Stop assembly and electronic equipment

Abstract

The embodiment of the utility model provides a stop assembly and electronic equipment, and aims to solve the problem that dust and other impurities easily enter the space between a display panel and a hinge structure, and the display panel is easily damaged. In the stop assembly, a fixing part is arranged at one end of a bending area, a flexible covering part is connected with the fixing part, and the flexible covering part is arranged on the fixing part; the flexible covering part covers at least part of the bending area; the flexible sealing piece is arranged between the bending area and the flexible covering part, the first end of the flexible sealing piece is connected with the flexible covering part, and the other end of the flexible sealing piece makes contact with the bending area. The flexible sealing piece can block the gap between the flexible covering part and the bending area, so that external dust and other impurities are prevented from entering the space between the display panel and the hinge structure through the gap between the display panel and the flexible covering part, the display panel is prevented from being damaged, and the service life of the electronic equipment is prolonged.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] Embodiments of the present application relate to the technical field of electronics, and in particular, to a stop assembly and an electronic device. BACKGROUND

[0002] The electronic device generally comprises a first middle frame, a second middle frame, a hinge structure, a display panel and a stop assembly. The display panel covers the first middle frame and the second middle frame. The first middle frame and the second middle frame are both connected with the hinge structure. The hinge structure is located in a bending area of the display panel. The hinge structure allows the first middle frame to be folded relative to the second middle frame. The stop assembly is arranged between the first middle frame and the second middle frame, and the stop assembly is located at one end of the bending area along the axis direction of the hinge structure. The stop structure is used to block the gap between the bending area and the hinge. However, there is a gap between the stop structure and the display panel. Dust and other impurities can easily enter between the display panel and the hinge structure through the gap, which can easily damage the display panel. CONTENT OF THE UTILITY MODEL

[0003] Embodiments of the present application provide a stop assembly and an electronic device, which can avoid dust and other impurities from the outside entering between the display panel and the hinge structure through the gap between the display panel and the flexible cover part, thereby avoiding damage to the display panel.

[0004] In a first aspect, embodiments of the present application provide a stop assembly arranged in an electronic device comprising a display panel. The display panel comprises a bending area. The stop assembly comprises: a fixed part, a flexible cover part and a flexible sealing sheet. The fixed part is arranged at one end of the bending area of the display panel of the electronic device. The flexible cover part is connected with the fixed part. The flexible cover part covers at least part of the bending area. The first end of the flexible sealing sheet is connected with the flexible cover part. The second end of the flexible sealing sheet is used to contact the bending area.

[0005] Through the above arrangement, the fixed part is arranged at one end of the bending area. The fixed part is connected with the hinge structure. The flexible cover part is connected with the fixed part. The flexible cover part covers at least part of the bending area. The flexible sealing sheet is arranged between the bending area and the flexible cover part. The first end of the flexible sealing sheet is connected with the flexible cover part. The other end of the flexible sealing sheet contacts the bending area. The flexible sealing sheet can block the gap between the flexible cover part and the bending area. Dust and other impurities from the outside can be prevented from entering between the display panel and the hinge structure through the gap between the display panel and the flexible cover part. Damage to the display panel is avoided, and the service life of the electronic device is improved.

[0006] In some embodiments that may include the above-described examples, the flexible sealing sheet is inclined relative to the display panel. A reasonable angle between the flexible sealing sheet and the display panel ensures that the second end of the flexible sealing sheet maintains good contact with the bending area, preventing dust from entering the back of the display panel through the gap between the flexible cover and the bending area. Furthermore, during the bending or unfolding of the electronic device, the inclined flexible sealing sheet is more prone to elastic deformation, thus reducing the force exerted by the sealing sheet on the bending area while maintaining good contact between the second end of the flexible sealing sheet and the bending area, thereby preventing excessive stress on the bending area.

[0007] In some embodiments that may include the above-described embodiments, the material of the flexible sealing sheet may include rubber, foam, or other materials capable of elastic deformation.

[0008] In some embodiments that may include the above-described embodiments, the second end includes a flexible planar portion for attaching to the bending area. This configuration increases the contact area between the flexible sealing sheet and the bending area, thereby improving the sealing performance between the flexible sealing sheet and the bending area, and further preventing dust and other impurities from entering the space between the display panel and the hinge structure through the gap between the display panel and the flexible cover.

[0009] In some embodiments that may include the above-described embodiments, the material of the flexible planar portion may include materials capable of elastic deformation such as rubber and foam.

[0010] In some embodiments that may include the above-described embodiments, the flexible planar portion and the flexible sealing sheet are an integral structure. This configuration allows the flexible planar portion and the flexible sealing sheet to be formed simultaneously by injection molding or other methods, eliminating the need for connection between the flexible planar portion and the flexible sealing sheet, thus reducing the manufacturing difficulty of the stop assembly.

[0011] In some embodiments that may include the above-described embodiments, the flexible sealing sheet and the flexible covering portion are an integral structure. This configuration allows the flexible covering portion and the flexible sealing sheet to be formed simultaneously by injection molding or other methods, eliminating the need for connection between the flexible covering portion and the flexible sealing sheet, thus reducing the manufacturing difficulty of the stop assembly.

[0012] In some embodiments that may include the above embodiments, the flexible planar portion and the flexible sealing sheet are integrated into one structure, and the flexible covering portion and the flexible sealing sheet are also integrated into one structure, so as to further reduce the manufacturing difficulty of the stop assembly.

[0013] In some embodiments that may include the above-described examples, the flexible covering includes a flexible portion and a fixing frame. The flexible portion covers at least a portion outside the bending area, one end of the fixing frame is located inside the flexible portion, and the other end of the fixing frame is connected to the fixing portion. This arrangement allows the flexible portion to be fixed by the fixing frame. Furthermore, the portion of the fixing frame located within the flexible portion allows the flexible portion to maintain a certain rigidity, thus ensuring that the flexible portion maintains a certain shape and position.

[0014] In some embodiments that may include the above-described embodiments, the fixing frame includes a fixing plate, one end of which is located within the flexible portion. A slot is provided on the fixing portion, and the other end of the fixing plate is inserted into the slot. This arrangement facilitates the connection between the fixing frame and the fixing portion, improving the assembly speed of the stop assembly. For example, one end of the fixing frame has a bent portion that extends into the flexible portion to achieve the connection between the fixing frame and the flexible portion.

[0015] In some embodiments that may include the above-described embodiments, a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion are spaced apart on the flexible covering portion. The first connecting portion is used to connect to the first mid-frame of the electronic device, and the second connecting portion is used to connect to the second mid-frame of the electronic device. This arrangement can further fix the stop assembly to the electronic device. In addition, during the relative rotation of the first mid-frame and the second mid-frame, the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion can also drive the flexible covering portion to deform.

[0016] In some embodiments that may include the above embodiments, a first through hole is provided on the first connecting part, and a second through hole is provided on the second connecting part. Correspondingly, a first rotating shaft may be provided on the first middle frame, and a second rotating shaft may be provided on the second middle frame. The first rotating shaft may pass through the first through hole to realize the connection between the first connecting part and the first middle frame, and the second rotating shaft may pass through the second through hole to realize the connection between the second connecting part and the second middle frame.

[0017] In some embodiments that may include the above-described examples, a stop flange is provided on the flexible cover portion, and the stop flange is located between the flexible cover portion and the bending area. The stop flange can prevent some dust and other impurities from entering between the flexible cover portion and the bending area. That is to say, both the stop flange and the flexible sealing sheet can prevent impurities from entering between the flexible portion and the bending area, thereby improving the sealing effect and further preventing external dust and other impurities from entering between the display panel and the hinge structure through the gap between the display panel and the flexible cover portion.

[0018] In some embodiments that may include the above-described embodiments, the stop flange and the bending area are spaced apart, with the second end located between the stop flange and the bending area. This arrangement prevents dust and other impurities from accumulating between the flexible cover and the display panel, thus avoiding damage to the display panel from accumulated dust and other impurities.

[0019] Secondly, embodiments of this application also provide an electronic device, including: a first middle frame, a second middle frame, a display panel, a hinge structure, and a stop assembly as described above; the hinge structure is disposed between the first middle frame and the second middle frame, the display panel covers the first middle frame and the second middle frame, and the display panel has a bending area corresponding to the hinge structure; a fixing part is disposed at one end of the bending area along the length direction, and the fixing part is connected to the hinge structure.

[0020] The electronic device in this application includes the stop component in any of the above embodiments, and therefore can achieve the same technical effect and solve the same technical problem, which will not be repeated here.

[0021] In some embodiments that may include the above-described embodiments, the second end is in contact with the bending area in both the unfolded and folded states of the electronic device. During the bending or unfolding process of the electronic device, the flexible sealing sheet can elastically deform along with the deformation of the bending area, so that the flexible sealing sheet is always in contact with the bending area, further sealing the gap between the flexible covering and the bending area, and preventing external dust and other impurities from entering the back of the display panel through the gap.

[0022] In some embodiments that may include the above-described embodiments, when the electronic device is in an unfolded state, there is a first distance between the second end and the flexible covering portion; when the electronic device is in a folded state, there is a second distance between the second end and the flexible covering portion, and the first distance is smaller than the second distance. In the folded state, the display panel bends more, and increasing the distance between the second end and the flexible covering portion helps to reduce the force on the display panel and avoid damage to the display panel. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the structure of the electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application Figure 1 ;

[0024] Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the structure of the electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application Figure 2 ;

[0025] Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the structure of the electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application Figure 3 ;

[0026] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0027] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the electronic device provided in the embodiment of this application in its unfolded state;

[0028] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application in a folded state;

[0029] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the stop assembly provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0030] Figure 8 for Figure 7 The stop assembly shown is a cross-sectional view along the AA direction.

[0031] 10: Electronic device; 11: Processor; 12: Memory; 13: Power supply; 14: Communication module; 15: Audio module; 16: Sensor module; 16A: Pressure sensor; 16B: Proximity sensor; 16C: Fingerprint sensor; 16D: Touch sensor; 17: Button; 18: Camera module; 110: First middle frame; 111: Input / output module; 120: Second middle frame; 130: Third middle frame; 20: Display panel; 201: Bending area; 202: First non-bending area; 203: Second non-bending area 204: Bending area; 30: Third non-bending area; 310: Stop assembly; 311: Fixing part; 312: First plate; 312: Second plate; 320: Flexible covering part; 321: Flexible sealing sheet; 324: Stop flange; 325: Fixing frame; 326: Flexible part; 327: Fixing plate; 328: Bending part; 329: Slot; 330: Flexible flat part; 340: First connecting part; 341: First through hole; 350: Second connecting part; 351: Second through hole; 40: Hinge structure; 401: Fixing groove. Detailed Implementation

[0032] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments.

[0033] Hereinafter, 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 technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined with "first," "second," etc., may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature.

[0034] Furthermore, in the embodiments of this application, directional terms such as "up," "down," "left," "right," "horizontal," and "vertical" are defined relative to the orientation of the components shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these directional terms are relative concepts, used for relative description and clarification, and can change accordingly depending on the orientation of the components in the accompanying drawings.

[0035] In the embodiments of this application, the term "connection" or "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, an electrical connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium.

[0036] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device 10 according to an embodiment of this application.

[0037] Please refer to Figure 1 The electronic device 10 may include at least one of the following: a foldable mobile phone, a foldable tablet computer, a foldable wearable device, etc. This application embodiment does not impose any special limitations on the type of electronic device 10.

[0038] Electronic device 10 may include processor 11, memory 12, power supply 13, communication module 14, audio module 15, sensor module 16, buttons 17, camera module 18, display panel 20, and input / output module 111, etc. Sensor module 16 may include pressure sensor 16A, proximity sensor 16B, fingerprint sensor 16C, touch sensor 16D, ambient light sensor, bone conduction sensor, etc.

[0039] The structures illustrated in the embodiments of this application do not constitute a limitation on the electronic device 10. In other embodiments of this application, the electronic device 10 may include more or fewer components than illustrated. The illustrated components may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of software and hardware.

[0040] Processor 11 may include one or more processing units, such as application processors, modem processors, graphics processing units (GPUs), image signal processors (ISPs), controllers, video codecs, digital signal processors (DSPs), baseband processors, and / or neural network processing units (NPUs). These different processing units may be independent devices or integrated into one or more processors.

[0041] The processor 11 can generate operation control signals based on the instruction opcode and timing signals to control the instruction fetching and execution.

[0042] The processor 11 may also include a memory for storing instructions and data. In some embodiments, the memory in the processor 11 may be a cache memory. This memory can store instructions or data that the processor 11 has used or that are used frequently.

[0043] In some embodiments, the processor 11 may include one or more interfaces. Interfaces may include integrated circuit I2C interfaces, I2S interfaces, PCM interfaces, UART interfaces, MIPI interfaces, GPIO interfaces, SIM interfaces, and / or USB interfaces, etc. The processor 11 can connect to modules such as the sensor module 16, audio module 15, communication module 14, display panel 20, or camera module 18 through at least one of these interfaces.

[0044] It is understood that the interface connection relationships between the modules illustrated in the embodiments of this application are merely illustrative and do not constitute a limitation on the electronic device 10. In other embodiments of this application, the electronic device 10 may also employ different interface connection methods or combinations of multiple interface connection methods as described in the above embodiments.

[0045] Power supply 13 is used to supply power to processor 11, memory 12, display panel 20, camera module 18, etc.

[0046] Electronic device 10 can achieve wired or wireless communication functions through communication module 14. For example, communication module 14 can provide a wireless communication solution including at least one of 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G for use on electronic device 10. Communication module 14 can also provide modules for use on electronic device 10, including wireless local area network modules, Bluetooth modules, BLE modules, ultra-wideband (UWB) modules, global navigation satellite system (GNSS) modules, FM modules, near field communication (NFC) modules, or infrared modules, etc.

[0047] Electronic device 10 can implement display functions through a GPU, display panel 20, and application processor. The GPU is a microprocessor for image processing, connected to the display panel 20 and the application processor. The GPU is used to perform mathematical and geometric calculations and graphics rendering. Processor 11 may include one or more GPUs, which execute program instructions to generate or modify display information.

[0048] Display panel 20 is used to display images, videos, etc. In some embodiments, electronic device 10 may include one or more display panels 20. Display panel 20 may be at least one of OLED display, AMOLED display, FLED display, Miniled display, MicroLED display, Micro-OLED display, quantum dot light-emitting diode (QLED) display, etc.

[0049] Electronic device 10 can realize camera function through camera module 18, ISP, video codec, GPU, display panel 20, application processor AP, neural network processor NPU, etc.

[0050] The camera module 18 can be used to acquire color image data and depth data of the subject. The image ISP can be used to process the color image data acquired by the camera module 18. For example, when taking a picture, the shutter is opened, and light passes through the lens to the camera's photosensitive element. The light signal is converted into an electrical signal, and the camera's photosensitive element transmits this electrical signal to the ISP for processing, converting it into an image visible to the naked eye. The ISP can also perform algorithmic optimization on image noise, brightness, and skin tone. The ISP can also optimize parameters such as exposure and color temperature of the shooting scene. In some embodiments, the ISP can be set in the camera module 18.

[0051] In some embodiments, the camera module 18 may consist of a color camera module and a 3D sensing module.

[0052] In some embodiments, the photosensitive element of the camera in a color camera module may include a CCD or a CMOS phototransistor. The photosensitive element converts light signals into electrical signals, which are then transmitted to the ISP for conversion into digital image signals. The ISP outputs the digital image signals to the DSP for processing.

[0053] In some embodiments, the 3D sensing module may be a structured light 3D sensing module. The structured light 3D sensing module may include an infrared emitter, an infrared camera module, etc. The structured light 3D sensing module first emits a light spot with a specific pattern onto the object being photographed, then receives the encoded pattern of the light spot on the object's surface, and compares it with the original projected light spot to determine the object's three-dimensional coordinates. These three-dimensional coordinates may include the distance between the electronic device 10 and the object being photographed. The 3D sensing module can obtain the distance (i.e., depth) between itself and the object being photographed by measuring the infrared reflection time, thus obtaining a 3D depth map.

[0054] Structured light 3D sensing modules can also be applied to fields such as facial recognition, motion-sensing game consoles, and industrial machine vision inspection. 3D sensing modules can also be applied to game consoles, AR, and VR.

[0055] In other embodiments, the camera module 18 may also consist of two or more cameras. These two or more cameras may include a color camera, which can be used to acquire color image data of the object being photographed. These two or more cameras may employ stereoscopic vision technology to acquire depth data of the object being photographed.

[0056] In some embodiments, the electronic device 10 may include one or more camera modules 18. The electronic device 10 may include a front-facing camera module and a rear-facing camera module. The front-facing camera module can be used to acquire color image data and depth data of the photographer, while the rear-facing camera module can be used to acquire color image data and depth data of the subject (such as a person, landscape, etc.) in front of the photographer.

[0057] In some embodiments, the electronic device 10 can identify whether the image captured by the front-facing camera module includes a user's facial image, and further determine whether the user is looking at the display screen of the electronic device 10 based on the captured image.

[0058] In some embodiments, the CPU, GPU, or NPU in the processor 11 can process the color image data and depth data acquired by the camera module 18. In some embodiments, the NPU can identify the color image data acquired by the camera module 18 using neural network algorithms based on skeletal point recognition technology, such as convolutional neural network algorithms (CNN), to determine the skeletal points of the person being photographed. The CPU or GPU can also be used to run neural network algorithms to determine the skeletal points of the person being photographed based on the color image data. In some embodiments, the CPU, GPU, or NPU can also be used to confirm the body shape of the person being photographed (such as body proportions, the degree of fatness or thinness of body parts between skeletal points) based on the depth data acquired by the camera module 18 (which may be a 3D sensing module) and the identified skeletal points, and can further determine the beautification parameters for the person being photographed, and finally process the captured image of the person being photographed based on the body beautification parameters so that the body shape of the person being photographed in the captured image is beautified.

[0059] The memory 12 can be used to store computer executable program code, which includes instructions. The memory 12 may include a program storage area and a data storage area. The program storage area may store the operating system, applications required for at least one function (such as sound playback, image playback, etc.), etc. The data storage area may store data created during the use of the electronic device 10 (such as audio data, phonebook, etc.). Furthermore, the memory 12 may include high-speed random access memory, and may also include non-volatile memory, such as at least one disk storage device, flash memory device, universal flash storage (UFS), etc. The processor 11 executes various functional methods or data processing of the electronic device 10 by running instructions stored in the memory 12 and / or instructions stored in memory disposed within the processor.

[0060] Electronic device 10 can implement audio functions through audio module 17 and application processor, such as music playback and recording.

[0061] Pressure sensor 16A is used to sense pressure signals and convert them into electrical signals. In some embodiments, pressure sensor 16A can be disposed on display panel 20; in other embodiments, pressure sensor 16A can also be detachably disposed on the outside of display panel 20. There are many types of pressure sensor 16A, such as resistive pressure sensors, inductive pressure sensors, and capacitive pressure sensors. A capacitive pressure sensor may include at least two parallel plates with conductive material. When force is applied to pressure sensor 16A, the capacitance between the electrodes changes. Electronic device 10 determines the pressure intensity based on the change in capacitance. When a touch operation is applied to display panel 20, electronic device 10 detects the intensity of the touch operation based on pressure sensor 16A. Electronic device 10 can also calculate the touch position based on the detection signal from pressure sensor 16A. In some embodiments, touch operations applied to the same touch position but with different touch operation intensities can correspond to different operation commands. For example, when a touch operation with a touch operation intensity less than a first pressure threshold is applied to the SMS application icon, a command to view SMS messages is executed. When a touch operation with a strength greater than or equal to the first pressure threshold is applied to the SMS application icon, the instruction to create a new SMS message is executed.

[0062] The proximity sensor 16B may include, for example, a light-emitting diode (LED) and a light detector, such as a photodiode. The LED may be an infrared LED. The electronic device 10 emits infrared light outward through the LED. The electronic device 10 uses the photodiode to detect infrared reflected light from nearby objects. When the intensity of the detected reflected light is greater than a threshold, it can be determined that an object is approaching the electronic device 10. When the intensity of the detected reflected light is less than the threshold, the electronic device 10 can determine that no object is approaching the electronic device 10. The electronic device 10 may use the proximity sensor 16B to detect when a user holds the electronic device 10 close to their ear for a phone call, so as to automatically turn off the screen to save power. The proximity sensor 16B can also be used in holster mode and pocket mode for automatic unlocking and screen locking.

[0063] The fingerprint sensor 16C is used to collect fingerprints, and the collected fingerprint image includes fingerprint feature information. For example, the fingerprint image includes ridges (lines with a certain width and direction in the fingerprint image) and valleys (the recessed parts between the lines) on the fingerprint surface. Fingerprint images from different fingers of different users are different. The fingerprint image is used to achieve fingerprint recognition, fingerprint gesture recognition, etc. In some implementations of this application, the fingerprint image is a multi-grayscale image where the ridges are black and the valleys are white, which can be processed by the fingerprint recognition algorithm of the electronic device. The electronic device 10 can utilize the characteristics of the collected fingerprint to achieve fingerprint unlocking, accessing application locks, fingerprint photography, fingerprint answering of calls, etc. The electronic device 10 can have a fingerprint recognition function, which can identify whether the collected image is a fingerprint image and can also identify the user's identity based on the fingerprint image. The electronic device 10 can also have a fingerprint gesture recognition function. The fingerprint sensor 16C can be located on the back of the electronic device 10, such as below the rear camera or in the lower middle part of the electronic device. The fingerprint sensor 16C can also be located on the front of the electronic device 10, such as below the display panel 20. The fingerprint sensor 16C can also be disposed on the side of the electronic device 10. For example, the fingerprint sensor 16C can be disposed within the display panel 20, integrated with the display panel 20 to realize the fingerprint recognition function of the mobile phone 10. In this case, the fingerprint sensor 16C is configured as part of the display panel 20, or it can be disposed within the display panel 20 in other ways. The fingerprint sensor 16C in the embodiments of this application can employ any type of sensing technology, including but not limited to optical, capacitive, piezoelectric, or ultrasonic sensing technologies.

[0064] The fingerprint sensor 16C can be an optical sensor. Optical sensors utilize the principles of light refraction and reflection to detect the refracted and reflected light rays from an object touching the fingerprint recognition device. The angles and brightness of the light rays refracted and reflected on the uneven surface of the object vary. The optical sensor projects the received light rays onto its image acquisition device through an optical structure, forming a touch image. The electronic device then uses this touch image for fingerprint recognition, detecting whether the touch image is a fingerprint image. The fingerprint image is a touch image that includes the fingerprint itself.

[0065] The fingerprint sensor 16C may also include a capacitive sensor. A capacitive sensor detects changes in capacitance between the surface of an object touching the fingerprint recognition device and the sensor electrodes. When the object touches the surface of the capacitive sensor, the sensor detects the electrical signal generated by the capacitance change. Based on the electric field distribution of the electrical signal, it converts the electrical signal into a digital signal, thereby forming a touch image.

[0066] The fingerprint sensor 16C may also include an ultrasonic sensor that detects ultrasonic pulses reflected and scattered by an object touching the fingerprint recognition device, thereby determining the distance difference between the unevenness of the object's surface based on the difference in the ultrasonic pulse signals, and forming a touch image based on the distance difference.

[0067] The fingerprint sensor 16C can also use sensors based on other principles to acquire touch images, and this application does not limit this.

[0068] Touch sensor 16D, also known as a "touch device," can be disposed on display panel 20. The touch sensor 16D and display panel 20 together form a touchscreen, also known as a "touch screen." Touch sensor 16D detects touch operations applied to or near it, generating a touch (TP) signal. Touch sensor 16D can transmit the detected touch operation to the application processor to determine the type of touch event. Visual output related to the touch operation can be provided through display panel 20. In other embodiments, touch sensor 16D may also be disposed on the surface of electronic device 10, in a different location than display panel 20.

[0069] Button 17 may include a power button, volume buttons, etc. Button 17 can be a mechanical button or a touch button. Electronic device 10 can receive button input and generate button signals related to user settings and function control of electronic device 10. Fingerprint sensor 16C can be disposed on button 17, and the fingerprint sensor 16C and button 17 together form a button with fingerprint acquisition function. Fingerprint sensor 16C detects touch operation on button 17 and acquires the fingerprint of the finger touching button 17.

[0070] The software system of electronic device 10 can adopt a layered architecture, event-driven architecture, microkernel architecture, microservice architecture, or cloud architecture. This application embodiment uses the layered architecture Android system as an example to exemplify the software structure of electronic device 10.

[0071] Please refer to Figure 2The electronic device 10 provided in this application embodiment may include a first middle frame 110, a second middle frame 120, a display panel 20, and a hinge structure 40. The first middle frame 110 and the second middle frame 120 are spaced apart. The display panel 20 covers the first middle frame 110 and the second middle frame 120. The hinge structure 40 is disposed between the first middle frame 110 and the second middle frame 120 and is connected to both the first middle frame 110 and the second middle frame 120. The hinge structure 40 allows the first middle frame 110 to fold or unfold relative to the second middle frame 120 (the first middle frame 110 rotates relative to the second middle frame 120). The display panel 20 is a flexible display panel. During the folding or unfolding of the first middle frame 110 relative to the second middle frame 120, the display panel 20 bends accordingly.

[0072] It is understood that when the first middle frame 110 is unfolded relative to the second middle frame 120, the first middle frame 110 and the second middle frame 120 are approximately located in the same plane, that is, the portion of the display panel 20 on the first middle frame 110 and the portion of the display panel 20 on the second middle frame 120 are approximately located in the same plane. When the first middle frame 110 is folded relative to the second middle frame 120, the first middle frame 110 and the second middle frame 120 are stacked together. In the implementation of the electronic device 10 as an inward-folding electronic device, the display panel 20 on the second middle frame 120 is stacked together with the display panel 20 on the second middle frame 120, and both are located between the first middle frame 110 and the second middle frame 120. In the implementation of the electronic device 10 as an outward-folding electronic device, the display panel 20 on the second middle frame 120 is stacked together with the display panel 20 on the second middle frame 120, and the first middle frame 110 and the second middle frame 120 are located within the space enclosed by the stacked display panels 20.

[0073] Continue to refer to Figure 2 In the above implementation, the display panel 20 includes a bending area 201, a first non-bending area 202, and a second non-bending area 203. The first non-bending area 202 can be located on the first middle frame 110, and the second non-bending area 203 is located on the second middle frame 120. The bending area 201 corresponds to the hinge structure 40, that is, the bending area 201 is located between the first non-bending area 202 and the second non-bending area 203. During the unfolding or folding of the first middle frame 110 relative to the second middle frame 120, the portion of the display panel 20 corresponding to the bending area 201 bends, so that the first non-bending area 202 can rotate with the first middle frame 110, and the second non-bending area 203 can rotate with the second middle frame 120.

[0074] Please refer to Figure 3In some embodiments, the electronic device 10 may also be a tri-fold electronic device. Accordingly, the electronic device 10 further includes a third middle frame 130, and a second middle frame 120 is located between the third middle frame 130 and the first middle frame 110. The second middle frame 120 and the third middle frame 130 are connected by another hinge structure 40, so that the second middle frame 120 can also be folded or unfolded (rotated) relative to the third middle frame 130. Correspondingly, the display panel 20 also covers a third non-bending area 204 on the third middle frame 130. The display panel 20 includes two bending areas 201, one bending area 201 corresponding to the position between the first middle frame 110 and the second middle frame 120, and the other bending area 201 corresponding to the position between the second middle frame 120 and the third middle frame 130.

[0075] Please refer to Figure 2 and Figure 4 The electronic device 10 provided in this application embodiment also includes a stop assembly 30, which includes a fixing part 310 and a flexible covering part 320 connected to the fixing part 310. The fixing part 310 is disposed at one end of the bending area 201, so as to... Figure 2 Taking the shown orientation as an example, the fixing part 310 is disposed at the lower end of the bending area 201. It can be understood that the length direction of the bending area 201 is parallel to the rotation axis a of the first middle frame 110 relative to the second middle frame 120. The fixing part 310 is located on the outer side of the bending area 201 along its length direction. The fixing part 310 can be connected to the hinge structure 40 to fix the fixing part 310. Exemplarily, the fixing part 310 can be in a regular shape such as a plate or column. Of course, the fixing part 310 can also be in other irregular shapes. This embodiment of the application does not limit the shape of the fixing part 310.

[0076] Please refer to Figure 4 In some embodiments, the hinge structure 40 is provided with a fixing groove 401, and one end of the fixing part 310 can be inserted into the fixing groove 401 to realize the connection between the fixing part 310 and the hinge structure 40. For example, in the implementation where the fixing part 310 is plate-shaped, the fixing part 310 may include a first plate 311 and a second plate 312. The first plate 311 is located at the bottom of the second plate 312. The first plate 311 and the second plate 312 are connected and are arranged parallel and spaced apart. The first plate 311 is connected to the flexible covering part 320. The second plate 312 is inserted into the fixing groove 401. When the second plate 312 is fully inserted into the fixing groove 401, the first plate 311 can abut against the hinge structure 40 outside the fixing groove 401 to realize the limiting between the fixing part 310 and the hinge structure 40 and improve the assembly accuracy of the fixing part 310. Of course, in this embodiment, the fixing part 310 can also be connected to the hinge structure 40 by means of bolt connection or snap-fit, and this embodiment does not limit this.

[0077] In some implementations, a fixing hole may also be provided on the fixing part 310 (such as the first plate 311) inserted into the fixing groove 401. After the fixing part 310 is inserted into the fixing groove 401, a bolt or pin can be inserted into the fixing hole to prevent the fixing part 310 from detaching from the fixing groove 401, thereby further fixing the fixing part 310.

[0078] Continue to refer to Figure 4 In this embodiment, the flexible covering portion 320 is connected to the fixing portion 310, and at least a portion of the flexible covering portion 320 covers at least a portion of the bending area 201 (e.g., Figure 2 (As shown). For example, the flexible covering portion 320 can be connected to the fixed portion 310 away from the top of the hinge structure 40. The flexible covering portion 320 extends from the top of the fixed portion 310 along the length of the bending area 201 into the bending area 201 to cover part of the bending area 201. The flexible covering portion 320 has a certain degree of flexibility; that is, during folding or unfolding, the flexible covering portion 320 can contact the bending area 201 nearby and undergo elastic deformation. The flexible covering portion 320 can limit the bending angle of the bending area 201 to avoid damage to the bending area 201 due to excessive bending angle during bending. It is understood that the area of ​​the bending area 201 under the flexible covering portion 320 should not be too large to avoid the flexible covering portion 320 obstructing the display of images in the bending area 201. For example, the material of the flexible covering portion 320 may include rubber, foam, or other materials capable of elastic deformation; this embodiment does not limit this.

[0079] Continue to refer to Figure 4 For example, the flexible cover 320 may be generally plate-shaped and generally parallel to the display panel 20. When the electronic device 10 is in the unfolded state, the flexible cover 320 may be spaced apart from the display panel 20. In some implementations, along the perpendicular to the bending area 201 (e.g. Figure 2 As shown, along the length direction, the thickness of the flexible covering portion 320 gradually decreases from the middle of the bending area 201 towards both sides. Since the flexible covering portions 320 on both sides of the bending area 201 first come into contact with and deform during the bending process of the display panel 20, setting the thickness of this part of the flexible covering portion 320 to be smaller can avoid excessive force exerted by the flexible covering portion 320 on the bending area 201, thus preventing damage to the bending area 201.

[0080] In some implementations, the flexible covering portion 320 includes a flexible portion 326 and a fixing frame 325. The flexible portion 326 covers at least a portion of the bending area 201. One end of the fixing frame 325 is located inside the flexible portion 326, and the other end of the fixing frame 325 is connected to the fixing portion 310. This arrangement allows the flexible portion 326 to be fixed by the fixing frame 325. Furthermore, the portion of the fixing frame 325 located inside the flexible portion 326 allows the flexible portion 326 to maintain a certain rigidity, thus ensuring that the flexible portion 326 maintains a certain shape and position.

[0081] For example, the flexible portion 326 may be generally plate-shaped, and the flexible portion 326 is arranged parallel to and spaced apart from the display panel 20, with a portion of the flexible portion 326 covering the edge of the bending area 201. The material of the flexible portion 326 may include materials capable of elastic deformation such as rubber and foam, and this embodiment of the application does not limit this.

[0082] In the above implementation, the fixing frame 325 includes a fixing plate 327. The fixing frame 325 can be arranged approximately perpendicular to the display panel 20. One end of the fixing plate 327 is located within the flexible part 326, and a slot 329 is provided on the fixing part 310. The other end of the fixing plate 327 is inserted into the slot 329. This arrangement facilitates the connection between the fixing frame 325 and the fixing part 310, and improves the assembly speed of the stop assembly 30. For example, one end of the fixing frame 325 ( Figure 4 A bend 328 is formed at the top of the indicated position, and the bend 328 extends into the flexible part 326 to realize the connection between the fixing frame 325 and the flexible part 326.

[0083] Continue to refer to Figure 4 In this embodiment, the stop assembly 30 further includes a flexible sealing sheet 321, which is disposed on the flexible cover portion 320 facing the bending area 201 (e.g., Figure 2 On one side (as shown), the first end (top) of the flexible sealing sheet 321 is connected to the flexible covering portion 320, and the second end (bottom) of the flexible sealing sheet 321 contacts the bending area 201; that is, the flexible sealing sheet 321 is located between the flexible covering portion 320 and the bending area 201, with its first end connected to the flexible covering portion 320 and its second end contacting the bending area 201. The flexible sealing sheet 321 can seal the gap between the flexible covering portion 320 and the bending area 201, thereby preventing external dust and other impurities from entering the back of the display panel 20 (the display panel 20 and the bending area 201) through this gap. Figure 2 The hinge structure 40 shown is between.

[0084] It is understandable that the flexible sealing sheet 321 has a certain degree of flexibility, that is, during the bending or unfolding process of the electronic device 10, the flexible sealing sheet 321 can undergo elastic deformation with the deformation of the bending area 201 to avoid excessive force on the bending area 201.

[0085] When the electronic device 10 is in the unfolded state (e.g.) Figure 5 As shown), and when the electronic device 10 is in a folded state (as shown). Figure 6 As shown), the second end is in contact with the bending area. That is, during the bending or unfolding process of the electronic device 10, the flexible sealing sheet 321 can undergo elastic deformation with the deformation of the bending area 201, so that the flexible sealing sheet 321 is always in contact with the bending area 201, further sealing the gap between the flexible covering part 320 and the bending area 201, and preventing external dust and other impurities from entering the back of the display panel 20 through the gap.

[0086] In some embodiments, when the electronic device 10 is in the unfolded state, there is a first distance between the second end and the flexible covering portion 320; when the electronic device 10 is in the folded state, there is a second distance between the second end and the flexible covering portion 320, and the first distance is smaller than the second distance. In the folded state, the display panel 20 bends more, increasing the distance between the second end and the flexible covering portion 320 helps to reduce the force on the display panel 20 and avoid damage to the display panel.

[0087] For example, the material of the flexible sealing sheet 321 may include rubber, foam, or other materials that can undergo elastic deformation, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0088] Continue to refer to Figure 4 In some implementations, the flexible cover 320 can be integrated with the flexible sealing sheet 321. This configuration allows for the simultaneous formation of both the flexible cover 320 and the flexible sealing sheet 321 through injection molding or similar methods, eliminating the need for connection between them and reducing the manufacturing complexity of the stop assembly 30. For example, in an implementation where the flexible cover 320 includes a flexible portion 326, the flexible portion 326 and the flexible sealing sheet 321 are integrated.

[0089] In other implementations, the flexible cover 320 can also be connected to the flexible sealing sheet 321 by means of adhesive or snap-fit. This application embodiment does not limit the connection method between the flexible cover 320 and the flexible sealing sheet 321.

[0090] In the above implementation, when the electronic device 10 is in the unfolded state, the flexible sealing sheet 321 is inclined relative to the display panel 20. By appropriately setting the included angle between the flexible sealing sheet 321 and the display panel 20, the second end of the flexible sealing sheet 321 can maintain good contact with the bending area 201, preventing dust from entering the back of the display panel 20 through the gap between the flexible covering part 320 and the bending area 201. Furthermore, during the bending or unfolding process of the electronic device 10, the inclined flexible sealing sheet 321 is more prone to elastic deformation, thereby reducing the force exerted by the sealing sheet on the bending area 201 while maintaining good contact between the second end of the flexible sealing sheet 321 and the bending area 201, thus preventing excessive stress on the bending area 201.

[0091] Continue to refer to Figure 4 In this embodiment of the application, the stop assembly 30 has a fixing part 310 disposed in the bending area 201 (e.g., Figure 2 As shown, at one end along the length direction, the fixing part 310 is connected to the hinge structure 40, and the flexible covering part 320 is connected to the fixing part 310. At least part of the flexible covering part 320 covers the bending area 201. A flexible sealing sheet 321 is disposed between the bending area 201 and the flexible covering part. The flexible sealing sheet 321 is inclined relative to the display panel. The first end of the flexible sealing sheet 321 is connected to the flexible covering part 320, and the other end of the flexible sealing sheet 321 contacts the bending area 201. The flexible sealing sheet 321 can seal the gap between the flexible covering part 320 and the bending area 201, thereby preventing dust and other impurities from entering the gap between the display panel 20 and the hinge structure 40 through the gap between the display panel 20 and the flexible covering part 320, thus preventing damage to the display panel 20 and improving the service life of the electronic device 10.

[0092] Please refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 In this embodiment, the second end of the flexible sealing sheet 321 includes a flexible planar portion 330, which is used to attach to the bending area 201 (e.g., Figure 2 As shown, this arrangement increases the contact area between the flexible sealing sheet 321 and the bending area 201, thereby improving the sealing performance between them and further preventing dust and other impurities from entering between the display panel 20 and the hinge structure 40 through the gap between the display panel 20 and the flexible covering part 320. It is understood that when the electronic device 10 is in the unfolded state, the flexible flat part 330 can be parallel to the display panel 20 and attached to the bending area 201; during the folding or unfolding process of the electronic device 10, the flexible flat part 330 can elastically deform with the deformation of the bending area 201.

[0093] It is understood that the flexible planar portion 330 may include a plane located at the second end. Of course, the second end may also be bent and may be attached to the plane in the bending area.

[0094] For example, the material of the flexible planar portion 330 may include materials that can undergo elastic deformation, such as rubber and foam, and this application embodiment does not limit this.

[0095] In some implementations, the flexible planar portion 330 can be integrally formed with the flexible sealing sheet 321. This configuration allows for the simultaneous formation of both the flexible planar portion 330 and the flexible sealing sheet 321 through injection molding or similar methods, eliminating the need for connection between them and reducing the manufacturing complexity of the stop assembly 30. For example, while the flexible planar portion 330 and the flexible sealing sheet 321 are integrally formed, the flexible covering portion 320 and the flexible sealing sheet 321 are also integrally formed, further reducing the manufacturing complexity of the stop assembly 30.

[0096] In other implementations, the flexible planar portion 330 can also be connected to the flexible sealing sheet 321 by means of adhesive or snap-fit. This application embodiment does not limit the connection method between the flexible planar portion 330 and the flexible sealing sheet 321.

[0097] Please refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 In this embodiment of the application, a stop flange 324 is provided on the flexible covering portion 320, and the stop flange 324 is located between the flexible covering portion 320 and the bending area 201 (e.g., Figure 2 (As shown). The stop flange 324 can prevent some dust and other impurities from entering between the flexible cover 320 and the bending area 201. In other words, both the stop flange 324 and the flexible sealing sheet 321 can prevent impurities from entering between the flexible part 326 and the bending area 201, thereby improving the sealing effect and further preventing external dust and other impurities from entering between the display panel 20 and the hinge structure 40 through the gap between the display panel 20 and the flexible cover 320.

[0098] In the implementation of the flexible cover portion 320 including the fixing frame 325 and the flexible portion 326, the stop flange 324 can be disposed at the end of the flexible portion 326 away from the fixing frame 325, that is, the stop flange 324 can be located at the outermost edge of the gap between the display panel 20 and the flexible cover portion 320, so as to achieve initial blocking of dust and other impurities. (Continuing to refer to...) Figure 4 In some embodiments, the stop flange 324 and the bending region 201 (e.g.) Figure 2As shown, the second end is located between the stop flange 324 and the bending area 201. This arrangement can prevent dust and other impurities from accumulating between the flexible cover 320 and the display panel 20, so as to avoid damage to the display panel 20 from the accumulated dust and other impurities.

[0099] Continue to refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 In this embodiment of the application, the flexible covering portion 320 is provided with a first connecting portion 340 and a second connecting portion 350 at intervals. The first connecting portion 340 and the second connecting portion 350 can be arranged along a path perpendicular to the bending area 201 (e.g., Figure 2 As shown, the length direction (edge ​​of the display panel 20) is spaced apart, with the first connecting portion 340 used to connect to the first middle frame 110 of the electronic device 10, and the second connecting portion 350 used to connect to the second middle frame 120 of the electronic device 10. This arrangement further secures the stop assembly 30 to the electronic device 10. Additionally, during the relative rotation of the first middle frame 110 and the second middle frame 120, the first connecting portion 340 and the second connecting portion 350 can drive the flexible covering portion 320 to deform.

[0100] For example, the first connecting part 340 is provided with a first through hole 341, and the second connecting part 350 is provided with a second through hole 351. Correspondingly, the first middle frame 110 can be provided with a first rotating shaft, and the second middle frame 120 can be provided with a second rotating shaft. The first rotating shaft can pass through the first through hole 341 to realize the connection between the first connecting part 340 and the first middle frame 110, and the second rotating shaft passes through the second through hole 351 to realize the connection between the second connecting part 350 and the second middle frame 120.

[0101] Of course, in other implementations, a first pivot can be provided on the first connecting part 340, and a second pivot can be provided on the second connecting part 350. Correspondingly, a first through hole is provided on the first middle frame 110, and a second through hole is provided on the second middle frame 120. The first pivot passes through the first through hole, and the second pivot passes through the second through hole, which can also realize the connection between the first middle frame 110 and the first connecting part 340, as well as the connection between the second middle frame 120 and the second connecting part 350.

[0102] Continue to refer to Figure 2 In the implementation of the electronic device 10, which includes a first middle frame 110 and a second middle frame 120, the electronic device 10 is a two-fold electronic device, and the electronic device 10 is provided with a hinge structure 40. Correspondingly, the electronic device 10 is provided with two stop components 30, one stop component 30 is provided at one end of the bending area 201 along the length direction, and the other stop component 30 is provided at the other end of the bending area 201 along the length direction. That is to say, a stop component 30 is provided at both ends of the hinge structure 40.

[0103] Please refer to Figure 3 In the implementation of the electronic device 10 as a three-fold electronic device, the electronic device 10 is provided with two hinge structures 40; correspondingly, the electronic device 10 is provided with four stop components 30, and each hinge structure 40 is provided with a stop component 30 at both ends.

[0104] The above description is merely a specific implementation of the embodiments of this application, but the protection scope of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be included within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this application should be determined by the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A stop assembly, characterized in that, The stop assembly is disposed in an electronic device including a display panel, the display panel including a bending area, and the stop assembly comprising: The fixing part is disposed at one end of the bending area of ​​the display panel; A flexible covering portion, which is connected to the fixing portion, and the flexible covering portion covers at least a portion of the bending area; A flexible sealing sheet, wherein a first end of the flexible sealing sheet is connected to the flexible covering portion, and a second end of the flexible sealing sheet is used to contact the bending area.

2. The stop assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flexible sealing sheet is tilted relative to the display panel.

3. The stop assembly according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The second end includes a flexible planar portion for attaching to the bending area.

4. The stop assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, The flexible planar portion and the flexible sealing sheet are an integral structure.

5. The stop assembly according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The flexible sealing sheet and the flexible covering part are an integral structure.

6. The stop assembly according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The flexible covering includes a flexible part and a fixing frame. The flexible part covers at least a portion of the bending area. One end of the fixing frame is located inside the flexible part, and the other end of the fixing frame is connected to the fixing part.

7. The stop assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, The fixing frame includes a fixing plate, one end of which is located inside the flexible part. The fixing part is provided with a slot, and the other end of the fixing plate is inserted into the slot.

8. The stop assembly according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The flexible cover is provided with a first connecting part and a second connecting part at intervals. The first connecting part is used to connect to the first middle frame of the electronic device, and the second connecting part is used to connect to the second middle frame of the electronic device.

9. The stop assembly according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The flexible covering is provided with a stop flange, which is located between the flexible covering and the bending area.

10. The stop assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The stop flange is spaced apart from the bending area, and the second end is located between the stop flange and the bending area.

11. An electronic device, characterized in that, include: The first middle frame, the second middle frame, the display panel, the hinge structure, and the stop assembly as described in any one of claims 1-10; The hinge structure is disposed between the first middle frame and the second middle frame, and the display panel covers the first middle frame and the second middle frame. The display panel has a bending area corresponding to the hinge structure. The fixing part is disposed at one end of the bending area and is connected to the hinge structure.

12. The electronic device according to claim 11, characterized in that, In both the unfolded and folded states of the electronic device, the second end is in contact with the bending area.

13. The electronic device according to claim 12, characterized in that, When the electronic device is in the unfolded state, there is a first distance between the second end and the flexible covering portion; when the electronic device is in the folded state, there is a second distance between the second end and the flexible covering portion, and the first distance is smaller than the second distance.

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