Hinge mechanism and foldable electronic equipment

Abstract

The invention discloses a hinge mechanism and foldable electronic equipment, and belongs to the technical field of electronic products. Wherein the hinge mechanism comprises a base, a first rotating shaft, a first swing arm, a first damping mechanism and a first limiting mechanism, and the first rotating shaft is arranged on the base; the first swing arm is connected to the first rotating shaft and can rotate between an unfolding position and a folding position relative to the base; the first damping mechanism is arranged between the first swing arm and the first rotating shaft; the first limiting mechanism comprises a first limiting piece, a second limiting piece and a first adjusting structure, the first limiting piece is arranged on the first rotating shaft and abuts against the first damping mechanism, and the first limiting piece can move in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft; the second limiting piece is arranged on the side, away from the first damping mechanism, of the first limiting piece. The first adjusting structure is arranged between the first limiting piece and the second limiting piece and used for adjusting the distance between the first limiting piece and the second limiting piece so as to adjust the position of the first limiting piece in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of electronic products, and in particular to a hinge mechanism and a foldable electronic device. Background Art

[0002] At present, in order to solve the problems of large size and inconvenient carrying of traditional straight-bar terminals, foldable electronic devices have come into being. The foldable electronic device includes a first shell, a second shell and a hinge mechanism. The first shell and the second shell are rotatably arranged on opposite sides of the hinge mechanism so that the foldable electronic device can be folded between a flattened state and a folded state. In order to enable the foldable electronic device to remain in a flattened state, an intermediate hovering state and a folded state, a damping mechanism is usually provided on the hinge mechanism. However, when the components of the damping mechanism are worn, the damping force provided by the damping mechanism will be reduced, resulting in the foldable electronic device being unable to stably remain in the intermediate hovering state after being used for a period of time. Summary of the invention

[0003] The present application provides a hinge mechanism and a foldable electronic device, which can adjust the damping force of the damping mechanism so that the foldable electronic device can still stably maintain an intermediate hovering state after being used for a period of time.

[0004] In order to achieve the above objectives, this application adopts the following technical solutions:

[0005] In the first aspect, a hinge mechanism is provided, comprising: a base, a first rotating shaft, a first swing arm, a first damping mechanism and a first limiting mechanism, wherein the first rotating shaft is arranged on the base; the first swing arm is connected to the first rotating shaft and can rotate between an unfolded position and a folded position relative to the base; the first damping mechanism is arranged between the first swing arm and the first rotating shaft, and is used to provide a damping force to the first swing arm; the first limiting mechanism comprises a first limiting member, a second limiting member and a first adjusting structure, wherein the first limiting member is arranged on the first rotating shaft and abuts against the first damping mechanism, and the first limiting member can move along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft to adjust the damping force of the first damping mechanism; the second limiting member is arranged on a side of the first limiting member away from the first damping mechanism; the first adjusting structure is arranged between the first limiting member and the second limiting member, and the first adjusting structure is used to adjust the distance between the first limiting member and the second limiting member to adjust the position of the first limiting member in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft.

[0006] Since the first position limiter is in contact with the first damping mechanism, when the position of the first position limiter in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft changes, the damping force and torque curve of the first damping mechanism change accordingly. When the position of the first position limiter in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft remains unchanged, the damping force and torque curve of the first damping mechanism are not affected by the first position limiter. Specifically, when the spacing between the first position limiter and the second position limiter increases, causing the first position limiter to move toward the first damping mechanism, the damping force of the first damping mechanism increases. When the spacing between the first position limiter and the second position limiter decreases, causing the first position limiter to move in a direction away from the first damping mechanism, the damping force of the first damping mechanism decreases.

[0007] Therefore, when it is necessary to adjust the damping force and torque curve of the first damping mechanism, the first adjustment structure can be used to adjust the distance between the first limiter and the second limiter, and the position of the first limiter in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft can be changed to adjust the damping force and torque curve of the first damping mechanism. Exemplarily, the user can adjust the position of the first limiter in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft through after-sales maintenance or self-repair, thereby adjusting the damping force and torque curve of the first damping mechanism. In this way, after the foldable electronic device is used for a period of time, due to the manufacturing tolerance of the parts or due to long-term use, the parts of the first damping mechanism are worn, causing the damping force provided by the first damping mechanism to decrease, the first adjustment structure can be used to adjust the distance between the first limiter and the second limiter to adjust the position of the first limiter in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft, increase the damping force of the first damping mechanism, so that the foldable electronic device can be stably maintained in the middle hovering state, which is conducive to improving the user experience. In addition, after the foldable electronic device leaves the factory, the damping force and torque curve of the first damping mechanism can be adjusted by the first adjustment structure to meet the different requirements of users for the damping feel. In addition, the damping force of the first damping mechanism can also be adjusted through the first adjustment structure, so that when the foldable electronic device is in the intermediate hovering state, the damping force provided by the first damping mechanism is greater than the tension generated after the foldable screen is flattened and used for a period of time, thereby achieving stable switching of the foldable electronic device from the flattened state to the intermediate hovering state, so that the foldable electronic device can not only stably realize the switching from the folded state to the intermediate hovering state, but also stably realize the switching from the flattened state to the intermediate hovering state, which can further improve the user experience.

[0008] In a possible implementation, the first adjustment structure includes a first matching portion and a second matching portion that match each other, one of the first matching portion and the second matching portion is arranged on the first limiter, and the other is arranged on the second limiter; there are multiple matching positions between the first matching portion and the second matching portion, and the spacing between the first limiter and the second limiter is different at different matching positions. A specific implementation is provided.

[0009] In a possible implementation, the first stopper and the second stopper can rotate relative to each other around the first rotation axis, so that the first matching portion and the second matching portion can switch between a plurality of matching positions; wherein the first rotation axis is parallel to the axial direction of the first rotating shaft. Thus, the matching position between the first matching portion and the second matching portion can be switched to a target matching position by rotating the first stopper and / or the second stopper, so that the first stopper can be adjusted to the target position, and the damping force and torque curve of the first damping mechanism can be adjusted, which has a simple structure and an ingenious design.

[0010] In a possible implementation, the first matching portion is abutted against the second matching portion. In this way, the matching stability between the first matching portion and the second matching portion can be improved, and when the first matching portion and the second matching portion are in the target matching position, the first limiter and the second limiter can be kept relatively still by means of the first adjustment structure, thereby avoiding the change in the distance between the first limiter and the second limiter, which is conducive to keeping the first limiter at the target position, and can improve the stability of the hinge mechanism and the foldable electronic device during the opening and closing process, and the structure is simple and small in size.

[0011] In a possible implementation, the first position-limiting member can rotate relative to the base around the first rotation axis, and the first position-limiting member is not linked to the first swing arm. In this way, the first position-limiting member can be prevented from rotating with the rotation of the first swing arm, thereby preventing the position of the first position-limiting member on the axial direction of the first rotating shaft from changing with the rotation of the first swing arm.

[0012] In a possible implementation, the second position-limiting member can rotate relative to the base around the first rotation axis, and the second position-limiting member is not linked to the first swing arm. In this way, the second position-limiting member can be prevented from rotating with the rotation of the first swing arm, thereby preventing the position of the first position-limiting member on the axial direction of the first rotating shaft from changing with the rotation of the first swing arm.

[0013] In a possible implementation, the first matching portion extends along the circumference of the first circle; on the extension path of the first matching portion, the first matching portion includes a first extension end and a second extension end, and the thickness of the first matching portion gradually increases in the direction from the first extension end to the second extension end; wherein the center of the first circle is located on the rotation axis of the first stopper and / or the second stopper. A specific structure of the first matching portion is provided.

[0014] In a possible implementation, the second matching portion includes a second abutting end for abutting against the first matching portion, and an end surface of the second abutting end is formed as an arc surface arched toward the first matching portion. A specific structure of the second matching portion is provided.

[0015] In a possible implementation, the first matching portion is a first magnet, the second matching portion is a second magnet, the magnetization direction of the first magnet is parallel to the axial direction of the first rotating shaft, and the magnetization direction of the second magnet is opposite to the magnetization direction of the first magnet; when the first limiting member and the second limiting member rotate relative to each other, the magnitude of the magnetic repulsion between the first magnet and the second magnet may change accordingly. Another matching method of the first matching portion and the second matching portion is provided.

[0016] In a possible implementation, the first stopper can rotate relative to the base around a first rotation axis, the first stopper is provided with a first follower rod, and at least a portion of the first follower rod is located outside the circumference of the first stopper; or the second stopper can rotate relative to the base around the first rotation axis, the second stopper is provided with a first follower rod, and at least a portion of the first follower rod is located outside the circumference of the second stopper; the hinge mechanism also includes a driving rod, the driving rod is connected to the first follower rod, and the driving rod can move relative to the base along a first direction to drive the first stopper or the second stopper to rotate around the first rotation axis; wherein the first direction is perpendicular to the first rotation axis. Provided is a specific structure for driving the first stopper or the second stopper to rotate so that the first stopper and the second stopper can rotate relative to each other.

[0017] In a possible implementation, a storage space is defined in the base, and a connecting hole is provided on the base, the connecting hole includes a first opening and a second opening that are connected to each other, the first opening is connected to the storage space, and the second opening is connected to the external space of the base; the driving rod is passed through the connecting hole, and the driving rod includes a first end and a second end that are opposite, the first end passes through the first opening and is connected to the first driven rod, and the second end is exposed to the second opening. In this way, the driving rod can be moved along the first direction from the outside of the base, and the position of the first limiter in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft can be adjusted without disassembling the foldable electronic device, which effectively reduces the difficulty of adjusting the damping force and torque curve of the first damping mechanism, and the structure is simple, the design is ingenious, and it is easy to implement.

[0018] In a possible implementation, the driving rod is threadedly connected to the connecting hole. In this way, on the one hand, the driving rod can be rotated to control the movement of the driving rod in the first direction to adjust the locking position of the driving rod; on the other hand, after the driving rod is adjusted to the target locking position, the driving rod can be locked in the connecting hole by threaded engagement to prevent the driving rod from moving.

[0019] In a possible implementation, an inwardly concave groove is provided on the outer surface of the base, the communication hole passes through the bottom wall of the groove, and the second end of the driving rod is located in the groove. In this way, the end of the driving rod can be prevented from protruding from the outer surface of the base, which is conducive to improving the appearance of the hinge mechanism, thereby improving the appearance of the foldable electronic device.

[0020] In a possible implementation, the hinge mechanism further includes a decorative cover, which is disposed in the groove; or the decorative cover is disposed on the outer surface of the base and seals the groove. In this way, the appearance of the hinge mechanism and the foldable electronic device can be further improved, and the waterproof performance of the hinge mechanism and the foldable electronic device can be improved.

[0021] In a possible implementation, a first sleeve is disposed on the first swing arm, the first sleeve is located on a side of the second limiter away from the first damping mechanism, and the first shaft is fixedly connected to the first sleeve. A connection method for the first swing arm and the first shaft is provided.

[0022] In a possible implementation, the hinge mechanism further includes a first bearing, the first bearing includes a first stationary ring and a first moving ring, the first stationary ring is rotatably connected to the first rotating shaft, the first stationary ring abuts against a side of the second position-limiting member away from the first position-limiting member; the first moving ring is rotatably connected to an axial side of the first stationary ring, the first moving ring abuts against the second position-limiting member. In this way, the second position-limiting member can be prevented from rotating with the rotation of the first swing arm, thereby preventing the position of the first position-limiting member in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft from changing with the rotation of the first swing arm.

[0023] In a possible implementation, the hinge mechanism further includes a first fixing member and a second fixing member, the first fixing member is arranged on the driving rod, the second fixing member is arranged on the first driven rod, and when the first matching portion and the second matching portion are in the matching position, the first fixing member and the second fixing member cooperate with each other to limit the first driven rod from rotating relative to the driving rod. In this way, after the first matching portion and the second matching portion are adjusted to the target matching position, the first driven rod and the driving rod can be relatively fixed by the first fixing member and the second fixing member, so that the first limiting member and the second limiting member are prevented from rotating relative to each other with the rotation of the first swing arm, so that the first matching portion and the second matching portion can be stably maintained at the target matching position, which can further improve the stability of the folding process of the foldable electronic device.

[0024] In a possible implementation, when the driving rod moves relative to the base in the first direction, the first fixing member and the second fixing member slide and cooperate with each other, so that the first fixing member and the second fixing member can be prevented from interfering with the movement of the driving rod, and the rotation of the first driven rod can be ensured.

[0025] In a possible implementation, the first fixing member includes a first clamping portion, the second fixing member includes a second clamping portion, and when the first matching portion and the second matching portion are in a matching position, the first clamping portion is clamped and matched with the second clamping portion. A specific matching method of the first fixing member and the second fixing member is provided.

[0026] In a possible implementation, the first fixing member includes: a first clamping plate, a second clamping plate and a connecting plate, wherein the second clamping plate is spaced apart from the first clamping plate; the connecting plate is connected to the first clamping plate and the second clamping plate, a clamping groove is defined between the first clamping plate, the second clamping plate and the connecting plate, the clamping groove is located on the side of the connecting plate away from the driving rod, and at least part of the first driven rod is located in the clamping groove; the first clamping portion is provided on the first clamping plate and / or the second clamping plate. A specific structure of the first fixing member is provided.

[0027] In a possible implementation, the first clamping portion includes a first clamping groove and a second clamping groove, the first clamping groove is provided on the first clamping plate, the second clamping groove is provided on the second clamping plate, the second clamping portion is a first clamping shaft, and both ends of the first clamping shaft are respectively engaged with the first clamping groove and the second clamping groove. A specific structure of the first clamping portion and the second clamping portion is provided.

[0028] In a possible implementation, the first fixing member is rotatably connected to the driving rod. Thus, when the driving rod is rotated to move the driving rod along the first direction, the driving rod can rotate relative to the first fixing member, so as to facilitate adjustment of the driving rod.

[0029] In a possible implementation, the dimension of the first driven rod in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft is smaller than the distance between the first clamping plate and the second clamping plate, so as to avoid the cooperation between the first fixing member and the second fixing member to limit the movement of the first limiting member in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft.

[0030] In a possible implementation, the first fixing member includes a first magnetic member, the second fixing member includes a second magnetic member, and when the first matching portion and the second matching portion are in a matching position, the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member are magnetically matched. Another matching method of the first fixing member and the second fixing member is provided.

[0031] In a possible implementation, the second stopper is fixed in the axial direction of the first shaft. In this way, when the first mating portion and the second mating portion are in the target mating position, the first stopper can be fixed in the axial direction of the first shaft, and the first stopper can be kept in the target position, thereby further improving the stability of the hinge mechanism and the foldable electronic device.

[0032] In a possible implementation, the first damping mechanism includes a first damping member, a second damping member and a first elastic member, wherein the first damping member is fixedly connected to the first swing arm and can rotate synchronously with the first swing arm; the second damping member is arranged on the first rotating shaft and can move along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft; the first elastic member is sleeved on the first rotating shaft, and the first elastic member is used to apply a force directed to the first damping member to the second damping member so that the first damping member and the second damping member remain in contact. A specific structure of the first damping mechanism is provided.

[0033] In a possible implementation, the hinge mechanism also includes a second rotating shaft, a second swing arm, a second damping mechanism and a second limiting mechanism, the second rotating shaft is spaced apart from the first rotating shaft; the second swing arm is connected to the second rotating shaft and can rotate between an unfolded position and a folded position relative to the base; the second damping mechanism is arranged between the second swing arm and the second rotating shaft, and is used to provide a damping force to the second swing arm; the second limiting mechanism includes a third limiting member, a fourth limiting member and a second adjustment structure, the second limiting member is arranged on the second rotating shaft and abuts against the second damping mechanism, the third limiting member can move along the axial direction of the second rotating shaft to adjust the damping force of the second damping mechanism, and when the second swing arm rotates relative to the base, the third limiting member and the base are relatively stationary at least in the axial direction of the second rotating shaft; the fourth limiting member is arranged on the side of the third limiting member away from the second damping mechanism; the second adjustment structure is arranged between the third limiting member and the fourth limiting member, and is used to adjust the distance between the third limiting member and the fourth limiting member, so as to adjust the position of the third limiting member in the axial direction of the second rotating shaft. In this way, the damping force and the torque curve of the second damping mechanism can be adjusted.

[0034] In a possible implementation manner, the structure of the second damping mechanism is the same as that of the first damping mechanism.

[0035] In a possible implementation manner, the structure of the second limiting mechanism is the same as that of the first limiting mechanism.

[0036] In a second aspect, the present application provides a foldable electronic device, comprising: a first shell, a second shell, a hinge mechanism and a folding screen, wherein the hinge mechanism is connected between the first shell and the second shell, and the hinge mechanism is a hinge mechanism of any of the above technical solutions; the folding screen comprises a first part, a second part and a third part, the third part is connected between the first part and the second part, the first part is arranged on the first shell, the second part is arranged on the second shell, and the third part is arranged on the hinge mechanism

[0037] Among them, the technical effects brought about by any design method in the second aspect can refer to the technical effects brought about by different design methods in the first aspect, and will not be repeated here. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] Figure 1 A three-dimensional diagram of a foldable electronic device in a flattened state provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0039] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of the foldable electronic device shown in FIG. 1 when the foldable electronic device is in a folded state;

[0040] Figure 3 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of the foldable electronic device shown in FIG. 1 when the foldable electronic device is in an intermediate hovering state;

[0041] Figure 4 for Figure 1 An exploded view of the foldable electronic device shown;

[0042] Figure 5 for Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device shown at line AA;

[0043] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of a hinge mechanism provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0044] Figure 7 for Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the assembly of the hinge mechanism with the first shell and the second shell;

[0045] Figure 8 for Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a partial structure of the hinge mechanism shown;

[0046] Fig. 9 for Figure 8 An exploded view of the first swing arm and the first rotating shaft in the hinge mechanism shown;

[0047] Fig.10 for Figure 8 An enlarged view of the hinge mechanism in the region of section A is shown;

[0048] Fig.11 for Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the hinge mechanism shown at line BB;

[0049] Fig.12 for Fig.11 An enlarged view of the area B in the cross-sectional view shown;

[0050] Fig.13 for Fig.12 An exploded view of the first bearing in the hinge mechanism shown;

[0051] Fig.14 for Figure 8 A three-dimensional diagram of a first limiting member in the hinge mechanism shown;

[0052] Fig.15 for Figure 8 A three-dimensional diagram of the second limiting member in the hinge mechanism shown;

[0053] Fig.16 for Figure 8 a cross-sectional view of the hinge mechanism shown;

[0054] Fig.17 for Figure 8 a cross-sectional view of the base in the hinge mechanism shown;

[0055] Fig.18 for Figure 8 An exploded view of the base in the hinge mechanism shown;

[0056] Fig.19 A schematic diagram of a partial structure of a hinge mechanism provided in some other embodiments of the present application;

[0057] Fig. 20 A partial stereoscopic diagram of a hinge mechanism provided in some other embodiments of the present application;

[0058] Fig.21 for Fig. 20 An exploded view of the first fixing member and the driving rod in the hinge mechanism shown;

[0059] Fig. 22 for Fig. 20 A schematic diagram of the assembly of the first limiting member, the third limiting member and the driving rod in the hinge mechanism shown;

[0060] Fig.23 A cross-sectional view of a hinge mechanism provided for some other embodiments of the present application;

[0061] Fig.24 A schematic diagram of a partial structure of a hinge mechanism provided in some other embodiments of the present application;

[0062] Fig.25 for Fig.24 An enlarged view of the hinge mechanism in the C region is shown;

[0063] Fig.26 Schematic diagram of the partial structure of the hinge mechanism provided in some other embodiments of the present application.

[0064] Reference numerals:

[0065] 100. Foldable electronic device; 10. Folding screen; 11. First part; 12. Second part; 13. Third part;

[0066] 20. Support device; 21. First housing; 211. First middle frame; 212. First back cover; 22. Second housing; 221. Second middle frame; 222. Second back cover; 23. Hinge mechanism;

[0067] 23a, base; 23a1, bottom plate; 23a2, side panel; C, accommodating space; 23b, shaft assembly; 230, shaft bracket; 231, first swing arm; 2311, first shaft sleeve; 2311a, first matching hole; 2312, second shaft sleeve; 2312a, second matching hole;

[0068] 232, first rotation axis; 2321, first plane; 2322, second plane;

[0069] 233, first damping mechanism; 2331, first damping member; 2331a, first damping surface; 2332, second damping member; 2332a, second damping surface; 2333, first elastic member;

[0070] 234, first limiting mechanism; 2341, first limiting member; 2341a, first surface; 2341b, second surface; 2341c, first mounting hole; 2342, second limiting member; 2342a, first end surface; 2342b, second end surface; 2342c, second mounting hole; 2342d, second outer peripheral surface; 2343, first adjusting structure; 2343a, first matching portion; D1, first extension end; D2, second extension end; D3, first abutting end; 2343b, second matching portion; D4, second abutting end;

[0071] 235, second swing arm; 236, second rotating shaft; 237, second damping mechanism; 2371, third damping member; 2371a, third damping surface; 2372, fourth damping member; 2372a, fourth damping surface; 2373, second elastic member;

[0072] 238, second limiting mechanism; 2381, third limiting member; 2382, fourth limiting member; 2383, second adjusting structure;

[0073] 239, first bearing; 2391, first stationary ring; 2392, first moving ring; 2393, rolling element; 2394, retaining frame; 23d, driving rod; 23d1, first end; 23d2, second end; G, first limiting groove; K, notch;

[0074] 23e, first follower rod; 23e1, guide surface; 23f, connecting hole; 23f1, first orifice; 23f2, second orifice; 23g, groove portion; 23g1, opening; 23g2, groove bottom wall; 23g3, groove side wall; 23h, decorative cover; 23h1, cover body; 23h2, flange; 23m, first fixing member; 23m1, mounting portion; E1, cover plate; E2, side plate; E21, limiting hole; E3, first limiting rib; 23m2, fixing portion; H0, clamping groove; H1, connecting plate ; H2, first clamping plate; H21, first side; H22, second side; H3, second clamping plate; H31, third side; H32, fourth side; H4, first clamping portion; H41, first clamping groove; H411, first assembly port; H42, second clamping groove; H421, second assembly port; H5, matching groove; 23k, second fixing member; 23p, synchronization mechanism; 23p1, first gear; 23p2, second gear; 23p2, intermediate gear 23p2. 23t, second driven rod. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0075] The technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be described below in conjunction with the drawings in the embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present application, rather than all the embodiments.

[0076] In the embodiments of the present application, the terms "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate examples, illustrations or descriptions. Any embodiment or design described as "exemplary" or "for example" in the embodiments of the present application should not be interpreted as being more preferred or more advantageous than other embodiments or designs. Specifically, the use of words such as "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present related concepts in a specific way.

[0077] In the embodiments of the present application, the terms "first", "second", "third", and "fourth" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be understood as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of the indicated technical features. Therefore, the features defined as "first", "second", "third", and "fourth" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the features.

[0078] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms "installed", "connected" and "connected" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, "connection" can be a detachable connection or a non-detachable connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Among them, "fixed connection" means that the two are connected to each other and the relative position relationship remains unchanged after the connection. "Rotational connection" means that the two are connected to each other and can rotate relative to each other after the connection. "Sliding connection" means that the two are connected to each other and can slide relative to each other after the connection.

[0079] In the description of the embodiments of the present application, the terms "perpendicular" and "parallel" include the situations described and situations similar to the situations described, and the range of the similar situations is within an acceptable deviation range, wherein the acceptable deviation range is determined by a person of ordinary skill in the art taking into account the measurement being discussed and the errors associated with the measurement of a specific quantity (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system). For example, "parallel" includes absolute parallelism and approximate parallelism, wherein the acceptable deviation range of approximate parallelism can be, for example, a deviation within 5°, 8°, or 10°; "perpendicular" includes absolute perpendicularity and approximate perpendicularity, wherein the acceptable deviation range of approximate perpendicularity can also be, for example, a deviation within 5°, 8°, or 10°.

[0080] To facilitate understanding, before introducing the hinge mechanism and foldable electronic device in the embodiments of the present application in detail, the relevant terms involved in the embodiments of the present application are first explained.

[0081] Axial direction: It can be understood as the direction in which the central axis of the component being described is located, which can be equivalent to the extension direction of the component being described.

[0082] Circumferential direction: can be understood as the circumferential direction surrounding the axial direction.

[0083] Radial direction: can be understood as the direction perpendicular to the axial direction.

[0084] The embodiment of the present application provides a foldable electronic device, which includes a hinge mechanism. The hinge mechanism in the embodiment of the present application, by setting a first limiter, a second limiter and a first adjustment structure, can adjust the distance between the first limiter and the second limiter through the first adjustment structure to adjust the position of the first limiter in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft, and can adjust the damping force and torque curve of the first damping mechanism after the foldable electronic device is assembled (that is, after the foldable electronic device is made into a complete machine), so as to improve the problem of the damping force drop caused by the wear of the parts of the foldable electronic device, so that the foldable electronic device can still maintain the middle hovering state after being used for a period of time, and can ensure the opening and closing feel of the foldable electronic device, thereby improving the user experience of the foldable electronic device.

[0085] The foldable electronic devices in the embodiments of the present application include but are not limited to mobile phones, tablet computers, laptop computers, e-book readers, cameras, wearable devices, home electronic devices, etc. For ease of understanding, in the embodiments of the present application, the foldable electronic device is a foldable screen mobile phone as an example for explanation, which cannot be regarded as a special limitation on the structural form of the foldable electronic device.

[0086] See also Figure 1 , Figure 1 A three-dimensional diagram of a foldable electronic device 100 in a flattened state provided for some embodiments of the present application. The foldable electronic device 100 is approximately in the shape of a rectangular plate in a flattened state. In order to facilitate the description of the embodiments below, an XYZ coordinate system is established for the foldable electronic device 100 in a flattened state, and the width direction of the foldable electronic device 100 is defined as the X-axis direction, the length direction of the foldable electronic device 100 is defined as the Y-axis direction, and the thickness direction of the foldable electronic device 100 is defined as the Z-axis direction. It can be understood that the coordinate system setting of the foldable electronic device 100 can be flexibly set according to actual needs, and no specific limitation is made here. In addition, in some other embodiments, the shape of the foldable electronic device 100 can also be a square plate, a circular plate, an elliptical plate, etc.

[0087] The foldable electronic device 100 includes a foldable screen 10 and a supporting device 20 .

[0088] The folding screen 10 is used to display information such as images and videos. Specifically, the folding screen 10 is a flexible display screen that can be bent and deformed between a folded state and an unfolded state. Exemplarily, the folding screen 10 can be an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display screen, a micro organic light-emitting diode (micro organic light-emitting diode) display screen, a quantum dot light emitting diode (QLED) display screen, etc.

[0089] See also Figure 1 The folding screen 10 includes a first part 11, a second part 12 and a third part 13, and the third part 13 is connected between the first part 11 and the second part 12. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in a flattened state, and the folding screen 10 is also in a flattened state, the first part 11, the second part 12 and the third part 13 of the folding screen 10 are oriented in the same direction and are arranged on the same plane. In this state, a large screen display can be achieved to provide users with richer information and bring users a better user experience.

[0090] exist Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, when the folding screen 10 is in the flattened state, the first portion 11, the third portion 13, and the second portion 12 are sequentially arranged along the X-axis direction, and the foldable electronic device 100 can be folded in the horizontal direction. In some other embodiments, when the folding screen 10 is in the unfolded state, the first portion 11, the third portion 13, and the second portion 12 can also be sequentially arranged along the Y-axis direction, so that the foldable electronic device 100 can be folded in the vertical direction.

[0091] See also Figure 2 , Figure 2 for Figure 1 The schematic diagram of the structure of the foldable electronic device 100 is shown in a folded state. In this state, the foldable screen 10 in the foldable electronic device 100 is also in a folded state. Specifically, when the foldable screen 10 is in a folded state, the first part 11 of the foldable screen 10 is opposite to the second part 12, and the third part 13 is bent. At this time, the third part 10 can be U-shaped, teardrop-shaped, etc. In this state, the size of the foldable electronic device 100 is small and easy to carry.

[0092] It should be noted that Figure 2In the illustrated embodiment, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in the folded state, the support device 20 is protected outside the folding screen 10, and the folding screen 10 is not visible to the user. That is, the foldable electronic device 100 is an inner folding electronic device. In other embodiments, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in the folded state, the folding screen 10 may also be located outside the support device 20, and the folding screen 10 is visible to the user. That is, the foldable electronic device 100 is an outer folding electronic device.

[0093] In order to meet the user's needs for using the foldable electronic device 100 in different scenarios, the foldable electronic device 100 also includes an intermediate hovering state. Figure 3 , Figure 3 for Figure 1 The schematic diagram of the structure of the foldable electronic device 100 shown is in the middle hovering state. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the middle hovering state, the angle between the first part 11 and the second part 12 of the folding screen 10 can be greater than or equal to 45 degrees and less than or equal to 160 degrees. Exemplarily, the angle between the first part 11 and the second part 12 can be 45 degrees, 50 degrees, 55 degrees, 60 degrees, 65 degrees, 70 degrees, 75 degrees, 80 degrees, 85 degrees, 90 degrees, 100 degrees, 110 degrees, 120 degrees, 125 degrees, 130 degrees, 140 degrees, 145 degrees, 150 degrees, 155 degrees, 160 degrees, etc. In this state, the foldable electronic device 100 can be a stand by itself, freeing your hands.

[0094] For example, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in the intermediate hovering state, the user can use a portion of the folding screen 10 (eg Figure 3 The first part 11 of the folding screen 10 in the middle is used for video calls, and a part of the folding screen 10 (for example Figure 3 The second part 12 of the middle folding screen 10 realizes operations such as controlling volume, adding members, sharing the screen, etc., which can improve the operating convenience of the foldable electronic device 100 and make communication more comfortable.

[0095] The supporting device 20 is used to support the folding screen 10. Figure 4 , Figure 4 for Figure 1 Exploded view of a foldable electronic device 100. The supporting device 20 includes a first housing 21, a second housing 22, and a hinge mechanism 23. The first housing 21 is used to carry the first part 11 of the foldable screen 10, and the second housing 22 is used to carry the second part 12 of the foldable screen 10. The hinge mechanism 23 is connected between the first housing 21 and the second housing 22, and can be used to carry the third part 13 of the foldable screen 10.

[0096] In this embodiment, the support device 20 includes two shells, a first shell 21 and a second shell 22, and the support device 20 can be folded once. It can be understood that in other embodiments, the support device 20 can also include three, four or more shells. That is, in addition to the above-mentioned first shell 21 and second shell 22, the support device 20 can also include at least one third shell. In this case, the first shell 21, the second shell 22 and at least one third shell can be connected in sequence, and the two adjacent shells can be connected by a hinge mechanism 23. In this way, the support device 20 can be folded multiple times (twice or more).

[0097] See also Figure 5 , Figure 5 for Figure 1 The cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device 100 at the AA line is shown. The first housing 21 may include a first middle frame 211 and a first back cover 212, and the first part 11 of the foldable screen 10 is carried on the first middle frame 211. The first back cover 212 is fixedly connected to the side of the first middle frame 211 away from the first part 11, and the first back cover 212 can be replaced by a display screen (such as an LCD display screen). The first housing 21 can be connected to the hinge mechanism 23 by means of the first middle frame 211, and can also be connected to the hinge mechanism 23 by means of the first back cover 212.

[0098] Similarly, the second housing 22 may include a second middle frame 221 and a second back cover 222, and the second portion 12 of the folding screen 10 is carried on the second middle frame 221. The structure of the second housing 22 and the way the second housing 22 is connected to the hinge mechanism 23 can be designed with reference to the first housing 21 and the way the first housing 21 is connected to the hinge mechanism 23, and will not be described in detail here.

[0099] The hinge mechanism 23 is used to realize relative rotation between the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 to support the switching of the foldable electronic device 100 between different states such as a flattened state, a folded state, and an intermediate hovering state.

[0100] The hinge mechanism 23 generally includes a damping mechanism, and the damping mechanism applies a damping force to the first shell 21 and the second shell 22, so that the foldable electronic device 100 can be maintained in a flattened state, a folded state, and an intermediate hovering state. In addition, when the foldable electronic device 100 switches between different states, the damping mechanism can also provide a damping feel.

[0101] However, the hinge mechanism in the related art is prone to the following problems: on the one hand, due to the manufacturing tolerance of parts or the wear of parts due to long-term use of foldable electronic devices, the damping force provided by the damping mechanism will be reduced, resulting in the foldable electronic device being unable to stably maintain the intermediate hovering state after a period of use. On the other hand, when the foldable electronic device is adjusted to the intermediate hovering state after being flattened for a period of time, due to the large tension of the folding screen, the tension is usually greater than the damping force that the damping mechanism can provide in the intermediate hovering state, so that the foldable electronic device can only stably switch from the folded state to the intermediate hovering state, and cannot stably switch from the flattened state to the intermediate hovering state; on the other hand, different users have different requirements for the damping feel of foldable electronic devices. For example, some users like a smooth damping feel with a smaller damping force, and some users like a damping feel with a larger damping force. After the foldable electronic device leaves the factory, the damping force and torque curve of the damping mechanism are not adjustable, and cannot meet the user's requirements for different damping feels.

[0102] To solve the above technical problems, please refer to Figure 6 , Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the hinge mechanism 23 provided in some embodiments of the present application. Figure 6 The hinge mechanism 23 is shown in a flattened state. The hinge mechanism 23 includes a base 23a and a shaft assembly 23b. It is understood that Figure 6 Only some components of the hinge mechanism 23 are schematically shown, and the actual shape, size, position and configuration of these components are not subject to the present invention. Figure 6 restrictions.

[0103] The base 23a is used to realize the assembly of other parts in the hinge mechanism 23. Figure 7 , Figure 7 for Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the assembly of the hinge mechanism 23 with the first shell 21 and the second shell 22. The base 23a includes a bottom plate 23a1 and a side panel 23a2. The bottom plate 23a1 is generally formed into a rectangular plate structure. The length direction of the bottom plate 23a1 is parallel to the Y-axis direction, the width direction is parallel to the X-axis direction, and the thickness direction is parallel to the Z-axis direction.

[0104] The side panels 23a2 are connected to the outer edges of the bottom panel 23a1. Figure 7 The side panel 23a2 can surround the outer edge of the bottom panel 23a1, and a receiving space C is defined between the side panel 23a2 and the bottom panel 23a1. At least part of the structure of the rotating shaft assembly 23b can be received in the receiving space C. In this way, some parts of the hinge mechanism 23 can be hidden inside the base 23a, which can improve the appearance of the foldable electronic device 100.

[0105] The shaft assembly 23b is disposed on the base 23a. Figure 6-Figure 7 In this embodiment, there are two rotating shaft components 23b, and the two rotating shaft components 23b are spaced apart along the Y-axis direction. It can be understood that in other embodiments, the number of the rotating shaft component 23b can also be one, or the number of the rotating shaft components 23b can also be three, four, or more.

[0106] See also Figure 8 , Figure 8 for Figure 6 The partial structural diagram of the hinge mechanism 23 is shown. The rotating shaft assembly 23b includes a first swing arm 231, a first rotating shaft 232, a first damping mechanism 233, a first limiting mechanism 234, a second swing arm 235, a second rotating shaft 236, a second damping mechanism 237 and a second limiting mechanism 238.

[0107] The first swing arm 231 and the second swing arm 235 are arranged on opposite sides of the base 23a, and the first swing arm 231 and the second swing arm 235 can rotate between the unfolded position and the folded position relative to the base 23a. Specifically, the first swing arm 231 and the second swing arm 235 can be arranged on both sides of the width direction (that is, the X-axis direction) of the base 23a. Optionally, the first swing arm 231 and the second swing arm 235 are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the base 23a.

[0108] It can be understood that when the first swing arm 231 is in the unfolded position and the second swing arm 235 is in the unfolded position, the foldable electronic device 100, the support device 20 and the hinge mechanism 23 can be in the unfolded state; when the first swing arm 231 and the second swing arm 235 are in the folded position, the foldable electronic device 100, the support device 20 and the hinge mechanism 23 can be in the folded state. In addition, the "unfolded state" described in this application may include all states except the folded state. For example, the unfolded state may include the above-mentioned flattened state and the intermediate hovering state.

[0109] See also Figure 7 The hinge mechanism 23 can be connected to the first housing 21 by means of the first swing arm 231, and can be connected to the second housing 22 by means of the second swing arm 235. In this way, when the first housing 21 rotates under the action of an external force, the first swing arm 231 can rotate with the first housing 21 to achieve relative rotation between the first housing 21 and the base 23a. When the second housing 22 rotates under the action of an external force, the second swing arm 235 can rotate with the second housing 22 to achieve relative rotation between the second housing 22 and the base 23a, so that the foldable electronic device 100 can switch between the unfolded state and the folded state.

[0110] See also Figure 8, the first swing arm 231 is connected to the first rotating shaft 232. Specifically, the first swing arm 231 can be rotatably connected to the base 23a by means of the first rotating shaft 232. In some embodiments, the first swing arm 231 is fixedly connected to the first rotating shaft 232, and the first rotating shaft 232 is rotatably connected to the base 23a. In other embodiments, the first swing arm 231 can be rotatably connected to the first rotating shaft 232, and the first rotating shaft 232 is fixedly connected to the base 23a, as long as the first swing arm 231 can be rotated between the unfolded position and the folded position relative to the base 23a. In this embodiment, the first swing arm 231 is fixedly connected to the first rotating shaft 232 and the first rotating shaft 232 is rotatably connected to the base 23a.

[0111] Please continue reading Figure 8 , the second rotating shaft 236 is spaced apart from the first rotating shaft 232. Exemplarily, the axial direction of the second rotating shaft 236 is parallel to the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232. The second swing arm 235 is connected to the second rotating shaft 236. The second swing arm 235 can be rotatably connected to the base 23a by means of the second rotating shaft 236. The way in which the second swing arm 235 is connected to the second rotating shaft 236 can be the same as the way in which the first swing arm 231 is connected to the first rotating shaft 232, which will not be described in detail here.

[0112] In some embodiments, see Figure 8 A rotating shaft bracket 230 is provided on the base 23a, and the first rotating shaft 232 and the second rotating shaft 236 are rotatably connected to the base 23a through the rotating shaft bracket 230.

[0113] See also Fig. 9 , Fig. 9 for Figure 8 The exploded view of the first swing arm 231 and the first rotating shaft 232 in the hinge mechanism 23 is shown. The first swing arm 231 is provided with a first shaft sleeve 2311 and a second shaft sleeve 2312, and the first swing arm 231 can be fixedly connected to the first rotating shaft 232 by means of the first shaft sleeve 2311 and the second shaft sleeve 2312.

[0114] For details, please refer to Fig. 9 The first shaft sleeve 2311 is provided with a first matching hole 2311a, and the second shaft sleeve 2312 is provided with a second matching hole 2312a. The first matching hole 2311a and the second matching hole 2312a are both formed as flat holes. The first rotating shaft 232 is provided with a first plane 2321 and a second plane 2322. The first plane 2321 is used to match with the first matching hole 2311a, and the second plane 2322 is used to match with the second matching hole 2312a. In this way, a limit position can be formed between the first rotating shaft 232 and the first swing arm 231, so that the first rotating shaft 232 and the first swing arm 231 are relatively fixed, and the first swing arm 231 and the first rotating shaft 232 are prevented from rotating relative to each other.

[0115] It is understandable that in other embodiments, only one of the first matching hole 2311a and the second matching hole 2312a can be set as a flat hole, and the other of the first matching hole 2311a and the second matching hole 2312a can be set as a hole of other shapes such as a circular hole. In this way, the relative fixation between the first rotating shaft 232 and the first swing arm 231 can also be achieved, and the relative rotation between the first swing arm 231 and the first rotating shaft 232 can be prevented.

[0116] In some embodiments, the structure of the second swing arm 235 is the same as that of the first swing arm 231, and the structure of the second shaft 236 is the same as that of the first shaft 232. The second shaft 236 is connected to the second swing arm 235 in the same way as the first shaft 232 is connected to the first swing arm 231, and will not be described in detail here.

[0117] The damping mechanism in the embodiment of the present application includes a first damping mechanism 233 and a second damping mechanism 237. The first damping mechanism 233 is used to apply damping to the first swing arm 231. Figure 8 The first damping mechanism 233 can be disposed between the first swing arm 231 and the first rotating shaft 232. When the first swing arm 231 drives the first rotating shaft 232 to rotate relative to the base 23a, the first damping mechanism 233 is used to apply damping to the first swing arm 231. Since the first housing 21 and the first swing arm 231 are relatively fixed, the first damping mechanism 233 can apply damping to the first housing 21.

[0118] In some embodiments, see Figure 8 The first damping mechanism 233 includes a first damping member 2331, a second damping member 2332 and a first elastic member 2333. The first damping member 2331 includes a first damping surface 2331a. The first damping member 2331 is fixedly connected to the first swing arm 231 and can rotate synchronously with the first swing arm 231.

[0119] In this embodiment, the first damping surface 2331a is formed on the second sleeve 2312. That is, the second sleeve 2312 is formed as the first damping member 2331. In other embodiments, the first damping member 2331 may also be fixedly connected to the second sleeve 2312.

[0120] Please continue reading Figure 8The second damping member 2332 is sleeved on the first rotating shaft 232 and can move along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232. Specifically, the first rotating shaft 232 is rotatably connected to the second damping member 2332. That is, when the first swing arm 231 rotates synchronously with the first rotating shaft 232, the second damping member 2332 does not rotate with the first rotating shaft 232. The second damping member 2332 includes a second damping surface 2332a, and the second damping surface 2332a is used to cooperate with the first damping surface 2331a to provide a damping force.

[0121] See also Figure 8 , the first elastic member 2333 is arranged on the side of the second damping member 2332 away from the first damping member 2331, and the first elastic member 2333 is always in a compressed energy storage state. In this way, the first elastic member 2333 can apply an elastic force directed to the first damping member 2331 to the second damping member 2332, so that the first damping surface 2331a of the first damping member 2331 and the second damping surface 2332a of the second damping member 2332 can maintain abutment. Here, "abutment" means that the two are in contact and have a certain extrusion force between each other.

[0122] Specifically, when the first swing arm 231 rotates relative to the base 23a under the action of an external force, the first rotating shaft 232 rotates with the first swing arm 231. Since the first damping member 2331 is relatively fixed to the first swing arm 231, the first damping member 2331 can rotate synchronously with the first swing arm 231, while the second damping member 2332 does not rotate with the first rotating shaft 232. Therefore, when the first swing arm 231 rotates, the first damping member 2331 and the second damping member 2332 rotate relatively, and a friction force is generated between the first damping surface 2331a and the second damping surface 2332a. The friction force can make the first swing arm 231 generate an unfolding force or a closing force, thereby keeping the hinge mechanism 23 in a flattened state, a folded state or an intermediate hovering state. In addition, the above-mentioned friction force can also form a damping feel, which is conducive to improving the user experience.

[0123] It should be noted that the “deployment force” described in the embodiment of the present application refers to the force that can drive the first swing arm 231 to rotate from the folded position to the deployed position. Correspondingly, the “closing force” described in the embodiment of the present application refers to the force that can drive the first swing arm 231 to rotate from the deployed position to the folded position.

[0124] In some embodiments, see Figure 8, the first damping surface 2331a and the second damping surface 2332a can both be formed as cam surfaces. That is, the first damping member 2331 and the second damping member 2332 are both cams. It is understandable that in other embodiments, the first damping surface 2331a and the second damping surface 2332a can also be formed as planes. In this case, the first damping surface 2331a and the second damping surface 2332a can be made of materials with a large friction coefficient. In this way, the friction between the first damping surface 2331a and the second damping surface 2332a can also be ensured.

[0125] The first elastic member 2333 can be made of elastic materials such as a coil spring, a disc spring, rubber or silicone. Figure 8 In the illustrated embodiment, the first elastic member 2333 is a coil spring, which has greater elasticity, better stability, and longer service life, and can ensure the structural stability of the rotating shaft assembly 23b and extend the service life of the hinge mechanism 23.

[0126] The second damping mechanism 237 is used to apply damping to the second swing arm 235. The second damping mechanism 237 can be disposed between the second rotating shaft 236 and the second swing arm 235. For details, please refer to Figure 8 The second damping mechanism 237 includes a third damping member 2371, a fourth damping member 2372 and a second elastic member 2373. The structure of the third damping member 2371 may be the same as that of the first damping member 2331, the structure of the fourth damping member 2372 may be the same as that of the second damping member 2332, and the structure of the second elastic member 2373 may be the same as that of the first elastic member 2333. At the same time, the working principle of the second damping mechanism 237 is the same as that of the first damping mechanism 233, which will not be repeated here.

[0127] In addition, in some designs, see Figure 8 , the second damping member 2332 in the first damping mechanism 233 and the fourth damping member 2372 in the second damping mechanism 237 can be connected. In this way, the damping symmetry of the first rotating shaft 232 and the second rotating shaft 236 can be achieved, and the second damping member 2332 can be prevented from rotating around the central axis of the first rotating shaft 232, and the fourth damping member 2372 can be prevented from rotating around the central axis of the second rotating shaft 236.

[0128] The first limiting mechanism 234 can be used to limit the first damping mechanism 233 and adjust the damping force of the first damping mechanism 233. Fig.10 , Fig.10 for Figure 8 The hinge mechanism 23 is shown in an enlarged view of the region A. The first limiting mechanism 234 includes a first limiting member 2341 , a second limiting member 2342 and a first adjusting structure 2343 .

[0129] See also Fig.10 The first stopper 2341 includes a first surface 2341a and a second surface 2341b opposite to each other. The first stopper 2341 is provided with a first mounting hole 2341c, and two ends of the first mounting hole 2341c respectively penetrate the first surface 2341a and the second surface 2341b. The first stopper 2341 can be assembled to the first rotating shaft 232 by means of the first mounting hole 2341c.

[0130] Specifically, the first rotating shaft 232 is passed through the first mounting hole 2341c. Exemplarily, the first mounting hole 2341c is a circular hole, and the first rotating shaft 232 is rotatably connected to the first mounting hole 2341c. In this way, when the first swing arm 231 rotates relative to the base 23a, the first rotating shaft 232 can rotate relative to the first limiter 2341, and the first limiter 2341 will not rotate with the rotation of the first swing arm 231, so that the movement of the first swing arm 231 and the movement of the first limiter 2341 can be independent of each other and do not affect each other. That is, there is no linkage between the first swing arm 231 and the first limiter 2341.

[0131] See also Fig.11 , Fig.11 for Figure 6 In the cross-sectional view of the hinge mechanism 23 at line BB, the first stopper 2341 is located on the side of the first elastic member 2333 away from the second damping member 2332. Fig.12 , Fig.12 for Fig.11 The enlarged view of the area B in the cross-sectional view is shown. The second surface 2341b of the first position-limiting member 2341 faces the first elastic member 2333, and the first position-limiting member 2341 abuts against the first elastic member 2333 via the second surface 2341b.

[0132] It can be understood that when the first damping mechanism 233 includes, in addition to the first damping member 2331, the second damping member 2332 and the first elastic member 2333, other components located on the side of the first elastic member 2333 away from the second damping member 2332, the first limiting member 2341 can also abut against the above-mentioned other components as long as the first limiting member 2341 can maintain abutment with the first damping mechanism 233.

[0133] Please continue reading Fig.12 The second stopper 2342 includes a first end face 2342a and a second end face 2342b opposite to each other. The second stopper 2342 is provided with a second mounting hole 2342c. The two ends of the second mounting hole 2342c respectively penetrate the first end face 2342a and the second end face 2342b. The second stopper 2342 can be assembled to the first rotating shaft 232 by means of the second mounting hole 2342c.

[0134] Specifically, the first rotating shaft 232 can be inserted into the first mounting hole 2341c. In some embodiments, the second mounting hole 2342c is a circular hole, and the first rotating shaft 232 is rotatably connected to the second mounting hole 2342c. In this way, when the first swing arm 231 rotates relative to the base 23a, the first rotating shaft 232 can rotate relative to the second stopper 2342, and the second stopper 2342 will not rotate with the rotation of the first swing arm 231, so that the movement of the first swing arm 231 and the movement of the second stopper 2342 can be independent of each other and do not affect each other. That is, there is no linkage between the first swing arm 231 and the second stopper 2342.

[0135] It can be understood that in other embodiments, when the first rotating shaft 232 is fixedly connected to the base 23a and the first swing arm 231 is rotatably connected to the first rotating shaft 232, since the first rotating shaft 232 is always fixed relative to the base 23a, therefore, when the first rotating shaft 232 is rotatably connected to the first limiting member 2341 and the second limiting member 2342, the first limiting member 2341 and the second limiting member 2342 will not rotate with the rotation of the first swing arm 231, so that the first swing arm 231 and the first limiting member 2341 are not linked, and the first swing arm 231 and the second limiting member 2342 are not linked.

[0136] See also Fig.12 The second limiting member 2342 is located at a side of the first limiting member 2341 away from the first elastic member 2333. The first surface 2341a of the first limiting member 2341 is disposed opposite to the first end surface 2342a of the second limiting member 2342.

[0137] See also Figure 10-12 The first adjustment structure 2343 is disposed between the first stopper 2341 and the second stopper 2342. The first adjustment structure 2343 can be used to adjust the distance between the first stopper 2341 and the second stopper 2342, so as to adjust the position of the first stopper 2341 in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232. The distance between the first stopper 2341 and the second stopper 2342 refers to the distance between the first surface 2341a of the first stopper 2341 and the first end surface 2342a of the second stopper 2342.

[0138] When the distance between the first limit member 2341 and the second limit member 2342 changes, the first limit member 2341 can move axially along the first rotating shaft 232 to change the axial position of the first limit member 2341 on the first rotating shaft 232, thereby changing the damping force and torque curve of the first damping mechanism 233.

[0139] Specifically, after the axial position of the first limit member 2341 changes on the first rotating shaft 232, the compression amount of the first elastic member 2333 changes compared to before the axial position of the first limit member 2341 changes on the first rotating shaft 232, so that the force directed to the first damping member 2331 applied by the first elastic member 2333 to the second damping member 2332 changes, thereby changing the friction force between the first damping member 2331 and the second damping member 2332, thereby realizing the adjustment of the damping force and torque curve of the first damping mechanism 233.

[0140] See also Fig.11 and Fig.12 When the distance between the first stopper 2341 and the second stopper 2342 increases, that is, when the first stopper 2341 moves toward the first elastic member 2333, the first elastic member 2333 is further compressed, and the compression amount of the first elastic member 2333 increases. In this way, the acting force between the second damping member 2332 and the first damping member 2331 can be increased, and the friction force between the second damping member 2332 and the first damping member 2331 can be increased, so that the damping force provided by the first damping mechanism 233 can be increased.

[0141] For example, after the foldable electronic device 100 has been used for a period of time, the components of the first damping mechanism 233, such as the first damping member 2331 and the second damping member 2332, are worn. Compared with before wear, the friction between the first damping member 2331 and the second damping member 2332 is reduced, resulting in the foldable electronic device 100 being unable to stably maintain the intermediate hovering state. In this case, the compression amount of the first elastic member 2333 can be increased by adjusting the position of the first limiter 2341 in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232 to increase the friction between the first damping member 2331 and the second damping member 2332, thereby enabling the foldable electronic device 100 to stably maintain the intermediate hovering state. In this way, the service life of the foldable electronic device 100 and the hinge mechanism 23 can be extended, the use cost can be reduced, and the user experience can be improved.

[0142] In addition, the friction between the first damping member 2331 and the second damping member 2332 can be increased by adjusting the position of the first limiter 2341 in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232, and the friction can be made greater than the tension generated after the folding screen 10 is flattened and used for a period of time. In this way, the foldable electronic device 100 can not only stably switch from the folded state to the intermediate hovering state, but also stably switch from the flattened state to the intermediate hovering state, which can further improve the user experience. In addition, the friction between the first damping member 2331 and the second damping member 2332 can be increased by changing the position of the first limiter 2341 in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232 to enhance the damping feel and meet the user's requirements for the damping feel.

[0143] Please continue reading Fig.11 and Fig.12 When the distance between the first stopper 2341 and the second stopper 2342 decreases, that is, when the first stopper 2341 moves in a direction away from the first elastic member 2333, the compression of the first elastic member 2333 is released, and the compression of the first elastic member 2333 decreases. In this way, the acting force between the second damping member 2332 and the first damping member 2331 can be reduced, and the friction between the second damping member 2332 and the first damping member 2331 can be reduced, so that the damping force provided by the first damping mechanism 233 can be reduced.

[0144] For example, the compression amount of the first elastic member 2333 can be reduced by adjusting the axial position of the first limiting member 2341 on the first rotating shaft 232 to reduce the friction between the first damping member 2331 and the second damping member 2332 and achieve a smoother damping feel.

[0145] See also Fig.12 The first adjustment structure 2343 includes a first matching portion 2343a and a second matching portion 2343b that match each other. The first matching portion 2343a is fixedly connected to the first surface 2341a of the first limiting member 2341, and the second matching portion 2343b is fixedly connected to the first end surface 2342a of the second limiting member 2342.

[0146] There are multiple matching positions between the first matching portion 2343a and the second matching portion 2343b. In different matching positions, the first position-limiting member 2341 has different positions in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232. In this way, the position of the first position-limiting member 2341 in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232 can be changed by changing the matching position between the first matching portion 2343a and the second matching portion 2343b, so as to achieve the purpose of adjusting the damping force and torque curve of the first damping mechanism 233.

[0147] In some embodiments, the first stopper 2341 and the second stopper 2342 can rotate relative to each other around the first rotation axis so that the first matching portion 2343a and the second matching portion 2343b can switch between a plurality of different matching positions. The first rotation axis is parallel to the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232. Thus, the matching position between the first matching portion 2343a and the second matching portion 2343b can be switched to the target matching position by rotating the first stopper 2341 and / or the second stopper 2342, so as to adjust the first stopper 2341 to the target position, thereby adjusting the damping force and torque curve of the first damping mechanism 233. The structure is simple, the design is ingenious, and the volume of the structure is small, which can reduce the space occupied by the first matching structure 2343.

[0148] Specifically, in this embodiment, the second stopper 2342 can rotate relative to the base 23a around the first rotation axis, and the first stopper 2341 cannot rotate relative to the base 23a around the first rotation axis. In this way, the matching position between the first matching portion 2343a and the second matching portion 2343b can be switched by rotating the second stopper 2342, thereby adjusting the position of the first stopper 2341 in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232.

[0149] Furthermore, since the second position-limiting member 2342 and the first swing arm 231 are not linked, that is, the second position-limiting member 2342 does not rotate with the rotation of the first swing arm 231, the matching position between the first matching portion 2343a and the second matching portion 2343b will not switch with the rotation of the first swing arm 231, so that the rotation of the first swing arm 231 will not affect the position of the first position-limiting member 2341 in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232. In this way, when the matching position between the first matching portion 2343a and the second matching portion 2343b is switched to the target matching position, the first matching portion 2343a and the second matching portion 2343b can be maintained at the target position, and then the first position-limiting member 2341 can be maintained at the target position, which can improve the stability of the hinge mechanism 23 and the foldable electronic device 100 during the folding process, and ensure the opening and closing feel of the foldable electronic device 100.

[0150] In some embodiments, see Fig.12 , the first matching portion 2343a and the second matching portion 2343b are in abutment with each other. In this way, the matching stability between the first matching portion 2343a and the second matching portion 2343b can be improved. When the first matching portion 2343a and the second matching portion 2343b are in the target matching position, the first limiting member 2341 and the second limiting member 2342 can be kept relatively still by means of the first adjustment structure 2343, thereby avoiding the change in the distance between the first limiting member 2341 and the second limiting member 2342, which is conducive to keeping the first limiting member 2341 in the target position, and can further improve the stability of the hinge mechanism 23 and the foldable electronic device 100 during the folding process.

[0151] On the basis of any of the above embodiments, the second stopper 2342 is fixed in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232. That is, in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232, the second stopper 2342 and the base 23a remain relatively fixed. Since the second surface 2341b of the first stopper 2341 abuts against the first elastic member 2333, the first elastic member 2333 always applies a force directed to the second stopper 2342 to the first stopper 2341, so that the first stopper 2341 always has a tendency to move toward the second stopper 2342. In this way, after the second stopper 2342 is fixed in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232, when the first matching portion 2343a and the second matching portion 2343b are in the target matching position, the first stopper 2341 can be guaranteed to be fixed in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232, and the first stopper 2341 can be kept in the target position, thereby further improving the stability of the hinge mechanism 23 and the foldable electronic device 100 during the folding process.

[0152] In addition, after the position of the second stopper 2342 in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232 is fixed, when the distance between the first stopper 2341 and the second stopper 2342 changes, it can be ensured that the position of the first stopper 2341 in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232 changes. In addition, in this case, the change amount of the distance between the first stopper 2341 and the second stopper 2342 is the displacement amount of the first stopper 2341 in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232, which can reduce the difficulty of adjusting the position of the first stopper 2341, and further reduce the difficulty of adjusting the compression amount of the first elastic member 2333.

[0153] In some embodiments, see Figure 10-12 A first bearing 239 is provided on the side of the second stopper 2342 away from the first stopper 2341. In the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232, two ends of the first bearing 239 abut against the second stopper 2342 and the first sleeve 2311 respectively. Since the first sleeve 2311 is fixedly connected to the first rotating shaft 232, that is, the position of the first sleeve 2311 in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232 is fixed, the first sleeve 2311 and the first bearing 239 can jointly limit one side of the axial direction of the second stopper 2342. In this way, the position of the second stopper 2342 in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232 can be fixed, and the structure is simple and easy to implement.

[0154] On this basis, see Fig.13 , Fig.13 for Fig.12 An exploded view of the first bearing 239 in the hinge mechanism 23 is shown. The first bearing 239 includes a first stationary ring 2391, a first moving ring 2392, and a rolling element 2393. In some embodiments, the first bearing 239 may be a thrust ball bearing.

[0155] The first stationary ring 2391 is annular and the first moving ring 2392 is annular, and the first moving ring 2392 is rotatably arranged on one axial side of the first stationary ring 2391. The rolling body 2393 is arranged between the first stationary ring 2391 and the first moving ring 2392. Specifically, the rolling body 2393 can be fixedly connected to the first stationary ring 2391 or the first moving ring 2392. There are multiple rolling bodies 2393, and the multiple rolling bodies 2393 are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction of the first stationary ring 2391. The rolling body 2393 can be used to reduce the friction between the first stationary ring 2391 and the first moving ring 2392. The rolling body 2393 can be a sphere or a cylinder.

[0156] To facilitate the fixing of rolling element 2393, please refer to Fig.13 The first bearing 239 further includes a retainer 2394, and the rolling element 2393 is fixedly connected to the retainer 2394, and is fixedly connected to the first stationary ring 2391 or the first moving ring 2392 by means of the retainer 2394. It can be understood that in other embodiments, the rolling element 2393 may not be arranged between the first moving ring 2392 and the first stationary ring 2391.

[0157] See also Fig.12 , the first stationary ring 2391 can be sleeved on the first rotating shaft 232 and abut against the first sleeve 2311. Exemplarily, the first rotating shaft 232 is rotatably connected to the first stationary ring 2391. In this way, the first stationary ring 2391 does not rotate with the rotation of the first swing arm 231. That is, there is no linkage between the first stationary ring 2391 and the first swing arm 231. The first moving ring 2392 is located on the side of the first stationary ring 2391 facing the second limiter 2342. The first moving ring 2392 can abut against the second limiter 2342.

[0158] Since the first stationary ring 2391 does not rotate with the rotation of the first swing arm 231, when the first swing arm 231 rotates relative to the base 23a, the second limiter 2342 can be prevented from rotating with the rotation of the first swing arm 231, thereby preventing the position of the first limiter 2341 in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232 from changing with the rotation of the first swing arm 231. Thus, the damping force and torque curve of the first damping mechanism 233 can be prevented from changing due to the change in the position of the first limiter 2341 when the first swing arm 231 rotates, thereby improving the stability of the hinge mechanism 23 and the foldable electronic device 100 during the folding process.

[0159] In other embodiments, the second position-limiting member 2342 may be relatively fixed to the base 23a. Specifically, the second position-limiting member 2342 may be fixedly connected to the base 23a, or may be fixedly connected to other components such as the rotating shaft bracket 230, as long as the second position-limiting member 2342 and the base 23a can be relatively fixed. In this case, the second position-limiting member 2342 may be sleeved on the first rotating shaft 232, or may not be sleeved on the second rotating shaft 236. In this way, the position of the second position-limiting member 2342 in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232 can also be fixed, so as to avoid the position of the second position-limiting member 2342 in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232 from changing.

[0160] In some embodiments, see Fig.14 , Fig.14 for Figure 8 The three-dimensional view of the first stopper 2341 in the hinge mechanism 23 is shown. The first matching portion 2343a protrudes from the first surface 2341a. The first matching portion 2343a includes a first abutting end D3, which is the end of the first matching portion 2343a away from the first surface 2341a. The first abutting end D3 faces the second matching portion 2343b.

[0161] The first matching portion 2343a extends along the circumference of the first circle, and the center of the first circle is located on the first rotation axis (ie, the rotation axis of the first limiting member 2341 or the second limiting member 2342). Exemplarily, the extension path of the first matching portion 2343a is in an arc shape.

[0162] Please continue reading Fig.14 The first matching portion 2343a includes a first extension end D1 and a second extension end D2 that are opposite to each other on its extension path. In the direction from the first extension end D1 to the second extension end D2, the thickness of the first matching portion 2343a gradually increases. In this embodiment, the "thickness of the first matching portion 2343a" refers to the distance between the end surface of the first abutting end D3 of the first matching portion 2343a and the first surface 2341a.

[0163] See also Fig.15 , Fig.15 for Figure 8 The third embodiment is a three-dimensional view of the second stopper 2342 in the hinge mechanism 23. The second matching portion 2343b protrudes from the first end surface 2342a of the second stopper 2342. The second matching portion 2343b includes a second abutting end D4 for abutting against the first matching portion 2343a, and the end surface of the second abutting end D4 is formed as an arc surface arched toward the first matching portion 2343a. That is, the second abutting end D4 is formed as an arc surface arched in a direction away from the first end surface 2342a.

[0164] For example, the end surface of the second abutting end D4 may be an arc surface, an elliptical arc surface, etc. The second matching portion 2343b may be spherical, ellipsoidal, spherical crown, etc. This structure is simple and easy to process, and is conducive to reducing the sliding friction between the second matching portion 2343b and the first matching portion 2343a, and can reduce the difficulty of relative rotation between the first limiting member 2341 and the second limiting member 2342.

[0165] Specifically, when the first limiting member 2341 and the second limiting member 2342 rotate relative to each other, the second matching portion 2343b can slide along the end surface of the first abutting end D3 of the first matching portion 2343a. That is, the second matching portion 2343b can climb and descend along the first abutting end D3 of the first matching portion 2343a. In this way, when the second limiting member 2342 rotates relative to the first limiting member 2341, so that the second matching portion 2343b slides from the first extension end D1 of the first matching portion 2343a to the second extension end D2, the second matching portion 2343b can climb along the first abutting end D3 of the first matching portion 2343a, the distance between the first limiting member 2341 and the second limiting member 2342 increases, and the first limiting member 2341 can move toward the first damping mechanism 233.

[0166] When the second stopper 2342 rotates relative to the first stopper 2341, so that the second matching portion 2343b slides from the second extension end D2 of the first matching portion 2343a to the first extension end D1, the second matching portion 2343b can descend along the first abutting end D3 of the first matching portion 2343a, and the distance between the first stopper 2341 and the second stopper 2342 is reduced, and the first stopper 2341 can move in a direction away from the first damping mechanism 233. Thus, the position of the first stopper 2341 in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232 can be changed, and then the compression amount of the first elastic member 2333 can be changed, so as to achieve the purpose of adjusting the damping force and torque curve of the first damping mechanism 233.

[0167] In some embodiments, there are multiple first matching portions 2343a, and the multiple first matching portions 2343a are spaced apart in the circumferential direction of the first circumference. Fig.14 In the embodiment shown, there are three first matching portions 2343a. It is understandable that in other embodiments, the number of first matching portions 2343a can also be two, four, five, etc. On this basis, please refer to Fig.15 There are multiple second matching parts 2343b, and the multiple second matching parts 2343b correspond to the multiple first matching parts 2343a one by one. In this way, the matching stability between the first matching parts 2343a and the second matching parts 2343b can be improved, and the first limiting member 2341 and the second limiting member 2342 can be prevented from shaking.

[0168] It is understandable that, in other embodiments, the first matching portion 2343a may be fixedly connected to the second stopper 2342, and the second matching portion 2343b may be fixedly connected to the first stopper 2341. In this case, the thickness of the first matching portion 2343a refers to the distance between the end face of the first abutting end D3 of the first matching portion 2343a and the first end face 2342a of the second stopper 2342. In addition, in other embodiments, the structure of the second matching portion 2343b may be the same as that of the first matching portion 2343a, as long as the distance between the first stopper 2341 and the second stopper 2342 can be changed when the first matching portion 2343a and the second matching portion 2343b are switched between different matching positions.

[0169] In some embodiments, in order to further reduce the sliding friction between the first matching portion 2343a and the second matching portion 2343b, see Fig.14 , the end surface of the first abutting end D3 of the first matching portion 2343a is formed as a curved surface.

[0170] Please return to Fig.10 Similar to the first limiting mechanism 234, the second limiting mechanism 238 may include a third limiting member 2381, a fourth limiting member 2382, and a second adjusting structure 2383. The second limiting member 2342 is disposed on the second rotating shaft 236 and abuts against the second damping mechanism 237. The third limiting member 2381 can move along the axial direction of the second rotating shaft 236 to adjust the damping force of the second damping mechanism 237; the fourth limiting member 2382 is disposed on a side of the third limiting member 2381 away from the second damping mechanism 237; the second adjusting structure 2383 is disposed between the third limiting member 2381 and the fourth limiting member 2382, and is used to adjust the distance between the third limiting member 2381 and the fourth limiting member 2382, so as to adjust the position of the third limiting member 2381 in the axial direction of the second rotating shaft 236.

[0171] The structure of the third position-limiting member 2381 can be designed with reference to the structure of the first position-limiting member 2341, the structure of the fourth position-limiting member 2382 can be designed with reference to the structure of the second position-limiting member 2342, and the structure of the second adjustment structure 2383 can be designed with reference to the structure of the first adjustment structure 2343. In addition, the working principle of the second position-limiting mechanism 238 is the same as that of the first position-limiting mechanism 234, and will not be described in detail here.

[0172] In some designs, see Fig.10, the first limiting member 2341 in the first limiting mechanism 234 and the third limiting member 2381 in the second limiting mechanism 238 can be connected. In this way, the damping symmetry of the first rotating shaft 232 and the second rotating shaft 236 can be achieved, and the first limiting member 2341 can be prevented from rotating around the central axis of the first rotating shaft 232, and the third limiting member 2381 can be prevented from rotating around the central axis of the second rotating shaft 236, and the matching stability of the first limiting member 2341 and the second limiting member 2342, as well as the matching stability of the third limiting member 2381 and the fourth limiting member 2382 can be ensured.

[0173] In order to facilitate the relative rotation between the second limiting member 2342 and the first limiting member 2341, please refer to Fig.16 , Fig.16 for Figure 8 The sectional view of the hinge mechanism 23 is shown. The hinge mechanism 23 further includes a driving rod 23d, and the driving rod 23d is used to drive the second limiting member 2342 to rotate around the first rotation axis.

[0174] In some embodiments, in order to facilitate the cooperation between the second stopper 2342 and the driving rod 23d, please refer to Fig.16 Combined with Fig.15 The second stopper 2342 is provided with a first follower rod 23e. The first follower rod 23e is in a long strip shape. Specifically, the second stopper 2342 includes a second outer peripheral surface 2342d connected between the first end surface 2342a and the second end surface 2342b, the first follower rod 23e is fixedly connected to the second outer peripheral surface 2342d, and the first follower rod 23e is located outside the circumferential direction of the second stopper 2342.

[0175] In some embodiments, the first driven rod 23e and the second stopper 2342 are integrally formed. This is conducive to simplifying the assembly process of the second stopper 2342 and the first driven rod 23e, and at the same time, it is conducive to improving the connection strength between the first driven rod 23e and the second stopper 2342. Of course, in other embodiments, the first driven rod 23e and the second stopper 2342 can also be connected by welding or other methods.

[0176] See also Fig.17 , Fig.17 for Figure 8 The cross-sectional view of the base 23a in the hinge mechanism 23 is shown. The base 23a is provided with a connecting hole 23f, which is used to connect the accommodation space C inside the base 23a and the external space of the base 23a. Specifically, the connecting hole 23f includes a first orifice 23f1 and a second orifice 23f2, the first orifice 23f1 is connected to the accommodation space C inside the base 23a, the second orifice 23f2 is connected to the first orifice 23f1, and the second orifice 23f2 is connected to the external space of the base 23a.

[0177] The driving rod 23d is inserted into the connecting hole 23f and can be locked in the connecting hole 23f. Fig.16 The driving rod 23d is in the shape of an elongated strip. The driving rod 23d includes a first end 23d1 and a second end 23d2 opposite to each other. The first end 23d1 passes through the first aperture 23f1 and is connected to the first driven rod 23e. That is, the first end 23d1 passes through the first aperture 23f1 into the accommodation space C of the base 23a. The second end 23d2 of the driving rod 23d is exposed at the second aperture 23f2. That is, the second end 23d2 of the driving rod 23d can be seen at the second aperture 23f2 of the connecting hole 23f. Specifically, the second end 23d2 of the driving rod 23d can be located on the side of the second aperture 23f2 away from the first aperture 23f1, can be flush with the second aperture 23f2, or can be located between the second aperture 23f2 and the first aperture 23f1, as long as it can be ensured that the second end 23d2 of the driving rod 23d can be exposed at the second aperture 23f2.

[0178] In some embodiments, see Fig.16 , the driving rod 23d can move relative to the base 23a along the first direction to drive the second stopper 2342 to rotate around the first rotation axis, wherein the first direction is perpendicular to the first rotation axis. Fig.16 In the illustrated embodiment, the first rotation axis is parallel to the Y-axis direction, and the first direction is parallel to the Z-axis direction. In this case, the connecting hole 23f can be provided on the bottom plate 23a1 of the base 23a, and the central axis of the connecting hole 23f is parallel to the first direction. It is understood that in other embodiments, the first direction can also be parallel to the X-axis direction. In this case, the connecting hole 23f can be provided on the side panel 23a2 of the base 23a, and the central axis of the connecting hole 23f is parallel to the first direction.

[0179] Specifically, the driving rod 23d has a plurality of locking positions in the connecting hole 23f. When the driving rod 23d moves along the first direction, the driving rod 23d can be switched between the plurality of locking positions. In this way, the driving rod 23d can be moved along the first direction, and the second stopper 2342 can be driven to rotate around the first rotation axis by the driving rod 23d, thereby adjusting the position of the first stopper 2341 in the axial direction of the first rotation shaft 232, thereby achieving the purpose of adjusting the damping force and torque curve of the first damping mechanism 233. At the same time, since the second end 23d2 of the driving rod 23d is exposed at the second opening 23f2, the driving rod 23d can be moved along the first direction from the outside of the base 23a. After the foldable electronic device 100 is assembled (that is, after the foldable electronic device 100 is made into a complete machine), the position of the first limit member 2341 in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232 can be adjusted without disassembling the foldable electronic device 100, which effectively reduces the difficulty of adjusting the damping force and torque curve of the first damping mechanism 233. The structure is simple, the design is ingenious, and it occupies little space and is easy to implement.

[0180] For example, see Fig.16 When the driving rod 23d moves along the first direction toward the inside of the base 23a, the second stopper 2342 moves along the first rotation axis. Fig.16 The first rotation direction r1 of the first matching portion 2343a is rotated, and the second matching portion 2343b can slide from the first extension end D1 of the first matching portion 2343a to the second extension end D2 of the first matching portion 2343a, and the distance between the first limiting member 2341 and the second limiting member 2342 increases, and the first limiting member 2341 can move toward the first damping mechanism 233. In this way, the damping force of the first damping mechanism 233 can be increased.

[0181] When the driving rod 23d moves toward the outside of the base 23a along the first direction, the second stopper 2342 moves along the first rotation axis. Fig.16 The second matching portion 2343b slides from the second extension end D2 of the first matching portion 2343a to the first extension end D1 of the first matching portion 2343a, and the distance between the first limiting member 2341 and the second limiting member 2342 is reduced, so that the first limiting member 2341 can move in a direction away from the first damping mechanism 233. In this way, the damping force of the first damping mechanism 233 can be reduced.

[0182] The second rotation direction r2 is opposite to the first rotation direction r1. It is understandable that in other embodiments, when the driving rod 23d moves along the first direction toward the inside of the base 23a, the damping force of the first damping mechanism 233 decreases. Correspondingly, when the driving rod 23d moves along the first direction toward the outside of the base 23a, the damping force of the first damping mechanism 233 increases.

[0183] In some embodiments, in order to facilitate the movement of the driving rod 23d in the first direction to achieve the switching of different locking positions, please refer to Fig.16 The driving rod 23d is threadedly connected to the connecting hole 23f. In this way, on the one hand, the driving rod 23d can be rotated to control the movement of the driving rod 23d in the first direction to adjust the locking position of the driving rod 23d; on the other hand, after the driving rod 23d is adjusted to the target locking position, the driving rod 23d can be locked in the connecting hole 23f by threaded engagement to prevent the driving rod 23d from moving. The structure is simple and easy to process.

[0184] Based on any of the above embodiments, please refer to Fig.18 , Fig.18 for Figure 8 The exploded view of the base 23a in the hinge mechanism 23 is shown. A groove portion 23g is provided on the outer surface of the base 23a. The groove portion 23g includes an opening 23g1, a groove bottom wall 23g2 and a groove side wall 23g3. The opening 23g1 passes through the outer surface of the base 23a, the groove bottom wall 23g2 is opposite to the opening 23g1, and the groove side wall 23g3 is connected between the opening 23g1 and the groove bottom wall 23g2.

[0185] The second opening 23f2 of the connecting hole 23f passes through the bottom wall 23g2 of the groove portion 23g, and a portion of the driving rod 23d can be located in the groove portion 23g. In this way, the end of the driving rod 23d can be prevented from protruding from the outer surface of the base 23a, which is beneficial to improving the appearance of the hinge mechanism 23, thereby improving the appearance of the foldable electronic device 100. The "outer surface of the base 23a" refers to the surface of the base 23a that is away from the accommodation space C.

[0186] On this basis, in order to further improve the appearance of the hinge mechanism 23, please continue to refer to Figure 16-Figure 18 The hinge mechanism 23 further includes a decorative cover 23h, which is disposed on the groove portion 23g. Specifically, the decorative cover 23h is connected to the groove portion 23g by snapping. Figure 17-Figure 18 The decorative cover 23h includes a cover body 23h1 and a flange 23h2, wherein the flange 23h2 is disposed at the outer edge of the cover body 23h1. The flange 23h2 can be used to abut against the groove side wall 23g3 of the groove portion 23g, and the cover body 23h1 is used to block the opening 23g1 of the groove portion 23g.

[0187] In this way, the opening 23g1 of the groove portion 23g can be blocked by the decorative cover 23h, which can further improve the appearance of the hinge mechanism 23 and the foldable electronic device 100, and can improve the waterproof performance of the hinge mechanism 23 and the foldable electronic device 100.

[0188] In some embodiments, the outer surface of the cover 23h1 is flush with the outer surface of the base 23a. In this way, the appearance of the hinge mechanism 23 and the foldable electronic device 100 can be further guaranteed. Of course, in other embodiments, the outer surface of the cover 23h1 can also be recessed inward relative to the outer surface of the base 23a.

[0189] In other embodiments, the decorative cover 23h may not include the flange 23h2. In this case, the cover body 23h1 of the decorative cover 23h may be attached to the outer surface of the base 23a and block the opening 23g1 of the groove portion 23g. For example, the decorative cover 23h may be fixed to the base 23a by bonding, magnetic connection, etc.

[0190] For example, in Fig.18 In the illustrated embodiment, the opening 23g1 of the groove portion 23g penetrates the outer surface of the bottom plate 23a1. In this case, the orthographic projection area of ​​the decorative cover 23g on the bottom plate a1 may be larger than the area of ​​the opening 23g1 of the groove portion 23g and smaller than the area of ​​the outer surface of the bottom plate 23a1, or the orthographic projection of the cover body 23h1 of the decorative cover 23h on the bottom plate 23a1 may be equal to the area of ​​the outer surface of the bottom plate 23a1.

[0191] In some embodiments, see Fig.16 The first driven rod 23e is provided with a guide surface 23e1, and the first driven rod 23e is connected to the driving rod 23d by means of the guide surface 23e1. In the direction from the second stopper 2342 to the first driven rod 23e, the guide surface 23e1 extends in a direction away from the driving rod 23d. In this way, the contact area between the first driven rod 23e and the driving rod 23d can be increased, and the connection reliability between the driving rod 23d and the first driven rod 23e can be improved.

[0192] In order to ensure the damping symmetry of the first damping mechanism 233 and the second damping mechanism 237, the position of the first limiter 2341 and the position of the second limiter 2342 are adjusted synchronously. Fig.16, the fourth limiter 2382 can rotate relative to the base around the second rotation axis, and the second rotation axis is parallel to the axial direction of the second rotating shaft 236. The fourth limiter 2382 is provided with a second driven rod 23t, and the second driven rod 23t is located on the circumferential outer side of the fourth limiter 2382. The second driven rod 23t is connected to the driving rod 23d. Specifically, the first driven rod 23e and the second driven rod 23t are respectively located on opposite sides of the driving rod 23d. In this way, when the driving rod 23d moves along the first direction, the second limiter 2342 and the fourth limiter 2382 of the driving rod can be synchronously rotated in the opposite direction, thereby realizing the synchronous adjustment of the position of the first limiter 2341 in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232 and the position of the third limiter 2381 in the axial direction of the second rotating shaft 236, which not only realizes the damping symmetry of the first damping mechanism 233 and the second damping mechanism 237, but also greatly reduces the difficulty of adjusting the damping force. In addition, the structure of the hinge mechanism 23 can be simplified, and the number of parts can be reduced, which is conducive to optimizing the performance of the hinge mechanism 23.

[0193] In other embodiments, see Fig.19 , Fig.19 FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a partial structure of a hinge mechanism 23 provided in some other embodiments of the present application. Fig.10 The hinge mechanism 23 in the embodiment described is different in that: Fig.10 In the hinge mechanism 23 of the illustrated embodiment, the second stopper 2342 can rotate relative to the base 23a around the first rotation axis, while the first stopper 2341 cannot rotate relative to the base 23a around the first rotation axis. In this embodiment, the first stopper 2341 can rotate relative to the base 23a around the first rotation axis, while the second stopper 2342 cannot rotate relative to the base 23a around the first rotation axis. In this case, the first driven rod 23e is fixedly connected to the first stopper 2341.

[0194] In addition, the first matching portion 2343a of this embodiment is disposed on the second position-limiting member 2342, and the second matching portion 2343b is disposed on the first position-limiting member 2341. Specifically, the structure of the first position-limiting member 2341 of this embodiment is similar to Fig.10 The structure of the second stopper 2342 in the embodiment shown is the same as that of the second stopper 2342 in the embodiment shown. Fig.10 The structure of the first stopper 2341 in the embodiment shown is the same. The remaining structures of the hinge mechanism 23 in this embodiment are the same as those in the embodiment shown. Fig.10 The remaining structures of the hinge mechanism 23 of the illustrated embodiment are the same and will not be described in detail herein.

[0195] In addition, in this embodiment, the second limiting member 2342 and the fourth limiting member 2382 are connected as one body, so that the second limiting member 2342 can be prevented from rotating with the rotation of the first swing arm 231, and the fourth limiting member 2382 can be prevented from rotating with the rotation of the second swing arm 235.

[0196] On this basis, the space between the second stopper 2342 and the first sleeve 2311 can be omitted. Fig.10 The first bearing 239 in the embodiment shown.

[0197] In some other embodiments, see Fig. 20 , Fig. 20 FIG. 2 is a partial stereogram of a hinge mechanism 23 provided in some other embodiments of the present application. Fig.19 The hinge mechanism 23 in the illustrated embodiment is different in that the hinge mechanism 23 in the present embodiment includes a first fixing member 23m and a second fixing member 23k in addition to the first rotating shaft 232, the first swing arm 231, the first damping mechanism 233, the first limiting mechanism 234, the second rotating shaft 236, the second swing arm 235, the second damping mechanism 237 and the second limiting mechanism 238. Specifically, the first fixing member 23m is arranged on the driving rod 23d, and the second fixing member 23k is arranged on the first driven rod 23e. When the first matching portion 2343a and the second matching portion 2343b are in the matching position, the first fixing member 23m and the second fixing member 23k cooperate with each other to limit the rotation of the first driven rod 23e relative to the driving rod 23d.

[0198] In this way, after the first matching portion 2343a and the second matching portion 2343b are adjusted to the target matching position, the relative fixation between the first follower rod 23e and the driving rod 23d can be achieved through the first fixing member 23m and the second fixing member 23k, thereby preventing the first limiting member 2341 and the second limiting member 2342 from rotating relative to each other with the rotation of the first swing arm 231, so that the first matching portion 2343a and the second matching portion 2343b can be stably maintained in the target matching position, which can further improve the stability of the folding process of the foldable electronic device 100.

[0199] See also Fig.21 , Fig.21 for Fig. 20 An exploded view of the first fixing member 23m and the driving rod 23d in the hinge mechanism 23 is shown. The first fixing member 23m includes a mounting portion 23m1 and a fixing portion 23m2. The mounting portion 23m1 includes a cover plate E1 and a side plate E2, and the side plate E2 can be arranged at the outer edge of the cover plate E1. A mounting groove can be defined between the side plate E2 and the cover plate E1. Exemplarily, the side plate E2 can be arranged around the outer edge of the cover plate E1.

[0200] The fixing portion 23m2 is fixedly connected to the mounting portion 23m1. Fig.21 The fixing portion 23m2 includes a connecting plate H1, a first clamping plate H2, and a second clamping plate H3. The first clamping plate H2, the second clamping plate H3, and the connecting plate H1 are all in the shape of a flat plate. Fig. 22 The thickness direction of the first clamping plate H2 and the thickness direction of the second clamping plate H3 are both parallel to the Y-axis direction. The first clamping plate H2 and the second clamping plate H3 are spaced apart in the Y-axis direction. The connecting plate H1 is connected to the first clamping plate H2 and the second clamping plate H3. For example, see Fig.21 The thickness direction of the connecting plate H1 is parallel to the Z-axis direction. A clamping groove H0 is defined between the first clamping plate H2, the second clamping plate H3 and the connecting plate H1. The clamping groove H0 is located on the side of the connecting plate H1 away from the mounting portion 23m1.

[0201] Please continue reading Fig.21 The first clamping plate H2 includes a first side H21 and a second side H22 opposite to each other in the X-axis direction. The second clamping plate H3 includes a third side H31 and a fourth side H32 opposite to each other in the X-axis direction.

[0202] The fixing portion 23m2 is provided with a first clamping portion H4. Fig.21 The first clamping portion H4 includes a first clamping groove H41 and a second clamping groove H42. The first clamping groove H41 is provided on the first clamping plate H2. The first clamping groove H41 extends along the X-axis direction, and the first clamping groove H41 penetrates the first clamping plate H2 in the Y-axis direction. The first clamping groove H0 includes a first assembly port H411, and the first assembly port H411 penetrates the first side edge H21.

[0203] The second clamping groove H42 is provided on the second clamping plate H3. Specifically, the second clamping groove H42 is provided opposite to the first clamping groove H41. The second clamping groove H42 extends along the X-axis direction, and the second clamping groove H42 penetrates the second clamping plate H3 in the Y-axis direction. The second clamping groove H0 includes a second assembly port H421, and the second assembly port H421 penetrates the third side H31.

[0204] It is understandable that in other embodiments, the first clamping groove H41 and the second clamping groove H42 may be provided only on one of them, that is, the first clamping portion H4 is provided on one of the first clamping plate H2 and the second clamping plate H3.

[0205] To achieve the connection between the mounting portion 23m1 and the fixing portion 23m2, please continue to refer to Fig.21, a matching groove H5 is provided on the fixing portion 23m2. Specifically, the matching groove H5 can be formed on the connecting plate H1. The mounting portion 23m1 can be connected to the matching groove H5 by snapping or bonding. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the fixing portion 23m2 and the mounting portion 23m1 can also be an integrally formed part.

[0206] See also Fig. 22 , Fig. 22 for Fig. 20 Schematic diagram of the assembly of the first stopper 2341, the third stopper 2381 and the driving rod 23d in the hinge mechanism 23 shown. The first end 23d1 of the driving rod 23d can be accommodated in the matching groove H5 on the first fixing member 23m. In some embodiments, the first fixing member 23m is rotatably connected to the driving rod 23d. In this way, when the driving rod 23d is rotated to move the driving rod 23d along the first direction, the driving rod 23d can rotate relative to the first fixing member 23m, which is convenient for adjusting the locking position of the driving rod 23d.

[0207] In some embodiments, in order to improve the connection reliability between the driving rod 23d and the first fixing member 23m, refer to Fig. 22 A first limiting groove G is provided on the outer peripheral wall of the driving rod 23d. The first limiting groove G may be annular. Alternatively, there may be a plurality of first limiting grooves G, which are spaced apart in the circumferential direction of the driving rod 23d.

[0208] The mounting portion 23m1 further includes a first limiting rib E3, which is fixedly connected to an end of the mounting portion 23m1 away from the fixing portion 23m2. Specifically, the first limiting rib E3 can be fixedly connected to an end of the side plate E2 away from the cover plate E1. The first limiting rib E3 can be annular. Fig. 22 , the first limiting rib E3 can be clamped in the first limiting groove G. Thus, a reliable connection between the first fixing member 23m and the driving rod 23d can be achieved.

[0209] For further information, see Fig.21 Combined with Fig. 22 The side plate E2 of the mounting portion 23m1 is provided with a limiting hole E21, which penetrates the side plate E2. There may be a plurality of limiting holes E21, which are spaced apart in the circumferential direction of the side plate E2. The second end portion 23d2 of the driving rod 23d may be clamped in the limiting hole E21.

[0210] On the basis of any of the above embodiments, in order to reduce the difficulty of assembling the driving rod 23d and the first fixing member 23m, refer to Fig.21The first end 23d1 of the driving rod 23d is provided with a notch K, which is recessed from the first end 23d1 of the driving rod 23d to the second end 23d2, and the notch K penetrates the opposite sides of the outer peripheral wall of the driving rod 23d. Thus, the elastic deformation capacity of the first end 23d1 of the driving rod 23d can be improved, and the first end 23d1 of the driving rod 23d can be easily assembled into the matching groove H5 of the mounting portion 23m1.

[0211] See also Fig. 22 , a portion of the first driven rod 23e may be located in the clamping groove H0. It is understandable that in other embodiments, the entire first driven rod 23e may be located in the clamping groove H0, as long as at least a portion of the first driven rod 23e is located in the clamping groove H0.

[0212] The second fixing member 23k includes a second clamping portion, see Fig. 22 The second clamping portion is a first clamping shaft, and the axial direction of the first clamping shaft is parallel to the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232. The axial ends of the first clamping shaft are respectively connected to the first clamping groove H41 and the second clamping groove H42. Specifically, one end of the first clamping shaft can be assembled to the first clamping groove H41 from the first assembly port H411, and the other end of the first clamping shaft can be assembled to the second clamping shaft from the second assembly port H421.

[0213] When the first matching portion 2343a and the second matching portion 2343b are in the matching position, the first clamping portion H4 is clamped and matched with the second clamping portion. In this way, the first fixing member 23m and the second fixing member 23k can be relatively fixed by the cooperation of the first clamping portion H4 and the second clamping portion, and then the first driven rod 23e and the driving rod 23d can be relatively fixed, and the first matching portion 2343a and the second matching portion 2343b can be kept in the target matching position, so as to prevent the first limiting member 2341 and the second limiting member 2342 from rotating relative to each other with the rotation of the first swing arm 231.

[0214] It is understandable that, in other embodiments, the first clamping portion H4 may be formed as a first clamping shaft, and the second clamping portion may be formed as a clamping groove that is clamped and matched with the first clamping shaft.

[0215] In some embodiments, when the driving rod 23d moves relative to the base 23a along the first direction, the first fixing member 23m and the second fixing member 23k are slidably matched. Specifically, the second clamping shaft can be slidably matched with the first clamping groove H41 along the extension direction of the first clamping groove H41. At the same time, the second clamping shaft can also be slidably matched with the second clamping groove H42 along the extension direction of the second clamping groove H42. In this way, the first fixing member 23m and the second fixing member 23k can be prevented from interfering with the movement of the driving rod 23d, and the rotation of the first driven rod 23e can be guaranteed.

[0216] In addition, since the first driven rod 23e in this embodiment is fixedly connected to the first stopper 2341, in order to ensure the axial movement of the first stopper 2341 in the first rotating shaft 232, the second fixing member 23k can also move along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232 relative to the first fixing member 23m. Fig. 22 The dimension of the first driven rod 23e in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232 is smaller than the distance between the first clamping plate H1 and the second clamping plate H2. In this way, the first fixing member 23m and the second fixing member 23k can be prevented from limiting the movement of the first limiting member 2341 in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232.

[0217] In order to simplify the structure of the hinge mechanism 23, please refer to Fig. 22 The second driven rod 23t is provided with a third fixing member 23u for connecting with the first fixing member 23m. The structure of the third fixing member 23u may be the same as that of the second fixing member 23k, and the way in which the third fixing member 23u is connected to the first fixing member 23m is the same as the way in which the second fixing member 23k is connected to the first fixing member 23m, which will not be described in detail here.

[0218] It can be understood that the first fixing member 23m and the second fixing member 23k in this embodiment can be combined with the hinge mechanism 23 in any embodiment of the present application.

[0219] Please return to Fig. 20 The hinge mechanism 23 further includes a synchronization mechanism 23p, which is transmission-connected to the first swing arm 231 and the second swing arm 235, and is used to drive the first swing arm 231 and the second swing arm 235 to rotate in opposite directions, so that the first swing arm 231 and the second swing arm 235 rotate synchronously between the unfolded position and the folded position. The synchronization mechanism 23p in this embodiment is applied to the hinge mechanism 23 in any embodiment of the present application.

[0220] The function of the synchronization mechanism 23p is that when any one of the first swing arm 231 and the second swing arm 235 rotates from the unfolded position to the folded position, the synchronization mechanism 23p can drive the other swing arm to rotate synchronously from the unfolded position to the folded position. Similarly, when any one of the first swing arm 231 and the second swing arm 235 rotates from the folded position to the unfolded position, the synchronization mechanism 23p can also drive the other swing arm to rotate synchronously from the folded position to the unfolded position.

[0221] See also Fig. 20The synchronization mechanism 23p includes a first gear 23p1, a second gear 23p2 and two intermediate gears 23p2. The first gear 23p1 is fixed on the first rotating shaft 232 and can rotate with the first rotating shaft 232. The second gear 23p2 is fixed on the second rotating shaft 236 and can rotate with the second rotating shaft 236.

[0222] The two intermediate gears 23p2 mesh with each other, and one intermediate gear 23p2 meshes with the first gear 23p1, and the other intermediate gear 23p2 meshes with the second gear 23p2. Optionally, the diameter and number of teeth of the intermediate gear 23p2, the first gear 23p1, and the second gear 23p2 are the same. In this way, by providing two intermediate gears 23p2, and the two intermediate gears 23p2 mesh between the first gear 23p1 and the second gear 23p2, the first gear 23p1 and the second gear 23p2 can be made to rotate synchronously and in the opposite direction, that is, the first rotating shaft 232 and the second rotating shaft 236 can rotate synchronously and in the opposite direction, thereby realizing the synchronous opposite rotation of the first swing arm 231 and the second swing arm 235. This structure is simple and easy to implement.

[0223] It is understandable that in other embodiments, the number of the intermediate gears 23p2 may be four, six, etc. Alternatively, the synchronization mechanism 23p may also include only two gears, the first gear 23p1 and the second gear 23p2, and the first swing arm 231 and the second swing arm 235 may be synchronously rotated in opposite directions by directly meshing the first gear 23p1 with the second gear 23p2.

[0224] In some other embodiments, see Fig.23 , Fig.23 2 is a cross-sectional view of a hinge mechanism 23 provided in some other embodiments of the present application. Fig. 20 The hinge mechanism 23 in the illustrated embodiment is different in that the structures of the first fixing member 23m and the second fixing member 23k in this embodiment are different from those in the embodiment shown in FIG. Fig. 20 The structures of the first fixing member 23m and the second fixing member 23k in the illustrated embodiment are different.

[0225] For details, please refer to Fig.23 In this embodiment, the first fixing member 23m is a first magnetic member, and the second fixing member 23k is a second magnetic member. The first magnetic member and the second magnetic member can cooperate with each other magnetically. Among them, one of the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member can be a magnet or a magnetic steel, and the other of the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member can be a magnetic metal member (for example, an iron member, etc.) that cooperates with the magnet or the magnetic steel magnetically, or the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member are both magnets or magnetic steels. In this way, the relative fixation of the driving rod 23d and the first driven rod 23e can be easily achieved. The structure is simple, easy to process, and low in cost.

[0226] See also Fig.23 The structure of the third fixing member 23u may be the same as that of the second fixing member 23k, and the way in which the third fixing member 23u is connected to the first fixing member 23m is the same as the way in which the second fixing member 23k is connected to the first fixing member 23m, which will not be described in detail here.

[0227] It can be understood that the first fixing member 23m and the second fixing member 23k in this embodiment can be combined with the hinge mechanism 23 in any embodiment of the present application.

[0228] In some other embodiments, see Fig.24 , Fig.24 FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a partial structure of a hinge mechanism 23 provided in some other embodiments of the present application. Fig.10 The difference between the hinge mechanism 23 in the embodiment is that the structure of the first adjustment structure 2343 of this embodiment is Fig.10 The structure of the first adjustment structure 2343 in the illustrated embodiment is different.

[0229] Specifically, in this embodiment, the first matching portion 2343a of the first adjustment structure 2343 is a first magnet, and the second matching portion 2343b is a second magnet. The magnetization direction of the first magnet is parallel to the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232. The magnetization direction of the second magnet is opposite to the magnetization direction of the first magnet. When the first limiting member 2341 and the second limiting member 2342 rotate relative to each other, the magnitude of the magnetic repulsion between the first magnet and the second magnet may change accordingly.

[0230] The first magnet and the second magnet can be a magnet or a magnetic steel. The "magnetization direction" refers to the direction from the south pole to the north pole of the magnet, that is, the direction from the S pole to the N pole. For example, please refer to Fig.25 , Fig.25 for Fig.24 The hinge mechanism 23 is shown in an enlarged view of the C region. The end of the first matching portion 2343a adjacent to the second matching portion 2343b is the N pole, and the end of the first matching portion 2343a away from the second matching portion 2343b is the S pole. The end of the second matching portion 2343b adjacent to the first matching portion 2343a is the N pole, and the end of the second matching portion 2343b away from the first matching portion 2343a is the S pole.

[0231] In this embodiment, the orthographic projection of the first matching portion 2343a on the reference plane is the first projection, and the orthographic projection of the second matching portion 2343b on the reference plane is the second projection. The reference plane is perpendicular to the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232. The first projection and the second projection have an overlapping area on the reference plane. When the first limiting member 2341 and the second limiting member 2342 rotate relative to each other, the area size of the overlapping area changes accordingly. It can be understood that when the area of ​​the overlapping area is larger, the magnetic repulsion between the first magnet and the second magnet is larger, and when the area of ​​the overlapping area is smaller, the magnetic repulsion between the first magnet and the second magnet is smaller.

[0232] In this way, by adjusting the size of the overlapping area, the size of the magnetic repulsion force between the first magnet and the second magnet corresponding to the overlapping area is adjusted, and then the force between the first limit member 2341 and the second limit member 2342 can be adjusted, thereby changing the distance between the first matching portion 2343a and the second matching portion 2343b at different matching positions.

[0233] For example, see Fig.21 , the first matching portion 2343a and the second matching portion 2343b can both be formed into an arc shape. On the extension path of the first matching portion 2343a, the thickness of the first matching portion 2343a can remain unchanged. That is, the first matching portion 2343a is a uniform thickness structure. Similarly, the second matching portion 2343b can also be formed into a uniform thickness structure.

[0234] It is understandable that in other embodiments, the shape of the first matching portion 2343a may be different from that of the first matching portion 2343a. Fig.10 The first mating portion 2343a in the embodiment shown has the same shape. In this case, the second mating portion 2343b can be Fig.10 The second matching portion 2343b in the embodiment shown has the same shape, and may also be Fig.21 The second matching portion 2343b in the embodiment shown has the same shape. Thus, when the first stopper 2341 and the second stopper 2342 rotate relative to each other, the magnitude of the magnetic repulsion can be changed by changing the thickness of the magnet corresponding to the above-mentioned intersection area. In addition, in other embodiments, the magnitude of the magnetic repulsion can also be changed by changing the corresponding material of the overlapping area.

[0235] In some other embodiments, see Fig.26 , Fig.26 FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a partial structure of a hinge mechanism 23 provided in some embodiments of the present application. Fig.10 The difference between the hinge mechanism 23 in the embodiment is that the structure of the first adjustment structure 2343 of this embodiment is Fig.10 The structure of the first adjustment structure 2343 in the illustrated embodiment is different.

[0236] See also Fig.26 In this embodiment, the first adjustment structure 2343 is an airbag. The airbag is connected between the first limiter 2341 and the second limiter 2342. Specifically, in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232, the two ends of the first adjustment structure 2343 can respectively abut the first limiter 2341 and the second limiter 2342. The airbag is filled with gas, and the airbag is provided with an air charging and discharging port for inflating and deflating the airbag. In this way, the volume of the airbag can be adjusted by inflating or deflating the airbag, and then the distance between the first limiter 2341 and the second limiter 2342 can be adjusted.

[0237] Specifically, when the airbag is inflated, the volume of the airbag increases, and the airbag expands, which can push the first limiter 2341 to move toward the first damping mechanism 233. When the airbag is deflated, the volume of the airbag decreases, and the airbag contracts, which can pull the first limiter 2341 to move in a direction away from the first damping mechanism 233.

[0238] According to the description of the above embodiments, the hinge mechanism 23 and the foldable electronic device 100 in the embodiment of the present application can adjust the damping force and torque curve of the foldable electronic device 100 after the foldable electronic device 100 is assembled, so that the foldable electronic device 100 can achieve the best opening and closing feel.

[0239] For example, after the foldable electronic device 100 in this embodiment has been used for a period of time, the first adjustment structure 2343 can be used to adjust the distance between the first stopper 2341 and the second stopper 2342 to adjust the position of the first stopper 2341 in the axial direction of the first shaft 232, and adjust the torque curve of the foldable electronic device 100. On the one hand, the problem of the decrease in damping force caused by the wear of parts can be improved, so that the foldable electronic device 100 can still be maintained in the middle hovering state after being used for a period of time. On the other hand, the opening and closing feel of the foldable electronic device 100 can be guaranteed, and the user experience can be improved.

[0240] For another example, the user can adjust the distance between the first stopper 2341 and the second stopper 2342 through the first adjustment structure 2343 according to actual needs, so as to adjust the position of the first stopper 2341 in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232, adjust the damping force and torque curve of the foldable electronic device 100, and adjust the damping feel of the foldable electronic device 100 to meet the use needs of different users. For another example, the distance between the first stopper 2341 and the second stopper 2342 can be adjusted through the first adjustment structure 2343 to adjust the position of the first stopper 2341 in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 232, so that the foldable electronic device 100 can achieve stable switching from the flattened state to the intermediate hovering state.

[0241] Therefore, the hinge mechanism 23 and the foldable electronic device 100 in the embodiment of the present application can improve the problem that the opening and closing feel and the hovering experience of the foldable electronic device 100 are different due to factors such as the usage environment, usage time, and product batch.

[0242] 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.

[0243] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present application, rather than to limit it. Although the present application has been described in detail with reference to the aforementioned embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions described in the aforementioned embodiments, or make equivalent replacements for some of the technical features therein. However, these modifications or replacements do not deviate the essence of the corresponding technical solutions from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application.

Claims

1. A hinge mechanism, characterized in that: include: Pedestal; a first rotating shaft, wherein the first rotating shaft is disposed on the base; A first swing arm, the first swing arm is connected to the first rotating shaft and can rotate relative to the base between an unfolded position and a folded position; a first damping mechanism, the first damping mechanism being disposed between the first swing arm and the first rotating shaft and being used for providing a damping force to the first swing arm; The first limiting mechanism comprises a first limiting member, a second limiting member and a first adjusting structure, wherein: The first limiting member is disposed on the first rotating shaft and abuts against the first damping mechanism, and the first limiting member can move along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft to adjust the damping force of the first damping mechanism; The second limiting member is arranged on a side of the first limiting member away from the first damping mechanism; The first adjustment structure is disposed between the first limiting member and the second limiting member, and is used to adjust the distance between the first limiting member and the second limiting member so as to adjust the position of the first limiting member in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft.

2. The hinge mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first adjustment structure includes a first matching portion and a second matching portion that match each other, one of the first matching portion and the second matching portion is arranged on the first limiting member, and the other is arranged on the second limiting member; There are a plurality of matching positions between the first matching portion and the second matching portion. At different matching positions, the distance between the first limiting member and the second limiting member is different.

3. The hinge mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that: The first limiting member and the second limiting member can rotate relative to each other around a first rotation axis so that the first matching portion and the second matching portion can switch between a plurality of matching positions; wherein the first rotation axis is parallel to the axial direction of the first rotating shaft.

4. The hinge mechanism according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first matching portion is abutted and matched with the second matching portion.

5. The hinge mechanism according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that: The first matching portion extends along the circumferential direction of the first circle; On the extension path of the first matching portion, the first matching portion includes a first extension end and a second extension end, and the thickness of the first matching portion gradually increases in the direction from the first extension end to the second extension end; Wherein, the center of the first circle is located on the rotation axis of the first limiting member and / or the second limiting member.

6. The hinge mechanism according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that: The second matching portion includes a second abutting end for abutting against the first matching portion, and an end surface of the second abutting end is formed as an arc surface arched toward the first matching portion.

7. The hinge mechanism according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first matching portion is a first magnet, the second matching portion is a second magnet, the magnetizing direction of the first magnet is parallel to the axial direction of the first rotating shaft, and the magnetizing direction of the second magnet is opposite to the magnetizing direction of the first magnet; When the first limiting member and the second limiting member rotate relatively, the magnitude of the magnetic repulsion force between the first magnet and the second magnet may change accordingly.

8. The hinge mechanism according to any one of claims 3 to 7, characterized in that: The first stopper can rotate relative to the base around the first rotation axis, the first stopper is provided with a first follower rod, and at least a portion of the first follower rod is located outside the circumference of the first stopper; or the second stopper can rotate relative to the base around the first rotation axis, the second stopper is provided with a first follower rod, and at least a portion of the first follower rod is located outside the circumference of the second stopper; The hinge mechanism further includes a driving rod, the driving rod is connected to the first driven rod, and the driving rod can move relative to the base along a first direction to drive the first limiting member or the second limiting member to rotate around the first rotation axis; Wherein, the first direction is perpendicular to the first rotation axis.

9. The hinge mechanism according to claim 8, characterized in that: The base defines a storage space inside, and the base is provided with a communication hole, the communication hole includes a first orifice and a second orifice that are connected to each other, the first orifice is connected to the storage space, and the second orifice is connected to the external space of the base; The driving rod is passed through the connecting hole, and includes a first end and a second end opposite to each other. The first end passes through the first opening and is connected to the first driven rod, and the second end is exposed from the second opening.

10. The hinge mechanism according to claim 9, characterized in that: The driving rod is threadedly connected to the communicating hole.

11. The hinge mechanism according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that: An inwardly concave groove portion is provided on the outer surface of the base, the communicating hole passes through the groove bottom wall of the groove portion, and the second end of the driving rod is located in the groove portion.

12. The hinge mechanism according to claim 11, characterized in that: It also includes a decorative cover, which is arranged in the groove portion; or, the decorative cover is arranged on the outer surface of the base and sealed in the groove portion.

13. The hinge mechanism according to any one of claims 8 to 12, characterized in that: A first shaft sleeve is provided on the first swing arm. The first shaft sleeve is located on a side of the second limiting member away from the first damping mechanism. The first rotating shaft is fixedly connected to the first shaft sleeve.

14. The hinge mechanism according to claim 13, characterized in that: The hinge mechanism further comprises a first bearing, wherein the first bearing comprises: a first stationary ring, wherein the first stationary ring is rotatably connected to the first rotating shaft, and the first stationary ring abuts against a side of the second limiting member away from the first limiting member; The first moving coil is rotatably connected to one axial side of the first stationary coil, and the first moving coil abuts against the second limiting member.

15. The hinge mechanism according to any one of claims 8 to 14, characterized in that: The hinge mechanism also includes a first fixing member and a second fixing member, the first fixing member is arranged on the driving rod, and the second fixing member is arranged on the first driven rod, and when the first matching portion and the second matching portion are in the matching position, the first fixing member and the second fixing member cooperate with each other to limit the first driven rod from rotating relative to the driving rod.

16. The hinge mechanism according to claim 15, characterized in that: When the driving rod moves relative to the base along the first direction, the first fixing member and the second fixing member are slidably matched.

17. The hinge mechanism according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that: The first fixing member includes a first clamping portion, and the second fixing member includes a second clamping portion. When the first matching portion and the second matching portion are in the matching position, the first clamping portion is clamped and matched with the second clamping portion.

18. The hinge mechanism according to claim 17, characterized in that: The first fixing member comprises: a first clamping plate; a second clamping plate, the second clamping plate being spaced apart from the first clamping plate; A connecting plate, the connecting plate being connected to the first clamping plate and the second clamping plate, a clamping groove being defined between the first clamping plate, the second clamping plate and the connecting plate, the clamping groove being located on a side of the connecting plate away from the driving rod, and at least a portion of the first driven rod being located in the clamping groove; The first clamping portion is disposed on the first clamping plate and / or the second clamping plate.

19. The hinge mechanism according to claim 18, characterized in that: The first clamping portion includes a first clamping groove and a second clamping groove, the first clamping groove is arranged on the first clamping plate, the second clamping groove is arranged on the second clamping plate, the second clamping portion is a first clamping shaft, and the two ends of the first clamping shaft are respectively clamped and matched with the first clamping groove and the second clamping groove.

20. The hinge mechanism according to any one of claims 15 to 19, characterized in that: The first fixing member is rotatably connected to the driving rod.

21. The hinge mechanism according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that: The first fixing member includes a first magnetic member, the second fixing member includes a second magnetic member, and when the first matching portion and the second matching portion are in the matching position, the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member are magnetically matched.

22. The hinge mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 21, characterized in that: The second limiting member is fixed in an axial direction of the first rotating shaft.

23. The hinge mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 22, characterized in that: The first damping mechanism comprises: A first damping member, the first damping member is fixedly connected to the first swing arm and can rotate synchronously with the first swing arm; a second damping member, the second damping member being disposed on the first rotating shaft and being movable along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft; A first elastic member, wherein the first elastic member is sleeved on the first rotating shaft, and the first elastic member is used for applying a force directed toward the first damping member to the second damping member so that the first damping member and the second damping member maintain contact.

24. The hinge mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 23, characterized in that: include: a second rotating shaft, the second rotating shaft being spaced apart from the first rotating shaft; a second swing arm, the second swing arm being connected to the second rotating shaft and being rotatable relative to the base between an unfolded position and a folded position; a second damping mechanism, the second damping mechanism being disposed between the second swing arm and the second rotating shaft and being used for providing a damping force to the second swing arm; A second limiting mechanism, the second limiting mechanism includes a third limiting member, a fourth limiting member and a second adjusting structure, the second limiting member is arranged on the second rotating shaft and abuts against the second damping mechanism, the third limiting member can move along the axial direction of the second rotating shaft to adjust the damping force of the second damping mechanism; the fourth limiting member is arranged on the side of the third limiting member away from the second damping mechanism; the second adjusting structure is arranged between the third limiting member and the fourth limiting member, and is used to adjust the distance between the third limiting member and the fourth limiting member to adjust the position of the third limiting member in the axial direction of the second rotating shaft.

25. A foldable electronic device, characterized in that: include: a first shell; a second shell; A hinge mechanism, wherein the hinge mechanism is connected between the first shell and the second shell, and the hinge mechanism is the hinge mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 24; A folding screen, the folding screen includes a first part, a second part and a third part, the third part is connected between the first part and the second part, the first part is arranged on the first shell, the second part is arranged on the second shell, and the third part is arranged on the hinge mechanism.

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