Rotating shaft mechanism and foldable electronic equipment

Abstract

The invention provides a rotating shaft mechanism and foldable electronic equipment, relates to the technical field of foldable electronic equipment, and in the whole folding and unfolding process of the foldable electronic equipment, a supporting piece of the rotating shaft mechanism can provide support for a foldable screen. The rotating shaft mechanism comprises a base, a first rotating shaft, a first swing arm, a first matching piece, a second matching piece and a supporting piece. The first rotating shaft is arranged in the base, the first swing arm can rotate relative to the base, the first swing arm comprises a first rotating end, and the first rotating end is connected to the first rotating shaft. The first matching piece comprises a first connecting part and a pushing part, the first rotating shaft is sleeved with the first connecting part, the first connecting part is matched with the first rotating end, and when the first swing arm rotates, the first rotating end can drive the first matching piece to move in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft. The first matching piece and the second matching piece are arranged in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft, and in the rotating process of the first swing arm, the first matching piece moves in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft so as to push the second matching piece to move in the thickness direction of the base.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of foldable electronic device technology, and more particularly to a pivot mechanism and a foldable electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] When the foldable electronic device is in the unfolded position, the foldable screen is flat; when the foldable electronic device is in the folded position, the bent part of the foldable screen is folded into a teardrop-shaped structure. When the foldable electronic device rotates between the unfolded and folded positions, the foldable screen switches between the flat state and the teardrop shape.

[0003] The foldable electronic device also includes a support member for supporting the bent portion of the foldable screen. When the foldable electronic device is in the unfolded position, the support member moves upward to support the flat foldable screen. When the foldable electronic device is in the folded position, the support member moves downward to make way for a receiving space, which is used to receive the "teardrop" shaped foldable screen.

[0004] However, during the rotation of foldable electronic devices, the synchronization between the movement of the support components and the bending deformation of the folding screen is poor. The support components are prone to gaps with the folding screen, resulting in a lack of effective support for the bent part of the folding screen, which in turn affects the display effect and lifespan of the folding screen. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Embodiments of this application provide a hinge mechanism and a foldable electronic device. During the entire process of folding and unfolding the foldable electronic device, the support member of the hinge mechanism can provide support for the foldable screen.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the embodiments of this application adopt the following technical solutions:

[0007] In a first aspect, some embodiments of this application provide a rotating shaft mechanism, which includes a base, a first rotating shaft, a first swing arm, a first mating member, a second mating member, and a support member. The first rotating shaft is disposed within the base, and the first swing arm is rotatable relative to the base. The first swing arm includes a first rotating end connected to the first rotating shaft.

[0008] The first mating component includes a first connecting portion and a pushing portion. The first connecting portion is sleeved on the first rotating shaft and adapted to the first rotating end. During the rotation of the first swing arm, the first rotating end can drive the first mating component to move axially along the first rotating shaft. The first mating component and the second mating component are arranged axially along the first rotating shaft, and the second mating component can move in the thickness direction of the base.

[0009] The support member is fixedly connected to the second mating member. The support member has a mating surface facing away from the second mating member, which is used to mate a portion of the folding screen. During the rotation of the first swing arm, the first mating member moves axially along the first pivot axis to push the second mating member to move along the thickness direction of the base.

[0010] In this way, the rotation of the first swing arm, through the cooperation of the first and second mating parts, drives the support member to move along the thickness direction of the base, resulting in a high degree of synchronization between the movement of the first swing arm and the movement of the support member. During the rotation of the first swing arm between the unfolded and folded positions, the support member provides good support for the foldable screen, preventing gaps between the support member and the foldable screen. Furthermore, this improves the display effect and lifespan of the foldable screen.

[0011] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the first swing arm rotates relative to the base between an unfolded position and a folded position. When the first swing arm is in the unfolded position, the second mating member is in a first position, and the vertical distance from the support member to the base along the thickness direction of the base is a first distance. When the first swing arm is in the folded position, the second mating member is in a second position, and the vertical distance from the support member to the base along the thickness direction of the base is a second distance. The first distance is greater than the second distance.

[0012] In this way, when the first swing arm is in the unfolded position, the support member can support the folded screen in its flat state. When the first swing arm is in the folded state, the support member can support the folded screen in its teardrop shape. Furthermore, as the first swing arm rotates between the folded and unfolded states, the movement of the support member can adapt to the bending deformation of the folded screen, ensuring that the support member can provide support for the folded screen throughout the entire process of switching between the flat and teardrop shapes.

[0013] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the pushing part includes a first wedge-shaped surface facing the second mating member. In this way, the rotating shaft mechanism achieves force transmission and direction conversion by means of the wedge-shaped engagement between the first and second mating members. Specifically, the engagement between the first wedge-shaped surface and the second mating member converts the axial movement of the first mating member along the first rotating shaft into sliding of the second mating member along the thickness direction of the base.

[0014] Furthermore, the pusher unit features a wedge-shaped block structure, which is simple in design and easy to manufacture. This simple structure also facilitates installation, reducing the required assembly precision and making the installation process more intuitive and straightforward, thus minimizing installation time and technical requirements. The simple wedge-shaped block design of the pusher unit eliminates the need for a large space in the base to accommodate it, thereby improving the space utilization of the rotating shaft mechanism.

[0015] Furthermore, the first and second mating components employ a wedge-shaped mating method, resulting in smoother relative movement between them and providing a better user experience. Moreover, by adjusting the shape of the first wedge-shaped surface, the movement of the second mating component along the thickness of the base can be adjusted, thereby adapting to the bending deformation process of different folding screens and ensuring that the support component provides good support for the folding screen.

[0016] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the second mating component includes a second wedge-shaped surface facing the pushing part, and the first wedge-shaped surface is adapted to the second wedge-shaped surface. This results in a simple structure for the second mating component, facilitating its manufacturing. Furthermore, the simple structure of the second mating component also facilitates its installation, reducing assembly precision requirements and making the installation process more intuitive and simple, thus reducing installation time and technical requirements. The wedge-shaped block design of the second mating component eliminates the need for a large space in the base to accommodate it, thereby improving the space utilization of the rotating shaft mechanism.

[0017] Furthermore, when the first mating component and the second mating component move relative to each other, the first wedge-shaped surface abuts against and slides relative to the second wedge-shaped surface, making the movement between the first mating component and the second mating component smoother and thus improving the user experience. The relative stress between the first mating component and the second mating component is distributed to the first wedge-shaped surface and the second wedge-shaped surface, reducing local wear on the first mating component and the second mating component.

[0018] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the rotating shaft mechanism further includes a first elastic element for applying an elastic force to the second mating member, causing the second mating member to abut against the pushing part. Thus, when the first mating member moves away from the second mating member along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft, the first elastic element applies an elastic force to the second mating member, causing the second mating member to move closer to the first mating member along the thickness direction of the base. This facilitates the resetting of the second mating member.

[0019] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the first elastic element is located between the support and the base. This simplifies the arrangement of the first elastic element; the elastic force generated by the elastic deformation of the first elastic element acts directly on the support, which then transmits the elastic force to the second mating element, ensuring that the first and second mating elements remain in contact, facilitating the repositioning of the support.

[0020] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the first wedge-shaped surface is located on the side of the second wedge-shaped surface closer to the support member. When the first swing arm rotates from the unfolded position to the folded position, the first mating member slides along the axial direction of the first pivot axis toward the second mating member, so that the second mating member moves down from the first position to the second position. The wedge-shaped mating method between the first and second mating members results in smoother relative movement between them, providing a better user experience.

[0021] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, when the first swing arm is in the folded position, the first elastic member is in a compressed state. When the first swing arm rotates from the folded position to the unfolded position, the first mating member slides away from the second mating member along the axial direction of the first pivot, and the first elastic member applies an elastic force to the second mating member that moves from the second position to the first position.

[0022] In this way, during the rotation of the first swing arm between the folded and unfolded states, the first and second mating parts remain in contact under the elastic force of the first elastic element, facilitating the reset of the support component. Furthermore, this improves the synchronization between the rotation of the first swing arm and the movement of the support component, preventing the support component from jamming during the rotation of the first swing arm.

[0023] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the first wedge surface is located on the side of the second wedge surface away from the support. When the first swing arm rotates from the folded position to the unfolded position, the first mating member slides along the axial direction of the first pivot axis toward the second mating member, so that the second mating member moves from the second position to the first position.

[0024] During the rotation of the first swing arm relative to the base, the first rotating end engages with the first connecting part. The rotation of the first rotating end pushes the first connecting part to move axially along the first rotating shaft. The movement of the first connecting part causes the pushing part to move closer to or further away from the second mating member along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft. The movement of the pushing part along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft causes the second mating member to move along the thickness direction of the base (Z-axis direction in the figure), and the support member moves along the thickness direction of the base with the second mating member.

[0025] In this way, the rotation of the first swing arm, through the cooperation of the first and second mating parts, drives the support member to move along the thickness direction of the base, resulting in a high degree of synchronization between the movement of the first swing arm and the movement of the support member. During the rotation of the first swing arm between the unfolded and folded positions, the support member provides good support for the foldable screen, preventing gaps between the support member and the foldable screen. Furthermore, this improves the display effect and lifespan of the foldable screen.

[0026] In this way, the mating method between the first mating part and the second mating part is more flexible, which is conducive to improving the flexibility of the layout of components in the rotating shaft mechanism and selecting different mating methods according to different application scenarios.

[0027] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, when the first swing arm is in the extended position, the first elastic member is in a stretched state. When the first swing arm rotates from the extended position to the folded position, the first mating member slides away from the second mating member along the axial direction of the first pivot, and the first elastic member applies an elastic force to the second mating member from the first position to the second position.

[0028] In this way, during the rotation of the first swing arm between the folded and unfolded states, the first and second mating parts remain in contact under the elastic force of the first elastic element, facilitating the reset of the support component. Furthermore, this improves the synchronization between the rotation of the first swing arm and the movement of the support component, preventing the support component from jamming during the rotation of the first swing arm.

[0029] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the first wedge surface is an inclined plane. When the first swing arm rotates between the folded and unfolded positions, the faster the folding screen bends, the faster the support member needs to adapt to the bending deformation speed of the folding screen, and the faster the support member slides. In this case, the first and second wedge surfaces are set with a large tilt angle. Conversely, the slower the folding screen bends, the slower the support member needs to adapt to the bending deformation speed of the folding screen, and the slower the support member slides. In this case, the first and second wedge surfaces are set with a small tilt angle.

[0030] In this way, the processing of the first wedge surface is simple, making it easy to produce a high-precision first wedge surface. By processing first wedge surfaces of different shapes, different folding screens can be adapted, thus allowing the movement of the support component to adapt to the bending deformation of the folding screen. During the rotation of the first swing arm, the support component remains in contact with the folding screen, thereby maintaining its supporting function.

[0031] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the angle between the plane containing the first wedge-shaped surface and the plane containing the bonding surface is greater than or equal to 30 degrees and less than or equal to 60 degrees. When the angle between the plane containing the first wedge-shaped surface and the plane containing the bonding surface is within the above range, the sliding of the support member can accommodate a variety of types of folding screens. During the rotation of the first swing arm, the support member remains in contact with the folding screen, thereby maintaining support for the folding screen. Furthermore, this improves the display effect and lifespan of the folding screen.

[0032] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the first wedge surface is a curved surface, and the second wedge surface is a curved surface adapted to the first wedge surface. This allows for greater diversity in the surface shapes of the first and second wedge surfaces, making the surface design more flexible and adaptable to a wider range of application scenarios.

[0033] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the first wedge surface is a curved surface convex toward the second wedge surface, and the second wedge surface is a curved surface convex toward the first wedge surface. With the same displacement distance of the first mating member, the first mating member can push the second mating member to move a greater distance, and the movement of the support member can be achieved through the first and second mating members with a smaller volume.

[0034] Furthermore, when the pushing part moves axially along the first rotating shaft, the first wedge surface abuts against the second wedge surface to push the second mating part to slide along the thickness direction of the base. When the curved first wedge surface and the curved second wedge surface mate, the sliding speed of the second mating part along the thickness direction of the base is faster, thus adapting to folding screens with faster bending speeds.

[0035] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the first wedge surface is a curved surface convex toward the second wedge surface, and the second wedge surface is a curved surface concave away from the first wedge surface. This allows for greater variety in the surface shapes of the first and second wedge surfaces, making the surface design more flexible and adaptable to a wider range of application scenarios.

[0036] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, one of the base and the support has a limiting hole, and the other has a limiting post. The limiting hole and the limiting post are adapted to each other, and the length direction of the limiting post is parallel to the thickness direction of the base. In this way, when the support moves between the first position and the second position, the cooperation between the limiting post and the limiting hole can ensure that the support moves along the thickness direction of the base, thereby improving the movement accuracy of the support.

[0037] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, sliding friction exists between the first and second mating parts. Specifically, when the damping force of the shaft mechanism is insufficient, the shaft mechanism can provide the required damping force by means of the friction between the first and second mating parts. For example, the friction coefficients of the first and second wedge surfaces are higher to increase the friction when the first and second mating parts slide relative to each other, thereby increasing the damping force of the shaft mechanism.

[0038] For example, the coefficient of friction of the first wedge surface is greater than or equal to 0.3, such as 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, or 0.7. This increases the frictional force when the first and second mating parts slide relative to each other, thereby increasing the damping force of the rotating shaft mechanism.

[0039] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the first mating part and the second mating part have rolling friction to reduce the frictional force when the first mating part and the second mating part slide relative to each other, so as to avoid the movement between the first mating part and the second mating part affecting the user's feel and improve the user experience.

[0040] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, at least one of the first mating member and the second mating member has a ball, which is disposed on the first wedge surface or the second wedge surface. When the first mating member and the second mating member slide relative to each other, the first wedge surface and the second wedge surface achieve rolling contact by means of the ball.

[0041] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the first connecting portion includes a first helical end face facing the first rotating end, and the first rotating end includes a second helical end face adapted to the first helical end face.

[0042] When the first rotating end rotates, the second helical end face rotates relative to the first helical end face, and the second helical end face abuts against the first helical end face, thereby pushing the first mating component to move axially along the first rotating shaft. The rotating shaft mechanism realizes the transmission and direction conversion of force by means of the helical engagement between the first swing arm and the first mating component, that is, the rotation of the first swing arm is converted into the movement of the first mating component along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft.

[0043] Furthermore, the first helical end face of the first connecting part and the second helical end face of the first swing arm have a simple structure and are easy to process. The rotation process of the helical engagement is smooth, providing users with a better user experience. Moreover, the rotating shaft mechanism adjusts the extension curves of the first and second helical end faces to adjust the moving speed of the first mating component along the first rotating shaft, thereby adapting to the bending deformation process of different folding screens and ensuring that the support component provides good support for the folding screen.

[0044] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the first connecting portion includes a first concave-convex end face facing the first rotating end, and the first rotating end includes a second concave-convex end face adapted to the first helical end face.

[0045] In this way, when the first rotating end rotates, the second concave-convex end face rotates relative to the first concave-convex end face, and the second concave-convex end face abuts against the first concave-convex end face, thereby pushing the first mating member to move axially along the first rotating shaft. For example, when the first convex surface abuts against the second convex surface, the first mating member moves away from the first rotating end along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft; when the first convex surface abuts against the second concave surface, the first mating member moves closer to the first rotating end along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft.

[0046] The rotating shaft mechanism achieves force transmission and direction conversion through the interlocking of the first swing arm and the first mating component; that is, the rotation of the first swing arm is converted into the axial movement of the first mating component along the first rotating shaft. Furthermore, the first concave-convex end faces of the first connecting portion and the second concave-convex end faces of the first swing arm have a simple structure and are easy to manufacture.

[0047] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the limiting post includes a receiving space in which the first elastic member is located. This eliminates the need for the first elastic member to occupy additional space in the base, thus improving the space utilization of the base.

[0048] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the rotating shaft mechanism further includes a second rotating shaft and a second swing arm. The second rotating shaft is disposed within the base, and the second swing arm is rotatable relative to the base. The second swing arm includes a second rotating end connected to the second rotating shaft. The first mating member further includes a second connecting portion sleeved on the second rotating shaft and adapted to the second rotating end. A pushing portion is connected between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion. When one of the first and second swing arms rotates, the other of the first and second swing arms is driven to rotate synchronously by means of the first mating member.

[0049] In this way, the first mating component can both push the second mating component to move along the thickness direction of the base and enable the first and second swing arms to rotate synchronously. In other words, the first mating component combines the functions of the lifting structure and the synchronization mechanism into one, thereby reducing the number of components in the rotating shaft mechanism, i.e., reducing the axial space occupied by components in the rotating shaft mechanism, which helps to improve the space utilization of the rotating shaft mechanism.

[0050] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the rotating shaft mechanism further includes at least one second elastic member, which abuts against the side of the first connecting portion opposite to the first rotating end and is connected to the first rotating shaft. In this way, the first mating member, the second mating member, and the second elastic member can serve as a damping mechanism in the rotating shaft mechanism, wherein the first and second mating members can also serve as a lifting structure of the rotating shaft mechanism. That is, the first and second mating members integrate the functions of a damping mechanism and a lifting structure, thereby reducing the number of components in the rotating shaft mechanism, i.e., reducing the axial space occupied by components in the rotating shaft mechanism, which is beneficial to improving the space utilization rate of the rotating shaft mechanism.

[0051] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the second elastic member abuts against the side of the second connecting portion opposite to the second rotating end and is connected to the second rotating shaft.

[0052] Secondly, this application also provides a foldable electronic device, which includes a first housing, a second housing, a hinge mechanism, and a foldable screen. The hinge mechanism is any of the hinge mechanisms described in the above embodiments, and the hinge mechanism is connected between the first housing and the second housing.

[0053] The foldable screen includes a first display area, a second display area, and a third display area. The third display area is connected between the first display area and the second display area. The first display area is disposed on the first housing, the second display area is disposed on the second housing, and the third display area is disposed on the pivot mechanism. The mating surface of the support member is used to support the third display area.

[0054] Since the foldable electronic device provided in this application includes the support device of the above technical solution, the two can solve the same technical problem and achieve the same effect. Attached Figure Description

[0055] Figure 1 A perspective view of a foldable electronic device provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0056] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A partial exploded view of the foldable electronic device shown.

[0057] Figure 3 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the foldable electronic device in the folded position.

[0058] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of a rotating shaft mechanism provided in some embodiments of the related art, showing the rotation from the unfolded position to the folded position;

[0059] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a lifting structure provided for some embodiments of related technologies;

[0060] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of the rotating shaft mechanism provided for some embodiments of the related technology;

[0061] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0062] Figure 8 for Figure 7 Exploded view of the rotating shaft mechanism shown;

[0063] Figure 9 for Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the structure in which the first swing arm, the second swing arm, and the lifting structure cooperate in the rotating shaft mechanism shown;

[0064] Figure 10 for Figure 7The schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism shown is viewed from angle A1.

[0065] Figure 11 for Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism when it is rotated to the folded position;

[0066] Figure 12 for Figure 11 The schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism shown is viewed from angle A2.

[0067] Figure 13 Exploded view of the first swing arm and the first mating component provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0068] Figure 14 The following are motion diagrams of the lifting structure provided in some embodiments of this application as the first swing arm rotates, wherein, Figure a is a schematic diagram of the structure when the rotating shaft mechanism is in the unfolded position; and Figure b is a schematic diagram of the structure when the rotating shaft mechanism is in the folded position.

[0069] Figure 15 This application provides schematic diagrams illustrating the structure of a first mating component and a second mating component engaging in some embodiments.

[0070] Figure 16 for Figure 15 A schematic diagram of the structure of the first mating component;

[0071] Figure 17 for Figure 15 A schematic diagram of the structure of the second mating component;

[0072] Figure 18 for Figure 16 The diagram shows the motion state of the first and second mating parts as the first swing arm rotates from the unfolded state to the folded state. Figure a is a schematic diagram of the structure of the rotating shaft mechanism when it is in the unfolded position, and Figure b is a schematic diagram of the structure of the rotating shaft mechanism when it is in the folded position.

[0073] Figure 19 for Figure 16 The diagram shows the motion state of the first and second mating parts as the first swing arm rotates from the folded state to the unfolded state. Figure a is a schematic diagram of the structure of the rotating shaft mechanism when it is in the folded position, and Figure b is a schematic diagram of the structure of the rotating shaft mechanism when it is in the unfolded position.

[0074] Figure 20 This application provides schematic diagrams illustrating the structure of a first mating component and a second mating component engaging in some embodiments.

[0075] Figure 21 Schematic diagrams of the structure of the first mating component and the second mating component provided in other embodiments of this application;

[0076] Figure 22 A schematic diagram of the structure of the first mating component and the second mating component provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0077] Figure 23 A schematic diagram of the structure of the first mating component and the second mating component provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0078] Figure 24 This is a schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism from another perspective, provided in some embodiments of this application.

[0079] Figure 25 for Figure 24 A schematic diagram of the central pivot mechanism cut along line BB;

[0080] Figure 26 The following are motion state diagrams of the first mating member and the second mating member provided in other embodiments of this application as the first swing arm rotates from a folded state to an unfolded state. In the diagram, a is a structural schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism when it is in the folded position, and b is a structural schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism when it is in the unfolded position.

[0081] Figure 27 The following are motion state diagrams of the first mating member and the second mating member provided in other embodiments of this application as the first swing arm rotates from the unfolded state to the folded state. In the diagram, a is a schematic diagram of the structure of the rotating shaft mechanism when it is in the unfolded position, and b is a schematic diagram of the structure of the rotating shaft mechanism when it is in the folded position.

[0082] Figure Labels

[0083] 100. Electronic device; 10. Foldable screen; 11. First display area; 12. Second display area; 13. Third display area; 131. First transition segment; 132. Second transition segment; 133. Arc segment;

[0084] 20. Support device; 21. First housing; 22. Second housing;

[0085] 23. Rotating shaft mechanism; 231. Base; 231a. Limiting part; 23a. First rotating shaft; 232. First swing arm; 232a. First rotating end;

[0086] 23b. Second pivot; 233. First connector; 233a. First door panel; 234. Second swing arm; 234a. Second rotating end; 235. Support; 235a. Limiting post; 237. Second connector; 237a. Second door panel; 236c. Gear; 236d. Rack; 236e. Connecting rod;

[0087] 24. Lifting structure; 241. Elastic element; 24a. First mating part; 242. Pushing part; 242a. First wedge-shaped surface; 243. First connecting part; 244. Second connecting part; 245. First elastic element;

[0088] 24b, Second mating part; 24b1, Second wedge-shaped surface;

[0089] 25. Second elastic element;

[0090] W1, first position; W2, second position; L1, first distance; L2, second distance;

[0091] M1, first helical end face; M2, second helical end face. Detailed Implementation

[0092] In the embodiments of this application, the terms "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate examples, illustrations, or descriptions. Any embodiment or design described as "exemplary" or "for example" in the embodiments of this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or designs. Specifically, the use of terms such as "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner.

[0093] In the embodiments of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Thus, a feature defined with "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature.

[0094] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the term "at least one" means one or more, and "more than one" means two or more. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of a single item or a plurality of items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c can represent: a, b, c, ab, ac, bc, or abc, where a, b, and c can be a single item or multiple items.

[0095] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the term "and / or" refers to and covers any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. The term "and / or" describes an association relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this application generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0096] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "linking" can mean a detachable connection or a non-detachable connection; it can mean a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. The directional terms mentioned in the embodiments of this application, such as "inner," "outer," "upper," "lower," "left," and "right," are only for reference to the directions in the accompanying drawings. Therefore, the directional terms used are for better and clearer explanation and understanding of the embodiments of this application, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this application.

[0097] In the description of embodiments of this application, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes that element. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes that element.

[0098] The foldable electronic device in this application embodiment can be user equipment (UE) or terminal equipment, such as a portable Android device (PAD), personal digital assistant (PDA), handheld device with wireless communication function, computing device, in-vehicle device, wearable device, virtual reality (VR) terminal device, augmented reality (AR) terminal device, wireless terminal in industrial control, wireless terminal in self-driving, wireless terminal in remote medical, wireless terminal in smart grid, wireless terminal in transportation safety, wireless terminal in smart city, wireless terminal in smart home, etc. This application embodiment does not specifically limit the form of the foldable electronic device.

[0099] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 , Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the foldable electronic device 100 provided in some embodiments of this application in its unfolded position. Figure 2 for Figure 1 The diagram shows a partially exploded view of the foldable electronic device 100. This embodiment and the following embodiments are illustrated by using the foldable electronic device 100 as a handheld device with wireless communication capabilities, such as a mobile phone.

[0100] The foldable electronic device 100 is approximately rectangular flat in its unfolded position. For the convenience of the description of the embodiments below, an XYZ coordinate system is established for the foldable electronic device 100 in its unfolded position, defining the length direction of the foldable electronic device 100 as the X-axis direction, the width direction of the foldable electronic device 100 as the Y-axis direction, and the thickness direction of the foldable electronic device 100 as the Z-axis direction.

[0101] It is understood that the coordinate system of the foldable electronic device 100 can be flexibly set according to actual needs, and no specific limitation is made here. In some other embodiments, the shape of the foldable electronic device 100 may also be a square plate, a circular plate, an elliptical plate, etc.

[0102] The foldable electronic device 100 includes a foldable screen 10 and a support device 20.

[0103] The foldable screen 10 is used to display images, videos, and other information. The foldable screen 10 has a display area for displaying image information, and the display area of ​​the foldable screen 10 is exposed to facilitate the presentation of images, videos, and other information to the user. The foldable screen 10 includes a first display area 11, a second display area 12, and a third display area 13, with the third display area 13 connected between the first display area 11 and the second display area 12.

[0104] exist Figure 1 In the foldable electronic device 100 shown, the foldable screen 10 is in the unfolded position, and the first display area 11, the third display area 13, and the second display area 12 are arranged sequentially along the X-axis direction. In this way, the foldable electronic device 100 is folded horizontally.

[0105] In some other embodiments, when the foldable screen 10 is in the unfolded position, the first display area 11, the third display area 13, and the second display area 12 can also be arranged sequentially along the Y-axis. In this way, the foldable electronic device 100 folds vertically. When the foldable screen 10 is in the unfolded position, it is flat and can achieve a large-screen display, providing users with richer information and a better user experience.

[0106] At least the third display area 13 of the foldable screen 10 is a flexible screen structure. Thus, the third display area 13 can bend and deform under external force, allowing the foldable screen 10 to... Figure 1 Fold the folded screen 10 from the unfolded position to the folded position. The first display area 11 and the second display area 12 of the foldable screen 10 can be a flexible screen structure, a rigid screen structure, or a combination of both. No specific limitations are made here.

[0107] The support device 20 is used to support the foldable screen 10. The support device 20 includes a first housing 21, a second housing 22, and a pivot mechanism 23. The first housing 21 supports the first display area 11, and the second housing 22 supports the second display area 12. The pivot mechanism 23 is connected between the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 and supports the third display area 13.

[0108] When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the first display area 11, the second display area 12 and the third display area are located on the same plane, and the foldable screen 10 presents a flat display surface to the user, improving the user experience.

[0109] Please see Figure 3 , Figure 3 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of the foldable electronic device 100 in the folded position. The foldable screen 10 in the foldable electronic device 100 is also in the folded position. Specifically, when the foldable screen 10 is in the folded position, the first display area 11 and the second display area 12 of the foldable screen 10 are approximately parallel and opposite to each other.

[0110] It should be noted that if the angle between the first display area 11 and the second display area 12 is within 30°, the first display area 11 and the second display area 12 can be considered approximately parallel. The first display area 11 and the second display area 12 being opposite means that the display surface of the first display area 11 faces the display surface of the second display area 12.

[0111] When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the folded position, please continue reading. Figure 3 The support device 20 protects the outside of the folding screen 10, which is invisible to the user and can prevent the folding screen 10 from being scratched by hard objects. This foldable electronic device is an inward foldable electronic device, and the size of the foldable electronic device 100 is reduced, making it convenient to carry.

[0112] When the foldable screen 10 is in the folded position, please continue reading. Figure 3 The third display area 13 is bent and deformed into a teardrop shape. In this shape, the third display area 13 includes a first transition segment 131, a second transition segment 132 and an arc segment 133.

[0113] The first transition segment 131 connects the arc segment 133 and the first display area 11. The second transition segment 132 connects the arc segment 133 and the second display area 12. The distance between the end of the first transition segment 131 connecting to the first display area 11 and the end of the second transition segment 132 connecting to the second display area 12 is a first distance, and the distance between the end of the first transition segment 131 connecting to the arc segment 133 and the end of the second transition segment 132 connecting to the arc segment 133 is a second distance, and the second distance is greater than the first distance.

[0114] It is understood that when the foldable electronic device is in the folded position, the third display area 13 of the foldable screen 10 can also be folded into other shapes as needed, and this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0115] Please see Figure 4 , Figure 4 The diagram shows the structure of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 rotating from the unfolded position to the folded position according to some embodiments of the related technology, wherein a is a structural diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 in the unfolded position; and b is a structural diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 in the folded position.

[0116] It should be noted that, Figure 4 Structures belonging to the pivot mechanism 23 are drawn with solid lines, while structures not belonging to the pivot mechanism 23 (such as the folding screen 10, the first housing 21, and the second housing 22) are drawn with dashed lines.

[0117] The pivot mechanism 23 is used to realize the rotation between the first housing 21 and the second housing 22, so as to realize the foldable electronic device 100 folding between the unfolded position and the folded position. In this embodiment, the pivot mechanism 23 includes a base 231, a first pivot 23a, a first swing arm 232, a second pivot 23b, a second swing arm 234, a support member 235, and a lifting structure 24.

[0118] The first swing arm 232 is rotatably connected to the base 231 via a first rotating shaft 23a. The first swing arm 232 is used to connect to the first housing 21. The second swing arm 234 is rotatably connected to the base 231 via a second rotating shaft 23b. The first rotating shaft 23a and the second rotating shaft 23b are arranged parallel to each other. The second swing arm 234 is used to connect to the second housing 22.

[0119] The support member 235 is located between the first swing arm 232 and the second swing arm 234. The support member 235 has a contact surface M3. The pivot mechanism 23 supports the third display area 13 of the foldable screen 10 through the contact surface M3. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded position, the contact surface M3 is coplanar or nearly coplanar with the contact surface M1 of the first housing 21 and the contact surface M2 of the second housing 22, and they face the same direction.

[0120] When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the folded position, the bonding surface M1 and the bonding surface M2 face each other, and the bonding surfaces M1 and M3 are perpendicular or approximately perpendicular to each other, as are the bonding surfaces M2 and M3.

[0121] The lifting structure 24 is located in the base 231 on the side of the support member 235 away from the third display area 13. The lifting structure 24 is used to drive the support member 235 to slide along the thickness direction of the base 231 so that the support member 235 keeps in contact with the third display area 13.

[0122] When the foldable electronic device 100 rotates from the unfolded position to the folded position, the foldable screen 10 switches from a flat state to a teardrop-shaped state. The lifting structure 24 applies a pulling force to the support member 235 away from the third display area 13. This pulling force can cause the support member 235 to sink in a direction away from the third display area 13, making room for the third display area 13. This room is used to accommodate the teardrop-shaped third display area 13.

[0123] When the foldable electronic device 100 rotates from the folded position to the unfolded position, the foldable screen 10 switches from a teardrop structure state to a flat state. The lifting structure 24 applies a thrust to the support member 235 near the third display area 13 to raise the bonding surface M3 of the support member 235 to a position flush with the bonding surfaces M1 and M2.

[0124] In some embodiments, the lifting structure 24 may include a pushing part 242 and an elastic member 241. The pushing part 242 rotates synchronously with the first swing arm 232. In some embodiments, the pushing part 242 may be connected to the rotating end of the first swing arm 232. In other embodiments, the pushing part 242 may be connected to the first rotating shaft 23a. The elastic member 241 is used to apply a pulling force to the support member 235 to move from the third display area 13 towards the base 231.

[0125] When the pivot mechanism 23 is in the unfolded position, the pushing part 242 is supported on the side of the support member 235 away from the folding screen 10. When the first swing arm 232 rotates from the unfolded position to the folded position, the pushing part 242 rotates synchronously with the first swing arm 232, and the pushing part 242 removes its supporting effect on the support member 235. The elastic member applies a pulling force to the support member 235, which causes the support member 235 to sink away from the third display area 13, so as to form a teardrop shape to avoid accommodating space for the third display area 13.

[0126] However, the synchronization between the rotation of the pusher 242 and the bending deformation of the support member 235 is poor. For example, the rotation of the first swing arm 232 drives the pusher 242 to rotate synchronously. When the pusher 242 rotates to a certain angle, such as 5°, 10°, 15°, etc., the pusher 242 removes the support applied to the support member 235, and the elastic member applies a pulling force to the support member 235 to sink into the base 231.

[0127] As a result, during the bending and deformation of the third display area 13, gaps may easily appear between the support member 235 and the third display area 13. The support member 235 cannot provide support for the third display area 13, resulting in the third display area 13 lacking effective support during the bending and deformation process, which in turn affects the display effect and service life of the foldable screen 10.

[0128] To address this issue, some related technologies employ a more complex lifting structure 24 to improve the synchronization between the support member 235 and the bending deformation of the folding screen 10. For example, please refer to... Figure 5 , Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the lifting structure 24 provided in some embodiments of the related technology.

[0129] In this embodiment, the lifting structure 24 may include a gear 236c and a rack 236d. The gear 236c rotates synchronously with the first swing arm 232, and the rack 236d is connected to the side of the support member 235 opposite to the third display area 13, and the rack 236d is adapted to the gear 236c. When the first swing arm 232 rotates, the gear 236c rotates synchronously with the first swing arm 232. The rotation of the gear 236c causes the rack 236d to slide along the thickness direction of the base, and the rack 236d drives the support member 235 to slide synchronously along the thickness direction of the base.

[0130] In this way, during the rotation of the first swing arm 232 between the unfolded and folded positions, the lifting structure 24, through the cooperation of gear 236c and rack 236d, reduces the falling speed of the support member 235, thus preventing the third display area 13 from lacking support from the support member 235. However, gear 236c and rack 236d have high machining accuracy requirements and high assembly accuracy requirements, which increases the production cost of the rotating shaft mechanism 23.

[0131] If the machining and assembly precision of gear 236c and rack 236d are reduced, there will be a problem of poor meshing between gear 236c and rack 236d. The rotating shaft mechanism 23 will still have a low synchronization between the movement of the lifting structure 24 and the bending deformation of the folding screen 10, and the support component 235 will not be able to provide a good support for the folding screen 10.

[0132] For example, please see Figure 6 , Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 provided in some embodiments of the related technology. In this embodiment, the lifting structure 24 is a connecting rod 236e. One end of the connecting rod 236e is rotatably connected to the first swing arm 232, and the other end of the connecting rod 236e is rotatably connected to the support member 235. When the first swing arm 232 rotates from the unfolded position to the folded position along the direction, the connecting rod 236e can drive the support member 235 to move along the thickness direction of the base, thereby improving the synchronization between the movement of the support member 235 and the bending deformation of the folding screen 10.

[0133] However, in the above embodiment, a multi-stage link 236e structure is formed between the first swing arm 232, the connecting rod 236e, and the support member 235. This multi-stage link 236e structure suffers from a long tolerance chain. A tolerance chain refers to the problem that the accumulated dimensional tolerances of multiple components affect the final product's assembly accuracy. In the multi-stage link 236e structure, a long tolerance chain means that from the first stage link 236e to the last stage link 236e, the tolerances accumulate at each stage, thus affecting the overall performance and accuracy of the structure.

[0134] Therefore, the linkage 236e structure has high requirements for machining accuracy and assembly accuracy, which increases the production cost of the pivot mechanism 23. If the machining accuracy and assembly accuracy of the linkage 236e structure are reduced, the pivot mechanism 23 still has the problem that the movement of the lifting structure 24 driving the support 235 is not synchronized with the bending deformation of the folding screen 10, and the support 235 cannot provide a good support for the folding screen 10.

[0135] To address the aforementioned problems, this application provides a pivot mechanism 23. This pivot mechanism 23 aims to improve the synchronization between the movement of the support member 235 and the bending deformation of the folding screen 10. Furthermore, the pivot mechanism 23 has a simple structure and is easy to assemble. Please refer to... Figure 7 and Figure 8 , Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 provided in some embodiments of this application; Figure 8 for Figure 7 The exploded view of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 shown.

[0136] Understandable Figure 7 and Figure 8 The diagram only schematically illustrates some of the components included in the rotating shaft mechanism 23. The actual shape, size, position, and construction of these components are not subject to change. Figure 7 and Figure 8 Restrictions.

[0137] The rotating mechanism 23 includes a base 231, a first rotating shaft 23a, a first swing arm 232, a first connecting member 233, a first door panel 233a, a second rotating shaft 23b, a second swing arm 234, a second connecting member 237, a second door panel 237a, a support member 235, and a lifting structure 24.

[0138] The base 231 is used to assemble other components in the pivot mechanism 23. Specifically, the base 231 includes a receiving space in which at least a portion of the pivot mechanism 23 can be accommodated. In this way, the components of the pivot mechanism 23 can be hidden inside the base 231, which can improve the aesthetic appearance of the foldable electronic device 100.

[0139] The first connector 233 is located on one side of the base 231 and can rotate relative to the base 231 between an unfolded position and a folded position. The first connector 233 is wedge-shaped, and its length direction is parallel to the Y-axis. The axis of rotation of the first connector 233 is parallel to the Y-axis. The rotating shaft mechanism 23 can be fixedly connected to the first housing 21 via the first connector 233. A first door plate 233a can be provided on the first connector 233, which is used to support at least a portion of the third display area 13.

[0140] The structure of the second connector 237 is the same as that of the first connector 233, and will not be described again here. The first connector 233 and the second connector 237 can be disposed on opposite sides of the base 231 in the width direction (i.e., the X-axis direction). The pivot mechanism 23 can be fixedly connected to the second housing 22 by means of the second connector 237. A second door plate 237a can be disposed on the second connector 237, and the second door plate 237a is used to support at least a portion of the third display area 13.

[0141] The first rotating shaft 23a and the second rotating shaft 23b are disposed within the base 231, with the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 23a parallel to the axial direction of the second rotating shaft 23b. The first swing arm 232 and the second swing arm 234 are disposed on opposite sides of the base 231. Specifically, the first swing arm 232 and the second swing arm 234 are disposed on opposite sides of the width direction (i.e., the X-axis direction) of the base 231. Optionally, the first swing arm 232 and the second swing arm 234 are symmetrically disposed on opposite sides of the base 231.

[0142] Please continue reading. Figure 8 The first swing arm 232 includes a first rotating end 232a, which is connected to the first rotating shaft 23a. For example, the first rotating end 232a can be sleeved on the first rotating shaft 23a. Both the first swing arm 232 and the second swing arm 234 are rotatable relative to the base 231.

[0143] In some embodiments, the first swing arm 232 is fixedly connected to the first rotating shaft 23a, and the first rotating shaft 23a is rotatably connected to the base 231. In other embodiments, the first swing arm 232 is rotatably connected to the first rotating shaft 23a, and the first rotating shaft 23a is fixedly connected to the base 231.

[0144] The structure of the second swing arm 234 is the same as that of the first swing arm 232. The way and structure in which the second swing arm 234 connects to the second rotating shaft 23b is the same as that in which the first swing arm 232 connects to the first rotating shaft 23a. The way and structure in which the second rotating shaft 23b connects to the base 231 is the same as that in which the first rotating shaft 23a connects to the base 231. These details will not be repeated here.

[0145] Please see Figure 9 , Figure 9 for Figure 8 The diagram shows the structure of the rotating shaft mechanism 23, in which the first swing arm 232, the second swing arm 234, and the lifting structure 24 cooperate. The lifting structure 24 includes a first mating part 24a and a second mating part 24b. The first mating part 24a includes a first connecting part 243 and a pushing part 242. The first connecting part 243 is sleeved on the first rotating shaft 23a and is adapted to the first rotating end 232a. During the rotation of the first swing arm 232, the first rotating end 232a can drive the first mating part 24a to slide along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 23a.

[0146] The second mating member 24b is located within the base 231, and the first mating member 24a and the second mating member 24b are arranged axially along the first rotating shaft 23a. The second mating member 24b can be positioned in the thickness direction of the base 231 (i.e., Figure 9 Slide along the Z-axis direction.

[0147] The support member 235 can be plate-shaped or block-shaped. In this embodiment, the support member 235 is described as a rectangular plate. The support member 235 has a mating surface facing away from the second mating member 24b, and the mating surface is used to mate with the third display area 13.

[0148] The support member 235 is fixedly connected to the second mating member 24b. In some embodiments, the support member 235 and the second mating member 24b can be an integral structural component. In other embodiments, the support member 235 and the second mating member 24b are separate structural components, and the support member 235 and the second mating member 24b can be connected by means of threaded connection, welding, bonding, etc.

[0149] For example, the rotating shaft mechanism 23 includes a threaded connector, which can be a bolt or screw. The support member has a first threaded hole adapted to the threaded connector, and the second mating member also has a second threaded hole adapted to the threaded connector. In some embodiments, the first and second threaded holes are coaxially arranged. The threaded connector passes sequentially through the first and second threaded holes, connecting the support member and the second mating member as a single unit.

[0150] During the rotation of the first swing arm 232 relative to the base 231, the first rotating end 232a engages with the first connecting part 243, and the rotation of the first rotating end 232a pushes the first connecting part 243 along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 23a. Figure 9 The first connecting part 243 moves along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 23a (in the Y-axis direction), causing the pushing part 242 to move closer to or further away from the second mating part 24b along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 23a. The movement of the pushing part 242 along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 23a causes the second mating part 24b to move along the thickness direction of the base 231 (in the Y-axis direction). Figure 9 The support 235 moves along the thickness direction of the base 231 along with the second mating part 24b (in the Z-axis direction).

[0151] In this way, the rotation of the first swing arm 232, through the cooperation of the first mating part 24a and the second mating part 24b, drives the support member 235 to move along the thickness direction of the base 231, resulting in a high degree of synchronization between the movement of the first swing arm 232 and the movement of the support member 235. During the rotation of the first swing arm 232 between the unfolded and folded positions, the support member 235 provides good support for the foldable screen 10, preventing gaps between the support member 235 and the foldable screen 10. This further improves the display effect and lifespan of the foldable screen 10.

[0152] In some embodiments, during the rotation of the first swing arm 232 relative to the base 231, when the first rotating end 232a pushes the first mating member 24a to move closer to the second mating member 24b along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 23a, the first mating member 24a pushes the second mating member 24b to move away from the base 231 along the thickness direction of the base 231, and the support member 235 moves away from the base 231 along the thickness direction of the base 231 with the second mating member 24b, that is, the support member 235 moves upward.

[0153] When the first rotating end 232a pushes the first mating part 24a to move away from the second mating part 24b along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 23a, the second mating part 24b moves closer to the base 231 along the thickness direction of the base 231, and the support 235 moves closer to the base 231 along the thickness direction of the base 231 with the second mating part 24b, that is, the support 235 moves downward.

[0154] In other embodiments, during the rotation of the first swing arm 232 relative to the base 231, when the first rotating end 232a pushes the first mating member 24a to move closer to the second mating member 24b along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 23a, the first mating member 24a pushes the second mating member 24b to move closer to the base 231 along the thickness direction of the base 231, and the support member 235 moves closer to the base 231 along the thickness direction of the base 231 with the second mating member 24b, that is, the support member 235 moves downward.

[0155] When the first rotating end 232a pushes the first mating part 24a to move away from the second mating part 24b along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 23a, the second mating part 24b moves away from the base 231 along the thickness direction of the base 231, and the support 235 moves away from the base 231 along the thickness direction of the base 231 with the second mating part 24b, that is, the support 235 moves upward.

[0156] This embodiment will first take the example of the first rotating end 232a pushing the first mating member 24a to move closer to the second mating member 24b along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 23a, and the first mating member 24a pushing the second mating member 24b to move closer to the base 231 along the thickness direction of the base 231.

[0157] The following is a detailed description of the movement process of the first mating part 24a and the second mating part 24b during the rotation of the first swing arm 232. Please refer to the following: Figure 9 and Figure 10 , Figure 10 for Figure 7 The diagram shows the structure of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 as viewed from angle A1. When the first swing arm 232 is in the extended position, the second mating part 24b is in the first position W1, and the vertical distance from the support member 235 to the base 231 along the thickness direction of the base 231 is the first distance L1.

[0158] In this application, the vertical distance between the support member 235 and the base 231 refers to the distance between the surface of the support member 235 facing the base 231 and the bottom wall of the base 231. In some other embodiments, the vertical distance between the support member 235 and the base 231 may also refer to the distance between the surface of the support member 235 facing the base 231 and the surface of the base 231 facing the support member 235.

[0159] Please see Figure 11 and Figure 12 , Figure 11 for Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the structure of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 when it is rotated to the folded position; Figure 12 for Figure 11The diagram shows the structure of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 as viewed from angle A2. When the first swing arm 232 is in the folded position, the second mating part 24b is in the second position. Along the thickness direction of the base 231, the vertical distance from the support member 235 to the base 231 is the second distance L2, and the first distance L1 is greater than the second distance L2.

[0160] When the first swing arm 232 rotates relative to the base 231 from the unfolded position to the folded position, the foldable screen 10 bends and deforms from a flat state to a teardrop structure state, and at least a portion of the third display area 13 extends into the base 231. Along the thickness direction of the base 231, the support member 235 moves toward the interior of the base 231, that is, the support member 235 moves from the first position W1 to the second position to make way for the accommodating space, which is used to accommodate the third display area 13.

[0161] When the first swing arm 232 rotates relative to the base 231 from the folded position to the unfolded position, the foldable screen 10 deforms from a teardrop structure to a flat state, and the first display area 11, the second display area 12, and the third display area 13 are located on the same plane. Along the thickness direction of the base 231, the support member 235 moves towards the outside of the base 231, that is, the support member 235 moves from the second position to the first position W1 to fit the foldable screen 10 which is becoming flat.

[0162] In this way, when the first swing arm 232 is in the unfolded position, the support member 235 can support the folded screen 10 in a flat state. When the first swing arm 232 is in the folded state, the support member 235 can support the folded screen 10 in a teardrop structure state. Furthermore, as the first swing arm 232 rotates between the folded and unfolded states, the movement of the support member 235 can adapt to the bending deformation of the folded screen 10, so that the support member 235 can provide support for the folded screen 10 throughout the entire process of switching between the flat and teardrop structure states.

[0163] The structure of the first mating part 24a, the structure of the second mating part 24b, and the mating relationship between the first mating part 24a and the second mating part 24b will be described in detail below.

[0164] Please see Figure 13 , Figure 13The image shows an exploded view of the first swing arm 232 and the first mating member 24a provided in some embodiments of this application. In some embodiments, the first connecting portion 243 and the first rotating end 232a can be helically mated. For example, the first connecting portion 243 includes a first helical end face M1 facing the first rotating end 232a, and the first rotating end 232a includes a second helical end face M2 adapted to the first helical end face. In this application, "helical end face" means that, along the circumference of the first rotating shaft 23a, the extension path of the first helical end face M1 is a helix, and the extension path of the second helical end face M2 is also a helix.

[0165] Please see Figure 14 , Figure 14 The following are motion diagrams of the lifting structure 24 provided in some embodiments of this application as it rotates with the first swing arm 232. Figure a shows a schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism in the unfolded position; Figure b shows a schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism in the folded position. In Figure b, the first and second swing arms are omitted to avoid obstructing the observation of the lifting mechanism after folding.

[0166] When the first rotating end 232a rotates, the second helical end face M2 rotates relative to the first helical end face M1, and the second helical end face M2 abuts against the first helical end face M1, thereby pushing the first mating member 24a to move axially along the first rotating shaft 23a. The rotating shaft mechanism 23 realizes the transmission and direction conversion of force by means of the helical engagement between the first swing arm 232 and the first mating member 24a, that is, the rotation of the first swing arm 232 is converted into the movement of the first mating member 24a along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 23a.

[0167] Furthermore, the first helical end face of the first connecting part 243 and the second helical end face M2 of the first swing arm 232 have a simple structure and are easy to process. The rotation process of the helical engagement is smooth, which can provide users with a better user experience. In addition, the rotating shaft mechanism 23 adjusts the extension curves of the first helical end face M1 and the second helical end face M2 to adjust the moving speed of the first mating part 24a along the first rotating shaft 23a, thereby adapting to the bending deformation process of different folding screens 10, so that the support member 235 provides good support for the folding screen 10.

[0168] In some other embodiments, the first connecting portion 243 and the first rotating end 232a can be in a concave-convex fit. For example, the first connecting portion 243 includes a first concave-convex end face facing the first rotating end 232a, and the first rotating end 232a includes a second concave-convex end face adapted to the first concave-convex end face. In this application, "concave-convex end face" refers to the first concave-convex end face including a first convex surface and a first concave surface spaced apart along the circumference of the first rotating shaft 23a, and a first ramp surface connecting the first convex surface and the first concave surface.

[0169] Similarly, along the circumference of the first rotating shaft 23a, the second concave and convex end face includes a second convex surface and a second concave surface spaced apart, and a second ramp surface connecting the second convex surface and the second concave surface.

[0170] In this way, when the first rotating end 232a rotates, the second concave-convex end face rotates relative to the first concave-convex end face, and the second concave-convex end face abuts against the first concave-convex end face, thereby pushing the first mating member 24a to move axially along the first rotating shaft 23a. For example, when the first convex surface abuts against the second convex surface, the first mating member 24a moves away from the first rotating end 232a along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 23a; when the first convex surface abuts against the second concave surface, the first mating member 24a moves closer to the first rotating end 232a along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 23a.

[0171] The rotating shaft mechanism 23 achieves force transmission and direction conversion through the interlocking of the first swing arm 232 and the first mating member 24a; that is, the rotation of the first swing arm 232 is converted into the axial movement of the first mating member 24a along the first rotating shaft 23a. Furthermore, the first concave-convex end face of the first connecting portion 243 and the second concave-convex end face of the first swing arm 232 have a simple structure and are easy to manufacture.

[0172] Please see Figure 15 , Figure 16 and Figure 17 , Figure 15 A schematic diagram of the structure of the first mating part 24a and the second mating part 24b provided in some embodiments of this application; Figure 16 for Figure 15 A schematic diagram of the structure of the first mating part 24a; Figure 17 for Figure 15 A schematic diagram of the structure of the second mating part 24b.

[0173] Please refer to this carefully. Figure 16 The first connecting portion 243 is fixedly connected to the pushing portion 242 so that the first connecting portion 243 and the pushing portion 242 move synchronously. In some embodiments, the first connecting portion 243 and the pushing portion 242 are an integral structural component. In other embodiments, the first connecting portion 243 and the pushing portion 242 are separate structural components, and the first connecting portion 243 and the pushing portion 242 can be connected by means of threaded connection, welding, bonding, etc. This embodiment is described using the example of the first connecting portion 243 and the pushing portion 242 being an integral structural component.

[0174] Please continue reading. Figure 16For example, the pushing part 242 is a wedge-shaped block, and the pushing part 242 includes a first wedge-shaped surface 242a facing the second mating member 24b. When the first swing arm 232 rotates, the rotation of the first rotating end 232a pushes the first connecting part 243 to move axially along the first rotating shaft 23a, and the pushing part 242 moves synchronously with the first connecting part 243. The pushing part 242 applies a pushing force to the second mating member 24b through the first wedge-shaped surface 242a, and this pushing force is used to make the second mating member 24b slide along the thickness direction of the base 231.

[0175] In this way, the rotating shaft mechanism 23 achieves force transmission and direction conversion through the wedge-shaped engagement of the first mating member 24a and the second mating member 24b. Specifically, the first mating member 24a, through the engagement of the first wedge-shaped surface 242a and the second mating member 24b, converts the axial movement of the first mating member 24a along the first rotating shaft 23a into the sliding of the second mating member 24b along the thickness direction of the base 231.

[0176] Furthermore, the pusher 242 has a wedge-shaped block structure, which is simple in structure and easy to manufacture. The simple structure of the pusher 242 also facilitates its installation, resulting in lower assembly precision requirements, a more intuitive and simple installation process, and reduced installation time and technical requirements. The simple wedge-shaped block design of the pusher 242 eliminates the need for a large space in the base 231 to accommodate it, thus improving the space utilization of the rotating shaft mechanism 23.

[0177] Furthermore, the first mating component 24a and the second mating component 24b adopt a wedge-shaped surface mating method, which makes the relative movement between the first mating component 24a and the second mating component 24b smoother and provides a better user experience. Furthermore, the first mating component 24a can adjust the shape of the first wedge-shaped surface 242a to adjust the movement of the second mating component 24b along the thickness of the base 231, thereby adapting to different bending deformation processes of the folding screen 10, so that the support component 235 provides good support for the folding screen 10.

[0178] Please refer to this carefully. Figure 17 In some embodiments, the second mating component 24b is also a wedge-shaped block structure. The second mating component 24b includes a second wedge-shaped surface 24b1 facing the pushing part 242, and the first wedge-shaped surface 242a is adapted to the second wedge-shaped surface 24b1. This results in a simple structure for the second mating component 24b, facilitating its manufacturing. Furthermore, the simple structure of the second mating component 24b also facilitates its installation, reducing the required assembly precision and making the installation process more intuitive and simple, thus reducing installation time and technical requirements. The wedge-shaped block design of the second mating component 24b eliminates the need for a large space in the base 231 to accommodate it, thereby improving the space utilization of the rotating shaft mechanism 23.

[0179] Furthermore, when the first mating part 24a and the second mating part 24b move relative to each other, the first wedge-shaped surface 242a and the second wedge-shaped surface 24b1 abut and slide relative to each other, making the movement between the first mating part 24a and the second mating part 24b smoother and thus improving the user experience. The relative stress between the first mating part 24a and the second mating part 24b is distributed to the first wedge-shaped surface 242a and the second wedge-shaped surface 24b1, reducing local wear on the first mating part 24a and the second mating part 24b.

[0180] Please see Figure 18 , Figure 18 for Figure 16 The diagram shows the motion state of the first mating component 24a and the second mating component 24b as the first swing arm 232 rotates from the unfolded state to the folded state. Figure a is a schematic diagram of the structure of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 when it is in the unfolded position, and Figure b is a schematic diagram of the structure of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 when it is in the folded position.

[0181] In some embodiments, the first wedge surface 242a is located on the side of the second wedge surface 24b1 near the support member 235. When the first swing arm 232 rotates from the unfolded position to the folded position, the first mating member 24a slides along the axial direction of the first pivot 23a toward the second mating member 24b, so that the second mating member 24b moves down from the first position W1 to the second position W2.

[0182] Please see Figure 19 , Figure 19 for Figure 16 The diagram shows the motion state of the first mating component 24a and the second mating component 24b as the first swing arm 232 rotates from the folded state to the unfolded state. Figure a is a schematic diagram of the structure of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 when it is in the folded position, and Figure b is a schematic diagram of the structure of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 when it is in the unfolded position.

[0183] When the first swing arm 232 rotates from the folded position to the unfolded position, the first mating part 24a slides away from the second mating part 24b along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 23a, so that the second mating part 24b moves from the second position W2 to the first position W1.

[0184] The first mating part 24a and the second mating part 24b adopt a wedge-shaped mating method, which makes the relative movement between the first mating part 24a and the second mating part 24b smoother and provides users with a better user experience.

[0185] In some embodiments, sliding friction can exist between the first mating member 24a and the second mating member 24b, particularly when the damping force of the pivot mechanism 23 is insufficient. The pivot mechanism 23 can provide the required damping force by means of the friction between the first mating member 24a and the second mating member 24b. For example, the coefficient of friction of the first wedge surface 242a and the second wedge surface 24b1 are relatively high to increase the friction when the first mating member 24a and the second mating member 24b slide relative to each other, thereby increasing the damping force of the pivot mechanism 23.

[0186] For example, the coefficient of friction of the first wedge surface 242a is greater than or equal to 0.3, for example, the coefficient of friction of the first wedge surface 242a is 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, or 0.7.

[0187] In other embodiments, when the damping force of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 is sufficient, the first mating part 24a and the second mating part 24b can have rolling friction to reduce the friction when the first mating part 24a and the second mating part 24b slide relative to each other, so as to avoid the movement between the first mating part 24a and the second mating part 24b affecting the user's feel and improve the user's experience.

[0188] For example, at least one of the first mating member 24a and the second mating member 24b has a ball, which is disposed on the first wedge surface 242a or the second wedge surface 24b1. When the first mating member 24a and the second mating member 24b slide relative to each other, the first wedge surface 242a and the second wedge surface 24b1 achieve rolling contact by means of the ball.

[0189] When the first swing arm 232 rotates between the folded and unfolded positions, the moving speed of the support member 235 must adapt to the bending and deformation speed of the folding screen 10. The slower the bending and deformation speed of the folding screen 10, the slower the moving speed of the support member 235, and consequently the slower the moving speed of the second mating member 24b that drives the support member 235. The faster the bending and deformation speed of the folding screen 10, the faster the sliding speed of the support member 235, and consequently the faster the moving speed of the second mating member 24b that drives the support member 235.

[0190] It should be noted that, in this application, "the speed of bending deformation of the folding screen 10" refers to the speed at which the third display area 13 of the folding screen 10 changes from a flat state to a teardrop structure state as the first swing arm 232 rotates from the unfolded position to the folded position. It also refers to the speed at which the third display area 13 of the folding screen 10 changes from a teardrop structure state to a flat state as the first swing arm 232 rotates from the folded position to the unfolded position.

[0191] When the first swing arm 232 rotates between the folded position and the unfolded position, the factors affecting the bending deformation speed of the folding screen 10 include, but are not limited to, the following two aspects. First, the elastic modulus of the folding screen 10. A larger elastic modulus of the folding screen 10 results in greater stiffness and a slower deformation speed when bending. Conversely, a smaller elastic modulus of the folding screen 10 results in lower stiffness and a faster deformation speed when bending.

[0192] Second, the thickness of the foldable screen 10. A thicker foldable screen 10 exhibits stronger resistance to bending, and deforms more slowly when bent. Conversely, a thinner foldable screen 10 exhibits weaker resistance to bending, and deforms more quickly when bent.

[0193] The first wedge surface 242a and the second wedge surface 24b1 can be designed with different surface shapes to adjust the moving speed of the second mating part 24b, thereby adapting to different types of folding screens 10. The surface shapes of the first wedge surface 242a and the second wedge surface 24b1 will be described in detail below.

[0194] Please see Figure 20 , Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the first mating member 24a and the second mating member 24b in some embodiments of this application. In some embodiments, the first wedge-shaped surface 242a is an inclined surface. Similarly, the second wedge-shaped surface 24b1 can be adapted to the first wedge-shaped surface 242a, and the second wedge-shaped surface 24b1 is also an inclined surface. The inclination angle of the first wedge-shaped surface 242a is related to the sliding speed of the support member 235. Specifically, the larger the inclination angle α1 of the first wedge-shaped surface 242a, the faster the pushing block pushes the second mating member 24b to move along the thickness direction of the base 231 when the first mating member 24a slides close to the second mating member 24b.

[0195] The smaller the inclination angle α1 of the first wedge surface 242a, the slower the pushing block pushes the second mating part 24b to move along the thickness direction of the base 231 when the first mating part 24a slides close to the second mating part 24b.

[0196] It should be noted that, in this application, "the tilt angle of the first wedge surface 242a" refers to the angle between the plane where the first wedge surface 242a is located and the plane where the folding screen 10 is in the unfolded state.

[0197] In summary, when the first swing arm 232 rotates between the folded and unfolded positions, the faster the folding screen 10 bends and deforms, the faster the support member 235 needs to adapt to the bending and deformation speed of the folding screen 10, and the faster the support member 235 slides. In this case, the first wedge surface 242a and the second wedge surface 24b1 are set with a large tilt angle. Conversely, the slower the folding screen 10 bends and deforms, the slower the support member 235 needs to adapt to the bending and deformation speed of the folding screen 10, and the slower the support member 235 slides. In this case, the first wedge surface 242a and the second wedge surface 24b1 are set with a small tilt angle.

[0198] In this way, the processing of the first wedge surface 242a is simple, making it easy to produce a first wedge surface 242a with high precision. By processing first wedge surfaces 242a with different shapes, different folding screens 10 can be adapted, thereby making the movement of the support member 235 adapt to the bending deformation of the folding screen 10. During the rotation of the first swing arm 232, the support member 235 remains in contact with the folding screen 10, thereby maintaining a supporting effect on the folding screen 10.

[0199] In some embodiments, the angle α1 between the plane containing the first wedge-shaped surface 242a and the plane containing the bonding surface is greater than or equal to 30 degrees and less than or equal to 60 degrees. When the angle between the plane containing the first wedge-shaped surface 242a and the plane containing the bonding surface is within the above range, the sliding of the support member 235 can accommodate a variety of types of folding screens 10. During the rotation of the first swing arm 232, the support member 235 remains in contact with the folding screen 10, thereby maintaining support for the folding screen 10. Furthermore, this improves the display effect and lifespan of the folding screen 10.

[0200] In some embodiments, the tilt angle α2 of the second wedge surface 24b1 is equal to the tilt angle α1 of the first wedge surface 242a to improve the adaptability of the first mating part 24a and the second mating part 24b. It is worth noting that any difference of 30 degrees between the tilt angle α2 and the tilt angle α1 of the first wedge surface 242a can be considered as the tilt angle α2 of the second wedge surface 24b1 being equal to the tilt angle α1 of the first wedge surface 242a.

[0201] Please see Figure 21 , Figure 21 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the first mating component 24a and the second mating component 24b in some other embodiments of this application. In other embodiments, the first wedge-shaped surface 242a is a curved surface, and the second wedge-shaped surface 24b1 is a curved surface adapted to the first wedge-shaped surface 242a. This allows for more diverse surface shapes for the first wedge-shaped surface 242a and the second wedge-shaped surface 24b1, making the surface design more flexible and adaptable to a wider range of application scenarios.

[0202] Please continue reading. Figure 21 For example, when the space within the base 231 is limited, the first wedge surface 242a is a curved surface convex toward the second wedge surface 24b1, and the second wedge surface 24b1 is a curved surface convex toward the first wedge surface 242a. With the same displacement distance of the first mating member 24a, the first mating member 24a can push the second mating member 24b to move a greater distance. The movement of the support member 235 can be achieved through the relatively small volume of the first mating member 24a and the second mating member 24b.

[0203] Furthermore, when the pushing part 242 moves axially along the first rotating shaft 23a, the first wedge surface 242a abuts against the second wedge surface 24b1, thereby pushing the second mating part 24b to slide along the thickness direction of the base 231. When the curved first wedge surface 242a and the curved second wedge surface 24b1 are engaged, the sliding speed of the second mating part 24b along the thickness direction of the base 231 is faster, thus adapting to the folding screen 10 with a faster bending speed.

[0204] Please see Figure 22 , Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the first mating component 24a and the second mating component 24b in some embodiments of this application. The first wedge-shaped surface 242a is a curved surface convex towards the second wedge-shaped surface 24b1, and the second wedge-shaped surface 24b1 can also be a curved surface concave away from the first wedge-shaped surface 242a. In this way, the surface shapes of the first wedge-shaped surface 242a and the second wedge-shaped surface 24b1 are more diverse, the surface design is more flexible, and it is easier to adapt to more application scenarios.

[0205] Please see Figure 23 , Figure 23 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of the first mating member 24a and the second mating member 24b in some embodiments of this application. The first wedge-shaped surface 242a includes a first plane P1 and a second plane P2, wherein the first plane P1 is parallel to the mating surface M3, and the second plane P2 is inclined relative to the mating surface M3. The second wedge-shaped surface 23b1 includes a third plane P3 and a fourth plane P4, wherein the third plane P3 is parallel to the mating surface M3, and the fourth plane P4 is inclined relative to the mating surface M3. In the arrangement direction of the pushing part 242 and the second mating member 24b, the second plane P2, the first plane P1, the fourth plane P4, and the third plane P3 are arranged sequentially.

[0206] In this way, when the pushing part 242 moves axially along the first rotating shaft 23a, the first plane P1 and the third plane P3 come into contact first. Since the first plane P1 and the third plane P3 are parallel to the moving direction of the pushing part 242, the second mating member remains stationary during the sliding contact stroke between the first plane P1 and the third plane P3. This conforms to the bending deformation process of the folding screen 10, that is, the initial stage of the rotation of the rotating shaft mechanism 23. The bending deformation of the folding screen 10 is small, and the support member 235 can remain stationary to fit the folding screen 10.

[0207] The pushing part 242 continues to move along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 23a, the first plane P1 slides into contact with the fourth plane P4, the second plane P2 slides into contact with the third plane P3, and the second mating part 24b begins to move along the thickness direction of the base 231 to adapt to the bending deformation process of the folding screen 10. That is, as the rotating shaft mechanism 23 continues to rotate, the bending deformation speed of the folding screen 10 increases.

[0208] As a result, the way the first wedge surface 242a and the second wedge surface 24b1 are matched is more in line with the bending deformation law of the folding screen 10. During the rotation of the pivot mechanism 23, the support member 235 can keep in close contact with the folding screen 10, and the support member 235 provides better support for the folding screen 10.

[0209] Please see Figure 24 and Figure 25 , Figure 24 This is a schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 provided in some embodiments of this application from another perspective; Figure 25 for Figure 24 A schematic diagram of the central pivot mechanism 23 cut along line BB, wherein... Figure 25 This is a schematic diagram of the assembled rotating shaft mechanism 23, not an exploded view.

[0210] The rotating shaft mechanism 23 also includes a first elastic element 245, which applies an elastic force to the second mating member 24b so that the second mating member 24b abuts against the pushing part 242. Thus, when the first mating member 24a moves away from the second mating member 24b along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 23a, the first elastic element 245 applies an elastic force to the second mating member 24b, causing the second mating member 24b to move closer to the first mating member 24a along the thickness direction of the base 231. This facilitates the resetting of the second mating member 24b.

[0211] The first elastic element 245 can be a torsion spring, foam, spring sheet, leaf spring, helical spring, rubber band, or other elastic structure. In some embodiments, the first elastic element 245 can be a helical spring, which is usually a spring structure formed by winding materials such as carbon spring steel wire, piano wire, silicon manganese spring steel wire, chromium silicon spring steel wire, and chromium vanadium spring steel wire.

[0212] In some embodiments, the first elastic member 245 is located between the support member 235 and the base 231. For example, the length direction of the first elastic member 245 is parallel to the thickness direction of the base 231. When the second mating member 24b drives the support member 235 to slide along the thickness direction of the base 231, and the support member 235 slides close to the base 231, the support member 235 presses against the first elastic member 245.

[0213] In this way, the first elastic element 245 is set in a simple manner. The elastic force of the first elastic element 245 when it undergoes elastic deformation directly acts on the support 235. The support 235 transmits the elastic force to the second mating element 24b, so that the first mating element 24a and the second mating element 24b remain in contact, which facilitates the reset of the support 235.

[0214] For example, based on the above embodiment, when the first swing arm 232 is in the folded position, the first elastic member 245 is in a compressed state. When the first swing arm 232 rotates from the folded position to the unfolded position, the first mating member 24a moves away from the second mating member 24b along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 23a, and the first elastic member 245 applies an elastic force to the second mating member 24b, moving from the second position W2 to the first position W1.

[0215] In this way, during the rotation of the first swing arm 232 between the folded and unfolded states, the first mating part 24a and the second mating part 24b remain in contact under the elastic force of the first elastic element 245, facilitating the reset of the support member 235. Furthermore, this improves the synchronization between the rotation of the first swing arm 232 and the movement of the support member 235, avoiding any jamming of the support member 235 during the rotation of the first swing arm 232.

[0216] Please continue reading. Figure 25 In some embodiments, the base 231 has a limiting portion 231a with a limiting hole, and the support member 235 has a limiting post 235a that matches the limiting hole. The length direction of the limiting post 235a is parallel to the thickness direction of the base 231. In this way, when the support member 235 moves between the first position W1 and the second position W2, the engagement of the limiting post 235a with the limiting hole ensures that the support member 235 moves along the thickness direction of the base 231, thereby improving the movement accuracy of the support member 235.

[0217] In some other embodiments, the support member 235 has a limiting portion 231a with a limiting hole, and the base 231 has a limiting post 235a that is adapted to the limiting hole.

[0218] Based on any of the above embodiments, the limiting post 235a has an accommodating space, and at least a portion of the first elastic member 245 is located in the accommodating space. In this way, the first elastic member 245 does not need to occupy additional space in the base 231, thereby improving the space utilization rate of the base 231.

[0219] In this way, the first mating part 24a and the second mating part 24b adopt a wedge-shaped surface mating method, which makes the relative movement between the first mating part 24a and the second mating part 24b smoother and provides a better user experience. Furthermore, it improves the flexibility of the mating between the first mating part 24a and the second mating part 24b.

[0220] Please continue reading. Figure 24 Based on any of the above embodiments, the rotating shaft mechanism 23 further includes a second rotating shaft 23b and a second swing arm 234. The second rotating shaft 23b is disposed within the base 231, and the second swing arm 234 is rotatable relative to the base 231. The structure of the second swing arm 234 is the same as that of the first swing arm 232. Specifically, the second swing arm 234 includes a second rotating end 234a, which is connected to the second rotating shaft 23b.

[0221] The first mating member 24a further includes a second connecting portion 244, which is sleeved on the second rotating shaft 23b and adapted to the second rotating end 234a. The pushing portion 242 is connected between the first connecting portion 243 and the second connecting portion 244. When one of the first swing arm 232 and the second swing arm 234 rotates, the other of the first swing arm 232 and the second swing arm 234 rotates synchronously by means of the first mating member 24a.

[0222] In this way, the first mating component 24a can both push the second mating component 24b to move along the thickness direction of the base 231 and enable the first swing arm 232 and the second swing arm 234 to rotate synchronously. That is to say, the first mating component 24a combines the functions of the lifting structure 24 and the synchronization mechanism, thereby reducing the number of components in the rotating shaft mechanism 23, that is, reducing the axial space occupied by components in the rotating shaft mechanism 23, which is beneficial to improving the space utilization of the rotating shaft mechanism 23.

[0223] In some embodiments, the rotating shaft mechanism 23 further includes at least one second elastic member 25, wherein one second elastic member 25 abuts against the side of the first connecting portion 243 opposite to the first rotating end 232a and is connected to the first rotating shaft 23a. The other second elastic member 25 abuts against the side of the second connecting portion 244 opposite to the second rotating end 234a and is connected to the second rotating shaft 23b.

[0224] When the first swing arm 232 rotates relative to the base 231 between the unfolded and folded states, the rotation of the first rotating end 232a pushes the first mating member 24a to move axially along the first rotating shaft 23a. The movement of the first mating member 24a along the first rotating shaft 23a can both push the second mating member 24b to move along the thickness direction of the base 231 and compress the second elastic member 25, causing the second elastic member 25 to undergo elastic deformation and generate elastic force. This elastic force can serve as a damping force during the rotation of the rotating shaft mechanism 23, thereby improving the user's feel when rotating the foldable electronic device 100.

[0225] In this way, the first mating component 24a, the second mating component 24b, and the second elastic force can be used as damping mechanisms in the rotating shaft mechanism 23. The first mating component 24a and the second mating component 24b can also be used as lifting structures 24 in the rotating shaft mechanism 23. That is, the first mating component 24a and the second mating component 24b integrate the functions of the damping mechanism and the lifting structure 24, thereby reducing the number of components in the rotating shaft mechanism 23, i.e., reducing the axial space occupied by components in the rotating shaft mechanism 23, which helps to improve the space utilization rate of the rotating shaft mechanism 23.

[0226] The above embodiment is illustrated by the example where, when the first rotating end 232a pushes the first mating member 24a to move closer to the second mating member 24b along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 23a, the first mating member 24a pushes the second mating member 24b to move away from the base 231 along the thickness direction of the base 231. In other embodiments, the embodiment is illustrated by the example where, when the first rotating end 232a pushes the first mating member 24a to move closer to the second mating member 24b along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 23a, the first mating member 24a pushes the second mating member 24b to move closer to the base 231 along the thickness direction of the base 231.

[0227] Please see Figure 26 , Figure 26 The following are motion state diagrams of the first mating member 24a and the second mating member 24b as the first swing arm 232 rotates from the folded state to the unfolded state, provided for some other embodiments of this application. In the figure, figure a is a structural schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 when it is in the folded position, and figure b is a structural schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 when it is in the unfolded position.

[0228] For example, the first wedge surface 242a is located on the side of the second wedge surface 24b1 away from the support member 235. When the first swing arm 232 rotates from the folded position to the unfolded position, the first mating member 24a slides close to the second mating member 24b along the axial direction of the first pivot 23a, so that the second mating member 24b moves from the second position W2 to the first position W1.

[0229] Please see Figure 27 , Figure 27The following are motion state diagrams of the first mating member 24a and the second mating member 24b as the first swing arm 232 rotates from the unfolded state to the folded state, provided for some other embodiments of this application. In the figure, figure a is a structural schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 when it is in the unfolded position, and figure b is a structural schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 when it is in the folded position.

[0230] The first wedge-shaped surface 242a is located on the side of the second wedge-shaped surface 24b1 away from the support member 235. When the first swing arm 232 rotates from the unfolded position to the folded position, the first mating member 24a slides away from the second mating member 24b along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 23a, so that the second mating member 24b moves down from the first position W1 to the second position W2.

[0231] In this way, the first mating part 24a and the second mating part 24b adopt a wedge-shaped surface mating method, resulting in smoother relative movement between them and providing a better user experience. Furthermore, the mating method between the first mating part 24a and the second mating part 24b is more flexible, which helps improve the flexibility of the component layout within the rotating shaft mechanism 23, allowing different mating methods to be selected according to different application scenarios.

[0232] When the first swing arm 232 is in the unfolded position, the first elastic element 245 is in a stretched state. When the first swing arm 232 rotates from the unfolded position to the folded position, the first mating part 24a slides away from the second mating part 24b along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 23a, and the first elastic element 245 applies an elastic force to the second mating part 24b from the first position W1 to the second position W2.

[0233] In this way, during the rotation of the first swing arm 232 between the folded and unfolded states, the first mating part 24a and the second mating part 24b remain in contact under the elastic force of the first elastic element 245, facilitating the reset of the support member 235. Furthermore, this improves the synchronization between the rotation of the first swing arm 232 and the movement of the support member 235, avoiding any jamming of the support member 235 during the rotation of the first swing arm 232.

[0234] In the description of this specification, specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0235] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A rotating shaft mechanism, characterized in that, include: Base; The first rotating shaft is disposed within the base; A first swing arm is rotatable relative to the base. The first swing arm includes a first rotating end, which is connected to the first rotating shaft. The first mating component includes a first connecting part and a pushing part. The first connecting part is sleeved on the first rotating shaft and adapted to the first rotating end. During the rotation of the first swing arm, the first rotating end can drive the first mating component to move along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft. The second mating component, the first mating component and the second mating component are arranged along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft, and the second mating component is movable in the thickness direction of the base; A support member is fixedly connected to the second mating member, the support member having a mating surface facing away from the second mating member, the mating surface being used to mate a portion of the folding screen; During the rotation of the first swing arm, the first mating component moves axially along the first rotating shaft to push the second mating component to move along the thickness direction of the base.

2. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first swing arm rotates relative to the base between an unfolded position and a folded position. When the first swing arm is in the unfolded position, the second mating member is in a first position. Along the thickness direction of the base, the vertical distance from the support member to the base is a first distance. When the first swing arm is in the folded position, the second mating member is in the second position. Along the thickness direction of the base, the vertical distance from the support member to the base is the second distance, and the first distance is greater than the second distance.

3. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that, The pushing part includes a first wedge-shaped surface facing the second mating member.

4. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 3, characterized in that, The second mating component includes a second wedge-shaped surface facing the pushing portion, and the first wedge-shaped surface is adapted to the second wedge-shaped surface.

5. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 4, characterized in that, The rotating shaft mechanism further includes a first elastic element, which is used to apply an elastic force to the second mating member so that the second mating member abuts against the pushing part.

6. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first elastic element is located between the support and the base.

7. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The first wedge-shaped surface is located on the side of the second wedge-shaped surface closer to the support member; When the first swing arm rotates from the unfolded position to the folded position, the first mating member slides along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft toward the second mating member, so that the second mating member moves down from the first position to the second position.

8. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 7, characterized in that, When the first swing arm is in the folded position, the first elastic element is in a compressed state; When the first swing arm rotates from the folded position to the unfolded position, the first mating member slides away from the second mating member along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft, and the first elastic member applies an elastic force to the second mating member from the second position to the first position.

9. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The first wedge-shaped surface is located on the side of the second wedge-shaped surface away from the support member; When the first swing arm rotates from the folded position to the unfolded position, the first mating member slides along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft toward the second mating member, so that the second mating member moves from the second position to the first position.

10. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 9, characterized in that, When the first swing arm is in the extended position, the first elastic element is in a stretched state; When the first swing arm rotates from the unfolded position to the folded position, the first mating member slides away from the second mating member along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft, and the first elastic member applies an elastic force to the second mating member from the first position to the second position.

11. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 2-10, characterized in that, The first wedge-shaped surface is an inclined plane.

12. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 11, characterized in that, The angle between the plane containing the first wedge-shaped surface and the plane containing the mating surface is greater than or equal to 30 degrees and less than or equal to 60 degrees.

13. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 3-10, characterized in that, The first wedge surface is a curved surface, and the second wedge surface is a curved surface adapted to the first wedge surface.

14. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 13, characterized in that, The first wedge-shaped surface is a curved surface that protrudes toward the second wedge-shaped surface, and the second wedge-shaped surface is a curved surface that protrudes toward the first wedge-shaped surface.

15. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 13, characterized in that, The first wedge-shaped surface is a curved surface that protrudes toward the second wedge-shaped surface, and the second wedge-shaped surface is a curved surface that is concave away from the first wedge-shaped surface.

16. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 5-15, characterized in that, One of the base and the support has a limiting hole, and the other of the base and the support has a limiting post. The limiting hole and the limiting post are adapted to each other, and the length direction of the limiting post is parallel to the thickness direction of the base.

17. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 16, characterized in that, The limiting post includes a receiving space, in which at least a portion of the first elastic member is located.

18. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 1-17, characterized in that, The first connecting portion includes a first helical end face facing the first rotating end, and the first rotating end includes a second helical end face adapted to the first helical end face.

19. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 1-18, characterized in that, The rotating shaft mechanism also includes: The second rotating shaft is disposed within the base; The second swing arm is rotatable relative to the base. The second swing arm includes a second rotating end, which is connected to the second rotating shaft. The first mating component further includes a second connecting part, which is sleeved on the second rotating shaft and adapted to the second rotating end. The pushing part is connected between the first connecting part and the second connecting part. When one of the first swing arm and the second swing arm rotates, the other of the first swing arm and the second swing arm rotates synchronously with the help of the first mating member.

20. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 1-19, characterized in that, The rotating shaft mechanism further includes at least one second elastic element, which abuts against the side of the first connecting portion opposite to the first rotating end and is connected to the first rotating shaft; And / or, the second elastic member abuts against the side of the second connecting portion opposite to the second rotating end, and is connected to the second rotating shaft.

21. A foldable electronic device, characterized in that, include: First shell; Second shell; The rotating shaft mechanism is the rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 1-20, wherein the rotating shaft mechanism is connected between the first housing and the second housing; The foldable screen includes a first display area, a second display area, and a third display area. The third display area is connected between the first display area and the second display area. The first display area is disposed on the first housing, the second display area is disposed on the second housing, and the third display area is disposed on the pivot mechanism. The contact surface of the support member is used to support the third display area.

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