Rotating shaft mechanism and foldable electronic equipment

Abstract

The invention provides a rotating shaft mechanism and foldable electronic equipment, and relates to the technical field of electronic products. According to the rotating shaft mechanism, the supporting assembly is designed to comprise the first supporting plate, the second supporting plate, the third supporting plate and the fourth supporting plate which are sequentially arranged side by side, the overall width of the rotating shaft mechanism is shortened, the battery installation space in the shell assembly can be increased, and the cruising ability of the foldable electronic equipment is improved. In addition, the movement module, the synchronous module and the damping module are arranged to be connected to the supporting assembly, so that movement of the rotating shaft mechanism is achieved. The synchronous module achieves synchronous linkage of movement of the first supporting plate, the second supporting plate and the third supporting plate through a first synchronous assembly, and achieves synchronous linkage of movement of the second supporting plate, the third supporting plate and the fourth supporting plate through a second synchronous assembly. The damping module provides damping force in the areas where the second supporting plate and the third supporting plate are located through the first damping assembly and the second damping assembly correspondingly.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of electronic products, in particular to a rotating shaft mechanism and a foldable electronic device. BACKGROUND

[0002] The foldable screen has the characteristic of being bendable, so that the electronic device equipped with the foldable screen, i.e., the electronic device, can be switched between an unfolded state and a folded state. The electronic device has a large display area and is convenient to carry, and is increasingly favored by consumers.

[0003] The rotating shaft mechanism is a core component of the electronic device, and is used to realize the relative rotation between two main body parts of the electronic device, so as to realize the unfolding or folding of the foldable screen. At present, the rotating shaft mechanism is mostly an odd number of support plate architecture, including a main support plate and a moving support plate assembly movably connected on both sides of the main support plate. In order to ensure the uniqueness of the movement track of the rotating shaft mechanism and the operation feeling, a moving assembly, a synchronous assembly and a damping mechanism are connected between the main support plate and the moving support plate.

[0004] However, the existing rotating shaft mechanism has a large number of components and a large overall width, which occupies the battery space of the whole machine and weakens the endurance of the electronic device. SUMMARY

[0005] The present application provides a rotating shaft mechanism and a foldable electronic device, the rotating shaft mechanism has a small number of components and a small overall width, which is beneficial to increase the battery space of the whole machine and improve the endurance of the foldable electronic device.

[0006] One aspect of the present application provides a rotating shaft mechanism applied to a foldable electronic device, the rotating shaft mechanism comprising: a support assembly comprising a first support plate, a second support plate, a third support plate and a fourth support plate arranged side by side in sequence; a moving module movably connected to the support assembly; at least one synchronous module, the synchronous module comprising a first synchronous assembly and a second synchronous assembly, the first synchronous assembly being connected to the first support plate, the second support plate and the third support plate, and the second synchronous assembly being connected to the second support plate, the third support plate and the fourth support plate; and at least one damping module comprising a first damping assembly and a second damping assembly, the first damping assembly being connected to the first support plate and the second support plate, and the second damping assembly being connected to the third support plate and the fourth support plate.

[0007] The hinge mechanism provided in this application utilizes a support assembly designed to include a first support plate, a second support plate, a third support plate, and a fourth support plate arranged in parallel, resulting in a four-support plate structure. This reduces the number of support plates in the hinge mechanism. The overall width of the hinge mechanism is shortened, leaving more space for the housing assembly of the foldable electronic device, increasing the battery installation space in the housing assembly and improving the battery life of the foldable electronic device. Furthermore, a motion module, a synchronization module, and a damping module are connected to the support assembly to achieve the movement of the hinge mechanism, ensuring the stability of the hinge mechanism's movement and the uniqueness and accuracy of its motion trajectory. The synchronization module, comprising a first synchronization component and a second synchronization component, utilizes the first synchronization component to achieve synchronized movement of the first, second, and third support plates, while utilizing the second synchronization component to achieve synchronized movement of the second, third, and fourth support plates. The damping module, comprising a first damping component and a second damping component, utilizes the first damping component and the second damping component to provide damping force in the areas of the second and third support plates, respectively. Such an arrangement can reduce the number of components of the rotating shaft mechanism, lower the manufacturing cost of the rotating shaft mechanism, and facilitate the spatial layout of the rotating shaft mechanism.

[0008] In a possible implementation, there are multiple synchronization modules, and the synchronization modules are evenly spaced along the length direction of the support assembly.

[0009] By arranging the synchronization modules at even intervals along the length direction of the support component, each first synchronization component and each second synchronization component can evenly disperse the force to each area along the length direction of the support component. In addition, the left and right parts of the support component are subjected to balanced force, and the overall balance of the support component is good and the reliability is high.

[0010] In a possible implementation, the synchronization modules are symmetrically arranged in pairs with the center line of the length direction of the support assembly being the axis of symmetry.

[0011] By arranging the synchronous modules symmetrically, with the centerline of the support assembly's length as the axis of symmetry, the shaft mechanism achieves improved structural symmetry. The upper and lower parts of the shaft mechanism experience balanced forces, resulting in a well-balanced overall structure, high reliability, and a long service life.

[0012] In a possible implementation, the first and second synchronization assemblies each include: a first synchronization component including a first synchronization gear and a first synchronization swing arm connected to each other; and a second synchronization component including a second synchronization gear and a second synchronization swing arm connected to each other; wherein in the first synchronization assembly, the first and second synchronization gears are engaged with the second support plate, the first synchronization swing arm slides along the first support plate, and the second synchronization swing arm slides along the third support plate; and in the second synchronization assembly, the first and second synchronization gears are engaged with the third support plate, the first synchronization swing arm slides along the second support plate, and the second synchronization swing arm slides along the fourth support plate.

[0013] By arranging the first and second synchronization components, the first synchronization gear of the first synchronization component and the second synchronization gear of the second synchronization component are of the same type and are engaged with the same support plate, and the first synchronization swing arm of the first synchronization component and the second synchronization swing arm of the second synchronization component slide along the support plates on the two sides, respectively, to realize the synchronization linkage of the three adjacent support plates.

[0014] In a possible implementation, the first and second synchronization assemblies each further include: a fixing plate arranged at the two ends of the first and second synchronization gears.

[0015] In a possible implementation, the first and second damping assemblies each include: a guide column; a damping swing arm sleeved on the guide column and rotating around the guide column; an elastic component and at least one driving sleeve, both of which are sleeved on the guide column; the driving sleeve and the damping swing arm have matching concave-convex structures, and the driving sleeve moves along the axial direction of the guide column; wherein in the first damping assembly, the guide column is fixed to the second support plate, the damping swing arm rotates relative to the second support plate, and the damping swing arm slides along the first support plate; and in the second damping assembly, the guide column is fixed to the third support plate, the damping swing arm rotates relative to the third support plate, and the damping swing arm slides along the fourth support plate.

[0016] In the first (or second) damping assembly, the guide column is fixed to the second (or third) support plate, one end of the damping swing arm is sleeved on the guide column, the other end of the damping swing arm is slidably connected to the first (or fourth) support plate, and the elastic component and the driving sleeve are sleeved on the guide column and are limited between the two ends of the damping swing arm. By abutting the end of the damping swing arm with the driving sleeve and arranging matching concave-convex structures on the two, in the process of movement of the first (or fourth) support plate relative to the second (or third) support plate, the damping swing arm rotates around the guide column, the driving sleeve moves along the axial direction of the guide column and presses the elastic component under the action of the concave-convex structures, and the elastic component generates an elastic force to provide damping force for the rotating shaft mechanism.

[0017] In a possible embodiment, the damping swing arm includes: a main body extending along the length direction of the support assembly; a stop sleeve connected to both ends of the main body in the length direction and located on one side of the width direction of the main body; a guide column passes through the stop sleeves at both ends, the drive sleeve abuts against the stop sleeve, and the drive sleeve and the stop sleeve have mutually matching concave and convex structures; at least one slide plate connected to the other side of the width direction of the main body; wherein, in the first damping assembly, the stop sleeve is located on the second support plate, and the slide plate slides along the first support plate; in the second damping assembly, the stop sleeve is located on the third support plate, and the slide plate slides along the fourth support plate.

[0018] The damping swing arm is connected to the stop sleeves at both ends of the main body by a main body, which also serves as the connection base for the slide plate. The damping swing arm is mounted on the guide column by means of the stop sleeves at both ends of the main body, and slides along the corresponding support plate by means of the slide plate located on the other side of the main body. The drive sleeve abuts the stop sleeve of the damping swing arm, and the two have a matching concave-convex structure. As the stop sleeve of the damping swing arm rotates around the guide column, the concave-convex structure pushes the drive sleeve to move axially along the guide column. The drive sleeve squeezes the elastic member, changing its compression amount, causing the elastic member to provide a variable damping force.

[0019] In a possible implementation, there are two drive sleeves, the two drive sleeves are respectively in contact with the stop sleeves at both ends, and the elastic member is located between the two drive sleeves.

[0020] Two drive sleeves are mounted on the guide post, abutting against stop sleeves at either end of the damping arm. The elastic member abuts between the two drive sleeves. As the damping arm rotates around the guide post, the two stop sleeves drive the two drive sleeves to move synchronously. The two drive sleeves together squeeze the elastic member, causing it to deform more and providing greater damping force.

[0021] In a possible implementation, there are two slide plates, which are respectively connected to both ends of the main body in the length direction.

[0022] By providing the damping swing arm with two slides, each connected to the lengthwise ends of the main body, the two slides slide synchronously along the corresponding support plates, transmitting force simultaneously at both ends of the damping swing arm, and achieving greater stability and reliability in the movement of the damping swing arm.

[0023] In one possible embodiment, the outer wall surface of the guide column is provided with at least one first guide portion, which makes the arc surface of the outer wall of the guide column discontinuous; the inner wall surface of the drive sleeve is provided with at least one second guide portion, and the first guide portion and the second guide portion correspond to and match each other.

[0024] A first guide portion is provided on the outer wall of the guide post. The first guide portion is a surface that is discontinuous with other areas of the outer wall of the guide post, forming a guide surface. A second guide portion is provided on the inner wall of the drive sleeve to match and mate with the first guide portion. In this way, the first and second guide portions cooperate to define the circumferential position of the drive sleeve relative to the guide post, preventing the drive sleeve from rotating about the guide post. At the same time, the drive sleeve can slide axially along the guide post.

[0025] In a possible implementation manner, the first guide portion is a plane.

[0026] In a possible implementation manner, two first guide portions are provided on the outer wall surface of the guide column, and the two first guide portions are arranged opposite to each other and parallel to each other.

[0027] By setting two relative and parallel first guide parts on the outer wall surface of the guide column and two relative and parallel second guide parts on the inner wall surface of the drive sleeve, the force between the drive sleeve and the guide column is more balanced, which can improve the structural strength of the guide column and the drive sleeve and extend the service life of the damping module.

[0028] In one possible embodiment, the motion module includes: a first motion component, including a first main swing arm and a second main swing arm; the first main swing arm is connected to the second support plate, the second main swing arm is connected to the third support plate, and the first main swing arm is rotatably and slidingly connected to the first support plate, the second main swing arm is rotatably and slidingly connected to the fourth support plate, and the first main swing arm is rotatably and slidingly connected to the second main swing arm.

[0029] By providing a first main swing arm and a second main swing arm to form a first motion assembly, the first main swing arm is connected to the second support plate and is rotatably and slidably connected to the first and third support plates on either side, and the second main swing arm is connected to the third support plate and is rotatably and slidably connected to the second and fourth support plates on either side, so that the four support plates can be movably connected to form a support assembly, and relative rotation and translation of the four support plates can be achieved, meeting the motion requirements of the support assembly. Furthermore, by directly rotatably and slidably connecting the first main swing arm and the second main swing arm, the space occupied by the first motion assembly can be reduced, facilitating the layout design of the rotating shaft mechanism.

[0030] In a possible embodiment, the first main swing arm and the second main swing arm both include a first arc-shaped portion, a connecting plate portion and a second arc-shaped portion connected in sequence; wherein, in the first main swing arm, the connecting plate portion is connected to the second support plate, and the first arc-shaped portion is rotatably and slidably connected to the first support plate; in the second main swing arm, the connecting plate portion is connected to the third support plate, and the first arc-shaped portion is rotatably and slidably connected to the fourth support plate; the second arc-shaped portion of the first main swing arm is rotatably and slidably connected to the second arc-shaped portion of the second main swing arm.

[0031] In a possible embodiment, the motion module also includes: a second motion component, including a first auxiliary swing arm and a second auxiliary swing arm, the first auxiliary swing arm movably connected to the first support plate and the second support plate, and the second auxiliary swing arm movably connected to the third support plate and the fourth support plate; wherein, the first auxiliary swing arm and the second auxiliary swing arm both include a connected flat plate portion and an arc plate portion; in the first auxiliary swing arm, the flat plate portion is slidably connected to the first support plate, and the arc plate portion rotates and is slidably connected to the second support plate; in the second auxiliary swing arm, the flat plate portion is slidably connected to the fourth support plate, and the arc plate portion rotates and is slidably connected to the third support plate.

[0032] By arranging a first auxiliary swing arm and a second auxiliary swing arm to form a second motion assembly, the flat plate portion of the first auxiliary swing arm is slidably connected to the first support plate, the arc plate portion of the first auxiliary swing arm is rotatably and slidably connected to the second support plate, the flat plate portion of the second auxiliary swing arm is slidably connected to the fourth support plate, and the arc plate portion of the second auxiliary swing arm is rotatably and slidably connected to the third support plate, the orientation and distance of the first support plate (or the fourth support plate) relative to the second support plate (or the third support plate) can be limited, thereby ensuring the uniqueness and symmetry of the motion trajectory of the support assembly.

[0033] In a possible implementation, the first auxiliary swing arm and the second auxiliary swing arm are symmetrically arranged.

[0034] By symmetrically arranging the first and second auxiliary swing arms, the forces transmitted to the support assembly by the two arms are balanced, thereby enhancing the force balance of the rotating shaft mechanism. Furthermore, the second motion assembly occupies a small space, which facilitates the layout design of other components on the support assembly.

[0035] In a possible embodiment, the hinge mechanism further includes: two decorative panels, which are arranged side by side on a side of the support assembly facing away from the folding screen, and the two decorative panels are respectively connected to the first auxiliary swing arm and the second auxiliary swing arm.

[0036] By placing two decorative panels side by side on the side of the support assembly facing away from the folding screen, and connecting them to the first and second auxiliary swing arms, respectively, the two decorative panels can move synchronously with the movement of the second motion assembly. When the hinge mechanism is in the deployed state, the two support panels are coplanar and close to each other. In this case, the decorative panels shield the support assembly, enhancing the appearance of the foldable electronic device. When the hinge mechanism is in the folded state, the two support panels fold relative to each other, with their ends moving away from each other to avoid interference with the support assembly.

[0037] In a possible implementation, when the foldable electronic device is in a folded state, the folding screen is disposed outside the hinge mechanism.

[0038] When the hinge mechanism is in a folded state, the folding screen is arranged on the outside of the hinge mechanism, and the hinge mechanism is used in outward-folding electronic devices.

[0039] In one possible embodiment, when the hinge mechanism is in the expanded state, the gap between the first support plate and the second support plate, the gap between the second support plate and the third support plate, and the gap between the third support plate and the fourth support plate all gradually increase from the first side of the support assembly to the second side of the support assembly; wherein, the first side of the support assembly is the side of the support assembly facing the folding screen, and the second side of the support assembly is opposite to the first side of the support assembly.

[0040] Taking the hinge mechanism's deployed posture as a reference, from the side of the support assembly facing the folding screen to the side of the support assembly facing away from the folding screen, by gradually increasing the gaps between the first and second support plates, the gaps between the second and third support plates, and the gaps between the third and fourth support plates, this ensures that the first, second, third, and fourth support plates each have sufficient room to move, meeting the movement requirements of the support assembly. Furthermore, when the hinge mechanism is folded, the support plates of the support assembly can be closely aligned, ensuring the stability of the hinge mechanism and smoothly supporting the folding screen.

[0041] Another aspect of the present application provides a foldable electronic device, including a first shell, a second shell, a folding screen and the hinge mechanism as described above; the hinge mechanism is connected between the first shell and the second shell, the folding screen is attached to the first shell and the second shell, and the folding screen is supported by the hinge mechanism.

[0042] The foldable electronic device provided in the present application includes a first housing, a second housing, a hinge mechanism connected between the first housing and the second housing, and a foldable screen mounted on the first housing and the second housing. The hinge mechanism is designed to include a support assembly including a first support plate, a second support plate, a third support plate, and a fourth support plate arranged in parallel. The hinge mechanism has a four-support plate structure, which reduces the number of support plates in the hinge mechanism. The overall width of the hinge mechanism is shortened, leaving more space for the housing assembly of the foldable electronic device, which can increase the battery installation space in the housing assembly and improve the battery life of the foldable electronic device. In addition, by providing a motion module, a synchronization module, and a damping module connected to the support assembly to achieve the movement of the hinge mechanism, the stability of the hinge mechanism movement and the uniqueness and accuracy of the movement trajectory are ensured. Among them, the synchronization module is provided with a first synchronization assembly and a second synchronization assembly. The first synchronization assembly is used to achieve the synchronous linkage of the movement of the first support plate, the second support plate, and the third support plate, and the second synchronization assembly is used to achieve the synchronous linkage of the movement of the second support plate, the third support plate, and the fourth support plate. The damping module is equipped with a first damping assembly and a second damping assembly, which provide damping force in the areas where the second and third support plates are located, respectively. This arrangement reduces the number of components in the rotating shaft mechanism, lowers the manufacturing cost of the rotating shaft mechanism, and facilitates the spatial layout of the rotating shaft mechanism. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0043] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application when in an unfolded state;

[0044] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic structural diagram of a foldable electronic device in a folded state;

[0045] Figure 3 An exploded structural diagram of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0046] Figure 4 A structural diagram of a rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application when in an expanded state from one perspective;

[0047] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A structural diagram from another perspective when the rotating shaft mechanism is in the unfolded state;

[0048] Figure 6 for Figure 4 A structural diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism in a folded state;

[0049] Figure 7 A front view of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0050] Figure 8 for Figure 7 A local enlarged structural diagram at point A in the middle;

[0051] Figure 9 for Figure 7 The partial decomposition structure diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism at point A;

[0052] Figure 10 A schematic structural diagram of the first main swing arm provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0053] Figure 11 A schematic structural diagram of the second main swing arm provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0054] Figure 12 for Figure 8 Cross-sectional view at AA in the middle;

[0055] Figure 13 for Figure 8 Cross-sectional view at the middle BB;

[0056] Figure 14 for Figure 7 A local enlarged structural diagram at point B in the middle;

[0057] Figure 15 A schematic diagram of the structure of the synchronization module provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0058] Figure 16 for Figure 7 A partial enlarged structural diagram at point C in the middle;

[0059] Figure 17 A schematic structural diagram of the damping module provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0060] Figure 18 for Figure 17 The decomposition diagram of the damping module in . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0061] The terms used in the implementation section of this application are only used to explain the specific embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application.

[0062] The embodiments of the present application provide a foldable electronic device. The foldable electronic device can be a consumer electronic product. For example, the foldable electronic device can be a foldable mobile phone, a laptop computer, a notebook computer, a netbook, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a personal computer, a multimedia player, an e-book reader, a vehicle-mounted device, a virtual reality (VR) device, an augmented reality (AR) device, a wearable device, or the like.

[0063] Figure 1 FIG. 1 shows a structure schematic diagram of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 2 FIG. 2 shows a structure schematic diagram of the foldable electronic device in a folded state according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 1 FIG. 3 shows a structure schematic diagram of the foldable electronic device in the folded state according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 1 FIG. 4 shows a structure schematic diagram of the foldable electronic device in the folded state according to an embodiment of the present application. Figure 2 FIG. 5 shows a structure schematic diagram of the foldable electronic device in the folded state according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0064] For the foldable electronic device, the foldable electronic device can have different use states in different use scenarios. For example, Figure 1 FIG. 1 shows the foldable electronic device in an unfolded state. The unfolded angle a of the foldable electronic device is, for example, 180°. At this time, the foldable electronic device can realize large-screen display. Figure 2 FIG. 2 shows the foldable electronic device in a folded state. At this time, the foldable electronic device has a small volume and is convenient to carry.

[0065] It should be noted that the angles exemplarily illustrated in the embodiments of the present application can have a small deviation. For example, Figure 1 The unfolded angle a of the foldable electronic device shown in FIG. 1 is 180°, which means that the unfolded angle a can be 180°, or about 180°, such as 170°, 175°, 185°, or 190°. The angles exemplarily illustrated in the following can be understood in the same way.

[0066] In addition, Figure 1 FIG. 3 shows the foldable electronic device in the folded state. At this time, the foldable electronic device has a small volume and is convenient to carry. Figure 2 FIG. 4 shows the foldable electronic device in the folded state. At this time, the foldable electronic device has a small volume and is convenient to carry. Figure 1 FIG. 5 shows the foldable electronic device in the folded state. At this time, the foldable electronic device has a small volume and is convenient to carry. Figure 2 FIG. 6 shows the foldable electronic device in the folded state. At this time, the foldable electronic device has a small volume and is convenient to carry. FIG. 7 shows the foldable electronic device in the folded state. At this time, the foldable electronic device has a small volume and is convenient to carry.

[0067] In other embodiments, the foldable electronic device may also be an electronic device that can be folded more than twice. In this case, the foldable electronic device may include multiple parts that are connected by rotating in sequence. Two adjacent parts can be relatively far apart to unfold to an unfolded state, and two adjacent parts can also be relatively close to each other to fold to a folded state.

[0068] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the exploded structure of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 3 As shown, the foldable electronic device includes a foldable screen 10 and a shell assembly 20. One side surface of the foldable screen 10 is used to display image information. This side surface of the foldable screen 10 is usually defined as its front surface, and the other side surface opposite to its front surface is its back surface. The shell assembly 20 is arranged around the circumference and back surface of the foldable screen 10 to support, fix and protect the foldable screen 10. The front surface of the foldable screen 10 is exposed outside the shell assembly 20 so that the user can view the content displayed on the foldable screen 10 or perform input operations on the foldable electronic device.

[0069] The foldable screen 10 may include a first non-bending portion 11, a bendable portion 12, and a second non-bending portion 13 sequentially arranged along a first direction, or in other words, the bendable portion 12 is located between the first non-bending portion 11 and the second non-bending portion 13 in the first direction. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The horizontal fold shown in FIG, at this time, the first direction can be Figure 3 Of course, the foldable electronic device can also be folded vertically, which is not limited in this embodiment.

[0070] The foldable screen 10 may be made of a flexible material so that the bendable portion 12 is bendable. For example, the foldable screen 10 may be an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display screen.

[0071] The housing assembly 20 is used to support and fix the folding screen 10, and drive the folding screen 10 to switch between the folded state and the unfolded state. Figure 3 As shown, the housing assembly 20 includes a first housing 21, a second housing 22, and a rotating shaft mechanism 23, wherein the rotating shaft mechanism 23 is connected between the first housing 21 and the second housing 22. The first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are rotatably connected by the rotating shaft mechanism 23, thereby achieving relative rotation between the first housing 21 and the second housing 22.

[0072] The first housing 21 supports and secures the first non-bending portion 11 of the foldable screen 10, while the second housing 22 supports and secures the second non-bending portion 13 of the foldable screen 10. For example, the first non-bending portion 11 of the foldable screen 10 is attached to the first housing 21 using an adhesive, and the second non-bending portion 13 of the foldable screen 10 is attached to the second housing 22 using an adhesive. The bendable portion 12 of the foldable screen 10 is arranged corresponding to the hinge mechanism 23 and is supported by the hinge mechanism 23.

[0073] During use of the foldable electronic device, the first non-bending portion 11 and the second non-bending portion 13 of the foldable screen 10 remain flat, while the bendable portion 12 of the foldable screen 10 can bend. When the hinge mechanism 23 drives the first and second housings 21 and 22 to rotate relative to each other, the first and second non-bending portions 11 and 13 of the foldable screen 10 change their orientation accordingly, and the bendable portion 12 of the foldable screen 10 bends or flattens as the orientation of the first and second non-bending portions 11 and 13 changes.

[0074] The first shell 21 and the second shell 22 can be rotated in a direction away from each other until they are coplanar. At this time, the shell assembly 20 is in the unfolded state, and the folding screen 10 is in the unfolded state as the shell assembly 20 is unfolded (as shown in FIG. Figure 1 The first shell 21 and the second shell 22 can also be rotated in a direction close to each other until they are relatively stacked. At this time, the shell assembly 20 is in a folded state, and the folding screen 10 is in a folded state as the shell assembly 20 is folded (as shown). Figure 2 shown).

[0075] It should be noted that the foldable electronic device in this embodiment can be an outward-folding electronic device. When the foldable electronic device is in the folded state, the first non-bending portion 11 and the second non-bending portion 13 of the foldable screen 10 face each other, and the housing assembly 20 is located between the first non-bending portion 11 and the second non-bending portion 13. At this time, the foldable screen 10 is enclosed outside the housing assembly 20 and is visible to the user. In other words, when the outward-folding electronic device is in the folded state, the foldable screen 10 is exposed, and can be used to perform display functions.

[0076] Continue to refer to Figure 3When the foldable electronic device is an outward-folding electronic device, in the shell assembly 20 of the foldable electronic device, the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 may both include a middle frame 201 and a back cover 202. The first non-bending portion 11 and the second non-bending portion 13 of the folding screen 10 can be supported on the front side of the corresponding middle frame 201, and the back cover 202 is connected to the side surface of the middle frame 201 facing away from the folding screen 10. In the first shell 21 and the second shell 22, the middle frame 201 and the back cover 202 together form a receiving cavity, and the receiving cavity is used to install some functional components of the foldable electronic device (not shown in the figure). For example, the receiving cavity is used to install functional components such as circuit boards, batteries, camera modules, microphones, and speakers.

[0077] The following description will describe in detail the hinge mechanism 23 by taking the foldable electronic device as an outward-folding electronic device and assuming that the hinge mechanism 23 is in a folded state and the folding screen 10 is wrapped around the outside of the hinge mechanism 23 .

[0078] In the related art, the hinge mechanism 23 is mostly an odd-number support plate structure, and the hinge mechanism 23 usually includes a main support plate in the middle and a movable support plate assembly movably connected to both sides of the main support plate. Taking the hinge mechanism 23 used in an outward-folding electronic device as an example, the movable support plate assemblies on both sides of the main support plate usually include an outer support plate and an inner support plate, the outer support plates are located on both sides of the hinge mechanism 23, and the inner support plates are movably connected between the main support plate and the outer support plate. In other words, the hinge mechanism 23 includes a total of five support plates. The hinge mechanism 23 relies on the outer support plates located on both sides to be connected to the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 respectively. By arranging the inner support plate between the main support plate and the outer support plate, it is ensured that the hinge mechanism 23 supports the bendable portion 12 of the folding screen 10 stably.

[0079] In order to ensure the uniqueness of the motion trajectory of each support plate, not only do the main support plate, the inner support plate, and the outer support plate need to be movably connected with each other by moving parts, but the main support plate and the outer support plate also need to be directly connected by moving parts. In addition, in order to ensure the stability (operational feel) of the hinge mechanism 23 during the unfolding and folding process, a damping mechanism is also required between the main support plate and the moving support plate assembly to provide damping force for the hinge mechanism 23. For the hinge mechanism 23 used in an external folding electronic device, the damping mechanism generally includes two damping components, one damping component for providing damping force in the area where the main support plate is located, and the other damping component for providing damping force in the area where the outer support plate is located.

[0080] However, the hinge mechanism 23 in the related art has a large number of support plates, and in order to ensure the overlap of components such as moving parts and damping mechanisms, the width of the support plates is relatively large. Therefore, the hinge mechanism 23 has a large number of components and a large overall width, which will occupy the space of the first shell 21 (or the second shell 22), resulting in limited space for installing batteries in the first shell 21 (or the second shell 22), which weakens the battery life of the foldable electronic device. In addition, due to the large number and width of the support plates, the number of moving parts, damping mechanisms and other components is large, resulting in a large manufacturing cost of the hinge mechanism 23, which is also not conducive to the spatial layout of the hinge mechanism 23.

[0081] In view of this, the embodiment of the present application improves the hinge mechanism 23. By designing the support assembly to include a first support plate, a second support plate, a third support plate, and a fourth support plate arranged in parallel, the hinge mechanism 23 has a four-support plate structure, which reduces the number of support plates in the hinge mechanism 23. The overall width of the hinge mechanism 23 is shortened, leaving more space for the housing assembly 20 of the foldable electronic device, which can increase the battery installation space in the housing assembly 20 and improve the battery life of the foldable electronic device. In addition, by providing a motion module, a synchronization module, and a damping module connected to the support assembly to achieve the movement of the hinge mechanism 23, the stability of the movement of the hinge mechanism 23 and the uniqueness and accuracy of the movement trajectory are ensured. Among them, the synchronization module is provided by providing a first synchronization component and a second synchronization component. The first synchronization component is used to achieve the synchronous linkage of the movement of the first support plate, the second support plate, and the third support plate. The second synchronization component is used to achieve the synchronous linkage of the movement of the second support plate, the third support plate, and the fourth support plate. The damping module is equipped with a first damping assembly and a second damping assembly, which provide damping force in the areas where the second support plate and the third support plate are located, respectively. This arrangement reduces the number of components in the rotating shaft mechanism 23, lowers the manufacturing cost of the rotating shaft mechanism 23, and facilitates the spatial layout of the rotating shaft mechanism 23.

[0082] Figure 4 A structural diagram from one perspective of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application when in an expanded state. Figure 5 for Figure 4 A structural diagram from another perspective when the rotating shaft mechanism is in the expanded state. Figure 6 for Figure 4 Structural diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism in the folded state.

[0083] Reference Figures 4 to 6As shown in any one of the figures, in this embodiment, the rotating shaft mechanism 23 includes a support assembly 100, which is the main support structure of the rotating shaft mechanism 23. The support assembly 100 includes a first support plate 110, a second support plate 120, a third support plate 130, and a fourth support plate 140. The first support plate 110, the second support plate 120, the third support plate 130, and the fourth support plate 140 can all extend along the length direction of the rotating shaft mechanism 23, and the first support plate 110, the second support plate 120, the third support plate 130, and the fourth support plate 140 can be arranged in parallel in sequence along the width direction of the rotating shaft mechanism 23. The first support plate 110, the second support plate 120, the third support plate 130, and the fourth support plate 140 are movably connected to each other, and the first support plate 110, the second support plate 120, the third support plate 130, and the fourth support plate 140 can move relative to each other.

[0084] Reference Figure 4 or Figure 5 As shown in the figure, the first support plate 110, the second support plate 120, the third support plate 130 and the fourth support plate 140 are in the same plane. At this time, the hinge mechanism 23 is in the unfolded state, and the foldable electronic device is in the unfolded state. Figure 6 As shown in the figure, the first support plate 110 and the fourth support plate 140 are close to each other and folded relative to each other, and the second support plate 120 and the third support plate 130 are tilted relative to each other. At this time, the hinge mechanism 23 is in the folded state, and the foldable electronic device is also in the folded state.

[0085] The hinge mechanism 23 also includes some components connected to the support assembly 100, such as the motion module, synchronization module, and damping module mentioned below, which can be movably connected to the support assembly 100. Among them, the motion module is used to achieve relative movement (such as relative rotation and relative translation) between the first support plate 110, the second support plate 120, the third support plate 130, and the fourth support plate 140, so that the hinge mechanism 23 drives the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 to move relative to each other, and realize the switching of the shell assembly 20 between the unfolded state and the folded state. The synchronization module is used to synchronize the movement of the first support plate 110, the second support plate 120, the third support plate 130, and the fourth support plate 140, ensuring the symmetry of the motion trajectory of the support assembly 100, so that the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 rotate and translate synchronously. The damping module is used to provide damping force to ensure the stability of the shell assembly 20 in the unfolded state, the folded state, and the switching process between the two states, thereby improving the operating feel of the foldable device.

[0086] Figure 4 The upward side surface of the support assembly 100 shown in FIG. 1 is used to support the folding screen 10 . Figure 5 The viewing angle of the support assembly 100 is Figure 4 The perspective of the support assembly 100 is opposite, Figure 5 The upward surface of the support assembly 100 shown in FIG is opposite to the folding screen 10. For ease of explanation, in this embodiment, the side of the support assembly 100 facing the folding screen 10 is defined as its first side, and the side of the support assembly 100 facing away from the folding screen 10 is defined as its second side.

[0087] The first side of the support assembly 100 primarily supports the bendable portion 12 of the foldable screen 10, as well as the portions of the first and second non-bending portions 11 and 13 adjacent to the bendable portion 12. The second and third support plates 120 and 130, located in the middle region of the hinge mechanism 23, correspond to the bendable portion 12 of the foldable screen 10. These second and third support plates 120 and 130 are solely for supporting the bendable portion 12 and are not connected to the bendable portion 12 to avoid interfering with its deformation and movement. The first and fourth support plates 110 and 140, located on either side of the hinge mechanism 23, can be connected to the first and second housings 21 and 22, respectively. Furthermore, at least a portion of the first support plate 110 supports the first non-bending portion 11 of the foldable screen 10, which can be mounted on the first support plate 110. Similarly, at least a portion of the fourth support plate 140 is used to support the second non-bending portion 13 of the folding screen 10 , and the second non-bending portion 13 can be mounted on the fourth support plate 140 .

[0088] For an outward-folding electronic device, when the foldable electronic device is in the folded state, the folding screen 10 is wrapped around the outside of the shell assembly 20, and the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 are opposite to each other and their sides are close to each other. Therefore, a certain amount of avoidance space needs to be reserved between the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 to prevent the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 from interfering with each other when in the folded state. When the foldable electronic device is in the unfolded state, the gap between the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 is large, and at least part of the surface of the side of the support assembly 100 facing away from the folding screen 10 is exposed to the outside. For example, the surfaces of the second support plate 120 and the third support plate 130 are completely exposed outside the shell assembly 20, and part of the surfaces of the first support plate 110 and the fourth support plate 140 are exposed outside the shell assembly 20.

[0089] In this regard, refer to Figure 5 or Figure 6 As shown, the hinge mechanism 23 generally further includes a decorative plate 500, which is disposed on the second side of the support assembly 100. The decorative plate 500 is used to cover the surface of the support assembly 100 facing away from the folding screen 10. When the hinge mechanism 23 is in the unfolded state, the decorative plate 500 prevents the support assembly 100 and components connected to the support assembly 100 from being exposed, thereby improving the appearance of the foldable electronic device.

[0090] The number of decorative panels 500 can be two, and the two decorative panels 500 are arranged side by side on the surface of the support assembly 100. For example, the two decorative panels 500 are symmetrically arranged with the centerline of the support assembly 100 as the axis of symmetry. The two decorative panels 500 are respectively arranged corresponding to the second support plate 120 and the third support plate 130, and can respectively cover a portion of the first support plate 110 and a portion of the fourth support plate 140. The decorative panels 500 can be movably connected to the support assembly 100, and the two decorative panels 500 can move relative to each other as the support assembly 100 moves.

[0091] Reference Figure 5 As shown, when the hinge mechanism 23 is in the unfolded state, the two decorative panels 500 unfold along with the unfolding of the support assembly 100, and the two decorative panels 500 can be in a coplanar state. In addition, the two decorative panels 500 are close to each other, for example, there is no obvious gap between them. At this time, the decorative panels 500 are used to cover the surface of the support assembly 100 to ensure the appearance of the foldable electronic device. Figure 6 As shown, when the hinge mechanism 23 is in the folded state, the two decorative panels 500 fold relative to each other as the support assembly 100 folds, and the two support panels are generally parallel. Furthermore, the ends of the two decorative panels 500 near the center of the support assembly 100 (where the second support panel 120 and the third support panel 130 are located) are spaced apart from each other, with a gap between them and the support assembly 100 to prevent interference between the decorative panels 500 and the support assembly 100.

[0092] Compared to the five-support plate architecture design of externally foldable electronic devices in related art, this embodiment utilizes a first support plate 110, a second support plate 120, a third support plate 130, and a fourth support plate 140 arranged in parallel to form the support assembly 100, with the hinge mechanism 23 utilizing four support plates. This arrangement reduces the number of support plates in the hinge mechanism 23, resulting in a smaller overall width, which allows for more space in the housing assembly 20, increasing the battery space within the housing assembly 20 and improving the battery life of the foldable electronic device.

[0093] Furthermore, while ensuring sufficient overlap between the motion module 200, synchronization module 300, and damping module 400 on the support assembly 100, the number of support plates in the support assembly 100 is reduced, thereby reducing the number of components in the hinge mechanism 23. This reduces the manufacturing cost of the hinge mechanism 23 and the production cost of the foldable electronic device.

[0094] Continue to refer to Figure 4 or Figure 5As shown, the gap between the first support plate 110 and the second support plate 120, the gap between the second support plate 120 and the third support plate 130, and the gap between the third support plate 130 and the fourth support plate 140 gradually increase from the first side of the support assembly 100 to the second side of the support assembly 100, with the posture of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 in the unfolded state as the reference. In this way, the first support plate 110, the second support plate 120, the third support plate 130, and the fourth support plate 140 all have sufficient space for movement, meeting the movement requirements of the support assembly 100 when the rotating shaft mechanism 23 switches between the unfolded state and the folded state. Moreover, as shown, when the rotating shaft mechanism 23 is in the folded state, the first support plate 110, the second support plate 120, the third support plate 130, and the fourth support plate 140 can be in close contact with each other, ensuring the stability of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 and keeping the bendable part 12 of the folding screen 10 smooth and sleek in surface shape. Figure 6

[0095] For example, the cross-sectional shape of the second support plate 120 and the third support plate 130 in the middle of the support assembly 100 can be roughly trapezoidal. The side wall of the first support plate 110 on one side of the support assembly 100 can extend obliquely toward the second support plate 120. Similarly, the side wall of the fourth support plate 140 on the other side of the support assembly 100 can extend obliquely toward the third support plate 130.

[0096] Figure 7 A front view of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 8 A front view of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 7 An enlarged view of a partial structure at position A in FIG. 6. Figure 9 An enlarged view of a partial structure at position A in FIG. 6. Figure 7 An enlarged view of a partial structure at position A in FIG. 6. Figure 10 A structure schematic diagram of a first main swing arm provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 11 A structure schematic diagram of a second main swing arm provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 12 A structure schematic diagram of a second main swing arm provided in an embodiment of the present application. Figure 8 A cross-sectional view at position A-A in FIG. 6. Figure 13 A cross-sectional view at position A-A in FIG. 6. Figure 8 A cross-sectional view at position B-B in FIG. 6.

[0097] A cross-sectional view at position A-A in FIG. 6. Figure 7 ​As shown, each component connected to the support assembly 100, such as the motion module 200, the synchronization module 300 and the damping module 400, can be arranged along the length direction of the support assembly 100. In this way, the support assembly 100 can be connected stably and reliably by means of these components, and force can be provided at each part of the length direction of the support assembly 100 to realize the relative movement between each support plate of the support assembly 100, ensure the uniqueness and symmetry of the movement track of the support assembly 100, ensure the stability of the movement of the shaft mechanism 23, and improve the operation feeling of the foldable electronic device.

[0098] Referring to Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the motion module 200 connected to the support assembly 100 can include a first motion assembly 210, which is mainly used to provide the degrees of freedom required for the movement of the support assembly 100. The first motion assembly 210 can include a first main swing arm 211 and a second main swing arm 212, the first main swing arm 211 being used to movably connect the first support plate 110, the second support plate 120 and the third support plate 130, and the second main swing arm 212 being used to movably connect the second support plate 120, the third support plate 130 and the fourth support plate 140. Through the joint action of the first main swing arm 211 and the second main swing arm 212, the first support plate 110, the second support plate 120, the third support plate 130 and the fourth support plate 140 can be movably connected together to form the support assembly 100.

[0099] The first main swing arm 211 can be connected to the second support plate 120, and the first main swing arm 211 is rotatably and slidably connected to the first support plate 110 and the third support plate 130. In this way, under the action of the first main swing arm 211, the first support plate 110 and the third support plate 130 can move relative to the second support plate 120 with the second support plate 120 as a reference. The first main swing arm 211 can provide a virtual center of rotation for the movement of the first support plate 110 and the third support plate 130, so that the first support plate 110 and the third support plate 130 can rotate and translate relative to the second support plate 120.

[0100] Similarly, the second main swing arm 212 can be connected to the third support plate 130, and the second main swing arm 212 is rotatably and slidably connected to the second support plate 120 and the fourth support plate 140. In this way, under the action of the second main swing arm 212, the second support plate 120 and the fourth support plate 140 can move relative to the third support plate 130 with the third support plate 130 as a reference. The second main swing arm 212 can provide a virtual center of rotation for the movement of the second support plate 120 and the fourth support plate 140, so that the second support plate 120 and the fourth support plate 140 can rotate and translate relative to the third support plate 130.

[0101] Under the action of the first main swing arm 211 and the second main swing arm 212, the first support plate 110 and the third support plate 130 can rotate and slide relative to the second support plate 120, and the second support plate 120 and the fourth support plate 140 can rotate and slide relative to the third support plate 130. In this way, the first support plate 110, the second support plate 120, the third support plate 130, and the fourth support plate 140 can all rotate freely. In addition, the first support plate 110 and the second support plate 120, the second support plate 120 and the third support plate 130, and the third support plate 130 and the fourth support plate 140 can move closer to or farther away from each other, thereby meeting the movement requirements of the support plate assembly.

[0102] The first main swing arm 211 and the second main swing arm 212 can be directly connected, and both are connected by rotation and sliding, so as to achieve the relative rotation and sliding movement of the second support plate 120 and the third support plate 130. In this case, the first main swing arm 211 and the second main swing arm 212 can be arranged side by side and overlap each other. In the longitudinal direction of the rotating shaft mechanism 23, the first motion assembly 210 occupies less space, which is beneficial for the layout design of other components on the support assembly 100. Alternatively, the first main swing arm 211 and the second main swing arm 212 can be staggered front and back, with the first main swing arm 211 and the third support plate 130 directly connected by rotation and sliding, and the second main swing arm 212 and the second support plate 120 directly connected by rotation and sliding, so as to achieve the relative rotation and sliding movement of the second support plate 120 and the third support plate 130.

[0103] The following description is made by taking the example that the first main swing arm 211 and the second main swing arm 212 are arranged side by side and overlapped, and the two are directly rotated and slidably connected.

[0104] Reference Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the first main swing arm 211 and the second main swing arm 212 can each include a first arc portion 2101, a connecting plate portion 2102 and a second arc portion 2103, and the first arc portion 2101, the connecting plate portion 2102 and the second arc portion 2103 are connected in sequence. The first arc portion 2101, the connecting plate portion 2102 and the second arc portion 2103 can be an integrally formed structure, or in other words, the first main swing arm 211 and the second main swing arm 212 can both be integrally formed parts. Figure 12As shown, in the first main swing arm 211, the connecting plate portion 2102 can be connected to the second support plate 120, the first curved portion 2101 is in a rotationally and sliding connection with the first support plate 110, and the second curved portion 2103 is in a rotationally and sliding connection with the third support plate 130. In the second main swing arm 212, the connecting plate portion 2102 can be connected to the third support plate 130, the first curved portion 2101 is in a rotationally and sliding connection with the fourth support plate 140, and the second curved portion 2103 is in a rotationally and sliding connection with the second support plate 120.

[0105] When the first swing arm and the second main swing arm 212 are directly connected, the second arcuate portion 2103 of the first main swing arm 211 is rotationally and slidably connected to the second arcuate portion 2103 of the second main swing arm 212. At this time, the second arcuate portion 2103 of the first main swing arm 211 and the second arcuate portion 2103 of the second main swing arm 212 can match each other, and the two can overlap each other by virtue of the arcuate surfaces. The two can move relative to each other under the guidance of the overlapping arcuate surfaces, thereby achieving relative rotation and sliding between the second arcuate portion 2103 of the first main swing arm 211 and the second arcuate portion 2103 of the second main swing arm 212.

[0106] And, combined with Figure 8 and Figure 12 As shown, regarding the rotational and sliding connection between the first main swing arm 211 and the first support plate 110, and the rotational and sliding connection between the second main swing arm 212 and the fourth support plate 140, in some embodiments, a curved plate 101 can be provided on each of the first support plate 110 and the fourth support plate 140. The curved plate 101 on the first support plate 110 extends toward the second support plate 120, and the curved plate 101 on the fourth support plate 140 extends toward the third support plate 130. The first support plate 110 is rotationally and slidingly connected to the first main swing arm 211 via the curved plate 101, and the fourth support plate 140 is rotationally and slidingly connected to the second main swing arm 212 via the curved plate 101. For example, the curved plate 101 can be integrally formed on the first support plate 110 and the fourth support plate 140. Alternatively, the curved plate 101 can be a separate component and connected to the first support plate 110 and the fourth support plate 140 using fasteners such as screws or rivets, or by bonding or welding.

[0107] On the one hand, the need for arcuate grooves on the first support plate 110 and the fourth support plate 140 is avoided, which facilitates reducing the thickness of the first support plate 110 and the fourth support plate 140, thereby meeting the requirements for a thinner and lighter hinge mechanism 23. On the other hand, because the arcuate plate 101 of the first support plate 110 (or the fourth support plate 140) extends toward the second support plate 120 (or the third support plate 130), the overlap width between the first main swing arm 211 (or the second main swing arm 212) and the corresponding arcuate plate 101 is larger, making the movement of the support assembly 100 more stable and reliable, thereby enhancing the stability and reliability of the hinge mechanism 23.

[0108] It should be noted that the first main swing arm 211 and the second main swing arm 212 enable each of the four support plates to be connected in an arc-shaped sliding manner, which provides a large degree of freedom of movement for each support plate of the support assembly 100. Although each support plate can rotate and translate relative to each other, the relatively unrestricted freedom of movement of each support plate makes the movement trajectory of the support assembly 100 non-unique and asymmetrical, which may affect the movement accuracy of the hinge mechanism 23 and the performance of the foldable device.

[0109] Therefore, on the basis of setting the first motion component 210, the motion module 200 of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 may further include a second motion component 220 (see Figure 8 and Figure 9 ), so as to limit the motion trajectory of the support assembly 100 through the second motion assembly 220, thereby improving the motion accuracy of the support assembly 100. The second motion assembly 220 may include a first auxiliary swing arm 221 and a second auxiliary swing arm 222. The first auxiliary swing arm 221 is movably connected to the first support plate 110 and the second support plate 120, and the second auxiliary swing arm 222 is movably connected to the third support plate 130 and the fourth support plate 140. The first auxiliary swing arm 221 defines the motion posture of the first support plate 110 relative to the second support plate 120, while the second auxiliary swing arm 222 defines the motion posture of the fourth support plate 140 relative to the third support plate 130.

[0110] Reference Figure 13 As shown, the first auxiliary swing arm 221 and the second auxiliary swing arm 222 can each include a flat plate portion 2201 and a curved plate portion 2202 connected to each other. The flat plate portion 2201 and the curved plate portion 2202 can be integrally formed structures. The first auxiliary swing arm 221 and the second auxiliary swing arm 222 can both be integrally formed components. In the first auxiliary swing arm 221, the flat plate portion 2201 is slidably connected to the first support plate 110, while the curved plate portion 2202 is rotationally and slidably connected to the second support plate 120. In the second auxiliary swing arm 222, the flat plate portion 2201 is slidably connected to the fourth support plate 140, while the curved plate portion 2202 is rotationally and slidably connected to the third support plate 130.

[0111] As the curved plate portion 2202 of the first auxiliary swing arm 221 (or second auxiliary swing arm 222) rotates and slides around the second support plate 120 (or third support plate 130), the flat plate portion 2201 of the first auxiliary swing arm 221 (or second auxiliary swing arm 222) slides along the first support plate 110 (or fourth support plate 140). Thus, under the guidance of the flat plate portion 2201 of the first auxiliary swing arm 221 (or second auxiliary swing arm 222), the orientation and distance of the first support plate 110 (or fourth support plate 140) relative to the second support plate 120 (or third support plate 130) are defined. During the transition of the hinge mechanism 23 between the unfolded and folded states, the motion trajectory of the support assembly 100 remains unique, and the motion trajectories of the left and right sides of the support assembly 100 are symmetrical, ensuring the precision and symmetry of the movement of the support assembly 100 and the performance of the foldable electronic device.

[0112] For example, the centerline of the width of the support assembly 100 can serve as the axis of symmetry for the second motion assembly 220, with the first and second auxiliary swing arms 221, 222 symmetrically positioned on either side of this axis. With this arrangement, in the second motion assembly 220, the first and second auxiliary swing arms 221, 222 are located at the same location along the length of the support assembly 100. The forces imparted to the support assembly 100 by the first and second auxiliary swing arms balance each other, thereby enhancing the force balance of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 and improving its reliability and service life. Furthermore, the second motion assembly 220 occupies a small space along the length of the support assembly 100, facilitating the layout design of other components on the support assembly 100.

[0113] Based on the dimensional design of the rotating shaft mechanism 23, multiple first motion assemblies 210 and multiple second motion assemblies 220 can be provided on the support assembly 100 along its length, thereby providing a stable and reliable connection of the support assembly 100 and improving the stability and accuracy of the movement of the rotating shaft mechanism 23. For example, the centerline of the length of the support assembly 100 can serve as the axis of symmetry for each of the first motion assemblies 210 and each of the second motion assemblies 220, thereby ensuring balanced force on the rotating shaft mechanism 23 and improving its stability and reliability.

[0114] The decorative panels 500 can be connected to the second motion assembly 220, with one decorative panel 500 connected to the first auxiliary swing arm 221 and the other decorative panel 500 connected to the second auxiliary swing arm 222. For example, the two decorative panels 500 are connected to the flat plate portion 2201 of the first auxiliary swing arm 221 and the flat plate portion 2201 of the second auxiliary swing arm 222, respectively. When the pivot mechanism 23 switches between the deployed and folded states, the first and second auxiliary swing arms 221, 222 respectively drive the two decorative panels 500 to move. When the pivot mechanism 23 is in the deployed state, the first and second auxiliary swing arms 221, 222 are coplanar, and their curved plate portions 2202 are close to each other, causing the two decorative panels 500 to be coplanar and close to each other. When the pivot mechanism 23 is in the folded state, the first and second auxiliary swing arms 221, 222 face each other and move away from each other, causing the two decorative panels 500 to face each other and move their ends away from each other.

[0115] Figure 14 for Figure 7 The local enlarged structure diagram of B in the middle. Figure 14 As shown, in this embodiment, the synchronization module 300 includes a first synchronization component 310 and a second synchronization component 320. The first synchronization component 310 is connected to the first support plate 110, the second support plate 120, and the third support plate 130. The first synchronization component 310 uses the second support plate 120 as a reference to ensure that the first support plate 110 and the third support plate 130 are synchronized relative to the second support plate 120. The second synchronization component 320 is connected to the second support plate 120, the third support plate 130, and the fourth support plate 140. The second synchronization component 320 uses the third support plate 130 as a reference to ensure that the second support plate 120 and the fourth support plate 140 are synchronized relative to the third support plate 130.

[0116] Under the combined action of the first and second synchronization assemblies 310 and 320, the first, second, third, and fourth support plates 110, 120, 130, and 140 synchronize and work together to ensure the symmetry of the motion trajectory of the support assembly 100. During the transition between the unfolded and folded states of the foldable electronic device, the synchronization module 300 within the hinge mechanism 23 ensures the synchronized relative motion of the first and second housings 21, 22, thereby enhancing the stability and reliability of the foldable electronic device's movement and improving the accuracy of the housing assembly 20's alignment.

[0117] It is understood that, under the action of the first synchronizing assembly 310, the first support plate 110 and the third support plate 130 are fixed with the second support plate 120 as a reference, and the first support plate 110 and the third support plate 130 move symmetrically relative to the second support plate 120. Similarly, under the action of the second synchronizing assembly 320, the second support plate 120 and the fourth support plate 140 are fixed with the third support plate 130 as a reference, and the second support plate 120 and the fourth support plate 140 move symmetrically relative to the third support plate 130. This ensures the symmetry of the overall motion trajectory of the support assembly 100, and ensures that the hinge mechanism 23 drives the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 to move synchronously relative to each other.

[0118] Since the first synchronizer assembly 310 occupies the first support plate 110, the second support plate 120, and the third support plate 130, and the second synchronizer assembly 320 occupies the second support plate 120, the third support plate 130, and the fourth support plate 140, the first synchronizer assembly 310 and the second synchronizer assembly 320 both occupy the same support plate. Therefore, the first synchronizer assembly 310 and the second synchronizer assembly 320 cannot be arranged side by side along the width direction of the support assembly 100. Instead, the first synchronizer assembly 310 and the second synchronizer assembly 320 can be staggered along the length direction of the support assembly 100.

[0119] In addition, the number of synchronization modules 300 can be set according to the size and spatial layout design of the rotating shaft mechanism 23. For example, the rotating shaft mechanism 23 can include one synchronization module 300. In this case, the synchronization module 300 can be set in the middle area in the length direction of the support assembly 100 to ensure that the force generated by the synchronization module 300 can keep the support assembly 100 as a whole balanced. Alternatively, the rotating shaft mechanism 23 can also include a plurality of synchronization modules 300, and the plurality of synchronization modules 300 can be spaced apart along the length direction of the support assembly 100. In this case, the forces generated by different synchronization modules 300 act on different parts of the support assembly 100, and the support assembly 100 as a whole can maintain force balance.

[0120] When the rotating shaft mechanism 23 includes multiple synchronization modules 300, each synchronization module 300 can be evenly spaced along the length of the support assembly 100. In this way, each first synchronization module 310 connected to the first support plate 110, the second support plate 120, and the third support plate 130 can evenly distribute the applied force to various regions along the length of the support assembly 100, ensuring that the first support plate 110, the second support plate 120, and the third support plate 130 are subjected to balanced forces. Similarly, each second synchronization module 320 connected to the second support plate 120, the third support plate 130, and the fourth support plate 140 can also evenly distribute the applied force to various regions along the length of the support assembly 100, ensuring that the second support plate 120, the third support plate 130, and the fourth support plate 140 are subjected to balanced forces. Furthermore, along the width of the support assembly 100, the left and right portions of the support assembly 100 are subjected to balanced forces, resulting in a well-balanced and highly reliable overall support assembly 100.

[0121] For example, the number of synchronization modules 300 can be an even number, and the synchronization modules 300 can be symmetrically arranged in pairs with the center line of the length direction of the support assembly 100 as the symmetry axis (see Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 1 , the motion module 200, damping module 400, and other components of the shaft mechanism can also be evenly and symmetrically arranged, further enhancing the structural symmetry of the shaft mechanism 23. Along the length of the shaft mechanism 23, the upper and lower portions of the shaft mechanism 23 are subjected to balanced forces, resulting in a well-balanced overall shaft mechanism 23, high reliability, and a long service life.

[0122] For example, if there are four synchronization modules 300, two synchronization modules 300 can be arranged near the two ends of the support assembly 100 in the length direction, and the two synchronization modules 300 are arranged symmetrically. Another two synchronization modules 300 can be arranged near the middle of the support assembly 100 in the length direction, and the two synchronization modules 300 are also arranged symmetrically. Among them, among the two synchronization modules 300 near the two ends of the support assembly 100, one of the first synchronization module 310 and the second synchronization module 320 (for example Figure 7 The second synchronization component 320 shown in FIG is located closer to the end of the support component 100. The two synchronization modules 300 near the middle of the support component 100 are the other of the first synchronization component 310 and the second synchronization component 320 (e.g. Figure 7 The first synchronization assembly 310 shown in FIG is disposed closer to the end of the support assembly 100 .

[0123] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the synchronization module provided in the embodiment of the present application. Figure 15As shown, in the synchronization module 300 of this embodiment, the first synchronization assembly 310 and the second synchronization assembly 320 have the same structure. The figure shows the structure of one synchronization assembly. The synchronization module 300 adopts a gear synchronization method. The first synchronization assembly 310 and the second synchronization assembly 320 can each include a first synchronization member 301 and a second synchronization member 302. The first synchronization member 301 and the second synchronization member 302 engage with each other to achieve synchronization.

[0124] The first synchronous member 301 may include a first synchronous gear 3011 and a first synchronous swing arm 3012 connected to each other. The first synchronous gear 3011 and the first synchronous swing arm 3012 may be an integrally formed structure, and the first synchronous member 301 is an integrally formed part. Similarly, the second synchronous member 302 may also include a second synchronous gear 3021 and a second synchronous swing arm 3022. The second synchronous gear 3021 and the second synchronous swing arm 3022 may be an integrally formed structure, and the second synchronous member 302 is an integrally formed part. The first synchronous gear 3011 and the second synchronous gear 3021 are of the same model and are meshed with the same support plate. The first synchronous swing arm 3012 and the second synchronous swing arm 3022 slide along the support plates on both sides respectively to achieve synchronous linkage of the three adjacent support plates.

[0125] In the first synchronizer assembly 310, the first synchronizer gear 3011 of the first synchronizer 301 and the second synchronizer gear 3021 of the second synchronizer 302 are meshed with the second support plate 120. The first synchronizer swing arm 3012 of the first synchronizer 301 slides along the first support plate 110, and the second synchronizer swing arm 3022 of the second synchronizer 302 slides along the third support plate 130, thereby achieving synchronous linkage among the first support plate 110, the second support plate 120, and the third support plate 130. In the second synchronizer assembly 320, the first synchronizer gear 3011 of the first synchronizer 301 and the second synchronizer gear 3021 of the second synchronizer 302 are meshed with the third support plate 130. The first synchronizer swing arm 3012 of the first synchronizer 301 slides along the second support plate 120, and the second synchronizer swing arm 3022 of the second synchronizer 302 slides along the fourth support plate 140, thereby achieving synchronous linkage among the second support plate 120, the third support plate 130, and the fourth support plate 140.

[0126] Continue to refer to Figure 15The first synchronous assembly 310 and the second synchronous assembly 320 may also include fixed plates 303, which are arranged at both ends of the meshing first synchronous gear 3011 and the second synchronous gear 3021. The limiting effect of the fixed plates 303 at both ends can determine the relative positions of the first synchronous gear 3011 and the second synchronous gear 3021, ensuring reliable meshing between the two. In addition, the fixed plates 303 at both ends can be used to assemble the first synchronizer 301 and the second synchronizer 302 together, so that the first synchronous assembly 310 and the second synchronizer 320 are assembled into an integral structure, which facilitates the installation of the first synchronous assembly 310 and the second synchronizer 320 on the support assembly 100.

[0127] Figure 16 for Figure 7 The partially enlarged structure diagram of the C in the middle. Figure 16 As shown, in this embodiment, the damping module 400 includes a first damping assembly 410 and a second damping assembly 420. The first damping assembly 410 and the second damping assembly 420 can have the same structure. The first damping assembly 410 is connected to the first support plate 110 and the second support plate 120, and can be used to provide a damping force at the location of the second support plate 120. The second damping assembly 420 can be connected to the third support plate 130 and the fourth support plate 140, and can be used to provide a damping force at the location of the third support plate 130.

[0128] The damping module 400 is composed of a first damping assembly 410 and a second damping assembly 420. The first damping assembly 410 and the second damping assembly 420 respectively provide damping forces on the left and right parts of the support assembly 100. The damping force generated by the entire hinge mechanism 23 is balanced on the left and right sides, ensuring the stability and consistency of the relative movement of the first shell 21 and the second shell 22, thereby improving the operating feel of the foldable electronic device. In addition, the first damping assembly 410 and the second damping assembly 420 are independently provided and will not interfere with the relative movement of the second support plate 120 and the third support plate 130 in the middle of the support assembly 100. Compared with an integrated damping structure, the overall structure and movement mode of the damping module 400 of this embodiment are also simpler, and there is no need to design the damping module 400 to float in order to meet the movement trajectory requirements of the second support plate 120 and the third support plate 130.

[0129] In the damping module 400, the first damping assembly 410 and the second damping assembly 420 can be arranged side by side along the width direction of the support assembly 100 to ensure the balance of the left and right sides of the rotating shaft mechanism 23. In addition, according to the size design and damping force requirements of the rotating shaft mechanism 23, the rotating shaft mechanism 23 can include one damping module 400 or more than two damping modules 400, which is not limited in this embodiment. When the rotating shaft mechanism 23 includes one damping module 400, the damping module 400 can be located in the middle part of the length direction of the support assembly 100 to ensure the balance of the damping force generated by the rotating shaft mechanism 23 as a whole. When the rotating shaft mechanism 23 includes two or more damping modules 400, each damping module 400 can be arranged at intervals along the length direction of the support assembly 100 so that the damping force of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 can be evenly distributed.

[0130] Taking the rotating shaft mechanism 23 as an example, the two damping modules 400 can be respectively located at the upper half and the lower half of the length direction of the rotating shaft mechanism 23. Moreover, with the center line of the length direction of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 as the symmetry axis, the two damping modules 400 can be symmetrically arranged (see Figure 7 As shown). This allows both the upper and lower parts of the shaft mechanism 23 to generate sufficient damping force, and the shaft mechanism 23 is subjected to balanced forces. For example, the damping module 400 can be located between two adjacent synchronization modules 300.

[0131] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the damping module provided in the embodiment of the present application. Figure 17 As shown in the figure, the structure of a damping component in the damping module 400 is shown. In this embodiment, the first damping component 410 and the second damping component 420 may each include a guide column 4011, a damping swing arm 4012, an elastic member 4013 and at least one drive sleeve 4014. The guide column 4011 is fixedly connected to the corresponding support plate. One end of the damping swing arm 4012 is sleeved on the guide column 4011, and the other end of the damping swing arm 4012 slides along the adjacent support plate. The elastic member 4013 and the drive sleeve 4014 are both sleeved on the guide column 4011, and the elastic member 4013 and the drive sleeve 4014 are confined between the two ends of the damping swing arm 4012. Exemplarily, the elastic member 4013 can be a compression spring sleeved on the guide column 4011.

[0132] The drive sleeve 4014 abuts the end of the damping swing arm 4012, and the ends of the drive sleeve 4014 and the damping swing arm 4012 have mutually matching concave-convex structures. As the two adjacent support plates move relative to each other, the damping swing arm 4012 slides along one of the support plates and rotates around the guide post 4011. The guide post 4011 is fixed relative to the support plate on which it rests. The drive sleeve 4014, which is mounted on the outside of the guide post 4011, cannot rotate around the guide post 4011, but can move axially along the guide post 4011. In this way, as the damping swing arm 4012 rotates around the guide column 4011, the damping swing arm 4012 rotates relative to the driving sleeve 4014. Under the action of the concave-convex structure between the damping swing arm 4012 and the driving sleeve 4014, the driving sleeve 4014 can be moved axially along the guide column 4011. The driving sleeve 4014 squeezes the elastic part 4013, and the elastic force generated by the elastic part 4013 provides damping force for the rotating shaft mechanism 23.

[0133] In the first damping assembly 410, a guide post 4011 can be fixed to the second support plate 120. One end of a damping swing arm 4012 is sleeved on the guide post 4011, and the other end of the damping swing arm 4012 slides along the first support plate 110. As the damping swing arm 4012 rotates about the guide post 4011, it drives the driving sleeve 4014 to move axially along the guide post 4011. The driving sleeve 4014 compresses the elastic member 4013 to generate a damping force in the area where the second support plate 120 is located.

[0134] In the second damping assembly 420, a guide post 4011 can be fixed to the third support plate 130. One end of a damping swing arm 4012 is sleeved on the guide post 4011, and the other end of the damping swing arm 4012 slides along the fourth support plate 140. As the damping swing arm 4012 rotates about the guide post 4011, it drives the driving sleeve 4014 to move axially along the guide post 4011. The driving sleeve 4014 compresses the elastic member 4013 to generate a damping force in the area where the third support plate 130 is located.

[0135] Figure 18 for Figure 17 The decomposition diagram of the damping module in . Figure 17 and Figure 18As shown, the damping swing arm 4012 in the first damping assembly 410 and the second damping assembly 420 can include a main body portion 40121, a stop sleeve 40122 and a sliding plate portion 40123. The main body portion 40121 of the damping swing arm 4012 can extend along the length direction of the support assembly 100, the stop sleeve 40122 is connected at both ends of the length direction of the main body portion 40121, and the stop sleeve 40122 is located at one side of the width direction of the main body portion 40121, and the sliding plate portion 40123 is connected at the other side of the width direction of the main body portion 40121. The damping swing arm 4012 can be an integral molding, or in other words, the main body portion 40121, the stop sleeve 40122 and the sliding plate portion 40123 are an integral molding structure.

[0136] The damping swing arm 4012 is sleeved on the guide column 4011 by the stop sleeve 40122 at both ends thereof. In other words, the guide column 4011 passes through the stop sleeve 40122 at both ends of the damping swing arm 4012, and the two ends of the guide column 4011 respectively extend out of the two stop sleeves 40122 to be fixedly connected to the corresponding support plates. The sliding plate portion 40123 of the damping swing arm 4012 slides along the corresponding support plate. In the first damping assembly 410, the stop sleeve 40122 of the damping swing arm 4012 is sleeved on the guide column 4011 on the second support plate 120, and the sliding plate portion 40123 of the damping swing arm 4012 slides along the first support plate 110. In the second damping assembly 420, the stop sleeve 40122 of the damping swing arm 4012 is sleeved on the guide column 4011 on the third support plate 130, and the sliding plate portion 40123 of the damping swing arm 4012 slides along the fourth support plate 140.

[0137] The driving sleeve 4014 abuts against the stop sleeve 40122 of the damping swing arm 4012, and the stop sleeve 40122 and the driving sleeve 4014 are provided with complementary concave-convex structures. For example, the end of the stop sleeve 40122 of the damping swing arm 4012 towards the driving sleeve 4014 has a convex portion 40124, the end of the driving sleeve 4014 towards the stop sleeve 40122 has a concave portion 40141, and the convex portion 40124 and the concave portion 40141 complement each other. In the process of rotating the stop sleeve 40122 of the damping swing arm 4012 around the guide column 4011, the convex portion 40124 of the stop sleeve 40122 moves to abut against different parts of the driving sleeve 4014, and the convex portion 40124 of the stop sleeve 40122 slides along the end face of the driving sleeve 4014 to slide into or out of the concave portion 40141 of the driving sleeve 4014. Thus, the stop sleeve 40122 pushes the driving sleeve 4014 to move along the axial direction of the guide column 4011, and the driving sleeve 4014 extrudes the elastic member 4013 to change the compression amount thereof, so that the elastic member 4013 provides a variable damping force.

[0138] Continuing to refer to Figure 17 or Figure 18 Regarding the configuration of the slide plate portion 40123 of the damping swing arm 4012, in some embodiments, the damping swing arm 4012 may include two slide plates 40123, each connected to one end of the main body 40121 in the longitudinal direction. Thus, during movement of the support assembly 100, the two slide plates 40123 at each end of the damping swing arm 4012 synchronously slide along the corresponding support plates and transmit force to the stop sleeves 40122 at each end of the damping swing arm 4012, causing the stop sleeves 40122 to rotate about the guide post 4011. This configuration allows force to be transmitted simultaneously at both ends of the damping swing arm 4012, resulting in greater stability and reliability in the movement of the damping swing arm 4012.

[0139] Of course, in other embodiments, the damping swing arm 4012 may have only one slide plate portion 40123. In this case, the slide plate portion 40123 may be connected to the middle portion of the main body portion 40121 in the longitudinal direction, so that the slide plate portion 40123 can transmit a balanced force to the stop sleeves 40122 at both ends of the damping swing arm 4012, thereby ensuring the smooth movement of the damping swing arm 4012. This embodiment is not limited to this.

[0140] Continue to refer to Figure 17 or Figure 18 In one embodiment, two drive sleeves 4014 can be mounted on the guide post 4011. These drive sleeves 4014 respectively abut against the stop sleeves 40122 at each end of the damping swing arm 4012. The elastic member 4013 abuts between the two drive sleeves 4014. Both drive sleeves 4014 and their corresponding stop sleeves 40122 have mutually cooperating concave-convex structures. Thus, as the stop sleeves 40122 at each end of the damping swing arm 4012 rotate about the guide post 4011, the two stop sleeves 40122 drive the two drive sleeves 4014 to move synchronously, causing the two drive sleeves 4014 to move toward or away from each other along the axial direction of the guide post 4011. The two drive sleeves 4014 jointly compress the elastic member 4013, causing it to deform more and providing greater damping force. Consequently, the damping effect of the damping module 400 is improved, the movement stability of the hinge mechanism 23 is enhanced, and the foldable electronic device has a better operating feel.

[0141] As another embodiment, a drive sleeve 4014 can be mounted on the guide column 4011. The drive sleeve 4014 abuts against a stop sleeve 40122 at one end of the damping arm 4012, with the elastic member 4013 positioned between the drive sleeve 4014 and the stop sleeve 40122 at the other end of the damping arm 4012. During the movement of the damping arm 4012, only the drive sleeve 4014 compresses the elastic member 4013, resulting in a relatively small deformation of the elastic member 4013. To enhance the damping effect of the damping module 400, other structures capable of increasing the damping force can be mounted on the guide column 4011 to increase the damping force of the damping module 400. For example, a friction pair can be provided between the elastic member 4013 and the stop sleeve 40122 at the other end of the damping arm 4012. During the movement of the damping arm 4012, the friction generated by the friction pair compensates for the damping force of the damping module 400.

[0142] As for how to limit the drive sleeve 4014 to move only along the axial direction of the guide column 4011, refer to Figure 18 As shown, the outer wall surface of the guide column 4011 can be provided with at least one first guide portion 40111, which discontinuously forms the arcuate surface of the outer wall of the guide column 4011. In other words, the outer wall surface of the guide column 4011, excluding the first guide portion 40111, can be formed into an arcuate surface, allowing the stop sleeve 40122 of the damping swing arm 4012 to rotate about the guide column 4011. The first guide portion 40111 is a surface that is discontinuous with the arcuate surface of other areas, forming a guide surface. The inner wall surface of the drive sleeve 4014 can be provided with at least one second guide portion 40142, which corresponds to and matches the first guide portion 40111.

[0143] The first guide portion 40111 of the guide post 4011 and the second guide portion 40142 of the drive sleeve 4014 cooperate with each other to define the circumferential position of the drive sleeve 4014 relative to the guide post 4011, preventing the drive sleeve 4014 from rotating about the guide post 4011. Furthermore, because the profiles of the first guide portion 40111 of the guide post 4011 and the second guide portion 40142 of the drive sleeve 4014 match each other, the drive sleeve 4014 can slide axially along the guide post 4011.

[0144] The first guide portion 40111 on the outer wall of the guide post 4011 can be a flat surface. Alternatively, the first guide portion 40111 on the outer wall of the guide post 4011 can be a circular arc surface, and the curvature of the circular arc surface is different from that of the circular arc surfaces in other areas of the outer wall of the guide post 4011. Alternatively, the first guide portion 40111 on the outer wall of the guide post 4011 can also be an elliptical surface, a wavy surface, or other surface shape. Accordingly, the second guide portion 40142 on the inner wall of the drive sleeve 4014 can also be a flat surface, or a circular arc surface with a curvature different from that of the circular arc surfaces in other areas of the inner wall of the drive sleeve 4014, or other surface shape, such as an elliptical surface, a wavy surface, or other surface shape.

[0145] Taking the first guide portion 40111 of the outer wall of the guide column 4011 as a plane as an example, the second guide portion 40142 of the inner wall of the drive sleeve 4014 can also be a plane. Figure 18 As shown, the outer wall of the guide post 4011 can be provided with two first guide portions 40111, which can be arranged opposite and parallel to each other. Correspondingly, the inner wall of the drive sleeve 4014 can be provided with two second guide portions 40142, which can be arranged opposite and parallel to each other. This arrangement further balances the forces acting between the drive sleeve 4014 and the guide post 4011, thereby improving the structural strength of the guide post 4011 and the drive sleeve 4014 and extending the service life of the damping module 400.

[0146] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," and "connected" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they may refer to a fixed connection, an indirect connection via an intermediate medium, internal communication between two components, or an interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of the aforementioned terms in the embodiments of this application based on specific circumstances.

[0147] The terms "first", "second", "third", "fourth", etc. (if any) in the description and claims of the embodiments of the present application and the aforementioned drawings are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence.

Claims

1. A hinge mechanism, applied to a foldable electronic device, characterized in that: The rotating shaft mechanism comprises: The support assembly includes a first support plate, a second support plate, a third support plate, and a fourth support plate arranged in parallel in sequence; A motion module, movably connected to the support assembly; at least one synchronization module, the synchronization module comprising a first synchronization component and a second synchronization component, the first synchronization component being connected to the first support plate, the second support plate, and the third support plate, and the second synchronization component being connected to the second support plate, the third support plate, and the fourth support plate; At least one damping module includes a first damping component and a second damping component, the first damping component is connected to the first support plate and the second support plate, and the second damping component is connected to the third support plate and the fourth support plate.

2. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that: There are multiple synchronization modules, and the synchronization modules are evenly spaced along the length direction of the support assembly.

3. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that: The synchronization modules are symmetrically arranged in pairs with the center line of the length direction of the support assembly as the symmetry axis.

4. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The first synchronization component and the second synchronization component both include: A first synchronizer, comprising a first synchronizer gear and a first synchronizer swing arm connected to each other; A second synchronizer, comprising a second synchronizer gear and a second synchronizer swing arm connected to each other; Among them, in the first synchronization component, the first synchronization gear and the second synchronization gear are engaged with the second support plate, the first synchronization swing arm slides along the first support plate, and the second synchronization swing arm slides along the third support plate; in the second synchronization component, the first synchronization gear and the second synchronization gear are engaged with the third support plate, the first synchronization swing arm slides along the second support plate, and the second synchronization swing arm slides along the fourth support plate.

5. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 4, characterized in that: The first synchronization component and the second synchronization component also include: The fixing plates are arranged at both ends of the first synchronous gear and the second synchronous gear.

6. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The first damping assembly and the second damping assembly each include: guide column; A damping swing arm is sleeved on the guide post and rotates around the guide post; An elastic member and at least one driving sleeve, wherein the elastic member and the driving sleeve are both sleeved on the guide column; the driving sleeve and the damping swing arm have mutually matching concave-convex structures, and the driving sleeve moves along the axial direction of the guide column; Among them, in the first damping assembly, the guide column is fixed to the second support plate, the damping swing arm rotates relative to the second support plate, and the damping swing arm slides along the first support plate; in the second damping assembly, the guide column is fixed to the third support plate, the damping swing arm rotates relative to the third support plate, and the damping swing arm slides along the fourth support plate.

7. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 6, characterized in that: The damping swing arm comprises: a main body extending along the length direction of the support assembly; A stop sleeve is connected to both ends of the main body in the length direction and is located on one side of the main body in the width direction; the guide column passes through the stop sleeves at both ends, the drive sleeve abuts against the stop sleeve, and the drive sleeve and the stop sleeve have the concave and convex structures that cooperate with each other; at least one slide portion connected to the other side of the main body portion in the width direction; Wherein, in the first damping assembly, the stop sleeve is located on the second support plate, and the slide portion slides along the first support plate; in the second damping assembly, the stop sleeve is located on the third support plate, and the slide portion slides along the fourth support plate.

8. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 7, characterized in that: There are two driving sleeves, and the two driving sleeves are respectively in contact with the stop sleeves at both ends, and the elastic member is located between the two driving sleeves.

9. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 7, characterized in that: There are two slide plates, and the two slide plates are respectively connected to both ends of the main body in the length direction.

10. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 6, wherein: The outer wall surface of the guide column is provided with at least one first guide portion, and the first guide portion makes the arc surface of the outer wall of the guide column discontinuous; At least one second guide portion is provided on the inner wall surface of the driving sleeve, and the first guide portion and the second guide portion correspond to and match each other.

11. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 10, characterized in that: The first guide portion is a plane.

12. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 11, characterized in that: The outer wall surface of the guide column is provided with two first guide parts, and the two first guide parts are arranged opposite to each other and parallel to each other.

13. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The motion module includes: The first motion component includes a first main swing arm and a second main swing arm; the first main swing arm is connected to the second support plate, the second main swing arm is connected to the third support plate, and the first main swing arm is rotatably and slidably connected to the first support plate, the second main swing arm is rotatably and slidably connected to the fourth support plate, and the first main swing arm is rotatably and slidably connected to the second main swing arm.

14. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 13, wherein: The first main swing arm and the second main swing arm each include a first arc-shaped portion, a connecting plate portion and a second arc-shaped portion connected in sequence; Among them, in the first main swing arm, the connecting plate portion is connected to the second support plate, and the first arc portion is rotatably and slidingly connected to the first support plate; in the second main swing arm, the connecting plate portion is connected to the third support plate, and the first arc portion is rotatably and slidingly connected to the fourth support plate; the second arc portion of the first main swing arm is rotatably and slidingly connected to the second arc portion of the second main swing arm.

15. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 13, wherein: The motion module further includes: A second motion assembly includes a first auxiliary swing arm and a second auxiliary swing arm, the first auxiliary swing arm being movably connected to the first support plate and the second support plate, and the second auxiliary swing arm being movably connected to the third support plate and the fourth support plate; Wherein, the first auxiliary swing arm and the second auxiliary swing arm both include a connected flat plate portion and an arc plate portion; in the first auxiliary swing arm, the flat plate portion is slidably connected to the first support plate, and the arc plate portion rotates and slidably connected to the second support plate; in the second auxiliary swing arm, the flat plate portion is slidably connected to the fourth support plate, and the arc plate portion rotates and slidably connected to the third support plate.

16. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 15, characterized in that: The first auxiliary swing arm and the second auxiliary swing arm are symmetrically arranged.

17. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 15, characterized in that: Also includes: Two decorative panels are arranged side by side on the side of the support assembly away from the folding screen, and the two decorative panels are respectively connected to the first auxiliary swing arm and the second auxiliary swing arm.

18. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: When the foldable electronic device is in a folded state, the folding screen is arranged outside the rotating shaft mechanism.

19. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 18, wherein: When the hinge mechanism is in the expanded state, the gap between the first support plate and the second support plate, the gap between the second support plate and the third support plate, and the gap between the third support plate and the fourth support plate gradually increase from the first side of the support assembly to the second side of the support assembly; The first side of the support assembly is the side of the support assembly facing the folding screen, and the second side of the support assembly is opposite to the first side of the support assembly.

20. A foldable electronic device, characterized in that: comprising a first housing, a second housing, a folding screen, and the hinge mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 19; The hinge mechanism is connected between the first shell and the second shell, the folding screen is attached to the first shell and the second shell, and the folding screen is supported by the hinge mechanism.

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