Hinge mechanism, folding device and foldable electronic equipment

Abstract

The utility model provides a hinge mechanism, a folding device and foldable electronic equipment, the hinge mechanism comprises a middle beam and decorative door plates on the two sides of the middle beam, and the middle beam comprises a middle beam decorative plate, a cover plate and a base which are sequentially stacked in the thickness direction of the middle beam and are relatively fixed. When the hinge mechanism is in an unfolded state, the first side face (close to the side face of the middle beam in the width direction of the middle beam) of each decoration door plate and the corresponding side face of the middle beam decoration plate are oppositely arranged and form a gap, and the whole exposed area of each gap is shielded by the first side face of the corresponding decoration door plate or the corresponding side face of the middle beam decoration plate. When a user uses the foldable electronic equipment in an unfolded state, all parts in the hinge mechanism cannot be seen through the gap. The integration and the attractiveness of the hinge mechanism are effectively improved, and then the integration and the attractiveness of the foldable electronic equipment are improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of electronic equipment, and in particular to a hinge mechanism, a folding device and a foldable electronic device. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, the technology of electronic devices has been updated faster and faster. Since foldable electronic devices can achieve a larger display area and have good portability, they are increasingly favored by users. With the gradual development of foldable electronic device technology, users have higher and higher requirements for its refinement and appearance. Among them, improving the integrity and aesthetics of the hinge mechanism plays a vital role in improving the refinement and aesthetics of foldable electronic devices. For external folding electronic devices in the unfolded state, the decorative door panel in the hinge mechanism is an appearance part exposed to the outside, which directly affects the user's visual experience of the foldable electronic device and its aesthetics.

[0003] As an important component of a foldable electronic device, the hinge mechanism includes a center beam, a decorative door panel, a fixed bracket, and components such as a synchronization mechanism, a damping structure, and a swing arm structure disposed between the center beam and the fixed bracket to realize various functions of the hinge mechanism. The decorative door panel is usually disposed between the center beam and the fixed bracket in the hinge mechanism, and is disposed on the surface away from the display screen. Together with the center beam decorative panel of the center beam, the components between the center beam and the fixed bracket are shielded, making the hinge mechanism more integrated and aesthetically pleasing, thereby improving the aesthetics of the foldable electronic device.

[0004] However, when the hinge mechanism in the prior art is in the unfolded state, there is a gap between the side of each decorative door panel close to the center beam and the side corresponding to the center beam decorative panel. When the user looks at the gap from a straight-on perspective along the thickness direction of the center beam, some components in the hinge mechanism (for example, the spring in the damping structure) can be seen through the gap, which greatly affects the integrity and aesthetics of the hinge mechanism, and thus affects the aesthetics of the foldable electronic device.

[0005] It can be seen that when the hinge mechanism in the prior art is in the unfolded state, some components in the hinge mechanism (for example, the spring in the damping structure) can be seen through the gaps between the decorative door panels and the center beam decorative panels, resulting in a decrease in the integrity and aesthetics of the hinge mechanism, and thus a decrease in the aesthetics of the foldable electronic device. Utility Model Content

[0006] The embodiments of the present application provide a hinge mechanism, a folding device and a foldable electronic device, which solve the problem in the prior art that when the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, some components in the hinge mechanism can be seen through the gaps between the decorative door panels and the center beam decorative panels, resulting in a decrease in the integrity and aesthetics of the hinge mechanism, and further a decrease in the aesthetics of the foldable electronic device.

[0007] An embodiment of the present application provides a hinge mechanism, including a center beam, a first decorative door panel, and a second decorative door panel.

[0008] The center beam comprises a center beam decorative plate, a cover plate and a base which are stacked in sequence and relatively fixed along its thickness direction. The center beam decorative plate comprises a first side surface and a second side surface which are arranged opposite to each other along its width direction, and a center beam decorative surface which is connected to the first side surface and the second side surface.

[0009] The first decorative door panel and the second decorative door panel are respectively arranged on both sides of the central beam in the width direction, and each of the first decorative door panel and the second decorative door panel has a first side surface and a second side surface arranged opposite to each other along the width direction thereof, and a decorative surface connected to the first side surface and the second side surface.

[0010] Wherein, when the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, the first side surface of the first decorative door panel is arranged opposite to the first side surface of the center beam decorative panel, and a first gap is formed, and the first side surface of the second decorative door panel is arranged opposite to the second side surface of the center beam decorative panel, and a second gap is formed. At least a part of each of the first gap and the second gap is exposed to the center beam decorative surface and the decorative surface of each decorative door panel, and in the thickness direction of the center beam from the center beam decorative panel toward the base, the exposed area of ​​each gap is entirely blocked by the first side surface of the corresponding decorative door panel or the corresponding side surface of the center beam decorative panel.

[0011] In the present application, when the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, the first side of each decorative door panel and the corresponding side of the center beam decorative panel are arranged relative to each other and a gap is formed, and at least a part of each gap is exposed relative to the center beam decorative surface and the decorative surface of each decorative door panel (or it can be understood that the gap is partially or completely exposed relative to the center beam decorative surface and the decorative surface of the decorative door panel). When the gap is viewed from a frontal perspective along the thickness direction of the center beam, the exposed area of ​​each gap is blocked by the first side of the corresponding decorative door panel or the corresponding side of the center beam decorative panel (or it can be understood that what the user sees through the gap is the first side of the corresponding decorative door panel or the corresponding side of the center beam decorative panel). When the user uses the foldable electronic device in the unfolded state, the various components inside the hinge mechanism cannot be seen through the gap, which effectively improves the integrity and aesthetics of the hinge mechanism, and thus improves the integrity and aesthetics of the foldable electronic device.

[0012] Therefore, when the hinge mechanism provided in the embodiment of the present application is in the unfolded state, the first side surface of each decorative door panel or the corresponding side surface of the center beam decorative panel can cover the corresponding gap, effectively improving the integrity and aesthetics of the foldable electronic device. This solves the problem in the prior art that when the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, some components in the hinge mechanism (for example, the spring in the damping structure) can be seen through the gap between each decorative door panel and the center beam decorative panel, resulting in a decrease in the integrity and aesthetics of the hinge mechanism, and thus a decrease in the aesthetics of the foldable electronic device.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first side surface of the first decorative door panel includes a first slope, and the first side surface of the center beam decorative panel includes: a second slope corresponding to the first slope, and when the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, the area exposed by the first gap is entirely blocked by the first slope or the second slope.

[0014] The first side surface of the second decorative door panel includes a third slope, and the second side surface of the center beam decorative panel includes: a fourth slope corresponding to the third slope, and when the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, the area exposed by the second gap is entirely blocked by the third slope or the fourth slope.

[0015] With the above solution, the first side surface of each decorative door panel includes an inclined surface, and the corresponding side surface of the center beam decorative panel includes an inclined surface corresponding to the inclined surface of each decorative door panel. When the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, the exposed area of ​​each gap is entirely blocked by the inclined surface of the corresponding decorative door panel or the corresponding inclined surface of the center beam decorative panel. The integrity and aesthetics of the hinge mechanism are effectively improved, thereby improving the aesthetics of the foldable electronic device. In addition, the inclined surfaces of each decorative door panel and the inclined surfaces of the center beam decorative panel are easy to process, thereby reducing production costs.

[0016] In some embodiments, the first side surface of the first decorative door panel includes a first step surface, and the first side surface of the center beam decorative panel includes: a second step surface corresponding to the first step surface, and when the hinge mechanism is in an expanded state, the area exposed by the first gap is entirely blocked by the first step surface or the second step surface.

[0017] The first side surface of the second decorative door panel includes a third step surface, and the second side surface of the center beam decorative panel includes: a fourth step surface corresponding to the third step surface, and when the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, the area exposed by the second gap is entirely blocked by the third step surface or the fourth step surface.

[0018] With the above solution, the first side surface of each decorative door panel includes a stepped surface, and the corresponding side surface of the center beam decorative panel includes a stepped surface corresponding to the stepped surface of each decorative door panel. When the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, the exposed area of ​​each gap is entirely shielded by the stepped surface of the corresponding decorative door panel or the corresponding stepped surface of the center beam decorative panel. This effectively improves the integrity and aesthetics of the hinge mechanism, thereby improving the aesthetics of the foldable electronic device.

[0019] In some embodiments, at least one limiting portion extending toward the center beam is disposed on the surface of each decorative door panel facing away from the decorative surface, and at least one limited portion corresponding to the at least one limiting portion is disposed on both sides of the center beam in the width direction. When the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, at least one limiting portion cooperates with the corresponding limited portion to limit the movement of the decorative door panel relative to the center beam in the thickness direction thereof.

[0020] With the above solution, when the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, the limiting parts arranged on each decorative door panel cooperate with the corresponding limited parts arranged on both sides of the middle beam to limit the movement of the decorative door panel relative to the middle beam in the thickness direction. This can effectively prevent the decorative door panel from shaking and tilting relative to the middle beam in the thickness direction when the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, thereby enhancing the stability of the hinge mechanism and further enhancing the stability of the foldable electronic device.

[0021] In some embodiments, at least one limiting portion of each decorative door panel is provided with a limiting surface on one side close to the center beam, and at least one limited portion provided on both sides of the center beam is provided with a limited surface corresponding to the limiting surface. When the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, the limiting surface of at least one limiting portion cooperates with the limited surface of the corresponding limited portion to limit the movement of the decorative door panel relative to the center beam in the thickness direction thereof.

[0022] With the above solution, when the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, the limiting surfaces provided on each decorative door panel cooperate with the corresponding limited surfaces provided on both sides of the middle beam to limit the movement of the decorative door panel relative to the middle beam in the thickness direction. This can more effectively prevent the decorative door panel from shaking relative to the middle beam in the thickness direction when the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, further enhance the stability of the hinge mechanism, and further enhance the stability of the foldable electronic device.

[0023] In some embodiments, the limiting surface of the decorative door panel is set as a fifth inclined surface, and the limited surface is set as a sixth inclined surface corresponding to the fifth inclined surface.

[0024] When the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, the fifth inclined surface cooperates with the sixth inclined surface to limit the movement of the decorative door panel relative to the center beam in the thickness direction thereof.

[0025] With such a design, when the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, the fifth inclined surface of the decorative door panel cooperates with the sixth inclined surface of the middle beam to limit the movement of the decorative door panel relative to the middle beam in the thickness direction. This can effectively prevent the decorative door panel from shaking relative to the middle beam in the thickness direction when the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, thereby enhancing the stability of the hinge mechanism and further enhancing the stability of the foldable electronic device. In addition, the limiting surface of the decorative door panel and the limited surface of the middle beam are set as corresponding inclined surfaces, which is convenient for processing and reduces manufacturing costs.

[0026] In some embodiments, at least one limiting portion is a plurality of limiting portions spaced apart along the length direction of the decorative door panel, and two of the plurality of limiting portions are respectively disposed at both ends of the decorative door panel along its length direction.

[0027] Through such a design, a plurality of limiting portions are arranged at intervals along the length direction of the decorative door panel, and two of the limiting portions are arranged at both ends of the decorative door panel, which further enhances the stability of the hinge mechanism in the unfolded state, thereby further enhancing the stability of the foldable electronic device.

[0028] In some embodiments, the center beam decorative plate and the cover plate are configured as an integrated structure, which is simple to process, reduces production costs, and has high structural strength.

[0029] In some embodiments, the hinge mechanism also includes a first support plate and a second support plate arranged on both sides of the central beam, a first fixed bracket arranged on the side of the first support plate away from the central beam, and a second fixed bracket arranged on the side of the second support plate away from the central beam. Each of the first fixed bracket and the second fixed bracket and the corresponding support plate, and each support plate and the central beam can rotate relative to each other, so that the first fixed bracket and the second fixed bracket can be relatively unfolded or relatively folded.

[0030] The hinge mechanism also includes a first auxiliary swing arm and a second auxiliary swing arm arranged on both sides of the middle beam, one end of the first auxiliary swing arm can rotate relative to the middle beam, and the other end is slidably connected to the first fixed bracket, and the first auxiliary swing arm is fixedly connected to the first decorative door panel, one end of the second auxiliary swing arm can rotate relative to the middle beam, and the other end is slidably connected to the second fixed bracket, and the second auxiliary swing arm is fixedly connected to the second decorative door panel. Each decorative door panel is slidably connected to the corresponding fixed bracket through at least one sliding structure.

[0031] By adopting the above scheme, each fixed bracket and the corresponding support plate, and each support plate and the middle beam can rotate relative to each other, so that the first fixed bracket and the second fixed bracket can be relatively unfolded or folded. One end of each auxiliary swing arm is rotatably connected to the middle beam, and the other end is slidably connected to the corresponding fixed bracket, and each auxiliary swing arm is fixedly connected to a corresponding decorative door panel. Each decorative door panel is slidably connected to the corresponding fixed bracket through a sliding structure. The running path of each component in the hinge mechanism is clarified, and the running stability of the hinge mechanism when rotating is enhanced, thereby enhancing the running stability of the foldable electronic device.

[0032] In some embodiments, each sliding structure in at least one sliding structure includes a sliding rail and a sliding groove that are slidably connected to each other. Each decorative door panel is provided with at least one boss corresponding to at least one sliding structure on its surface facing away from the decorative surface. The sliding groove of each sliding structure is located on the corresponding boss, and the sliding rail is located on the corresponding fixed bracket.

[0033] Through such a design, the slide groove on the boss of the decorative door panel cooperates with the slide rail on the fixed bracket to form a sliding structure. The sliding structure is simple, easy to process, low in manufacturing cost, and effectively enhances the sliding stability between the decorative door panel and the fixed bracket.

[0034] In some embodiments, when at least one limiting portion is provided on the decorative door panel, the boss and the corresponding limiting portion are provided as an integrated structure.

[0035] Through such a design, the structure of the decorative door panel is simpler, the manufacturing cost is reduced, and the layout space of the decorative door panel in the hinge mechanism is saved, making the layout of the hinge mechanism more compact, which is conducive to the miniaturization of foldable electronic devices.

[0036] In some embodiments, the first decorative door panel and the first auxiliary swing arm, and the second decorative door panel and the second auxiliary swing arm are fixedly connected via rigid connecting plates.

[0037] Through such a design, each decorative door panel and the corresponding auxiliary swing arm are fixedly connected by a rigid connecting piece. The fixed connection method is simple and occupies a small layout space in the hinge mechanism, making the layout of the hinge mechanism more compact, which is conducive to the miniaturization of the foldable electronic device.

[0038] An embodiment of the present application also provides a folding device, including a first shell, a second shell and a hinge mechanism as provided in any of the above embodiments, the first shell is fixedly connected to a first fixed bracket of the hinge mechanism, the second shell is fixedly connected to a second fixed bracket of the hinge mechanism, and the first shell and the second shell are rotatably connected through the hinge mechanism so that the first shell and the second shell can be relatively folded or relatively unfolded.

[0039] The hinge mechanism provided in any of the above embodiments is used in the folding device of the present application, which can effectively improve the aesthetics of the folding device, thereby improving the aesthetics of the foldable electronic device. In addition, the stability of the folding device in the unfolded state can be effectively enhanced, thereby enhancing the stability of the foldable electronic device.

[0040] The embodiment of the present application also provides a foldable electronic device, including a display screen and a folding device as provided in any of the above embodiments, the display screen is laid on one side of the folding device, and when the foldable electronic device is in a folded state, the display screen surrounds the outside of the folding device. The folding device provided in any of the above embodiments is used in the foldable electronic device of the present application to solve the problem in the prior art that when the hinge mechanism is in an unfolded state, some components in the hinge mechanism (for example, the spring in the damping structure) can be seen through the gap between each decorative door panel and the center beam decorative panel, resulting in a decrease in the integrity and aesthetics of the hinge mechanism, thereby reducing the aesthetics of the foldable electronic device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] Figure 1 is a structural schematic diagram of a hinge mechanism;

[0042] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A partial enlarged schematic diagram of part A;

[0043] Figure 3 for Figure 1 Schematic cross-sectional view in the middle BB direction;

[0044] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A partial enlarged schematic diagram of part C in the middle;

[0045] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the foldable electronic device in the embodiment of the present application when it is in an unfolded state;

[0046] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the foldable electronic device in the embodiment of the present application when it is in a folded state;

[0047] Figure 7 A partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of a foldable electronic device in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0048] Figure 8 It is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the hinge mechanism of the embodiment of the present application when it is in an unfolded state;

[0049] Fig. 9 It is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the hinge mechanism of the embodiment of the present application when it is in a folded state;

[0050] Fig.10 It is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional exploded structure of the hinge mechanism of the embodiment of the present application;

[0051] Fig.11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the hinge mechanism of the embodiment of the present application, wherein only a single decorative door panel is shown in the figure;

[0052] Fig.12aIt is a partial three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the hinge mechanism of the embodiment of the present application, wherein the decorative door panel, the center beam decorative panel and the cover panel are not shown in the figure;

[0053] Figure 12b It is a structural schematic diagram of the hinge mechanism of the embodiment of the present application, wherein the decorative door panel, the center beam decorative panel and the cover panel are not shown in the figure;

[0054] Fig.13a It is a schematic diagram of a partial exploded structure of the hinge mechanism of an embodiment of the present application;

[0055] Fig.13b for Figure 12b Schematic cross-sectional view in the EE direction;

[0056] Fig.13c for Figure 12b Schematic cross-sectional view in the FF direction;

[0057] Fig.13d for Figure 12b Schematic cross-sectional view in the GG direction;

[0058] Fig.14a for Figure 8 A partial enlarged schematic diagram of the H part;

[0059] Fig.14b for Figure 8 A partial enlarged schematic diagram of part I;

[0060] Fig.15a This is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of a decorative door panel in the hinge mechanism of an embodiment of the present application;

[0061] Fig.15b for Fig.15a A partial enlarged schematic diagram of the middle J part;

[0062] Fig.15c for Fig.15a A partial enlarged schematic diagram of the middle K part;

[0063] Fig.16 for Figure 8 Schematic cross-sectional view in the LL direction;

[0064] Fig.17 for Fig.16 A partial enlarged schematic diagram of the middle M part;

[0065] Fig.18a It is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of another hinge structure of an embodiment of the present application;

[0066] Fig.18b for Fig.18a A local enlarged schematic diagram of the N part;

[0067] Fig.19a for Fig.16 A partial enlarged schematic diagram of the O part;

[0068] Fig.19b for Fig.10 A partial enlarged schematic diagram of part P in the figure.

[0069] Description of reference numerals:

[0070] Some solutions:

[0071] 30', hinge mechanism; 36', gap; 4', middle beam; 41', middle beam decorative panel; 8', decorative door panel;

[0072] X', width direction; Z', thickness direction.

[0073] This application:

[0074] 1. Foldable electronic device; 10. Folding device; 11. First housing; 12. Second housing;

[0075] 20. Display screen; 21. Bending area; 22. Non-bending area;

[0076] 30. hinge mechanism; 31. main swing arm; 31A. first main swing member; 31B. second main swing member; 32. synchronization assembly; 32A. first synchronization swing arm; 32B. second synchronization swing arm; 33. damping swing arm; 33A. first damping swing arm; 33B. second damping swing arm; 34. damping structure; 35. mounting block; 36. gap; 36A. first gap; 36B. second gap;

[0077] 4. middle beam; 41. middle beam decorative plate; 42. middle beam decorative surface; 43. first side surface; 43A. second inclined surface; 43B. second stepped surface; 44. second side surface; 44B. fourth stepped surface; 45. cover plate; 46. base; 47. limited portion; 48. limited surface; 49. sixth inclined surface;

[0078] 5. Support plate; 51. First support plate; 52. Second support plate;

[0079] 6. Fixed bracket; 61. First fixed bracket; 62. Second fixed bracket; 63. First groove; 64. First slide groove; 65. Second groove; 66. Second slide rail; 67. Third slide rail;

[0080] 7. Auxiliary swing arm; 71. First auxiliary swing arm; 72. Second auxiliary swing arm; 75. First slide rail;

[0081] 8. Decorative door panel; 81. First decorative door panel; 82. Second decorative door panel; 83. Boss; 84. Second slide; 85. Third slide; 86. First side surface; 86A. First inclined surface; 86C. First stepped surface; 86D. Third stepped surface; 87. Second side surface; 88. Decorative surface; 89. Position limiting portion; 810. Position limiting surface; 811. Fifth inclined surface;

[0082] 9. Rigid connecting piece;

[0083] X, width direction; Y, length direction; Z, thickness direction. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0084] The following specific embodiments illustrate the implementation of the present application, and those skilled in the art can easily understand other advantages and effects of the present application from the contents disclosed in this specification. Although the description of the present application will be introduced in conjunction with some embodiments, this does not mean that the features of this application are limited to the implementation. On the contrary, the purpose of introducing the application in conjunction with the implementation is to cover other options or modifications that may be extended based on the claims of the present application. In order to provide a deep understanding of the present application, the following description will include many specific details. The present application can also be implemented without using these details. In addition, in order to avoid confusion or blurring the focus of the present application, some specific details will be omitted in the description. It should be noted that the embodiments in the present application and the features in the embodiments can be combined with each other without conflict.

[0085] It should be noted that in this specification, similar reference numerals and letters denote similar items in the following drawings, and therefore, once an item is defined in one drawing, it does not need to be further defined and explained in the subsequent drawings.

[0086] In the description of the present application, it should be noted that the terms "center", "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "inner", "outer", etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship, are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the present application and simplifying the description, rather than indicating or implying that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore cannot be understood as limiting the present application. In addition, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and cannot be understood as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0087] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms "installed", "connected", and "connected" should be understood in a broad sense, for example, it can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection, or it can be indirectly connected through an intermediate medium, and it can be the internal communication of two elements. For ordinary technicians in this field, the specific meanings of the above terms in this application can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0088] In the description of the present application, it should be understood that "electrical connection" in the present application can be understood as physical contact and electrical conduction between components; it can also be understood as a form in which different components in a circuit structure are connected through physical lines such as printed circuit board (PCB) copper foil or wires that can transmit electrical signals.

[0089] In the description of the present application, it should be noted that the mutual perpendicularity in the present application is not absolute perpendicularity, and the approximate perpendicularity caused by processing errors and assembly errors (for example, the angle between the two structural features is 89.9°) is also within the scope of the mutual perpendicularity in the present application. The mutual parallelism in the present application is also not absolute parallelism, and the approximate parallelism caused by processing errors and assembly errors (for example, the angle between the two structural features is 0.1°) is also within the scope of the mutual parallelism in the present application. The present application does not make specific limitations on this.

[0090] In order to make the objectives, technical solutions and advantages of the present application clearer, the implementation methods of the present application will be further described in detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0091] See also Figures 1 to 4 , Figure 1 is a structural schematic diagram of a hinge mechanism; Figure 2 for Figure 1 A partial enlarged schematic diagram of part A; Figure 3 for Figure 1 Schematic cross-sectional view in the middle BB direction; Figure 4 for Figure 3 A partial enlarged schematic diagram of part C in the middle.

[0092] As the technology of electronic devices is updated faster and faster, foldable electronic devices are increasingly favored by users because they can achieve a larger display area and have good portability. With the gradual development of foldable electronic device technology, users have higher and higher requirements for its refinement and appearance. Among them, improving the integrity and aesthetics of the hinge mechanism plays a vital role in improving the refinement and aesthetics of foldable electronic devices. For external folding electronic devices in the unfolded state, the decorative door panel in the hinge mechanism is an external appearance part, which directly affects the user's visual experience of the foldable electronic device and its aesthetics.

[0093] As an important component of a foldable electronic device, the hinge mechanism includes a center beam, a decorative door panel, a fixed bracket (also called a connecting block), and components such as a synchronization mechanism, a damping structure, and a swing arm structure disposed between the center beam and the fixed bracket to realize various functions of the hinge mechanism. The decorative door panel is usually disposed between the center beam and the fixed bracket in the hinge mechanism, and is disposed on the surface away from the display screen. Together with the center beam decorative panel of the center beam, the components between the center beam and the fixed bracket are shielded, making the hinge mechanism more integrated and aesthetically pleasing, thereby improving the aesthetics of the foldable electronic device.

[0094] However, if Figures 1 to 4 As shown, when the hinge mechanism 30' in the prior art is in the unfolded state, there is a gap 36' between the side of each decorative door panel 8' close to the central beam 4' and the side corresponding to the central beam decorative panel 41'. When the user views the gap 36' along the thickness direction Z' of the central beam 4' from a frontal perspective, some components in the hinge mechanism 30' (for example, the spring in the damping structure) can be seen through the gap 36', which greatly affects the integrity and aesthetics of the hinge mechanism 30', and further affects the aesthetics of the foldable electronic device.

[0095] Based on this, the present application provides a hinge mechanism, when the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, the side of each decorative door panel close to the center beam or the corresponding side of the center beam decorative plate can cover the exposed area of ​​the corresponding gap, effectively improving the integrity and aesthetics of the foldable electronic device. It solves the problem in the prior art that when the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, some components in the hinge mechanism (for example, the spring in the damping structure) can be seen through the gap between each decorative door panel and the center beam decorative plate, resulting in a decrease in the integrity and aesthetics of the hinge mechanism, and then the aesthetics of the foldable electronic device.

[0096] The present application also provides a foldable electronic device, which uses the above-mentioned hinge mechanism. It should be noted that the foldable electronic device can be, but is not limited to, foldable electronic products such as mobile phones, tablet computers, laptop computers, wearable devices, etc. The embodiments of the present application do not impose any special restrictions on the specific form of the above-mentioned foldable electronic device. For the convenience of explanation, the following description is based on the example that the foldable electronic device is a mobile phone.

[0097] See also Figures 5 to 7 , Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the foldable electronic device in the embodiment of the present application when it is in an unfolded state; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the foldable electronic device in the embodiment of the present application when it is in a folded state; Figure 7 It is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of the foldable electronic device in the embodiment of the present application when it is in the unfolded state.

[0098] like Figures 5 to 7 As shown, the foldable electronic device 1 includes a display screen 20 and a folding device 10. The display screen 20 is laid on one side of the folding device 10, or it can be understood that the folding device 10 is used to carry the display screen 20, and the folding device 10 can drive the display screen 20 to fold or unfold. The folding device 10 includes a first shell 11, a second shell 12 and a hinge mechanism 30, the first shell 11 is fixedly connected to a first fixed bracket 61 (specifically described in detail below) of the hinge mechanism 30, the second shell 12 is fixedly connected to a second fixed bracket 62 (specifically described in detail below) of the hinge mechanism 30, and the first shell 11 and the second shell 12 are rotatably connected through the hinge mechanism 30, so that the first shell 11 and the second shell 12 are relatively folded or relatively unfolded. The foldable electronic device 1, the folding device 10 and the hinge mechanism 30 have an unfolded state and a folded state respectively. Among them, when the foldable electronic device 1 is in a folded state, the display screen 20 surrounds the outside of the folding device 10.

[0099] In one embodiment, the display screen 20 is laid on the front of the folding device 10 and covers the first shell 11, the second shell 12 and the hinge mechanism 30 at the same time, wherein the area of ​​the display screen 20 corresponding to the first shell 11 and the second shell 12 is the non-bending area 22, and the area corresponding to the hinge mechanism 30 is the bending area 21. The backs of the two non-bending areas 22 of the display screen 20 are fixedly connected to the first shell 11 and the second shell 12 respectively, and in the process of relative unfolding or relative folding of the display screen 20, the two non-bending areas 22 of the display screen 20 are kept in a flat state in contact with the first shell 11 and the second shell 12. The bending area 21 of the display screen 20 corresponds to the hinge mechanism 30, and when the display screen 20 is unfolded, the hinge mechanism 30 applies a supporting force to the bending area 21 of the display screen 20, on the one hand, ensuring that the bending area 21 of the display screen 20 is in a flat state, and it is not easy to have creases that affect the display effect of the display screen 20; on the other hand, the strength of the bending area 21 of the display screen 20 is improved, so that the bending area 21 of the display screen 20 is not easy to be dented, deformed or damaged when being squeezed, touched and clicked. The function of the display screen 20 is to display images. The surface of the side of the display screen 20 that is away from the folding device 10 is its display surface, which is used to display information and provide an interactive interface for the user. In addition, at least the bending area 21 of the display screen 20 is made of flexible material so that the foldable part can be bent. The two non-bending areas 22 can be made of flexible material, or can be made of rigid material, or can be made of partially rigid material and partially flexible material, which is not limited in this embodiment.

[0100] like Figures 5 and 6 As shown, when the foldable electronic device 1 is in the unfolded state, the display screen 20 unfolds to form a plane with a larger display area. At this time, the hinge mechanism 30 lifts up to support the bending area 21 of the display screen 20, so that the bending area 21 of the display screen 20 is further flattened, thereby achieving a better display effect. At this time, the opening angle of the foldable electronic device 1 is 180°, that is, the angle between the first shell 11 and the second shell 12 is 180°. It can be understood by those skilled in the art that the opening angle of the foldable electronic device 1 can also be 90°, 120°, 210°, etc., and this application does not limit this, and the angles illustrated in this application are allowed to have a slight deviation. For example, when the foldable electronic device 1 is in the unfolded state, its opening angle can be 180°, or it can be about 180°, such as 170°, 175°, 185° or 190°, etc., and the same understanding can be made for other angles in the following text. When the foldable electronic device 1 is in a folded state, the first shell 11 and the second shell 12 are folded relative to each other and fit together, so that the non-bending area 22 of the display screen 20 is overlapped or close to each other and parallel. At this time, the angle between the first shell 11 and the second shell 12 can be approximately regarded as 0°.

[0101] Those skilled in the art can understand that the present application does not limit the specific structure of the foldable electronic device 1. For example, the foldable electronic device 1 can also include various electronic components. The folding device 10 composed of the first housing 11, the second housing 12 and the hinge mechanism 30 provides protection and support for various electronic components and other structures. The following is an exemplary description of the possible structure.

[0102] In one embodiment, the first shell 11 and the second shell 12 may have a storage space inside to accommodate some electronic components (not shown in the figure). The electronic components include but are not limited to circuit boards, batteries, camera modules, microphones, speakers, etc., which are not limited in this application. Exemplarily, a circuit board may be provided in the first shell 11 and the second shell 12, and the electrical connection between the devices in the two shells is achieved through the circuit boards in the two shells; the battery for powering the device may be provided only in the first shell 11 or the second shell 12, or the battery may be provided in both the first shell 11 and the second shell 12; as for other devices such as camera modules, microphones, speakers, etc., they may be concentrated in the first shell 11 or the second shell 12, or some devices may be provided in the first shell 11 and some devices may be provided in the second shell 12.

[0103] The first shell 11 and the second shell 12 can be middle frames, and the foldable electronic device 1 can also include a back cover (not shown in the figure) arranged corresponding to each middle frame. The middle frame is connected between the display screen 20 and the back cover. The side surface of the middle frame facing the display screen 20 forms the above-mentioned support surface. The display screen 20 can be mounted on the side surface of the middle frame. The back cover is connected to the side of the middle frame away from the display screen 20. The middle frame and the back cover together enclose a storage space for installing devices.

[0104] The above systematically explains the structure of the foldable electronic device provided in the embodiment of the present application, the functions of each component, and the functional effects of the foldable electronic device in the unfolded state and the folded state. The following introduces the structural composition of the hinge mechanism and the functions of each component in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0105] See also Figures 8 to 15c , Figure 8 It is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the hinge mechanism of the embodiment of the present application when it is in an unfolded state; Fig. 9 It is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the hinge mechanism of the embodiment of the present application when it is in a folded state; Fig.10 It is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional exploded structure of the hinge mechanism of the embodiment of the present application; Fig.11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the hinge mechanism of the embodiment of the present application, wherein only a single decorative door panel is shown in the figure; Fig.12a It is a partial three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the hinge mechanism of the embodiment of the present application, wherein the decorative door panel, the center beam decorative panel and the cover panel are not shown in the figure; Figure 12b It is a structural schematic diagram of the hinge mechanism of the embodiment of the present application, wherein the decorative door panel, the center beam decorative panel and the cover panel are not shown in the figure; Fig.13a It is a schematic diagram of a partial exploded structure of the hinge mechanism of an embodiment of the present application; Fig.13b for Figure 12b Schematic cross-sectional view in the EE direction; Fig.13c for Figure 12b Schematic cross-sectional view in the FF direction; Fig.13d for Figure 12b Schematic cross-sectional view in the GG direction; Fig.14a for Figure 8 A partial enlarged schematic diagram of the H part;

[0106] Fig.14b for Figure 8 A partial enlarged schematic diagram of part I; Fig.15a This is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of a decorative door panel in the hinge mechanism of an embodiment of the present application; Fig.15b for Fig.15a A partial enlarged schematic diagram of the middle J part; Fig.15c for Fig.15a A partial enlarged schematic diagram of part K in the middle.

[0107] The following introduces the connection method between the fixed bracket of the hinge mechanism and the support plate, and between the support plate and the middle beam.

[0108] like Figures 8 to 12b As shown, the hinge mechanism 30 includes a center beam 4, a first support plate 51 and a second support plate 52 arranged on both sides of the center beam 4, and a first fixed bracket 61 arranged on the side of the first support plate 51 away from the center beam 4, and a second fixed bracket 62 arranged on the side of the second support plate 52 away from the center beam 4. Each fixed bracket 6 in the first fixed bracket 61 and the second fixed bracket 62 and the corresponding support plate 5, and each support plate 5 and the center beam 4 can be relatively rotated, so that the first fixed bracket 61 and the second fixed bracket 62 can be relatively unfolded or relatively folded.

[0109] It should be noted that there is no limit to the relative rotation between each fixed bracket 6 and the corresponding support plate 5, and between each support plate 5 and the middle beam 4. For example, it can be a physical shaft rotation connection, or a rotation structure formed by the cooperation of an arc-shaped slider and an arc-shaped slide groove (or it can be understood that the rotation connection is realized by a virtual shaft structure), and those skilled in the art can choose according to their needs.

[0110] In one embodiment, if Fig.13a and Fig.13bAs shown, each support plate 5 in the first support plate 51 and the second support plate 52 is provided with a main swing arm 31, and the main swing arm 31 includes a first main swing member 31A and a second main swing member 31B, and the first main swing member 31A and the second main swing member 31B are both configured as arc-shaped slider structures. The hinge mechanism 30 also includes a mounting block 35, one end of the mounting block 35 is fixedly connected to the fixed bracket 6, and the other end is provided with an arc-shaped slide groove. The arc-shaped slider of the first main swing member 31A cooperates with the arc-shaped slide groove of the mounting block 35 to form a rotating structure, and the support plate 5 is rotatably connected to the corresponding fixed bracket 6 through the rotating structure.

[0111] It should be noted that the mounting block 35 and the fixing bracket 6 can be an integrated structure or a split structure. Those skilled in the art can design it according to the needs. In one example, the mounting block 35 and the fixing bracket 6 adopt a split structure. In addition, the fixed connection method adopted when the mounting block 35 and the fixing bracket 6 are a split structure is not limited. It can be a fixed connection method such as clamping fixation, screw fixation, etc. Exemplarily, the mounting block 35 and the fixing bracket 6 are fixedly connected by screw fixation.

[0112] Furthermore, the middle beam 4 of the hinge mechanism 30 includes a cover plate 45 and a base 46, and the cover plate 45 and the base 46 cooperate to form an arc-shaped slide groove. The arc-shaped slider of the second main swing member 31B cooperates with the arc-shaped slide groove of the middle beam 4 to form a rotating structure, and the support plate 5 is rotatably connected to the middle beam 4 through the rotating structure.

[0113] It should be noted that the main swing arm 31 and the support plate 5 can be a split structure or an integrated structure. Those skilled in the art can design it according to the needs. In one example, an integrated structure is adopted between the main swing arm 31 and the support plate 5. Furthermore, the first main swing member 31A and the second main swing member 31B of the main swing arm 31 can be an integrated structure; or a split structure, and the first main swing member 31A and the second main swing member 31B are arranged at intervals along the length of the middle beam 4. Exemplarily, the first main swing member 31A and the second main swing member 31B of the main swing arm 31 adopt an integrated structure. Among them, the number of main swing arms 31 set on each support plate 5 is not limited, and can be one or more. In one example, such as Figure 12b As shown, each support plate 5 is provided with a plurality of main swing arms 31 along the length direction Y thereof.

[0114] The following is an explanation of the connection method between the auxiliary swing arm and the center beam, the fixed bracket and the decorative door panel.

[0115] like Figure 10 to Figure 12aAs shown, the hinge mechanism 30 also includes a first decorative door panel 81 and a second decorative door panel 82 arranged on both sides of the middle beam 4 along the width direction thereof, and a first auxiliary swing arm 71 and a second auxiliary swing arm 72 arranged on both sides of the middle beam 4. One end of the first auxiliary swing arm 71 can rotate relative to the middle beam 4, and the other end is slidably connected to the first fixed bracket 61, and the first auxiliary swing arm 71 is fixedly connected to the first decorative door panel 81. One end of the second auxiliary swing arm 72 can rotate relative to the middle beam 4, and the other end is slidably connected to the second fixed bracket 62, and the second auxiliary swing arm 72 is fixedly connected to the second decorative door panel 82. One end of each auxiliary swing arm 7 in the first auxiliary swing arm 71 and the second auxiliary swing arm 72 is rotatably connected to the middle beam 4, and the other end is slidably connected to the corresponding fixed bracket 6, and each auxiliary swing arm 7 is fixedly connected to the corresponding decorative door panel 8. The running path of the fixed bracket 6 and the decorative door panel 8 is clarified, and the running stability of the hinge mechanism 30 during rotation is enhanced, thereby enhancing the running stability of the foldable electronic device.

[0116] It should be noted that the relative rotation of each auxiliary swing arm 7 and the center beam 4 is not limited. For example, it can be a physical shaft rotation connection, or a rotation structure formed by the cooperation of an arc-shaped slider and an arc-shaped slide groove (or it can be understood that the rotation connection is achieved through a virtual shaft structure), and those skilled in the art can choose according to their needs.

[0117] In one embodiment, if Fig.13a and Fig.13c As shown, the cover plate 45 and the base 46 of the middle beam 4 cooperate to form an arc-shaped slide groove, and an arc-shaped slider is provided on the side of the auxiliary swing arm 7 close to the middle beam 4. The arc-shaped slider of the auxiliary swing arm 7 cooperates with the arc-shaped slide groove of the middle beam 4 to form a rotating structure, and the auxiliary swing arm 7 is rotationally connected to the middle beam 4 through the rotating structure.

[0118] Furthermore, the manner in which each auxiliary swing arm 7 slides relative to the fixed bracket 6 is not limited. It can be a sliding structure, or the auxiliary swing arm 7 can slide directly in the first groove 63 opened by the corresponding fixed bracket 6.

[0119] In one embodiment, if Fig.13a and Fig.13c As shown, the fixed bracket 6 is provided with a first groove 63 at a position corresponding to the auxiliary swing arm 7, and the first groove 63 is provided with a first slide groove 64 on both side walls along the length direction Y of the middle beam 4, and the auxiliary swing arm 7 is provided with a first slide rail 75 on both sides along the length direction Y of the middle beam 4. The first slide grooves 64 provided on both sides of the first groove 63 of the fixed bracket 6 cooperate with the first slide rails 75 on both sides of the auxiliary swing arm 7 to form a first sliding structure, and the auxiliary swing arm 7 and the fixed bracket 6 are rotatably connected through the first sliding structure.

[0120] In other embodiments, the first sliding rail 75 in the first sliding structure can also be arranged on both sides of the first groove 63 of the fixed bracket 6, and the auxiliary swing arm 7 has a first sliding groove 64 on both sides along the length direction Y of the middle beam 4, and the first sliding structure is formed by the cooperation between the first sliding rail 75 on both sides of the first groove 63 of the fixed bracket 6 and the first sliding groove 64 on both sides of the auxiliary swing arm 7.

[0121] The relative sliding path between the auxiliary swing arm 7 and the fixed bracket 6 is not limited, or it can be understood that the structure of the first slide rail 75 can be a straight line, or it can have a certain curvature and be set to an arc. In one example, the first slide rails 75 on both sides of the auxiliary swing arm 7 are set to an arc with a certain curvature, and correspondingly, the first slide grooves 64 on both sides of the first groove 63 of the fixed bracket 6 are set to an arc structure with the same curvature.

[0122] It should be noted that the fixing connection between the auxiliary swing arm 7 and the corresponding decorative door panel 8 is not limited. For example, it can be a screw connection, a rigid connecting piece connection, etc. In one embodiment, Fig.13a and Fig.13d As shown, the first decorative door panel 81 and the first auxiliary swing arm 71, and the second decorative door panel 82 and the second auxiliary swing arm 72 are respectively fixedly connected by a rigid connecting piece 9. Each decorative door panel 8 and the corresponding auxiliary swing arm 7 are fixedly connected by a rigid connecting piece 9. The fixed connection method is simple and occupies a small layout space in the hinge mechanism 30, making the layout of the hinge mechanism 30 more compact, which is conducive to the miniaturization of the foldable electronic device.

[0123] Furthermore, the fixing connection method between the auxiliary swing arm 7, the rigid connecting piece 9 and the decorative door panel 8 is not limited. For example, it can be bonding, welding and screw connection. In one example, the auxiliary swing arm 7, the rigid connecting piece 9 and the decorative door panel 8 are fixedly connected by welding.

[0124] Furthermore, the number of auxiliary swing arms 7 provided on both sides of the middle beam 4 along the length direction Y thereof is not limited and may be one or more. Fig.10 As shown, two auxiliary swing arms 7 are respectively arranged on both sides of the center beam 4 along the length direction Y thereof.

[0125] The following is an introduction to the connection method between the decorative door panel and the corresponding fixing bracket.

[0126] It should be noted that if Figure 8 As shown, each decorative door panel 8 is slidably connected to the corresponding fixed bracket 6 via a sliding structure, which further enhances the operational stability of the hinge mechanism 30 when rotating, and enhances the operational stability of the foldable electronic device.

[0127] Among them, Figure 8 , Fig.15a As shown, the sliding structure includes a slide rail and a slide groove that are slidably connected to each other. A boss 83 corresponding to the sliding structure is provided on the surface of each decorative door panel 8 facing away from the decorative surface 88 (or it can be understood that the surface of the decorative door panel 8 along the thickness direction Z of the middle beam 4 close to the fixed bracket 6) and the slide groove of the sliding structure is located on the corresponding boss 83, and the slide rail is located on the corresponding fixed bracket 6. The slide groove provided on the boss 83 of the decorative door panel 8 cooperates with the slide rail provided on the fixed bracket 6 to form a sliding structure. The sliding structure is simple, easy to process, low in manufacturing cost, and effectively enhances the sliding stability between the decorative door panel 8 and the fixed bracket 6.

[0128] It should be noted that if Figure 8 As shown, the number of sliding structures provided between each decorative door panel 8 and the corresponding fixed bracket 6 along the length direction Y of the center beam 4 is not limited, and can be one or more. In one example, multiple sliding structures are provided between each decorative door panel 8 and the corresponding fixed bracket 6 along the length direction Y of the center beam 4.

[0129] Furthermore, the arrangement of the multiple sliding structures between each decorative door panel 8 and the corresponding fixed bracket 6 along the length direction Y of the middle beam 4 is not limited. For example, they can be arranged at both ends along the length direction Y of the middle beam 4, or some of the multiple sliding structures can be arranged at both ends, and the remaining sliding structures can be arranged in the middle, or all of the multiple sliding structures can be arranged in the middle. In one embodiment, some of the multiple sliding structures are arranged at both ends along the length direction Y of the middle beam 4, and the remaining sliding structures are arranged in the middle.

[0130] Specifically, Fig.14a and Fig.15b As shown, in the middle area between the fixed bracket 6 and the decorative door panel 8 along the length direction Y of the center beam 4, a second groove 65 is provided on the surface of the fixed bracket 6 close to the decorative door panel 8, and a second slide rail 66 is provided on the side wall surface of the second groove 65 along the length direction Y of the center beam 4. A boss 83 extending toward the fixed bracket 6 is provided on the surface of the decorative door panel 8 close to the fixed bracket 6, and a second slide groove 84 is provided on the side wall surface of the boss 83 close to the second slide rail 66. The fixed bracket 6 and the middle area of ​​the decorative door panel 8 are slidably connected by a second sliding structure formed by the cooperation of the second slide rail 66 and the second slide groove 84.

[0131] like Fig.14b and Fig.15cAs shown, at both ends of the fixed bracket 6 and the decorative door panel 8 along the length direction Y of the middle beam 4, the fixed bracket 6 is provided with a third slide rail 67 extending along the length direction Y of the middle beam 4. A boss 83 extending toward the fixed bracket 6 is provided on the surface of the decorative door panel 8 close to the fixed bracket 6, and a third slide groove 85 is provided on the wall surface of the boss 83 close to the third slide rail 67. The fixed bracket 6 and the decorative door panel 8 are slidably connected at both ends through a third sliding structure formed by the cooperation of the third slide rail 67 and the third slide groove 85.

[0132] like Figure 12b As shown, the hinge mechanism 30 may also include a first damping swing arm 33A and a second damping swing arm 33B disposed on both sides of the middle beam 4, and a damping structure 34 that cooperates with the first damping swing arm 33A and the second damping swing arm 33B and provides damping. One end of the first damping swing arm 33A and one end of the second damping swing arm 33B are respectively rotatably connected to the middle beam 4, the other end of the first damping swing arm 33A is slidably connected to the first fixed bracket 61, and the other end of the second damping swing arm 33B is slidably connected to the second fixed bracket 62. When the user operates the foldable electronic device and rotates the hinge mechanism 30, each damping swing arm 33 transmits the damping force provided by the damping structure 34, so that the user can get a force feedback, thereby enhancing the user's experience.

[0133] like Figure 12b As shown, the hinge mechanism 30 may further include a synchronization component 32, which may realize the synchronous rotation of the first shell and the second shell in the folding device, thereby realizing the synchronous rotation of the foldable electronic device. The specific structure of the synchronization component 32 is not limited. In an exemplary structure, the synchronization component 32 may include a first synchronization swing arm 32A and a second synchronization swing arm 32B, one end of the first synchronization swing arm 32A is rotationally connected to one side of the middle beam 4, and the other end is slidably connected to the first fixed bracket 61. One end of the second synchronization swing arm 32B is rotationally connected to the other side of the middle beam 4, and the other end is slidably connected to the second fixed bracket 62. In addition, one end of the first synchronization swing arm 32A and one end of the second synchronization swing arm 32B rotate synchronously and in the opposite direction, so that the main swing arms 31 of the hinge mechanism 30 can rotate synchronously, which greatly improves the user experience.

[0134] The structural composition of the hinge mechanism and the connection method between the various components are introduced in detail above in combination with the accompanying drawings. The structure and method for shielding the gap in the hinge mechanism are introduced below in combination with the accompanying drawings.

[0135] See also Figure 16 to Figure 18b , Fig.16 for Figure 8 Schematic cross-sectional view in the LL direction; Fig.17 for Fig.16 A partial enlarged schematic diagram of the middle M part; Fig.18a It is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of another hinge structure of an embodiment of the present application; Fig.18b for Fig.18a A partial enlarged schematic diagram of part N in the figure.

[0136] like Fig.16 As shown, the center beam 4 also includes a center beam decorative plate 41. In addition, the center beam decorative plate 41, the cover plate 45 and the base 46 of the center beam 4 are stacked in sequence along the thickness direction Z and relatively fixed. The center beam decorative plate 41 has a first side surface 43 and a second side surface 44 that are arranged opposite to each other along the width direction X, and a center beam decorative surface 42 connected to the first side surface 43 and the second side surface 44. It should be noted that the center beam decorative surface 42 can be understood as the surface of the center beam 4 that can be seen by the user in the thickness direction Z when the hinge mechanism 30 is in the unfolded state.

[0137] The first decorative door panel 81 and the second decorative door panel 82 are respectively arranged on both sides of the width direction X of the center beam 4, and each decorative door panel 8 in the first decorative door panel 81 and the second decorative door panel 82 has a first side surface 86 and a second side surface 87 arranged opposite to each other along the width direction X thereof, and a decorative surface 88 connected to the first side surface 86 and the second side surface 87. It should be noted that the decorative surface 88 of the decorative door panel 8 can be understood as the surface of the decorative door panel 8 that can be seen by the user in the thickness direction Z thereof when the hinge mechanism 30 is in the unfolded state.

[0138] Among them, Fig.16 and Fig.17 As shown, when the hinge mechanism 30 is in the unfolded state, the first side surface 86 of the first decorative door panel 81 is disposed opposite to the first side surface 43 of the center beam decorative panel 41, and a first gap 36A is formed. The first side surface 86 of the second decorative door panel 82 is disposed opposite to the second side surface 44 of the center beam decorative panel 41, and a second gap 36B is formed.

[0139] Each of the first slit 36A and the second slit 36B has at least a partial area (such as Fig.17 The Q1 area in the middle) is exposed to the center beam decorative surface 42 and the decorative surface 88 of each decorative door panel 8, and in the thickness direction Z of the center beam 4 from the center beam decorative panel 41 toward the base 46 (or it can be understood that the gap 36 is viewed from a frontal perspective along the thickness direction Z of the center beam 4), the area exposed by each gap 36 is entirely blocked by the first side surface 86 of the corresponding decorative door panel 8 or the corresponding side surface of the center beam decorative panel 41.

[0140] It should be noted that the center beam decorative plate 41 and the cover plate 45 can be an integrated structure or a split structure. Fig.16 and Fig.17As shown, the center beam decorative plate 41 and the cover plate 45 are set as an integrated structure. This is simple to process, reduces production costs, and has high structural strength.

[0141] Furthermore, the structures of the first side surface 86 of each decorative door panel 8 and the first side surface 43 and the second side surface 44 of the center beam decorative panel 41 are not limited. For example, they can be inclined surfaces or stepped surfaces. Those skilled in the art can design them according to requirements, but it should be considered that when the hinge mechanism 30 rotates, each decorative door panel 8 and the center beam decorative panel 41 cannot interfere with each other.

[0142] In one embodiment, if Fig.17 As shown, the first side 86 of the first decorative door panel 81 includes a first inclined surface 86A, and the first side 43 of the center beam decorative panel 41 includes a second inclined surface 43A corresponding to the first inclined surface 86A. When the hinge mechanism 30 is in the unfolded state, the area (Q1 area) exposed by the first gap 36A is entirely blocked by the first inclined surface 86A or the second inclined surface 43A. The first side of the second decorative door panel includes a third inclined surface, and the second side of the center beam decorative panel includes a fourth inclined surface corresponding to the third inclined surface. When the hinge mechanism 30 is in the unfolded state, the area exposed by the second gap is entirely blocked by the third inclined surface or the fourth inclined surface.

[0143] The first side surface 86 of each decorative door panel 8 includes a bevel, and the corresponding side surface of the center beam decorative panel 41 includes a bevel corresponding to the bevel of each decorative door panel 8. When the hinge mechanism 30 is in the unfolded state, the exposed area of ​​each gap 36 is entirely blocked by the bevel of the corresponding decorative door panel 8 or the corresponding bevel of the center beam decorative panel 41. The integrity and aesthetics of the hinge mechanism 30 are effectively improved, thereby improving the aesthetics of the foldable electronic device. In addition, the bevel of each decorative door panel 8 and the bevel of the center beam decorative panel 41 are easy to process, reducing production costs.

[0144] Furthermore, the first side surface 86 of each decorative door panel 8 and the first side surface 43 and the second side surface of the center beam decorative panel 41 can be a single surface as a whole, or can be composed of a plurality of surfaces. Fig.16 and Fig.17 As shown, the first side 86 of the first decorative door panel 81 and the first side 86 of the second decorative door panel 82 are both composed of inclined surfaces, and the first side 43 and the second side 44 of the center beam decorative panel 41 are both composed of inclined surfaces and planes perpendicular to the thickness direction Z of the center beam 4.

[0145] In other embodiments, Fig.18a and Fig.18bAs shown, the first side surface 86 of the first decorative door panel 81 includes a first step surface 86C, and the first side surface 43 of the center beam decorative panel 41 includes a second step surface 43B corresponding to the first step surface 86C. When the hinge mechanism 30 is in the unfolded state, the area (Q2 area) exposed by the first gap 36A is entirely blocked by the first step surface 86C or the second step surface 43B.

[0146] The first side surface 86 of the second decorative door panel 82 includes a third step surface 86D, and the second side surface 44 of the center beam decorative panel 41 includes a fourth step surface 44B corresponding to the third step surface 86D. When the hinge mechanism 30 is in the unfolded state, the area exposed by the second gap is entirely blocked by the third step surface 86D or the fourth step surface 44B.

[0147] The first side surface 86 of each decorative door panel 8 includes a stepped surface, and the corresponding side surface of the center beam decorative panel 41 includes a stepped surface corresponding to the stepped surface of each decorative door panel 8. When the hinge mechanism 30 is in the unfolded state, the exposed area of ​​each gap 36 is entirely blocked by the stepped surface of the corresponding decorative door panel 8 or the corresponding stepped surface of the center beam decorative panel 41. The integrity and aesthetics of the hinge mechanism 30 are effectively improved, thereby improving the aesthetics of the foldable electronic device.

[0148] It should be further explained that the matching structure formed by the first side 86 of the first decorative door panel 81 and the first side 43 of the center beam decorative panel 41 and the matching structure formed by the first side 86 of the second decorative door panel 82 and the second side 44 of the center beam decorative panel 41 can be the same or different. Those skilled in the art can design it as needed. In one example, the first side 86 of the first decorative door panel 81 and the first side 43 of the center beam decorative panel 41 are formed as a bevel matching mechanism, and the first side 86 of the second decorative door panel 82 and the second side 44 of the center beam decorative panel 41 are formed as a step surface matching structure. In another example, the two sides of the center beam decorative panel 41 and the first side 86 of the first decorative door panel 81 and the first side 86 of the second decorative door panel 82 are formed as bevel structures. In another example, the two sides of the center beam decorative panel 41 and the first side 86 of the first decorative door panel 81 and the first side 86 of the second decorative door panel 82 are formed as step surface structures.

[0149] like Fig.16 and Fig.18bAs shown, when the hinge mechanism 30 is in the unfolded state, the first side surface 86 of each decorative door panel 8 and the corresponding side surface of the center beam decorative panel 41 are arranged relative to each other and a gap 36 is formed, and at least a part of each gap 36 is exposed relative to the center beam decorative surface 42 and the decorative surface 88 of each decorative door panel 8 (or it can be understood that the gap 36 is partially exposed or completely exposed relative to the center beam decorative surface 42 and the decorative surface 88 of the decorative door panel 8). When the gap 36 is viewed from the front view along the thickness direction Z of the center beam 4, the exposed area of ​​each gap 36 is blocked by the first side surface 86 of the corresponding decorative door panel 8 or the corresponding side surface of the center beam decorative panel 41 (or it can be understood that the user sees the first side surface 86 of the corresponding decorative door panel 8 or the corresponding side surface of the center beam decorative panel 41 through the gap 36). When the user uses the foldable electronic device in the unfolded state, the various components inside the hinge mechanism 30 cannot be seen through the gap 36, which effectively improves the integrity and aesthetics of the hinge mechanism 30, thereby improving the integrity and aesthetics of the foldable electronic device.

[0150] Therefore, when the hinge mechanism 30 provided by the present application is in the unfolded state, the first side surface 86 of each decorative door panel 8 or the corresponding side surface of the center beam decorative panel 41 can cover the corresponding gap 36, effectively improving the integrity and aesthetics of the foldable electronic device. This solves the problem in the prior art that when the hinge mechanism 30 is in the unfolded state, some components in the hinge mechanism 30 (for example, the spring in the damping structure) can be seen through the gap 36 between each decorative door panel 8 and the center beam decorative panel 41, resulting in a decrease in the integrity and aesthetics of the hinge mechanism 30, and further a decrease in the aesthetics of the foldable electronic device.

[0151] The above is a detailed introduction to the structure and method for shielding the gap in the hinge mechanism in combination with the accompanying drawings. The following is a detailed introduction to the structure, number and arrangement of the limiting part and the limited part in the hinge mechanism in combination with the accompanying drawings.

[0152] See also Fig.19a and Fig.19b , Fig.19a for Fig.16 A partial enlarged schematic diagram of the O part; Fig.19b for Fig.10 A partial enlarged schematic diagram of part P in the figure.

[0153] like Figure 3As shown, in the prior art, one end of the decorative door panel 8' close to the middle beam 4' along the width direction X' of the middle beam 4' is overlapped on the middle beam 4', and the other end of the decorative door panel 8' is fixedly connected to the auxiliary swing arm. The decorative door panel 8' is fixed only at one end away from the middle beam 4' in the width direction X' of the middle beam 4', and the end overlapped on the middle beam 4' is not constrained. When the hinge mechanism 30' is in the unfolded state, the decorative door panel 8' is easy to shake and tilt in the thickness direction Z' relative to the middle beam 4', and the stability of the hinge structure 30' is poor, thereby reducing the stability of the foldable electronic device.

[0154] Based on this, Fig.16 As shown, in the hinge mechanism 30 of the present application, a limiting portion 89 extending toward the direction close to the center beam 4 is provided on the surface of each decorative door panel 8 facing away from the decorative surface 88, and the center beam 4 is provided with limited portions 47 corresponding to the limiting portion 89 on both sides along the width direction X. When the hinge mechanism 30 is in the unfolded state, the limiting portion 89 cooperates with the corresponding limited portion 47 to limit the movement of the decorative door panel 8 relative to the center beam 4 in the thickness direction Z thereof (or it can be understood that the thickness direction Z of the center beam 4).

[0155] When the hinge mechanism 30 is in the unfolded state, the limiting portion 89 provided on each decorative door panel 8 cooperates with the corresponding limited portions 47 provided on both sides of the middle beam 4 to limit the movement of the decorative door panel 8 relative to the middle beam 4 in the thickness direction Z. This can effectively prevent the decorative door panel 8 from shaking and tilting relative to the middle beam 4 in the thickness direction Z when the hinge mechanism 30 is in the unfolded state, thereby enhancing the stability of the hinge mechanism 30 and further enhancing the stability of the foldable electronic device.

[0156] It should be noted that the specific structures of the limiting portion 89 and the limited portion 47 are not limited. The decorative door panel 8 can be limited by the cooperation of the limiting surface 810 and the limited surface 48, or by clamping and other methods.

[0157] In one embodiment, if Fig.15c , Fig.19a and Fig.19b As shown, a limiting surface 810 is provided on the side of the limiting portion 89 of each decorative door panel 8 close to the middle beam 4, and a limiting surface 48 corresponding to the limiting surface 810 is provided on the limited portions 47 provided on both sides of the middle beam 4 (specifically, the limited surfaces 48 are provided on both sides of the base 46 of the middle beam 4 along the width direction thereof). When the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, the limiting surface 810 of the limiting portion 89 cooperates with the limiting surface 48 of the corresponding limited portion 47 to limit the movement of the decorative door panel 8 relative to the middle beam 4 in the thickness direction Z thereof.

[0158] When the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, the limiting surface 810 provided on each decorative door panel 8 cooperates with the corresponding limited surfaces 48 provided on both sides of the middle beam 4 to limit the movement of the decorative door panel 8 relative to the middle beam 4 in the thickness direction Z. This can more effectively prevent the decorative door panel 8 from shaking relative to the middle beam 4 in the thickness direction Z when the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, further enhancing the stability of the hinge mechanism, and further enhancing the stability of the foldable electronic device.

[0159] Furthermore, the types of the limiting surface 810 and the limited surface 48 are not limited. For example, the limiting surface 810 and the limited surface 48 can be set as corresponding inclined surfaces, or can be set as corresponding convex arc surfaces and concave arc surfaces.

[0160] In one embodiment, if Fig.15c , Fig.19a and Fig.19b As shown, the limiting surface 810 of the decorative door panel 8 is set as the fifth inclined surface 811, and the limited surface 48 is set as the sixth inclined surface 49 corresponding to the fifth inclined surface 811. When the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, the fifth inclined surface 811 cooperates with the sixth inclined surface 49 to limit the movement of the decorative door panel 8 relative to the center beam 4 in the thickness direction Z thereof.

[0161] When the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, the fifth inclined surface 811 of the decorative door panel 8 cooperates with the sixth inclined surface 49 of the center beam 4 to limit the movement of the decorative door panel 8 relative to the center beam 4 in the thickness direction Z. This can effectively prevent the decorative door panel 8 from shaking relative to the center beam 4 in the thickness direction Z when the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, thereby enhancing the stability of the hinge mechanism 30 and further enhancing the stability of the foldable electronic device. In addition, the limiting surface 810 of the decorative door panel 8 and the limited surface 48 of the center beam 4 are set as corresponding inclined surfaces, which is convenient for processing and reduces manufacturing costs.

[0162] It should be noted that the number of the limiting parts 89 provided along the length direction of each decorative door panel 8 is not limited, and can be one or more. Moreover, the arrangement of the plurality of limiting parts 89 along the length direction of the decorative door panel 8 is not limited, and can be provided at intervals in the middle area of ​​the decorative door panel 8, or can be provided at both ends of the decorative door panel 8, or can be provided partially at both ends of the decorative door panel 8 and partially in the middle area of ​​the decorative door panel 8. Those skilled in the art can design according to their needs, but it should be noted that the limiting parts 89 on the decorative door panel 8 should be prevented from interfering with other components in the hinge mechanism.

[0163] In one embodiment, if Fig.15aAs shown, each decorative door panel 8 is provided with a plurality of stoppers 89 at intervals along its length direction Y, and two of the plurality of stoppers 89 are respectively provided at both ends of the decorative door panel 8 along its length direction Y, and the other stoppers 89 are provided in the middle area of ​​the decorative door panel 8. The stability of the hinge mechanism in the unfolded state is further enhanced, thereby further enhancing the stability of the foldable electronic device.

[0164] Furthermore, the limiting portion 89 and the boss 83 provided on the decorative door panel 8 may be an integrated structure or a split structure. Those skilled in the art may design the structure according to the requirements. Fig.15b and Fig.15c As shown, the boss 83 and the corresponding stopper 89 provided on the decorative door panel 8 are provided as an integrated structure. The structure of the decorative door panel 8 is simpler, the manufacturing cost is reduced, and the layout space of the decorative door panel 8 in the hinge mechanism is saved, so that the layout of the hinge mechanism is more compact, which is conducive to the miniaturization of the foldable electronic device.

[0165] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various changes and modifications to the present application without departing from the spirit and scope of the present application. Thus, if these modifications and variations of the present application fall within the scope of the claims of the present application and their equivalents, the present application is also intended to include these modifications and variations.

Claims

1. A hinge mechanism, characterized in that: include: A center beam, the center beam comprising a center beam decorative plate, a cover plate and a base which are sequentially stacked and relatively fixed along a thickness direction thereof, the center beam decorative plate having a first side surface and a second side surface which are arranged opposite to each other along a width direction thereof, and a center beam decorative surface connected to the first side surface and the second side surface; a first decorative door panel and a second decorative door panel, wherein the first decorative door panel and the second decorative door panel are respectively arranged on both sides of the central beam in the width direction, and each of the first decorative door panel and the second decorative door panel has a first side surface and a second side surface arranged opposite to each other in the width direction thereof, and a decorative surface connected to the first side surface and the second side surface; Wherein, when the hinge mechanism is in an unfolded state, the first side surface of the first decorative door panel is arranged opposite to the first side surface of the center beam decorative panel, and a first gap is formed, and the first side surface of the second decorative door panel is arranged opposite to the second side surface of the center beam decorative panel, and a second gap is formed; at least a partial area of ​​each of the first gap and the second gap is exposed to the center beam decorative surface and the decorative surface of each of the decorative door panels, and in the thickness direction of the center beam from the center beam decorative panel toward the base, the exposed area of ​​each gap is entirely blocked by the corresponding first side surface of the decorative door panel or the corresponding side surface of the center beam decorative panel.

2. The hinge mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first side surface of the first decorative door panel includes a first inclined surface, and the first side surface of the center beam decorative panel includes: a second inclined surface corresponding to the first inclined surface, and when the hinge mechanism is in an unfolded state, the area exposed by the first gap is entirely blocked by the first inclined surface or the second inclined surface; The first side surface of the second decorative door panel includes a third slope, and the second side surface of the center beam decorative panel includes: a fourth slope corresponding to the third slope, and when the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, the area exposed by the second gap is entirely blocked by the third slope or the fourth slope.

3. The hinge mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first side surface of the first decorative door panel includes a first stepped surface, and the first side surface of the center beam decorative panel includes: a second stepped surface corresponding to the first stepped surface, and when the hinge mechanism is in an unfolded state, the area exposed by the first gap is entirely blocked by the first stepped surface or the second stepped surface; The first side surface of the second decorative door panel includes a third step surface, and the second side surface of the center beam decorative panel includes: a fourth step surface corresponding to the third step surface, and when the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, the area exposed by the second gap is entirely blocked by the third step surface or the fourth step surface.

4. The hinge mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that: Each of the decorative door panels is provided on its surface facing away from the decorative surface: at least one limiting portion extending in the direction approaching the center beam, and at least one limited portion corresponding to the at least one limiting portion is respectively provided on both sides of the center beam in the width direction; when the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, the at least one limiting portion cooperates with the corresponding limited portion to limit the movement of the decorative door panel relative to the center beam in its thickness direction.

5. The hinge mechanism according to claim 4, characterized in that: A limiting surface is provided on one side of the at least one limiting portion of each decorative door panel close to the central beam, and a limited surface corresponding to the limiting surface is provided on the at least one limited portion provided on both sides of the central beam; when the hinge mechanism is in an unfolded state, the limiting surface of the at least one limiting portion cooperates with the limited surface of the corresponding limited portion to limit the movement of the decorative door panel relative to the central beam in its thickness direction.

6. The hinge mechanism according to claim 5, characterized in that: The limiting surface of the decorative door panel is set as: a fifth inclined surface, and the limited surface is set as: a sixth inclined surface corresponding to the fifth inclined surface; When the hinge mechanism is in the unfolded state, the fifth inclined surface cooperates with the sixth inclined surface to limit the movement of the decorative door panel relative to the center beam in the thickness direction thereof.

7. The hinge mechanism according to claim 4, characterized in that: The at least one limiting portion is: a plurality of limiting portions arranged at intervals along the length direction of the decorative door panel, and two of the plurality of limiting portions are respectively arranged at two ends of the decorative door panel along the length direction thereof.

8. The hinge mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that: The center beam decorative plate and the cover plate are arranged as an integrated structure.

9. The hinge mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: The hinge mechanism further comprises a first support plate and a second support plate arranged on both sides of the middle beam, a first fixing bracket arranged on a side of the first support plate away from the middle beam, and a second fixing bracket arranged on a side of the second support plate away from the middle beam, each of the first fixing bracket and the second fixing bracket and the corresponding support plate, and each of the support plates and the middle beam can rotate relative to each other, so that the first fixing bracket and the second fixing bracket can be relatively unfolded or relatively folded; The hinge mechanism further includes a first auxiliary swing arm and a second auxiliary swing arm disposed on both sides of the middle beam, one end of the first auxiliary swing arm can rotate relative to the middle beam, and the other end is slidably connected to the first fixed bracket, and the first auxiliary swing arm is fixedly connected to the first decorative door panel, one end of the second auxiliary swing arm can rotate relative to the middle beam, and the other end is slidably connected to the second fixed bracket, and the second auxiliary swing arm is fixedly connected to the second decorative door panel; Each of the decorative door panels is slidably connected to the corresponding fixed bracket via at least one sliding structure.

10. The hinge mechanism according to claim 9, characterized in that: Each sliding structure in the at least one sliding structure includes a sliding rail and a sliding groove that are slidably connected to each other, and each decorative door panel is provided on its surface facing away from the decorative surface: at least one boss corresponding to the at least one sliding structure, the sliding groove of each sliding structure is located on the corresponding boss, and the sliding rail is located on the corresponding fixed bracket.

11. The hinge mechanism according to claim 10, characterized in that: When at least one limiting portion is provided on the decorative door panel, the boss and the corresponding limiting portion are provided as an integrated structure.

12. The hinge mechanism according to claim 9, characterized in that: The first decorative door panel and the first auxiliary swing arm, as well as the second decorative door panel and the second auxiliary swing arm are fixedly connected via rigid connecting plates.

13. A folding device, characterized in that: It includes a first shell, a second shell and a hinge mechanism as described in any one of claims 1 to 12, the first shell is fixedly connected to a first fixed bracket of the hinge mechanism, the second shell is fixedly connected to a second fixed bracket of the hinge mechanism, and the first shell and the second shell are rotationally connected through the hinge mechanism so that the first shell and the second shell can be relatively folded or relatively unfolded.

14. A foldable electronic device, characterized in that: It comprises a display screen and a folding device as claimed in claim 13, wherein the display screen is laid on one side of the folding device, and when the foldable electronic device is in a folded state, the display screen surrounds the outer side of the folding device.

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