Rotating shaft mechanism and foldable electronic equipment
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202480003277.1
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2023-03-22
- Filing Date
- 2024-03-05
- Publication Date
- 2025-02-14
AI Technical Summary
In foldable electronic devices, the spatial compression of the hinge mechanism leads to reduced stability and weakened damping, affecting the user experience.
A rotating shaft mechanism is designed that includes a fixed bracket, a transmission component, a clamping component and an elastic component. Static friction is formed through the transmission gear set and multiple contact areas to increase damping, and the elastic component is used to provide clamping force to ensure that the rotating component is in place. Stable rotation in limited space.
A more stable rotating shaft mechanism is achieved in a smaller space, improving user experience, and limiting the rotation of rotating parts through static friction to ensure the stability of the device in unfolded and folded states.
Smart Images

Figure CN119452178A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Hinge mechanism and foldable electronic device
[0001] This application claims priority to the Chinese patent application filed with the China Patent Office on March 22, 2023, with application number 202310319812.1 and entitled “Hinge mechanism and foldable electronic device”, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference into this application. Technical Field
[0002] The present application relates to the field of foldable screen technology, and in particular to a hinge mechanism and a foldable electronic device. Background Art
[0003] As flexible folding screen technology becomes increasingly mature, foldable electronic devices have become a major trend. Foldable electronic devices (such as foldable mobile phones, foldable tablets, foldable computers and other electronic devices) need to meet higher reliability, better operating experience and appearance, so that they can be accepted by consumers.
[0004] The hinge mechanism is a core functional component of foldable electronic devices, driving the relative rotation of various parts of the device. The stability of the hinge mechanism and the damping it creates are closely related to the user experience.
[0005] The increasing portability of foldable electronic devices has further reduced the space required for hinge mechanisms. When the hinge mechanism's volume is limited, its stability is often compromised, and the damping created by the hinge mechanism is reduced, resulting in a poor user experience.
[0006] Summary of the Invention
[0007] The present application provides a hinge mechanism and a foldable electronic device, which are convenient for improving the damping force of the hinge mechanism.
[0008] A first aspect of the present application provides a rotating shaft mechanism. This rotating shaft mechanism includes a fixed bracket, a transmission assembly, two first transmission shafts, a clamping assembly, and a first elastic portion. The fixed bracket has two limiting holes spaced apart along a first direction. The transmission assembly includes two first connecting members located on either side of the fixed bracket along the first direction, and a transmission gear set. Each first connecting member has an end gear, and the transmission gear set is located between and meshes with the two end gears. Each end gear is fixed relative to a first connecting member located on the same side, and each first connecting member is connected to a rotating portion located on the same side. The first transmission shaft extends in a second direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction. The two first connecting members rotate relative to the fixed bracket via a first transmission shaft, respectively. Each first transmission shaft passes through a corresponding end gear and a corresponding limiting hole to restrict movement of the transmission assembly relative to the fixed bracket. The clamping assembly is provided with the first transmission shaft. The clamping assembly engages with the fixed bracket to limit circumferential movement around the first transmission shaft. The clamping assembly includes a first clamping member and a second clamping member, each of which is sleeved on the two first transmission shafts and clamps the fixed bracket and the transmission assembly along the second direction. The first transmission shaft is positionally connected to the second clamping member along a second direction, such that the first transmission shaft can drive the second clamping member to move relatively close to the fixed bracket along the second direction. One end of the first elastic portion acts on the first clamping member, and the other end acts on the first transmission shaft, causing the first clamping member and the second clamping member to clamp the fixed bracket and the transmission assembly along the second direction.
[0009] This rotating shaft mechanism utilizes the cooperation of a transmission gear set and two end gears to enable the two first connecting members to drive the two rotating parts to move synchronously. The fixed bracket can be directly mounted on the fixed portion (base), ensuring a fixed relative position between the fixed bracket and the fixed portion. The upper limit hole in the fixed bracket cooperates with the first transmission shaft to limit translational movement of the end gears mounted on the first transmission shaft relative to the fixed bracket. This reduces stress on the end gears and reduces misalignment of the end gears relative to the fixed bracket. The fixed bracket is positioned between the clamping components, allowing for the limited space required to enhance the stability of the rotating shaft mechanism. A first elastic member acts on the first clamping member to provide a compressive force against the first clamping member toward the fixed bracket. Simultaneously, the second clamping member, due to its positional connection to the first transmission shaft, enables the first and second clamping members to clamp the fixed bracket and the transmission assembly under the action of elastic force. The first elastic member creates at least three contact areas: at the point where the first clamping member contacts the end gears, at the point where the end gears contact the fixed bracket, and at the point where the second clamping member contacts the fixed bracket, fully utilizing the space available in the rotating shaft mechanism to create at least three contact areas. When the end gear has a tendency to rotate, the static friction generated by the three contact areas can form damping, which can limit the rotation of the end gear, so that the end gear can overcome the static friction to rotate only when it is subjected to a driving force greater than the static friction. At least three contact areas expand the area where the static friction is generated, thereby increasing the value of the static friction, forming greater damping to improve the user experience when rotating the two rotating parts. When the two rotating parts are at any relative angle and stop, the static friction can limit the two rotating parts from rotating relative to each other again, making it easier to achieve the hovering of the two rotating parts. In this way, a more stable damping module of the rotating shaft mechanism can be achieved in a smaller space.
[0010] Based on the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the first clamping member is located at an end of the transmission assembly facing away from the fixed bracket, and the first clamping member has two first cam surfaces at its end facing the fixed bracket. Each first connecting member has a second cam surface at its end facing the first clamping member. The first elastic portion causes the first and second clamping members to clamp the fixed bracket and the transmission assembly in a second direction, with the second cam surfaces abutting against the first cam surfaces.
[0011] This rotating shaft mechanism can achieve self-drive of the end gear at a preset position through the abutment of the first cam surface and the second cam surface. For example, if the preset position is a position where the two rotating parts are in a folded state, then when the two rotating parts are in the folded state, the raised portion of the first cam surface can be completely inserted into the groove portion of the second cam surface. When the two rotating parts are close to the folded state, the elastic force generated by the first elastic part causes the raised portion of the first cam surface to have a tendency to enter the groove portion of the second cam surface, thereby causing the first connecting member to have a tendency to rotate relative to the first clamping member, so that the first connecting member drives the two rotating parts to have a tendency to move toward the folded state.
[0012] Based on the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the rotating shaft mechanism further includes two second connecting members located on both sides of the fixed bracket along the first direction, each second connecting member being used to connect a rotating portion located on the same side. The second clamping member is located at an end of the fixed bracket facing away from the transmission assembly, and the second clamping member has two third cam surfaces at an end facing the fixed bracket. Each second connecting member is disposed between the second clamping member and the fixed bracket. Each second connecting member has a fourth cam surface at an end facing the second clamping member. The first clamping member and the second clamping member clamp the second connecting member, the fixed bracket, and the transmission assembly along the second direction, and the third cam surface abuts the fourth cam surface.
[0013] This pivot mechanism improves the stability of the connection between the rotating part and the pivot mechanism through the two second connecting members. When the first and second connecting members are not directly fixedly connected, the first and second connecting members can independently generate a tendency to move in the second direction. When the rotating part drives the first and second connecting members to rotate about the axis of the first transmission shaft, a friction area is formed between the second connecting member and the fixed bracket, and a friction area is also formed between the fixed bracket and the first connecting member. These two friction areas can generate greater damping and increase the stability of the end gear. When the two rotating parts are at any relative angle and stop, the static friction force generated by the two friction areas can prevent the two rotating parts from rotating relative to each other again, facilitating the two rotating parts to remain suspended. When the first and second connecting members are directly fixedly connected, the first and second connecting members can be connected together to the corresponding rotating parts, facilitating the assembly of the rotating parts and the pivot mechanism. Furthermore, the third and fourth cam surfaces enable the second connecting member to self-drive at a preset position. For example, if the preset position is the position where the two rotating parts are in a folded state, the raised portion of the third cam surface can be completely inserted into the groove portion of the fourth cam surface when the two rotating parts are in the folded state. When the two rotating parts are close to the folded state, the elastic force generated by the first elastic part causes the raised portion of the third cam surface to have a tendency to enter the groove portion of the fourth cam surface, thereby causing the second connecting member to have a tendency to rotate relative to the second clamping member, so as to drive the two rotating parts to have a tendency to move toward the folded state through the second connecting member.
[0014] Based on the first aspect, in a possible implementation manner, the first connecting member and the second connecting member are fixedly connected or designed as an integral whole.
[0015] In this rotating shaft mechanism, the first connecting member and the second connecting member can be connected together with the corresponding rotating part, which facilitates the assembly of the rotating part and the rotating shaft mechanism.
[0016] Based on the first aspect, in a possible implementation, the fixing bracket includes a first portion and a second portion along the second direction, the two limiting holes are provided in the first portion, and the second portion is provided between the two first transmission shafts for fixed connection with the fixing portion.
[0017] In this rotating shaft mechanism, the first part has a larger size along the first direction, which is convenient for setting two limiting holes, and has a smaller size along the second direction. The limiting holes only need to limit the position of the first transmission shaft. Reducing the size of the first part along the second direction is conducive to reducing the space occupied by the fixed bracket, while the second part has a smaller size along the first direction, which reduces the space occupied by the fixed bracket.
[0018] Based on the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the transmission gear set includes a middle gear. The shaft mechanism also includes a second transmission shaft extending in a second direction. The fixed bracket further includes a retaining groove, and the second transmission shaft passes through the middle gear and is inserted into the retaining groove to restrict movement of the middle gear relative to the fixed bracket.
[0019] In this rotating shaft mechanism, the second transmission shaft is connected to the middle gear. The fixing bracket limits the position of the second transmission shaft through the limiting groove, thereby reducing the misalignment of the middle gear relative to the fixing part when the middle gear is subjected to force.
[0020] Based on the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the first elastic portion includes a first elastic member and a first positioning member. The first positioning member is disposed on the first transmission shaft and is located on a side of the first clamping member facing away from the second clamping member. The first elastic member is clamped between the first clamping member and the first positioning member.
[0021] In this rotating shaft mechanism, one end of the first elastic member acts on the first clamping member, while the other end indirectly acts on the second clamping member through the first positioning member and the first transmission shaft, causing the first and second clamping members to move closer together. This in turn causes the first and second clamping members to act on the fixed bracket and transmission assembly to generate static friction. The first elastic member is positioned so that the first clamping member faces away from the second clamping member, eliminating the need to occupy space between the fixed bracket and the transmission assembly.
[0022] Based on the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the first transmission shaft is provided with a first stop member and a second stop member. The first stop member acts on the first positioning member to limit the first positioning member from disengaging from the first transmission shaft in the second direction. The second stop member acts on the second clamping member to limit the second clamping member from disengaging from the first transmission shaft in the second direction.
[0023] In this shaft mechanism, the first stop member limits the position of the first positioning member, and the second stop member limits the position of the second clamping member, so that the first elastic member indirectly acts on the second clamping member through the transmission of the first positioning member and the first transmission shaft.
[0024] Based on the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the rotating shaft mechanism further includes a second elastic portion and a third clamping member. Both the second elastic portion and the third clamping member are disposed on the second transmission shaft. The middle gear is clamped between the fixed bracket and the third clamping member. The second elastic portion acts on the third clamping member, causing the third clamping member to press toward the middle gear in the second direction.
[0025] In this rotating shaft mechanism, the second elastic portion acts on the third clamping member, pressing it toward the middle gear. The third clamping member also presses the middle gear toward the fixed bracket. This creates a friction zone between the middle gear and the fixed bracket, and between the third clamping member and the middle gear. These two friction zones provide greater damping. The middle gear and end gears work in conjunction, and the increased damping created by these two friction zones also enhances the stability of the end gears.
[0026] Based on the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the third clamping member is located at an end of the transmission assembly facing away from the fixed bracket, and the end of the third clamping member facing the fixed bracket has two fifth cam surfaces. Each middle gear has a sixth cam surface at its end facing the third clamping member. The second elastic portion presses the third clamping member toward the middle gear in the second direction, causing the fifth cam surface to abut against the sixth cam surface.
[0027] This rotating shaft mechanism achieves self-drive of the middle gear at a preset position through the fifth cam surface and the sixth cam surface, and indirectly achieves self-drive of the end gears at the preset position. For example, if the preset position is the position where the two rotating parts are in a folded state, then when the two rotating parts are in the folded state, the raised portion of the fifth cam surface can be completely inserted into the groove portion of the sixth cam surface. When the two rotating parts are close to the folded position, the elastic force generated by the second elastic portion causes the raised portion of the fifth cam surface to have a tendency to enter the groove portion of the sixth cam surface, thereby causing the middle gear to have a tendency to rotate relative to the third clamping member, so that the middle gear drives the two rotating parts through the end gears to have a tendency to move toward the folded state.
[0028] Based on the first aspect, in a possible implementation, the third clamping member is fixedly connected to the first clamping member or is designed as an integral whole.
[0029] In this shaft mechanism, the third clamping member and the first clamping member can be pre-assembled and then engaged with the first transmission shaft and the second transmission shaft. When the third clamping member and the first clamping member are designed as one piece, the manufacturing and molding of the third clamping member and the first clamping member can be facilitated, thereby reducing the number of parts in the shaft mechanism.
[0030] The second elastic portion includes a second elastic member and a second positioning member. The second positioning member is disposed on the second transmission shaft, located on the side of the third clamping member facing away from the middle gear. The second elastic member is clamped between the third clamping member and the second positioning member. The second elastic member acts on the third clamping member and the second positioning member, causing the third clamping member to press the middle gear toward the fixed bracket in the second direction.
[0031] In this rotating shaft mechanism, one end of the second elastic member in the second elastic part acts on the third clamping member, and the other end acts on the second positioning member, so that the third clamping member and the second positioning member tend to move away from each other, and then the third clamping member acts on the middle gear to form static friction.
[0032] Based on the first aspect, in a possible implementation, the first positioning member and the second positioning member are fixedly connected or designed as an integral whole.
[0033] In this rotating shaft mechanism, the first positioning member has already limited its position in the second direction via the first transmission shaft, and the second positioning member is fixedly connected to the first positioning member, thereby also limiting its position in the second direction. The integrated design of the first and second positioning members can also facilitate the manufacture and molding of the first and second positioning members, reducing the number of parts in the rotating shaft mechanism.
[0034] Based on the first aspect, in a possible implementation, the fixing bracket has a bolt hole, and the bolt hole is used for a bolt to pass through to connect the fixing bracket and the fixing portion.
[0035] In this rotating shaft mechanism, the fixing bracket is detachably connected to the fixing portion by means of bolts, thereby facilitating assembly and cooperation between the fixing portion and the fixing bracket.
[0036] A second aspect of the present application provides a foldable electronic device. This foldable electronic device includes a first housing and a second housing. The foldable electronic device also includes the hinge mechanism of any implementation of the first aspect. The first housing is connected to a first connector, and the second housing is connected to another first connector. The first housing and the second housing rotate toward or away from each other via the hinge mechanism.
[0037] This foldable electronic device connects a first housing and a second housing via a hinge mechanism, enabling the first and second housings to rotate synchronously toward or away from each other, thereby placing the foldable electronic device in either an unfolded or folded state. When the first and second housings rotate toward or away from each other, the upper limit hole in the fixed bracket cooperates with the first transmission shaft to limit the movement of the end gears mounted on the transmission shaft relative to the fixed bracket. This reduces the misalignment of the end gears relative to the fixed portion when the end gears are subjected to force, thereby ensuring smoother rotation of the first and second housings. Furthermore, the first elastic portion forms two contact areas between the first and second clamping members on either side of the fixed bracket and the transmission assembly, fully utilizing the space within the hinge mechanism to form the two contact areas. When the end gears tend to rotate, the static friction generated by these two contact areas acts as a damping force, limiting the rotation of the end gears. This allows the end gears to overcome the static friction and rotate only when subjected to a driving force greater than the static friction. This allows the first and second housings to maintain their relative position after they stop rotating, until subjected to a sufficiently large external force to drive relative rotation, thereby achieving a hovering state. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0038] FIG1 shows a schematic diagram of the assembly of a foldable electronic device in one embodiment of the present application.
[0039] FIG2 shows a schematic structural diagram of a foldable electronic device in one embodiment of the present application, wherein the foldable electronic device is in an unfolded state.
[0040] FIG3 shows a schematic structural diagram of a foldable electronic device in one embodiment of the present application, wherein the foldable electronic device is in a folded state.
[0041] FIG4 shows a schematic structural diagram of the connection between the rotating shaft mechanism and the rotating part in one embodiment of the present application.
[0042] FIG5 shows a schematic diagram of the assembly of a rotating shaft mechanism in one embodiment of the present application.
[0043] FIG6 shows a schematic structural diagram of a rotating shaft mechanism in one embodiment of the present application.
[0044] FIG7 shows a schematic structural diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism in one embodiment of the present application from another perspective.
[0045] FIG8 shows a schematic diagram of the assembly of a rotating shaft mechanism in one embodiment of the present application.
[0046] FIG9 shows a schematic structural diagram of a rotating shaft mechanism in one embodiment of the present application.
[0047] FIG10 shows a schematic structural diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism in one embodiment of the present application from another perspective.
[0048] Description of Main Component Symbols Foldable Electronic Device 001 First Shell 010 Second Shell 030 Base 050 Fixing Part 051 Rotating Shaft Mechanism 070 Circlip 071 Four-Part Cam 073 Two-Part Gear 075 Rotating Part 077 Fixing Bracket 100 Limiting Hole 101 Limiting Groove 103 First Part 110 Second Part 130 Bolt Hole 131 Transmission Assembly 200 Transmission Gear Set 210 Middle Gear 211 First Transmission Shaft 220 First Stopper 221 Annular Groove 223 Second Stopper 225 First Connecting Member 230 End Gear 231 First Mounting Hole 233 Clamping Assembly 300 First Clamping Member 310 Second Clamping Member 330 First Elastic Part 400 First Elastic Member 410 First Positioning Member 430 Second Cam Surface 511 First Cam Surface 513 Fourth Cam Surface 531 Third Cam Surface 533 Sixth Cam Surface 551 Fifth Cam Surface 553 Second connecting member 610 Second transmission shaft 710 Third stop member 711 Second elastic portion 800 Second elastic member 810 Second positioning member830 Third clamping member 910 First direction X Second direction Y
[0049] The following specific implementation methods will further illustrate the present application in conjunction with the above-mentioned drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0050] The following specific embodiments illustrate the implementation of the present application. Those skilled in the art can easily understand other advantages and effects of the present application from the contents disclosed in this specification. Although the description of the present application will be introduced in conjunction with the preferred embodiment, this does not mean that the features of this application are limited to this implementation. On the contrary, the purpose of introducing the application in conjunction with the implementation is to cover other options or modifications that may be extended based on the claims of the present application. In order to provide an in-depth understanding of the present application, the following description will contain many specific details. The present application can also be implemented without using these details. In addition, in order to avoid confusion or blurring the focus of the present application, some specific details will be omitted in the description. It should be noted that the embodiments in the present application and the features in the embodiments can be combined with each other unless there is a conflict.
[0051] Hereinafter, if used, the terms "first", "second", etc. are used for descriptive purposes only and are not to be understood as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of the indicated technical features. Thus, a feature defined as "first", "second", etc. may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the features. In the description of this application, unless otherwise specified, "plurality" means two or more. Directional terms such as "upper", "lower", "left", and "right" are defined relative to the orientation of the components schematically placed in the drawings. It should be understood that these directional terms are relative concepts. They are used for description and clarification relative to each other, and may change accordingly according to changes in the orientation of the components placed in the drawings.
[0052] In this application, if used, unless otherwise specified or limited, the term "connected" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, "connected" can mean fixed connection, detachable connection, or integration; it can be directly connected or indirectly connected through an intermediary. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the relevant listed items.
[0053] When the following embodiments are described in detail with reference to schematic diagrams, for ease of explanation, the diagrams showing local structures of the devices will not be partially enlarged according to general proportions, and the schematic diagrams are only examples and should not limit the scope of protection of this application.
[0054] In order to make the objectives, technical solutions and advantages of this application clearer, the implementation methods of this application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0055] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of the assembly of a foldable electronic device 001 in one embodiment of the present application. Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of the structure of the foldable electronic device 001 in one embodiment of the present application, wherein the foldable electronic device 001 is in an unfolded state. Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram of the structure of the foldable electronic device 001 in one embodiment of the present application, wherein the foldable electronic device 001 is in a folded state.
[0056] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, this foldable electronic device 001 includes a first housing 010, a second housing 030, and a base 050. The first housing 010 and the second housing 030 are respectively arranged on both sides of the base 050 along a first direction X. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the first housing 010 and the second housing 030 can rotate toward each other or away from each other. By rotating the first housing 010 and the second housing 030 away from each other, the foldable electronic device 001 can be moved to an unfolded state. By rotating the first housing 010 and the second housing 030 toward each other, the foldable electronic device 001 can be moved to a folded state.
[0057] A flexible screen can be provided on the first housing 010, the base 050, and the second housing 030. When the foldable electronic device 001 is moved to the unfolded state, the flexible screen also unfolds, allowing the user to fully observe the entire flexible screen, thereby expanding the viewing area of the flexible screen. When the foldable electronic device 001 is moved to the folded state, the flexible screen is also folded, improving the portability of the foldable electronic device 001. If the flexible screen is provided on the inside of the foldable electronic device 001, when the foldable electronic device 001 is in the folded state, the flexible screen is shielded and protected by the first housing 010, the second housing 030, and the base 050, reducing the chance of damage to the flexible screen. If the flexible screen is provided on the outside of the foldable electronic device 001, when the foldable electronic device 001 is in the folded state, the flexible screen is also divided into a first area located in the first housing 010 and a second area located in the second housing 030. The first area and the second area can respectively display different content, expanding the functionality of the foldable electronic device 001.
[0058] Foldable electronic device 001 also includes a hinge mechanism 070. Base 050 forms a fixed portion 051 for connecting hinge mechanism 070. Hinge mechanism 070 is mounted on base 050. Hinge mechanism 070 may also include two rotating portions 077, with the first housing 010 fixed to one rotating portion 077 and the second housing 030 fixed to the other rotating portion 077. When the first housing 010 rotates relative to base 050, hinge mechanism 070 can drive the second housing 030 to rotate synchronously relative to base 050.
[0059] It is understandable that if the foldable electronic device 001 does not include a base 050 covering the gap between the first shell 010 and the second shell 030, for example, the foldable electronic device 001 may include a fixing plate positioned between the first shell 010 and the second shell 030. The fixing plate is rotatably connected to the first shell 010 and the second shell 030 on both sides, and the fixing plate is connected to the hinge mechanism 070. The fixing plate only covers a portion of the hinge mechanism 070. A flexible shell is provided on the side of the fixing plate facing away from the hinge mechanism 070 to cover the gap between the first shell 010 and the second shell 030. The flexible shell can be made of leather.
[0060] Figure 4 shows a schematic diagram of the structure of the rotating shaft mechanism 070 connected to the rotating portion 077 in one embodiment of the present application. Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of the assembly of the rotating shaft mechanism 070 in one embodiment of the present application. Figure 6 shows a schematic diagram of the structure of the rotating shaft mechanism 070 in one embodiment of the present application. Figure 7 shows a schematic diagram of the structure of the rotating shaft mechanism 070 in one embodiment of the present application from another perspective.
[0061] Referring to Figures 4 and 5 , this pivot mechanism 070 includes a fixed bracket 100. The fixed bracket 100 includes a first portion 110 and a second portion 130. The first portion 110 and the second portion 130 are integrally designed, allowing them to be integrally formed to maintain a fixed relative position. The fixed bracket 100 is provided with bolt holes 131. Bolts passing through the bolt holes 131 and threadedly engaging with the base 050 connect the fixed bracket 100 to the base 050, thereby fixing the relative positions of the base 050 and the fixed bracket 100. The bolt holes 131 are located entirely or partially within the second portion 130. The second portion 130 expands the space within the fixed bracket 100, facilitating the placement of the bolt holes 131. This allows for the use of larger bolts passing through the bolt holes 131 and securing the fixed bracket 100 to the base 050, thereby enhancing the connection strength between the fixed bracket 100 and the base 050.
[0062] The first portion 110 and the second portion 130 are arranged along a second direction Y. The second direction Y is perpendicular to the first direction X. Optionally, the dimension of the second portion 130 along the first direction X is smaller than the dimension of the first portion 110 along the first direction X. Both ends of the first portion 110 along the first direction X protrude relative to the second portion 130. A limiting hole 101 is provided in each of the two local areas of the first portion 110 that protrude from the second portion 130. The limiting hole 101 is a through hole extending along the second direction Y.
[0063] The rotating shaft mechanism 070 also includes a transmission assembly 200. The transmission assembly 200 includes first connecting members 230 located on either side of the fixed bracket 100 along the first direction X. The transmission assembly 200 also includes a transmission gear set 210. Each first connecting member 230 has an end gear 231, and the transmission gear set 210 is located between the two end gears 231. The two end gears 231 mesh with the transmission gear sets 210 on either side of the first direction X. One first connecting member 230 is connected to the rotating portion 077 on the first housing 010 side, and the other first connecting member 230 is connected to the rotating portion 077 on the second housing 030 side. In one possible embodiment, one first connecting member 230 is slidably connected to the rotating portion 077 on the first housing 010 side, and the other first connecting member 230 is slidably connected to the rotating portion 077 on the second housing 030 side. When the first housing 010 or the second housing 030 moves relative to the rotating shaft mechanism 070, the corresponding first connecting member 230 is driven to move, thereby driving the corresponding end gear 231 to rotate. The transmission gear set 210 is used to transmit the rotation of one of the end gears 231 to the other end gear 231. Optionally, the transmission gear set 210 includes two meshing middle gears 211. When one of the end gears 231 rotates along the first rotation direction, the other end gear 231 will rotate in the second rotation direction through the transmission of the two middle gears 211. The first rotation direction is opposite to the second rotation direction, so that the first shell 010 and the second shell 030 can rotate toward each other or opposite to each other synchronously. Optionally, the end gear 231 is an incomplete gear. The end gear 231 drives the first shell and the second shell to move between the unfolded state and the folded state. Correspondingly, the end gear 231 only needs to be provided with gear teeth within the corresponding rotation range.
[0064] Referring to Figures 4, 5, and 6, the rotating shaft mechanism 070 further includes two first transmission shafts 220. The two first transmission shafts 220 correspond one-to-one to the two first connecting members 230. The first transmission shafts 220 extend along the second direction Y. The first transmission shafts 220 pass through the first mounting holes 233 of the corresponding end gears 231 and the limiting holes 101 of the fixed bracket 100, thereby connecting the first transmission shafts 220, the end gears 231, and the fixed bracket 100. Each first connecting member 230 rotates relative to the fixed bracket 100 via the corresponding first transmission shaft 220. The fixed bracket 100 restricts the position of the first transmission shafts 220, making it difficult for the first transmission shafts 220 to translate relative to the fixed bracket 100 in directions perpendicular to the second direction Y. The first transmission shafts 220, in turn, restrict the position of the end gears 231, making it difficult for the end gears 231 to translate relative to the first transmission shafts 220 in directions perpendicular to the second direction Y. The cooperation between the fixing bracket 100, the first transmission shaft 220 and the end gear 231 stabilizes the position of the end gear 231 relative to the base 050. When the first shell 010 and the second shell 030 are driven to rotate relative to each other, the end gear 231 can rotate stably without easily translating relative to the base 050.
[0065] The rotating shaft mechanism 070 also includes a clamping assembly 300. The clamping assembly 300 includes a first clamping member 310 and a second clamping member 330. The first clamping member 310 and the second clamping member 330 are both mounted on the first transmission shaft 220. Along the second direction Y, the first clamping member 310 is located at the end of the transmission assembly 200 facing away from the fixed bracket 100. Along the second direction Y, the second clamping member 330 is located at the end of the fixed bracket 100 facing away from the transmission assembly 200. The fixed bracket 100 and the transmission assembly 200 are clamped between the first clamping member 310 and the second clamping member 330. The first clamping member 310 is engaged with the fixed bracket 100 in a circumferentially limited manner around the first transmission shaft 220, and the second clamping member 330 is engaged with the fixed bracket 100 in a circumferentially limited manner around the first transmission shaft 220. When the end gear 231 rotates about the axis of the first transmission shaft 220, the first clamping member 310, the second clamping member 330, and the fixed bracket 100 do not rotate about the axis of the first transmission shaft 220, resulting in relative rotation between the end gear 231 and the first clamping member 310, thereby generating damping between the end gear 231 and the first clamping member 310. The second clamping member 330 is also positionally connected to the first transmission shaft 220 along the second direction Y. When the first transmission shaft 220 moves parallel to the second direction Y along the direction from the second clamping member 330 to the fixed bracket 100, the second clamping member 330 can be driven relatively close to the fixed bracket 100.
[0066] Optionally, the first clamping member 310 is mounted on the two first transmission shafts 220. The second clamping member 330 is mounted on the two first transmission shafts 220. The two portions of the first clamping member 310 corresponding to the two first transmission shafts 220 can be fixedly connected. For example, the first clamping member 310 is the portion of a four-linked cam located at both ends of the first direction X. The relative positions of the two first transmission shafts 220 are fixed by the fixing bracket 100, so that the four-linked cam cannot rotate about the axis of either first transmission shaft 220. In this case, the first clamping member 310 is engaged with the fixing bracket 100 in a circumferentially limited manner around the first transmission shaft 220. When the end gear 231 rotates about the axis of the first transmission shaft 220, the end gear 231 and the first clamping member 310 will produce relative rotation, thereby generating damping between the first clamping member 310 and the end gear 231. The two portions of the second clamping member 330 corresponding to the two first transmission shafts 220 can also be fixedly connected. The second clamping member 330 is a two-piece cam component located at either end of the first direction X. The relative positions of the two first transmission shafts 220 are fixed by the fixed bracket 100, preventing the two-piece cam component from rotating about the axis of either first transmission shaft 220. It is understood that the first clamping member 310 and the second clamping member 330 only need to be fixed to the fixed bracket 100 so as not to rotate about the first transmission shaft 220. Therefore, the first clamping member 310 and the second clamping member 330 can also be connected to the first transmission shaft 220 in other ways. For example, each first transmission shaft 220 is circumferentially connected to the fixed bracket 100. The first clamping member 310 is designed as a two-piece component located at either end of the first direction X, and each is circumferentially connected to the corresponding first transmission shaft 220. Each first transmission shaft 220 is circumferentially connected to the fixed bracket 100. The second clamping member 330 is designed as a two-piece component corresponding to the two first transmission shafts 220, and each is circumferentially connected to the corresponding first transmission shaft 220.
[0067] The rotating shaft mechanism 070 also includes a first elastic portion 400. The first elastic portion 400 is disposed on the first transmission shaft 220. The first elastic portion 400 is in a force storage state. The first elastic portion 400 provides elastic force to the first clamping member 310 and the second clamping member 330, so that the first clamping member 310 and the second clamping member 330 clamp the fixed bracket 100 and the transmission assembly 200 along the second direction Y. Optionally, the first elastic portion 400 includes a first elastic member 410 and a first positioning member 430. A first elastic member 410 is sleeved on each first transmission shaft 220. The first positioning member 430 is disposed on the first transmission shaft 220 and is located on the side of the first clamping member 310 facing away from the second clamping member 330. The first positioning member 430 and the first clamping member 310 are spaced apart along the second direction Y, and the first elastic member 410 is sandwiched between the first positioning member 430 and the first clamping member 310. The first elastic member 410 is in a charged state, generating an elastic force that forces the first positioning member 430 and the first clamping member 310 to move away from each other. When the relative movement of the first positioning member 430 and the first transmission shaft 220 along the second direction Y is restricted, and the relative movement of the second clamping member 330 and the first transmission shaft 220 along the second direction Y is also restricted, preventing the first positioning member 430 and the second clamping member 330 from moving away from each other, the elastic force of the first elastic member 410 acts on the second clamping member 330 through the first positioning member 430 and the first transmission shaft 220, causing the first clamping member 310 and the second clamping member 330 to move closer together, thereby causing the first clamping member 310 and the second clamping member 330 to clamp and fix the bracket 100 and the end gear 231 along the second direction Y.
[0068] Optionally, the first elastic member 410 is a compression spring. When compressed, the compression spring can store elastic potential energy and generate elastic force. As the compression spring is further compressed, it can generate greater elastic force. When the compression spring extends, it releases elastic potential energy and reduces the generated elastic force. Optionally, when the quadruple cam is located at both ends of the first direction X to form the first clamping member 310, the two first elastic members 410 simultaneously act on the quadruple cam to drive the quadruple cam toward the transmission assembly 200.
[0069] Optionally, the first transmission shaft 220 is provided with a first stopper 221. The first stopper 221 is provided at an end of the first positioning member 430 facing away from the second clamping member 330. The first positioning member 430 is provided with a first guide hole. The first transmission shaft 220 passes through the first guide hole to limit the relative movement of the first positioning member 430 and the first transmission shaft 220. Along the projection plane perpendicular to the second direction Y, the projection of the first stopper 221 is at least partially located outside the first guide hole. When the first positioning member 430 moves to contact the first stopper 221, the first stopper 221 can limit the first positioning member 430 from passing through the first stopper 221 along the second direction Y, thereby limiting the first positioning member 430 from separating from the first transmission shaft 220 along the second direction Y.
[0070] Optionally, the first stopper 221 is formed by a retaining spring 071. The rod body of the first transmission shaft 220 is provided with an annular groove 223, and the retaining spring 071 has a retaining groove. The retaining groove is similar in shape to the annular groove 223 and has an opening on one side. When assembling the retaining spring 071 and the rod body of the first transmission shaft 220, the retaining groove opening is first aligned with the annular groove 223. The retaining spring 071 is then brought closer to the rod body in a direction perpendicular to the second direction Y, and the portion of the rod body where the annular groove 223 is located is allowed to enter the retaining groove through the opening. The opening is smaller than the diameter of the portion of the rod body where the annular groove 223 is located. However, the retaining spring 071 has a certain elasticity. By deforming the retaining spring 071, the opening is expanded, allowing the portion of the rod body where the annular groove 223 is located to pass through the opening and enter the retaining groove. Once the portion of the rod body where the annular groove 223 is located enters the retaining groove, the retaining spring 071 returns to its original shape, and the opening narrows, preventing the portion of the rod body where the annular groove 223 is located from slipping out again. The end surface of the annular groove 223 limits the movement of the retaining spring 071 relative to the first transmission shaft 220 along the second direction Y. The retaining spring 071 acts on the first positioning member 430 and limits the movement of the first positioning member 430 relative to the first transmission shaft 220 along the second direction Y.
[0071] It is understood that the first positioning member 430 and the second holding member can also be fixedly mounted on the first transmission shaft 220. The end gear 231 is rotatably connected to the first transmission shaft 220 about the axis of the first transmission shaft 220. The first positioning member 430 and the second holding member can move synchronously with the first transmission shaft 220 in the second direction Y. The end gear 231 can rotate about the axis of the first transmission shaft 220 relative to the fixed bracket 100.
[0072] Optionally, referring back to Figures 4 and 5 , the first transmission shaft 220 is provided with a second stop 225. The second stop 225 is disposed at an end of the second clamping member 330 away from the first positioning member 430. The second clamping member 330 is provided with a second guide hole. The first transmission shaft 220 passes through the second guide hole to limit relative movement between the second clamping member 330 and the first transmission shaft 220. Along a projection plane perpendicular to the second direction Y, the projection of the second stop 225 is at least partially located outside the second guide hole. When the second clamping member 330 moves until it contacts the second stop 225, the second stop 225 can restrict the second clamping member 330 from passing through the second stop 225 along the second direction Y, thereby restricting the second clamping member 330 from separating from the first transmission shaft 220 along the second direction Y. The second stop 225 ensures that the second clamping member 330 is also connected to the first transmission shaft 220 in a limited manner along the second direction Y. When the first transmission shaft 220 moves parallel to the second direction Y along the direction from the second clamping member 330 to the fixing bracket 100 , the second clamping member 330 can be driven to be relatively close to the fixing bracket 100 .
[0073] When the first connecting member 230 drives the end gear 231 to rotate around the axis of the first transmission shaft 220, the end gear 231 moves relative to the first clamping member 310. The first elastic portion 400 causes the first clamping member 310 to press the end gear 231, thereby forming a damping between the end gear 231 and the first clamping member 310.
[0074] It is understandable that if the rotating shaft mechanism 070 does not have the first positioning member 430, the end of the first elastic portion 400 facing away from the fixing bracket 100 can also be fixed to the first transmission shaft 220. For example, the end of the first elastic member 410 facing away from the fixing bracket 100 can be welded to the first transmission shaft 220.
[0075] Optionally, the first clamping member 310 has two first cam surfaces 513 on the end facing the fixed bracket 100. Each first connecting member 230 has a second cam surface 511 on the end facing the first clamping member 310. The second cam surface 511 rotates with the rotation of the end gear 231. Because the first clamping member 310 is circumferentially limited relative to the fixed bracket 100 around the first transmission shaft 220, the first cam surface 513 does not rotate with the rotation of the end gear 231. The second cam surface 511 has a raised portion and a groove portion arranged circumferentially around the first transmission shaft 220, and the first cam surface 513 also has a raised portion and a groove portion arranged circumferentially around the first transmission shaft 220. When the raised portion of the second cam surface 511 is inserted into the groove portion of the first cam surface 513, the raised portion of the first cam surface 513 is also inserted into the groove portion of the second cam surface 511. The first elastic portion 400 acts on the first clamping member 310, causing the first clamping member 310 to move toward the end gear 231, thereby causing the first cam surface 513 to press against the second cam surface 511. When the raised portion of the first cam surface 513 is not fully inserted into the groove of the second cam surface 511, the elastic force provided by the first elastic portion 400 causes the raised portion of the first cam surface 513 to further insert into the groove of the second cam surface 511. At the same time, the contact between the second cam surface 511 and the first cam surface 513 also generates friction, which can prevent the raised portion of the first cam surface 513 from further inserting into the groove of the second cam surface 511. Corresponding to the foldable electronic device 001 shown in Figure 2, when the foldable electronic device 001 moves from the unfolded state to the folded state, when the first shell 010 and the second shell 030 are in the intermediate state between the unfolded state and the folded state, the friction between the second cam surface 511 and the first cam surface 513 can help the first shell 010 and the second shell 030 maintain in the intermediate state, assisting in achieving the hovering of the first shell 010 and the second shell 030.
[0076] When the foldable electronic device 001 is in the unfolded state, the raised portion of the second cam surface 511 is fully inserted into the recessed portion of the first cam surface 513. At this point, for the second cam surface 511 and the first cam surface 513 to rotate relative to each other, they must overcome not only the static friction between the second cam surface 511 and the first cam surface 513, but also the elastic force of the first elastic portion 400 that prevents the second cam surface 511 and the first cam surface 513 from moving away from each other in the second direction Y. The cooperation between the second cam surface 511 and the first cam surface 513 ensures that the foldable electronic device 001 remains more stable in the unfolded state.
[0077] When the foldable electronic device 001 is in the folded state, the raised portion of the second cam surface 511 is fully inserted into the recessed portion of the first cam surface 513. At this point, for the second cam surface 511 and the first cam surface 513 to rotate relative to each other, they must not only overcome the static friction between the second cam surface 511 and the first cam surface 513, but also overcome the elastic force of the first elastic portion 400 that prevents the second cam surface 511 and the first cam surface 513 from moving apart in the second direction Y. The cooperation between the second cam surface 511 and the first cam surface 513 can more stably constrain the foldable electronic device 001 in the folded state. It will be appreciated that the raised portion of the second cam surface 511 is fully inserted into the recessed portion of the first cam surface 513, meaning that any rotation of the second cam surface 511 relative to the first cam surface 513 in any rotational direction will cause the raised portion of the second cam surface 511 to slide along the recessed portion of the first cam surface 513, causing the second cam surface 511 and the first cam surface 513 to move apart. Therefore, in the second direction Y, when the size of the raised portion of the second cam surface 511 is larger than the size of the groove portion of the first cam surface 513, the raised portion of the second cam surface 511 cannot be completely accommodated in the groove portion of the first cam surface 513, but when the end of the raised portion of the second cam surface 511 contacts the bottom wall of the groove portion of the first cam surface 513, it can also be understood that the raised portion of the second cam surface 511 is completely inserted into the groove portion of the first cam surface 513.
[0078] Optionally, the end gear 231 is slidably connected to the first transmission shaft 220 along the second direction Y. The fixed bracket 100 is located at the end of the end gear 231 facing away from the first clamping member 310. The pressure exerted by the first clamping member 310 on the end gear 231 is further transmitted between the end gear 231 and the fixed bracket 100. When the rotating portion 077 connected to the first connecting member 230 moves, the end gear 231 rotates relative to the fixed bracket 100 about the first transmission shaft 220. The end gear 231 presses against the fixed bracket 100 along the second direction Y, causing friction between the end gear 231 and the fixed bracket 100. When the end gear 231 tends to rotate relative to the fixed bracket 100 about the first transmission shaft 220, static friction is generated between the end gear 231 and the fixed bracket 100 to reduce the rotation of the end gear 231 relative to the fixed bracket 100. This ensures that the rotating portion 077 connected to the first connecting member 230 maintains a stable position relative to the base 050 connected to the fixed bracket 100. Corresponding to the foldable electronic device 001 shown in Figure 2, when the foldable electronic device 001 moves from the unfolded state to the folded state, when the first shell 010 and the second shell 030 are in the intermediate state between the unfolded state and the folded state, the static friction between the end gear 231 and the fixed bracket 100 can help the first shell 010 and the second shell 030 to maintain in the intermediate state, assisting in achieving the hovering of the first shell 010 and the second shell 030.
[0079] Optionally, referring to Figures 5, 6, and 7, the rotating shaft mechanism 070 further includes a second connecting member 610. A portion of the second connecting member 610 is disposed between the second clamping member 330 and the fixed bracket 100. A corresponding second connecting member 610 is disposed on each first transmission shaft 220. The second connecting member 610 is sleeved on the first transmission shaft 220 so that the second connecting member 610 can rotate around the axis of the first transmission shaft 220 relative to the fixed bracket 100. The second connecting member 610 is used to connect to the rotating portion 077 on the first shell 010 side or the second shell 030 side. The first connecting member 230 and the second connecting member 610 located on the same first transmission shaft 220 are connected to the same rotating portion 077.
[0080] Optionally, the second connecting member 610 and the first connecting member 230 can be designed as separate components, allowing them to be independently connected to the same rotating portion 077. This allows the second connecting member 610 and the first connecting member 230, located on the same first transmission shaft 220, to have relative displacement in the second direction Y. When the first elastic portion 400 acts on the second clamping member 330 via the first transmission shaft 220, the second clamping member 330 can press against the second connecting member 610, which in turn can press against the first portion 110 of the fixed bracket 100. This creates a contact area between the second clamping member 330 and the second connecting member 610, as well as between the second connecting member 610 and the fixed bracket 100. When the second connecting member 610 rotates about the first transmission shaft 220 relative to the fixed bracket 100, both contact areas can generate friction. When the rotating portion 077 connected to the second connecting member 610 moves, it drives the second connecting member 610 to rotate relative to the fixed bracket 100 about the first transmission shaft 220. The second connecting member 610 also rotates relative to the second clamping member 330 about the first transmission shaft 220. The second clamping member 330 presses the second connecting member 610 along the second direction Y, causing the second clamping member 330 and the second connecting member 610 to rub against each other. When the second connecting member 610 has a tendency to rotate relative to the second clamping member 330 about the first transmission shaft 220, a static friction force is generated between the second clamping member 330 and the second connecting member 610 to reduce the tendency of the second connecting member 610 to rotate relative to the second clamping member 330. At this time, the rotating portion 077 connected to the second connecting member 610 can maintain a relatively stable position relative to the base 050 connected to the fixed bracket 100. Corresponding to the foldable electronic device 001 shown in Figure 2, when the foldable electronic device 001 moves from the unfolded state to the folded state, when the first shell 010 and the second shell 030 are in the intermediate state between the unfolded state and the folded state, the static friction between the second clamping member 330 and the second connecting member 610 can help the first shell 010 and the second shell 030 maintain the intermediate state.
[0081] Optionally, the second clamping member 330 has two third cam surfaces 533 on the end facing the fixed bracket 100. Each second connecting member 610 has a fourth cam surface 531 on the end facing the second clamping member 330. The third cam surfaces 533 rotate with the rotation of the second connecting member 610. The fourth cam surfaces 531 rotate with the rotation of the second connecting member 610. Because the second clamping member 330 is circumferentially limited relative to the fixed bracket 100 around the first transmission shaft 220, the third cam surfaces 533 do not rotate with the rotation of the end gear 231. The fourth cam surfaces 531 have a raised portion and a recessed portion arranged circumferentially around the first transmission shaft 220. The third cam surfaces 533 also have a raised portion and a recessed portion arranged circumferentially around the first transmission shaft 220. When the raised portion of the fourth cam surface 531 is inserted into the recessed portion of the third cam surface 533, the raised portion of the third cam surface 533 is also inserted into the recessed portion of the fourth cam surface 531. The first elastic portion 400 acts on the second clamping member 330, causing the second clamping member 330 to move toward the second connecting member 610, thereby causing the third cam surface 533 to press against the fourth cam surface 531. When the raised portion of the third cam surface 533 is not fully inserted into the recessed portion of the fourth cam surface 531, the elastic force provided by the first elastic portion 400 causes the raised portion of the third cam surface 533 to further insert into the recessed portion of the fourth cam surface 531. Simultaneously, the contact between the fourth cam surface 531 and the third cam surface 533 generates friction, which prevents the raised portion of the third cam surface 533 from further inserting into the recessed portion of the fourth cam surface 531. Corresponding to the foldable electronic device 001 shown in Figure 2, when the foldable electronic device 001 moves from the unfolded state to the folded state, when the first shell 010 and the second shell 030 are in the intermediate state between the unfolded state and the folded state, the friction between the fourth cam surface 531 and the third cam surface 533 can help the first shell 010 and the second shell 030 maintain in the intermediate state, assisting in achieving the hovering of the first shell 010 and the second shell 030.
[0082] When the foldable electronic device 001 is in the unfolded state, the raised portion of the fourth cam surface 531 is fully inserted into the recessed portion of the third cam surface 533. At this point, relative rotation between the fourth cam surface 531 and the third cam surface 533 must overcome not only the static friction between them but also the elastic force of the first elastic portion 400 that prevents the fourth cam surface 531 and the third cam surface 533 from moving apart in the second direction Y. The cooperation between the fourth cam surface 531 and the third cam surface 533 ensures that the foldable electronic device 001 remains more stable in the unfolded state.
[0083] When the foldable electronic device 001 is in the folded state, the raised portion of the fourth cam surface 531 is fully inserted into the recessed portion of the third cam surface 533. At this point, relative rotation between the fourth cam surface 531 and the third cam surface 533 must overcome not only the static friction between them but also the elastic force of the first elastic portion 400 that prevents the fourth cam surface 531 and the third cam surface 533 from moving apart in the second direction Y. The cooperation between the fourth cam surface 531 and the third cam surface 533 ensures that the foldable electronic device 001 remains more stable in the folded state.
[0084] Optionally, the second connecting member 610 is slidably connected relative to the first transmission shaft 220 along the second direction Y. The fixed bracket 100 is located at the end of the second connecting member 610 that is away from the second clamping member 330. The pressure exerted by the second clamping member 330 on the second connecting member 610 is further transmitted between the second connecting member 610 and the fixed bracket 100. The second connecting member 610 presses the fixed bracket 100 along the second direction Y, causing the second connecting member 610 and the fixed bracket 100 to rub against each other. When the second connecting member 610 has a tendency to rotate relative to the fixed bracket 100 around the first transmission shaft 220, a static friction force is generated between the second connecting member 610 and the fixed bracket 100 to reduce the rotation of the end gear 231 relative to the fixed bracket 100. At this time, the rotating portion 077 connected to the second connecting member 610 can be in a stable positional relationship relative to the base 050 connected to the fixed bracket 100. Corresponding to the foldable electronic device 001 shown in Figure 2, when the foldable electronic device 001 moves from the unfolded state to the folded state, when the first shell 010 and the second shell 030 are in the intermediate state between the unfolded state and the folded state, the static friction between the second connecting member 610 and the fixed bracket 100 can help the first shell 010 and the second shell 030 maintain the intermediate state.
[0085] The steps of assembling this rotating shaft mechanism 070 include: passing the first transmission shaft 220 through the second clamping member 330, the second connecting member 610, the fixed bracket 100, the end gear 231 of the first connecting member 230, the first clamping member 310, the first elastic member 410 and the first positioning member 430 in sequence, and setting the first stop member 221 on the rod body of the first transmission shaft 220.
[0086] Figure 8 shows an assembly diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism 070 in one embodiment of the present application. Figure 9 shows a structural diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism 070 in one embodiment of the present application. Figure 10 shows a structural diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism 070 in one embodiment of the present application from another perspective.
[0087] Referring to Figures 8, 9, and 10, the first connecting member 230 and the second connecting member 610 of the rotating shaft mechanism 070 can also be fixedly connected. When the first connecting member 230 and the second connecting member 610 are fixedly connected, the first connecting member 230 and the second connecting member 610 move synchronously in the second direction Y. The first connecting member 230 and the second connecting member 610 rotate synchronously relative to the first transmission shaft 220, so that the first connecting member 230 and the second connecting member 610 are simultaneously connected to the rotating portion 077.
[0088] Optionally, the first connecting member 230 and the second connecting member 610 are designed as one piece, which facilitates the manufacture of the first connecting member 230 and the second connecting member 610 .
[0089] When assembling the rotating shaft mechanism 070, the first portion 110 of the fixing bracket 100 can be inserted between the second connecting member 610 and the end gear 231. The first transmission shaft 220 can then be sequentially passed through the second clamping member 330, the second connecting member 610, the fixing bracket 100, the end gear 231 of the first connecting member 230, the first clamping member 310, the first elastic member 410, and the first positioning member 430.
[0090] Please refer back to Figures 5, 6 and 7. The rotating shaft mechanism 070 also includes a second transmission shaft 710. The second transmission shaft 710 extends along the second direction Y. The second transmission shaft 710 corresponds one-to-one with the middle gear 211. The fixed bracket 100 has a limiting groove 103 corresponding one-to-one with the middle gear 211. Optionally, there are two middle gears 211, two limiting grooves 103, and two second transmission shafts 710. The second transmission shaft 710 is inserted into the limiting groove 103, and the limiting groove 103 can limit the relative position of the second transmission shaft 710 and the base 050. The second transmission shaft 710 passes through the second mounting hole of the middle gear 211 and is inserted into the limiting groove 103 of the fixed bracket 100 to connect the second transmission shaft 710, the fixed bracket 100 and the middle gear 211. The end of the second transmission shaft 710 is accommodated in the limiting groove 103, reducing the space occupied by the second transmission shaft 710 within the rotating shaft mechanism 070 and facilitating the placement of the second portion 130 of the fixed bracket 100. A receiving space is formed between the second clamping member 330, the two second connecting members 610, and the first portion 110 of the fixed bracket 100. The second portion 130 of the fixed bracket 100 is accommodated in this receiving space, allowing it to be placed closely against the base 050, facilitating the connection between the base 050 and the second portion 130 of the fixed bracket 100.
[0091] The rotating shaft mechanism 070 also includes a second elastic portion 800 and a third clamping member 910. The third clamping member 910 is mounted on the two second transmission shafts 710 and is located on the end of the middle gear 211 facing away from the fixed bracket 100. The second elastic portion 800 is disposed on the second transmission shaft 710. When in a charged state, the second elastic portion 800 provides elastic force to the third clamping member 910, causing the third clamping member 910 to press the middle gear 211 toward the fixed bracket 100 in the second direction Y. Optionally, the second elastic portion 800 includes a second elastic member 810 and a second positioning member 830. A second elastic member 810 is mounted on each second transmission shaft 710. The second positioning member 830 is located on the side of the third clamping member 910 facing away from the middle gear 211. The second positioning member 830 and the third clamping member 910 are spaced apart in the second direction Y, with the second elastic member 810 sandwiched between the third clamping member 910 and the second positioning member 830. The second elastic member 810 generates an elastic force that causes the third clamping member 910 and the second positioning member 830 to move relatively apart. When the relative movement of the second positioning member 830 and the second transmission shaft 710 along the second direction Y is restricted, the elastic force of the second elastic member 810 acts on the third clamping member 910, causing the third clamping member 910 to press toward the middle gear 211. Optionally, the second elastic member 810 is a compression spring that can store elastic potential energy and generate elastic force when compressed. As the compression spring is further compressed, the compression spring can generate greater elastic force. When the compression spring stretches, the elastic potential energy is released and the generated elastic force is reduced.
[0092] Optionally, the second transmission shaft 710 is provided with a third stopper 711. The third stopper 711 is provided at the end of the second positioning member 830 facing away from the third clamping member 910. The second positioning member 830 is provided with a second guide hole. The second transmission shaft 710 passes through the second guide hole to limit the relative movement of the second positioning member 830 and the second transmission shaft 710. Along the projection plane perpendicular to the second direction Y, the projection of the third stopper 711 is at least partially located outside the second guide hole. When the second positioning member 830 moves to contact the third stopper 711, the third stopper 711 can limit the second positioning member 830 from passing through the third stopper 711 along the second direction Y, thereby limiting the second positioning member 830 from separating from the second transmission shaft 710 along the second direction Y.
[0093] Optionally, the second positioning member 830 is fixedly connected to the first positioning member 430. The first positioning member 430 and the second positioning member 830 can be designed as an integral unit, so that the first positioning member 430 and the second positioning member 830 are integrally formed to keep the relative positions of the first positioning member 430 and the second positioning member 830 fixed. The first positioning member 430 and the second positioning member 830 are both formed by a card plate. Along the first direction X, the card plate is provided with four through holes at intervals. Of the four through holes, the two through holes located at both ends of the first direction X are used for the first transmission shaft 220 to pass through, so that the parts of the card plate located at both ends of the first direction X form the first positioning member 430. Of the four through holes, the two through holes located in the middle are used for the second transmission shaft 710 to pass through, so that the part of the card plate located in the middle forms the second positioning member 830.
[0094] Optionally, the third stop member 711 is fixedly connected to the first stop member 221. The relative position of the first stop member 221 relative to the first transmission shaft 220 along the second direction Y is limited, thereby limiting the relative position of the third stop member 711 relative to the first transmission shaft 220 along the second direction Y. The first stop member 221 and the third stop member 711 can be designed as an integral whole, and both the first stop member 221 and the third stop member 711 are formed by a retaining spring 071. A first stop member 221 is formed at each end of the retaining spring 071 along the first direction X. Each first stop member 221 has a retaining groove. Each retaining groove corresponds to a first transmission shaft 220, thereby limiting the relative movement of the retaining spring 071 and the first transmission shaft 220 along the second direction Y. The middle portion of the retaining spring 071 forms two third stoppers 711. When the relative movement between the first stopper 221 and the first transmission shaft 220 is restricted, the relative movement between the third stoppers 711 and the first transmission shaft 220 is also restricted, thereby enabling the third stoppers 711 to apply pressure to the second elastic member 810.
[0095] It will be appreciated that when the second transmission shaft 710 is fixedly connected to the fixing bracket 100 along the second direction Y, the second positioning member 830 may also be fixed to the second transmission shaft 710. The third clamping member 910 slidably engages with the second transmission shaft 710 along the second direction Y, so that when the second elastic member 810 is squeezed by the third clamping member 910 and the second positioning member 830, the second elastic member 810 acts on the third clamping member 910, causing the third clamping member 910 to press against the middle gear 211. If the rotating shaft mechanism 070 does not include the second positioning member 830, the second elastic member 810 may also be fixed to the second transmission shaft 710 at the end facing away from the fixing bracket 100. For example, the end of the second elastic member 810 facing away from the fixing bracket 100 may be welded to the second transmission shaft 710.
[0096] The second elastic member 810 causes the third clamping member 910 to press against the middle gear 211, which in turn presses against the fixed bracket 100. When the end gear 231 drives the middle gear 211 to rotate, the middle gear 211 tends to rotate relative to the third clamping member 910, and friction is generated between the third clamping member 910 and the middle gear 211 to counteract this tendency. When the end gear 231 drives the middle gear 211 to rotate, the middle gear 211 tends to rotate relative to the fixed bracket 100, and friction is generated between the fixed bracket 100 and the middle gear 211 to counteract this tendency. Regarding the foldable electronic device 001 shown in FIG. 2 , when the foldable electronic device 001 moves from an unfolded state to a folded state, the first housing 010 and the second housing 030 are in an intermediate state between the unfolded state and the folded state. The friction between the middle gear 211 and the fixing bracket 100 and the friction between the middle gear 211 and the third clamping member 910 can help the first shell 010 and the second shell 030 to maintain the intermediate state.
[0097] Optionally, the third clamping member 910 has two fifth cam surfaces 553 on the end facing the fixed bracket 100. Each middle gear 211 has a sixth cam surface 551 on the end facing the third clamping member 910. The sixth cam surface 551 rotates with the rotation of the middle gear 211. Because the third clamping member 910 is circumferentially limited relative to the fixed bracket 100 around the second transmission shaft 710, the fifth cam surfaces 553 do not rotate with the rotation of the middle gear 211. The sixth cam surface 551 has a raised portion and a recessed portion arranged circumferentially around the second transmission shaft 710, and the fifth cam surface 553 also has a raised portion and a recessed portion arranged circumferentially around the second transmission shaft 710. When the raised portion of the sixth cam surface 551 inserts into the recessed portion of the fifth cam surface 553, the raised portion of the fifth cam surface 553 also inserts into the recessed portion of the sixth cam surface 551. The second elastic portion 800 acts on the third clamping member 910, causing it to move toward the middle gear 211, thereby causing the fifth cam surface 553 to press against the sixth cam surface 551. When the raised portion of the fifth cam surface 553 is not fully inserted into the recessed portion of the sixth cam surface 551, the elastic force provided by the second elastic portion 800 causes the raised portion of the fifth cam surface 553 to further insert into the recessed portion of the sixth cam surface 551. Simultaneously, the contact between the sixth and fifth cam surfaces 551 and 553 generates friction, which prevents the raised portion of the fifth cam surface 553 from further inserting into the recessed portion of the sixth cam surface 551. For the foldable electronic device 001 shown in FIG. 2 , when the first and second housings 010 and 030 are in an intermediate state between the unfolded and folded states, the friction between the sixth and fifth cam surfaces 551 and 553 helps maintain the first and second housings 010 and 030 in that intermediate state.
[0098] When the foldable electronic device 001 is in the unfolded state, the raised portion of the sixth cam surface 551 is fully inserted into the recessed portion of the fifth cam surface 553. At this point, relative rotation between the sixth cam surface 551 and the fifth cam surface 553 must overcome not only the static friction between the sixth and fifth cam surfaces 551, 553, but also the elastic force of the second elastic portion 800 that prevents the sixth and fifth cam surfaces 551, 553 from moving apart in the second direction Y. The cooperation between the sixth and fifth cam surfaces 551, 553 ensures that the foldable electronic device 001 remains more stable in the unfolded state.
[0099] When the foldable electronic device 001 is in the folded state, the raised portion of the sixth cam surface 551 is fully inserted into the recessed portion of the fifth cam surface 553. At this point, relative rotation between the sixth cam surface 551 and the fifth cam surface 553 must overcome not only the static friction between the sixth and fifth cam surfaces 551, 553, but also the elastic force of the second elastic portion 800 that prevents the sixth and fifth cam surfaces 551, 553 from moving apart in the second direction Y. The cooperation between the sixth and fifth cam surfaces 551, 553 ensures that the foldable electronic device 001 remains more stable in the folded state.
[0100] Optionally, the third clamping member 910 is fixedly connected to the first clamping member 310. The third clamping member 910 and the first clamping member 310 can be integrally designed, allowing them to be integrally formed to maintain a fixed relative position between the third clamping member 910 and the first clamping member 310. For example, the first clamping member 310 is the portion of a four-linked cam located at both ends in the first direction X. The third clamping member 910 is the portion located in the middle of the four-linked cam. The four-linked cam is simultaneously connected to the two first transmission shafts 220 and the two second transmission shafts 710 to restrict the four-linked cam from rotating relative to the fixed bracket 100 about either the first transmission shaft 220 or the second transmission shaft 710. When the end gears 231 and the middle gear 211 rotate, the end gears 231 rotate relative to the first clamping member 310, and the middle gear 211 rotates relative to the third clamping member 910. The four-linked cam also has a first cam surface and a fifth cam surface.
[0101] When in use, this foldable electronic device 001 can enter a folded state by rotating the first housing 010 and the second housing 030 toward each other, or enter an unfolded state by rotating the first housing 010 and the second housing 030 away from each other. When the first housing 010 rotates relative to the base 050, the first housing 010 moves relative to the base 050, driving the corresponding end gear 231 of the first housing 010 to rotate. Through the transmission of the transmission gear set 210, the corresponding end gear 231 of the second housing 030 rotates, thereby driving the second housing 030 to rotate relative to the base 050. The fixed bracket 100 is fixedly connected to the base 050, the first transmission shaft 220 passes through the limiting hole 101 of the fixed bracket 100, and the second transmission shaft 710 extends into the limiting slot 103 of the fixed bracket 100. The fixed bracket 100 can limit the relative positions of the first transmission shaft 220, the second transmission shaft 710, and the base 050. When the first housing 010 rotates relative to the base 050, the offset of the first transmission shaft 220 and the second transmission shaft 710 relative to the base 050 can be reduced, thereby improving the stability of the relative rotation of the first housing 010 and the second housing 030. The fixing bracket 100 is positioned between the first clamping member 310 and the second clamping member 330, fully utilizing the space within the foldable electronic device 001. This reduces the space occupied by the hinge mechanism 070 within the foldable electronic device 001. By clamping the second connecting member 610, the fixing bracket 100, and the end gear 231 between the first clamping member 310 and the second clamping member 330, damping is generated between the first clamping member 310 and the end gear 231, as well as between the second clamping member 330 and the second connecting member 610. This improves the stability of the foldable electronic device 001 in the intermediate state between the unfolded and folded states. The second transmission shaft 710 can guide the stored force of the second elastic portion 800. The provision of the second transmission shaft 710 allows the second elastic portion 800 to be installed, providing greater damping, improving the stability of the foldable electronic device 001 in the intermediate state, and assisting in achieving the hovering of the first shell 010 and the second shell 030. The second transmission shaft 710 is confined within the retaining groove 103 of the fixed bracket 100, preventing it from extending from the first portion 110 of the fixed bracket 100. A receiving space is formed between the second clamping member 330, the two second connecting members 610, and the first portion 110 of the fixed bracket 100. The second portion 130 of the fixed bracket 100 is accommodated within this receiving space, allowing it to be positioned closely against the base 050, facilitating the connection between the base 050 and the second portion 130 of the fixed bracket 100.
[0102] The above description is only a specific implementation method of the present application, but the protection scope of the present application is not limited thereto. Any changes or replacements within the technical scope disclosed in the present application should be included in the disclosure scope of the present application.
Claims
1. A rotating shaft mechanism, characterized in that: include: A fixing bracket, wherein the fixing bracket has two limiting holes spaced apart along a first direction; A transmission assembly, comprising two first connecting members and a transmission gear set located on both sides of the fixed bracket along the first direction, each of the first connecting members having an end gear, the transmission gear set being located between the two end gears and meshing with the two end gears, each of the end gears being relatively fixed to a first connecting member located on the same side, and each of the first connecting members being used to connect to a rotating part located on the same side; Two first transmission shafts, the first transmission shafts extending along a second direction, the second direction being perpendicular to the first direction, the two first connecting members respectively rotating relative to the fixed bracket through one of the first transmission shafts; each of the first transmission shafts passes through the corresponding end gear and the corresponding limiting hole; A clamping assembly, wherein the clamping assembly is limitedly matched with the fixed bracket around the first transmission shaft, and the clamping assembly includes a first clamping member and a second clamping member, wherein the first clamping member and the second clamping member are both sleeved on the two first transmission shafts and clamp the fixed bracket and the transmission assembly along the second direction, and the first transmission shaft is limitedly connected to the second clamping member along the second direction, so that the first transmission shaft can drive the second clamping member to be relatively close to the fixed bracket along the second direction; A first elastic part, one end of the first elastic part acts on the first clamping member, and the other end of the first elastic part acts on the first transmission shaft, so that the first clamping member and the second clamping member clamp the fixing bracket and the transmission assembly along the second direction.
2. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first clamping member is located at an end of the transmission assembly away from the fixed bracket, and the first clamping member has two first cam surfaces at an end facing the fixed bracket; Each of the first connecting members has a second cam surface at one end facing the first clamping member; The first elastic portion enables the first clamping member and the second clamping member to clamp the fixing bracket and the transmission assembly along the second direction, and the second cam surface abuts against the first cam surface.
3. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that: The rotating shaft mechanism further includes two second connecting members located on both sides of the fixed bracket along the first direction, each of the second connecting members being used to connect to one of the rotating parts located on the same side; The second clamping member is located at an end of the fixed bracket away from the transmission assembly, and the second clamping member has a third cam surface at an end facing the fixed bracket; Each of the second connecting members is disposed between the second clamping member and the fixing bracket; Each of the second connecting members has a fourth cam surface at one end facing the second clamping member; The first clamping member and the second clamping member clamp the second connecting member, the fixing bracket and the transmission assembly along the second direction, and the third cam surface abuts against the fourth cam surface.
4. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first connecting member and the second connecting member are fixedly connected or designed as one piece.
5. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that: The fixing bracket includes a first part and a second part along the second direction, and the two limiting holes are arranged in the first part; The second part is arranged between the two first transmission shafts, and is used for being fixedly connected to the fixing part.
6. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: The transmission gear set includes a middle gear; The rotating shaft mechanism further includes a second transmission shaft, and the second transmission shaft extends along the second direction; The fixing bracket also has a limiting groove, and the second transmission shaft passes through the middle gear and is inserted into the limiting groove to limit the movement of the middle gear relative to the fixing bracket.
7. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 6, characterized in that: The first elastic part includes a first elastic member and a first positioning member; The first positioning member is disposed on the first transmission shaft and is located on a side of the first clamping member away from the second clamping member; The first elastic member is clamped between the first clamping member and the first positioning member.
8. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 7, characterized in that: The first transmission shaft is provided with a first stopper and a second stopper; The first stop member acts on the first positioning member to limit the first positioning member from being separated from the first transmission shaft along the second direction; The second stop member acts on the second clamping member to limit the second clamping member from being separated from the first transmission shaft along the second direction.
9. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 7, characterized in that: The rotating shaft mechanism also includes a second elastic portion and a third clamping member; The second elastic portion and the third clamping member are both arranged on the second transmission shaft; The middle gear is clamped between the fixing bracket and the third clamping member; The second elastic portion acts on the third clamping member to cause the third clamping member to press toward the middle gear along the second direction.
10. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 9, characterized in that: The third clamping member is located at an end of the transmission assembly away from the fixed bracket, and the end of the third clamping member facing the fixed bracket has two fifth cam surfaces; Each of the middle gears has a sixth cam surface at one end facing the third clamping member; The second elastic portion causes the third clamping member to press toward the middle gear along the second direction, and the fifth cam surface abuts against the sixth cam surface.
11. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 9, characterized in that: The third clamping member is fixedly connected to the first clamping member or is designed as an integral whole.
12. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 9, characterized in that: The second elastic portion includes a second elastic member and a second positioning member; The second positioning member is disposed on the second transmission shaft and is located on a side of the third clamping member away from the middle gear; The second positioning member is fixedly connected to the first positioning member; The second elastic member is clamped between the third clamping member and the second positioning member, and the second elastic member acts on the third clamping member and the second positioning member, so that the third clamping member presses the middle gear toward the fixing bracket along the second direction.
13. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 12, characterized in that: The first positioning member and the second positioning member are fixedly connected or integrally designed.
14. A foldable electronic device, comprising a first housing and a second housing, characterized in that: The foldable electronic device further comprises a hinge mechanism as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13; The first shell is connected to one of the first connecting members, and the second shell is connected to another one of the first connecting members; The first shell and the second shell are rotated toward or away from each other through the rotating shaft mechanism to achieve relative folding or unfolding.