A rotating shaft mechanism and electronic device

Abstract

The application provides a rotating shaft mechanism and an electronic device. The rotating shaft mechanism comprises a main shaft, a first rotating part, a first mounting plate, a first magnetic part, a first magnetic matching part, a second rotating part, a second mounting plate, a second magnetic part and a second magnetic matching part. The first rotating part, the first mounting plate, the second rotating part and the second mounting plate are rotationally connected with the main shaft, the first rotating part is slidingly connected with the first mounting plate, and the second rotating part is slidingly connected with the second mounting plate. The first magnetic part is located on the first rotating part, the first magnetic matching part is located on the first mounting plate and magnetically attracted to the first magnetic part. The second magnetic part is located on the second rotating part, and the second magnetic matching part is located on the second mounting plate and magnetically attracted to the second magnetic part. The rotating shaft mechanism generates a magnetic torque between the rotating part and the mounting plate through the magnetic attraction between the magnetic part and the magnetic matching part, so that the structure of the rotating shaft mechanism can be simplified, and the electronic device can be thinned.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of electronic equipment technology, and in particular to a rotating shaft mechanism and electronic equipment. Background Technology

[0002] With the gradual maturation of flexible display technology, the way electronic devices display information has undergone tremendous changes. Foldable flexible screen mobile phones, foldable flexible screen tablets, and wearable electronic devices with foldable flexible screens represent a major direction for the evolution of future smart electronic devices.

[0003] The hinge mechanism, a crucial component for enabling the folding function of foldable electronic devices, features continuous folding capability. Besides changing the folded state of the electronic device, the hinge mechanism also provides sufficient support for the flexible display screen in different folded states. Existing hinge mechanisms include a main shaft and a damping assembly. When the hinge mechanism folds, the damping assembly provides torque to ensure stable rotation. The damping assembly employs a cam and spring structure, generating torque through a cam perpendicular to the main shaft during rotation and the spring pressing against the cam surface of the main shaft. However, existing hinge structures are relatively complex, hindering the thinning and lightening of foldable electronic devices. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a pivot mechanism and an electronic device, which generates magnetic torque between a rotating component and a mounting plate through the magnetic attraction between a magnetic component and a magnetic mating component, thereby simplifying the structure of the pivot mechanism and achieving a thinner and lighter electronic device.

[0005] In a first aspect, this application provides a hinge mechanism for a foldable electronic device. Specifically, the hinge mechanism includes a main shaft, a first rotating assembly, and a second rotating assembly. The first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly are disposed opposite each other on both sides of the main shaft. The first rotating assembly includes a first rotating member, a first mounting plate, a first magnetic member, and a first magnetic mating member. The first rotating member and the first mounting plate are rotatably connected to the main shaft, and the rotation axis of the first rotating member relative to the main shaft is parallel to and does not coincide with the rotation axis of the first mounting plate relative to the main shaft; the first rotating member is slidably connected to the first mounting plate. The first magnetic member is disposed on the first rotating member, and the first magnetic mating member is disposed on the first mounting plate; the first magnetic member is used for magnetic attraction with the first magnetic mating member. Correspondingly, the second rotating assembly includes a second rotating member, a second mounting plate, a second magnetic member, and a second magnetic mating member. The second rotating member and the second mounting plate are rotatably connected to the main shaft, and the rotation axis of the second rotating member relative to the main shaft is parallel to and does not coincide with the rotation axis of the second mounting plate relative to the main shaft; the second rotating member is slidably connected to the second mounting plate. A second magnetic component is disposed on the second rotating component, and a second magnetic mating component is disposed on the second mounting plate. The second magnetic component is used to magnetically engage with the second magnetic mating component. When the first mounting plate slides relative to the first rotating component towards the main shaft, and the second mounting plate slides relative to the second rotating component towards the main shaft, the first magnetic component and the first magnetic mating component move away from each other to provide a first resistance to the relative sliding between the first rotating component and the first mounting plate. The second magnetic component and the second magnetic mating component move away from each other to provide a second resistance to the second rotating component and the second mounting plate. When the first mounting plate slides relative to the first rotating component away from the main shaft, and the second mounting plate slides relative to the second rotating component away from the main shaft, the first magnetic component and the first magnetic mating component move closer to each other to drive the first rotating component to slide relative to the first mounting plate. The second magnetic component and the second magnetic mating component move closer to each other to drive the second rotating component to slide relative to the second mounting plate.

[0006] When the aforementioned rotating shaft mechanism is applied to an electronic device, the first rotating component and the second rotating component rotate towards each other when the electronic device is folded. At this time, the first rotating component and the first mounting plate rotate around their respective main shafts, but their rotation axes do not coincide. This allows for a phase difference in the axial centers between the first rotating component and the first mounting plate, which are located on the same side, during the rotation of the rotating shaft mechanism. This enables relative sliding motion between the two rotating components, causing the first magnetic component and the first magnetic mating component to separate from their attracted state, and generating a magnetic attraction between them. This magnetic attraction provides a first resistance to the relative sliding between the first rotating component and the first mounting plate, achieving a damping function. Simultaneously, the second rotating component and the second mounting plate also rotate around their respective main shafts, but their rotation axes do not coincide. This again allows for a phase difference in the axial centers between the second rotating component and the second mounting plate, which are located on the same side, during the rotation of the rotating shaft mechanism. This enables relative sliding motion between the two rotating components, causing the second magnetic component and the second magnetic mating component to separate from their attracted state, and generating a magnetic attraction between them. This magnetic attraction provides a second resistance to the relative sliding between the second rotating component and the second mounting plate, achieving a damping function. Therefore, during the folding process of electronic devices, magnetic attraction between magnetic components and magnetic mating components can generate magnetic torque between rotating components and mounting plates, thereby simplifying the structure of the pivot mechanism and enabling the electronic devices to be made thinner and lighter.

[0007] When the electronic device unfolds, the first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly rotate in opposite directions. At this time, the first rotating component and the first mounting plate rotate around their respective main axes, and the first rotating component can slide relative to the first mounting plate. This causes the first magnetic component and the first magnetic mating component to gradually magnetically engage from a separated state, generating and gradually increasing a magnetic attraction between them. This magnetic attraction drives the first rotating component to slide relative to the first mounting plate. Simultaneously, the second rotating component and the second mounting plate rotate around their respective main axes, and the second rotating component can slide relative to the second mounting plate. This causes the second magnetic component and the second magnetic mating component to gradually magnetically engage from a separated state, generating and gradually increasing a magnetic attraction between them. This magnetic attraction drives the second rotating component to slide relative to the second mounting plate. Therefore, during the unfolding process of the electronic device, the magnetic attraction between the magnetic component and the magnetic mating component provides power for the relative sliding between the rotating component and the mounting plate, saving the external force required to unfold the electronic device and achieving its self-unfolding function.

[0008] When specifically configuring the magnetic components and magnetic mating components, the types of the first magnetic component, the first magnetic mating component, the second magnetic component, and the second magnetic mating component are not limited. In some possible technical solutions, the first magnetic component and the first magnetic mating component can be permanent magnets. In other possible technical solutions, the first magnetic component can be a permanent magnet, and the first magnetic mating component can be an electromagnet; or, the first magnetic component can be an electromagnet, and the first magnetic mating component can be a permanent magnet. Similarly, the second magnetic component and the second magnetic mating component can both be permanent magnets. Alternatively, the second magnetic component can be a permanent magnet, and the second magnetic mating component can be an electromagnet; or, the second magnetic component can be an electromagnet, and the second magnetic mating component can be a permanent magnet.

[0009] In this application, a first magnetic element and a first magnetic mating element are magnetically attracted to each other. The first magnetic element may have a first interface that makes attractive contact with the first magnetic mating element. When the first mounting plate slides relative to the first rotating member, the first magnetic element and the first magnetic mating element may move away from or towards each other in a direction parallel to the first interface, or they may move away from or towards each other in a direction perpendicular to the first interface. Similarly, a second magnetic element and a second magnetic mating element are magnetically attracted to each other. The second magnetic element may have a second interface that makes attractive contact with the second magnetic mating element. When the second mounting plate slides relative to the second rotating member, the second magnetic element and the second magnetic mating element may move away from or towards each other in a direction parallel to the second interface, or they may move away from or towards each other in a direction perpendicular to the second interface.

[0010] Specifically, when configuring the first rotating component, it may include a first arc-shaped rotating block and a first slider fixedly connected, with the first arc-shaped rotating block located on the side of the first slider closer to the main shaft. A first magnetic component is connected to the first slider. A first arc-shaped guide groove is provided on the side of the main shaft facing the first rotating component, and the first arc-shaped rotating block can be accommodated in the first arc-shaped guide groove, achieving a rotational connection between the first rotating component and the main shaft by sliding within the first arc-shaped guide groove. A first mounting plate is provided with a first sliding groove, and the first slider can be accommodated in the first sliding groove, achieving a sliding connection between the first rotating component and the first mounting plate by sliding within the first sliding groove. Similarly, when configuring the second rotating component, it may include a second arc-shaped rotating block and a second slider fixedly connected, with the second arc-shaped rotating block located on the side of the second slider closer to the main shaft. A second magnetic component is connected to the second slider. A second arc-shaped guide groove is provided on the side of the main shaft facing the second rotating component, and the second arc-shaped rotating block can be accommodated in the second arc-shaped guide groove, achieving a rotational connection between the second rotating component and the main shaft by sliding within the second arc-shaped guide groove. The second mounting plate is provided with a second sliding groove, and the second slider can be accommodated in the second sliding groove and slide within the second sliding groove to achieve a sliding connection between the second rotating member and the second mounting plate.

[0011] In some possible technical solutions, when the first magnetic element and the first magnetic mating element move away from or towards each other along a direction parallel to the attraction contact interface, the first magnetic element can be disposed in the first slider, and the first magnetic mating element can be disposed within the first groove. When the first slider slides along the first groove, the first magnetic element and the first magnetic mating element magnetically attract or separate along a direction parallel to the attraction contact interface. Similarly, when the second magnetic element and the second magnetic mating element move away from or towards each other along a direction parallel to the attraction contact interface, the second magnetic element can be disposed in the second slider, and the second magnetic mating element can be disposed within the second groove. When the second slider slides within the second groove, the second magnetic element and the second magnetic mating element magnetically attract or separate along a direction parallel to the attraction contact interface.

[0012] In some other possible technical solutions, when the first magnetic element and the first magnetic mating element move away from or towards each other in a direction perpendicular to the attraction contact interface, the first rotating assembly may further include a first bracket. The first bracket is located on the side of the first mounting plate opposite to the main shaft. The end of the first slider opposite to the first arc-shaped rotating block extends into a first groove and is fixedly connected to the first bracket. The first magnetic element is disposed on the first bracket and faces the first mounting plate. The first magnetic mating element is disposed on the side of the first mounting plate opposite to the main shaft and faces the first magnetic element. When the first slider slides along the first groove, the first magnetic element and the first magnetic mating element magnetically attract or separate in a direction perpendicular to the interface where the first magnetic element and the first magnetic mating element are attracted. Similarly, when the second magnetic element and the second magnetic mating element move away from or towards each other in a direction perpendicular to the attraction contact interface, the second rotating assembly may further include a second bracket. The second bracket is located on the side of the second mounting plate opposite to the main shaft. The end of the second slider opposite to the second arc-shaped rotating block extends into a second groove and is fixedly connected to the second bracket. The second magnetic element is disposed on the second bracket and faces the second mounting plate. The second magnetic mating component is disposed on the side of the second mounting plate opposite to the main shaft and facing the second magnetic component. When the second slider slides along the second groove, the second magnetic component and the second magnetic mating component magnetically attract or separate in a direction perpendicular to the interface where the second magnetic component and the second magnetic mating component are in adsorption contact.

[0013] To enhance the structural strength of the first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly, the first bracket and the first rotating component can be integrally formed, and the second bracket and the second rotating component can be integrally formed.

[0014] Furthermore, when arranged along the main axis, the first rotating member and the second rotating member can be arranged symmetrically along the center of the main axis, or the first rotating member and the second rotating member can also be arranged symmetrically along the axis of the main axis.

[0015] Secondly, this application provides an electronic device. The electronic device includes a flexible display screen, a first housing, a second housing, and the aforementioned pivot mechanism. The first housing is fixedly connected to a first mounting plate, and the second housing is fixedly connected to a second mounting plate. The flexible display screen continuously covers the first housing, the second housing, and the pivot mechanism, and is fixedly connected to the first housing and the second housing, respectively. When the electronic device is folded, the magnetic components and magnetic mating components gradually separate and generate a magnetic attraction, which can generate a magnetic torque between the rotating component and the mounting plate, thereby simplifying the structure of the pivot mechanism and achieving a thinner and lighter electronic device. When the electronic device is unfolded, the magnetic components and magnetic mating components gradually approach each other, and the magnetic attraction gradually increases, which can provide power for the relative sliding between the rotating component and the mounting plate, saving the external force required to unfold the electronic device and realizing the self-unfolding function of the electronic device.

[0016] When specifically configuring electronic devices, the hinge mechanism can be either an inward-folding hinge mechanism or an outward-folding hinge mechanism; this application does not impose specific limitations. Specifically, when the hinge mechanism is an inward-folding hinge mechanism, the rotation axis of the first rotating member rotating around the main shaft is located on the side of the main shaft facing the flexible display screen, and the rotation axis of the second rotating member rotating around the main shaft is also located on the side of the main shaft facing the flexible display screen. When the hinge mechanism is an outward-folding hinge mechanism, the rotation axis of the first rotating member rotating around the main shaft is located on the side of the main shaft away from the flexible display screen, and the rotation axis of the second rotating member rotating around the main shaft is also located on the side of the main shaft away from the flexible display screen. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 A perspective view of the electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application in a folded state;

[0018] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0019] Figure 3 A three-dimensional assembly drawing of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0020] Figure 4 This is a folding schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0021] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the rotating shaft mechanism along the AA direction;

[0022] Figure 6 This is a folding schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0023] Figure 7 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in the embodiment of this application in its unfolded state;

[0024] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the first slider provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0025] Figure 9 Another schematic diagram of the first slider provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0026] Figure 10 This is another structural schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0027] Figure 11 for Figure 10 A three-dimensional assembly drawing of the rotating shaft mechanism;

[0028] Figure 12 for Figure 10 The rotating shaft mechanism is shown in a cross-sectional view along BB when the electronic device is in the unfolded state;

[0029] Figure 13 for Figure 12 A schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism when the electronic device is in the closed state.

[0030] Figure label:

[0031] 10-Electronic devices;

[0032] 11-First shell;

[0033] 12-Second shell;

[0034] 13-Flexible display screen;

[0035] 14-Rotating shaft mechanism;

[0036] 140-spindle;

[0037] 141 - First rotating assembly;

[0038] 142 - Second rotating assembly;

[0039] 1401 - First arc-shaped guide groove;

[0040] 1402 - Base;

[0041] 1403 - Cover plate;

[0042] 1404 - First track slot;

[0043] 1411 - First rotating component;

[0044] 1412 - First mounting plate;

[0045] 1413 - First magnetic component;

[0046] 1414 - First magnetic mating component;

[0047] 1415 - First support;

[0048] 1416 - First support arm;

[0049] 1417 - First connector;

[0050] 1421 - Second rotating component;

[0051] 1422 - Second mounting plate;

[0052] 1423 - Second magnetic component;

[0053] 1424 - Second magnetic mating component;

[0054] 1425 - Second stent;

[0055] 1426 - Second support arm;

[0056] 1427 - Second connector;

[0057] 14111 - First arc-shaped rotating block;

[0058] 14112 - First slider;

[0059] 14121 - First Slide;

[0060] 14151 - First receiving tank;

[0061] 14211 - Second arc-shaped rotating block;

[0062] 14212 - Second slider;

[0063] 14221 - Second chute;

[0064] 14251 - Second receiving tank. Detailed Implementation

[0065] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the application will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0066] To facilitate understanding of the hinge mechanism provided in this application embodiment, its application scenarios are described below. This hinge mechanism can be applied to, but is not limited to, foldable electronic devices such as mobile phones, smart wearable devices, tablets, or laptops. When applying the hinge mechanism provided in this application embodiment to electronic devices, please refer to... Figure 1 , Figure 1This is a perspective view of the electronic device provided in this application in a folded state. The electronic device 10 provided in this application can be an outward-folding electronic device. In addition to the pivot mechanism 14, the electronic device 10 may also include a flexible display screen 13, a first housing 11, and a second housing 12, wherein the flexible display screen 13 is disposed on the pivot mechanism 14. Specifically, the first housing 11 and the second housing 12 are disposed on both sides of the pivot mechanism 14 and can rotate around the pivot mechanism 14. When using the electronic device 10, it can be folded and unfolded according to different usage scenarios. Taking the outward-folding electronic device as an example, when the electronic device 10 is in the unfolded state, the flexible display screen 13 is disposed on the same side of the pivot mechanism 14, the first housing 11, and the second housing 12, and is connected to the pivot mechanism 14, the first housing 11, and the second housing 12. At this time, the outer surface of the first housing 11 facing away from the flexible display screen 13 and the outer surface of the second housing 12 facing away from the flexible display screen 13 can together serve as the outer surface of the electronic device 10. Figure 1 As shown, when the electronic device 10 is in a folded state, the first housing 11 and the second housing 12 are positioned opposite each other. The flexible display screen 13 can serve as both the display surface and the exterior surface of the electronic device 10. It can be understood that the process of the electronic device 10 moving from an unfolded state to a folded state, or vice versa, is the process of the first housing 11 and the second housing 12 rotating around the pivot mechanism 14. During this process, the flexible display screen 13 bends or flattens along with the first housing 11 and the second housing 12. Of course, the electronic device 10 can also be an inward-folding electronic device. When the electronic device 10 is in a folded state, the first housing 11, the second housing 12, and the pivot mechanism 14 provide a teardrop-shaped accommodating space to meet the bending requirements of the flexible display screen 13, avoiding pulling or squeezing the flexible display screen 13, thereby reducing the risk of damage to the flexible display screen 13.

[0067] In some current foldable electronic devices, the hinge mechanism is equipped with a slider and a groove. When the hinge mechanism is folded or unfolded, the slider slides along the groove, thereby limiting the rotation direction of the hinge mechanism. However, when the hinge mechanism is subjected to a slight external force in the flattened state, the foldable electronic device may wobble, which may affect the reliability of the overall structure of the electronic device and the user experience.

[0068] Therefore, this application provides a pivot mechanism and an electronic device that generates magnetic torque between a rotating component and a mounting plate through the magnetic attraction between a magnetic component and a magnetic mating component, thereby simplifying the structure of the pivot mechanism and achieving a thinner and lighter electronic device.

[0069] It should be noted that the terminology used in the following embodiments is for the purpose of describing specific embodiments only and is not intended to be a limitation of this application. As used in the specification and appended claims of this application, the singular expressions “a,” “an,” “the,” “the,” “the,” and “this” are intended to also include expressions such as “one or more,” unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0070] References to "one embodiment" or "some embodiments" as described in this specification mean that one or more embodiments of this application include a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment. Therefore, the phrases "in one embodiment," "in some embodiments," "in other embodiments," "in still other embodiments," etc., appearing in different parts of this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, but rather mean "one or more, but not all, embodiments," unless otherwise specifically emphasized. The terms "comprising," "including," "having," and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to," unless otherwise specifically emphasized.

[0071] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional assembly drawing of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the rotating shaft mechanism 14 includes a main shaft 140 and rotating modules. The number of rotating modules in the rotating shaft mechanism 14 is not limited in this application; for example, the rotating shaft mechanism 14 may include only one rotating module, or it may include multiple rotating modules. When the rotating shaft mechanism 14 includes multiple rotating modules, these multiple rotating modules can be arranged at intervals along the length direction of the rotating shaft mechanism 14. In this application, the length direction of the rotating shaft mechanism 14 is... Figure 1 The direction of extension of the axis of rotation of the first housing 11 and the second housing 12 about the rotating shaft mechanism 14 shown.

[0072] Please continue to refer to this. Figure 2 and Figure 3The rotating module may include a first rotating component 141 and a second rotating component 142. The first rotating component 141 and the second rotating component 142 are disposed opposite each other on both sides of a main shaft 140, which serves as a load-bearing component for both components. Notably, in this embodiment, when there are multiple rotating modules, the first rotating components 141 and 142 of each module may all use the same main shaft 140 as a load-bearing component, thereby improving the integration level of the rotating shaft mechanism 14. In other possible embodiments of this application, the rotating shaft mechanism 14 may provide a separate main shaft 140 for each rotating module, so that the first rotating component 141 and 142 of each module use the corresponding main shaft 140 as a load-bearing component.

[0073] Specifically, the first rotating assembly 141 may include a first rotating member 1411, a first mounting plate 1412, a first magnetic member 1413, and a first magnetic mating member 1414. The first rotating member 1411 and the first mounting plate 1412 are rotatably connected to the main shaft 140, and the rotation axis of the first rotating member 1411 relative to the main shaft 140 is parallel to but does not coincide with the rotation axis of the first mounting plate 1412 relative to the main shaft 140. The first rotating member 1411 can be slidably connected to the first mounting plate 1412. The first magnetic member 1413 is disposed on the first rotating member 1411, and the first magnetic mating member 1414 is disposed on the first mounting plate 1412; the first magnetic member 1413 can be magnetically attracted to the first magnetic mating member 1414. Correspondingly, the second rotating assembly 142 may include a second rotating member 1421, a second mounting plate 1422, a second magnetic member 1423, and a second magnetic mating member 1424. The second rotating member 1421 and the second mounting plate 1422 are rotatably connected to the main shaft 140, and the rotation axis of the second rotating member 1421 relative to the main shaft 140 is parallel to but does not coincide with the rotation axis of the second mounting plate 1422 relative to the main shaft 140. The second rotating member 1421 can be slidably connected to the second mounting plate 1422. A second magnetic member 1423 is disposed on the second rotating member 1421, and a second magnetic mating member 1424 is disposed on the second mounting plate 1422. The second magnetic member 1423 can be magnetically attracted to the second magnetic mating member 1424.

[0074] Figure 4 This is a folding schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 5 for Figure 4 A schematic cross-sectional view of the rotating shaft mechanism along the AA direction. (See diagram below.) Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, when the electronic device 10 is folded, the first rotating component 141 and the second rotating component 142 of the pivot mechanism 14 rotate towards each other. At this time, the first rotating component 1411 and the first mounting plate 1412 can rotate around the main shaft 140 respectively, and during the rotation, the axial phase difference between the first rotating component 1411 and the first mounting plate 1412, which are arranged on the same side, is realized, so that the first mounting plate 1412 can slide relative to the first rotating component 1411 towards the main shaft 140, thereby causing the first magnetic component 1413 and the first magnetic mating component 1414 to gradually move away from each other from the attracted state, and a magnetic attraction is generated between the first magnetic component 1413 and the first magnetic mating component 1414. This magnetic attraction provides a first resistance to the relative sliding between the first rotating component 1411 and the first mounting plate 1412, realizing a damping function. Simultaneously, the second rotating member 1421 and the second mounting plate 1422 also rotate around the main shaft 140, and during the rotation, a phase difference in the axial center between the second rotating member 1421 and the second mounting plate 1422, which are located on the same side, is achieved. This allows the second mounting plate 1422 to slide relative to the second rotating member 1421 away from the main shaft 140, thereby causing the second magnetic member 1423 and the second magnetic mating member 1424 to gradually move away from each other from the attracted state, and a magnetic attraction is generated between the second magnetic member 1423 and the second magnetic mating member 1424. This magnetic attraction provides a second resistance to the relative sliding between the second rotating member 1421 and the second mounting plate 1422, achieving a damping function. Thus, during the folding process, the magnetic attraction between the first magnetic component 1413 and the first magnetic mating component 1414 can dampen the relative sliding between the first rotating component 1411 and the first mounting plate 1412, and the magnetic attraction between the second magnetic component 1423 and the second magnetic mating component 1424 can dampen the relative sliding between the second rotating component 1421 and the second mounting plate 1422, thereby providing torque for the opposite rotation of the first rotating assembly 141 and the second rotating assembly 142 to achieve a more stable rotation.

[0075] Figure 6 This is a folding schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in the embodiment of this application in its unfolded state. Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, when the electronic device 10 is unfolded, the first rotating assembly 141 and the second rotating assembly 142 rotate in opposite directions. At this time, the first rotating member 1411 and the first mounting plate 1412 rotate around the main shaft 140. During rotation, the axes of the first rotating member 1411 and the first mounting plate 1412, which are located on the same side, achieve phase difference, allowing the first mounting plate 1412 to slide relative to the first rotating member 1411 away from the main shaft 140. This causes the first magnetic member 1413 and the first magnetic mating member 1414 to gradually approach each other from a separated state. A magnetic attraction is generated between the first magnetic member 1413 and the first magnetic mating member 1414, and this attraction gradually increases until they magnetically engage. This magnetic attraction drives the first rotating member 1411 to slide relative to the first mounting plate 1412. Simultaneously, the second rotating member 1421 and the second mounting plate 1422 rotate around the main shaft 140. During rotation, the axes of the second rotating member 1421 and the second mounting plate 1422, which are arranged on the same side, achieve phase difference, allowing the second mounting plate 1422 to slide relative to the second rotating member 1421. This causes the second magnetic member 1423 and the second magnetic mating member 1424 to gradually approach each other from a separated state. A magnetic attraction is generated between the second magnetic member 1423 and the second magnetic mating member 1424, and it gradually increases until they are magnetically attracted. This magnetic attraction can drive the second rotating member 1421 to slide relative to the second mounting plate 1422. Thus, during unfolding, the magnetic attraction between the first magnetic member 1413 and the first magnetic mating member 1414 can generate a first force for the relative sliding between the first rotating member 1411 and the first mounting plate 1412, and the magnetic attraction between the second magnetic member 1423 and the second magnetic mating member 1424 can generate a second force for the relative sliding between the second rotating member 1421 and the second mounting plate 1422. This reduces the external force required to unfold the electronic device 10, enabling the electronic device 10 to have a self-unfolding function.

[0076] In the aforementioned rotating shaft mechanism 14, a magnetic component is disposed on the rotating component, and a magnetic mating component is disposed on the mounting plate. The magnetic attraction between the magnetic component and the magnetic mating component generates magnetic torque between the rotating component and the mounting plate, thereby simplifying the structure of the rotating shaft mechanism 14 and enabling the electronic device 10 to be made thinner and lighter.

[0077] In some embodiments of this application, both the first magnetic element 1413 and the first magnetic mating element 1414 can be permanent magnets to further simplify the mechanism of the rotating shaft 14 and reduce the manufacturing cost of the electronic device 10. In other embodiments, the first magnetic element 1413 can be a permanent magnet, and the first magnetic mating element 1414 can be an electromagnet. By controlling the current of the electromagnet and the number of coil turns, the magnetic attraction between the first magnetic element 1413 and the first magnetic mating element 1414 can be adjusted, thereby achieving the adjustment of the magnetic torque. Correspondingly, the second magnetic element 1423 and the second magnetic mating element 1424 can also both be permanent magnets. Alternatively, the second magnetic element 1423 can be a permanent magnet, and the second magnetic mating element 1424 can be an electromagnet; further details are omitted here.

[0078] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a first slider provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments of this application, the first rotating member 1411 may specifically include a first arc-shaped rotating block 14111 and a first slider 14112 fixedly connected. The first arc-shaped rotating block 14111 is located on the side of the first slider 14112 near the main shaft 140. The first magnetic member 1413 may be connected to the first slider 14112. Figure 7 As shown, a first arc-shaped guide groove 1401 is provided on the side of the main shaft 140 facing the first rotating member 1411. The first arc-shaped rotating block 14111 can be accommodated in the first arc-shaped guide groove 1401, and the first rotating member 1411 is rotatably connected to the main shaft 140 by sliding within the first arc-shaped guide groove 1401. Figure 3 As shown, the first mounting plate 1412 is provided with a first sliding groove 14121. The first slider 14112 can be accommodated in the first sliding groove 14121, and the sliding connection between the first rotating member 1411 and the first mounting plate 1412 is achieved by sliding within the first sliding groove 14121. Correspondingly, as... Figure 3 and Figure 8 As shown, the second rotating member 1421 may specifically include a second arc-shaped rotating block 14211 and a second slider 14212 fixedly connected. The second arc-shaped rotating block 14211 is located on the side of the second slider 14212 near the main shaft 140. The second magnetic member 1423 can be connected to the second slider 14212. A second arc-shaped guide groove (not shown in the figure) is provided on the side of the main shaft 140 facing the second rotating member 1421. The second arc-shaped rotating block 14211 can be accommodated in the second arc-shaped guide groove, and the second rotating member 1421 is rotatably connected to the main shaft 140 by sliding within the second arc-shaped guide groove. The second mounting plate 1422 is provided with a second sliding groove 14221. The second slider 14212 can be accommodated in the second sliding groove 14221, and the second rotating member 1421 is slidably connected to the second mounting plate 1422 by sliding within the second sliding groove 14221.

[0079] One end of the first slider 14112 is fixedly connected to the first arc-shaped rotating block 14111, and the other end extends out of the first slide groove 14121 away from the main shaft 140, and is confined to the end of the first slide groove 14121 to prevent the first slider 14112 from accidentally sliding out of the first slide groove 14121. Correspondingly, one end of the second slider 14212 is fixedly connected to the second arc-shaped rotating block 14211, and the other end extends out of the second slide groove 14221 away from the main shaft 140, and is confined to the end of the second slide groove 14221 to prevent the second slider 14212 from accidentally sliding out of the second slide groove 14221.

[0080] In the embodiments of this application, the relative positions of the first rotating member 1411 and the second rotating member 1421 are not specifically limited. For example, in some embodiments, the first rotating member 1411 and the second rotating member 1421 may be symmetrically arranged along the main shaft 140. Figure 6 As shown, in some other embodiments, the first rotating member 1411 and the second rotating member 1421 may also be arranged symmetrically along the central axis 140.

[0081] In some embodiments, a first magnetic element 1413 may be disposed in a first slider 14112, and a first magnetic mating element 1414 may be disposed within a first groove 14121. When the first slider 14112 slides along the first groove 14121, the first magnetic element 1413 and the first magnetic mating element 1414 magnetically attract or separate in a direction parallel to the interface where they are in adsorption contact. Similarly, a second magnetic element 1423 may be disposed in a second slider 14212, and a second magnetic mating element may be disposed within a second groove. When the second slider 14212 slides within the second groove, the second magnetic element 1423 and the second magnetic mating element 1424 magnetically attract or separate in a direction parallel to the interface where they are in adsorption contact.

[0082] like Figure 3As shown, in some other embodiments, the first rotating assembly 141 may further include a first bracket 1415, which is connected to the first rotating member 1411. In this embodiment, the first bracket 1415 may be provided with a first receiving groove 14151, and a first magnetic mating member 1414 may be installed in the first receiving groove 14151. Correspondingly, the second rotating assembly 142 may further include a second bracket 1425, which is connected to the second rotating member 1421. The second bracket 1425 may be provided with a second receiving groove 14251, and a second magnetic mating member 1424 may be installed in the second receiving groove 14251. In the above embodiments, the first bracket 1415 may be connected to the first rotating member 1411 by welding, bonding, threaded connection, snap-fit, etc., and the second bracket 1425 may be connected to the second rotating member 1421 by welding, bonding, threaded connection, snap-fit, etc. Figure 9 Another schematic diagram of the first slider provided in an embodiment of this application. (See diagram below.) Figure 6 and Figure 9 As shown, in some other embodiments, the first bracket 1415 and the first rotating member 1411 can be integrally formed, and the second bracket 1425 and the second rotating member 1421 can also be integrally formed, thereby reducing the number of parts in the rotating shaft mechanism 14 and simplifying the structure of the electronic device 10.

[0083] like Figure 6As shown, in this application, the first magnetic element 1413 may have a first interface S1 that engages with the first magnetic mating element 1414, and the second magnetic element 1423 may have a second interface S2 that engages with the second magnetic mating element 1424. In some embodiments, when the first mounting plate 1412 slides relative to the first rotating member 1411, the first magnetic element 1413 and the first magnetic mating element 1414 may move away from or towards each other in a direction parallel to the first interface S1. At this time, the first magnetic element 1413 may be disposed on the side of the first slider 14112 facing the first groove 14121, and the first magnetic mating element 1414 may be disposed accordingly within the first groove 14121. When the second mounting plate 1422 slides relative to the second rotating member 1421, the second magnetic element 1423 and the second magnetic mating element 1424 may move away from or towards each other in a direction parallel to the second interface S2. At this time, the second magnetic element 1423 can be disposed on the side of the second slider 14212 facing the second slide groove 14221, and the second magnetic mating element 1424 can be disposed accordingly within the second slide groove 14221. In some other embodiments, when the first mounting plate 1412 slides relative to the first rotating member 1411, the first magnetic element 1413 and the first magnetic mating element 1414 can move away from or towards each other in a direction perpendicular to the first interface S1. At this time, the first magnetic element 1413 can be disposed on the side of the first slider 14112 facing the end face of the first slide groove 14121, and the first magnetic mating element 1414 can be disposed at the end of the first slide groove 14121 facing away from the main shaft 140. In this embodiment, the first rotating member 1411 can be an L-shaped rotating member. Alternatively, the first magnetic element 1413 can also be disposed in the first receiving groove 14151 of the first bracket 1415, and the first magnetic mating element 1414 can be disposed on the side of the first mounting plate 1412 opposite to the main shaft 140 and facing the first magnetic element 1413. When the second mounting plate 1422 slides relative to the second rotating element 1421, the second magnetic element 1423 and the second magnetic mating element 1424 can move away from or towards each other in a direction perpendicular to the second interface S2. At this time, the second magnetic element 1423 can be disposed on the side of the second slider 14212 facing the end face of the second slide groove 14221, and the second magnetic mating element 1424 can be disposed at the end of the second slide groove 14221 opposite to the main shaft 140. In this embodiment, the second rotating element 1421 can be an L-shaped rotating element. Alternatively, the second magnetic element 1423 can also be disposed in the second receiving groove 14251 of the second bracket 1425, and the second magnetic mating element 1424 can be disposed on the side of the second mounting plate 1422 away from the main shaft 140 and facing the second magnetic element 1423.

[0084] like Figure 4 As shown, the first rotating member 1411 and the second rotating member 1421 can serve as driving mechanisms for folding or unfolding the electronic device 10. Figure 10 This is another structural schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 11 for Figure 10 A three-dimensional assembly drawing of the rotating shaft mechanism. (See attached image.) Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, in one type of rotating shaft mechanism 14, the first rotating assembly 141 may further include a first support arm 1416 and a first connecting member 1417. The first connecting member 1417 is located between the first rotating member 1411 and the first support arm 1416, and is rotatably connected to both the first rotating member 1411 and the first support arm 1416, thereby allowing the first rotating member 1411 and the first support arm 1416 to perform mutual pulling motion through the first connecting member 1417. Correspondingly, the second rotating assembly 142 may further include a second support arm 1426 and a second connecting member 1427. The second connecting member 1427 is located between the second rotating member 1421 and the second support arm 1426. The second connecting member 1427 is rotatably connected to the second rotating member 1421 and the second supporting arm 1426, so that the second rotating member 1421 and the second support arm 1426 can perform mutual pulling motion through the second connecting member 1427.

[0085] Figure 12 for Figure 10 The rotating shaft mechanism is shown in the cross-sectional view along BB when the electronic device is in the deployed state. Figure 13 for Figure 12 A schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism when the electronic device is in the closed state. (See diagram below.) Figure 12 and Figure 13As shown, in the above embodiment, the main shaft 140 may include a base 1402 and a cover plate 1403, with the cover plate 1403 covering the base 1402. The base 1402 is provided with a first track groove 1404, and the first connecting member 1417 can move along the first track groove 1404, thereby restricting the movement trajectory of the first connecting member 1417. During the process of the electronic device 10 moving from an unfolded state to a closed state, the first connecting member 1417 can move towards the first rotating member 1411 within the first track groove 1404, and during the process of moving from a closed state to an unfolded state, the first connecting member 1417 can move towards the first support arm 1416 within the first track groove 1404, thereby enabling the first connecting member 1417 to move relative to the main shaft 140 according to a set trajectory. Similarly, the base 1402 is provided with a second track groove, and the second connecting member 1427 can move along the second track groove, thereby restricting the movement trajectory of the second connecting member 1427. During the process of the electronic device 10 moving from an unfolded state to a closed state, the second connecting member 1427 can move towards the second rotating member 1421 within the second track groove, and during the process of moving from the closed state to the unfolded state, the second connecting member 1427 can move towards the second support arm 1426 within the second track groove, thereby enabling the second connecting member 1427 to move relative to the main shaft 140 along a set trajectory. Of course, in some other embodiments, the first rotating member 1411 and the second rotating member 1421 can also serve as limiting structures to limit the folding direction and unfolding direction of the electronic device 10.

[0086] When the electronic device 10 is an outward-folding electronic device, the hinge mechanism 14 is an outward-folding hinge mechanism, wherein the rotation axis of the first rotating member 1411 rotating around the main shaft 140 is located on the side of the main shaft 140 away from the flexible display screen 13, and the rotation axis of the second rotating member 1421 rotating around the main shaft 140 is located on the side of the main shaft 140 away from the flexible display screen 13. When the electronic device 10 is an inward-folding electronic device, the hinge mechanism 14 is an inward-folding hinge mechanism, wherein the rotation axis of the first rotating member 1411 rotating around the main shaft 140 is located on the side of the main shaft 140 facing the flexible display screen 13, and the rotation axis of the second rotating member 1421 rotating around the main shaft 140 is located on the side of the main shaft 140 facing the flexible display screen 13.

[0087] The terminology used in the above embodiments is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this application. As used in the specification and appended claims of this application, the singular expressions “a,” “an,” “the,” “the,” “the,” and “this” are intended to also include expressions such as “one or more,” unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0088] The above are merely specific embodiments of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A hinge mechanism for a foldable electronic device, characterized in that, The rotating shaft mechanism includes a main shaft, a first rotating assembly, and a second rotating assembly, wherein the first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly are disposed opposite to each other on both sides of the main shaft, wherein: The first rotating assembly includes a first rotating member, a first mounting plate, a first magnetic member, and a first magnetic mating member; the first rotating member and the first mounting plate are respectively rotatably connected to the main shaft, and the rotation axis of the first rotating member relative to the main shaft is parallel to and does not coincide with the rotation axis of the first mounting plate relative to the main shaft, and the first rotating member is slidably connected to the first mounting plate; the first magnetic member is disposed on the first rotating member, and the first magnetic mating member is disposed on the first mounting plate, and the first magnetic member is used to magnetically engage with the first magnetic mating member; The second rotating assembly includes a second rotating member, a second mounting plate, a second magnetic member, and a second magnetic mating member; the second rotating member and the second mounting plate are respectively rotatably connected to the main shaft, and the rotation axis of the second rotating member relative to the main shaft is parallel to and does not coincide with the rotation axis of the second mounting plate relative to the main shaft, and the second rotating member is slidably connected to the second mounting plate; the second magnetic member is disposed on the second rotating member, and the second magnetic mating member is disposed on the second mounting plate, and the second magnetic member is used to magnetically engage with the second magnetic mating member; The first rotating component includes a first arc-shaped rotating block. A first arc-shaped guide groove is provided on the side of the main shaft facing the first rotating component. The first arc-shaped rotating block is accommodated in the first arc-shaped guide groove and the first rotating component is rotatedly connected to the main shaft by sliding in the first arc-shaped guide groove. The second rotating component includes a second arc-shaped rotating block. A second arc-shaped guide groove is provided on the side of the main shaft facing the second rotating component. The second arc-shaped rotating block is accommodated in the second arc-shaped guide groove, and the second rotating component is rotatably connected to the main shaft by sliding within the second arc-shaped guide groove. The first rotating assembly further includes a first support arm and a first connector; the first connector is located between the first rotating component and the first support arm, the first connector is rotatably connected to the first arc-shaped rotating block, and the first connector is rotatably connected to the first support arm; the first support arm is rotatably connected to the second mounting plate; The second rotating assembly further includes a second support arm and a second connecting member; the second connecting member is located between the second rotating member and the second support arm, the second connecting member is rotatably connected to the second arc-shaped rotating block, and the second connecting member is rotatably connected to the second support arm; the second support arm is rotatably connected to the first mounting plate; The main shaft is provided with a first track groove and a second track groove; the first connecting member can move along the first track groove to limit the movement trajectory of the first connecting member; the second connecting member can move along the second track groove to limit the movement trajectory of the second connecting member. When the first mounting plate slides relative to the first rotating member toward the main shaft, and the second mounting plate slides relative to the second rotating member toward the main shaft, the first magnetic member and the first magnetic mating member move away from each other to provide a first resistance to the relative sliding between the first rotating member and the first mounting plate; the second magnetic member and the second magnetic mating member move away from each other to provide a second resistance to the second rotating member and the second mounting plate; and the first connecting member can move toward the first rotating member within the first track groove, and the second connecting member can move toward the second rotating member within the second track groove. When the first mounting plate slides away from the main shaft relative to the first rotating member, and the second mounting plate slides away from the main shaft relative to the second rotating member, the first magnetic member and the first magnetic mating member magnetically approach each other, so as to drive the first rotating member to slide relative to the first mounting plate, and the second magnetic member and the second magnetic mating member magnetically approach each other, so as to drive the second rotating member to slide relative to the second mounting plate; and the first connecting member can move toward the first support arm in the first track groove, and the second connecting member can move toward the second support arm in the second track groove.

2. The rotating shaft mechanism as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Both the first magnetic component and the first magnetic mating component are permanent magnets; or, the first magnetic component is a permanent magnet and the first magnetic mating component is an electromagnet. Both the second magnetic component and the second magnetic mating component are permanent magnets; or, the second magnetic component is a permanent magnet and the second magnetic mating component is an electromagnet.

3. The rotating shaft mechanism as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first magnetic element has a first interface that is attracted to and contacts the first magnetic mating element. When the first mounting plate slides relative to the first rotating element, the first magnetic element and the first magnetic mating element move away from or closer to each other in a direction parallel to the first interface. The second magnetic element has a second interface that is in attractive contact with the second magnetic mating element; when the second mounting plate slides relative to the second rotating element, the second magnetic element and the second magnetic mating element move away from or towards each other in a direction parallel to the second interface.

4. The rotating shaft mechanism as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first magnetic element has a first interface that is attracted to and contacts the first magnetic mating element. When the first mounting plate slides relative to the first rotating element, the first magnetic element and the first magnetic mating element move away from or closer to each other in a direction perpendicular to the first interface. The second magnetic element has a second interface that is attracted to and contacts the second magnetic mating element; when the second mounting plate slides relative to the second rotating element, the second magnetic element and the second magnetic mating element move away from or closer to each other in a direction perpendicular to the second interface.

5. The rotating shaft mechanism as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first rotating component further includes a first slider, which is fixedly connected to a first arc-shaped rotating block. The first arc-shaped rotating block is located on the side of the first slider closer to the main shaft. The first magnetic component is connected to the first slider. The first mounting plate is provided with a first sliding groove, and the first slider is accommodated in the first sliding groove and slides within the first sliding groove to achieve a sliding connection between the first rotating component and the first mounting plate. The second rotating component further includes a second slider, which is fixedly connected to the second arc-shaped rotating block. The second arc-shaped rotating block is located on the side of the second slider closer to the main shaft. The second magnetic component is connected to the second slider. The second mounting plate is provided with a second sliding groove, and the second slider is accommodated in the second sliding groove. The second rotating component and the second mounting plate are slidably connected by sliding within the second sliding groove.

6. The rotating shaft mechanism as described in claim 5, characterized in that, When the first magnetic component and the first magnetic mating component move away from or move closer to each other in a direction parallel to the attraction contact interface, and the second magnetic component and the second magnetic mating component move away from or move closer to each other in a direction parallel to the attraction contact interface, the first magnetic component is disposed on the first slider, the first magnetic mating component is disposed in the first groove, the second magnetic component is disposed on the second slider, and the second magnetic mating component is disposed in the second groove.

7. The rotating shaft mechanism as described in claim 5, characterized in that, When the first magnetic component and the first magnetic mating component move away from or towards each other in a direction perpendicular to the attraction contact interface, and the second magnetic component and the second magnetic mating component move away from or towards each other in a direction perpendicular to the attraction contact interface, the first rotating assembly further includes a first bracket. The first bracket is located on the side of the first mounting plate opposite to the main shaft. One end of the first slider opposite to the first arc-shaped rotating block extends out of the first groove and is fixedly connected to the first bracket. The first magnetic component is disposed on the first bracket and faces the first mounting plate. The first magnetic mating component is disposed on the side of the first mounting plate opposite to the main shaft and faces the first magnetic component. The second rotating assembly further includes a second bracket. The second bracket is located on the side of the second mounting plate opposite to the main shaft. One end of the second slider opposite to the second arc-shaped rotating block extends out of the second groove and is fixedly connected to the second bracket. The second magnetic component is disposed on the second bracket and faces the second mounting plate. The second magnetic mating component is disposed on the side of the second mounting plate opposite to the main shaft and faces the second magnetic component.

8. The rotating shaft mechanism as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The first bracket and the first rotating component are integrally formed, and the second bracket and the second rotating component are integrally formed.

9. The rotating shaft mechanism as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The first rotating component and the second rotating component are arranged symmetrically along the center of the main axis or axially symmetrically.

10. An electronic device, characterized in that, The device includes a flexible display screen, a first housing, a second housing, and a pivot mechanism as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first housing is fixedly connected to the first mounting plate, the second housing is fixedly connected to the second mounting plate, and the flexible display screen continuously covers the first housing, the second housing, and the pivot mechanism, and is fixedly connected to the first housing and the second housing, respectively.

11. The electronic device as claimed in claim 10, characterized in that, The first rotating member's rotation axis about the main shaft is located on the side of the main shaft facing the flexible display screen, and the second rotating member's rotation axis about the main shaft is also located on the side of the main shaft facing the flexible display screen; or, The rotation axis of the first rotating member about the main shaft is located on the side of the main shaft away from the flexible display screen, and the rotation axis of the second rotating member about the main shaft is located on the side of the main shaft away from the flexible display screen.

Images