Hinge assembly and foldable electronic equipment

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention provides a hinge assembly and foldable electronic equipment, according to the hinge assembly, a linear sliding groove and a sliding piece are arranged on a supporting piece and a swinging piece respectively, and the two ends, in the sliding direction of the sliding piece, of the sliding groove are closed ends. Therefore, high pair matching of a cylindrical pin and an arc-shaped track groove between the supporting piece and the gear connecting rod is replaced by low pair matching of a linear sliding groove and a sliding piece between the supporting piece and the swinging piece, and the clearance between the sliding groove and the sliding piece is reduced, so that the angle control precision of the supporting piece is higher; the supporting piece moves in place in the unfolding state and the folding state. When the two ends of the sliding groove are closed and the electronic equipment is in an unfolded state, the supporting piece is in lap joint with the inner shaft of the main shaft mechanism, it is guaranteed that the flatness of the hinge assembly area is better when the electronic equipment is in the unfolded state, in addition, the swing piece is a passively-stressed part, the movement process is stable, and therefore when the supporting piece is attached to the swing piece, the supporting piece is not prone to falling off. And the movement of the supporting piece is more stable.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application. The original application has the application number 202110662328.X and the original application date is June 15, 2021. The entire contents of the original application are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of terminal technology, and in particular to a hinge assembly and a foldable electronic device. Background Technology

[0003] With the continuous development of mobile devices such as smartphones, users' demand for large-screen phones is becoming increasingly strong. However, large-screen phones have the significant problem of being inconvenient to carry. Therefore, foldable screen phones with extendable and deformable screens have become the main direction for improving portability. Among them, in order to meet the differentiated needs of different users, various foldable phones with inward and outward screen folding shapes have emerged.

[0004] Currently, foldable phones generally consist of two structural components connected by a hinge assembly, allowing them to rotate relative to each other and thus overlap or unfold. To better support the foldable display and prevent excessive stretching or compression during folding, the hinge assembly typically includes a main shaft mechanism and rotating mechanisms on either side of it. The rotating mechanisms include a support plate, a linkage component, and a connector. The linkage component is connected to the main shaft mechanism and the connector, while the connector is connected to the structural components and the support plate. The support plate and the linkage component are rotatably engaged via a cylindrical pin and an arc-shaped groove.

[0005] However, in the aforementioned foldable phones, the under-screen support plate in the screen bending area moves unevenly during the folding or unfolding of the phone, and the angle control precision of the support plate is poor. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application provides a hinge assembly and a foldable electronic device, which enables the support mechanism to move smoothly during the unfolding or folding of the electronic device, achieves better flatness of the hinge assembly area when the electronic device is in the flattened state, ensures higher control precision of the support mechanism angle, and enables the foldable electronic device to move into position in both unfolded and folded working states.

[0007] The first aspect of this application provides a hinge assembly, including:

[0008] A main spindle mechanism, and two rotating mechanisms located on both sides of the main spindle mechanism and rotatably connected to the main spindle mechanism;

[0009] Each of the rotating mechanisms includes: a support member, at least one connecting member, and at least one swing member;

[0010] The support member is located close to the main shaft mechanism, and the connector is located at the end of the support member away from the main shaft mechanism, and the connector is connected to the support member;

[0011] One end of the swinging member is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism, and the other end of the swinging member is rotatably connected to the connecting member;

[0012] One of the swing member and the support member is provided with a straight groove, and the other of the swing member and the support member is provided with a sliding member that cooperates with the groove, and the two ends of the groove along the sliding direction of the sliding member are closed ends.

[0013] The hinge assembly provided in this application includes a swing member, with a linear groove on one of the support member and the swing member, and a sliding member on the other. The two ends of the groove along the sliding direction of the sliding member are closed. This replaces the high-pair fit between the cylindrical pin and the arc-shaped groove with a low-pair fit between the linear groove and the sliding member. This reduces the play between the groove and the sliding member, resulting in higher angle control precision for the support member, and ensuring the support member moves into position in both unfolded and folded states.

[0014] Furthermore, the two ends of the slide are closed. When the slide and the sliding member cooperate to make the electronic device in a flattened state (i.e., the electronic device in a fully unfolded state), the support member overlaps the inner shaft of the main shaft mechanism, ensuring better screen flatness in the area corresponding to the hinge assembly when the electronic device is in the unfolded state. In addition, the swing member is a passively stressed component, so its movement is smooth. Thus, when the support member is attached to the swing member, its movement is also more stable. Therefore, the foldable electronic device provided in this application embodiment achieves smooth movement of the support mechanism during the unfolding or folding process, ensuring higher control precision of the support mechanism angle, enabling the foldable electronic device to move into position in both unfolded and folded working states, and ensuring better screen flatness in the area corresponding to the hinge assembly when the electronic device is in the unfolded state.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the chute includes at least two opposing and parallel planar groove walls, and two opposing end groove walls located between the two planar groove walls.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the end groove wall is an arc-shaped groove wall.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the two planar groove walls and the two end groove walls form a continuous annular groove.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the support member has at least two opposing protrusions on one side, and the protrusions have the grooves formed on them.

[0019] In one possible implementation, the groove is inclined toward the connector.

[0020] In one possible implementation, the slider is a cylindrical pin passing through the swing member, with both ends of the cylindrical pin located in two opposing grooves.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the swing member has a first rotating part at one end facing the main shaft mechanism, the outer edges of the first rotating part have arc surfaces, the main shaft mechanism has an arc part that rotates with the arc surfaces, and the main shaft mechanism is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism through the first rotating part;

[0022] The other end of the swing member has a second rotating part, which is rotatably connected to the connecting member.

[0023] In one possible implementation, each of the rotating mechanisms further includes at least one linkage member, one end of which is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism, and the other end of which is rotatably engaged with the support member.

[0024] In one possible implementation, the support member has an arc-shaped track groove, and the linkage member and the support member are rotatably connected by a cylindrical pin engaging with the arc-shaped track groove.

[0025] In one possible implementation, one end of the linkage has a first gear, which is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism via a rotating shaft, and the main shaft mechanism has two meshing second gears, which mesh with the first gear.

[0026] In one possible implementation, the support member has multiple virtual axes, and the connector has arcuate grooves that mate with the virtual axes. The support member and the connector are rotatably connected through the virtual axes and the arcuate grooves.

[0027] A second aspect of this application provides a foldable electronic device, comprising at least: a first structural member, a second structural member, and the hinge assembly described above;

[0028] The first structural member and the second structural member are respectively located on both sides of the hinge assembly, and the first structural member and the second structural member are respectively fixedly connected to the connecting member in the hinge assembly;

[0029] It also includes: a battery cover and a foldable first display screen; the battery cover and the first display screen are respectively located on the two side surfaces of the hinge assembly, the first structural member and the second structural member.

[0030] The foldable electronic device provided in this application embodiment, by including the aforementioned hinge assembly, achieves higher angle control precision for the support member within the hinge assembly, ensuring the support member moves precisely in both unfolded and folded states. This ensures better screen flatness in the area corresponding to the hinge assembly when the electronic device is in the unfolded state. Furthermore, it ensures smoother movement of the support member 323. Therefore, the foldable electronic device provided in this application embodiment achieves smooth movement of the support mechanism during the unfolding or folding process, ensuring higher angle control precision for the support mechanism, enabling the foldable electronic device to move precisely in both unfolded and folded working states, and ensuring better screen flatness in the area corresponding to the hinge assembly when the electronic device is in the unfolded state.

[0031] In one possible implementation, it further includes: a second display screen, wherein the first display screen is located on one side surface of the hinge assembly, the first structural member and the second structural member, and the second display screen and the battery cover are located on the other side surface of the first structural member and the second structural member, respectively. Attached Figure Description

[0032] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of the foldable electronic device provided in the embodiment of this application in its unfolded state;

[0033] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of the foldable electronic device provided in this application embodiment in a semi-folded state;

[0034] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the foldable electronic device provided in this application in a folded state;

[0035] Figure 4 An exploded view of the foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the hinge assembly of the foldable electronic device provided in this application when it is in the unfolded state;

[0037] Figure 6 A side view of the hinge assembly of the foldable electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application, showing the switching between an unfolded state and a folded state;

[0038] Figure 7 A schematic diagram showing the structure of a hinge assembly of a foldable electronic device provided in this application, in which one of the rotating mechanisms is separated from the main shaft mechanism;

[0039] Figure 8 An exploded view of one of the rotation mechanisms in the hinge assembly of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the engagement between the support member and the gear linkage in the hinge assembly of a foldable electronic device.

[0041] Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the partially disassembled structure of the swing member and support member in the hinge assembly of the foldable electronic device provided in this application embodiment;

[0042] Figure 11 A three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the swing element in the hinge assembly of the foldable electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0043] Figure 12 A partial cross-sectional view of the longitudinal section of the hinge assembly of the foldable electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application at the swing member;

[0044] Figure 13 Another three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the swing element in the hinge assembly of the foldable electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0045] Figure 14 Another partial cross-sectional view of the hinge assembly of the foldable electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application at the swing member.

[0046] Figure 15 A partially disassembled structural diagram of the connector and support member in the hinge assembly of the foldable electronic device provided in this application embodiment;

[0047] Figure 16 A partial cross-sectional view of the longitudinal section of the hinge assembly of the foldable electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application at the connector;

[0048] Figure 17 Another exploded view of the rotating mechanism in the hinge assembly of the foldable electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0049] Figure 18 A three-dimensional structural diagram of the linkage component in the hinge assembly of the foldable electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0050] Figure 19 A schematic diagram of the structure of the hinge assembly of the foldable electronic device provided in this application after the linkage component is assembled on the support member;

[0051] Figure 20This is a partial cross-sectional view of the longitudinal section of the hinge assembly of the foldable electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application at the linkage member.

[0052] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0053] 10-First display screen; 10a-Second display screen; 11-First display area; 12-Second display area; 13-Third display area;

[0054] 21-First structural component; 211-First metal middle plate; 212-First frame; 22-Second structural component; Second metal middle plate-221; Second frame-222;

[0055] 30-Hinge assembly; 31-Main spindle mechanism; 311-Outer shaft; 3112-Arc portion; 312-Inner shaft; 313, 314-Second gear; 32-Rotating mechanism;

[0056] 321-Connector; 3211-Arc groove;

[0057] 322-Oscillating component; 3221-Sliding component; 3222a-First sliding plane; 3222b-Second sliding plane; 3223-Arc-shaped surface;

[0058] 323-Support component; 3231-Slide groove; 3232-Arc-shaped track groove; 3233-Protrusion; 3231a, 3231b-Planar groove wall; 3234-Virtual axis;

[0059] 324-Linkage component; 3241-First gear; 3242-Gear structure; 3243-Pin hole;

[0060] 325 - Pin; 326 - Cylindrical pin;

[0061] 40 - Battery cover. Detailed Implementation

[0062] The terminology used in the implementation section of this application is only for explaining specific embodiments of this application and is not intended to limit this application. The implementation of the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0063] The foldable electronic devices provided in this application embodiment may include, but are not limited to, foldable fixed terminals or mobile terminals such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops, ultra-mobile personal computers (UMPCs), handheld computers, touch TVs, walkie-talkies, netbooks, POS machines, personal digital assistants (PDAs), wearable devices, and virtual reality devices.

[0064] In this embodiment of the application, a mobile phone is used as an example of the above-mentioned foldable electronic device, and the mobile phone is a foldable phone with an inward-folding screen and an additional outer screen.

[0065] The following describes in detail the hinge assembly and foldable electronic device provided in this application embodiment, taking a foldable screen mobile phone as an example.

[0066] See Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the foldable screen phone may include at least: a first structural component 21, a second structural component 22, and a hinge assembly 30. The first structural component 21 and the second structural component 22 are located on opposite sides of the hinge assembly 30, and are fixedly connected to the hinge assembly 30. Specifically, the first structural component 21 and the second structural component 22 are fixedly connected to connectors within the hinge assembly 30.

[0067] It should be noted that the first structural component 21 and the second structural component 22 can be fixedly connected to the connector by welding, bonding or screw fastening, respectively.

[0068] When the first structural component 21 and the second structural component 22 rotate towards each other until they overlap, the foldable phone is in a folded state. Conversely, when the first structural component 21 and the second structural component 22 rotate from their overlapping state to their opposite directions until they can no longer rotate (e.g., the first structural component 21 and the second structural component 22 are on the same plane), the foldable phone is in an unfolded state. The transition from the folded state to the unfolded state is the unfolding process, and the transition from the unfolded state to the folded state is the folding process.

[0069] Additionally, it should be noted that the number of the first structural component 21 and the second structural component 22 can both be one, allowing the foldable phone to fold into two layers. Specifically, as shown... Figure 1 As shown, a foldable screen phone may include only a first structural member 21, a second structural member 22, and a hinge assembly 30 for connecting the first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22. The first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22 rotate relative to each other to overlap, so that the foldable electronic device has a two-layer form.

[0070] Alternatively, there may be multiple first structural members 21 and second structural members 22 (not shown), with hinge assemblies 30 connecting adjacent first structural members 21 and second structural members 22, allowing the foldable electronic device to be folded into multiple layers. For example, the foldable electronic device may include two second structural members 22, one first structural member 21, and two hinge assemblies 30 connecting the first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22. The two second structural members 22 are located on both sides of the first structural member 21 and are rotatably connected to the first structural member 21 via the hinge assemblies 30. One of the second structural members 22 can rotate relative to the first structural member 21 to be stacked, and the other second structural member 22 can also rotate relative to the first structural member 21 to be stacked, so that the foldable electronic device presents a three-layer folded form. When two of the first structural members 21 and the second structural members 22 rotate to the same plane, the foldable electronic device is in an unfolded state.

[0071] See Figure 1 As shown in the embodiments of this application, the foldable electronic device may further include: a foldable first display screen 10, wherein the foldable first display screen 10 may be disposed on the surface of the hinge assembly 30, the first structural member 21, and the second structural member 22. When the first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22 are folded, the foldable first display screen 10 is bent and attached between the first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22; when the first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22 are unfolded, the foldable first display screen 10 is also unfolded.

[0072] In practical applications, the foldable first display screen 10 can be bonded to the surfaces of the hinge assembly 30, the first structural member 21, and the second structural member 22 to ensure that at least part of the foldable first display screen 10 is stably covered on the inside of the hinge assembly 30, thereby improving the stability of the foldable first display screen 10 within the foldable electronic device.

[0073] See Figure 1 As shown, the first display screen 10 may include: a first display area 11, a second display area 12, and a third display area 13 located on the first display area 11 and the second display area 12, wherein the first display area 11 may be located on the surface of the first structural member 21, the second display area 12 may be located on the surface of the second structural member 22, and the third display area 13 is located on the surface of the hinge assembly 30.

[0074] Of course, in some embodiments, the foldable electronic device can also be a laptop computer. The laptop computer can also include a first structural member 21 and a second structural member 22. The first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22 can rotate towards each other to stack on top of each other, so that the laptop computer is in a folded state. Conversely, when the first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22 rotate away from each other from the stacked state until they can no longer rotate, the laptop computer is in an unfolded state. In the unfolded state, the portion of the foldable first display screen 10 on the first structural member 21 can be used for displaying images, etc., while the portion of the foldable first display screen 10 on the second structural member 22 can serve as a virtual keyboard.

[0075] See Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the electronic device may further include a second display screen 10a, wherein the second display screen 10a and the first display screen may be located on opposite sides of the first structural member 21 or the second structural member 22, for example, see [reference needed]. Figure 2 As shown, the second display screen 10a is opposite to the second display area 12 of the first display screen, and the second display screen 10a and the second display area 12 of the first display screen are respectively located on both sides of the second structural member 22. Thus, see... Figure 3 As shown, when the electronic device is in a folded state, the second display screen 10a can be used as an external screen. Of course, in some examples, the second display screen 10a may not be provided.

[0076] The second display screen 10a can be an LCD screen, or it can be a flexible screen.

[0077] In the embodiments of this application, see Figure 2 As shown, it may also include: a battery cover 40, and the battery cover 40 and the first display area 11 of the first display screen 10 may be located on both sides of the first structural member 21.

[0078] In the embodiments of this application, see Figure 4 As shown, the first structural member 21 and the second structural member 22 can be a mid-frame. The first structural member 21 may include a first metal mid-plate 211 and a first frame 212 surrounding the outer edge of the first metal mid-plate 211. The second structural member 22 may include a second metal mid-plate 221 and a second frame 222 surrounding the outer edge of the second metal mid-plate 221. The hinge assembly 30 is fixedly connected to the first metal mid-plate 211 and the second metal mid-plate 221 respectively.

[0079] The hinge assembly 30 for the foldable electronic device described above will be described in detail below in the embodiments of this application.

[0080] Combination Figure 5As shown, the hinge assembly 30 may include: a main spindle mechanism 31, and two rotating mechanisms 32 located on both sides of the main spindle mechanism 31 and rotatably connected to the main spindle mechanism 31. See also... Figure 5 As shown, the two rotating mechanisms 32 can be symmetrically arranged relative to the main shaft mechanism 31. The two rotating mechanisms 32 can move along... Figure 5 The two dashed arrows in the diagram rotate relative to the main spindle mechanism 31, for example, see [link to example]. Figure 6 As shown, when the two rotating mechanisms 32 are in the folded state, they can face each other; when the two rotating mechanisms 32 are in the unfolded state, they are back to back relative to the main shaft mechanism 31.

[0081] See Figure 7 As shown, when each rotating mechanism 32 is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism 31, the rotating mechanism 32 and the main shaft mechanism 31 can be detachably connected.

[0082] See Figure 8 As shown, each rotating mechanism 32 may include a connector 321 and a support 323. The support 323 is used to support the third display area 13 of the first display screen 10. One end of the connector 321 in each rotating mechanism 32 is fixedly connected to the first structural member 21 and the second connector 321 respectively. The support 323 is located close to the main shaft mechanism 31. The connector 321 is located at the end of the support 323 away from the main shaft mechanism 31, and the connector 321 is rotatably connected to the support 323.

[0083] In this embodiment of the application, the number of connectors 321 can be one or more, for example... Figure 8 In this design, each rotating mechanism has three connecting members 321, which can be spaced apart along the axial direction of the main shaft mechanism 31. The support member 323 can be a support plate extending along the axial direction of the main shaft mechanism 31.

[0084] In some studies, see Figure 9 As shown, the other end of the connector 321 is rotatably connected to one end of the gear connecting rod 322a, and the other end of the gear connecting rod 322a is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism 31. To ensure higher angle control accuracy and smoother operation of the support member 323 during folding and unfolding, see... Figure 9As shown, a cylindrical pin 322b is provided on the gear connecting rod 322a, and an arc-shaped track groove 323a is provided on the support member 323. The cylindrical pin 322b moves in the arc-shaped track groove 323a as the rotating mechanism 32 rotates. However, when the cylindrical pin 322b moves in the arc-shaped track groove 323a, since there is a line contact between the cylindrical pin 322b and the arc-shaped track groove 323a, the cylindrical pin 322b and the arc-shaped track groove 323a are in a high-pair fit. Thus, during the movement of the support member 323, there is a large amount of play between the cylindrical pin 322b and the arc-shaped track groove 323a, resulting in poor control accuracy of the rotation angle of the support member 323 when the cylindrical pin 322b drives the support member 323 during movement. In addition, there is a cam fit between the gear connecting rod 322a and the main shaft mechanism 31, which causes the support member 323 to be unstable during movement.

[0085] To address the aforementioned issues, this embodiment of the application includes a swing member 322, with a linear groove 3231 on one of the support member 323 and the swing member 322, and a sliding member 3221 on the other. The groove 3231 has closed ends along the sliding direction of the sliding member 3221. This replaces the high-pair fit between the cylindrical pin 322b and the arc-shaped track groove 323a with a low-pair fit between the linear groove 3231 and the sliding member 3221. This reduces the play between the groove 3231 and the sliding member 3221, resulting in higher angle control precision for the support member 323, and ensuring the support member 323 moves into position in both unfolded and folded states.

[0086] Furthermore, the two ends of the slide groove 3231 are closed, so the slide groove 3231 and the sliding member 3221 cooperate with each other, so that when the electronic device is in the unfolded state, the support member 323 overlaps the inner shaft 312 of the main shaft mechanism 31 (see Figure 12 This ensures better screen flatness in the area corresponding to the hinge assembly when the electronic device is in the unfolded state.

[0087] Furthermore, since the swing member 322 is a passively stressed component, its movement is smooth. Consequently, when the support member 323 is attached to the swing member 322, its movement is also smoother. Therefore, the foldable electronic device provided in this application embodiment achieves smooth movement of the support mechanism during unfolding or folding, ensuring higher precision in controlling the angle of the support mechanism and enabling the foldable electronic device to move into position in both unfolded and folded working states.

[0088] The rotating mechanism 32 provided in the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below.

[0089] See Figure 10As shown, the rotating mechanism 32 also includes a swing member 322, one end of which is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism 31, and the other end of which is rotatably connected to the connecting member 321.

[0090] One of the support member 323 and the swing member 322 is provided with a linear groove 3231, and the other is provided with a sliding member 3221. For example, see Figure 10 As shown, the support member 323 has a straight groove 3231, for example, the groove 3231 is a straight groove. The swing member 322 has a slider 3221, and the slider 3221 moves in the groove 3231 during the swinging process of the swing member 322. Since the groove 3231 is straight and not arc-shaped, when the slider 3221 moves in the groove 3231, the slider 3221 moves along the straight groove wall of the groove 3231. This achieves a low-pair motion between the slider 3221 and the groove 3231. Figure 9 Compared to the high-pair motion shown in the previous embodiment, in this application embodiment, the low-pair cooperation between the swing member 322 and the support member 323 through the linear slide groove and the sliding member 3221 reduces the play when the sliding member 3221 moves in the slide groove 3231. During the folding and unfolding process, the angle control accuracy of the support member 323 is higher. In addition, the swing member 322 is a passively force-bearing part, and the movement process is smooth. When the support member 323 is attached to the swing member 322, the movement is also more stable.

[0091] Additionally, see Figure 10 As shown, the two ends of the slide groove 3231 along the sliding direction of the slider 3221 are closed ends. For example, the top and bottom ends of the slide groove 3231 are closed, and the slider 3221 is inside the slide groove 3231 and cannot slide out of the slide groove 3231.

[0092] By setting both ends of the slide groove 3231 as closed ends, the slide groove 3231 and the slider 3221 are mutually limited, so that when the electronic device is in the unfolded state, the support 323 is attached to the main inner shaft of the main shaft mechanism 31, ensuring better screen flatness in the area corresponding to the hinge assembly when the electronic device is in the unfolded state.

[0093] Of course, in some examples, a groove 3231 can be provided on the swing member 322, and a slider 3221 can be provided on the support member 323.

[0094] In one possible implementation, see Figure 10 As shown, the support member 323 is provided with at least two opposing sliding grooves 3231, and a portion of the swing member 322 is located between the two sliding grooves 3231 (see...). Figure 12For example, one end of the swing member 322 is located within the main shaft mechanism 31, and the other end of the swing member 322 passes through the space between the two slide grooves 3231 and is connected to the connecting member 321. See also... Figure 10 As shown, sliding members 3221 are provided on both sides of the swing member 322.

[0095] Among them, see Figure 10 As shown, at least two opposing protrusions 3233 are provided on one side of the support member 323, and a groove 3231 is formed on the protrusion 3233. The protrusion 3233 is formed by a through groove along the axial direction of the main shaft mechanism 31 to form the groove 3231. For example, the groove 3231 passes through the axial direction of the main shaft mechanism 31 and is closed at both ends in the movement of the sliding member 3221.

[0096] In this embodiment, to facilitate the movement of the slider 3221 within the slide groove 3231 as the swing member 322 rotates, the slide groove 3231 is inclined towards the connector 321. See also Figure 10 As shown, the slide 3231 is an inclined straight slide, and the slide 3231 and the support member 323 form an angle of less than 90°. The size of the angle is set according to the actual needs.

[0097] The protrusion 3233 and the support member 323 can be an integral structure.

[0098] In one possible implementation, see Figure 12 As shown, the chute 3231 includes at least two opposing and parallel planar groove walls, such as planar groove wall 3231b and planar groove wall 3231a, with two opposing end groove walls between the two ends of planar groove wall 3231b and planar groove wall 3231a.

[0099] By including two opposing planar groove walls in the slide groove 3231, it is ensured that the two groove walls of the slide groove 3231 are straight. This reduces the play when the slider 3221 moves on the planar groove walls, thus ensuring higher angle control accuracy of the support 323.

[0100] In the embodiments of this application, see Figure 12 As shown, the two end walls located between the planar groove wall 3231b and the planar groove wall 3231a can both be arc-shaped groove walls.

[0101] In this embodiment, the planar groove wall 3231b, the planar groove wall 3231a, and the two end groove walls form a continuous annular groove 3231. For example, see... Figure 12 As shown, the slide 3231 is a closed, elongated annular groove.

[0102] In this embodiment of the application, when both ends of the slide groove 3231 are closed, in order to facilitate the assembly of the sliding member 3221 in the slide groove 3231, see [reference needed]. Figure 11 As shown, the sliding member 3221 is a cylindrical pin that passes through the swing member. See [reference needed] Figure 12 As shown, the two ends of the cylindrical pin are located in two opposite grooves 3231. This facilitates the assembly of the sliding component 3221 within the grooves 3231.

[0103] In the embodiments of this application, see Figure 11 As shown, the oscillating member 322 has a first rotating part 3224 at one end facing the main shaft mechanism 31. The outer edges of the first rotating part 3224 have arc surfaces 3225. The main shaft mechanism 31 has an arc part 3112 that rotatably engages with the arc surfaces 3225 (see Figure 1). Figure 12 The main spindle mechanism 31 is rotatably connected to the main spindle mechanism 31 via the first rotating part 3224; the other end of the swing member 322 has a second rotating part 3226, and the second rotating part 3226 is connected to the connecting member 321 via a pin 325 (see below). Figure 15 and Figure 16 Rotational connection.

[0104] See Figure 12 As shown, the main spindle mechanism 31 may include an inner spindle 312 and a plurality of outer spindles 311. The inner spindle 312 and the outer spindles 311 are connected. The first rotating part 3224 of the swing member 322 is rotatably connected to the main spindle mechanism 31 by the definition of the inner spindle 312 and the outer spindles 311. For example, an arc portion 3112 is defined between the inner spindle 312 and the outer spindles 311, and the first rotating part 3224 of the swing member 322 can rotate around the arc portion 3112.

[0105] See Figure 12 As shown, when the support member 323 and the main shaft mechanism 31 are in the unfolded state (i.e., the electronic device is in the unfolded state), the sliding member 3221 abuts against the planar groove wall 3231b. Furthermore, when the support member 323 and the main shaft mechanism 31 are in the flattened state, since both ends of the groove 3231 are closed, the sliding member 3221 lifts the groove 3231, allowing the support member 323 to overlap the inner shaft 312, ensuring better screen flatness in the area corresponding to the hinge assembly when the electronic device is in the unfolded state.

[0106] See also Figure 12As shown, when the support member 323 and the main shaft mechanism 31 are in the folded state (i.e., the electronic device is in the folded state), the sliding member 3221 is in contact with the planar groove wall 3231a. This ensures that when the electronic device is in the unfolded state, the sliding member 3221 can abut against the planar groove wall 3231b, ensuring that the support member 323 moves into position during the unfolding movement. When the electronic device is in the folded state, the sliding member 3221 abuts against another planar groove wall 3231a, ensuring that the support member 323 moves into position during the folding movement, thus achieving higher precision in controlling the angle of the support member 323.

[0107] In one possible implementation, the structure of the slider 3221 is not limited to... Figure 11 The cylinder shown, for example, see Figure 13 As shown in the embodiment of this application, the sliding member 3221 can be a wedge, with the thick end of the wedge (i.e. the end with a larger wedge thickness) facing the bottom of the groove 3231.

[0108] The slider 3221 has a first sliding plane 3222a that is respectively opposite to the two planar groove walls (see Figure 13 ) and the second sliding plane 3222b (see Figure 14 Furthermore, the extending directions of the first sliding plane 3222a and the second sliding plane 3222b intersect to form an angle; for example, the first sliding plane 3222a and the second sliding plane 3222b are not parallel. This ensures that the oscillating member 322 can move within the slide groove 3231 during rotation.

[0109] In the embodiments of this application, see Figure 13 As shown, the end of the wedge block facing the bottom of the groove 3231 is an arc-shaped surface 3223, see [reference]. Figure 14 The end wall of the slide groove 3231 is an arc-shaped wall that matches the arc-shaped surface. This ensures that when the electronic device is in a folded state, the arc-shaped surface of the slider 3221 and the arc-shaped wall of the slide groove 3231 are in surface contact, which is less likely to cause problems such as excessive wear when there is point contact at some positions.

[0110] In the embodiments of this application, see Figure 14 As shown, when the support 323 and the main shaft mechanism 31 are in the unfolded state (i.e., the electronic device is in the unfolded state), the second sliding plane 3222b is in contact with the planar groove wall 3231b, and the first sliding plane 3222a and the planar groove wall 3434a form a first included angle.

[0111] When the support 323 and the main shaft mechanism 31 are in a folded state (i.e., the electronic device is in a folded state), the first sliding plane 3222a is in contact with the planar groove wall 3231a, and the second sliding plane 3222b forms a second included angle with the planar groove wall 3231b. It should be noted that the first included angle and the second included angle can be equal, and the specific angle size is set according to the actual needs.

[0112] By having two sliding planes cooperate with the two planar groove walls of the slide groove 3231, it is ensured that when the electronic device is in the unfolded state, the second sliding plane 3222b can abut against the planar groove wall 3231b, ensuring that the support member 323 moves into position during the unfolding movement. When the electronic device is in the folded state, the first sliding plane 3222a abuts against the other planar groove wall 3231a, ensuring that the support member 323 moves into position during the folding movement, thus achieving higher precision in controlling the angle of the support member 323.

[0113] In this embodiment of the application, when the connector 321 and the support 323 are rotatably coupled, please refer to... Figure 15 As shown, the support member 323 has multiple virtual axes 3234, and the connector 321 has an arc-shaped groove 3211 that mates with the virtual axes 3234. The support member 323 and the connector 321 are rotatably connected through the engagement of the virtual axes 3234 and the arc-shaped groove 3211.

[0114] For example, participate Figure 16 As shown, when the electronic device is in the unfolded state, one end of the virtual axis 3234 of the support member 323 is located in the arc groove 3211 on the connector 321, and there is additional space in the arc groove 3211. When the electronic device is in the folded state, the virtual axis 3234 of the support member 323 moves in the arc groove 3211 on the connector 321. Through the rotational engagement between the arc groove 3211 and the virtual axis 3234, the connector 321 and the support member 323 are rotatedly connected. In this way, the movement of the support member 323 depends on the connector 321 and the swing member 322. The swing member 322 is a passive force-bearing member and moves smoothly. Thus, the support member 323, which depends on the connector 321 and the swing member 322, moves smoothly.

[0115] In the embodiments of this application, see Figure 17 As shown, each rotating mechanism 32 also includes at least one linkage element 324. It should be noted that... Figure 17 Only one linkage component 324 is shown in the figure. In actual assembly, the number of linkage components 324 can be consistent with the number of connecting components 321. For example, when there are two connecting components 321, the number of linkage components 324 can also be two.

[0116] One end of the linkage 324 is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism 31, and the other end of the linkage 324 is rotatably engaged with the support member 323. For example, see Figure 17 As shown, the support member 323 has an arc-shaped track groove 3232, see [reference]. Figure 18 As shown, a pin hole 3243 is provided on the linkage 324. (See attached image) Figure 19 As shown, the linkage 324 and the support 323 are rotatably connected by a cylindrical pin 326 passing through a pin hole 3243 and an arc-shaped track groove 3232.

[0117] By setting at least one linkage component 324 and an arc-shaped trajectory groove 3232, the movement of the support component 323 is redundantly controlled, thereby reducing the angular misalignment of the support component 323 and ensuring the angular control accuracy of the support component 323.

[0118] See Figure 20 As shown, one end of the linkage 324 has a first gear 3241, which is rotatably connected to the main shaft mechanism 31 via a rotating shaft 3244. The main shaft mechanism 31 has two meshing second gears, such as a second gear 313 and a second gear 314. The second gear 313 meshes with the first gear 3241, and the second gear 314 meshes with the first gear 3241 of the linkage 324 in another rotating mechanism 32.

[0119] It should be noted that, see Figure 20 As shown, a portion of the outer surface of the first gear 3241 is provided with a tooth structure 3242. Of course, in some examples, the entire outer surface of the first gear 3241 may also be provided with a tooth structure 3242.

[0120] See Figure 20 As shown, when the electronic device is in the unfolded state, the cylindrical pin 326 is located at one end of the arc-shaped track groove 3232. When the electronic device is in the folded state, the cylindrical pin 326 moves to the other end of the arc-shaped track groove 3232 during rotation. The linkage 324 drives the second gear to rotate via the first gear 3241 during rotation. The two first gears 3241 on both sides achieve synchronous rotation via the second gear 313 and the second gear 314, thus ensuring that the rotating parts on both sides of the main shaft mechanism 31 can rotate synchronously.

[0121] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0122] The devices or elements referred to in the embodiments of this application or implied herein must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of this application. In the description of the embodiments of this application, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise precisely specified.

[0123] The terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," etc. (if present) in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that embodiments of the present application described herein can be implemented, for example, in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.

[0124] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although the embodiments of this application have been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A hinge assembly, characterized by The hinge assembly comprises: a main shaft mechanism, and a first rotating mechanism and a second rotating mechanism located on both sides of the main shaft mechanism; the first rotating mechanism comprises a first support, a first connecting piece, a first swing piece and a first linkage; the first connecting piece is rotationally connected with the first support; one end of the first swing piece is rotationally connected with the main shaft mechanism, and the other end of the first swing piece is rotationally connected with the first connecting piece; one end of the first linkage is rotationally connected with the main shaft mechanism, and the other end of the first linkage is rotationally connected with the first support; the first support is provided with a first sliding groove, the first swing piece is provided with a first sliding piece, the first sliding piece is in sliding connection with the first sliding groove, and the two ends of the first sliding groove along the sliding direction of the first sliding piece are closed ends; the second rotating mechanism comprises a second support, a second connecting piece, a second swing piece and a second linkage; the second connecting piece is rotationally connected with the second support; one end of the second swing piece is rotationally connected with the main shaft mechanism, and the other end of the second swing piece is rotationally connected with the second connecting piece; one end of the second linkage is rotationally connected with the main shaft mechanism, and the other end of the second linkage is rotationally connected with the second support; the second support is provided with a second sliding groove, the second swing piece is provided with a second sliding piece, the second sliding piece is in sliding connection with the second sliding groove, and the two ends of the second sliding groove along the sliding direction of the second sliding piece are closed ends.

2. The hinge assembly of claim 1, wherein, When the hinge assembly is in the unfolded state, the first support has a first support surface, the first sliding groove is located on the surface of the first support away from the first support surface, the distance between the first end of the first sliding groove and the main shaft mechanism is greater than the distance between the second end of the first sliding groove and the main shaft mechanism, and the distance between the first end of the first sliding groove and the first support surface is greater than the distance between the second end of the first sliding groove and the first support surface; When the hinge assembly is in the unfolded state, the second support has a second support surface, the second sliding groove is located on the surface of the second support away from the second support surface, the distance between the first end of the second sliding groove and the main shaft mechanism is greater than the distance between the second end of the second sliding groove and the main shaft mechanism, and the distance between the first end of the second sliding groove and the second support surface is greater than the distance between the second end of the second sliding groove and the second support surface.

3. The hinge assembly of claim 1, wherein, The first sliding groove comprises at least two opposite and parallel first plane groove walls and two opposite first end groove walls located between the two first plane groove walls; the second sliding groove comprises at least two opposite and parallel second plane groove walls and two opposite second end groove walls located between the two second plane groove walls.

4. The hinge assembly of claim 3, wherein, The first end groove wall is an arc-shaped groove wall, and the second end groove wall is an arc-shaped groove wall.

5. A hinge assembly according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, The two first plane groove walls and the two first end groove walls enclose a continuous annular first sliding groove; the two second plane groove walls and the two second end groove walls enclose a continuous annular second sliding groove.

6. The hinge assembly of any of claims 1-4, wherein, The first support piece is provided with at least two opposite first protrusions on one side, and the first protrusions are provided with the first sliding grooves; The second support piece is provided with at least two opposite second protrusions on one side, and the second protrusions are provided with the second sliding grooves.

7. The hinge assembly of claim 5, wherein, The first support piece is provided with at least two opposite first protrusions on one side, and the first protrusions are provided with the first sliding grooves; The second support piece is provided with at least two opposite second protrusions on one side, and the second protrusions are provided with the second sliding grooves.

8. The hinge assembly of claim 6, wherein, The first sliding grooves are inclined towards the first connecting piece; The second sliding grooves are inclined towards the second connecting piece.

9. The hinge assembly of any one of claims 1-4, or claims 7 or 8, wherein, The first sliding piece is a first cylindrical pin arranged on the first swing piece, and two ends of the first cylindrical pin are respectively located in two opposite first sliding grooves; The second sliding piece is a second cylindrical pin arranged on the second swing piece, and two ends of the second cylindrical pin are respectively located in two opposite second sliding grooves.

10. The hinge assembly of any one of claims 1-4, or claims 7 or 8, wherein, The first swing piece is provided with a first rotating part at one end thereof towards the main shaft mechanism, the two outer edges of the first rotating part are provided with arc surfaces, the main shaft mechanism is provided with arc parts which are rotationally matched with the arc surfaces, and the main shaft mechanism is rotationally connected with the main shaft mechanism through the first rotating part. The other end of the first swing piece is provided with a second rotating part, and the second rotating part is rotationally connected with the first connecting piece. The second swing piece is provided with a third rotating part at one end thereof towards the main shaft mechanism, the two outer edges of the third rotating part are provided with arc surfaces, the main shaft mechanism is provided with arc parts which are rotationally matched with the arc surfaces, and the main shaft mechanism is rotationally connected with the main shaft mechanism through the first rotating part. The other end of the second swing piece is provided with a fourth rotating part, and the fourth rotating part is rotationally connected with the second connecting piece.

11. The hinge assembly of claim 1, wherein, The first support piece is provided with a first arc-shaped track groove, the first linkage piece is rotationally connected with the first support piece through a third cylindrical pin matched with the first arc-shaped track groove; The second support piece is provided with a second arc-shaped track groove, and the second linkage piece is rotationally connected with the second support piece through a fourth cylindrical pin matched with the second arc-shaped track groove.

12. The hinge assembly of claim 11, wherein, When the hinge assembly is in an unfolded state, the third cylindrical pin is located at a first end of the first arc-shaped track groove, and the fourth cylindrical pin is located at a first end of the second arc-shaped track groove; when the hinge assembly is in a folded state, the third cylindrical pin is located at a second end of the first arc-shaped track groove, and the fourth cylindrical pin is located at a second end of the second arc-shaped track groove; the distance between the first end of the first arc-shaped track groove and the main shaft mechanism is greater than the distance between the second end of the first arc-shaped track groove and the main shaft mechanism, and the distance between the first end of the second arc-shaped track groove and the main shaft mechanism is greater than the distance between the second end of the second arc-shaped track groove and the main shaft mechanism.

13. The hinge assembly of claim 12, wherein, The first linkage piece is slidingly connected with the first support piece, and the second linkage piece is slidingly connected with the second support piece.

14. The hinge assembly of claim 1, wherein, One end of the first linkage has a first gear, which is connected to the main shaft mechanism through a rotating shaft, and the main shaft mechanism has two second gears which are meshed with each other, and the second gears are meshed with the first gear; One end of the second linkage has a third gear, which is connected to the main shaft mechanism through a rotating shaft, and the third gear is meshed with the second gears.

15. The hinge assembly of any one of claims 1-4, or 7 or 8, or any one of claims 11-14, wherein, The first support has a plurality of virtual shafts, and the first connecting member has arc-shaped grooves matched with the virtual shafts, so that the first support and the first connecting member are connected through the virtual shafts and the arc-shaped grooves. The second support has a plurality of virtual shafts, and the second connecting member has arc-shaped grooves matched with the virtual shafts, so that the second support and the second connecting member are connected through the virtual shafts and the arc-shaped grooves.

16. A foldable electronic device, comprising: At least comprising: a first structural member, a second structural member, and the hinge assembly of any one of claims 1-15; The first structural member and the second structural member are respectively located on two sides of the hinge assembly, and the first structural member and the second structural member are respectively fixedly connected with the connecting members in the hinge assembly.

17. The electronic device of claim 16, wherein, The electronic device further comprises a battery cover and a foldable first display screen; the battery cover and the first display screen are respectively located on the two side surfaces of the hinge assembly, the first structural member and the second structural member.

18. The foldable electronic device of claim 17, wherein, Further comprising: a second display screen, the first display screen is located on one side surface of the hinge assembly, the first structural member and the second structural member, and the second display screen and the battery cover are respectively located on the other side surface of the first structural member and the second structural member.

Images