Rotating shaft mechanism and electronic device

Abstract

Provided are a rotating shaft mechanism and an electronic device. The rotating shaft mechanism comprises a main shaft, a first shell support, a second shell support and a flattening stop mechanism, the flattening stop mechanism comprises a first stop structure and a second stop structure, the first stop structure comprises a first connecting rod and a first stop block, the first connecting rod is rotationally connected with the main shaft, and the first connecting rod is slidingly connected with the first shell support; the first stop block is fixedly connected with the first shell support, and the first stop block is arranged opposite the first connecting rod; the second stop structure comprises a second connecting rod and a second stop block; in the process of unfolding the electronic device to a flattened state, the first connecting rod slides in a direction away from the first shell support, the second connecting rod slides in a direction away from the second shell support, and the first connecting rod and the first stop block abut against each other and the second connecting rod and the second stop block abut against each other when the electronic device is unfolded to the flattened state. The angle of the flattened state of the electronic device is reliably controlled, the electronic device is less likely to be overfolded, and the flexible display screen is less likely to be damaged.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] The angle of foldable electronic devices in their flattened state is crucial to the overall precision of the device. Current foldable electronic devices typically control the flattened angle by adjusting the thickness of the stop surfaces between rotating and mating components, such as the thickness of the stop surfaces between the rotating shaft's arc arm and the main shaft. However, the large dimensions and tolerances of these rotating and mating components result in low reliability for controlling the flattened angle. This makes foldable electronic devices prone to over-folding, which can easily damage the flexible display screen. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides a pivot mechanism and an electronic device to solve the problem of low reliability in controlling the included angle of foldable electronic devices in the flattened state.

[0004] In a first aspect, this application provides a pivot mechanism for use in foldable electronic devices. The pivot mechanism is disposed opposite to the foldable portion of the flexible display screen of the electronic device, and the electronic device unfolds or closes via the pivot mechanism. The pivot mechanism may include a main shaft, a first housing support, a second housing support, and a flattening stop mechanism. The first housing support and the second housing support may be disposed on opposite sides of the main shaft. The flattening stop mechanism may include a first stop structure and a second stop structure. The first stop structure may include a first connecting rod and a first stop block. The first connecting rod may be rotatably connected to the main shaft and slidably connected to the first housing support. The first stop block may be fixedly connected to the first housing support and disposed opposite to the first connecting rod. The second stop structure may include a second connecting rod and a second stop block. The second connecting rod may be rotatably connected to the main shaft and slidably connected to the second housing support. The second stop block may be fixedly connected to the second housing support and disposed opposite to the second connecting rod. The first link and the second link can be connected by transmission. When the electronic device is unfolded or closed, the first housing support and the second housing support can rotate synchronously in opposite directions or towards each other relative to the main shaft. The first link and the second link can also rotate synchronously in opposite directions or towards each other relative to the main shaft. The first link can slide relative to the first housing support, and the second link can slide relative to the second housing support. During the process of unfolding the electronic device to the flattened state, the first link can slide in a direction away from the first housing support, and the second link can slide in a direction away from the second housing support. When the electronic device is unfolded to the flattened state, the first link can abut against the first stop block, and the second link can abut against the second stop block to prevent the first link and the second link from sliding away from the first housing support and the second housing support, respectively.

[0005] In the technical solution provided in this application, during the process of unfolding the electronic device to a flattened state, the first connecting rod slides in a direction away from the first housing support. When the electronic device is unfolded to a flattened state, the first connecting rod abuts against the first stop block, restricting the first connecting rod from continuing to slide relative to the first housing support, thereby restricting the first housing support from continuing to rotate relative to the main shaft in the unfolding direction. Similarly, the second connecting rod slides in a direction away from the second housing support. When the electronic device is unfolded to a flattened state, the second connecting rod abuts against the second stop block, restricting the second connecting rod from continuing to slide relative to the second housing support, thereby restricting the second housing support from continuing to rotate relative to the main shaft in the unfolding direction. The rotation of both the first housing support and the second housing support in the unfolding direction is restricted when in the flattened state, which can reliably control the included angle of the flattened state of the electronic device, making it less prone to over-folding and the flexible display screen of the electronic device less likely to be damaged.

[0006] In one specific implementation, the first housing bracket may be provided with a first sliding groove, which extends away from the main shaft. A first connecting rod is slidably disposed within the first sliding groove. When the electronic device is unfolded or closed, the first connecting rod can slide relative to the first housing bracket in a direction away from or towards the first housing bracket, thus achieving a sliding connection between the first connecting rod and the first housing bracket. The second housing bracket may be provided with a second sliding groove, which extends away from the main shaft. A second connecting rod is slidably disposed within the second sliding groove. When the electronic device is unfolded or closed, the second connecting rod can slide relative to the second housing bracket in a direction away from or towards the second housing bracket, thus achieving a sliding connection between the second connecting rod and the second housing bracket.

[0007] In the specific design of the sliding grooves, a first clearance groove can be provided within the first sliding groove. This first clearance groove can be located on the sidewall of the first sliding groove along a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. The first clearance groove provides clearance space for possible rotation of the first connecting rod relative to the first housing support during sliding, preventing interference with the sliding of the first connecting rod. Similarly, a second clearance groove can be provided within the second sliding groove. This second clearance groove can be located on the sidewall of the second sliding groove along a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. The second clearance groove provides clearance space for possible rotation of the second connecting rod relative to the second housing support during sliding, preventing interference with the sliding of the second connecting rod.

[0008] In one specific implementation, the first slide groove may have a first opening in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. A first stop block may cover the first opening, and a portion of the first connecting rod may be located between the first stop block and the first housing support. The first stop block and the first housing support clamp a portion of the first connecting rod, which can stably hold the first connecting rod within the first slide groove and prevent the first connecting rod from wobbling in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism, thereby improving the stability and smoothness of the sliding of the first connecting rod. The second slide groove may have a second opening in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. A second stop block may cover the second opening, and a portion of the second connecting rod may be located between the second stop block and the second housing support. The second stop block and the second housing support clamp a portion of the second connecting rod, which can stably hold the second connecting rod within the second slide groove and prevent the second connecting rod from wobbling in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism, thereby improving the stability and smoothness of the sliding of the second connecting rod.

[0009] In one specific implementation, a first recess and a second recess can be provided within the first slide groove. The first and second recesses are respectively located on two opposing sidewalls of the first slide groove along the rotational axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. The first connecting rod can be slidably connected within the first and second recesses. The first and second recesses provide a sliding path for the first connecting rod within the first slide groove, improving the stability of the first connecting rod's sliding motion. A third and a fourth recess can be provided within the second slide groove. The third and fourth recesses are respectively located on two opposing sidewalls of the second slide groove along the rotational axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. The second connecting rod can be slidably connected within the third and fourth recesses. The third and fourth recesses provide a sliding path for the second connecting rod within the second slide groove, improving the stability of the second connecting rod's sliding motion.

[0010] In the specific configuration of the connecting rod, a first sliding portion and a second sliding portion can be respectively provided on both sides of the first connecting rod along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. The first sliding portion and the second sliding portion can be slidably connected to the side wall of the first slide groove along a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. When the first connecting rod slides, the first sliding portion and the second sliding portion serve as the parts of the first connecting rod that contact the first slide groove and the first stop block. The first sliding portion and the second sliding portion are respectively provided on both sides of the first connecting rod along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism, which can improve the overall sliding stability of the first connecting rod. Moreover, the thickness of the part of the first connecting rod other than the first sliding portion and the second sliding portion can be appropriately thinner, which can reduce the overall weight of the first connecting rod and also allow the first connecting rod to rotate relative to the first housing support during the sliding process. A third sliding portion and a fourth sliding portion can be respectively provided on both sides of the second connecting rod along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. The third sliding portion and the fourth sliding portion can be slidably connected to the side wall of the second slide groove along a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. When the second link slides, the third and fourth sliding parts serve as the parts that contact the second link with the second slide groove and the second stop block. The third and fourth sliding parts are respectively located on both sides of the second link along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism, which can improve the overall sliding stability of the second link. In addition, the thickness of the part of the second link other than the third and fourth sliding parts can be appropriately thinner, which can reduce the overall weight of the second link and allow the second link to rotate relative to the second housing support during the sliding process.

[0011] In one specific implementation scheme, the end of the first sliding part away from the main shaft may have a first arc-shaped surface, and the end of the second sliding part away from the main shaft may have a second arc-shaped surface. When the first connecting rod slides, the first arc-shaped surface contacts the first groove and the first stop block, and the second arc-shaped surface also contacts the first groove and the first stop block, which can ensure the accuracy and smoothness of the sliding movement of the first connecting rod. The end of the third sliding part away from the main shaft may have a third arc-shaped surface, and the end of the fourth sliding part away from the main shaft may have a fourth arc-shaped surface. When the second connecting rod slides, the third arc-shaped surface contacts the second groove and the second stop block, and the fourth arc-shaped surface also contacts the second groove and the second stop block, which can ensure the accuracy and smoothness of the sliding movement of the second connecting rod.

[0012] In one specific implementation scheme, the cross-sectional dimension of the first sliding part along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism decreases from the end furthest from the main shaft to the end closest to the main shaft, and the cross-sectional dimension of the second sliding part along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism also decreases from the end furthest from the main shaft to the end closest to the main shaft. Both the first and second sliding parts are wedge-shaped structures, which not only ensures the accuracy and smoothness of the sliding motion of the first connecting rod but also improves the wear resistance of the sliding parts, thereby improving the stability of the sliding motion of the first connecting rod and its service life. Similarly, the cross-sectional dimension of the third and fourth sliding parts along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism decreases from the end furthest from the main shaft to the end closest to the main shaft. Both the third and fourth sliding parts are wedge-shaped structures, which not only ensures the accuracy and smoothness of the sliding motion of the second connecting rod but also improves the wear resistance of the sliding parts, thereby improving the stability of the sliding motion of the second connecting rod and its service life.

[0013] In one specific implementation, the first connecting rod may be provided with a first stop groove along the sliding direction, and the side of the first stop block facing the first connecting rod may be provided with a first stop protrusion. The first stop protrusion may extend into the first stop groove. When the electronic device is unfolded to a flattened state, the first connecting rod abuts against the first stop block, including: the end of the first stop groove away from the main shaft abuts against the first stop protrusion. This can restrict the first connecting rod from continuing to slide away from the first housing support, that is, restrict the first housing support and the first connecting rod from continuing to slide relative to each other along the unfolding direction, thereby restricting the first housing support from continuing to rotate relative to the main shaft along the unfolding direction. The second connecting rod may be provided with a second stop groove along the sliding direction, and the side of the second stop block facing the second connecting rod may be provided with a second stop protrusion. The second stop protrusion may extend into the second stop groove. When the electronic device is unfolded to a flattened state, the second connecting rod abuts against the second stop block, including: the end of the second stop groove away from the main shaft abuts against the second stop protrusion. It can restrict the second link from sliding further away from the second housing support, that is, restrict the second housing support and the second link from sliding relative to each other in the unfolding direction, thereby restricting the second housing support from rotating relative to the main shaft in the unfolding direction.

[0014] In one specific implementation scheme, the first housing bracket may be provided with a first mounting groove and a second mounting groove, which are respectively located on both sides of the first connecting rod along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. The two ends of the first stop block along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism can be fixedly connected to the first mounting groove and the second mounting groove, respectively. This achieves a fixed connection between the first stop block and the first housing bracket. The second housing bracket may be provided with a third mounting groove and a fourth mounting groove, which are respectively located on both sides of the second connecting rod along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. The two ends of the second stop block along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism can be fixedly connected to the third mounting groove and the fourth mounting groove, respectively. This achieves a fixed connection between the second stop block and the second housing bracket.

[0015] In one specific feasible implementation, a first gear portion can be provided at the end of the first connecting rod rotatably connected to the main shaft, and a second gear portion can be provided at the end of the second connecting rod rotatably connected to the main shaft. The first gear portion and the second gear portion can be drivenly connected so that the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod can rotate synchronously in opposite directions or towards each other relative to the main shaft. This allows the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod to rotate synchronously relative to the main shaft.

[0016] In one specific implementation scheme, the main shaft may be equipped with a synchronous gear set, which may be located between the first and second connecting rods. The first gear section and the second gear section can be connected by transmission through the synchronous gear set. The synchronous gear set may include an even number of transmission gears that are sequentially connected. This enables synchronous rotation of the first and second gear sections, thereby achieving synchronous rotation of the first and second connecting rods.

[0017] Secondly, this application also provides an electronic device, which may include a first housing, a second housing, a flexible display screen, and a hinge mechanism as described in any of the possible embodiments of the first aspect above. The first housing and the second housing may be disposed on opposite sides of the hinge mechanism, the first housing may be fixedly connected to a first housing support, and the second housing may be fixedly connected to a second housing support. The flexible display screen may continuously cover the first housing, the second housing, and the hinge mechanism, and the flexible display screen may be fixedly connected to the first housing and the second housing.

[0018] The electronic device provided in this application has a relatively reliable control over the angle of the flattened state, is not prone to over-folding, and its flexible display screen is not easily damaged. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is an exploded structural diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0020] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0021] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in the embodiment of this application in the closed state;

[0022] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application in a flattened state;

[0023] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of a portion of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0024] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first housing support of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0025] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the structure of the first stop block of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0026] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a rotating shaft mechanism provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0027] Figure 9 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a rotating shaft mechanism provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0028] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first link of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0029] Figure label:

[0030] 1-Spindle; 2-First housing support; 3-Second housing support; 10-First stop structure; 20-Second stop structure;

[0031] 21-First groove; 211-First clearance groove; 212-First recess; 213-Second recess; 22-First mounting groove;

[0032] 23-Second mounting groove; 31-Second sliding groove; 312-Third recess; 313-Fourth recess; 101-First connecting rod;

[0033] 102-First stop block; 1011-First sliding part; 1012-Second sliding part; 1013-First stop groove;

[0034] 1014 - First mounting hole; 1015 - First gear section; 10111 - First arc-shaped surface; 10121 - Second arc-shaped surface;

[0035] 1021 - Third slide groove; 1022 - First stop protrusion; 1023 - First adjusting groove; 201 - Second connecting rod;

[0036] 202 - Second stop block; 2015 - Second gear section. Detailed Implementation

[0037] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the exemplary embodiments can be implemented in many forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. The same reference numerals in the figures denote the same or similar structures, and therefore repeated descriptions of them will be omitted. The terms expressing position and direction described in the embodiments of this application are illustrative based on the accompanying drawings, but changes can be made as needed, and all such changes are included within the scope of protection of this application. The accompanying drawings of the embodiments of this application are only for illustrating relative positional relationships and do not represent actual scale.

[0038] Specific details are set forth in the following description to aid in understanding this application; however, embodiments of this application can be implemented in various ways other than those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar extensions without departing from the spirit of the embodiments of this application. Therefore, this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0039] To facilitate understanding, the application scenarios of the hinge mechanism involved in the embodiments of this application will first be explained. The hinge mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application can be adapted to electronic devices, such as mobile terminals like mobile phones, tablets, or laptops. As one possible application scenario, the hinge mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application can be adapted to foldable electronic devices, serving as a component of the hinge module of foldable electronic devices.

[0040] Foldable electronic devices typically include structural components such as flexible displays, hinge modules, and housings. The housing consists of a first housing and a second housing that are movably connected via the hinge module. When the foldable electronic device is opened or closed, the first and second housings rotate relative to each other, the hinge module provides damping force, and the flexible display bends.

[0041] First refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , Figure 1 An exploded structural diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the rotating shaft mechanism provided in this embodiment may include a main shaft 1, a first housing support 2, a second housing support 3, and a flattening stop mechanism. The first housing support 2 and the second housing support 3 may be respectively disposed on opposite sides of the main shaft 1. The flattening stop mechanism includes two stop structures, namely a first stop structure 10 and a second stop structure 20, which may be respectively disposed on opposite sides of the main shaft 1.

[0042] In this embodiment, the first stop structure 10 may include a first connecting rod 101 and a first stop block 102. The first connecting rod 101 is rotatably connected to the main shaft 1, and the rotation axis of the first connecting rod 101 may be parallel to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. The first connecting rod 101 is also slidably connected to the first housing support 2. The first stop block 102 may be fixedly connected to the first housing support 2, for example, the first stop block 102 may be welded to the first housing support 2. The first stop block 102 is disposed opposite to the first connecting rod 101, specifically, the position of the first stop block 102 corresponds to that of the first connecting rod 101.

[0043] Similar to the first stop structure 10, the second stop structure 20 may include a second connecting rod 201 and a second stop block 202. The second connecting rod 201 is rotatably connected to the main shaft 1 and slidably connected to the second housing support 3. The second stop block 202 is fixedly connected to the second housing support 3 and is disposed opposite to the second connecting rod 201.

[0044] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 , Figure 3 This illustration shows a schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in the embodiment of this application in the closed state. Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application in its flattened state is shown. Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, in a specific implementation, the first link 101 can be connected to the second link 201 in a transmission manner. When the electronic device is unfolded or closed, the first housing support 2 and the second housing support 3 can rotate synchronously in opposite directions or towards each other relative to the main shaft 1, which can drive the first link 101 and the second link 201 to rotate synchronously in opposite directions or towards each other relative to the main shaft 1. The first link 101 can slide relative to the first housing support 2, and the second link 201 can slide relative to the second housing support 3. During the unfolding process of the electronic device, the first link 101 slides away from the first housing support 2. When the electronic device is unfolded to the flat state, the first link 101 abuts against the first stop block 102, restricting the first link 101 from continuing to slide relative to the first housing support 2. That is, it prevents the first link 101 from continuing to slide away from the first housing support 2, thereby restricting the first housing support 2 from continuing to rotate relative to the main shaft 1 in the unfolding direction. Similarly, the second link 201 slides away from the second housing support 3. When the electronic device is unfolded to the flat state, the second link 201 abuts against the second stop block 202, restricting the second link 201 from continuing to slide relative to the second housing support 3. That is, it prevents the second link 201 from continuing to slide away from the second housing support 3, thereby restricting the second housing support 3 from continuing to rotate relative to the main shaft 1 in the unfolding direction. The rotation of the first housing support 2 and the second housing support 3 in the unfolding direction is restricted when they are flat, which can reliably control the angle of the flat state of the electronic device. The electronic device is less likely to over-fold, and the flexible display screen of the electronic device is less likely to be damaged. Furthermore, during the assembly process, the relative positions of the first stop block 102 on the first housing support 2 and the second stop block 202 on the second housing support 3 can be adjusted to adjust the flattened angle of the first housing support 2 and the second housing support 3, that is, to adjust the flattened angle of the electronic device, which facilitates the fit tolerance between the components and makes it easier to achieve the ideal flattened angle.

[0045] For ease of description, in the following embodiments of this application, the specific arrangement of the first stop structure 10 is mainly used as an example to illustrate the rotating shaft mechanism, while the second stop structure 20 can be set with reference to the first stop structure 10. It is understood that the design of the second stop structure 20 can be completely consistent with the first stop structure 10, or it can only refer to the components and connection relationships included in the first stop structure 10, and other parameters can be adjusted adaptively, and are not required to be completely consistent.

[0046] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6 , Figure 5 This paper shows a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of a portion of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the first housing support of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. (Distinguished from...) Figure 2 , Figure 5 The middle is hidden Figure 2 The first stop block 102 and the second stop block 202 in the middle. For example... Figure 5 As shown in this embodiment, the first housing support 2 is provided with a first sliding groove 21, which extends in a direction away from the main shaft 1. Taking a rotating shaft mechanism applied to an inwardly folding electronic device as an example, specifically, the first sliding groove 21 can be located on the side of the first housing support 2 facing the flexible display screen. When the first housing support 2 is formed by a mold, the first sliding groove 21 can be formed together with the mold. The first connecting rod 101 can be slidably disposed in the first sliding groove 21 to realize the sliding connection between the first connecting rod 101 and the first housing support 2. When the electronic device is unfolded or closed, the first housing support 2 rotates relative to the main shaft 1 in a direction away from or close to the main shaft 1, driving the first connecting rod 101 to rotate relative to the main shaft 1 in a direction away from or close to the main shaft 1. At the same time, the first connecting rod 101 slides relative to the first housing support 2 in a direction away from or close to the first housing support 2.

[0047] like Figure 6 As shown, a first clearance groove 211 can be provided within the first slide groove 21. The first clearance groove 211 can be provided on the side wall of the first slide groove 21 along a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. Combined with... Figure 5 As shown, the first clearance groove 211 can provide clearance space for the rotation of the first link 101 relative to the first housing support 2 during the sliding process of the first link 101 relative to the first housing support 2, so as to avoid interference with the sliding of the first link 101.

[0048] Combination Figure 2 and Figure 6 As shown, the first slide groove 21 may have a first opening in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. Taking the rotating shaft mechanism as an example applied to an inwardly folding electronic device, the first opening may face the flexible display screen. The first stop block 102 may cover the first opening. Part of the first connecting rod 101 may be located between the first stop block 102 and the first housing support 2, or in other words, part of the first connecting rod 101 may be located within the receiving space formed by the first stop block 102 and the first slide groove 21. The first stop block 102 and the first housing support 2 clamp part of the first connecting rod 101. The first stop block 102 can stably hold the first connecting rod 101 within the first slide groove 21 and prevent the first connecting rod 101 from shaking in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism, thereby improving the stability and smoothness of the sliding of the first connecting rod 101. In this specific implementation, the first stop block 102 has the function of restricting the first link 101 from continuing to slide relative to the first housing support 2 when the electronic device is unfolded to the flat state. At the same time, the first stop block 102 also has the function of clamping part of the first link 101 together with the first housing support 2 to prevent the first link 101 from shaking in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism.

[0049] Reference Figure 7 , Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the structure of the first stop block of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. (Combined with...) Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, a third slide groove 1021 can be provided on the side of the first stop block 102 facing the first connecting rod 101. The third slide groove 1021 and the first slide groove 21 can be aligned in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. The third slide groove 1021 and the first slide groove 21 together form a receiving space to accommodate part of the first connecting rod 101. The third slide groove 1021 can share part of the depth of the receiving space in the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism, so the depth of the first slide groove 21 can be shallower, which is beneficial to maintaining the structural strength of the first housing support 2.

[0050] Reference Figure 8 and Figure 9 , Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the structure of a rotating shaft mechanism according to another embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 9 A partial structural schematic diagram of a rotating shaft mechanism provided in another embodiment of this application is shown. Different from... Figure 5 , Figure 8 The structure of the first groove 21 in the middle has changed. It differs from... Figure 8 , Figure 9 The middle is hidden Figure 8 The first stop block 102 and the second stop block 202 in the middle. For example... Figure 8 As shown, a first recess 212 and a second recess 213 can be provided in the first slide groove 21. The first recess 212 and the second recess 213 can be respectively provided on two opposite sidewalls of the first slide groove 21 along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. The first connecting rod 101 can be slidably connected in the first recess 212 and the second recess 213. The first recess 212 and the second recess 213 can provide a sliding path for the first connecting rod 101 to slide in the first slide groove 21, which can improve the stability of the sliding of the first connecting rod 101. Specifically, the first recess 212 and the second recess 213 can be formed in the first slide groove 21 by grooving. In this specific implementation, the first stop block 102 has the function of restricting the first connecting rod 101 from continuing to slide relative to the first housing support 2 when the electronic device is unfolded to the flattened state, and the first recess 212 and the second recess 213 have the function of restricting the first connecting rod 101 from wobbling in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism.

[0051] Reference Figure 10 , Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the structure of the first link of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. (Combined with...) Figure 5 , Figure 8 and Figure 10As shown, the end of the first connecting rod 101 that is rotatably connected to the main shaft 1 may be provided with a first mounting hole 1014. The first connecting rod 101 can be rotatably connected to the main shaft 1 through a connecting member such as a pin passing through the first mounting hole 1014. A first sliding part 1011 and a second sliding part 1012 may be respectively provided on both sides of the first connecting rod 101 along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. The first sliding part 1011 and the second sliding part 1012 can be slidably connected to the side wall of the first slide groove 21 along a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. When the first link 101 slides, the first sliding part 1011 and the second sliding part 1012 are the parts of the first link 101 that contact the first slide groove 21 and the first stop block 102. The first sliding part 1011 and the second sliding part 1012 are respectively arranged on both sides of the first link 101 along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism, which can improve the overall sliding stability of the first link 101. In addition, the thickness of the part of the first link 101 other than the first sliding part 1011 and the second sliding part 1012 can be appropriately thinner, which can reduce the overall weight of the first link 101 and allow the first link 101 to rotate relative to the first housing support 2 during the sliding process. Specifically, when the first groove 21 is provided with a first recess 212 and a second recess 213, the first sliding part 1011 and the second sliding part 1012 can be located in the first recess 212 and the second recess 213 respectively. The first sliding part 1011 can be slidably connected to the side wall of the first recess 212 in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism, and the second sliding part 1012 can be slidably connected to the side wall of the second recess 213 in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism, which can further improve the overall sliding stability of the first connecting rod 101.

[0052] In this embodiment, the end of the first sliding part 1011 away from the main shaft 1 may have a first arcuate surface 10111, the axial direction of which may be parallel to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. Similarly, the end of the second sliding part 1012 away from the main shaft 1 may have a second arcuate surface 10121, the axial direction of which may also be parallel to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. When the first connecting rod 101 slides, the first arcuate surface 10111 contacts the first slide groove 21 and the first stop block 102, and the second arcuate surface 10121 also contacts the first slide groove 21 and the first stop block 102, ensuring the accuracy and smoothness of the sliding motion of the first connecting rod 101. In specific implementations, the first arcuate surface 10111 and the second arcuate surface 10121 may extend along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism and connect to form a complete arcuate surface, facilitating shaping.

[0053] In some possible implementations, the first sliding part 1011 can be a cylindrical structure, and the first arcuate surface 10111 is a part of the cylindrical surface of the first sliding part 1011. Similarly, the second sliding part 1012 can also be a cylindrical structure, and the second arcuate surface 10121 is a part of the cylindrical surface of the second sliding part 1012. In other possible implementations, the cross-sectional dimension of the first sliding part 1011 along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism decreases from the end away from the main shaft 1 to the end closer to the main shaft 1. It can be understood that the first sliding part 1011 is a wedge-shaped structure, and the two ends of the wedge-shaped structure can each have an arcuate surface. The cross-sectional dimension of the second sliding part 1012 along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism decreases from the end away from the main shaft 1 to the end closer to the main shaft 1. Similarly, it can be understood that the second sliding part 1012 is a wedge-shaped structure, and the two ends of the wedge-shaped structure can each have an arcuate surface. The wedge-shaped sliding part can not only ensure the accuracy and smoothness of the sliding motion of the first connecting rod 101, but also improve the wear resistance of the sliding part, thereby improving the sliding stability of the first connecting rod 101 and the service life of the first connecting rod 101.

[0054] Combination Figure 7 As shown, the first connecting rod 101 can be provided with a first stop groove 1013 along its sliding direction. The side of the first stop block 102 facing the first connecting rod 101 can be provided with a first stop protrusion 1022. In actual assembly, the first stop protrusion 1022 extends into the first stop groove 1013. When the electronic device is unfolded to a flattened state, the first connecting rod 101 abuts against the first stop block 102. Specifically, the end of the first stop groove 1013 away from the main shaft 1 abuts against the first stop protrusion 1022, restricting the first connecting rod 101 from continuing to slide away from the first housing support 2, that is, restricting the first housing support 2 and the first connecting rod 101 from continuing to slide relative to each other in the unfolding direction, thereby restricting the first housing support 2 from continuing to rotate relative to the main shaft 1 in the unfolding direction. In specific implementation, the first stop groove 1013 can be a circumferentially closed groove or a circumferentially open semi-open groove, as long as it can achieve the above-mentioned restrictive function.

[0055] Refer again Figure 2 and Figure 6 As shown, the first housing support 2 may be provided with a first mounting groove 22 and a second mounting groove 23. Taking the rotating shaft mechanism applied to an inwardly folding electronic device as an example, the first mounting groove 22 and the second mounting groove 23 may be located on the side of the first housing support 2 facing the flexible display screen, and the first mounting groove 22 and the second mounting groove 23 may be located on both sides of the first connecting rod 101 along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. The two ends of the first stop block 102 along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism may be fixedly connected to the first mounting groove 22 and the second mounting groove 23 respectively, realizing the fixed connection between the first stop block 102 and the first housing support 2.

[0056] like Figure 7 As shown, in a specific implementation, the first stop block 102 may be provided with a first adjustment groove 1023, which facilitates adjusting the relative position of the first stop block 102 and the first housing bracket 2 during the assembly process, and can appropriately reduce the weight of the first stop block 102.

[0057] As mentioned earlier, the second housing support 3 and the first housing support 2 can be respectively located on opposite sides of the main shaft 1. For specific implementation, please refer again... Figure 5 As shown, the second housing support 3 is provided with a second slide groove 31, which extends in a direction away from the main shaft 1. The second connecting rod 201 is slidably disposed in the second slide groove 31. When the electronic device is opened or closed, the second connecting rod 201 slides relative to the second housing support 3 in a direction away from or close to the second housing support 3.

[0058] In this embodiment, a second clearance groove is provided within the second slide groove 31, and the second clearance groove is located on the side wall of the second slide groove 31 in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. Combined with Figure 2 As shown, the second slide groove 31 has a second opening in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism, the second stop block 202 covers the second opening, and part of the second connecting rod 201 is located between the second stop block 202 and the second housing support 3.

[0059] In a specific implementation, the second stop block 202 is provided with a fourth slide groove on the side facing the second connecting rod 201. The fourth slide groove and the second slide groove 31 are aligned in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. The fourth slide groove and the second slide groove 31 together form a receiving space to accommodate the second connecting rod 201.

[0060] In the embodiments of this application, combined with Figure 8 As shown, the second slide groove 31 is provided with a third recess 312 and a fourth recess 313. The third recess 312 and the fourth recess 313 are respectively provided on two side walls of the second slide groove 31 that are opposite to each other along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. The second connecting rod 201 is slidably connected in the third recess 312 and the fourth recess 313.

[0061] In this embodiment, the second connecting rod 201 has a third sliding portion and a fourth sliding portion on both sides along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. The third sliding portion and the fourth sliding portion are slidably connected to the side wall of the second slide groove 31 along a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. The end of the third sliding portion away from the main shaft 1 has a third arc-shaped surface, and the end of the fourth sliding portion away from the main shaft 1 has a fourth arc-shaped surface. The cross-sectional dimension of the third sliding portion along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism decreases from the end away from the main shaft 1 to the end closer to the main shaft 1, which can be understood as the third sliding portion having a wedge-shaped structure. The cross-sectional dimension of the fourth sliding portion along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism decreases from the end away from the main shaft 1 to the end closer to the main shaft 1, which can be understood as the fourth sliding portion having a wedge-shaped structure.

[0062] In this embodiment, the second link 201 is provided with a second stop groove along the sliding direction, and the side of the second stop block 202 facing the second link 201 is provided with a second stop protrusion. The second stop protrusion extends into the second stop groove. When the electronic device is unfolded to the flattened state, the end of the second stop groove away from the main shaft 1 abuts against the second stop protrusion.

[0063] In this embodiment, the second housing bracket 3 is provided with a third mounting groove and a fourth mounting groove. The third mounting groove and the fourth mounting groove are respectively located on both sides of the second connecting rod 201 along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. The two ends of the second stop block 202 along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism are respectively fixedly connected in the third mounting groove and the fourth mounting groove.

[0064] It is understood that some features in the above embodiments are described using the application of the hinge mechanism to an inwardly folding electronic device as an example. In actual applications, the hinge mechanism can also be applied to an outwardly folding electronic device. In this case, the setting position, orientation, etc. of this part of the feature can be adaptively adjusted according to the change of the folding direction of the electronic device.

[0065] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 10 As shown, a first gear 101 may be provided at one end of the first connecting rod 101 rotatably connected to the main shaft 1, and a second gear 2015 may be provided at one end of the second connecting rod 201 rotatably connected to the main shaft 1. The first gear 1015 and the second gear 2015 are connected in a transmission manner to realize that the first connecting rod 101 and the second connecting rod 201 rotate synchronously in opposite directions or towards each other relative to the main shaft 1. Specifically, the first gear 1015 may include a plurality of first tooth-like structures arranged around the rotation axis of the first connecting rod 101, and the second gear 2015 may include a plurality of second tooth-like structures arranged around the rotation axis of the second connecting rod 201. The first gear 1015 and the second gear 2015 achieve synchronous rotation of the first gear 1015 and the second gear 2015 through the meshing of the plurality of first tooth-like structures and the plurality of second tooth-like structures.

[0066] In a specific implementation, the main shaft 1 may be equipped with a synchronous gear set, located between the first connecting rod 101 and the second connecting rod 201. The first gear section 1015 and the second gear section 2015 are connected by the synchronous gear set. The synchronous gear set may include an even number of sequentially connected transmission gears. For example, the synchronous gear set may include two rotatably connected transmission gears to achieve synchronous rotation of the first gear section 1015 and the second gear section 2015, thereby achieving synchronous rotation of the first connecting rod 101 and the second connecting rod 201. Specifically, the axial direction of the transmission gears may be parallel to the rotational axis of the rotating shaft mechanism.

[0067] The above are merely specific embodiments of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A hinge mechanism for a foldable electronic device, the hinge mechanism being disposed opposite to a foldable portion of a flexible display screen of the electronic device, the electronic device being unfolded or closed via the hinge mechanism, characterized in that, The rotating shaft mechanism includes a main shaft (1), a first housing support (2), a second housing support (3), and a flattening stop mechanism. The first housing support (2) and the second housing support (3) are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the main shaft (1). The flattening stop mechanism includes a first stop structure (10) and a second stop structure (20), wherein: The first stop structure (10) includes a first connecting rod (101) and a first stop block (102). The first connecting rod (101) is rotatably connected to the main shaft (1) and slidably connected to the first housing support (2). The first stop block (102) is fixedly connected to the first housing support (2) and is disposed opposite to the first connecting rod (101). The second stop structure (20) includes a second connecting rod (201) and a second stop block (202). The second connecting rod (201) is rotatably connected to the main shaft (1) and slidably connected to the second housing support (3). The second stop block (202) is fixedly connected to the second housing support (3) and is disposed opposite to the second connecting rod (201). The first connecting rod (101) is connected to the second connecting rod (201) in a transmission manner. When the electronic device is unfolded or closed, the first housing support (2) and the second housing support (3) rotate synchronously in opposite directions or towards each other relative to the main shaft (1). The first connecting rod (101) and the second connecting rod (201) rotate synchronously in opposite directions or towards each other relative to the main shaft (1). The first connecting rod (101) slides relative to the first housing support (2), and the second connecting rod (201) slides relative to the second housing support (3). During the process of unfolding the electronic device to the flattened state, the first connecting rod (101) slides in a direction away from the first housing support (2), and the second connecting rod (201) slides in a direction away from the second housing support (3). When the electronic device is unfolded to the flattened state, the first connecting rod (101) abuts against the first stop block (102), and the second connecting rod (201) abuts against the second stop block (202). The first housing bracket (2) is provided with a first mounting groove (22) and a second mounting groove (23). The first mounting groove (22) and the second mounting groove (23) are respectively located on both sides of the first connecting rod (101) along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. The two ends of the first stop block (102) along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism are respectively fixedly connected in the first mounting groove (22) and the second mounting groove (23). The second housing bracket (3) is provided with a third mounting groove and a fourth mounting groove. The third mounting groove and the fourth mounting groove are respectively located on both sides of the second connecting rod (201) along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. The two ends of the second stop block (202) along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism are respectively fixedly connected in the third mounting groove and the fourth mounting groove. The first stop block (102) is provided with a first adjustment groove (1023), which is used to adjust the relative position of the first stop block (102) and the first housing bracket (2) during the assembly process.

2. The rotating shaft mechanism as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The first housing support (2) is provided with a first slide groove (21), the first slide groove (21) extends in a direction away from the main shaft (1), the first connecting rod (101) is slidably disposed in the first slide groove (21), when the electronic device is unfolded or closed, the first connecting rod (101) slides relative to the first housing support (2) in a direction away from or close to the first housing support (2); The second housing support (3) is provided with a second slide groove (31), the second slide groove (31) extends in a direction away from the main shaft (1), and the second connecting rod (201) is slidably disposed in the second slide groove (31). When the electronic device is unfolded or closed, the second connecting rod (201) slides relative to the second housing support (3) in a direction away from or close to the second housing support (3).

3. The rotating shaft mechanism as described in claim 2, characterized in that: The first slide groove (21) is provided with a first clearance groove (211), which is located on the side wall of the first slide groove (21) in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. The second slide groove (31) is provided with a second clearance groove, which is located on the side wall of the second slide groove (31) in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism.

4. The rotating shaft mechanism as described in claim 2 or 3, characterized in that: The first slide (21) has a first opening in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism, the first stop block (102) covers the first opening, and a portion of the first connecting rod (101) is located between the first stop block (102) and the first housing support (2). The second slide (31) has a second opening in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism, the second stop block (202) covers the second opening, and a portion of the second connecting rod (201) is located between the second stop block (202) and the second housing support (3).

5. The rotating shaft mechanism as described in any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that: The first groove (21) is provided with a first recess (212) and a second recess (213). The first recess (212) and the second recess (213) are respectively provided on two side walls of the first groove (21) that are opposite to each other along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. The first connecting rod (101) is slidably connected in the first recess (212) and the second recess (213). The second slide groove (31) is provided with a third recess (312) and a fourth recess (313). The third recess (312) and the fourth recess (313) are respectively provided on two side walls of the second slide groove (31) that are opposite to each other along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. The second connecting rod (201) is slidably connected in the third recess (312) and the fourth recess (313).

6. The rotating shaft mechanism as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: The first connecting rod (101) is provided with a first sliding part (1011) and a second sliding part (1012) on both sides along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. The first sliding part (1011) and the second sliding part (1012) are slidably connected to the side wall of the first slide groove (21) in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. The second connecting rod (201) is provided with a third sliding part and a fourth sliding part on both sides along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism. The third sliding part and the fourth sliding part are respectively slidably connected to the side wall of the second slide groove (31) in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism.

7. The rotating shaft mechanism as described in claim 6, characterized in that: The first sliding part (1011) has a first arc-shaped surface (10111) at one end away from the main shaft (1), and the second sliding part (1012) has a second arc-shaped surface (10121) at one end away from the main shaft (1). The third sliding part has a third arc-shaped surface at the end away from the main shaft (1), and the fourth sliding part has a fourth arc-shaped surface at the end away from the main shaft (1).

8. The rotating shaft mechanism as described in claim 7, characterized in that: The cross-sectional dimension of the first sliding part (1011) along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism decreases from the end away from the main shaft (1) to the end closer to the main shaft (1), and the cross-sectional dimension of the second sliding part (1012) along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism decreases from the end away from the main shaft (1) to the end closer to the main shaft (1); The cross-sectional dimension of the third sliding part along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism decreases from the end away from the main shaft (1) to the end closer to the main shaft (1), and the cross-sectional dimension of the fourth sliding part along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft mechanism decreases from the end away from the main shaft (1) to the end closer to the main shaft (1).

9. The rotating shaft mechanism as described in any one of claims 4 to 8, characterized in that: The first connecting rod (101) is provided with a first stop groove (1013) along the sliding direction. The first stop block (102) is provided with a first stop protrusion (1022) on the side facing the first connecting rod (101). The first stop protrusion (1022) extends into the first stop groove (1013). When the electronic device is unfolded to the flat state, the first connecting rod (101) abuts against the first stop block (102), including: the end of the first stop groove (1013) away from the main shaft (1) abuts against the first stop protrusion (1022). The second connecting rod (201) is provided with a second stop groove along the sliding direction, and the second stop block (202) is provided with a second stop protrusion on the side facing the second connecting rod (201). The second stop protrusion extends into the second stop groove. When the electronic device is unfolded to the flat state, the second connecting rod (201) abuts against the second stop block (202), including: the end of the second stop groove away from the main shaft (1) abuts against the second stop protrusion.

10. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The first connecting rod (101) is rotatably connected to the main shaft (1) and is provided with a first gear part (1015). The second connecting rod (201) is rotatably connected to the main shaft (1) and is provided with a second gear part (2015). The first gear part (1015) and the second gear part (2015) are connected in a transmission connection so that the first connecting rod (101) and the second connecting rod (201) rotate synchronously in opposite directions or in the same direction relative to the main shaft (1).

11. The rotating shaft mechanism as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The main shaft (1) is provided with a synchronous gear set, which is located between the first connecting rod (101) and the second connecting rod (201). The first gear part (1015) and the second gear part (2015) are connected by transmission through the synchronous gear set. The synchronous gear set includes an even number of transmission gears that are connected in sequence.

12. An electronic device, characterized in that, It includes a first housing, a second housing, a flexible display screen, and a rotating shaft mechanism as described in any one of claims 1 to 11; The first housing and the second housing are respectively disposed on opposite sides of the rotating shaft mechanism. The first housing is fixedly connected to the first housing support (2), and the second housing is fixedly connected to the second housing support (3). The flexible display screen continuously covers the first housing, the second housing, and the rotating shaft mechanism, and the flexible display screen is fixedly connected to the first housing and the second housing.

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