j21 rotatably engage with two first arc-shaped rotating ends j11 in a one-to-one correspondence. The second base 11 also has two second connecting arc grooves j22, located at opposite ends of the axis of the second connecting arc surface v22. These two second connecting arc grooves j22 rotatably engage with two second arc-shaped rotating ends j12 in a one-to-one correspondence.

[0152] Figure 20bA schematic diagram of the mating structure between the second base 11 and the first connecting rotating arm 312 and the second connecting rotating arm 322 is shown. The first rotating arc surface v11 is rotatably mated with the first connecting arc surface v21 about the fifth axis L5, and the second rotating arc surface v12 is rotatably mated with the second connecting arc surface v22 about the sixth axis L6. Here, the fifth axis L5 and the sixth axis L6 are virtual axes, and the first axis L1, the second axis L2, the fifth axis L5, and the sixth axis L6 are not collinear. Two first connecting arc grooves j21 are rotatably mated with two first arc rotating ends j11, and two second connecting arc grooves j22 are rotatably mated with two second arc rotating ends j12. The first connecting rotating arm 312 can rotate relative to the second base 11 about the fifth axis L5, and the second connecting rotating arm 322 can rotate relative to the second base 11 about the sixth axis L6.

[0153] Based on the structure of each part of the rotating shaft assembly 10 in the above embodiments, the working process of the rotating shaft assembly 10 will be described in detail below. Figure 21a and Figure 21b This is a schematic diagram of the rotating shaft assembly 10 in the unfolded state in an embodiment of this application. Figures 22a to 22e for Figure 21b A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the rotating shaft assembly 10 at different positions along the second direction Y. Figure 23a and Figure 23b This is a structural schematic diagram of the pivot assembly 10 in this embodiment of the application during the transition from the unfolded state to the folded state. Figures 24a to 24h for Figure 23b A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the rotating shaft assembly 10 at different positions along the second direction Y. Figure 25a and Figure 25b This is a schematic diagram of the pivot assembly 10 in a folded state according to an embodiment of this application. Figures 26a to 26h This is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the rotating shaft assembly 10 at different positions along the second direction Y.

[0154] Figure 21aA schematic diagram of the rotating shaft assembly 10 in its unfolded state is shown. The first base 21 is fixed to the base 1 and hidden within it (not shown). The first fixing frame 311 of the first connecting unit 31 and the second fixing frame 321 of the second connecting unit 32 unfold relative to the base 1. The first arc arm 23 and the second arc arm 24 unfold relative to the first base 21. The first end face p1 of the first fixing frame 311 facing the flexible screen 200 is flush with the second end face p2 of the second fixing frame 321 facing the flexible screen 200. The first side support plate 521 can be fixed to the side of the first connecting arm 312 of the first connecting unit 31 facing the flexible screen 200 by adhesive, screws, etc. The second side support plate 522 can be fixed to the side of the second connecting arm 322 of the second connecting unit 32 facing the flexible screen 200 by adhesive, screws, etc. The surface of the first side support plate 521 facing the flexible screen 200 and the surface of the second side support plate 522 facing the flexible screen 200 are also flush. The mid-frame support plate 51 is fixed to the support surface b of the connecting bracket 22. The surface of the mid-frame support plate 51 facing away from the connecting bracket 22 is flush with the first side support plate 521 and the second side support plate 522, providing good support for the flexible screen 200. The distance between the support surface b of the connecting bracket 22 and the base 1 is r1. Figure 21a In this configuration, the first arc arm 23 is slidably connected to the second slide groove e12 on the first fixing frame 311, and the first platform q1 formed by the end of the first arc arm 23 away from the base 1 is flush with the first end face p1 of the first fixing frame 311. The second arc arm 24 is slidably connected to the second slide groove e12 on the second fixing frame 321, and the second platform q2 formed by the end of the second arc arm 24 away from the base 1 is flush with the second end face p2 of the second fixing frame 321. The surface of the first side support plate 521 facing the flexible screen 200 is higher than the first end face p1 of the first fixing frame 311 facing the flexible screen 200, and the height difference between the first end face p1 and the first side support plate 521 can be used to match the first middle frame assembly 20. The surface of the second side support plate 522 facing the flexible screen 200 is higher than the second end face p2 of the second fixing frame 321 facing the flexible screen 200, and the height difference between the second end face p2 and the second side support plate 522 can be used to match the second middle frame assembly 30.

[0155] Figure 21b A partial top view of the rotating shaft assembly 10 is shown. The middle frame support plate 51, the first side support plate 521, and the second side support plate 522 partially cover the rotating shaft unit 2. The first arc arm 23 cooperates with the first fixing frame 311, and the second arc arm 24 cooperates with the second fixing frame 321.

[0156] Figure 22a for Figure 21bA cross-sectional structural diagram at C1-C1. The first seat 211 is fixed to the base 1. The first sliding arm 231 of the first arc arm 23 is slidably engaged with the first fixed frame 311. The second sliding arm 241 of the second arc arm 24 is slidably engaged with the second fixed frame 321. The first protrusion 4114 in the first damping unit 41 protrudes through the first opening h1 on the first fixed frame 311. The second protrusion 4214 in the second damping unit 42 protrudes through the second opening h2 on the second fixed frame 321.

[0157] Figure 22b for Figure 21b A cross-sectional view of section C2-C2. The first base 211 is fixed to the base 1. The first arc arm 23 is rotatably connected to the first base 211 about the first axis L1, and the second arc arm 24 is rotatably connected to the first base 211 about the second axis L2. One end of the connecting bracket 22 is rotatably connected to the first arc arm 23 about the third axis L3, and the other end of the connecting bracket 22 is rotatably connected to the second arc arm 24 about the fourth axis L4. The first sliding arm 231 of the first arc arm 23 is slidably engaged with the first fixed frame 311, and the first arm 234 is located on the first connecting part 31112. The second sliding arm 241 of the second arc arm 24 is slidably engaged with the second fixed frame 321, and the second arm 244 is located on the second connecting part 32112. The first sliding plate 4111 of the first damping unit 41 is accommodated in the first structural part 31111, and the second sliding plate 4211 of the second damping unit 42 is accommodated in the second structural part 32111.

[0158] Figure 22c for Figure 21b A cross-sectional structural diagram at C3-C3. A first damping spring 412 is fitted on the first guide post 4112 in the first damping unit 41, and a second damping spring 422 is fitted on the second guide post 4212 in the second damping unit 42.

[0159] Figure 22d for Figure 21b A cross-sectional view of section C4-C4. The second base 212 is fixed to the base 1. The first arc arm 23 is rotatably connected to the second base 212 around the first axis L1, and the second arc arm 24 is rotatably connected to the second base 212 around the second axis L2. One end of the connecting bracket 22 is rotatably connected to the first arc arm 23 around the third axis L3.

[0160] Figure 22e for Figure 21bA cross-sectional structural diagram at point C5-C5. The second base 11 is fixed to the base 1. The first connecting arm 3112 in the first fixing frame 311 has a first connecting groove k11, and the first connecting plate 3121 in the first connecting rotating arm 312 has a first connecting sliding part k21, which slides in conjunction with the first connecting groove k11. The second connecting part 32112 in the second fixing frame 321 has a first connecting groove k11, and the second connecting plate 3221 in the second connecting rotating arm 322 has a second connecting sliding part k22, which slides in conjunction with the first connecting groove k11.

[0161] Figure 22f for Figure 21b A cross-sectional structural diagram at point C6-C6. The second base 11 is fixed to the base 1. The first rotating plate 3122 in the first connecting arm 312 has a first rotating end j11, and the second base 11 is provided with a first connecting arc groove j21. The first rotating end j11 can rotate around the fifth axis L5 and engage with the first connecting arc groove j21. The fifth axis L5 is a virtual axis, and its position is only for illustrative purposes.

[0162] Figure 22g for Figure 21b A cross-sectional structural diagram at C7-C7. The second base 11 is fixed to the base 1. The first rotating plate 3122 in the first connecting arm 312 has a first rotating arc surface v11, and the second base 11 is provided with a first connecting arc surface v21. The first rotating arc surface v11 can rotate around the fifth axis L5 and cooperate with the first connecting arc surface v21. Here, the first rotating arc surface v11 and the first connecting arc surface v21 coincide. The second rotating plate 3222 in the second connecting arm 322 has a second rotating arc surface v12, and the second base 11 is provided with a second connecting arc surface v22. The second rotating arc surface v12 can rotate around the sixth axis L6 and cooperate with the second connecting arc surface v22. Here, the second rotating arc surface v12 and the second connecting arc surface v22 coincide.

[0163] Figure 22h for Figure 21b A cross-sectional structural diagram at point C8-C8. The second base 11 is fixed to the base 1. The second rotating plate 3222 in the second connecting arm 322 has a second rotating end j12, and the second base 11 is provided with a second connecting arc groove j22. The second rotating end j12 can rotate around the sixth axis L6 and engage with the second connecting arc groove j22. The sixth axis L6 is a virtual axis, and its position is only for illustrative purposes. Figure 23aA structural schematic diagram of the pivot assembly 10 during its transition from an unfolded state to a folded state is shown. The first fixing frame 311 and the second fixing frame 321 approach each other, and the first arc arm 23 and the second arc arm 24 rotate relative to the first base 21 along the direction of the arrows shown. The first arc arm 23 slides relative to the first fixing frame 311, and the second arc arm 24 slides relative to the second fixing frame 321. Specifically, the first arc arm 23 slides relative to the first fixing frame 311 towards the base 1 along the direction indicated by the arrows, and the second arc arm 24 slides relative to the first fixing frame 311 towards the base 1 along the direction indicated by the arrows. The first platform q1 formed by the end of the first arc arm 23 away from the base 1 is no longer flush with the first end face p1 of the first fixing frame 311, and the second platform q2 formed by the end of the second arc arm 24 away from the base 1 is no longer flush with the second end face p2 of the second fixing frame 321. During this process, the connecting bracket 22 undergoes structural changes along with the first arc arm 23 and the second arc arm 24, exhibiting… Figure 23a The example shows a tilted state, causing the middle frame support plate 51, fixed to the connecting bracket 22, to tilt relative to the base 1. Combined Figure 23a As illustrated, during the transition between the folded and unfolded states of the pivot assembly 10, the included angles between the first arc arm 23 and the second arc arm 24 and the base 1 may differ. However, this does not affect the fact that the angle of rotation of the first arc arm 23 from the unfolded state to the folded state is the same as the angle of rotation of the second arc arm 24 from the unfolded state to the folded state. In other words, with reference to the folded and unfolded states of the pivot assembly 10, the angle of rotation of the first arc arm 23 relative to the base 1 is the same as the angle of rotation of the second arc arm 24 relative to the base 1. During the transition from the unfolded to the folded state of the pivot assembly 10, the first fixing bracket 311 slides away from the base 1 relative to the first arc arm 23, and the second fixing bracket 321 slides away from the base 1 relative to the second arc arm 24.

[0164] Figure 23b A partial top view of the rotating shaft assembly 10 is shown. The middle frame support plate 51, the first side support plate 521, and the second side support plate 522 partially cover the rotating shaft unit 2. The first arc arm 23 cooperates with the first fixing frame 311, and the second arc arm 24 cooperates with the second fixing frame 321.

[0165] Figure 24a for Figure 23b A cross-sectional structural diagram at point D1-D1. The first protrusion 4114 of the first damping unit 41 is mounted on the first mounting post 41131 of the first slider 4113, and protrusion 4114 protrudes through the first opening h1 on the first fixing frame 311. The second protrusion 4214 of the second damping unit 42 is mounted on the second mounting post 42131 of the second slider 4213, and protrudes through the second opening h2 on the second fixing frame 321.

[0166] Figure 24b for Figure 23b A cross-sectional structural diagram at point D2-D2. The first base 211 is fixed to the base 1. The first arc arm 23 is rotatably connected to the first base 211 about the first axis L1, and the second arc arm 24 is rotatably connected to the first base 211 about the second axis L2. It should be understood that only partial structures of the first arc arm 23 and the second arc arm 24 are shown here. One end of the connecting bracket 22 is rotatably connected to the first arc arm 23 about the third axis L3, and the other end of the connecting bracket 22 is rotatably connected to the second arc arm 24 about the fourth axis L4. The first arm 234 of the first arc arm 23 is located on the first connecting part 31112, and the second arm 244 of the second arc arm 24 is located on the second connecting part 32112. The first sliding plate 4111 of the first damping unit 41 is accommodated in the first receiving groove n1 of the first structural part 31111, and the second sliding plate 4211 of the second damping unit 42 is accommodated in the second receiving groove n2 of the second structural part 32111.

[0167] Figure 24c for Figure 23b A cross-sectional structural diagram at point D3-D3. A first damping spring 412 is fitted onto the first guide post 4112 in the first damping unit 41, and a second damping spring 422 is fitted onto the second guide post 4212 in the second damping unit 42.

[0168] Figure 24d for Figure 23b A cross-sectional view of section D4-D4 is shown. The second base 212 is fixed to the base 1. The first arc arm 23 is rotatably connected to the second base 212 around the first axis L1, and the second arc arm 24 is rotatably connected to the second base 212 around the second axis L2. Only a portion of the structure of the first arc arm 23 and the second arc arm 24 is shown here.

[0169] Figure 24e for Figure 23b A cross-sectional structural diagram at point D5-D5. The second base 11 is fixed to the base 1. The first connecting arm 3112 in the first fixing frame 311 has a first connecting groove k11, and the first connecting plate 3121 in the first connecting rotating arm 312 has a first connecting sliding part k21, which slides in conjunction with the first connecting groove k11. The second connecting part 32112 in the second fixing frame 321 has a first connecting groove k11, and the second connecting plate 3221 in the second connecting rotating arm 322 has a second connecting sliding part k22, which slides in conjunction with the first connecting groove k11.

[0170] Figure 24f for Figure 23bA cross-sectional structural diagram at point D6-D6. The second base 11 is fixed to the base 1. The first rotating plate 3122 in the first connecting arm 312 has a first rotating end j11, and the second base 11 is provided with a first connecting arc groove j21. The first rotating end j11 can rotate around the fifth axis L5 and engage with the first connecting arc groove j21. The fifth axis L5 is a virtual axis, and its position is only for illustrative purposes.

[0171] Figure 24g for Figure 23b A cross-sectional structural diagram at point D7-D7. The second base 11 is fixed to the base 1. The first rotating plate 3122 in the first connecting arm 312 has a first rotating arc surface v11, and the second base 11 is provided with a first connecting arc surface v21. The first rotating arc surface v11 can rotate around the fifth axis L5 and cooperate with the first connecting arc surface v21, where the first rotating arc surface v11 and the first connecting arc surface v21 coincide. The second rotating plate 3222 in the second connecting arm 322 has a second rotating arc surface v12, and the second base 11 is provided with a second connecting arc surface v22. The second rotating arc surface v12 can rotate around the sixth axis L6 and cooperate with the second connecting arc surface v22, where the second rotating arc surface v12 and the second connecting arc surface v22 coincide.

[0172] Figure 24h for Figure 23b A cross-sectional structural diagram at point D8-D8. The second base 11 is fixed to the base 1. The second rotating plate 3222 in the second connecting arm 322 has a second rotating end j12, and the second base 11 is provided with a second connecting arc groove j22. The second rotating end j12 can rotate around the sixth axis L6 and engage with the second connecting arc groove j22. The sixth axis L6 is a virtual axis, and its position is only for illustrative purposes.

[0173] Figure 25aA schematic diagram of the rotating shaft assembly 10 in a folded state is shown. The first fixing bracket 311 and the second fixing bracket 321 are opposite each other along the first direction X. The first end face p1 on the first fixing bracket 311 is parallel to and opposite to the second end face p2 on the second fixing bracket 321. The first arc arm 23 and the second arc arm 24 are in a folded state. Along the third direction Z, the distance between the first clearance groove d1 on the first arc arm 23 and the second arc arm d2 is smaller on the side farther from the base 1 and larger on the side closer to the base 1. A teardrop-shaped space is formed between the first arc arm 23, the second arc arm 24, and the connecting bracket 22. The support surface b of the connecting bracket 22 is parallel to the bottom surface a of the base 1, and the middle frame support plate 51 is also parallel to the bottom surface a of the base 1. The first side support plate 521 and the second side support plate 522 are opposite to and inclined, pointing towards the base 1 along the free end of the first arc arm 23. The distance between the first side support plate 521 and the second side support plate 522 gradually increases, forming a teardrop-shaped accommodating space between the middle frame support plate 51, the first side support plate 521, and the second side support 522, which can accommodate the flexible screen 200. The distance between the support surface b and the base 1 is r2, where r2 is less than r1. Figure 21a and Figure 25a When the pivot assembly 10 transitions from a folded state to an unfolded state, the connecting bracket 22 moves away from the base 1. When the pivot assembly 10 transitions from an unfolded state to a folded state, the connecting bracket 22 moves closer to the base 1.

[0174] Figure 25b A partial top view of the pivot assembly 10 is shown, showing only the middle frame support plate 51, the first fixing bracket 311, and the second fixing bracket 321.

[0175] Figure 26a for Figure 25b A cross-sectional structural diagram at point E1-E1. The first seat 211 is fixed to the base 1. The first protrusion 4114 in the first damping unit 41 is mounted on the first mounting post 41131 of the first slider 4113, and the first protrusion 4114 protrudes through the first opening h1 on the first fixing frame 311. The second protrusion 4214 in the second damping unit 42 is mounted on the second mounting post 42131 of the second slider 4213, and the second protrusion 4214 protrudes through the second opening h2 on the second fixing frame 321.

[0176] Figure 26b for Figure 25bA cross-sectional view of section E2-E2 is shown. The first base 211 is fixed to the base 1, and the first arc arm 23 is rotatably connected to the first base 211 around the first axis L1. Only a portion of the structure of the first arc arm 23 is shown here. The first sliding plate 4111 of the first damping unit 41 is accommodated in the first receiving groove n1 of the first structural part 31111, and the second sliding plate 4211 of the second damping unit 42 is accommodated in the second receiving groove n2 of the second structural part 32111.

[0177] Figure 26c for Figure 25b A cross-sectional structural diagram at point E3-E3. A first damping spring 412 is fitted onto the first guide post 4112 in the first damping unit 41, and a second damping spring 422 is fitted onto the second guide post 4212 in the second damping unit 42.

[0178] Figure 26d for Figure 25b A cross-sectional view of section E4-E4 is shown. The second base 212 is fixed to the base 1. The first arc arm 23 is rotatably connected to the second base 212 about the first axis L1, and the second arc arm 24 is rotatably connected to the second base 212 about the second axis L2. One end of the connecting bracket 22 is rotatably connected to the first arc arm 23 about the third axis L3. Only a portion of the structure of the first arc arm 23 and the second arc arm 24 is shown here.

[0179] Figure 26e for Figure 25b A cross-sectional view of section E5-E5. The connecting base 111 is fixed to the base 1. The first connecting part 31112 in the first fixing frame 311 has a first connecting groove k11, and the first connecting plate 3121 in the first connecting arm 312 has a first connecting sliding part k21, which slides in conjunction with the first connecting groove k11. The second connecting part 32112 in the second fixing frame 321 has a first connecting groove k11, and the second connecting plate 3221 in the second connecting arm 322 has a second connecting sliding part k22, which slides in conjunction with the first connecting groove k11.

[0180] Figure 26f for Figure 25b A cross-sectional structural diagram at point E6-E6. The connecting base 111 is fixed to the base 1. The first rotating plate 3122 in the first connecting arm 312 has a first rotating end j11. The connecting base 111 is provided with a first connecting arc-shaped groove j21. The first rotating end j11 can rotatably engage with the first connecting arc-shaped groove j21 around the fifth axis L5. The fifth axis L5 is a virtual axis, its position shown only as an example.

[0181] Figure 26g for Figure 25bA cross-sectional view of section E7-E7. The connecting base 111 is fixed to the base 1. The first rotating plate 3122 in the first connecting arm 312 has a first rotating arc surface v11, and the connecting base 111 is provided with a first connecting arc surface v21. The first rotating arc surface v11 rotatably engages with the first connecting arc surface v21 around the fifth axis L5, where the first rotating arc surface v11 and the first connecting arc surface v21 coincide. The second rotating plate 3222 in the second connecting arm 322 has a second rotating arc surface v12, and the connecting base 111 is provided with a second connecting arc surface v22. The second rotating arc surface v12 rotatably engages with the second connecting arc surface v22 around the sixth axis L6, where the second rotating arc surface v12 and the second connecting arc surface v22 coincide.

[0182] Figure 26h for Figure 25b A cross-sectional structural diagram at point E8-E8. The connecting base 111 is fixed to the base 1. The second rotating plate 3222 in the second connecting arm 322 has a second rotating end j12. The connecting base 111 is provided with a second connecting arc-shaped groove j22. The second rotating end j12 can rotatably engage with the second connecting arc-shaped groove j22 around the sixth axis L6. The sixth axis L6 is a virtual axis, its position shown only as an example.

[0183] In the above embodiments, the rotational connection between the first arc arm 23 and the first base 21 can be achieved through a rotational fit between their own structures or through a rotational fit using external structures such as pins, as long as a rotational connection between the first arc arm 23 and the first base 21 can be achieved. Similarly, the rotational connection between the second arc arm 24 and the first base 21 can be achieved through a rotational fit between their own structures or through a rotational fit using external structures such as pins, as long as a rotational connection between the second arc arm 24 and the first base 21 can be achieved. This connection method reduces the difficulty of machining the parts, ensures machining accuracy, and allows the mating structures to maintain a coaxial and concentric state, preventing problems such as tilting, twisting, and wobbling of the mechanism.

[0184] The connection method between the first arc arm 23, the second arc arm 24 and the first base 21 will be further illustrated by example.

[0185] Figure 27a Another connection method between the first arc arm 23, the second arc arm 24, and the first base 21 is shown. For ease of illustration, the connecting bracket 22 is hidden here. Figure 27bThe exploded view shows the first arc arm 23, the second arc arm 24, and the first base 21. The first base rotating assembly 2321 on the first arc arm 23 is fixed to the first structural member 233. The first base rotating assembly 2321 rotatably engages with the first base 21. The first base rotating assembly 2321 has a shaft hole, and the first base 21 has a rotating shaft for rotatably engaging with the shaft hole. The first bracket rotating assembly 2322 is fixed to the first base rotating assembly 2321 via a first connecting member 235, and the first bracket rotating assembly 2322 rotatably engages with the connecting bracket 22 via a first pin 251. The first base rotating assembly 2321 has a first mounting hole s11, and the first bracket rotating assembly 2322 has a first mating hole s21. One end of the first connecting member 235 can be inserted into the first mounting hole s11, and the other end of the first connecting member 235 can be inserted into the first mating hole s21, thereby fixing the first bracket rotating assembly 2322 to the first base rotating assembly 2321. The second base rotating assembly 2421 on the second arc arm 24 is fixed to the second structural member 243. The second base rotating assembly 2421 is rotatably engaged with the first base 21. The second base rotating assembly 2421 has a shaft hole, and the first base 21 has a rotating shaft for rotatably engaging with the shaft hole. The second bracket rotating assembly 2422 is fixed to the second base rotating assembly 2421 via a second connecting member 245, and the second bracket rotating assembly 2422 is rotatably engaged with the connecting bracket 22 via a second pin 252. The second base rotating assembly 2421 is provided with a second mounting hole s12, and the second bracket rotating assembly 2422 is provided with a second mating hole s22. One end of the second connecting member 245 can be inserted into the second mounting hole s12, and the other end of the second connecting member 245 can be inserted into the second mating hole s22, thereby fixing the second bracket rotating assembly 2422 to the second base rotating assembly 2421. The first mounting hole s11 and the first mating hole s21 are both irregularly shaped, such as rectangular or elliptical. This hole structure enables the first connector 235 to achieve a transmission connection between the first base rotation assembly 2321 and the first bracket rotation assembly 2322. Similarly, the second mounting hole s12 and the second mating hole s22 are also irregularly shaped, such as rectangular or elliptical. This hole structure enables the second connector 245 to achieve a transmission connection between the second base rotation assembly 2421 and the second bracket rotation assembly 2422.

[0186] Figure 28a This illustrates another connection method between the first arc arm 23, the second arc arm 24, and the first base 21. For ease of illustration, the connecting bracket 22 is hidden here. Combined with... Figure 28bThe exploded view shows the first arc arm 23, the second arc arm 24, and the first base 21. The first base rotating assembly 2321 on the first arc arm 23 is fixed to the first arm 234. The first base rotating assembly 2321 rotatably engages with the first base 21. The first base rotating assembly 2321 has a first arc-shaped sliding portion w11, and the first base 21 has a first arc-shaped groove w21 for sliding connection with the first arc-shaped sliding portion w11. When the first arc-shaped sliding portion w11 is slidably connected to the first arc-shaped groove w21, the axis of the first arc-shaped sliding portion w11 coincides with the axis of the first arc-shaped groove w21. The first arc-shaped sliding portion w11 slides relative to the first arc-shaped groove w21, which is equivalent to the first arc-shaped sliding portion w11 rotating around the axis of the first arc-shaped groove w21, thereby realizing the rotation of the first arc arm 23 relative to the first base 21. The first support rotating assembly 2322 is fixed to the first base rotating assembly 2321 via the first connector 235, and the first support rotating assembly 2322 is rotatably engaged with the connecting support 22 via the first pin 251. The second base rotating assembly 2421 on the second arc arm 24 is fixed to the second arm 244. The second base rotating assembly 2421 is rotatably engaged with the first base 21. The second base rotating assembly 2421 has a second arc-shaped sliding part w12, and the first base 21 has a second arc-shaped groove w22 for sliding connection with the second arc-shaped sliding part w12. When the second arc-shaped sliding part w12 is slidably connected with the second arc-shaped groove w22, the axis of the second arc-shaped sliding part w12 coincides with the axis of the second arc-shaped groove w22, and the second arc-shaped sliding part w12 slides relative to the second arc-shaped groove w22, which is equivalent to the second arc-shaped sliding part w12 rotating around the axis of the second arc-shaped groove w22, thereby realizing the rotation of the second arc arm 24 relative to the first base 21. The second bracket rotating assembly 2422 is fixed to the second base rotating assembly 2421 by the second connector 245, and the second bracket rotating assembly 2422 is rotatably engaged with the connecting bracket 22 by the second pin 252.

[0187] In summary, the folding structure 100 in this application achieves the folding and unfolding of the foldable terminal device through simple mechanical constraints. The folding structure 100 can be miniaturized, reducing the space it occupies in the foldable terminal device and thus further reducing its thickness. When the folding structure 100 is folded, it forms a large, teardrop-shaped space, allowing the bending area A2 of the flexible screen 200 to have a large bending radius, reducing the risk of creases or damage, protecting the flexible screen 200, and increasing the lifespan of the foldable terminal device.

[0188] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to the embodiments of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, if these modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims of the present invention and their equivalents, the present invention also intends to include these modifications and variations.

Claims

1. A folding structure (100), the folding structure (100) having a folded state and an unfolded state, characterized in that, It includes a pivot assembly (10), a first middle frame assembly (20), and a second middle frame assembly (30); the pivot assembly (10) is connected between the first middle frame assembly (20) and the second middle frame assembly (30); The rotating shaft assembly (10) includes a base (1), a rotating shaft unit (2), a first connecting unit (31), and a second connecting unit (32); the first connecting unit (31) is fixed to the first middle frame assembly (20), the second connecting unit (32) is fixed to the second middle frame assembly (30), the first connecting unit (31) is rotatably connected to the base (1), and the second connecting unit (32) is rotatably connected to the base (1); The rotating shaft unit (2) includes a first base (21), a connecting bracket (22), a first arc arm (23), and a second arc arm (24); the first base (21) is fixed to the base (1); The first end of the first arc arm (23) is rotatably connected to the first base (21) relative to the first axis (L1), and the second end of the first arc arm (23) is slidably connected to the first connecting unit (31); The first end of the second arc arm (24) is rotatably connected to the first base (21) relative to the second axis (L2), and the second end of the second arc arm (24) is slidably connected to the second connecting unit (32); The first end of the connecting bracket (22) is rotatably connected to the first end of the first arc arm (23) relative to the third axis (L3), and the second end of the connecting bracket (22) is rotatably connected to the first end of the second arc arm (24) relative to the fourth axis (L4); wherein the first axis (L1), the second axis (L2), the third axis (L3) and the fourth axis (L4) are parallel to each other and not collinear; The first base (21) has a bottom surface (a) facing away from the flexible screen (200), and the connecting bracket (22) has a support surface (b) facing away from the first base (21); when the folding structure (100) changes from the unfolded state to the folded state, the support surface (b) of the connecting bracket (22) moves toward the bottom surface (a) of the first base (21); when the folding structure (100) changes from the folded state to the unfolded state, the support surface (b) of the connecting bracket (22) moves away from the bottom surface (a) of the first base (21); when the folding structure (100) is in the unfolded state, the support surface (b) is parallel to the flexible screen (200).

2. The folding structure (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pivot assembly (10) further includes a middle frame support plate (51), a first side support plate (521), and a second side support plate (522). The middle frame support plate (51) is fixed to the support surface (b) of the connecting bracket (22), the first side support plate (521) is fixed to the first connecting unit (31), and the second side support plate (522) is fixed to the second connecting unit (32). When the folding structure (100) is in the folded state, the middle frame support plate (51), the first side support plate (521) and the second side support plate (522) form a receiving space for accommodating the bending area of ​​the flexible screen (200); when the folding structure (100) is in the unfolded state, the middle frame support plate (51), the first side support plate (521) and the second side support plate (522) remain flush with the first middle frame assembly (20) and the second middle frame assembly (30).

3. The folding structure (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The plane containing the first axis (L1) and the second axis (L2) is parallel to the bottom surface (a) of the first base (21).

4. The folding structure (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The folding structure (100) is in the unfolded state, and the connecting bracket (22) does not protrude from the bottom surface (a) of the first base (21).

5. The folding structure (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first arc arm (23) includes a first sliding arm (231) and a first rotating part (232). The first sliding arm (231) is slidably connected to the first connecting unit (31). The first rotating part (232) has a first base rotating assembly (2321) for rotatably connecting to the first base (21) and a first bracket rotating assembly (2322) for rotatably connecting to the connecting bracket (22). The second arc arm (24) includes a second sliding arm (241) and a second rotating part (242). The second sliding arm (241) is used to slide and connect with the second connecting unit (32). The second rotating part (242) has a second base rotating assembly (2421) for rotating and connecting with the first base (21) and a second bracket rotating assembly (2422) for rotating and connecting with the connecting bracket (22).

6. The folding structure (100) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first base rotation assembly (2321) is fixed to the first sliding arm (231), and the first bracket rotation assembly (2322) is fixed to the first base rotation assembly (2321) through the first connector (235). The second base rotating assembly (2421) is fixed to the second sliding arm (241), and the second bracket rotating assembly (2422) is fixed to the second base rotating assembly (2421) through the second connector (245).

7. The folding structure (100) according to claim 5, characterized in that, A first structural member (233) is provided between the first sliding arm (231) and the first rotating part (232). The first structural member (233) has a curved part for avoiding the base (1), and the curved part protrudes toward the flexible screen (200). A second structural member (243) is provided between the second sliding arm (241) and the second rotating part (242). The second structural member (243) has a curved part for avoiding the base (1) and the curved part protrudes toward the flexible screen (200).

8. The folding structure (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first arc arm (23) has a first mounting groove (c1) with two opposing sidewalls, the second arc arm (24) has a second mounting groove (c2), and the connecting bracket (22) is accommodated between the two sidewalls of the first mounting groove (c1) and the two sidewalls of the second mounting groove (c2).

9. The folding structure (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first arc arm (23) has a first clearance groove (d1), and the second arc arm (24) has a second clearance groove (d2). When the folding structure (100) is in a folded state, the distance between the first clearance groove (d1) and the second clearance groove (d2) gradually increases along the direction from the free end of the first arc arm (23) and the free end of the second arc arm (24) toward the base (1).

10. The folding structure (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the folding structure (100) transitions from the folded state to the unfolded state or from the unfolded state to the folded state, the rotation angle of the first arc arm (23) relative to the first base (21) is the same as the rotation angle of the second arc arm (24) relative to the first base (21).

11. The folding structure (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first base (21) includes a first seat body (211) and a second seat body (212). The first seat body (211) and the second seat body (212) are fixed relative to the base (1) along a second direction, which is parallel to the first axis (L1). The first arc arm (23) is rotatably connected to both the first seat body (211) and the second seat body (212), and the second arc arm (24) is rotatably connected to both the first seat body (211) and the second seat body (212).

12. The folding structure (100) according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The first connecting unit (31) is provided with a first sliding groove (e11), the extension direction of the first sliding groove (e11) being perpendicular to the first axis (L1); the first arc arm (23) is provided with a first sliding part (e21), the first sliding part (e21) being slidably connected to the first sliding groove (e11); The second connecting unit (32) is provided with a second sliding groove (e12), the extension direction of the second sliding groove (e12) is perpendicular to the first axis (L1); the second arc arm (24) is provided with a second sliding part (e22), the second sliding part (e22) is slidably connected to the second sliding groove (e12).

13. The folding structure (100) according to claim 12, characterized in that, A first damping unit (41) is provided in the connection unit between the first connecting unit (31) and the first arc arm (23). A second damping unit (42) is provided between the second connecting unit (32) and the second arc arm (24).

14. The folding structure (100) according to claim 13, characterized in that, The first damping unit (41) includes a first damping slider (411) and a first damping spring (412); the first damping slider (411) is slidably connected to the first connecting unit (31) in a second direction, which is parallel to the first axis (L1); the first damping spring (412) is disposed between the first damping slider (411) and the first connecting unit (31); the end of the first damping slider (411) facing away from the first damping spring (412) is engaged with the cam surface of the first arc arm (23); when the first arc arm (23) slides relative to the first connecting unit (31), the first arc arm (23) pushes the first damping slider (411) to slide in the second direction; The second damping unit (42) includes a second damping slider (421) and a second damping spring (422); the second damping slider (421) is slidably connected to the second connecting unit (32) in a second direction, which is parallel to the first axis (L1); the second damping spring (422) is disposed between the second damping slider (421) and the second connecting unit (32); one end of the second damping slider (421) away from the second damping spring (422) is engaged with the cam surface of the second arc arm (24); When the second arc arm (24) slides relative to the second connecting unit (32), the second arc arm (24) pushes the second damping slider (421) to slide along the second direction.

15. The folding structure (100) according to claim 14, characterized in that, The first damping slider (411) has a first convex surface (f11) protruding towards the first arc arm (23), and the first arc arm (23) has a first corrugated surface (f21) facing the first damping slider (411), and the first convex surface (f11) abuts against the first corrugated surface (f21); The second damping slider (421) has a second convex surface (f12) protruding toward the second arc arm (24), and the second arc arm (24) has a second corrugated surface (f22) facing toward the second damping slider (421), and the second convex surface (f12) abuts against the second corrugated surface (f22).

16. The folding structure (100) according to claim 14, characterized in that, The first damping slider (411) is provided with a first guide post (4112), and the first damping spring (412) is sleeved on the first guide post (4112); The second damping slider (421) is provided with a second guide post (4212), and the second damping spring (422) is sleeved on the second guide post (4212).

17. The folding structure (100) according to claim 13, characterized in that, The first connecting unit (31) is provided with a first receiving groove (n1) for accommodating the first damping unit (41). The first connecting unit (31) has a first opening (h1) connecting the first receiving groove (n1) and the first arc arm (23). The first damping unit (41) extends out from the first opening (h1) to abut against the first arc arm (23). The second connecting unit (32) is provided with a second receiving groove (n2) for accommodating the second damping unit (42). The second connecting unit (32) has a second opening (h2) connecting the second receiving groove (n2) and the second arc arm (24). The second damping unit (42) extends out from the second opening (h2) to abut against the second arc arm (24).

18. The folding structure (100) according to claim 13, characterized in that, The first connecting unit (31) includes a first fixing frame (311) and a first connecting arm (312); the first fixing frame (311) is fixed to the first middle frame assembly (20), one end of the first connecting arm (312) is rotatably connected to the base (1), and the other end of the first connecting arm (312) is slidably connected to the first fixing frame (311); The second connecting unit (32) includes a second fixing frame (321) and a second connecting arm (322); the second fixing frame (321) is fixed to the second middle frame assembly (30), one end of the second connecting arm (322) is rotatably connected to the base (1), and the other end of the second connecting arm (322) is slidably connected to the second fixing frame (321).

19. A foldable terminal device, characterized in that, Includes a flexible screen (200) and a folding structure (100) as described in any one of claims 1-18; The flexible screen (200) has a first fixed area (A1), a bending area (A2) and a second fixed area (A3), the bending area (A2) being connected between the first fixed area (A1) and the second fixed area (A3); the first fixed area (A1) is fixed to the first mid-frame assembly (20), and the second fixed area (A3) is fixed to the second mid-frame assembly (30).

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