Folding device and electronic equipment

Abstract

The invention provides a folding device and electronic equipment, and relates to the technical field of electronic equipment. The folding device comprises a center shaft assembly, a first movement assembly and a second movement assembly which are arranged on the two sides of the center shaft assembly and rotationally connected with the center shaft assembly, a first shell and a second shell which are fixedly connected to the first movement assembly and the second movement assembly correspondingly, and a supporting mechanism arranged on the first shell. The supporting mechanism can be in lap joint with the middle shaft assembly in the rotating direction of the first shell under the condition that the folding device is in the folded state and / or the unfolded state. According to the folding device, the supporting mechanism is arranged on the first shell, and the supporting mechanism is in lap joint with the middle shaft assembly in the rotating direction of the first shell under the condition that the folding device is in the folding state and / or the unfolding state, so that the supporting mechanism can form a supporting bridge between the first shell and the middle shaft assembly; and dislocation between the middle shaft assembly and the first shell can be prevented, and the anti-collision capacity of the folding device is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of electronic devices, and in particular, to a folding device and an electronic device. Background Art

[0002] Many foldable devices have the disadvantage of poor anti-collision performance. Taking a foldable screen mobile phone as an example, when the foldable screen mobile phone is collided due to dropping or other reasons, it is easy for the relative dislocation to occur between the two shells for installing the display screen of the folding device and the central axis of the folding device, resulting in the dislocation or even damage of the display screen and the rotating shaft of the folding device, and further may cause the functional impairment of the foldable screen mobile phone. Summary of the Invention

[0003] To solve the above problems existing in the prior art, in a first aspect, the present application provides a folding device, which includes:

[0004] A bending mechanism, including a central axis assembly, a first motion assembly and a second motion assembly respectively arranged on both sides of the central axis assembly. The first motion assembly and the second motion assembly are respectively rotatably connected to the central axis assembly, and the folding device can be switched between a folded state and an unfolded state as the first motion assembly and the second motion assembly rotate relative to the central axis assembly;

[0005] A first shell and a second shell, the first shell is fixedly connected to the first motion assembly, and the second shell is fixedly connected to the second motion assembly; and

[0006] A support mechanism, arranged on the first shell, and the support mechanism can be lapped on the central axis assembly along the rotation direction of the first shell when the folding device is in the folded state and / or the unfolded state.

[0007] In a second aspect, the present application provides an electronic device, which includes a flexible screen and the above folding device, and the flexible screen is arranged on the first shell and the second shell of the folding device.

[0008] Different from the prior art, the beneficial effect of the folding device provided by the present application is:

[0009] By arranging the support mechanism on the first shell, and using the support mechanism to lap on the central axis assembly along the rotation direction of the first shell when the folding device is in the folded state and / or the unfolded state, the support mechanism can form a support bridge between the first shell and the central axis assembly, which is beneficial to preventing the relative dislocation between the central axis assembly and the first shell, and improving the anti-collision ability of the folding device.

[0010] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are only exemplary and explanatory, and do not limit the present application. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application or the prior art, the following will briefly introduce the drawings required in the embodiments. Obviously, the drawings in the following description are only some embodiments of the present application. For those of ordinary skill in the art, without creative efforts, other drawings can also be obtained based on these drawings.

[0012] Figure 1 It is a schematic perspective view of an electronic device in an unfolded state provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0013] Figure 2 is Figure 1 the exploded structure schematic diagram of the electronic device in the embodiment;

[0014] Figure 3 It is a schematic perspective view of an electronic device in a folded state provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0015] Figure 4 is Figure 3 the exploded structure schematic diagram of the electronic device in the embodiment;

[0016] Figure 5 It is a partial structure schematic diagram of a folding device in a folded state provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0017] Figure 6 is Figure 5 the partial enlarged schematic diagram of a part of the folding device in the embodiment;

[0018] Figure 7 It is a partial structure schematic diagram of a folding device in an unfolded state provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0019] Figure 8 is Figure 7 the partial enlarged schematic diagram of the shown part of the folding device;

[0020] Figure 9 It is a schematic diagram of the overlapping structure of the support mechanism in the first overlapping state provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0021] Figure 10 is Figure 9 the schematic diagram of the overlapping structure of the support mechanism in a moving state in the embodiment;

[0022] Figure 11 is Figure 9 the schematic diagram of the overlapping structure of the support mechanism in the second overlapping state in the embodiment;

[0023] Figure 12 It is a schematic plan view of the support mechanism in the first state provided by some embodiments of the present application;

[0024] Figure 13 is Figure 12 Schematic plan view of the support mechanism in the second state in the embodiment;

[0025] Figure 14 Schematic perspective view of the support mechanism provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0026] Figure 15 is Figure 14 Exploded view of the support mechanism in the embodiment;

[0027] Figure 16 is Figure 14 Further exploded view of the support mechanism in the embodiment;

[0028] Figure 17 Partial schematic view of the folding device in the folded state provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0029] Figure 18 is Figure 17 Partial schematic view of the folding device in the unfolded state in the embodiment;

[0030] Figure 19 Assembly structure schematic view of the support mechanism in the retracted state and the first housing provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0031] Figure 20 is Figure 19 Partial enlarged schematic view of the support mechanism and the first housing in the embodiment;

[0032] Figure 21 is Figure 19 Exploded view of the support mechanism and the first housing in the embodiment;

[0033] Figure 22 Assembly structure schematic view of the support mechanism in the supported state and the first housing provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0034] Figure 23 Schematic perspective view of the bending mechanism provided in some embodiments of the present application;

[0035] Figure 24 is Figure 23 Exploded view of the bending mechanism in the embodiment;

[0036] Figure 25 Block diagram of a composition of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0037] Explanation of reference numerals:

[0038] 10. Electronic device, 11. Flexible screen, 12. Folding device, 100. Bending mechanism, 110. Central axis assembly, 1101. Trigger part, 1102. First inclined surface, 111. Base, 112. Back cover, 113. First support plate, 120. First motion assembly, 121. First motion part, 122. Second motion part, 123. First connecting rod, 124. Second support plate, 130. Second motion assembly, 131. Third support plate, 140. Synchronization assembly, 150. Torque assembly, 200. First housing, 210. Wall body, 201. Receiving groove, 202. Rotating shaft hole, 203. Limiting groove, 300. Second housing, 400. Support mechanism, 410. Support member, 4101. First side, 4102. Support corner, 420. First elastic member, 430. First telescopic rod, 4301. First protrusion, 440. Rotating shaft, 450. Second elastic member, 460. Second telescopic rod, 4601. Second protrusion, 470. First abutting member, 480. Second abutting member, 490. Sleeve, 4901. First channel, 4902. Second channel, 4903. First sleeve part, 4904. Second sleeve part, 4905. Second inclined surface. Detailed implementation manners

[0039] Next, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be clearly and completely described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of the present application. It can be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to explain the present application, rather than limiting the present application. In addition, it should be noted that, for the sake of description, only parts related to the present application are shown in the drawings rather than all structures. Based on the embodiments in the present application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative efforts shall fall within the protection scope of the present application.

[0040] Referring to "embodiment" in the application means that the specific features, structures or characteristics described in conjunction with the embodiment can be included in at least one embodiment of the present application. The phrase appears in various positions in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it an independent or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. Those skilled in the art explicitly and implicitly understand that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0041] It should be noted that the terms "first", "second", etc. in the present application are used to distinguish different objects, rather than to describe a specific order. In addition, the meaning of "a plurality" herein is at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless there is a specific limitation.

[0042] Embodiments of the present application provide an electronic device and its folding device with good anti-collision ability. As used herein, an "electronic device" (or simply referred to as a "terminal") includes, but is not limited to, a device configured to receive / transmit communication signals via a wired connection (such as via a public switched telephone network (PSTN), digital subscriber line (DSL), digital cable, direct cable connection, and / or another data connection / network) and / or via a wireless interface (such as for a cellular network, wireless local area network (WLAN), digital television network such as DVB-H network, satellite network, AM-FM broadcast transmitter, and / or another communication terminal). A communication terminal configured to communicate via a wireless interface may be referred to as a "wireless communication terminal", "wireless terminal" or "mobile terminal". Examples of mobile terminals include, but are not limited to, satellite or cellular phones; personal communication system (PCS) terminals that can combine cellular radiotelephone with data processing, fax, and data communication capabilities; PDAs that may include radiotelephones, pagers, Internet / intranet access, web browsers, notebooks, calendars, and / or global positioning system (GPS) receivers; and conventional laptop and / or palm-held receivers or other electronic devices including radiotelephone transceivers. A mobile phone is an electronic device configured with a cellular communication module.

[0043] Please refer to Figures 1 to 4 , Figure 1 FIG. is a schematic perspective view of an electronic device in an unfolded state provided by some embodiments of the present application, Figure 2 which is Figure 1 a schematic exploded view of the electronic device in the embodiment, Figure 3 FIG. is a schematic perspective view of an electronic device in a folded state provided by some embodiments of the present application, Figure 4 which is Figure 3 a schematic exploded view of the electronic device in the embodiment.

[0044] In some embodiments, the electronic device 10 includes a flexible screen 11 and a folding device 12. The folding device 12 includes a bending mechanism 100, a first housing 200, and a second housing 300. The first housing 200 and the second housing 300 are connected to both sides of the bending mechanism 100. The folding device 12 can be unfolded to a state where the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 are flush, that is, the unfolded state (as shown in Figure 1 ). The folding device 12 can also be folded to a state where the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 overlap, that is, the folded state (as shown in Figure 3 ). Of course, the folding device 12 can also be in an intermediate state between the unfolded state and the folded state, and there can be a continuous plurality of intermediate states between the unfolded state and the folded state. The flexible screen 11 is disposed on the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 of the folding device 12 and can be unfolded or folded along with the folding device 12.

[0045] Among them, the folded state and the unfolded state are two common states of the electronic device 10. For example, the electronic device 10 is unfolded to view the display content, and the electronic device 10 is folded to be placed or carried. The folded state and the unfolded state can be regarded as the states where the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 of the folding device 12 stop moving. The intermediate state between the folded state and the unfolded state can be regarded as the state where the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 of the folding device 12 are in motion. Of course, some intermediate states, such as the hovering state, can also be regarded as the states where the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 of the folding device 12 stop moving, so they can also be applied to the support bridging design in the following text.

[0046] It should be noted that the terms "comprising" and "having" and any variations thereof in this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or device that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the listed steps or units, but optionally further includes steps or units not listed, or optionally further includes other steps or units inherent to these processes, methods, products, or devices.

[0047] Among them, the bending mechanism 100 may include a central axis assembly 110 and a first motion assembly 120 and a second motion assembly 130 respectively disposed on both sides of the central axis assembly 110. The first motion assembly 120 and the second motion assembly 130 may be rotatably connected to the central axis assembly 110 respectively. The first housing 200 may be fixedly connected to the first motion assembly 120, and the second housing 300 may be fixedly connected to the second motion assembly 130. The folding device 12 can be switched between the folded state and the unfolded state as the first motion assembly 120 and the second motion assembly 130 rotate relative to the central axis assembly 110.

[0048] Among them, the parts of the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 connected to the bending mechanism 100 are respectively formed with grooves for receiving the first motion assembly 120 and the second motion assembly 130. Thus, the assembled first housing 200, the bending mechanism 100, and the second housing 300 can form a flat surface for carrying the flexible screen 11. The first housing 200 and the first motion assembly 120 can be fixed by fasteners such as screws and bolts, or can also be fixed by methods such as but not limited to pin connection, bonding, and welding. The fixing method of the second housing 300 and the second motion assembly 130 is the same.

[0049] Please refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 , Figure 5 are partial structural schematic diagrams of the folding device in the folded state provided by some embodiments of this application, Figure 6 is Figure 5Partial enlarged schematic view of a partial folding device in an embodiment.

[0050] In some embodiments, the folding device 12 includes a support mechanism 400. The support mechanism 400 can be disposed on the first housing 200 and, when the folding device 12 is in the folded state, overlap on the central axis assembly 110 along the rotation direction of the first housing 200. Thus, the support mechanism 400 can form a support bridge between the first housing 200 and the central axis assembly 110.

[0051] Please refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 , Figure 7 are partial structural schematic views of the folding device in the deployed state provided by some embodiments of the present application, Figure 8 is Figure 7 the partial enlarged schematic view of the partial folding device shown.

[0052] In some embodiments, the support mechanism 400 can be disposed on the first housing 200 and, when the folding device 12 is in the deployed state, overlap on the central axis assembly 110 along the rotation direction of the first housing 200. Thus, the support mechanism 400 can form a support bridge between the first housing 200 and the central axis assembly 110.

[0053] Since the support mechanism 400 overlaps the central axis assembly 110 along the rotation direction of the first housing 200, the support mechanism 400 will not cause an obstruction when the first housing 200 changes its rotation direction. For example, if the first housing 200 folds in the clockwise direction and unfolds in the counterclockwise direction, then when the folding device 12 is in the folded state, the support mechanism 400 that overlaps the first housing 200 in the clockwise direction can separate from the first housing 200 in the counterclockwise direction when the first housing 200 unfolds, so as to avoid hindering the rotation of the first housing 200.

[0054] In the embodiments of the present application, the second housing 300 can adopt the same structure as the first housing 200. The folding device 12 can include another support mechanism 400 disposed on the second housing 300 to form a structure similar to the Figures 5 to 8 shown structure. In this case, the support mechanism 400 disposed on the second housing 300 can overlap on the central axis assembly 110 along the rotation direction of the second housing 300 when the folding device 12 is in the folded state, or can also overlap on the central axis assembly 110 along the rotation direction of the second housing 300 when the folding device 12 is in the deployed state.

[0055] In other words, the support mechanism 400 can be provided on one or both of the first housing 200 and the second housing 300. The support mechanism 400 can be lapped on the central axis assembly 110 along the rotation direction of the first housing 200 or the second housing 300 when the folding device 12 is in the folded state and / or the unfolded state. It can be understood that at least one support mechanism 400 can be provided on both the first housing 200 and the second housing 300, so that the at least two support mechanisms 400 can be lapped on the central axis assembly 110 when the folding device 12 is in the folded state or the unfolded state.

[0056] In some embodiments, the support mechanism 400 can be deformed during the rotation of the first housing 200 or the second housing 300 relative to the central axis assembly 110, so that the support mechanism 400 can be lapped on the central axis assembly 110 in a state where the first housing 200 or the second housing 300 stops moving (such as the unfolded state, the folded state), and does not hinder the rotation of the first housing 200 or the second housing 300.

[0057] Please refer to Figures 9 to 11 , Figure 9 which is a schematic diagram of the lapping structure of the support mechanism provided in some embodiments of the present application in the first lapping state. Figure 10 It is Figure 9 a schematic diagram of the lapping structure of the support mechanism in the moving state in the embodiment. Figure 11 It is Figure 9 a schematic diagram of the lapping structure of the support mechanism in the second lapping state in the embodiment.

[0058] Optionally, the support mechanism 400 includes a support member 410 and a first elastic member 420. The support member 410 can be lapped on the central axis assembly 110 along the rotation direction of the first housing 200 or the second housing 300. The first elastic member 420 abuts against the support member 410 and can realize the position change of the support member 410 relative to the first housing 200 or the second housing 300 through elastic deformation. Taking the support mechanism 400 provided on the first housing 200 as an example, during the rotation of the first housing 200 relative to the central axis assembly 110, the first elastic member 420 can actuate the support member 410 to change the relative position between the support member 410 and the first housing 200, so that the support member 410 can be lapped on the central axis assembly 110. Specifically, it can be lapped on the central axis assembly 110 when the folding device 12 is in the folded state (such as Figure 9 shown), or it can be lapped on the central axis assembly 110 when the folding device 12 is in the unfolded state (such as Figure 11The situation where the support mechanism 400 is provided on the second housing 300 is similar, so it will not be elaborated here. During the movement of the first housing 200 or the second housing 300, the support member 410 can change its position relative to the central axis assembly 110 with the cooperation of the first elastic member 420 (as shown in Figure 10 ), so as to avoid the movement of the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 being blocked.

[0059] It should be noted that only one deformable support mechanism 400 is shown above. In other embodiments of the present application, the support mechanism 400 can also be designed as other deformable structures. For example, a sensor (such as a laser sensor, a pressure sensor) and an electronic control device are used to control the deformation of the support member 410 or the change in its position relative to the central axis assembly 110 when the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 move to a preset state (such as a folded state, an unfolded state).

[0060] In addition, the folding device 12 of the embodiment of the present application can also use a non-deformable support mechanism 400 to form the above-mentioned support bridge as long as the support mechanism 400 does not cause the folding device 12 to be unable to open and close normally.

[0061] The folding device 12 provided by the embodiment of the present application can be lapped on the central axis assembly 110 when the first housing 200 or the second housing 300 where it is located stops moving relative to the central axis assembly 110. Thus, the support mechanism 400 can form a support bridge between the first housing 200 or the second housing 300 where it is located and the central axis assembly 110, so as to prevent dislocation between the corresponding housing and the central axis assembly 110, which is beneficial to improving the anti-collision ability of the folding device 12 and extending the service life of the folding device 12.

[0062] For example, the support mechanism 400 provided on the first housing 200 can be lapped on the central axis assembly 110 when the folding device 12 is in the unfolded state, so as to form a support bridge between the central axis assembly 110 and the first housing 200. Thus, when the folding device 12 in the unfolded state collides, for example, the user's hand slips and the electronic device 10 falls to the ground, the central axis assembly 110 and the first housing 200 can receive force from each other through the support mechanism 400, so as to prevent one of the central axis assembly 110 and the first housing 200 from being displaced relative to the other due to the collision, and the damage rate of the screen and the axis of the electronic device 10 can be reduced.

[0063] Again, for example, the support mechanism 400 provided on the first housing 200 can be lapped on the central axis assembly 110 when the folding device 12 is in the folded state. Thus, when the folding device 12 in the folded state collides, for example, the electronic device 10 in the carrying or placing state falls to the ground, the folding device 12 is not likely to be damaged thereby.

[0064] The folding device 12 provided in the embodiments of the present application can be designed such that the support mechanism 400 is only lapped on the central axis assembly 110 in the folded state or the unfolded state, or it can be designed such that the support mechanism 400 is lapped on the central axis assembly 110 in both the folded state and the unfolded state. It can also adopt two support mechanisms 400 to be lapped on the central axis assembly 110 in the folded state and the unfolded state respectively. Specifically, which one to adopt can be determined according to the actual situation, and other components of the folding device 12 can be adjusted accordingly.

[0065] The structure of the support mechanism 400 to achieve lapping can also be determined according to the actual situation. Another deformable support mechanism 400 formed by the cooperation of a support member 410 and a first elastic member 420 is shown below. Please refer to Figure 12 and Figure 13 , Figure 12 is a schematic plan view of the support mechanism provided in some embodiments of the present application in the first state, Figure 13 is Figure 12 a schematic plan view of the support mechanism in the second state in the embodiments.

[0066] In some embodiments, the support mechanism 400 includes a support member 410, a first elastic member 420, and a first telescopic rod 430. The first telescopic rod 430 contacts the first elastic member 420 and can achieve elastic telescoping under the cooperation of the first elastic member 420. The support member 410 can change its shape under the actuation of the first telescopic rod 430, thereby realizing the deformation of the support mechanism 400.

[0067] Thus, the components for supporting and lapping and the components for realizing actuating deformation of the support mechanism 400 can be separated. The support mechanism 400 can use the first telescopic rod 430 to cooperate with the first elastic member 420 to actuate the support member 410, and can use the elastic recovery characteristic of the first elastic member 420 to achieve reset. In this way, the support component (support member 410) and the actuating component (first elastic member 420 and first telescopic rod 430) of the support mechanism 400 can be arranged at different positions, and the movement directions and movement trajectories of both can be adjusted according to requirements, greatly improving the layout flexibility of the support mechanism 400.

[0068] The support mechanism 400 may further include a rotating shaft 440. The support member 410 is configured to be rotatable around the rotating shaft 440. Thus, the cooperation mechanism of the first telescopic rod 430 and the first elastic member 420 can control the rotation of the support member 410 through elastic telescoping movement, thereby realizing the deformation of the support mechanism 400.

[0069] Optionally, the support mechanism 400 further includes a second elastic member 450 and a second telescopic rod 460. The second telescopic rod 460 contacts the second elastic member 450 and can be elastically telescopic with the cooperation of the second elastic member 450. The second telescopic rod 460 and the first telescopic rod 430 can be respectively pressed against different areas of the support member 410 and respectively used to drive the support member 410 into different states.

[0070] like Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, one end of the first telescopic rod 430 can abut against the support member 410, and the other end is provided with a first protrusion 4301. The first elastic member 420 is sleeved on the portion between the two ends of the first telescopic rod 430, and one end of the first elastic member 420 abuts against the first protrusion 4301, and the other end abuts against the first abutting member 470. The first abutting member 470 is a component for cooperating with the first elastic member 420 and the first telescopic rod 430 to achieve elastic expansion and contraction, which can be a convex portion on the first shell 200 or the second shell 300, or a component assembled on the first telescopic rod 430, which is not specifically limited here.

[0071] One end of the second telescopic rod 460 may abut against the support member 410, and the portion between the two ends of the second telescopic rod 460 may be provided with a second protrusion 4601. The second elastic member 450 is sleeved between the end of the second telescopic rod 460 away from the support member 410 and the second protrusion 4601, and the two ends of the second elastic member 450 abut against the second protrusion 4601 and the second abutting member 480, respectively. The second abutting member 480 is a component used to cooperate with the second elastic member 450 and the second telescopic rod 460 to achieve elastic expansion and contraction, which may be a convex portion on the first shell 200 or the second shell 300, or a component assembled on the second telescopic rod 460, which is not specifically limited here. Similarly, the second protrusion 4601 may also be a component similar to the second abutting member 480.

[0072] It can be understood that the setting positions of the first protrusion 4301 and the second protrusion 4601 are not limited to this. For example, the first protrusion 4301 can also be set in the part between the two ends of the first telescopic rod 430, and the second protrusion 4601 can also be set on the second telescopic rod 460 to resist one end of the support member 410.

[0073] In an application scenario, such as Figure 12 The support mechanism 400 shown in the first state is subjected to a force from the side away from the support member 410 (such as Figure 12 In the case of a trigger force of the right side in the figure, the support member 410 may be moved in the direction of the support member 410 (such as Figure 12Translate to the left and touch the support member 410. During the translation, the first elastic member 420 is compressed, and the support member 410 rotates. Further, the support member 410 can touch the second telescopic rod 460, causing the second telescopic rod 460 to move in the direction of compression of the second elastic member 450, thereby forming as shown in Figure 13 the support mechanism 400 in the second state.

[0074] As shown in Figure 13 the support mechanism 400 in the second state. When the touch force received by the first telescopic rod 430 decreases or stops, the first telescopic rod 430 can move away from the support member 410 (such as the right side in Figure 13 ) under the action of the elastic restoring force of the first elastic member 420. Thus, the support member 410 that loses the pressure from the first telescopic rod 430 will not apply a force that can compress the second elastic member 450 to the second telescopic rod 460. The second telescopic rod 460 can push the support member 410 to rotate under the action of the elastic restoring force of the second elastic member 450, thereby forming Figure 12 the support mechanism 400 in the first state.

[0075] Wherein, the support member 410 can be triangular and is rotatably connected to the first housing 200. The first telescopic rod 430 and the second telescopic rod 460 can respectively abut against different positions on the same side of the support member 410. Thus, when the support member 410 switches from the first state to the second state, or from the second state to the first state, at least one of the three corners of the support member 410 can protrude from the first housing 200 (or the second housing 300), so that this corner can be lapped on the central axis assembly 110. Wherein, the ends of the first telescopic rod 430 and the second telescopic rod 460 for abutting against the support member 410 can form an arc surface for relative sliding of their contact surfaces with the support member 410.

[0076] Optionally, the triangular support member 410 has a first side 4101, and the first side 4101 is one of the three sides of the support member 410. The first telescopic rod 430 and the second telescopic rod 460 respectively abut against different positions on the first side 4101. The support member 410 further includes a support corner 4102, and the support corner 4102 is one of the three corners of the support member 4102. The support corner 4102 is formed at one end of the first side 4101 close to the first telescopic rod 430. Wherein, the second telescopic rod 460 is relatively farther from the support corner 4102 than the first telescopic rod 430. The first telescopic rod 430 can be used to drive the support member 410 into the second state, and the second telescopic rod 460 can be used to drive the support member 410 into the first state.

[0077] The support member 410 can be rotated under the drive of the first telescopic rod 430 and the second telescopic rod 360, so that the position of its support corner 4102 relative to the first housing 200 will change accordingly. When the support member 410 is in the first state as shown in Figure 12 , the support corner 4102 can be flush with the top of the wall 210 of the housing 200 or located below the top of the wall 210, and the support corner 4102 can be separated from the central axis assembly 110. When the support member 410 is in the second state as shown in Figure 13 , the support corner 4102 can protrude from the wall 210, and the support corner 4102 can be lapped on the central axis assembly 110.

[0078] It should be noted that Figure 12 and Figure 13 only show an optional example of the support mechanism 400. In other embodiments, the support mechanism 400 can also be designed into other structures. For example, the first telescopic rod 430 and the second telescopic rod 460 can be respectively arranged on different sides of the support member 410. Another example is that the support member 410 can be oval, strip-shaped, irregular-shaped, etc. The specific support mechanism 400 adopted can be determined according to actual needs.

[0079] Please refer to Figures 14 to 16 , Figure 14 which is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the support mechanism provided by some embodiments of the present application, Figure 15 is Figure 14 a disassembled structural schematic diagram of the support mechanism in the embodiment, Figure 16 is Figure 14 a further disassembled structural schematic diagram of the support mechanism in the embodiment.

[0080] In some embodiments, the support mechanism 400 can include a support member 410, a rotating shaft 440, a first telescopic rod 430, a first elastic member 420, a second telescopic rod 460, a second elastic member 450, and a sleeve 490. A first channel 4901 and a second channel 4902 can be formed inside the sleeve 490. A part of the first telescopic rod 430 is accommodated in the first channel 4901, and a part of the second telescopic rod 460 is accommodated in the second channel 4902. The sleeve 490 can limit the movement trajectories of the first telescopic rod 430 and the second telescopic rod 460 through the first channel 4901 and the second channel 4902, thereby avoiding the dislocation of the first telescopic rod 430 and the second telescopic rod 460 during the movement process.

[0081] The sleeve 490 may include a first sleeve portion 4903 and a second sleeve portion 4904, and grooves for forming a first channel 4901 and a second channel 4902 are respectively provided on the opposite surfaces of the first sleeve portion 4903 and the second sleeve portion 4904. The first sleeve portion 4903 is connected to the second sleeve portion 4904, and the connection method is, for example, but not limited to, snap connection, screw / pin / rivet fixing, welding, bonding, etc. The first channel 4901 and the second channel 4902 are formed by the first sleeve portion 4903 and the second sleeve portion 4904. During the assembly process, the support member may first assemble the first elastic member 420, the first telescopic rod 430, the second elastic member 450 and the second telescopic rod 460 on one of the first sleeve portion 4903 and the second sleeve portion 4904, and then connect the other one to the first sleeve portion 4903 to form a module, and then further assemble the module with the support member 410 and the rotating shaft 440, so as to complete the assembly of the support mechanism 400. Among them, one end of the first elastic member 420 away from the first protrusion 4301 and one end of the second elastic member 450 away from the second protrusion 4601 can both abut against the inner part of the sleeve 490. In other words, the first abutting member 470 and the second abutting member 480 mentioned above can be formed inside the sleeve 490.

[0082] Optionally, the support member 410 is triangular in shape, and the side of the sleeve 490 close to the support member 410 forms an inclined surface opposite to the side of the support member 410 used to abut against the first telescopic rod 430 and the second telescopic rod 460, so that the sleeve 490 can be closely matched with the support member 410 and the first telescopic rod 430 and the second telescopic rod 460 to improve space utilization.

[0083] Among them, the sleeve 490 is provided with two openings connecting the first channel 4901 and the second channel 4902 respectively on the side facing the support member 410, and the first telescopic rod 430 and the second telescopic rod 460 can be moved into or out of the first channel 4901 and the second channel 4902 through the corresponding opening parts to facilitate the movement of the first telescopic rod 430 and the second telescopic rod 460 in various states.

[0084] The following is an example of a support mechanism 400 overlapped with the middle shaft assembly 110 in the folded state of the folding device 12. It should be noted that the folding device 12 usually has a high risk of slipping in the folded state. The reason is that, for example, Figure 1 and Figure 3The unfolded state and the folded state shown are the two most frequently used states of the electronic device 10. In the unfolded state, the surface of the electronic device 10 is formed by the flexible screen 11, the first housing 200, and the second housing 300. The central axis assembly 110 can be hidden inside and is not easily directly collided. In the folded state, the central axis assembly 110 is exposed outside and is easily directly collided. Therefore, the support mechanism 400 that can be lapped on the central axis assembly 110 in the folded state has high practicability. Taking this as an example, the structure of the folding device 12 will be further described in detail below.

[0085] Please refer to Figure 17 and Figure 18 , Figure 17 which is a partial structural schematic diagram of the folding device provided in some embodiments of the present application in the folded state. Figure 18 is Figure 17 a partial structural schematic diagram of the folding device in the unfolded state in the embodiment. For ease of understanding, Figure 17 and Figure 18 the folding device 12 shown omits the first housing 200, the second housing 300, and the first sleeve portion 4903. These components can be referred to Figure 6 and Figures 14 to 16 the structures shown.

[0086] In the folded state, the support mechanism 400 can be in the second state as shown in Figure 13 . The second state can be called the support state, which is the state where the support member 410 is lapped on the central axis assembly 110 to form a support bridge. In the unfolded state, the support mechanism 400 can be in the first state as shown in Figure 12 . The first state can be called the retracted state, which is the state where the support member 410 is separated from the central axis assembly 110.

[0087] In some embodiments, a trigger portion 1101 protrudes upward on one side of the central axis assembly 110, and the trigger portion 1101 is adapted to the first protrusion portion 4301. When the support member 410 is in the retracted state, at least a part of the first protrusion portion 4301 is located outside the sleeve 490, so that the first protrusion portion 4301 can be touched by the trigger portion 1101.

[0088] During the process of the first housing 200 rotating to the folded state, the first protrusion portion 4301 abuts against the trigger portion 1101 and moves in the direction of the support member 410 under the abutment of the trigger portion 1101, so that the first telescopic rod 430 drives the support member 410 into the support state. During the process of the first housing 200 rotating to the unfolded state, the first protrusion portion 4301 is separated from the trigger portion 1101, and the second telescopic rod 460 drives the support member 410 into the retracted state. The specific contents of these two processes have been described above and will not be elaborated here.

[0089] Among them, the triggering part 1101 may have a first inclined surface 1102. A second inclined surface 4905 may be formed on the side of the sleeve 490 away from the support member 410. The first channel 4901 penetrates to the second inclined surface 4905. When the support member 410 is in the retracted state, the first protrusion 4301 protrudes from the second inclined surface 4905; when the support member 410 is in the supported state, the first inclined surface 1102 of the triggering part 1101 is substantially flush with the second inclined surface 4905, for example but not limited to being directly opposite and separated from each other, or being in contact with each other, so as to press the first protrusion 4301 into the first channel 4901. Among them, the first protrusion 4301 may be formed with an inclined surface adapted to the triggering part 1101 to improve the efficiency of the first protrusion 4301 moving into the first channel 4901 under the action of the triggering part 1101.

[0090] It should be noted that in other embodiments, the first protrusion 4301 may move in the direction of the support member 410 under the abutment of the triggering part 1101 during the process of the first housing 200 rotating to the deployed state, so that the first telescopic rod 430 drives the support member 410 into the supported state. In other words, the support member 410 may be lapped on the central axis assembly 110 when the folding device 12 is in the deployed state, or may be lapped on the central axis assembly 110 when the folding device 12 is in the folded state, which has been described above. The first protrusion 4301 may also be provided on the second housing 300 and form the above-mentioned cooperation with the triggering part 1101 on the central axis assembly 110, which will not be elaborated here.

[0091] Please refer to Figure 6 and Figures 19 to 22 , Figure 19 is a schematic assembly structure diagram of the support mechanism in the retracted state and the first housing provided by some embodiments of the present application, Figure 20 is Figure 19 a partial enlarged schematic diagram of the support mechanism and the first housing in the embodiment, Figure 21 is Figure 19 an exploded structure schematic diagram of the support mechanism and the first housing in the embodiment, Figure 22 is a schematic assembly structure diagram of the support mechanism in the supported state and the first housing provided by some embodiments of the present application.

[0092] In some embodiments, the first housing 200 where the support member 410 is located is provided with a receiving groove 201. The support member 410 is arranged in the receiving groove 201 and is rotatably connected to the side wall of the receiving groove 201 through a rotating shaft 440. Among them, the side wall of the receiving groove 201 may be Figure 12 and Figure 13 the wall body 210 of the first housing 200 shown. In the retracted state, the support member 410 can be received in the receiving groove 201 (such as Figure 20As shown). In the supporting state, one end of the support member 410 can protrude from the side wall of the receiving groove 201 (as Figure 22 shown).

[0093] Wherein, a rotating shaft hole 202 can be formed in the side wall of the receiving groove 201, the rotating shaft 440 of the support mechanism 400 can be inserted into the rotating shaft hole 202, and one end of the rotating shaft 440 away from the side wall cooperates with the side wall to clamp the support member 410 therebetween, so as to realize the rotational connection between the support member 410 and the first housing 200. The first housing 200 can also be provided with a limiting groove 203 on one side of the receiving groove 201, and the sleeve 490 of the support mechanism 400 can be embedded in the limiting groove 203.

[0094] In other embodiments, the rotating shaft 440 can also be a convex column protruding from the first housing 200, or a convex column integrally formed with the support member 410. The sleeve 490 can also be fixed to the first housing 200 by other means such as welding and bonding.

[0095] It should be noted that the support mechanism 400 can also be arranged on the second housing 300. The structure of the second housing 300 can be the same as that of the first housing 200, and its cooperation with the support mechanism 400 can refer to the cooperation between the first housing 200 and the support mechanism 400, which will not be elaborated here.

[0096] Thus, during the process of the first housing 200 and the second housing 300 rotating to the folded state and / or the unfolded state of the folding device 12, the support member 410 can be switched between the support state and the retracted state by rotation. The first telescopic rod 430 can be used to drive the support member 410 into the support state, and the second telescopic rod 460 can be used to drive the support member 410 into the retracted state. In the support state, the support member 410 can be lapped on the central axis assembly 110 along the rotation direction of the first housing 200 or the second housing 300 where it is located; in the retracted state, the support member 410 is separated from the central axis assembly 110.

[0097] It can be understood that the number and position of the support mechanisms 400 are not limited to the above embodiments. For example, multiple support mechanisms 400 can be provided on the first housing 200, and multiple triggering parts 1101 can be correspondingly provided on the central axis assembly 110. The setting position of the triggering parts 1101 on the central axis assembly 110 is not limited to one type either.

[0098] Please refer to Figure 23 and Figure 24 , Figure 23 which is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of a bending mechanism provided by some embodiments of the present application, Figure 24 is Figure 23 the exploded structural schematic diagram of the bending mechanism in the embodiment.

[0099] In some embodiments, the bending mechanism 100 includes a central axis assembly 110, a first motion assembly 120 and a second motion assembly 130 rotatably connected to both sides of the central axis assembly 110. The first motion assembly 120 can be fixedly connected to the first housing 200, and the second motion assembly 130 can be fixedly connected to the second housing 300. Among them, the structures of the first motion assembly 120 and the second motion assembly 130 are basically the same, and their cooperation with the central axis assembly 110 and the first housing 200 (or the second housing 300) is also basically the same. Therefore, only the structure of the first motion assembly 120 will be described in detail below.

[0100] Among them, the central axis assembly 110 includes a base 111 and a back cover 112, which can cooperate to form the central axis area of the folding device 12 and basically do not move during the folding or unfolding of the folding device 12. The first motion assembly 120 and the second motion assembly 130 of the bending mechanism 100 are both rotatably connected to the base 111, and the back cover 112 can cover the base 111.

[0101] In related foldable devices, to ensure smooth folding or unfolding, the housings on both sides are usually not connected to the central axis area, which brings the drawback that the housings of the foldable device are prone to misalignment with the central axis area when the device is collided. In the embodiments of the present application, the support mechanism 400 provided on the first housing 200 or the second housing 300 is lapped on the central axis assembly 110 in the folded state and / or the unfolded state to form a support bridge between the central axis assembly 110 and the first housing 200 or the second housing 300, which can significantly improve the anti-collision ability of the folding device 12.

[0102] Optionally, the trigger portion 1101 of the central axis assembly 110 protrudes from one side of the base 111. When the support member 410 is in the support state, the support member 410 is lapped on the back cover 112. Among them, the base 111 can be embedded in the back cover 112 to improve the assembly stability between the two, and further improve the anti-collision ability of the folding device 12. The central axis assembly 110 may further include a first support plate 113 covering a part of the base 111 and a part of the back cover 112, and the first support plate 113 can be used to form a flat surface for supporting the flexible screen 11.

[0103] It can be understood that the trigger portion 1101 can also be provided at other positions of the central axis assembly 110, such as on the back cover 112; the area where the support mechanism 400 is lapped is not limited to the back cover 112, for example, it can be lapped on the base 111, and is not limited to the above embodiments.

[0104] When the support mechanism 400 provided on the first housing 200 is lapped on the central axis assembly 110, the first housing 200, the central axis assembly 110, and the first motion assembly 120 can be in contact and support with each other, thereby improving the overall anti-collision ability. Similarly, when the support mechanism 400 provided on the second housing 300 is lapped on the central axis assembly 110, the second housing 300, the central axis assembly 110, and the second motion assembly 130 can also be in contact and support with each other. Each component of the folding device 12 can obtain a stronger anti-collision ability under the cooperation of such contact and support with each other.

[0105] In some embodiments, the first motion assembly 120 may include a first motion member 121, a second motion member 122, and a first link 123. The first motion member 121 can be rotatably connected to the base 111 and the first link 123 respectively. The second motion member 122 can be slidably connected to the first link 123. The first housing 200 can be fixedly connected to the first link 123, and the fixing method can be, for example but not limited to, screw fixing, bolt fixing, pin connection fixing, riveting fixing, etc., so that the first housing 200 can be driven to move when the first motion assembly 120 moves. The first motion assembly 120 may further include a second support plate 124 covering at least part of the first motion member 121, the second motion member 122, and the first link 123. The second motion assembly 130 may also include a third support plate 131 similar to the second support plate 124. The second support plate 124 and the third support plate 131 can be used to cooperate with the first support plate 113 to form a flat surface for supporting the flexible screen 11.

[0106] The bending mechanism 100 may further include a synchronization component 140 and a torsion component 150 provided in the central axis region. The synchronization component 140 includes two meshing gears, and one of the gears meshes with the second motion member 122, and the other gear meshes with the corresponding component of the second motion assembly 130, so that the first motion assembly 120 can move synchronously with the second motion assembly 130, and further realize the synchronous movement of the first housing 200 and the second housing 300. The torsion component 150 includes a plurality of springs, a shaft, and a resisting plate. The springs are compressed between the two resisting plates and penetrated by the shaft. The torsion component 150 is used to provide the torsion required for bending the bending mechanism 100.

[0107] It should be noted that the technical features not detailed about the bending mechanism 100 in the above embodiments are within the scope easily obtained by those skilled in the art, so they will not be elaborated here.

[0108] Please refer to Figure 25 , Figure 25It is a block diagram of a component of an embodiment of the electronic device of the present application. The structure of the electronic device 10 may include an RF circuit 910, a memory 920, an input unit 930, a display unit 940, a sensor 950, an audio circuit 960, a WiFi module 970, a processor 980, a power supply 990, etc. Among them, the RF circuit 910, the memory 920, the input unit 930, the display unit 940, the sensor 950, the audio circuit 960, and the WiFi module 970 are respectively connected to the processor 980; the power supply 990 is used to provide electrical energy for the entire electronic device 10.

[0109] Specifically, the RF circuit 910 is used to receive and send signals; the memory 920 is used to store data instruction information; the input unit 930 is used to input information, which may specifically include a touch panel 931 and other input devices 932 such as operation buttons; the display unit 940 may include a display panel 941, etc.; the sensor 950 includes an infrared sensor, a laser sensor, etc., and is used to detect user proximity signals, distance signals, etc.; the speaker 961 and the microphone 962 are connected to the processor 980 through the audio circuit 960 and are used to receive and send sound signals; the WiFi module 970 is used to receive and transmit WiFi signals, and the processor 980 is used to process the data information of the electronic device 10. Regarding the specific structural features of the electronic device 10, reference may be made to the relevant descriptions of the above embodiments, and no detailed introduction will be given here.

[0110] In several embodiments provided by the present application, it should be understood that the disclosed device can be implemented in other ways. For example, the device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. For example, the above division of units is only a logical function division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components can be combined or integrated into another system, or some features can be ignored or not executed.

[0111] In the description of the present application, it should be noted that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by the terms "center", "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "inner", "outer", etc. is based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship in which the products of the present application are usually placed during use. It is only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of the present application and simplifying the description, rather than indicating or implying that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the present application.

[0112] In the description of the present application, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise clearly specified and defined, the terms "arranged", "installed", "connected", and "coupled" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be directly connected or indirectly connected through an intermediate medium, and it can be the communication inside two components. For those of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in the present application can be understood according to specific situations.

[0113] The above is only the implementation mode of the present application, and does not limit the patent scope of the present application. Any equivalent structure or equivalent process transformation made according to the content of the specification and drawings of the present application, or directly or indirectly applied in other related technical fields, shall be equally included in the patent protection scope of the present application.

Claims

1. A folding device, characterized in that, The folding device includes: A bending mechanism, including a central axis assembly, a first motion assembly and a second motion assembly respectively arranged on both sides of the central axis assembly. The first motion assembly and the second motion assembly are respectively rotatably connected to the central axis assembly. The folding device can be switched between a folded state and an unfolded state as the first motion assembly and the second motion assembly rotate relative to the central axis assembly; A first housing and a second housing, the first housing is fixedly connected to the first motion assembly, and the second housing is fixedly connected to the second motion assembly; and A support mechanism, arranged on the first housing, and the support mechanism can be lapped on the central axis assembly along the rotation direction of the first housing when the folding device is in the folded state and / or the unfolded state.

2. The folding device according to claim 1, wherein, The support mechanism includes a support member and a first elastic member. During the rotation of the first housing relative to the central axis assembly, the first elastic member can actuate the support member to change the relative position between the support member and the first housing, so that the support member is lapped on the central axis assembly.

3. The folding device according to claim 2, wherein, The support member is rotatably connected to the first housing and can be switched between a support state and a retracted state by rotation. In the support state, the support member is lapped on the central axis assembly, and in the retracted state, the support member is separated from the central axis assembly.

4. The folding device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The support mechanism further includes a second elastic member, a first telescopic rod and a second telescopic rod. The first telescopic rod contacts the first elastic member and can perform elastic telescoping in cooperation with the first elastic member. The first telescopic rod is used to drive the support member into the support state; The second telescopic rod contacts the second elastic member and can perform elastic telescoping in cooperation with the second elastic member. The second telescopic rod is used to drive the support member into the retracted state.

5. The folding device according to claim 3, characterized in that The first housing is provided with a receiving groove, the support member is arranged in the receiving groove and is rotatably connected to the side wall of the receiving groove through a rotating shaft. In the support state, one end of the support member protrudes from the side wall of the receiving groove.

6. The folding device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The support mechanism includes a sleeve. A first channel and a second channel are formed inside the sleeve. A part of the first telescopic rod is accommodated in the first channel, the first elastic member is sleeved on the first telescopic rod, a part of the second telescopic rod is accommodated in the second channel, and the second elastic member is sleeved on the second telescopic rod; Wherein, one end of the first telescopic rod abuts against the support member, and a first protrusion is provided at the other end. Two ends of the first elastic member respectively abut against the first protrusion and the sleeve; A second protrusion is provided on the part between the two ends of the second telescopic rod. One end of the second telescopic rod abuts against the support member. The second elastic member is located between the other end of the second telescopic rod and the second protrusion, and two ends of the second elastic member respectively abut against the second protrusion and the sleeve.

7. The folding device according to claim 6, characterized in that, One side of the central axis assembly is convexly provided with a trigger portion, which is adapted to the first protruding portion. When the support member is in the retracted state, at least a part of the first protruding portion is located outside the sleeve. During the rotation of the first housing to the folded state or the unfolded state, the first protruding portion moves in the direction of the support member under the abutment of the trigger portion, so that the first telescopic rod drives the support member into the support state.

8. The folding device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The trigger portion has a first inclined surface, and a second inclined surface is formed on the side of the sleeve facing away from the support member. The first channel penetrates to the second inclined surface. When the support member is in the retracted state, the first protruding portion protrudes from the second inclined surface. When the support member is in the support state, the first inclined surface of the trigger portion is substantially flush with the second inclined surface.

9. The folding device according to claim 7, wherein The central axis assembly includes a base and a back cover. The first motion assembly and the second motion assembly are both rotatably connected to the base, and the back cover covers the base. The trigger portion is convexly provided on one side of the base. When the support member is in the support state, the support member is lapped on the back cover.

10. The folding device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The support member is triangular and is rotatably connected to the first housing. The first telescopic rod and the second telescopic rod respectively abut against different positions of the first side of the support member. The support member includes a support corner portion, which is formed at one end of the first side close to the first telescopic rod. When the support member is in the support state, the support corner portion protrudes from the wall of the first housing and is lapped on the central axis assembly. When the support member is in the retracted state, the support corner portion is flush with the top of the wall or below the top of the wall and is separated from the central axis assembly.

11. The folding device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The folding device further includes another support mechanism provided on the second housing.

12. An electronic device, characterized in that, The electronic device includes a flexible screen and the folding device according to any one of claims 1-11, and the flexible screen is provided on the first housing and the second housing of the folding device.

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