Frame assembly and electronic device

Abstract

The application discloses a frame assembly and an electronic device, and belongs to the technical field of electronic device frames. The frame assembly comprises a middle frame and a shell sleeved on the periphery of the middle frame; at least one water storage groove is arranged on the outer side wall of the middle frame and / or the inner side wall of the shell, the water storage groove extends along the circumference of the frame assembly, and the water storage groove is used for storing water entering between the outer side wall of the middle frame and the inner side wall of the shell. The water storage groove prolongs the path of liquid flow and increases the resistance of liquid flow, thereby greatly reducing the speed and range of liquid diffusion in the device, providing more efficient liquid protection for the electronic device, significantly improving the liquid resistance performance of the electronic device, and reducing the risk of damage to the internal electronic elements of the device caused by liquid.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of electronic device frame technology, and in particular to a frame assembly and an electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] In existing electronic device protection solutions, the unibody architecture is widely used due to its low cost and simple structure, especially in mobile phones. The unibody architecture mainly consists of a battery back cover, casing, mid-frame, and screen assembly. However, this conventionally used unibody architecture has several drawbacks in practical applications:

[0003] In a unibody architecture, the housing fits onto the mid-frame, and the mid-frame and housing are typically fitted together using snap-fit ​​joints and secured with screws. Due to limitations in assembly and fitting processes, a zero-clearance fit between the mid-frame and housing is not possible; a gap of 0.02mm-0.15mm is usually present. This gap creates a channel for liquid to enter the device. While the end of the channel can typically be sealed with sealing foam, the front end, primarily due to the assembly requirements of the front and rear housings, cannot be sealed with sealing foam or similar structures, as this would affect assembly. When external liquid enters the gap between the mid-frame and housing, it can rapidly penetrate the device, rendering protective foam and other sealing structures ineffective. This poses a high risk of liquid ingress into the electronic equipment. In such cases, the liquid will quickly impact internal components, leading to equipment damage. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a frame assembly and an electronic device, the frame assembly being used to prevent liquid from entering the interior of the electronic device through the gap between the middle frame and the housing.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the embodiments of this application adopt the following technical solutions:

[0006] In a first aspect, a frame assembly is provided for an electronic device. The frame assembly includes a middle frame and a housing disposed around the outer periphery of the middle frame. At least one water storage tank is provided on the outer side wall of the middle frame and / or the inner side wall of the housing. The water storage tank extends circumferentially along the frame assembly and is used to store water entering between the outer side wall of the middle frame and the inner side wall of the housing.

[0007] The frame assembly provided in this application extends the liquid flow path and increases the resistance to liquid flow through the water storage tank, thereby greatly reducing the speed and range of liquid diffusion inside the device, providing more efficient liquid protection for electronic devices, significantly improving the liquid resistance of electronic devices, and reducing the risk of liquid damaging internal electronic components.

[0008] In one embodiment, multiple leak-prone areas are located between the outer wall of the middle frame and the inner wall of the housing, and multiple water storage tanks are provided, with at least one water storage tank for each leak-prone area. Providing water storage tanks effectively prevents liquid from flowing into these vulnerable locations, avoiding entry into the equipment through these weak points and reducing the risk of liquid damage. The design of providing at least one water storage tank for each leak-prone area creates targeted protection, effectively improving the protective effect.

[0009] In one embodiment, the housing is provided with a drain outlet communicating with the outside, and there are multiple water storage tanks, with at least one tank having its end connected to the drain outlet. The cooperation between the water storage tanks and the drain outlet ensures that liquid entering the equipment can be promptly guided and discharged. Liquid does not accumulate inside the equipment, preventing long-term damage to internal components. Through this effective drainage mechanism, the water storage tanks not only store and guide liquid but also quickly discharge it through the drain outlet, further enhancing the equipment's waterproof performance.

[0010] In one embodiment, a drainage recess is provided on the outer wall of the middle frame, the position of the drainage recess corresponding to the position of the drain outlet, and the end of at least one water storage tank is connected to the drainage recess. This allows the liquid in the water storage tank to be smoothly guided to the drainage recess and then discharged to the outside of the equipment through the drain outlet, effectively reducing the residence time of the liquid inside the equipment.

[0011] In one embodiment, the frame is provided with a port portion to accommodate the ports of electronic devices, the port portion being formed on the bottom wall of a drainage recess. Since the ports of electronic devices typically have a certain degree of waterproofing, placing the drain outlet at the port portion allows for drainage, achieving a dual purpose: the drain outlet can be used for both plugging and unplugging the port and for drainage. This fully utilizes the port's waterproofing performance, ensuring that liquid does not accumulate inside the device and further improving its waterproofing effect. This layout optimizes the utilization of internal space, making the arrangement of components more rational and avoiding wasted space.

[0012] In one embodiment, the frame assembly is further provided with other functional slots, at least one of which is longer than the other functional slots located on the outer wall of the middle frame and / or the inner wall of the housing. A longer water storage tank provides greater water storage capacity, allowing more liquid to be stored when it enters, reducing the risk of liquid spreading inside the device. A longer water storage tank also provides protection over a wider area; regardless of where the liquid enters the device, the tank effectively captures and stores the liquid, improving the overall protective effect of the device.

[0013] In one embodiment, the multiple water storage tanks include at least one group of water storage tanks, and each group of water storage tanks includes multiple water storage tanks spaced apart along the thickness direction of the frame assembly. By spaced apart multiple water storage tanks along the thickness direction of the frame assembly, a multi-layered protective structure is formed. Each layer of water storage tank can block and guide the incoming liquid, so that the flow rate and pressure of the liquid gradually decrease as it flows layer by layer, thereby significantly enhancing the overall waterproof effect.

[0014] In one embodiment, at least one water storage tank has a length of 10 mm or more. A longer water storage tank can guide more liquid to the drain outlet, achieving faster and more efficient drainage. Regardless of how the water storage tank is bent, its total length ensures sufficient liquid guidance and storage capacity, preventing liquid buildup inside the device.

[0015] In one embodiment, the depth of the water reservoir is 0.05 mm to 0.15 mm, and the width is 0.05 mm to 0.2 mm. Within this range, the water reservoir effectively increases the resistance to liquid flow and slows down the rate of liquid diffusion. The water reservoir forms an effective retention area, dispersing liquid pressure and reducing the impact of liquid on the protective foam. The increased resistance experienced by the liquid in the water reservoir helps to slow down the liquid flow rate, thereby reducing the impact on internal components. Appropriate depth and width ensure that the water reservoir does not significantly increase the thickness of the frame assembly or affect its structural strength.

[0016] In one embodiment, a first gap exists between the outer wall of the middle frame and the inner wall of the housing. The first gap, multiple water storage tanks, and other functional tanks together form a drainage cavity arranged circumferentially around the frame assembly. The circumferential arrangement of the drainage cavity allows liquid to be evenly distributed and flowed around the entire frame assembly, forming a complete loop in the circumferential direction of the drainage cavity, enabling multiple convergence points and centralized drainage.

[0017] In one embodiment, the outer end wall of the middle frame and the inner end wall of the housing are projected onto the frame assembly in the Z direction. A second gap exists between the outer end wall of the middle frame and the inner end wall of the housing, and the second gap communicates with the first gap. The frame assembly also includes a sealing portion disposed within the second gap, thereby enhancing the sealing and waterproof performance of the device.

[0018] In one embodiment, other functional slots include snap-fit ​​slots. A snap fastener is provided on the inner sidewall of the housing, and the snap-fit ​​slot is located on the outer sidewall of the middle frame. The housing is snapped onto the middle frame via the engagement of the snap fastener and the snap-fit ​​slot. The snap-fit ​​between the snap fastener and the snap-fit ​​slot provides a robust structural connection, making the connection between the housing and the middle frame more secure and reliable. This effectively prevents loosening or detachment of components, improving the overall stability and durability of the equipment.

[0019] In one embodiment, the water storage tank is either straight or polygonal.

[0020] A second aspect of this application provides an electronic device, which includes a frame assembly, a battery assembly and a control assembly installed within the frame assembly, a screen assembly and a back cover installed on the frame assembly, wherein the screen assembly and the back cover are located on opposite sides of the frame assembly, and the frame assembly is the aforementioned frame assembly.

[0021] Since the electronic device includes the aforementioned frame assembly, it possesses at least all the beneficial effects of the frame assembly, which will not be elaborated further here. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the frame component provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0023] Figure 2 An exploded view of the frame assembly provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0024] Figure 3 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the frame assembly provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0025] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A magnified view of a portion of point A in the middle;

[0026] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the middle frame provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0027] Figure 6 for Figure 5 A magnified view of a portion of point B in the middle;

[0028] Figure 7 for Figure 5 A magnified view of a portion of point C in the middle;

[0029] Figure 8 This is a side view of the middle frame provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0030] Figure 9 for Figure 8 A magnified view of a portion of point D in the middle;

[0031] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of another side of the middle frame provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0032] Figure 11 for Figure 10 A magnified view of a portion of point E in the middle;

[0033] Figure 12 for Figure 10 A magnified view of a portion of point F in the middle;

[0034] Figure 13 The middle frame provided in the embodiments of this application and Figure 12 Relative side view;

[0035] Figure 14 for Figure 13 A magnified view of a portion of point G in the middle;

[0036] Figure 15 for Figure 13 A magnified view of a portion of point H in the middle;

[0037] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the shell provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 17 A schematic diagram of the side structure of the housing provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 18 A schematic diagram comparing the liquid inflow at different times with and without a water storage tank;

[0040] Figure 19 A diagram showing the comparison of fluid inflow at the snap-fit ​​position and the bone insertion position;

[0041] Figure 20 A comparative diagram showing the liquid inflow rates of no water storage tank, a 0.5mm wide water storage tank, a 1mm wide water storage tank, and two 0.5mm wide water storage tanks along the thickness of the frame assembly.

[0042] The meanings of the various symbols in the attached icons are as follows:

[0043] 10. Middle frame; 11. Water storage tank; 12. Port section; 13. Snap-fit ​​groove; 14. Drainage recess;

[0044] 20. Shell; 21. Drain outlet;

[0045] 30. Sealing part;

[0046] 41. First gap; 42. Second gap. Detailed Implementation

[0047] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0048] It should be understood that, in the description of this application, the terms "length," "width," "thickness," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0049] The terms "first," "second," "third," and "fourth," etc., are used only for distinguishing descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. For example, "first pushing part" and "second pushing part" are merely used to distinguish different pushing parts and do not limit their order. The first pushing part can also be named the second pushing part, and the second pushing part can also be named the first pushing part, without departing from the scope of the various described embodiments. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," "third," and "fourth," etc., do not imply that the indicated features must be different.

[0050] In the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application according to the specific circumstances. In the description of the embodiments of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0051] 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, and B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0052] It should be noted that in the embodiments of this application, the words "in one embodiment," "exemplarily," and "for example" are used to indicate examples, illustrations, or descriptions. Any embodiment or design that is described as "in one embodiment," "exemplarily," or "for example" in the embodiments of this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or design options. Specifically, the use of the words "in one embodiment," "exemplarily," and "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner.

[0053] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0054] In related technologies, the unibody architecture is widely used due to its low cost and simple structure, especially in mobile phones. The unibody architecture mainly consists of a battery back cover, a housing, a mid-frame, and a screen assembly. The combination of the housing and mid-frame results in lower manufacturing costs compared to having only a mid-frame. However, this commonly used unibody architecture has several drawbacks in practical applications:

[0055] In a unibody architecture, the housing fits onto the mid-frame, and the mid-frame and housing are typically fitted together using snap-fit ​​joints and secured with screws. Due to limitations in assembly and fitting processes, a zero-clearance fit between the mid-frame and housing is not possible; a gap of 0.02mm-0.15mm is usually present. This gap creates a channel for liquid to enter the device. While the end of the channel can typically be sealed with sealing foam, the front end, primarily due to the assembly requirements of the front and rear housings, cannot be sealed with sealing foam or similar structures, as this would affect assembly. When external liquid enters the gap between the mid-frame and housing, it can rapidly penetrate the device, rendering protective foam and other sealing structures ineffective. This poses a high risk of liquid ingress into the electronic equipment. In such cases, the liquid will quickly impact internal components, leading to equipment damage.

[0056] The frame assembly in this application is used in electronic devices, including but not limited to mobile phones, tablets, smartwatches, and other electronic products. The frame assembly is a structural unit within the electronic device, typically composed of multiple parts, providing the basic outer shell and support protection. The frame assembly of this application includes a middle frame 10 and a housing 20 fitted around the middle frame 10. The middle frame 10 is the main structural part of the frame assembly, used to support and fix the internal components of the electronic device, such as batteries, motherboards, and other electronic components. The middle frame 10 is made of metal or plastic, providing basic strength and structural stability for the device. The housing 20 is an external covering layer fitted around the middle frame 10, typically protecting the internal components from external environmental influences. The housing 20 can be made of plastic, metal, or other materials, providing both protection and aesthetic appeal.

[0057] See Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, in this embodiment, at least one water storage tank 11 is provided on the outer wall of the middle frame 10 and / or the inner wall of the housing 20. The water storage tank 11 extends circumferentially along the frame assembly and is used to store water entering between the outer wall of the middle frame 10 and the inner wall of the housing 20. It should be noted that the outer wall of the middle frame 10 refers to the outer surface of the side portion of the middle frame 10, i.e., the surrounding portion of the middle frame 10, opposite to the inner wall of the housing 20. The inner wall of the housing 20 refers to the surface of the inner side portion of the housing 20, opposite to the outer wall of the middle frame 10. The water storage tank 11 is a groove provided on the outer wall of the middle frame 10 and / or the inner wall of the housing 20, used to store water entering between the middle frame 10 and the housing 20. The water storage tank 11 extends circumferentially along the frame assembly, forming a path for guiding and storing liquid. The circumferential extension refers to the water storage tank 11 extending along the periphery of the frame assembly, rather than along the thickness direction of the frame assembly. This effectively stores and blocks moisture from entering between the middle frame 10 and the housing 20. The water storage tank 11, also known as a labyrinth tank, extends the liquid flow path and increases resistance, significantly reducing the speed and extent of liquid diffusion within the device and lowering the risk of damage to internal electronic components. In this embodiment, the liquid in the water storage tank 11 can evaporate naturally or be quickly drained through openings in the housing 20. In summary, by incorporating the water storage tank 11 (labyrinth tank), the frame assembly provides more efficient liquid protection for electronic devices by extending the liquid path, increasing flow resistance, creating retention areas, and improving sealing, significantly enhancing the liquid-resistant performance of the electronic devices. In one embodiment, the water storage tank 11 is located on the outer wall of the middle frame 10.

[0058] It should be specifically noted that the water storage tank 11 is a labyrinth tank specifically designed for waterproofing purposes. Its design primarily considers how to effectively store, guide, and drain liquids. Other functional slots on the frame assembly, on the other hand, are used for equipment connection, support, and interface clearance, primarily considering the stability of mechanical connections and ease of operation; they do not serve a waterproofing function. The inclusion of the water storage tank 11 increases the path length of liquid movement within the equipment. When liquid enters the water storage tank 11, it must travel along its tortuous path rather than directly through the equipment. This circuitous path increases flow resistance, making it more difficult for the liquid to quickly pass through the tank 11, thus slowing its flow rate. As the liquid flows within the water storage tank 11, it is obstructed and pressured by the tank walls. The presence of the water storage tank 11 (labyrinth tank) creates multiple tortuous and turning areas during liquid flow; these areas can be considered liquid stagnation zones. Within these areas, the liquid flow rate slows down or even temporarily stagnates, increasing the time the liquid remains inside the equipment and reducing the likelihood of liquid entering other parts of the equipment.

[0059] In this embodiment, the outer wall of the middle frame 10 and the inner wall of the housing 20 have multiple leak-prone areas. These leak-prone areas refer to vulnerable locations with poor waterproofing, typically including areas corresponding to the device's buttons, antenna seams, and coaxial cable locations. Buttons usually require sensitive operation, so their design often considers contact with the external environment, resulting in gaps or openings around the buttons. The button area is often one of the leak-prone areas. In electronic devices, antennas often need to connect to the device's housing to form a transmission channel for external signals. Antenna seams have connection interfaces or gaps, which, due to their large contact area or design requirements, easily become pathways for liquid to enter the device. Coaxial cables are typically used to transmit electrical or wireless signals, thus requiring connection to the device's housing to form a signal transmission path. Coaxial cable locations may have connection gaps or interfaces, which also easily become pathways for liquid intrusion. Specifically, the water reservoir 11 effectively prevents liquid from flowing to these vulnerable locations, avoiding entry into the device through these weak points and reducing the risk of liquid damage. The design of having at least one water storage tank in each leak-prone area provides targeted protection and effectively improves the protective effect. Additionally, the buckle locations and insertion points are also prone to leakage.

[0060] See Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the housing 20 in this embodiment is provided with a drain outlet 21 communicating with the outside. There are multiple water storage tanks 11, with at least one tank's end connected to the drain outlet 21. When external liquid enters the device, it enters the water storage tank 11 through the gap between the middle frame 10 and the housing 20. The liquid flows within the tank 11 and is guided along its path to the drain outlet 21. The liquid flows out through the drain outlet 21, preventing accumulation inside the device. The cooperation of the water storage tank 11 and the drain outlet 21 ensures that liquid entering the device can be guided and discharged promptly. Liquid does not accumulate inside the device, preventing long-term damage to internal components. Through this effective drainage mechanism, the water storage tank 11 not only stores and guides liquid but also quickly discharges it through the drain outlet 21, further enhancing the device's waterproof performance. The drain outlet 21 ensures that the inside of the device does not become damp due to liquid accumulation, thus avoiding short circuits and corrosion caused by moisture in internal components.

[0061] See Figures 10 to 12As shown, in this embodiment, a drainage recess 14 is provided on the outer wall of the middle frame 10. The position of the drainage recess 14 corresponds to the position of the drain outlet 21, and the end of at least one water storage tank 11 is connected to the drainage recess 14. This embodiment significantly improves the accuracy of liquid guidance and drainage efficiency. By aligning the drainage recess 14 with the drain outlet 21, the residence time of liquid inside the device is reduced, enhancing the waterproof performance of the device, protecting internal components, and extending the service life of the device. Specifically, a drainage recess 14 is provided on the outer wall of the middle frame 10, and its position is ensured to correspond to the position of the drain outlet 21 on the housing 20, providing sufficient drainage space and avoiding blockage. This allows the liquid in the water storage tank 11 to be smoothly guided to the drainage recess 14 and then discharged to the outside of the device through the drain outlet 21, effectively reducing the residence time of liquid inside the device.

[0062] See Figures 10 to 12 As shown, the frame in this embodiment of the application is provided with a port portion 12 for making way for the ports of electronic devices. The port portion 12 is located on the bottom wall of the drainage recess 14. The ports of the electronic devices include charging ports, headphone jacks, or data interfaces. Since the ports of electronic devices typically have a certain degree of waterproofing, the drainage outlet 21 is positioned at the port portion 12, allowing drainage through the port portion 12. This achieves a dual purpose: the drainage outlet 21 can be used for both plugging and unplugging the port and for drainage, fully utilizing the waterproofing performance of the port and ensuring that liquid does not accumulate inside the device, further improving the device's waterproofing effect. Positioning the port portion 12 on the bottom wall of the drainage recess 14 combines the drainage design with the port location. This layout optimizes the utilization of the internal space of the device, making the layout between components more rational, avoiding space waste, improving the compactness and neatness of the internal design, and ensuring a simple appearance. Moreover, the integrated design of the port portion 12 and the drainage recess 14 simplifies the manufacturing and assembly process. The integrated design reduces the number of parts and assembly steps, improves production efficiency and product consistency, and reduces manufacturing costs.

[0063] See Figures 13 to 15As shown in the embodiment of this application, the frame assembly is also provided with other functional slots, at least one water storage slot 11 having a length greater than the length of other functional slots formed on the outer wall of the middle frame 10 and / or the inner wall of the housing 20. These other functional slots can be snap-fit ​​slots, insert slots, limiting rib slots, card tray slots, earphone slots, USB slots, camera slots, shrink holes, adhesive application slots, dispensing slots, etc. The length of the water storage slot 11 in this embodiment refers to the straight-line length from one end of the water storage slot 11 to the other end in the transverse direction of the frame assembly, and is independent of the shape of the water storage slot 11. The water storage slot 11 in this embodiment is specifically used to store and guide liquid, ensuring that liquid does not accumulate inside the device. The water storage slot 11 effectively prevents liquid from entering the device by extending the liquid path, increasing flow resistance, and forming retention areas. The other functional slots mainly serve the connection and fixation of the device. Each slot performs different functions and roles, jointly improving the overall performance and reliability of the device. Their design lengths are usually short, only needing to meet specific functions. The primary function of the water reservoir 11 is to store and guide liquid, preventing liquid from entering the equipment. A longer water reservoir 11 provides a larger water storage capacity, allowing more liquid to be stored when it enters, reducing the risk of liquid spreading inside the equipment. Increasing the length of the water reservoir 11 extends the flow path of the liquid inside the equipment. A longer flow path helps to disperse the liquid's flow rate and pressure, thus mitigating the impact of the liquid on internal components and protecting the electronic components inside the equipment. A longer water reservoir 11 can provide protection over a wider area; regardless of where the liquid enters the equipment, the water reservoir 11 can effectively capture and store the liquid, improving the overall protection of the equipment. In contrast, at least one water reservoir 11 being longer than the others can cover a larger area, achieving better waterproofing and liquid guidance.

[0064] See Figures 8 to 11As shown, the multiple water storage tanks 11 in this embodiment include at least one group of water storage tanks, and each group of water storage tanks includes multiple water storage tanks 11 spaced apart along the thickness direction of the frame assembly. By spaced apart multiple water storage tanks 11 along the thickness direction of the frame assembly, a multi-layered protective structure is formed. Each layer of water storage tank 11 can block and guide the incoming liquid, so that the flow rate and pressure of the liquid gradually decrease as it flows layer by layer, thereby significantly enhancing the overall waterproof effect. The spaced arrangement of multiple water storage tanks 11 requires the liquid to pass through multiple water storage tanks 11 during its flow, extending the liquid's flow path. This increases the residence time of the liquid within the frame assembly, helping to more fully store and guide the liquid, reducing the possibility of liquid directly entering the equipment's interior. The multi-layered design of the water storage tanks 11 can increase the sealing performance of the frame assembly. Each layer of water storage tank 11 can seal and block the liquid, thereby reducing the risk of leakage through gaps in the frame assembly and ensuring a more stable and safe internal environment for the equipment. It can provide effective protection at locations of varying thicknesses. If there is ample space, multiple strips can be installed to reduce liquid penetration.

[0065] In this embodiment, at least one water storage tank 11 has a length of 10 mm or more, providing a larger storage capacity. This allows the water storage tank 11 to hold more liquid, thereby reducing the possibility of liquid spreading inside the device and improving liquid-proof performance. A longer water storage tank 11 can guide more liquid to the drain outlet 21, achieving faster and more efficient drainage. Regardless of how the water storage tank 11 is bent, its total length ensures sufficient liquid guidance and storage capacity to prevent liquid accumulation inside the device. Regardless of the shape of the water storage tank 11, a length of 10 mm or more provides sufficient path length to delay liquid penetration. For water storage tanks 11 with a length less than 10 mm, the shorter length limits their liquid storage capacity, potentially causing overflow before the liquid accumulates to a certain amount. A shorter drainage path may lead to poor drainage, causing liquid to remain inside the device for too long, increasing the risk of damage to internal components.

[0066] Based on the working principle of the labyrinth groove and the limited space of the frame assembly, the water storage tank 11 in this embodiment has a depth of 0.05mm to 0.15mm and a width of 0.05mm to 0.2mm. This allows the water storage tank 11 to effectively prevent rapid liquid penetration while making full use of the limited space for liquid storage. Within this range, the water storage tank 11 effectively increases the resistance to liquid flow and slows down the rate of liquid diffusion. The water storage tank 11 can form an effective retention area, dispersing liquid pressure and reducing the impact of liquid on the protective foam. The increased resistance experienced by the liquid in the water storage tank 11 helps to slow down the liquid flow rate, thereby reducing the impact on internal components. The appropriate depth and width ensure that the water storage tank 11 does not significantly increase the thickness of the frame assembly or affect its structural strength. Designed within this range, an effective waterproofing solution can be provided without affecting the overall structural stability.

[0067] Specifically, in fluid mechanics, narrow channels increase fluid resistance. Within the aforementioned configuration, the liquid experiences greater frictional and viscous resistance as it passes through the reservoir 11, slowing its flow velocity. This effectively controls liquid diffusion, preventing it from rapidly entering other areas of the equipment. The reduced flow velocity in the narrow reservoir 11 increases the liquid's residence time within the tank, further slowing its penetration into the equipment. The reservoir 11 also induces tiny eddies in the liquid, further increasing flow resistance and causing the liquid to remain within the reservoir 11 for an extended period. The generation of eddies effectively reduces the liquid's kinetic energy, further decreasing its flow velocity and enhancing protection. At a microscale, capillary action also plays a role. Capillary action causes additional resistance within the reservoir 11, further slowing its movement.

[0068] See Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, in this embodiment, a first gap 41 exists between the outer wall of the middle frame 10 and the inner wall of the housing 20. The first gap 41, multiple water storage tanks 11, and other functional tanks together form a drainage cavity arranged circumferentially along the frame assembly. The first gap 41, together with the water storage tanks 11 and other functional tanks, forms a drainage cavity, which can effectively guide and control the flow path of the liquid. The water storage tanks can be directly connected to the functional tanks or indirectly connected through the first gap. After entering the first gap 41, the liquid is guided along the drainage cavity to the water storage tanks 11 and finally discharged to the outside of the equipment through the drain outlet 21. The circumferential arrangement of the drainage cavity allows the liquid to be evenly distributed and flowed around the entire frame assembly, forming a complete loop in the circumferential direction of the drainage cavity, enabling multiple convergence points and centralized drainage. This evenly distributed design ensures that the liquid does not concentrate in a specific area, thereby reducing the risk of leakage caused by local liquid accumulation, and effectively draining accumulated water through the drain outlet 21.

[0069] In this embodiment, a drainage cavity is formed by the first gap 41 between the outer side wall of the middle frame 10 and the inner side wall of the housing 20, combined with multiple water storage tanks 11 and other functional tanks, which not only significantly improves the waterproof capability of the equipment, but also optimizes liquid discharge, disperses liquid pressure, and improves sealing and structural stability.

[0070] See Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, the arrows indicate the liquid inlet direction. In this embodiment, the outer end wall of the middle frame 10 and the inner end wall of the housing 20 are partially projected onto the frame assembly in the Z direction. A second gap 42 exists between the outer end wall of the middle frame 10 and the inner end wall of the housing 20, and the second gap 42 communicates with the first gap 41. The frame assembly also includes a sealing part 30, which is disposed within the second gap 42. The X, Y, and Z directions of the frame assembly are the same as those of the electronic device. The X direction typically refers to the width direction of the device, and the Y direction typically refers to the height direction of the device. The XY plane refers to the plane formed in the width and height directions of the device. The parallel direction on the XY plane is the lateral direction mentioned in this application. The Z direction of the frame assembly refers to the thickness direction. The overlapping of projected portions means that the outer end wall of the middle frame 10 and the inner end wall of the housing 20 are partially opposite each other in the thickness direction. The parallel direction on the XY plane, i.e., the lateral direction, ensures the stability and protection capability of the device in the width and height directions. Although the second gap 42 also occurs between the housing 20 and the middle frame 10, unlike the formation of the first gap 41, a sealing part 30 can be provided within the second gap 42, thereby enhancing the sealing and waterproof performance of the device. The first gap 41, on the other hand, mainly occurs between two parts during the installation and assembly process, making it impossible to provide a sealing part 30. Therefore, through the water storage tank 11 structure provided in this embodiment, by extending the liquid path, increasing flow resistance, forming a retention area, and improving sealing, more efficient liquid protection is provided for the electronic device, significantly improving its liquid-proof performance. The sealing part 30 can be sealing foam or other sealing components.

[0071] Other functional slots in this embodiment include a snap-fit ​​slot 13. A buckle is provided on the inner sidewall of the housing 20, and the snap-fit ​​slot 13 is provided on the outer sidewall of the middle frame 10. The housing 20 is snapped onto the middle frame 10 through the engagement of the buckle and the snap-fit ​​slot 13. The snap-fit ​​between the buckle and the snap-fit ​​slot 13 provides a stable structural connection, making the connection between the housing 20 and the middle frame 10 more secure and reliable. This effectively prevents loosening or detachment of components, improving the overall stability and durability of the equipment. The snap-fit ​​slot 13 allows for easy disassembly and assembly of the connection between the housing 20 and the middle frame 10, facilitating the maintenance and replacement of various parts of the equipment.

[0072] The water storage tank 11 in this embodiment is either straight or polygonal. The water storage tank 11 can be designed as straight or polygonal according to actual needs, suitable for electronic devices of different shapes and sizes. The polygonal water storage tank 11 can make full use of limited space, effectively increasing the liquid storage capacity. Compared to a straight water storage tank 11, the polygonal design can achieve more liquid storage in a limited space, improving the liquid-proof effect. At the same time, by designing different turning angles and lengths, the polygonal water storage tank 11 can extend the liquid flow path within the tank. This design can effectively increase the time the liquid stays in the water storage tank 11. By increasing the liquid flow path and turning points, the polygonal water storage tank 11 can effectively reduce the diffusion speed and range of the liquid inside the device, effectively reducing the risk of liquid damaging the internal electronic components. The polygonal water storage tank 11 can be L-shaped, Z-shaped, or U-shaped. L-shaped polygonal: The water storage tank 11 extends from one end in one direction and then turns at a right angle to another direction, forming an L-shaped polygonal shape. Z-shaped zigzag type: The water storage tank 11 extends in one direction, then turns at a right angle to another direction, and then turns again to form a Z-shaped zigzag shape. This design can achieve a longer liquid storage path in a limited space, and is suitable for equipment that needs to increase liquid storage capacity in a smaller space. U-shaped zigzag type: The water storage tank 11 extends in one direction, then turns at a right angle to another direction, and then extends in the same direction again after the turn to form a U-shaped zigzag shape. The L, Z, and U mentioned above do not necessarily represent actual shapes, but are similar shapes proposed for ease of understanding.

[0073] Besides straight and broken-line shapes, the water storage tank 11 can also be curved, annular, spiral, or other shapes, selected and designed according to actual needs and design requirements. A curved water storage tank 11 can increase its length through its curved design, thereby increasing its storage capacity. Compared to a straight water storage tank 11, a curved water storage tank 11 can store more liquid in the same space, improving its liquid-proof performance. An annular water storage tank 11 allows liquid to flow continuously along an annular track. The annular structure of the annular water storage tank 11 can effectively store liquid, and its annular track provides sufficient capacity and space for the liquid to circulate and be stored within the tank 11. The design of a spiral water storage tank 11 requires the liquid to flow along a spiral track during storage, which increases the liquid's flow path. Compared to straight or annular water storage tanks 11, the flow path of a spiral water storage tank 11 is more tortuous and extended.

[0074] Figures 18 to 20 In this context, the water storage tank is called a labyrinth or maze trough. Experimental data shows that adding a water storage tank can reduce the influent volume by 23.8%–57.1%. (See also...) Figure 18 As shown, the liquid inflow rate at different time intervals was significantly lower with and without a storage tank. (See also...) Figure 19 As shown, in areas prone to leakage, such as the buckle and insertion points, the presence of a water reservoir significantly reduced leakage compared to areas without one. (See also...) Figure 20 As shown, under the condition of equal width and length, the liquid inflow is as follows: no water storage tank, 0.5mm wide water storage tank, 1mm wide water storage tank, and double 0.5mm wide water storage tanks along the thickness direction of the frame component. It can be seen that the longer the water storage tank, the better the waterproof effect, and the more water storage tanks along the thickness direction of the frame component, the better the waterproof effect.

[0075] In this embodiment, the water storage tank has multiple recesses spaced apart along its extension direction. These recesses provide additional storage space as liquid flows through the tank, temporarily trapping the liquid within them. The presence of multiple recesses increases the resistance to liquid flow within the tank. When liquid encounters a recess, it must change its flow path, thus enhancing the resistance effect. This slows the liquid's flow rate, reducing the risk of liquid entering the equipment.

[0076] According to a second aspect of this application, an electronic device is provided, comprising a frame assembly, a battery assembly and a control assembly mounted within the frame assembly, a screen assembly and a rear cover mounted on the frame assembly, wherein the screen assembly and the rear cover are located on opposite sides of the frame assembly, and the frame assembly is the aforementioned frame assembly. The battery assembly provides power, and the control assembly is responsible for various functions and operational management of the device, including a processor, memory, sensors, etc. The screen assembly displays images, text, and other content.

[0077] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and should all be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A frame assembly, characterized in that, For use in electronic devices, the frame assembly includes a middle frame and a housing fitted around the outer periphery of the middle frame; At least one water storage tank is provided on the outer side wall of the middle frame and / or the inner side wall of the shell. The water storage tank extends circumferentially along the frame assembly and is used to store water entering between the outer side wall of the middle frame and the inner side wall of the shell. There are multiple leak-prone areas between the outer side wall of the middle frame and the inner side wall of the shell. There are multiple water storage tanks, and at least one water storage tank is provided in each leak-prone area.

2. The frame assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing is provided with a drain outlet that communicates with the outside. There are multiple water storage tanks, and at least one of the water storage tanks is connected at one end to the drain outlet.

3. The frame assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, A drainage recess is provided on the outer side wall of the middle frame, the position of the drainage recess corresponds to the position of the drainage outlet, and at least one end of the water storage tank is connected to the drainage recess.

4. The frame assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, The frame is provided with a port portion for making way for the port of the electronic device, and the port portion is opened on the bottom wall of the drainage recess.

5. The frame assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The frame assembly is also provided with other functional slots, and the length of at least one of the water storage slots is greater than the length of other functional slots opened on the outer wall of the middle frame and / or the inner wall of the shell.

6. The frame assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The plurality of water storage tanks include at least one group of water storage tanks, and each group of water storage tanks includes a plurality of water storage tanks spaced apart along the thickness direction of the frame assembly.

7. The frame assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one of the water storage tanks has a length of 10 mm or more.

8. The frame assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that, The depth of the water storage tank is 0.05mm to 0.15mm, and the width of the water storage tank is 0.05mm to 0.2mm.

9. The frame assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that, There is a first gap between the outer side wall of the middle frame and the inner side wall of the housing. The first gap, the multiple water storage tanks and the other functional tanks together form a drainage cavity arranged circumferentially along the frame assembly.

10. The frame assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The outer end wall of the middle frame and the inner end wall of the housing are projected onto the frame assembly in the Z direction. There is a second gap between the outer end wall of the middle frame and the inner end wall of the housing. The second gap communicates with the first gap. The frame assembly also includes a sealing part, which is disposed in the second gap.

11. The frame assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The water storage tank is either straight or zigzag-shaped.

12. An electronic device, characterized in that, The electronic device includes a frame assembly, a battery assembly and a control assembly installed within the frame assembly, a screen assembly and a back cover installed on the frame assembly, wherein the screen assembly and the back cover are located on opposite sides of the frame assembly, and the frame assembly is the frame assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

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