Connecting device and electronic equipment

Abstract

The invention discloses a connecting device and electronic equipment, the connecting device comprises a base, a first shaft and a torsion assembly, the first shaft is rotatably connected with the base, the torsion assembly abuts against the circumferential contour of the first shaft, and the torsion assembly applies a first acting force to the first shaft; the connecting device has first torsion when the first shaft rotates in the first direction relative to the base and has second torsion when the first shaft rotates in the second direction relative to the base, the second direction is opposite to the first direction, and the second torsion is larger than the first torsion.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Electronic devices (such as laptops, mobile phones, etc.) connect two rotating parts (such as the screen end and the host end of a laptop) via a connecting device, which has torque. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides the following technical solution:

[0004] A connecting device, comprising:

[0005] Base;

[0006] The first shaft is rotatably connected to the base;

[0007] The torque assembly abuts against the circumferential profile of the first shaft;

[0008] The torque component applies a first force to the first shaft, such that the connecting device has a first torque when the first shaft rotates relative to the base in a first direction, and has a second torque when the first shaft rotates relative to the base in a second direction, the second direction being opposite to the first direction, and the second torque being greater than the first torque.

[0009] Optionally, in the above-described connecting device, the abutment section of the circumferential profile of the first shaft is used to abut against the torque component. The abutment section has a first portion and a second portion with different curvatures. The first force is a first force value when the torque component abuts against the first portion of the abutment section, and a second force value when the torque component abuts against the second portion of the abutment section. The second force value is different from the first force value; or...

[0010] The abutting section of the circumferential profile of the first shaft is used to abut against the torsion component. The positions of the abutting section satisfy the condition of the same curvature. The distance between the line of action of the first force and the rotation axis of the first shaft is greater than zero.

[0011] Optionally, in the above-described connecting device, the second force value is less than the first force value, and during the process of switching from the torque component abutting the first part of the abutting section to the torque component abutting the second part of the abutting section, the first shaft rotates relative to the base in the first direction.

[0012] Optionally, the above-mentioned connecting device includes a first damping component connected to the first shaft, the first damping component being used to provide resistance torque during the rotation of the first shaft relative to the base;

[0013] When the connecting device has the first torque, the torque generated by the torque component on the first shaft based on the first force satisfies the opposite direction condition to the resistance torque provided by the first damping component.

[0014] When the connecting device has the second torque, the torque generated by the torque component on the first shaft based on the first force satisfies the condition that the resistance torque provided by the first damping component is in the same direction.

[0015] Optionally, in the above-described connecting device, the abutting section of the circumferential profile of the first shaft is used to abut against the torque component, and the abutting section includes a first arc segment and a second arc segment distributed circumferentially along the first shaft.

[0016] When the torque component abuts against the first arc segment, the connecting device has the first torque during the rotation of the first shaft relative to the base in the first direction, and has the second torque during the rotation of the first shaft relative to the base in the second direction;

[0017] When the torque component abuts against the second arc segment, the connecting device has a third torque during the rotation of the first shaft relative to the base in the first direction, and a fourth torque during the rotation of the first shaft relative to the base in the second direction. The third torque is different from the first torque, and the fourth torque is different from the second torque.

[0018] Optionally, in the above-described connecting device, the torque component includes:

[0019] The abutment is slidably connected to the base;

[0020] A first reset member connects the abutment and the base, and the reset force of the first reset member causes the abutment to abut against the circumferential contour of the first shaft.

[0021] Optionally, in the above-described connecting device, when the abutting member abuts against the first arc segment, the amount of compression deformation of the first reset member decreases during the rotation of the first shaft relative to the base along the first direction;

[0022] When the abutting member abuts against the second arc segment, the amount of compression deformation of the first reset member increases as the first shaft rotates relative to the base in the first direction.

[0023] Optionally, in the above-described connecting device, the projection of the abutment member along the compression direction of the first reset member has an overlap with the rotation axis of the first shaft.

[0024] Optionally, in the above-described connecting device, the first reset member is sleeved on the abutting member, and the center line of the first reset member extending along the compression direction intersects the rotation axis of the first shaft.

[0025] Optionally, in the above-described connecting device, the first shaft includes:

[0026] The shaft body is rotatably connected to the base;

[0027] The force-bearing component is circumferentially fixedly sleeved on the shaft body, and the circumferential contour of the force-bearing component abuts against the abutting component.

[0028] Optionally, in the above-mentioned connecting device, the force-bearing member is axially movable and sleeved on the shaft body. The connecting device includes a second reset member disposed on the shaft body and the force-bearing member. The reset force of the second reset member causes the first end face of the force-bearing member to abut against the base. The orientation of the first end face satisfies the parallel condition with the rotation axis of the first shaft.

[0029] Optionally, in the above-mentioned connecting device, the force-bearing component includes a first positioning structure disposed on the first end face, and the base is provided with a second positioning structure for cooperating with the first positioning structure. When the first shaft is at a preset angle relative to the base, the first positioning structure and the second positioning structure are engaged.

[0030] Optionally, the above-mentioned connecting device includes a second shaft, which is rotatably connected to the base, and the rotation axis of the second shaft is parallel to the rotation axis of the first shaft.

[0031] An electronic device includes a first body, a second body, and a connecting device, wherein the first body and the second body are rotatably connected via the connecting device, and the connecting device includes:

[0032] Base;

[0033] A first shaft is rotatably connected to the base, and the first shaft is connected to either the first body or the second body;

[0034] The torque assembly abuts against the circumferential profile of the first shaft;

[0035] The torque component applies a first force to the first shaft, such that the connecting device has a first torque when the first shaft rotates relative to the base in a first direction, and has a second torque when the first shaft rotates relative to the base in a second direction, the second direction being opposite to the first direction, and the second torque being greater than the first torque. Attached Figure Description

[0036] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the provided drawings without creative effort.

[0037] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an electronic device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 2 This is a front view of the connection device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 3 This is a top view of the connecting device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A partially enlarged sectional view of the structure shown;

[0041] Figure 5 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the CC line;

[0042] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the contact segment of the circumferential profile of the first axis in the middle;

[0043] Figure 7 yes Figure 4 A three-dimensional perspective view of the structure shown;

[0044] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the switching state of an electronic device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0045] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of another state of an electronic device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of yet another state of an electronic device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of torque changes during the opening and closing process of the connecting device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram showing the arrangement of the torque component and the first shaft of the connecting device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram showing the arrangement of the torque component and the first shaft of the connecting device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram showing the arrangement of the torque component and the first shaft of the connecting device according to an embodiment of this application.

[0051] The diagram is marked as follows:

[0052] 100. First body; 200. Second body; 300. Connecting device;

[0053] 310, First shaft; 311, Shaft body; 312, Force-bearing component; 312a, First positioning structure; 313, Abutting section; 313a, First arc segment; 313b, Second arc segment; 320, Second shaft;

[0054] 331. First connector; 332. Second connector; 340. Base; 350. Torque assembly; 351. Abutment; 352. First reset member; 360. First damping assembly; 361. Second reset member;

[0055] A. Torque unit; B. Anomaly control unit; D. Break-off point; E1. First angle value; E2. Second angle value;

[0056] α, Opening angle; K1, First direction; K2, Second direction; K3, Compression direction; S1, First axis; S2, Second axis; S3, Centerline; F, First force; T1, First torque; T2, Second torque; T3, Third torque; T4, Fourth torque; T f 1. Self-weight torque; P1, Part 1; P2, Part 2. Detailed Implementation

[0057] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0058] In the description of this application, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of those different embodiments or examples.

[0059] In the description of this specification, relational terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish one entity or operation from another, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Furthermore, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitation, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes the element.

[0060] In related technologies, to enable one-handed opening of electronic devices, the connecting device between the two rotating parts is usually designed as a "light opening, heavy closing" type, meaning that the torque of the connecting device is small when rotating in the opening direction and large when rotating in the closing direction. However, traditional connecting devices that achieve the "light opening, heavy closing" effect have complex structures, are difficult to manufacture, and are not conducive to reducing production costs.

[0061] In view of this, see Figures 1-14This application provides a connecting device 300, which may include a base 340, a first shaft 310, and a torque assembly 350. The base 340 is the basic structural component of the connecting device 300, providing a mounting base for the rotating components of the connecting device 300 that enable rotation. The first shaft 310 can be rotatably connected to the base 340, meaning the first shaft 310 can rotate relative to the base 340. The connecting device 300 can thus provide rotation, allowing two objects connected by the connecting device 300 (e.g., the first body 100 and the second body 200 of an electronic device described later) to rotate relative to each other, thereby enabling the two objects to open and close (i.e., opening and closing movements). The torque assembly 350 can abut against the circumferential contour of the first shaft 310. The circumferential contour refers to the outer edge of the cross-section of the first shaft 310 (i.e., the cross-section that satisfies the perpendicular condition to the axis of the first shaft 310), which is the contour formed by the circumferentially extending contour line of the first shaft 310.

[0062] The torque assembly 350 applies a first force F to the first shaft 310, such that the connecting device 300 can have a first torque T1 when the first shaft 310 rotates relative to the base 340 along a first direction K1, and a second torque T2 when the first shaft 310 rotates relative to the base 340 along a second direction K2. The second direction K2 can be opposite to the first direction K1, and the second torque T2 can be greater than the first torque T1. That is, the torque assembly 350 can apply a first force F to the first shaft 310 by abutting against the circumferential contour of the first shaft 310. With the help of the first force F, the connecting device 300 can have different magnitudes of torque when the first shaft 310 rotates relative to the base 340 in different directions. Specifically, when the first shaft 310 rotates relative to the base 340 along the first direction K1, the connecting device 300 can have a relatively small torque, and when the first shaft 310 rotates relative to the base 340 along the second direction K2, the connecting device 300 can have a relatively large torque. Therefore, if a user wants the first shaft 310 to rotate relative to the base 340 along the first direction K1, a relatively small operating force is required to rotate the connecting device 300. However, if the user wants the first shaft 310 to rotate relative to the base 340 along the second direction K2, a relatively large operating force is required to rotate the connecting device 300. Utilizing this characteristic, the connecting device 300 of this application can achieve a "light opening, heavy closing" effect. That is, the rotation of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340 along the first direction K1 can be configured during the opening movement of the connecting device 300, and the rotation of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340 along the second direction K2 can be configured during the closing movement of the connecting device 300. This results in a small torque on the connecting device 300 when rotating in the opening direction and a large torque on the connecting device 300 when rotating in the closing direction.

[0063] Compared to the conventional connecting device 300, the connecting device 300 of this application utilizes a torque component 350 that abuts against the circumferential contour of the first shaft 310 to achieve a "light opening, heavy closing" effect. This simplifies the structure of the connecting device 300, thereby reducing manufacturing difficulty and production costs. Furthermore, by configuring the torque component 350 to abut against the circumferential contour of the first shaft 310, the dimensional requirements for the torque component 350 in the axial direction of the first shaft 310 are reduced. In other words, the torque component 350 occupies a smaller dimension in the axial direction of the first shaft 310, thus helping to reduce the overall axial dimension of the connecting device 300 in the axial direction of the first shaft 310.

[0064] It should be noted that the first force F applied by the torque assembly 350 to the first shaft 310 is the force acting on the first shaft 310 from the torque assembly 350, with the contact position between the torque assembly 350 and the first shaft 310 as the point of application. As the first shaft 310 rotates relative to the base 340, the point of application of the force can change position on the circumferential profile of the first shaft 310.

[0065] Depending on the range of rotation provided by the connecting device 300, the range of rotation angles for the opening and closing movements of the two objects connected by the connecting device 300 varies. The range of rotation provided by the connecting device 300 can be set as needed. For example, in some embodiments, the connecting device 300 can be configured to support an opening angle α between the two connected objects varying in the range of 0° to 90°, or it can be configured to support an opening angle α varying in the range of 0° to 120°, or it can be configured to support an opening angle α varying in the range of 0° to 180°, or it can be configured to support an opening angle α varying in the range of 0° to 360°, and so on.

[0066] It should be noted that the rotation process corresponding to the first torque T1 and the rotation process corresponding to the second torque T2 of the connecting device 300 can be two processes with opposite directions of rotation within the same angular range. For example, the rotation process corresponding to the first torque T1 of the connecting device 300 can be the process of the opening angle α changing from 0° to 90°, and the rotation process corresponding to the second torque T2 of the connecting device 300 can be the process of the opening angle α changing from 90° to 0°. That is to say, the first torque T1 and the second torque T2 of the connecting device 300 occur within the same angular segment of the range of change of the opening angle α, except that one occurs during the process of increasing the opening angle α in that angular segment, while the other occurs during the process of decreasing the opening angle α in that angular segment. In some embodiments, the angle segment can be configured to be the entire range of the variable opening angle α, or it can be configured to be a part of the variable opening angle α. For example, if the connecting device 300 is configured to support the opening angle α to vary within the range of 0° to 120°, the angle segment can be 0° to 120°, or 0° to 90°, or 0° to 70°, etc.

[0067] The abutment section 313 of the circumferential contour of the first shaft 310 can be used to abut against the torque assembly 350. That is, during the rotation of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340, the torque assembly 350 abuts against the abutment section 313 of the circumferential contour of the first shaft 310. The torque assembly 350 moves relative to the first shaft 310 along the abutment section 313 of its circumferential contour, so that as the first shaft 310 rotates relative to the base 340, the torque assembly 350 abuts against different parts of the abutment section 313. The abutment section 313 of the circumferential contour of the first shaft 310 can be configured in various structural forms, for example, see [reference needed]. Figure 14 In some embodiments, the abutment segment 313 may have a first portion P1 and a second portion P2 with different curvatures. The first force F can be a first force value when the torque component 350 abuts against the first portion P1 of the abutment segment 313, and a second force value when the torque component 350 abuts against the second portion P2 of the abutment segment 313. The second force value is different from the first force value. In such embodiments, the abutment segment 313 is not an arc segment with equal radii of curvature everywhere. As the torque component 350 abuts against different portions of the abutment segment 313, the magnitude of the first force F applied by the torque component 350 to the first shaft 310 can change, thereby causing the magnitude of the first torque T1 to change with the rotation of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340 along the first direction K1, and causing the magnitude of the second torque T2 to change with the rotation of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340 along the second direction K2.

[0068] In some embodiments, the abutment segment 313 may have N portions with different curvatures, where N can be an integer greater than or equal to 2. For example, the abutment segment 313 may be configured to consist of three, four, or five portions connected sequentially along the circumference of the first axis 310, each portion having a different curvature; that is, the abutment segment 313 may be a variable curvature curve composed of three, four, or five portions with different curvatures.

[0069] Of course, in other embodiments, the abutment segment 313 can be configured with other structural forms. For example, the abutment segment 313 can be configured to satisfy the condition of the same curvature at all locations, and the distance between the line of action of the first force F and the rotation axis of the first shaft 310 can be set to be greater than zero. The line of action of the first force F refers to the straight line drawn along the direction of the first force F through the point of application of the first force F. A distance greater than zero between the line of action of the first force F and the rotation axis of the first shaft 310 means that the line of action of the first force F does not intersect the rotation axis of the first shaft 310. The rotation axis of the first shaft 310 refers to the rotation axis of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340, which is represented by the first axis S1 in the drawings. See also Figure 12 In such an embodiment, the circumferential profile of the shaft segment corresponding to the torque component 350 of the first shaft 310 can be set to a circle. For example, the circumferential profile of the force-bearing member 312 can be set to a circle, so that the abutment segment 313 is an arc segment with equal radii of curvature everywhere. As the torque component 350 abuts against different parts of the abutment segment 313, the magnitude of the first force F applied by the torque component 350 to the first shaft 310 can remain unchanged. Since the torque of the first force F about the first axis S1 causes the first shaft 310 to have a tendency to rotate along the first direction K1, the existence of the first force F makes the resistance that the first shaft 310 needs to overcome when rotating along the first direction K1 is smaller than that when rotating along the second direction K2. Thus, the torque that the connecting device 300 has when the first shaft 310 rotates along the first direction K1 is smaller than that when the first shaft 310 rotates along the second direction K2.

[0070] exist Figure 12 In the exemplary embodiment, the abutment segment 313 is an arc segment with equal radii of curvature at all points, and the center of the abutment segment 313 can be located on the first axis S1, that is, the center of the abutment segment 313 can coincide with the rotation center of the first axis 310 relative to the base 340. In other embodiments, provided that the abutment segment 313 is set as an arc segment, the center of the abutment segment 313 can be located outside the first axis S1, that is, the center of the abutment segment 313 may not coincide with the rotation center of the first axis 310 relative to the base 340. See also Figure 13The abutment segment 313 can be set as an arc segment, but the center of the abutment segment 313 (represented by point Y in the figure) is located outside the first axis S1. In such an embodiment, the distance between the line of action of the first force F and the rotation axis of the first shaft 310 can be set to be equal to zero. Moreover, the first force F applied by the torque component 350 to the first shaft 310 can be configured to vary in size as the torque component 350 abuts on different parts of the abutment segment 313.

[0071] like Figure 13 As shown, since the center of the abutment section 313 does not coincide with the rotation center of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340, the center of the abutment section 313 changes position relative to the first axis S1 during the rotation of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340. This causes the contact force between the torque component 350 and the abutment section 313 (i.e., the component of the first force F in the direction that satisfies the parallel condition with the normal to the circumferential surface of the first shaft 310, pointing towards the center of the abutment section 313) to change direction with the rotation of the first shaft 310. Furthermore, within the rotation range corresponding to the first torque T1 of the connecting device 300, the torque of the contact force on the first axis S1 causes the first shaft 310 to tend to rotate along the first direction K1, thereby making the resistance that the first shaft 310 needs to overcome when rotating along the first direction K1 is smaller than that when rotating along the second direction K2. Therefore, the torque (i.e., the first torque T1) of the connecting device 300 during the rotation of the first shaft 310 along the first direction K1 is smaller than the torque (i.e., the second torque T2) of the first shaft 310 during the rotation of the first shaft 310 along the second direction K2.

[0072] In embodiments where the abutment section 313 has a first portion P1 and a second portion P2 with different curvatures, the first force F applied by the torque assembly 350 to the first shaft 310 can be configured to change in magnitude with the rotation of the first shaft 310. Based on this, the second force value can be set to be less than the first force value; that is, the force F when the torque assembly 350 abuts against the second portion P2 of the abutment section 313 can be less than the force F when the torque assembly 350 abuts against the first portion P1 of the abutment section 313. Furthermore, the first shaft 310 can be configured to change the force value of the first force F from the first force value to the second force value by rotating relative to the base 340 along a first direction K1. That is, during the transition from the torque assembly 350 abutting against the first portion P1 of the abutment section 313 to the torque assembly 350 abutting against the second portion P2 of the abutment section 313, the first shaft 310 rotates relative to the base 340 along the first direction K1. In other words, within the rotation range corresponding to the first torque T1 of the connecting device 300, as the first shaft 310 rotates relative to the base 340 along the first direction K1, the first force F applied by the torque assembly 350 to the first shaft 310 can become smaller.

[0073] Of course, in other embodiments, based on the fact that the abutment segment 313 has a first part P1 and a second part P2 with different curvatures, the first force F applied by the torque component 350 to the first shaft 310 can be configured as a constant force (for example, the torque component 350 can apply a constant first force F to the first shaft 310 by a constant force spring). In this case, since the abutment segment 313 is not an arc segment with equal curvature radii everywhere, the contact force between the torque component 350 and the abutment segment 313 (i.e., the component of the first force F in the direction that satisfies the parallel condition with the normal to the circumferential surface of the first shaft 310) can change in magnitude and direction with the rotation of the first shaft 310. Within the rotation range corresponding to the first torque T1 of the connecting device 300, the torque of the contact force on the first axis S1 causes the first shaft 310 to tend to rotate along the first direction K1, thereby making the resistance that the first shaft 310 needs to overcome when rotating along the first direction K1 is smaller than that when rotating along the second direction K2. Therefore, the torque (i.e., the first torque T1) of the connecting device 300 during the rotation of the first shaft 310 along the first direction K1 is smaller than the torque (i.e., the second torque T2) of the first shaft 310 during the rotation of the first shaft 310 along the second direction K2.

[0074] In some embodiments, the connecting device 300 may include a first damping component 360 connected to the first shaft 310. The first damping component 360 can provide a resistance torque during the rotation of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340. That is, during the rotation of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340, the torque generated by the first damping component 360 on the first shaft 310 can cause the first shaft 310 to tend to rotate in the opposite direction to the actual rotation direction. This tendency hinders the actual rotation of the first shaft 310. In other words, the resistance torque provided by the first damping component 360 is a component of the resistance that the first shaft 310 needs to overcome during rotation relative to the base 340.

[0075] When the connecting device 300 has a first torque T1, the torque generated by the torque component 350 on the first shaft 310 based on the first force F satisfies the opposite direction condition with the resistance torque provided by the first damping component 360; when the connecting device 300 has a second torque T2, the torque generated by the torque component 350 on the first shaft 310 based on the first force F satisfies the same direction condition with the resistance torque provided by the first damping component 360. That is, as the direction of rotation of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340 changes, the torque generated by the torque component 350 on the first shaft 310 has different effects on the actual rotation of the first shaft 310. Specifically, during the rotation of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340 along the first direction K1, the effect of the torque generated by the torque component 350 on the actual rotation of the first shaft 310 is opposite to the effect of the resistance torque provided by the first damping component 360. In other words, the torque generated by the torque component 350 on the first shaft 310 can cause the first shaft 310 to tend to rotate in the same direction as the actual rotation during the above-mentioned rotation process. This tendency is opposite to the rotation tendency of the first shaft 310 caused by the resistance torque of the first damping component 360. As a result, the connecting device 300 as a whole exhibits a smaller torque, and the user can drive the first shaft 310 to complete the above-mentioned rotation process with a relatively small operating force.

[0076] During the rotation of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340 along the second direction K2, the torque generated by the torque component 350 on the first shaft 310 has the same effect on the actual rotation of the first shaft 310 as the resistance torque provided by the first damping component 360. In other words, the torque generated by the torque component 350 on the first shaft 310 can cause the first shaft 310 to have a tendency to rotate in the opposite direction to the actual rotation direction during the above-mentioned rotation process. This tendency is the same as the rotation tendency of the first shaft 310 caused by the resistance torque of the first damping component 360. As a result, the connecting device 300 as a whole exhibits a large torque, and the user needs to use a relatively large operating force to drive the first shaft 310 to complete the above-mentioned rotation process.

[0077] In some embodiments, the abutment segment 313 of the circumferential profile of the first shaft 310 for abutting against the torque component 350 may include a first arc segment 313a and a second arc segment 313b, which may be distributed circumferentially along the first shaft 310. As the first shaft 310 rotates, the torque component 350 may switch between abutting against the first arc segment 313a and abutting against the second arc segment 313b. When the torque assembly 350 abuts against the first arc segment 313a, the connecting device 300 can have a first torque T1 during the rotation of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340 in the first direction K1, and a second torque T2 during the rotation of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340 in the second direction K2; when the torque assembly 350 abuts against the second arc segment 313b, the connecting device 300 can have a third torque T3 during the rotation of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340 in the first direction K1, and a fourth torque T4 during the rotation of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340 in the second direction K2, wherein the third torque T3 is different from the first torque T1, and the fourth torque T4 is different from the second torque T2.

[0078] The circumferential distribution of the first arc segment 313a and the second arc segment 313b along the first axis 310 means that the first arc segment 313a and the second arc segment 313b are arranged around the rotation axis of the first axis 310, respectively constituting a portion of the abutment section 313 of the first axis 310. That is, within the rotation range of the first axis 310, both the first arc segment 313a and the second arc segment 313b can abut against the torque component 350. The first arc segment 313a and the second arc segment 313b can be two adjacent arc segments of the abutment section 313, or two arc segments of the abutment section 313 spaced apart by a certain distance. See also Figure 5 and Figure 6 The first arc segment 313a and the second arc segment 313b can be arranged adjacent to each other circumferentially along the first axis 310. The first arc segment 313a and the second arc segment 313b can be connected at a dividing point D. Different parts of the first arc segment 313a are at different distances from the axis of rotation of the first axis 310 (i.e., the first axis S1), and different parts of the second arc segment 313b are at different distances from the axis of rotation of the first axis 310. The dividing point D of the first arc segment 313a and the second arc segment 313b can be the part of the abutting segment 313 that is closest to the first axis S1. That is, whether on the first arc segment 313a or the second arc segment 313b, the farther the part is from the dividing point D, the greater its distance from the first axis S1. See also... Figures 5-11During the opening process from 0° to the first angle value E1, the first arc segment 313a on the circumferential contour of the first shaft 310 abuts against the torque component 350, and the connecting device 300 has a changing first torque T1. During the opening process from the second angle value E2 to 360°, the second arc segment 313b on the circumferential contour of the first shaft 310 abuts against the torque component 350, and the connecting device 300 has a changing third torque T3, which is greater than the first torque T1. During the closing process from opening angle α from 360° to the second angle value E2, the second arc segment 313b on the circumferential contour of the first shaft 310 abuts against the torque component 350, and the connecting device 300 has a varying fourth torque T4. During the closing process from opening angle α from the first angle value E1 to 0°, the first arc segment 313a on the circumferential contour of the first shaft 310 abuts against the torque component 350, and the connecting device 300 has a varying second torque T2, which is greater than the fourth torque T4.

[0079] In some embodiments, the first arc segment 313a and the second arc segment 313b can be symmetrically arranged about the line connecting the dividing point D and the first axis S1. The first angle value E1 and the second angle value E2 can be set as needed. For example, the first angle value E1 can be 60°, 70°, 90°, etc., and the second angle value E2 can be 270°, 280°, 300°, etc.

[0080] See Figure 5 In some embodiments, the torque assembly 350 may include an abutment 351 and a first reset member 352. The abutment 351 may be slidably connected to the base 340, and the first reset member 352 may connect the abutment 351 and the base 340. The reset force of the first reset member 352 may cause the abutment 351 to abut against the circumferential contour of the first shaft 310. The first reset member 352 has an automatic reset function. The reset force of the first reset member 352 may be generated by its own elastic deformation. That is, the reset force refers to a force spontaneously generated by the interaction between the system and the environment when the system deviates from its equilibrium state. Its direction of action always points towards the equilibrium state, thereby driving the system to evolve towards the equilibrium state. For example, it may be a force that drives the restoration of shape due to its own elastic deformation, or a force generated after the structure / geometric constraints cause deviation from equilibrium, etc. The first reset member 352 can be in various forms such as a spring or a spring sheet. Under the reset force of the first reset member 352, the abutment member 351 can maintain contact with the circumferential contour of the first shaft 310 during the rotation of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340. The abutment member 351 and the base 340 are configured for a sliding fit, which helps to reduce the volume occupied by the torque assembly 350. Of course, in other embodiments, the torque assembly 350 can also be configured in other forms, for example, the abutment member 351 can be configured to be rotatably connected to the base 340.

[0081] See Figure 5 and Figure 6 In some embodiments, the connecting device 300 may be configured such that: when the abutment 351 abuts against the first arc segment 313a, the amount of compression deformation of the first reset member 352 decreases as the first shaft 310 rotates relative to the base 340 along the first direction K1; and when the abutment 351 abuts against the second arc segment 313b, the amount of compression deformation of the first reset member 352 increases as the first shaft 310 rotates relative to the base 340 along the first direction K1. In such embodiments, the reset force of the first reset member 352 may be generated by its own compression deformation; for example, the first reset member 352 may be configured as a compression spring. During the rotation of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340, the first shaft 310 rotates about the first axis S1. Whether on the first arc segment 313a or the second arc segment 313b, the farther the part is from the dividing point D, the greater the distance to the first axis S1. Therefore, during the rotation of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340 in a certain direction, the two situations—the first arc segment 313a abutting against the abutting member 351 and the second arc segment 313b abutting against the abutting member 351—will cause opposite changes in the amount of compression deformation of the first reset member 352. Specifically, when the first arc segment 313a abuts against the abutting member 351, and the first shaft 310 is relative to the base 340 along the first direction K1... When rotating, the degree of compression of the first reset member 352 decreases as the first shaft 310 rotates, and the reset force of the first reset member 352 and the first force F exerted by the abutment member 351 on the first shaft 310 decrease accordingly; when the second arc segment 313b abuts against the abutment member 351 and the first shaft 310 rotates relative to the base 340 in the first direction K1, the degree of compression of the first reset member 352 increases as the first shaft 310 rotates, and the reset force of the first reset member 352 and the first force F exerted by the abutment member 351 on the first shaft 310 increase accordingly. Conversely, when the first arc segment 313a abuts against the abutment member 351 and the first shaft 310 rotates relative to the base 340 along the second direction K2, the degree of compression of the first reset member 352 increases with the rotation of the first shaft 310, and the reset force of the first reset member 352 and the first force F exerted by the abutment member 351 on the first shaft 310 increase accordingly; when the second arc segment 313b abuts against the abutment member 351 and the first shaft 310 rotates relative to the base 340 along the second direction K2, the degree of compression of the first reset member 352 decreases with the rotation of the first shaft 310, and the reset force of the first reset member 352 and the first force F exerted by the abutment member 351 on the first shaft 310 decrease accordingly.

[0082] To ensure that the first shaft 310 can rotate smoothly relative to the base 340 when it abuts against the abutment member 351, the abutment section 313 of the first shaft 310 can be configured with a smooth curved shape at various points. The amount of compression deformation of the first reset member 352 can change with the rotation of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340. Depending on the shape of the abutment section 313 of the first shaft 310, the relationship curve between the amount of compression deformation of the first reset member 352 and the rotation angle of the first shaft 310 (i.e., the compression deformation-rotation angle curve) will be different. In some embodiments, the shape of the first arc segment 313a can be configured such that the amount of compression deformation of the first reset member 352 changes continuously with the rotation angle of the first shaft 310, or the shape of the first arc segment 313a can be configured such that the amount of compression deformation of the first reset member 352 changes discontinuously with the rotation angle of the first shaft 310. That is, when the abutting member 351 abuts against a certain part of the first arc segment 313a, the amount of compression deformation of the first reset member 352 does not change with the rotation of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340, but when the abutting member 351 abuts against other parts adjacent to that part of the first arc segment 313a, the amount of compression deformation of the first reset member 352 changes with the rotation of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340.

[0083] Similarly, in some embodiments, the shape of the second arc segment 313b can be configured such that the amount of compression deformation of the first reset member 352 changes continuously with the rotation angle of the first shaft 310, or the shape of the second arc segment 313b can be configured such that the amount of compression deformation of the first reset member 352 changes discontinuously with the rotation angle of the first shaft 310. That is, when the abutting member 351 abuts against a certain part of the second arc segment 313b, the amount of compression deformation of the first reset member 352 does not change with the rotation of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340, but when the abutting member 351 abuts against other parts adjacent to that part of the second arc segment 313b, the amount of compression deformation of the first reset member 352 changes with the rotation of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340.

[0084] In some embodiments, the projection of the abutment 351 along the compression direction K3 of the first reset member 352 can overlap with the rotation axis of the first shaft 310. This allows the abutment 351 and the first axis S1 to be aligned as much as possible along the compression direction K3 of the first reset member 352, which facilitates smoother deformation of the first reset member 352 during the rotation of the first shaft 310. It should be noted that the compression direction K3 refers to the deformation direction in which the first reset member 352 undergoes dimensional elongation and shortening. The overlap between the projection of the abutment 351 along the compression direction K3 and the rotation axis of the first shaft 310 means that, on a projection plane that satisfies the perpendicular condition to the compression direction K3, the projection of the abutment 351 and the projection of the rotation axis of the first shaft 310 overlap.

[0085] The arrangement of the first reset member 352 can be varied, see [reference]. Figure 5 In some embodiments, the first reset member 352 can be sleeved on the abutment member 351, and the center line S3 extending along the compression direction K3 of the first reset member 352 can intersect the rotation axis of the first shaft 310. In such an embodiment, the abutment member 351 and the first axis S1 can be aligned along the compression direction K3 of the first reset member 352, and the line of action of the first force F exerted by the abutment member 351 on the first shaft 310 can intersect the rotation axis of the first shaft 310. The first reset member 352 sleeved on the abutment member 351 can apply the reset force to the abutment member 351 more evenly, so that the abutment member 351 can slide more smoothly relative to the base 340 during the rotation of the first shaft 310, reducing the risk of jamming or other failures during the sliding of the abutment member 351 relative to the base 340.

[0086] See Figure 4 and Figure 5 In some embodiments, the first shaft 310 may include a shaft body 311 and a force-receiving member 312. The shaft body 311 may be rotatably connected to the base 340, and the force-receiving member 312 may be circumferentially fixedly sleeved on the shaft body 311, with its circumferential contour abutting against the abutting member 351. That is, the portion of the first shaft 310 that abuts against the abutting member 351 may be provided by the force-receiving member 312 sleeved on the shaft body 311. Of course, in other embodiments, the shaft body 311 and the force-receiving member 312 may be configured as an integral structure. For example, a portion of the shaft body 311 may be configured as a cam shape so that the circumferential contour of this portion of the shaft body 311 may have the aforementioned abutting section 313.

[0087] In an embodiment where the first shaft 310 includes a shaft body 311 and a force-bearing member 312, the force-bearing member 312 may be axially movable and sleeved on the shaft body 311. The connecting device 300 may include a second reset member 361 disposed at the connection between the shaft body 311 and the force-bearing member 312. The reset force of the second reset member 361 may cause the first end face of the force-bearing member 312 to abut against the base 340, wherein the orientation of the first end face satisfies the parallel condition with the rotation axis of the first shaft 310. In such an embodiment, the force-bearing member 312 abuts against the torque assembly 350 and the base 340 respectively in two directions satisfying the perpendicular condition, wherein the torque assembly 350 abuts against the circumferential surface of the force-bearing member 312, and the base 340 abuts against the first end face of the force-bearing member 312. During the rotation of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340, the contact between the first end face of the force-bearing member 312 and the base 340 can generate frictional resistance. In this way, the force-bearing member 312 can be used to generate resistance torque, making the function of the force-bearing member 312 more diverse.

[0088] See Figure 4 and Figure 5 In some embodiments, the force-receiving member 312 may include a first positioning structure 312a disposed on the first end face, and the base 340 may be provided with a second positioning structure for cooperating with the first positioning structure 312a. When the first shaft 310 is at a preset angle relative to the base 340, the first positioning structure 312a and the second positioning structure can engage. That is, as the first shaft 310 rotates relative to the base 340, the first positioning structure 312a and the second positioning structure can be aligned and misaligned. When the first positioning structure 312a and the second positioning structure are aligned, the force-receiving member 312 is displaced relative to the shaft body 311 along the first axis S1 under the action of the reset force of the second reset member 361, thereby causing the first positioning structure 312a of the force-receiving member 312 to engage with the second positioning structure on the base 340. As an example, the first positioning structure 312a may be a protrusion, and the second positioning structure may be a groove. After the first positioning structure 312a and the second positioning structure are engaged, greater resistance needs to be overcome to make the first positioning structure 312a and the second positioning structure misaligned. Therefore, when the first positioning structure 312a and the second positioning structure are aligned, the connecting device 300 can have greater torque, so that the first shaft 310 is more stably positioned at a preset angle relative to the base 340.

[0089] See Figures 2-5 In some embodiments, the connecting device 300 may include a second shaft 320, which can be rotatably connected to the base 340. The rotation axis of the second shaft 320 (i.e., the second axis S2) can be parallel to the rotation axis of the first shaft 310 (i.e., the first axis S1). That is, the connecting device 300 can be configured as a dual-axis structure. This configuration allows the connecting device 300 to achieve a larger rotation range. For example, by setting the first shaft 310 and the second shaft 320, the connecting device 300 can rotate within a range of more than 180°, so as to support electronic devices to achieve more device forms.

[0090] In embodiments where the connecting device 300 is configured as a dual-axis structure, the connecting device 300 may include a first connecting member 331 and a second connecting member 332, wherein the first connecting member 331 is fixedly connected to the first shaft 310, and the second connecting member 332 is fixedly connected to the second shaft 320. The connecting device 300 can connect two objects requiring relative rotation through the first connecting member 331 and the second connecting member 332, respectively. Of course, in other embodiments, the objects connected by the connecting device 300 may also be directly connected to the first shaft 310 or the second shaft 320.

[0091] The connecting device 300 may have a torque unit A, which may include the aforementioned torque component 350. In some embodiments, the torque unit A may include a second damping component (not shown) connected to the second shaft 320, which provides resistance torque during the rotation of the second shaft 320 relative to the base 340. The connecting device 300 may have a motion control unit B, that is, the connecting device 300 may be configured as a dual-axis motion type, where the first shaft 310 and the second shaft 320 of the connecting device 300 can rotate alternately. The control unit for realizing dual-axis motion of the connecting device 300 can use a conventional motion control component, which will not be described in detail here. Of course, in other embodiments, the connecting device 300 may also be configured as a dual-axis synchronous motion type, that is, the connecting device 300 may have a synchronous motion control unit. The control unit for realizing dual-axis synchronous motion of the connecting device 300 can use a conventional synchronous motion control component, which will not be described in detail here.

[0092] exist Figure 4 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the connecting device 300 is only configured with a torque component 350 that abuts against the first shaft 310. In other embodiments, the torque component 350 may be configured as multiple (i.e., two or more), wherein at least one torque component 350 may abut against the second shaft 320, thereby applying a second force to the second shaft 320. Of course, to simplify the structural form, the first shaft 310 and the second shaft 320 of the connecting device 300 may share a single torque component 350, that is, the same torque component 350 abuts against the first shaft 310 to apply a first force F to the first shaft 310, and also abuts against the second shaft 320 to apply a second force to the second shaft 320.

[0093] See Figures 1-14 This application provides an electronic device, which may include a first body 100, a second body 200, and a connecting device 300. The first body 100 and the second body 200 are rotatably connected via the connecting device 300. The connecting device 300 may include a base 340, a first shaft 310, and a torque assembly 350. The first shaft 310 is rotatably connected to the base 340 and can connect to either the first body 100 or the second body 200. As an example, the first shaft 310 is connected to the first body 100 of the electronic device. The torque assembly 350 abuts against the circumferential contour of the first shaft 310. The torque assembly 350 applies a first force F to the first shaft 310, causing the connecting device 300 to have a first torque T1 during rotation of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340 along a first direction K1, and a second torque T2 during rotation of the first shaft 310 relative to the base 340 along a second direction K2, where the second direction K2 is opposite to the first direction K1, and the second torque T2 is greater than the first torque T1.

[0094] The electronic device can be of various types, such as a laptop computer, a foldable tablet computer, or a foldable mobile phone, and this application does not limit it to any particular type. The structure and working principle of the connection device 300 can be found in the description of the connection device 300 in the preceding embodiments, and will not be repeated here. Since the connection device 300 disclosed in the above embodiments has the aforementioned technical effects, electronic devices having this connection device 300 also have the aforementioned technical effects, and will not be repeated here.

[0095] exist Figures 8-10 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the first body 100 and the second body 200 of the electronic device can be opened to 360°. In other embodiments, the maximum opening angle between the first body 100 and the second body 200 can be set to other values, such as 180°, 160°, etc. In embodiments where the connecting device 300 is configured as a single-axis structure, one of the first body 100 and the second body 200 can be connected to the base 340, and the other can be connected to the first axis 310.

[0096] See Figures 8-11 , Figure 11 This diagram illustrates the torque changes of the connecting device 300 during the opening and closing of the electronic device. The solid line above the horizontal axis (i.e., the "Open" quadrant) represents the torque of the connecting device 300 during the opening process, while the solid line below the horizontal axis (i.e., the "Close" quadrant) represents the torque of the connecting device 300 during the closing process. It should be noted that... Figure 11 The dashed sinusoidal lines in the "Open" quadrant and the "Close" quadrant respectively illustrate the self-gravity torque T generated by the gravity of the second body 200 at different opening angles α during the opening and closing processes, centered on the rotation axis of the connecting device 300. f .

[0097] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner, with each embodiment focusing on the differences from other embodiments. The same or similar parts between the various embodiments can be referred to each other.

[0098] The above description of the disclosed embodiments enables those skilled in the art to make or use this application. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of this application. Therefore, this application is not to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A connecting device, comprising: Base; The first shaft is rotatably connected to the base; The torque assembly abuts against the circumferential profile of the first shaft; The torque component applies a first force to the first shaft, such that the connecting device has a first torque when the first shaft rotates relative to the base in a first direction, and has a second torque when the first shaft rotates relative to the base in a second direction, the second direction being opposite to the first direction, and the second torque being greater than the first torque.

2. The connecting device according to claim 1, wherein the abutment section of the circumferential contour of the first shaft is used to abut against the torque component, the abutment section having a first portion and a second portion with different curvatures, the first force being a first force value when the torque component abuts against the first portion of the abutment section, and a second force value when the torque component abuts against the second portion of the abutment section, the second force value being different from the first force value; or, The abutting section of the circumferential profile of the first shaft is used to abut against the torsion component. The positions of the abutting section satisfy the condition of the same curvature. The distance between the line of action of the first force and the rotation axis of the first shaft is greater than zero.

3. The connecting device according to claim 2, wherein the second force value is less than the first force value, and during the process of switching from the torque component abutting the first part of the abutting section to the torque component abutting the second part of the abutting section, the first shaft rotates relative to the base in the first direction.

4. The connecting device according to claim 1, comprising a first damping component connected to the first shaft, the first damping component being used to provide resistance torque during the rotation of the first shaft relative to the base; When the connecting device has the first torque, the torque generated by the torque component on the first shaft based on the first force satisfies the opposite direction condition to the resistance torque provided by the first damping component. When the connecting device has the second torque, the torque generated by the torque component on the first shaft based on the first force satisfies the condition that the resistance torque provided by the first damping component is in the same direction.

5. The connecting device according to claim 1, wherein the abutting section of the circumferential contour of the first shaft is used to abut against the torque component, the abutting section comprising a first arc segment and a second arc segment distributed circumferentially along the first shaft; When the torque component abuts against the first arc segment, the connecting device has the first torque during the rotation of the first shaft relative to the base in the first direction, and has the second torque during the rotation of the first shaft relative to the base in the second direction; When the torque component abuts against the second arc segment, the connecting device has a third torque during the rotation of the first shaft relative to the base in the first direction, and a fourth torque during the rotation of the first shaft relative to the base in the second direction. The third torque is different from the first torque, and the fourth torque is different from the second torque.

6. The connecting device according to claim 5, wherein the torque component comprises: The abutment is slidably connected to the base; A first reset member connects the abutment and the base, and the reset force of the first reset member causes the abutment to abut against the circumferential contour of the first shaft.

7. The connecting device according to claim 6, wherein when the abutting member abuts against the first arc segment, the amount of compression deformation of the first reset member decreases during the rotation of the first shaft relative to the base along the first direction; When the abutting member abuts against the second arc segment, the amount of compression deformation of the first reset member increases as the first shaft rotates relative to the base in the first direction.

8. The connecting device according to claim 7, wherein the projection of the abutment member along the compression direction of the compression deformation of the first reset member overlaps with the rotation axis of the first shaft.

9. The connecting device according to claim 8, wherein the first reset member is sleeved on the abutting member, and the center line of the first reset member extending along the compression direction intersects the rotation axis of the first shaft.

10. An electronic device comprising a first body, a second body, and a connecting device, wherein the first body and the second body are rotatably connected via the connecting device, the connecting device comprising: Base; A first shaft is rotatably connected to the base, and the first shaft is connected to either the first body or the second body; The torque assembly abuts against the circumferential profile of the first shaft; The torque component applies a first force to the first shaft, such that the connecting device has a first torque when the first shaft rotates relative to the base in a first direction, and has a second torque when the first shaft rotates relative to the base in a second direction, the second direction being opposite to the first direction, and the second torque being greater than the first torque.

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