Electronic device and foldable sliding device

Abstract

Embodiments of the present application provide an electronic device, comprising: a housing assembly, a display screen, and a retraction mechanism. The housing assembly defines a cavity and comprises: a first housing portion configured to be foldable about a folding axis; and a second housing portion connected to an end of the first housing portion and movable toward or away from the folding axis. The display screen comprises a first display portion; and a second display portion comprising: an extended segment connected to the first display portion. The retraction mechanism is disposed in the cavity and opposite the folding axis; wherein the retraction mechanism is in contact with the second display portion and is configured to: release the extended segment to move out of the cavity when the second housing portion moves away from the folding axis; or bring the extended segment into the cavity when the second housing portion moves toward the folding axis.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Embodiments of the present application relate to electronic products, in particular, electronic devices and foldable sliding devices. BACKGROUND

[0002] Nowadays, foldable electronic devices are increasingly favored by users. In order to protect the display screen of the electronic device, the display screen is usually configured to be folded inside when the electronic device is closed. However, the above design reduces the convenience of the product. SUMMARY

[0003] According to an aspect of the present application, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a housing assembly, a display screen, and a retraction mechanism. The housing assembly defines a cavity and includes a first housing portion configured to be foldable about a folding axis, and a second housing portion connected to an end of the first housing portion and configured to be movable toward or away from the folding axis. The display screen includes a first display portion connected to the first housing portion and configured to be foldable with the first housing portion, and a second display portion including an extension segment connected to the first display portion, and an inner segment connected to an end of the extension segment away from the first display portion, wherein the inner segment has a connection end opposite to the extension segment. The retraction mechanism is disposed in the cavity and opposite to the folding axis, wherein the retraction mechanism is in contact with the second display portion and configured to release the extension segment to move out of the cavity when the second housing portion moves away from the folding axis, or to bring the extension segment into the cavity when the second housing portion moves toward the folding axis.

[0004] According to a second aspect of the present application, a foldable-slidable device is provided, including a first portion including a first display screen and configured to be foldable about a folding axis, a second portion including a second display screen and connected to the first portion, wherein the second portion is configured to be slidable relative to the first portion between a first state in which the second display screen is not visible and a second state in which the second display screen is visible, and a movable component connected to an end of the second portion away from the folding axis and in contact with the second display screen, wherein when the second portion is slid between the first state and the second state, the movable component is configured to move relative to the second display screen to drive the second display screen to change between invisible and visible.

[0005] According to a third aspect of the present application, an electronic device is provided, comprising: a housing assembly, a flexible display screen, and an adjusting assembly. The housing assembly comprises a first folding portion, a second folding portion, and a third folding portion connected between the first folding portion and the second folding portion; wherein the second folding portion is configured to be movable between an extended state and an unextended state. The flexible display screen is connected with the housing assembly, covering the first folding portion, the second folding portion, and the third folding portion; wherein a visible area of the flexible display screen when the second folding portion is in the extended state is greater than a visible area of the flexible display screen when the second folding portion is in the unextended state. The adjusting assembly is connected with the second folding portion, opposite to the third folding portion, and in contact with the flexible display screen. The adjusting assembly is configured to move together with the second folding portion to adjust the visible area of the flexible display screen. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0006] In order to make the technical solutions described in the embodiments of the present application clearer, the drawings used to describe the embodiments will be briefly described. Obviously, the drawings described below are only used for illustration and not limitation. It should be understood that those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings from these drawings without any creative work.

[0007] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0008] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of an electronic device in different states.

[0009] Figure 3 is a front view schematic diagram of an electronic device in a folding-unextended state.

[0010] Figure 4 is a top view schematic diagram of the electronic device shown in Figure 3

[0011] Figure 5 is a front view schematic diagram of an electronic device in a half folding-unextended state.

[0012] Figure 6 is a top view schematic diagram of the electronic device shown in Figure 5

[0013] Figure 7 is a front view schematic diagram of an electronic device in an unfolded-unextended state.

[0014] Figure 8 is a top view schematic diagram of the electronic device shown in Figure 7

[0015] Figure 9 ​​​is a front view schematic of the electronic device in a folded-extended state.

[0016] Figure 10 is Figure 9 is a top view schematic of the electronic device shown in

[0017] Figure 11 is a front view schematic of the electronic device in a half-folded-extended state.

[0018] Figure 12 is Figure 11 is a top view schematic of the electronic device shown in

[0019] Figure 13 is a front view schematic of the electronic device in an unfolded-extended state.

[0020] Figure 14 is Figure 13 is a top view schematic of the electronic device shown in

[0021] Figure 15 is Figure 13 is a rear view schematic of the electronic device shown in

[0022] Figure 16 is Figure 4 is a schematic of the display screen of the electronic device shown in

[0023] Figure 17 is Figure 8 is a schematic of the display screen of the electronic device shown in

[0024] Figure 18 is Figure 10 is a schematic of the display screen of the electronic device shown in

[0025] Figure 19 is Figure 14 is a schematic of the display screen of the electronic device shown in

[0026] Figure 20 is a schematic of the support of the electronic device according to an embodiment of the application.

[0027] Figure 21 is a partial cross-sectional view of the electronic device according to an embodiment of the application. Figure 4

[0028] is a partial cross-sectional view of the electronic device according to an embodiment of the application. Figure 22 Figure 8 is a partial enlarged view of the electronic device according to an embodiment of the application.

[0029] Figure 23 Figure 22 is a partial enlarged view of the electronic device according to an embodiment of the application.

[0030] ​​Figure 24 is a partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 10

[0031] Figure 25 is a partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 14

[0032] Figure 26 is a partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 25

[0033] Figure 27 is a perspective view of a scroll assembly of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0034] Figure 28 is a front view of a scroll assembly according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 27

[0035] is a left view of a scroll assembly according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 29 Figure 27 is a rear view of a scroll assembly according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0036] Figure 30 Figure 27 is a right view of a scroll assembly according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0037] Figure 31 is a top view of a scroll assembly according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 27

[0038] is a bottom view of a scroll assembly according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 32 Figure 27 is an exploded view of a scroll assembly according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0039] Figure 33 Figure 27 is a perspective view of a scroll assembly according to another embodiment of the present application.

[0040] Figure 34 is a partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device according to another embodiment of the present application. Figure 27

[0041] is a partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device according to another embodiment of the present application. Figure 35

[0042] is a partial cross-sectional view of an electronic device according to another embodiment of the present application. Figure 36 Figure 4 is a partial cross-sectional view of a slide assembly and a display screen of an electronic device according to another embodiment of the present application.

[0043] Figure 37 Figure 36 is a partial cross-sectional view of a slide assembly and a display screen of an electronic device according to another embodiment of the present application.

[0044] Figure 38 is a partial cross-sectional view of a slide assembly and a display screen of an electronic device according to another embodiment of the present application. Figure 37 ​​​​​​​​​A perspective view of a sliding assembly and display screen of an electronic device.

[0045] Figure 39 is a partial cross-sectional view of a sliding assembly and display screen according to another embodiment of the present application. Figure 10 A partial cross-sectional view of a sliding assembly and display screen of an electronic device.

[0046] Figure 40 is a perspective view of a sliding assembly and display screen according to another embodiment of the present application. Figure 39 A partial cross-sectional view of a sliding assembly and display screen of an electronic device.

[0047] Figure 41 is a perspective view of a sliding assembly and display screen according to another embodiment of the present application. Figure 40 A partial cross-sectional view of a sliding assembly and display screen of an electronic device.

[0048] Figure 42 is a partial cross-sectional view of a sliding assembly and display screen according to another embodiment of the present application.

[0049] Figure 43 is a partial cross-sectional view of a sliding assembly and display screen according to another embodiment of the present application.

[0050] Figure 44 is a partial cross-sectional view of a sliding assembly and display screen according to another embodiment of the present application.

[0051] Figure 45 is a partial cross-sectional view of a sliding assembly and display screen according to another embodiment of the present application.

[0052] Figure 46 is a perspective view of a support assembly and first slider of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0053] Figure 47 is a partial cross-sectional view of a sliding assembly and display screen according to another embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] For a more complete understanding of the present application, and the advantages thereof, reference is now made to the following descriptions taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It is to be understood that the embodiments and features described herein can be combined with each other, as well as with other features not expressly described but within the scope of the application.

[0055] Figure 1 is a schematic view of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present application. The electronic device can also be referred to as a foldable-slidable device, which can be a portable electronic device, such as a mobile phone, a tablet, an e-reader, etc.

[0056] As shown in Figure 1 The electronic device can include a housing assembly 10 and a display screen 20. The housing assembly 10 can serve as a support frame and be used to mount the display screen 20. The display screen 20 can be connected to the housing assembly 10 and be viewable on one side of the electronic device.

[0057] In this application, unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "mounting", "connecting", "coupling", "arranging", "disposing", and the like are broad terms and can include fixed connections, detachable connections, or integral connections; can be mechanical connections or electrical connections; can be direct connections or indirect connections through intermediate structures; can be internal communication of two elements, which can be understood by those skilled in the art according to the specific context. In addition, the terms "comprising", "containing" or any other variant thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, so that a process, method, article, or device consisting of a series of elements does not only include these elements, but also includes other elements not explicitly listed, or further includes inherent elements of the process, method, article, or device. Without more limitations, the element defined by "comprising" does not exclude the presence of other same elements in the process, method, article, or device including the element.

[0058] The housing assembly 10 can be formed of a polymer, glass, metal, crystalline material (such as sapphire), ceramic, fabric, foam, wood, other materials, and / or combinations of these materials, etc. In some cases, components of the housing assembly 10 can be constructed of a dielectric material or other low-conductivity material. In other cases, the housing assembly 10 or at least portions of the structure making up the housing assembly 10 can be formed of metal elements.

[0059] The housing assembly 10 can form at least a portion of an outer surface of an electronic device. In some embodiments, the housing assembly 10 can at least partially surround the display screen 20. In some embodiments, the housing assembly 10 can form a backing or backing layer along a back surface of the display screen 20. In some cases, at least a portion of the housing assembly 10 can be integrally formed with the display screen 20.

[0060] In particular, the electronic device can have a front end face F, an opposite rear end face R, and a number of side walls W. The rear end face R can be formed by the housing assembly 10 away from a back surface of the display screen 20, and the front end face F can be constituted by a display surface of the display screen 20 and an extended portion of the back surface of the housing assembly 10. The extended portion of the back surface of the housing assembly 10 can surround the display surface. In some embodiments, the front end face F can be constituted only by the display surface of the display screen 20, without including the extended portion of the back surface of the housing assembly 20.

[0061] In the description, it can be understood that the directional terms described in the present application, such as "top", "bottom", "upper", "lower", "front", "back", "left", "right", "inner", "outer", "side plate", "above", "below", and the like, refer to the directions in the drawings. Therefore, the directional terms used herein are only for better, clearer description and understanding of the present application, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element is arranged in a particular direction, or is structured and executed in a particular direction, and cannot be understood as a limitation on the content of the present application.

[0062] The side wall W can be formed by an extension of the housing assembly 10, an extension of the display screen 20, or a combination of an extension of the housing assembly 10 and an extension of the display screen 20, and / or can be formed using one or more separate side wall members (as an example). The side wall W can be planar (e.g., forming a vertical side wall extending between the front end face F and the rear end face R), and / or can have a curved cross-sectional profile. In some cases, an input / output device (e.g., one or more physical buttons) can be mounted on the side wall W.

[0063] In addition, either of the housing assembly 10 and the display screen 20 can have a planar shape, a shape having a curved cross-sectional profile, or other suitable shape. In some cases, the housing assembly 10 and the display screen 20 can have different shapes. Figure 1 In embodiments, the front end face F and the rear end face R can each have a planar shape and lie on the X-Y plane. The display screen 20 can have a rectangular or similar rectangular profile or other suitable profile. The electronic device can extend along the X axis. The thickness of the electronic device in the Z axis can be less than the length of the electronic device in the X axis, and can also be less than the width of the electronic device in the Y axis. For ease of description, the direction of the Y axis can be defined as a first direction, the direction of the X axis can be defined as a second direction, and the direction of the Z axis can be defined as a third direction.

[0064] To help meet the user's demand for compactness and portability while meeting the user's demand for a large screen display, the electronic device can have structures that allow the shape and size to be adjusted. In particular, these structures can support folding actions, stretching actions, and / or other actions, thereby allowing the electronic device to be adjusted during use.

[0065] When a small size is needed, the electronic device can be adjusted to be compact. For example, the electronic device can be folded inwardly or outwardly about the folding axis 13. The folding axis 13 can extend in the first direction. When a large screen size is needed, the housing assembly 10 and the display screen 20 can be unfolded in one or more directions, such as the first direction or the second direction.

[0066] In addition, when a large screen size is desired, the housing assembly 10 and the display 20 can also be extended, thereby displaying an enlarged visual area in one or more directions, such as the second direction or the first direction. Thus, when the electronic device is extended, the portion of the display 20 that is viewable by the user is larger than the portion of the display 20 that is presented to the user when the electronic device is not extended. When a small size is desired, the housing assembly 10 and the display 20 can be shortened to hide the extended visual area.

[0067] Generally, the electronic device can adopt any suitable arrangement to adjust the size and / or shape of the electronic device. The electronic device can be adjusted to a plurality of states. For example, Figure 2 Changes between the plurality of states are shown, and in this application, the electronic device of this application can be adjusted to a folded state, an unfolded state, or a half-folded state, regardless of whether the electronic device is in an extended state or an unextended state; or can be adjusted to an extended state or an unextended state, regardless of whether the electronic device is in a folded state, an unfolded state, or a half-folded state.

[0068] As shown in state 2a in FIG. 2A, the electronic device is compact when the housing assembly 10 and the display 20 are folded and unextended, in other words, the electronic device is completely closed, and this state can be referred to as a folded-unextended state or a fully closed state. Figure 2 As shown in state 2b in FIG. 2B, the electronic device is extended. That is, from the folded-unextended state to the folded-extended state, the visual area is enlarged.

[0069] Figure 2 As shown in state 2c in FIG. 2C, the electronic device is unfolded or opened to form a right-angle fold from the folded-extended state, while the extended state remains unchanged.

[0070] As shown in state 2c in FIG. 2C, the electronic device is unfolded or opened to form a right-angle fold from the folded-extended state, while the extended state remains unchanged. Figure 2 Figure 2 As shown in state 2c in FIG. 2C, the electronic device is unfolded or opened to form a right-angle fold from the folded-extended state, while the extended state remains unchanged.

[0071] As shown in state 2d in FIG. 2D, the electronic device is further unfolded or opened from the half-folded-extended state, such that the housing assembly 10 and the display 20 are both located in one plane, i.e., the folding angle is 0°. The extended state remains unchanged. This state can be referred to as an unfolded-extended state or an opened-extended state. Figure 2 As shown in state 2e in FIG. 2E, the electronic device is unfolded or opened from the folded-unextended state to form a right-angle fold, while the unextended state remains unchanged. This state can be referred to as a half-folded-unextended state or a half-unfolded-unextended state.

[0072] Figure 2 As shown in state 2e in FIG. 2E, the electronic device is unfolded or opened from the folded-unextended state to form a right-angle fold, while the unextended state remains unchanged. This state can be referred to as a half-folded-unextended state or a half-unfolded-unextended state.

[0073] As shown in state 2e in FIG. 2E, the electronic device is unfolded or opened from the folded-unextended state to form a right-angle fold, while the unextended state remains unchanged. This state can be referred to as a half-folded-unextended state or a half-unfolded-unextended state. Figure 2 ​​​As shown in state 2f, the electronic device is further unfolded or opened from the semi-folded-unstretched state, such that both the housing assembly 10 and the display screen 20 are in a plane, i.e., the folding angle is 0°. The unstretched state remains unchanged. This state can be referred to as an unfolded-unstretched state or an opened-unstretched state.

[0074] The electronic device can be transformed from any one of the states described above to another state. For example, by stretching the housing assembly 10 and the display screen 20, the electronic device can be transformed from the semi-folded-unstretched state to the semi-folded-stretched state, such as from state 2e to state 2c; by shortening the housing assembly 10 and the display screen 20, the electronic device can be transformed from the unfolded-stretched state to the unfolded-unstretched state, such as from state 2d to state 2f; or by folding and shortening the housing assembly 10 and the display screen 20, the electronic device can be transformed from the unfolded-stretched state to the folded-unstretched state, such as from state 2d to state 2a.

[0075] Structural details of the electronic device in some embodiments of the present application are described as follows.

[0076] In Figure 1 , Figure 20 , Figure 21 , and Figure 36 the embodiments shown, the electronic device adjustable to any one of the states described above can include the housing assembly 10, the display screen 20, and the retraction mechanism 30. The retraction mechanism 30 is disposed in the housing assembly 10 and opposite the folding axis 13, and is configured to adjust the state of the electronic device with the housing assembly 10.

[0077] It should be understood that the terms such as "first", "second", "third", etc. used herein are for the purpose of description, and are not intended to indicate or imply relative importance or significance or imply the number of the technical features indicated. Therefore, the features defined by "first", "second", "third", etc. can include one or more such features. In the description of the content of the present application, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise specified.

[0078] The housing assembly 10 can separate the internal region (not shown) of the electronic device from the external region (not shown) surrounding the electronic device by the front end face F, the rear end face R, and the side wall W. The elements can include integrated circuits, discrete elements, batteries, wireless circuit elements (such as wireless power coils), and / or other elements.

[0079] In particular, the housing assembly 10 can define a cavity 14 (as shown in Figure 21 and 36 ), and include a first housing portion 11 configured to be foldable about the folding axis 13 and a second housing portion 12 connected to an end of the first housing portion 11 and configured to be movable toward or away from the folding axis 13 (as shown in Figure 4 ).

[0080] As shown in Figures 3 to 8 , the first housing portion 11 can include a first housing 111, a second housing 112, and a third housing 113 connected between the first housing 111 and the second housing 112. Any of the first housing 111, the second housing 112, and the third housing 113 can be rectangular. The first housing 111 can have a dimension along the second direction (X-axis) that is greater than a dimension of the second housing 112 along the second direction (X-axis). The second housing 112 can have a dimension along the second direction that is greater than a dimension of the third housing 113 along the second direction (X-axis). The third housing 113 can have a rotating structure (not shown), such as a hinge, installed therein. The first housing 111 and the second housing 112 can be connected with the rotating structure, such that the first housing 111 and the second housing 112 can rotate with respect to each other or away from each other to achieve folding or unfolding of the electronic device. When the electronic device is in a folded state, the first housing portion 11 is also in a folded state, and the second housing 112 can overlap the first housing 111, as shown in Figure 3 and Figure 4 . When the electronic device is in an unfolded state, the first housing portion 11 is also in an unfolded state, and the second housing 112 and the first housing 111 can be located in the same plane, as shown in Figure 7 and Figure 8 .

[0081] In some embodiments, with reference to Figures 3 to 8 and Figure 36 and 39 , the second housing 112 can include a side wall 1121 (which is part of the side wall W) and a bottom wall 1122 connected with the side wall 1121. The side wall 1121 and the bottom wall 1122 define a first chamber 1123. The bottom wall 1122 defines a groove 1124 on a side opposite the first chamber 1123.

[0082] As shown in Figures 3 to 8 , the second housing portion 12 can be connected with an end of the second housing 112 away from the third housing 113. When the end of the second housing portion 12 close to the first housing portion 11 is adjacent to the first housing portion 11, the housing assembly 10 is in an un-stretched state, and the electronic device is in an un-stretched state (as shown in Figures 3 to 8 ); when the end of the second housing portion 12 close to the first housing portion 11 is spaced apart from the first housing portion 11, the housing assembly 10 is in a stretched state, and the electronic device is in a stretched state (as shown in Figures 9 to 15 ).

[0083] Figure 10The second housing portion 12 is shown to include an end portion 121 disposed away from the folding axis 13, a bottom portion 122 connected with the end portion 121, and a side wall 123 (which is part of the side wall W) connected with the bottom portion 122 and the end portion 121. When the electronic device is in the unexpanded state, the bottom portion 122 of the second housing portion 12 can be housed in the recess 1124 of the second housing 112 and cover the bottom wall 1122 of the second housing 112 (as shown in Figure 4 , Figure 6 , Figure 8 ). When the electronic device is in the expanded state, the bottom portion 122 of the second housing portion 12 can move out of the recess 1124 and the bottom wall 1122 of the second housing 112 can be exposed from the bottom portion 122 of the second housing portion 12 (as shown in Figure 10 , 12 , 14, and 15).

[0084] In some embodiments, the cavity 14 can be defined by the end portion 121 (as shown in Figures 21 to 26 ). In other embodiments, the second housing portion 12 can define a second chamber 124 (as shown in Figure 36 and Figure 39 ) that is in communication with the first chamber 1123 to form the cavity 14. The cavity 14 can be referred to as an interior space in some embodiments.

[0085] The housing assembly 10 changes from the unexpanded state to the expanded state when the second housing portion 12 moves away from the folding axis 13, and changes from the expanded state to the unexpanded state when the second housing portion 12 moves toward the folding axis 13.

[0086] When the electronic device is in the folded-unexpanded state (as shown in Figure 3 and Figure 4 ), the end portion 120 of the second housing portion 12 away from the folding axis 13 and the end portion 110 of the first housing 111 away from the folding axis 13 can be flush with each other. That is, the end portion 120 of the second housing portion 12 and the end portion 110 of the first housing 111 can overlap each other in the third direction. When the electronic device is in the folded-expanded state (as shown in Figure 9 and Figure 10 ), the end portion 120 of the second housing portion 12 can protrude relative to the first housing 111; that is, in the third direction, the end portion 120 of the second housing portion 12 and the end portion 110 of the first housing 111 can be misaligned with each other, and the distance between the end portion 120 of the second housing portion 12 and the folding axis 13 can be greater than the distance between the end portion 110 of the first housing 111 and the folding axis 13.

[0087] The display 20 can be a flexible display, including any type of display, such as a liquid crystal display, a light emitting diode display, an organic light emitting diode display, a 3D display, etc. In some embodiments, different portions of the display 20 can be of different types. The display 20 can be visible at the front face F of the electronic device and / or other portions of the electronic device. For example, a viewer of the electronic device from the third direction (e.g., a user viewing the device from the front) can see the display 20. Figures 11 to 14 It is illustrated that the display 20 can include a first display portion 21 and a second display portion 22 connected to the first display portion 21.

[0088] The first display portion 21 can be connected to and cover the first housing portion 11 and be configured to be foldable with the first housing portion 11. Referring to Figure 3 、 Figure 4 、and Figure 16 When the electronic device is in the folded state, the first display portion 21 is folded outwardly such that Figure 16 In some embodiments, the first display portion 21 can also be folded inwardly such that the upper and lower halves of the first display portion 21 face each other. If desired, the electronic device can support both inward and outward folding. Referring to Figure 7 、 Figure 8 、and Figure 17 When the electronic device is in the unfolded state, the first display portion 21 is also in the unfolded state, and thus the upper and lower halves of the first display portion 21 can be located in the same plane.

[0089] Referring to Figures 16 to 19 The second display portion 22 can include an extension segment 221 connected to the first display portion 21, and an inner segment 222 connected to an end of the extension segment 221 away from the first display portion 21. The inner segment 222 can have a connection end 2220 opposite the extension segment 221.

[0090] The inner segment 222 can always be located in the inner region of the housing assembly 10, while the extension segment 221 can be located in the inner region of the housing assembly 10 and extend to the outer region of the housing assembly 10. For example, the extension segment 221 can be moved to the inner region of the housing assembly 10 or to the outer region of the housing assembly 10, while the inner segment 222 can only be moved in the inner region of the housing assembly 10.

[0091] The viewable area of the second display portion 22 is located in the extension segment 221. When the electronic device is in the unextended state, the extension segment 221 is located in the inner region of the housing assembly 10, for example, the extension segment 221 is housed in the cavity 14 and cannot be seen by the user (as Figure 21 、 22(as shown in Figures 36 and 37). When the electronic device is in the extended state, the extended section 221 is located in the outer region of the housing assembly 10, for example, outside the cavity 14, and can be seen by the user (as shown in Figure 36). Figure 24 , 25 (as shown in Figures 39 and 39).

[0092] If necessary, the presentation of content on the first display portion 21 and the second display portion 22 (especially the extension 221) can be coordinated so that the first display portion 21 and the second display portion 22 serve as seamless unit display surfaces. Alternatively, the first display portion 21 and the second display portion 22 can be configured to display independent images that do not overlap along the seam between the first display portion 21 and the second display portion 22.

[0093] The electronic device may further include a support component 40 for supporting the display screen 20. Specifically, as shown in the figure... Figure 20 As shown, the support component 40 may include a first support member 41 (also referred to as support member 41 in some embodiments) and a second support member 42, which can move closer to and further away from each other.

[0094] The first support member 41 can be connected to the first housing portion 11 and configured to support a portion of the first display portion 21. In some embodiments, the first support member 41 can be connected to the second housing 112. In some embodiments, such as Figure 20 , 36 As shown in Figure 39, the first support member 41 can be accommodated in the first chamber 1123 and is disposed on the bottom wall 1122 of the second housing 112. The first support member 41 may define a notch 411 facing the second housing portion 12.

[0095] refer to Figure 20 The second support member 42 can be connected to the second housing portion 12 and is configured to move into or out of the recess 411 as the second housing portion 12 moves. When the second housing portion 12 moves away from the folding axis 13, the second support member 42 moves out of the recess 411, the extension 221 of the second display portion 22 moves out of the cavity 14, and the extension 221 is supported by the second support member 42 (in conjunction with...). Figures 24 to 26 When the second housing portion 12 moves toward the folding axis 13, the second support member 42 moves into the groove 411, and the extension 221 of the second display portion 22 moves into the cavity 14. In this case, the second support member 42 can support the first display portion 21 together with the first support member 41 (in combination). Figures 21 to 23 In some embodiments, the second support 42 may be disposed on the bottom 122 and adjacent to the end 121.

[0096] In some embodiments, the recesses 411 can be provided in a plurality, and the second supports 42 can be provided in a plurality. The plurality of recesses 411 and the plurality of second supports 42 can have a one-to-one correspondence. That is, each second support 42 can be configured to move into or out of a corresponding recess 411.

[0097] It should be understood that the first support 41 can include a series of elongate members (which can be referred to as fingers), such as members 413. The recesses 411 can be defined by the plurality of elongate members and formed between adjacent members 413. The plurality of second supports 42 can be a series of interlocking offset elongate members (which can be referred to as fingers). Adjacent second supports 42 can define a receiving recess 421. Each recess 411 can be configured to receive a corresponding second support 42, and each receiving recess 421 can be configured to receive a corresponding member 413. The elongate members of the first support 41 and the elongate members of the second support 42 form an interlocking structure configured to slidably engage to enable the first housing portion 11 and the second housing portion 12 to slide relative to each other while providing a rigid support for the display screen 20.

[0098] Each member 413 and each second support 42 can be of equal size, or each member 413 can be of a size greater than or less than each second support 42. In Figure 20 In the illustrated embodiment, each second support 42 can be of the same size, and some members 413 can be of a size different from other members 413. In Figure 20 In the illustrated example, the two members 413 provided at the ends of the first support 41 are of a size less than each second support 42, and each member 413 provided between the ends is of a size equal to each second support 42. In Figure 20 In the illustrated example, there are four members 413 and three second supports 42, but in general, the first support 41 and the second support 42 can have any suitable number of elongate members. The members 413 of the first support 41 and the second support 42 can extend at least 10%, at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 50%, at least 75%, less than 100%, less than 70%, less than 60%, or other suitable fraction of the length of the housing assembly.

[0099] When the housing assembly 10 is in the extended state, the extended section 221 is located outside the housing assembly 10, one end of the second support member 42 contacts the inner wall 412 of the recess 411, and the bottom 122 of the second housing portion 12 contacts the first housing portion 11 (e.g., the second housing 112). In other words, the length of the second support member 42 can be longer than the travel distance of the second housing portion 12, so that the second support member 42 will not completely separate from the first housing portion 11. The inner wall 412 of the first support member 41 can be configured as a guide rail for the movement of the second support member 42, so that the second support member 42 can move along the inner wall 412 of the first support member 41.

[0100] The retraction mechanism 30 can contact the second display portion 22 and is configured to release the extension section 221 to move out of the cavity 41 when the second housing portion 22 moves away from the folding axis 13, or to bring the extension section 221 into the cavity 41 when the second housing portion 22 moves toward the folding axis 13.

[0101] In some embodiments, the distance between the connecting end 2220 of the inner segment 222 and the folding axis 13 may remain constant or vary periodically as the second housing portion moves away from the folding axis. That is, in some embodiments, the distance between the connecting end 2220 and the folding axis 13 remains constant as the extension segment 221 moves into or out of the cavity. In other embodiments, the distance between the connecting end 2220 and the folding axis 13 varies periodically as the extension segment 221 moves into or out of the cavity; for example, the distance may first increase, then decrease, then increase again, and so on.

[0102] In some embodiments, such as Figures 20 to 26 As shown, the retraction mechanism 30 can be a rolling assembly 31 rotatably connected to the second housing portion 12 and configured to rotate in one direction to release the extension 221 by spreading it out, or to rotate in the opposite direction to bring the extension 221 into the cavity 14 by rolling it up. The connecting end 2220 of the inner segment 222 is connected to the rolling assembly 31.

[0103] When the housing assembly 10 is in the non-extended state, the extended section 221 is located in the cavity 14, and a portion of the second display portion 22 (the inner section 222 and a portion of the extended section 221) can be rolled by the rolling assembly 31, such as Figures 21 to 23 As shown, as the extension segment 221 moves out of the cavity 14, a portion of the extension segment 221 and the inner segment 222, which are rolled by the rolling assembly 31, can be spread out. Therefore, a portion of the second display portion 22, which is rolled by the rolling assembly 31, can gradually decrease, as shown. Figures 24 to 26 As shown.

[0104] In some embodiments, reference Figures 27 to 34The rolling assembly 31 can include a fixing member 313, a torsion spring 315, and a rotatable tube 317. The fixing member 313 can be fixed on the second housing part 12. The torsion spring 315 can be sleeved on the fixing member 313. The rotatable tube 317 can be sleeved on the torsion spring 315 and rotatable around the fixing member 313. The connecting end 2220 of the inner section 222 can be fixed on the rotatable tube 317. One end of the torsion spring 315 can be connected with the rotatable tube 317, and the other end of the torsion spring 315 can be connected with the fixing member 313.

[0105] Specifically, the rolling assembly 31 can further include a first fixing member 314 and a second fixing member 316. The first fixing member 314 can be arranged between the rotatable tube 317 and the torsion spring 315 and configured to fix one end of the torsion spring 315 on an inner wall of one end of the rotatable tube 317, so that the one end of the torsion spring 315 can rotate with the rotation of the rotatable tube 317. The second fixing member 316 can be arranged between the torsion spring 315 and the fixing member 313 and configured to fix the other end of the torsion spring 315 on an outer wall of the fixing member 313. When the rotatable tube 317 rotates, since one end of the torsion spring 315 is fixed on the rotatable tube 317, this end of the torsion spring 315 rotates with the rotation of the rotatable tube 317, while the other end of the torsion spring 315 does not rotate because the other end of the torsion spring 315 is fixed on the fixing member 313 regardless of the rotatable tube 317. Therefore, the torsion spring 315 can be deformed when the rotatable tube 317 rotates.

[0106] When the second housing 12 moves away from the folding shaft 13, the second display part 22 also moves. Since the connecting end 2220 of the second display part 22 is fixed on the rotatable tube 317 and part of the second display part 22 rolls on the rotatable tube 317, the rotatable tube 317 can rotate with the movement of the second display part 22. Therefore, the torsion spring 315 can be deformed. When the second housing part 12 moves towards the folding shaft 13, the torsion spring 315 can recover to drive the rotatable tube 317 to rotate in the opposite direction, so as to rewind the part of the second display part 22 and pull the second display part 22 into the cavity 14.

[0107] In this embodiment, since the connecting end 2220 is fixed on the rotatable tube 317 instead of being directly fixed on the spring or other elastic member, the second display part 22 can be rolled by the rotatable tube 317 instead of being directly pulled by the spring or other elastic member. Therefore, the movement distance of the connecting end 2220 of the second display part 22 can be reduced, and the movement space provided for the second display part 22 can also be reduced. Thus, the size of the electronic device can be reduced.

[0108] In some embodiments, with reference to Figure 35The rolling assembly 31 can include a rotating shaft 311 and an elastic member 312. The rotating shaft 311 is rotatably connected to the second housing part 12, for example, the sidewall 123 of the second housing part 12. The connecting end 2220 of the inner segment 222 is fixed on the rotating shaft 311. The elastic member 312 can be connected to the second housing part 12, in particular, to the sidewall 123 and at least one end of the rotating shaft 311. The elastic member 312 is configured to help stretch the second display part 22, thereby keeping the second display part 22 in a desired shape (for example, a planar shape on the surface of the housing assembly 10). As shown in Figure 35 , the elastic member 312 can be a torsion spring, one end of which can be fixed on the end of the rotating shaft 311, and the other end of which can be fixed on the sidewall 123 of the second housing part 12. The number of elastic members 312 can be two, and the two ends of the rotating shaft 311 can be fixed with corresponding elastic members 312.

[0109] When the second housing part 12 moves away from the folding shaft 13, the second display part 22 moves. Since the connecting end 2220 of the second display part 22 is fixed on the rotating shaft 311, and part of the second display part 22 rolls on the rotating shaft 311, the rotating shaft 311 will rotate with the movement of the second display part 22. Therefore, the elastic member 312 can be deformed. When the second housing part 12 moves towards the folding shaft 13, the elastic member 312 can recover to drive the rotating shaft 311 to rotate in the opposite direction, thereby rewinding the part of the second display part 22 and pulling the second display part 22 into the cavity 14.

[0110] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 36 to 41 .36 to 41, the retracting mechanism 30 can be a sliding assembly 32 configured to slide away from or towards the folding shaft 13 to release or bring the extensible segment 221 into the cavity 14. The cavity 14 can be defined by the first housing part 21 and the second housing part 22, i.e., the first cavity 1123 and the second cavity 124 are in communication with each other to form the cavity 14.

[0111] In some embodiments, the connecting end 2220 of the inner segment 222 can be fixed on the first housing part 11. For example, the connecting end 2220 can be fixed on the bottom wall 1122 of the second housing part 112. The second display part 22 can be bent twice in the cavity 14. For example, the second display part 22 can be bent outwardly first and then bent inwardly to form a substantially S shape. In general, the second display part 22 can have two bent segments, for example, a first bent segment 223 and a second bent segment 224. The first bent segment 223 can be close to the first display part 21, and the second bent segment 224 can be close to the connecting end 2220. When the extended segment 221 is located in the cavity 14, the length of the second display part 22 from the connecting end 2220 to the bent position close to the connecting end 2220, i.e., the distance between the connecting end 2220 and the second bent segment 224, can be greater than or equal to the maximum moving distance of the second housing part 22 relative to the folding axis 13. Therefore, when the second housing part 12 moves to the maximum moving distance, there can be enough second display part 22 released to the outside of the second housing part 12, thereby preventing the second display part 22 from being damaged.

[0112] The sliding assembly 32 can include a first sliding part 321 and a second sliding part 322, both of which are connected with the second housing part 12 and configured to slide with the movement of the second housing part 12. In some embodiments, in the first direction, two opposite ends of the first sliding part 321 are connected with the second housing part 12, and two opposite ends of the second sliding part 322 are connected with the second housing part 12. In some embodiments, the two opposite ends of the second sliding part 322 can be connected with the two opposite ends of the first sliding part 321, so that the second sliding part 322 is connected with the second housing part 12 through the first sliding part 321.

[0113] In some embodiments, a space 320 can be defined between the first sliding part 321 and the second sliding part 322. The second display part 22 can be bent around the first sliding part 321, pass through the space 320 and be bent around the second sliding part 322.

[0114] The first sliding part 321 and the second sliding part 322 can be arranged in a staggered manner in the second direction and the third direction, so that the first sliding part 321 and the second sliding part 322 form an S-shaped curve structure. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the first sliding part 321 and the second sliding part 322 can be arranged in a staggered manner in the second direction and the third direction, so that the first sliding part 321 and the second sliding part 322 form an S-shaped curve structure. Figures 36 to 41As shown, in the second direction, the distance between the left end of the first sliding portion 321 and the end of the second housing 112 close to the folding axis 13 is greater than the distance between the left end of the second sliding portion 322 and the end of the second housing 112 close to the folding axis 13. The distance between the right end of the first sliding portion 321 and the end of the second housing 112 is greater than the distance between the right end of the second sliding portion 322 and the end of the second housing 112. In the third direction, the distance between the upper end of the first sliding portion 321 and the first display portion 21 is less than the distance between the upper end of the second sliding portion 322 and the first display portion 21. The distance between the lower end of the first sliding portion 321 and the first display portion 21 is less than the distance between the lower end of the second sliding portion 322 and the first display portion 21. In some embodiments, the right side portion of the first sliding portion 321 can overlap with the left side portion of the second sliding portion 322. In other embodiments, the lower side portion of the first sliding portion 321 can overlap with the upper side portion of the second sliding portion 322. In some embodiments, the first sliding portion 321 and the second sliding portion 322 do not overlap with each other in either the second direction or the third direction.

[0115] In these embodiments, the connecting end 2220 of the inner segment 222 is fixed on the first housing portion 11, the movement of the second display portion 22 can be pushed by the first sliding portion 321 and the second sliding portion 322, and the tension of the second display portion 22 can be kept constant by the first sliding portion 321 and the second sliding portion 322, so that no elastic member is needed.

[0116] In some embodiments, when the second housing portion 12 moves towards or away from the folding axis 13, the relative movement between the second display portion 22 and the sliding assembly 32 can be sliding movement, i.e. the second display portion 22 can slide on the surface of the sliding assembly 32.

[0117] For example, as Figures 36 to 41 shown, either of the first display portion 22 and the second display portion 22 is a slide plate, and at least a portion of the second sliding portion 322 is accommodated in the first housing portion 11. As Figure 36 and 39 shown, on the side of the second housing 112 away from the first display portion 21, at least a portion of the second sliding portion 322 can be covered by the bottom wall 1122 of the second housing 112, so that after the second display portion 22 is bent twice in the cavity 14, the connecting end 2220 can be fixed on the first housing portion 11, such as the second housing 112.

[0118] When the electronic device changes from the unexpanded state to the expanded state, as Figure 36 and Figure 41As shown, when the second housing portion 12 moves to the left, the first sliding portion 321 and the second sliding portion 322 move with the second housing portion 12, the left end of the first sliding portion 321 pushes the one end of the second display portion 22 connected to the first display portion 21, the inner segment 222 of the second display portion 22 is released by the second sliding portion 322, and the position of the connecting end 2220 of the second display portion 22 remains unchanged. Thus, the extension segment 221 moves to the upper side of the first sliding portion 321, reaches the outside of the housing assembly, and can be viewed by the user.

[0119] As shown, when the second housing portion 12 moves to the left, the first sliding portion 321 and the second sliding portion 322 move with the second housing portion 12, the left end of the first sliding portion 321 pushes the one end of the second display portion 22 connected to the first display portion 21, the inner segment 222 of the second display portion 22 is released by the second sliding portion 322, and the position of the connecting end 2220 of the second display portion 22 remains unchanged. Thus, the extension segment 221 moves to the upper side of the first sliding portion 321, reaches the outside of the housing assembly, and can be viewed by the user.

[0120] In other embodiments, Figure 42 It is illustrated that either of the first sliding portion 321 and the second sliding portion 322 is a strut. The two ends of the strut are fixed on the second housing portion 22. The second sliding portion 322 is accommodated in the first housing portion 11. In some embodiments, one of the first sliding portion 321 and the second sliding portion 322 is a strut, and the other of the first sliding portion 321 and the second sliding portion 322 is a slide. As Figure 43 As shown, the first sliding portion 321 is a slide, and the second sliding portion 322 is a strut. In these embodiments, the first sliding portion 321 and the second sliding portion 322 can move when the second housing portion 22 moves. The first sliding portion 321, the second sliding portion 322, and the second housing portion 22 remain relatively static.

[0121] In some embodiments, the relative movement between the second display portion 12 and the sliding assembly 32 can be rolling when the second housing portion 12 moves towards or away from the folding axis 13. In some embodiments, either of the first sliding portion 321 and the second sliding portion 322 is a roller, and the second sliding portion 322 is accommodated in the first housing portion 11, the roller rolls with the movement of the second display portion 22. As Figure 44 As shown, the structure of the roller can be the same as or similar to the previously described embodiments. In these embodiments, the first sliding portion 321 and the second sliding portion 322 can move with the movement of the second housing portion 22, and at the same time, the first sliding portion 321 and the second sliding portion 322 can rotate relative to the second housing portion 22.

[0122] In some embodiments, when the second housing portion 12 moves toward or away from the folding axis 13, the relative movement between the second display portion 22 and the sliding assembly 32 can include rolling and sliding. In this case, one of the first sliding portion 321 and the second sliding portion 322 is a roller that moves along with the movement of the second display portion 22 and rolls at the same time. The other of the first sliding portion 321 and the second sliding portion 322 can be a slide or a strut. At least a portion of the second sliding portion 322 is housed in the first housing portion 11. As shown in Figure 45 , the first sliding portion 321 is a slide and the second sliding portion 322 is a roller. As shown in Figure 44 , the structure of the roller can be the same as or similar to that of the previously described embodiments.

[0123] In the embodiment in which the first sliding portion 321 is a slide, the first sliding portion 321 can function as a second support. Specifically, as shown in Figures 35 to 41 , in this case, the electronic device can include a support 41 that has the same structure as and provides the same function as the first support 41 described above. For example, the support 41 is connected to the first housing portion 11 and is configured to support the first display portion 21. The support 41 can define a notch 411 toward the second housing portion 12 at one end close to the second housing portion 12.

[0124] Referring to Figures 39 to 41 , the first sliding portion 321 can include an end member 3211 disposed away from the folding axis 13, an elongated member 3212 connected to the end member 3211, and a bottom member 3213 connected to the end member 3211. The elongated member 3212 can be disposed on the bottom member 3213 and configured to move into or out of the notch 411 along the inner wall 412 of the notch 411 as the second housing portion 12 moves, and support the first display portion 21 when the extended section 221 is located in the cavity 14 and support the extended section 221 when the extended section 221 exits the cavity 14. The bottom member 3213 can be in contact with the side of the support 41 away from the first display portion 21.

[0125] In the embodiment shown in Figures 39 to 41 , the support 41 defines one notch 411, and the first sliding portion 321 can include one elongated member 3212. As shown in Figure 46 , the support 41 defines a plurality of notches 411, and the elongated member 3212 can be a plurality. The plurality of notches 411 and the plurality of elongated members 3212 can have a one-to-one correspondence.

[0126] When the extended section 221 exits the cavity 14, one end of the elongated member 3212 is in contact with the inner wall 412 of the notch 411, and the bottom member 3213 is in contact with the side of the support 41.

[0127] In some embodiments, the sliding assembly 32 can include a sliding piece 323 connected with the second housing part 12. In the first direction, both ends of the sliding piece 323 can be fixed on the side wall 123 of the second housing part 12. As shown, the sliding piece 323 can have a first guide end 3231 and a second guide end 3232 opposite to each other. The first guide end 3231 can be accommodated in the second housing part 12, and the second guide end 3232 can be accommodated in the first housing part 11. The second display part 22 is bent around the first guide end 3231 and bent around the second guide end 3232, and then the connecting end 2220 is fixed on the first housing part 11. In this case, the second display part 22 is bent twice inwardly around the sliding piece 323, and the connecting end 2220 can be fixed on the support piece 41. Figure 47

[0128] When the second housing part 12 moves to the left, the sliding piece 323 can move to the left. When the sliding piece 323 moves to the left, the extended segment 221 of the second display part 22 can be pushed by the first guide end 3231 of the sliding piece 323, and the inner segment 222 can be released by the second guide end 3232 of the sliding piece 323, so that the extended segment 221 moves to the upper side of the sliding piece 323 and can be seen by the user. When the second housing part 12 moves to the right, the sliding piece 323 can move to the right. When the sliding piece 323 moves to the right, the inner segment 222 of the second display part 22 can be pushed by the second guide end 3232 of the sliding piece 323, and the extended segment 221 can be released by the first guide end 3231 of the sliding piece 323. Therefore, the extended segment 221 moves to the lower side of the sliding piece 323 and is accommodated in the cavity 14.

[0129] In some embodiments, the first display part 21 (may be referred to as a first display screen) and the first housing part 11 can constitute a first part of the electronic device, and the first part can be folded around the folding shaft 13. The second display part 22 (may be referred to as a second display screen) and the second housing part 12 can constitute a second part of the electronic device, and the second part can be connected with the first part. The second part can be configured to slide relative to the first part between a first state in which the second display screen is invisible and a second state in which the second display screen is visible. The retraction mechanism 30 (may be referred to as a movable component) can be connected to an end of the second part away from the folding shaft 13 and in contact with the second display screen. When the second part slides between the first state and the second state, the movable component is configured to move relative to the second display screen to drive the second display screen to change between invisible and visible.

[0130] ​In some embodiments, the housing assembly 10 can include a first fold (also referred to as a first housing 111), a second fold (a combination of a second housing 112 and a second housing portion 12), and a third fold (also referred to as a third housing 113) connected between the first fold and the second fold. The display 20 can also be referred to as a flexible display, which can be connected with the housing assembly 10 and cover the first fold, the second fold, and the third fold. The visual area of the flexible display when the second fold is in an extended state is larger than the visual area of the flexible display when the second fold is in an unextended state. A retraction mechanism, referred to as an adjustment assembly, can be connected with the second fold, opposite the third fold, and in contact with the flexible display. The adjustment assembly can be configured to move with the second fold to adjust the visual area of the flexible display.

[0131] In related art, foldable devices use full-size or small-size external displays for use when the device is in a folded state or single-handed operation, and the external displays are glass-based and are easily broken. In the present application, the electronic device not only converts between a folded state and an unfolded state, but also converts between an extended state and an unextended state. On the one hand, when the electronic device is in a folded state, the user can quickly slide the front to display the interaction window since there is no need for an external front display. On the other hand, the electronic device provides more protection and privacy since there is no need for an external display, which promotes the user experience when the device is closed.

[0132] In current foldable devices, the use of external front displays and cameras means an increase in system-level ROM and redundancy, and an electronic device with an extension function can eliminate the need for these and possibly reduce system-level costs and redundancy.

[0133] From an ergonomic perspective, opening a foldable device usually requires the user to use both hands due to commonly used hard toothed hinges. An electronic device with an extension function can make it faster and easier to access the device with one hand, reducing the complexity of a full-screen secondary front display or the limitations of a small notification display.

[0134] Since the user does not need to browse the full "second phone" on the external display, a sufficient portion of the underlying display can be displayed through a dedicated user interface, thereby simplifying the user experience.

[0135] Other reasons for the related art to employ an external display are the need for users to read notifications, access tools such as the camera and payment, one-handed typing, and use of applications when the device is closed. In the technology of the present application, a slide operation displays a large enough area of the underlying display to quickly perform key operations such as reading notifications, using quick replies, adjusting settings, accessing the camera, and performing payments. When typing or more in-depth one-handed application use is needed, the present application allows the user to continue opening from the slide-open state to a half-open state in which half of the foldable display is available for one-handed operation.

[0136] The present application allows a portion of the display to be expanded to reveal a dedicated interaction area, as well as to extend the total size of the fully open display while reducing the size of the closed state.

[0137] Furthermore, when the electronic device is not being used directly, such as when it is stored in a pocket, the electronic device can be changed in the folded-unstretched state, and the retraction mechanism, display, or other elements of the electronic device can be fully protected by the housing assembly, so that the scrollable display can be implemented and used without worrying about durability.

[0138] According to an aspect of the present application, an electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a housing assembly, a display, and a retraction mechanism. The housing assembly defines a cavity and includes a first housing portion configured to be foldable about a folding axis, and a second housing portion connected to an end of the first housing portion and configured to be movable toward or away from the folding axis. The display includes a first display portion connected to the first housing portion and configured to be foldable with the first housing portion, and a second display portion including an extension segment connected to the first display portion, and an inner segment connected to an end of the extension segment away from the first display portion, wherein the inner segment has a connection end opposite to the extension segment. The retraction mechanism is disposed in the cavity and opposite to the folding axis, wherein the retraction mechanism is in contact with the second display portion and configured to release the extension segment to move out of the cavity when the second housing portion moves away from the folding axis, or to bring the extension segment into the cavity when the second housing portion moves toward the folding axis.

[0139] In some embodiments, a distance between the connection end of the inner segment and the folding axis remains unchanged, or periodically changes as the second housing portion moves away from the folding axis.

[0140] In some embodiments, the retraction mechanism is a rolling assembly rotatably connected to the second housing portion and configured to rotate in one direction to release the extension segment, or to rotate in the opposite direction to bring the extension segment into the cavity.

[0141] In some embodiments, the connecting end of the inner segment is connected with the rolling assembly; when the extended segment is located in the cavity, a part of the second display portion is rolled by the rolling assembly; as the extended segment moves out of the cavity, the part of the second display portion rolled by the rolling assembly gradually decreases.

[0142] In some embodiments, the rolling assembly comprises: a rotating shaft configured to be rotatably connected with the second housing portion; wherein the connecting end of the inner segment is fixed on the rotating shaft; and an elastic member connected to at least one end of the second housing portion and the rotating shaft, configured to drive the rotating shaft to rotate in the opposite direction to pull the second display portion into the cavity.

[0143] In some embodiments, the rolling assembly comprises: a fixed member fixed on the second housing portion; a torsion spring sleeved on the fixed member; and a rotatable tube sleeved on the torsion spring and configured to be rotatable around the fixed member; wherein the connecting end of the inner segment is fixed on the rotatable tube; one end of the torsion spring is connected with the rotatable tube, and the other end of the torsion spring is connected with the fixed member.

[0144] In some embodiments, the retracting mechanism is a sliding assembly configured to slide away from or towards the folding shaft to release or bring the extended segment into the cavity.

[0145] In some embodiments, the cavity is defined by the first housing portion and the second housing portion; the connecting end of the inner segment is fixed on the first housing portion, and the second display portion is bent twice in the cavity.

[0146] In some embodiments, when the extended segment is located in the cavity, the length of the second display portion from the connecting end to the bending position close to the connecting end is greater than or equal to the maximum moving distance of the second housing portion relative to the folding shaft.

[0147] In some embodiments, the sliding assembly comprises a first sliding part and a second sliding part; the first sliding part and the second sliding part are both connected with the second housing portion and configured to slide with the movement of the second housing portion; a space is defined between the first sliding part and the second sliding part; the second display portion is bent around the first sliding part, passes through the space and is bent around the second sliding part.

[0148] In some embodiments, the extending direction of the folding shaft is a first direction, the moving direction of the second housing part is a second direction, and a direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction is a third direction; the first sliding part and the second sliding part are arranged in mutual misalignment in the second direction and the third direction.

[0149] In some embodiments, opposite ends of the first sliding part in the first direction are connected to the second housing part; opposite ends of the second sliding part in the first direction are connected to the second housing part.

[0150] In some embodiments, when the second housing part moves towards or away from the folding shaft, the relative movement between the second display part and the sliding assembly is sliding.

[0151] In some embodiments, either of the first display part and the second display part is a sliding plate, and at least a part of the second sliding part is accommodated in the first housing part; or, either of the first sliding part and the second sliding part is a support column, and the second sliding part is accommodated in the first housing part.

[0152] In some embodiments, when the second housing part moves towards or away from the folding shaft, the relative movement between the second display part and the sliding assembly is rolling.

[0153] In some embodiments, either of the first sliding part and the second sliding part is a rolling shaft, and the second sliding part is accommodated in the first housing part; the rolling shaft rolls along with the movement of the second display part.

[0154] In some embodiments, when the second housing part moves towards or away from the folding shaft, the relative movement between the second display part and the sliding assembly includes rolling and sliding.

[0155] In some embodiments, one of the first sliding part and the second sliding part is a rolling shaft, and the rolling shaft rolls along with the movement of the second display part; the other of the first sliding part and the second sliding part is a sliding plate or a support column; wherein at least a part of the second sliding part is accommodated in the first housing part.

[0156] In some embodiments, the electronic device further includes a support connected with the first housing part and configured to support the first display part; the support defines a notch towards the second housing part at an end close to the second housing part; the first sliding part includes an end member disposed away from the folding shaft, and an elongated member connected with the end member; the elongated member is configured to move into or out of the notch along an inner wall of the notch with movement of the second housing part, and support the first display part when the extended section is in the cavity, and support the extended section when the extended section is out of the cavity.

[0157] In some embodiments, the notch is a plurality of, and the elongated member is a plurality of; the plurality of notches and the plurality of elongated members have a one-to-one correspondence.

[0158] In some embodiments, the first sliding part further includes a bottom member connected with the end member; the elongated member is disposed on the bottom member; the bottom member is in contact with a side of the support away from the first display part.

[0159] In some embodiments, when the extended section is out of the cavity, one end of the elongated member is in contact with the inner wall of the notch, and the bottom member is in contact with the side of the support.

[0160] In some embodiments, the sliding assembly includes a slider connected with the second housing part; the slider has a first guide end and a second guide end opposite to each other; the first guide end is accommodated in the second housing part, and the second guide end is accommodated in the first housing part; the second display part is bent around the first guide end and bent around the second guide end.

[0161] In some embodiments, the electronic device includes a first support connected with the first housing part and configured to support the first display part; wherein the first support defines a notch towards the second housing part; and a second support connected with the second housing part and configured to move into or out of the notch with movement of the second housing part, and support the first display part when the extended section is in the cavity, and support the extended section when the extended section is out of the cavity.

[0162] In some embodiments, the notch is a plurality of, and the second support is a plurality of; the plurality of notches and the plurality of second supports have a one-to-one correspondence.

[0163] In some embodiments, the second housing portion comprises an end portion disposed away from the folding axis, and a bottom portion connected to the end portion; the cavity can be defined by the end portion; the second support is disposed on the bottom portion and adjacent to the end portion.

[0164] In some embodiments, when the extended segment exits the cavity, one end of the second support is in contact with the inner wall of the notch, and the bottom portion of the second housing portion is in contact with the first housing portion.

[0165] In some embodiments, the first housing portion comprises a first housing, a second housing, and a third housing connected between the first housing and the second housing; the second housing portion is connected to an end of the second housing away from the third housing; when the extended segment is in the cavity and the first housing portion is folded, an end of the second housing portion away from the folding axis is flush with an end of the first housing away from the folding axis; when the second housing portion moves away from the folding axis, the extended segment is exposed from the first housing, and the end of the second housing portion away from the folding axis protrudes relative to the end of the first housing away from the folding axis.

[0166] In some embodiments, the second housing portion comprises an end portion disposed away from the folding axis, and a bottom portion connected to the end portion; the second housing comprises a bottom wall defining a recess; when the extended segment is in the cavity, the bottom portion of the second housing portion is in the recess of the second housing and covers part of the bottom wall of the second housing; when the extended segment exits the cavity, the bottom wall of the second housing is exposed from the bottom portion of the second housing portion.

[0167] According to a second aspect of the present application, there is provided a foldable-slidable device, comprising: a first portion comprising a first display screen, configured to be foldable about a folding axis; a second portion comprising a second display screen and connected to the first portion; wherein the second portion is configured to be slidable relative to the first portion between a first state in which the second display screen is not visible and a second state in which the second display screen is visible; and a movable component connected to an end of the second portion away from the folding axis and in contact with the second display screen; wherein when the second portion is slid between the first state and the second state, the movable component is configured to move relative to the second display screen to drive the second display screen to change between being not visible and being visible.

[0168] In some embodiments, the second display screen is connected with the first display screen, and a distance between the folding axis and an end of the second display screen away from the first display screen remains unchanged or periodically changes as the second portion slides from the first state to the second state.

[0169] In some embodiments, the relative movement between the movable component and the second display screen includes at least one of rolling and sliding.

[0170] In some embodiments, the movable component is a roller rotatably connected with the second portion and configured to rotate in one direction to unroll the second display screen or rotate in an opposite direction to roll up the second display screen.

[0171] In some embodiments, an end of the second display screen away from the first display screen is fixed on the first portion; the first portion and the second portion define an internal space; when in the first state, the second display screen is accommodated in the internal space; when in the second state, the second display screen is located outside the first portion and the second portion; the movable component is a slider configured to slide with the second portion and release the second display screen from the internal space to the outside or pull the second display screen from the outside to the internal space.

[0172] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, an electronic device is provided, including: a housing assembly, a flexible display screen, and an adjusting assembly. The housing assembly includes a first folding portion, a second folding portion, and a third folding portion connected between the first folding portion and the second folding portion; wherein the second folding portion is configured to be movable between an extended state and an unextended state. The flexible display screen is connected with the housing assembly and covers the first folding portion, the second folding portion, and the third folding portion; wherein a visible area of the flexible display screen when the second folding portion is in the extended state is larger than a visible area of the flexible display screen when the second folding portion is in the unextended state. The adjusting assembly is connected with the second folding portion, opposite to the third folding portion, and in contact with the flexible display screen. The adjusting assembly is configured to move with the second folding portion to adjust the visible area of the flexible display screen.

[0173] It should be noted that the above disclosure is only exemplary implementation and is not intended to limit the scope of the present application. Although the present application is described in detail with reference to the above embodiments, any modification or equivalent can be made by those skilled in the art according to the technical solutions and inventive concept of the present application. All these modifications and equivalents should be covered within the scope of protection required by the claims of the present application.

Claims

1. An electronic device, comprising: Comprising: a housing assembly defining a cavity and comprising: a first housing portion configured to be foldable about a folding axis; and a second housing portion connected to an end of the first housing portion and configured to be movable toward or away from the folding axis; a display screen comprising: a first display portion connected to the first housing portion and configured to be foldable with the first housing portion; and a second display portion comprising: an extension segment connected to the first display portion, and an inner segment connected to an end of the extension segment away from the first display portion; wherein the inner segment has a connection end opposite to the extension segment; and a retraction mechanism disposed in the cavity and opposite to the folding axis; wherein the retraction mechanism is in contact with the second display portion and is configured to: release the extension segment to move out of the cavity when the second housing portion moves away from the folding axis, or 2. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein, bring the extension segment into the cavity when the second housing portion moves toward the folding axis; 3. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein, the retraction mechanism is a sliding assembly configured to slide away from or toward the folding axis to release the extension segment or bring the extension segment into the cavity.

4. The electronic device of claim 3, wherein, a distance between the connection end of the inner segment and the folding axis remains unchanged, or periodically changes as the second housing portion moves away from the folding axis.

5. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein, the cavity is defined by the first housing portion and the second housing portion; the connection end of the inner segment is fixed on the first housing portion, and the second display portion is bent twice in the cavity. when the extension segment is in the cavity, a length of the second display portion from the connection end to a bending position close to the connection end is greater than or equal to a maximum movement distance of the second housing portion relative to the folding axis. the sliding assembly comprises a first sliding part and a second sliding part; the first sliding part and the second sliding part are both connected to the second housing portion and are configured to slide with the movement of the second housing portion; 6. The electronic device of claim 5, wherein, a space is defined between the first sliding part and the second sliding part; the second display portion is bent around the first sliding part, passes through the space and is bent around the second sliding part.

7. The electronic device of claim 6, wherein, an extension direction of the folding axis is a first direction, a movement direction of the second housing portion is a second direction, and a direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction is a third direction; the first sliding part and the second sliding part are arranged in a staggered manner in the second direction and the third direction.

8. The electronic device of any of claims 1-7, wherein, opposite ends of the first sliding part in the first direction are connected to the second housing portion; 9. The electronic device of claim 8, wherein, opposite ends of the second sliding part in the first direction are connected to the second housing portion. when the second housing portion moves toward or away from the folding axis, the relative motion between the second display portion and the sliding assembly is sliding. either of the first display portion and the second display portion is a sliding plate, at least a part of the second sliding part is accommodated in the first housing portion; or, Either of the first sliding part and the second sliding part is a pillar, and the second sliding part is housed in the first housing part.

10. The electronic device of any of claims 1-7, wherein, When the second housing part moves toward or away from the folding axis, the relative movement between the second display part and the sliding assembly includes rolling and sliding.

11. The electronic device of claim 10, wherein, Either of the first sliding part and the second sliding part is a roller, and the second sliding part is housed in the first housing part; the roller rolls with the movement of the second display part.

12. The electronic device of any of claims 1-7, wherein, When the second housing part moves toward or away from the folding axis, the relative movement between the second display part and the sliding assembly includes rolling and sliding.

13. The electronic device of claim 12, wherein, One of the first sliding part and the second sliding part is a roller, and the roller rolls with the movement of the second display part. The other of the first sliding part and the second sliding part is a slide or a pillar. At least a part of the second sliding part is housed in the first housing part.

14. The electronic device of any of claims 1-7, wherein, Further comprising: a support connected with the first housing part and configured to support the first display part; the support defines a notch toward the second housing part at one end close to the second housing part; the first sliding part includes an end member disposed away from the folding axis, and an elongated member connected with the end member; the elongated member is configured to move into or out of the notch along an inner wall of the notch with the movement of the second housing part, and to support the first display part when the extended section is in the cavity, and to support the extended section when the extended section is out of the cavity.

15. The electronic device of claim 14, wherein, The notch is a plurality of, and the elongated member is a plurality of; the plurality of notches and the plurality of elongated members have a one-to-one correspondence.

16. The electronic device of claim 14, wherein, The first sliding part further includes a bottom member connected with the end member; the elongated member is disposed on the bottom member; the bottom member is in contact with a side of the support away from the first display part.

17. The electronic device of claim 15, wherein, The first sliding part further includes a bottom member connected with the end member; when the extended section is out of the cavity, one end of the elongated member is in contact with the inner wall of the notch, and the bottom member is in contact with a side of the support away from the first display part.

18. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein, The sliding assembly includes a sliding member connected with the second housing part; the sliding member has a first guide end and a second guide end opposite to each other; the first guide end is housed in the second housing part, and the second guide end is housed in the first housing part; the second display part is bent around the first guide end and bent around the second guide end.

19. The electronic device of any of claims 1-2, wherein, Further comprising: a first support connected with the first housing part and configured to support the first display part; wherein the first support defines a notch toward the second housing part; and A second support is connected with the second housing part and is configured to move into or out of the notch with the movement of the second housing part, and to support the first display part when the extended section is in the cavity, and to support the extended section when the extended section is out of the cavity.

20. The electronic device of claim 19, wherein, The notch is a plurality of notches, and the second support is a plurality of second supports; the plurality of notches and the plurality of second supports have a one-to-one correspondence.

21. The electronic device of claim 19, wherein, The second housing part includes an end portion disposed away from the folding axis, and a bottom portion connected with the end portion; The cavity can be defined by the end portion; The second support is disposed on the bottom portion and adjacent to the end portion.

22. The electronic device of claim 21, wherein, When the extended section is out of the cavity, one end of the second support is in contact with the inner wall of the notch, and the bottom portion of the second housing part is in contact with the first housing part.

23. The electronic device of any of claims 1-2, wherein, The first housing part includes a first housing, a second housing, and a third housing connected between the first housing and the second housing; The second housing part is connected with one end of the second housing away from the third housing; When the extended section is in the cavity and the first housing part is folded, one end of the second housing part away from the folding axis is flush with one end of the first housing away from the folding axis; when the second housing part moves away from the folding axis, the extended section is exposed from the first housing, and the end of the second housing part away from the folding axis protrudes relative to the end of the first housing away from the folding axis.

24. The electronic device of claim 23, wherein, The second housing part includes an end portion disposed away from the folding axis, and a bottom portion connected with the end portion; a bottom wall of the second housing defines a recess; When the extended section is in the cavity, the bottom portion of the second housing part is in the recess of the second housing and covers part of the bottom wall of the second housing; When the extended section is out of the cavity, the bottom wall of the second housing is exposed from the bottom portion of the second housing part.

25. A foldable-slidable device, characterized by Comprise: A first part comprising a first display screen and configured to be foldable about a folding axis; A second part comprising a second display screen and connected with the first part; wherein the second part is configured to be slidable relative to the first part between a first state in which the second display screen is not visible and a second state in which the second display screen is visible; and A movable component connected with one end of the second part away from the folding axis and in contact with the second display screen; Wherein when the second part slides between the first state and the second state, the movable component is configured to move relative to the second display screen to drive the second display screen to change between invisible and visible; The movable component is configured as a slider in the second part, and the slider is slidable away from or towards the folding axis to release the second display screen from an internal space of the second part to an external space of the second part, or to pull the second display screen from the external space to the internal space.

26. The foldable-slidable device of claim 25, wherein, The second display screen is connected with the first display screen, and the distance between the folding shaft and the end of the second display screen away from the first display screen remains unchanged or periodically changes as the second part slides from the first state to the second state.

27. The foldable-slidable device of claim 25, wherein, The relative movement between the movable component and the second display screen includes at least one of rolling and sliding.

28. The foldable-slidable device of claim 25, wherein, The end of the second display screen away from the first display screen is fixed on the first part; the first part and the second part define an internal space; when in the first state, the second display screen is accommodated in the internal space; When in the second state, the second display screen is located outside the first part and the second part.

29. An electronic device, comprising: Comprise: A housing assembly comprising a first folding part, a second folding part, and a third folding part connected between the first folding part and the second folding part; wherein the second folding part is configured to be movable between an extended state and an unextended state; A flexible display screen connected with the housing assembly, covering the first folding part, the second folding part, and the third folding part; wherein the visible area of the flexible display screen when the second folding part is in the extended state is larger than the visible area of the flexible display screen when the second folding part is in the unextended state; and An adjusting assembly connected with the second folding part, opposite to the third folding part, and in contact with the flexible display screen; Wherein the adjusting assembly is configured to move with the second folding part to adjust the visible area of the flexible display screen; The adjusting assembly is a sliding assembly configured to move with the second folding part between the extended state and the unextended state to release or bring the flexible display screen into the cavity of the housing assembly.

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