Folding mechanism, electronic device and accessory thereof

Abstract

This application relates to the field of electronic device accessories, and discloses a folding mechanism, an electronic device, and accessories thereof. The folding mechanism includes a flexible element, a fixed member, and at least one sliding compensation mechanism; the flexible element and the fixed member are slidably stacked relative to each other, wherein when the folding mechanism is folded, the flexible element and the fixed member fold simultaneously; the sliding compensation mechanism is connected to both the flexible element and the fixed member, and is used to apply a force to the flexible element and the fixed member respectively to promote relative sliding when they are folded simultaneously. The folding mechanism provided by this application can prevent undesirable creases from forming at the bending points of the flexible element, thus preventing fatigue failure and improving the service life of the flexible element.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of electronic device accessories, specifically to a folding mechanism, electronic device, and accessories thereof. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, some electronic devices use foldable screens for their display modules. These screens are convenient to carry when folded and provide a larger display area when unfolded. Because foldable screens have a certain thickness, when folded, the external force causing the screen to bend is decomposed into two opposing forces at the bending point. This results in tensile stress pointing towards the sides of the screen on the outer side of the bending point, and compressive stress pointing inwards on the inner side. These two stresses create a bending moment at the compressive point, causing a tendency for the screen to delaminate along its thickness. In severe cases, this can lead to relative slippage between the upper and lower layers of the screen structure.

[0003] In the prior art, the folding screen is bonded and fixed to the non-hinge part of the fixed component through an adhesive layer, and the edge is constrained to the fixed component by a screen-pressing strip.

[0004] While this solution prevents the slippage between structural layers in the non-bending area of ​​the screen, the fixing method causes all the screen delamination tendencies caused by bending to be concentrated at the bending part. This results in bulges or dents at the bending part when the screen is folded, making the screen more susceptible to fatigue damage and creases under the normal cyclic loads of daily use, thereby damaging the screen's display function. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of this, the present invention provides a folding mechanism and an electronic device with a sliding compensation mechanism, which can better prevent creases from forming at the bending parts of flexible components.

[0006] This application provides a folding mechanism, which includes: a flexible element, a fixing member, and at least one sliding compensation mechanism;

[0007] The flexible element and the fixed member can be slidably stacked relative to each other;

[0008] When the folding mechanism is folded or unfolded, the flexible element and the fixed member have the same folding axis;

[0009] The sliding compensation mechanism is connected to the flexible element and the fixed member respectively. The sliding compensation mechanism is used to apply a force to the flexible element and the fixed member respectively to promote relative sliding when the flexible element and the fixed member are folded synchronously.

[0010] Optionally, the slip compensation mechanism includes an energy storage component, which is connected to the flexible element and the fixed component respectively.

[0011] Optionally, the slip compensation mechanism further includes a first transmission member and a second transmission member;

[0012] The first transmission component is connected to the flexible element, the second transmission component is connected to the fixed component, and the energy storage component is connected to the first transmission component and the second transmission component respectively;

[0013] The first transmission component and the second transmission component are located on opposite sides of the energy storage component in the direction in which the force is applied to the energy storage component.

[0014] Optionally, in one of the slip compensation mechanisms, the first transmission member is located on the side of the second transmission member away from the folding axis when the folding mechanism is folded, and the energy storage member is configured to withstand pressure; or, when the slip compensation mechanism includes the first transmission member located on the side of the second transmission member closer to the folding axis, the energy storage member is configured to generate tension.

[0015] Optionally, the fixing member includes at least two sub-components, and every two adjacent sub-components are rotatably connected by a rotating connector;

[0016] Each of the slip compensation mechanisms is connected to a sub-component and the portion of the flexible element that is stacked with the corresponding sub-component.

[0017] Optionally, the folding mechanism further includes a slider;

[0018] The slider is stacked with the flexible element. The slider includes a plurality of sub-sliders that are separated from each other. Each sub-slider is stacked with a sub-component. Each slip compensation mechanism is connected to a sub-slider and the sub-component that is stacked with the corresponding sub-slider.

[0019] Optionally, the at least two sub-components include an adjacent first sub-component and a second sub-component, wherein the first sub-component has a first connection and engagement structure and the second sub-component has a second connection and engagement structure;

[0020] The rotating connector has a first connector and a second connector;

[0021] The first connecting structure is connected to the first connector, and the second connecting structure is connected to the second connector.

[0022] Optionally, one of the at least two sub-components is fixedly connected to the flexible element, and each of the slip compensation mechanisms is connected to the other sub-components.

[0023] Optionally, the folding mechanism includes at least two of the sliding compensation mechanisms, wherein the difference in the magnitude of the force exerted by the energy storage element of the at least two sliding compensation mechanisms on the flexible element in the direction perpendicular to the folding axis when the folding mechanism is 0.

[0024] Another aspect of this application provides an electronic device having the folding mechanism described above.

[0025] Optionally, the flexible element is a flexible screen, an FPC, or a flexible heat sink, and the fixing member is a mid-frame or back plate that slides relative to the flexible element.

[0026] Another aspect of this application provides an accessory for an electronic device, the accessory having the folding mechanism described above.

[0027] The beneficial effects of the product provided in this application embodiment include at least the following:

[0028] The folding mechanism provided in this application eliminates the undesirable load generated by the flexible element at the bending part based on the sliding compensation generated by the sliding mechanism. Therefore, the folding mechanism provided in this application can prevent the flexible element from generating undesirable creases at the bending part and thus causing fatigue failure, thereby improving the service life of the flexible element. Attached Figure Description

[0029] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0030] Figure 1 This illustration shows a schematic diagram of a folding mechanism from an oblique top view according to an embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 2 This illustration shows a schematic diagram of a folding mechanism from an oblique, upward view according to an embodiment of this application.

[0032] Figure 3 It shows Figure 3 A magnified view of part A in the middle;

[0033] Figure 4 This illustration shows a frontal view of a folding mechanism according to an embodiment of this application.

[0034] Figure 5 This illustration shows a schematic diagram of the arrangement of a sliding compensation mechanism for a folding mechanism as seen from a forward-looking perspective, according to an embodiment of this application.

[0035] Figure 6 This illustration shows a schematic diagram of the sliding compensation mechanism arrangement of another folding mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application, viewed from a forward-looking angle.

[0036] Figure 7 The diagram shows a forward-looking upward-viewing sliding compensation mechanism transmission structure of a folding mechanism according to an embodiment of this application.

[0037] Figure label:

[0038] 1. Flexible element; 101. Display surface; 102. Non-display surface; 103. Slider; 1031. First sub-slider; 1032. Second sub-slider;

[0039] 2. Fixed components; 201. First sub-component; 2011. First part of the base support; 2012. First part of the mating hole; 202. Second sub-component; 2021. Second part of the base support; 2022. Second part of the mating hole; 203. Empty area; 2031. First empty area; 2032. Second empty area; 2033. Third empty area; 2034. Fourth empty area; 204. Folding axis; 205. Centerline;

[0040] 3. Rotating connector; 301. First connector; 302. Second connector;

[0041] 4. Slip compensation mechanism; 401. First transmission component; 4011. Fixing component; 4012. First connecting rod; 4013. First limiting component; 4014. First reversing component; 4015. Reversing connecting rod; 4016. Second limiting component; 4017. Second reversing component; 4018. Second connecting rod; 402. Second transmission component; 4021. Positioning component; 403. Energy storage component; 404. Limiting component; 41. First slip compensation mechanism; 42. Second slip compensation mechanism; 43. Third slip compensation mechanism; 44. Fourth slip compensation mechanism. Detailed Implementation

[0042] The products of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this application. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application. To make the products and advantages of this application clearer, the constituent parts, mechanical structure, and component system of the flexible screen assembly will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings to illustrate how they achieve their functions.

[0043] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the folding mechanism provided in this application embodiment includes: a flexible element 1, a fixing member 2, and at least one sliding compensation mechanism 4.

[0044] The flexible element 1 and the fixed member 2 can be stacked relative to each other, wherein when the folding mechanism folds, the flexible element 1 and the fixed member 2 fold synchronously;

[0045] The sliding compensation mechanism 4 is connected to the flexible element 1 and the fixed member 2 respectively. The sliding compensation mechanism 4 is used to apply a force to the flexible element 1 and the fixed member 2 to promote relative sliding when the flexible element 1 and the fixed member 2 are folded synchronously.

[0046] like Figure 3 As shown, the sliding compensation mechanism 4 may include an energy storage component 403, which may be connected to the flexible element 1 and the fixed component 2 respectively.

[0047] The energy storage device 403 mentioned in this application embodiment can convert the mechanical energy of mechanical force into the potential energy of the energy storage medium and the energy storage structure through various energy storage methods, or convert the potential energy of the energy storage medium and the energy storage structure into mechanical energy without other transformation means, and the mechanical energy is directly manifested as mechanical force.

[0048] For example, some energy storage devices utilize elastic components as a medium, typically elastic materials such as rubber or springs. They store and release energy by leveraging the elastic deformation recovery characteristics of the medium itself. Other energy storage devices utilize the compression and recovery characteristics of compressible media such as gases to store and release energy. Regardless of the type of energy storage device, the actual mechanism of operation in the implementation method of this application utilizes the principle of storing or releasing mechanical force.

[0049] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 , Figure 7 As shown, the slip compensation mechanism may further include a first transmission member 401 and a second transmission member 402;

[0050] The first transmission component 401 is connected to the flexible element 1, the second transmission component 402 is connected to the fixed component 2, and the energy storage component 403 is connected to the first transmission component 401 and the second transmission component 402 respectively.

[0051] The first transmission member 401 and the second transmission member 402 are located on both sides of the energy storage member 403 in the direction in which the force is applied to the energy storage member 403.

[0052] The first transmission component 401 and the second transmission component 402 can be rigid bodies that directly transmit the force between the flexible element 1 and the fixed component 2, or they can be a transmission mechanism that changes the direction and magnitude of the force applied by the energy storage component 403 to the flexible element 1 by the first transmission component 401 through the cooperation of multiple components.

[0053] exist Figure 3 In the embodiment shown, both the first transmission component 401 and the second transmission component 402 are parts that directly transmit the force between the flexible element 1 and the fixed component 2.

[0054] exist Figure 7 In the illustrated embodiment, the first transmission member 401 is a transmission mechanism that changes the actual direction of the force acting on the energy storage member 403 through a kinematic pair assembly. The fixed member 4011 is fixedly connected to the flexible element 1, the first connecting rod 4012 is fixedly connected to the first reversing member 4014, the first limiting member 4013 restricts the movement of the first reversing member 4014 to reciprocating motion, the two force-bearing ends of the energy storage member 403 are respectively fixedly connected to one end of the second transmission member and one end of the second connecting rod 4018, the other end of the second connecting rod 4018 is fixedly connected to the second reversing member 4017, the second limiting member 4016 restricts the movement of the second reversing member 4017 to reciprocating motion, and the first reversing member 4014 and the second reversing member 4017 are respectively rotatably connected to the reversing connecting rod 4015.

[0055] When the folding mechanism folds, the torque generated by the crease deformation stress at the folding axis 204 of the flexible element 1 acts on the flexible element 1. The fixing member 4011 is driven by the flexible element 1, which in turn pushes the first connecting rod 4012 to apply a force to the first reversing member 4014, thereby transmitting the motion through the reversing connecting rod 4015 to the second reversing member 4017. The second reversing member 4017 pushes the second connecting rod 4018 to apply a force to the energy storage member 403. Since the second transmission member 402 is fixedly connected to the fixing member 2, the reaction force of the energy storage member 403 is transmitted in the opposite direction from the second connecting rod 4018 to the fixing member 4011, thereby causing the flexible element 1 to slide in a direction away from the folding axis 204.

[0056] In this embodiment, the first transmission component 401 can change the actual direction of the force generated by the energy storage component 403 on the flexible element 1 through its own structural arrangement and the motion transmission effect of each component. Those skilled in the art can flexibly design the structural composition and transmission method of the first transmission component 401 and the second transmission component 402 based on the space occupation requirements of the folding mechanism in application and other structural design considerations, as well as the comprehensive consideration of the size and arrangement of the sliding compensation mechanism 4, so as to better realize the sliding compensation effect of the folding mechanism.

[0057] Similarly, those skilled in the art can use speed transformation methods to equate the transmission mechanism to a simple linkage mechanism. For example, by measuring the motion speed and force transmission between the links, the equivalent static force exerted by the first transmission member 401 on the flexible element 1 can be calculated, thus serving as a reference for the selection of the energy storage member 403 and the arrangement of the sliding compensation mechanism 4.

[0058] In some embodiments, in a sliding compensation mechanism 4, the first transmission member 401 may be located on the side of the second transmission member 402 away from the folding axis 204 when the folding mechanism is folded, and the energy storage member 403 is configured to bear pressure; or, when the first transmission member 401 is located on the side of the second transmission member 402 close to the folding axis 204, the energy storage member 403 is configured to generate tension.

[0059] In some embodiments, the fixing member 2 may include two sub-members, such as a first sub-member 201 and a second sub-member 202, and each pair of adjacent sub-members may be rotatably connected by a rotating connector 3. When the folding mechanism is folded, the two sub-members overlap; when the folding mechanism is unfolded, the two sub-members abut in a plane. In other embodiments, the number of sub-members may be greater than two. Each sliding compensation mechanism 4 may be connected to a sub-member and the corresponding overlapping portion of the flexible element 1.

[0060] The arrangement of two or more sub-components corresponds to the folding mechanism in the case of single-fold folding or multi-fold folding, and each adjacent sub-component is rotatably connected by one or more rotating connectors 3.

[0061] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, the folding mechanism may also include a slider 103;

[0062] The slider 103 can be stacked with the flexible element 1. The slider 103 may include multiple sub-sliders that are separate from each other, such as sub-sliders 1031 and 1032. Each sub-slider can be stacked with a sub-component, for example, sub-slider 1031 is stacked with the first sub-component 201, and sub-slider 1032 is stacked with the second sub-component 202. Each slip compensation mechanism 4 can be connected to a sub-slider and the sub-component stacked corresponding to that sub-slider.

[0063] The sliding member 103 is stacked with the flexible element 1, which can prevent the flexible element 1 from directly contacting the fixed structure 2 and generating friction, and can also prevent the flexible element 1 from being directly connected to the first transmission member 401.

[0064] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 As shown, at least two sub-components may include an adjacent first sub-component 201 and a second sub-component 202. The first sub-component 201 may have a first connecting structure, and the second sub-component 202 may have a second connecting structure. The rotating connector 3 may have a first connector 301 and a second connector 302. The first connecting structure may be connected to the first connector 301, and the second connecting structure may be connected to the second connector 302.

[0065] Depending on the application scenario of the folding mechanism, the material and detailed structure of the fixed component 2 will vary. Therefore, in order to connect the rotating connector 3 to the fixed component 2, each sub-component can be provided with a corresponding connection and mating structure, and the rotating connector 3 can also be provided with a corresponding connection point.

[0066] The fixed component 2 and the rotating connector 3 can be fixed by means of screwing, riveting, or welding. It should be noted that the embodiments disclosed herein do not specifically limit the connection method between the fixed component 2 and the rotating connector 3.

[0067] For example, when the fixed component 2 and the rotating connector 3 are fixed by means of riveting, the corresponding connection and fitting structure and connector can be changed according to the different riveting types, that is, the different types of rivets between the fixed component 2 and the rotating connector 3.

[0068] When the fixed component 2 and the rotating connector 3 are fixed by bolt connection, the corresponding connection and mating structures of each sub-component of the fixed component 2 can be structures that accommodate the connectors. For example, the connection and mating structures can be threaded holes, smooth holes, or other structures used to accommodate bolts. When the fixed component 2 and the rotating connector 3 are fixed by welding, the corresponding connection and mating structures and connectors of each sub-component of the fixed component 2 can be process surfaces. For example, if both are polymer materials, the connection and mating structure can be a smooth process surface for hot plate welding or a roughened surface for ultrasonic welding. If both are metal materials, the corresponding connection and mating structure and connection point can be a reserved part designed for fusion welding that can withstand melting damage, or a process surface that has been treated to reduce surface roughness in order to improve the surface light absorption rate of laser welding.

[0069] For various common connection forms, those skilled in the art can design the connection and mating structure corresponding to each sub-component of the fixed component 2 and the connection point of the rotating connector 3 based on the above ideas.

[0070] In some embodiments, one of the sub-components may be fixedly connected to the flexible element 1, and each sliding compensation mechanism 4 may be connected to other sub-components.

[0071] When the fixed component 2 includes two sub-components, the folding mechanism requires at least one sliding compensation mechanism 4. In this case, one of the two sub-components needs to be fixedly connected to the flexible element 1 so that the sliding compensation mechanism 4 can perform a sliding compensation function. The sliding compensation mechanism 4 is fixedly connected to the other of the two sub-components. Alternatively, when multiple sliding compensation mechanisms 4 are all connected to one of the two sub-components, the other of the two sub-components needs to be fixedly connected to the flexible element 1.

[0072] In the arrangement described above, one of the two sub-components is fixedly connected to the flexible element 1, preventing relative sliding between them. This causes the stress transmission at the bending point to be concentrated / transmitted to the other part of the flexible element 1 located in the two sub-components due to the slippage tendency generated by the flexible element 1. At this time, the slippage compensation mechanism 4 arranged on one side can provide slippage compensation for the folding mechanism.

[0073] In some embodiments, the folding mechanism includes at least two sliding compensation mechanisms 4, and the difference in the magnitude of the force exerted by the energy storage element 403 of the at least two sliding compensation mechanisms 4 on the flexible element 1 in the direction perpendicular to the folding axis 204 when the folding mechanism is folded is 0.

[0074] When the flexible element 1 is folded, the bending portion is approximately located at the folding axis 204. Therefore, the actual force that eliminates the undesirable creases at the bending portion of the flexible element is always perpendicular to the folding axis 204. Due to the different arrangements of the at least two sliding compensation mechanisms 4, the direction of the mechanical force generated or borne by the energy storage element 403 is not necessarily perpendicular to the folding axis 204. However, the mechanical force generated or borne by the energy storage element 403 can be decomposed into a force parallel to the folding axis 204 and an actual force perpendicular to the folding axis 204. That is, the mechanical force generated or borne by the energy storage element is split into a pair of vectors. When the difference in the magnitude of the vector perpendicular to the folding axis 204 is 0, the forces exerted on the flexible element 1 by the at least two sliding compensation mechanisms 4 are balanced.

[0075] Therefore, considering the overall spatial requirements of the folding mechanism's structural layout, the sliding compensation mechanism 4 is positioned differently. In this case, it is only necessary to ensure that the difference in the magnitude of the component vector perpendicular to the folding axis 204 is 0, so that the force exerted by the sliding compensation mechanism 4 on the flexible element 1 is balanced, thereby achieving the sliding compensation effect on the folding mechanism.

[0076] In particular, in such Figure 7 In the above embodiments shown, even if the direction in which the energy storage element 4 generates or bears the mechanical force is parallel to the folding axis 204, it can still be performed according to... Figure 7 The example method is used to design the specific structure of the first transmission member 401 and the second transmission member 402 so that the sliding compensation mechanism 4 meets the above conditions.

[0077] This application also provides an electronic device and its accessories, which have the aforementioned folding mechanism. It should be noted that the electronic device can be a foldable screen phone, laptop computer, etc. The accessories can be a keyboard cover, etc. The folding mechanism in this disclosure can be applied to any product with a folding function, and is not specifically limited to the type of electronic device and its accessories.

[0078] In some embodiments, the flexible element 1 can be a flexible screen, an FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit), or a flexible heat sink, etc., and the fixing member 2 can be the mid-frame or back plate of the electronic device.

[0079] Taking some components in electronic devices as an example, in the actual application of foldable electronic devices, in the prior art, the DDIC (Display Driver IC) of the AA (Active Area) of the flexible screen is generally located in the frame part of the screen assembly and is separated from the flexible screen body.

[0080] Furthermore, the DDIC and AA are electrically connected, and the DDIC needs to extend the traces to the motherboard or other components on the lower layer through the FPC. Therefore, when the flexible screen is folded and slid, the FPC will also slide relative to the fixing parts of the electronic device such as the mid-frame. If there are uneven breaks in the relative sliding, the FPC may be bent improperly or even be bent completely.

[0081] Therefore, if the slip compensation mechanism 4 in the embodiments of this application is applied between the FPC and the middle frame and other fasteners, it can provide certain slip compensation between the FPC and the middle frame and other fasteners, and can prevent slip damage between the metal substrate and the cover film and other material layers of the FPC when the FPC is bent badly, thus preventing the peeling of each structural layer.

[0082] Furthermore, the slip compensation mechanism 4 can be used in conjunction with the FPC in wearable electronic terminal devices in the consumer electronics or medical electronics fields, such as wearable electronic devices with flexible displays, wearable electronic devices that integrate the smallest functional unit into fabric, and medical monitoring devices such as blood pressure monitors and those stacked on the body, to eliminate undesirable delamination of the FPC and thus improve the reliability of the electronic device. In other embodiments, such as in the field of heat dissipation for electronic devices, heat dissipation elements such as graphite heat sinks, which rely on their own material or structural properties to evenly distribute heat outside a two-dimensional plane and then have it carried away by a refrigerant, are generally attached to various heat sources so that they can better and evenly distribute the heat generated by the point heat source.

[0083] Correspondingly, in some practical application scenarios, the relative slippage between the graphite heat sink and other heat-conducting elements and the attached heat-generating elements can be compensated by a slip compensation mechanism, thereby improving the attachment performance of the graphite heat sink and other heat-generating elements, so that even after a certain degree of relative slippage, they can still be attached to the predetermined position of various heat sources with relatively high precision.

[0084] The slip compensation mechanism 4 in this embodiment can be applied to different types of electronic devices based on the above concept to eliminate creases caused by improper slippage of various flexible elements 1. This embodiment does not specifically limit the type of flexible element 1.

[0085] The following is a detailed description of one application scenario of this application in the field of portable electronic devices. This application scenario is not intended to limit the folding mechanism of this application to only the following application scenario, but is intended to enable those skilled in the art to better understand the structure and working mechanism of the folding mechanism of this application in combination with more specific application scenarios.

[0086] In the following implementation scenario, the flexible element 1 is a flexible screen, and the fixed component 2 is a middle frame.

[0087] Currently, some electronic devices use foldable screens for their display modules, which are convenient to carry when folded and provide a larger display interface when unfolded.

[0088] However, because foldable screens have a certain thickness, when folded, the external force that bends the screen will create a bending moment at the bending point, causing the screen to tend to separate in the thickness direction. In severe cases, this can cause relative slippage between the upper and lower layers of the screen structure.

[0089] In existing technologies, the foldable screen is bonded to the non-hinge part of the mid-frame using an adhesive layer, and its edges are fixed to the mid-frame with screen-pressing strips. Although this prevents the slippage between the structural layers in the non-bending area of ​​the screen, this fixing method causes all the screen delamination tendencies caused by bending to be concentrated at the bending part. This results in bulges or depressions at the bending part when the screen is folded, making the screen more susceptible to fatigue damage and creases under the normal cyclic loads of daily use, thereby damaging the screen's display function.

[0090] In response, this application provides a flexible screen assembly with a simple structure that can eliminate undesirable delamination creases in flexible screens through its motion transmission method.

[0091] like Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, the flexible screen assembly provided in this application embodiment includes a flexible element 1, a fixing member 2, and at least two sliding compensation mechanisms 4.

[0092] The fixed member 2 may include adjacent first sub-members 201 and second sub-members 202, and in other embodiments may include more sub-members. The sliding compensation mechanism 4 may include a first transmission member 401, a second transmission member 402, and an energy storage member 403. The flexible element 1 and the fixed member 2 can be slidably stacked relative to each other. The first sub-members 201 and second sub-members 202 of the fixed member 2 can rotate relative to each other to switch between a folded state and a flat state. The first transmission member 401 is fixedly connected to the flexible element 1, the second transmission member 402 is fixedly connected to the fixed member 2, and the energy storage member 403 is connected between the first transmission member 401 and the second transmission member 402.

[0093] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the fixed member 2 may have a vacant area 203, and the first transmission member 401 may be located in the vacant area 203. The vacant area 203 allows the first transmission member 401 to move relative to the fixed member 2 in the direction in which the energy storage member 403 transmits the force.

[0094] Because of the above configuration, the first transmission component 401 does not need to occupy additional space in the thickness direction of the entire component. That is, by using the empty area 203, the sliding compensation mechanism 4 can play its role without having to consider its adverse effects on the overall thickness of the electronic device.

[0095] like Figure 2 As shown, since the flexible element 1 needs to be folded and unfolded frequently in daily use, when the non-display surface 102 of the flexible element 1 is directly stacked with the fixed member 2 and relative sliding occurs, the protective material of the non-display surface 102 will be worn due to frequent contact and friction with the fixed member 2. In severe cases, pitting and scratches will occur on the non-display surface 102, thereby damaging the display function of the flexible element 1.

[0096] Although the bending deformation of the flexible element 1 when it is bent by external force is generally concentrated at the bending point, the bending moment generated by the bending resists the external force will be transmitted in the direction away from the bending part and act evenly on the flexible element 1. In reality, this will cause each part of the flexible element 1 to have a certain tendency to be delaminated. This tendency will not cause the screen to actually be delaminated.

[0097] Because the relative sliding between the non-display surface 102 and the fixed component 2 generates frictional resistance, and the frictional resistance tends to concentrate at the wear points of the non-display surface 102, this results in the generation of a force that hinders the layering trend of the flexible element 1 at the concentration of frictional resistance. This causes the bending moment that resists external forces to concentrate at the obstructed point, resulting in stress concentration on the screen at non-bending points, causing bulges and reducing the service life and appearance of the flexible element 1.

[0098] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the flexible element 1 includes a display surface 101, a non-display surface 102, and a slider 103, wherein the display surface 101 and the non-display surface 102 are two back-to-back surfaces. The slider 103 may include a first sub-slider 1031 and a second sub-slider 1032, and in a multi-fold arrangement, it may also include multiple sub-sliders. The slider 103 and the non-display surface 102 are fixedly stacked, the first sub-slider 1031 and the first sub-component 201 are slidably stacked relative to each other, the second sub-slider 1032 and the second sub-component 202 are slidably stacked relative to each other, and similarly, in a multi-fold arrangement, multiple sub-sliders and their corresponding sub-components are slidably stacked relative to each other.

[0099] Because of the above arrangement, friction damage caused by direct sliding between the non-display surface 102 and the fixed component 2 is avoided. The friction damage of the flexible element 1 is compensated by the sliding component 103, which increases the service life of the flexible element 1. Furthermore, the fixed stacking between the sliding component 103 and the flexible element 1 ensures that the flexible element 1 will not deform in the thickness direction except for the bending part. This concentrates the bending moment resisting external forces on the bending part, thereby enabling the sliding compensation mechanism 4 to better eliminate bending deformation.

[0100] In practical applications, those skilled in the art can make targeted replacements or designs for the structure or material of the slider 103 in conjunction with the embodiments of this application and actual needs.

[0101] For example, in order to better conduct the heat generated by the flexible element 1 to the heat dissipation area of ​​the electronic device, the slider 103 can be a plate with good thermal conductivity, such as stainless steel plate; in order to reduce the weight of the electronic device, the slider 103 can also be a plate with high strength and light weight, such as carbon fiber plate or polymer material plate; in order to protect the bent part of the non-display surface 102, the first sub-slider 1031 and the second sub-slider 1032 or multiple sub-sliders in a multi-fold form can be connected by a flexible material or structure with a certain strength, such as a stainless steel etched mesh structure.

[0102] Similarly, the fixed stacking of the slider 103 and the flexible element 1 can be achieved in various ways based on different design purposes. This disclosure does not specifically limit the method of fixed stacking of the slider 103 and the flexible element 1.

[0103] For example, in some embodiments, the slider 103 and the non-display surface 102 can be fixed together using an adhesive layer with a substrate, such as double-sided tape or graphite tape; to improve the temperature resistance and waterproof performance of the screen assembly, the slider 103 and the non-display surface 102 can be fixed together using a substrate-free adhesive layer with high thixotropy, such as silicone electronic screen adhesive; to improve the assembly efficiency of the screen assembly and reduce the disassembly difficulty of repairing and replacing the flexible element 1, the slider 103 and the non-display surface 102 can be fixed together using a substrate-free adhesive layer such as hot melt adhesive.

[0104] In this embodiment, as Figure 2 As shown, the first transmission component 401 is fixedly connected to the sliding component 103.

[0105] Because of the above configuration, there is no direct connection between the first transmission member 401 and the non-display surface 102 of the flexible element 1. This prevents the tension or pressure transmitted by the energy storage member 403 from being directly transmitted from the first transmission member 401 to the non-display surface 102. Consequently, the substrate of the non-display surface 102 is not subjected to dragging by direct forces, and fatigue damage such as structural glass peeling during the working cycle, which affects the reliability of the screen assembly, is prevented. Furthermore, due to the material properties of the non-display surface 102, it is difficult to establish a reliable mechanical connection between it and the first transmission member 401 without damaging the flexible element 1.

[0106] Therefore, a fixed connection between the first transmission component 401 and the non-display surface 102 can be achieved in different ways.

[0107] For example, the direct fixed connection between the first transmission component 401 and the non-display surface 102 can be achieved by means of adhesive bonding, or by thickening the substrate of the non-bending area and setting an integrated connection structure on the substrate or by means of pressure welding.

[0108] The first transmission component 401 and the sliding component 103 can be connected by means such as screwing or riveting. For example, the first transmission component 401 and the sliding component 103 can be connected and fixed by means such as countersunk bolts or countersunk rivets.

[0109] Alternatively, the first transmission component 401 and the sliding component 103 can be designed and processed in various ways to form an integral structure. For example, if the sliding component 103 and the first transmission component 401 are made of polymer materials or other materials that support additive manufacturing, they can be designed as an integral structure in the injection mold design stage before injection molding production. If the sliding component 103 and the first transmission component 401 are made of metal, some polymer materials, or other materials that support subtractive manufacturing methods such as milling, they can also be designed as an integral structure.

[0110] Similarly, the first transmission component 401 and the sliding component 103 can also be fixed by welding, plugging, or gluing. That is, regardless of the method used, it is necessary to ensure that the first transmission component 401 and the sliding component 103 can form a connection that will not detach under the cyclic load of daily use, thereby affecting the function of the slip compensation mechanism 4.

[0111] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the first sub-component 201 and the second sub-component 202 can be hinged together by a rotating connector 3. Correspondingly, multiple sub-components can also be hinged together by multiple rotating connectors 3.

[0112] In some embodiments, the rotating connector 3 may be a hinge or other connector.

[0113] For example, the hinge can be a general hinge such as a rotating hinge or a sliding hinge; in order to prevent the screen assembly from being subjected to excessive external force when folding, resulting in excessive closing speed, causing the edges of the display surface 101 and the fixed member 2 to be violently impacted, and the bent part of the flexible element 1 to be subjected to excessive instantaneous impact and not have time to deform and dissipate the force, resulting in breakage, the rotating connector 3 can be a damping hinge that can play a buffering role; the rotating connector 3 can also have sliding.

[0114] In this embodiment, as Figure 1 As shown, the first sub-component 201 has a first part base 2011, the second side part has a second part base 2021, the second sub-component 202 has a second part base 2021, the first part base 2011 has a first part mating hole 2012, and the second part base 2021 has a second part mating hole 2022.

[0115] The rotating connector 3 has a first connector 301 and a second connector 302. The first connector 301 passes through the first part mating hole 2012 to connect and fasten the rotating connector 3 to the first part base 2011. The second connector 302 passes through the second part mating hole 2022 to connect and fasten the rotating connector 3 to the second part base 2021.

[0116] In some embodiments, the first connector 301 and the second connector 302 can be standard fasteners such as bolts and rivets. Correspondingly, when the first connector 301 and the second connector 302 are bolts for reamed holes, the first partial mating hole 2012 and the second partial mating hole 2022 can be blind holes or through holes with threads machined on the inner wall. In this case, the first connector 301 and the second connector 302 do not have nuts, thereby reducing costs. When the first connector 301 and the second connector 302 are ordinary bolts, the first partial mating hole 2012 and the second partial mating hole 2022 can be through holes with smooth inner walls. In this case, both ends of the first partial mating hole 2012 and the second partial mating hole 2022 can be machined into countersunk stepped structures to accommodate the bolt head and nut, prevent the bolt head and nut from protruding, and save space in the thickness direction.

[0117] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, when the first transmission member 401 of the slip compensation mechanism 4 is located outside the second transmission member 402 away from the folding axis 204, the energy storage member 403 is configured to withstand the pressure load.

[0118] When the first transmission member 401 of the slip compensation mechanism 4 is located inside the second transmission member 402 near the folding axis 204, the energy storage member 403 is configured to bear tensile load.

[0119] Due to the above configuration, when the flexible screen assembly is folded inward toward the display surface 101, i.e., when the flexible screen assembly is inwardly folded, the arrangement of the first transmission member 401 and the second transmission member 402 ensures that regardless of whether the energy storage member 403 is subjected to pressure load or tensile load, the final force direction of the energy storage member 403 on the first transmission member 401 always points away from the folding axis 204. That is, when the flexible screen assembly is folded inward toward the display surface 101, the energy storage member 403 can always provide the first transmission member 401 with a force away from the bending part, thereby driving the flexible element 1 to slide away from the bending part by the first transmission member 401, thus realizing the function of the sliding compensation mechanism 4 driving the flexible element 1 to perform compensatory sliding.

[0120] In some embodiments, when the flexible screen assembly folds outward toward the display surface 101, i.e., when the flexible screen assembly is outward folded, although the folding directions are completely opposite, the sliding compensation mechanism 4 acts on it in exactly the same way as the inward folded flexible screen assembly. That is, when the flexible screen assembly is inward folded, the flexible element 1 folds inward toward the display surface, and the pair of bending moments generated by the flexible screen bending part resisting the folding external force are positive and negative in direction and the same in magnitude; when the flexible screen assembly is outward folded, although the flexible element 1 folds outward toward the display surface, the pair of bending moments generated by resisting the folding external force are negative and positive in direction and the same in magnitude. The bending moment of the inward-folding flexible screen assembly resisting external forces will cause the flexible element 1 to slide relative to the fixed member 2 in the direction of bending. The sliding compensation mechanism 4 pushes the flexible screen in the direction of bending to compensate for this sliding tendency. That is, the energy storage member 403 needs to provide the first transmission member 401 with a force away from the bending part. The bending moment of the outward-folding flexible screen assembly resisting external forces will cause the flexible element 1 to slide relative to the fixed member 2 in the direction of bending. The sliding compensation mechanism 4 pushes the flexible screen in the direction away from the bending part to compensate for this sliding tendency. That is, the energy storage member 403 needs to provide the first transmission member 401 with a force away from the bending part.

[0121] In this embodiment, as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, for example, when the energy storage element 403 is a general cylindrical spring, in order to ensure that the deformation direction of the elastic element is perpendicular to the folding axis 204, the sliding compensation mechanism 4 also includes a positioning element 4021. The positioning element 4021 and the second transmission element 402 are respectively located on both sides of the first transmission element 401, and the line connecting the positioning element 4021 and the second transmission element 402 is perpendicular to the folding axis 204 of the fixed member 2.

[0122] For example, when the energy storage component 403 is a general cylindrical spring, due to the uneven force on the general cylindrical spring, the middle part on the central axis of the spring will shift radially, so that the deformation generated by the spring cannot be completely converted into the force on the first transmission component 401 and the second transmission component 402, affecting the effect of the sliding compensation mechanism 4. The smaller the stiffness coefficient of the spring, the more obvious the radial shift phenomenon.

[0123] At this point, a limiting member 404 is inserted in the middle of the cylindrical spring. For example, for a cylindrical spring, the limiting member 404 can be a rigid cylinder with the same outer diameter as the inner diameter of the cylindrical spring, or a rigid right square prism with the same diagonal length of its cross-section as the inner diameter of the cylindrical spring. The limiting member 404 can eliminate the radial degree of freedom of the cylindrical spring, so that the deformation generated by the spring can be completely converted into a force on the first transmission member 401 and the second transmission member 402. The rigid limiting member 404 cannot deform. When the cylindrical spring is compressed, the limiting member 404 needs to extend from the first transmission member 401 along the compression direction of the cylindrical spring. At this time, the positioning member 4021 can fix the limiting member and provide over-positioning, so that the first transmission member 401 no longer needs to restrict the radial degree of freedom of the cylindrical spring by the limiting member 404. Furthermore, when the part performing the function of the second transmission component 402 is a simple rigid body, it can be directly used as a positioning component 4021. That is, when the second transmission component 402 is a simple rigid body, it can be standardized as a standard part to save manufacturing costs and improve the versatility of the parts.

[0124] In some embodiments, an energy storage component 403 may also be installed between the positioning component 4021 and the first transmission component 401. In this case, the energy storage component 403 between the positioning component 4021 and the first transmission component 401 and the energy storage component 403 between the first transmission component and the second transmission component can be regarded as a series structure, which reduces the stiffness coefficient of the sliding compensation mechanism 4. If the energy storage component 403, whose force and deformation do not change linearly, is selected under the above conditions, the sliding compensation mechanism 4 can provide sliding compensation while reducing the lag caused by screen bending.

[0125] In order to reduce the impact of the sliding compensation mechanism 4 on the flexible element 1 in other directions, the sliding compensation mechanism 4 can be arranged in a more regular manner.

[0126] For example, in this embodiment, such as Figure 5 As shown, the flexible screen assembly may include at least two sliding compensation mechanisms 4, which include a first sliding compensation mechanism 41 and a second sliding compensation mechanism 42. The first sliding compensation mechanism 41 and the second sliding compensation mechanism 42 are arranged symmetrically about the folding axis 204.

[0127] Due to the above configuration, the first sliding compensation mechanism 41 and the second sliding compensation mechanism 42 can equally share the sliding compensation of the flexible element 1. Furthermore, since the first sliding compensation mechanism 41 and the second sliding compensation mechanism 42 are symmetrically arranged with the folding axis 204 as the axis of symmetry, the force exerted by the first sliding compensation mechanism 41 on the flexible element 1 and the force exerted by the second sliding compensation mechanism 42 on the flexible element 1 are opposite and collinear. This prevents the first sliding compensation mechanism 41 and the second sliding compensation mechanism 42 from generating bending moments due to their forces not being on the same straight line, thereby causing the flexible element 1 to deviate obliquely.

[0128] In this embodiment, as Figure 6 As shown, at least two sliding compensation mechanisms also include a third sliding compensation mechanism 43 and a fourth sliding compensation mechanism 44, which are arranged symmetrically about the folding axis 204.

[0129] The first sliding compensation mechanism 41 and the third sliding compensation mechanism 43 are symmetrical about the center line 205, which is perpendicular to the folding axis 204 and the fixed member 2. The second sliding compensation mechanism 42 and the fourth sliding compensation mechanism 44 are symmetrical about the center line 205 and the fixed member 2.

[0130] Due to the above configuration, the energy storage components 403 of the first sliding compensation mechanism 41 and the third sliding compensation mechanism 43 can be regarded as acting in parallel, and the second sliding compensation mechanism 42 and the fourth sliding compensation mechanism 44 can be regarded as acting in parallel, so that each energy storage component 403 can generate a larger feedback force with a smaller stiffness coefficient, thereby occupying a smaller length in the planar space.

[0131] In all the above-mentioned arrangement methods, special positional constraints such as symmetry and collinear forces are adopted. These special positional constraints are only for specific conditions and requirements. Moreover, the relatively regular arrangement method helps those skilled in the art to better understand the solution based on the content of this application, and thus extend the solution based on the content of this application without additional effort.

[0132] For example, the forces exerted by the sliding compensation mechanisms 4 on both sides of the folding axis on the flexible element 1 are opposite and collinear in order to prevent the flexible element 1 from being obliquely offset due to the fact that the forces of the different sliding compensation mechanisms 4 in different areas are not on the same straight line.

[0133] When the flexible element 1 needs to be unfolded or folded in a non-unidirectional direction, the sliding compensation mechanism 4 can be arranged obliquely relative to the rotating shaft to generate a certain degree of controllable bending moment, thereby providing multi-directional sliding compensation for the flexible element 1, so that the flexible element 1 can obtain a good sliding compensation effect when folding or unfolding in multiple directions.

[0134] Therefore, those skilled in the art do not need to expend additional effort; they only need to change the relative positions of the four sliding compensation mechanisms during the design phase based on a comprehensive consideration of the relevant bending requirements of electronic devices or the inherent characteristics of flexible components, thereby achieving specific sliding compensation requirements.

[0135] It should be noted that any product or technical feature in this embodiment is one or more of a variety of optional technical features or optional products. For the sake of brevity, this document cannot exhaustively list all alternative technical features and alternative products of the present invention, nor is it convenient to emphasize that each implementation of a technical feature is one of a variety of optional implementations. Therefore, those skilled in the art should know that any technical feature or product in this embodiment does not limit the scope of protection of the present invention. The scope of protection of the present invention should include any alternative products that those skilled in the art can conceive of without creative effort.

[0136] In this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. The term "multiple" refers to two or more unless otherwise expressly defined.

[0137] The above description of the disclosed embodiments enables those skilled in the art to readily implement or use the present invention. The above description is merely a general embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0138] The above description is merely for the purpose of enabling those skilled in the art to understand the products of this invention and is not intended to limit the invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this invention should be included within the scope of protection of this invention.

Claims

1. A folding mechanism, characterized in that, The folding mechanism includes: a flexible element (1), a fixing member (2), and at least one sliding compensation mechanism (4). The flexible element (1) and the fixed member (2) can be slidably stacked together, wherein when the folding mechanism is folded, the flexible element (1) and the fixed member (2) fold synchronously. The sliding compensation mechanism (4) is connected to the flexible element (1) and the fixed member (2) respectively. The sliding compensation mechanism (4) is used to apply a force to the flexible element (1) and the fixed member (2) to promote relative sliding when the flexible element (1) and the fixed member (2) are folded synchronously. The slip compensation mechanism (4) includes an energy storage component (403), which is connected to the flexible element (1) and the fixed component (2) respectively. The slip compensation mechanism also includes a first transmission component (401) and a second transmission component (402). The first transmission component (401) is connected to the flexible element (1), the second transmission component (402) is connected to the fixed component (2), and the energy storage component (403) is connected to the first transmission component (401) and the second transmission component (402) respectively. The first transmission member (401) and the second transmission member (402) are located on both sides of the energy storage member (403) in the direction in which the force is applied to the energy storage member (403); In one of the slip compensation mechanisms (4), the first transmission member (401) is located on the side of the second transmission member (402) away from the folding axis (204) when the folding mechanism is folded, and the energy storage member (403) is configured to withstand pressure; or, the first transmission member (401) is located on the side of the second transmission member (402) close to the folding axis (204), and the energy storage member (403) is configured to generate tension.

2. The folding mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The fixed component (2) includes at least two sub-components (201, 202), and each pair of adjacent sub-components are rotatably connected by a rotating connector (3); Each of the slip compensation mechanisms (4) is connected to a sub-component (201, 202) and the portion of the flexible element (1) that is stacked with the sub-component (201, 202).

3. The folding mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that, The folding mechanism also includes a slider (103); The slider (103) is stacked with the flexible element (1). The slider (103) includes a plurality of sub-sliders (1031, 1032) that are separated from each other. Each sub-slider (1031, 1032) is stacked with a sub-component (201, 202). Each slip compensation mechanism (4) is connected to a sub-slider (1031, 1032) and the sub-component (201, 202) that is stacked with the sub-slider (1031, 1032).

4. The folding mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that, The at least two sub-components (201, 202) include an adjacent first sub-component (201) and a second sub-component (202), wherein the first sub-component (201) has a first connection and engagement structure and the second sub-component (202) has a second connection and engagement structure; The rotating connector (3) has a first connector (301) and a second connector (302); The first connecting structure is connected to the first connector (301), and the second connecting structure is connected to the second connector (302).

5. The folding mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that, One of the at least two sub-components (201, 202) is fixedly connected to the flexible element (1), and each of the sliding compensation mechanisms (4) is connected to the other sub-components.

6. The folding mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that, The folding mechanism includes at least two of the sliding compensation mechanisms (4), and the difference in magnitude of the force exerted by the energy storage element (403) of the at least two sliding compensation mechanisms (4) on the flexible element (1) in the direction perpendicular to the folding axis (204) when the folding mechanism is folded is 0.

7. An electronic device, characterized in that, The electronic device has a folding mechanism as described in any one of claims 1-6.

8. The electronic device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The flexible element (1) is a flexible screen, FPC or flexible heat sink, and the fixing member (2) is a middle frame or back plate that slides relative to the flexible element (1).

9. An accessory for an electronic device, characterized in that, The accessory of the electronic device has a folding mechanism as described in any one of claims 1-6.

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