Foldable electronic device

Abstract

The embodiment of the application discloses a foldable electronic device, when the foldable electronic device is in a folded state, the first conductor can be directly in contact with the second conductor on the outer surface of the second main body, so that the first conductor on the first main body and the second conductor on the second main body can be directly connected through the first conductor and the second conductor, the influence of the cavity mode on the antenna structure radiation can be weakened, the radiation capability of the antenna structure is improved, or the effect of improving the antenna radiation efficiency is realized, and the overall performance of the foldable electronic device is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of electronic products, and in particular to a foldable electronic device with a hinge mechanism. Background Technology

[0002] The two side shells of the foldable electronic device can be closed or unfolded relative to each other via a hinge mechanism, enabling the foldable electronic device to switch between unfolded and folded states. The unfolded and folded states of the foldable electronic device can be referenced separately. Figure 1 and Figure 2 To meet communication requirements, foldable electronic devices have antenna structures inside or on their frames. Compared to candybar electronic devices, foldable electronic devices have more complex structures, and there are more factors affecting the antenna structure's placement, as well as its operational efficiency.

[0003] Improving the efficiency of antenna structures, thereby enhancing the overall performance of foldable electronic devices, has always been one of the main concerns of those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a foldable electronic device. When the foldable electronic device is in a folded state, the first main body and the second main body, which rotate relative to each other, are directly electrically connected. This can at least reduce the impact of the gap formed between the two on the antenna structure performance, thereby improving the overall quality of the foldable electronic device.

[0005] This application provides a foldable electronic device, including:

[0006] The surface of the first body is provided with a first conductor, which is located on the side of the first body that is not connected to the rotating shaft mechanism. The first conductor is electrically connected to a first conductor in the first body. The surface of the second body has a second conductor, which is electrically connected to a second conductor in the second body.

[0007] When the foldable electronic device is in a folded state, the first conductor and the second conductor are in direct contact with each other, so that the first conductor and the second conductor are grounded or configured as an antenna structure through the first conductor and the second conductor.

[0008] In this embodiment, a first conductor is provided on the side of the first main body that is not connected to the pivot mechanism. When the foldable electronic device is in a folded state, the first conductor can directly abut and electrically connect with the second conductor on the outer surface of the second main body. In this way, a direct connection circuit can be formed between the first conductor and the second conductor on the first middle frame. When both the first conductor and the second conductor are grounded, the first conductor and the second conductor are directly connected to form a grounded body. In this way, the first middle frame and the second middle frame form an integral floor. The foldable electronic device in the folded state is similar to the straight electronic device, which can solve the cavity problem to the greatest extent, weaken the influence of the cavity mode on the antenna structure radiation, maximize the antenna efficiency, and thus improve the overall quality of the device.

[0009] When either the first conductor or the second conductor is not grounded, different functional circuits can be configured when the foldable electronic device is folded, greatly improving the overall performance. For example, when either the first conductor or the second conductor is an antenna, when the foldable electronic device is in a folded state, the first conductor and the second conductor are configured into an antenna structure through the first conductor and the second conductor. In this way, a new antenna structure can be formed to improve the antenna's radiation capability when in a folded state.

[0010] In one example, the first conductor is a grounding electrode, an antenna radiating segment, or a metal segment with surrounding insulation in the first main body; and / or the second conductor is a grounding electrode, an antenna radiating segment, or a metal segment with surrounding insulation in the second main body. Selecting different types of first and second conductors allows for the configuration of different antenna types and grounding, meeting the setup requirements of different environments and different models.

[0011] In one example, at least one of the first conductor and the second conductor is an antenna that uses a metal frame as the radiating segment. In this way, when the foldable electronic device is in a folded state, the first conductor and the second conductor can form a new frame antenna through the electrical connection between the first conductor and the second conductor, thereby improving the radiation capability of the frame antenna.

[0012] In one example, the first main body includes a first middle frame and a first display screen segment, and the second main body includes a second middle frame and a second display screen segment. The first display screen segment and the second display screen segment are connected. The first middle frame and the second middle frame are rotatably connected via a pivot mechanism. The first conductor is located at the edge of the first middle frame. The first conductor can be directly installed in the corresponding position of the first middle frame through injection molding or bonding processes. The installation process is simple, and conductive components such as wires can be directly set inside the first middle frame to achieve electrical connection between the first conductor and the first conductor. This does not affect the overall appearance of the device, is easy to implement, and the overall strength of the device is relatively high.

[0013] In one example, the second conductor is located at the edge of the second middle frame. The second conductor can be directly installed in the corresponding position of the second middle frame through injection molding or bonding processes. The installation process is simple, and conductive components such as wires can be directly set inside the second middle frame to achieve electrical connection between the second conductor and the second conductor. This does not affect the overall appearance of the machine, is easy to implement, and the overall strength of the machine is relatively high.

[0014] In one example, the second frame includes a second body and a second cover plate. A second display segment is supported on one side of the second body, and the second cover plate is located at the circumferential outer edge of the second body. The second cover plate has a second extension extending to the second display segment to cover the gap between the second body and the second display segment. A second conductor is located on the surface of the second extension away from the second display segment. When the foldable electronic device is unfolded, the surface of the second extension away from the display is approximately the highest point of the foldable electronic device. Positioning the second conductor on the surface of the second extension away from the display facilitates reliable contact with the first conductor in the folded state, thereby achieving a reliable electrical connection.

[0015] In one example, an electrical connector is also included, through which the second conductor is electrically connected to the second conductor in the second body. The electrical connector can be entirely disposed inside the second cover plate, thus not occupying external space, saving space, and not affecting the appearance of the second cover plate, improving the overall aesthetics of the device. Alternatively, the electrical connector can be entirely located on the surface of the second cover plate for convenient installation. Furthermore, the electrical connector can also be partially located on the surface of the second cover plate and partially located inside the second cover plate, allowing for flexible installation.

[0016] In one example, the second conductor is located on the second display segment. The second conductor can be a metal layer or metal plating located on the second display segment. This allows for adaptation to the usage requirements of different models of foldable electronic devices.

[0017] In one example, the second display segment has a non-display area, and the second conductor is located on the surface of the non-display area. This arrangement does not affect the display function of the display screen. The second conductor can be a plated metal located in the non-display area, and the arrangement is relatively simple.

[0018] In one example, the second body further includes a battery cover, which is disposed on the side of the second middle frame opposite to the second display connection segment, and a second conductor is disposed on the outer surface of the battery cover.

[0019] In one example, the second middle frame includes at least two sub-body sections, adjacent sub-body sections are rotatably connected by a pivot assembly, the second display screen segment is supported by all sub-body sections, and the second conductor is disposed on the shaft cover of the pivot assembly. In this embodiment, the length of the second middle frame is relatively long, and the size of the corresponding second display screen segment is also relatively large, which is beneficial for obtaining a larger display screen in the whole device. Furthermore, the fact that the second conductor is located on the shaft cover also helps to increase the size of the first middle frame, further resulting in a larger display screen size.

[0020] In one example, the first mid-frame includes a first body and a first cover plate. A first display segment is supported on one side of the first body, and the first cover plate is connected circumferentially to the first body. The first cover plate has a first extension extending to the first display segment to cover the gap between the first body and the first display segment. A first conductor is located on the first extension. When the foldable electronic device is unfolded, the surface of the first extension away from the display is approximately the highest point of the foldable electronic device. Placing the first conductor on the surface of the first extension away from the display facilitates reliable contact with a second conductor in the folded state, thereby achieving a reliable electrical connection.

[0021] In one example, a conductive element is also included. The first conductor is electrically connected to the first conductor in the first body through the conductive element. The conductive element is entirely disposed inside the first cover plate. In this way, the electrical connector does not occupy the external space of the second cover plate, saving space and not affecting the appearance of the second cover plate, thus improving the overall appearance quality of the device. Alternatively, the conductive element can be entirely located on the surface of the first cover plate for convenient placement. Or, the conductive element can be partially located on the surface of the first cover plate and partially located inside the first cover plate, offering greater flexibility.

[0022] In one example, the first body has a groove, and the first cover plate has a mounting boss connecting to the first extension. The mounting boss is fixed inside the groove, and the first conductor is at least partially located on the bottom wall of the groove. A conductive element extends from the first extension along the surface of the first cover plate to the side of the mounting boss facing the bottom wall of the groove, so as to abut and electrically connect with the first conductor located on the bottom wall of the groove. In this embodiment, the connection between the first cover plate and the first body is highly reliable, the conductive element is relatively simple to manufacture, and the first conductor and the mounting boss can be directly connected for electrical connection, which is easy to implement.

[0023] In one example, both the first conductor and the second conductor include a metal body, which has high conductivity; or the first conductor and the second conductor are either a composite layer containing metal or a metal plating layer, which are relatively thin and occupy little space.

[0024] In one example, the device further includes a first adsorption component and a second adsorption component. The first adsorption component is located on a first body, and the second adsorption component is located on a second body. When the foldable electronic device is in a folded state, the first and second adsorption components cooperate to generate an attractive force that closes the first and second bodies. The contact areas of the first and second conductors are at least partially located within the adsorption areas of the first and second adsorption components. In this embodiment, the attractive force generated by the first and second adsorption components can drive the first and second conductors to approach and press against each other, improving the problem of the first and second conductors not fitting together due to the flatness of the first and second bodies. This ensures reliable contact between the first and second conductors, thereby improving the consistency of the gap between the first and second frames and achieving direct electrical connection. Simultaneously, the first and second adsorption components can keep the first and second frames in a folded state, resulting in strong overall folding stability.

[0025] In one example, one of the first and second adsorption components is a magnet, and the other is a magnet or a magnetic material. Magnetic adsorption is highly reliable.

[0026] In one example, at least one of the first and second adsorption components is an electromagnet. The foldable electronic device also includes an antenna located on the first and / or second body. When the antenna signal is below a preset value, the electromagnet is energized to generate an adsorption force between the first and second bodies. Selectively activating the electromagnet as needed can save power. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a foldable electronic device in its unfolded state in current technology.

[0028] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a foldable electronic device in a folded state;

[0029] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0030] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a foldable electronic device in a folded state;

[0032] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the main components of a foldable electronic device in one embodiment of this application, showing only the main components such as the first middle frame, the second middle frame, the hinge mechanism, the first antenna, and the metal segment;

[0033] Figure 7 for Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure after folding from the P direction;

[0034] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the main components of a foldable electronic device according to another embodiment of this application, showing only the main components such as the first middle frame, the second middle frame, the hinge mechanism, the first antenna, and the metal segment;

[0035] Figure 9 for Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the structure after folding from the P direction;

[0036] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram showing the positions of the first conductor and the second conductor when the foldable electronic device is in a folded state, according to one embodiment of this application.

[0037] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram showing the positions of the first conductor and the second conductor when the foldable electronic device is in a folded state, according to another embodiment of this application.

[0038] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram showing the positions of the first conductor and the second conductor when the foldable electronic device is in a folded state, according to another embodiment of this application.

[0039] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of a foldable electronic device in a folded state according to another embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram showing the positions of the first conductor and the second conductor when the foldable electronic device is in a folded state, according to another embodiment of this application.

[0041] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the foldable electronic device in a folded state in another embodiment of this application;

[0042] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of a foldable electronic device in a folded state according to another embodiment of this application;

[0043] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of a foldable electronic device in a folded state according to another embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 18 for Figure 4 Enlarged schematic diagram of point E in the structure shown;

[0045] Figure 19 for Figure 5 A magnified schematic diagram of point F in the structure shown.

[0046] in, Figures 1 to 19 The one-to-one correspondence between the reference numerals and component names in the attached figures is shown below:

[0047] Rotating shaft mechanism 100'; Middle frame 200';

[0048] 100 electronic devices;

[0049] 100A First main body; 101 First middle frame; 1010 First body; 10101 Groove; 10102 Bottom wall; 1011 First cover plate; 10111 First extension section; 10112 Mounting boss; 1012 Conductive component; 102 Second middle frame; 1020 Second body; 1021 Second cover plate; 10211 Second extension section; 10212 Protrusion; 1022 Electrical connector; 103 Rotating shaft mechanism; 100B Second main body; 104 First conductor; 105 Second conductor; 106 First adsorption component; 107 Second adsorption component; 108 Battery cover;

[0050] 160 Display screen; 161 First display screen segment; 162 Second display screen segment; 163 Curved segment. Specific Implementation

[0051] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the foldable electronic device in this embodiment includes two mid-frames 200' and a hinge mechanism 100'. The two mid-frames 200' are located on both sides of the hinge mechanism 100' and are connected by the hinge mechanism 100'. Under the action of the hinge mechanism 100', the two mid-frames 200' can be folded and unfolded relative to each other, thereby realizing the switching of the foldable electronic device between the folded state and the unfolded state. The foldable electronic device also includes an antenna structure ( Figure 1 and Figure 2 (Not shown in the image) The antenna structure can be located inside at least one of the two mid-frames 200' of the foldable electronic device, for example, on a circuit board. Alternatively, the antenna structure can be located at the edge of the two main bodies 200'. When the foldable electronic device is in a folded state, the two mid-frames 200' are folded closer together, and there is usually a gap 1a between them after folding. This gap 1a forms a resonant cavity. When the antenna structure is working, it is easy to excite the cavity mode. The cavity mode has weak radiation capability and mainly absorbs, which affects the working efficiency of the antenna structure and thus affects the overall performance of the foldable electronic device.

[0052] In addition, when foldable electronic devices are folded, the two mid-frames 200' are close together, and the antenna structures on them may interfere with each other, which will also affect the working performance of each antenna structure.

[0053] Therefore, how to ensure the performance of the antenna structure in the folded state of foldable electronic devices is a technical problem that urgently needs to be solved by those skilled in the art.

[0054] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the technical solutions of the present invention, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0055] The foldable electronic devices provided in this application can be mobile phones, tablets, tablet accessories, wearable devices, in-vehicle devices, augmented reality (AR) / virtual reality (VR) devices, laptops, ultra-mobile personal computers (UMPCs), netbooks, personal digital assistants (PDAs), and other mobile terminals. Alternatively, they can be professional shooting equipment such as digital cameras, SLR cameras / mirrorless cameras, action cameras, gimbal cameras, and drones. This application does not limit the specific type of foldable electronic device. For ease of understanding, the following description uses a mobile phone as an example of a foldable electronic device.

[0056] Please see Figure 3 , Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0057] The foldable electronic device 100 in this application embodiment may include a processor 110, an internal memory 121, a charging management module 140, a power management module 141, a battery 142, an antenna x, an antenna y, a communication module 150, a display screen 160, an audio module 170, a speaker 170A, a receiver 170B, a microphone 170C, a sensor module 180, buttons 190, a motor 191, an indicator 192, a camera 193, etc.

[0058] The processor 110 may include one or more processing units, such as an application processor (AP), a modem processor, a graphics processing unit (GPU), an image signal processor (ISP), a controller, memory, a video stream codec, a digital signal processor (DSP), a baseband processor, and / or a neural network processor unit (NPU). Different processing units may be independent devices or integrated into one or more processors.

[0059] The processor 110 may have one or more interfaces. The interfaces may include, but are not limited to, a universal serial bus (USB) interface 130, a headphone jack 170D, a SIM card interface 195, an external memory interface 120, and a USB interface 130.

[0060] The communication module 150 may include antenna x, antenna y, mobile communication module 150A and / or wireless communication module 150B. Figure 1 The diagram illustrates an example where the communication module 150 includes both a mobile communication module 150A and a wireless communication module 150B. Antenna x is coupled to the mobile communication module 150A, and antenna y is coupled to the wireless communication module. Communication in the foldable electronic device can be achieved through the communication module 150, a modem processor, and a baseband processor, etc.

[0061] Antennas x and y can both transmit and receive electromagnetic wave signals, and each antenna in the electronic device is used to cover one or more communication frequency bands. Different antennas can also be reused to improve antenna utilization. For example, antenna x can be reused as a diversity antenna for a wireless local area network. In other embodiments, the antennas can be used in conjunction with tuning switches.

[0062] The mobile communication module 150A can provide solutions for wireless communication applications in electronic devices, including 2G / 3G / 4G / 5G. The mobile communication module 150A may include at least one filter, switch, power amplifier, low-noise amplifier, etc. The mobile communication module 150A can receive electromagnetic waves via antenna x, and perform filtering, amplification, and other processing on the electromagnetic waves before transmitting them to a modem processor for demodulation. The mobile communication module 150A can also amplify the signal modulated by the modem processor and convert it into electromagnetic waves for radiation via antenna x.

[0063] The modem processor may include a modulator and a demodulator. The modulator modulates the low-frequency baseband signal to be transmitted into a mid-to-high frequency signal. The demodulator demodulates the received electromagnetic wave signal into a low-frequency baseband signal. The demodulator then transmits the demodulated low-frequency baseband signal to the baseband processor for processing. After processing by the baseband processor, the low-frequency baseband signal is transmitted to the application processor. The application processor outputs sound signals through audio devices (not limited to the aforementioned speaker 170A, receiver 170B, etc.), or displays images or video streams through the display screen 160.

[0064] The wireless communication module 150B can provide solutions for wireless communication applications in electronic devices, including wireless local area networks (WLAN), Bluetooth (BT), global navigation satellite system (GNSS), frequency modulation (FM), near field communication (NFC), and infrared (IR). The wireless communication module 150B receives electromagnetic waves through antenna y, modulates and filters the electromagnetic wave signal, and sends the processed signal to processor 110. The wireless communication module 150B can also receive signals to be transmitted from processor 110, modulate and amplify them, and then convert them into electromagnetic waves for radiation via antenna y.

[0065] In this embodiment, the sensor module 180 may include a pressure sensor 180A, a gyroscope sensor 180B, a barometric pressure sensor 180C, a magnetic sensor 180D, an accelerometer sensor 180E, a distance sensor 180F, a proximity sensor 180G, a fingerprint sensor 180H, a temperature sensor 180J, a touch sensor 180K, an ambient light sensor 180L, a bone conduction sensor 180M, etc., to realize the sensing and / or acquisition of different signals.

[0066] The structures illustrated in the embodiments of this application do not constitute a specific limitation on the electronic device 100. In other embodiments, the electronic device 100 may include... Figure 3 The diagram shows more or fewer components, or combinations of components, or separate components, or different arrangements of components. The components shown can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of both.

[0067] Please refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5The foldable electronic device includes a first middle frame 101, a second middle frame 102, and a hinge mechanism 103. The first middle frame 101 and the second middle frame 102 are located on both sides of the hinge mechanism 103 and are connected by the hinge mechanism 103. Under the action of the hinge mechanism 103, the first middle frame 101 and the second middle frame 102 can be folded and unfolded relative to each other, thereby realizing the switching of the foldable electronic device between the folded state and the unfolded state. The first middle frame 101 and the second middle frame 102 can provide a mounting base for the installation of electronic devices such as the display screen 160, processor 110, internal memory 121, charging management module 140, power management module 141, and battery 142.

[0068] In this embodiment, the second middle frame 102 and the first middle frame 101 may have the same structure, or they may not be completely identical. For example, the second middle frame 102 may be further made into a foldable form, that is, the second middle frame 102 includes sub-body parts that are rotatably connected in sequence, and the sub-body parts can be relatively unfolded and folded. The specific structure of the two middle frames can be determined according to the specific product.

[0069] In this embodiment of the application, the display screen 160 of the foldable electronic device 100 is a flexible screen. The display screen is at least partially supported on the first middle frame 101 and the second middle frame 102 and connected to the two middle frames. During the relative folding and unfolding of the first middle frame 101 and the second middle frame 102, the display screen 160 is simultaneously in a folded state and an unfolded state.

[0070] Please refer to Figure 4 In this embodiment, the display screen 160 includes a first display screen segment 161, a second display screen segment 162, and a curved segment 163 connected in sequence. The first display screen segment 161 is mounted on the first middle frame 101, the second display screen segment 162 is mounted on the second middle frame 102, and the curved segment 163 corresponds to the pivot mechanism 103, which are separately disposed. When the foldable electronic device 100 is folded and unfolded, the shapes of the first display screen segment 161 and the second display screen segment 162 generally do not change, while the curved segment 163 can bend and deform during the folding and unfolding process to adapt to the folding and unfolding requirements. In this embodiment, the first middle frame 101 and the components mounted on the first middle frame 101 are defined as the first main body 100A. For example, the first main body 100A includes at least the first middle frame 101 and the first display screen segment 161. Similarly, in this embodiment, the second middle frame 102 and the components mounted on the second middle frame 102 are defined as the second main body 100B. The second main body 100B includes at least the second middle frame 102 and the second display screen segment 162. The first body 100A and the second body 100B are rotatably connected at least by a rotating shaft mechanism 103.

[0071] The display screen 160 may include a display module and a transparent cover. The display module can display images and videos, and may include structural layers such as a touch screen, a light-emitting layer, a backplane layer, and a substrate layer. The specific structure of the display module can be selected according to different products. The display module may use a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), an active-matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED), a flexible light-emitting diode (FLED), or a quantum dot light-emitting diode (QLED). The transparent cover covers the outside of the display module, serving to protect it. The transparent cover can be a glass cover, or other transparent materials that provide protection.

[0072] The specific structure of the rotating shaft mechanism 103 will not be described in detail here, as long as it can achieve the rotational connection between the first middle frame 101 and the second middle frame 102.

[0073] In this embodiment, the first body 100A is provided with at least one first antenna. In one example, the first middle frame 101 has a metal frame, and the first antenna uses a portion of the metal frame as a radiating segment. That is, the metal frame can be broken at one or more locations to form one or more radiating segments. The radiating segment may include a first connection position and a second connection position, which can be electrically connected to a feed terminal and a ground position, respectively. The feed terminal can be connected to the radio frequency circuit on the circuit board via a transmission line, that is, the feed terminal can be an radio frequency feed terminal. Of course, the feed terminal can also be electrically connected to the modulation and demodulation circuit on the circuit board, that is, the feed terminal can also be a modulation and demodulation signal feed terminal. The ground position can be located on the metal plate of the first middle frame 101, and the ground position can be electrically connected to the corresponding ground position on the circuit board via a feed line or a metal spring, etc.

[0074] The second main body 100B may also be equipped with an antenna, defined as a second antenna. The second antenna may also utilize the metal frame of the second middle frame 102 as a radiating segment. The specific structure of the second antenna is not limited. Similarly, the interior of the second main body 100B also has a grounding position, which may be located on the metal plate of the second middle frame 102.

[0075] In this embodiment, a first conductor 104 is provided on the outer surface of the first middle frame 101. The first conductor 104 is located on the side of the first middle frame 101 that is not connected to the rotating shaft mechanism 103. Figure 4 The document shows a first conductor 104 disposed on the side of the first middle frame 101 away from the rotating shaft mechanism 103. This application defines the side of the first middle frame 101 connected to the rotating shaft mechanism 103 as the first side, and the side away from the rotating shaft mechanism 103 as the second side 1a. The opposite sides connected between the first side and the second side 1a are defined as the third side 1b and the fourth side 1c. Of course, the first conductor 104 can also be disposed on the third side 1b and the fourth side 1c of the first middle frame 101. The number of first conductors 104 can be one or more.

[0076] In this embodiment, the surface of the second frame 102 has a second conductor 105. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in a folded state, the first conductor 104 and the second conductor 105 are directly abutted and electrically connected. That is, in this embodiment, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in a folded state, the first body 100A and the second body 100B can be directly electrically connected. There can be one or more electrical connection points between the first body 100A and the second body 100B, that is, there can be one or more sets of the first conductor 104 and the second conductor 105. The first conductor 104 and the second conductor 105 can be located at the corner of the frame, or they can be located in the middle of the frame edge.

[0077] In this embodiment, a first conductor 104 is provided on the side of the first body 100A that is not connected to the rotating shaft mechanism 103. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in a folded state, the first conductor 104 can directly abut against and electrically connect with the second conductor 105 on the outer surface of the second body 100B. In this way, the electrical signal on the first body 100A can be directly conducted to the second body 100B through the first conductor 104 and the second conductor 105.

[0078] In this embodiment, the first conductor 104 can be electrically connected to the first conductor in the first body 100A, and the second conductor 105 is connected to the second conductor in the second body 100B. Thus, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in a folded state, the first conductor in the first body 100A and the second conductor in the second body 100B are directly electrically connected through the first conductor 104 and the second conductor 105 disposed on their surfaces. This allows the first and second conductors to be grounded or configured as an antenna structure. Depending on the positions of the first and second conductors, different functional circuits can be configured to weaken the influence of cavity mode on the antenna structure radiation, thereby improving the radiation capability of the antenna structure and significantly enhancing the overall performance of the device.

[0079] In one embodiment, the first conductor is a grounding body inside the first main body 100A (as described above, a grounding metal plate or other grounding location), and the second conductor is a grounding body inside the second main body 100B. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in a folded state, the first conductor and the second conductor are connected through the first conductor 104 and the second conductor 105, that is, the first conductor and the second conductor are directly connected to form a grounding body. In this way, the first middle frame 101 and the second middle frame 102 form an integral floor. The foldable electronic device 100 in the folded state is similar to the straight electronic device 100, which can solve the cavity problem to the greatest extent, maximize antenna efficiency, and thus improve the overall quality of the device.

[0080] In another embodiment, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in a folded state, the first conductor and the second conductor are configured into an antenna structure via the first conductor 104 and the second conductor 105. This method can form a new antenna structure to improve the antenna's radiation capability when in the folded state. Several specific implementation methods are given below.

[0081] Please refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 , Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the main components of a foldable electronic device 100 in one embodiment of this application, showing only the main components such as the first middle frame 101, the second middle frame 102, the pivot mechanism 103, the first antenna, and the metal segment; Figure 7 for Figure 6 The diagram shows a folded structure viewed from direction P. In the first embodiment, the first conductor is the antenna radiating segment 1013 of the first antenna, and the second conductor is a metal segment on the second middle frame 102. The metal segment is disconnected from other metal parts on the second middle frame 102. One end of the first conductor 104 is electrically connected to position A of the first antenna, and one end of the second conductor 105 is connected to one end of the metal segment in the second middle frame 102. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the first antenna is approximately a T-shaped antenna. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the folded state, the first conductor 104 and the second conductor 105 are directly abutted and electrically connected, realizing the electrical connection between position A of the first antenna and the metal segment on the second middle frame 102. The metal segment increases the length of the first antenna to a certain extent, resulting in a new antenna structure with stronger radiation capability and improved overall device performance.

[0082] Please refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9In the second embodiment, the first conductor is the antenna radiating segment 1013 of the first antenna, and the second conductor is the grounding position on the second middle frame 102. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the first antenna is approximately a T-shaped antenna. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the folded state, the first conductor 104 and the second conductor 105 are directly abutted and electrically connected, and the position B of the first antenna is electrically connected to the grounding position on the second middle frame 102, forming an inverted F antenna (IFA), which has higher radiation efficiency and more radiation frequency bands.

[0083] In the third embodiment, the first conductor is the antenna radiating section of the first antenna, and the second conductor is the antenna radiating section of the second antenna. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the first antenna and the second antenna are two independent antennas. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the folded state, the first antenna and the second antenna are electrically connected by abutting between the first conductor 104 and the second conductor 105 to form a new antenna structure.

[0084] The above three embodiments illustrate examples where the first conductor is the first antenna, and the second conductor is the grounding position, the antenna radiating section, and the metal section. Of course, the reverse is also possible, i.e., the first conductor is the grounding position, the antenna radiating section, and the metal section, and the second conductor is the second antenna. This application will not list them all. In other words, as long as one of the first conductor and the second conductor is an antenna, and the other can be the grounding position, the antenna radiating section, and the metal section, a new antenna structure can be formed in the folded state.

[0085] In short, any new antenna structure formed by directly abutting and connecting the conductor of the first conductor and the second conductor through the first conductor 104 and the second conductor 105 is within the protection scope of this application.

[0086] Please combine Figure 5 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 It is understood that the foldable electronic device 100 can be an inwardly folding screen device, that is, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in a folded state, the display screen is folded between the first middle frame 101 and the second middle frame 102. The first conductor 104 can be located on the side of the first middle frame 101 where the first display screen segment 161 is mounted, and the second conductor 105 can also be located on the side of the second middle frame 102 where the second display screen segment 162 is mounted. The first conductor 104 is located at the edge of the first middle frame 101, and the second conductor 105 is located at the edge of the second middle frame 102.

[0087] like Figure 10 and Figure 11As shown, the first middle frame 101 includes a first body 1010 and a first cover plate. The first display screen segment 161 is supported on one side of the first body 1010. The first cover plate is connected to the circumferential outer edge of the first body 1010. The first cover plate has a first extension segment 10111 extending to the first display screen segment 161. The first extension segment 10111 is used to cover the gap between the first body 1010 and the first display screen segment 161, and the first cover plate can also serve as a decorative outer panel to a certain extent. By setting the shape of the first cover plate, the black border can be visually reduced. In the art, the first cover plate is also referred to as the small A-shell. The first extension segment 10111 extends a predetermined length toward the first display screen segment 161. This predetermined length can be reasonably set according to the specific product. This application does not disclose the specific value of the predetermined length, and it does not affect the understanding and implementation of the technical solution of this document by those skilled in the art.

[0088] In this embodiment, the first conductor 104 is located in the first extension 10111. The main body of the first cover plate can be a plastic part, and a metal body can be embedded and fixed inside the first extension 10111. The metal body portion is exposed outside the first extension 10111 to form the first conductor 104. Figure 10 As shown. The first conductor 104 can also be either a composite layer containing metal or a metal plating layer, the metal plating method being as follows: Figure 11 As shown.

[0089] When the foldable electronic device 100 is unfolded, the surface of the first extension 10111 away from the display screen is approximately the highest position of the foldable electronic device 100. Placing the first conductor 104 on the surface of the first extension 10111 away from the display screen facilitates reliable contact with the second conductor 105 when folded, thereby achieving a reliable electrical connection.

[0090] Please refer to this again. Figure 10 In this embodiment, the first body 1010 is provided with a groove 10101, and the first cover plate 1011 has a mounting boss 10112 connecting the first extension section 10111. The mounting boss 10112 is fixed inside the groove 10101. The first conductor is at least partially located on the bottom wall 10102 of the groove. The conductive element 1012 extends from the first extension section 10111 along the surface of the first cover plate 1011 to the side of the mounting boss 10112 facing the bottom wall of the groove. In this way, the conductive element 1012 on the mounting boss 10112 can be electrically connected to the first conductor located on the bottom wall 10102 of the groove. The first conductor can be a frame antenna or a grounding metal plate, etc.

[0091] In this application, the conductive element 1012 is disposed along the surface of the first cover plate 1011, and the process is simple and easy to implement.

[0092] Of course, the conductive element 1012 may also be partially or entirely located inside the first cover plate 1011, see [link / reference]. Figure 11 In another example, the conductive element 1012 is partially located on the surface of the first cover plate 1011 and partially located inside the first cover plate 1011. The conductive element 1012 is partially or entirely located inside the first cover plate 1011, which reduces the impact on the appearance of the first cover plate 1011 and makes the installation more reliable.

[0093] Of course, the structure of the second middle frame 102 can be similar to that of the first middle frame 101, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 10 and Figure 11 The second frame 102 includes a second body 1020 and a second cover plate 1021. A second display segment 162 is supported on one side of the second body 1020. The second cover plate 1021 is located at the circumferential outer edge of the second body 1020. The second cover plate 1021 has a second extension segment 10211 extending to the second display segment 162 to cover the gap between the second body 1020 and the second display segment 162. A second conductor 105 is located on the outer surface of the second extension segment 10211. The second body 1020 is also provided with a groove 10101. A protrusion 10212 on the side of the second cover plate 1021 facing away from the second extension segment 10211 is installed inside the groove of the second body 1020 to realize the installation of the second cover plate 1021. When the foldable electronic device 100 is unfolded, the second extension section 10211 is approximately at its highest point away from the surface of the display screen. Placing the second conductor 105 on the surface of the second extension section 10211 away from the display screen facilitates reliable contact with the first conductor 104 when folded.

[0094] Similarly, at least one of the interior and partial surfaces of the second cover plate 1021 has an electrical connector 10221022, through which the second conductor 105 is electrically connected to the second conductor in the second body 1020. The arrangement of the electrical connectors 10221022 on the second cover plate 1021 is similar to that of the conductors 1012 on the first cover plate, and will not be described in detail here.

[0095] In this embodiment, the first conductor 104 and the second conductor 105 can be directly installed on the corresponding positions of the middle frame through injection molding or bonding processes. The installation process is simple, and conductive components such as wires 1012 can be directly set inside the middle frame to achieve electrical connection between the first conductor 104 and the first conductor, and between the second conductor 105 and the second conductor. This does not affect the appearance of the whole machine, is easy to implement, and the overall strength of the machine is relatively high.

[0096] The mid-frame can be a metal mid-frame or an MDA mid-frame.

[0097] Of course, for foldable electronic devices 100 with different structures for the first middle frame 101 and the second middle frame 102, the second conductor 105 can be located in the second display segment 162. Please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 12 Typically, the outermost layer of a display screen is a non-metallic inorganic layer, such as glass or ceramic. The second conductor 105 can be a localized metal layer (e.g., metal mesh capacitive touch technology) or a metal plating layer. The area where the second conductor 105 is located can be a non-display area of ​​the second display segment 162. For example, the metal coating and metal plating layer can be located in a non-display area to minimize the impact on the display function of the second display segment 162. The second conductor 105 can be a metal layer, or it can be a metal composite layer sprayed onto the surface of the display screen.

[0098] Please see Figure 13 The foldable electronic device 100 can also be an outward-folding screen device. That is, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in a folded state, the display screen is folded to the outside of the first middle frame 101 and the second middle frame 102. The first conductor 104 can be located on the side of the first middle frame 101 away from the first display screen segment 161, and the second conductor 105 is also located on the side of the second middle frame 102 away from the second display screen segment 162. Similarly, the first conductor 104 can be located at the edge of the first middle frame 101, and the second conductor 105 is also located near the edge of the second middle frame 102.

[0099] Of course, for foldable electronic devices 100 with different structures for the first middle frame 101 and the second middle frame 102, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 14 The second main body 100B also includes a battery cover 108, which is located on the side of the second middle frame 102 opposite to the second display screen segment 162. A second conductor 105 can be located on the outer surface of the battery cover 108. The second conductor 105 can be any one of a metal body, a composite layer containing metal material, or a metal plating layer disposed on the battery cover 108. For example, the battery cover 108 may have a partially embedded metal body, a partially composite layer containing metal material, or a partially metal plating layer on its outer surface. For example, the main body of the battery cover 108 can be a non-metallic material, such as vegan leather, glass, ceramic, or sheet metal, with a metal structure added to the non-metallic material, such as a metal body, a metal plating layer, or copper foil attachment.

[0100] Please refer to Figure 15 , Figure 16 and Figure 17 In another embodiment, the second middle frame 102 includes at least two sub-bodies. Figure 15 , Figure 16 and Figure 17The image shows an example of a second middle frame 102 comprising two sub-bodies: a first sub-bodies 102-1 and a second sub-bodies 102-2. Adjacent sub-bodies are rotatably connected by a pivot assembly 102-3, and a second display segment 162 is supported on all sub-bodies. Figure 15 The diagram shows a second conductor 105 disposed on a shaft cover of a rotating shaft assembly 102-3. The shaft cover can be metal or a solid structure containing a metal layer.

[0101] The size and dimensions of the main body depend on the specific product. The side of the first middle frame 101 away from the pivot mechanism 103 can also be extended and abut against the pivot cover. This can make full use of the folding space of the foldable electronic device 100. The width of the first middle frame 101 can be relatively long, which is conducive to obtaining a larger display screen.

[0102] In the embodiments of this application, Figure 16 and Figure 17 A specific example is shown where the second conductor 105 is disposed on the second middle frame 102.

[0103] Please summarize Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 It is understood that when the foldable electronic device 100 is in a folded state, in order to make the first conductor 104 and the second conductor 105 in the above embodiments fit together and thus improve the reliability of the electrical connection, the foldable electronic device 100 in this application embodiment also includes a first adsorption component 106 and a second adsorption component 107. The first adsorption component 106 is located on the first body 100A, and the second adsorption component 107 is located on the second body 100B. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in a folded state, the first adsorption component 106 and the second adsorption component 107 cooperate to generate an attractive force that closes the first body 100A and the second body 100B. The contact area of ​​the first conductor 104 and the second conductor 105 is at least partially located in the adsorption area of ​​the first adsorption component 106 and the second adsorption component 107.

[0104] In this embodiment, the attraction generated by the first adsorption component 106 and the second adsorption component 107 can drive the first conductor 104 and the second conductor 105 to approach and press against each other, improving the problem of the first conductor 104 and the second conductor 105 not fitting together due to the flatness of the first body 100A and the second body 100B. This ensures reliable contact between the first conductor 104 and the second conductor 105, thereby improving the consistency of the gap between the first middle frame 101 and the second middle frame 102 and achieving direct electrical connection. At the same time, the first adsorption component 106 and the second adsorption component 107 can also keep the first middle frame 101 and the second middle frame 102 in a folded state, resulting in strong overall folding stability.

[0105] In this device, both the first adsorption component 106 and the second adsorption component 107 can be magnets, with the attractive force between each pair of magnets being approximately 2N. The magnets can be embedded within either the first main body 100A or the second main body 100B. Alternatively, the first adsorption component 106 and the first conductor 104 can be integrally formed, as can the second adsorption component 107 and the second conductor 105. This reduces the number of components, saves space, and results in a compact structure for the foldable electronic device 100.

[0106] The rotating shaft assembly 102-3 or the middle frame is typically provided with a magnetic material that can be attracted by a magnet. Therefore, one of the first adsorption component 106 and the second adsorption component 107 can be a magnet, and the other can be a magnetic material. The magnetic material can be iron or an iron-containing material. In this embodiment, the magnetic adsorption has strong reliability.

[0107] In another specific embodiment, the magnet can be a permanent magnet or an electromagnet. When the magnet is an electromagnet, the following control methods can also be implemented, as described in detail below.

[0108] In one example, at least one of the first adsorption component 106 and the second adsorption component 107 is an electromagnet. As described above, the foldable electronic device 100 includes an antenna located at the first body 100A and / or the second body 100B. When the signal of the designated antenna is lower than a preset value, the electromagnet is energized to generate an adsorption force between the first body 100A and the second body 100B. An electromagnetic relay can be connected to the circuit of the electromagnet to realize the switching of the electromagnet current. Selectively activating the electromagnet as needed can save power. The strength of the antenna signal can be detected by a specific absorption rate (SRA) sensor, or by multiplexing the up-and-down switching signal reporting logic of the whole device antenna. When the reported signal is lower than the preset value, it indicates that the corresponding frequency band is generating noise / interference, resulting in low performance. At this time, the electromagnet is activated to improve the gap between the first body 100A and the second body 100B, or the noise disappears after direct grounding.

[0109] In this embodiment, the magnitude of the magnetic field generated by the electromagnet can be changed by changing the current of the electromagnet, thereby changing the attraction force between the first body 100A and the second body 100B, so as to achieve reliable contact between the first conductor 104 and the second conductor 105.

[0110] In the embodiments of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined with "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature.

[0111] The directional terms mentioned in the embodiments of this application, such as "inner" and "outer", are only for reference to the direction of the accompanying drawings. Therefore, the directional terms used are for better and clearer explanation and understanding of the embodiments of this application, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this application.

[0112] In the description of embodiments of this application, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus.

[0113] In the embodiments of this application, "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0114] This document uses specific examples to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this application. The descriptions of the embodiments above are only for the purpose of helping to understand the method and core ideas of this application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make several improvements and modifications to this application without departing from the principles of this application, and these improvements and modifications also fall within the protection scope of the claims of this application.

Claims

1. A foldable electronic device, characterized in that, include: A first body and a second body, the second body and the first body are rotatably connected by a pivot mechanism to allow the foldable electronic device to switch between a folded state and an unfolded state; The surface of the first body is provided with a first conductor, which is located on the side of the first body that is not connected to the rotating shaft mechanism. The first conductor is electrically connected to a first conductor in the first body. The surface of the second body has a second conductor, which is electrically connected to a second conductor in the second body. When the foldable electronic device is in a folded state, the first conductor and the second conductor are in direct contact with each other, so that the first conductor and the second conductor are grounded or configured as an antenna structure through the first conductor and the second conductor.

2. The foldable electronic device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The first conductor is an antenna radiating section, and the second conductor is a grounding body, an antenna radiating section, or a metal section that is insulated from the surroundings in the second main body; Alternatively / and, the second conductor is an antenna radiating segment, and the first conductor is a grounding body or an antenna radiating segment or a metal segment insulated from the surroundings in the first body.

3. The foldable electronic device as described in claim 2, characterized in that, At least one of the first conductor and the second conductor is an antenna that uses a metal frame as the radiating segment.

4. The foldable electronic device as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that, The first main body includes a first middle frame and a first display screen segment, the second main body includes a second middle frame and a second display screen segment, the first display screen segment and the second display screen segment are connected, the first middle frame and the second middle frame are rotatably connected through the rotating shaft mechanism, and the first conductor is located at the edge position of the first middle frame.

5. The foldable electronic device as claimed in claim 4, characterized in that, The second conductor is located at the edge of the second middle frame.

6. The foldable electronic device as claimed in claim 5, characterized in that, The second middle frame includes a second body and a second cover plate. The second display segment is supported on one side of the second body. The second cover plate is located at the circumferential outer edge of the second body. The second cover plate has a second extension extending to the second display segment to cover the gap between the second body and the second display segment. The second conductor is located on the surface of the second extension segment opposite to the second display segment.

7. The foldable electronic device as claimed in claim 6, characterized in that, It also includes an electrical connector, through which the second conductor is electrically connected to the second conductor in the second body. The electrical connector is completely disposed inside the second cover plate, or the electrical connector is completely located on the surface of the second cover plate, or the electrical connector is partially located on the surface of the second cover plate and partially located inside the second cover plate.

8. The foldable electronic device as claimed in claim 4, characterized in that, The second conductor is located in the second display screen segment.

9. The foldable electronic device as claimed in claim 8, characterized in that, The second display segment has a non-display area, and the second conductor is located on the surface of the non-display area.

10. The foldable electronic device as claimed in claim 4, characterized in that, The second main body also includes a battery cover, which is disposed on the side of the second middle frame opposite to the second display screen segment, and the second conductor is disposed on the outer surface of the battery cover.

11. The foldable electronic device as claimed in claim 4, characterized in that, The second middle frame includes at least two sub-body sections, adjacent sub-body sections are rotatably connected by a pivot assembly, the second display screen section is supported on all the sub-body sections, and the second conductor is disposed on the shaft cover of the pivot assembly.

12. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 4 to 11, characterized in that, The first middle frame includes a first body and a first cover plate. The first display segment is supported on one side of the first body. The first cover plate is connected to the circumference of the first body. The first cover plate has a first extension extending to the first display segment to cover the gap between the first body and the first display segment. The first conductor is located in the first extension.

13. The foldable electronic device as claimed in claim 12, characterized in that, It also includes a conductive element, wherein the first conductor is electrically connected to the first conductor in the first body through the conductive element, the conductive element is completely disposed inside the first cover plate, or the conductive element is completely located on the surface of the first cover plate, or the conductive element is partially located on the surface of the first cover plate and partially located inside the first cover plate.

14. The foldable electronic device as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that, The first body is provided with a groove, and the first cover plate has a mounting boss that connects to the first extension section. The mounting boss is fixed inside the groove. The first conductor is at least partially located on the bottom wall of the groove. The conductive element extends from the first extension section along the surface of the first cover plate to the side of the mounting boss facing the bottom wall of the groove, so as to abut against the first conductor located on the bottom wall of the groove for electrical connection.

15. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that, Both the first conductor and the second conductor include a metal body, a composite layer containing metal, or a metal plating layer.

16. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that, It also includes a first adsorption component and a second adsorption component. The first adsorption component is located on the first body, and the second adsorption component is located on the second body. When the foldable electronic device is in a folded state, the first adsorption component and the second adsorption component cooperate to generate an attractive force that closes the first body and the second body. The contact area of ​​the first conductor and the second conductor is at least partially located in the adsorption area of ​​the first adsorption component and the second adsorption component.

17. The foldable electronic device as claimed in claim 16, characterized in that, One of the first adsorption component and the second adsorption component is a magnet, and the other is a magnetic material; Alternatively, one of the first adsorption component and the second adsorption component may be a magnet, and the other may also be a magnet.

18. The foldable electronic device as claimed in claim 16, characterized in that, At least one of the first adsorption component and the second adsorption component is an electromagnet. The foldable electronic device also includes an antenna located on the first body and / or the second body. When the signal of the antenna is lower than a preset value, the electromagnet is energized to generate an adsorption force between the first body and the second body.

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