Hinge devices and electronic equipment

Abstract

This application provides a hinge device and an electronic device, belonging to the field of electronic technology. The hinge device includes: a hinge bracket, a rotating rod, and a ball bearing; the rotating rod is rotatably connected to the hinge bracket; the hinge bracket has a first limiting groove, and the rotating rod has a second limiting groove, the first limiting groove and the second limiting groove are correspondingly positioned; the ball bearing is located in the first limiting groove, and at least a portion of the ball bearing protrudes into the second limiting groove; the hinge device is configured such that when the ball bearing simultaneously abuts against the ends of the first limiting groove and the ends of the second limiting groove, the rotating rod and the hinge bracket are in a stopped state. The hinge device of this application achieves rotational stopping of the hinge device.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] With the development of electronic technology, foldable electronic devices, such as foldable phones and foldable tablets, have attracted widespread attention.

[0003] Foldable electronic devices in related technologies typically rely on two body parts and a hinge device that rotates and connects the two body parts to achieve the switching between the unfolded and folded states of the electronic device.

[0004] However, hinge devices can usually only stop by the two parts of the body abutting against each other, or by the body abutting against the hinge device. The hinge device itself does not have a stopping function, and the risk of damage to the body from collision is relatively high. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a hinge device and an electronic device that can solve the problem that the hinge device does not have a stop function and the risk of damage from body collision is relatively high.

[0006] The technical solution is as follows:

[0007] On the one hand, a hinge device is provided, the hinge device comprising: a hinge bracket, a rotating rod, and a ball bearing;

[0008] The rotating rod is rotatably connected to the hinge bracket;

[0009] The hinge bracket is provided with a first limiting groove, and the rotating rod is provided with a second limiting groove. The first limiting groove and the second limiting groove are in corresponding positions. The ball bearing is located in the first limiting groove, and at least a portion of the ball bearing protrudes into the second limiting groove.

[0010] The hinge device is configured such that when the ball bearing simultaneously abuts against the end of the first limiting groove and the end of the second limiting groove, the rotating rod and the hinge bracket are in a stopped state.

[0011] In some embodiments, the first limiting groove includes a first end and a second end arranged along the rotation trajectory of the rotating rod, and the second limiting groove includes a third end and a fourth end arranged along the rotation trajectory.

[0012] The stop state includes a first stop state and a second stop state;

[0013] In the first stop position, the first end, the ball bearing, and the fourth end are in sequential contact; in the second stop position, the second end, the ball bearing, and the third end are in sequential contact.

[0014] In some embodiments, the first limiting groove is located on the top surface of the hinge bracket; the hinge bracket is also provided with a mounting hole, which extends from the first limiting groove to the bottom surface of the hinge bracket;

[0015] The diameter of the mounting hole is greater than or equal to the diameter of the ball bearing, and the ball bearing can enter and exit the first limiting groove from the bottom surface of the hinge bracket through the mounting hole.

[0016] In some embodiments, the hinge device further includes a hinge cover located on the bottom surface of the hinge support;

[0017] The hinge cover has a raised structure on its surface facing the hinge bracket. The raised structure corresponds to the mounting hole and is used to seal the mounting hole.

[0018] In some embodiments, the rotating rod is provided with a first sliding portion, and the top surface of the hinge bracket is provided with a second sliding portion;

[0019] The first sliding part and the second sliding part are slidably connected so that the rotating rod rotates relative to the hinge bracket along the rotation trajectory.

[0020] In some embodiments, the number of rotating rods is at least two; at least two rotating rods are rotatably connected to the hinge bracket, and at least one rotating rod is located on the first side of the hinge bracket, while the remaining rotating rods are located on the second side of the hinge bracket, with the first side and the second side being opposite to each other.

[0021] In some embodiments, the hinge device further includes two linkage members, one of which is located on the first side and rotatably connected to the corresponding rotating rod, and the other linkage member is located on the second side and rotatably connected to the corresponding rotating rod.

[0022] In some embodiments, the hinge device further includes a synchronization component, which includes two synchronizing rods and a synchronizing gear set;

[0023] One of the synchronizing rods is located on the first side and is slidably connected to the corresponding linkage component; the other synchronizing rod is located on the second side and is slidably connected to the corresponding linkage component.

[0024] The synchronizing gear set is located between the two synchronizing rods and is meshed with the two synchronizing rods respectively.

[0025] In some embodiments, each of the synchronizing rods is provided with at least one third sliding portion on the side facing the linkage member, and each of the linkage members is provided with at least one fourth sliding portion on the side facing the synchronizing rod. Each of the third sliding portions and the fourth sliding portion are slidably connected so that the synchronizing rod and the corresponding linkage member are slidably connected.

[0026] In some embodiments, the hinge device further includes two connectors, one of which is located on the first side and is slidably connected to the corresponding linkage rod and the corresponding synchronization rod, respectively, and the other connector is located on the second side and is slidably connected to the corresponding linkage rod and the corresponding synchronization rod, respectively.

[0027] In some embodiments, each of the connectors is provided with a fifth sliding portion and a sixth sliding portion;

[0028] Each of the aforementioned linkage components is provided with a seventh sliding part, and each of the aforementioned synchronizing rods is provided with an eighth sliding part;

[0029] The fifth sliding part and the seventh sliding part are slidably connected, and the sixth sliding part and the eighth sliding part are slidably connected, so that the connecting member is slidably connected to the corresponding linkage rod and the corresponding synchronization rod respectively.

[0030] On the other hand, an electronic device is provided, which includes the hinge device described in this application.

[0031] The beneficial effects of the technical solution provided in this application include at least the following:

[0032] The hinge device of this application has a first limiting groove and a second limiting groove arranged on the rotating rod and the hinge bracket, respectively. The two limiting grooves cover each other and simultaneously accommodate a ball bearing. When the hinge device rotates, the rotating rod and the hinge bracket rotate relative to each other, and the first limiting groove and the second limiting groove move relative to each other. The ball bearing moves relative to the first limiting groove and the second limiting groove, respectively. When the ball bearing moves to the end of the first limiting groove, it will be blocked and unable to continue moving. If the ball bearing moves to the end of the second limiting groove at the same time, the rear of the ball bearing will also be blocked. At this time, the ball bearing will act as a bridge, so that the first limiting groove and the second limiting groove indirectly abut against each other, and the first limiting groove and the second limiting groove cannot continue to move relative to each other. The rotating rod and the hinge bracket cannot continue to rotate relative to each other, thereby realizing the rotation stop of the hinge device. Attached Figure Description

[0033] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0034] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the hinge device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0035] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the hinge device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0036] Figure 3 This is a structural cross-sectional view of the hinge device provided in the embodiment of this application in the first stop position.

[0037] Figure 4 This is a structural cross-sectional view of the hinge device provided in the embodiment of this application in the second stop position.

[0038] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the hinge device provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the hinge device provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 7 This is an exploded view of the hinge device provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the connection between the synchronizing rod and the linkage component provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0042] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the linkage component provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0043] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the synchronizing rod provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the connector provided in the embodiment of this application;

[0045] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0046] The reference numerals in the figure are respectively:

[0047] 100. Hinge mechanism; 200. First body; 300. Second body; 400. Flexible screen;

[0048] 1. Hinge bracket;

[0049] 101. First side; 102. Second side;

[0050] 11. First limiting groove; 1101. First end; 1102. Second end; 12. Mounting hole; 13. Second sliding part;

[0051] 2. Rotating rod;

[0052] 21. Second limiting groove; 2101. Third end; 2102. Fourth end; 22. First sliding part; 23. Second hinge part;

[0053] 3. Ball bearing components;

[0054] 4. Hinge cover;

[0055] 41. Protruding structure;

[0056] 5. Linkage components;

[0057] 51. Fourth sliding part; 511. Fourth sliding groove; 512. Fourth sliding protrusion; 52. Seventh sliding part; 53. First hinge part;

[0058] 6. Synchronization component;

[0059] 61. Synchronizing rod; 611. Third sliding part; 6111. Third sliding groove; 6112. Third sliding protrusion; 612. Eighth sliding part; 62. Synchronizing gear set;

[0060] 7. Connectors;

[0061] 71. Fifth sliding part; 72. Sixth sliding part;

[0062] A1, First direction; A2, Second direction. Detailed Implementation

[0063] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description relates to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numbers in different drawings denote the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this application. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of this application as detailed in the appended claims.

[0064] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "transverse," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the appendix. Figure 1 The orientations or positional relationships shown are for the purpose of facilitating and simplifying the description of this application, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0065] It should be understood that in this application, "connection" and "connected" can both refer to a mechanical connection or a physical connection. That is, A and B being connected or A and B being connected can mean that there are fastened components (such as screws, bolts, rivets, etc.) between A and B, or that A and B are in contact with each other and A and B are difficult to separate.

[0066] Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms used in the embodiments of this application have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0067] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0068] On the one hand, combined with Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, this embodiment provides a hinge device 100, which includes: a hinge bracket 1, a rotating rod 2, and a ball bearing 3.

[0069] Rotating rod 2 is rotatably connected to hinge bracket 1.

[0070] The hinge bracket 1 is provided with a first limiting groove 11, and the rotating rod 2 is provided with a second limiting groove 21. The first limiting groove 11 and the second limiting groove 21 are in corresponding positions. The ball bearing 3 is located in the first limiting groove 11, and at least a portion of the ball bearing 3 protrudes into the second limiting groove 21.

[0071] The hinge device 100 is configured such that when the ball bearing 3 simultaneously abuts against the end of the first limiting groove 11 and the end of the second limiting groove 21, the rotating rod 2 and the hinge bracket 1 are in a stopped state.

[0072] In this embodiment, the hinge device 100 has a first limiting groove 11 and a second limiting groove 21 arranged on the rotating rod 2 and the hinge bracket 1, respectively. The two limiting grooves cover each other and accommodate a ball bearing 3. When the hinge device 100 rotates, the rotating rod 2 and the hinge bracket 1 rotate relative to each other, and the first limiting groove 11 and the second limiting groove 21 move relative to each other. The ball bearing 3 moves relative to the first limiting groove 11 and the second limiting groove 21, respectively. When the ball bearing 3 moves to the end of the first limiting groove 11, it will be blocked and cannot continue to move. If the ball bearing 3 moves to the end of the second limiting groove 21 at the same time, the rear of the ball bearing 3 will also be blocked. At this time, the ball bearing 3 will act as a bridge, so that the first limiting groove 11 and the second limiting groove 21 indirectly abut against each other, and the first limiting groove 11 and the second limiting groove 21 cannot continue to move relative to each other. The rotating rod 2 and the hinge bracket 1 cannot continue to rotate relative to each other, thereby realizing the rotation stop of the hinge device 100.

[0073] In some possible implementations, the rotating rod 2 is used to connect the folding body of the foldable electronic device. By utilizing the rotational connection between the rotating rod 2 and the hinge bracket 1, the folding body can have a specific rotational trajectory to meet the folding and unfolding action requirements of the foldable electronic device.

[0074] In some possible implementations, both the first limiting groove 11 and the second limiting groove 21 are arc-shaped grooves and follow the same rotation trajectory as the rotating rod 2. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the first limiting groove 11 and the second limiting groove 21 is semi-circular or similar to semi-circular, with a portion of the ball bearing 3 being accommodated in the first limiting groove 11 and another portion being accommodated in the second limiting groove 21.

[0075] For example, the sum of the recess depth d1 of the first limiting groove 11 and the recess depth d2 of the second limiting groove 21 is greater than or equal to half the diameter D of the ball 3 and less than or equal to the diameter D of the ball, that is, 0.5D≤(d1+d2)≤D.

[0076] When the ball bearing 3 rolls and rubs within the first limiting groove 11 and the second limiting groove 21, it can maintain good contact with the first limiting groove 11 and the second limiting groove 21 respectively, resulting in better stability. Furthermore, the ball bearing 3 can be pressed down by the first limiting groove 11 and the second limiting groove 21 from above and below. When the rotating rod 2 and the hinge bracket 1 are relatively stationary, the ball bearing 3 cannot roll freely, thereby avoiding the problem of abnormal noise from the ball bearing 3 in the hinge device 100.

[0077] Combination Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, in some embodiments, the first limiting groove 11 includes a first end 1101 and a second end 1102 arranged along the rotation trajectory of the rotating rod 2, and the second limiting groove 21 includes a third end 2101 and a fourth end 2102 arranged along the rotation trajectory.

[0078] The stop state includes a first stop state and a second stop state; in the first stop state, the first end 1101, the ball 3 and the fourth end 2102 abut in sequence; in the second stop state, the second end 1102, the ball 3 and the third end 2101 abut in sequence.

[0079] In this embodiment, the first end 1101 and the second end 1102 of the first limiting groove 11 are distributed along the rotation trajectory of the rotating rod 2, and the third end 2101 and the fourth end 2102 of the second limiting groove 21 are also distributed along the rotation trajectory of the rotating rod 2. When the ball ball 3 abuts against the two corresponding ends at both ends of the rotation trajectory, the rotation of the rotating rod 2 and the hinge bracket 1 is stopped.

[0080] Among some possible implementations, refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the rotation trajectory of the rotating rod 2 is as shown in the first direction A1 and the second direction A2. When the rotating rod 2 rotates relative to the hinge bracket 1 along the rotation trajectory, it can switch between the folded state and the unfolded state.

[0081] For example, when the rotating rod 2 rotates along the rotation trajectory toward the first direction A1, the hinge device 100 switches from the unfolded state to the folded state; when the rotating rod rotates along the rotation trajectory toward the second direction A2, the hinge device 100 switches from the folded state to the unfolded state.

[0082] In this embodiment, Figure 3 Corresponding to the folded state of the hinge device 100, the hinge device 100 is in the first stop position. Figure 4 Corresponding to the unfolded state of the hinge device 100, the hinge device 100 is in the second stop state.

[0083] For example, the first end 1101 of the first limiting groove 11 and the third end 2101 of the second limiting groove 21 are respectively located at one end of the rotation trajectory along the first direction A1, and the second end 1102 of the first limiting groove 11 and the fourth end 2102 of the second limiting groove 21 are respectively located at the other end of the rotation trajectory along the second direction A2.

[0084] In another example, when the rotating rod 2 rotates relative to the hinge bracket 1 from an unfolded state to a folded state along the first direction A1, the second limiting groove 21 moves relative to the first limiting groove 11 along the first direction A1. The ball bearing 3 is subjected to friction between the second limiting groove 21 and the first limiting groove 11 and also rolls along the first direction A1. However, when the ball bearing 3 rolls to the first end 1101 of the first limiting groove 11 along the first direction A1, the ball bearing 3 is blocked by the first end 1101 and cannot continue to roll along the first direction A1. As the rotating rod 2 moves further, the fourth end 2102 of the second limiting groove 21 facing away from the first direction A1 also moves to the position of the ball bearing 3. At this time, the relative positions of the rotating rod 2, the ball bearing 3, and the hinge bracket 1 are as follows: Figure 3 As shown, the fourth end 2102, the ball bearing 3 and the first end 1101 are sequentially delivered along the first direction A1. The fourth end 2102 and the first end 1101 are indirectly connected, and the second limiting groove 21 cannot move further along the first direction A1. The rotating rod 2 cannot rotate further along the first direction A1, thus realizing the rotation stop of the hinge device 100 in the folded state.

[0085] When the rotating rod 2 rotates relative to the hinge bracket 1 from a folded state to an unfolded state along the second direction A2, the second limiting groove 21 moves relative to the first limiting groove 11 along the second direction A2. The ball bearing 3, subjected to friction from both the second and first limiting grooves 21, also rolls along the second direction A2. However, when the ball bearing 3 rolls to the second end 1102 of the second limiting groove 21 along the first direction A1, it is blocked by the second end 1102 and cannot continue rolling along the second direction A2. As the rotating rod 2 moves further, the third end 2101 of the second limiting groove 21, facing away from the second direction A2, also moves to the position of the ball bearing 3. At this time, the relative positions of the rotating rod 2, the ball bearing 3, and the hinge bracket 1 are as follows: Figure 4 As shown, the third end 2101, the ball bearing 3, and the second end 1102 are sequentially delivered along the second direction A2. The third end 2101 and the second end 1102 are indirectly connected, and the second limiting groove 21 cannot move further along the second direction A2. The rotating rod 2 cannot rotate further along the second direction A2, thus realizing the rotation stop of the hinge device 100 in the unfolded state.

[0086] Combination Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the first limiting groove 11 is located on the top surface of the hinge bracket 1; the hinge bracket 1 is also provided with a mounting hole 12, which extends from the first limiting groove 11 to the bottom surface of the hinge bracket 1.

[0087] The diameter of the mounting hole 12 is greater than or equal to the diameter of the ball bearing 3, and the ball bearing 3 can enter and exit the first limiting groove 11 from the bottom surface of the hinge bracket 1 through the mounting hole 12.

[0088] In order to assemble the ball bearing 3 into the space enclosed by the first limiting groove 11 and the second limiting groove 21, a mounting hole 12 is opened on the bottom surface of the hinge bracket 1. The mounting hole 12 extends from the bottom surface of the hinge bracket 1 into the first limiting groove 11, and the diameter of the mounting hole 12 is greater than or equal to the diameter of the ball bearing 3, so that the ball bearing 3 can be inserted from the bottom of the hinge bracket 1 through the mounting hole 12.

[0089] It should be noted that the components named by direction, such as the top and bottom surfaces of the hinge bracket 1 in this embodiment and application, are only for the purpose of more clearly describing the structural scheme and working process of the hinge device 100. The naming based on the figures shown in the accompanying drawings does not mean that these components must appear at the top or bottom of the hinge bracket 1. For example, in some application scenarios, the top surface may appear at the bottom of the hinge bracket 1, and the bottom surface may appear at the top of the hinge bracket 1.

[0090] Combination Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the hinge device 100 further includes a hinge cover 4, which is located on the bottom surface of the hinge support 1.

[0091] The hinge cover 4 has a raised structure 41 on the surface facing the hinge bracket 1. The raised structure 41 corresponds to the mounting hole 12 and is used to block the mounting hole 12.

[0092] With the above arrangement, a hinge cover 4 is provided on the bottom surface of the hinge bracket 1. On the one hand, since the hinge device 100 has a relatively complex structure and is a frequently moving part, it is easily affected by external factors. The hinge cover 4 can enclose the hinge device 100 and some surrounding components to prevent foreign objects such as dust and sand from entering and affecting the normal operation of the hinge device 100. On the other hand, based on the positional advantage of the hinge cover 4, a protruding structure 41 is provided on the surface of the hinge cover 4. During the connection between the hinge cover 4 and the hinge bracket 1, the protruding structure 41 can be used to seal the mounting hole 12 of the ball bearing 3 to prevent the ball bearing 3 from leaking out of the mounting hole 12. In this way, the existing structure can be used to seal the mounting hole 12 without adding additional sealing parts. The structure is simple, and the protruding structure 41 is arranged on the hinge cover 4, which is less difficult to design and manufacture.

[0093] In some possible implementations, within the application scenarios of foldable electronic devices, the hinge device 100 needs to withstand the stress and wear caused by repeated folding and unfolding actions. The hinge cover 4 can be made of a robust and durable material, such as armored aluminum, which can provide additional support and protection for the hinge device 100, enhance its impact and wear resistance, effectively extend the service life of the hinge device 100, and ensure that the foldable electronic device can still maintain good folding performance during long-term use.

[0094] In other possible implementations, the hinge cover 4 can match the overall design style of the foldable electronic device, forming a complete and unified appearance with the frame, back cover and other components of the electronic device, making the electronic device more visually integrated and aesthetically pleasing, which is conducive to improving the user experience and aesthetic appreciation.

[0095] In some possible implementations, the hinge cover 4 and the hinge bracket 1 can be connected in a detachable manner. For example, the hinge cover 4 can be detachably connected to the hinge bracket 1 by means of screw connection, snap-fit ​​connection, etc.

[0096] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the rotating rod 2 is provided with a first sliding part 22, and the top surface of the hinge bracket 1 is provided with a second sliding part 13; the first sliding part 22 and the second sliding part 13 are slidably connected so that the rotating rod 2 rotates relative to the hinge bracket 1 along the rotation trajectory.

[0097] With the above arrangement, the rotating rod 2 and the hinge bracket 1 can be rotatably connected along the rotation trajectory using the first sliding part 22 and the second sliding part 13.

[0098] For example, the first sliding part 22 and the second sliding part 13 are arc-shaped structures, so that the rotation trajectory of the rotating rod 2 is an arc-shaped trajectory.

[0099] In some possible implementations, one of the first sliding portion 22 and the second sliding portion 13 is a groove structure, and the other is a slider structure, wherein the groove structure and the slider structure can be slidably connected. For example, the first sliding portion 22 is a slider structure, and the second sliding portion 13 is a groove structure. Alternatively, the first sliding portion 22 is a groove structure, and the second sliding portion 13 is a slider structure.

[0100] Combination Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, in some embodiments, the number of rotating rods 2 is at least two; at least two rotating rods 2 are rotatably connected to the hinge bracket 1 respectively, and at least one rotating rod 2 is located on the first side 101 of the hinge bracket 1, while the remaining rotating rods 2 are located on the second side 102 of the hinge bracket 1, with the first side 101 and the second side 102 being opposite to each other.

[0101] With the above arrangement, the two rotating rods 2 can be symmetrically rotated and connected to both sides of the hinge bracket 1, which is suitable for foldable electronic devices including two foldable bodies. Each rotating rod 2 is connected to a foldable body, and in the process of rotating along the rotation trajectory, it drives the corresponding foldable body to switch between folded and unfolded states.

[0102] Combination Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, in some embodiments, the hinge device 100 further includes two linkage members 5, one linkage member 5 located on the first side 101 and rotatably connected to the corresponding rotating rod 2, and the other linkage member 5 located on the second side 102 and rotatably connected to the corresponding rotating rod 2.

[0103] In this embodiment, in order to allow the folding body to adapt to the planar extension and retraction of the folding screen during the folding or unfolding process of the rotating rod 2, a linkage 5 is arranged between the rotating rod 2 and the folding body. The linkage 5 can adjust the distance between the folding body and the hinge bracket 1 during the rotation of the rotating rod 2 to prevent the folding screen from being stretched or compressed.

[0104] Combination Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, in some embodiments, the hinge device 100 further includes a synchronization component 6, which includes two synchronization rods 61 and a synchronization gear set 62.

[0105] One synchronizing rod 61 is located on the first side 101 and is slidably connected to the corresponding linkage 5. The other synchronizing rod 61 is located on the second side 102 and is slidably connected to the corresponding linkage 5. The synchronizing gear set 62 is located between the two synchronizing rods 61 and is meshed with each of the two synchronizing rods 61.

[0106] With the above arrangement, the hinge device 100 can use the synchronization component 6 to realize the synchronous folding movement of the two folding bodies. Without the synchronization component 6, one side of the folding body may fold first, while the other side folds behind. This may cause uneven force on the folding screen, which may damage the screen or make the folding process unsmooth. The synchronization component 6 can ensure that the two sides of the folding body move at the same time, making the folding and unfolding actions more coordinated and smooth.

[0107] Furthermore, the hinge assembly 100 experiences significant stress during repeated opening and closing. The synchronization component 6 can evenly distribute this stress throughout the hinge assembly 100. Without the synchronization component 6, stress might concentrate at certain points or areas of the hinge assembly 100, easily leading to excessive wear, deformation, or even damage in these areas. Therefore, by applying the synchronization component 6, stress can be more rationally distributed throughout the hinge assembly 100, extending the hinge's service life.

[0108] Combination Figure 8 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, in some embodiments, each synchronizing rod 61 is provided with at least one third sliding part 611 on the side facing the linkage member 5, and each linkage member 5 is provided with at least one fourth sliding part 51 on the side facing the synchronizing rod 61. Each third sliding part 611 and a fourth sliding part 51 are slidably connected so that the synchronizing rod 61 and the corresponding linkage member 5 are slidably connected.

[0109] With the above arrangement, the synchronizing rod 61 and the linkage 5 located on the same side of the hinge bracket 1 can be slidably connected through the third sliding part 611 and the fourth sliding part 51. When the hinge device 100 is folded and unfolded, the synchronizing rod 61 and the linkage 5 can slide relative to each other along the trajectory defined by the third sliding part 611 and the fourth sliding part 51, making the folding and unfolding action of the hinge device 100 more coordinated and smooth.

[0110] In some possible implementations, one of the third sliding part 611 and the fourth sliding part 51 is a groove structure, and the other of the third sliding part 611 and the fourth sliding part 51 is a slider structure. The groove structure and the slider structure slide together. By designing the extension direction of the groove structure, the slider structure can slide along a specific trajectory, which in turn allows the synchronizing rod 61 and the linkage 5 to slide relative to each other along a specific trajectory.

[0111] For example, the third sliding part 611 can be a groove structure and the fourth sliding part 51 can be a slider structure; or, the third sliding part 611 can be a slider structure and the fourth sliding part 51 can be a groove structure.

[0112] Among some possible implementations, refer to Figure 8 , Figure 9 and Figure 10As shown, each synchronizing rod 61 has two third sliding parts 611, and correspondingly, the linkage 5 has two fourth sliding parts 51. One of the third sliding parts 611 is a groove structure, and the other is a slider structure; similarly, one of the fourth sliding parts 51 is a slider structure, and the other is a groove structure. The third sliding part 611 with a groove structure and the fourth sliding part 51 with a slider structure are slidably connected, as are the third sliding part 611 with a slider structure and the fourth sliding part 51 with a groove structure.

[0113] With the above arrangement, the synchronizing rod 61 and the linkage 5 can be slidably connected by two sets of sliders and grooves. The relative sliding trajectory of the synchronizing rod 61 and the linkage 5 can better match the folding and unfolding process of the folding hinge, which is conducive to improving the smoothness of the folding and unfolding action of the folding hinge.

[0114] For example, refer to Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the side of the synchronizing rod 61 facing the linkage member 5 has two third sliding parts 611, namely a third sliding protrusion 6112 and a third sliding groove 6111, wherein the third sliding protrusion 6112 is located on one side of the third sliding groove 6111. The side of the linkage member 5 facing the synchronizing rod 61 has two fourth sliding parts 51, namely a fourth sliding protrusion 512 and a fourth slider groove, wherein the fourth slider protrusion is located on one side of the fourth sliding groove 511.

[0115] refer to Figure 8 As shown, the third sliding protrusion 6112 and the fourth sliding protrusion 512 are located at the ends of the synchronizing rod 61 and the linkage 5 away from each other, respectively. When the synchronizing rod 61 and the linkage 5 are slidably connected, the third sliding protrusion 6112 is located in the fourth sliding groove 511 and is slidably connected to it, and the fourth sliding protrusion 512 is located in the third sliding groove 6111 and is slidably connected to it. Thus, the synchronizing rod 61 and the linkage 5 achieve multi-point sliding connection, which can realize more complex sliding trajectories.

[0116] Among some possible implementations, refer to Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 9 As shown, the end of the rotating rod 2 away from the hinge bracket 1 is provided with a second hinge part 23, and the linkage 5 is provided with a first hinge part 53. The second hinge part 23 and the first hinge part 53 are rotatably connected to realize the rotatable connection between the rotating rod 2 and the linkage 5.

[0117] Combination Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, in some embodiments, the hinge device 100 further includes two connectors 7. One connector 7 is located on the first side 101 and is slidably connected to the corresponding linkage 5 and the corresponding synchronizing rod 61, respectively. The other connector 7 is located on the second side 102 and is slidably connected to the corresponding linkage 5 and the corresponding synchronizing rod 61, respectively.

[0118] With the above arrangement, the hinge device 100 can use two connectors 7 to movably connect the linkage 5 and the synchronizing rod 61 to the corresponding folding body.

[0119] For example, the folding body includes a middle frame, and the connector 7 movably connects the linkage 5 and the synchronizing rod 61 to the middle frame in the corresponding folding body.

[0120] Combination Figure 7 and Figure 11 As shown, in some embodiments, each connector 7 is provided with a fifth sliding part 71 and a sixth sliding part 72; each linkage 5 is provided with a seventh sliding part 52; and each synchronizing rod 61 is provided with an eighth sliding part 612. The fifth sliding part 71 and the seventh sliding part 52 are slidably connected, and the sixth sliding part 72 and the eighth sliding part 612 are slidably connected, so that the connector 7 is slidably connected to the corresponding linkage 5 and the corresponding synchronizing rod 61 respectively.

[0121] With the above arrangement, the linkage 5 can be slidably connected to the connector 7 via the seventh sliding part 52 and the fifth sliding part 71, and the synchronizing rod 61 can be slidably connected to the connector 7 via the eighth sliding part 612 and the sixth sliding part 72. The connector 7, the linkage 5, and the synchronizing rod 61 are slidably connected in a distributed manner, and can coordinate their actions during the folding and unfolding of the hinge device 100.

[0122] In some possible implementations, the shapes of the fifth sliding part 71 and the seventh sliding part 52 correspond, one of the two sliding parts is a groove structure and the other is a slider structure, the shapes of the sixth sliding part 72 and the eighth sliding part 612 correspond, one of the two sliding parts is a groove structure and the other is a slider structure.

[0123] For example, the fifth sliding part 71 and the seventh sliding part 52 each have an arc-shaped sliding trajectory, and the sixth sliding part 72 and the eighth sliding part 612 each have a straight sliding trajectory.

[0124] On the other hand, this embodiment provides an electronic device including the hinge device 100 of this application. The electronic device of this embodiment employs the hinge device 100 of this application and possesses all the beneficial technical effects of all embodiments herein.

[0125] In some possible implementations, the electronic device also includes a first body 200, a second body 300, and a flexible screen 400. The first body 200 and the second body 300 are symmetrically connected on both sides of the hinge device 100. The flexible screen 400 covers the first body 200, the hinge device 100, and the second body 300. The first body 200 and the second body 300 can drive the flexible screen 400 to achieve folding and unfolding states under the rotation of the hinge device 100.

[0126] It should be noted that, in the description of this application, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0127] Furthermore, 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. Therefore, features defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more features. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0128] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature being directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature being directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0129] In the description of this specification, the references to the terms "certain embodiments", "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "illustrative embodiment", "example", "specific example", or "some examples" refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with the embodiments or examples that are included in at least one embodiment or example of this application.

[0130] The above description is merely an embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A hinge device, characterized in that, The hinge device (100) includes: a hinge bracket (1), a rotating rod (2), and a ball bearing (3); The rotating rod (2) is rotatably connected to the hinge bracket (1); The hinge bracket (1) is provided with a first limiting groove (11), and the rotating rod (2) is provided with a second limiting groove (21). The first limiting groove (11) and the second limiting groove (21) are in corresponding positions. The ball bearing (3) is located in the first limiting groove (11), and at least a portion of the ball bearing (3) protrudes into the second limiting groove (21). The hinge device (100) is configured such that when the ball bearing (3) simultaneously abuts against the end of the first limiting groove (11) and the end of the second limiting groove (21), the rotating rod (2) and the hinge bracket (1) are in a stopped state.

2. The hinge device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first limiting groove (11) includes a first end (1101) and a second end (1102) arranged along the rotation trajectory of the rotating rod (2), and the second limiting groove (21) includes a third end (2101) and a fourth end (2102) arranged along the rotation trajectory. The stop state includes a first stop state and a second stop state; In the first stop state, the first end (1101), the ball (3) and the fourth end (2102) abut against each other in sequence; in the second stop state, the second end (1102), the ball (3) and the third end (2101) abut against each other in sequence.

3. The hinge device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first limiting groove (11) is located on the top surface of the hinge bracket (1); the hinge bracket (1) is also provided with a mounting hole (12), which extends from the first limiting groove (11) to the bottom surface of the hinge bracket (1); The diameter of the mounting hole (12) is greater than or equal to the diameter of the ball bearing (3), and the ball bearing (3) can enter and exit the first limiting groove (11) from the bottom surface of the hinge bracket (1) through the mounting hole (12).

4. The hinge device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The hinge device (100) further includes a hinge cover (4), which is located on the bottom surface of the hinge bracket (1); The hinge cover (4) has a raised structure (41) on the surface facing the hinge bracket (1), the raised structure (41) corresponds to the mounting hole (12), and the raised structure (41) is used to block the mounting hole (12).

5. The hinge device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The rotating rod (2) is provided with a first sliding part (22), and the top surface of the hinge bracket (1) is provided with a second sliding part (13); The first sliding part (22) is slidably connected to the second sliding part (13) so that the rotating rod (2) rotates relative to the hinge bracket (1) along the rotation trajectory.

6. The hinge device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The number of rotating rods (2) is at least two; at least two of the rotating rods (2) are rotatably connected to the hinge bracket (1), and at least one of the rotating rods (2) is located on the first side (101) of the hinge bracket (1), and the remaining rotating rods (2) are located on the second side (102) of the hinge bracket (1), with the first side (101) and the second side (102) being opposite to each other.

7. The hinge device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The hinge device (100) further includes two linkage members (5), one of which is located on the first side (101) and is rotatably connected to the corresponding rotating rod (2), and the other linkage member (5) is located on the second side (102) and is rotatably connected to the corresponding rotating rod (2).

8. The hinge device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The hinge device (100) further includes a synchronization component (6), which includes two synchronization rods (61) and a synchronization gear set (62); One of the synchronizing rods (61) is located on the first side (101) and is slidably connected to the corresponding linkage (5); the other synchronizing rod (61) is located on the second side (102) and is slidably connected to the corresponding linkage (5). The synchronizing gear set (62) is located between the two synchronizing rods (61) and is meshed with the two synchronizing rods (61) respectively.

9. The hinge device according to claim 8, characterized in that, Each of the synchronizing rods (61) has at least one third sliding part (611) on the side facing the linkage (5), and each of the linkages (5) has at least one fourth sliding part (51) on the side facing the synchronizing rod (61). Each of the third sliding parts (611) and the fourth sliding part (51) are slidably connected so that the synchronizing rod (61) and the corresponding linkage (5) are slidably connected.

10. The hinge device according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The hinge device (100) further includes two connectors (7). One connector (7) is located on the first side (101) and is slidably connected to the corresponding linkage (5) and the corresponding synchronization rod (61), respectively. The other connector (7) is located on the second side (102) and is slidably connected to the corresponding linkage (5) and the corresponding synchronization rod (61), respectively.

11. The hinge device according to claim 10, characterized in that, Each of the connectors (7) is provided with a fifth sliding part (71) and a sixth sliding part (72); Each of the linkage components (5) is provided with a seventh sliding part (52), and each of the synchronization rods (61) is provided with an eighth sliding part (612); The fifth sliding part (71) and the seventh sliding part (52) are slidably connected, and the sixth sliding part (72) and the eighth sliding part (612) are slidably connected, so that the connecting member (7) is slidably connected to the corresponding linkage member (5) and the corresponding synchronizing rod (61) respectively.

12. An electronic device, characterized in that, The electronic device includes the hinge device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

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