Foldable electronic device and folding method of foldable electronic device

Abstract

This application relates to the field of electronic devices and aims to solve the problem of magnetic components in foldable electronic devices affecting their manufacture or use, providing a foldable electronic device and a method for opening and closing it. The foldable electronic device includes a hinge assembly, a first middle frame, a second middle frame, a locking assembly, and an actuation wire. The first and second middle frames are rotatably connected via the hinge assembly and are configured to be folded or unfolded relative to each other. The locking assembly has a locked state and an unlocked state; in the locked state, the locking assembly locks the first and second middle frames in a folded state; in the unlocked state, the locking assembly allows the first and second middle frames to rotate relative to each other from the folded state. The actuation wire is driven by the locking assembly and can shorten when energized to move the locking assembly to the unlocked state. The advantage of this application is that it ensures the folded state of the foldable electronic device is maintained without significant magnetic interference.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of electronic devices, and more specifically, to foldable electronic devices and methods for opening and closing foldable electronic devices. Background Technology

[0002] Foldable electronic devices, such as foldable phones, typically consist of two or more bodies that can be folded or unfolded together.

[0003] To prevent the components from accidentally unfolding when used in the folded state, known foldable electronic devices have magnetic components (such as magnets with opposite poles) arranged on each component to attract each other. The magnetic attraction of these components ensures that the components remain folded.

[0004] However, the presence of magnetic components may cause the foldable electronic device to attract magnetic foreign objects during manufacturing or use, affecting its use or damaging the device. Furthermore, the presence of magnetic components may also cause magnetic interference to the foldable electronic device. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a foldable electronic device and a method for opening and closing the foldable electronic device, in order to solve the problem that the magnetic components of the foldable electronic device affect the manufacturing or use of the foldable electronic device.

[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a foldable electronic device having a folded state and an unfolded state. The foldable electronic device includes a hinge assembly, a first middle frame, a second middle frame, a locking assembly, and an actuation wire. The first and second middle frames are rotatably connected via the hinge assembly and configured to be folded or unfolded relative to each other. The locking assembly has a locked state and an unlocked state; in the locked state, the locking assembly locks the first and second middle frames in the folded state; in the unlocked state, the locking assembly allows the first and second middle frames to rotate relative to each other from the folded state. The actuation wire is drivenly connected to the locking assembly and can be shortened when energized to move the locking assembly to the unlocked state.

[0007] In the foldable electronic device of this application, when in the folded state, the locking assembly can lock the first and second middle frames to prevent the foldable electronic device from being accidentally unfolded. When it is necessary to unfold the foldable electronic device, the shape memory alloy wire can be energized, causing the shape memory alloy wire to heat up and shorten, thereby driving the locking assembly to move to the unlocked state, at which time the foldable electronic device can be rotated open.

[0008] The foldable electronic device of this embodiment can easily achieve folding position locking without introducing magnetic components, thus avoiding the problem of magnetic components attracting foreign objects or causing magnetic interference.

[0009] In one possible implementation, the actuation wire includes a shape memory alloy wire, an intermediate layer, and a heat insulation layer. The shape memory alloy wire is capable of shrinking upon heating when energized to generate the actuating force for driving the latch assembly. The intermediate layer covers the outer periphery of the shape memory alloy wire and is thermally connected to it. The heat insulation layer covers the outer periphery of the intermediate layer and is composed of a heat-insulating material.

[0010] In this embodiment, the actuation wire in the foldable electronic device has a heat insulation layer made of heat insulation material, which helps to isolate or reduce the influence of ambient temperature on the shape memory alloy wire and prevent the shape memory alloy wire from shrinking unexpectedly due to the influence of ambient temperature.

[0011] After the foldable electronic device is unfolded, the heat generated by the shape memory alloy wire when energized can be conducted to the middle layer, which helps to improve the cooling speed of the shape memory alloy wire, allowing the actuator wire to quickly return to its elongated state so that the locking assembly can quickly return to the locked state.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the shape memory alloy wire is made of titanium wire shape memory alloy or nickel-titanium alloy material; and / or, the intermediate layer is made of graphene material; and / or, the thermal insulation layer is made of thermal insulation gel material.

[0013] The shape memory alloy wire in this embodiment has a high resistance value and can generate heat when energized, thereby increasing its own temperature. Furthermore, the shape memory alloy wire shortens when the temperature reaches a certain value to generate an actuating force. For example, some shape memory alloy wires can be heated and contracted within a short time (e.g., 1 second) to generate an actuating force of up to 170 MPa, reliably pulling the first latch actuated.

[0014] In one possible implementation, the locking assembly includes a first latch and a second latch, the first latch being movably disposed on a first middle frame, and the second latch being connected to a second middle frame. One end of an actuating wire is connected to the first middle frame, and the other end is connected to the first latch. In the locked state, the first and second latches are engaged with each other. The shape memory alloy wire is capable of shortening when energized to move the first latch to an unlocked state, where it is misaligned with the second latch.

[0015] In this embodiment, the first and second buckles can be locked or unlocked by the movable first buckle moving under the action of the shape memory alloy wire, thereby locking or unlocking the first and second middle frames.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the first middle frame has a first surface, and the second middle frame has a second surface; in the folded state, the first and second surfaces face each other. The first middle frame has a recess formed from the first surface, and a first buckle is movably disposed in the recess. A second buckle protrudes from the second middle frame. In the folded state, the second buckle extends into the recess and engages with the first buckle.

[0017] In this embodiment, by setting a groove, the second buckle can be stored in the groove in the folded state, ensuring that the foldable electronic device can be folded into place smoothly without being blocked by the second buckle.

[0018] In one possible implementation, a movable cover plate is connected to a recess in the first middle frame. In the unfolded state, the movable cover plate closes the opening of the recess. In the folded state, the movable cover plate is pushed into the recess by a second latch.

[0019] In this embodiment, the movable cover plate closes the opening of the groove to ensure that the groove is not exposed when the foldable electronic device is unfolded, thus ensuring aesthetics and preventing debris from entering.

[0020] In one possible implementation, the foldable electronic device further includes an elastic element. The elastic element is connected between the first mid-frame and the first latch, and is used to apply an elastic force to the first latch to cause the first latch to move closer to and lock against the second latch.

[0021] In this embodiment, the elastic element facilitates the return of the actuating wire to its elongated state and pulls the first buckle to a position where it can engage the second buckle, thus facilitating the next engagement and locking.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the first latch is rotatably connected to the first middle frame. An actuating wire and an elastic element are respectively connected to both sides of the first latch so that the actuating wire and the elastic element can pull the first latch in opposite directions.

[0023] In this embodiment, the actuating wire and the elastic element are respectively connected to both sides of the first buckle, and their positions are reasonably set to facilitate the application of force to the first buckle.

[0024] In one possible implementation, a first middle frame has a first surface, and a second middle frame has a second surface; in the folded state, the first and second surfaces face each other; the first middle frame has a groove formed from the recess of the first surface, and a first buckle is movably disposed in the groove; a second buckle protrudes from the second middle frame; in the folded state, the second buckle extends into the groove and engages with the first buckle. The groove has opposing first and second groove sides, and the first buckle is located between the first and second groove sides. The first buckle includes a connecting portion and a limiting portion, with an actuating wire and an elastic element respectively connected to both sides of the connecting portion. In the locked state, the limiting portion abuts against the first groove side; in the unlocked state, the limiting portion abuts against the second groove side.

[0025] In this embodiment, by using the side of the first groove and the side of the second groove to limit the first buckle, it can be ensured that the first buckle can be stably held in the position of locking the second buckle or unlocking the second buckle.

[0026] In one possible implementation, the foldable electronic device further includes a power supply unit. The first and second latches are conductive structures, and in the locked state, the first and second latches are electrically connected to each other; in the unlocked state, the first and second latches are electrically insulated from each other. In the locked state, the shape memory alloy wire, the first latch, and the second latch are connected in series and can be powered by the power supply unit to form an opening and closing control circuit. In the unlocked state, the first and second latches are electrically disconnected, thereby disengaging the opening and closing control circuit.

[0027] In this embodiment, the first and second latches, in addition to providing mechanical engagement, also serve as a pair of conductive contacts. This ensures that when the foldable electronic device is in its unfolded or partially unfolded state, the opening and closing control circuit remains open, preventing accidental power supply to the shape memory alloy wires and reducing the possibility of external leakage. When the foldable electronic device is in its folded state, with the first and second latches engaged, the opening and closing control circuit can controllably supply power to the shape memory alloy wires to unlock the device.

[0028] In one possible implementation, the power supply unit includes a first circuit board, a second circuit board, and a flexible circuit board. The first circuit board is disposed on a first middle frame, the second circuit board is disposed on a second middle frame, and the flexible circuit board passes through the pivot assembly and is electrically connected between the first and second circuit boards. A shape memory alloy wire is electrically connected to a VDD terminal on the first circuit board, and a second latch is electrically connected to a GND terminal on the second circuit board.

[0029] The power supply unit in this embodiment can easily supply power to the shape memory alloy wire, and the wiring is convenient.

[0030] In one possible implementation, the foldable electronic device includes a button; in the locked state, the button controls the opening / closing control circuit to supply power to the shape memory alloy wire. The button can be a physical button or a virtual button.

[0031] In this embodiment, the button facilitates opening and closing, and the control circuit supplies power to the shape memory alloy wire, making it easy to use.

[0032] In one possible implementation, the foldable electronic device is either an outward-folding device or an inward-folding device.

[0033] In this embodiment, both the outward folding device and the inward folding device can use the above-described structure to achieve locking and unlocking.

[0034] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a method for opening and closing a foldable electronic device, which is based on the aforementioned foldable electronic device; the method for opening and closing a foldable electronic device includes:

[0035] Power is supplied to the shape memory alloy wire, causing it to heat up and contract, thereby moving the latch assembly from a locked state to an unlocked state, allowing the foldable electronic device to unfold.

[0036] The foldable electronic device opening and closing method in this embodiment can easily lock and unlock the foldable electronic device without introducing magnetic components or causing interference from magnetic components. Attached Figure Description

[0037] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings in the embodiments will be briefly described below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this application and should not be regarded as a limitation of the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0038] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the foldable electronic device provided in the embodiment of this application when it is in the unfolded state.

[0039] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A bottom view of a foldable electronic device.

[0040] Figure 3 for Figure 1 The image shown is a 3D view of the foldable electronic device in its folded state.

[0041] Figure 4 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of the foldable electronic device when it is partially unfolded.

[0042] Figure 5 An exploded view of the foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0043] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device provided in the embodiment of this application when it is in a folded state.

[0044] Figure 7 for Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure within the groove of a foldable electronic device, wherein the locking assembly is in a locked state.

[0045] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the unfolded foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0046] Figure 9 for Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the structure within the recess of a foldable electronic device, wherein the locking assembly is in the unlocked state.

[0047] Figure 10 for Figure 6 A schematic diagram of another embodiment.

[0048] Figure 11 for Figure 6 A schematic diagram of another embodiment.

[0049] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of the actuation wire in an embodiment of this application.

[0050] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the opening and closing control circuit according to an embodiment of this application.

[0051] Figure 14 for Figure 6 A schematic diagram of another embodiment.

[0052] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a foldable electronic device when it is an outward-folding device.

[0053] Figure 16 This is a flowchart of the opening and closing method of the foldable electronic device in this embodiment.

[0054] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a foldable electronic device based on a related technology.

[0055] Explanation of key component symbols:

[0056] Foldable electronic devices 100, 100a, 500

[0057] Housing assembly 1

[0058] First middle frame 1a

[0059] Second middle frame 1b

[0060] Shaft assembly 1c

[0061] Foldable screen 2

[0062] Large area 2a

[0063] Bending area 2c

[0064] Actuating wire 10

[0065] Shape memory alloy wire 11

[0066] Intermediate layer 12

[0067] Insulation layer 13

[0068] Locking assembly 20

[0069] First buckle 21

[0070] Connecting part 21a

[0071] Limiting part 21b

[0072] Second buckle 22

[0073] Pin 23

[0074] 24 movable cover plates

[0075] Elastic element 30

[0076] Opening and closing control circuit 40

[0077] Power supply unit 40a

[0078] First circuit board 41

[0079] VDD terminal 41a

[0080] Second circuit board 42

[0081] GND terminal 42a

[0082] Flexible circuit board 43

[0083] First conductor 44

[0084] Second conductor 45

[0085] Button 50

[0086] Groove C1

[0087] Opening K1

[0088] Front P21

[0089] Back P22

[0090] First surface P31

[0091] Second surface P32

[0092] First groove side P41

[0093] Second groove side P51

[0094] Width direction X

[0095] Length direction Y

[0096] Z-direction of thickness

[0097] Mid-frame 510

[0098] Magnetic component 520 Detailed Implementation

[0099] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments.

[0100] It should be noted that when a component is said to be "fixed to" another component, it can be directly on the other component or there may be an intervening component. When a component is said to be "connected to" another component, it can be directly connected to the other component or there may be an intervening component. When a component is said to be "set on" another component, it can be directly set on the other component or there may be an intervening component. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "left," "right," and similar expressions used in this document are for illustrative purposes only.

[0101] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0102] Some embodiments of this application are described in detail. Unless otherwise specified, the following embodiments and features can be combined with each other.

[0103] Example

[0104] This application provides a foldable electronic device, which includes, but is not limited to, foldable electronic products such as mobile phones, tablet personal computers, laptop computers, laptops, personal digital assistants (PDAs), personal computers, multimedia players, smart screens, e-book readers, in-vehicle devices, or wearable devices. Wearable devices include, but are not limited to, smart bracelets, smartwatches, smart head-mounted displays, and smart glasses.

[0105] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of the foldable electronic device 100 provided in the embodiment of this application when it is in the unfolded state; Figure 2 for Figure 1 A bottom view; Figure 3 for Figure 1 A perspective view of the foldable electronic device 100 in a folded state; Figure 4 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the foldable electronic device 100 when it is partially unfolded.

[0106] like Figures 1-4 As shown, this embodiment uses a foldable mobile phone as an example to illustrate the foldable electronic device 100.

[0107] For the foldable electronic device 100, it can have different usage states in different usage scenarios. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The foldable electronic device 100 is shown in its unfolded state. The unfolding angle of the foldable electronic device 100 is, for example, 180°. At this time, the foldable electronic device 100 can realize a large screen display. Figure 3 A foldable electronic device 100 in a folded state is shown. In this state, the foldable electronic device 100 occupies a small panel area, making it easy to carry. The panel area refers to the area perpendicular to the thickness direction Z of the foldable electronic device 100, that is, the area within the XY plane defined by the width direction X and length direction Y of the foldable electronic device. In some embodiments, the foldable electronic device 100 can also hover in a partially unfolded state between an unfolded state and a folded state.

[0108] It should be noted that the angles illustrated in this embodiment are allowed to have slight deviations. For example, Figure 1 The foldable electronic device 100 shown has an unfolding angle of 180°, meaning that the unfolding angle can be 180°, or approximately 180°, such as 170°, 175°, 185°, or 190°. The angles illustrated in the following text can be understood in the same way.

[0109] in addition, Figure 1 and Figure 2 The foldable electronic device 100 shown is an electronic device capable of folding once. The electronic device includes two parts that can rotate relative to each other. When the two parts rotate to be coplanar, the foldable electronic device 100 is in an unfolded state (e.g., Figure 1 As shown), when the two parts are rotated to overlap, the foldable electronic device 100 is in a folded state (as shown). Figure 2 (As shown).

[0110] In other embodiments, the foldable electronic device 100 may also be an electronic device that can be folded more times (e.g., three or more times). In this case, the foldable electronic device 100 may include a plurality of parts that are rotatably connected in sequence. Two adjacent parts may be relatively far apart to be unfolded into an unfolded state, and two adjacent parts may also be relatively close to be folded into a folded state.

[0111] Figure 5 An exploded view of the foldable electronic device 100 provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 5As shown, the foldable electronic device 100 includes a housing assembly 1 and a foldable screen 2.

[0112] The housing assembly 1 includes a first middle frame 1a, a second middle frame 1b, and a pivot assembly 1c. The first middle frame 1a and the second middle frame 1b are rotatably connected to both sides of the pivot assembly 1c along the width direction X. Thus, the first middle frame 1a and the second middle frame 1b can be folded or unfolded relative to each other through the pivot assembly 1c.

[0113] Optionally, both the first middle frame 1a and the second middle frame 1b may have a receiving space for installing some functional components (not shown in the figure) of the foldable electronic device 100, such as circuit boards, batteries, camera modules, microphones, speakers, etc.

[0114] The foldable screen 2 is supported and stacked on one side of the housing assembly 1, and can be folded or unfolded relative to the two first middle frames 1a and the second middle frame 1b. The surface of the foldable screen 2 facing away from the housing assembly 1 is a light-emitting surface for displaying information and / or providing an interactive interface for the user.

[0115] In this embodiment, the surface of the housing assembly 1 facing the foldable screen 2 is defined as the front surface P21 of the foldable electronic device 100, and the surface of the housing assembly 1 facing away from the foldable screen 2 is defined as the back surface P22 of the foldable electronic device 100. For simplicity, the front surface P21 and back surface P22 of the various components of the foldable electronic device 100 (such as the foldable screen 2) described later will also adopt this definition. The front surface P21 and back surface P22 are also seen in... Figure 2 .

[0116] In this embodiment, the foldable screen 2 may be, but is not limited to, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, an active-matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) display, a mini organic light-emitting diode (MLED) display, a micro organic light-emitting diode (MOLED) display, a micro organic light-emitting diode (MLED) display, or a quantum dot light-emitting diode (QLED) display, etc.

[0117] The foldable screen 2 may include a bending area 2c and two large surface areas 2a, with the bending area 2c connecting the two large surface areas 2a. During use, one of the large surface areas 2a remains stacked on the first middle frame 1a, and the other large surface area 2a is stacked on the second middle frame 1b. The bending area 2c can be bent and deformed under the support of the hinge assembly 1c to change the included angle between the two large surface areas 2a, so that the foldable screen 2 folds or unfolds with the movement of the housing assembly 1, thereby enabling the foldable electronic device 100 to switch between the folded and unfolded states.

[0118] For example, in the folding screen 2, at least the bending area 2c is made of a flexible material so that the bending area 2c can be bent. The two large surface areas 2a can be made of flexible materials, or they can be made of rigid materials, or they can be made of partially rigid materials and partially flexible materials. This embodiment does not limit this.

[0119] It should be noted that the foldable electronic device 100 shown in the figure is an inward-folding type. When it is in the folded state, the two large areas 2a of the folding screen 2 are stacked relative to each other and sandwiched inside by the housing assembly 1, and the bending area 2c of the folding screen 2 is in an inward-folded state (teardrop-shaped bend, U-shaped bend, etc.). At this time, the folding screen 2 is protected by the housing assembly 1 and is not easily damaged. When the inward-folding type foldable electronic device 100 is in the folded state, the folding screen 2 is not visible. An additional display screen can be added to the back of the housing assembly 1, P22, so that the foldable electronic device 100 can be used in the folded state.

[0120] See Figure 17 In some related foldable electronic devices 500, magnetic components 520 are provided on two mid-frames 510, positioned correspondingly and capable of magnetically attracting each other. Thus, when the foldable electronic device 500 is in a folded state (e.g., when folded for storage), the magnetic components 520 on the two mid-frames 510 attract each other, reducing the possibility of the two mid-frames 510 accidentally opening. However, the magnetic components 520 of these foldable electronic devices 500 are relatively prone to attracting objects such as iron filings, keys, and coins during manufacturing or use, potentially causing damage to components such as the screen of the foldable electronic device 500. Furthermore, the magnetic components 520 may also cause magnetic interference to the foldable electronic device 500, such as interfering with the compass, speaker assembly, motor, and camera module of the foldable electronic device 500.

[0121] In view of this, this embodiment provides a foldable electronic device 100, which is not easily accidentally detached in the folded state and does not have the problem of magnetic components attracting debris. This will be described by example below.

[0122] See Figure 6 and Figure 7In this embodiment, the foldable electronic device 100 is further provided with a locking assembly 20 and an actuation wire 10. Both the locking assembly 20 and the actuation wire 10 are made of non-magnetic materials to avoid magnetic attraction of foreign objects or magnetic interference to the foldable electronic device 100.

[0123] The latch assembly 20 has a locked state and an unlocked state. The actuating wire 10 is connected to the latch assembly 20 and can shorten when energized, thereby moving the latch assembly 20 from the locked state to the unlocked state. In the locked state (see...) Figure 6 and Figure 7 The length of the actuating wire 10 is L1, and the locking assembly 20 can lock the first middle frame 1a and the second middle frame 1b in the folded state; in the unlocked state (see... Figure 8 and Figure 9 When the length of the actuating wire 10 is shortened to L2, the locking assembly 20 allows the first middle frame 1a and the second middle frame 1b to rotate relative to each other from the folded state and open.

[0124] In the foldable electronic device 100 of this application, when in the folded state, the locking assembly 20 can lock the first middle frame 1a and the second middle frame 1b to prevent the foldable electronic device 100 from being accidentally unfolded. When it is necessary to unfold the foldable electronic device 100, the shape memory alloy wire 11 can be energized, causing the shape memory alloy wire 11 to heat up and shorten, thereby driving the locking assembly 20 to move to the unlocked state, at which time the foldable electronic device 100 can be rotated open.

[0125] In this embodiment, the locking assembly 20 includes a first buckle 21 and a second buckle 22. The first buckle 21 is movably disposed on the first middle frame 1a, and the second buckle 22 is connected to the second middle frame 1b.

[0126] like Figure 6 The first middle frame 1a has a first surface P31, and the second middle frame 1b has a second surface P32. In the folded state, the first surface P31 and the second surface P32 face each other. For the foldable electronic device 100 in an inward folding form, the first surface P31 and the second surface P32 are the surfaces on which the foldable screen 2 is arranged.

[0127] The first middle frame 1a has a recess C1 formed from the indentation of the first surface P31, and the first buckle 21 is movably disposed in the recess C1. The second buckle 22 protrudes from the second middle frame 1b, and in the folded state, the second buckle 22 extends into the recess C1 and engages with the first buckle 21 to lock the locking assembly 20, thereby keeping the first middle frame 1a and the second middle frame 1b in the folded state and preventing accidental unfolding.

[0128] See also Figure 7One end of the actuating wire 10 is connected to the first middle frame 1a, and the other end is connected to the first latch 21. Furthermore, the actuating wire 10 can shorten when energized to move the first latch 21 to a position where it is misaligned with the second latch 22. Figure 8 and Figure 9 At this time, the locking assembly 20 is in the unlocked state, the first buckle 21 and the second buckle 22 are no longer mutually restrictive, and the second middle frame 1b and the first middle frame 1a can rotate relative to each other and unfold to the unfolded state.

[0129] For example, in this embodiment, the first buckle 21 is rotatably connected to the first middle frame 1a by a pin 23. When the actuating wire 10 is shortened, it will pull the first buckle 21, causing the first buckle 21 to rotate to a position that is offset from the second buckle 22, thereby unlocking the locking assembly 20.

[0130] See Figure 6 and Figure 8 In this embodiment, optionally, a movable cover plate 24 is also provided at the opening K1 of the groove C1. One side of the movable cover plate 24 is rotatably connected to one side of the groove C1, and the movable cover plate 24 is rotatably supported on the first middle frame 1a by a torsion spring.

[0131] In the unfolded state, the movable cover 24 closes the opening K1 of the groove C1 to ensure that the groove C1 of the foldable electronic device 100 is not exposed in the unfolded state, ensuring aesthetics and preventing debris from entering.

[0132] In the folded state, the movable cover 24 is pushed into the groove C1 by the second latch 22. That is, the movable cover 24 does not obstruct the second latch 22 from entering the groove C1, making it convenient to use.

[0133] The torsion spring can provide a restoring force to the movable cover plate 24, so that when the second latch 22 leaves the groove C1, the movable cover plate 24 can automatically return to the position of closing the opening K1 of the groove C1.

[0134] See Figure 7 and Figure 9 In this embodiment, optionally, the foldable electronic device 100 further includes an elastic element 30. The elastic element 30 is connected between the first middle frame 1a and the first latch 21, and is used to apply an elastic force to the first latch 21 so that the first latch 21 tends to move closer to and lock with the second latch 22.

[0135] After the actuating wire 10 is de-energized and cooled down, the elastic element 30 can pull the first buckle 21 back to the position where it can lock the second buckle 22 and lengthen the actuating wire 10. At this time, when the first middle frame 1a and the second middle frame 1b are folded and closed, the second buckle 22 will once again engage with the first buckle 21.

[0136] In this embodiment, the elastic element 30 is a helical spring. In other embodiments, the elastic element 30 may also be a torsion spring, an elastic pad, etc., and is not limited here.

[0137] In this embodiment, the elastic element 30 is a tension spring, and the actuating wire 10 and the elastic element 30 are respectively connected to both sides of the first buckle 21 so that the actuating wire 10 and the elastic element 30 can pull the first buckle 21 in opposite directions.

[0138] See Figure 10 In another embodiment, the elastic element 30 is a compression spring, and the elastic element 30 and the actuating wire 10 are located on the same side of the first latch 21. In this case, the actuating force of the actuating wire 10 and the elastic force of the elastic element 30 are also in opposite directions. Optionally, the actuating wire 10 is coaxially inserted into the elastic element 30 so that the actuating force of the actuating wire 10 and the elastic force of the elastic element 30 are collinear and opposite.

[0139] See Figure 11 In some embodiments, the groove C1 has a first groove side surface P41 and a second groove side surface P51 facing each other, and a first latch 21 is located between the first groove side surface P41 and the second groove side surface P51. The first latch 21 includes a connecting portion 21a and a limiting portion 21b. The connecting portion 21a is rotatably connected to the first middle frame 1a, and the actuating wire 10 and the elastic member 30 are respectively connected to both sides of the connecting portion 21a. In the locked state, the limiting portion 21b abuts against the first groove side surface P41; in the unlocked state, the limiting portion 21b abuts against the second groove side surface P51.

[0140] Of course, the aforementioned elastic element 30 and actuating wire 10 can also limit the rotation position of the first buckle 21. That is, in some embodiments, the setting of the first groove side surface P41 and the second groove side surface P51 to limit the rotation position of the first buckle 21 can also be omitted.

[0141] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional view of the actuation wire 10 according to an embodiment of this application.

[0142] See Figure 12 In this embodiment, the actuation wire 10 includes a shape memory alloy wire 11, an intermediate layer 12, and a heat insulation layer 13.

[0143] The shape memory alloy wire 11 can be heated and shortened when energized to generate the actuating force for driving the latch assembly 20. The intermediate layer 12 covers the outer periphery of the shape memory alloy wire 11 and is thermally connected to the shape memory alloy wire 11. The heat insulation layer 13 covers the outer periphery of the intermediate layer 12 and is made of heat insulation material.

[0144] The actuation wire 10 of this structure has a heat insulation layer 13 made of heat insulation material, which helps to isolate or reduce the influence of ambient temperature on the shape memory alloy wire 11 and prevent the shape memory alloy wire 11 from shrinking unexpectedly due to the influence of ambient temperature.

[0145] After the foldable electronic device 100 is unfolded, the heat generated by the shape memory alloy wire 11 when energized can be conducted to the intermediate layer 12, which helps to increase the cooling rate of the shape memory alloy wire 11, allowing the actuation wire 10 to quickly return to its elongated state so that the locking assembly 20 can quickly return to the locked state. For example, after the actuation wire 10 cools down quickly, the elastic force of the elastic element 30 can pull the first latch 21, causing the first latch 21 to quickly return to the position where it can engage the second latch 22.

[0146] In this embodiment, the shape memory alloy wire 11 can be made of materials such as titanium wire shape memory alloy or nickel-titanium alloy, which has a high resistance value and can generate heat when energized, thereby increasing its own temperature. Furthermore, the shape memory alloy wire 11 will shorten when the temperature reaches a certain value to generate an actuating force. For example, some shape memory alloy wires 11 can be heated and contracted within a short time (e.g., 1 second) to generate an actuating force of up to 170 MPa, reliably pulling the first latch 21 to move.

[0147] In other embodiments, the first buckle 21 may be fixed while the second buckle 22 may be movable, or both the first buckle 21 and the second buckle 22 may be movable.

[0148] The heat insulation layer 13 can be made of materials such as heat-insulating gel or heat-insulating plastic. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in use, its battery, circuit board, etc., will generate heat, causing some areas of the foldable electronic device 100 to have high temperatures. This embodiment provides a heat insulation layer 13 made of heat-insulating gel material, which can avoid or mitigate the problem of the foldable electronic device 10 overheating or the actuation wire 10 unexpectedly shortening due to excessive heat when unlocking is not required, thus unlocking the locking assembly 20.

[0149] The intermediate layer 12 can be made of graphene, which has excellent thermal conductivity. Thus, when the shape memory alloy wire 11 is de-energized, the heat it generates can be conducted to the intermediate layer 12. That is, the shape memory alloy wire 11 can cool down more quickly after power is off, allowing the first latch 21 to return to its original position more quickly, which facilitates the first latch 21 locking the second latch 22 when the foldable electronic device 100 is folded again.

[0150] In some embodiments, the intermediate layer 12 may optionally be thermally connected to a low-temperature region or heat dissipation structure of the foldable electronic device 100. In this way, after power is turned off, the heat on the shape memory alloy wire 11 can be quickly conducted outward through the intermediate layer 12.

[0151] In some embodiments, the intermediate layer 12 may also be thermally connected to the first snap-fit ​​21. Thus, after power is cut off, the heat on the shape memory alloy wire 11 can be conducted to the first snap-fit ​​21 through the intermediate layer 12, thereby dissipating heat outwards. Furthermore, after the second snap-fit ​​22 engages with the first snap-fit ​​21, the second snap-fit ​​22 and the first snap-fit ​​21 make thermally conductive contact, and the heat conducted to the first snap-fit ​​21 can be further conducted to the second snap-fit ​​22, thereby further improving the heat dissipation capacity.

[0152] The heat insulation layer 13 and the intermediate layer 12 in this embodiment can have a certain deformation capability to adapt to the expansion and contraction of the shape memory alloy wire 11.

[0153] In this embodiment, the power supply to the shape memory alloy wire 11 of the actuating wire 10 can be controlled by constructing an opening and closing control circuit 40. This will be described exemplarily below.

[0154] See Figure 13 And see also Figure 6 and Figure 8 In this embodiment, the foldable electronic device 100 also includes a power supply unit 40a. The first latch 21 and the second latch 22 are conductive structures. In the locked state, the first latch 21 and the second latch 22 are electrically connected to each other; in the unlocked state, the first latch 21 and the second latch 22 are electrically insulated from each other.

[0155] In the locked state, the shape memory alloy wire 11, the first latch 21, and the second latch 22 are connected in series and can be powered by the power supply unit 40a to form the opening and closing control circuit 40; in the unlocked state, the first latch 21 and the second latch 22 are electrically disconnected to disconnect the opening and closing control circuit 40.

[0156] The power supply unit 40a includes a first circuit board 41, a second circuit board 42, and a flexible circuit board 43. The first circuit board 41 is disposed on the first middle frame 1a, the second circuit board 42 is disposed on the second middle frame 1b, and the flexible circuit board 43 passes through the pivot assembly 1c and is electrically connected between the first circuit board 41 and the second circuit board 42. A shape memory alloy wire 11 is electrically connected to a VDD terminal 41a on the first circuit board 41, and a second latch 22 is electrically connected to a GND terminal 42a on the second circuit board 42. For example, the shape memory alloy wire 11 is electrically connected to a VDD terminal 41a on the first circuit board 41 via a first wire 44, and the second latch 22 is electrically connected to a GND terminal 42a on the second circuit board 42 via a second wire 45.

[0157] The first circuit board 41 can be the main circuit board of the foldable electronic device 100, and the second circuit board 42 can be the sub-circuit board of the foldable electronic device 100.

[0158] In other embodiments, the power supply unit 40a may also be an additional button battery, etc., which is not limited here.

[0159] In this embodiment, the first latch 21 and the second latch 22, in addition to providing mechanical engagement, also serve as a pair of conductive contacts. This ensures that when the foldable electronic device 100 is in an unfolded or partially unfolded state, the opening and closing control circuit 40 is in an open circuit state, preventing accidental power supply to the shape memory alloy wire 11 and reducing the possibility of external leakage. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in a folded state and the first latch 21 and the second latch 22 are engaged, the opening and closing control circuit 40 can controllably supply power to the shape memory alloy wire 11 to achieve unlocking.

[0160] For ease of operation, the foldable electronic device 100 of this embodiment includes buttons 50 (visible in...). Figure 1 or Figure 6 In the locked state, button 50 can control the opening and closing control circuit 40 to supply power to the shape memory alloy wire 11.

[0161] The button 50 can be a physical button, such as the power button of the foldable electronic device 100. When the user operates the power button by double-clicking, long-pressing, or other preset actions, the opening and closing control circuit 40 receives a signal to supply power to the shape memory alloy wire 11, causing the shape memory alloy wire 11 to shrink due to heat and unlock the locking assembly 20.

[0162] Button 50 can also be a virtual button that can be displayed on the foldable screen 2 or other screens of the foldable electronic device 100. The user operates the virtual button by setting a motion to instruct the opening and closing control circuit 40 to supply power to the shape memory alloy wire 11.

[0163] See you again Figure 1 In this embodiment, there can be multiple sets of locking components 20, for example... Figure 1 In the first middle frame 1a and the second middle frame 1b, there are two sets of locking components 20. The two sets of locking components 20 are respectively located near the side of the first middle frame 1a and the second middle frame 1b away from the pivot assembly 1c, and are spaced apart along the axial direction of the pivot assembly 1c. That is, the locking components 20 can be roughly located at the edge of the first middle frame 1a and the second middle frame 1b.

[0164] Figure 14 In another embodiment, the first latch 21 can also be configured to slidably engage with the first middle frame 1a along a straight line or curve, rather than the aforementioned rotating form. In this case, the actuating wire 10 can shorten due to heat, causing the first latch 21 to slide along a straight line or curve, thereby achieving engagement or disengagement with the second latch 22.

[0165] See Figure 15In another embodiment, the foldable electronic device 100a can also be an outward-folding device (such as an outward-folding mobile phone). In this case, the hinge assembly 1c is an outward-folding hinge, and in the folded state, the foldable screen 2 is located outside the first middle frame 1a and the second middle frame 1b. This outward-folding type of foldable electronic device 100a can have the aforementioned locking assembly 20 and actuation wire 10 arranged on the side of the first middle frame 1a and the second middle frame 1b opposite to the foldable screen 2, which can also achieve locking in the folded state without introducing any additional adverse effects from magnetic components.

[0166] This embodiment also provides a method for opening and closing a foldable electronic device, based on the aforementioned foldable electronic devices 100 and 100a; the method for opening and closing a foldable electronic device includes:

[0167] Power is supplied to the shape memory alloy wire 11, causing the shape memory alloy wire 11 to heat up and contract, thereby driving the latch assembly 20 to change from the locked state to the unlocked state, so as to allow the foldable electronic device 100, 100a to unfold.

[0168] The following is combined with Figure 16 This document describes some methods of using the foldable electronic device 100, 100a of this embodiment.

[0169] The user presses button 50 to issue an unlock command;

[0170] Upon receiving the designation, the program control opening and closing control circuit 40 supplies power to the shape memory alloy wire 11, causing the shape memory alloy wire 11 to shrink due to heat, thereby pulling the first buckle 21 to move and causing the first buckle 21 to be misaligned with the second buckle 22, so that the locking assembly 20 is in the unlocked state.

[0171] When the latch assembly 20 is in the unlocked state, the user can unfold the first middle frame 1a and the second middle frame 1b to unfold and use the foldable electronic devices 100, 100a; when the foldable electronic devices 100, 100a are unfolded, the electrical connection between the first latch 21 and the second latch 22 is disconnected, so that the opening and closing control circuit 40 is disconnected and will not continue to supply power to the shape memory alloy wire 11.

[0172] After the power is turned off, the heat of the shape memory alloy wire 11 is conducted outward (e.g., through the intermediate layer 12) and cooled down. At this time, the elastic element 30 can pull the first buckle 21 back to the position where it can engage the second buckle 22, and at the same time stretch the shape memory alloy wire 11 to a longer state.

[0173] When the user folds the foldable electronic device 100, 100a again, the second latch 22 will be locked by the first latch 21 again until the next unlocking.

[0174] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application and are not intended to limit it. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the above preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications or equivalent substitutions to the technical solutions of this application should not depart from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of this application.

Claims

1. A foldable electronic device, characterized in that, The foldable electronic device has a folded state and an unfolded state; The foldable electronic device includes: Spindle assembly; A first middle frame and a second middle frame, which are rotatably connected by the pivot assembly and configured to be folded or unfolded relative to each other; A locking assembly having a locked state and an unlocked state; in the locked state, the locking assembly is capable of locking the first middle frame and the second middle frame in the folded state; in the unlocked state, the locking assembly allows the first middle frame and the second middle frame to rotate open relative to each other from the folded state; and... An actuating wire is driven to the locking assembly and can be shortened when energized to move the locking assembly to the unlocked state; the actuating wire includes a shape memory alloy wire. The locking assembly includes a first latch and a second latch. The first latch is movably disposed on the first middle frame, and the second latch is connected to the second middle frame. One end of the actuating wire is connected to the first middle frame, and the other end is connected to the first latch. In the locked state, the first latch and the second latch are engaged with each other. The shape memory alloy wire can shorten when energized to move the first latch to an unlocked state that is offset from the second latch. The foldable electronic device further includes a power supply unit; the first and second latches are conductive structures, and in the locked state, the first and second latches are electrically connected to each other; in the unlocked state, the first and second latches are electrically insulated from each other; in the locked state, the shape memory alloy wire, the first latch, and the second latch are connected in series and can be powered by the power supply unit to form an opening and closing control circuit; in the unlocked state, the first and second latches are electrically disconnected to disconnect the opening and closing control circuit.

2. The foldable electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The actuating wire also includes an intermediate layer and a heat insulation layer; The shape memory alloy wire can be heated and shortened when energized to generate the actuating force to drive the latch assembly; The intermediate layer covers the outer periphery of the shape memory alloy wire and is thermally connected to the shape memory alloy wire. The insulation layer covers the outer periphery of the intermediate layer, and the insulation layer is made of insulation material.

3. The foldable electronic device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The shape memory alloy wire is made of titanium wire shape memory alloy or nickel-titanium alloy material; and / or, The intermediate layer is made of graphene material; and / or, The insulation layer is made of an insulating gel material.

4. The foldable electronic device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The first middle frame has a first surface, and the second middle frame has a second surface; in the folded state, the first surface and the second surface face each other; The first middle frame has a groove formed from the recess of the first surface, and the first buckle is movably disposed in the groove; The second buckle protrudes from the second middle frame; In the folded state, the second buckle extends into the groove and engages with the first buckle.

5. The foldable electronic device according to claim 4, characterized in that: A movable cover plate is connected to the groove of the first middle frame; In the unfolded state, the movable cover plate closes the opening of the groove; In the folded state, the movable cover is pushed into the groove by the second latch.

6. The foldable electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The foldable electronic device also includes an elastic element; The elastic element is connected between the first middle frame and the first buckle, and is used to apply an elastic force to the first buckle so that the first buckle tends to move closer to and lock with the second buckle.

7. The foldable electronic device according to claim 6, characterized in that: The first buckle is rotatably connected to the first middle frame; The actuating wire and the elastic element are respectively connected to both sides of the first buckle, so that the actuating wire and the elastic element can pull the first buckle in opposite directions.

8. The foldable electronic device according to claim 7, characterized in that: The first middle frame has a first surface, and the second middle frame has a second surface; in the folded state, the first surface and the second surface face each other; the first middle frame has a groove formed from the recess of the first surface, and the first buckle is movably disposed in the groove; the second buckle protrudes from the second middle frame; in the folded state, the second buckle extends into the groove and engages with the first buckle; The groove has a first groove side and a second groove side facing each other, and the first buckle is located between the first groove side and the second groove side. The first buckle includes a connecting part and a limiting part, and the actuating wire and the elastic element are respectively connected to both sides of the connecting part; In the locked state, the limiting part abuts against the side of the first groove; in the unlocked state, the limiting part abuts against the side of the second groove.

9. The foldable electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The power supply unit includes a first circuit board, a second circuit board, and a flexible circuit board; The first circuit board is disposed on the first middle frame, the second circuit board is disposed on the second middle frame, and the flexible circuit board passes through the rotating shaft assembly and is electrically connected between the first circuit board and the second circuit board; The shape memory alloy wire is electrically connected to a VDD terminal on the first circuit board, and the second clip is electrically connected to a GND terminal on the second circuit board.

10. The foldable electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The foldable electronic device includes a button; in the locked state, the button can control the opening and closing control circuit to supply power to the shape memory alloy wire; The button can be a physical button or a virtual button.

11. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that: The foldable electronic device is either an outward-folding device or an inward-folding device.

12. A method for opening and closing a foldable electronic device, characterized in that, Based on any one of claims 1-11, the foldable electronic device; the opening and closing method of the foldable electronic device includes: Power is supplied to the shape memory alloy wire, causing it to heat up and contract, thereby moving the latch assembly from a locked state to an unlocked state, allowing the foldable electronic device to unfold.

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