Shaft mechanism, electronic equipment

Abstract

The embodiment of the present application provides a hinge mechanism and an electronic device including the hinge mechanism. It relates to the field of display technology. The hinge mechanism can weaken the light and shadow folds. The hinge mechanism includes: a first door panel, a second door panel and a main shaft, one side of the first door panel and the second door panel is used to set the display module, and the main shaft is set on the side of the first door panel and the second door panel away from the display module; a first mounting hole is provided on the main shaft, and a second mounting hole is provided on the first door panel; the first door panel has a first surface and a second surface facing the display module, and the second surface faces the main shaft, the opening of the second mounting hole is located on the second surface, and there is a spacing between the bottom surface of the second mounting hole and the first surface; the first door panel and the main shaft are connected by a connector set in the first mounting hole and the second mounting hole. The mounting hole opened in the first door panel is designed as a blind hole to weaken the light and shadow folds.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the field of display technology, and in particular to a hinge mechanism capable of driving a display module to be folded, and a foldable electronic device including the hinge mechanism. Background Art

[0002] With the development of human-computer interaction technology, display has become an important element of human-computer interaction. Therefore, foldable screen electronic devices have come into being, such as foldable mobile phones.

[0003] How to improve the performance of foldable electronic devices is the main problem currently faced. For example, reducing light and shadow creases, having better bendability when bending, having higher flattening stiffness when flattening, and having better impact resistance and extrusion resistance. Summary of the invention

[0004] The present application provides a hinge mechanism and an electronic device including the hinge mechanism, the main purpose of which is to reduce the light and shadow creases of the electronic device.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the embodiments of the present application adopt the following technical solutions:

[0006] In a first aspect, the present application provides a hinge mechanism, which can be used in foldable electronic devices, such as three-fold, four-fold, etc.

[0007] The hinge mechanism provided in the present application includes: a first door panel, a second door panel and a main shaft, one side of the first door panel and the second door panel is used to set the display module, the first door panel and the second door panel can move towards or away from each other, driving the display module to switch between an expanded state and a closed state; the main shaft is arranged on the side of the first door panel and the second door panel away from the display module; a first mounting hole is opened on the main shaft, and a second mounting hole is opened on the first door panel; the first door panel has a first surface and a second surface relative to each other, the first surface faces the display module, and the second surface faces the main shaft, the opening of the second mounting hole is located on the second surface, and there is a distance between the bottom surface of the second mounting hole and the first surface; the first door panel and the main shaft are connected by connecting members arranged in the first mounting hole and the second mounting hole.

[0008] In the hinge mechanism involved in the present application, the bottom surface of the second mounting hole for fixing the connecting member, which is opened on the first door panel, is spaced apart from the first surface (the surface facing the display module) of the first door panel, and the second mounting hole is a blind hole. After the connecting member is fixed, the connecting member will not protrude from the first surface of the first door panel as in the related art. When the hinge mechanism of the example in the present application is used to support the display module, the light and shadow crease phenomenon can be reduced.

[0009] In one achievable manner, the hinge mechanism further includes a circuit board; a first gap is provided between the first door plate and the main shaft, a second gap is provided between the second door plate and the main shaft, and the circuit board passes through the first gap and the second gap.

[0010] In some assembly processes, the circuit board may be installed first, and then the first door panel and the second door panel may be installed.

[0011] In one achievable manner, along the bending line of the display module, the first door panel has a first end and a second end, the circuit board is arranged between the first end and the second end; and the first end and the second end are both provided with a second mounting hole.

[0012] By arranging the second mounting hole close to the end of the door panel, the light and shadow crease phenomenon can be further reduced.

[0013] In one practicable manner, the second mounting hole is a threaded hole, and the connecting member is a threaded connecting member.

[0014] The main shaft and the door panel are fixedly connected by threaded connectors.

[0015] In one achievable manner, a side of the main shaft facing the first door panel has a protrusion, the first door panel has an opening, the protrusion is arranged in the opening, and a surface of the protrusion away from the main shaft is flush with the first surface.

[0016] The door panel is fixedly connected to the main shaft by the protrusion arranged in the opening and the above-mentioned connecting member. In addition, since the surface of the protrusion is flush with the first surface of the first door panel, the light and shadow fold phenomenon can also be reduced.

[0017] In a second aspect, the present application also provides an electronic device, comprising a display module and at least one hinge mechanism, wherein the at least one hinge mechanism is such as the hinge mechanism in any of the above-mentioned implementations, and the at least one hinge mechanism is arranged on a side of the display module away from the display surface.

[0018] The electronic device provided in the embodiment of the present application includes the above-mentioned hinge mechanism, in which the second mounting hole opened in the first door panel for setting the connecting piece is a blind hole; after the connecting piece is fixed, the connecting piece will not protrude from the first surface of the first door panel as in the related art. When the hinge mechanism of the example of the present application is used to support the display module, the light and shadow crease phenomenon can be reduced.

[0019] In one achievable manner, the at least one hinge mechanism of the electronic device includes a first hinge mechanism and a second hinge mechanism; the display module includes a display screen and a cover plate, the cover plate is arranged on one side of the display surface of the display screen, the cover plate includes a first non-bending area, a second non-bending area, a third non-bending area, a first bending area and a second bending area, the first bending area connects the first non-bending area and the second non-bending area, the second bending area connects the second non-bending area and the third non-bending area, the first bending area and the second bending area can both be bent along a bending line to switch between an expanded state and a closed state, the first bending area corresponds to the first hinge mechanism, and the second bending area corresponds to the second hinge mechanism; the thickness of the first non-bending area is not equal to the thickness of the second non-bending area.

[0020] This embodiment provides an electronic device that can be folded at least three times. Not only can the first hinge mechanism and the second hinge mechanism weaken the light and shadow crease phenomenon in the bending area, the thickness of the first non-bending area is not equal to the thickness of the second non-bending area, that is, the cover is designed to be an unequal thickness structure. For example, in some scenarios, in order to improve the rigidity of the first non-bending area that is exposed in the closed state (to present the picture to the user), when the thickness of the first non-bending area is increased, the unequal thickness design of the cover will basically not affect the bendability of the first bending area due to the increase in the thickness of the first non-bending area. The electronic device provided in this embodiment can not only weaken the light and shadow crease, but also improve the rigidity of the non-bending area and the bendability of the bending area.

[0021] In one achievable manner, the thickness of the first non-bending region is greater than the thickness of the second non-bending region.

[0022] In one achievable manner, the cover plate includes: a substrate and a first buffer layer, the first buffer layer being closer to the display screen than the substrate; the thickness of the substrate located in the first non-bending area is greater than the thickness of the substrate located in the second non-bending area, and / or; the thickness of the first buffer layer located in the first non-bending area is greater than the thickness of the first buffer layer located in the second non-bending area.

[0023] In some implementation structures, at least one of the substrate or the buffer layer in the cover plate may be designed to have unequal thickness.

[0024] In one achievable manner, the thickness of the first buffer layer located in the first bending region gradually decreases from the first non-bending region to the second non-bending region.

[0025] In one possible implementation, the cover plate includes a second buffer layer, and the second buffer layer includes a first portion and a second portion;

[0026] The first portion of the second buffer layer is located in the first non-bending region, the second portion of the second buffer layer is located in the first bending region, and the elastic modulus of the first portion of the second buffer layer is greater than the elastic modulus of the second portion of the second buffer layer.

[0027] In order to further improve the bendability of the bending area, the second buffer layer may be designed to have a structure with unequal elastic moduli. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] Figure 1 A structural diagram of a foldable electronic device;

[0029] Figure 2 A structural diagram of another foldable electronic device;

[0030] Figure 3 It is a structural diagram of a rotating shaft mechanism and a display module;

[0031] Figure 4 It is a structural diagram of a rotating shaft mechanism;

[0032] Figure 5 A structural diagram of a rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0033] Figure 6 A top view of a first door panel or a second door panel provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0034] Figure 7 A three-dimensional image of a first door panel or a second door panel provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0035] Figure 8 A bottom view of a first door panel or a second door panel provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0036] Fig. 9 A structural diagram of a main shaft provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0037] Fig.10 A partial structural diagram of a main shaft provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0038] Fig.11 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0039] Fig.12 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0040] Fig.13 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0041] Fig.14A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a closed state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0042] Fig.15 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0043] Fig.16 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0044] Fig.17 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0045] Fig.18 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0046] Fig.19 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module provided in an embodiment of the present application, in which a cover plate is in a flattened state;

[0047] Fig. 20 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module provided in an embodiment of the present application, in which a cover plate is in a flattened state;

[0048] Fig.21 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module provided in an embodiment of the present application, in which a cover plate is in a flattened state;

[0049] Fig. 22 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module provided in an embodiment of the present application, in which a cover plate is in a flattened state;

[0050] Fig.23 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module provided in an embodiment of the present application, in which a cover plate is in a flattened state;

[0051] Fig.24 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module provided in an embodiment of the present application, in which a cover plate is in a flattened state;

[0052] Fig.25 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0053] Fig.26 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module provided in an embodiment of the present application, in which a cover plate is in a flattened state;

[0054] Fig. 27 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module provided in an embodiment of the present application, in which a cover plate is in a flattened state;

[0055] Fig.28A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module provided in an embodiment of the present application, in which a cover plate is in a flattened state;

[0056] Fig.29 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0057] Fig.30 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0058] Fig.31 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0059] Fig.32 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0060] Fig.33 A structural diagram of a multi-fold display module in a flattened state provided in an embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0061] The specific embodiments of the present application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0062] An embodiment of the present application provides an electronic device, which may be a foldable electronic device.

[0063] The electronic device may include a mobile phone, a tablet computer (pad), a smart wearable product (e.g., a smart watch, a smart bracelet), a virtual reality (VR) terminal device, an augmented reality (AR) terminal device, and other electronic products with a display function. The embodiments of the present application do not impose any special restrictions on the specific form of the electronic device with a display function.

[0064] For the convenience of explanation, the structure of the electronic device is described below by taking a mobile phone as an example.

[0065] Figure 1 A structural diagram of a folding screen mobile phone is shown, and the folding screen mobile phone of the example is a three-screen folding mobile phone. The three-folding screen mobile phone may include a first shell 100a, a second shell 100b and a third shell 100c, and a display module 11. The display module 11 may be continuously covered on the first shell 100a, the second shell 100b and the third shell 100c. The folding screen mobile phone may also include a first rotating shaft mechanism and a second rotating shaft mechanism.

[0066] The first shell 100a and the second shell 100b are arranged on both sides of the first hinge mechanism and are respectively connected to the first hinge mechanism. The first hinge mechanism can move so that the first shell 100a and the second shell 100b are relatively folded or relatively unfolded, thereby realizing the flattening and closing of the display module 11 arranged on the first shell 100a and the second shell 100b.

[0067] The second shell 100b and the third shell 100c are arranged on both sides of the second hinge mechanism and are respectively connected to the second hinge mechanism. The second hinge mechanism can move so that the second shell 100b and the third shell 100c are relatively folded or relatively unfolded, thereby realizing the flattening and closing of the display module 11 arranged on the second shell 100b and the third shell 100c.

[0068] Figure 2 The structure diagram of a dual-screen folding mobile phone is shown, and the folding mobile phone includes a first shell 100a, a second shell 100b, a display module 11 and a hinge mechanism. The display module 11 can be arranged on the first shell 100a and the second shell 100b, and the first shell 100a and the second shell 100b are arranged on both sides of the hinge mechanism and are respectively connected to the hinge mechanism. Under the action of the hinge mechanism, the display module 11 can also be flattened and closed.

[0069] A foldable electronic device can be unfolded to a flat state, or folded to a closed state, or in an intermediate state between the flat state and the closed state. A foldable electronic device has at least two states, namely, a flat state and a closed state. In some cases, a third state may be further included, which is an intermediate state between the flat state and the closed state. The intermediate state does not have only one state, and may be any one or more states between the flat state and the closed state of the electronic device.

[0070] like Figure 3 In the hinge mechanism 200, a first door panel 202, a middle door panel 201 and a second door panel 203 are included for supporting the display module 11. The hinge mechanism 200 also includes a main shaft 204, and the first door panel 202 and the second door panel 203 can rotate relative to the main shaft 204. For example, the first door panel 202 and the second door panel 203 can move toward or away from each other, so that the display module 11 can switch between a flat state and a closed state.

[0071] In order to connect each door panel with the main shaft, such as Figure 4 , Figure 4The connection structure between the first door panel 202 and the second door panel 203 and the main shaft is shown. Screw holes are provided on the first door panel 202 and the second door panel 203. The first door panel 202 and the main shaft 204 are fixedly connected, and the second door panel 203 and the main shaft 204 are fixedly connected by connecting pieces inserted into the screw holes. After assembly, the connecting pieces will protrude from the surface of the door panel (the surface faces the display module), making the surface of the entire door panel uneven.

[0072] This makes the light and shadow creases of the display module in the screw hole area more obvious, reducing the display effect. It also makes the impact and extrusion resistance of the display module in the screw hole area poor, reducing the user experience.

[0073] In order to weaken the light and shadow creases, improve the display effect, and improve the impact resistance and compression resistance, the embodiments of the present application provide some other hinge mechanisms, see the following structural description for details.

[0074] like Figure 5 , Figure 5 20 is an assembly diagram of a rotating shaft mechanism and a circuit board according to an embodiment of the present application. The rotating shaft mechanism includes a first door panel 202 , a second door panel 203 , and a main shaft 204 .

[0075] Figure 6 1 is a top view of a first door panel 202 fixedly connected to a main shaft 204 or a second door panel 203 fixedly connected to a main shaft 204 according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 6 The first surface of the first door panel 202 or the second door panel 203 in the embodiment of the present application, which is away from the main shaft 204, does not have a mounting hole for setting a connecting member. Figure 4 The surface flatness of the door panel shown is relatively high, so that the light and shadow crease phenomenon can be reduced.

[0076] In some examples, such as Figure 7 As shown, Figure 7 The connection method of the first door panel 202 or the second door panel 203 and the main shaft 204 is shown. Taking the first door panel 202 as an example, the connection method of the second door panel 203 and the main shaft 204 can refer to the connection method of the first door panel 202 and the main shaft 204.

[0077] See Figure 7 The first door panel 202 has a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other, the second surface is closer to the main axis 204 than the first surface, the first surface faces the display module, and the second surface faces the main axis 204. Figure 8 , Figure 8It is a structural diagram viewed from the second side. From the second side to the first side, the first door panel 202 is provided with a mounting hole 202A. The mounting hole 202A does not penetrate to the first side. There is a gap between the bottom surface of the mounting hole 202A and the first side. The mounting hole 202A provided on the first door panel 202 is a blind hole.

[0078] See also Fig. 9 and Fig.10 , Fig. 9 The assembly relationship between the main shaft 204 and the connecting member 600 is shown in FIG. Fig.10 Intercepted Fig.10 Part of the structure. Fig. 9 and Fig.10 A mounting hole for inserting the connecting member 600 is opened on the main shaft 204 , and the connecting member 600 is inserted from the mounting hole of the main shaft 204 to the first door panel 202 to fix the first door panel 202 to the main shaft 204 .

[0079] In this example, the mounting hole 202A provided in the first door panel 202 is a blind hole. Figure 5 The first surface of the first door panel 202 is invisible to the connecting member, which can reduce the light and shadow crease phenomenon caused by the connecting member. The mounting hole 202A of the blind hole structure can improve the strength of the first door panel 202 or the second door panel 203, and improve the impact resistance and extrusion resistance of the first door panel 202 or the second door panel 203.

[0080] In a foldable electronic device, in the first shell and the second shell located on both sides of the hinge mechanism, any shell can form an installation space for installing electronic components such as circuit boards, batteries, receivers, speakers, and cameras of the device. Among them, the circuit board can integrate electronic components such as the main controller, storage unit, antenna module, and power management module of the electronic device, and the battery can power the display module, circuit board, receiver, speaker, camera, and other electronic components.

[0081] For example, a circuit board, such as a printed circuit board (PCB), may be arranged in the installation space of the first housing, and a battery may be arranged in the installation space of the second housing.

[0082] In order to allow the battery to supply power to the circuit board, an electrical connection structure is provided across the first shell and the second shell. In addition, since the first shell and the second shell need to move relative to or away from each other repeatedly during the use of the electronic device, it is necessary to adopt a flexible electrical connection structure including a bending portion so that it can be bent, for example, a flexible printed circuit (FPC) can be used.

[0083] Combination Figure 5 As shown, in the example of the present application, there is a first gap between the main shaft 204 and the first door panel 202, and a second gap between the main shaft 204 and the second door panel 203. The circuit board 500 can be passed through the first gap and the second gap, and then the first door panel 202 and the second door panel 203 are installed, and the connecting parts from the main shaft 204 to the door panels are tightened to fix the door panels to the main shaft 204.

[0084] like Figure 8 As shown, a plurality of mounting holes 202A may be provided on the first door panel 202 or the second door panel 203 .

[0085] The first door panel 202 or the second door panel 203 has a first end and a second end, and a plurality of mounting holes 202A can be provided at the first end and the second end. The mounting holes 202A are arranged near the ends of the door panels, which can further reduce the light and shadow crease phenomenon compared to being arranged near the center of the door panels.

[0086] In the embodiment of the present application, the first door panel can be fixedly connected to the main shaft by a connecting member. The embodiment of the present application also provides a connection method, such as Fig. 9 and Fig.10 A protrusion 702 is provided on one side of the main shaft 204 facing the first door panel 202, such as Figure 8 , a hole 701 may be opened on the first door panel 202 , and a protrusion 702 may be disposed in the hole 701 .

[0087] In some examples, the hole 701 may not penetrate to the first surface of the first door panel 202, and may be a blind hole similar to the structure of the mounting hole 202A.

[0088] In some other examples, the hole 701 may penetrate to the first surface of the first door panel 202, and the surface of the protrusion 702 away from the main axis 204 is flush with the first surface of the first door panel 202. The light and shadow crease phenomenon caused by the protrusion is reduced.

[0089] In some rotating shaft mechanisms, Figure 5 As shown, an intermediate door panel is arranged between the first door panel 202 and the second door panel 203, and the intermediate door panel may also adopt the connection structure between the first door panel 202 and the main shaft 204 to weaken the light and shadow crease phenomenon at the intermediate door panel.

[0090] In the above-mentioned embodiments of the present application, the light and shadow creases in the bending area of ​​the display module can be weakened by changing the structure of the hinge mechanism. In some multi-fold electronic devices, for example, a three-fold electronic device. When the multi-fold electronic device is in a folded (or closed) state, the non-bending area of ​​the display module can be exposed, which requires sufficient rigidity and strength, and the bending area also requires better bendability.

[0091] The present application provides some display module embodiments, which can not only improve the rigidity of the non-bending area, but also will not weaken the bendability of the bending area.

[0092] Fig.11 The display module 11 may include a support plate (bracket) 111 , a display screen (panel) 112 and a cover plate 110 .

[0093] The support plate 111 and the cover plate 110 are arranged on opposite sides of the display screen 112. The support plate 111 is located on the back side of the display screen 112 and serves as a supporting structure for supporting the display screen 112. The cover plate 110 is located on the display surface side of the display screen 112 and is used to protect the display screen 112 and reduce the probability of the display screen 112 being damaged.

[0094] The display surface of the display screen 112 involved in the embodiment of the present application is a side of the display screen 112 used to display images to the user, and the back side of the display screen 112 refers to the side opposite to the display surface of the display screen 112.

[0095] like Fig.11 The display screen 112 includes: a first non-bending portion, a second non-bending portion, a third non-bending portion, a first bending portion, and a second bending portion; the first bending portion connects the first non-bending portion and the second non-bending portion, and the second bending portion connects the second non-bending portion and the third non-bending portion.

[0096] like Fig.11 The cover plate 110 in the display module 11 includes: a first non-bending area, a second non-bending area and a third non-bending area, a first bending area connecting the first non-bending area and the second non-bending area, and a second bending area connecting the second non-bending area and the third non-bending area.

[0097] like Fig.11 The first non-bending portion of the display screen 112 corresponds to the first non-bending area of ​​the cover plate 110, the first bending portion of the display screen 112 corresponds to the first bending area of ​​the cover plate 110, the second non-bending portion of the display screen 112 corresponds to the second non-bending area of ​​the cover plate 110, the second bending portion of the display screen 112 corresponds to the second bending area of ​​the cover plate 110, and the third non-bending portion of the display screen 112 corresponds to the third non-bending area of ​​the cover plate 110.

[0098] The first bending region, the first bending portion, the second bending region and the second bending portion can all be bent along the bending line to switch between an expanded state and a closed state.

[0099] Fig.11 Take the three-screen folding as an example. In other examples, Fig.11 Based on the structure shown, more bending areas and non-bending areas are added to form an electronic device with four folding screens, five folding screens, or more folding screens.

[0100] like Fig.11 A first hinge mechanism 20A and a second hinge mechanism 20B may be provided on the back side of the display module 11, wherein the position of the first hinge mechanism 20A corresponds to the first bending portion and the first bending region, and the position of the second hinge mechanism 20B corresponds to the second bending portion and the second bending region.

[0101] The portion including the first bending portion and the first bending area can be flattened or bent under the drive of the first rotating shaft mechanism 20A, and the portion including the second bending portion and the second bending area can be flattened or bent under the drive of the second rotating shaft mechanism 20B.

[0102] Fig.11 The first rotating shaft mechanism 20A and the second rotating shaft mechanism 20B can adopt the above Figure 5 The example shaft mechanism can reduce the light and shadow crease phenomenon in the first bending area and the second bending area.

[0103] like Fig.11 The thickness of the first non-bending area of ​​the cover plate 110 is d1, and the thickness of the second non-bending area is d2. The thickness d1 is not equal to the thickness d2. For example, the thickness d1 may be greater than the thickness d2.

[0104] Fig.12 is a structural diagram of another display module provided in an embodiment of the present application. Fig.11 Similarly, the thickness of the first non-bending area of ​​the cover plate 110 is d1, and the thickness of the second non-bending area is d2. The thickness d1 is not equal to the thickness d2, and the thickness d1 is greater than the thickness d2.

[0105] Fig.13 is a structural diagram of another display module provided in an embodiment of the present application. Fig.11 and Fig.12 Similarly, in the cover plate 110 , the thickness d1 of the first non-bending area is not equal to the thickness d2 of the second non-bending area, and the thickness d1 is greater than the thickness d2 .

[0106] The thickness dimension involved in the embodiment of the present application refers to: Fig.11 The dimension along the stacking direction (P direction) of multiple film layers.

[0107] Fig.11 , Fig.12 and Fig.13In the three different examples of the display module 11 shown, the thickness d4 of the first bending area of ​​the cover plate 110 is not constant, but gradually decreases along the direction away from the first non-bending area, or from the first non-bending area to the second non-bending area, so that the thickness d2 is smaller than the thickness d1.

[0108] like Figures 11 to 13 In the cover plate 110, the first non-bending area is a thick area, the second non-bending area is a thin area, and the first bending area connected between the first non-bending area and the second non-bending area is a thin-to-thick transition area.

[0109] Fig.11 , Fig.12 and Fig.13 The three different examples of the display module 11 shown have the following differences:

[0110] Fig.11 In the cover plate 110, the thickness of the second bending area is d5, the thickness of the third non-bending area is d3, and the thickness d2, the thickness d5 and the thickness d3 are equal. The first non-bending area is a thick area, the first bending area is a thick-thin transition area, and the second non-bending area, the second bending area and the third non-bending area are thin areas with equal thickness.

[0111] and the above Fig.11 compared to, Fig.12 In the example shown, not only the thickness d4 of the first bending area is not a constant value, but also the thickness d2 of the second non-bending area is not a constant value. In some examples, the thickness of the first bending area and the second non-bending area of ​​the cover plate 110 gradually decreases in the direction away from the first non-bending area, which can cover up the visual effect of the uneven thickness of the entire display module.

[0112] exist Fig.12 In the embodiment, the thickness of the second bending area and the third non-bending area of ​​the cover plate 110 are equal, that is, the thickness d5 is equal to the thickness d3.

[0113] exist Fig.12 In the embodiment, the first non-bending region is a thick region, the first bending region and the second non-bending region are thick-thin transition regions, and the second bending region and the third non-bending region are thin regions with equal thickness.

[0114] and the above Fig.11 and Fig.12 In comparison, Fig.13In the embodiment, not only the thickness of the first bending area and the second non-bending area of ​​the cover plate 110 is not constant, but also the thickness of the second bending area and the third non-bending area of ​​the cover plate 110 is not constant. Along the direction away from the first non-bending area, the thickness of the first bending area, the second non-bending area, the second bending area and the third non-bending area of ​​the cover plate 110 gradually decreases. This can further cover up the visual effect of the uneven thickness of the entire display module.

[0115] Fig.14 Yes Fig.11 The structural diagram of the display module 11 after bending given in the embodiment of the present application. The thickness of the first non-bending area that is exposed (visible to the user when folded) is greater than the thickness of the second non-bending area that is not exposed (invisible to the user when folded). The first bending area connected to the exposed first non-bending area is designed to be an unequal thickness structure. In order to improve the rigidity and strength of the first non-bending area, the thickness dimension of the first non-bending area is increased, and the bendability of the bending area will not be affected. The thickness dimensions of other areas will not be increased, and when the whole machine is in a folded state, the thickness of the closed state will not be significantly increased.

[0116] In some examples, the above Figures 11 to 13 The bending area of ​​the example may form an inner bending area, or may form an outer bending area. Fig.14 In the closed state shown, the first bending area forms an outer bending area, and the second bending area forms an inner bending area. The first non-bending area is exposed and visible to the user, and the second non-bending area and the third non-bending area are opposite and invisible to the user.

[0117] like Fig.15 , Fig.15 This is a structural diagram of a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application. The thickness of the display cover plate 113 located in the first non-bending area is greater than the thickness located in the second non-bending area, and the thickness of the display cover plate 113 located in the first bending area gradually decreases in the direction away from the first non-bending area.

[0118] exist Fig.15 In the embodiment, the thickness of the protection layer 114 in each bending region and each non-bending region is equal.

[0119] Fig.16 This is another structural diagram of a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application. In this structure, the thickness of the protective layer 114 located in the first non-bending area is greater than the thickness located in the second non-bending area, and the thickness of the protective layer 114 located in the first bending area gradually decreases in the direction away from the first non-bending area.

[0120] exist Fig.16 In the figure, the thickness of the cover plate 113 in each bending area and each non-bending area is equal.

[0121] Fig.17 is a structural diagram of another display module provided in an embodiment of the present application. Fig.16 In comparison, in this structure, along the direction away from the first non-bending area, the thickness of the first bending area and the thickness of the second non-bending area in the protective layer 114 gradually decrease, thereby widening the width of the thin-to-thick transition zone of the protective layer 114.

[0122] Fig.18 is a structural diagram of another display module provided in an embodiment of the present application. Fig.16 and Fig.17 In contrast, in this example, in the protective layer 114, the thickness of the first bending region, the thickness of the second non-bending region, the thickness of the second bending region, and the thickness of the third non-bending region gradually decrease in the direction away from the first non-bending region, further widening the width of the thin-thick transition zone of the protective layer 114.

[0123] Above Figures 16 to 18 In the embodiment, the protective layer 114 is designed as a structure with uneven thickness. In other examples, the uneven thickness transition zone can be set in other film layer structures, for example, in the display cover plate 113, Figures 16 to 18 The structure shown.

[0124] In some examples provided in this application, Fig.19 , the display cover 113 or the protective layer 114 may include: a substrate 11D and a buffer layer 11B.

[0125] The substrate 11D and the buffer layer 11B may be connected via an adhesive layer 11C, and the adhesive layer 11A connects the stacked film layer structures to other layer structures. Fig.19 When the protective layer 114 is shown, the structure including the substrate 11D, the adhesive layer 11C and the buffer layer 11B can be connected to the display cover 113 by using the adhesive layer 11A.

[0126] Among some selectable materials, the substrate 11D may be selected from at least one of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimide (PI), and transparent polyimide (CPI).

[0127] In some examples, the buffer layer 11B is an elastomeric film material, and the elastic modulus of the buffer layer 11B is smaller than the elastic modulus of the substrate 11D. The buffer layer 11B can be made of at least one of elastomeric film materials such as thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer TPU and thermoplastic polyamide elastomer TPAE.

[0128] The adhesive layer 11A and the adhesive layer 11C may be made of at least one of an optically clear adhesive (OCA), an optically clear resin (OCR), an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, and the like.

[0129] See also Fig.19 In this embodiment, the buffer layer 11B located in the first bending region is designed as a structure of unequal thickness. Along the direction away from the first non-bending region, the thickness of the buffer layer 11B located in the first bending region gradually decreases, so that the protective layer 114 or the display cover plate 113 located in the first bending region is a thick-thin transition zone.

[0130] exist Fig.19 In the embodiment, the thickness of the substrate 11D may be 25 μm to 75 μm, and the thickness of the adhesive layer 11A and the adhesive layer 11C may be 25 μm to 50 μm.

[0131] The thickness of the buffer layer 11B located in the first non-bending region is 75 μm to 150 μm, and the thickness of the buffer layer 11B located in the second non-bending region, the second bending region and the third non-bending region is 25 μm to 75 μm.

[0132] Fig. 20 This is another structural diagram of a display cover plate 113 or a protective layer 114 provided in an embodiment of the present application. In this example, the substrate 11D located in the first bending region is designed to have a structure of unequal thickness. Along the direction away from the first non-bending region, the thickness of the substrate 11D located in the first bending region gradually decreases, so that the protective layer 114 or the display cover plate 113 located in the first bending region is a thick-thin transition zone.

[0133] Fig.21 1 is another structural diagram of a display cover plate 113 or a protective layer 114 provided in an embodiment of the present application. Fig. 20 In comparison, not only the buffer layer 11B located in the first bending area is designed as a structure with unequal thickness, but also the buffer layer 11B located in the second non-bending area is designed as a structure with unequal thickness, so as to weaken the visual effect of uneven thickness of the entire display module.

[0134] Fig. 22 1 is a structural diagram of another display cover plate 113 or protective layer 114 provided in an embodiment of the present application. In some examples, the thickness of the buffer layer 11B is relatively large, for example, the thickness reaches 100 μm. Due to the thick buffer layer, the strain generated on the upper and lower surfaces of the film material when the display module is bent is easy to enter the plastic deformation stage.

[0135] When the display module is bent, in order to weaken the strain generated on the upper and lower surfaces of the display module, the plastic deformation stage is entered to improve the bendability. In some examples, such as Fig. 22 The buffer layer 11B includes a first buffer layer 11B1 and a second buffer layer 11B2. The first buffer layer 11B is of equal thickness, and the second buffer layer 11B2 located in the first bending region is designed to be of unequal thickness. The second buffer layer 11B2 of uneven thickness is farther away from the display screen than the first buffer layer 11B1 of uniform thickness, that is, closer to the interface visible to the user; in other examples, the first buffer layer 11B1 of uniform thickness can also be closer to the interface visible to the user than the second buffer layer 11B2 of uneven thickness.

[0136] See also Fig. 22 The first buffer layer 11B1 is connected to the second buffer layer 11B2 via an adhesive layer 11E, and the second buffer layer 11B2 is connected to the substrate 11D via an adhesive layer 11C.

[0137] Fig.23 This is another structural diagram of a display cover plate 113 or a protective layer 114 provided in an embodiment of the present application. In some optional processes, a coating process can be used to bond the buffer layer 11B to the substrate 11D. The adhesive layer used to connect the buffer layer 11B and the substrate 11D can be removed to reduce the thickness of the entire display module without weakening the rigidity of the non-bending area and the bendability of the bending area.

[0138] Fig.23 The material of the buffer layer 11B in the example can be selected from at least one of thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer, silicone gel, and shear thickening material.

[0139] See also Fig.23 In this example, the buffer layer 11B located in the first bending region is designed to have an unequal thickness structure, and the thickness of each region of the substrate 11D is equal.

[0140] Fig.24 This is another structural diagram of a display cover plate 113 or a protective layer 114 provided in an embodiment of the present application. In some optional processes, a coating process can also be used to bond the buffer layer 11B to the substrate 11D. The buffer layer 11B in this example can be made of a sticky material, such as an optically transparent adhesive OCA. The buffer layer 11B is not only an elastic film material, but also has a connecting function, so the adhesive layer 11A may not be required. The thickness of the display module can be further compressed.

[0141] See also Fig.24 In this example, the buffer layer 11B located in the first bending region is designed to have an unequal thickness structure, and the thickness of each region of the substrate 11D is equal.

[0142] In order to improve the rigidity of the exposed non-bending area without weakening the bendability of the bending area, the present application also provides some structures that can be implemented, as follows:

[0143] Fig.25 1 is a structural diagram of a display module provided in an embodiment of the present application. In the cover plate 110 of the display module 11, the elastic modulus in the first non-bending area is greater than the elastic modulus in the first bending area. The cover plate 110 includes a hard area with a larger elastic modulus and a soft area with a smaller elastic modulus.

[0144] In some examples, when the cover plate 110 includes a display cover plate or a protective layer, the hard area and the soft area can be set in at least one of the display cover plate and the protective layer. Fig.26 1 is a structural diagram of a display cover plate 113 or a protective layer 114 provided in an embodiment of the present application, including a substrate 11D and a buffer layer 11B, wherein the substrate 11D and the buffer layer 11B are connected via an adhesive layer 11C.

[0145] like Fig.26 The buffer layer 11B includes a hard region 11B01 (also called the first part) and a soft region 11B02 (also called the second part), and the elastic modulus of the hard region 11B01 is greater than the elastic modulus of the soft region 11B02. The hard region 11B01 is located in the first non-bending region, and the soft region 11B02 can be located in at least one of the first bending region and the second bending region.

[0146] exist Fig.26 In the embodiment, the hard region 11B01 and the soft region 11B02 are connected together as an integral structure. In some optional process steps, the buffer layer material can be first coated on the substrate, and then cured by UV (ultraviolet light) in different regions to obtain buffer materials with different hardness; in other optional process steps, the buffer layer material can be heated in different regions to obtain parts with different elastic moduli to obtain hard regions and soft regions.

[0147] The buffer layer 11B is divided into a hard area 11B01 and a soft area 11B02 with different elastic moduli. The hard area 11B01 is located in the first non-bending area to improve the stiffness of the first non-bending area. The soft area 11B02 with a smaller elastic modulus is located in the bending area to ensure that the bending area has better bendability.

[0148] exist Fig.26 In the embodiment, the elastic modulus of the buffer layer 11B (which may be called the third part) located in the second non-bending area and the third non-bending area may be smaller than the elastic modulus of the hard area 11B01 and larger than the elastic modulus of the soft area 11B02.

[0149] In some examples, in order to improve the stiffness of the second non-bending region and the third non-bending region, the elastic modulus of the buffer layer 11B located in the second non-bending region and the third non-bending region may be equal to the elastic modulus of the hard region 11B01.

[0150] When the elastic modulus of the buffer layer 11B located in the second non-bending area and the third non-bending area is smaller than the elastic modulus of the hard area 11B01 and larger than the elastic modulus of the soft area 11B02, the buffer material can be first coated, at which time its modulus is lower, and then cross-linked by local UV curing or heating, and a lower modulus part and a higher modulus part can be obtained by controlling the UV energy or heating temperature.

[0151] Fig. 27 It is a structural diagram of another display cover plate 113 or protective layer 114 provided in an embodiment of the present application, including a substrate 11D and a buffer layer 11B, wherein the substrate 11D and the buffer layer 11B are connected via an adhesive layer 11C.

[0152] In this example, the buffer layer 11B includes a hard part 11B11 with a larger elastic modulus and a soft part 11B12 with a smaller elastic modulus, which are spliced ​​together. The hard part 11B11 is located in the first non-bending area, and the soft part 11B12 is located in at least one of the first bending area and the second bending area.

[0153] In some examples, such as Fig. 27 , the hard part 11B11 and the soft part 11B12 can be spliced ​​together by using the adhesive layer 11B13. For example, when the adhesive layer 11C located on one side of the buffer layer 11B is coated, the colloid can overflow into the gap between the hard part and the soft part, thereby bonding the hard part and the soft part together.

[0154] See also Fig. 27 In order to improve the rigidity of the second non-bending region and the third non-bending region, the elastic modulus of the buffer layer 11B located in the second non-bending region and the third non-bending region may be equal to the elastic modulus of the hard part.

[0155] In some other examples, the elastic modulus of the buffer layer 11B located in the second non-bending region and the third non-bending region may be smaller than the elastic modulus of the hard portion and larger than the elastic modulus of the soft portion.

[0156] exist Fig. 27In the example, the material that can be selected for the hard part 11B11 includes at least one of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), transparent polyimide (CPI), etc. The material that can be selected for the soft part 11B12 includes at least one of thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer TPU, thermoplastic polyamide elastomer TPAE, etc.

[0157] Fig.28 This is another structural diagram of a display cover plate 113 or a protective layer 114 provided in an embodiment of the present application. The buffer layer 11B includes a first buffer layer 11B1 and a second buffer layer 11B2. The first buffer layer 11B1 includes a hard region 11B01 with a larger elastic modulus and a soft region 11B02 with a smaller elastic modulus. In the second buffer layer 11B2, the thickness of the portion located in the first bending region is designed to be an unequal thickness structure. This embodiment combines the unequal thickness design of the buffer layer with the unequal elastic modulus design.

[0158] When the display module is in a folded state and the first non-bending area is exposed, the first bending area connecting the first non-bending area and the second non-bending area needs to have sufficient resistance to external impact. For example, when the closed electronic device falls, the first bending area may be damaged by the impact of the hinge mechanism on one side and the ground.

[0159] The embodiments of the present application provide some novel display modules 11, such as Fig.29 A buffer pad 127 is provided on a side of the support plate 111 away from the display screen 112 , and the buffer pad 127 is provided at a position of the support plate 111 opposite to the first bending area.

[0160] In some examples, in order to improve the bendability of the support plate 111, a hollow structure 111a (which may be called a bamboo book) is provided in a portion opposite to the first bending area, and a buffer pad 127 is provided at a position opposite to the hollow structure 111a.

[0161] The buffer pad 127 may be a one-layer film structure, or a multi-layer film structure.

[0162] For example, the buffer pad 127 can be made of at least one of stainless steel SUS, thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer TPU elastomer, porous foam Foam material, PET film material and the like.

[0163] Fig.30 1 is a structural diagram of another display module provided in an embodiment of the present application. In this embodiment, the buffer pad 127 is disposed in the support plate 111. For example, a groove may be provided in the support plate 111, and the buffer pad 127 may be disposed in the groove, and the groove is located at a position opposite to the first bending area.

[0164] Fig.31 1 is a structural diagram of another display module provided in an embodiment of the present application. In this embodiment, the buffer pad 127 is disposed on the first rotating shaft mechanism 20A and the second rotating shaft mechanism 20B located on one side of the display module.

[0165] like Figure 29 to Figure 31 Since the buffer pad 127 is included, when the first bending area is impacted by external force, the buffering effect of the buffer pad 127 can reduce the degree of damage to the display module.

[0166] Fig.32 1 is a structural diagram of another display module provided in an embodiment of the present application. In this structure, not only is the display cover plate 113 located in the first bending area designed to be a structure of unequal thickness, but a buffer pad 127 is also provided on the side of the support plate 111 away from the display screen 112. This can not only improve the rigidity of the exposed non-bending part, but also will not weaken the bendability of the bending part, and can also reduce the degree of damage to the bending part of the display module, thereby improving the performance of the display module.

[0167] In some other examples, various regions of the protection layer 114 may be designed to have structures of unequal thickness.

[0168] like Fig.33 As shown, the cover plate (e.g., display cover plate, protective layer) located on the display surface side of the display screen 112 is designed as a structure with unequal elastic modulus. Also, the buffer pad 127 is arranged at a position of the support plate 111 opposite to the first bending area. This not only optimizes the bendability of the display module bending portion, but also improves the impact resistance and extrusion resistance of the bending portion.

[0169] In the example involved in the present application, a first rotating shaft mechanism can be set at a position corresponding to the first bending area, and a second rotating shaft mechanism can be set at a position corresponding to the second bending area. At least one of the first rotating shaft mechanism and the second rotating shaft mechanism can adopt the above Figure 5 The pivot mechanism shown can not only reduce the light and shadow crease phenomenon in the bending areas, but also improve the bendability of the bending areas and the rigidity of the non-bending areas.

[0170] In the description of this specification, specific features, structures, materials or characteristics may be combined in an appropriate manner in any one or more embodiments or examples.

[0171] The above is only a specific implementation of the present application, but the protection scope of the present application is not limited thereto. Any person skilled in the art who is familiar with the present technical field can easily think of changes or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in the present application, which should be included in the protection scope of the present application. Therefore, the protection scope of the present application should be based on the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A hinge mechanism, which is used to be arranged in a foldable electronic device, characterized in that: The rotating shaft mechanism comprises: A first door panel and a second door panel, one side of the first door panel and the second door panel is used to set a display module, and the first door panel and the second door panel can move towards or away from each other to drive the display module to switch between an expanded state and a closed state; A main shaft, the main shaft being arranged on a side of the first door panel and the second door panel away from the display module; The main shaft is provided with a first mounting hole, and the first door panel is provided with a second mounting hole; The first door panel has a first surface and a second surface opposite to each other, the first surface faces the display module, the second surface faces the main axis, the opening of the second mounting hole is located on the second surface, and there is a distance between the bottom surface of the second mounting hole and the first surface; The first door panel and the main shaft are connected via a connecting piece disposed in the first mounting hole and the second mounting hole.

2. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that: The rotating shaft mechanism also includes a circuit board; There is a first gap between the first door plate and the main shaft, there is a second gap between the second door plate and the main shaft, and the circuit board passes through the first gap and the second gap.

3. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that: Along the bending line of the display module, the first door panel has a first end and a second end, and the circuit board is arranged between the first end and the second end; The first end and the second end are both provided with the second mounting hole.

4. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The second mounting hole is a threaded hole, and the connecting piece is a threaded connecting piece.

5. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The main shaft has a protrusion on one side facing the first door panel, the first door panel has an opening, the protrusion is arranged in the opening, and the surface of the protrusion away from the main shaft is flush with the first surface.

6. An electronic device, characterized in that: include: Display module; At least one rotating shaft mechanism, wherein the at least one rotating shaft mechanism is the rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 5; The at least one rotating shaft mechanism is arranged on a side of the display module away from the display surface.

7. The electronic device according to claim 6, characterized in that: The at least one rotating shaft mechanism of the electronic device includes a first rotating shaft mechanism and a second rotating shaft mechanism; The display module comprises: Display screen; a cover plate, arranged on a display surface side of the display screen, the cover plate comprising a first non-bending area, a second non-bending area, a third non-bending area, a first bending area, and a second bending area, the first bending area connecting the first non-bending area and the second non-bending area, the second bending area connecting the second non-bending area and the third non-bending area, and the first bending area and the second bending area both being able to be bent along a bending line to switch between an expanded state and a bent closed state; The position of the first rotating shaft mechanism corresponds to the first bending area, and the position of the second rotating shaft mechanism corresponds to the second bending area; The thickness of the first non-bending region is not equal to the thickness of the second non-bending region.

8. The electronic device according to claim 7, characterized in that: The thickness of the first non-bending region is greater than the thickness of the second non-bending region.

9. The electronic device according to claim 8, characterized in that: The cover plate comprises: A substrate and a first buffer layer, wherein the first buffer layer is closer to the display screen than the substrate; The thickness of the substrate in the first non-bending area is greater than the thickness of the substrate in the second non-bending area, and / or; The thickness of the first buffer layer located in the first non-bending area is greater than the thickness of the first buffer layer located in the second non-bending area.

10. The electronic device according to claim 9, characterized in that: From the first non-bending area to the second non-bending area, the thickness of the first buffer layer located in the first bending area gradually decreases.

11. The electronic device according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that: The cover plate comprises: a second buffer layer, the second buffer layer comprising a first portion and a second portion; The first portion of the second buffer layer is located in the first non-bending region, the second portion of the second buffer layer is located in the first bending region, and the elastic modulus of the first portion of the second buffer layer is greater than the elastic modulus of the second portion of the second buffer layer.

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