Shell device and foldable electronic equipment

Abstract

The utility model discloses a shell device and foldable electronic equipment. The shell device comprises a framework, a hinge mechanism and a shell assembly. The framework comprises a first supporting plate and a decorating part, and a notch is formed in the edge of the first supporting plate. The decorating part comprises a decorating body and a guide protrusion fixedly arranged on the decorating body. The decoration body is fixedly connected with the first supporting plate so that at least part of the guiding protrusion can be inserted into the notch. The hinge mechanism comprises a base frame assembly and a rotating part rotationally connected with the base frame assembly. The base frame assembly is fixedly arranged on at least one of the decorating part and the first supporting plate so that the rotating part can rotate relative to the framework. The shell assembly comprises a shell body, and the shell body is fixedly connected with the rotating part and can rotate along with the rotating part. When the shell device is in a folded state, the guide protrusion abuts against the shell body and is in guide fit with the shell body. In the folding process of the shell device, operation is smooth, and the folding hand feeling of the foldable electronic equipment can be improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of electronic technology, and in particular to a housing device and a foldable electronic device. Background Art

[0002] Electronic devices such as mobile phones and tablets have become essential technology for people's daily lives, learning, and entertainment. Currently, foldable electronic devices feature flexible displays that can be folded in half for easy portability. When unfolded, these displays offer a larger display area, making foldable electronic devices increasingly popular with consumers.

[0003] In related technologies, foldable electronic devices typically utilize a hinge mechanism to unfold or fold the flexible display. This hinge mechanism is supported by a frame, allowing the hinge mechanism to drive the housing to fold, thereby folding the flexible display. During this process, misalignment between the housing and the frame can easily produce unusual noises, hindering the folding experience of the foldable electronic device. Utility Model Content

[0004] The present disclosure provides a housing device and a foldable electronic device. The housing device operates smoothly and is less likely to produce abnormal noise during folding, thereby improving the folding feel of the foldable electronic device.

[0005] The technical solution is as follows:

[0006] According to a first aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure, a housing device is provided, comprising a frame, a hinge mechanism, and a housing assembly. The frame comprises a first support plate and a decorative member, wherein an edge of the first support plate is provided with a notch. The decorative member comprises a decorative body and a guide protrusion fixed to the decorative body. The decorative body is fixedly connected to the first support plate such that at least a portion of the guide protrusion is inserted into the notch. The hinge mechanism comprises a base assembly and a rotating component rotatably connected to the base assembly. The base assembly is fixedly attached to at least one of the decorative member and the first support plate such that the rotating component can rotate relative to the frame. The housing assembly comprises a shell body, which is partially fixedly connected to the rotating component and can rotate with the rotating component, allowing the shell body to have a folded state and an unfolded state. When the housing device is in the unfolded state, the first support plate, a portion of the shell body, and a portion of the rotating component form a support structure. When the housing device is in the folded state, the guide protrusion abuts and guides the shell body, and the first support plate is spaced apart from the shell body.

[0007] The technical solutions provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure may have the following beneficial effects:

[0008] When the shell device is assembled, the decorative body is fixedly connected to the first support plate so that at least part of the guide protrusion is inserted into the notch. When the shell device is in the folded state, the guide protrusion abuts against the shell body and guides and cooperates. Then, when the shell body switches from the folded state to the unfolded state, the shell body uses the guiding effect of the guide protrusion to make the shell body smoothly rotate to the bottom of the decorative body. During this process, the first support plate is spaced apart from the shell body and will not cause contact and friction with the shell body to produce abnormal noise. Similarly, when the shell body switches from the unfolded state to the folded state, the first support plate is spaced apart from the shell body through the guidance and cooperation between the shell body and the guide protrusion, so that the first support plate is spaced apart from the shell body and will not cause contact and friction with the shell body to produce abnormal noise. In this way, the shell device operates smoothly during the folding process, is not prone to abnormal noise, and can improve the folding feel of the foldable electronic device.

[0009] The technical solution of the present disclosure is further described below:

[0010] In one embodiment, the guide protrusion includes a first guide surface disposed on the outer side of the decorative member, with at least a portion of the guide protrusion inserted into the notch such that the first guide surface is disposed on the outer side of the first support plate. When the shell body is in a folded state, the first guide surface abuts the shell body, spacing the first support plate and the shell body along the width of the first support plate. When the shell body is transitioning from the folded state to the unfolded state, the first guide surface cooperates with the shell body in a guiding manner.

[0011] In one embodiment, a second guide surface is provided on the outer side of the decorative body and is smoothly connected to the first guide surface. When the shell body switches from the folded state to the unfolded state, the second guide surface can be guided and matched with the shell body.

[0012] In one embodiment, the second guide surface comprises a partial cylindrical surface, and the first guide surface is tangent to the second guide surface.

[0013] In one embodiment, the decorative body is provided with a receiving groove, at least a portion of the base assembly is fixed on the first support plate, the decorative body covers the base assembly through the receiving groove, and the guide protrusion protrudes out of the receiving groove.

[0014] In one embodiment, the rotating component includes a support assembly and a rotating component. The support assembly includes a connector and a second support plate. The connector is fixedly connected to the housing body and rotatably connected to the second support plate. The rotating component includes a first connecting rod assembly and a second connecting rod assembly. The first connecting rod assembly is rotatably connected to the base assembly, and the first connecting rod assembly is rotatably connected to the connector. The second connecting rod assembly is rotatably connected to the base assembly, and the second connecting rod assembly is slidably connected to the connector. The first connecting rod assembly and the second connecting rod assembly are movably connected.

[0015] When the housing device is in the folded state, the second support plate cooperates with the first support plate and the rotating component to form an accommodating space.

[0016] When the housing device is in the expanded state, the second support plate cooperates with the first support plate and the rotating component to form a support structure.

[0017] In one embodiment, the hinge mechanism includes at least two hinge mechanisms, which are fixed to the frame at intervals along the length direction of the decorative component through a base frame assembly, and the second support plates of at least two hinge mechanisms are integrally formed.

[0018] Alternatively, the rotating member and the supporting assembly may include two members, spaced apart along the width of the first support plate and disposed on the base assembly. The housing may include two members, each corresponding to one of the rotating members. The two guide protrusions may be spaced apart along the width of the first support plate and disposed on either side of the decorative body, each corresponding to one of the two housing bodies. The two notches may be spaced apart along the width of the first support plate and disposed on either side of the first support plate, each corresponding to one of the two guide protrusions.

[0019] In one embodiment, the shell assembly includes a matching portion fixed to the shell body. When the shell body is in a folded state, the guide protrusion abuts against the matching portion, and the hardness of the matching portion is less than the hardness of the decorative component.

[0020] In one embodiment, when the shell body is in the expanded state, the matching portion is arranged opposite to the first support plate along the thickness direction of the first support plate, and the decorative body abuts against the first support plate.

[0021] In one embodiment, the shell body includes a relief surface, and the matching portion protrudes and is fixed on the relief surface, so that the relief surface and the decorative element are spaced apart.

[0022] And / or, the material of the fitting portion is elastic.

[0023] And / or, the guide protrusions include at least two and are spaced apart along the length direction of the decorative piece. The matching portions correspond to the guide protrusions one by one and are spaced apart along the set direction of the shell body.

[0024] And / or, the shell body includes a middle frame, and part of the matching portion is embedded in the middle frame.

[0025] According to a second aspect of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device is further provided, comprising a flexible display and a housing device according to any of the above embodiments, wherein at least a portion of the flexible display is covered by the housing device.

[0026] The technical solutions provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure may have the following beneficial effects:

[0027] This foldable electronic device employs the housing device of any of the aforementioned embodiments. When the flexible display is in the unfolded state, the support structure formed by the first support plate, the housing body, and the rotating component supports the flexible display. During the rotation of the housing body, the housing body and the guide protrusions cooperate to ensure that the first support plate is spaced apart from the housing body, preventing contact and friction with the housing body that would otherwise cause noise. This improves the folding feel of the foldable electronic device.

[0028] It is to be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The accompanying drawings, which constitute a part of the present disclosure, are used to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure. The exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and their descriptions are used to explain the present disclosure and do not constitute an improper limitation to the present disclosure.

[0030] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present disclosure, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the description of the embodiments. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present disclosure. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without any creative work.

[0031] Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the structure of a foldable electronic device shown in one embodiment.

[0032] Figure 2 for Figure 1 The structural schematic diagram of the shell device is shown.

[0033] Figure 3 for Figure 2 The structural explosion diagram of the shell device is shown.

[0034] Figure 4 for Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the housing device shown is in an expanded state.

[0035] Figure 5 for Figure 4 The schematic diagram of the housing device shown is in a folded state.

[0036] Figure 6 for Figure 3 A partially enlarged schematic diagram of the decorative part shown.

[0037] Figure 7 for Figure 3 A partial enlarged schematic diagram of the shell body is shown.

[0038] Figure 8Schematic diagram of the structure of a hinge mechanism in one embodiment.

[0039] Figure 9 Schematic diagram of the structure of a hinge mechanism in one embodiment.

[0040] Figure 10 for Figure 9 Schematic diagram of the hinge mechanism shown.

[0041] Figure 11 for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the hardware structure of a foldable electronic device shown.

[0042] Description of reference numerals:

[0043] 10. Foldable electronic device; 11. Processing component; 12. Memory; 13. Power component; 14. Multimedia component; 15. Audio component; 16. Input / output interface; 17. Sensor component; 18. Communication component; 10a. Flexible display; 10b. Housing assembly; 101. Accommodation space; 102. Support structure; 100. Skeleton assembly; 110. First support plate; 111. Notch; 120. Decorative element; 121. Decorative body; 1211. Second guide surface; 1212. Accommodation groove; 122 , guide protrusion; 1221, first guide surface; 200, hinge mechanism; 210, base assembly; 220, rotating part; 221, first connecting rod assembly; 2211, first connecting rod; 2212, third connecting rod; 2213, transmission part; 222, second connecting rod assembly; 2221, second connecting rod; 230, support assembly; 231, connecting member; 232, second support plate; 240, synchronization assembly; 250, damping assembly; 300, shell assembly; 310, shell body; 311, avoidance surface; 320, mating part. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] In order to make the purpose, technical solutions and advantages of the present disclosure more clearly understood, the present disclosure is further described in detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to explain the present disclosure and do not limit the scope of protection of the present disclosure.

[0045] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as those commonly understood by those skilled in the art in the art of the present disclosure. The terms used herein in the specification of the present disclosure are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present disclosure.

[0046] Electronic devices such as mobile phones and tablets have become essential technology products for people's daily lives, learning, and entertainment, bringing a wealth of convenience and enjoyment. With the increasing diversification of electronic devices' functions, there are many types and brands of electronic devices, providing consumers with a wide range of electronic device choices. Simply improving the functional characteristics of electronic devices cannot meet people's expectations for electronic devices.

[0047] As flexible display applications mature, their use in electronic devices is becoming increasingly widespread. Foldable electronic devices using flexible displays can be folded for easy portability. When unfolded, they offer a larger display area, making them increasingly popular with consumers. Among foldable electronic devices of similar display size and performance, the lighter and more comfortable to hold foldable devices are more likely to attract consumers.

[0048] In related technologies, foldable electronic devices typically utilize a hinge mechanism to unfold or fold the flexible display. The hinge mechanism is supported by a frame, allowing the hinge mechanism to drive the housing to fold, thereby folding the flexible display. The frame typically includes a decorative piece located at the bottom of the hinge mechanism and a support plate sandwiched between the hinge mechanism and the flexible display. As the hinge mechanism drives the housing to rotate, the housing contacts the decorative pieces on the support plate. Due to the misalignment between the support plate and the decorative piece, the housing is prone to making unusual noises when misaligned. This hinders the folding feel of the foldable electronic device.

[0049] Based on this, the present disclosure provides a shell device, which operates smoothly and is not prone to producing abnormal noise during the folding process, thereby improving the folding feel of the foldable electronic device.

[0050] In order to better understand the housing device of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device to which the hinge device is applied is used for illustration.

[0051] like Figures 1 to 3 As shown, in some embodiments of the present disclosure, a foldable electronic device 10 is provided, including a flexible display screen 10a and a housing device 10b in any of the above embodiments, wherein at least a portion of the flexible display screen 10a is covered by the housing device 10b.

[0052] like Figures 4 to 7As shown, the housing device 10b includes a frame, a hinge mechanism 200, and a housing assembly 300. The frame includes a first support plate 110 and a decorative member 120. The edge of the first support plate 110 is provided with a notch 111. The decorative member 120 includes a decorative body 121 and a guide protrusion 122 fixed to the decorative body 121. The decorative body 121 is fixedly connected to the first support plate 110, such that at least a portion of the guide protrusion 122 is inserted into the notch 111. The hinge mechanism 200 includes a base assembly 210 and a rotating member 220 rotatably connected to the base assembly 210. The base assembly 210 is fixed to at least one of the decorative member 120 and the first support plate 110, such that the rotating member 220 can rotate relative to the frame. The housing assembly 300 includes a housing body 310. The housing body 310 is partially fixedly connected to the rotating member 220 and can rotate with the rotating member 220, so that the housing body 310 can have a folded state and an unfolded state. When the housing device 10b is in the unfolded state, the first support plate 110, a portion of the housing body 310, and a portion of the rotating component 220 form the support structure 102. When the housing device 10b is in the folded state, the guide protrusion 122 abuts and guides the housing body 310, and the first support plate 110 is spaced apart from the housing body 310.

[0053] When the foldable electronic device 10 is in use, the flexible display screen 10a is unfolded or folded by rotating the shell body 310. When the flexible display screen 10a is in the unfolded state, the flexible display screen 10a is supported by the support structure 102 formed by the first support plate 110, the shell body 310, and the rotating component 220. When the shell device 10b is in the folded state, the guide protrusion 122 abuts against the shell body 310 and guides the shell body 310. When the shell body 310 switches from the folded state to the unfolded state, the shell body 310 uses the guiding effect of the guide protrusion 122 to smoothly rotate to the bottom of the decorative body 121. During this process, the first support plate 110 is spaced apart from the shell body 310 and does not rub against the shell body 310 to produce abnormal noise. Similarly, when the housing body 310 switches from the unfolded state to the folded state, the housing body 310 cooperates with the guide protrusions 122 to ensure that the first support plate 110 is spaced apart from the housing body 310, preventing contact and friction with the housing body 310 that could produce unusual noise. This ensures that the housing device 10b operates smoothly and is less likely to produce unusual noise during folding, improving the folding feel of the foldable electronic device 10.

[0054] like Figure 5As shown, in some embodiments, the guide protrusion 122 includes a first guide surface 1221 disposed on the outside of the decorative member 120. At least a portion of the guide protrusion 122 is inserted into the notch 111, such that the first guide surface 1221 is disposed outside the first support plate 110. When the housing body 310 is in the folded state, the first guide surface 1221 abuts against the housing body 310, spacing the first support plate 110 and the housing body 310 along the width direction of the first support plate 110. When the housing body 310 switches from the folded state to the unfolded state, the first guide surface 1221 guides and engages with the housing body 310. Thus, when the housing device 10b is assembled, the decorative body 121 is fixedly connected to the first support plate 110, such that at least a portion of the guide protrusion 122 is inserted into the notch 111, and the first guide surface 1221 is disposed outside the first support plate 110. Consequently, when the housing body 310 rotates, the first guide surface 1221 contacts the housing body 310 before the first support plate. Specifically, when the housing 310 is in the folded state, the first guide surface 1221 abuts against the housing 310, spacing the first support plate 110 and the housing 310 along the width of the first support plate 110. During rotation of the housing 310, the housing 310 and the first guide surface 1221 guide the first support plate 110, ensuring a spacing between the first support plate 110 and the housing 310, preventing contact and friction with the housing 310 that could produce unusual noise. This improves the folding feel of the foldable electronic device 10.

[0055] like Figures 4 to 6 As shown, the width direction of the first support plate 110 and the width direction of the decorative member 120 are the X-axis direction, the thickness direction of the first support plate 110 and the height direction of the decorative member 120 are the Z-axis direction, and the length direction of the first support plate 110 and the length direction of the decorative member 120 are the Y-axis direction. Figure 7 As shown, the length direction of the shell body 310 is also the Y-axis direction.

[0056] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the outer side of the decorative body 121 is provided with a second guide surface 1211 that smoothly connects with the first guide surface 1221. When the shell body 310 switches from the folded state to the unfolded state, the second guide surface 1211 can be guided and matched with the shell body 310. In this way, during the rotation of the shell body 310, the second guide surface 1211 is smoothly connected with the first guide surface, so that after the shell body 310 is guided and matched with the first guide surface 1221, it can be smoothly guided and matched with the second guide surface 1211. Or after the shell body 310 is guided and matched with the first guide surface 1221, it can be smoothly guided and matched with the first guide surface 1221. This makes the shell body 310 and the decorative member 120 cooperate smoothly, is less likely to produce friction and abnormal noise, and can further improve the folding feel of the foldable electronic device 10.

[0057] Optionally, in some embodiments, the second guide surface 1211 includes a partial cylindrical surface, and the first guide surface 1221 is tangent to the second guide surface 1211. In this way, the second guide surface 1211 is smoothly connected with the first guide surface, and the guide cooperation with the shell body 310 is smooth.

[0058] Based on any of the above embodiments, Figure 6 As shown, in some embodiments, the decorative body 121 is provided with a receiving groove 1212, and at least a portion of the base assembly 210 is fixed to the first support plate 110. The decorative body 121 covers the base assembly 210 through the receiving groove 1212, and the guide protrusion 122 protrudes from the receiving groove 1212. In this way, the receiving groove 1212 accommodates the base assembly 210, and the decorative body 121 is fixedly connected to the first support plate 110, encapsulating the base assembly 210 within the frame. The guide protrusion 122 protrudes from the receiving groove 1212 to facilitate guided engagement with the shell body 310.

[0059] In combination with any of the above embodiments, Figures 4 to 7 As shown, in some embodiments, the housing assembly 300 includes a mating portion 320 fixed to the housing body 310. When the housing body 310 is in the folded state, the guide protrusion 122 abuts the mating portion 320. The hardness of the mating portion 320 is less than that of the decorative element 120. Thus, during the rotation of the housing body 310, the mating portion 320 and the guide protrusion 122 guide and cooperate, ensuring that the first support plate 110 is spaced apart from the housing body 310 and does not rub against the housing body 310, thereby preventing the occurrence of abnormal noise. Furthermore, the hardness of the mating portion 320 is less than that of the decorative element 120, making it less likely to scratch the decorative element 120. This ensures that the foldable electronic device 10 maintains a good appearance even after prolonged use.

[0060] like Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, when the shell body 310 is in the unfolded state, the mating portion 320 is positioned opposite the first support plate 110 along the thickness direction of the first support plate 110 and abuts the decorative body 121. Thus, during the rotation of the shell body 310, the mating portion 320 abuts the decorative body 121, keeping the first support plate 110 and the shell body 310 spaced apart, preventing any noise from misalignment. Furthermore, the hardness of the mating portion 320 is less than that of the decorative element 120, making it less likely to scratch the decorative element 120. This ensures that the foldable electronic device 10 maintains a good appearance even after prolonged use.

[0061] like Figure 7As shown, in some embodiments, the housing body 310 includes a relief surface 311, and the mating portion 320 protrudes and is fixedly mounted on the relief surface 311, so that the relief surface 311 is spaced apart from the decorative element 120. In this manner, the mating portion 320 protrudes and is fixedly mounted on the relief surface 311, contacting the decorative element 120, while preventing other portions of the housing body 310 from contacting the decorative element 120. In this manner, even if other portions of the housing body 310 have a high hardness, they will not scratch the decorative element 120.

[0062] In some embodiments, the mating portion 320 is made of an elastic material. This allows the mating portion 320 to cushion the impact between the housing 310 and the decorative element 120 during rotation. This also prevents the housing 310 from scratching the decorative element 120 during rotation, thereby improving the durability of the foldable electronic device 10.

[0063] Optionally, in some embodiments, the shell body 310 includes a middle frame, and a portion of the matching portion 320 is embedded in the middle frame, so that the two can fit more tightly.

[0064] Furthermore, the shell body 310 includes a metal middle frame. The mating portion 320 is disposed on an elastic protrusion (such as a rubber protrusion or a plastic protrusion) of the shell body 310. In this way, the shell body 310 and the mating portion 320 can be integrally formed.

[0065] like Figures 4 to 6 As shown, in some embodiments, at least two guide protrusions 122 are provided, spaced apart along the length of the decorative member 120. The mating portions 320 correspond one-to-one with the guide protrusions 122 and are spaced apart along a predetermined direction of the housing body 310. Thus, the at least two mating portions 320 corresponding to the at least two guide protrusions 122 provide a more uniform force distribution between the decorative member 120 and the housing body 310, ensuring reliable guidance.

[0066] like Figures 4 to 7 As shown, the length direction of the decorative element 120 and the length direction of the shell body 310 are the Y-axis direction.

[0067] like Figure 5 as well as Figures 8 to 10As shown, in some embodiments, the hinge mechanism 200 further includes a support assembly 230, which includes a connector 231 and a second support plate 232. The connector 231 is fixedly connected to the housing body 310 and rotatably connected to the second support plate 232. The rotating component 220 includes a first connecting rod assembly 221 and a second connecting rod assembly 222. The first connecting rod assembly 221 is rotatably connected to the base assembly 210, and the first connecting rod assembly 221 is rotatably connected to the connector 231. The second connecting rod assembly 222 is rotatably connected to the base assembly 210, and the second connecting rod assembly 222 is slidably connected to the connector 231. The first connecting rod assembly 221 and the second connecting rod assembly 222 are movably connected. When the housing device 10b is in the folded state, the second support plate 232 cooperates with the first support plate 110 and the rotating component 220 to form the accommodating space 101. When the housing device 10 b is in the unfolded state, the second support plate 232 cooperates with the first support plate 110 and the rotating component 220 to form the support structure 102 .

[0068] When the foldable electronic device 10 is in use and the flexible display 10a needs to be unfolded, the housing 310 is switched to the unfolded state, thereby facilitating the support structure 102 formed by the second support plate 232, the first support plate 110, portions of the housing 310, and the rotating member 220. This allows the support structure 102 and the housing 310 to more comprehensively support the flexible display 10a, improving display quality and making it easier for the user to operate the flexible display 10a. When the flexible display 10a is folded, the hinge mechanism 200 switches from the unfolded state to the folded state. During this process, the first connecting rod assembly 221 and the second connecting rod assembly 222 rotate along the base assembly 210, and the first connecting rod assembly 221 drives the connecting member 231 to rotate, so that the connecting member 231 and the second connecting rod assembly 222 slide, so that the connecting member 231 drives the second support plate 232 to move away from the base assembly 210, so that the connecting member 231 and the second support plate 232 are arranged against the shell body 310, so as to make room for the flexible display screen 10a to bend. In this way, it is convenient to use the second support plate 232 to cooperate with the first support plate 110 and the rotating component 220 to form the accommodating space 101 (such as Figure 1 as well as Figure 5 ) to better protect the bent portion of the flexible display screen 10a. When the foldable electronic device 10 accidentally falls in the folded state, the portion of the flexible display screen 10a that bends within the accommodating space 101 and cooperates with the second support plate 232, the first support plate 110, and the portion of the rotating component 220 to limit and cushion the deformation of the flexible display screen 10a, preventing damage to the flexible display screen 10a from excessive deformation, thereby improving the reliability of the foldable electronic device 10.

[0069] It can be understood that when the foldable electronic device 10 is in the open state, the hinge mechanism 200 is in the unfolded state. When the foldable electronic device 10 is in the folded state, the hinge mechanism 200 is in the folded state.

[0070] In some embodiments, at least two hinge mechanisms 200 are provided, fixed to the frame at intervals along the length of the decorative element 120 via a base assembly 210. The second support plates 232 of at least two hinge mechanisms 200 are integrally formed. This arrangement enhances the connection strength between the housing 310 and the frame, ensuring uniform force distribution between the two. The integral formation of the second support plates 232 of at least two hinge mechanisms 200 reduces assembly steps and enhances the synchronization of the movement of the multiple second support plates 232.

[0071] like Figure 5 as well as Figures 8 to 10 As shown, in some embodiments, the rotating parts 220 and the supporting assembly 230 include two, and are spaced apart on the base assembly 210 along the width direction of the first support plate 110, and the shell body 310 includes two, and corresponds one-to-one with the rotating parts 220. The two guide protrusions 122 are spaced apart on both sides of the decorative body 121 along the width direction of the first support plate 110, and correspond one-to-one with the two shell bodies 310. The two notches 111 are spaced apart on both sides of the first support plate 110 along the width direction of the first support plate 110, and correspond one-to-one with the two guide protrusions 122. In this way, by utilizing the two shell bodies 310 and the rotating parts 220, it is easy to realize the folding and synchronous unfolding of the flexible display screen 10a. In addition, during the rotation of the two shell bodies 310, they can be guided and cooperated with the corresponding guide protrusions 122 to reduce or avoid abnormal noise and improve the folding feel of the foldable electronic device 10.

[0072] In combination with the above embodiments, Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments, the hinge mechanism 200 further includes a synchronization assembly 240, and the rotating components 220 correspondingly disposed on both sides of the base assembly 210 are connected to rotate synchronously via the synchronization assembly 240. Thus, the synchronization assembly 240 is used to achieve synchronous rotation of the hinge mechanisms 200 on both sides of the base assembly 210, thereby enabling the flexible display screen 10a to be folded and unfolded.

[0073] The synchronization component 240 can be implemented in many ways, including but not limited to the above-mentioned gear transmission group, and also includes other ways of implementing synchronous rotation, such as a pulley mechanism, a sprocket mechanism, etc.

[0074] Based on any of the above embodiments of the connecting member 231, as Figure 8As shown, in some embodiments, the hinge mechanism 200 further includes a damping assembly 250, which cooperates with the first link assembly 221 and / or the second link assembly 222 to rotate with damping. Thus, by providing the damping assembly 250, the rotating component 220 can be connected to the base assembly 210 with damping rotation, thereby preventing the foldable electronic device 10 from rotating easily, making it easier to support or restrain the flexible display screen 10a and convenient to use.

[0075] It should be noted that the damping assembly 250 can be provided on any rotating member of the first connecting rod assembly 221 and the second connecting rod assembly 222 as long as the above requirements are met.

[0076] It should be noted that there are other ways to implement the "damping assembly 250", for example, using friction plates to increase the rotational friction of the connecting rod assembly; or using elastic parts to increase the rotational resistance of the connecting rod assembly; or using magnetic parts to increase the rotational resistance of the connecting rod assembly, etc.

[0077] It should be noted that the first connecting rod assembly 221 and the second connecting rod assembly 222 can have various matching structures, including but not limited to a two-stage connecting rod mechanism, a three-stage connecting rod mechanism, a four-stage connecting rod mechanism, etc. In this process, one of the connecting rods can be defined as a driving member to drive the movable member to move.

[0078] In some embodiments, such as Figure 8 Alternatively, Figure 9 As shown, the first connecting rod assembly 221 includes a first connecting rod 2211. One end of the first connecting rod 2211 is rotatably connected to the base assembly 210, and the other end of the first connecting rod 2211 is rotatably connected to the connecting member 231. The second connecting rod assembly 222 also includes a second connecting rod 2221. The second connecting rod 2221 is rotatably connected to the base assembly 210 and is slidably connected to the connecting member 231. In this way, the second connecting rod 2221 can drive the connecting member 231 to slide along the set direction of the second connecting rod 2221 during its rotation relative to the base assembly 210. The first connecting rod 2211 can limit the swing direction of the connecting member 231 and drive the second support plate 232 to switch between a supported state and a folded state.

[0079] It should be noted that the rotational connection between the other end of the first connecting rod 2211 and the connecting member 231 includes a direct connection or an indirect connection through other connecting rods.

[0080] Alternatively, as Figure 8As shown, the other end of the first connecting rod 2211 is directly rotatably connected to the connecting member 231. Thus, in combination with the two sets of supporting plate embodiments described above, the first connecting rod 2211 and the second connecting rod 2221 cooperate to form a two-stage connecting rod mechanism, which enables the hinge mechanism 200 to form a teardrop-shaped receiving space 101 in the folded state, thereby meeting the bending space required for the flexible display screen 10a and improving the service life of the flexible display screen 10a.

[0081] In other embodiments, Figure 9 as well as Figure 10 As shown, the first connecting rod assembly 221 also includes a third connecting rod 2212. The other end of the first connecting rod 2211 is rotatably connected to one end of the third connecting rod 2212, and the other end of the third connecting rod 2212 is rotatably connected to the connecting member 231. The first connecting rod assembly 221 also includes a transmission member 2213, one end of which is rotatably connected to the second connecting rod 2221, and the other end of the transmission member 2213 is rotatably connected to the other end of the first connecting rod 2211 and one end of the third connecting rod 2212. In this way, the second connecting rod 2221 can drive the connecting member 231 to slide along the set direction of the second connecting rod 2221 during its rotation relative to the base assembly 210. The first connecting rod 2211 and the third connecting rod 2212 limit the swinging direction of the connecting member 231, and drive the second support plate 232 to switch between the supporting state and the folded state.

[0082] The transmission member 2213, the first link 2211, the second link 2221 and the third link 2212 cooperate to form a three-stage link mechanism. In the process of limiting the swing of the connecting member 231 by the first link 2211 and the third link 2212, the connecting member 231 and the second support plate 232 can move in a direction further away from the first support plate 110, thereby making the teardrop-shaped accommodating space 101 formed by the hinge mechanism 200 in the folded state more slender, and can more accurately provide the bending space required for the flexible display screen 10a to bend, and better fit the flexible display screen 10a, thereby protecting the flexible display screen 10a in the folded state.

[0083] In other embodiments, the first link assembly 221 further includes at least one link disposed between the first link 2211 and the third link 2212 to cooperate to form a four-stage link mechanism, a five-stage link mechanism, and the like.

[0084] On the orthographic projection plane along the length of the base assembly 210, when the hinge mechanism 200 is in the folded state, the width of the accommodating space 101 gradually increases from the base assembly 210 to the other end of the first link 2211, and the width of the accommodating space 101 gradually decreases from one end of the third link 2212 to the other end of the third link 2212. In this way, the accommodating space 101 first gradually increases to reduce stress concentration. The width of the accommodating space 101 gradually decreases from one end of the third link 2212 to the other end of the third link 2212, allowing the flexible display 10a to gradually fit away from the base assembly 210. This facilitates the thinness and lightness of the foldable electronic device 10, while also allowing the flexible display 10a to bend smoothly and improve the bending life of the flexible display 10a.

[0085] In conjunction with any of the above embodiments, in some embodiments, the hinge mechanism 200 can hover at any angle within the range of 45° to 135°. Thus, the hinge mechanism 200 can hover within the range of 45° to 135°, which is defined as a hovering state. The hinge mechanism 200 can rotate and stop instantly in the hovering state, making it easier for users to use the foldable electronic device 10 at multiple angles and improving the user experience of the foldable electronic device 10.

[0086] In any of the above-mentioned embodiments of the second connecting rod 2221, the hovering rotation range of the second connecting rod 2221 is A, where A ≥ 50°. Thus, the rotation range can be flexibly set according to actual needs. For example, A = 50°, 60°, 90°, 100°, 110°, 120°, 130°, 150°, etc.

[0087] In some embodiments, the second connecting rod 2221 can be swiveled and rotated, so that the hinge mechanism 200 can swivel at any angle within the range of 45° to 135°. In this case, the second connecting rod 2221 can also be called a synchronization rod.

[0088] The foldable electronic device 10 disclosed herein may include a ranging device, a scanning device, a shooting device, a handheld device, a vehicle-mounted device, a wearable device, a monitoring device, a cellular phone, a smart phone, a personal digital assistant computer, a tablet computer, a notebook computer, a laptop computer, a camera, a video recorder, a camera, a vehicle-mounted computer, and other devices with display functions.

[0089] Reference Figure 11 As shown, in some embodiments, the foldable electronic device 10 also includes at least one or more of the following components: a processing component 11, a memory 12, a power component 13, a multimedia component 14, an audio component 15, an input / output interface 16, a sensor component 17, and a communication component 18.

[0090] The processing component typically controls the overall operation of the foldable electronic device, such as operations associated with the display, phone calls, data communications, camera operation, and recording. The processing component includes at least one or more processors to execute instructions to complete all or part of the steps of the aforementioned method. Furthermore, the processing component includes at least one or more modules to facilitate interaction between the processing component and other components. For example, the processing component may include at least a multimedia module to facilitate interaction between the multimedia component and the processing component.

[0091] The memory is configured to store various types of data to support operations on the foldable electronic device. Examples of such data include instructions for any application or method operating on the foldable electronic device, contact data, phone book data, messages, pictures, videos, etc. The memory can be implemented by any type of volatile or non-volatile storage device, or a combination thereof, such as static random access memory, erasable programmable read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, read-only memory, magnetic memory, flash memory, magnetic disk, or optical disk.

[0092] The control motherboard includes processing components and memory.

[0093] The power supply assembly provides power to various components of the foldable electronic device. The power supply assembly includes at least a power management system, one or more power supplies, and other components associated with generating, managing, and distributing power to the foldable electronic device.

[0094] The multimedia component includes the display module of the present disclosure to facilitate human-computer interaction. If the display module includes a touch panel, the display module can be implemented as a touch screen to receive input signals from the user. The touch panel includes one or more touch sensors to sense touches, slides, and gestures on the touch panel. The touch sensor can not only sense the boundaries of the touch or slide action, but also detect the duration and pressure associated with the touch or slide operation. In some embodiments, the multimedia component includes a front camera and / or a rear camera. When the foldable electronic device is in an operating mode, such as a shooting mode or a video mode, the front camera and / or the rear camera can receive external multimedia data. Each front camera and rear camera can be a fixed optical lens system or have focal length and optical zoom capabilities.

[0095] The audio component is configured to output and / or input audio signals. For example, the audio component includes a microphone (MIC), which is configured to receive external audio signals when the foldable electronic device is in an operating mode, such as a call mode, a recording mode, and a voice recognition mode. The received audio signal can be further stored in a memory or transmitted via a communication component. In some embodiments, the audio component further includes a speaker for outputting audio signals.

[0096] The input / output interface provides an interface between the processing component and the peripheral interface modules, such as keyboards, click wheels, buttons, etc. These buttons may include but are not limited to: home button, volume button, start button, and lock button.

[0097] The sensor assembly includes one or more sensors for providing various aspects of status assessment for the foldable electronic device. For example, the sensor assembly can detect the open / closed state of the foldable electronic device, the relative positioning of components, such as the display and keypad of the foldable electronic device. The sensor assembly can also detect changes in the position of the foldable electronic device or a component of the foldable electronic device, the presence or absence of user contact with the foldable electronic device, the orientation or acceleration / deceleration of the foldable electronic device, and the temperature change of the foldable electronic device. The sensor assembly includes at least a proximity sensor, which is configured to detect the presence of nearby objects without any physical contact. The sensor assembly also includes at least a photosensitive element, such as a CMOS or CCD image sensor, for use in imaging applications. In some embodiments, the sensor assembly also includes at least an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a magnetic sensor, a pressure sensor, or a temperature sensor.

[0098] The communication component is configured to facilitate wired or wireless communication between the foldable electronic device and other devices. The foldable electronic device can access a wireless network based on a communication standard, such as Wi-Fi, 2G, 3G, 4G or 6G, or a combination thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, the communication component receives a broadcast signal or broadcast-related information from an external broadcast management system via a broadcast channel. In an exemplary embodiment, the communication component further includes a near field communication (NFC) module to facilitate short-range communication. For example, the NFC module can be implemented based on radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, infrared data association (IrDA) technology, ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, Bluetooth (BT) technology and other technologies.

[0099] In the description of the present disclosure, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential" and the like indicate orientations or positional relationships based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the present disclosure and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be understood as a limitation to the present disclosure.

[0100] Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of the technical features being referred to. Thus, a feature defined as "first," "second," etc., may explicitly or implicitly include at least one such feature. Throughout the present disclosure, "plurality" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise specifically defined.

[0101] In this disclosure, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, terms such as "installed," "connected," "connect," and "fixed" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they may refer to fixed connections, detachable connections, or integration; mechanical connections or electrical connections; direct connections or indirect connections through an intermediate medium; and internal communication between two components or interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of the above terms in this disclosure based on specific circumstances.

[0102] In the present disclosure, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, when a first feature is "above" or "below" a second feature, it may mean that the first and second features are in direct contact, or the first and second features are in indirect contact through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, when a first feature is "above," "above," or "above" a second feature, it may mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply means that the first feature is at a higher level than the second feature. When a first feature is "below," "below," or "below" a second feature, it may mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply means that the first feature is at a lower level than the second feature.

[0103] It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being "fixed to," "disposed on," "fixed on," or "installed on" another element, it may be directly on the other element or there may be an intermediate element. When an element is considered to be "connected to" another element, it may be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intermediate element at the same time. Furthermore, when an element is considered to be "fixedly connected" to another element, the two may be fixed in a detachable connection manner or in a non-detachable connection manner, such as socketing, snap-fitting, integral molding, welding, etc., which can be achieved in traditional technologies and will not be elaborated here.

[0104] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined arbitrarily. To make the description concise, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0105] The above embodiments merely illustrate several implementations of the present disclosure, and while their descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the utility model patent. It should be noted that a person skilled in the art would be able to make various modifications and improvements without departing from the utility model concept of the present disclosure, and these modifications and improvements are all within the scope of protection of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A housing device, characterized in that: include: The frame includes a first support plate and a decorative member, wherein the edge of the first support plate is provided with a notch, and the decorative member includes a decorative body and a guide protrusion fixed to the decorative body, wherein the decorative body is fixedly connected to the first support plate so that at least a portion of the guide protrusion is inserted into the notch; a hinge mechanism comprising a base assembly and a rotating component rotatably connected to the base assembly, wherein the base assembly is fixed to at least one of the decorative member and the first support plate so that the rotating component can rotate relative to the frame; as well as The housing assembly includes a housing body, wherein the housing body is fixedly connected to the rotating component portion and can rotate with the rotating component so that the housing body has a folded state and an unfolded state; In which, when the shell device is in the expanded state, the first support plate forms a support structure with part of the shell body and part of the rotating part; when the shell device is in the folded state, the guide protrusion abuts against and guides the shell body, and the first support plate is spaced apart from the shell body.

2. The housing device according to claim 1, wherein: The guide protrusion includes a first guide surface arranged on the outside of the decorative part, and at least a portion of the guide protrusion is inserted into the notch so that the first guide surface is arranged on the outside of the first support plate; when the shell body is in the folded state, the first guide surface abuts against the shell body, and the first support plate and the shell body are spaced apart along the width direction of the first support plate; when the shell body switches from the folded state to the unfolded state, the first guide surface cooperates with the shell body guide.

3. The housing device according to claim 2, characterized in that A second guide surface is provided on the outer side of the decorative body and is smoothly connected with the first guide surface; when the shell body switches from the folded state to the unfolded state, the second guide surface can cooperate with the shell body in a guiding manner.

4. The housing device according to claim 3, characterized in that The second guide surface includes a partial cylindrical surface, and the first guide surface is tangent to the second guide surface.

5. The housing device according to claim 1, wherein: The decorative body is provided with a receiving groove, at least a portion of the base assembly is fixed on the first support plate, the decorative body covers the base assembly through the receiving groove, and the guide protrusion protrudes from the receiving groove.

6. The housing device according to claim 1, wherein: The hinge mechanism further includes a support assembly, the support assembly including a connecting member and a second support plate, the connecting member being fixedly connected to the shell body and rotatably connected to the second support plate; the rotating component including a first connecting rod assembly and a second connecting rod assembly; the first connecting rod assembly is rotatably connected to the base assembly, and the first connecting rod assembly is rotatably connected to the connecting member; the second connecting rod assembly is rotatably connected to the base assembly, and the second connecting rod assembly is slidably connected to the connecting member, and the first connecting rod assembly and the second connecting rod assembly are movably connected; When the housing device is in a folded state, the second support plate cooperates with the first support plate and the rotating component to form an accommodating space; When the housing device is in the expanded state, the second support plate cooperates with the first support plate and the rotating component to form a support structure.

7. The housing device according to claim 6, characterized in that The hinge mechanism comprises at least two hinge mechanisms, which are fixed to the frame at intervals along the length direction of the decorative element through the base frame assembly, and the second support plates of at least two hinge mechanisms are integrally formed; And / or, the rotating parts and the supporting assembly include two, and are arranged on the base assembly at intervals along the width direction of the first support plate, the shell bodies include two, and correspond one-to-one to the rotating parts; the two guide protrusions are arranged on both sides of the decorative body at intervals along the width direction of the first support plate, and correspond one-to-one to the two shell bodies; the two notches are arranged on both sides of the first support plate at intervals along the width direction of the first support plate, and correspond one-to-one to the two guide protrusions.

8. The housing device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that: The shell assembly includes a matching portion fixed to the shell body. When the shell body is in the folded state, the guide protrusion abuts against the matching portion. The hardness of the matching portion is less than that of the decorative component.

9. The housing device according to claim 8, characterized in that When the shell body is in the expanded state, along the thickness direction of the first support plate, the matching portion is arranged opposite to the first support plate and abuts against the decorative body.

10. The housing device according to claim 8, wherein: The shell body includes a relief surface, and the matching portion protrudes and is fixed on the relief surface, so that the relief surface and the decorative element are spaced apart; And / or, the material of the fitting portion is elastic; And / or, the guide protrusions include at least two and are spaced apart along the length direction of the decorative element; the matching portions correspond one to one with the guide protrusions and are spaced apart along the set direction of the shell body; And / or, the shell body includes a middle frame, and part of the matching portion is embedded in the middle frame.

11. A foldable electronic device, characterized in that: The invention comprises a flexible display screen and the housing device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein at least a portion of the flexible display screen is covered by the housing device.

Images