Rotating shaft mechanism and folding screen terminal

Abstract

This application provides a hinge mechanism and a foldable screen terminal to solve the problem of heavy opening and closing feel in existing foldable screen terminals. The hinge mechanism provided in this application includes a central beam, a swing arm, a connecting block, and an elastic support assembly. The swing arm is rotatably connected to the central beam and has one of a sliding part and a sliding groove. The connecting block has the other of a sliding part and a sliding groove, with the sliding part extending into the sliding groove to allow the swing arm and connecting block to slide relative to each other. The elastic support assembly is located between the inner wall of the sliding groove and the sliding part. The elastic support assembly includes an elastic element and a rolling element. The elastic element is located on one of the inner wall of the sliding groove and the sliding part, and the rolling element abuts against the other of the inner wall of the sliding groove, the sliding part, and the elastic element, and the rolling element can roll along the direction in which the swing arm and connecting block slide relative to each other. Through this structure, the frictional resistance and the risk of jamming when the swing arm and connecting block slide relative to each other are significantly reduced, which helps to improve the opening and closing feel of the foldable screen terminal.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] With the development of electronic devices (such as mobile phones, tablets, etc.), foldable screen terminals are becoming increasingly popular among users because they have a larger screen display area when unfolded and a small size when folded, making them easy to carry.

[0003] However, existing foldable screen devices have a heavy feel when switching between unfolded and folded states, resulting in a poor user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a hinge mechanism and a foldable screen terminal to solve the problem of the heavy opening and closing feel of existing foldable screen terminals.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the embodiments of this application adopt the following technical solutions:

[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a pivot mechanism, which includes a center beam, a swing arm, a connecting block, and an elastic support assembly.

[0007] The swing arm is rotatably connected to the central beam and has one of a sliding part and a sliding groove. The connecting block has the other of a sliding part and a sliding groove, with the sliding part extending into the sliding groove to allow the swing arm and the connecting block to slide relative to each other. An elastic support assembly is located between the swing arm and the connecting block. The elastic support assembly includes an elastic element and a rolling element. The elastic element is located on one of the inner wall of the sliding groove and the sliding part, while the rolling element abuts against the inner wall of the sliding groove, the other of the sliding part, and the elastic element, and the rolling element can roll in the direction in which the swing arm and the connecting block slide relative to each other.

[0008] It is understandable that the rolling element can roll along the direction in which the rocker arm and connecting block slide relative to each other. This means that when the elastic element is located on the inner wall of the groove, the rolling element actually rolls along the extension direction of the sliding portion when the rocker arm and connecting block slide relative to each other. Conversely, when the elastic element is located on the sliding portion, the rolling element actually rolls along the extension direction of the groove on the inner wall of the groove when the rocker arm and connecting block slide relative to each other.

[0009] For ease of understanding, the following analysis assumes that the sliding part is located on the rocker arm, the groove is located on the connecting block, and the elastic element is located on the inner wall of the groove.

[0010] The pivot mechanism provided in the first aspect of this application compensates for the gap between the inner wall of the slide groove and the sliding part by providing an elastic support component between them, and the rolling element can roll along the direction in which the swing arm and the connecting block slide relative to each other. On the one hand, by utilizing the rolling element in the elastic support component, the sliding friction when the swing arm and the connecting block slide relative to each other can be transformed into rolling friction (for example, when the rolling element is a cylindrical roller, the contact between the swing arm and the connecting block changes from surface contact to line contact. When the rolling element is a spherical ball, the contact between the swing arm and the connecting block changes from surface contact to point contact), thereby reducing the frictional resistance when the two slide relative to each other and the risk of jamming, and improving the opening and closing feel of the foldable screen terminal when switching between the unfolded and folded states. On the other hand, the rolling element rolls between the elastic component and the swing arm, avoiding direct contact friction between the elastic component and the swing arm, which helps to improve the service life of the elastic component and reduce the risk of elastic component failure.

[0011] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, when the foldable screen terminal is in its unfolded state, the slide has opposing first and second walls along the thickness direction of the foldable screen terminal, and an elastic support component is disposed between the second wall and the sliding part. In this way, the elastic support component can compensate for the gap between the second wall and the sliding part, and under the pushing force of the elastic support component, the sliding part remains in contact with the first wall.

[0012] In conjunction with the first aspect, in another possible implementation, the side of the sliding part away from the elastic support component makes surface contact with the first wall of the groove. This effectively changes only a portion of the surface contact between the swing arm and the connecting block to line or point contact, while the other portion remains in surface contact. This reduces frictional resistance during relative sliding between the swing arm and the connecting block, while also ensuring stability and minimizing the risk of relative wobbling.

[0013] In conjunction with the first aspect, in another possible implementation, a recess is provided on the second wall surface, the elastic element is disposed in the recess, and the rolling element extends out of the recess and abuts against the sliding part. In this way, the above structure is equivalent to embedding a portion of the elastic support component into the inner wall of the slide groove. On the one hand, this reduces the size of the slide groove in the thickness direction of the foldable screen terminal for accommodating the sliding part and the elastic support component, thereby reducing the size of the connecting block while maintaining its overall strength, which is beneficial for the thinner and lighter foldable screen terminal. On the other hand, it also reduces the gap between the second wall surface of the slide groove and the sliding part, preventing large-scale wobbling between the swing arm and the connecting block even when the connecting block or swing arm is subjected to large external forces, causing significant deformation of the elastic element.

[0014] In conjunction with the first aspect, in another possible implementation, the rolling element has an opening that extends through it along the rotation axis of the rocker arm. The elastic support assembly also includes a limiting shaft, which is disposed together with the elastic element on the inner wall of the groove or the sliding part, and the limiting shaft passes through the opening, with a diameter smaller than the diameter of the opening. In this way, the limiting shaft can restrict the rolling element to roll within a certain range, preventing the rolling element from detaching from the elastic element.

[0015] In conjunction with the first aspect, in another possible implementation, the difference between the diameter of the limiting shaft and the diameter of the opening is greater than or equal to 0.1 mm.

[0016] In conjunction with the first aspect, in another possible implementation, the elastic support assembly further includes a gasket disposed between the elastic element and the rolling element. In some cases, the portion of the elastic element that abuts against the rolling element may be uneven, and the rolling surface of the rolling element may be a curved surface, resulting in the elastic element failing to provide adequate support for the rolling element. Therefore, by placing a gasket between the elastic element and the rolling element, with both sides of the gasket being flat, good contact can be maintained with both the elastic element and the rolling element, allowing the elastic element to push the rolling element to press against the sliding part via the gasket. The gasket can be fixed to the elastic element.

[0017] In conjunction with the first aspect, in another possible implementation, the gasket is provided with a first limiting through hole, into which a portion of the rolling element extends. This way, the relative position of the rolling element and the gasket can be fixed through the first limiting through hole, preventing the rolling element from moving radially during rolling. During rolling, the rolling element rubs against the edge or inner wall of the first limiting through hole, and the volume of the portion of the rolling element extending into the first limiting through hole remains constant. For example, when the rolling element is a spherical ball, the first limiting through hole is a circular hole, and the diameter of the first limiting through hole is smaller than the diameter of the rolling element; when the rolling element is a cylindrical roller, the first limiting through hole is a rectangular hole, and the width of the first limiting through hole is smaller than the diameter of the rolling element.

[0018] In conjunction with the first aspect, in another possible implementation, the elastic element is a spring sheet, which includes a base plate and an elastic arm. Two base plates are provided, and the elastic arm connects the two base plates. The elastic arm includes a first bend, a second bend, and a third bend. The third bend connects between the first and second bends, which are respectively connected to the two base plates. Along the thickness direction of the base plate, both the first and second bends curve upwards towards the side closer to the sliding part, while the third bend curves upwards away from the sliding part. The rolling element abuts against the third bend. In this way, the radius of curvature of the third bend can be designed to be equal to or similar to the radius of curvature of the rolling element, making the elastic force exerted on the rolling element by the elastic element more uniform after the rolling element abuts against the third bend. Furthermore, the third bend can also limit the movement of the rolling element, preventing it from moving radially during rolling.

[0019] In conjunction with the first aspect, in another possible implementation, when the groove is provided on the connecting block, the recess extends to the side of the connecting block away from the sliding part; when the groove is provided on the rocker arm, the recess extends to the side of the rocker arm away from the sliding part. In this way, during assembly, the sliding part of the rocker arm can be inserted into the groove on the connecting block first, and then the elastic support assembly can be installed into the recess from the side of the connecting block away from the sliding part, thus facilitating the assembly of the rotating shaft mechanism.

[0020] In conjunction with the first aspect, in another possible implementation, the elastic support component further includes an adjusting member connected to the side of the elastic element away from the rolling element. The adjusting member is fixedly assembled with the recessed portion, and the distance between the adjusting member and the sliding portion is adjustable. In this way, by adjusting the position of the adjusting member in the recessed portion, the distance between the adjusting member and the sliding portion can be changed, thereby altering the deformation of the elastic element. The change in the deformation of the elastic element also means a change in its elastic force. That is to say, by adjusting the distance between the adjusting member and the sliding portion, the tightness of the fit between the sliding portion and the groove can be changed, thus adjusting the feel of the foldable screen terminal when opening and closing.

[0021] It should be noted that the above-mentioned assembly and fixing can be achieved through snap-fit ​​(e.g., interference fit, or by providing mutually engaging snap-fit ​​parts and slots on the inner wall of the recess and the adjusting part respectively), threaded connection (e.g., by providing mutually engaging internal threads and external threads on the inner wall of the recess and the outer wall of the adjusting part respectively), and other fixing methods.

[0022] In conjunction with the first aspect, in another possible implementation, the adjusting member has a receiving cavity, and a second limiting through hole is provided on the inner wall of the receiving cavity near the sliding part. A part of the rolling member and the elastic member are disposed in the receiving cavity, and another part of the rolling member extends out from the second limiting through hole. In this way, through the above structural design of the adjusting member, the elastic support assembly can be used as a whole module. During assembly, the adjusting member is inserted into the recess from the side of the connecting block away from the sliding part, and the elastic member and the rolling member can be installed in place simultaneously, which greatly simplifies the assembly process. The second limiting through hole can prevent the rolling member from falling off the adjusting member.

[0023] In conjunction with the first aspect, in another possible implementation, the adjusting element is threadedly connected to the recess. The internal thread on the inner wall of the recess and the external thread on the outer wall of the adjusting element are easier to machine and form, and the threaded connection also facilitates the installation of the adjusting element. After installation, the elastic force of the elastic element can be adjusted by rotating the adjusting element.

[0024] In conjunction with the first aspect, in another possible implementation, the recess includes a mounting groove and a third limiting through hole. When the slide groove is located on the connecting block, the mounting groove is located on the side of the connecting block away from the sliding part. When the slide groove is located on the rocker arm, the mounting groove is located on the side of the rocker arm away from the sliding part. The third limiting through hole is located on the bottom surface of the mounting groove, and the mounting groove communicates with the slide groove through the third limiting through hole. The rolling element and the elastic element are located within the mounting groove, with the rolling element partially extending out of the third limiting through hole. This allows the mounting groove to accommodate a larger elastic element, providing stronger support for the rolling element. The third limiting through hole prevents the rolling element from dislodging from the recess. When the rolling element contacts the edge or inner wall of the third limiting through hole, it indicates that the rolling element is in its initial position, at which point the pressure exerted by the elastic support assembly on the sliding part is minimal.

[0025] In conjunction with the first aspect, in another possible implementation, the rotating shaft mechanism further includes a limiting plate, which is fitted against the second wall surface and covers the recess. The limiting plate has a fourth limiting through hole through which the rolling element extends. In this way, by placing the limiting plate on the second wall surface of the slide groove, not only can the rolling element be prevented from dislodging from the recess, but the limiting plate can also reduce the gap between the second wall surface and the sliding part to a certain extent. Even if the connecting block or the swing arm is subjected to a large external force, causing a large deformation of the elastic element, it can prevent large-amplitude wobbling between the swing arm and the connecting block.

[0026] Secondly, this application provides a foldable screen terminal, which includes a foldable screen, a mid-frame, and the hinge mechanism provided in the first aspect above, wherein the mid-frame is fixedly connected to the connecting block of the hinge mechanism, and the foldable screen is supported on the mid-frame and the hinge mechanism.

[0027] Understandably, the beneficial effects that the foldable screen terminal described in the second aspect above can be referenced to the beneficial effects in the first aspect and any of its possible implementations, and will not be repeated here.

[0028] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, two swing arms are provided, located on either side of the central beam, and both swing arms can rotate in opposite directions relative to the central beam. Two connecting blocks are also provided, located on either side of the central beam and connected to the respective swing arms. Two middle frames are provided, located on either side of the central beam and connected to the respective connecting blocks. In this way, the opposite rotation of the two swing arms drives the opposite rotation of the two middle frames, thereby enabling the foldable screen terminal to unfold or fold. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Figure 1 This application provides a structural diagram of a foldable screen terminal according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0030] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A front view of a foldable screen terminal in its unfolded state;

[0031] Figure 3 for Figure 1 A front view of a foldable screen terminal in its folded state;

[0032] Figure 4 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a foldable screen terminal in a semi-folded state;

[0033] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figure 6 for Figure 5 Exploded view of the rotating shaft mechanism in the diagram;

[0035] Figure 7 for Figure 5 Schematic diagram of the cross section at point AA;

[0036] Figure 8 for Figure 5 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism in the folded state;

[0037] Figure 9 for Figure 7 A partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism in the diagram;

[0038] Figure 10 for Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the first swing arm after rotation;

[0039] Figure 11A partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of a rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 12 An exploded view of a rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 13 for Figure 12 A schematic diagram of a partial cross-section of the central shaft mechanism;

[0042] Figure 14 A partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of another rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0043] Figure 15 A partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of another rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0044] Figure 16 for Figure 15 A magnified view of a section at point B in the middle;

[0045] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an elastic element provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 18 A partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of another rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 19 A partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of another rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 20 A partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of another rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 21 A partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of another rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 22 A partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of another rotating shaft mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0051] Figure 23 for Figure 22 A schematic diagram of the elastic support component in the diagram;

[0052] Figure 24 This is a structural schematic diagram of an elastic support component provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0053] Figure label:

[0054] 01. Foldable screen terminal; 10. Foldable screen; 11. First display area; 12. Second display area; 13. Third display area; 20. Housing assembly; 21. Rotating shaft mechanism; 211. Central beam; 212. Swing arm; 212a. First swing arm; 212b. Second swing arm; 210a. Sliding part; 210b. Slide groove; 2101. First wall surface; 2102. Second wall surface; 213. Connecting block; 213a. First connecting block; 213b. Second connecting block; 214. Elastic support assembly; 2141. Elastic element; 2141A. Spring piece; 21411. Base plate; 21412. Elastic arm; 2141a. First bending part; 214 1b. Second bend; 2141c. Third bend; 2142. Rolling element; 2140. Opening; 2143. Limiting shaft; 2144. Limiting plate; 2145. Adjusting element; 2145a. Columnar part; 2145b. Conical part; 21450. Tool groove; 2146. Shim; 22. Middle frame; 22a. First middle frame; 22b. Second middle frame; 210. First mating surface; 220. Second mating surface; 230. Third mating surface; 100. Recessed part; 101. Mounting groove; 102. Third limiting through hole; 200. First limiting through hole; 300. Receiving cavity; 400. Second limiting through hole; 500. Fourth limiting through hole. Detailed Implementation

[0055] To make the purpose, technical solution, and advantages of this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0056] In the description of this application, it should be clarified that the terms "vertical," "lateral," "longitudinal," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "up," "down," and "horizontal," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationships, are based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings and are merely for the convenience of describing this application, and do not mean that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation or position, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application. Similarly, the term "quantity" should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0057] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integral connections; they can refer to mechanical connections or electrical connections; they can refer to direct connections or indirect connections through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0058] This application provides a foldable screen terminal, which can be an electronic device with a foldable screen, such as a foldable screen mobile phone. The foldable screen mobile phone can be a mobile phone with an outward-folding display screen or a mobile phone with an inward-folding display screen. The following description uses a mobile phone with an inward-folding display screen as an example of a foldable screen terminal.

[0059] Specifically, please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of a foldable screen terminal 01 provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 for Figure 1 The above-mentioned foldable screen terminal 01 is a front view (along the positive Y-axis) in the unfolded state. The foldable screen terminal 01 may include a foldable screen 10 and a housing assembly 20. The foldable screen 10 is supported and attached to the housing assembly 20, and the housing assembly 20 can drive the foldable screen 10 to rotate between the unfolded state and the folded state.

[0060] Understandable, Figure 1 and Figure 2 The diagram only schematically shows some of the components included in the foldable screen terminal 01. The actual shape, size, position, and structure of the components are not limited by the structure shown in the diagram.

[0061] For the sake of clarity in the following embodiments, an XYZ coordinate system is established. When the foldable screen terminal 01 is in the unfolded state, the width direction of the foldable screen terminal 01 is defined as the X-axis direction, the length direction of the foldable screen terminal 01 as the Y-axis direction, and the thickness direction of the foldable screen terminal 01 as the Z-axis direction. It should be noted that the coordinate system of the foldable screen terminal 01 can be flexibly set according to actual needs. This application only provides an example and should not be considered as constituting a special limitation on this application.

[0062] The aforementioned foldable screen 10 may include a first display area 11, a second display area 12, and a third display area 13, with the third display area 13 disposed between the first display area 11 and the second display area 12. When the foldable screen terminal 01 is in a folded state, the third display area 13 of the foldable screen 10 is bent, and the first display area 11 and the second display area 12 are positioned opposite each other. At least the third display area 13 of the foldable screen 10 may be made of a flexible material, and the first display area 11 and the second display area 12 of the foldable screen 10 may be made of a flexible material, a rigid material, or a combination of both. Therefore, this application does not impose any special limitations on this.

[0063] Among them, the aforementioned foldable screen 10 can be an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, an active-matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) display, a mini light-emitting diode display, a micro light-emitting diode display, a micro organic light-emitting diode display, a quantum dot light-emitting diode (QLED) display, a liquid crystal display (LCD), etc.

[0064] The aforementioned housing assembly 20 is used to protect the internal components 30 of the foldable screen terminal 01. The housing assembly 20 may include a hinge mechanism 21 and a middle frame 22. There are two middle frames 22, namely a first middle frame 22a and a second middle frame 22b, and the hinge mechanism 21 connects the first middle frame 22a and the second middle frame 22b.

[0065] The first mid-frame 22a has a first bonding surface 210, on which the first display area 11 of the foldable screen 10 is supported and bonded. The second mid-frame 22b has a second bonding surface 220, on which the second display area 12 of the foldable screen 10 is supported and bonded. The pivot mechanism 21 has a third bonding surface 230, on which the third display area 13 of the foldable screen 10 is supported and bonded. The first mid-frame 22a and the second mid-frame 22b are rotatably connected by the pivot mechanism 21, so that the foldable screen terminal 01 can rotate and switch between the unfolded state and the folded state.

[0066] With the foldable screen terminal 01 in its unfolded state, please continue to refer to... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, Figure 1 and Figure 2The foldable screen terminal 01 is in an unfolded state. The first bonding surface 210, the second bonding surface 220, and the third bonding surface 230 are on the same plane, allowing the foldable screen 10 to be fully unfolded. That is, the first display area 11, the second display area 12, and the third display area 13 of the foldable screen 10 are nearly on the same plane. At this time, the angle between the first display area 11 and the second display area 12 is the first angle, which can be 180°. The angle illustrated in this application is allowed to have slight deviations. For example, the first angle can be 180°, or it can be close to 180°, such as 170°, 175°, 185°, or 190°, etc. Other angles can be understood in the same way later. In this state, the foldable screen terminal 01 can achieve a large-screen display, providing a better user experience.

[0067] When the aforementioned foldable screen terminal 01 is in a folded state, please refer to Figure 3 As shown, Figure 3 for Figure 1 The image shows a front view (along the positive Y-axis) of the foldable screen terminal 01 in its folded state. The first display area 11 and the second display area 12 of the foldable screen 10 are opposite each other, and the third display area 13 is bent. The housing assembly 20 protects the foldable screen 10, meaning the foldable screen 10 is positioned between the first middle frame 22a and the second middle frame 22b of the housing assembly 20. The first middle frame 22a and the second middle frame 22b can be completely folded to a substantially parallel and stacked state. In this state, the angle between the first display area 11 and the second display area 12 is a second angle, which can be 0°. The angle illustrated in this application allows for slight deviations. For example, the second angle can be 0° or close to 0°, such as -3°, 2°, or 5°. In this state, the foldable screen 10 is invisible to the user to prevent scratches or damage, thus providing effective protection for the foldable screen 10. For example, when not using the phone, the terminal can be folded to avoid screen damage.

[0068] When the foldable screen terminal 01 is in a semi-folded state, please refer to Figure 4 As shown, Figure 4 for Figure 1 The diagram shows the foldable screen terminal 01 in a semi-folded state. The angle between the first display area 11 and the second display area 12 is the third angle, which can be any angle value between the first angle and the second angle.

[0069] It should be noted that this application uses the foldable screen terminal 01 as an example of a two-fold screen device with one hinge mechanism 21. Of course, in other embodiments, the foldable screen terminal 01 can also be a three-fold screen device with two hinge mechanisms 21, a four-fold screen device with three hinge mechanisms 21, etc. This application does not make specific limitations in this regard.

[0070] The rotating shaft mechanism 21 will be described in detail below.

[0071] Please see Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a rotating shaft mechanism 21 provided in an embodiment of this application (the rotating shaft mechanism is in the unfolded state). Figure 6 for Figure 5 Exploded view of the rotating shaft mechanism 21 in the middle. Figure 7 for Figure 5 A cross-sectional view at point AA. The rotating shaft mechanism 21 may include a central beam 211, a swing arm 212, and a connecting block 213.

[0072] It should be noted that, Figure 6 and Figure 7 The diagram only schematically illustrates some of the components included in the rotating shaft mechanism 21. The actual shape, size, position, and construction of these components are not subject to change. Figure 6 and Figure 7 The limitations. Additionally... Figure 6 coordinate system and Figure 1 The coordinate systems in the text are represented by the same coordinate system. That is, Figure 6 The various components within the central pivot mechanism 21 are in Figure 1 The orientation relationship in the coordinate system shown is related to the orientation relationship when the rotating shaft mechanism 21 is applied to... Figure 1 When the foldable screen terminal 01 shown is inside, its internal components are... Figure 6 The orientation relationships are the same in the coordinate system shown.

[0073] The central beam 211 can be a single structural component or assembled from multiple parts. The material of the central beam 211 can be plastic, metal, or a combination of both; this application does not impose specific limitations in this regard. The central beam 211 is elongated. Therefore, for ease of description below, the thickness direction of the central beam 211 is the same as the thickness direction of the aforementioned foldable screen terminal 01 (i.e., the Z-axis direction), the length direction of the central beam 211 is the same as the length direction of the foldable screen terminal 01 (i.e., the Y-axis direction), and the width direction of the central beam 211 is the same as the width direction of the foldable screen terminal 01 (i.e., the X-axis direction).

[0074] The swing arm 212 is rotatably connected to the center beam 211, and the rotation axis of the swing arm 212 is parallel to the Y-axis. The connecting block 213 and the swing arm 212 are slidably connected through the cooperation of the sliding part 210a and the sliding groove 210b, that is, the sliding part 210a extends into the sliding groove 210b.

[0075] It is understood that the aforementioned slide groove 210b can be a straight slide groove or a circular arc slide groove, and this application does not make any special limitation on it. When the slide groove 210b is a circular arc slide groove, while the sliding part 210a slides in the slide groove 210b, the relative rotation between the swing arm 212 and the connecting block 213 is also realized, which can be regarded as the swing arm 212 and the connecting block 213 being connected through a virtual rotating shaft.

[0076] The sliding part 210a can be provided on the swing arm 212, and correspondingly, the sliding groove 210b is provided on the connecting block 213. Alternatively, the sliding part 210a can be provided on the connecting block 213, and correspondingly, the sliding groove 210b is provided on the swing arm 212. As long as relative sliding between the swing arm 212 and the connecting block 213 can be achieved, this application does not impose any special limitations on this.

[0077] The aforementioned swing arm 212 can be either a main swing arm or a secondary swing arm; this application does not impose any special limitations on this.

[0078] For ease of understanding, the following embodiments will be described with the swing arm 212 as the secondary swing arm, and the sliding part 210a provided on the swing arm 212 and the sliding groove 210b provided on the connecting block 213.

[0079] Please see the figure and continue reading. Figures 5 to 7 As shown, there are two swing arms 212, namely a first swing arm 212a and a second swing arm 212b. The first swing arm 212a and the second swing arm 212b are located on both sides of the middle beam 211 along its own length direction (parallel to the Y-axis direction), and the rotation direction of the first swing arm 212a is opposite to the rotation direction of the second swing arm 212b.

[0080] The first swing arm 212a and the second swing arm 212b are rotatably connected to the middle beam 211 using an arc-shaped groove and an arc-shaped slider, allowing either the first swing arm 212a or the second swing arm 212b to rotate relative to the middle beam 211 along the arc-shaped groove. Alternatively, the first swing arm 212a or the second swing arm 212b can also be rotatably connected to the middle beam 211 via a rotating shaft and a shaft hole. The rotating shaft can be a separate component formed from the swing arm 212 and the middle beam 211, with rotating shaft holes on both the swing arm 212 and the middle beam 211, allowing the rotating shaft to pass through these holes and achieve the rotatable connection between the swing arm 212 and the middle beam 211.

[0081] The pivot can also be an integral structure formed with the swing arm 212, with a pivot hole on the center beam 211, and the pivot rotatably engages with the pivot hole on the center beam 211. Similarly, the pivot can also be an integral structure formed with the center beam 211, with a pivot hole on the swing arm 212, and the pivot rotatably engages with the pivot hole on the swing arm 212.

[0082] In addition, the first swing arm 212a and the second swing arm 212b can also be meshed by a gear set so that the first swing arm 212a and the second swing arm 212b can rotate synchronously and in opposite directions, that is, the first middle frame 22a and the second middle frame 22b can also rotate synchronously in opposite directions, so that the foldable screen terminal 01 can rotate and switch between the unfolded state and the folded state.

[0083] Two connecting blocks 213 are provided, namely a first connecting block 213a and a second connecting block 213b. The first connecting block 213a and the second connecting block 213b are located on both sides of the middle beam 211 along its own length direction (parallel to the Y-axis direction). The first connecting block 213a is slidably connected to the first swing arm 212a, and the second connecting block 213b is slidably connected to the second swing arm 212b. The first middle frame 22a is fixedly connected to the first connecting block 213a, and the second middle frame 22b is fixedly connected to the second connecting block 213b.

[0084] It is understood that the number of swing arms 212 and connecting blocks 213 can be greater. That is, multiple first swing arms 212a can be provided, spaced apart along the length of the middle beam 211. Correspondingly, multiple first connecting blocks 213a are also provided, with each first connecting block 213a corresponding to and connected to one of the first swing arms 212a. All first connecting blocks 213a are fixedly connected to the first middle frame 22a. Similarly, multiple second swing arms 212b can be provided, spaced apart along the length of the middle beam 211. Correspondingly, multiple second connecting blocks 213b are also provided, with each second connecting block 213b corresponding to and connected to one of the second swing arms 212b. All second connecting blocks 213b are fixedly connected to the second middle frame 22b. It should be noted that in the figures of this application, each of the first swing arm 212a, second swing arm 212b, first connecting block 213a, and second connecting block 213b is represented as a single unit, which does not constitute a specific limitation on this application.

[0085] Please continue reading Figure 7 and combined Figure 8 As shown, Figure 8 for Figure 5The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the rotating shaft mechanism 21 in its folded state. When the rotating shaft mechanism 21 transitions from its unfolded state to its folded state, the first connecting block 213a and the second connecting block 213b located on both sides of the central beam 211 rotate relative to each other. The first connecting block 213a drives the first swing arm 212a to rotate relative to the central beam 211, and the second connecting block 213b drives the second swing arm 212b to rotate relative to the central beam 211, causing the first swing arms 212a and the second swing arm 212b located on both sides of the central beam 211 to also rotate relative to each other. Simultaneously, the sliding part 210a on the first swing arm 212a slides within the groove 210b on the first connecting block 213a, meaning that the first connecting block 213a and the first swing arm 212a move relative to each other. The first connecting block 213a moves approximately away from the central beam 211 and away from the first swing arm 212a, which can be considered as an extension of the length of the assembly formed by the first connecting block 213a and the first swing arm 212a. Similarly, the sliding part 210a on the second swing arm 212b slides in the groove 210b on the second connecting block 213b, that is, the second connecting block 213b and the second swing arm 212b move relative to each other. The second connecting block 213b moves approximately away from the center beam 211 and away from the second swing arm 212b, which can be regarded as the length of the assembly formed by the second connecting block 213b and the second swing arm 212b elongating.

[0086] When the rotating shaft mechanism 21 transitions from a folded state to an unfolded state, the first connecting block 213a and the second connecting block 213b located on both sides of the central beam 211 rotate away from each other. The first connecting block 213a drives the first swing arm 212a to rotate relative to the central beam 211, and the second connecting block 213b drives the second swing arm 212b to rotate relative to the central beam 211, causing the first swing arm 212a and the second swing arm 212b located on both sides of the central beam 211 to also rotate away from each other. At the same time, the sliding part 210a on the first swing arm 212a slides within the groove 210b on the first connecting block 213a, that is, the first connecting block 213a and the first swing arm 212a move relative to each other. The first connecting block 213a moves approximately toward the central beam 211 and closer to the first swing arm 212a, which can be regarded as the shortening of the length of the assembly formed by the first connecting block 213a and the first swing arm 212a. Similarly, the sliding part 210a on the second swing arm 212b slides in the groove 210b on the second connecting block 213b, that is, the second connecting block 213b moves relative to the second swing arm 212b, and the second connecting block 213b moves approximately toward the middle beam 211 and close to the second swing arm 212b, which can be regarded as the shortening of the length of the assembly formed by the second connecting block 213b and the second swing arm 212b.

[0087] For ease of understanding and description, the following description will be based on the relative positional relationship between the first connecting block 213a and the first swing arm 212a.

[0088] To achieve relative sliding, the sliding part 210a on the first swing arm 212a and the sliding groove 210b on the first connecting block 213a are fitted with a clearance. However, the presence of the clearance can cause them to wobble during relative sliding. For example, please refer to... Figure 9 As shown, Figure 9 for Figure 7 A partial cross-sectional view of the rotating shaft mechanism 21 (parallel to the XZ plane) is shown. In the extended state, the rotating shaft mechanism 21 has a first wall surface 2101 and a second wall surface 2102 distributed along the Z-axis direction, with the first wall surface 2101 and the second wall surface 2102 facing each other. At this time, gaps exist between the upper surface of the sliding part 210a and the first wall surface 2101, and between the lower surface of the sliding part 210a and the second wall surface 2102. When the first swing arm 212a rotates clockwise, please refer to... Figure 10 As shown, Figure 10 for Figure 9 The diagram shows the first swing arm 212a after rotation. The dotted line represents the initial position of the first connecting block 213a and the first swing arm 212a. After rotating clockwise by a certain angle, the first connecting block 213a moves away from the center beam 211 and away from the first swing arm 212a. During this process, the first swing arm 212a may wobble in the slide groove 210b, causing the sliding part 210a to contact the first wall surface 2101 and the second wall surface 2102, resulting in a relatively loose opening and closing feel.

[0089] For the reasons mentioned above, please refer to Figure 11 As shown, Figure 11 This is a partial cross-sectional view (parallel to the XZ plane) of a rotating shaft mechanism 21 provided in an embodiment of this application. In order to compensate for the gap between the sliding part 210a and the inner wall of the groove 210b, a spring piece 2141A is provided between the sliding part 210a and the inner wall of the groove 210b.

[0090] The spring piece 2141A can be fixed to the sliding part 210a or to the inner wall of the slide groove 210b. One spring piece 2141A can be provided, or multiple spring pieces 2141A can be provided. All spring pieces 2141A can be located on one side of the sliding part 210a, or multiple spring pieces 2141A can be arranged at intervals around the sliding part 210a.

[0091] When the spring piece 2141A is completely located on one side of the sliding part 210a, it means that the other side of the sliding part 210a is in contact with the inner wall of the groove 210b. This arrangement can not only compensate for the gap between the sliding part 210a and the inner wall of the groove 210b, but also ensure the stability of the two when sliding relative to each other (i.e., the side of the sliding part 210a away from the spring piece 2141A slides tightly against the inner wall of the groove 210b), reducing the risk of relative shaking.

[0092] The embodiments in this application are described with the spring piece 2141A fixed to the inner wall of the slide groove 210b.

[0093] For example, Figure 11 The rotating shaft mechanism 21 in the above is equivalent to the rotating shaft mechanism 21 in the above Figure 9 Based on the rotating shaft mechanism 21, a spring piece 2141A is added. The spring piece 2141A is fixed on the second wall surface 2102 of the slide groove 210b, and the spring piece 2141A arches towards the side closer to the sliding part 210a and abuts against the sliding part 210a. In this way, the spring piece 2141A separates the sliding part 210a from the second wall surface 2102 of the slide groove 210b. The elasticity of the spring piece 2141A keeps the sliding part 210a in contact with the first wall surface 2101 of the slide groove 210b, thereby preventing the sliding part 210a from shaking and contacting the second wall surface 2102.

[0094] However, since the spring piece 2141A directly abuts against the sliding part 210a, sliding friction occurs between the spring piece 2141A and the sliding part 210a during the relative sliding process of the swing arm 212 and the connecting block 213. The frictional resistance of the sliding friction is relatively large, which leads to a heavier feel when the foldable screen terminal 01 is opened and closed, and even causes it to jam. Moreover, after long-term use, the spring piece 2141A will also experience serious wear, that is, the thickness of its contact position with the sliding part 210a will become thinner, resulting in a decrease in its elasticity or even breakage and failure.

[0095] To address the aforementioned problems, this application provides another rotating shaft mechanism 21. Please refer to... Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, Figure 12 This is an exploded view of the structure of a rotating shaft mechanism 21 provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 13 for Figure 12 A partial structural cross-sectional diagram of the central shaft mechanism 21 (parallel to the XZ plane).

[0096] The rotating shaft mechanism 21 may include an elastic support assembly 214, the aforementioned central beam 211, the aforementioned swing arm 212, and the aforementioned connecting block 213. The number of swing arms 212 and the connection relationship of the connecting blocks 213 are as described above and will not be repeated here. The elastic support assembly 214 is located between the connecting block 213 and the swing arm 212.

[0097] Specifically, the elastic support assembly 214 may include an elastic element 2141 and a rolling element 2142. The elastic element 2141 is disposed on the inner wall of the slide groove 210b, and the rolling element 2142 abuts against the elastic element 2141 and the sliding part 210a. The rolling element 2142 can roll in the direction of relative sliding of the swing arm 212 and the connecting block 213.

[0098] It is understandable that the rolling element 2142 can roll in the direction of relative sliding of the rocker arm 212 and the connecting block 213, which means that when the rocker arm 212 and the connecting block 213 slide relative to each other, the rolling element 2142 is equivalent to rolling on the sliding part 210a in the extension direction of the sliding part 210a.

[0099] The aforementioned rolling element 2142 can be a cylindrical roller, tapered roller, or other rolling element with a single axis of rotation. In this case, the rolling element 2142 and the sliding portion 210a are in line contact. Alternatively, the aforementioned rolling element 2142 can be a spherical ball, elliptical roller, or the like. In this case, the rolling element 2142 and the sliding portion 210a are in point contact.

[0100] The aforementioned elastic element 2141 can be a sheet spring, a coil spring, or the like, as long as it can provide sufficient elastic force to support the rolling element 2142 and the sliding part 210a. This application does not impose any special limitations on this.

[0101] The elastic element 2141 can be fixed to the connecting block 213 by welding, bonding, snap-fitting, or other methods.

[0102] For example, in Figure 13 In this design, the rolling element 2142 is a cylindrical roller, and the elastic element 2141 is a spring sheet. The spring sheet is fixed to the second wall surface 2102 of the slide groove 210b. The rolling element 2142 abuts against the side of the sliding part 210a closest to the second wall surface 2102. At this time, there is a line contact between the rolling element 2142 and the sliding part 210a, and the side of the sliding part 210a away from the second wall surface 2102 is in contact with the first wall surface 2101. The cooperation between the elastic element 2141 and the rolling element 2142 can eliminate the gap between the sliding part 210a and the second wall surface 2102. When the sliding part 210a slides in the slide groove 210b, the rolling element 2142 is used to... Figure 11 The sliding friction between the sliding part 210a and the elastic element 2141 is changed to rolling friction, which greatly reduces the frictional resistance and significantly improves the feel when the foldable screen terminal 01 is opened and closed. The rolling element 2142 also avoids wear caused by direct contact friction between the elastic element 2141 and the swing arm 212, which helps to extend the service life of the elastic element 2141 and reduce the risk of failure of the elastic element 2141.

[0103] In addition, under the action of the elastic force of the elastic element 2141, the sliding part 210a always remains attached to the first wall surface 2101 of the slide groove 210b when sliding in the slide groove 210b. That is to say, it is equivalent to changing a part of the surface contact between the swing arm 212 and the connecting block 213 to line contact, while the other part remains in surface contact. In this way, while reducing the frictional resistance when the swing arm 212 and the connecting block 213 slide relative to each other, it can also ensure the stability of the relative sliding of the two and reduce the risk of relative swaying.

[0104] For example, please see Figure 14 As shown, Figure 14 This is a partial cross-sectional view (parallel to the XZ plane) of another rotating shaft mechanism 21 provided in this application embodiment. The rolling element 2142 is a spherical ball, and the elastic element 2141 is a spring sheet. The rolling element 2142 abuts against one side of the sliding part 210a, at which point contact exists between the rolling element 2142 and the sliding part 210a. When the sliding part 210a slides in the groove 210b, the rolling friction resistance of the point contact is relatively lower than that described above. Figure 13 The rolling friction resistance at the center line contact is smaller, which can further improve the feel of the foldable screen terminal 01 when opening and closing.

[0105] In some embodiments, see Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, Figure 15 A partial cross-sectional view (parallel to the XZ plane) of another rotating shaft mechanism 21 provided in this application embodiment. Figure 16 for Figure 15 A partial enlarged view of point B. A recess 100 may be provided on the second wall surface 2102 of the slide groove 210b, and the elastic support component 214 is partially located in the recess 100.

[0106] It is understood that the elastic support assembly 214 being partially located within the recess 100 means that the elastic element 2141 in the elastic support assembly 214 can be partially located within the recess 100, with the other part of the elastic element 2141 extending out of the recess 100, and correspondingly, the rolling element 2142 is entirely located outside the recess 100. Alternatively, the elastic element 2141 can be entirely located within the recess 100, with a portion of the rolling element 2142 located within the recess 100, and the other part of the rolling element 2142 extending out of the recess 100 and abutting against the sliding part 210a.

[0107] In this way, the above structure is equivalent to embedding a portion of the elastic support component 214 into the inner wall of the slide groove 210b, which can reduce the size of the slide groove 210b on the Z-axis for accommodating the sliding part 210a and the elastic support component 214, thereby reducing the size of the connecting block 213, which is beneficial to the thinning of the foldable screen terminal 01.

[0108] In addition, the above structure can reduce the gap between the second wall surface 2102 of the slide groove 210b and the sliding part 210a. Even if the connecting block 213 or the swing arm 212 is subjected to a large external force, causing the elastic element 2141 to deform significantly, it can prevent a large amount of shaking between the swing arm 212 and the connecting block 213.

[0109] In some embodiments, to prevent the rolling element 2142 from disengaging from the elastic element 2141, please refer to... Figure 16 As shown, the rolling element 2142 may be provided with an opening 2140, which extends through the rolling element 2142 along the rotation axis direction of the rocker arm 212 (parallel to the Y-axis direction). Correspondingly, a limiting shaft 2143 is fixed on the inner wall of the recess 100, and the limiting shaft 2143 passes through the opening 2140.

[0110] During the assembly of the swing arm 212 and the connecting block 213, the elastic element 2141 is gradually compressed as the sliding part 210a is inserted into the groove 210b. The distance between the rolling element 2142 and the first wall surface 2101 of the groove 210b gradually increases. That is, the rolling element 2142 needs a certain space to float up and down in the direction perpendicular to the first wall surface 2101 or the second wall surface 2102. Therefore, the diameter of the limiting shaft 2143 needs to be smaller than the diameter of the opening 2140.

[0111] In this way, the rolling element 2142 can be restricted to a certain range by the limiting shaft 2143, so as to prevent the rolling element 2142 from detaching from the elastic element 2141.

[0112] Specifically, the diameter difference between the limiting shaft 2143 and the opening 2140 is greater than or equal to 0.1 mm to ensure that the rolling element 2142 has sufficient floating space to compensate for the gap. For example, the diameter difference between the limiting shaft 2143 and the opening 2140 can be 0.1 mm, 0.15 mm, 0.2 mm, 0.3 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.65 mm, 1 mm, 1.2 mm, 1.25 mm, etc.

[0113] Furthermore, in order to prevent the rolling element 2142 from moving back and forth along the extension direction of the groove 210b on the elastic element 2141 during the rolling process, a corresponding limiting structure can be designed on the elastic element 2141.

[0114] Please continue reading Figure 15 and Figure 16 and combined Figure 17 As shown, Figure 17This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an elastic element 2141 provided in an embodiment of this application. The elastic element 2141 is a spring sheet, which may include a base plate 21411 and an elastic arm 21412. Two base plates 21411 are provided, and the elastic arm 21412 is connected between the two base plates 21411. The elastic arm 21412 may include a first bending portion 2141a, a second bending portion 2141b, and a third bending portion 2141c. The third bending portion 2141c is connected between the first bending portion 2141a and the second bending portion 2141b, and the first bending portion 2141a and the second bending portion 2141b are respectively connected to the two base plates 21411. Along the Z-axis, the first bend 2141a and the second bend 2141b both bend and arch towards the side closer to the sliding part 210a, and the third bend 2141c bends and arches away from the sliding part 210a. The rolling element 2142 abuts against the third bend 2141c.

[0115] In practical applications, the radius of curvature of the third bend 2141c can be designed to be equal to or similar to the radius of curvature of the rolling element 2142. This allows the third bend 2141c to limit the rolling element 2142 after it comes into contact with it, preventing it from reciprocating on the elastic element 2141 during rolling. Furthermore, the third bend 2141c also ensures that the elastic force exerted on the rolling element 2142 by the elastic element 2141 is more uniform.

[0116] Based on the above, for ease of assembly of the rotating shaft mechanism 21, please refer to... Figure 18 As shown, Figure 18 This is a partial cross-sectional view (parallel to the XZ plane) of another rotating shaft mechanism 21 provided in an embodiment of this application. The recessed portion 100 can extend to the side of the connecting block 213 away from the sliding portion 210a.

[0117] In this way, during assembly, the sliding part 210a of the swing arm 212 can be inserted into the groove 210b on the connecting block 213 first, and then the rolling element 2142 and the elastic element 2141 can be installed into the recess 100 in sequence from the side of the connecting block 213 away from the sliding part 210a, which makes it easier to assemble the elastic support assembly 214 into place.

[0118] Please see Figure 19 As shown, Figure 19This is a partial cross-sectional view (parallel to the XZ plane) of another rotating shaft mechanism 21 provided in an embodiment of this application. The recessed portion 100 includes a mounting groove 101 and a third limiting through hole 102. The mounting groove 101 is located on the side of the connecting block 213 away from the sliding portion 210a. The third limiting through hole 102 is located on the bottom surface of the mounting groove 101, and the mounting groove 101 communicates with the sliding groove 210b through the third limiting through hole 102. A portion of the rolling element 2142 and the elastic element 2141 are disposed within the mounting groove 101, and another portion of the rolling element 2142 extends out from the third limiting through hole 102.

[0119] In this way, the mounting groove 101 facilitates the installation of a larger elastic element 2141 to provide stronger elasticity for the rolling element 2142. The third limiting through hole 102 can prevent the rolling element 2142 from falling out of the recess 100.

[0120] Understandably, when the rolling element 2142 is a spherical ball, the third limiting through hole 102 is a circular hole, and the diameter of the third limiting through hole 102 is smaller than the diameter of the rolling element 2142. When the rolling element 2142 is a cylindrical roller, the third limiting through hole 102 is a rectangular hole, and the width of the third limiting through hole 102 is smaller than the diameter of the rolling element 2142.

[0121] When the rolling element 2142 contacts the edge or inner wall of the third limiting through hole 102, it indicates that the rolling element 2142 is in the initial position (i.e., the sliding part 210a has not yet contacted the rolling element 2142). At this time, the deformation of the elastic element 2141 is minimal, that is, the elastic force of the elastic element 2141 is minimal.

[0122] The above Figure 19 The rotating shaft mechanism 21 prevents the rolling element 2142 from dislodging from the recess 100 by means of a structural design of the recess 100 on the side near the sliding part 210a. In addition, other limiting elements can be additionally provided in the slide groove 210b to prevent the rolling element 2142 from dislodging from the recess 100.

[0123] Please see Figure 20 As shown, Figure 20 This is a partial cross-sectional view (parallel to the XZ plane) of another rotating shaft mechanism 21 provided in this application embodiment. The rotating shaft mechanism 21 may further include a limiting plate 2144, which is attached to the second wall surface 2102 and covers the recessed portion 100. The limiting plate 2144 is provided with a fourth limiting through hole 500, and a portion of the rolling element 2142 extends out from the fourth limiting through hole 500.

[0124] Understandably, when the rolling element 2142 is a spherical ball, the fourth limiting through hole 500 is a circular hole, and the diameter of the fourth limiting through hole 500 is smaller than the diameter of the rolling element 2142. When the rolling element 2142 is a cylindrical roller, the fourth limiting through hole 500 is a rectangular hole, and the width of the fourth limiting through hole 500 is smaller than the diameter of the rolling element 2142.

[0125] In this way, by setting the limiting plate 2144 on the second wall surface 2102 of the slide groove 210b, not only can the rolling element 2142 be prevented from falling out of the recess 100, but the limiting plate 2144 can also reduce the gap between the second wall surface 2102 and the sliding part 210a to a certain extent. Even if the connecting block 213 or the swing arm 212 is subjected to a large external force, causing the elastic element 2141 to deform significantly (for example, the part of the rolling element 2142 that extends out of the fourth limiting hole is squeezed back into the fourth limiting hole by the sliding part 210a), large-amplitude shaking between the swing arm 212 and the connecting block 213 can be avoided.

[0126] Based on the above, in order to adjust the opening and closing feel of the foldable screen terminal 01, please refer to... Figure 21 As shown, Figure 21 This is a partial cross-sectional view (parallel to the XZ plane) of another rotating shaft mechanism 21 provided in this application embodiment. The aforementioned elastic support assembly 214 may further include an adjusting member 2145, which is connected to the side of the elastic member 2141 away from the rolling member 2142. The adjusting member 2145 is assembled and fixed to the recessed portion 100, and the distance between the adjusting member 2145 and the sliding portion 210a is adjustable.

[0127] It should be noted that the above-mentioned assembly and fixing can be an interference fit. During assembly, the adjusting member 2145 is pressed into the recessed part 100. By controlling the depth of the adjusting member 2145 being pressed in, the distance between it and the sliding part 210a can be adjusted.

[0128] Alternatively, the above-mentioned assembly and fixing can be a snap-fit, for example, multiple slots are provided on the inner wall of the recess 100, and the multiple slots are arranged at intervals along the extension direction of the recess 100. The adjusting member 2145 is provided with a snap-fit ​​part that cooperates with the slot. By snapping the snap-fit ​​part into different slots, the distance between the adjusting member 2145 and the sliding part 210a can be changed.

[0129] Alternatively, the above-mentioned assembly and fixing can also be achieved through threaded connections. For example, internal threads can be provided on the inner wall of the recess 100, and external threads that mate with the internal threads can be provided on the outer wall of the adjusting member 2145. The internal threads on the inner wall of the recess 100 and the external threads on the outer wall of the adjusting member 2145 are easier to machine and form, and the threaded connection also facilitates the installation of the adjusting member 2145. After installation, the distance between the adjusting member 2145 and the sliding part 210a can be adjusted by rotating the adjusting member 2145.

[0130] In summary, by adjusting the position of the adjusting member 2145 in the recess 100, the distance between the adjusting member 2145 and the sliding part 210a can be changed, thereby changing the deformation of the elastic member 2141. The change in the deformation of the elastic member 2141 also means a change in the magnitude of its elastic force. For example, Figure 21 In the middle, the adjusting member 2145 and the recessed part 100 are threadedly engaged, and the elastic member 2141 is a helical spring. When the adjusting member 2145 is further tightened to bring it closer to the sliding part 210a, the helical spring is compressed and the elastic force increases, so that the rolling member 2142 further presses the sliding part 210a.

[0131] In other words, by adjusting the distance between the adjusting member 2145 and the sliding part 210a, the magnitude of the pressure applied by the elastic support component 214 to the sliding part 210a can be changed, thereby changing the tightness of the fit between the sliding part 210a and the slide groove 210b, which plays the role of adjusting the opening and closing feel of the folding screen terminal 01.

[0132] Furthermore, to simplify the assembly process of the rotating shaft mechanism 21, the elastic support assembly 214 can be modularly designed. Please refer to [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 22 and Figure 23 As shown, Figure 22 A partial cross-sectional view (parallel to the XZ plane) of another rotating shaft mechanism 21 provided in this application embodiment. Figure 23 for Figure 22 A schematic diagram of the structure of the elastic support component 214.

[0133] The adjusting component can be used as the main structure of the entire elastic support component 214, and other components in the elastic support component 214 can be set on the adjusting component 2145.

[0134] Specifically, the adjusting member 2145 is provided with a receiving cavity 300. A second limiting through hole 400 is provided on the inner wall of the receiving cavity 300 near the sliding part 210a. The rolling member 2142 and the elastic member 2141 are disposed within the receiving cavity 300, with a portion of the rolling member 2142 extending out from the second limiting through hole 400. This allows the elastic support assembly 214 to function as a single module. During assembly, the adjusting member 2145 is inserted into the recess 100 from the side of the connecting block 213 away from the sliding part 210a, simultaneously installing the elastic member 2141 and the rolling member 2142 into place, significantly simplifying the assembly process. The second limiting through hole 400 prevents the rolling member 2142 from detaching from the adjusting member 2145.

[0135] Understandably, when the rolling element 2142 is a spherical ball, the second limiting through hole 400 is a circular hole, and the diameter of the second limiting through hole 400 is smaller than the diameter of the rolling element 2142. When the rolling element 2142 is a cylindrical roller, the second limiting through hole 400 is a rectangular hole, and the width of the second limiting through hole 400 is smaller than the diameter of the rolling element 2142.

[0136] For example, please continue to see Figure 23 As shown, the adjusting member 2145 has a wedge-shaped structure, including a columnar portion 2145a and a conical portion 2145b distributed along its axial direction. The outer wall of the columnar portion 2145a is provided with external threads. An internal receiving cavity 300, similar in shape to its outer contour, is formed inside the adjusting member 2145. A second limiting through hole 400 is located at the small-diameter end of the conical portion 2145b. The rolling element 2142 is a spherical ball, and the elastic element 2141 is a helical spring. A portion of the spherical ball and the helical spring are located within the receiving cavity 300, while the other portion of the spherical ball extends out of the adjusting member 2145 from the second limiting through hole 400. A tool groove 21450 is provided at the end of the columnar portion 2145a away from the conical portion 2145b, facilitating the insertion of a wrench or screwdriver into the tool groove 21450 to turn the adjusting member 2145.

[0137] In some cases, the portion of the elastic element 2141 that abuts against the rolling element 2142 may be uneven, and the rolling surface of the rolling element 2142 is a curved surface. This results in the elastic element 2141 failing to provide adequate support for the rolling element 2142, making the rolling element 2142 prone to a state of unbalanced force. For example, Figure 23 In the middle, the elastic element 2141 is a helical spring. Due to the limitations of the manufacturing process, the end face of the helical spring near the rolling element 2142 is not a continuous and flat annular surface, but has a discontinuity, which causes the elastic force on the spherical ball to be too dispersed.

[0138] Therefore, please see Figure 24 As shown, Figure 24This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an elastic support assembly 214 provided in an embodiment of this application. The elastic support assembly 214 may further include a gasket 2146, which is disposed between the elastic member 2141 and the rolling member 2142. Since both sides of the gasket 2146 are planar, i.e., the gasket 2146 and the rolling member 2142 are in line contact or point contact, the elastic force of the elastic member 2141 can be concentrated on the rolling member 2142, thereby causing the elastic member 2141 to push the rolling member 2142 to press against the sliding part 210a through the gasket 2146.

[0139] It is understood that the aforementioned gasket 2146 can be fixed to the elastic member 2141, or the gasket 2146 can simply abut against the elastic member 2141 without being fixed. This application does not impose any special limitations on this.

[0140] Further reading is available upon request. Figure 24 As shown, the gasket 2146 has a first limiting through hole 200, and a portion of the rolling element 2142 extends into the first limiting through hole 200. In this way, the relative position of the rolling element 2142 and the gasket 2146 can be fixed through the first limiting through hole 200, preventing the rolling element 2142 from moving radially during rolling. During the rolling process, the rolling element 2142 rubs against the edge or inner wall of the first limiting through hole 200, and the volume of the portion of the rolling element 2142 extending into the first limiting through hole 200 remains constant.

[0141] It is understandable that when the rolling element 2142 is a spherical ball, the first limiting through hole 200 is a circular hole, and the diameter of the first limiting through hole 200 is smaller than the diameter of the rolling element 2142; when the rolling element 2142 is a cylindrical roller, the first limiting through hole 200 is a rectangular hole, and the width of the first limiting through hole 200 is smaller than the diameter of the rolling element 2142.

[0142] In the description of this specification, specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0143] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A hinge mechanism applied to a foldable screen terminal, characterized in that, The rotating shaft mechanism includes: Central beam; A swing arm, which is rotatably connected to the middle beam, and is provided with one of a sliding part and a sliding groove; A connecting block, wherein the connecting block is provided with the other of the sliding part and the sliding groove, and the sliding part extends into the sliding groove so that the swing arm and the connecting block can slide relative to each other; An elastic support assembly is disposed between the swing arm and the connecting block; The elastic support assembly includes an elastic element and a rolling element. The elastic element is disposed on one of the inner wall of the slide groove and the sliding part. The rolling element abuts against the other of the inner wall of the slide groove and the sliding part and the elastic element, and the rolling element can roll in the direction in which the swing arm and the connecting block slide relative to each other.

2. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the foldable screen terminal is in the unfolded state, along the thickness direction of the foldable screen terminal, the slide has a first wall and a second wall facing each other, and the elastic support component is disposed between the second wall and the sliding part.

3. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that, The side of the sliding part away from the elastic support component is in surface contact with the first wall surface.

4. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The second wall surface is provided with a recessed portion, the elastic element is disposed in the recessed portion, and the rolling element extends out of the recessed portion and abuts against the sliding portion.

5. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The rolling element is provided with an opening, which extends through the rolling element along the rotation axis of the swing arm; The elastic support assembly also includes a limiting shaft, which is disposed together with the elastic element on the inner wall of the groove or on the sliding part, and the limiting shaft passes through the opening, the diameter of the limiting shaft being smaller than the diameter of the opening.

6. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 5, characterized in that, The difference between the diameter of the limiting shaft and the diameter of the opening is greater than or equal to 0.1 mm.

7. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The elastic support assembly further includes a gasket disposed between the elastic element and the rolling element.

8. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 7, characterized in that, The gasket is provided with a first limiting through hole, and the rolling element extends into the first limiting through hole.

9. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The elastic element is a spring sheet, which includes a base plate and an elastic arm. There are two base plates, and the elastic arm is connected between the two base plates. The elastic arm includes a first bending portion, a second bending portion, and a third bending portion. The third bending portion is connected between the first bending portion and the second bending portion. The first bending portion and the second bending portion are respectively connected to the two base plates. Along the thickness direction of the base plate, the first bend and the second bend both bend and arch towards the side closer to the sliding part, and the third bend bends and arches away from the sliding part, with the rolling element abutting against the third bend.

10. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 4 to 9, characterized in that, When the groove is provided on the connecting block, the recess extends to the side of the connecting block away from the sliding part; When the groove is provided on the rocker arm, the recess extends to the side of the rocker arm away from the sliding portion.

11. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 10, characterized in that, The elastic support assembly further includes an adjusting member, which is connected to the side of the elastic member away from the rolling member, and the adjusting member is fixedly assembled with the recessed portion. The distance between the adjusting member and the sliding portion is adjustable.

12. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 11, characterized in that, The adjusting member is provided with a receiving cavity, and a second limiting through hole is provided on the inner wall of the receiving cavity near the sliding part. A part of the rolling member and the elastic member are disposed in the receiving cavity, and another part of the rolling member extends out from the second limiting through hole.

13. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The adjusting element is threadedly connected to the recessed portion.

14. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 10 to 13, characterized in that, The recessed portion includes a mounting groove and a third limiting through hole; When the slide groove is provided on the connecting block, the mounting groove is provided on the side of the connecting block away from the sliding part; When the slide groove is provided on the swing arm, the mounting groove is provided on the side of the swing arm away from the sliding part; The third limiting through hole is provided on the bottom surface of the mounting groove, the mounting groove is connected to the sliding groove through the third limiting through hole, the rolling element and the elastic element are provided in the mounting groove, and the rolling element part extends out from the third limiting through hole.

15. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 4 to 13, characterized in that, The rotating shaft mechanism also includes a limiting plate, which is attached to the second wall surface and covers the recessed portion; The limiting plate is provided with a fourth limiting through hole, and the rolling element extends out from the fourth limiting through hole.

16. A foldable screen terminal, characterized in that, include: Foldable screen; The rotating shaft mechanism is the rotating shaft mechanism described in any one of claims 1 to 15; The middle frame is fixedly connected to the connecting block, and the folding screen is supported on the middle frame and the pivot mechanism.

17. The foldable screen terminal according to claim 16, characterized in that, The swing arm is provided in two parts, which are located on both sides of the middle beam, and the two swing arms can rotate in opposite directions relative to the middle beam. There are two connecting blocks, which are located on both sides of the middle beam and are respectively connected to the two swing arms. There are two middle frames, which are located on both sides of the middle beam and are respectively connected to the two connecting blocks.

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