Electric connector and foldable electronic equipment

Abstract

The invention provides an electric connector and foldable electronic equipment, relates to the technical field of electronic products, and can realize reliable electric connection between a first main body part and a second main body part. Wherein the electric connecting piece comprises an elastic section, the elastic section comprises an elastic structural piece and a first conductive piece, and the elastic structural piece can elastically stretch out and draw back in the first direction; the first conductive member is fixed to the elastic structural member, and the first conductive member extends in a winding manner along a first direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of electronic product technology, and more particularly to an electrical connector and a foldable electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, foldable electronic devices have emerged to address the issues of large size and inconvenience in carrying traditional tablet devices. Foldable electronic devices typically include a first main body, a second main body, and a folding mechanism connecting the first and second main bodies. This folding mechanism enables relative or synchronous movement between the first and second main bodies, allowing the foldable electronic device to switch between an unfolded and folded state.

[0003] Since both the first and second main bodies include reference grounds and electronic devices, how to achieve a reliable electrical connection between the first and second main bodies is one of the technical problems that urgently needs to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides an electrical connector and a foldable electronic device, enabling a reliable electrical connection between a first main body and a second main body. To achieve the above objective, the embodiments of this application adopt the following technical solution:

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide an electrical connector, including an elastic segment. The elastic segment includes an elastic structural member and a first conductive member. The elastic structural member is elastically expandable and contractable along a first direction. The first conductive member is fixed to the elastic structural member and extends meanderingly along the first direction. In this way, by providing the elastic structural member and fixing the first conductive member to it, the elastic structural member can provide the rebound force of the elastic segment, ensuring the elasticity and rebound speed of the elastic segment. This allows the first conductive member to deform synchronously with the deformation of the elastic structural member. Simultaneously, by extending the first conductive member meanderingly, on the one hand, it ensures that the first conductive member has a certain deformation space, reducing the stress on the first conductive member during the expansion and contraction of the elastic segment, effectively preventing the first conductive member from being damaged, thus improving the reliability of the electrical connector. On the other hand, it also facilitates a flattened design of the electrical connector, thereby reducing its volume and space occupation, and consequently reducing the volume of foldable electronic devices, achieving miniaturization of foldable electronic devices.

[0006] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the elastic structural member has a first cavity, and the first conductive member is fixed within the first cavity. This allows the elastic structural member to protect the first conductive member, preventing friction or contact between the first conductive member and internal metal structures of the foldable electronic device, such as the first or second mid-frame.

[0007] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the first conductive element extends along a first direction and folds back along a second direction. The second direction is perpendicular to the first direction, and both the first and second directions are perpendicular to the thickness direction of the elastic structural element. This facilitates a flattened design of the elastic segment, reduces its thickness and volume, and consequently reduces the space occupied by the electrical connector.

[0008] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the elastic structural member includes opposing first and second parts, with a first recessed groove on the first part and / or a second recessed groove on the second part, to form a first cavity between the first and second parts. This helps to reduce the processing difficulty of the elastic structural member.

[0009] In another possible implementation of the first aspect, the elastic structural member includes a first split portion, and a first conductive element is laid on one side surface of the first split portion. This helps to reduce the thickness of the elastic segment and thus reduces the space occupied by the electrical connector.

[0010] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the elastic structural component is in the form of a woven mesh. The woven mesh has excellent tensile and resilience characteristics and a long bending life, which can provide elastic deformation recovery force for the elastic segment, allowing the electrical connector to adapt well to the shape changes of the foldable electronic device in different states; moreover, the woven mesh is relatively thin and light, occupying less space in the whole device, which is conducive to realizing the thin design of the foldable electronic device.

[0011] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the elastic structural member is provided with a first stress relief hole, which penetrates a first outer surface and a second outer surface opposite to each other of the elastic structural member. The arrangement direction of the first and second outer surfaces is perpendicular to the first direction. The orthographic projection of the first stress relief hole on the first outer surface does not overlap with the orthographic projection of the first conductive element on the first outer surface. This reduces the stiffness of the elastic structural member, decreasing its resistance to elastic deformation. Consequently, a smaller force applied to the elastic segment allows for tensile deformation of the elastic segment, improving the folding feel of the foldable electronic device. Simultaneously, it also helps reduce the thickness of the elastic structural member, thereby reducing the overall thickness of the elastic segment.

[0012] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the elastic structural member includes a first outer surface and a second outer surface facing away from each other. A first conductive layer is provided on the first outer surface, and the first conductive layer is electrically connected to a first conductive element. In this way, the first conductive layer can form part of the conductive element in the elastic segment, which is beneficial for increasing the cross-sectional area of ​​the conductive element in the elastic segment, thereby reducing the resistance of the electrical connection. Alternatively, the first conductive layer can be electrically connected to a first grounding metal and a second grounding metal to form a parallel grounding link between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal, which is beneficial for further reducing the grounding impedance between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal.

[0013] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the elastic structural member has a first cavity, a first conductive member is disposed within the first cavity, and a second conductive layer is provided on the inner wall surface of the first cavity. The second conductive layer is electrically connected to the first conductive member, and the second conductive layer is also electrically connected to the first conductive layer. An electrical connection method between the first conductive layer and the first conductive member is provided.

[0014] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the elastic structural member is provided with a first metallized via, the two ends of which are electrically connected to a first conductive layer and a second conductive layer, respectively. In its natural state, the elastic structural member has an angle greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees between the central axis of the first metallized via and the first direction. This reduces the deformation amplitude of the first metallized via during stretching, effectively preventing cracking of the metal plating in the first metallized via, and thus improving the reliability of the electrical connection between the first conductive layer and the first conductive member.

[0015] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the first conductive layer is in the form of a mesh. This reduces the deformation amplitude of the first conductive layer, thereby effectively reducing the risk of the first conductive layer being torn.

[0016] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the first outer surface includes a plurality of first protrusions arranged in a first direction, the first protrusions arching toward a direction away from the second outer surface. This reduces the deformation amplitude of the first conductive layer during stretching, thereby effectively reducing the risk of the first conductive layer being torn.

[0017] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a foldable electronic device, including a support device and an electrical connector. The support device includes a first main body, a second main body, and a folding mechanism. The first main body and the second main body are respectively connected to both sides of the folding mechanism. The foldable electronic device can switch between an unfolded state and a folded state. The first main body includes a first grounding metal, and the second main body includes a second grounding metal. The electrical connector is the electrical connector in any of the above technical solutions, and both ends of the electrical connector are electrically connected to the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal, respectively.

[0018] In this way, an electrical connection can be achieved between the reference ground in the first main body and the reference ground in the second main body through the electrical connector. When the foldable electronic device switches between the unfolded and folded states, the elastic deformation (e.g., telescopic deformation) of the elastic segment can adapt to the change in the shape of the foldable electronic device. On the one hand, it can reduce the tensile stress on the electrical connector, which is beneficial to improving the reliability of the electrical connector, thereby improving the reliability of the electrical connection between the first ground metal and the second ground metal. It can form a first grounding link with stable impedance between the first ground metal and the second ground metal, and extend the service life of the electrical connector and the foldable electronic device. On the other hand, by setting the elastic segment in the electrical connector, it is also beneficial to reduce the redundant length of the electrical connector, thereby reducing the overall length of the electrical connector, which in turn reduces the resistance of the electrical connector. It can form a first grounding link with low impedance between the first ground metal and the second ground metal, and it is beneficial to reduce the volume of the foldable electronic device, realizing the miniaturization design of the foldable electronic device.

[0019] Therefore, the foldable electronic device in this application embodiment can improve the reliability of electrical connectors and reduce the space occupied by electrical connectors, while forming a first grounding link with low and stable impedance between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal. On the one hand, it can effectively improve the return current of the antenna, which is conducive to reducing the generation of harmonics and avoiding harmonic fluctuations, thereby effectively suppressing the RSE problem. On the other hand, it can also avoid surges during the charging process of the first battery and / or the second battery and improve the charging efficiency of the first battery and the second battery.

[0020] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, the folding mechanism includes a base and a first support member, the first support member being rotatable relative to the base; the electrical connector includes a first section and a first intermediate section, and when the foldable electronic device is in the unfolded state, the orthographic projection of the first section on a first plane lies within the orthographic projection of the first support member on the first plane; the orthographic projection of the first intermediate section on the first plane lies within the orthographic projection of the base on the first plane; wherein, the first plane is perpendicular to the thickness direction of the base. An assembly positional relationship between the electrical connector and the support device is provided.

[0021] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, at least one of the first segment and the first intermediate segment includes a resilient segment. A specific structure for an electrical connector is provided.

[0022] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, the first segment includes an elastic segment, and a first conductive element in the first segment extends within a second plane perpendicular to the thickness direction of the first support member. For example, the stretchable direction of the elastic segment in the first segment is parallel to the width direction of the first support member. This facilitates reducing the thickness of the elastic segment in the first segment, thereby reducing the combined thickness of the first segment and the first support member, and consequently, enabling a thinner design for the foldable electronic device.

[0023] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, the first segment includes a first left-side portion and a first right-side portion, with the first right-side portion located between the first left-side portion and the first intermediate segment, and the first right-side portion being formed as an elastic segment. In this way, when the foldable electronic device switches between an unfolded state and a folded state, the expansion and contraction of the first right-side portion can adapt to changes in the gap between the first support member and the intermediate support member, which helps to prevent breakage of the electrical connector and thus improves the reliability of the electrical connector.

[0024] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, at least a portion of the first left-side portion is fixed to the first support member. Since the first right-side portion is connected to the first left-side portion, by fixing at least a portion of the first left-side portion to the first support member, on the one hand, when the first support member rotates relative to the base, the first support member can drive the first left-side portion to move together, thereby causing the first right-side portion to deform through the first left-side portion. This allows the first right-side portion to deform in a timely manner during the folding process of the foldable electronic device, adapting to changes in the shape of the foldable electronic device. This helps prevent the electrical connector from breaking due to pulling, thus improving the reliability of the electrical connector. On the other hand, since the portion of the first left-side portion fixed to the first support member does not need to deform during the switching between the unfolded and folded states of the foldable electronic device, at least a portion of the conductive elements in the first left-side portion does not need to be redundant. This helps reduce the overall length and redundant length of the conductive elements in the electrical connector, thereby reducing the resistance of the electrical connector and lowering the grounding impedance between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal.

[0025] In another possible implementation of the second aspect, the first left-hand portion is formed as an elastic segment. This reduces the overall deformation of the first segment, which is beneficial to improving the reliability of the electrical connector.

[0026] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, at least a portion of the first segment is fixed to the first support member. Since the first support member is positioned close to the folding screen, the distance between the first support member and the folding screen is small. Fixing at least a portion of the first segment to the first support member further reduces the distance between the first segment and the folding screen, making the bending radius of the electrical connector closer to that of the folding screen. This reduces the bending radius of the electrical connector, further reducing its overall length. A small redundancy is sufficient to meet the bending and stretching requirements of the electrical connector, thereby reducing its resistance. This further reduces the grounding impedance between the first and second grounding metals and reduces the space occupied by the electrical connector, thus facilitating the thinner design of the foldable electronic device.

[0027] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, at least a portion of the first intermediate segment may deform during the switching between an unfolded state and a folded state of the foldable electronic device. Specifically, a portion of the first intermediate segment may deform, or the entire first intermediate segment may deform. A specific structure of the first intermediate segment is provided.

[0028] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, the foldable electronic device includes a foldable screen disposed on a support device; at least a portion of the first intermediate section arches in a direction away from the foldable screen. This is beneficial for increasing the length of the first intermediate section, ensuring sufficient deformation space for the first intermediate section, reducing the stress on the first intermediate section, and thus helping to prevent the first intermediate section from breaking.

[0029] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, the first intermediate segment is a cable or a flexible circuit board, or the first intermediate segment is formed as an elastic segment. This facilitates deformation of the first intermediate segment.

[0030] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, the foldable electronic device includes a foldable screen disposed on a supporting device; a first intermediate section includes a first surface and a second surface facing away from each other, the first surface facing away from the foldable screen; the first intermediate section is provided with at least one of a second stress relief hole and a third stress relief hole, the second stress relief hole penetrating the first surface; the third stress relief hole penetrating the second surface. This reduces the stiffness of the first intermediate section, thereby decreasing its resistance to elastic deformation and facilitating bending deformation of the first intermediate section.

[0031] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, at least a portion of the first conductive element in the first intermediate segment is exposed through the second stress relief hole. This facilitates increasing the depth of the second stress relief hole, further reducing the stiffness of the first intermediate segment, and thus further improving the bending performance of the first intermediate segment.

[0032] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, the first intermediate segment includes a second left-side portion, a middle portion, and a second right-side portion connected sequentially, with the second left-side portion located between the middle portion and the first segment; the second left-side portion is formed as an elastic segment, and the middle portion is fixed to the base. In this way, on the one hand, the deformation of the second left-side portion can accommodate changes in the gap between the first support member and the intermediate support member; on the other hand, it is also beneficial to further reduce the overall length and redundant length of the electrical connector, thereby further reducing the resistance of the electrical connector and further reducing the grounding impedance between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal; furthermore, it is also beneficial to control the bending path and bending shape of the electrical connector, which helps to reduce the space occupied by the electrical connector.

[0033] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, at least a portion of the first intermediate segment is fixed to the base. A specific structure for the first intermediate segment is provided.

[0034] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, at least a portion of the first intermediate section is fixed to a base, the base including a metal structural member, and the first intermediate section is electrically connected to the metal structural member. In this way, the metal structural member in the base and the first intermediate section can be connected in parallel between a first grounding metal and a second grounding metal, thereby forming two parallel grounding links between the first and second grounding metals. One grounding link is: first grounding metal → electrical connector → second grounding metal, and the other grounding link is: first grounding metal → metal structural member in the base → second grounding metal. This reduces the grounding impedance between the first and second grounding metals.

[0035] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, the electrical connector includes a first bendable segment, and the base includes an intermediate support member with a first gap between the intermediate support member and the first support member. When the foldable electronic device is in the unfolded state, the orthographic projection of the first bendable segment in a first plane overlaps with the orthographic projection of the first gap in the first plane. During the switching between the unfolded and folded states of the foldable electronic device, the first bendable segment can be bent and stretched. In this way, the deformation of the first bendable segment can adapt to changes in the size and shape of the foldable electronic device.

[0036] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, the first bendable segment is a flexible circuit board or cable. That is, the first bendable segment does not include an elastic structural member or a second protective member. This improves the bending performance of the first bendable segment, thereby helping to prevent the conductive components in the first bendable segment from breaking.

[0037] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, the first bendable segment is an elastic segment. This allows the foldable electronic device to adapt to changes in size and shape through the stretching and contraction of the first bendable segment.

[0038] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, a second gap exists between the first main body and the first support member; the electrical connector includes a first deformable segment. When the foldable electronic device is in the unfolded state, the orthographic projection of the first deformable segment in the first plane overlaps with the orthographic projection of the second gap in the first plane. When the foldable electronic device switches between the unfolded and folded states, the first deformable segment can deform. In this way, the deformation of the first deformable segment can adapt to changes in the size of the gap between the first main body and the first support member, which helps to prevent the electrical connector from breaking, thereby improving the reliability of the electrical connector.

[0039] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, the first deformable segment is an elastic segment. A specific structure for the first deformable segment is provided.

[0040] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, the first support member is provided with a first recess, which penetrates one side surface of the first support member in the thickness direction, and the first section is disposed within the first recess. This has several advantages: firstly, it reduces the superimposed thickness between the first section and the first support member, which helps reduce the overall thickness of the foldable electronic device and thus facilitates a thinner design; secondly, it expands the assembly space of the first section, allowing for more flexible selection of its thickness; and thirdly, during assembly, the first recess can be used to position the electrical connectors, reducing the assembly difficulty of the electrical connectors.

[0041] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, the first support member has at least one first through hole, which penetrates both sides of the first support member in the thickness direction, and the first segment passes through the at least one first through hole. This allows the first segment to be connected to the first support member through the first through hole, which helps prevent the first segment from swaying or swinging, and the structure is simple and ingeniously designed.

[0042] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, the foldable electronic device includes a foldable screen disposed on a supporting device; a first main body includes a first bearing surface and a first side wall, the first bearing surface facing the foldable screen, and the first side wall facing the second main body when the foldable electronic device is in an unfolded state; a first groove is provided on the first main body, the first groove penetrating the first bearing surface and the first side wall, a first section located within the first groove, and at least a portion of the first section being formed as an elastic section. Thus, during the switching between the unfolded and folded states, the foldable electronic device can adapt to dimensional changes in different states through the stretching deformation of the first section. Furthermore, since the space of the first groove is relatively large, placing the first section within the first groove also provides sufficient assembly and elastic deformation space for the first section.

[0043] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, the foldable electronic device includes a foldable screen disposed on a supporting device, with a first space defined between the foldable screen and the supporting device, and at least a portion of the electrical connector located within the first space. This approach, on the one hand, further reduces the distance between the electrical connector and the foldable screen, thereby facilitating a reduction in the overall length, redundant length, and elastic segment length of the electrical connector, thus reducing its resistance and grounding impedance. On the other hand, it fully utilizes the space between the foldable screen and the supporting device, preventing the electrical connector from occupying internal space within the supporting device. This not only optimizes the structural layout of the foldable electronic device but also makes its structure more compact, reducing its overall thickness and facilitating a thinner design.

[0044] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, the foldable electronic device includes a support plate, which is stacked on the side of the folding mechanism closest to the folding screen, and at least a portion of the support plate is fixed to the folding mechanism; a portion of the electrical connector is disposed between the folding mechanism and the support plate. In this way, the support plate can separate the electrical connector from the support structure in the folding screen, effectively preventing the electrical connector from pressing against or constricting the screen during the folding or unfolding of the foldable electronic device, reducing the risk of the folding screen arching during bending, and also preventing the electrical connector from getting stuck in the perforated holes on the support structure, thus improving the reliability of the electrical connector and consequently improving the stability and reliability of the electrical connection between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal.

[0045] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, the first main body includes a first housing, which includes a first middle frame and a first back cover. The first back cover is fixed to one side of the first middle frame. At least a portion of the first middle frame is formed as a first grounding metal. The first middle frame includes a first side wall and a first bearing surface, with the first bearing surface facing away from the first back cover. When the foldable electronic device is in the unfolded state, the first side wall faces the second main body. A first groove is provided on the first middle frame, penetrating the first bearing surface and the first side wall. An electrical connector is fixed and electrically connected to the groove wall of the first groove. This reduces the length of the electrical connector, thereby reducing its resistance and the grounding impedance between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal.

[0046] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, the foldable electronic device includes a first antenna radiator, which is spaced apart from an electrical connector along a fourth direction; in the fourth direction, the minimum distance between the clearance area of ​​the electrical connector and the first antenna radiator is less than or equal to 10 mm; the fourth direction is parallel to the rotation axis of the first main body relative to the second main body. This facilitates rapid return of the coupling current, effectively reduces fluctuations in the single antenna caused by the unfolded state, improves the antenna's radiation performance, reduces interference, and avoids exceeding the RSE limit.

[0047] In one possible implementation of the second aspect, there are multiple electrical connection lines arranged in a fourth direction parallel to the rotation axis of the first main body relative to the second main body. This approach, on the one hand, further reduces the impedance between the two reference grounds (the first and second grounding metals), improving current flow; on the other hand, it prevents the grounding link between the first and second grounding metals from failing due to bending of individual electrical connectors, thus improving grounding reliability and reducing impedance fluctuations. Furthermore, by using multiple parallel electrical connectors, the current-carrying capacity requirement of each connector in the grounding link is reduced, thereby decreasing the cross-sectional area of ​​each connector and minimizing its space requirements.

[0048] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a foldable electronic device, including a support device and an electrical connector. The support device includes a first main body, a second main body, and a folding mechanism. The first main body and the second main body are respectively connected to both sides of the folding mechanism, and the foldable electronic device can switch between an unfolded state and a folded state. The first main body includes a first grounding metal, and the second main body includes a second grounding metal. The folding mechanism includes a base, a first swing arm, and a second swing arm. The first swing arm and the second swing arm are rotatably connected to opposite sides of the base. The first swing arm includes a first metal structure, and the second swing arm includes a second metal structure. The electrical connector is the electrical connector in any of the above technical solutions. The electrical connector includes a first connecting segment, a second connecting segment, and an intermediate connecting segment. The two ends of the first connecting segment are electrically connected to the first grounding metal and the first metal structure, respectively. The two ends of the intermediate connecting segment are electrically connected to the first metal structure and the second metal structure, respectively. The two ends of the second connecting segment are electrically connected to the second grounding metal and the second metal structure, respectively. At least one of the first connecting segment, the second connecting segment, and the intermediate connecting segment includes an elastic segment.

[0049] In this way, a grounding link can be formed by the first metal structure and the second metal structure, which can simplify the structure of the electrical connector and reduce the space occupied by the electrical connector.

[0050] The technical effects of any of the design methods in the second to third aspects can also be found in the technical effects of the different design methods in the first aspect, which will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0051] Figure 1a A perspective view of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state, provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0052] Figure 1b for Figure 1a The diagram shows the structure of the foldable electronic device in its folded state.

[0053] Figure 2 for Figure 1a An exploded view of the foldable electronic device shown.

[0054] Figure 3 for Figure 1a A partial cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device shown at line AA;

[0055] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A partial cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device in its folded state is shown.

[0056] Figure 5 for Figure 1a The cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device shown is located at the BB line.

[0057] Figure 6 for Figure 1a A schematic diagram of the internal structure of the foldable electronic device is shown.

[0058] Figure 7 Partial cross-sectional view of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state, provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0059] Figure 8 for Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a foldable electronic device in its folded state;

[0060] Figure 9 for Figure 7 A perspective view of the electrical connectors in the foldable electronic device shown.

[0061] Figure 10 for Figure 9 Top views of the electrical connectors in different states;

[0062] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electrical connector provided in other embodiments of this application;

[0063] Figure 12a for Figure 9 Exploded view of the electrical connector shown;

[0064] Figure 12b for Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of the electrical connector shown at the CC line;

[0065] Figure 13 Schematic diagrams of the structure of the elastic segment provided in other embodiments of this application;

[0066] Figure 14 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of a first conductive element provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0067] Figure 15 Cross-sectional views of the elastic segment provided in other embodiments of this application;

[0068] Figure 16 Schematic diagrams of elastic structural members provided in some embodiments of this application under different states;

[0069] Figure 17 A top view of an elastic structural member provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0070] Figure 18 A partial side view of an elastic structural member provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0071] Figure 19 A schematic diagram of a flexible segment provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0072] Figure 20 for Figure 19 A schematic diagram of the elastic structural member in the elastic segment shown;

[0073] Figure 21 for Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the assembly of electrical connectors and folding mechanism in a foldable electronic device is shown.

[0074] Figure 22 for Figure 21 The assembly diagram shown is a schematic diagram in the folded state;

[0075] Figure 23 A partial structural schematic diagram of the first bendable segment provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0076] Figure 24 A cross-sectional view of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state, provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0077] Figure 25 for Figure 24 The cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device shown is in its folded state;

[0078] Figure 26a for Figure 24 An enlarged view of the foldable electronic device in region A shown;

[0079] Figure 26b This is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of a foldable electronic device in some other embodiments of this application;

[0080] Figure 26c for Figure 26b A partial top view of the first support member and the first main body in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device shown.

[0081] Figure 27 Partial cross-sectional view of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state, provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0082] Figure 28 for Figure 27 A partial cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device in its folded state is shown.

[0083] Figure 29 for Figure 27 An assembly perspective view of the support plate, folding mechanism, and electrical connectors in the foldable electronic device shown.

[0084] Figure 30 for Figure 29 The assembly solid view shown is a cross-sectional view at line DD;

[0085] Figure 31 for Figure 30 The cross-sectional view of the support plate, folding mechanism, and electrical connector shown is in the folded state;

[0086] Figure 32 for Figure 27 A perspective view of the folding mechanism in the foldable electronic device shown.

[0087] Figure 33 for Figure 27 A perspective view of the first main body of the foldable electronic device shown.

[0088] Figure 34 Partial cross-sectional view of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state, provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0089] Figure 35 for Figure 34 A partial cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device in its folded state is shown.

[0090] Figure 36 Partial cross-sectional views of electrical connectors and folding screens in foldable electronic devices provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0091] Figure 37 Partial cross-sectional views of electrical connectors and folding screens in foldable electronic devices provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0092] Figure 38 Partial cross-sectional view of a foldable electronic device provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0093] Figure 39 for Figure 38 A schematic diagram of the foldable electronic device in its folded state;

[0094] Figure 40a Partial cross-sectional view of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state, provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0095] Figure 40b for Figure 40a A schematic diagram of the foldable electronic device in its folded state;

[0096] Figure 41 A top view of the assembly of the first intermediate section and the shaft cover provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0097] Figures 42-45 These are partial cross-sectional views of foldable electronic devices provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0098] Figure 46 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device provided in some embodiments of this application in its unfolded state;

[0099] Figure 47 for Figure 46 A schematic diagram of the foldable electronic device in its folded state;

[0100] Figure 48 Partial cross-sectional view of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state, provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0101] Figure 49 for Figure 48 A schematic diagram of the foldable electronic device in its folded state;

[0102] Figure 50 A schematic diagram of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state, provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0103] Figure 51 for Figure 50 A schematic diagram of the foldable electronic device in its folded state;

[0104] Figure 52 A top view of a foldable electronic device in its unfolded state, provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0105] Figure 53 A schematic diagram of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state, provided in some other embodiments of this application;

[0106] Figure 54 This is a simulation diagram of the energy distribution around the first antenna radiator.

[0107] Figure label:

[0108] 100 foldable electronic devices;

[0109] Foldable screen 10; First display section 11; Second display section 12; Third display section 13; Display screen 101; Support structure 102; Hole K1;

[0110] Support device 20; First main body 201; First housing 21; First middle frame 211; First middle plate 2111; First side frame 2112; First back cover 212; First receiving cavity Q1; First groove C1; First groove bottom wall C11; First groove side wall C12; First clearance groove C120; First area C121; Second area C122; First bearing surface a1; First side wall a2; First through hole K4; First antenna radiator 2112a; Clearance area 2112b; Second main body 202; Second housing 22; Second middle frame 221; Second back cover 222; Second receiving cavity Q2; Second groove C2; ​​Second bearing surface b1; Second side wall b2; Folding mechanism 23; Base 23a; Shaft cover 2301; Base plate 2301a; Side plate 2301b; Intermediate support 2302; Second top surface n1; Second bottom surface n2; Fixed seat 2303; Fixed groove C9; First groove wall C91; First limiting protrusion C911; Second groove wall C92; Second limiting protrusion C921; Rotating assembly 23b; First support 231; First outer surface m1; First inner surface m2; First top surface m3; First bottom surface m4; First through hole 231a; Second support 232; First gap J1; Second gap J2; Third gap J3; Fourth gap J4; First swing arm 233; Second swing arm 234; First connector 235; Second connector 236;

[0111] First circuit board 31; Second circuit board 32; Through-shaft circuit board 301; Electrical connector 33; First section 331; First left side portion 331a; First right side portion 331b; Second section 332; Third section 333; Fourth section 334; First middle section 335; Middle portion 335a; Second left side portion 335b; Second right side portion 335c; First surface n31; Second surface n32; First bendable section 336; Third outer surface m51; Fourth outer surface m52; First deformable section 337; Second bendable section 338; Second deformable section 339;

[0112] Conductive component 33a; bare wire core t1; first insulating layer t2; first grounding layer t3; second insulating layer t4; first conductive component 33a1; meandering unit E; first extension segment E1; second extension segment E2; third extension segment E3; first cavity Q4; second conductive component 33a2; first conductive layer P1; first sub-plating layer P11; second sub-plating layer P12; second conductive layer P2; third conductive layer P3; fourth conductive layer P4; protective component 33b; elastic structural component 33b1; first split part F1; first recessed groove F11; second split part F2; second recessed groove F21; first outer surface r1; first protrusion r10; first part r11; second part r12; first inner surface r2; first outer peripheral surface r3; second outer surface v1; second protrusion v10; third part v11; fourth part v12; second protective component 33b2; elastic segment D1; non-elastic segment D2.

[0113] First connecting segment 3301; Second connecting segment 3302; Intermediate connecting segment 3303;

[0114] First space Q3; support plate 40; wear-resistant layer 50; first settling tank C3; second settling tank C4; third settling tank C5; fourth settling tank C6; receiving tank C8;

[0115] First stress relief hole K21; Second stress relief hole K22; Third stress relief hole K23; Fourth stress relief hole K24;

[0116] First metallized via K31; Second metallized via K32;

[0117] First conductive pad 61; second conductive pad 62; first conductive foam 71; second conductive foam 72. Detailed Implementation

[0118] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments.

[0119] 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.

[0120] In the embodiments of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined with "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature.

[0121] In the description of the embodiments of this application, "and / or" is merely a way of describing the relationship between related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can represent three situations: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone. In addition, the character " / " in this application generally indicates that the related objects before and after it are in an "or" relationship.

[0122] In the embodiments of this application, directional terms such as "upper", "lower", "lateral", "longitudinal", "top", "bottom", "left", "right", "inner", and "outer" may be defined relative to the orientation of the components shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these directional terms can be relative concepts, used for relative description and clarification, and can change accordingly depending on the orientation of the components in the accompanying drawings.

[0123] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "linking" can be a detachable connection or a non-detachable connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. "Fixed connection" refers to a connection where the relative positional relationship remains unchanged after connection. "Rotary connection" refers to a connection where the components can rotate relative to each other after connection. "Sliding connection" refers to a connection where the components can slide relative to each other after connection. "Electrical connection" can include direct current conduction formed by direct contact between two devices, or high-frequency coupling conduction formed by capacitive coupling between two devices through a capacitor of a certain area.

[0124] In the description of embodiments of this application, the terms "parallel" and "perpendicular" include the described situation and situations that are similar to the described situation, where the range of similarity is within an acceptable deviation range. For example, "parallel" includes absolute parallelism and approximate parallelism, where the acceptable deviation range for approximate parallelism can be, for example, within 15°. "Perpendicular" includes absolute perpendicularity and approximate perpendicularity, where the acceptable deviation range for approximate perpendicularity can be, for example, within 15°.

[0125] This application provides a foldable electronic device, which may include a first main body, a second main body, and a folding mechanism. The folding mechanism is used to realize the relative or synchronous movement of the first main body and the second main body, so that the foldable electronic device can switch between an unfolded state and a folded state. The relative movement between the first main body and the second main body includes relative rotation, relative sliding, etc., and the synchronous movement between the first main body and the second main body includes synchronous rotation, synchronous sliding, etc.

[0126] Specifically, foldable electronic devices have at least two states: an unfolded state and a folded state. In some cases, foldable electronic devices may further include an intermediate state. This intermediate state can be any one or more states between the unfolded and folded states. Users can switch the foldable electronic device to different states to meet different usage needs.

[0127] The foldable electronic device in this embodiment of the application, by providing an electrical connector including an elastic segment, and electrically connecting both ends of the electrical connector to a first structural member in the first main body and a second structural member in the second main body respectively, can form a reliable electrical connection between the first and second structural members. Simultaneously, when the foldable electronic device switches between an unfolded state and a folded state, the electrical connector can adapt to the change in the shape of the foldable electronic device through the elastic deformation (e.g., telescopic deformation) of the elastic segment. On the one hand, this reduces the tensile stress on the electrical connector, which is beneficial to improving the service life of the electrical connector and thus the service life of the foldable electronic device. On the other hand, by providing the elastic segment, it is also beneficial to reduce the redundant length of the electrical connector, thereby reducing the space occupied by the electrical connector and facilitating the miniaturization design of the foldable electronic device.

[0128] In this configuration, the first structural component can be a first ground metal, and the second structural component can be a second ground metal. In this case, the electrical connector can establish an electrical connection between two reference grounds. Alternatively, the first structural component can be a first circuit board, and the second structural component can be a second circuit board. In this case, the electrical connector can be used to achieve signal transmission between the first and second circuit boards.

[0129] The foldable electronic device in this application embodiment can be a tablet computer, personal digital assistant (PDA), laptop computer, e-reader, handheld device with wireless communication function, computing device, in-vehicle device, wearable device (including but not limited to smartwatches, smart bracelets, etc.), virtual reality (VR) terminal device (e.g., VR glasses), augmented reality (AR) terminal device (e.g., AR glasses), Bluetooth headset, camera, wireless terminal in industrial control, wireless terminal in self-driving, wireless terminal in remote medical care, wireless terminal in smart grid, wireless terminal in transportation safety, wireless terminal in smart city, wireless terminal in smart home, etc., mobile or fixed terminal. This application embodiment does not specifically limit the form of the foldable electronic device.

[0130] Please see Figure 1a , Figure 1a This is a perspective view of a foldable electronic device 100 in its unfolded state, provided in some embodiments of this application. The foldable electronic device 100 includes a foldable screen 10 and a support device 20. In this embodiment, the foldable electronic device 100 is described as a foldable screen device (e.g., a foldable mobile phone). It is understood that in other embodiments, the foldable electronic device 100 may also be a slider phone, a rotating phone, etc.

[0131] in, Figure 1a The foldable electronic device 100 is shown only schematically, and the actual shape, size, position, and construction of these components are not subject to change. Figure 1a Limitations. For example, in some other examples, the foldable electronic device 100 may not include the foldable screen 10.

[0132] The foldable electronic device 100 is approximately rectangular in shape when unfolded. In other embodiments, the foldable electronic device 100 may also be approximately circular, elliptical, or similar in shape when unfolded.

[0133] The foldable screen 10 is used to display images, videos, and other information. Please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 1a The foldable screen 10 includes a first display portion 11, a second display portion 12, and a third display portion 13. The third display portion 13 is connected between the first display portion 11 and the second display portion 12. Figure 1a The first display section 11, the second display section 12, and the third display section 13 are schematically divided using dashed lines. These dashed lines do not actually exist in the foldable screen 10. The same interpretation applies to the dashed lines on other components mentioned later, and they will not be elaborated upon further.

[0134] Please see Figure 1b , Figure 1b for Figure 1a The diagram shows the structure of the foldable electronic device 100 in its folded state, where the foldable screen 10 is also folded. Specifically, when the foldable screen 10 is folded, the first display portion 11 and the second display portion 12 are opposite each other, and the third display portion 13 is bent. At this time, the third display portion 13 can be teardrop-shaped, U-shaped, etc. In this state, the foldable electronic device 100 is small in size and easy to carry.

[0135] It should be noted that, Figure 1b In the illustrated embodiment, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in a folded state, the support device 20 protects the foldable screen 10 from view, and the foldable screen 10 is not visible to the user. In this case, the foldable electronic device 100 is an inward-folding electronic device. In other embodiments, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in a folded state, the foldable screen 10 may also be located outside the support device 20, and the foldable screen 10 is visible to the user. In this case, the foldable electronic device 100 is an outward-folding electronic device.

[0136] Please see Figure 2 and combined Figure 3 , Figure 2 for Figure 1a An exploded view of the foldable electronic device 100 shown. Figure 3 for Figure 1a The diagram shows a partial cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device 100 at line AA. In some embodiments, the foldable screen 10 includes a display screen 101 and a support structure 102 stacked together. The first display portion 11, the second display portion 12, and the third display portion 13 of the foldable screen 10 may each include a portion of the display screen 101 and a portion of the support structure 102 opposite to it.

[0137] Specifically, the display screen 101 has a display surface and a non-display surface facing away from each other. The display surface faces away from the support device 20. The support structure 102 is stacked on top of the display screen 101 and can be fixed to the non-display surface of the display screen 101. The support structure 102 is used to increase the overall structural strength of the folding screen 10, and the support structure 102 can be folded together with the display screen 101.

[0138] The support structure 102 can be in the form of a thin sheet. The material of the support structure 102 can be metals such as stainless steel and titanium alloy, or it can be carbon fiber. These materials have a certain degree of hardness and a high elastic modulus, which can improve the hardness and bending resilience of the foldable screen 10. To facilitate the bending of the support structure 102, in some embodiments, please refer to... Figure 3 The support structure 102 in the third display section 13 may be provided with a hollow hole K1.

[0139] Support device 20 is used to support foldable screen 10. (See also...) Figure 2 The support device 20 includes a first main body 201, a second main body 202, and a folding mechanism 23.

[0140] The first main body 201 can be used to support the first display portion 11 of the foldable screen 10. The second main body 202 can be used to support the second display portion 12 of the foldable screen 10. The folding mechanism 23 is connected between the first main body 201 and the second main body 202, and can be used to support the third display portion 13 of the foldable screen 10.

[0141] The first main body 201 and the second main body 202 can rotate relative to each other or synchronously via the folding mechanism 23. Specifically, the folding mechanism 23 can switch between an unfolded state and a folded state, thereby allowing the entire foldable electronic device 100 to switch between these states. When the folding mechanism 23 is in the folded state, the folding screen 10, the support device 20, and the foldable electronic device 100 are also in the folded state. When the folding mechanism 23 is in the unfolded state, the folding screen 10, the support device 20, and the foldable electronic device 100 are also in the unfolded state.

[0142] When the foldable electronic device 100 is a foldable screen device, please refer to Figure 1b When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the folded state, the angle between the first main body 201 and the second main body 202 is approximately 0 degrees. Please refer to... Figure 1a When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the included angle between the first main body portion 201 and the second main body portion 202 can be approximately 180 degrees. It is understood that in other embodiments, when the foldable electronic device 100 is another device, the included angle between the first main body portion 201 and the second main body portion 202 in the unfolded and folded states can also be other angles, and this application does not specifically limit this.

[0143] In this embodiment, the support device 20 includes two main bodies: a first main body 201 and a second main body 202. The support device 20 can be folded once. It is understood that in other embodiments, the support device 20 may also include three, four, or more main bodies. In this case, two adjacent main bodies can be rotatably connected by the folding mechanism 23. Thus, the support device 20 can be folded multiple times (two or more times).

[0144] The first main body 201 may include a first housing 21 and components located within the first housing 21, and the second main body 202 may include a second housing 22 and components located within the second housing 22.

[0145] Please see Figure 3 The first housing 21 may include a first middle frame 211 and a first back cover 212. The first display portion 11 of the foldable screen 10 is supported on the first middle frame 211. Exemplarily, the first middle frame 211 includes a first middle plate 2111 and a first frame 2112. The first frame 2112 may be cylindrical, and the first middle plate 2111 is connected to the inner circumferential surface of the first frame 2112. The first middle plate 2111 and the first frame 2112 may be integrally formed. Alternatively, the first middle plate 2111 and the first frame 2112 may be connected by welding, fasteners, or other methods. Among them, the fasteners described in the embodiments of this application include, but are not limited to, screws, rivets, bolts, etc.

[0146] In some embodiments, the first middle frame 211 can be a metal component. For example, the first middle frame 211 can be an aluminum alloy component, a magnesium alloy component, a stainless steel component, etc. In this way, the first middle frame 211 not only provides rigid support for the components within the first housing 21, but also provides a zero-potential reference for the various electronic devices in the foldable electronic device 100. That is, the first middle frame 2111 can be formed as a first grounded metal. Additionally, in this case, one or more slots can be provided on the first frame 2112 to divide the first frame 2112 into multiple antenna radiators. In this way, the first frame 2112 can be reused as an antenna radiator, saving space and cost associated with additional antenna radiators.

[0147] The first back cover 212 is fixedly connected to the side of the first middle frame 211 away from the first display portion 11. A first receiving cavity Q1 can be formed between the first back cover 212 and the first middle frame 211. In some embodiments, the material of the first back cover 212 includes, but is not limited to, metal, plastic, glass, ceramic, etc. It is understood that in other embodiments, when the foldable electronic device 100 is an inward-folding electronic device, the first back cover 212 may also include an additional screen. In this way, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in a folded state, the additional screen in the first back cover 212 can be used as the outer screen of the foldable electronic device 100.

[0148] Please continue reading. Figure 3 The second housing 22 includes a second middle frame 221 and a second back cover 222. The second display portion 12 of the foldable screen 10 is supported on the second middle frame 221. The second back cover 222 is fixedly connected to the side of the second middle frame 221 away from the second display portion 12. A second receiving cavity Q2 is formed between the second middle frame 221 and the second back cover 222. The structure and materials of the second middle frame 221 can be designed with reference to the first middle frame 211. Specifically, the second middle frame 221 can also be a metal part. In this case, the second middle frame 221 can be formed as a second ground metal, and the second frame 221 can be reused as an antenna radiator.

[0149] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 2 The first main body 201 has a first groove C1 at one end near the second main body 202, and the second main body 202 has a second groove C2 at one end near the first main body 201. For example, the first groove C1 can be formed in the first housing 21, and the second groove C2 can be formed in the second housing 22. Specifically, the first groove C1 can be formed in the first middle frame 211, and the second groove C2 can be formed in the second middle frame 221.

[0150] Please see Figure 2 and combined Figure 3 The first main body 201 includes a first bearing surface a1 and a first side wall surface a2. Both the first bearing surface a1 and the first side wall surface a2 can be formed on the first middle frame 211. The second main body 202 includes a second bearing surface b1 and a second side wall surface b2. Both the second bearing surface b1 and the second side wall surface b2 can be formed on the second middle frame 221.

[0151] The first bearing surface a1 and the second bearing surface b1 both face the foldable screen 10. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the first side wall a2 faces the second main body 202, and the second side wall b2 faces the first main body 201. The first groove C1 penetrates the first bearing surface a1 and the first side wall a2, and the second groove C2 penetrates the second bearing surface b1 and the second side wall b2.

[0152] Please see Figure 3 When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the first groove C1 and the second groove C2 align to form a receiving space, within which the folding mechanism 23 can be accommodated. Specifically, a portion of the folding mechanism 23 can be located within the first groove C1, and another portion can be located within the second groove C2. This helps to prevent the folding mechanism 23 from being exposed when the foldable electronic device 100 is unfolded, thus improving the aesthetic appearance of the foldable electronic device 100 in the unfolded state.

[0153] Please see Figures 3-4 , Figure 4 for Figure 3 The diagram shows a partial cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device 100 in its folded state. The folding mechanism 23 includes a base 23a and a rotating assembly 23b. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The folding mechanism 23 is shown only schematically, and the actual shape, size, position, and construction of these components are not subject to change. Figure 3 and Figure 4 Limitations. For example, the folding mechanism 23 may also include a synchronous transmission mechanism, a damping mechanism, etc.

[0154] For ease of description in the following embodiments, an XYZ coordinate system is established for the base 23a, defining the length direction of the base 23a as the Y-axis, the width direction as the X-axis, and the thickness direction as the Z-axis. It is understood that the coordinate system setting of the foldable electronic device 100 can be flexibly set according to actual needs, and no specific limitations are made here.

[0155] In this embodiment, please refer to Figure 1a and Figure 3 When the foldable electronic device 100 is in its unfolded state, its width direction is parallel to the Y-axis direction and its length direction is parallel to the X-axis direction, allowing it to fold longitudinally. That is, the foldable electronic device 100 in this embodiment is a vertically folding electronic device. It is understood that in other embodiments, the foldable electronic device 100 may also be in its unfolded state with its width direction parallel to the X-axis direction and its length direction parallel to the Y-axis direction, allowing it to fold laterally. In this case, the foldable electronic device 100 is a horizontally folding electronic device.

[0156] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 3-4 The base 23a may include a shaft cover 2301, a fixing seat 2303, and an intermediate support 2302. The shaft cover 2301 may serve as an exterior part (i.e., an externally visible component) of the folding mechanism 23. The materials of the shaft cover 2301 include, but are not limited to, metal and plastic.

[0157] Please see Figure 4 The shaft cover 2301 includes a base plate 2301a and a side plate 2301b. The base plate 2301a is generally flat. The side plate 2301b surrounds the outer edge of the base plate 2301a, defining an accommodating space between the side plate 2301b and the base plate 2301a, where other components of the folding mechanism 23 can be accommodated. This allows some components of the folding mechanism 23 to be hidden inside the shaft cover 2301, improving the aesthetic appearance of the foldable electronic device 100.

[0158] The mounting base 2303 is disposed within the shaft cover 2301 and serves to provide a mounting base for components such as the rotating assembly 23b of the folding mechanism 23. For example, the mounting base 2303 can be fixedly connected to the base plate 2301a of the shaft cover 2301. The connection methods between the mounting base 2303 and the shaft cover 2301 include, but are not limited to, fastener connection, snap-fit, welding, etc. Alternatively, the mounting base 2303 and the shaft cover 2301 can also be integrally formed.

[0159] An intermediate support member 2302 is disposed on the shaft cover 2301 and can be used to support part of the folding screen 10. In some embodiments, a fixing seat 2303 can be disposed between the intermediate support member 2302 and the shaft cover 2301. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the intermediate support member 2302 and the fixing seat 2303 can also be located along the length direction of the base 23a (e.g., Figure 4 The intermediate support member 2302 can be arranged relative to the shaft cover 2301 along the thickness direction of the base 23a (e.g., along the Y-axis direction). Figure 4 It can move in the Z-axis direction (or be fixed relative to the shaft cover 2301).

[0160] The rotating assembly 23b can be used to achieve a rotatable connection between the first main body 201 and the second main body 202. The number of rotating assemblies 23b can be one, two, or more. When there are multiple rotating assemblies 23b, they can be spaced apart along the length of the base 23a.

[0161] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 3-4 The rotating assembly 23b includes a first swing arm 233, a second swing arm 234, a first support member 231, a second support member 232, a first connector 235, and a second connector 236.

[0162] Please see Figures 3-4 Both the first swing arm 233 and the second swing arm 234 are rotatably connected to the fixed base 2303, and the first swing arm 233 and the second swing arm 234 are respectively located in the width direction of the fixed base 2303 (e.g., Figure 3 On both sides of the X-axis (in the X-axis direction).

[0163] Both the first support member 231 and the second support member 232 can rotate relative to the base 23a between an unfolded position and a folded position. The first support member 231 is rotatably or slidably engaged with the first swing arm 233. The second support member 232 is rotatably or slidably engaged with the second swing arm 234.

[0164] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, both the first support member 231 and the second support member 232 are in the unfolded position. The first support member 231 and the second support member 232 are located on opposite sides of the base 23a. The angle between the surface of the first support member 231 facing the foldable screen 10 and the surface of the intermediate support member 2302 facing the foldable screen 10 (that is, the surface of the base 23a facing the foldable screen 10) is approximately 180°, and the angle between the surface of the second support member 232 facing the foldable screen 10 and the surface of the intermediate support member 2302 facing the foldable screen 10 is also approximately 180°. In this way, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the third display portion 13 of the foldable screen 10 can be supported by the first support member 231, the second support member 232, and the intermediate support member 2302. This ensures the flatness of the third display portion 13 when the foldable screen 10 is in the unfolded state.

[0165] Please see Figure 4 When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the folded state, both the first support member 231 and the second support member 232 are in the folded position. The surface of the first support member 231 facing the foldable screen 10 and the surface of the second support member 232 facing the foldable screen 10 are opposite each other. In this way, a space for accommodating the third display portion 13 can be defined between the first support member 231, the second support member 232 and the intermediate support member 2302, so as to limit the shape of the third display portion 13 of the foldable screen 10 in the folded state.

[0166] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 and combined Figure 4 During the transition from the unfolded state to the folded state, the angles at which the first support member 231 rotates relative to the intermediate support member 2302 and the second support member 232 rotate relative to the intermediate support member 2302 are both first angles. Similarly, the angles at which the first main body portion 201 rotates relative to the base 23a and the second main body portion 202 rotates relative to the base 23a are both second angles. The first angle is greater than the second angle. For example, the first angle can be greater than 90 degrees, and the second angle can be equal to 90 degrees. This allows the third display portion 13 to be folded into a teardrop shape, which helps reduce the bending radius of the foldable screen and thus reduces the overall thickness of the device.

[0167] It is understood that in some other embodiments, the first angle may also be equal to the second angle. For example, both the first angle and the second angle may be equal to 90 degrees. In this case, the third display portion 13 may be folded into other shapes (e.g., U-shape), which is not specifically limited in this embodiment.

[0168] Since the bending radius of the foldable electronic device 100 when it is folded is smaller than that of the folding mechanism 23, in order to prevent the third display portion 13 of the foldable screen 10 from being damaged by the pressure of the base 23a when it is folded or during the folding process, please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 3 and combined Figure 4 When the folding mechanism 23 folds from the unfolded state to the folded state, the first support member 231 and the second support member 232 rotate relative to the base 23a and also move relative to the intermediate support member 2302 in a direction away from the intermediate support member 2302. When the folding mechanism 23 folds from the folded state to the unfolded state, the first support member 231 and the second support member 232 rotate relative to the base 23a and also move relative to the intermediate support member 2302 in a direction closer to the intermediate support member 2302.

[0169] Specifically, during the switching between the unfolded and folded states of the foldable electronic device 100, the gap between the first support member 231 and the intermediate support member 2302, as well as the gap between the second support member 232 and the intermediate support member 2302, will change.

[0170] In this way, the size of the folding mechanism 23 can adapt to the shape changes of the third display part 13 during the folding or unfolding process, which can prevent the base 23a from squeezing the third display part 13, thereby effectively reducing the stress on the third display part 13 during the folding process and in the folded state, which is beneficial to improving the reliability of the folding screen.

[0171] The first connector 235 is fixed to the first main body 201 and is used to connect the rotating component 23b to the first main body 201. The first connector 235 is rotatably or slidably connected to the first swing arm 233. For example, the first connector 235 can be fixed to the first middle frame 211 by means of fasteners, welding, bonding, etc. Alternatively, the first connector 235 can also be integrally formed with the first middle frame 211.

[0172] The second connector 236 is fixed to the second main body 202 and is used to connect the rotating component 23b to the second main body 202. The second connector 236 is rotatably or slidably connected to the second swing arm 234. The connection method between the second connector 236 and the second main body 202 can be designed with reference to the connection method between the first connector 235 and the first main body 201, and will not be described in detail here. In this way, when the first main body 201 rotates relative to the base 23a under the action of an external force, the first connector 235 can rotate with the first main body 201, thereby driving the first swing arm 233 and the first support member 231 to rotate relative to the base 23a; when the second main body 202 rotates relative to the base 23a under the action of an external force, the second connector 236 can rotate with the second main body 202, thereby driving the second swing arm 234 and the second support member 232 to rotate relative to the base 23a, so that the foldable electronic device 100 can switch between the unfolded state and the folded state.

[0173] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 3-4 The foldable electronic device 100 also includes a first circuit board 31 and a second circuit board 32. The first circuit board 31 is disposed in the first receiving cavity Q1 of the first housing 21, and the second circuit board 32 is disposed in the second receiving cavity Q2 of the second housing 22.

[0174] Both the first circuit board 31 and the second circuit board 32 can be used to house electronic components. These electronic components include, but are not limited to, processors (also known as chips), antenna modules, Bluetooth modules, WiFi modules, GPS modules, charging management modules, screen display and operation modules, resistors, capacitors, inductors, potentiometers, vacuum tubes, electromechanical components, connectors, discrete semiconductor devices, sensors, power supplies, switches, micromotors, electronic transformers, relays, SIM card slots, and Universal Serial Bus (USB) devices.

[0175] Since the first circuit board 31 and the second circuit board 32 are located inside the first housing 21 and the second housing 22, respectively, in order to realize signal transmission between the electronic components on the first circuit board 31 and the electronic components on the second circuit board 32, in some embodiments, please refer to... Figures 5-6 , Figure 5 for Figure 1a The cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device shown is located at the BB line. Figure 6 for Figure 1a The diagram shows the internal structure of the foldable electronic device 100, which also includes a through-axis circuit board 301.

[0176] The two ends of the through-axis circuit board 301 are electrically connected to the first circuit board 31 and the second circuit board 32, respectively. This allows signals related to the antenna, camera module, foldable screen 10, etc., to be transmitted across the axis. The through-axis circuit board 301 can be a flexible printed circuit (FPC).

[0177] For example, the through-shaft circuit board 301 and the first circuit board 31, as well as the electrical connector 33 and the second circuit board 32, can be electrically connected by board to board (BTB) connectors, zero insertion force (ZIF) connectors, etc.

[0178] In addition, the foldable electronic device 100 may also include a first battery 41, a second battery 42, a speaker, a receiver, a microphone, a headphone jack, buttons, a charging port, etc.

[0179] With the continuous iteration and upgrading of electronic products, the functions and components of the foldable electronic device 100 are constantly increasing, the internal structure of the foldable electronic device 100 is becoming more and more complex, and the electromagnetic environment within the foldable electronic device 100 is also becoming more and more complex. Therefore, from the perspective of improving electromagnetic protection and improving battery charging efficiency, it is necessary to respectively provide a first grounding metal and a second grounding metal in the first main body 201 and the second main body 202, and to form a low-impedance and stable grounding link between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal; otherwise, the following problems will occur. The first grounding metal can be formed in the first housing 21 or the first circuit board 31, and the second grounding metal can be formed in the second housing 22 or the second circuit board 32.

[0180] Question 1:

[0181] Due to the grounding design of the antenna and the characteristics of its radiated energy, the electromagnetic wave signal emitted by the antenna in the foldable electronic device 100 will generate a ground current on the circuit board (e.g., at least one of the first circuit board 31 and the second circuit board 32) and the middle frame (e.g., at least one of the first middle frame 211 and the second middle frame 221). It will also couple or transfer some of the energy to the conductive devices and metals around the antenna. The ground current and the radiated energy of the antenna will be transferred between the conductive devices inside the foldable electronic device 100.

[0182] When the grounding impedance between the first and second grounding metals is large or unstable, the transmission of ground current between the first main body 201 and the second main body 202 will result in significant energy loss in the antenna's radiation. Furthermore, when the impedance between the first and second grounding metals is unstable and fluctuates significantly, contact nonlinearity issues will arise at locations of unstable contact. In this case, when the fundamental frequency energy increases, excessive third harmonic emissions (RSE) will be generated at locations of unstable contact, causing interference to surrounding equipment.

[0183] Question 2:

[0184] To simplify the structure of the foldable electronic device 100, the first battery 41 in the first main body 201 and the second battery 42 in the second main body 202 are both charged through the same charging interface (e.g., USB interface, Type-C interface, etc.). Specifically, the charging interface can be electrically connected to the input terminal of the charging management module, and both the first battery 41 and the second battery 42 are electrically connected to the output terminal of the charging management module. When the charging interface is provided on the first main body 201, the second battery 42 can be electrically connected to the output terminal of the charging management module through the aforementioned through-shaft circuit board 301, thereby realizing the charging of the second battery 42.

[0185] Because the grounding wire in the charging circuit of the second battery 42 needs to be electrically connected to the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal, a surge problem may occur during charging if the grounding impedance between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal is large or unstable, potentially damaging the charging system. Furthermore, a large impedance between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal will also increase the link loss generated during the charging process of the second battery 42, affecting its charging efficiency.

[0186] In some embodiments, the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal can be electrically connected through at least one of the following schemes 11-13. In the embodiments of this application, the first middle frame 211 is formed as the first grounding metal and the second middle frame 221 is formed as the second grounding metal, but this should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0187] Option 11: Please refer to Figure 3 The first middle frame 211 and the second middle frame 221 form a grounding link 1 through the folding mechanism 23: first middle frame 211 → first connector 235 → first swing arm 233 → base 23a → second swing arm 234 → second connector 236 → second middle frame 221.

[0188] The grounding link 1 has a relatively long path, resulting in numerous points of contact resistance and thus a high contact resistance. Furthermore, although a stable contact can be achieved between the first middle frame 211 and the first connector 235 using fasteners such as screws, resulting in low impedance between them, there may be non-linear contact points between the first connector 235 and the first swing arm 233, between the first swing arm 233 and the base 23a, between the second swing arm 234 and the base 23a, and between the second swing arm 234 and the second connector 236. This leads to unstable impedance in the grounding link 1 and a high risk of RSE (Resistant Surface Erosion) problems.

[0189] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the folding mechanism 23 also includes a synchronous transmission mechanism, a damping mechanism, etc. The first middle frame 211 and the second middle frame 221 may also be grounded through the synchronous transmission mechanism and the damping mechanism, which further increases the grounding link 1 between the first middle frame 211 and the second middle frame 221, leading to a further deterioration of the grounding impedance in the grounding link 1. In addition, in order to ensure the folding feel of the foldable electronic device 100, lubricating oil is usually provided between the gears in the synchronous transmission mechanism and between the cams in the damping mechanism. Since the lubricating oil is usually non-conductive, this will further deteriorate the grounding impedance between the first middle frame 211 and the second middle frame 221, exacerbating the RSE problem.

[0190] Due to the unstable impedance of the aforementioned grounding link 1, when the energy generated by the antenna (e.g., G1800 MHz band, G900 MHz band, etc.) is transmitted in the foldable electronic device 100, the harmonic margin may be insufficient or excessive when the foldable electronic device 100 is folded or unfolded, or when the foldable electronic device 100 is struck, causing RSE problems.

[0191] Option 12: In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 3-4 The support structure 102 on the foldable screen 10 can be made of metal, and a first conductive foam 71 can be placed between the first middle frame 211 and the support structure 102, and a second conductive foam 72 can be placed between the second middle frame 221 and the support structure 102. In this way, a grounding link 2 can be formed between the first middle frame 211 and the second middle frame 221: first middle frame 211 → first conductive foam 71 → support structure 102 → second conductive foam 72 → second middle frame 221.

[0192] The grounding link 2 has a short path. When the contact area and abutment force between the first conductive foam 71, the second conductive foam 72 and the support structure 102 meet the requirements and there is no nonlinear contact, the stability of the grounding impedance in the grounding link 2 can be guaranteed. However, because the support structure 102 in the third display part 13 has a hollow hole K1 and the thickness of the support structure 102 is relatively thin, about 150μm, the impedance of the grounding link 2 is very large, reaching 100mΩ to 200mΩ, which is far greater than the charging requirements.

[0193] In addition, since both the first conductive foam 71 and the second conductive foam 72 need to avoid the perforated hole K1 on the support structure 102, the distance between the antenna radiator and the grounding point is relatively far, causing some of the coupled current to still enter the folding mechanism 23, which cannot solve the RSE problem.

[0194] Furthermore, as foldable electronic devices 100 become increasingly thinner and lighter, the use of lightweight materials such as carbon fiber to fabricate the support structure 102 is gradually becoming a trend. However, the conductivity of carbon fiber is 1-2 orders of magnitude lower than that of metal materials. When the support structure 102 is made of carbon fiber, the grounding impedance between the first middle frame 211 and the second middle frame 221 increases and deteriorates compared to a metal support structure 102. Based on this, in some embodiments, a metallization treatment is performed on the surface of the support structure 102 to form a metal plating layer in order to improve the impedance of the grounding link 2. However, since the thickness of the metal plating layer is only 0.7µm to 12µm, its effect on improving the conductivity of the support structure 102 is not significant, resulting in a still severe deterioration of the impedance between the first middle frame 211 and the second middle frame 221.

[0195] Option 13: Please refer to Figures 5-6 The first middle frame 211 and the second middle frame 221 form a grounding link 3 through the through-shaft circuit board 301: first middle frame 211 → through-shaft circuit board 301 → second middle frame 221.

[0196] According to the formula for resistance: R = ρL / s, where R is the resistance value, L is the length of the conductor, s is the cross-sectional area of ​​the conductor, and ρ is the resistivity of the conductor. From this formula, we know that the resistance R is directly proportional to the length L of the conductor and inversely proportional to the cross-sectional area s. That is, the longer the conductor, the greater the resistance; the larger the cross-sectional area, the smaller the resistance.

[0197] To accommodate the dimensional changes of the foldable electronic device 100 under different configurations, the through-axis circuit board 301 typically needs to be redundantly disposed within the foldable electronic device 100, and the thickness of the circuit layer (i.e., the metal layer) in the through-axis circuit board 301 is relatively small. For example, the length of the through-axis circuit board 301 is approximately 25mm to 55mm, and the thickness of the circuit layer is typically less than 40 micrometers. Furthermore, since the through-axis circuit board 301 needs to be inserted into the folding mechanism 23 and avoid the rotating component 23b, its width cannot be designed to be large; otherwise, it would occupy too much space in the folding mechanism 23 in the Y-axis direction, affecting the reliability of the folding mechanism 23. In addition, conductive adhesive is typically used to achieve electrical connection between the through-axis circuit board 301 and the first middle frame 211 and the second middle frame 221, and the exposed copper area on the through-axis circuit board 301 for electrical connection with the conductive adhesive is relatively small, approximately 15mm². 2 ~20mm 2 This results in a relatively high impedance in grounding link 3, approximately 1Ω to 5Ω.

[0198] Furthermore, in this design, the grounding point needs to be located close to the first circuit board 31 and the second circuit board 32, resulting in a significant distance between the antenna radiator and the grounding point. This causes some coupled current to still enter the folding mechanism 23, failing to resolve the RSE (Reverse Sequence of Energetic Surface) problem. In addition, the conductive adhesive itself also suffers from passive intermodulation (PIM) issues, affecting antenna performance.

[0199] To achieve a low-impedance, stable electrical connection between the first and second grounding metals, please refer to [link / reference needed]. Figures 7-8 , Figure 7 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a foldable electronic device 100 provided in some embodiments of this application in its unfolded state. Figure 8 for Figure 7 The diagram shows the foldable electronic device 100 in its folded state. In this embodiment, the foldable electronic device 100 includes a support device 20, a folding screen 10, and an electrical connector 33. The structures of the support device 20 and the folding screen 10 in this embodiment can be designed with reference to the support device 20 and the folding screen 10 in any embodiment of this application, and will not be described in detail here.

[0200] The two ends of the electrical connector 33 are electrically connected to the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal, respectively. For example, the two ends of the electrical connector 33 are electrically connected to the first middle frame 211 and the second middle frame 221, respectively. In this way, a first grounding link can be formed between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal as follows: first grounding metal (e.g., first middle frame 211) → electrical connector 33 → second grounding metal (e.g., second middle frame 221). In this first grounding link, the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal are electrically connected through the electrical connector 33, which facilitates the formation of stable electrical contacts between the first grounding metal and the electrical connector 33, and between the second grounding metal and the electrical connector 33, thereby improving the stability of the grounding impedance in the first grounding link.

[0201] Please see Figure 9 , Figure 9 for Figure 7 The diagram shows a perspective view of the electrical connector 33 in the foldable electronic device 100. The electrical connector 33 may include a conductive element 33a and a protective element 33b. The conductive element 33a serves as an electrical connection, establishing an electrical connection between the electrical connector 33 and the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal. The protective element 33b provides protection, preventing friction or contact between the conductive element 33a and internal metal structures of the foldable electronic device 100, such as the first middle frame 211 and the second middle frame 221. The protective element 33b may be an insulating element or a non-insulating element.

[0202] In some embodiments, the electrical connector 33 includes an elastic segment D1 that can undergo elastic deformation. For example, when the foldable electronic device 100 switches between an unfolded state and a folded state, the elastic segment D1 can undergo elastic deformation (e.g., telescopic deformation) to adapt to changes in the form of the foldable electronic device 100.

[0203] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 9 The elastic segment D1 may include an elastic structural member 33b1 and a first conductive member 33a1. The first conductive member 33a1 constitutes at least a portion of the conductive member 33a, and the elastic structural member 33b1 may constitute at least a portion of the protective member 33b. That is, the conductive member 33a includes the first conductive member 33a1, and the protective member 33b includes the elastic structural member 33b1. Because... Figure 9 The conductive component 33a is located inside the protective component 33b, therefore Figure 9 The conductive component 33a is represented by a dashed line.

[0204] In some embodiments, the elastic structural member 33b1 can elastically deform along the first direction e1. For example, the elastic structural member 33b1 can stretch and contract (including extension and contraction) along the first direction e1. That is, the first direction e1 is the deformable direction of the first conductive member 33a1. In this way, the elastic structural member 33b1 not only serves a protective function but also provides elastic stretching and contraction properties for the elastic segment D1, ensuring the elasticity and rebound speed of the elastic segment D1.

[0205] For example, the elastic structural component 33b1 can be a silicone component, a rubber component, a polymer material component, etc. The polymer material component includes at least one of polyurethane (PU), polyester resin, and polypropylene (PP). These materials have strong elastic deformation capabilities and high structural strength, ensuring both the elastic deformation capability of the elastic structural component 33b1 and the overall structural strength of the electrical connector 33. Furthermore, these materials are insulating, which helps reduce interference caused by the electrical connector 33 to surrounding devices.

[0206] The first conductive element 33a1 is fixed to the elastic structural element 33b1, and the first conductive element 33a1 extends meanderingly along the first direction e1. The first conductive element 33a1 and the elastic structural element 33a1 can be fixed by means of bonding, snapping, hot pressing, etc. The first conductive element 33a1 can be in the shape of a wavy line, a zigzag line, etc. Specifically, when the elastic structural element 33b1 is in its natural state, the straight-line distance between the two ends of the elastic structural element 33b1 in the first direction e1 is less than the length of the first conductive element 33a1. Herein, the "natural state" mentioned in the embodiments of this application refers to the state in which the component is not subjected to external force.

[0207] In this way, the first conductive element 33a1 can be redundantly set on the elastic structural element 33b1, which can ensure that the first conductive element 33a1 has a certain deformation space, reduce the stress on the first conductive element 33a1 during the expansion and contraction of the elastic segment D1, effectively prevent the first conductive element 33a1 from being pulled apart, and help improve the reliability of the electrical connector 33.

[0208] For example, the first conductive element 33a may include at least one of a cable and a flexible circuit board. The cable includes, but is not limited to, coaxial cable, flexible flat cable (FFC), etc.

[0209] In some embodiments, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the length of the elastic segment D1 is 6.7 mm, and when the foldable electronic device 100 is in the folded state, the length of the elastic segment D1 is 9.5 mm, and the stretching ratio of the elastic segment D1 is (9.5-6.7) / 6.7 = 41.7%. By arranging the first conductive element 33a1 in a meandering manner along the first direction e1, the tensile force on the first conductive element 33a1 during the stretching process can be effectively reduced.

[0210] Please see Figure 10 , Figure 10 for Figure 9 The electrical connector 33 is shown in top view in different states. Figure 10 (a) in the diagram is a schematic diagram of the electrical connector 33 in its natural state. Figure 10 (b) is a schematic diagram of the electrical connector 33 in a stretched state.

[0211] When the elastic structural member 33b1 is stretched, the first conductive member 33a1 is pulled apart. When the elastic structural member 33b1 contracts, the first conductive member 33a1 also contracts along with the elastic structural member 33b1. This allows the first conductive member 33a1 to deform synchronously with the deformation of the elastic structural member 33b1 (e.g., stretching, contraction, etc.), which can reduce the stress on the first conductive member 33a1 during the expansion and contraction of the elastic segment D1. This can effectively prevent the first conductive member 33a1 from being damaged and improve the reliability of the electrical connector 33.

[0212] In this way, by providing an elastic segment D1 in the electrical connector 33, when the foldable electronic device 100 switches between the unfolded and folded states, the elastic deformation (e.g., telescopic deformation) of the elastic segment D1 can adapt to the changes in the shape of the foldable electronic device 100. On the one hand, this reduces the tensile stress on the electrical connector 33, which is beneficial to improving the reliability of the electrical connector 33, thereby improving the reliability of the electrical connection between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal, forming a first grounding link with stable impedance between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal, and extending the service life of the electrical connector 33 and the foldable electronic device 100. On the other hand, by providing the elastic segment D1, it is also beneficial to reduce the redundant length of the electrical connector 33, thereby reducing the overall length of the electrical connector 33, which in turn reduces the resistance of the electrical connector 33, forming a first grounding link with low impedance between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal, and reducing the volume of the foldable electronic device 100, thus realizing the miniaturization design of the foldable electronic device 100.

[0213] Therefore, the foldable electronic device 100 in this embodiment can improve the reliability of the electrical connector 33 and reduce the space occupied by the electrical connector 33, while forming a first grounding link with low impedance and stable impedance between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal. On the one hand, it can effectively improve the return current of the antenna, which is conducive to reducing the generation of harmonics and avoiding harmonic fluctuations, thereby effectively suppressing the RSE problem. On the other hand, it can also avoid surges during the charging process of the first battery 41 and / or the second battery 42, and improve the charging efficiency of the first battery 41 and the second battery 42.

[0214] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 9-10 The first conductive element 33a1 extends along a first direction e1 and folds back along a second direction e2. The second direction e2 is perpendicular to the first direction e1. Specifically, the first conductive element 33a1 extends within the plane containing the first direction e1 and the second direction e2. For example, both the first direction e1 and the second direction e2 are perpendicular to the thickness direction of the elastic structural element 33b1. This facilitates a planar design of the first conductive element 33a1, reducing its volume and thus enabling a flattened design of both the first conductive element 33a1 and the electrical connector 33, further reducing the volume and space occupied by the electrical connector 33. Furthermore, it decomposes the length change of the first conductive element 33a1 in a single direction into length changes in two directions, thereby reducing the rate of change of length in a single direction and extending the bending and tensile life of the first conductive element 33a1, and consequently extending the life of the elastic segment D1.

[0215] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 9-10 The electrical connector 33 may also include a non-elastic segment D2. When the foldable electronic device 100 switches between an unfolded state and a folded state, the non-elastic segment D2 does not undergo elastic deformation. That is, in this embodiment, a portion of the electrical connector 33 is formed as an elastic segment D1. It is understood that in other embodiments, the electrical connector 33 may not include the non-elastic segment D2; in this case, the entire electrical connector 33 is the elastic segment D1.

[0216] Please see Figures 9-10 In some embodiments, the non-elastic segment D2 may include a second conductive element 33a2 and a second protective element 33b2. The second conductive element 33a2 is fixed to the second protective element 33b2, and the second conductive element 33a2 is electrically connected to the first conductive element 33a1. That is, the conductive element 33a includes the second conductive element 33a2, and the protective element 33b includes the second protective element 33b2. The second conductive element 33a2 and the second protective element 33b2 can be fixed together by means of bonding, snap-fitting, heat pressing, etc.

[0217] The structure and materials of the second protective member 33b2 can be the same as those of the elastic structural member 33b1 in any embodiment of this application. In some embodiments, the second protective member 33b2 and the elastic structural member 33b1 can be integrally formed. This simplifies the processing technology of the electrical connector 33. In other embodiments, the elastic structural member 33b1 and the second protective member 33b2 can also be separate parts. In this case, the second protective member 33b2 and the elastic structural member 33b1 can be connected by bonding, secondary injection molding, or they can be separate. In still other embodiments, the non-elastic segment D2 may not include the second protective member 33b2.

[0218] The second conductive element 33a2 can be straight, curved, or zigzag.

[0219] The second conductive element 33a2 and the first conductive element 33a1 can be integrally formed. For example, the second conductive element 33a2 and the first conductive element 33a1 can be the same cable or the same flexible circuit board. In this way, a stable electrical connection can be formed between the second conductive element 33a2 and the first conductive element 33a1, and there is no contact resistance between the second conductive element 33a2 and the first conductive element 33a1, which is beneficial to further reduce the overall resistance of the electrical connector 33.

[0220] It is understood that in other embodiments, the second conductive element 33a2 and the first conductive element 33a1 may also be two independent cables or flexible circuit boards. In this case, the second conductive element 33a2 and the first conductive element 33a1 may be electrically connected by means of welding or other conductive structures, as long as a stable electrical connection can be formed between the second conductive element 33a2 and the first conductive element 33a1.

[0221] Please see Figure 10 The first conductive element 33a1 includes at least one meandering unit E. In some embodiments, the meandering unit E includes a first extension segment E1 and a second extension segment E2 arranged in a first direction e1, and a third extension segment E3 connecting the first extension segment E1 and the second extension segment E2. The first extension segment E1 and the second extension segment E2 may be spaced apart in the first direction e1. A recess is formed between the first extension segment E1, the second extension segment E2 and the third extension segment E3, and the opening of the recess is opposite to the third extension segment E3 in the second direction e2. The third extension segment E3 may be formed as a crest or trough of the first conductive element 33a1.

[0222] The first extension segment E1 can be formed as a straight line segment, a curved segment, an arc segment, etc. Similarly, the second extension segment E2 and the third extension segment E3 can also be formed as straight line segments, curved segments, arc segments, etc. For example, the meandering unit E can be generally formed as a U-shape, V-shape, C-shape, etc.

[0223] Please see Figure 10 In (a) and (b), when the elastic structural member 33b1 is stretched, the meandering unit E is stretched, and the first extension segment E1 and the second extension segment E2 move away from each other, increasing the opening of the recess in the meandering unit E. When the elastic structural member 33b1 contracts, the meandering unit E returns to its original shape, and the first extension segment E1 and the second extension segment E2 move closer to each other, decreasing the opening of the recess in the meandering unit E. This facilitates the deformation of the first conductive member 33a1, and the structure is simple and easy to manufacture.

[0224] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 10 The conductive element 33a includes a first electrical connection terminal L1 and a second electrical connection terminal L2. The first electrical connection terminal L1 is used for electrical connection with a first grounded metal, and the second electrical connection terminal L2 can be used for electrical connection with a second grounded metal. In the second direction e2, the first electrical connection terminal L1 is located between the crest and trough of the first conductive element 33a1. For example, in the second direction e2, the distance between the first electrical connection terminal L1 and the crest of the first conductive element 33a1 is equal to the distance between the first electrical connection terminal L1 and the trough of the first conductive element 33a1. This reduces the torsional force experienced by the elastic segment D1 during stretching, which is beneficial to improving the reliability of the elastic segment D1.

[0225] In other embodiments, please refer to Figure 11 , Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electrical connector 33 provided in other embodiments of this application. In the second direction e2, the distance between the first electrical connection end L1 and the peak or trough of the first conductive element 33a1 can be 0. This allows for a more flexible and varied extension path for the first conductive element 33a1, which helps to reduce the processing difficulty of the electrical connector 33.

[0226] Please see Figure 12a and combined Figure 12b , Figure 12a for Figure 9 The exploded view of the electrical connector 33 shown. Figure 12b for Figure 9The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the electrical connector 33 at the CC line. The elastic structural member 33b1 has a first cavity Q4, and a first conductive member 33a1 is disposed within the first cavity Q4. Each elastic structural member 33b1 may include one or more first cavities Q4, and each first cavity Q4 may contain one or more first conductive members 33a1. Multiple first conductive members 33a1 may be connected in parallel between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal. This helps to further reduce the grounding impedance in the first grounding link.

[0227] For example, a plurality of first conductive elements 33a1 may be arranged in the second direction e2. Alternatively, in other embodiments, a plurality of first conductive elements 33a1 may also be arranged in the third direction e3.

[0228] For example, in Figure 12b In the illustrated embodiment, four cables (i.e., four first conductive elements 33a1) are provided in one first cavity Q4. Of course, the specific number of first conductive elements 33a1 can be adjusted according to actual needs. Furthermore, in practical applications, the wire diameter or the thickness of the flexible circuit board can be adjusted according to the assembly space of the electrical connector 33, and different tensile forces and strengths can be accommodated by adjusting the wire diameter. The wire diameter of the cables in different sections of the same electrical connector 33 can be the same or different.

[0229] The wire diameter refers to the outer diameter of the bare wire core in the cable. For example, cables with a wire diameter of 0.06mm (e.g., No. 44 wire) or 0.076mm (e.g., No. 42 wire) can be selected. The current carrying capacity of No. 42 wire is almost double that of No. 44 wire. In addition, the tensile strength of No. 42 wire is also significantly improved compared to No. 44 wire. Specifically, the tensile strength of No. 42 wire is 3.8N, while the tensile strength of No. 44 wire is 2.5N.

[0230] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 12a-12b The elastic structural member 33b1 includes a first split portion F1 and a second split portion F2, both of which can be generally sheet-like or plate-like. A first conductive member 33a1 can be clamped and fixed between the first split portion F1 and the second split portion F2. For example, the first split portion F1 and the second split portion F2 can be arranged in a third direction e3. The third direction e3 is perpendicular to the first direction e1 and perpendicular to the second direction e2. The thickness direction of both the first split portion F1 and the second split portion F2 can be parallel to the third direction e3. The thickness direction of the elastic structural member 33b1 can also be parallel to the third direction e3.

[0231] Please see Figure 12bThe first segment F1 is provided with a first recessed groove F11, and the second segment F2 is provided with a second recessed groove F21. The first recessed groove F11 and the second recessed groove F21 are opposite to and connected to each other. In this way, after the first segment F1 and the second segment F2 are connected, a first cavity Q4 can be formed between the first segment F1 and the second segment F2.

[0232] The first split part F1 and the second split part F2 can be formed by processes such as drawing and injection molding. The first split part F1 and the second split part F2 can be connected by methods such as hot pressing. This helps to improve the overall structural strength of the elastic structural component 33b1 and prevents the first split part F1 and the second split part F2 from separating.

[0233] In some embodiments, the shape of the first recessed groove F11 can be adapted to the shape of the first conductive element 33a1. In this way, the first recessed groove F11 can play a positioning role, which helps to reduce the assembly difficulty of the electrical connector 33.

[0234] It is understood that in other embodiments, the first recessed groove F11 may be provided only on the first split portion F1, or the second recessed groove F21 may be provided only on the second split portion F2. In this way, a first cavity Q4 can still be formed between the first split portion F1 and the second split portion F2. Furthermore, in other embodiments, the elastic structure 33b1 may only include the first split portion F1. In this case, a portion of the first conductive element 33a1 may be exposed outside the elastic structure 33b1.

[0235] In some embodiments, the first conductive element 33a1 can be laid on the surface of the first split portion F1. For example, the first conductive element 33a1 can be laid on the inner wall surface of the first cavity Q4. In this way, a planar design of the first conductive element 33a1 can be achieved, thereby realizing a flat design of the electrical connector 33 and reducing the thickness of the electrical connector 33, thereby reducing the volume and space occupied by the electrical connector 33.

[0236] For facilitating the tensile deformation of the elastic structural member 33b1, please refer to [link / reference]. Figures 9-11 and combined Figure 12b The elastic structural member 33b1 is provided with a first stress relief hole K21. The first stress relief hole K21 is located on the circumferential outer side of the first conductive member 33a1 and penetrates through the opposite two surfaces of the elastic structural member 33b1. For example, the first stress relief hole K21 penetrates through the opposite first outer surface r1 and second outer surface v1. The arrangement direction of the first outer surface r1 and the second outer surface v1 is perpendicular to the first direction e1. That is, the first stress relief hole K21 is a through hole.

[0237] For example, the first outer surface r1 and the second outer surface v1 may be opposite to each other in the third direction e3. The first outer surface r1 may be formed on the first split portion F1, and the second outer surface v1 may be formed on the second split portion F2. It is understood that in other embodiments, the first outer surface r1 and the second outer surface v1 may also be opposite to each other in the second direction e2.

[0238] This reduces the stiffness of the elastic structural member 33b1, thereby reducing its ability to resist elastic deformation. As a result, when a small force is applied to the elastic segment D1, the elastic segment D1 can be stretched and deformed, which helps to improve the folding feel of the foldable electronic device 100.

[0239] In some embodiments, the orthographic projection of the first stress relief hole K21 on the first outer surface r1 does not overlap with the orthographic projection of the first conductive element 33a1 on the first outer surface r1. This allows for a reduction in the elastic structure 33b1's resistance to elastic deformation while simultaneously decreasing the thickness of the elastic structure 33b1, thereby reducing the overall thickness of the elastic segment D1.

[0240] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 9-11 The opening of the first stress relief hole K21 is a closed ring. For example, when the elastic structural member 33b1 is in its natural state, the opening of the first stress relief hole K21 can be circular, elliptical, polygonal, etc. This helps to prevent the opening of the first stress relief hole K21 from tearing during the tensile process and can improve the overall structural strength of the elastic structural member 33b1.

[0241] Of course, in other embodiments, the opening of the first stress relief hole K21 can also be formed as an open ring. For example, when the elastic structural member 33b1 is in its natural state, the opening of the first stress relief hole K21 can be U-shaped, V-shaped, C-shaped, etc. The shape, size, location, and number of the first stress relief holes K21 can all be adjusted and designed according to actual conditions.

[0242] Based on any of the above embodiments, in order to improve the uniformity of stress distribution on the elastic structural member 33b1, multiple sets of first stress relief holes K21 are provided, with each set including two symmetrically arranged first stress relief holes K21. This allows for more uniform deformation of the elastic structural member 33b1, which is beneficial for extending its service life.

[0243] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 12a and Figure 12b The first conductive element 33a1 can be a group, and each group of first conductive elements 33a1 can include multiple cables or flexible circuit boards. In other embodiments, please refer to... Figure 13 , Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the elastic segment D1 provided in other embodiments of this application. The first conductive element 33a1 can also be in multiple sets, with multiple sets of first conductive elements 33a1 arranged in the second direction e2. For example, adjacent sets of first conductive elements 33a1 can be spaced apart in the second direction e2.

[0244] For example, such as Figure 13 As shown in (a), the extension directions of two adjacent sets of first conductive elements 33a1 can be consistent. In this case, the openings of the pits in different sets of first conductive elements 33a1 face the same direction. This helps to reduce the superposition size of multiple sets of first conductive elements 33a1 in the second direction e2, thereby helping to reduce the width of the elastic segment D1.

[0245] For example, such as Figure 13 As shown in (b), two adjacent sets of first conductive elements 33a1 can also be arranged symmetrically. In this case, the openings of the recesses in the first conductive elements 33a1 of different sets are opposite to each other.

[0246] Please see Figure 14 , Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a first conductive element 33a1 provided in some embodiments of this application. In this embodiment, the first conductive element 33a1 is a cable.

[0247] For example, such as Figure 14 As shown in (a), the cable can be a bare wire core t1. Thus, when the equivalent radius of the bare wire core t1 is r, the conductive element 33a can obtain πr. 2 The cross-sectional area. For example, when the cross-section of the bare wire core t1 is a circle with a radius of 0.05 mm to 0.15 mm, the cross-sectional area of ​​the conductive element 33a can be 0.00785 mm². 2 ~0.07065mm 2 It should be noted that the "equivalent radius of bare wire core t1" mentioned in the embodiments of this application refers to the radius of a circle with the same cross-sectional area as bare wire core t1.

[0248] In this way, while the first conductive element 33a1 has a smaller dimension in the Y-axis direction, a larger cross-sectional area can be obtained. This not only helps to reduce the resistance of the electrical connector 33, but also reduces the space occupied by the electrical connector 33 in the Y-axis direction. This helps to reduce the space occupied by the electrical connector 33 in the folding mechanism 23, thereby optimizing the layout of the folding mechanism 23 and improving the reliability of the folding mechanism 23.

[0249] For example, such as Figure 14 As shown in (b), the cable may also include a bare wire core t1 and a first insulation layer t2, with the first insulation layer t2 covering the bare wire core t1. In this way, the first insulation layer t2 can protect the bare wire core t1.

[0250] like Figure 14 As shown in (c), the first conductive element 33a1 includes a bare wire core t1 and a first insulating layer t2, as well as a first grounding layer t3, which is disposed outside the first insulating layer t2. The two ends of the first grounding layer t3 can be electrically connected to a first grounding metal and a second grounding metal, respectively. This forms a parallel grounding link between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal, which helps to reduce the grounding impedance between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal.

[0251] For example, such as Figure 14 As shown in (d), in addition to the bare wire core t1, the first insulation layer t2, and the first grounding layer t3, the cable also includes a second insulation layer t4, which wraps around the first grounding layer t3. Thus, the second insulation layer t4 protects the bare wire core t1.

[0252] The materials of the first insulating layer t2 and the second insulating layer t4 can both include at least one of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyethylene (PE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane (PU), silicone, and rubber. The bare wire core t1 can be a metal wire, such as stainless steel (SUS) wire, titanium-copper alloy (TiCu) wire, gold wire, copper wire, silver wire, etc. The first grounding layer t3 is a metal layer. For example, the first grounding layer t3 is a copper layer.

[0253] It is understood that when the first conductive element 33a1 includes a flexible circuit board, the first conductive element 33a1 may also include the first ground layer t3. Alternatively, the first conductive element 33a1 may not include the first ground layer t3.

[0254] In some embodiments, to further reduce the grounding impedance between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal, please refer to... Figure 15 , Figure 15 A cross-sectional view of the elastic segment D1 provided for other embodiments of this application. For example... Figure 15 As shown in (a)-(e), a first conductive layer P1 is provided on the first outer surface r1 of the elastic structural member 33b1, and the first conductive layer P1 is electrically connected to the first conductive member 33a1. The first conductive layer P1 can be a metal plating layer.

[0255] In this way, the first conductive layer P1 can form part of the conductive element 33a in the elastic segment D1, which helps to increase the cross-sectional area of ​​the conductive element 33a in the elastic segment D1, thereby helping to reduce the resistance of the electrical connector 33. In addition, the first conductive layer P1 can be electrically connected to the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal to form a parallel grounding link between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal, which helps to further reduce the grounding impedance between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal.

[0256] Furthermore, a fourth conductive layer P4 is provided on the second outer surface v1, and the fourth conductive layer P4 is electrically connected to the first conductive element 33a1. For example, the fourth conductive layer P4 is a metal plating layer. This helps to further reduce the resistance of the electrical connector 33, thereby further reducing the grounding impedance between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal.

[0257] There are multiple ways to achieve electrical connection between the first conductive element 33a1 and the first conductive layer P1.

[0258] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 15 In (a)-(d), a second conductive layer P2 is provided on the inner wall surface of the first cavity Q4. The second conductive layer P2 is electrically connected to the first conductive component 33a1, and the second conductive layer P2 is electrically connected to the first conductive layer P1.

[0259] Specifically, the surface of the first segment F1 facing away from the second segment F2 is formed as a first outer surface r1, and the surface of the second segment F2 facing away from the first segment F1 is formed as a second outer surface v1. The first segment F1 also includes a first outer peripheral surface r3 and a first inner surface r2, with the first inner surface r2 facing away from the first outer surface r1. For example, the first inner surface r2 faces the second segment F2. The first outer peripheral surface r3 connects the first outer surface r1 and the first inner surface r2. At least a portion of the surface of the first inner surface r2 is formed as the inner wall surface of the first cavity Q4.

[0260] For example, such as Figure 15 As shown in (a), a second conductive layer P2 is provided on the first inner surface r2. This allows the second conductive layer P2 to be formed on the inner wall of the first cavity Q4. A third conductive layer P3 is provided on the first outer peripheral surface r3, and both the second conductive layer P2 and the first conductive layer P1 are electrically connected to the third conductive layer P3. Both the second conductive layer P2 and the third conductive layer P3 can be metal plating. Thus, the first conductive layer P1 and the first conductive component 33a1 can be electrically connected via the following path: first conductive layer P1 → third conductive layer P3 → second conductive layer P2 → first conductive component 33a1.

[0261] For example, such as Figure 15As shown in (b) and (c), the first sub-part F1 is provided with a first metallized via K31, and the two ends of the first metallized via K31 are electrically connected to the first conductive layer P1 and the second conductive layer P2, respectively. At this time, the first conductive layer P1 and the first conductive component 33a1 can be electrically connected through the following path: first conductive layer P1 → first metallized via K31 → second conductive layer P2 → first conductive component 33a1.

[0262] In this case, a third conductive layer P3 can be provided on the first split part F1 (e.g., Figure 15 As shown in (b) in the figure), the third conductive layer P3 can also be omitted (as shown in the figure). Figure 15 (as shown in (c)).

[0263] Similarly, the electrical connection between the fourth conductive layer P4 and the first conductive element 33a1 can be designed with reference to the electrical connection between the first conductive layer P1 and the first conductive element 33a1, and will not be elaborated here.

[0264] It should be noted that the "metallized via" mentioned in the embodiments of this application refers to a structure formed by setting a metal plating layer on the inner wall surface of the via, or by setting a conductive structure such as a metal pillar or silver paste inside the via.

[0265] In some embodiments, such as Figure 15 As shown in (d), the elastic structural member 33b1 is provided with a second metallized via K32, and the two ends of the second metallized via K32 are electrically connected to the first conductive layer P1 and the fourth conductive layer P4, respectively. The second metallized via K32 in this embodiment can be applied to the elastic segment D1 in any embodiment of this application. In this case, the first conductive layer P1 and the first conductive member 33a1 may or may not be electrically connected. The first conductive layer P1 may be electrically connected to the first ground metal and the second ground metal, and / or, the fourth conductive layer P4 may be electrically connected to the first ground metal and the second ground metal.

[0266] This also increases the cross-sectional area of ​​the conductive element 33a in the elastic segment D1, thereby reducing the resistance of the electrical connector 33. Furthermore, it also facilitates the formation of multiple parallel grounding links between the first and second grounding metals, further reducing the grounding impedance between the first and second grounding metals.

[0267] The second metallized via K32 in this embodiment can be applied to the electrical connector 33 in any embodiment of this application.

[0268] During the expansion and contraction of the elastic structural member 33b1, the first conductive layer P1 is at risk of cracking, which may affect the stability of the electrical connection between the first conductive layer P1 and the first conductive member 33a1. In some embodiments, the following solutions can be adopted to improve the reliability of the electrical connection between the first conductive layer P1 and the first conductive member 33a1.

[0269] Option 21: Please refer to Figure 16 , Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the elastic structural member 33b1 provided in some embodiments of this application in different states. Figure 16 In (a), the elastic structural member 33b1 is shown in its natural state. Figure 16 In (b) shown, the elastic structural member 33b1 is in a stretched state. A plurality of first protrusions r10 are formed on the first outer surface r1 of the elastic structural member 33b1, and the plurality of first protrusions r10 are arranged along a first direction e1. For example, the plurality of first protrusions r10 are evenly spaced apart along the first direction e1.

[0270] For details, please refer to Figure 16 In (a), the first outer surface r1 includes a first portion r11 and a second portion r12, with the second portion r12 protruding from the first portion r11 to form a first protrusion r10. Exemplarily, both the first portion r11 and the second portion r12 can be formed as arcs. Specifically, the first portion r11 is formed as a concave arc, and the second portion r12 is formed as a convex arc. That is, the first portion r11 is recessed relative to the second portion r12 towards the second outer surface v1, and the second portion r12 is arched relative to the first portion r11 towards a direction away from the second outer surface v1. The first outer surface r1 of the elastic structural member 33b1 can be generally wavy, and the first conductive layer P1, attached to the first outer surface r1, is also generally wavy.

[0271] Please see Figure 16 In (b), after the elastic structural member 33b1 is stretched, compared to the elastic structural member 33b1 in its natural state, the height of the second part r12 protruding from the first part r11 becomes smaller, and the slope of the first protrusion r10 becomes gentler. Therefore, by setting the first protrusion r10, the deformation amplitude of the first conductive layer P1 can be reduced, thereby effectively reducing the risk of the first conductive layer P1 being torn.

[0272] Similarly, to reduce the risk of cracking in the second conductive layer P2, a second protrusion v10 is formed on the second outer surface v1. Specifically, the second outer surface v1 includes a third portion v11 and a fourth portion v12, with the fourth portion v12 protruding from the third portion v11 to form the second protrusion v10. The shape and size of the second protrusion v10 can be designed with reference to the first protrusion r10. In some embodiments, the first protrusion r10 and the second protrusion v10 are symmetrically arranged, which can improve the uniformity of stress on the elastic structural member 33b1 and further reduce the risk of cracking in the first conductive layer P1 and the second conductive layer P2.

[0273] In some embodiments, the maximum dimension by which the second portion r12 protrudes beyond the first portion r11 is the first dimension h1, that is, the height of the first protrusion r10 is the first dimension h1. The minimum distance between the first portion r11 and the second outer surface v1 in the third direction e3 is the second dimension h2. The ratio of the first dimension h1 to the second dimension h2 (i.e., h1 / h2) is greater than or equal to 2% and less than or equal to 20%. For example, h1 / h2 is 2%, 5%, 8%, 10%, 12%, 15%, 18%, 20%, etc. In this way, the ability of the elastic structural member 33b1 to resist elastic deformation can be reduced, making it easier to realize the deformation of the elastic structural member 33b1, and reducing the processing difficulty of the elastic structural member 33b1.

[0274] Option 22: Please refer to Figure 17 , Figure 17 A top view of the elastic structural member 33b1 provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 17 In (a), the elastic structural member 33b1 is shown in its natural state. Figure 17 The elastic structural member 33b1 shown in (b) is in a stretched state. Figure 17 The top view in the diagram refers to a schematic diagram of the first outer surface r1 of the self-elastic structural member 33b1 looking towards the second outer surface v1.

[0275] like Figure 17 As shown in (a), the first conductive layer P1 is distributed in a grid pattern on the first outer surface r1. Specifically, the first conductive layer P1 includes a plurality of parallel and spaced-apart first sub-plating layers P11 and a plurality of parallel and spaced-apart second sub-plating layers P12, which are staggered to form a grid structure. For example, the angle between the extension direction of the first sub-plating layer P11 and the first direction e1 is greater than 0 degrees and less than or equal to 90 degrees, and the extension direction of the second sub-plating layer P12 is not parallel to the extension direction of the first sub-plating layer P12. For example, the extension direction of the second sub-plating layer P12 is perpendicular to the extension direction of the second sub-plating layer P12.

[0276] In this way, the deformation amplitude of the first conductive layer P1 can also be reduced, thereby effectively reducing the risk of the first conductive layer P1 being torn.

[0277] Similarly, the fourth conductive layer P4 can be distributed in a grid pattern on the second outer surface v1.

[0278] Understandably, Scheme 21 and Scheme 22 can be used in combination or individually.

[0279] Option 23: Please refer to Figure 18 , Figure 18 A partial side view of the elastic structural member 33b1 provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 18 The side view in the diagram refers to a schematic diagram of the elastic structural member 33b1 viewed from a plane parallel to the plane containing the first direction e1 and the third direction e3. In its natural state, the elastic structural member 33b1 has an angle α between the central axis O1 of the first metallized via K31 and the first direction e1 that is greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees. For example, α can be 5 degrees, 10 degrees, 15 degrees, 20 degrees, 25 degrees, 30 degrees, 35 degrees, 45 degrees, 50 degrees, 60 degrees, 70 degrees, 80 degrees, 85 degrees, etc. This reduces the deformation of the first metallized via K31 during the stretching process, effectively preventing cracking of the metal plating in the first metallized via K31, and thus improving the reliability of the electrical connection between the first conductive layer P1 and the first conductive member 33a1.

[0280] Similarly, the angle between the central axis of the second metallized via K32 and the first direction e1 can be designed with reference to the angle α between the central axis of the first metallized via K31 and the first direction e1, which will not be elaborated here.

[0281] It is understood that scheme 23 can be used in combination with at least one of schemes 21 and 22, or it can be used alone.

[0282] Similarly, the first conductive layer P1 and the fourth conductive layer P4 described above can also be provided on the non-elastic segment D2. The electrical connection between the first conductive layer P1 and the second conductive element 33a2, and the electrical connection between the fourth conductive layer P4 and the second conductive element 33a2 in the non-elastic segment D2 can be designed with reference to the electrical connection between the first conductive layer P1 and the first conductive element 33a1.

[0283] Please see Figures 19-20 , Figure 19 A schematic diagram of the elastic segment D1 provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 20 for Figure 19 A schematic diagram of the elastic structural member 33b1 in the elastic segment D1 shown. In this embodiment, the elastic segment D1 and... Figure 9The difference in the electrical connector 33 shown is that, in this embodiment, the elastic structural member 33b1 in the elastic segment D1 is a woven mesh.

[0284] The elastic structural member 33b1 can be wound around and fixed to the outside of the first conductive member 33a1. For example... Figure 19 (a) and Figure 20 As shown, when the elastic structural member 33b1 is in its natural state, the mesh in the woven net is roughly rectangular. Figure 19 As shown in (b), when the elastic structural member 33b1 is stretched by an external force, due to its easily deformable characteristics, the grid becomes a parallelogram, the lateral length is stretched, and the elasticity is good.

[0285] The woven mesh has excellent tensile and resilience properties and a long bending life. It can provide elastic deformation recovery force for the elastic segment D1, so that the electrical connector 33 can adapt well to the shape changes of the foldable electronic device 100 in different states. Moreover, the woven mesh is relatively thin and light, and occupies less space in the whole machine.

[0286] In some embodiments, the elastic structural member 33b1 can be woven from fiber threads. The fiber thread material includes at least one of polymer resin, carbon fiber, and glass fiber. The polymer resin includes at least one of polyurethane, polyester, and polypropylene. Because polymer resin, carbon fiber, and glass fiber have high modulus, they ensure that the woven mesh has good stiffness. Furthermore, preparing the above materials into fiber threads ensures that the woven mesh has good elasticity and high toughness. For example, polyurethane fiber has high elasticity, and its elongation at break can typically reach 400% to 800%.

[0287] Please return to the reference. Figures 7-8 In some embodiments, the electrical connector 33 includes a first intermediate segment 335, a first section 331, a second section 332, a third section 333, and a fourth section 334.

[0288] The first intermediate segment 335 is disposed opposite to the intermediate support member 2302. For example, the first intermediate segment 335 and the intermediate support member 2302 are opposite each other in the Z-axis direction. The orthographic projection of the first intermediate segment 335 on the first plane overlaps with the orthographic projection of the intermediate support member 2302 on the first plane. For example, the orthographic projection of the first intermediate segment 335 on the first plane lies within the orthographic projection of the intermediate support member 2302 on the first plane. The first plane is perpendicular to the Z-axis direction.

[0289] The third segment 333 and the first segment 331 are located on either side of the first intermediate segment 335. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the orthographic projection of the first segment 331 on the first plane lies within the orthographic projection of the first support member 231 on the first plane. The orthographic projection of the third segment 333 on the first plane lies within the orthographic projection of the second support member 232 on the first plane.

[0290] The second segment 332 is connected to the end of the first segment 331 that is away from the first intermediate segment 335. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the orthographic projection of the second segment 332 in the first plane does not overlap with the orthographic projection of the first support member 231 in the first plane. The second segment 332 can be electrically connected to the first grounded metal.

[0291] The fourth segment 334 is connected to the end of the third segment 333 that is furthest from the first intermediate segment 335. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the orthographic projection of the fourth segment 334 in the first plane does not overlap with the orthographic projection of the second support member 232 in the first plane. The fourth segment 334 can be electrically connected to the second grounded metal.

[0292] Please see Figures 21-22 , Figure 21 for Figure 7 The diagram shows the assembly of the electrical connector 33 and the folding mechanism 23 in the foldable electronic device 100. Figure 22 for Figure 21 The assembly diagram shown is a schematic diagram in the folded state. The first section 331 includes a first left side portion 331a and a first right side portion 331b connected together. The first right side portion 331b may be located on the side of the first left side portion 331a closer to the second main body portion 202. Specifically, the first right side portion 331b is located between the first left side portion 331a and the first middle section 335.

[0293] In some embodiments, the first right-side portion 331b can be formed as an elastic segment D1. In this way, when the foldable electronic device 100 switches between the unfolded state and the folded state, the expansion and contraction of the first right-side portion 331b can adapt to the change in the gap between the first support member 231 and the intermediate support member 2302, which helps to avoid the electrical connector 33 from breaking, thereby improving the reliability of the electrical connector 33.

[0294] In some embodiments, the first conductive element 33a1 in the first segment 331 extends in a second plane, which is perpendicular to the thickness direction of the first support member 231. For example, the retractable direction (i.e., the first direction e1) of the first right side portion 331b is parallel to the width direction of the first support member 231. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the retractable direction of the first right side portion 331b is parallel to the X-axis direction, and the folding direction (i.e., the second direction e2) of the first conductive element 33a1 in the first right side portion 331b is parallel to the axis of rotation of the first main body portion 201 relative to the second main body portion 202. This facilitates reducing the thickness of the first right side portion 331b, thereby reducing the combined thickness of the first right side portion 331b and the first support member 231, and further facilitating the thinner design of the foldable electronic device 100.

[0295] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first left-side portion 331a is fixed to the first support member 231. That is, a portion of the first segment 331 is fixed to the first support member 231. Specifically, a portion of the first left-side portion 331a can be fixed to the first support member 231, or the entire first left-side portion 331a can be fixed to the first support member 231. In this case, at least a portion of the first left-side portion 331a can be formed as a non-elastic segment D2. Exemplarily, the first left-side portion 331a and the first support member 231 can be fixed by means of adhesion, snap-fit, fastener connection, etc.

[0296] Since the first right side portion 331b is connected to the first left side portion 331a, by fixing at least a portion of the first left side portion 331a to the first support member 231, on the one hand, when the first support member 231 rotates relative to the base 23a, the first support member 231 can drive the first left side portion 331a to move together, thereby driving the first right side portion 331b to deform through the first left side portion 331a. This allows the first right side portion 331b to deform in a timely manner during the folding process of the foldable electronic device 100, adapting to changes in the shape of the foldable electronic device 100, which helps to avoid electrical... The connector 33 breaks due to tension, which helps to improve the reliability of the electrical connector 33. On the other hand, since the first left side portion 331a is fixed to the first support member 231 during the switching between the unfolded and folded states of the foldable electronic device 100, no deformation is required. Therefore, at least some of the conductive elements 33a in the first left side portion 331a do not need to be redundant. This helps to reduce the overall length and redundant length of the conductive elements 33a in the electrical connector 33, thereby reducing the resistance of the electrical connector 33 and lowering the grounding impedance between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal.

[0297] In addition, since the first support member 231 is located close to the folding screen 10, the distance between the first support member 231 and the folding screen 10 is small. Fixing a part of the first section 331 to the first support member 231 also helps to reduce the distance between the first section 331 and the folding screen 10, making the bending radius of the electrical connector 33 closer to that of the folding screen 10. This helps to further reduce the overall length and bending radius of the electrical connector 33, and a small amount of redundancy is sufficient to meet the bending and stretching requirements of the electrical connector 33. This, in turn, helps to reduce the resistance of the electrical connector 33, further reducing the grounding impedance between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal, and also helps to reduce the space occupied by the electrical connector 33, thereby facilitating the thin design of the foldable electronic device 100.

[0298] It is understood that in other embodiments, the first left-side portion 331a may also be formed as an elastic segment D1. For example, the entire first segment 331 may be an elastic segment D1. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the entire first segment 331 may be fixed to the first support member 231. Or, the first left-side portion 331a may be formed as an elastic segment D1, and the first right-side portion 331b may be fixed to the first support member 231.

[0299] The structure of the third segment 333, the connection relationship, connection method, and positional relationship between the third segment 333 and the second support member 232 can all be designed with reference to the structure of the first segment 331, the connection relationship, connection method, and positional relationship between the first segment 331 and the first support member 231 in any embodiment of this application. Furthermore, in the same embodiment, the structure of the third segment 333, the connection relationship, connection method, and positional relationship between the third segment 333 and the second support member 232 can be the same as, or different from, the structure of the first segment 331, the connection relationship, connection method, and positional relationship between the first segment 331 and the first support member 231.

[0300] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first intermediate segment 335 is fixed to the base 23a. For example, see [link to example]. Figures 21-22 The first intermediate segment 335 includes an intermediate portion 335a, a second left-side portion 335b, and a second right-side portion 335c. The intermediate portion 335a is connected between the second left-side portion 335b and the second right-side portion 335c. Specifically, the second left-side portion 335b is located between the first segment 331 and the intermediate portion 335a, that is, the second left-side portion 335b is located on the side of the intermediate portion 335a away from the second main body portion 202. The second left-side portion 335b can be connected to the first segment 331. The second right-side portion 335c is located between the third segment 333 and the intermediate portion 335a. The second right-side portion 335c can be located between the third segment 333 and the intermediate portion 335a.

[0301] Please see Figure 21 and combined Figure 22 The middle portion 335a is fixed to the base 23a. Exemplarily, the middle portion 335a can be fixed to the middle support 2302. It is understood that in other embodiments, the middle portion 335a can also be fixed to the shaft cover 2301 or the fixing seat 2303.

[0302] In this way, on the one hand, the sections on both sides of the first right side portion 331b of the first section 331 in the electrical connector 33 are fixed, which facilitates the deformation of the first right side portion 331b to adapt to the changes in the form of the foldable electronic device 100; on the other hand, it is beneficial to further reduce the overall length and redundant length of the electrical connector 33, thereby further reducing the resistance of the electrical connector 33 and further reducing the grounding impedance between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal; and on yet another hand, it is also beneficial to control the bending path and bending shape of the electrical connector 33, which is beneficial to reduce the space occupied by the electrical connector 33.

[0303] In some embodiments, the second left-side portion 335b is an elastic segment D1. This allows the foldable electronic device 100 to adapt to changes in the gap between the first support member 231 and the intermediate support member 2302 by deforming the second left-side portion 335b when switching between an unfolded and folded state. Furthermore, when the first right-side portion 331b is also formed as an elastic segment D1, it helps to reduce the deformation of both the first right-side portion 331b and the second left-side portion 335b, thereby effectively preventing failure of the elastic segment D1 and improving the reliability of the electrical connector 33.

[0304] It is understandable that if the second left portion 335b is an elastic segment D1, the first right portion 331b in the first segment 331 can also be a non-elastic segment D2. It is sufficient that at least one of the second left portion 335b and the first right portion 331b is an elastic segment D1.

[0305] The structure of the second right side portion 335c and the connection relationship between the second right side portion 335c and the intermediate support member 2302 can be designed with reference to the structure of the second left side portion 335b and the connection relationship between the second right side portion 335c and the intermediate support member 2302 in any embodiment of this application, and will not be described in detail here.

[0306] Please see Figure 21The electrical connector 33 also includes a first bendable segment 336 and a second bendable segment 338. The first bendable segment 336 is connected between the first section 331 and the first intermediate section 335. The second bendable segment 338 is connected between the first intermediate section 335 and the third section 333. During the switching between the unfolded state and the foldable electronic device 100, the first bendable segment 336 and the second bendable segment 338 can be bent.

[0307] Please see Figure 21 When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, there is a first gap J1 between the intermediate support member 2302 and the first support member 231, and a third gap J3 between the intermediate support member 2302 and the second support member 232. This prevents collisions, friction, or even jamming between the first support member 231 and the intermediate support member 2302, and between the second support member 232 and the intermediate support member 2302, when they rotate between the unfolded and folded positions, ensuring smooth switching of the foldable electronic device 100 between the unfolded and folded states.

[0308] When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the orthographic projection of the first bendable segment 336 on the first plane overlaps with the orthographic projection of the first gap J1 on the first plane, and the orthographic projection of the second bendable segment 338 on the first plane overlaps with the orthographic projection of the third gap J3 on the first plane. For example, the orthographic projection of the first bendable segment 336 on the first plane may be located within the orthographic projection of the first gap J1 on the first plane, and the orthographic projection of the second bendable segment 338 on the first plane may be located within the orthographic projection of the third gap J3 on the first plane.

[0309] For example, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, at least a portion of the first bendable segment 336 may be located within the first gap J1, and at least a portion of the second bendable segment 338 may be located within the third gap J3.

[0310] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 22 When the foldable electronic device 100 is in a folded state, both the first bendable segment 336 and the second bendable segment 338 can be stretched. At this time, both the first bendable segment 336 and the second bendable segment 338 are in a stretched state. It is understood that in other embodiments, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in a folded state, only one of the first bendable segment 336 and the second bendable segment 338 may be stretched.

[0311] In this way, the foldable electronic device 100 can adapt to changes in size and shape not only through the deformation of the elastic segment D1 in the first section 331 and / or the first intermediate section 335, but also through the tensile deformation of the first bendable segment 336 and / or the second bendable segment 338. This helps to reduce the elastic deformation of the elastic segment D1, avoid failure of the elastic segment D1, and thus improve the reliability of the elastic segment D1, thereby improving the reliability of the electrical connector 33.

[0312] In some embodiments, for facilitating the stretching of the first bendable segment 336, please refer to... Figure 21 When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the first bendable segment 336 is redundantly disposed between the first segment 331 and the first intermediate segment 335. For example, the length of the first bendable segment 336 in the stretched state is greater than the width of the first gap J1. The width of the first gap J1 refers to the dimension of the first gap J1 in the X-axis direction when the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the first bendable segment 336 can be arc-shaped, S-shaped, U-shaped, V-shaped, Z-shaped, W-shaped, etc.

[0313] In this way, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in a folded state, the redundancy of the first bendable segment 336 is reduced or eliminated, which facilitates the stretching deformation of the first bendable segment 336.

[0314] In some embodiments, the first bendable segment 336 can be a non-elastic segment D2. In this way, the conductive element 33a in the first bendable segment 336 does not need to be meandered, which helps to reduce the overall length of the conductive element 33a in the electrical connector 33, thereby helping to reduce the resistance of the electrical connector 33.

[0315] In other embodiments, the first bendable segment 336 may also be an elastic segment D1. This facilitates the tensile deformation of the first bendable segment 336. It is understood that when the first bendable segment 336 is an elastic segment D1, the first bendable segment 336 may or may not be redundantly provided.

[0316] In some embodiments, the following schemes can be adopted to facilitate the bending of the first bendable segment 336.

[0317] Option 31: Please refer to Figure 23 , Figure 23This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the first bendable segment 336 provided in some embodiments of this application. The first bendable segment 336 includes a conductive element 33a and a protective element 33b. It can be understood that when the first bendable segment 336 is an elastic segment D1, the conductive element 33a of the first bendable segment 336 is a first conductive element 33a1, and the protective element 33b of the first bendable segment 336 is an elastic structural element 33b1. When the first bendable segment 336 is a non-elastic segment D2, the conductive element 33a of the first bendable segment 336 is a second conductive element 33a2, and the protective element 33b of the first bendable segment 336 can be a second protective element 33b2.

[0318] The first bendable segment 336 includes a third outer surface m51 and a fourth outer surface m52 facing away from each other, with the third outer surface m51 facing the foldable screen 10. In this embodiment, both the third outer surface m51 and the fourth outer surface m52 are formed on the protective member 33b. It is understood that in other embodiments, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in a folded state, the third outer surface m51 may also face away from the foldable screen 10.

[0319] The first bendable segment 336 is provided with a fourth stress relief hole K24. The fourth stress relief hole K24 can penetrate at least one of the third outer surface m51 and the fourth outer surface m52. For example, the conductive element 33a in the first bendable segment 336 is exposed through the fourth stress relief hole K24. That is, the conductive element 33a can be seen from the opening of the fourth stress relief hole K24. In this way, the bending performance of the first bendable segment 336 can be improved, and the breakage of the conductive element 33a in the first bendable segment 336 can be avoided.

[0320] Option 32: The first bendable segment 336 is a cable or a flexible circuit board. That is, the first bendable segment 336 only includes the conductive element 33a, but not the protective element 33b. In this way, the bending performance of the first bendable segment 336 can also be improved, and the breakage of the conductive element 33a in the first bendable segment 336 can be avoided.

[0321] For example, when the first bendable segment 336 is a flexible circuit board, the flexible circuit board may include multiple stacked flexible plates, with air gaps formed between adjacent flexible plates. This can further improve the bending performance of the first bendable segment 336 and prevent the conductive element 33a in the first bendable segment 336 from breaking.

[0322] The structure, shape, and dimensional relationship between the second bendable segment 338 and the third gap J3 can be designed with reference to the structure, shape, and dimensional relationship between the first bendable segment 336 and the first gap J1, and will not be elaborated here.

[0323] Additionally, it is understood that in other embodiments, where the first bendable segment 336 is an elastic segment D1 or the first bendable segment 336 is redundantly configured, at least one of the first segment 331 and the first intermediate segment 335 may not include the elastic segment D1. That is, at least one of the first segment 331, the first intermediate segment 335, and the first bendable segment 336 may include the elastic segment D1, or none of the first segment 331, the first intermediate segment 335, and the first bendable segment 336 may include the elastic segment D1, and the first bendable segment 336 is redundantly configured between the first segment 331 and the first intermediate segment 335.

[0324] Please return to the reference. Figure 7 When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, a second gap J2 exists between the first main body 201 and the first support member 231, and a fourth gap J4 exists between the second main body 202 and the second support member 232. The second gap J2 is located on the side of the first support member 231 away from the intermediate support member 2302, and the fourth gap J4 is located on the side of the second support member 232 away from the intermediate support member 2302. For example, the second gap J2 is formed between the first housing 21 and the first support member 231, and the fourth gap J4 is formed between the second housing 22 and the second support member 232.

[0325] The electrical connector 33 also includes a first deformable segment 337 and a second deformable segment 339. The first deformable segment 337 connects between the second segment 332 and the first segment 331, and the second deformable segment 339 connects between the third segment 333 and the fourth segment 334. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the orthographic projection of the first deformable segment 337 in the first plane overlaps with the orthographic projection of the second gap J2 in the first plane. The orthographic projection of the second deformable segment 339 in the first plane overlaps with the orthographic projection of the fourth gap J4 in the first plane. For example, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the orthographic projection of the first deformable segment 337 in the first plane is located within the orthographic projection of the second gap J2 in the first plane. The orthographic projection of the second deformable segment 339 in the first plane is located within the orthographic projection of the fourth gap J4 in the first plane.

[0326] In some embodiments, the first deformable segment 337 and the second deformable segment 339 are formed as elastic segments D1. This allows the expansion and contraction of the first deformable segment 337 to accommodate changes in the size of the gap between the first main body 201 and the first support member 231, and the deformation of the second deformable segment 339 to accommodate changes in the size of the gap between the second main body 202 and the second support member 232. This helps prevent breakage of the electrical connector 33, thereby improving the reliability of the electrical connector 33.

[0327] Of course, in other embodiments, the gap between the first main body 201 and the first support member 231 may remain unchanged during the switching between the unfolded and folded states of the foldable electronic device 100. In this case, the electrical connector 33 may or may not include the first deformable segment 337. Similarly, the gap between the second main body 202 and the second support member 232 may remain unchanged during the switching between the unfolded and folded states of the foldable electronic device 100. In this case, the electrical connector 33 may or may not include the second deformable segment 339.

[0328] In some embodiments, in order to facilitate the expansion and contraction of the first deformable segment 337, at least a portion of the second segment 332 is fixed to the first main body 201.

[0329] In other embodiments, a portion of the second segment 332 near the first support 231 may be configured as an elastic segment D1. This allows the electrical connector 33 to better adapt to dimensional changes in the foldable electronic device 100 under different states.

[0330] The structure, placement, and connection relationship between the fourth segment 334 and the second main body 202 can be designed with reference to the structure, placement, and connection relationship between the second segment 332 and the first main body 201 in any embodiment of this application. For example, at least a portion of the fourth segment 334 can be fixed to the second main body 202. Furthermore, in the same embodiment, the structure, placement, and connection relationship between the fourth segment 334 and the second main body 202 can be the same as or different from the structure, placement, and connection relationship between the second segment 332 and the first main body 201.

[0331] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 7-8 A first space Q3 exists between the folding screen 10 and the supporting device 20, and at least a portion of the electrical connector 33 is disposed within the first space Q3. The first space Q3 includes a first sub-space between the folding screen 10 and the first main body 201, a second sub-space between the folding screen 10 and the second main body 202, and a third sub-space between the folding screen 10 and the folding mechanism 23. Specifically, the entire electrical connector 33 can be disposed within the first space Q3, or only a portion of the electrical connector 33 can be disposed within the first space Q3.

[0332] In this way, on the one hand, the distance between the electrical connector 33 and the folding screen 10 can be further reduced, which is conducive to further reducing the overall length, redundant length and elastic segment D1 of the electrical connector 33, thereby reducing the resistance of the electrical connector 33 and reducing the grounding impedance; on the other hand, the space between the folding screen 10 and the support device 20 can be fully utilized, which is conducive to avoiding the electrical connector 33 occupying the internal space of the support device 20. This not only optimizes the structural layout of the foldable electronic device 100, but also makes the structure of the foldable electronic device 100 more compact, which is conducive to reducing the overall thickness of the foldable electronic device 100, and thus conducive to realizing the thin design of the foldable electronic device 100.

[0333] For example, please refer to Figures 7-8 The first segment 331, the first intermediate segment 335, and the third segment 333 can be located within the first space Q3. Specifically, the first segment 331 is located between the first support member 231 and the foldable screen 10, the first intermediate segment 335 is located between the intermediate support member 2302 and the foldable screen 10, and the third segment 333 is located between the second support member 232 and the foldable screen 10.

[0334] In this way, on the one hand, the overall length, redundant length, and length of the elastic segment D1 of the electrical connector 33 can be reduced, thereby reducing the resistance of the electrical connector 33 and helping to reduce the grounding impedance; on the other hand, it can also prevent the electrical connector 33 from occupying the internal space of the folding mechanism 23, avoid interference between the first segment 331 and other structures of the folding mechanism 23 (such as the rotating component 23b), and make the width of the electrical connector 33 no longer limited by the dimension of the folding mechanism 23 in the Y-axis direction (that is, the length of the folding mechanism 23), which is conducive to increasing the width of the electrical connector 33, thereby helping to reduce the resistance of the electrical connector 33, and facilitating the realization of multiple electrical connectors 3 The parallel design of 3 can further reduce the grounding impedance; on the other hand, it is also conducive to reducing the volume of the folding mechanism 23 and optimizing the structural layout of the folding mechanism 23, thereby improving the reliability of the folding mechanism 23; furthermore, the first section 331 and the first intermediate section 335 can both be set on the same side of the thickness direction of the intermediate support 2302, so the electrical connector 33 does not need to pass through the gap between the first support 231 and the intermediate support 2302, as well as the gap between the second support 232 and the intermediate support 2302, which helps to reduce the assembly difficulty of the electrical connector 33, thereby improving the assembly efficiency and assembly yield of the electrical connector 33.

[0335] It is understood that, in some other embodiments, at least one of the first segment 331, the first intermediate segment 335, and the third segment 333 may also be located outside the first space Q3.

[0336] In some embodiments, in order to reduce the assembly difficulty of the electrical connector 33 while ensuring the positional accuracy of the electrical connector 33, a first positioning structure (not shown) can be provided on at least one of the first main body 201, the second main body 202, and the folding mechanism 23, and a second positioning structure (not shown) can be provided on the electrical connector 33 for cooperating with the first positioning structure. During the assembly process, the positioning of the electrical connector 33 can be achieved through the cooperation of the first positioning structure and the second positioning structure.

[0337] For example, one of the first positioning structure and the second positioning structure can be a positioning hole, a positioning groove, etc., and the other can be a positioning protrusion, a positioning post, etc.

[0338] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 7-8 The second segment 332 is located between the folding screen 10 and the first main body 201. Specifically, the second segment 332 can be located between the folding screen 10 and the first housing 21. For example, the second segment 332 can be fixed to the surface of the first middle frame 211 facing the folding screen 10 (i.e., the first bearing surface a1). In this way, the overall length and redundant length of the electrical connector 33 can be further reduced, thereby further reducing the resistance of the electrical connector 33.

[0339] Based on this, in order to facilitate the electrical connection between the electrical connector 33 and the first circuit board 31, in some embodiments, please refer to... Figures 9-11 The electrical connector 33 is provided with a first conductive pad 61. The first conductive pad 61 can be a metal sheet. The electrical connector 33 can be electrically connected to the first grounded metal via the first conductive pad 61. The first conductive pad 61 and the first grounded metal can be fixedly connected and electrically connected by means of welding, bonding, fastener connection, etc. For example, the first conductive pad 61 can be connected to the end of the second segment 332 away from the first segment 331.

[0340] In some embodiments, the first conductive pad 61 and the conductive element 33a in the electrical connector 33 can be connected by welding. The welding methods include, but are not limited to, spot welding, bonding welding, and pulsed thermobaric welding (also known as hot bar welding). This achieves both a fixed connection and electrical connection between the first conductive pad 61 and the electrical connector 33, and helps to reduce the contact resistance between them, making it easier to control the impedance between the first conductive pad 61 and the electrical connector 33 below 20 mohm.

[0341] To prevent the electrical connector 33 from separating from the first conductive pad 61, a portion of the electrical connector 33 near the first conductive pad 61 can be fixed to a first grounding metal. For example, at least a portion of the second section 332 can be fixed to the first middle frame 211. The second section 332 and the first middle frame 211 can be fixed together by means of adhesive dispensing, welding, or other methods.

[0342] In this way, after fixing the electrical connector 33 to the first conductive pad 61, a secondary fixation of the electrical connector 33 can be achieved by fixing a portion of the electrical connector 33 to the first grounding metal. This improves the positional stability of the electrical connector 33, thereby enhancing the connection reliability between the electrical connector 33 and the first conductive pad 61. This allows the electrical connector 33 and the first conductive pad 61 to withstand a tensile force greater than or equal to 0.5N, effectively preventing the electrical connector 33 from separating or detaching from the first conductive pad 61. This improves the connection stability and reliability between the electrical connector 33 and the first conductive pad 61, thus ensuring the stability and reliability of the electrical connection between the electrical connector 33 and the first grounding metal.

[0343] In some embodiments, the connection between the conductive element 33a and the first conductive pad 61 can be fixed inside the protective element 33b. In this way, the connection between the conductive element 33a and the first conductive pad 61 can be enclosed by the protective element 33b, which helps to further improve the connection reliability between the first conductive pad 61 and the conductive element 33a and avoids the protective element 33b from separating or desoldering from the first conductive pad 61.

[0344] Similarly, in order to achieve the electrical connection between the electrical connector 33 and the second grounding metal, the electrical connector 33 is also provided with a second conductive pad 62. The connection method and connection position between the second conductive pad 62 and the second grounding metal can be designed with reference to the connection method and connection position between the electrical connector 33 and the first grounding metal, and will not be described in detail here.

[0345] In some embodiments, in order to improve the uniformity of force on the electrical connector 33 and reduce the torque on the electrical connector 33, the first conductive pad 61 and the second conductive pad 62 can be arranged symmetrically.

[0346] In some embodiments, the electrical connector 33 may be manufactured using the following processing method.

[0347] Winding: Provide conductive element 33a, wind conductive element 33a into a target shape to form first conductive element 33a1 and second conductive element 33a2.

[0348] Assemble the conductive pads: Assemble the first conductive pad 61 and the second conductive pad 62 at both ends of the conductive component 33a.

[0349] Attaching release paper: Attaching release paper to the conductive part 33a wound into the target shape.

[0350] A single sheet of silicone is extruded to form the first elastic part.

[0351] First mechanical treatment: The first elastic part is subjected to the first mechanical treatment (including drilling, grooving, etc.) to form the first recessed groove F11, the first through hole, etc. on the first elastic part.

[0352] First surface treatment: The first elastic portion undergoes a first surface treatment to form a metal plating layer on the first elastic portion. This metal plating layer may include a first conductive layer P1, a first metallized via K31, a second conductive layer P2, and a third conductive layer P3. The surface treatment method includes at least one of electroless plating, spray plating, electroplating, and physical vapor deposition (PVD).

[0353] Punching: The first elastic part with a metal coating is punched into the target shape.

[0354] Assemble the conductive component 33a: Place the conductive component 33a and the release paper attached to it together into the first recessed groove F11. In some embodiments, to facilitate positioning of the conductive component 33a, a first positioning hole can be provided on the release paper of the conductive component 33a, and a first positioning post for engaging with the first positioning hole can be provided on the first elastic part. This improves the positional accuracy of the conductive component 33a and reduces the assembly difficulty.

[0355] Assemble the second elastic part: Provide a second elastic part, the inner and outer surfaces of which are provided with metal plating. Connect the second elastic part and the first elastic part together by hot pressing to form a first blank.

[0356] The preparation method of the second elastic part can be the same as that of the first elastic part, and will not be described in detail here.

[0357] Deburring process: Trim the first blank to remove the burrs on the first blank.

[0358] Second mechanical treatment: The first blank is subjected to a second mechanical treatment to form a third through hole on the first blank.

[0359] Second surface treatment: A second metallized through hole K32 is formed on the first blank to obtain the electrical connector 33.

[0360] Inspection: Inspect the electrical connector 33.

[0361] In some embodiments, prior to extruding the single sheet of silicone, the process further includes: aerating the liquid silicone during the stirring process. This creates micropores (i.e., air bubbles) in the silicone, which helps reduce the DK and DF values ​​of the protective element 33b.

[0362] In other embodiments, the processing method of the electrical connector 33 may not include the first mechanical treatment and the first surface treatment. In this case, both the first conductive layer P1 and the fourth conductive layer P4 can be formed during the second surface treatment. In other embodiments, the processing method of the electrical connector 33 may not include at least one of the following: bonding release paper, punching, and deburring.

[0363] In some other embodiments, please refer to Figures 24-25 , Figure 24 A cross-sectional view of a foldable electronic device 100 in its unfolded state, provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 25 for Figure 24 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device 100 in its folded state. The foldable electronic device 100 in this embodiment is similar to... Figure 7 The difference in the foldable electronic device 100 shown is that, in this embodiment, the first deformable segment 337 in the electrical connector 33 is redundantly disposed between the second segment 332 and the first segment 331. The structure of the first deformable segment 337 in this embodiment can be applied to the foldable electronic device 100 in any embodiment of this application. The first deformable segment 337 in this embodiment can be either a non-elastic segment D2 or an elastic segment D1.

[0364] For example, the length of the first deformable segment 337 in the stretched state is greater than the width of the second gap J2. The width of the second gap J2 refers to its dimension in the X-axis direction when the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the first deformable segment 337 can be arc-shaped, S-shaped, U-shaped, V-shaped, Z-shaped, W-shaped, etc. For example, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, at least a portion of the first deformable segment 337 can be located within the second gap J2, and at least a portion of the second deformable segment 339 can be located within the fourth gap J4.

[0365] The shape of the second deformable segment 339 can be designed with reference to the shape of the first deformable segment 337, and will not be described in detail here.

[0366] Please see Figure 24 and combined Figure 25When the foldable electronic device 100 switches from the unfolded state to the folded state, the first deformable segment 337 is stretched. In this way, the deformation of the first deformable segment 337 can adapt to the size change of the gap between the first main body 201 and the first support member 231, which also helps to avoid the electrical connector 33 from breaking, thereby improving the reliability of the electrical connector 33.

[0367] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 26a , Figure 26a for Figure 24 The diagram shows an enlarged view of the foldable electronic device 100 in region A. The first support member 231 includes a first outer surface m1, and the first groove C1 includes a first groove sidewall C12. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the first outer surface m1 can face away from the intermediate support member 2302, and the first groove sidewall C12 can face towards the second main body 202. The second gap J2 is located between the first groove sidewall C12 and the first outer surface m1.

[0368] In this embodiment, the first groove sidewall C12 is spaced apart from the first outer sidewall m1 to form a second gap J2. It will be understood that in other embodiments, please refer to [link to other embodiments]. Figure 26b , Figure 26b This is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of a foldable electronic device 100 according to other embodiments of this application. A first clearance groove C120 is formed on the first main body 201. Exemplarily, the first clearance groove C120 is formed in the first housing 21. The first clearance groove C120 may be recessed from a portion of the surface of the first groove sidewall C12 toward a direction away from the first support member 231, and the first clearance groove C120 penetrates the first bearing surface a1 of the first main body 201. The first clearance groove C120 constitutes at least a portion of the second gap J2.

[0369] Please see Figure 26c , Figure 26c for Figure 26b The diagram shows a partial top view of the first support member 231 and the first main body 201 in the unfolded state of the foldable electronic device 100. Figure 26c The top view shown is a schematic diagram viewed from the foldable screen 10 towards the support device 20. The first groove sidewall C12 includes a first region C121 and a second region C122, which are arranged in the fourth direction e4. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the first region C121 is recessed relative to the second region C122 in a direction away from the first support member 231 to form a first clearance groove C120. The second gap J2 may be located between the first region C121 and the first outer surface m1. The fourth direction e4 is parallel to the axis of rotation of the first main body 201 relative to the second main body 202.

[0370] In this way, while forming a second gap J2 between the first main body 201 and the first support member 231, the gap between the second region C122 and the first outer side m1 is reduced, and the gap between the support device 20 and the folding screen 10 is reduced. This improves the impact resistance of the folding screen 10, prevents bright spots from appearing on the folding screen 10, and improves the flatness of the folding screen 10 in the unfolded state. It also helps to reduce screen shadows and creases that appear during the folding process.

[0371] It is understood that in other embodiments, a second clearance groove may also be provided on the first support member 231, the second clearance groove forming at least a portion of the second gap J2. In this case, the first main body 201 may or may not have a first clearance groove C120.

[0372] The formation method of the fourth gap J4 can be designed with reference to the second gap J2, and will not be elaborated here.

[0373] In some other embodiments, please refer to Figure 27 , Figure 27 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a foldable electronic device 100 in its unfolded state, provided for further embodiments of this application. The foldable electronic device 100 in this embodiment is similar to... Figure 24 The difference between the foldable electronic device 100 shown is that, in addition to the support device 20, the folding screen 10, and the electrical connector 33, the foldable electronic device 100 in this embodiment also includes a support piece 40, which is located on the side of the folding mechanism 23 facing the folding screen 10. It should be noted that the support piece 40 in this embodiment can be applied to the foldable electronic device 100 in any embodiment of this application.

[0374] Please see Figure 27 When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the support plate 40 is stacked on top of the first support member 231, the second support member 232, and the intermediate support member 2302, and the support plate 40 covers the first gap J1 and the third gap J3. In this state, the third display portion 13 of the foldable screen 10 can be supported on the support plate 40. For example, a portion of the electrical connector 33 can be disposed between the support plate 40 and the folding mechanism 23. For example, at least one of the first segment 331, the first intermediate segment 335, and the third segment 333 can be disposed between the support plate 40 and the folding mechanism 23.

[0375] In this way, the support plate 40 can support the parts of the folding screen 10 that are opposite to the first gap J1 and the third gap J3, which can improve the impact resistance of the folding screen 10, prevent the appearance of bright spots on the folding screen 10, improve the flatness of the folding screen 10 in the unfolded state, help reduce screen light and shadow, and reduce creases that appear on the folding screen 10 during the folding process.

[0376] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the electrical connector 33 can be separated from the support structure 102 in the foldable screen 10 by the support piece 40. This can effectively prevent the electrical connector 33 from pressing against or pressing against the screen during the folding or unfolding of the foldable electronic device 100, reducing the risk of the foldable screen 10 arching during bending. At the same time, it can also prevent the electrical connector 33 from being stuck in the hollow hole K1 on the support structure 102, which is beneficial to improving the reliability of the electrical connector 33, and thus improving the stability and reliability of the electrical connection between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal.

[0377] Please see Figure 28 , Figure 28 for Figure 27 The diagram shows a partial cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device 100 in its folded state. When the folding mechanism 23 is in the folded state, the support piece 40 is bent. In this way, when the first support member 231 and the second support member 232 rotate relative to the intermediate support member 2302 between the unfolded position and the folded position, the support piece 40 can be bent together with the foldable screen 10, thus preventing the support piece 40 from affecting the bending effect of the foldable screen 10.

[0378] In order to facilitate the bending of the support plate 40 together with the folding screen 10, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the support plate 40 can slide relative to the folding mechanism 23 when the foldable electronic device 100 switches between an unfolded state and a folded state.

[0379] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 29 and combined Figures 30-31 , Figure 29 for Figure 27 The figure shows an assembly perspective view of the support plate 40, folding mechanism 23, and electrical connector 33 in the foldable electronic device 100. Figure 30 for Figure 29 The assembly solid view shown is a cross-sectional view at line DD. Figure 31 for Figure 30 The cross-sectional view of the support plate 40, folding mechanism 23, and electrical connector 33 in the folded state is shown.

[0380] One end of the support piece 40 is connected to the first support member 231, and the other end can slide with the second support member 232. That is, when the folding mechanism 23 is folded between the unfolded state and the folded state, the support piece 40 can slide relative to the second support member 232. For example, the support piece 40 and the first support member 231 can be fixed by means of bonding, welding, snap-fitting, fastener connection, etc. Alternatively, the support piece 40 can also be rotatably connected to the first support member 231 by means of a pivot, flexible structure, etc., without specific limitation.

[0381] In this way, when the foldable electronic device 100 is folded between the unfolded state and the folded state, the support piece 40 can adapt to the size change of the folding mechanism 23, which can reduce the stress on the foldable screen 10 and ensure the flatness of the support piece 40 in the unfolded state, thereby improving the flatness of the foldable screen 10 in the unfolded state.

[0382] It is understood that in other embodiments, the middle portion of the support piece 40 may be fixed to the folding mechanism 23, and both ends of the support piece 40 may be slidably connected to the folding mechanism 23. For example, the middle portion of the support piece 40 may be fixedly connected to the intermediate support member 2302, and both ends of the support piece 40 may be slidably connected to the first support member 231 and the second support member 232, respectively. This is as long as it ensures that at least a portion of the support piece 40 can slide relative to the folding mechanism 23 when the folding mechanism 23 is folded between the unfolded and folded states.

[0383] In some embodiments, in order to maintain the supporting performance of the support sheet 40, the support sheet 40 can be a metal sheet. For example, the support sheet 40 can be a stainless steel sheet, a titanium alloy sheet, etc. Of course, in other embodiments, the support sheet 40 can also be a Mylar sheet, etc.

[0384] Based on any of the above embodiments, in order to reduce wear on the support piece 40 and decrease the noise generated by the support piece 40 rubbing against the second support member 232 during the folding process of the foldable electronic device 100, please refer to... Figures 30-31 A wear-resistant layer 50 is provided between the support plate 40 and the second support member 232. The wear-resistant layer 50 can be disposed on the surface of the second support member 232 facing the support plate 40, or on the surface of the support plate 40 facing the second support member 232. The material of the wear-resistant layer 50 includes at least one of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyoxymethylene (POM), polyurethane, rubber, and latex.

[0385] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 32 , Figure 32 for Figure 27The diagram shows a perspective view of the folding mechanism 23 in the foldable electronic device 100. The first support member 231 includes a first top surface m3 and a first bottom surface m4 facing away from each other, with the first top surface m3 potentially facing the foldable screen 10. A first recess C3 is provided on the first support member 231, extending through one side surface of the first support member 231 in the thickness direction. A first section 331 is disposed within the first recess C3.

[0386] In this way, on the one hand, the superposition thickness between the first section 331 and the first support member 231 can be reduced, which is conducive to reducing the overall thickness of the foldable electronic device 100 and thus facilitates the thin design of the foldable electronic device 100; on the other hand, it can also expand the assembly space of the first section 331, making the selection of the thickness of the first section 331 more flexible; furthermore, during the assembly process, the electrical connector 33 can be positioned by the first recess C3, which helps to reduce the assembly difficulty of the electrical connector 33.

[0387] In this embodiment, the first segment 331 is located on the side of the first support member 231 facing the folding screen 10, and the first recess C3 is recessed from the first top surface m3 toward the first bottom surface m4. That is, the first recess C3 penetrates the first top surface m3. It can be understood that in other embodiments, when the first segment 331 is located on the side of the first support member 231 facing the folding screen 10, the first recess C3 may be recessed from the first bottom surface m4 toward the first top surface m3. That is, the first recess C3 penetrates the first bottom surface m4.

[0388] Please continue reading. Figure 32 The first support member 231 includes a first inner side m2 that faces away from the first outer side m1. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the first inner side m2 faces the intermediate support member 2302. In some embodiments, the first recess C3 extends through the first inner side m2 and the first outer side m1. This facilitates the assembly of the first section 331 into the first recess C3 and reduces the assembly difficulty of the first section 331.

[0389] Furthermore, the second support member 232 is provided with a second sinking groove C4, the third section 333 is disposed within the second sinking groove C4, and the intermediate support member 2302 is provided with a third sinking groove C5, with the first intermediate section 335 disposed within the third sinking groove C5. The structures of the second sinking groove C4 and the third sinking groove C5 can be designed with reference to the structure of the first sinking groove C3 in any embodiment of this application, and will not be described in detail here.

[0390] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 33 , Figure 33 for Figure 27The diagram shows a perspective view of the first main body 201 of the foldable electronic device 100. The first main body 201 has a fourth recess C6 that penetrates the first bearing surface a1 and the first groove sidewall C12 of the first recess C1. At least a portion of the second section 332 can be disposed within the fourth recess C6. This reduces the superposition thickness between the second section 332 and the first main body 201, facilitating a thinner design for the foldable electronic device 100. Furthermore, during assembly, the fourth recess C6 can also position the electrical connector 33, reducing the assembly difficulty of the electrical connector 33.

[0391] Similarly, a fifth settling tank can be provided on the second main body 202, and a portion of the fourth section 334 can be provided within the fifth settling tank. The structure of the fifth settling tank is the same as that of the fourth settling tank C6, and will not be described in detail here.

[0392] In some other embodiments, please refer to Figures 34-35 , Figure 34 A partial cross-sectional view of a foldable electronic device 100 in its unfolded state, provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 35 for Figure 34 The diagram shows a partial cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device 100 in its folded state. The difference between the foldable electronic device 100 in this embodiment and that in any of the aforementioned embodiments, the first intermediate section 335 of the electrical connector 33 is not fixed relative to the shaft cover 2301. During the switching between the unfolded and folded states of the foldable electronic device 100, the first intermediate section 335 can deform. For example, during this process, the first intermediate section 335 can undergo bending, stretching, or other deformations. In this way, the electrical connector 33 can better adapt to the dimensional changes of the foldable electronic device 100 in different states.

[0393] It is understood that, when the first intermediate segment 335 is deformable, the first segment 331 may or may not include the elastic segment D1. For example, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the first segment 331 may be fixed to the first support member 231 to allow the first intermediate segment 335 to deform. The portion of the first segment 331 fixed to the first support member 231 may be a non-elastic segment D2.

[0394] In some embodiments, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, at least a portion of the first intermediate segment 335 arches toward the side opposite to the foldable screen 10. For example, in Figure 34In the illustrated embodiment, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the middle portion 335a of the first intermediate segment 335 arches towards the direction away from the foldable screen 10. The middle portion 335a may be generally arc-shaped. In other embodiments, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the entire first intermediate segment 335 arches towards the direction away from the foldable screen 10. In this case, the entire first intermediate segment 335 is generally arc-shaped.

[0395] This helps to increase the length of the first intermediate section 335, which ensures the deformation space of the electrical connector 33 and helps to reduce the stress on the first intermediate section 335, thereby helping to prevent the first intermediate section 335 from breaking.

[0396] In some embodiments, the first intermediate segment 335 is an elastic segment D1. Specifically, the second right side portion 335c, the second left side portion 335b, and the intermediate portion 335a are all elastic segments D1. In this way, the first intermediate segment 335 can adapt to the size changes of the foldable electronic device 100 in different states through stretching and bending deformation.

[0397] In some embodiments, the first intermediate segment 335 may be located between the intermediate support 2302 and the foldable screen 10. See also... Figures 34-35 The intermediate support member 2302 is provided with a receiving groove C8. For details, please refer to [link / reference needed]. Figure 35 The intermediate support member 2302 includes a second top surface n1 and a second bottom surface n2 facing away from each other, with the second top surface n1 facing the foldable screen 10. A receiving groove C8 can penetrate through the second top surface n1. Specifically, the receiving groove C8 can be formed by a recess from the second top surface n1 towards the second bottom surface n2. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, at least a portion of the intermediate portion 335a is disposed within the receiving groove C8.

[0398] In this way, on the one hand, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, at least a portion of the first intermediate section 335 (e.g., the intermediate section 335a) can be accommodated by the receiving groove C8, which helps to ensure the redundant length of the first intermediate section 335 and avoids the first intermediate section 335 being squeezed due to insufficient accommodating space when the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, thereby reducing the stress on the first intermediate section 335 and improving the reliability of the electrical connector 33; on the other hand, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in the folded state, the receiving groove C8 can also be used to avoid the folding screen 10, support plate 40 and other structures, thereby preventing the intermediate support member 2302 from squeezing the folding screen 10, which further helps to improve the reliability of the folding screen 10.

[0399] In this embodiment, the positions and fixing methods of other sections of the first circuit board 31 (such as the first section 331, the second section 332, the third section 333, the fourth section 334, the first bendable section 336, the second bendable section 338, etc.) can be designed with reference to the electrical connector 33 in any embodiment of this application, and will not be described in detail here.

[0400] It is understood that in other embodiments, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the first intermediate segment 335 may also be approximately flat. That is, the dimensions of the first intermediate segment 335 are not redundant.

[0401] In some embodiments, when the first intermediate segment 335 is an elastic segment D1, to facilitate bending of the first intermediate segment 335, please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 36 , Figure 36 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the electrical connector 33 and the foldable screen 10 in a foldable electronic device 100 provided in some embodiments of this application. The first intermediate segment 335 includes a first surface n31 and a second surface n32 facing away from each other, with the first surface n31 facing away from the foldable screen 10. Exemplarily, both the first surface n31 and the second surface n32 are formed on the elastic structural member 33b1.

[0402] For example, such as Figure 36 As shown in (a) and (b), a second stress relief hole K22 and a third stress relief hole K23 are provided on the first intermediate section 335. The second stress relief hole K22 can penetrate the first surface n31, and the third stress relief hole K23 can penetrate the second surface n32. The second stress relief hole K22 can be formed on at least one of the intermediate portion 335a, the second left portion 335b, and the second right portion 335c. Similarly, the third stress relief hole K23 can be formed on at least one of the intermediate portion 335a, the second left portion 335b, and the second right portion 335c.

[0403] This reduces the stiffness of the first intermediate section 335, thereby reducing its ability to resist elastic deformation and making it easier for the first intermediate section 335 to undergo bending deformation.

[0404] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first conductive element 33a1 in the first intermediate section 335 is exposed through the second stress relief hole K22. This is beneficial for increasing the depth of the second stress relief hole K22, which in turn helps to further reduce the stiffness of the first intermediate section 335, thereby further improving the bending performance of the first intermediate section 335.

[0405] For example, such as Figure 36 As shown in (c) and (d) in the figure, the second stress relief hole K22 can also be provided only on the first intermediate section 335, or as shown in the figure. Figure 36As shown in (e), a third stress relief hole K23 can also be provided only on the first intermediate section 335. In this way, the stiffness of the first intermediate section 335 can also be reduced to a certain extent, which reduces the ability of the first intermediate section 335 to resist elastic deformation and makes it easier for the first intermediate section 335 to undergo bending deformation.

[0406] The second stress relief hole K22 may include multiple spaced-apart sub-relief holes (such as...) Figure 36 (as shown in (a)). Alternatively, the second stress relief hole K22 can also be a large hole (as shown in (a)). Figure 36 As shown in (d) in the middle part 335a, the first conductive element 33a1 in the middle part 335a can be fully exposed in the second stress relief hole K22.

[0407] The structure of the third stress relief hole K23 can be designed with reference to the second stress relief hole K22. Furthermore, it is understood that, to ensure the elastic tension of the first intermediate section 335, when the second stress relief hole K22 is formed as a large hole, the third stress relief hole K23 may include multiple spaced-apart sub-relief holes, or the intermediate portion 335a may not include the third stress relief hole K23 (e.g., ...). Figure 36 (as shown in (d)). Similarly, when the third stress relief hole K23 is formed as a large hole, the second stress relief hole K22 may include multiple spaced-apart sub-relief holes (such as...). Figure 36 (as shown in (b)), or the first intermediate section 335 may not include the second stress relief hole K22.

[0408] For example, such as Figure 36 As shown in (f), the first intermediate section 335 may also omit both the second stress relief hole K22 and the third stress relief hole K23. In this case, the bending performance of the first intermediate section 335 can be improved by reducing the thickness of the elastic structural member 33b1 in the first intermediate section 335. For example, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the thickness of the portion of the elastic structural member 33b2 located on the first conductive member 33a1 facing the folding screen 10 is less than or equal to 0.2 mm, and the thickness of the portion of the elastic structural member 33b1 located on the first conductive member 33a1 facing away from the folding screen 10 is less than or equal to 0.2 mm. This also reduces the stiffness of the first intermediate section 335 to a certain extent, reducing its resistance to elastic deformation and facilitating bending, stretching, and other deformations.

[0409] It is understood that the second stress relief hole K22 and the third stress relief hole K23 in this embodiment can be applied to the foldable electronic device 100 in any embodiment of this application.

[0410] In some other embodiments, please refer to Figure 37 , Figure 37 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the electrical connector 33 and the folding screen 10 in a foldable electronic device 100 provided in some embodiments of this application. The foldable electronic device 100 in this embodiment and... Figure 34 The difference in the foldable electronic device 100 shown is that, in this embodiment, the first intermediate segment 335 is a non-elastic segment D2. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, at least a portion of the first intermediate segment 335 arches away from the folding screen 10. That is, the first intermediate segment 335 is redundantly disposed between the first segment 331 and the third segment 333.

[0411] For example, the first intermediate segment 335 can be a flexible circuit board or a cable. Specifically, the first intermediate segment 335 does not include the protective element 33b. This improves the flexibility of the first intermediate segment 335 and facilitates bending of the first intermediate segment 335.

[0412] In some embodiments, when the first intermediate segment 335 is a flexible circuit board, an air gap can be formed between two adjacent flexible layers in the flexible circuit board. This can further improve the bending performance of the first intermediate segment 335 and prevent the conductive element 33a in the first intermediate segment 335 from breaking.

[0413] In some other embodiments, please refer to Figures 38-39 , Figure 38 A partial cross-sectional view of a foldable electronic device 100 provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 39 for Figure 38 The diagram shows the foldable electronic device 100 in its folded state. The foldable electronic device 100 of this embodiment differs from that of any of the aforementioned embodiments in that, in this embodiment, the first intermediate segment 335 of the electrical connector 33 is located on the side of the intermediate support member 2302 facing away from the folding screen 10. The location of the first intermediate segment 335 in this embodiment can be applied to the foldable electronic device 100 in any embodiment of this application. The positions and fixing methods of other segments of the electrical connector 33 in this embodiment (e.g., the first segment 331, the second segment 332, the third segment 333, the fourth segment 334, etc.) can be designed with reference to the electrical connector 33 in any embodiment of this application.

[0414] In this way, the first intermediate section 335 can be separated from the support plate 40, folding screen 10 and other structures by the intermediate support member 2302, which can prevent the first intermediate section 335 from hitting the screen and reduce the risk of the folding screen 10 arching.

[0415] In some embodiments, the first intermediate section 335 is not fixed relative to the shaft cover 2301. See also... Figure 38 and combined Figure 39 When the foldable electronic device 100 switches between an unfolded state and a folded state, the first intermediate segment 335 can deform (e.g., bend, stretch, etc.). For example, the first intermediate segment 335 can redundantly reside between the intermediate support member 2302 and the shaft cover 2301. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the first intermediate segment 335 arches towards the direction opposite to the foldable screen 10. For example, the first intermediate segment 335 can be arc-shaped.

[0416] In this case, the first intermediate segment 335 can be set as an elastic segment D1 as a whole; or the first intermediate segment 335 can be set as a non-elastic segment D2 as a whole.

[0417] In some other embodiments, please refer to Figures 40a-40b , Figure 40a A partial cross-sectional view of a foldable electronic device 100 in its unfolded state, provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 40b for Figure 40a This is a schematic diagram of the foldable electronic device 100 in its folded state. The foldable electronic device 100 in this embodiment is similar to... Figure 39 The difference in the foldable electronic device 100 shown is that at least a portion of the first intermediate segment 335 in this embodiment is fixed to the base 23a. The connection and positional relationship between the first intermediate segment 335 and the base 23a in this embodiment can be applied to the foldable electronic device 100 in any embodiment of this application.

[0418] For example, please refer to Figure 40a and Figure 40b The middle portion 335a of the first intermediate section 335 can be fixed to the shaft cover 2301. It is understood that in other embodiments, the middle portion 335a can also be fixed to the intermediate support member 2302. This can better restrict the bending shape of the electrical connector 33 and help reduce the space occupied by the electrical connector 33 inside the folding mechanism 23.

[0419] In some embodiments, the middle portion 335a is a non-elastic segment D2, and the second left-side portion 335b is an elastic segment D1. This is beneficial for reducing the redundant length of the conductive element 33a in the electrical connector 33 while ensuring the deformation of the electrical connector 33, thereby reducing the resistance of the electrical connector 33 and lowering the grounding impedance.

[0420] It is understood that in other embodiments, the second left side portion 335b may also be fixed to the shaft cover 2301. In this case, during the switching between the unfolded state and the foldable electronic device 100, the deformation of at least one of the first right side portion 331b and the first bendable segment 336 can be used to adapt to the shape change of the foldable electronic device 100.

[0421] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 41 , Figure 41 This is a top view of the assembly of the first intermediate section 335 and the shaft cover 2301 according to some embodiments of this application. The shaft cover 2301 is provided with a fixing groove C9, and the first intermediate section 335 is fixed in the fixing groove C9. Exemplarily, the first intermediate section 335 and the fixing groove C9 can be fixed by means of bonding, interference fit, welding, etc.

[0422] Please see Figure 41 The fixing groove C9 includes a first groove wall C91 and a second groove wall C92 opposite each other in the fourth direction e4. The first intermediate section 335 is fixed between the first groove wall C91 and the second groove wall C92. In this way, the superposition thickness between the first intermediate section 335 and the base 23a can be reduced, which is beneficial to reducing the overall volume of the foldable electronic device 100.

[0423] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 41 The first groove wall C91 has a first limiting protrusion C911 protruding toward the second groove wall C92, and the second groove wall C92 has a second limiting protrusion C921 protruding toward the first groove wall C91. The first intermediate segment 335 can contact the first limiting protrusion C911 and the second limiting protrusion C921. In this way, the extension path of the first intermediate segment 335 can be limited by the first limiting protrusion C911 and the second limiting protrusion C921, which helps to improve the positional stability of the first intermediate segment 335 and prevent the first intermediate segment 335 from moving during the unfolding or folding of the foldable electronic device 100.

[0424] There are multiple first limiting protrusions C911 and multiple second limiting protrusions C921. The multiple first limiting protrusions C911 are spaced apart in the extending direction of the fixing groove C9, and the multiple second limiting protrusions C921 are also spaced apart in the extending direction of the fixing groove C9. This improves the limiting accuracy of the fixing groove C9 on the first intermediate section 335.

[0425] It is understood that in other embodiments, at least one of the first limiting protrusion C911 and the second limiting protrusion C921 may not be provided in the fixing groove C9.

[0426] Based on any of the above embodiments, the base 23a includes a metal structural component, and the first intermediate section 335 is electrically connected to this metal structural component. For example, the shaft cover 2301 is a metal structural component. In this way, the shaft cover 2301 and the first intermediate section 335 can be connected in parallel between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal, thereby forming two parallel grounding links between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal. One grounding link is: first grounding metal → electrical connector 33 → second grounding metal, and the other grounding link is: first grounding metal → shaft cover 2301 → second grounding metal. This reduces the grounding impedance between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal.

[0427] In some embodiments, to achieve electrical connection between the first intermediate segment 335 and the shaft cover 2301, at least a portion of the conductive element 33a in the first intermediate segment 335 is exposed, and the first intermediate segment 335 can be electrically connected to the shaft cover 2301 through the exposed conductive element 33a. For example, at least one opening can be provided on the protective element 33b of the first intermediate segment 335 so that the conductive element 33a is exposed through the opening. The exposed conductive element 33a can contact at least one of the first limiting protrusion C911, the second limiting protrusion C921, the first groove wall surface C91, and the second groove wall surface C92 to achieve electrical connection between the first intermediate segment 335 and the shaft cover 2301.

[0428] Alternatively, in other embodiments, at least a portion of the first intermediate segment 335 is formed as a bare wire core t1. This also allows for the exposure of the conductive element 33a, facilitating the electrical connection between the first intermediate segment 335 and the shaft cover 2301.

[0429] The positions and fixing methods of other sections of the electrical connector 33 in this embodiment (such as the second section 332, the third section 333, the fourth section 334, etc.) can be designed with reference to the electrical connector 33 in any embodiment of this application, and will not be described again here.

[0430] In some other embodiments, please refer to Figures 42-45 , Figures 42-45 These are partial cross-sectional views of foldable electronic devices 100 provided in some embodiments of this application. The difference between the foldable electronic device 100 in this embodiment and that in any of the above embodiments is that, in this embodiment, the first segment 331 of the electrical connector 33 is located on the side of the first support member 231 facing away from the folding screen 10. The location of the first segment 331 in this embodiment can be applied to the foldable electronic device 100 in any embodiment of this application.

[0431] In this way, the first section 331 can be separated from the support plate 40, folding screen 10 and other structures by the first support member 231, which can effectively prevent the top screen of the first section 331 and reduce the risk of the folding screen 10 arching.

[0432] For example, at least a portion of the first segment 331 may be fixed to the first support member 231, or the first segment 331 may also slide in conjunction with the first support member 231. This reduces the distance between the first segment 331 and the folding screen 10, which helps to reduce the overall length of the electrical connector 33.

[0433] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 42 and Figure 43 The second section 332 is fixed and electrically connected to the first middle plate 2111. For example, a first through hole K4 is provided on the first frame 2112, communicating with the first receiving cavity Q1. The first through hole K4 penetrates the first groove sidewall C12 of the first groove C1. That is, the first through hole K4 penetrates the first sidewall surface a2. The second section 332 can pass through the first through hole K4 and be fixed to the first middle plate 2111, thereby realizing the electrical connection between the electrical connector 33 and the first grounded metal.

[0434] During assembly, the electrical connector 33 can be fixed and electrically connected to the first intermediate plate 2111 first, and then the first circuit board 31, the first battery 41 and other devices can be assembled into the first receiving cavity Q1. This avoids the first circuit board 31, the first battery 41 and other devices from blocking the first intermediate plate 2111, which helps to reduce the difficulty of electrical connection between the electrical connector 33 and the first grounding metal.

[0435] In this way, the electrical connector 33 does not need to pass through the gap (e.g., the second gap J2) between the first main body 201 and the first support member 231. This not only reduces the difficulty of electrical connection between the electrical connector 33 and the first grounding metal, but also helps to reduce the overall length of the electrical connector 33, thereby reducing the resistance of the electrical connector 33 and further reducing the grounding impedance.

[0436] It is understood that the electrical connection method between the electrical connector 33 and the first grounding metal in the embodiments of this application can be applied to the foldable electronic device 100 in any embodiment of this application.

[0437] Additionally, please see Figures 44-45 When at least a portion of the first section 331 is located opposite the folding screen 10 of the first support member 231, the electrical connector 33 can also pass through the gap (e.g., the second gap J2) between the first main body 201 and the first support member 231. In this case, the second section 332 of the electrical connector 33 can be fixed to the surface of the first middle frame 211 facing the folding screen 10 (i.e., the first bearing surface a1).

[0438] In some embodiments, both the first intermediate segment 335 and the first section 331 are located within the first space Q3, or both the first intermediate segment 335 and the first section 331 are located outside the first space Q3. For example, please refer to... Figures 42-44 The first intermediate segment 335 is located on the side of the intermediate support member 2302 facing away from the folding screen 10, and the first section 331 is located on the side of the first support member 231 facing away from the folding screen 10. In this way, the electrical connector 33 does not need to pass through the first gap J1, which not only helps to reduce the assembly difficulty of the electrical connector 33, but also helps to reduce the overall length of the electrical connector 33, thereby helping to reduce the resistance of the electrical connector 33.

[0439] Of course, in other embodiments, one of the first segment 331 and the first intermediate segment 335 may be located within the first space Q3, and the other may be located outside the first space Q3 (e.g., Figure 45 (As shown).

[0440] In some other embodiments, please refer to Figures 46-47 , Figure 46 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device 100 provided in some embodiments of this application in its unfolded state. Figure 47 for Figure 46 The diagram shows the foldable electronic device 100 in its folded state. The difference between the foldable electronic device 100 in this embodiment and those in any of the aforementioned embodiments is that in all the aforementioned embodiments, the first segment 331 is stacked on top of the first support member 231. That is, the first segment 331 is located on one side of the thickness direction of the first support member 231. In this embodiment, the first support member 231 has at least one first through hole 231a, which penetrates both sides of the first support member 231 in the thickness direction. The first segment 331 passes through at least one first through hole 231a. This allows the first segment 331 to be connected to the first support member 231 through the first through hole 231a, effectively preventing the first segment 331 from shaking or swaying. The structure is simple and the design is ingenious.

[0441] In some embodiments, the first through hole 231a can be reused as a weight-reducing hole on the first support member 231. In this way, the assembly of the first section 331 can be achieved without having to additionally open the first through hole 231a on the first support member 231, which can further simplify the structure of the foldable electronic device 100.

[0442] For example, the first segment 331 can be bonded and fixed within the first through hole 231a, which makes the position of the first segment 331 more stable. It is understood that in other embodiments, the first segment 331 may not be fixed within the first through hole 231a; for example, the first segment 331 may slide with the first through hole 231a.

[0443] The connection method between the first segment 331 and the first support member 231 in this embodiment can be applied to the foldable electronic device 100 in any embodiment of this application.

[0444] In some other embodiments, please refer to Figures 48-49 , Figure 48 A partial cross-sectional view of a foldable electronic device 100 in its unfolded state, provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 49 for Figure 48 The diagram shows the foldable electronic device 100 in its folded state. The difference between the foldable electronic device 100 in this embodiment and the foldable electronic device 100 in any of the above embodiments is that the connection position between the electrical connector 33 and the first middle frame 211 is different in this embodiment.

[0445] Please see Figures 48-49 In this embodiment, the electrical connector 33 can be fixed to the groove wall of the first groove C1 and electrically connected to the first middle frame 211. For example, the electrical connector 33 can be fixed to the first groove bottom wall C11 of the first groove C1. The electrical connector 33 and the first groove bottom wall C11 can be fixed by means of bonding, welding, fastener connection, etc. This eliminates the need for a second section 332 in the electrical connector 33, which helps reduce the length of the electrical connector 33, thereby reducing its resistance and the grounding impedance between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal.

[0446] It is understood that in other embodiments, the electrical connector 33 may also be fixed to the groove wall surface such as the first groove sidewall C12 of the first groove C1. The connection position between the electrical connector 33 and the first middle frame 211 in this embodiment can be applied to the foldable electronic device 100 in any embodiment of this application.

[0447] In some embodiments, in order to simplify the structure of the foldable electronic device 100 and reduce the number of components of the foldable electronic device 100, the fasteners used to connect the electrical connector 33 and the first middle frame 211 can be reused from the fasteners used to connect the first connector 235 and the first middle frame 211.

[0448] In some embodiments, please refer to Figures 48-49The first segment 331 is disposed within the first groove C1, and at least a portion of the first segment 331 is an elastic segment D1. Thus, during the switching between the unfolded and folded states, the foldable electronic device 100 can adapt to dimensional changes in different states through the stretching and deformation of the first segment 331. Furthermore, since the first groove C1 has a relatively large space, placing the first segment 331 within the first groove C1 also provides sufficient space for assembly and elastic deformation.

[0449] In some embodiments, to facilitate elastic deformation of the first segment 331, at least a portion of the first intermediate segment 335 may be fixed to the base 23a. Specifically, at least a portion of the first intermediate segment 335 may be fixed to the shaft cap 2301 or the intermediate support member 2302. For example, please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 48 and Figure 49 The entire first intermediate section 335 can be fixed to the shaft cover 2301.

[0450] In some embodiments, in order to improve the uniformity of force on the electrical connector 33, the third section 333 may be disposed in the second groove C2, and at least a portion of the third section 333 is an elastic section D1.

[0451] It is understood that the structure and position of the first segment 331 in this embodiment can be applied to the foldable electronic device 100 in any embodiment of this application. Furthermore, in the embodiment where the first segment 331 is disposed in the first groove C1, the electrical connector 33 can be fixed to the groove wall of the first groove C1 to achieve electrical connection between the electrical connector 33 and the first grounding metal, or it can achieve electrical connection through the connection method between the electrical connector 33 and the first grounding metal in any embodiment of this application.

[0452] In some other embodiments, please refer to Figures 50-51 , Figure 50 This is a schematic diagram of a foldable electronic device 100 in its unfolded state, provided for some embodiments of this application. Figure 51 for Figure 50 This is a schematic diagram of the foldable electronic device 100 in its folded state. Figure 50 and Figure 51 Foldable screen 10 is not shown in any of the embodiments. The foldable electronic device 100 in this embodiment differs from the foldable electronic device 100 in any of the above embodiments in that the electrical connector 33 in this embodiment includes a first connecting segment 3301, a second connecting segment 3302 and an intermediate connecting segment 3303.

[0453] The first swing arm 233 includes a first metal structure, and the second swing arm 234 includes a second metal structure. For example, the first swing arm 233 is a metal component, or a portion of the first swing arm 233 is a metal component. Similarly, the second swing arm 234 is a metal component, or a portion of the second swing arm 234 is formed as a metal component.

[0454] The two ends of the intermediate connecting segment 3303 are electrically connected to the first metal structure and the second metal structure, respectively. The two ends of the first connecting segment 3301 are electrically connected to the first grounding metal and the first metal structure, respectively. The two ends of the second connecting segment 3302 are electrically connected to the second grounding metal and the second metal structure, respectively. In this way, the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal can form the following second grounding link to achieve electrical connection: first grounding metal → first connecting segment 3301 → first metal structure (i.e., first swing arm 233) → intermediate connecting segment 3303 → second metal structure (i.e., second swing arm 234) → second grounding metal.

[0455] In this way, a grounding link can be formed by the first metal structure and the second metal structure, which can simplify the structure of the electrical connector 33 and reduce the space occupied by the electrical connector 33.

[0456] In some embodiments, at least one of the first connecting segment 3301, the second connecting segment 3302, and the intermediate connecting segment 3303 may include an elastic segment D1. In this way, the foldable electronic device 100 can be adapted to different shapes by deforming the elastic segment D1.

[0457] The ways in which the first connecting segment 3301 connects to the first grounding metal, the first connecting segment 3301 connects to the first metal structure, the second connecting segment 3302 connects to the first grounding metal, the second connecting segment 3302 connects to the second metal structure, the intermediate connecting segment 3303 connects to the first metal structure, and the intermediate connecting segment 3303 connects to the second metal structure can all be designed with reference to the way the electrical connector 33 connects to the first grounding metal in any embodiment of this application, and will not be described in detail here.

[0458] Please see Figures 50-51 The first swing arm 233 is provided with a first rotating component 2331, and the base 23a is provided with a second rotating component 2304. The first rotating component 2331 and the second rotating component 2304 are rotatably connected. In this way, a rotatable connection can be achieved between the first swing arm 233 and the base 23a.

[0459] In this embodiment, one of the first rotating member 2331 and the second rotating member 2304 is an arc-shaped slider, and the other is an arc-shaped groove. It is understood that in other embodiments, one of the first rotating member 2331 and the second rotating member 2304 may also be a rotating shaft, and the other a shaft hole. This also allows for a rotational connection between the first swing arm 233 and the base 23a.

[0460] The connection between the second swing arm 234 and the base 23a can be designed with reference to the connection between the first swing arm 233 and the base 23a in any embodiment of this application. Furthermore, in the same embodiment, the way the first swing arm 233 connects to the base 23a and the way the second swing arm 234 connects to the base 23a can be the same or different.

[0461] Based on any of the above embodiments, please refer to Figure 52 , Figure 52 This is a top view of a foldable electronic device 100 provided in some embodiments of this application in its unfolded state. Multiple electrical connectors 33 are present, and the multiple electrical connectors 33 are aligned along the length of the base 23a (e.g., along the length of the base 23a). Figure 52 Arranged along the Y-axis. Multiple electrical connectors 33 are connected in parallel between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal. For example, there can be 2 to 8 electrical connectors 33. Specifically, there can be 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, etc.

[0462] In this way, on the one hand, the impedance between the two reference grounds, the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal, can be further reduced, which can improve the current carrying capacity. On the other hand, it can also prevent the grounding link between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal from failing due to the bending failure of individual electrical connectors 33. This not only helps to improve the grounding reliability between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal, but also helps to reduce impedance fluctuations. Furthermore, by setting multiple electrical connectors 33 in parallel, it is also helpful to reduce the current carrying capacity requirement of the grounding link on a single electrical connector 33, which in turn helps to reduce the cross-sectional area of ​​a single electrical connector 33 and reduce the space occupied by a single electrical connector 33.

[0463] For example, when the total current requirement of the first grounding link is 4A, and the current carrying capacity of a single electrical connector 33 is 0.7A, using six electrical connectors 33 in parallel can achieve a current carrying capacity of 4.2A, which can meet the current carrying requirement.

[0464] Of course, it is understood that in other embodiments, the electrical connector 33 may also be a single component.

[0465] In some embodiments, please refer to Figure 52Multiple electrical connectors 33 are spaced apart along the length of the base 23a. Different electrical connectors 33 can be secured to the first middle frame 211 using different fasteners. It will be understood that in other embodiments, please refer to... Figure 53 , Figure 53 This is a schematic diagram of a foldable electronic device 100 in an unfolded state, provided for some other embodiments of this application. At least two electrical connectors 33 can be secured to the first middle frame 211 by means of the same fastener.

[0466] In some embodiments, to further improve the antenna's radiation performance and avoid exceeding the RSE limit, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 52 and Figure 53 The first housing 21 includes a first antenna radiator 2112a. The first antenna radiator 2112a may be formed on the first frame 2112. In the fourth direction e4, the minimum distance L4 between the electrical connector 33 and the clearance area 2112b of the first antenna radiator 2112a is less than or equal to 10 mm. For example, the minimum distance L4 can be 10 mm, 9 mm, 8 mm, 7 mm, 6 mm, 5 mm, 4 mm, 3 mm, 2 mm, 1 mm, 0.5 mm, etc. Wherein, the fourth direction e4 is parallel to the rotation axis of the first main body 201 relative to the second main body 202.

[0467] Please see Figure 54 , Figure 54 This is a simulation diagram of the energy distribution around the first antenna radiator 2112a. Figure 54 As can be seen, the closer to the clearance area 2112b of the first antenna radiator 2112a, the higher the radiated energy. Therefore, setting the minimum distance between the electrical connector 33 and the clearance area 2112b of the first antenna radiator 2112a to less than or equal to 10mm facilitates rapid return of the coupling current, effectively reduces the fluctuation of a single antenna in the deployed state, improves the antenna's radiation performance, reduces interference, and avoids exceeding the RSE limit.

[0468] Other structures of the foldable electronic device 100 in this embodiment can be designed with reference to the foldable electronic device 100 in any other embodiment of this application, and will not be described again here.

[0469] Based on the descriptions of the above embodiments, the foldable electronic device 100 in this application embodiment, by providing the aforementioned electrical connector 33, can form a stable grounding link with low impedance between the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal. Furthermore, the electrical connector 33 has advantages such as good elasticity, long bending life, small footprint, and low cost, which is beneficial for achieving miniaturized design of the foldable electronic device 100.

[0470] 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.

[0471] 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 scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. An electrical connector, characterized in that, include: The elastic segment includes: An elastic structural member, wherein the elastic structural member is elastically expandable and contractible along a first direction; A first conductive element is fixed to the elastic structural element, and the first conductive element extends meanderingly along the first direction.

2. The electrical connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The elastic structural member has a first cavity, and the first conductive member is fixed inside the first cavity.

3. The electrical connector according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The elastic structural component is in the form of a woven mesh.

4. The electrical connector according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The elastic structural member is provided with a first stress relief hole, which penetrates the first outer surface and the second outer surface of the elastic structural member that are opposite to each other. The arrangement direction of the first outer surface and the second outer surface is perpendicular to the first direction. The orthographic projection of the first stress relief hole on the first outer surface does not overlap with the orthographic projection of the first conductive element on the first outer surface.

5. The electrical connector according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The elastic structural member includes a first outer surface and a second outer surface that are opposite to each other. A first conductive layer is provided on the first outer surface, and the first conductive layer is electrically connected to the first conductive member.

6. The electrical connector according to claim 5, characterized in that, The elastic structural member has a first cavity, the first conductive member is disposed in the first cavity, and a second conductive layer is provided on the inner wall surface of the first cavity. The second conductive layer is electrically connected to the first conductive member and the second conductive layer is electrically connected to the first conductive layer.

7. The electrical connector according to claim 6, characterized in that, The elastic structural member is provided with a first metallized via, and the two ends of the first metallized via are electrically connected to the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer, respectively. When the elastic structural member is in its natural state, the angle between the central axis of the first metallized via and the first direction is greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees.

8. The electrical connector according to any one of claims 5-7, characterized in that, The first conductive layer is in the form of a mesh.

9. The electrical connector according to any one of claims 5-8, characterized in that, The first outer surface includes a plurality of first protrusions arranged in the first direction, the first protrusions arching toward a direction away from the second outer surface.

10. A foldable electronic device, characterized in that, include: The support device includes a first main body, a second main body, and a folding mechanism. The first main body and the second main body are respectively connected to both sides of the folding mechanism. The foldable electronic device can switch between an unfolded state and a folded state. The first main body includes a first grounding metal, and the second main body includes a second grounding metal. An electrical connector, wherein the electrical connector is any one of claims 1-9, and the two ends of the electrical connector are respectively electrically connected to the first grounding metal and the second grounding metal.

11. The foldable electronic device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The folding mechanism includes a base and a first support member, the first support member being rotatable relative to the base; The electrical connector includes a first section and a first intermediate section. When the foldable electronic device is in the unfolded state, the orthographic projection of the first section on the first plane is located within the orthographic projection of the first support member on the first plane. The orthographic projection of the first intermediate segment onto the first plane lies within the orthographic projection of the base onto the first plane; wherein the first plane is perpendicular to the thickness direction of the base.

12. The foldable electronic device according to claim 11, characterized in that, At least one of the first segment and the first intermediate segment includes the elastic segment.

13. The foldable electronic device according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The first segment includes the elastic segment, and the first conductive element in the first segment extends in a second plane, which is perpendicular to the thickness direction of the first support element.

14. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 11-13, characterized in that, The first segment includes a first left portion and a first right portion, the first right portion being located between the first left portion and the first middle segment, and the first right portion forming the elastic segment.

15. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 11-14, characterized in that, During the switching between the unfolded and folded states of the foldable electronic device, at least a portion of the first intermediate segment may deform.

16. The foldable electronic device according to claim 15, characterized in that, Includes a foldable screen, which is disposed on the supporting device; At least a portion of the first middle section arches in a direction away from the folding screen.

17. The foldable electronic device according to claim 16, characterized in that, The first intermediate segment is a cable or a flexible circuit board, or the first intermediate segment is formed as the elastic segment.

18. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 11-17, characterized in that, Includes a foldable screen, which is disposed on the supporting device; The first intermediate segment includes a first surface and a second surface facing away from each other, with the first surface facing away from the folding screen; The first intermediate section is provided with at least one of a second stress relief hole and a third stress relief hole, wherein the second stress relief hole penetrates the first surface; and the third stress relief hole penetrates the second surface.

19. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 11-15, characterized in that, The first intermediate segment includes a second left portion, a middle portion, and a second right portion connected in sequence, wherein the second left portion is located between the middle portion and the first segment; The second left portion is formed as the elastic segment, and the middle portion is fixed to the base.

20. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 11-15, characterized in that, At least a portion of the first intermediate segment is fixed to the base, the base including a metal structural member, and the first intermediate segment is electrically connected to the metal structural member.

21. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 11-20, characterized in that, The electrical connector includes a first bendable section, the base includes an intermediate support member, and there is a first gap between the intermediate support member and the first support member. When the foldable electronic device is in the unfolded state, the orthographic projection of the first bendable section in the first plane overlaps with the orthographic projection of the first gap in the first plane. During the switching between the unfolded and folded states of the foldable electronic device, the first bendable segment can be bent and stretched.

22. The foldable electronic device according to claim 21, characterized in that, The first bendable segment is one of the following: an elastic segment, a flexible circuit board, or a cable.

23. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 11-22, characterized in that, There is a second gap between the first main body and the first support member; The electrical connector includes a first deformable segment. When the foldable electronic device is in the unfolded state, the orthographic projection of the first deformable segment in the first plane overlaps with the orthographic projection of the second gap in the first plane. When the foldable electronic device switches between the unfolded state and the folded state, the first deformable segment can deform.

24. The foldable electronic device according to claim 23, characterized in that, The first deformable segment is an elastic segment.

25. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 11-24, characterized in that, The first support member is provided with a first groove, which penetrates one side surface of the first support member in the thickness direction, and the first section is disposed in the first groove.

26. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 11-24, characterized in that, The first support member has at least one first through hole, which penetrates both sides of the first support member in the thickness direction, and the first section passes through at least one first through hole.

27. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 11-24, characterized in that, Includes a foldable screen, which is disposed on the supporting device; The first main body includes a first bearing surface and a first side wall surface. The first bearing surface faces the foldable screen, and when the foldable electronic device is in the unfolded state, the first side wall surface faces the second main body. The first main body is provided with a first groove, the first groove penetrates the first bearing surface and the first side wall surface, the first section is located in the first groove, and at least a portion of the first section is formed as the elastic segment.

28. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 10-27, characterized in that, The device includes a foldable screen, which is disposed on the support device, and a first space is defined between the foldable screen and the support device, wherein at least a portion of the electrical connector is located within the first space.

29. The foldable electronic device according to claim 28, characterized in that, include: A support sheet is stacked on the side of the folding mechanism closest to the folding screen, and at least a portion of the support sheet is fixed to the folding mechanism. The electrical connector is partially disposed between the folding mechanism and the support plate.

30. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 10-29, characterized in that, The first main body includes a first housing, the first housing includes a first middle frame and a first back cover, the first back cover is fixed to one side of the first middle frame; at least a portion of the first middle frame is formed as the first grounding metal; The first middle frame includes a first side wall and a first bearing surface. The first bearing surface faces away from the first back cover. When the foldable electronic device is in the unfolded state, the first side wall faces the second main body. The first middle frame is provided with a first groove, which penetrates the first bearing surface and the first side wall surface. The electrical connector is fixed and electrically connected to the groove wall surface of the first groove.

31. The foldable electronic device according to any one of claims 10-30, characterized in that, The foldable electronic device includes a first antenna radiator, which is spaced apart from the electrical connector along a fourth direction; in the fourth direction, the minimum distance between the clearance area of ​​the electrical connector and the first antenna radiator is less than or equal to 10 mm. The fourth direction is parallel to the rotation axis of the first main body relative to the second main body.

32. A foldable electronic device, characterized in that, include: The support device includes a first main body, a second main body, and a folding mechanism. The first main body and the second main body are respectively connected to both sides of the folding mechanism. The foldable electronic device can switch between an unfolded state and a folded state. The first main body includes a first grounding metal, and the second main body includes a second grounding metal. The folding mechanism includes a base, a first swing arm, and a second swing arm. The first swing arm and the second swing arm are rotatably connected to opposite sides of the base. The first swing arm includes a first metal structure, and the second swing arm includes a second metal structure. An electrical connector, wherein the electrical connector is any one of claims 1-9, the electrical connector comprising a first connecting segment, a second connecting segment, and an intermediate connecting segment, wherein the two ends of the first connecting segment are respectively electrically connected to the first grounding metal and the first metal structure; the two ends of the intermediate connecting segment are respectively electrically connected to the first metal structure and the second metal structure; and the two ends of the second connecting segment are respectively electrically connected to the second grounding metal and the second metal structure. At least one of the first connecting segment, the second connecting segment, and the intermediate connecting segment includes the elastic segment.

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