Hinge device, folding device and foldable electronic device

Abstract

This application provides a hinge device, a folding device, and a foldable electronic device. Each pivot assembly in the hinge device includes at least one swing arm and a connecting block. The side of the swing arm near the base is rotatably connected to the base, and the side away from the base is slidably connected to the connecting block. Each swing arm includes a screen mating portion. The screen mating portion of any swing arm includes a first part and a second part. When the swing arm is subjected to an external force, the deformation of the second part is greater than that of the first part. The surface of the first part facing the screen is a first mating surface, and the surface of the second part facing the screen is a second mating surface. The second part is recessed relative to the first mating surface towards the side away from the screen to form a clearance space. The hinge device provided in this application provides clearance spaces for easily deformable areas, reducing the risk of the screen being subjected to localized impacts and pressure from the swing arm, improving the reliability of the device in stress scenarios, and without affecting the slim and lightweight design of the foldable electronic device.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Foldable electronic devices fold and unfold using hinge mechanisms. With the trend towards thinner and lighter devices, hinge mechanisms are also becoming thinner and lighter, which places higher demands on the size and reliability of the components in the hinge mechanism.

[0003] The main components of the hinge mechanism include a base, a main swing arm, and a secondary swing arm, which are mounted on the base. The main swing arm is rotatably connected to the base and drives the housing of the foldable electronic device to rotate. The secondary swing arm, besides the main swing arm, is used to perform other functions, such as a damping swing arm. One side of the secondary swing arm is rotatably connected to the base, and the other side is slidably connected to the housing of the foldable electronic device via a connecting block, fixing the screen of the foldable electronic device to the housing. For inward-folding electronic devices, the hinge mechanism also includes a door panel, which guides the screen to bend. In the folded state, the base, secondary swing arm, and door panel form a receiving space to accommodate the foldable portion of the screen. When a foldable electronic device is dropped in a folded state, the sliding engagement between the secondary swing arm and the connecting block causes the housing connected to the connecting block, along with the screen, to slide relative to the secondary swing arm. This results in the foldable part of the screen being squeezed, which can easily lead to the foldable part of the screen coming into contact with the side of the secondary swing arm facing the screen. To avoid localized compression of the screen when the secondary swing arm comes into contact with the foldable part of the screen, the side of the secondary swing arm facing the screen is designed as a complete arc surface.

[0004] However, while reducing the overall thickness of the device, the thickness of the secondary hinge arm in the hinge mechanism also decreases accordingly. This results in lower structural strength in certain areas of the secondary hinge arm (such as large-span cutout areas and splicing areas), making it prone to bending and deformation. Localized pressure on the screen can lead to screen failure (e.g., bright spots or black spots appearing on the screen). For example, when a foldable electronic device is dropped or impacted, the secondary hinge arm and connecting block slide relative to each other under the impact force, causing the shell connected to the connecting block, along with the screen, to slide relative to the secondary hinge arm, deforming the foldable part of the screen itself. Simultaneously, the weaker structural parts of the secondary hinge arm deform towards the screen under external impact. This dual action causes the screen to contact, collide, and be compressed with the secondary hinge arm, facing the risk of failure and damage. To solve this problem, current technology can only thicken the secondary hinge arm to reduce the risk of deformation, but this is detrimental to the hinge mechanism and the overall thinness of the device.

[0005] Therefore, in the prior art, after the secondary swing arm of the hinge device is thinned, the structural strength of some areas of the secondary swing arm is low, which makes it easy to deform and locally squeeze the screen, causing the screen to fail easily, thus reducing the reliability of the device in stress scenarios. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The hinge device, folding device, and foldable electronic device provided in this application embodiment solve the problem that in the prior art, after the secondary swing arm of the hinge device is thinned, the structural strength of some areas of the secondary swing arm is low, which makes it easy to deform and locally squeeze the screen, causing the screen to fail easily, thus reducing the reliability of the device in stress scenarios.

[0007] The first aspect of this application provides a hinge device, including a base and two pivot assemblies. The two pivot assemblies are respectively disposed on both sides of the base in the width direction and are rotatably connected to the base, so that the hinge device switches between an unfolded state and a folded state.

[0008] Each of the two pivot assemblies includes at least one swing arm and a connecting block. The connecting block is used for fixed connection to the corresponding housing. The side of each swing arm closest to the base is rotatably connected to the base, and the side furthest from the base is slidably connected to the connecting block. Each swing arm includes a screen mating part. The screen mating part of any swing arm includes a first part and a second part, with the second part connected to the first part. When the hinge device is in the folded state and the swing arm is subjected to an external force, the deformation of the second part toward the screen is greater than the deformation of the first part toward the screen.

[0009] The first part of the surface facing the screen is the first mating surface, and the second part of the surface facing the screen is the second mating surface. The second mating surface is in contact with the first mating surface and is recessed relative to the first mating surface towards the side away from the screen to form a clearance space.

[0010] The hinge device provided in this application embodiment allows the pivot assemblies on both sides of the base to rotate around the base, thereby enabling opening or folding. A connecting block is provided in the pivot assembly, which is used to fix to the housing of the foldable electronic device. Thus, the pivot assembly drives the housing to rotate, achieving the overall opening and folding of the foldable electronic device.

[0011] Furthermore, the hinge assembly also includes a swing arm, which can be, for example, a secondary swing arm. One side of the swing arm is rotatably connected to the base, and the other side is slidably connected to the connecting block. By sliding the connecting block relative to the secondary swing arm, the distance between the housing and the base can be adjusted to accommodate changes in the screen shape. The swing arm has a screen mating part, which can be understood as the part of the swing arm that faces the screen in the folded state, that is, the part that may collide with the screen when the screen or the swing arm is deformed (or the part that comes into contact with the screen).

[0012] The screen fitting part includes a first part and a second part. When the swing arm is subjected to an external force (for example, when a foldable electronic device with a hinge device falls in a folded state, the impact force applied to the swing arm by the base), the deformation of the second part toward the screen is greater than that of the first part toward the screen. It can be understood that the second part has lower structural strength and poorer resistance to deformation than the first part. Under the action of external force, it is more likely to produce large deformation and collide with the screen, causing local compression of the screen. The second part can be understood as the area of ​​the swing arm that is easy to deform, such as the local groove or splicing part of the swing arm, which are structurally weak positions.

[0013] The first mating surface of the first part faces the screen, and the second mating surface of the second part also faces the screen. The second mating surface is recessed relative to the first mating surface, facing away from the screen, to create a clearance space. This can be understood as the second mating surface being further away from the screen than the first mating surface, creating a larger space between them, thus allowing for screen clearance. With this structure, when the foldable electronic device is subjected to external impact in its folded state, even if the second part of the screen mating section of the swing arm undergoes significant deformation, there is sufficient space between the screen and the second mating surface to accommodate the deformation. This reduces the risk of screen failure due to localized impact and compression of the second mating surface (e.g., bright spots, black spots, etc.), thereby reducing the impact stress on the screen from the swing arm and improving reliability. Furthermore, this structure can be achieved even with a relatively thin swing arm, without conflicting with the swing arm thinning design, contributing to the overall slimming and lightweight design of the hinge mechanism and the foldable electronic device.

[0014] Therefore, the hinge device provided in this application embodiment has a clearance space formed in the swing arm for the easily deformable area to increase the screen space in this area. When the easily deformable area undergoes large deformation, it can better avoid the screen, reduce the risk of the screen being squeezed by the swing arm, improve the reliability of the device in the stress scenario, and does not affect the thin and light design of the foldable electronic device.

[0015] In one possible implementation, at least one swing arm includes a damping swing arm, and in the screen mating part of the damping swing arm, the second part includes a recessed portion and a transition portion, with the transition portion connected between the first part and the recessed portion.

[0016] The surface of the recessed portion facing the screen is the recessed mating surface, and the surface of the transition portion facing the screen is the transition mating surface. The second mating surface includes the recessed mating surface and the transition mating surface. The recessed mating surface is recessed relative to the first mating surface and is recessed to the side away from the screen. Furthermore, the recessed mating surface is recessed to the same depth relative to the first mating surface at each position along the length of the base.

[0017] The transition mating surface includes a first side that is in contact with the first mating surface and a second side that is in contact with the recessed mating surface. From the first side to the second side, the transition mating surface gradually tilts away from the screen.

[0018] Using the above solution, the recessed part of the second part of the damping swing arm has a consistent recessed depth at all points along the length of the base. A transition part is provided between the recessed part and the first part as a connection. The depth of the recess gradually increases from the side that connects with the first part to the side that connects with the recessed part, so as to avoid the formation of a ridge and prevent the screen from being damaged by the impact of the ridge (or it can be understood as avoiding the screen from being damaged by stress concentration).

[0019] In one possible implementation, the first mating surface is a curved surface and includes an inner curved surface and an outer curved surface that are connected and tangentially arranged in the width direction of the damping swing arm. The outer curved surface of the first mating surface is located on the side of the inner curved surface near the base. The recessed mating surface is a curved surface.

[0020] The transition mating surface includes a first transition surface, a second transition surface, and a third transition surface that are sequentially connected. The side of the first transition surface near the first part is connected to and tangent to the outer curved surface of the first mating surface. The side of the third transition surface near the recessed part is connected to and tangent to the recessed mating surface. The side of the second transition surface near the first part is connected to and tangent to both the outer curved surface of the first mating surface and the first transition surface. The side of the second transition surface near the recessed part is connected to and tangent to the recessed mating surface.

[0021] The first transition surface, the side of the first transition surface that connects with the outer curved surface of the first mating surface, and the second transition surface, the side of the second transition surface that connects with the outer curved surface of the first mating surface, together constitute the first side of the transition mating surface; the third transition surface, the side of the third transition surface that connects with the recessed mating surface, and the second transition surface, the side of the third transition surface that connects with the recessed mating surface, together constitute the second side of the transition mating surface.

[0022] By adopting the above scheme, the transition between the first transition surface and the outer curved surface of the first mating surface is achieved through the transition between the second transition surface and the inner curved surface of the first mating surface, and through the transition between the third transition surface and the concave mating surface. The three transition surfaces also transition with each other, making the arc of the transition between the transition mating surface and the first mating surface and the concave mating surface smoother and more natural.

[0023] In one possible implementation, when the hinge device is in a folded state and the damping arm is not subjected to external force, the depth of the recessed mating surface relative to the first mating surface is greater than the maximum deformation of the recessed portion toward the screen when the damping arm is subjected to external force, and the difference is greater than or equal to 0.2 mm.

[0024] By adopting the above solution, the clearance space between the recessed mating surface and the screen can accommodate the maximum deformation of the recessed part. On this basis, an additional 0.2mm of redundant distance is added to accommodate the deformation of the screen itself and the deformation of components caused by other unforeseen factors, further reducing the risk of local collision and compression between the screen and the damping swing arm.

[0025] In one possible implementation, the second part of the damping arm has a length of 2mm or more along the length of the base. This allows for a longer avoidance area, ensuring that most of the damping arm along the base's length can avoid the screen. This further reduces the risk of localized collisions between the damping arm and the screen, which could cause screen failure due to localized pressure, thus improving product reliability.

[0026] In one possible implementation, in the damping swing arm, the first part of the screen mating part is set as U-shaped and includes a bottom and two sides, the second part is connected to the bottom on the side away from the base, and the two ends of the second part are connected to the two sides respectively in the length direction of the base.

[0027] The damping swing arm also includes two first connecting parts and two second connecting parts. The two first connecting parts are slidably connected to the connecting block, and the two second connecting parts are rotatably connected to the base. The two first connecting parts are arranged opposite to each other in the length direction of the base and are respectively connected to the two sides away from the base. The two second connecting parts are arranged opposite to each other in the length direction of the base and are respectively connected to the two sides close to the base, so that the second part and the bottom form a cantilever beam structure.

[0028] By adopting the above solution, the first part of the screen mating part is set as U-shaped, and the second part is surrounded within the U-shaped structure. The side of the cantilever beam structure closer to the base is divided into the second part and recessed, while the side away from the base (i.e., the bottom of the first part) is divided into the first part. This helps to maintain the rigidity of the cantilever beam structure and prevents the part from being too thin or too thin, which could lead to breakage.

[0029] In one possible implementation, the hinge device includes a damping mechanism, which includes a damping swing arm, a first elastic element, and two sliding seats. The two sliding seats are slidably connected to the base and disposed between two second connecting parts of the damping swing arm.

[0030] Along the length of the base, two sliding seats are respectively disposed at both ends of the first elastic member, and each sliding seat is located between the end of the elastic member and the second connecting part on its side. The first elastic member applies elastic force to each sliding seat through its own deformation, so that each sliding seat and the second connecting part on its side press against each other.

[0031] Using the above solution, a first elastic element and a sliding seat are provided between the two second connecting parts of the damping swing arm. The elastic force of the first elastic element causes the sliding seat to press against the second connecting part. During the rotation of the damping swing arm relative to the base, the sliding seat rubs against the end face of the corresponding second connecting part, thereby generating a damping feel.

[0032] In one possible implementation, at least one swing arm includes a synchronous swing arm, which includes two sub-swing arms that are spaced apart from each other in the length direction of the base, and the two sub-swing arms are configured as a split structure.

[0033] Each sub-swing arm includes a screen sub-fitting part, and the screen sub-fitting parts of two sub-swing arms together constitute the screen fitting part of the synchronous swing arm; the screen sub-fitting part of each sub-swing arm includes a first sub-part and a second sub-part that are connected along the length direction of the base, the first sub-parts of two sub-swing arms together constitute the first part of the screen fitting part, the second sub-parts of two sub-swing arms together constitute the second part of the screen fitting part, and the second sub-parts of two sub-swing arms are arranged opposite to each other.

[0034] In the screen sub-fitting part of each sub-arm, the surface of the first sub-part facing the screen is the first sub-fitting surface, and the surface of the second sub-part facing the screen is the second sub-fitting surface. The second sub-fitting surface includes a first side that is in contact with the first sub-fitting surface and a second side that is away from the first sub-fitting surface. From the first side to the second side, the second sub-fitting surface gradually tilts towards the side away from the screen.

[0035] Using the above design, the depth of the second sub-part's recess gradually increases from the side connected to the first sub-part to the side away from the first sub-part. This gradient buffer design avoids the formation of sharp edges, reducing the risk of screen damage.

[0036] In one possible implementation, in each sub-arm, the first sub-mating surface is a curved surface, including an inner curved surface and an outer curved surface that are connected and tangent to each other in the width direction of the sub-arm. The outer curved surface of the first sub-mating surface is located on the side of the inner curved surface closer to the base. The second sub-mating surface is a curved surface, including an inner curved surface and an outer curved surface that are connected and tangent to each other in the width direction of the sub-arm. The outer curved surface of the second sub-mating surface is located on the side of the inner curved surface closer to the base. The inner curved surface of the first sub-mating surface is connected and tangent to the inner curved surface of the second sub-mating surface, and the outer curved surface of the first sub-mating surface is connected and tangent to the outer curved surface of the second sub-mating surface.

[0037] Using the above scheme, the inner curved surfaces of the first and second sub-mating surfaces transition tangentially to each other, and the outer curved surfaces transition tangentially to each other, making the transition buffer of the second sub-part on the first side smoother.

[0038] In one possible implementation, when the hinge device is in a folded state and the synchronous swing arm is not subjected to external force, the depth of the second side of the second sub-mating surface of each sub-swing arm recessed relative to the first sub-mating surface is greater than the amount of deformation of the part where the second side of each sub-swing arm is located facing the screen when the synchronous swing arm is subjected to external force, and the difference is greater than or equal to 0.2mm.

[0039] Using the above scheme, the clearance space between the second sub-mate surface and the screen can accommodate the maximum deformation of the second sub-part. On this basis, an additional 0.2mm of redundancy distance can be added to accommodate the deformation of the screen itself and the deformation of components caused by other unforeseen factors, further reducing the risk of screen failure caused by local squeezing and collision between the screen and the synchronous swing arm.

[0040] In one possible implementation, the second sub-part of each sub-arm in the synchronous swing arm has a length of 2mm or more along the length of the base. This allows for a longer avoidance area, ensuring that most of the synchronous swing arm along the base can avoid the screen. This further reduces the risk of localized collisions between the synchronous swing arm and the screen, which could lead to screen failure due to localized pressure, thus improving product reliability.

[0041] In one possible implementation, each sub-arm further includes a first mounting portion and a second mounting portion. The first mounting portion is connected to the side of the screen sub-fitting portion away from the base and is slidably connected to the connecting block. The second mounting portion is connected to the side of the screen sub-fitting portion near the base and is rotatably connected to the base. The first mounting portions of the two sub-arms are arranged opposite each other in the length direction of the base, and the second mounting portions of the two sub-arms are also arranged opposite each other in the length direction of the base.

[0042] Using the above scheme, the first mounting part can slide with the connecting block, and the second mounting part can cooperate with the synchronization block of the synchronization mechanism.

[0043] In one possible implementation, a synchronizing block is provided between the second mounting portions of the two sub-swing arms. The synchronizing block is slidably connected to the base, and the two sides of the synchronizing block are respectively helically engaged with the second mounting portions of the two sub-swing arms on both sides along the length of the base. The base is also provided with a second elastic element, which applies an elastic force to the second mounting portion of either sub-swing arm through its own deformation, causing the second mounting portions of the two sub-swing arms to press against and contact the synchronizing block.

[0044] Using the above scheme, when the synchronous swing arm in the rotating shaft assembly on either side rotates relative to the base, the synchronous block can be driven to slide along the length direction of the base through the spiral structure, and then the synchronous swing arm in the rotating shaft assembly on the other side can be driven to rotate through the synchronous block, so that the rotating shaft assemblies on both sides of the base can be folded or unfolded synchronously.

[0045] A second aspect of this application provides a folding device, including a first housing and a second housing, and a hinge device provided in any of the above implementations. The first housing and the second housing are respectively fixedly connected to connecting blocks of two rotating shaft assemblies, so that the first housing and the second housing are rotatably connected through the hinge device. In the folding device provided in this application, the easily deformable area of ​​the swing arm has a clearance space, which increases the screen accommodation space. When subjected to external force, the easily deformable area can better avoid the screen when it undergoes large deformation, reducing the risk of the screen being locally impacted and squeezed by the swing arm.

[0046] A third aspect of this application provides a foldable electronic device, including a folding device as described above and a screen disposed on the folding device. The screen includes a first display portion, a second display portion, and a foldable portion, with the foldable portion located between the first display portion and the second display portion. The first display portion is fixedly connected to a first housing, the second display portion is fixedly connected to a second housing, and the foldable portion is stacked with a hinge device. The foldable electronic device provided by this application has strong drop and impact resistance and high reliability. Attached Figure Description

[0047] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the foldable electronic device in the unfolded state according to an embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the foldable electronic device in the folded state according to an embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 3 This is an exploded structural diagram of the foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a foldable electronic device in a reference design.

[0051] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a swing arm structure for a hinge device in a reference design;

[0052] Figure 6 This is a partial structural diagram of the hinge device in an embodiment of this application. Figure 1 One side of the pivot assembly is unfolded, and the other side of the pivot assembly is folded.

[0053] Figure 7 This is a partial structural diagram of the hinge device in the unfolded state according to an embodiment of this application;

[0054] Figure 8 This is a partially exploded structural diagram of the hinge device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0055] Figure 9This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 1 ;

[0056] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the synchronization mechanism in the hinge device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0057] Figure 11a This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the area where the synchronous swing arm is located in the hinge device of this application embodiment;

[0058] Figure 11b This is a schematic diagram of the synchronous swing arm in the hinge device of this application embodiment;

[0059] Figure 12a This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of one of the sub-arms of the synchronous swing arm in the hinge device of this application embodiment;

[0060] Figure 12b This is a side view of one of the sub-arms of the synchronous swing arm in the hinge device of this application embodiment;

[0061] Figure 12c for Figure 12a Schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure in the EE direction;

[0062] Figure 13 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of another sub-arm of the synchronous swing arm in the hinge device of this application embodiment;

[0063] Figure 14 This is a partial structural diagram of the hinge device in an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 One side of the pivot assembly is unfolded, and the other side of the pivot assembly is folded.

[0064] Figure 15a This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the area where the damping swing arm is located in the hinge device of the embodiment of this application;

[0065] Figure 15b This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the damping swing arm in the hinge device of this application embodiment;

[0066] Figure 16a This is a schematic diagram of the planar structure of the damping swing arm in the hinge device of this application embodiment;

[0067] Figure 16b for Figure 16a A cross-sectional view along the FF direction;

[0068] Figure 17a This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 ;

[0069] Figure 17b This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 3 .

[0070] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0071] Reference Design:

[0072] 100' Foldable electronic devices;

[0073] 1', Screen; 13', Foldable section;

[0074] 200', Folding device;

[0075] 300', Hinge assembly; 31', Base; 4', Rotary pivot assembly; 41', Secondary swing arm; 6', Connecting block;

[0076] 71' Damped swing arm; 81' Synchronous swing arm; 813' Sub-swing arm; 92' Door panel.

[0077] This application:

[0078] 100. Foldable electronic devices;

[0079] 1. Screen; 11. First display section; 12. Second display section; 13. Foldable section;

[0080] 200. Folding device; 21. First housing; 22. Second housing;

[0081] 300. Hinge mechanism; 31. Base; 32. Arc-shaped slide groove;

[0082] 4. Rotary shaft assembly; 41. Swing arm;

[0083] 5. Screen mating part; 51. First part; 511. First mating surface; 512. Inner curved surface; 513. Outer curved surface;

[0084] 514. Bottom; 515. Side;

[0085] 52. Second part; 521. Second mating surface; 522. Recessed portion; 5221. Recessed mating surface;

[0086] 523, Transition section; 5231, Transition mating surface; 5231a, First side; 5231b, Second side;

[0087] 5231c, First transition surface; 5231d, Second transition surface; 5231e, Third transition surface;

[0088] 53. Screen sub-mating part; 531. First sub-part; 5311. First sub-mating surface; 5311a. Inner curved surface; 5311b. Outer curved surface;

[0089] 532, Second sub-part; 5321, Second sub-mating surface; 5321a, First side; 5321b, Second side; 5321c, Inner curved surface; 5321d, Outer curved surface;

[0090] 6. Connecting block; 61. Sleeve; 62. First slide groove; 63. Second slide groove;

[0091] 7. Damping mechanism; 71. Damping swing arm; 711. First connecting part; 7111. Second slider; 712. Second connecting part;

[0092] 72. First elastic element; 73. Sliding seat; 74. Damping shaft;

[0093] 8. Synchronization mechanism; 81. Synchronization swing arm; 811. First mounting part; 8111. First slider; 812. Second mounting part;

[0094] 813. Sub-swing arm; 8131. Connecting post; 8132. Connecting hole;

[0095] 83. Synchronizing block; 831. Spiral block; 84. Second elastic element;

[0096] 91. Main swing arm; 911. Arc-shaped slider; 912. Sleeve; 913. Rotary shaft; 92. Door panel;

[0097] X represents the width of the base; Y represents the length of the base. Detailed Implementation

[0098] The following specific embodiments illustrate the implementation of this application. Those skilled in the art can easily understand other advantages and effects of this application from the content disclosed in this specification. Although the description of this application will be presented in conjunction with some embodiments, this does not mean that the features of this application are limited to this embodiment. On the contrary, the purpose of describing the application in conjunction with embodiments is to cover other options or modifications that may be derived based on the claims of this application. To provide a thorough understanding of this application, many specific details will be included in the following description. This application may also be implemented without using these details. Furthermore, to avoid confusion or obscuring the focus of this application, some specific details will be omitted in the description. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features in the embodiments of this application can be combined with each other.

[0099] It should be noted that in this specification, similar reference numerals and letters in the following figures indicate similar items. Therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures.

[0100] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," "outer," "top," and "bottom," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this application. In addition, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0101] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "interlocking," 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 or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0102] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that the mutual perpendicularity in the embodiments of this application is not absolute perpendicularity. Approximate perpendicularity caused by processing errors and assembly errors (e.g., the included angle between two structural features is 89.9°) is also within the range of mutual perpendicularity in the embodiments of this application. The axisymmetry in the embodiments of this application is not absolute axisymmetry. Approximate axisymmetry caused by processing errors and assembly errors (e.g., a part of the structure is offset by a certain distance or angle relative to the axis of symmetry) is also within the range of axisymmetry in the embodiments of this application. The embodiments of this application do not impose specific limitations on this.

[0103] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the implementation methods of this application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0104] This application provides a foldable electronic device, which can be, but is not limited to, foldable screen mobile phones, foldable tablets, foldable laptops, foldable displays, personal digital devices, smart wearable devices, etc. The following describes the structure of the foldable electronic device using a foldable screen mobile phone as an example.

[0105] Please see Figures 1 to 3 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the foldable electronic device in the unfolded state according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the foldable electronic device in the folded state according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 3 This is an exploded structural diagram of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of this application.

[0106] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, the foldable electronic device 100 includes a screen 1 and a folding device 200, with the screen 1 disposed on the folding device 200. The screen 1 is used for image display and human-computer interaction, and may be, but is not limited to, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, an active-matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) display, or a quantum dot light-emitting diode (QLED) display, etc., and this application does not impose any limitations thereon. The screen 1 is connected to one side surface of the folding device 200, and its side surface facing away from the folding device 200 is its display surface, which is used to display information and provide an interactive interface for the user.

[0107] The folding device 200, also known as a housing assembly, is used to support and accommodate the screen 1 and other electronic components. The folding device 200 includes a first housing 21, a second housing 22, and a hinge device 300. The first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are respectively disposed on both sides of the hinge device 300. The first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are used to mount the screen 1 and various electronic components, while the hinge device 300 is used to rotatably connect the first housing 21 and the second housing 22, realizing the folding and unfolding of the foldable electronic device 100. Both the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 have internal accommodating spaces to accommodate various electronic components. These electronic components include, but are not limited to, circuit boards, batteries, camera modules, microphones, and speakers; this application does not impose any limitations on these components.

[0108] The foldable electronic device 100 can have different usage states in different usage scenarios. Figure 1 The foldable electronic device 100 is shown in its unfolded state (which can be understood as an open state). Figure 2A foldable electronic device 100 in a folded state (which can be understood as a closed state) is shown. In one possible implementation, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, its unfolding angle is 180°, that is, the angle between the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 is 180°. Those skilled in the art will understand that the unfolding angle of the foldable electronic device 100 can also be 90°, 120°, 210°, etc., and this application does not limit this. Furthermore, the angles illustrated in this application are allowed to have slight deviations. For example, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, its unfolding angle can be 180°, or it can be approximately 180°, such as 170°, 175°, 185°, or 190°, etc., and other angles can be understood in the same way below.

[0109] The specific structure of screen 1 is not limited. In one possible implementation, screen 1 includes a first display portion 11, a second display portion 12, and a foldable portion 13. The first display portion 11 is fixedly connected to the first housing 21, the second display portion 12 is fixedly connected to the second housing 22, and the foldable portion 13 is located between the first display portion 11 and the second display portion 12, and is stacked with the hinge device 300. During use, the first display portion 11 and the second display portion 12 always remain in a flat state, while the foldable portion 13 can be bent to change the angle between the first display portion 11 and the second display portion 12, so that screen 1 folds or unfolds with the movement of the folding device 200, thereby enabling the foldable electronic device 100 to switch between a folded state and an unfolded state. For example, at least the foldable portion 13 in screen 1 is made of a flexible material so that the foldable portion 13 can be bent.

[0110] In one possible implementation, the foldable electronic device 100 is an inward-folding electronic device, such as... Figures 1 to 2 As shown, when the inward-folding electronic device is in the closed state, the first display portion 11 and the second display portion 12 of the screen 1 face each other, and the entire screen 1 is housed inside the folding device 200, which surrounds the screen 1. In some possible implementations, the foldable electronic device 100 can also be an outward-folding electronic device, and this application embodiment does not limit this. When the outward-folding electronic device is in the folded state, the screen 1 surrounds the outside of the folding device 200.

[0111] It should be noted that when the foldable electronic device 100 is in a folded state, the foldable portion 13 of the screen 1 is not limited in its bending shape. For example, it can be teardrop-shaped, U-shaped, arc-shaped, etc. In one possible implementation, when the foldable electronic device 100 is in a folded state, the foldable portion 13 of the screen 1 is bent in a teardrop shape (e.g., Figure 9The foldable portion 13 of the screen 1 has a larger bending radius, making it less prone to stress relaxation when the screen 1 is bent for a long time, thus reducing the risk of creases appearing when the screen 1 is unfolded.

[0112] Please see Figures 4 to 5 , Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a foldable electronic device in a reference design. Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the swing arm structure of the hinge device in a reference design.

[0113] like Figure 4 As shown, in one reference design, a foldable electronic device 100' includes a screen 1' and a folding device 200'. The folding device 200' includes a hinge device 300', a first housing (not shown), and a second housing (not shown). The screen 1' includes a first display portion (not shown), a second display portion (not shown), and a foldable portion 13'. The first display portion is fixedly connected to the first housing, the second display portion is fixedly connected to the second housing, and the foldable portion 13' is stacked on top of the hinge device 300'.

[0114] The hinge device 300' includes a base 31' and two pivot assemblies 4', which are respectively disposed on both sides of the base 31'. Each pivot assembly 4' includes a secondary swing arm 41' and a connecting block 6'. One side of the secondary swing arm 41' is rotatably connected to the base 31', and the other side is slidably connected to the connecting block 6'. Furthermore, the connecting blocks 6' of the two pivot assemblies 4' are respectively fixedly connected to a first housing and a second housing, thereby allowing the first housing and the second housing to be slidably connected to the corresponding secondary swing arm 41' via the connecting blocks 6'. When the secondary swing arms 41' of the two pivot assemblies 4' rotate relative to the base 31', the connecting blocks 6', the housings, and the two display portions of the screen 1' fixed to the housings slide relative to the secondary swing arms 41', allowing the folding device 200' to adapt to changes in the shape of the screen 1'. The hinge device also includes a door panel 92', which guides the screen bending. Figure 4As shown, when the foldable electronic device 100' is in the folded state, the base 31', the secondary swing arm 41', and the door panel 92' form a receiving space to accommodate the foldable portion 13' of the screen 1'. If the foldable electronic device 100' is dropped while in the folded state, the sliding engagement between the secondary swing arm 41' and the connecting block 6' causes the housing connected to the connecting block 6', along with the screen 1', to slide relative to the secondary swing arm 41'. This results in the foldable portion 13' of the screen 1' being compressed, potentially causing it to contact the side of the secondary swing arm 41' facing the screen 1'. To avoid localized compression of the screen 1' when the secondary swing arm 41' contacts the foldable portion 13' of the screen 1', the side of the secondary swing arm 41' facing the screen 1' is designed as a complete arc surface.

[0115] The secondary swing arm 41' is a swing arm used to perform other functions besides the main swing arm 91', and its specific type is not limited. For example... Figure 5 As shown, in one possible implementation, the multiple secondary swing arms 41' in the pivot assembly 4' include a damping swing arm 71' and a synchronous swing arm 81'. The side of the damping swing arm 71' closest to the base 31' needs to cooperate with elastic elements, sliding seats, and other structures, while the side furthest from the base 31' needs to slide with the connecting block 6'. Therefore, both sides are locally grooved, resulting in an overall "I"-shaped structure, with the middle section (area A) forming a cantilever beam. It is understandable that the structure of the cantilever beam area is relatively weaker and has lower structural strength compared to other parts, making it prone to deformation (among which, the damping swing arm 71' experiences the greatest deformation at the middle position of the cantilever beam along the length of the base when subjected to external forces). Figure 5 As shown, the synchronous swing arm 81' is formed by splicing two sub-swing arms 813' to facilitate the assembly of the synchronous block 83' in the synchronous mechanism 8', and the two sub-swing arms 813' can maintain mutual compression with the synchronous block 83'. It is understandable that the splicing area (part B area) of the synchronous swing arm 81' is more fragile than other parts and is prone to deformation.

[0116] As the overall device becomes thinner and lighter, the secondary swing arms are also correspondingly thinner. The parts of the secondary swing arms with lower structural strength (such as the cantilever beam area and splicing area mentioned above) become even weaker after thinning, making them prone to bending and deformation. This localized compression of the screen 1' can easily lead to screen 1' failure (e.g., bright spots, black spots, etc.). For example, when the foldable electronic device is dropped or impacted, on the one hand, the secondary swing arm 41' and the connecting block 6' slide relative to each other under the impact force, causing the shell connected to the connecting block 6', along with the screen 1', to slide relative to the secondary swing arm 41', resulting in deformation of the foldable part 13' of the screen 1 itself. On the other hand, the parts of the secondary swing arm 41' with lower structural strength bend towards the screen 1' under external impact. This dual action causes the screen 1' to partially contact and collide with the secondary swing arm 41', resulting in localized compression and posing a risk of failure or damage.

[0117] To address the aforementioned issues, this application embodiment improves the secondary swing arm structure by creating clearance spaces in easily deformable areas. This increases the screen accommodation space in these areas, allowing for better screen clearance when significant deformation occurs in these areas. This reduces the risk of the screen being subjected to localized impacts and pressure from the swing arm, improving the device's reliability under stress conditions without compromising the thinness and lightness of the foldable electronic device. The structure of the hinge device 300 in this application embodiment is described below.

[0118] Please see Figures 6 to 9 , Figure 6 This is a partial structural diagram of the hinge device in an embodiment of this application. Figure 1 One side of the pivot assembly is unfolded, and the other side of the pivot assembly is folded. Figure 7 This is a partial structural diagram of the hinge device in the unfolded state according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 8 This is a partially exploded structural diagram of the hinge device according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 9 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 1 .

[0119] like Figures 6 to 9 As shown, the hinge device 300 includes a base 31 and two pivot assemblies 4. The two pivot assemblies 4 are respectively disposed on both sides of the base 31 in the width direction X of the base and are rotatably connected to the base 31, allowing the hinge device 300 to switch between an unfolded state and a folded state. It should be noted that... Figures 6 to 8 Only a portion of the hinge device 300 along the width direction X and length direction Y of the base is shown.

[0120] It should be noted that the specific structure of each rotating shaft assembly 4 is not limited. The structures of the two rotating shaft assemblies 4 can be the same or different. The components within the two rotating shaft assemblies 4 can be arranged symmetrically or asymmetrically. This application embodiment does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0121] like Figures 6 to 8 As shown, in one possible implementation, each pivot assembly 4 includes a connecting block 6 (also called a connecting bracket or fixed bracket). The connecting blocks 6 of the two pivot assemblies 4 are fixedly connected to the first housing 21 and the second housing 22, respectively, so that the rotation of the pivot assembly 4 drives the corresponding housing to rotate. In another possible implementation, each pivot assembly 4 also includes a main swing arm 91. One side of the main swing arm 91 is rotatably connected to the base 31, and the other side is connected to the connecting block 6, so that the connecting block 6 is rotatably connected to the base 31 through the main swing arm 91. The connecting blocks 6 of each pivot assembly 4 are fixedly connected to the housings on the same side, so that the foldable electronic device 100 can be folded and unfolded by the rotation of the connecting blocks 6. Those skilled in the art will understand that the number of main swing arms 91 in each pivot assembly 4 is not limited and can be one or more. The connecting blocks 6 of each pivot assembly 4 can be a single unit, or it can include multiple sub-connecting blocks 6 spaced apart along the length Y direction of the base. Each sub-connecting block 6 is connected to a corresponding main swing arm 91, for example... Figures 6 to 8 The diagram illustrates a sub-connecting block 6 within a connecting block 6; however, this embodiment does not impose any limitations on this.

[0122] This application embodiment does not limit the connection method between the main swing arm 91 and the base 31, or between the main swing arm 91 and the connecting block 6. In one possible implementation, the side of the main swing arm 91 closest to the base 31 is slidably and rotatably connected to the base 31 via an arc-shaped sliding structure. Specifically, the arc-shaped sliding structure includes an arc-shaped slider 911 disposed on the main swing arm 91 and an arc-shaped groove 32 disposed on the base 31. The arc-shaped slider 911 engages within the arc-shaped groove 32 and can slide within the arc-shaped groove 32, allowing the main swing arm 91 to be rotatably connected to the base 31. Alternatively, it can be understood that the base 31 and the main swing arm 91 achieve relative rotation through a virtual axis. In another possible implementation, the two can also achieve relative rotation through a real axis. For example, a main shaft can be disposed on the base 31, and one side of the main swing arm 91 can be fitted onto the main shaft, etc.

[0123] In one possible implementation, the side of the main swing arm 91 furthest from the base 31 is rotatably connected to the connecting block 6 via a pivot 913. Specifically, a sleeve 912 is provided on the side of the main swing arm 91 furthest from the base 31, and a corresponding sleeve 61 is also provided on the connecting block 6. The sleeve 912 of the main swing arm 91 and the sleeve 61 of the pivot assembly 4 are aligned along the length Y direction of the base. The pivot 913 passes through the two sleeves, allowing the main swing arm 91 and the connecting block 6 to rotate relative to each other around the axis of the pivot, thereby adjusting the included angle between them to adapt to changes in the shape of the screen 1. The main swing arm 91 and the connecting block 6 can also be rotatably connected in other ways, and this embodiment does not limit this.

[0124] like Figure 9 As shown, in one possible implementation, each hinge assembly 4 further includes a door panel 92 (also known as a support plate) for supporting the screen 1 of the foldable electronic device 100. The door panel 92 is rotatably connected to the connecting block 6, thereby changing the angle between the door panel 92 and the connecting block 6. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the door panels 92 of the two hinge assemblies 4 are also relatively flattened to support the unfolded screen 1. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the folded state, the door panels 92 of each hinge assembly 4 rotate relative to the connecting block 6 to guide the foldable portion 13 of the screen 1 to bend. In some possible implementations, the door panel 92 can also be rotatably connected to the base 31 by setting a swing arm for the door panel 92.

[0125] Those skilled in the art will understand that the structure of the base 31 in the hinge assembly 4 is not limited. The main function of the base 31 is to support the hinge assembly 4 and provide installation space for the various components in the hinge assembly 4. Therefore, the structure of the base 31 only needs to be adapted to the hinge assembly 4, and the attached drawings are for illustrative purposes only. In one possible implementation, the base 31 is provided with multiple abutment seats (not shown in the figure) to limit the movement of the components in the hinge assembly 4 in the length direction Y of the base. In another possible implementation, a cover plate (not shown in the figure) can also be provided on the side of the base 31 near the screen 1. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the door panels 92 of each hinge assembly 4 and the surface of the cover plate facing the screen 1 are connected to form a flat surface, which together support the screen 1.

[0126] Furthermore, each pivot assembly 4 includes at least one swing arm 41. The swing arm 41 may be, for example, a secondary swing arm, that is, a swing arm in the pivot assembly 4 other than the main swing arm 91, used to perform other functions. The number of swing arms 41 in each pivot assembly 4 is not limited, and there may be one or more. The number and type of swing arms 41 in two pivot assemblies 4 may be the same or different. The side of the swing arm 41 away from the base 31 is slidably connected to the connecting block 6. Then, the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are slidably connected to the swing arm 41 on the same side as the corresponding connecting block 6. During the unfolding and folding of the device, the swing arm 41 slides relative to the connecting block 6, thereby adjusting the distance between the first housing 21, the second housing 22 and the base 31, changing the overall length of the folding device 200, so as to use the shape change of the screen 1 and prevent the screen 1 from being stretched or squeezed.

[0127] like Figure 9 As shown, each swing arm 41 includes a screen mating part 5, and the screen mating part 5 of any swing arm 41 includes a first part 51 (see reference). Figure 11b Part 2 and Part 52 (Reference) Figure 11bThe second part 52 is connected to the first part 51. When the hinge device 300 is in the folded state and the swing arm 41 is subjected to an external force (for example, when the foldable electronic device 100 falls in the folded state, the base 31 applies an impact force to the swing arm 41), the deformation of the second part 52 toward the screen 1 is greater than the deformation of the first part 51 toward the screen 1. The screen mating part 5 can be understood as the part of the swing arm 41 that is opposite to the screen 1 in the folded state, that is, the part that may collide with the screen 1 when the screen 1 or the swing arm 41 deforms. It can also be understood as the part located between the base 31 and the door panel 92 in the folded state, that is, the part located outside the base 31 and not covered by the door panel 92. The screen mating part 5 includes a first part 51 and a second part 52. When the swing arm 41 is subjected to an external force, the deformation of the second part 52 toward the screen 1 is greater than that of the first part 51 toward the screen 1. This can be understood as the second part 52 having lower structural strength and poorer resistance to deformation compared to the first part 51. Under the action of external force, it is more likely to undergo large deformation and collide with the screen 1, causing local compression of the screen 1. The first part 51 can be understood as the area of ​​the swing arm that is not easily deformed, for example, […]. Figure 11b The area in the synchronous swing arm 81 that is connected to the base 31 via the second mounting part 812. Figure 15b The deformation of the area where the medium-damping swing arm connects to the base 31 via the second connecting part 712 has a negligible impact on the local compression of the screen. The second part 52 can be understood as the area where the swing arm is prone to deformation, such as a localized groove in the swing arm 41 (e.g.,...). Figure 15b (mid-cantilever beam area), splicing parts (such as...) Figure 11b In areas with weak structures, such as the splicing area, deformation can easily cause localized compression of the screen.

[0128] Furthermore, the surface of the first portion 51 facing the screen 1 is a first mating surface 511, and the surface of the second portion 52 facing the screen 1 is a second mating surface 521. The second mating surface 521 is in contact with the first mating surface 511 and is recessed relative to the first mating surface 511 towards the side away from the screen 1 to form a clearance space. The first mating surface 511 is, for example, a curved surface. When the foldable electronic device 100 is dropped in its folded state, the sliding engagement between the swing arm 41 and the connecting block 6 causes the housing connected to the connecting block 6, along with the screen 1, to slide relative to the swing arm 41. This results in the foldable portion 13 of the screen 1 being squeezed, which can easily lead to the foldable portion 13 of the screen 1 contacting the side of the auxiliary swing arm 41 facing the screen 1. By setting the first mating surface 511 of the swing arm 41 to be a surface that mates with the outer surface of the screen at that position (e.g., a curved surface, which can be an arc surface), the contact position when the swing arm 41 contacts the foldable portion 13 of the screen 1 is a surface contact, which can avoid the local squeezing of the screen 1 when the swing arm 41 contacts the foldable portion 13 of the screen 1.

[0129] This can be understood as the second mating surface 521 being further away from the screen 1 than the first mating surface 511, providing a larger space between the second mating surface 521 and the screen 1, thus allowing for some clearance of the screen 1. With this structure, when the foldable electronic device 100 is subjected to external impact in its folded state, even if the second part 52 of the screen mating portion 5 of the swing arm 41 undergoes significant deformation, there is sufficient space between the screen 1 and the second mating surface 521 to accommodate the deformation of the second part 52. This reduces the risk of the screen 1 failing due to localized impact and compression of the second mating surface 521 before the first mating surface 511 contacts the outer surface of the screen 1 (e.g., localized bright spots, black spots, etc.), thereby reducing the impact stress of the swing arm 41 on the screen 1 and improving reliability. Furthermore, this structure can be achieved even when the swing arm 41 is relatively thin, without conflicting with the thinning design of the swing arm 41, which is beneficial for the overall thinning of the hinge device 300 and the foldable electronic device 100.

[0130] Therefore, the hinge device 300 provided in this application embodiment has a clearance space formed in the swing arm 41 for easily deformable areas (which can be understood as the swing arm 41 being locally thinned in easily deformable areas) to increase the screen accommodation space in these areas. When large deformation occurs in these easily deformable areas, it can better avoid the screen 1, reducing the risk of the screen 1 being impacted and squeezed by the swing arm 41, improving the reliability of the device in stress scenarios, and not affecting the thin and light design of the foldable electronic device 100 (that is, this solution is particularly suitable for scenarios where it is not possible to further reduce the thickness of the swing arm or the screen to increase the screen accommodation space at the swing arm position). Furthermore, the structure of setting the clearance space is simple, highly feasible, and highly practical, which can quickly improve the product's drop resistance and provide a cost-effective solution for ultra-thin folding devices. The clearance is only made locally in the easily deformable areas of the swing arm 41, without affecting the overall strength of the swing arm 41. Therefore, the hinge device 300 provided in this application embodiment can avoid the screen 1 while ensuring that the overall structural strength of the swing arm 41 is not affected, resulting in high reliability.

[0131] Those skilled in the art will understand that the hinge device 300 generally includes multiple swing arms 41. Only one or some of these swing arms 41 may have clearance spaces, or all of them may have clearance spaces. This application does not limit the specific type or number of swing arms 41 with clearance spaces; several possible solutions are illustrated below.

[0132] Please see Figures 10 to 13 , Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the synchronization mechanism in the hinge device according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 11aThis is a schematic diagram of the structure of the area where the synchronous swing arm is located in the hinge device of this application embodiment; Figure 11b This is a schematic diagram of the synchronous swing arm in the hinge device of this application embodiment; Figure 12a This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of one of the sub-arms of the synchronous swing arm in the hinge device of this application embodiment; Figure 12b This is a side view of one of the sub-arms of the synchronous swing arm in the hinge device of this application embodiment; Figure 12c for Figure 12a Schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure in the EE direction; Figure 13 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of another sub-arm of the synchronous swing arm in the hinge device of this application embodiment.

[0133] like Figure 10 As shown, in one possible implementation, the hinge device 300 is equipped with a synchronization mechanism 8, and the swing arm 41 may include a synchronization swing arm 81. Under the transmission action of the synchronization mechanism 8, the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 can rotate synchronously relative to the base 31, improving the rotation experience of the foldable electronic device 100. It should be noted that... Figure 6 The hinge device 300 shown is in the following states: one side of the pivot assembly 4 is unfolded, and the other side of the pivot assembly 4 is folded. This is to facilitate the demonstration of the positional relationship of the components of the hinge device 300 in different states. However, in reality, when the synchronization mechanism 8 is installed, the pivot assemblies 4 on both sides of the base 31 should open or fold synchronously.

[0134] The specific structure of the synchronization mechanism 8 is not limited. In one possible implementation, the synchronization mechanism 8 includes a synchronization block 83 and two synchronization swing arms 81, which are respectively located in two rotating shaft assemblies 4. Each synchronization swing arm 81 includes two sub-swing arms 813, which are spaced apart and facing each other in the length direction Y of the base, i.e., the two sub-swing arms 813 are configured as a separate structure. The synchronization block 83 is slidably connected to the base 31, and the two sides of the synchronization block 83 in the width direction X of the base are respectively helically engaged with the two synchronization swing arms 81.

[0135] Specifically, in one possible implementation, the synchronization block 83 includes two spiral blocks 831 spaced apart in the width direction X of the base, with the two spiral blocks 831 corresponding to two synchronization swing arms 81. Each synchronization swing arm 81 has a sub-swing arm 813 with a second mounting portion 812. The second mounting portions 812 of the two sub-swing arms 813 are arranged opposite each other in the length direction Y of the base. The spiral blocks 831 of the synchronization block 83 are positioned in the length direction Y of the base between the second mounting portions 812 of the two sub-swing arms 813 on the corresponding side, and the spiral blocks 831 on both sides of the base's length direction Y are spirally engaged with the two second mounting portions 812 on the same side. Because the synchronization block 83 is spirally engaged with the two synchronization swing arms 81, when any one synchronization swing arm 81 rotates relative to the base 31, the spiral block 83 on one side can drive the synchronization block 83 to slide along the length direction Y of the base, and then the spiral block 831 on the other side can drive the other synchronization swing arm 81 to rotate, causing the rotating shaft assemblies 4 on both sides of the base 31 to fold or unfold synchronously.

[0136] Those skilled in the art will understand that designing the synchronizer arm 81 as a split structure facilitates the assembly of the synchronizer block 83 and prevents the synchronizer mechanism 8 from failing due to wear. In one possible implementation, the base 31 is further provided with a second elastic element 84. The second elastic element 84 applies an elastic force to the second mounting portion 812 of any one of the sub-swing arms 813 through its own deformation, causing the second mounting portions 812 of the two sub-swing arms 813 to press against each other and make contact with the synchronizer block 83. Alternatively, it can be understood that by applying an elastic force to one of the sub-swing arms 813 of each synchronizer arm 81 through the second elastic element 84, the two sub-swing arms 813 press against each other and are in an interference fit with the synchronizer block 83, thereby clamping the synchronizer block 83. In this way, even if the second mounting part 812 of the sub-swing arm 813 and the spiral block 831 of the synchronization block 83 wear out due to repeated use, the elastic force of the second elastic member 84 can keep the two sub-swing arms 813 and the synchronization block 83 in an interference fit state, always clamping the synchronization block 83 and ensuring the normal operation of the synchronization mechanism 8.

[0137] It should be noted that the connection method of the two sub-arms 813 in each synchronous arm 81 is not limited. For example Figures 11a to 13As shown, in one possible implementation, one of the two sub-swing arms 813 is provided with a connecting post 8131, and the other sub-swing arm 813 is provided with a connecting hole 8132. The connecting post 8131 and the connecting hole 8132 are aligned in the length direction Y of the base, and the connecting post 8131 is inserted into the connecting hole 8132. This allows the two sub-swing arms 813 to be limited in a direction perpendicular to the length direction Y of the base, preventing them from separating from each other. In some possible implementations, the two sub-swing arms 813 can be further connected by a structure such as a snap-fit, so that the two sub-swing arms 813 of the synchronous swing arm 81 cannot rotate relative to each other (i.e., the two sub-swing arms 813 rotate together relative to the base 31). This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0138] While this structure ensures the proper functioning of the synchronization mechanism 8, splitting the synchronization arm 81 into two sub-arms 813 and splicing and fixing them together significantly reduces the structural strength of the splicing area, making it prone to bending and deformation under external forces. Therefore, a clearance space can be provided in the splicing area to avoid impacting the screen 1 and preventing large deformation of the splicing area of ​​the synchronization arm 81 under external forces, thus preventing localized compression and collision with the screen 1.

[0139] like Figures 11a to 13 As shown, in one possible implementation, each sub-arm 813 of the synchronous swing arm 81 includes a screen sub-fitting portion 53, and the screen sub-fitting portions 53 of two sub-arms 813 together constitute the screen fitting portion 5 of the synchronous swing arm 81. Each screen sub-fitting portion 53 of the sub-arm 813 includes a first sub-part 531 and a second sub-part 532 connected along the length Y direction of the base. The first sub-parts 531 of the two sub-arms 813 together constitute the first part 51 of the screen fitting portion 5, and the second sub-parts 532 of the two sub-arms 813 together constitute the second part 52 of the screen fitting portion 5. The second sub-parts 532 of the two sub-arms 813 are arranged opposite to each other. Alternatively, it can be understood that the spliced ​​area in the screen fitting portion 5 of the synchronous swing arm 81 is designated as the second part 52, and the other areas are designated as the first part 51. The second part 52 is recessed towards the side away from the screen 1 to form a clearance space between the second part 52 of the synchronous swing arm 81 and the screen 1. The first part 51 of the synchronous swing arm 81 includes two first sub-parts 531 distributed on the two sub-swing arms 813, and the second part 52 includes two second sub-parts 532 distributed on the two sub-swing arms 813. The second sub-parts 532 are recessed to the side away from the screen 1 relative to the first sub-parts 531.

[0140] It should be noted that the recessed manner of the second sub-part 532 is not limited. In one possible implementation, in the screen sub-fitting part 53 of each sub-arm 813, the surface of the first sub-part 531 facing the screen 1 is the first sub-fitting surface 5311, and the surface of the second sub-part 532 facing the screen 1 is the second sub-fitting surface 5321. The second sub-fitting surface 5321 includes a first side 5321a that is in contact with the first sub-fitting surface 5311 and a second side 5321b that is away from the first sub-fitting surface 5311. From the first side 5321a to the second side 5321b, the second sub-fitting surface 5321 gradually tilts towards the side away from the screen 1. Alternatively, it can be understood that the depth of the recess of the second sub-part 532 gradually increases from the side in contact with the first sub-part 531 to the side away from the first sub-part 531. Understandably, the second side 5321b of the second sub-part 532 in each sub-arm 813 is the position with the largest deformation under external force. Therefore, this position also needs to have a larger recess depth to avoid impact on the screen 1 as much as possible. The first side 5321a is connected to the first sub-part 531. If the recess depths of the first side 5321a and the second side 5321b are set to be the same, an abrupt change in surface will be formed between the second sub-part 532 and the first sub-part 531. When the screen 1 is impacted by the surface of the surface, the risk of damage is high. Therefore, the recess depth of the second part 52 is designed to be gradually buffered from the first side 5321a to the second side 5321b to avoid the formation of a surface and reduce the risk of damage to the screen 1.

[0141] It should be noted that from the first side 5321a to the second side 5321b of the second sub-part 532, the second sub-mating surface 5321 can be inclined along a straight line away from the screen 1, or it can be inclined along an arc, a stepped line, etc., away from the screen 1. This application embodiment does not limit this. In some possible implementations, the depth of the recesses at various points of the second sub-part 532 from the first side 5321a to the second side 5321b can also be kept consistent (i.e., no transition design is made). This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0142] like Figures 11a to 13As shown, in one possible implementation, in each sub-arm 813, the first sub-mate surface 5311 is configured to mate with the surface of the screen 1, so as to support the screen 1 through the first sub-mate surface 5311 and avoid local compression of the screen 1. The first sub-mate surface 5311 can be a curved surface, and includes an inner curved surface 5311a and an outer curved surface 5311b that are connected and tangent in the width direction of the sub-arm 813. The outer curved surface 5311b of the first sub-mate surface 5311 is located on the side of the inner curved surface 5311a near the base 31. The second sub-mate surface 5321 is a curved surface, and includes an inner curved surface 5321c and an outer curved surface 5321d that are connected and tangent in the width direction of the sub-arm 813. The outer curved surface 5321d of the second sub-mate surface 5321 is located on the side of the inner curved surface 5321c near the base 31.

[0143] In this context, the inner curved surface refers to the arc surface whose bending center is located on the side where screen 1 is located, and the outer curved surface refers to the arc surface whose bending center is located away from the side where screen 1 is located. Those skilled in the art will understand that configuring the first sub-mating surface 5311 and the second sub-mating surface 5321 with the above-described structure allows for better engagement with the teardrop-shaped foldable portion 13 in screen 1. When the foldable portion 13 of screen 1 is bent into other shapes, the shapes of the first sub-mating surface 5311 and the second sub-mating surface 5321 are adjusted accordingly, and these will not be listed individually in this application.

[0144] Furthermore, the inner curved surface 5311a of the first sub-mating surface 5311 is connected to and tangent to the inner curved surface 5321c of the second sub-mating surface 5321, and the outer curved surface 5311b of the first sub-mating surface 5311 is connected to and tangent to the outer curved surface 5321d of the second sub-mating surface 5321. That is, the inner curved surfaces of the first sub-mating surface 5311 and the second sub-mating surface 5321 transition tangentially to each other, and the outer curved surfaces transition tangentially to each other. With this structure, the transition buffer of the second sub-part 532 on the first side is smoother. It should be noted that the first sub-mating surface 5311 and the second sub-mating surface 5321 in each sub-swing arm 813 can also adopt other forms of transition, and this embodiment does not limit this.

[0145] It should be noted that the specific location of the screen mating part 5 in the synchronous swing arm 81 is not limited. For example... Figures 11a to 13 As shown, in one possible implementation, each sub-arm 813 further includes a first mounting portion 811 and a second mounting portion 812. The first mounting portion 811 is connected to the side of the screen sub-fitting portion 53 away from the base 31 and is slidably connected to the connecting block 6. The second mounting portion 812 is connected to the side of the screen sub-fitting portion 53 close to the base 31 and is rotatably connected to the base 31. The first mounting portions 811 of the two sub-arms 813 are arranged opposite each other in the length direction Y of the base, and the second mounting portions 812 of the two sub-arms 813 are arranged opposite each other in the length direction Y of the base.

[0146] The function of the second mounting part 812 has been described previously and will not be repeated here. The first mounting part 811 is used for sliding engagement with the connecting block 6, and the method of sliding connection between the two is not limited. Figure 8 As shown, in one possible implementation, the side of the first mounting portion 811 of each sub-swing arm 813 facing the first mounting portion 811 of another sub-swing arm 813 is configured as a first slider 8111. The connecting block 6 is provided with a first groove 62 corresponding to the first sliders 8111 of the two first mounting portions 811, and the first sliders 8111 of each first mounting portion 811 can slide within the first groove 62. In some possible implementations, a groove may also be provided on the first mounting portion 811, and a slider may be provided on the connecting block 6; this application does not limit this.

[0147] It should be noted that the depth of the recess in the second part 52 of the screen mating portion 5 in the synchronous swing arm 81 is not limited. In one possible implementation, when the hinge device 300 is in the folded state and the synchronous swing arm 81 is not subjected to external force, the depth of the recess of the second side 5321b of the second sub-mating surface 5321 of each sub-swing arm 813 relative to the first sub-mating surface 5311 is greater than the amount of deformation of the part where the second side of the second sub-mating surface 5321 of each sub-swing arm 813 is located towards the screen when the synchronous swing arm 81 is subjected to external force, and the difference (which can be understood as the difference between the depth of the recess of the second side 5321b of the second sub-mating surface 5321 relative to the first sub-mating surface 5311 and the amount of deformation of the part where the second side 5321b of the second sub-mating surface 5321 is located towards the screen) is greater than or equal to 0.2 mm. Or it can be understood as, as Figure 12b As shown, when the hinge device 300 is in the folded state and the synchronous swing arm 81 is not subjected to external force, the distance L1 between the second sub-mating surface 5321 and the first sub-mating surface 5311 (which can be understood as the depth of the second side 5321b of the second sub-mating surface 5321 relative to the first sub-mating surface 5311) is greater than or equal to R1 + 0.2 mm, where R1 is the maximum deformation of the second sub-part 532, which can be measured through simulation tests, experiments, etc. The clearance space, based on accommodating the maximum deformation of the second sub-part 532, adds a redundancy distance of 0.2 mm, which can be used to accommodate the deformation of the screen 1 itself, as well as the deformation of components caused by other sudden factors, further reducing the risk of local compression collision between the screen 1 and the synchronous swing arm 81. In some possible implementations, when the hinge device 300 is in a folded state and the synchronous swing arm 81 is subjected to an external force, the distance between the second sub-mate surface 5321 and the first mate surface 511 of each sub-swing arm 813 can also be less than R1+0.2mm. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0148] It should be noted that the span (which can be understood as length) of the second part 52 of the screen mating part 5 in the synchronous swing arm 81 along the length direction Y of the base is unlimited. For example... Figure 12a As shown, in one possible implementation, the length C1 of the second sub-part 532 of each sub-arm 813 in the synchronous swing arm 81 along the length direction Y of the base is greater than or equal to 2mm, such as 2mm, 2.5mm, 3mm, etc., and is not specifically limited. Setting the span of the second sub-part 532 along the length direction Y of the base to be greater than 2mm allows for a longer avoidance area, enabling most of the area of ​​the synchronous swing arm 81 along the length direction Y of the base to avoid the screen 1, further reducing the risk of collision between the synchronous swing arm 81 and the screen 1 and improving product reliability. In some possible implementations, the length of the second sub-part 532 of each sub-arm 813 in the synchronous swing arm 81 along the length direction Y of the base can also be less than 2mm, and this embodiment does not impose such limitations.

[0149] The above describes the provision of clearance space in the synchronous swing arm 81. Those skilled in the art will understand that each pivot assembly 4 of the hinge device 300 may have only one synchronous swing arm 81 or multiple synchronous swing arms 81. When multiple synchronous swing arms 81 are provided, clearance space may be provided in each synchronous swing arm 81, or only one or a portion of the synchronous swing arms 81 may have clearance space. This application embodiment does not impose any limitations on this.

[0150] Please see Figures 14 to 17b , Figure 14 This is a partial structural diagram of the hinge device in an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 One side of the pivot assembly is unfolded, and the other side of the pivot assembly is folded. Figure 15a This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the area where the damping swing arm is located in the hinge device of the embodiment of this application; Figure 15b This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the damping swing arm in the hinge device of this application embodiment; Figure 16a This is a schematic diagram of the planar structure of the damping swing arm in the hinge device of this application embodiment; Figure 16b for Figure 16a A cross-sectional view along the FF direction;

[0151] Figure 17a This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 ; Figure 17b This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 3 .

[0152] like Figure 14As shown, in one possible implementation, the hinge device 300 includes a damping mechanism 7, and the swing arm 41 includes a damping swing arm 71. The specific structure of the damping mechanism 7 is not limited. In one possible implementation, the damping mechanism 7 includes a damping swing arm 71, a first elastic member 72, and two sliding seats 73. Each damping swing arm 71 has two second connecting portions 712 on the side near the base 31, and the two second connecting portions 712 are arranged opposite each other in the length direction Y of the base. The two sliding seats 73 are slidably connected to the base 31 and are disposed between the two second connecting portions 712 of the damping swing arm 71. In the length direction Y of the base, the two sliding seats 73 are respectively disposed at both ends of the first elastic member 72, and each sliding seat 73 is located between the end of the elastic member and the second connecting portion 712 on its side. The first elastic member 72 applies an elastic force to each sliding seat 73 through its own deformation, causing each sliding seat 73 to press against and contact the second connecting portion 712 on its side.

[0153] This can be understood as follows: a first elastic element 72 and a sliding seat 73 are provided between the two second connecting portions 712 of the damping swing arm 71. The elastic force of the first elastic element 72 causes the sliding seat 73 to press against the second connecting portion 712. During the rotation of the damping swing arm 71 relative to the base 31, the sliding seat 73 rubs against the end face of the corresponding second connecting portion 712, thereby generating a damping feel. In some possible implementations, the opposing end faces of the sliding seat 73 and the corresponding second connecting portion 712 are provided with uneven structures (e.g., one is set as a concave wheel, and the other is set as a cam), so that the damping feel can be designed and adjusted. This application does not limit the specific shape of its cross-section. Those skilled in the art will understand that the first elastic element 72 in the damping mechanism 7 and the second elastic element 84 in the synchronization mechanism 8 can be reused together or set separately. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0154] like Figure 14 As shown, in one possible implementation, the damping mechanism 7 further includes a damping shaft 74, and the two second connecting parts 712, the first elastic element 72, and the two sliding seats 73 of the damping swing arm 71 are all sleeved on the damping shaft 74. Figure 14 As shown, in one possible implementation, both rotating shaft assemblies 4 are provided with damping mechanisms 7, and the damping structures of the two rotating shaft assemblies 4 are arranged opposite to each other. The two sliding seats 73 corresponding to the positions along the length Y direction of the base can be configured as an integral structure. Alternatively, the two corresponding sliding seats 73 can also be separate structures; this embodiment does not limit this. The damping mechanism 7 may include more or fewer components than described above; this embodiment does not limit this.

[0155] like Figure 14 , Figures 15a to 15bAs shown, in one possible implementation, the damping swing arm 71 further includes two first connecting portions 711, which are slidably connected to the connecting block 6. The manner in which the first connecting portions 711 and the connecting block 6 are slidably connected is not limited. In one possible implementation, the side of each first connecting portion 711 facing the other is configured as a second slider 7111, and the connecting block 6 is provided with a second groove 63 corresponding to the second sliders 7111 of the two first connecting portions 711, allowing the second sliders 7111 of each first connecting portion 711 to slide within the second groove 63. In some possible implementations, a groove may also be provided on the first connecting portion 711, and a slider may be provided on the connecting block 6; this embodiment does not limit this.

[0156] like Figure 14 , Figures 15a to 15b As shown, in one possible implementation, the damping arm 71 has an overall I-shaped structure. Two first connecting parts 711 are connected to the side of the screen mating part 5 away from the base 31 and are spaced apart along the length Y of the base. Two second connecting parts 712 are connected to the side of the screen mating part 5 near the base 31 and are spaced apart along the length Y of the base. The portion of the damping arm 71 located between the two first connecting parts 711 and the two second connecting parts 712 constitutes a cantilever beam structure. This part of the structure is weak and is prone to large deformation that could compress the screen 1 (the deformation of the cantilever beam structure is greatest at the middle position along the length Y of the base; when the damping arm 71 is subjected to an external force applied by the base 31, this middle position of the cantilever beam structure is prone to locally compressing the screen 1). Therefore, a clearance space is provided in the cantilever beam area to avoid the screen 1, thereby reducing the risk of large deformation and local compression of the screen 1 when the damping arm is subjected to an external force.

[0157] It should be noted that the specific division areas of the first part 51 and the second part 52 in the screen mating part 5 are not limited, such as Figures 15a to 15bAs shown, in one possible implementation, in the damping swing arm 71, the first part 51 of the screen mating part 5 is U-shaped and includes a bottom 514 and two side parts 515. The side of the second part 52 away from the base 31 is connected to the bottom 514, and the two ends of the second part 52 in the length direction Y of the base are respectively connected to the two side parts 515. The two first connecting parts 711 are respectively connected to the side of the two side parts 515 away from the base 31, and the two second connecting parts 712 are respectively connected to the side of the two side parts 515 near the base 31. Setting the first part 51 of the screen mating part 5 into a U-shape, and the second part 52 being surrounded within the U-shaped structure, divides the side of the cantilever beam structure near the base 31 into the second part 52 and makes it recessed, while the side away from the base 31 (i.e., the bottom 514 of the first part 51) is divided into the first part 51. This helps to maintain the rigidity of the cantilever beam structure and prevents this part from being too thin or too thin, thus preventing breakage. In some possible implementations, the cantilever beam structure can also be set as the second part 52 as a whole, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0158] like Figures 15a to 17b As shown, in one possible implementation, in the screen mating portion 5 of the damping swing arm 71, the second portion 52 includes a recessed portion 522 and a transition portion 523, with the transition portion 523 connected between the first portion 51 and the recessed portion 522. The surface of the recessed portion 522 facing the screen 1 is the recessed mating surface 5221, and the surface of the transition portion 523 facing the screen 1 is the transition mating surface 5231. The second mating surface 521 includes the recessed mating surface 5221 and the transition mating surface 5231. The recessed mating surface 5221 is recessed relative to the first mating surface 511, and the depth of the recessed mating surface 5221 at each position along the length direction Y of the base is consistent with that of the first mating surface 511. The transition mating surface 5231 includes a first side 5231a that is connected to the first mating surface 511 and a second side 5231b that is connected to the recessed mating surface 5221. From the first side 5231a to the second side 5231b, the transition mating surface 5231 gradually tilts toward the side away from the screen 1.

[0159] This can be understood as follows: the recessed portion 522 of the second part 52 in the damping swing arm 71 has a consistent recessed depth at all points along the length Y of the base. A transition portion 523 is provided between the recessed portion 522 and the first part 51 as a connection transition. The depth of the recessed portion 523 gradually increases from the side that connects with the first part 51 to the side that connects with the recessed portion 522, so as to avoid the formation of a ridge and prevent the screen 1 from being damaged by the impact of the ridge (or it can be understood as, to avoid the screen being damaged by stress concentration).

[0160] It should be noted that the specific shape of the transition mating surface 5231 is not limited. In one possible implementation, the first mating surface 511 is a curved surface and includes an inner curved surface 512 and an outer curved surface 513 that are connected and tangentially disposed in the width direction of the damping swing arm 71. The outer curved surface 513 of the first mating surface 511 is disposed on the side of the inner curved surface 512 near the base 31. The recessed mating surface 5221 is a curved surface. In one possible implementation, the recessed mating surface 5221 can be an outer curved surface in its entirety, or the recessed mating surface 5221 can also include an inner curved surface and an outer curved surface. This embodiment of the application does not limit this.

[0161] like Figures 15a to 16b As shown, in one possible implementation, the transition mating surface 5231 includes a first transition surface 5231c, a second transition surface 5231d, and a third transition surface 5231e arranged sequentially. The side of the first transition surface 5231c near the first portion 51 is connected to and tangent to the outer curved surface 513 of the first mating surface 511. The side of the third transition surface 5231e near the recessed portion 522 is connected to and tangent to the recessed mating surface 5221. The side of the second transition surface 5231d near the first portion 51 is connected to and tangent to the outer curved surface 513 of the first mating surface 511 and the first transition surface 5231c, respectively. The side of the second transition surface 5231d near the recessed portion 522 is connected to and tangent to the recessed mating surface 5221. The first side 5231a of the transition surface 5231c, which connects to the outer curved surface 513 of the first mating surface 511, and the second side 5231d, which connects to the outer curved surface 513 of the first mating surface 511, together constitute the first side 5231a of the transition mating surface 5231. The second side 5231b of the transition mating surface 5231, which connects to the recessed mating surface 5221 of the third transition surface 5231e, and the second side 5231d, which connects to the recessed mating surface 5221, together constitute the second side 5231b of the transition mating surface 5231.

[0162] This can also be understood as follows: the transition is achieved through a portion of the outer curved surface 513 of the first mating surface 511 via the first transition surface 5231c, another portion of the outer curved surface 513 of the first mating surface 511 via the second transition surface 5231d, and the transition is achieved through the third transition surface 5231e and the recessed mating surface 5221. The three transition surfaces also transition with each other, making the arc of the transition between the transition mating surface 5231 and the first mating surface 511 and the recessed mating surface 5221 smoother and more natural.

[0163] Those skilled in the art will understand that the number and shape of the transition surfaces can be adaptively designed and adjusted according to the structure of the damping swing arm 71, the regional division of the first part 51 and the second part 52, and the shape of each part. The above scheme is only an example, and the embodiments of this application do not limit it.

[0164] It should be noted that the depth of the recess in the second part 52 of the screen mating portion 5 in the damping swing arm 71 is not limited. For example... Figure 17b As shown, in one possible implementation, when the hinge device 300 is in the folded state and the damping arm 71 is not subjected to external force, the depth of the recessed mating surface 5221 relative to the first mating surface 511 is greater than the maximum deformation of the recessed portion 522 towards the screen 1 when the damping arm 71 is subjected to external force, and the difference is greater than or equal to 0.2 mm. This difference can be understood as the difference between the depth of the recessed mating surface 5221 relative to the first mating surface 511 and the deformation of the portion where the recessed mating surface 5221 is located towards the screen. For example... Figure 16b The difference D in the figure, the curved dashed line represents the shape of the recessed mating surface 5221 when the deformation of the recessed portion 522 is at its maximum. Alternatively, it can be understood as, as... Figure 17b As shown, when the hinge device 300 is in the folded state and the damping swing arm 71 is not subjected to external force, the distance L2 between the recessed mating surface 5221 and the first mating surface 511 (which can be understood as the depth of the recessed mating surface 5221 relative to the first mating surface 511) is greater than or equal to R2 + 0.2 mm, where R2 is the maximum deformation of the recessed portion 522. Based on accommodating the maximum deformation of the recessed portion 522, an additional 0.2 mm of redundant distance is added (e.g., ...). Figure 16b The difference value D (greater than or equal to 0.2 mm) is used to accommodate the deformation of the screen 1 itself and the deformation of components caused by other unforeseen factors, further reducing the risk of collision between the screen 1 and the synchronous swing arm 81. In some possible implementations, when the hinge device 300 is in a folded state and the damping swing arm 71 is subjected to an external force, the distance between the recessed mating surface 5221 and the first mating surface 511 can also be less than 0.2 mm. Correspondingly, the distance between the recessed mating surface 5221 and the screen 1 can also be less than R2+0.2 mm. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0165] It should be noted that the span (which can be understood as length) of the second part 52 of the screen mating part 5 in the damping swing arm 71 along the length direction Y of the base is unlimited. For example... Figure 16bAs shown, in one possible implementation, the length C2 of the second part 52 of the damping arm 71 in the length direction Y of the base is greater than or equal to 2mm, such as 2mm, 2.3mm, 4mm, etc., and is not specifically limited. Setting the span of the second part 52 in the length direction Y of the base to be more than 2mm allows for a longer avoidance area, enabling most of the area of ​​the damping arm 71 along the length direction Y of the base to avoid the screen 1, further reducing the risk of collision between the damping arm 71 and the screen 1 and improving product reliability. In some possible implementations, the length of the second part 52 of the screen mating part 5 in the damping arm 71 in the length direction Y of the base may also be less than 2mm, and this embodiment does not impose such limitations.

[0166] Those skilled in the art will understand that the cantilever beam structure of the damping swing arm 71 can be understood as a structure formed by digging grooves on the side of the cantilever beam region near the base 31 and on the side away from the base 31. When only one side of the damping swing arm 71 is grooved, the above-mentioned avoidance scheme is also applicable. For example, the second connecting part 712 is provided only in the groove on the side near the base 31, or the first connecting part 711 is provided only in the groove on the side away from the base 31. The embodiments of this application do not limit this.

[0167] The above describes the provision of clearance space in the damping swing arm 71. Those skilled in the art will understand that each pivot assembly 4 of the hinge device 300 may have only one damping swing arm 71 or multiple damping swing arms 71. When multiple damping swing arms 71 are provided, each damping swing arm 71 may have clearance space, or only one or a portion of the damping swing arms 71 may have clearance space. This application embodiment does not impose any limitations on this.

[0168] In one possible implementation, the damping swing arm 71 and one of the sub-swing arms 813 of the synchronous swing arm 81 can be configured as an integral structure to reduce the number of components in the rotating shaft assembly 4 and simplify the manufacturing process. The damping swing arm 71 and the synchronous swing arm 81 can also be configured separately, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0169] The preceding text used the synchronous swing arm 81 as an example to illustrate the avoidance scheme of the swing arm 41 with a splicing structure, and the damping swing arm 71 as an example to illustrate the avoidance scheme of the swing arm 41 with a cantilever beam structure. Both avoidance schemes are also applicable to other types of swing arms 41, such as door panel swing arms 41, and this application embodiment does not limit them.

[0170] Those skilled in the art will understand that the above description of the hinge device 300 is merely an example and does not limit the hinge device 300 provided in this application. In fact, the hinge device 300 may include more or fewer components than the above example.

[0171] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to this application without departing from the scope of this application. Therefore, if such modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalents, this application also intends to include such modifications and variations.

Claims

1. A hinge device, characterized in that, It includes a base and two pivot assemblies, which are respectively disposed on both sides of the base in the width direction and are rotatably connected to the base, so that the hinge device can switch between an unfolded state and a folded state. Each of the two pivot assemblies includes at least one swing arm and a connecting block. The connecting block is used to be fixedly connected to the corresponding housing. The side of each swing arm near the base is rotatably connected to the base, and the side away from the base is slidably connected to the connecting block. Each swing arm includes a screen mating part. The screen mating part of any of the swing arms includes a first part and a second part, the second part being connected to the first part. When the hinge device is in a folded state and the swing arm is subjected to an external force, the deformation of the second part toward the screen is greater than the deformation of the first part toward the screen. The first part of the surface facing the screen is a first mating surface, and the second part of the surface facing the screen is a second mating surface. The second mating surface is in contact with the first mating surface and is recessed relative to the first mating surface toward the side away from the screen to form a clearance space.

2. The hinge device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The at least one swing arm includes a damping swing arm, and in the screen mating portion of the damping swing arm, the second portion includes a recessed portion and a transition portion, the transition portion being connected between the first portion and the recessed portion; The surface of the recessed portion facing the screen is a recessed mating surface, the surface of the transition portion facing the screen is a transition mating surface, the second mating surface includes the recessed mating surface and the transition mating surface, the recessed mating surface is recessed relative to the first mating surface towards the side away from the screen, and the recessed mating surface is recessed to the same depth relative to the first mating surface at each position along the length direction of the base. The transition mating surface includes a first side that is in contact with the first mating surface and a second side that is in contact with the recessed mating surface. From the first side to the second side, the transition mating surface gradually tilts away from the screen.

3. The hinge device as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The first mating surface is a curved surface and includes an inner curved surface and an outer curved surface that are connected and tangentially arranged in the width direction of the damping swing arm. The outer curved surface of the first mating surface is located on the side of the inner curved surface near the base. The recessed mating surface is a curved surface. The transition mating surface includes a first transition surface, a second transition surface, and a third transition surface that are sequentially connected. The side of the first transition surface near the first portion is connected to and tangent to the outer curved surface of the first mating surface. The side of the third transition surface near the recessed portion is connected to and tangent to the recessed mating surface. The side of the second transition surface near the first portion is connected to and tangent to both the outer curved surface of the first mating surface and the first transition surface. The side of the second transition surface near the recessed portion is connected to and tangent to the recessed mating surface. The first transition surface, the side of which connects with the outer curved surface of the first mating surface, and the second transition surface, the side of which connects with the outer curved surface of the first mating surface, together constitute the first side of the transition mating surface; the third transition surface, the side of which connects with the recessed mating surface, and the second transition surface, the side of which connects with the recessed mating surface, together constitute the second side of the transition mating surface.

4. The hinge device as described in claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, When the hinge device is in the folded state and the damping swing arm is not subjected to external force, the depth of the recessed mating surface relative to the first mating surface is greater than the maximum deformation of the recessed portion toward the screen when the damping swing arm is subjected to external force, and the difference is greater than or equal to 0.2mm.

5. The hinge device according to any one of claims 2-4, characterized in that, The second part of the damping swing arm has a length of 2 mm or more in the longitudinal direction of the base.

6. The hinge device according to any one of claims 2-5, characterized in that, In the damping swing arm, the first part of the screen mating part is set as U-shaped and includes a bottom and two sides. The side of the second part away from the base is connected to the bottom, and the two ends of the second part in the length direction of the base are respectively connected to the two sides. The damping swing arm further includes two first connecting parts and two second connecting parts. The two first connecting parts are slidably connected to the connecting block, and the two second connecting parts are rotatably connected to the base. The two first connecting parts are arranged opposite to each other in the length direction of the base and are respectively connected to the side of the two sides away from the base. The two second connecting parts are arranged opposite to each other in the length direction of the base and are respectively connected to the side of the two sides near the base, so that the second part and the bottom form a cantilever beam structure.

7. The hinge device as claimed in claim 6, characterized in that, The hinge device includes a damping mechanism, which includes a damping swing arm, a first elastic element, and two sliding seats. The two sliding seats are slidably connected to the base and are disposed between the two second connecting parts of the damping swing arm. Along the length of the base, the two sliding seats are respectively disposed at both ends of the first elastic member, and each sliding seat is located between the end of the elastic member and the second connecting part on its side. The first elastic member applies an elastic force to each sliding seat through its own deformation, so that each sliding seat and the second connecting part on its side press against each other.

8. The hinge device according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The at least one swing arm includes a synchronous swing arm, which includes two sub-swing arms that are spaced apart from each other in the length direction of the base, and the two sub-swing arms are configured as a split structure. Each of the sub-swing arms includes a screen sub-fitting part, and the screen sub-fitting parts of the two sub-swing arms together constitute the screen fitting part of the synchronous swing arm; the screen sub-fitting part of each of the sub-swing arms includes a first sub-part and a second sub-part connected together along the length direction of the base, the first sub-parts of the two sub-swing arms together constitute the first part of the screen fitting part, and the second sub-parts of the two sub-swing arms together constitute the second part of the screen fitting part, and the second sub-parts of the two sub-swing arms are arranged opposite to each other; In each of the sub-arms, the surface of the first sub-part facing the screen is the first sub-mate surface, and the surface of the second sub-part facing the screen is the second sub-mate surface. The second sub-mate surface includes a first side that is in contact with the first sub-mate surface and a second side that is away from the first sub-mate surface. From the first side to the second side, the second sub-mate surface gradually tilts toward the side away from the screen.

9. The hinge device as claimed in claim 8, characterized in that, In each of the sub-swing arms, the first sub-mating surface is a curved surface, and includes an inner curved surface and an outer curved surface that are connected and tangent to each other in the width direction of the sub-swing arm. The outer curved surface of the first sub-mating surface is located on the side of the inner curved surface close to the base. The second sub-mate surface is a curved surface and includes an inner curved surface and an outer curved surface that are connected and tangent to each other in the width direction of the sub-swing arm. The outer curved surface of the second sub-mate surface is located on the side of the inner curved surface close to the base. The inner curved surface of the first sub-mating surface is connected to and tangent to the inner curved surface of the second sub-mating surface, and the outer curved surface of the first sub-mating surface is connected to and tangent to the outer curved surface of the second sub-mating surface.

10. The hinge device as claimed in claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, When the hinge device is in the folded state and the synchronous swing arm is not subjected to external force, the depth of the second side of the second sub-mating surface of each sub-swing arm being recessed relative to the first sub-mating surface is greater than the amount of deformation of the part where the second side of each sub-swing arm is located towards the screen when the synchronous swing arm is subjected to external force, and the difference is greater than or equal to 0.2mm.

11. The hinge device according to any one of claims 8-10, characterized in that, The second sub-part of each of the sub-arms in the synchronous swing arm has a length greater than or equal to 2 mm in the length direction of the base.

12. The hinge device according to any one of claims 8-11, characterized in that, Each of the sub-arms further includes a first mounting part and a second mounting part. The first mounting part is connected to the side of the screen sub-fitting part away from the base and is slidably connected to the connecting block. The second mounting part is connected to the side of the screen sub-fitting part close to the base and is rotatably connected to the base. The first mounting portions of the two sub-swing arms are arranged opposite each other in the length direction of the base, and the second mounting portions of the two sub-swing arms are arranged opposite each other in the length direction of the base.

13. The hinge device as claimed in claim 12, characterized in that, A synchronizing block is provided between the second mounting portions of the two sub-swing arms. The synchronizing block is slidably connected to the base, and the synchronizing block is helically engaged with the second mounting portions of the two sub-swing arms on both sides of the base in the length direction. The base is also provided with a second elastic element, which applies an elastic force to the second mounting part of any one of the sub-swing arms through its own deformation, so that the second mounting parts of the two sub-swing arms respectively press and contact each other with the synchronization block.

14. A folding device, comprising a first housing and a second housing, characterized in that, It also includes a hinge device as described in any one of claims 1-13, wherein the first housing and the second housing are respectively fixedly connected to the connecting blocks of the two pivot assemblies, so that the first housing and the second housing are rotatably connected through the hinge device.

15. A foldable electronic device, characterized in that, Includes the folding device as described in claim 14, and a screen laid on the folding device; The screen includes a first display portion, a second display portion, and a foldable portion, wherein the foldable portion is located between the first display portion and the second display portion; the first display portion is fixedly connected to the first housing, the second display portion is fixedly connected to the second housing, and the foldable portion is stacked with the hinge device.

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