Vehicle-mounted folding screen automatic folding and unfolding device and method based on one-way linear motion

The automatic unfolding and retraction method of foldable screen using unidirectional linear motion employs upper and lower follower mold bases sliding on guide rails to achieve synchronous unfolding and folding of the foldable screen. This solves the problems of complex structure and poor aesthetics in existing technologies, optimizes the power structure, and improves the user experience.

CN119611228BActive Publication Date: 2025-11-18ZHEJIANG WEISHUO HENGJI INTELLIGENT TECH CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202411955803.2
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-12-27
Publication Date
2025-11-18
Estimated Expiration
2044-12-27

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The existing in-vehicle folding screens have separate inward and outward power systems, resulting in complex structures, high costs, poor aesthetics, and the need for separate operation, which affects the user experience.

Method used

An automatic unfolding and retracting method for foldable screens based on unidirectional linear motion is adopted. By sliding the upper and lower follower mold bases on the guide rail, the foldable screen can be unfolded and retracted synchronously. Unidirectional self-locking technology is used to ensure stability and synchronization.

Benefits of technology

The power structure has been optimized, reducing the failure rate and cost, shortening the display and storage space, and improving aesthetics and user experience.

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Abstract

The application relates to a vehicle-mounted folding screen automatic folding and unfolding device and method based on one-way linear motion. The automatic folding and unfolding method comprises an outward unfolding process and an inward folding process. In one aspect, based on one-way motion along a linear direction perpendicular to a hatch opening, a motion guide path formed by a translation section and a flattening section is used to form synchronization and coherence between inward folding and outward stretching and turning, that is, folding and unfolding are completed in mutual motion cooperation, so that a power structure is optimized, and cost and failure rate are reduced. In another aspect, based on cooperation between two motions, the folding screen group does not need to be completely exposed, the unfolded folding screen is in one-way self-locking and is close to the hatch opening and is flattened, the required folding and unfolding space is effectively shortened, effective shielding can be formed, and overall aesthetic appearance is improved.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of foldable screen technology, specifically relating to an automatic folding and unfolding device for vehicle-mounted foldable screens based on unidirectional linear motion, and also relating to an automatic folding and unfolding method for vehicle-mounted foldable screens based on unidirectional linear motion. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, foldable screens are not only used in everyday electronic products such as mobile phones and tablets, but also in in-vehicle screens. However, in in-vehicle screens, they are basically a single piece and cannot be folded. In order to further enhance the technological interior experience brought by in-vehicle screens, many manufacturers plan to bring foldable screens to vehicles, allowing the screen to fold inward and outward with a one-button start, in order to attract consumers.

[0003] However, due to the limited interior space of cars, many folding screens face the following challenges during the loading and unfolding process:

[0004] 1) The inward and outward extension of the foldable screen is controlled by one power system, while the relative unfolding and folding of the foldable screen is controlled by another system. The two systems are relatively independent and cannot work together, resulting in a complex structure, high cost, and increased failure rate.

[0005] 2) Because the two actions are performed separately, the folding operation can only be carried out after all the relevant components of the folding screen have been fully displayed. This not only requires a lot of space, but also causes some parts to be extended at any time, affecting the aesthetics of the interior itself, thus resulting in a poor user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a novel method for automatic unfolding and retracting of foldable screens based on unidirectional linear motion.

[0007] It also relates to an automatic retraction and unfolding device for vehicle-mounted folding screens based on unidirectional linear motion.

[0008] To solve the above technical problems, the present invention adopts the following technical solution:

[0009] An automatic unfolding and retracting method for a foldable screen based on unidirectional linear motion includes an outward unfolding process and an inward folding process. The outward unfolding process includes the following steps:

[0010] M1, Opening a position

[0011] Open the compartment door from the compartment opening. At this time, the folding screen is in the vertical folding state. The upper follower mold base and the lower follower mold base installed on the upper screen body and the lower screen body are relatively separated and located on the upper and lower sides. The upper follower mold base and the lower follower mold base slide on the upper guide rail and the lower guide rail, wherein the upper guide rail and the lower guide rail each include a translation section and a flattening section.

[0012] M2, Movement unfolding and flattening

[0013] As the folding screen is pushed outward in a straight line perpendicular to the opening, it gradually extends outward from the opening. The upper and lower follower molds remain in their initial state and slide along the translation section until they enter the flattening section. While maintaining the unidirectional push, the upper and lower follower molds are driven to move closer together and flip open the folding screen. The upper and lower follower molds fit together and clamp and connect to the top push joint of the folding screen to form a unidirectional self-locking. The folding screen is flattened, and the upper and lower follower molds and the top push joint connected to the back of the folding screen are all located inside the opening. The folding screen is close to the opening for shielding.

[0014] The internal folding process includes the following steps:

[0015] S1, Fold inwards

[0016] Push the folding screen inward in a straight line perpendicular to the compartment opening and fold it inward. Unlock it in one direction. The upper and lower follower modules gradually separate along the flattening section to drive the folding screen to fold up and down. Continue to move inward along a straight line in one direction. At this time, the upper and lower follower modules slide along the translation section until the folding screen is completely retracted into the inside of the compartment opening.

[0017] S2, Closing the warehouse

[0018] The door is reset to close the compartment, concealing the entire folding screen.

[0019] Preferably, in the unidirectional self-locking of step M2, the flattening section forms movement limits for the upper and lower follower mold bases. That is, the flattening section further assists the unidirectional self-locking, improving the stability of the unfolding process; at the same time, it reduces the inward retraction caused by accidental contact with the folding screen.

[0020] According to a specific embodiment and preferred aspect of the present invention, in step M2, the translation segment extends along the direction perpendicular to the compartment opening, and the flattening segment arches forward in an arc shape from the end of the translation segment. The vertical distance from the center of the arc to the center line of the translation segment is equal to the radius of the arc, and the arc of the upper guide rail extends forward and upward; the arc of the lower guide rail extends forward and downward. Here, the one-way self-locking prevents the upper and lower screens from flipping open excessively, and also improves the stability of the flattened display screen; in addition, the one-way self-locking does not affect the inward retraction operation of the folding screen; and since the vertical distance from the center of the arc to the center line of the translation segment is equal to the radius of the arc, not only is the movement path determined, but also the distance of the folding screen extending out of the mounting base is controlled. In other words, under this path, the distance of the folding screen extending out of the mounting base is the shortest, and it can still maintain a continuous movement between flipping and translation under linear power.

[0021] Preferably, the arc-shaped ends of both the upper and lower guide rails extend inward, and when forming a one-way self-locking mechanism, the arc-shaped flattened section restricts movement between itself and the upper and lower follower mold bases. That is, by establishing a connection between the flattened section, the upper follower mold base, and the lower follower mold base, one-way self-locking is assisted, improving the stability of the unfolding process; at the same time, it reduces the inward retraction caused by accidental contact with the folding screen.

[0022] In some specific embodiments, at least two upper guide rails are used, arranged side-by-side at intervals along the length of the compartment opening; the lower guide rails correspond one-to-one and are arranged symmetrically. Based on the multiple sets of motion guides, the motion synchronization between the upper and lower screens is optimized.

[0023] Preferably, there are two upper guide rails and two lower guide rails. The upper follower mold base is slidably installed between the two upper guide rails from the follower columns on both sides; the lower follower mold base is slidably installed between the lower guide rails from the follower columns on both sides. The movement of the follower columns drives the synchronous rotation of the upper and lower follower mold bases.

[0024] According to another specific embodiment and preferred aspect of the invention, in step S1, the upper follower mold base and the lower follower mold base maintain synchronous rotation symmetrically about the folding center line, and move to the inner end of the translation segment to form an abutment limit. Based on the end limit, the inward stroke is effectively controlled, and the stroke is supported more stably.

[0025] According to another specific embodiment and preferred aspect of the present invention, in steps M1 and S2, the compartment door is opened or closed by a shifting mechanism, wherein the movement direction of the compartment door is up-down or left-right. Generally, up-down movement is used when using a single door, and up-down or left-right movement can be used when using a double door; however, considering space constraints, up-down movement is the most preferred.

[0026] Preferably, the mounting base has vertically extending slide rails on its inner side, and the compartment door slides on the slide rails from both sides. The shifting mechanism is a pulley assembly or sprocket assembly based on a conveyor belt or conveyor chain. The conveyor belt or conveyor chain pulls the slides relative to the slide rails to open or close the compartment door.

[0027] Furthermore, both the cargo door and the cargo opening are angled upwards, and the folding screen extends outwards and retracts inwards along a direction perpendicular to the cargo door. When unfolded, the upper and lower screens are flush and form a display surface parallel to the cargo door. This meets the requirements for in-vehicle display angles.

[0028] Another technical solution of the present invention is: an automatic folding and unfolding device used in the above-described automatic folding and unfolding method for folding screens based on unidirectional linear motion, comprising a mounting base, a folding screen assembly, and a power assembly, wherein the mounting base forms a compartment opening and a compartment door, and the compartment door is movable to open or close the compartment opening; the folding screen assembly includes a folding screen, an upper screen body and a lower screen body respectively mounting the folding screen and rotating around the folding center line, and an upper follower mold base and a lower follower mold base respectively fixed to the back of the upper screen body and the lower screen body; the power assembly includes a fixed base having a clearance groove extending along the inlet / outlet direction, a guide mold base located on the fixed base and having a moving track, a top pushing force joint connecting the rotating parts of the upper screen body and the lower screen body, and a power unit that linearly pushes the top pushing force joint outward or inward along the inlet / outlet direction, wherein the upper guide track and the lower guide track constitute a set of tracks, and multiple sets of tracks are formed on the guide mold base.

[0029] Due to the implementation of the above technical solutions, the present invention has the following advantages compared with the prior art:

[0030] In existing foldable screen loading processes, the inward and outward extension of the foldable screen are controlled by one power system, while the relative unfolding and folding are controlled by another system. These two systems are independent and cannot coordinate, resulting in complex structures, high costs, and increased failure rates. Furthermore, because the two actions are performed separately, the unfolding operation can only be performed after all relevant components of the foldable screen are fully extended. This not only requires a large space but also causes some parts to protrude, affecting the aesthetics and leading to a poor user experience. This application presents a comprehensive design for an automatic folding and unfolding method for foldable screens based on unidirectional linear motion, cleverly addressing the shortcomings and defects of existing technologies. This method utilizes a unidirectional linear motion-based automatic folding and unfolding method for foldable screens. After the initial unfolding process, the compartment door is opened from the opening. At this time, the folding screen is in a vertically folded state. The upper and lower follower molds, mounted on the upper and lower screen bodies, are relatively detached and positioned on the upper and lower sides, respectively. Both the upper and lower follower molds slide on the upper and lower guide rails, which each include a translation section and a flattening section. Then, the folding screen is pushed outward unidirectionally along a straight line perpendicular to the compartment opening, gradually extending outward from the opening. The upper and lower follower molds maintain their initial state and slide along the translation section until they enter the flattening section. While maintaining unidirectional pushing, the upper and lower follower molds move closer together. The folding screen is flipped open, with the upper and lower follower molds fitting together and clamping the top push joint of the folding screen to form a one-way self-locking mechanism. The folding screen is flattened, and the upper and lower follower molds and the top push joint, which are connected to the back of the folding screen, are all located inside the compartment opening, with the folding screen close to the compartment opening for concealment. During the inward folding process, the folding screen is first pushed inward in a straight line perpendicular to the compartment opening to fold inward. The one-way self-locking mechanism unlocks, and the upper and lower follower molds gradually separate along the flattening section to drive the folding screen to fold inward by moving it up and down. It continues to fold inward along a one-way straight line. At this time, the upper and lower follower molds slide along the translation section until the folding screen is fully folded. The screen retracts into the inner side of the compartment opening; then, based on the reset of the compartment door, the compartment opening is closed, concealing the entire folding screen. Therefore, this invention, on the one hand, is based on the unidirectional movement along a straight line perpendicular to the compartment opening, combined with the motion guide path formed by the translation segment and the flattening segment, to achieve synchronization and continuity between retraction or extension and flipping. That is, the retraction and unfolding are completed in mutual motion cooperation, which not only optimizes the power structure but also reduces costs and failure rates. On the other hand, based on the cooperation between the two movements, the cost of the folding screen assembly does not need to be fully exposed, and the unfolded folding screen is flattened close to the compartment opening in a unidirectional self-locking state, effectively shortening the required unfolding and retraction space, and forming effective concealment, improving the overall aesthetics. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1This is a structural schematic diagram of the dual-track vehicle-mounted folding screen integrated device of the present invention (outwardly extended state).

[0032] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A structural diagram from another perspective;

[0033] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A diagram illustrating the omitted structure;

[0034] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A diagram illustrating the omitted structure;

[0035] Figure 5 for Figure 1 Front view diagram;

[0036] Figure 6 for Figure 5 A top-down view;

[0037] Figure 7 for Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the sectional view along the central AA direction;

[0038] Figure 8 This is a structural schematic diagram of the dual-track vehicle-mounted folding screen retraction and unfolding integrated device of the present invention (inward retraction state).

[0039] Figure 9 for Figure 8 A structural decomposition diagram;

[0040] Figure 10 for Figure 9 A magnified schematic diagram of a local structure;

[0041] Figure 11 for Figure 8 Front view diagram;

[0042] Figure 12 for Figure 11 A top-down view;

[0043] Figure 13 for Figure 12 Schematic diagram of the BB-direction section;

[0044] The components include: 1. Mounting base; 10. Compartment opening; 11. Compartment door; 12. Slide rail; 13. Slide block; 14. Shifting mechanism; a. Drive wheel; b. Circular belt;

[0045] 2. Foldable screen component; 20. Foldable screen; 21. Upper screen body; 22. Lower screen body;

[0046] 3. Power assembly; 30. Fixed base; 300. Base plate; q. U-shaped clearance groove; 301. Base plate; 302. End plate; 31. Guide mold base; 310. Upper mold body; 311. Lower mold body; g. Upper guide rail; t. Lower guide rail; h1. Translation section; h2. Flattening section; 33. Power unit; 330. Top push force joint; 331. Power component; k. Clearance notch; d. Power screw; e. Sliding module; e1. Slide block; e2. Slide sleeve; f. Power motor;

[0047] 4. Upper follower mold base;

[0048] 5. Lower follower mold base. Detailed Implementation

[0049] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, the application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of this application. However, this application can be implemented in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of this application. Therefore, this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0050] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0051] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0052] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0053] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0054] It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. When an element is considered to be "connected to" another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.

[0055] like Figures 1 to 13 As shown, the automatic folding and unfolding method for folding screens based on unidirectional linear motion involved in this embodiment uses an automatic folding and unfolding device including a mounting base 1, a folding screen assembly 2, and a power assembly 3.

[0056] Specifically, the opening 10 and the door 11 are inclined upwards. The mounting base 1 is assembled with the vehicle frame through the periphery, and the opening 10 extends to the left and right on the mounting base 1. The door 11 is slidably mounted on the mounting base 1, and the opening 10 of the mounting base 1 is opened or closed based on the sliding of the door 11.

[0057] In some specific embodiments, the mounting base 1 has slide rails 12 on opposite sides, and the compartment door 11 is connected to a slide block 13 that slides on the slide rails 12. Simultaneously, a displacement mechanism 14 is provided at one end of the compartment opening 10 to drive the slide block 13 to move and open or close the compartment opening. The displacement mechanism 14 is a pulley assembly or sprocket assembly based on a conveyor belt or conveyor chain. The conveyor belt or conveyor chain pulls the slide block relative to the slide rails to open or close the compartment opening.

[0058] Specifically, the shifting mechanism 14 includes three drive wheels a arranged in a triangle and an annular belt b wound around the three drive wheels a. The annular belt b is fixedly connected to the slide block 13, and the movement of the annular belt b drives the slide block 13 to move up and down along the slide rail 12. In short, one side of the annular belt b extends vertically, and the movement of the vertically extending annular belt b is used to adjust the lifting and lowering of the slide block 13, thereby opening and closing the compartment door 11.

[0059] The foldable screen assembly 2 includes a foldable screen 20, an upper screen body 21 and a lower screen body 22, which are respectively mounted on the foldable screen 20 and rotate around the folding center line. That is, the upper screen body 21 and the lower screen body 22 are folded and flipped around the folding center line to make the foldable screen 20 folded and flattened. The upper follower mold base 4 and the lower follower mold base 5 are respectively fixed to the back of the upper screen body 21 and the lower screen body 22.

[0060] The power assembly 3 includes a fixed base 30 with a clearance groove extending along the direction of the inlet / outlet 10, a guide mold base 31 located on the fixed base 30 and having a moving track, a top-pushing force connector 32 connecting the rotating parts of the upper screen body 21 and the lower screen body 22, and a power unit 33 that linearly pushes the top-pushing force connector 32 outward or inward along the direction of the inlet / outlet 10. The fixed base 30 is a conventional base, and the fixed base 30 includes a seat plate 300, a bottom plate 301, and an end plate 302 located on opposite sides and forming a U-shaped clearance groove q. The folded upper screen body 21 and lower screen body 22 can move from the U-shaped clearance groove q. The guide mold base 31 includes an upper mold body 310 and a lower mold body 311, wherein an upper guide rail g is formed on the upper mold body 310, and a lower guide rail t is formed on the lower mold body 311. The upper mold body 310 and the lower mold body 311 are symmetrically arranged, that is, the upper guide rail g and the lower guide rail t are symmetrically arranged. The power unit 33 includes a top-pushing force connector 330 connected to the rotating connection between the upper screen body 21 and the lower screen body 22, and a power component 331 that drives the top-pushing force connector 330 to move linearly along the length direction perpendicular to the door 11. The upper follower mold base 4 and the lower follower mold base 5 are respectively formed with clearance notches k. When the upper screen body 21 and the lower screen body 22 are in the unfolded state, the upper follower mold base 4, the lower follower mold base 5, and the top-pushing force connector 330 cooperate to clamp and flatten the upper screen body 21 and the lower screen body 22. The power component 331 includes a power screw d extending along the length direction perpendicular to the door 11, a sliding module e cooperating with the power screw d, and a power motor f driving the power screw d to rotate in both directions. The sliding module e includes a slide seat e1 parallel to the power screw d and a sliding sleeve e2 sleeved on the slide seat e1. The sliding sleeve e2 is fixed to the top pushing force joint 330. The power screw d and the sliding sleeve e2 form a screw and nut structure.

[0061] In this example, the upper mold body 310 and the lower mold body 311 form a set, and the guide mold base 31 is formed in two sets. The upper guide rail g and the lower guide rail t both have a translation section h1 and a flattening section h2. Under the linear push of the power unit 33, the upper follower mold base 4 and the lower follower mold base 5 move synchronously and continuously in the translation section h1 and the flattening section h2 to retract and extend the upper screen body 21 and the lower screen body 22. When the upper screen body 21 and the lower screen body 22 are in the unfolded state, the upper follower mold base 4 and the lower follower mold base 5 are in relative contact and form a one-way lock based on the flattening section h2. At the same time, the upper follower mold base 4 and the lower follower mold base 5 are hidden inside the mounting base 1 and cover the corresponding compartment opening 10 position. In some specific embodiments, the translation segment h1 extends along the direction of the access door 11, and the flattening segment h2 is arranged forward and outward from the end of the translation segment near the access door 11. The flattening segment h2 synchronously drives the upper screen body 21 and the lower screen body 22 to fold or unfold relative to each other during the linear motion of the power unit 33. That is, the linear translation segment h1 forms the access mounting base 1, and the flattening segment h2 folds or unfolds the upper screen body 21 and the lower screen body 22 relative to each other. The movement of the two can be continuous, without all parts needing to extend out of the mounting base to flip over. At the same time, the continuous movement can only be performed at specific positions to avoid the access door 10 of the mounting base 1. In this example, the translation segment h1 is perpendicular to the length direction of the door 11, and the flattening segment h2 is a smoothly transitioning arc shape. The flattening segment h2 arches forward from the end of the translation segment h1, and the vertical distance from the center of the arc to the center line of the translation segment h1 is equal to the radius of the arc. The flattening segment h2 of the upper guide rail g is raised upward and forward, and the flattening segment h2 of the lower guide rail t is raised downward and forward. At the same time, the end of the raised arc extends inward, and a one-way self-locking is formed based on the contact of the inner extension end and the contact of the upper follower mold base 4 and the lower follower mold base 5. Here, the one-way self-locking prevents the upper and lower screens from flipping open too quickly, while also improving the stability of the flattened display screen. In addition, the one-way self-locking does not affect the inward retraction operation of the folding screen. At the same time, since the vertical distance from the center of the arc to the center line of the translation segment is equal to the radius of the arc, it not only determines the movement path but also controls the distance the folding screen extends out of the mounting base. In other words, under this path, the distance the folding screen extends out of the mounting base is the shortest, and it can still maintain a continuous movement between flipping and translation under linear power.

[0062] Furthermore, the upper follower mold base 4 slides on the two upper guide rails g respectively from the two follower pins; the lower follower mold base 5 slides on the two lower guide rails t respectively from the two follower pins. Based on the synchronous displacement of the follower pins, the synchronous coordination of expansion and contraction is improved, and the self-locking limit formed by the clamping contact of the follower pins further improves the stability of the flattening.

[0063] In summary, this embodiment describes an automatic unfolding and retracting method for foldable screens based on unidirectional linear motion. It includes an outward unfolding process and an inward folding process. The outward unfolding process includes the following steps:

[0064] M1, Opening a position

[0065] Open the compartment door from the compartment opening. At this time, the folding screen is in the vertical folding state. The upper follower mold base and the lower follower mold base installed on the upper screen body and the lower screen body are relatively separated and located on the upper and lower sides. The upper follower mold base and the lower follower mold base slide on the upper guide rail and the lower guide rail, wherein the upper guide rail and the lower guide rail each include a translation section and a flattening section.

[0066] M2, Movement unfolding and flattening

[0067] As the folding screen is pushed outward in a straight line perpendicular to the opening, it gradually extends outward from the opening. The upper and lower follower molds remain in their initial state and slide along the translation section until they enter the flattening section. While maintaining the unidirectional push, the upper and lower follower molds are driven to move closer together and flip open the folding screen. The upper and lower follower molds fit together and clamp and connect to the top push joint of the folding screen to form a unidirectional self-locking. The folding screen is flattened, and the upper and lower follower molds and the top push joint connected to the back of the folding screen are all located inside the opening. The folding screen is close to the opening for shielding.

[0068] The internal folding process includes the following steps:

[0069] S1, Fold inwards

[0070] Push the folding screen inward in a straight line perpendicular to the compartment opening and fold it inward. Unlock it in one direction. The upper and lower follower modules gradually separate along the flattening section to drive the folding screen to fold up and down. Continue to move inward along a straight line in one direction. At this time, the upper and lower follower modules slide along the translation section until the folding screen is completely retracted into the inside of the compartment opening.

[0071] S2, Closing the warehouse

[0072] The door is reset to close the compartment, concealing the entire folding screen.

[0073] In some specific embodiments, in the one-way self-locking of step M2, the flattening section forms a movement limit for the upper and lower follower mold bases. That is, the flattening section further assists the one-way self-locking, improving the stability of the unfolding; at the same time, it reduces the inward retraction caused by accidental contact with the folding screen. In step M2, the translation section extends along the direction perpendicular to the compartment opening, and the flattening section arches forward in an arc shape from the end of the translation section. The vertical distance from the center of the arc to the center line of the translation section is equal to the radius of the arc, and the arc of the upper guide rail extends forward and upward; the arc of the lower guide rail extends forward and downward. Here, one-way self-locking prevents the upper and lower screens from flipping open excessively, while also improving the stability of the flattened display. Furthermore, one-way self-locking does not affect the inward retraction of the folding screen. Since the vertical distance from the center of the arc to the centerline of the translation segment is equal to the radius of the arc, it not only determines the movement path but also controls the distance the folding screen extends beyond the mounting base. In other words, under this path, the distance the folding screen extends beyond the mounting base is minimized, while still maintaining continuous movement between flipping and translation under linear power. The arc-shaped ends of both the upper and lower guide rails extend inward, and when one-way self-locking is formed, the arc-shaped flattening segment creates movement constraints with the upper and lower follower molds. That is, by establishing a connection between the flattening segment, the upper follower mold, and the lower follower mold, one-way self-locking is assisted, improving the stability of the unfolding process and reducing the inward retraction caused by accidental contact with the folding screen. In step S1, the upper and lower follower mold bases maintain symmetrical synchronous rotation about the folding center line, and move to the inner end of the translation segment to form an abutment limit. Based on the end limit, the inward stroke is effectively controlled, and the stroke is supported more stably. In steps M1 and S2, the compartment door is opened or closed by the shifting mechanism, wherein the movement direction of the compartment door is up and down or left and right. Generally, up and down movement is used when using a single door, and up and down or left and right movement can be used when using a double door, but considering the space constraints, up and down movement is the optimal choice.

[0074] Furthermore, both the door 11 and the opening 10 are tilted upwards, and the folding screen extends outwards and retracts inwards along the direction perpendicular to the door 11. When unfolded, the upper screen 21 and the lower screen 22 are flush and form a display surface parallel to the door 11. This meets the requirements for in-vehicle display angles.

[0075] In summary, after adopting this automatic unfolding and retracting method for foldable screens based on unidirectional linear motion, during the outward unfolding process, the compartment door opens from the opening. At this time, the foldable screen is in a vertically folded state. The upper and lower follower modules mounted on the upper and lower screen bodies are relatively detached and located on the upper and lower sides, respectively. Both the upper and lower follower modules slide on the upper and lower guide rails, which each include a translation section and a flattening section. Then, the foldable screen is pushed outward unidirectionally along a straight line perpendicular to the compartment opening, gradually extending outward from the opening. The upper and lower follower modules maintain their initial state and slide along the translation section until they enter the flattening section. Under the unidirectional push, the upper and lower follower modules are moved together. For the folding screen that is close to the flipped-open mechanism, the upper and lower follower molds are in contact and clamped to the top push joint of the folding screen to form a one-way self-locking mechanism. The folding screen is flattened, and the upper and lower follower molds and the top push joint connected to the back of the folding screen are all located inside the compartment opening. The folding screen is close to the compartment opening for shielding. During the inward folding process, the folding screen is first pushed inward in a straight line perpendicular to the compartment opening to fold inward. The one-way self-locking mechanism is unlocked, and the upper and lower follower molds gradually separate along the flattening section to drive the folding screen to fold up and down. It continues to fold inward along a one-way straight line. At this time, the upper and lower follower molds slide along the translation section until the folding screen is completely retracted into the inside of the compartment opening. Then, the compartment door is reset to close the compartment opening. The folding screen is concealed when closed. Therefore, this invention, on the one hand, utilizes a unidirectional movement along a straight line perpendicular to the compartment opening, coordinated with a translational and flattening section to create a synchronized and continuous movement between retraction / extension and folding. This means that retraction and unfolding are completed through mutual motion cooperation, optimizing the power structure and reducing costs and failure rates. On the other hand, the cooperation between the two movements ensures that the entire folding screen assembly does not need to be exposed, and the unfolded screen is flattened near the compartment opening in a unidirectional self-locking manner, effectively shortening the required unfolding space and providing effective concealment, thus improving overall aesthetics. Thirdly, the linear translational section forms the mounting base, and the flattening section folds or unfolds the upper and lower screens relative to each other. The movements of the two components are continuous, without requiring all parts to extend beyond the mounting base for flipping. Furthermore, continuous movement is only possible at specific locations to avoid obstructing the mounting base's opening. Fourthly, unidirectional self-locking prevents the upper and lower screens from flipping excessively, while also improving the stability of the flattened display. Additionally, unidirectional self-locking does not affect the folding screen's retraction operation. Fifthly, the symmetrical tracks create high motion synchronization, and symmetrical follow-up on the upper and lower follow-up modules improves the synchronization and stability of the folding screen's unfolding and retraction. Sixthly, multiple alignments distribute the power generated by flipping and folding along the folding centerline, resulting in relatively uniform unfolding or folding driving forces for the upper and lower screens, thus improving the lifespan of the folding screen components.Simultaneously, the synchronous displacement of the follower pin improves the coordination of opening and closing, and the self-locking limit formed by the clamping contact of the follower pin further enhances the stability of the flattening; seventhly, based on the setting of the avoidance notch, when the upper and lower screens are in the unfolded state, the upper and lower follower mold bases and the top pushing force joint cooperate to clamp and flatten the upper and lower screens; eighthly, the screw and nut structure enables smooth pushing, and the movement of the annular belt drives the slide to move up and down along the slide rail to realize the opening or closing of the compartment door.

[0076] The present invention has been described in detail above, with the aim of enabling those skilled in the art to understand and implement the invention. However, this description should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the invention. All equivalent changes or modifications made in accordance with the spirit and essence of the invention should be included within the scope of protection of the invention.

Claims

1. A method for automatically unfolding and retracting a folding screen based on unidirectional linear motion, comprising an outward unfolding process and an inward folding process, characterized in that, The outward expansion process includes the following steps: M1, Opening a position Open the door from the opening. At this time, the folding screen is in the vertical folding state. The upper follower mold base and the lower follower mold base installed on the upper screen body and the lower screen body are relatively separated and located on the upper and lower sides. The upper follower mold base and the lower follower mold base slide on the upper guide rail and the lower guide rail. The upper guide rail and the lower guide rail each include a translation section and a flattening section. M2, Movement unfolding and flattening The folding screen is pushed outward in a straight line perpendicular to the opening of the compartment, gradually extending outward from the opening. The upper and lower follower molds remain in their initial state and slide along the translation section until they enter the flattening section. While maintaining the unidirectional push, the upper and lower follower molds are driven to move closer together and flip open the folding screen. The upper and lower follower molds fit together and clamp and connect to the top push joint of the folding screen to form a unidirectional self-locking. The folding screen is flattened, and the upper and lower follower molds and the top push joint connected to the back of the folding screen are all located inside the opening. The folding screen is close to the opening for shielding. The internal folding process includes the following steps: S1, Fold inwards Push the folding screen inward in a straight line perpendicular to the compartment opening and fold it inward. Unlock it in one direction. The upper and lower follower modules gradually separate along the flattening section to drive the folding screen to fold up and down. Continue to move inward along a straight line in one direction. At this time, the upper and lower follower modules slide along the translation section until the folding screen is completely retracted into the inside of the compartment opening. S2, Closing the warehouse The door is reset to close the compartment, concealing the entire folding screen.

2. The automatic unfolding and retracting method for a foldable screen based on unidirectional linear motion according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step M2, the flattening section forms movement limits for the upper follower mold base and the lower follower mold base.

3. The automatic unfolding and retracting method for a foldable screen based on unidirectional linear motion according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step M2, the translation segment extends along the direction of the vertical compartment opening, and the flattening segment arches forward in an arc shape from the end of the translation segment. The vertical distance from the center of the arc to the center line of the translation segment is equal to the radius of the arc. The arc of the upper guide track extends forward and upward, and the arc of the lower guide track extends forward and downward.

4. The automatic unfolding and retracting method for a foldable screen based on unidirectional linear motion according to claim 3, characterized in that, The arc-shaped ends of both the upper and lower guide rails extend inward, and when forming a one-way self-locking mechanism, the flattened arc-shaped section restricts movement between itself and the upper and lower follower mold bases.

5. The automatic unfolding and retracting method for a foldable screen based on unidirectional linear motion according to claim 4, characterized in that, The upper guide rails used are at least two, and are arranged side by side at intervals along the length of the compartment opening; the lower guide rails correspond one-to-one with the lower guide rails and are arranged symmetrically in the upper and lower positions.

6. The automatic unfolding and retracting method for a foldable screen based on unidirectional linear motion according to claim 5, characterized in that, There are two upper guide rails and two lower guide rails. The upper follower mold base is slidably installed between the two upper guide rails from the follower columns on both sides. The lower follower mold base is slidably installed between the two lower guide rails from the follower columns on both sides.

7. The automatic unfolding and retracting method for a foldable screen based on unidirectional linear motion according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step S1, the upper follower mold base and the lower follower mold base maintain synchronous rotation with symmetry about the folding center line, and move to the inner end of the translation segment to form an abutment limit.

8. The automatic unfolding and retracting method for a foldable screen based on unidirectional linear motion according to claim 1, characterized in that, In steps M1 and S2, the compartment door is opened or closed by a shifting mechanism, wherein the movement direction of the compartment door is up and down or left and right; a slide rail extending up and down is provided on the inner side of the mounting base, and the compartment door slides on the slide rail from both sides of the slide seat respectively; the shifting mechanism is a pulley assembly or sprocket assembly based on a conveyor belt or conveyor chain.

9. The automatic unfolding and retracting method for a foldable screen based on unidirectional linear motion according to claim 1, characterized in that, Both the door and the opening are tilted upwards. The folding screen extends outwards and retracts inwards along a direction perpendicular to the door. When unfolded, the upper and lower screens are flush and form a display surface parallel to the door.

10. An automatic unfolding device for the automatic unfolding and retracting method of a folding screen based on unidirectional linear motion as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising a mounting base, a folding screen assembly, and a power assembly, wherein the mounting base forms a compartment opening and a compartment door, the compartment door being movably open or close the compartment opening; the folding screen assembly comprises a folding screen, an upper screen body and a lower screen body respectively mounting the folding screen and rotating about a folding center line, characterized in that, The upper follower mold base and the lower follower mold base are respectively fixed to the back of the upper screen body and the lower screen body; the power assembly includes a fixed base with a clearance groove extending along the direction of entering and exiting the compartment, a guide mold base located on the fixed base and having a moving track, a top pushing force joint connecting the rotating parts of the upper screen body and the lower screen body, and a power unit that linearly pushes the top pushing force joint outward or inward along the direction of entering and exiting the compartment, wherein the upper guide track and the lower guide track constitute a set of tracks, and multiple sets of tracks are formed on the guide mold base.

Citation Information

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