Folding rotating shaft structure, folding assembly and folding electronic equipment

Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of folding screens, aims to solve the technical problem that torsion is insufficient after a folding electronic device rotating shaft is miniaturized, and provides a folding rotating shaft structure, a folding assembly and a folding electronic device. The folding rotating shaft structure comprises a base, a rotating mechanism and a damping piece. The rotating mechanism is rotationally connected to the two opposite sides of the base. The rotating mechanism comprises an abutting piece, an abutting piece, a rotating shaft and an elastic assembly. The rotating shaft is rotatably arranged on the base. The abutting piece is arranged on the rotating shaft in a sliding mode in the rotating axial direction of the rotating shaft, and the abutting piece and the rotating shaft rotate synchronously. The elastic assembly is configured to provide elastic driving force so that the abutting piece and the abutting piece can abut against each other in the rotating axial direction. The damping piece is configured to provide frictional resistance for preventing the rotating shaft from rotating. The rotating structure has the beneficial effects that after the rotating shaft is miniaturized, torsion needed by rotation can be increased due to the damping part, the torsion requirements of the pushing part and the abutting part can be reduced, and the service life of the rotating shaft and the whole rotating structure can be prolonged.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of foldable screen technology, and more specifically, to a folding hinge structure, a folding component, and a foldable electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] As electronic products trend towards thinner and lighter designs, foldable phones require a more compact structure at the folding point, necessitating a smaller hinge. Current foldable phones require a certain torque at the hinge to meet requirements for overall torque feel and hovering. Miniaturizing the hinge reduces component size, potentially leading to insufficient torque and impacting the user experience. Utility Model Content

[0003] In view of this, this application provides a folding hinge structure, a folding assembly, and a folding electronic device to solve the technical problem of insufficient torque after the miniaturization of the hinge of the folding electronic device.

[0004] One embodiment of this application provides a folding hinge structure, which includes a base, a rotating mechanism, and a damping element. The rotating mechanism is rotatably connected to opposite sides of the base. The rotating mechanism includes a pushing member, a holding member, a hinge, and an elastic component. The hinge is rotatably disposed on the base and passes through the pushing member and the holding member. The pushing member is slidably disposed on the hinge along the rotation axis of the hinge, and the pushing member and the hinge rotate synchronously. The holding member is rotatably disposed on the hinge. The elastic component is configured to provide an elastic driving force to cause the pushing member and the holding member to push against each other along the rotation axis of the pushing member. The damping element is configured to provide frictional resistance that hinders the rotation of the hinge.

[0005] When the pushing component rotates, it drives the rotating shaft to rotate. The damping component is used to resist the rotation of the rotating shaft. The frictional resistance between the damping component and the rotating shaft can increase the rotational torque of the rotating shaft. In this way, when the rotating shaft is miniaturized, the presence of the damping component can increase the torque required for the rotating mechanism to rotate, which can reduce the torque requirements of the pushing and holding components, and help to improve the service life of the rotating shaft and the entire rotating structure.

[0006] In some embodiments, the damping member has a connecting hole. A rotating shaft passes through the connecting hole. The damping member has a damping portion located on the inner wall of the connecting hole. The rotating shaft has a mating portion. The damping portion is at least partially located on the rotation path of the mating portion. The mating portion rotates relative to the damping portion to cause the damping member to elastically deform.

[0007] When the shaft rotates, the mating part and the damping part abut and squeeze the damping part, causing the damping part to undergo elastic deformation. In turn, the shaft is subjected to frictional resistance from the damping part, which can increase the rotational torque of the shaft.

[0008] In some embodiments, the damping portion has a first planar structure. The circumferential sidewall of the shaft has a second planar structure along the rotation axis. The second planar structure abuts against the first planar structure to impede rotation of the shaft.

[0009] As the mating part continues to rotate relative to the damping part, that is, when the mating part is no longer in its initial position, the mating part of the rotating shaft will abut against and squeeze the first planar structure of the damping part, causing the damping element to undergo elastic deformation. The damping element can then provide frictional resistance that hinders the rotation of the rotating shaft.

[0010] In some embodiments, the damping member has an opening in its sidewall. The opening extends along the rotational axis of the shaft and communicates with the interior and exterior of the connecting hole along the rotational radial direction of the shaft. The damping member also includes a fixing portion. The fixing portion is configured to fix the damping member relative to the base. When the shaft rotates, the opening allows the damping member to undergo elastic deformation to impede the rotation of the shaft.

[0011] When the pushing part drives the rotating shaft to rotate, and the mating part of the rotating shaft rotates to abut against the damping part, the damping part will undergo elastic deformation. As the rotating shaft continues to rotate, the opening on the side wall of the damping part will elastically deform and open, which can increase the amount of elastic deformation of the damping part and reduce the risk of the damping part breaking.

[0012] In some embodiments, the opening and the fixed portion are disposed opposite each other along the radial direction of rotation of the shaft. Around the circumferential direction of rotation of the shaft, the damping portion is located between the opening and the fixed portion.

[0013] In a damping element, an elastic arm is formed in the portion between the opening and the fixed part around the rotational circumference. In this type of damping element, the length of the elastic arm is approximately a semi-circular arc. In some embodiments, the inner wall of the connecting hole may have two damping portions, located between the opening and the fixed part on both sides respectively.

[0014] In some embodiments, the damping portion and the fixing portion are disposed opposite each other along the rotational radial direction of the shaft. Around the rotational circumference of the shaft, the opening is located between the damping portion and the fixing portion.

[0015] In this structure, the damper component between the opening and the fixed part forms an elastic arm, and the length of the elastic arm is at least greater than the semicircular arc, which increases the allowable deformation of the damper component and further reduces the risk of the damper component breaking.

[0016] In some embodiments, the folding hinge structure further includes a fixing arm. The number of damping elements is at least two. Every two damping elements are connected to opposite ends of the fixing arm. The fixing portion is the connection point between the damping elements and the fixing arm.

[0017] When the pushing parts on opposite sides of the base rotate to move closer or further apart, the rotating shafts on both sides are driven to rotate. The damping parts provide frictional resistance to hinder the rotation of the rotating shafts, thereby increasing the torque required for the rotating mechanism to rotate, thus reducing the torque requirements on the pushing and holding parts.

[0018] In some embodiments, the pushing member includes a first cam. The holding member includes a second cam. The first cam and the second cam are disposed opposite to each other along the rotation axis of the first cam and are rotatable and abut against each other. The rotating mechanism further includes first connecting rods respectively rotatably connected to opposite sides of the base. The first cam and the first connecting rod are fixed to rotate synchronously with the first connecting rod.

[0019] When the first link on one side rotates closer to the first link on the other side, it drives the first cam to rotate. The first cam rotates and pushes against the second cam, causing the second cam to slide along the rotation axis and compress the elastic component. The elastic component compresses and stores energy, while also providing resistance. When the first link rotates in the opposite direction, it drives the first cam to rotate. The first cam pushes against the second cam, and as the second cam slides along the rotation axis, the elastic component releases its elastic potential energy, assisting the first link in resetting.

[0020] In some embodiments, the rotating mechanism further includes two drive gears. The two drive gears are located between the two first links and mesh with each other. Each drive gear is fixed to the adjacent first link.

[0021] When the first link on one side rotates, it drives the meshing drive gear to rotate, and the other drive gear rotates accordingly, further driving the first link on the other side to rotate, thus realizing the mutual rotation between the first links on both sides.

[0022] In some embodiments, the pushing member further includes a third cam. The holding member further includes a fourth cam. The third cam and the fourth cam are disposed opposite to each other along the rotation axis of the first cam and are rotatable and abut against each other. Along the rotation axis, the third cam and the first cam are disposed opposite to each other.

[0023] When the third cam rotates, it will push against the fourth cam, providing frictional torque.

[0024] In some embodiments, the rotating mechanism further includes second links rotatably connected to opposite sides of the base. The third cam and the second link are fixed to rotate synchronously with the second link.

[0025] When the second link on one side rotates, it will drive the third cam to rotate. The third cam will then rotate and push against the fourth cam. The third and fourth cams push against each other, which can provide frictional resistance.

[0026] In some embodiments, the rotating mechanism further includes a fixing member. A damping member is disposed between the fixing member and the supporting member. The fixing member is connected to the rotating shaft and configured to press the damping member against the side of the supporting member opposite to the pushing member. In some embodiments, the fixing member presses the damping member against the fourth cam. When the first link and / or the second link rotate, the first cam pushes against the second cam, and the third cam pushes against the fourth cam, further driving the rotating shaft to rotate. The damping member can provide frictional resistance to hinder the rotation of the rotating shaft. Providing a damping member can reduce the torque requirements between the first and second cams and between the third and fourth cams, thereby improving the lifespan of the entire rotating mechanism.

[0027] In some embodiments, the folding hinge structure further includes a linkage mechanism. The linkage mechanism is rotatably connected to opposite sides of the base, and is configured to slide in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis to move closer to or further away from the base.

[0028] When a folding hinge structure is installed on an electronic device with a flexible screen, when the hinge of the rotating mechanism rotates around its rotation axis, the linkage mechanism can slide in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis, thereby effectively ensuring that the length of the flexible screen remains unchanged during the process of being flattened or folded, which helps to extend the service life of the flexible screen.

[0029] In some embodiments, the linkage mechanism includes housing connectors located on opposite sides of the base. The housing connectors and the rotating mechanism are slidably connected on the side away from the base. As the rotating mechanism rotates about the rotation axis, the housing connectors move closer to or further away from the base in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis.

[0030] The housing connector is slidably connected to the rotating mechanism. When the rotating mechanism rotates, the housing connector can move closer to or away from the base in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis, thereby enabling the flexible screen to maintain its length during the process of being flattened or folded.

[0031] In some embodiments, the linkage mechanism further includes rotatable connectors located on opposite sides of the base. Each rotatable connector includes a first component and a second component. The first component of the rotatable connector is fixedly connected to a housing connector, and the second component of the rotatable connector is rotatably connected to the base about a rotation axis and can slide relative to the base. The rotatable connector can improve the connection strength between the linkage mechanism and the rotation mechanism.

[0032] One embodiment of this application provides a folding assembly, which includes a first housing, a second housing, and a folding hinge structure. The folding hinge structure is disposed between the first housing and the second housing.

[0033] The folding hinge structure of the folding assembly incorporates a damping element. When the first and second housings are folded or unfolded relative to each other, the damping element provides frictional resistance to impede the rotation of the hinge, thereby reducing the torque requirements of other components of the rotation mechanism, increasing the lifespan of the hinge mechanism, and thus increasing the number of folds the folding assembly can withstand.

[0034] One embodiment of this application provides a foldable electronic device, which includes a flexible screen, a first housing, a second housing, and a folding hinge structure. The flexible screen is disposed in the first housing, the folding hinge structure, and the second housing. The flexible screen can be folded or flattened along with the folding hinge structure.

[0035] The foldable electronic device of this application has a damping element in the folding hinge structure. The damping element provides frictional resistance that hinders the rotation of the hinge, which can further provide a damping effect during the folding or flattening of the flexible screen. Attached Figure Description

[0036] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings in the embodiments will be briefly described below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this application and should not be regarded as a limitation on the scope.

[0037] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the folding hinge structure provided in an embodiment of this application when it is in a flattened state;

[0038] Figure 2 for Figure 1 Exploded view;

[0039] Figure 3 for Figure 1 Sectional view of AA;

[0040] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of a feasible embodiment of the damping element in the embodiments;

[0041] Figure 5 A schematic diagram illustrating the principle of a damping element that impedes the rotation of a shaft in a feasible embodiment;

[0042] Figure 6 A schematic diagram illustrating the principle of a damping element that impedes the rotation of a shaft, as shown in another feasible embodiment;

[0043] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the damping element when the folding shaft structure in the embodiment is rotated to the intermediate state;

[0044] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the damping element when the folding pivot structure in the embodiment is rotated to a fully folded state;

[0045] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the rotating mechanism and the base in the embodiment;

[0046] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a folding hinge structure in an embodiment of this application rotated to an intermediate state;

[0047] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of a folding hinge structure provided in an embodiment of this application, rotated to a fully folded state.

[0048] Figure 12 for Figure 1 BB section view;

[0049] Figure 13 for Figure 1 The BB cross-sectional view of the folding pivot structure in the embodiment shown when it is rotated to the middle state.

[0050] Explanation of key component symbols:

[0051] 100. Folding pivot structure; 1. Base; 101. Arc groove; 2. Rotating mechanism; 21. Pushing component; 211. First cam; 212. Third cam; 22. Holding component; 221. Second cam; 222. Fourth cam; 223. First connecting plate; 224. Second connecting plate; 23. Elastic component; 231. Elastic component; 232. Mounting base; 241. First connecting rod; 242. Second connecting rod; 2101. First tooth; 2102. Second tooth; 251. Drive gear; 2511. Fourth... Planar structure; 252, Synchronous gear; 253, Connecting shaft; 26, Fixing member; 27, Rotating shaft; 271, Mating part; 272, Second planar structure; 273, Third planar structure; 3, Damping member; 301, Connecting hole; 302, Damping part; 3021, First planar structure; 303, Opening; 304, Fixing part; 305, Elastic arm; 31, Fixed arm; 4, Linkage mechanism; 41, Housing connector; 42, Rotating connector; 421, First component; 422, Second component; R, Rotation axis. Detailed Implementation

[0052] 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.

[0053] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. The terminology used in this specification is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application.

[0054] The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” and “fourth” are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0055] It should be noted that when a component is said to be "fixed to" another component, it can be directly on the other component or there may be an intervening component. When a component is said to be "connected to" another component, it can be directly connected to the other component or there may be an intervening component. When a component is said to be "set on" another component, it can be directly set on the other component or there may be an intervening component.

[0056] Embodiments of this application provide a folding hinge structure, which includes a base, a rotating mechanism, and a damping element. The rotating mechanism is rotatably connected to opposite sides of the base. The rotating mechanism includes a pushing member, a holding member, a hinge, and an elastic component. The hinge is rotatably disposed on the base. The pushing member is slidably disposed on the hinge along its rotational axis, and the pushing member and the hinge rotate synchronously. The elastic component is configured to provide an elastic driving force to cause the pushing member and the holding member to push against each other along the rotational axis of the pushing member. The damping element is configured to provide frictional resistance that impedes the rotation of the hinge.

[0057] When the pushing component drives the shaft to rotate, the damping component is used to impede the rotation of the shaft. The frictional resistance between the damping component and the shaft can increase the rotational torque of the shaft. Thus, when the shaft is miniaturized, the presence of the damping component can increase the torque required for the rotation of the rotating mechanism, reduce the torque requirements of the pushing and holding components, and help improve the lifespan of the shaft and the entire rotating structure.

[0058] The following detailed description of some embodiments of this application is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the following embodiments and features can be combined with each other.

[0059] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 One embodiment of this application provides a folding hinge structure 100, which includes a base 1, a rotating mechanism 2, and a damping member 3. The rotating mechanism 2 is rotatably connected to opposite sides of the base 1. The rotating mechanism 2 includes a pushing member 21, a holding member 22, a rotating shaft 27, and an elastic component 23. The rotating shaft 27 is rotatably disposed on the base 1 and passes through the pushing member 21 and the holding member 22. The pushing member 21 is slidably disposed on the rotating shaft 27 along the rotation axis R of the rotating shaft 27, and the pushing member 21 and the rotating shaft 27 rotate synchronously. The holding member 22 is rotatably disposed on the rotating shaft 27. The elastic component 23 is configured to provide an elastic driving force to cause the pushing member 21 and the holding member 22 to push against each other along the rotation axis R of the pushing member 21. When the pushing member 21 rotates relative to the holding member 22, a frictional torque is generated between the pushing member 21 and the holding member 22. The damping element 3 is configured to provide frictional resistance that impedes the rotation of the shaft 27.

[0060] When the pushing member 21 rotates, it drives the rotating shaft 27 to rotate. The damping member 3 is used to resist the rotation of the rotating shaft 27. The frictional resistance between the damping member 3 and the rotating shaft 27 can increase the rotational torque of the rotating shaft 27. In this way, when the rotating shaft 27 is miniaturized, the presence of the damping member 3 can increase the torque required for the rotation of the rotating mechanism 2, which can reduce the torque requirements of the pushing member 21 and the holding member 22, and help to improve the service life of the rotating shaft 27 and the entire rotating structure.

[0061] Please see Figures 3 to 6 In some embodiments, the damping member 3 has a connecting hole 301. The rotating shaft 27 passes through the connecting hole 301. The damping member 3 has a damping portion 302 located on the inner wall of the connecting hole 301. The damping portion 302 is configured to provide frictional resistance that impedes the rotation of the rotating shaft 27. The rotating shaft 27 has a mating portion 271. The damping portion 302 is at least partially located on the rotational path of the mating portion 271. The mating portion 271 rotates relative to the damping portion 302 to cause the damping member 3 to elastically deform.

[0062] When the shaft 27 rotates, the mating part 271 and the damping part 302 abut and press against the damping part 302, causing the damping member 3 to undergo elastic deformation. In turn, the shaft 27 is subjected to frictional resistance from the damping part 302, which can increase the rotational torque of the shaft 27.

[0063] In some embodiments, the damping portion 302 is an elastic structure located on the inner wall of the connecting hole 301, and the mating portion 271 is an elastic structure disposed on the entire or part of the outer circumference of the rotating shaft 27, so as to allow the damping portion 302 and the mating portion 271 to press against each other, thereby providing frictional resistance that hinders the rotation of the rotating shaft 27. Figure 5 Under the structure and orientation shown, for the damping member 3, the portion between the upper and lower sides, the dashed arc segment, and the solid horizontal line is the damping part 302. For the rotating shaft 27, the portion between the dashed circle and the solid line is the mating part 271, which is used to compress the damping part 302 to cause the damping member 3 to undergo elastic deformation.

[0064] In some embodiments, the damping portion 302 has a first planar structure 3021. The circumferential sidewall of the rotating shaft 27 has a second planar structure 272 along the rotation axis R. When the mating portion 271 is in the initial position, the second planar structure 272 and the first planar structure 3021 abut against each other.

[0065] When the mating part 271 continues to rotate relative to the damping part 302, that is, when the mating part 271 is no longer in the initial position, the mating part 271 of the rotating shaft 27 will abut against and squeeze the first planar structure 3021 of the damping part 302, causing the damping member 3 to undergo elastic deformation, and the damping member 3 can provide frictional resistance to hinder the rotation of the rotating shaft 27.

[0066] Since the first planar structure 3021 and the second planar structure 272 are non-circular arc surface structures, when the rotating shaft 27 rotates, when the second planar structure 272 and the first planar structure 3021 come into contact, the rotating shaft 27 will be hindered from continuing to rotate, which can provide a damping effect for the rotating mechanism 2 to rotate.

[0067] In some feasible embodiments, the inner wall of the connecting hole 301 can be surface-treated, or a thin film material can be adhered to the inner wall of the connecting hole 301 to form a friction layer. The friction layer is configured to increase the coefficient of friction of the inner wall of the connecting hole 301, thereby increasing the frictional resistance. In this way, the frictional resistance value that hinders the rotation of the shaft 27 provided by the damping element 3 can be increased.

[0068] In some embodiments, the sidewall of the damping member 3 is provided with an opening 303. The opening 303 extends along the rotational axis R of the rotating shaft 27 and connects the interior and exterior of the connecting hole 301 in the rotational radial direction of the rotating shaft 27. The damping member 3 also includes a fixing portion 304. The fixing portion 304 is configured to fix the damping member 3 relative to the base 1. When the rotating shaft 27 rotates, the opening 303 allows the damping member 3 to undergo elastic deformation.

[0069] When the pusher 21 drives the rotating shaft 27 to rotate, and the mating part 271 of the rotating shaft 27 rotates to abut against the damping part 302, the damping part 3 will undergo elastic deformation. As the rotating shaft 27 continues to rotate, the opening 303 on the side wall of the damping part 3 will elastically deform and open, which can increase the amount of elastic deformation of the damping part 3 and reduce the risk of the damping part 3 breaking.

[0070] In some embodiments, the folding pivot structure 100 further includes a fixing arm 31, with each pair of damping elements 3 fixedly connected to opposite ends of the fixing arm 31 to form a damping plate. The connection between the fixing arm 31 and the damping element 3 is a fixing part 304. Two pivots 27 are connected to opposite sides of the base 1. Understandably, multiple damping plates can be provided, with each damping element 3 abutting against each other along the axial direction of the pivot 27 on its respective side.

[0071] In some embodiments, the opening 303 and the fixing part 304 are disposed opposite each other along the rotational radial direction of the rotating shaft 27. Around the rotational circumference of the rotating shaft 27, the damping part 302 is located between the opening 303 and the fixing part 304.

[0072] Around the circumferential rotation of the damping member 3, an elastic arm 305 is formed between the opening 303 and the fixing part 304. In this structure, the length of the elastic arm 305 of the damping member 3 is approximately close to a semi-circular arc. In some embodiments, the inner wall of the connecting hole 301 may be provided with two damping parts 302, located between the opening 303 and the fixing part 304 on both sides respectively.

[0073] Please see Figure 3 and Figure 5 , Figure 3 The illustrated embodiment is a cross-sectional view of a feasible embodiment of the damping element 3. Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principle by which damper 3 impedes the rotation of shaft 27. Figure 3 and Figure 5 All mating parts 271 are in their initial positions. At this time, the second planar structure 272 and the first planar structure 3021 are arranged facing each other and abutting each other, and the mating parts 271 are in their initial positions, that is, the entire rotating mechanism 2 is in a flattened state.

[0074] The damping element 3 of this structure has two elastic arms 305, each with a length approximately close to a semicircular arc; the two damping portions 302 can further increase the frictional resistance that hinders the rotation of the shaft 27. In this embodiment, the damping element 3 has a symmetrical structure, which can better balance the circumferential stress distribution of the damping element 3.

[0075] Understandably, the frictional resistance provided by the damping member 3 can be adjusted by adjusting the position of the opening 303, or the structure and material of the damping part 302 and / or the mating part 271, so that the damping member 3 has different torque performance.

[0076] In some embodiments, the damping portion 302 and the fixing portion 304 are disposed opposite each other along the rotational radial direction. Around the rotational circumference, the opening 303 is located between the damping portion 302 and the fixing portion 304.

[0077] In this structure, the portion between the opening 303 and the fixing part 304 of the damping member 3 forms an elastic arm 305, and the length of the elastic arm 305 is at least greater than the semicircular arc, which increases the allowable deformation of the damping member 3 and further reduces the risk of the damping member 3 breaking.

[0078] Please see Figure 4 and Figure 6 , Figure 4 The illustrated embodiment is a cross-sectional view of another feasible embodiment of the damping element 3. Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the principle by which damper 3 impedes the rotation of shaft 27. Figure 4 and Figure 6 The intermediate coupling parts 271 are all in their initial positions. (As shown in the image) Figure 6 Under the shown structure and orientation, for the damping member 3, the portion between the dashed arc segment and the solid horizontal line on the side away from the fixed part 304 is the damping part 302. For the rotating shaft 27, the portion between the dashed circle and the solid line is the mating part 271, which is used to compress the damping part 302 to cause the damping member 3 to undergo elastic deformation. At this time, the second planar structure 272 and the first planar structure 3021 are arranged facing each other and abutting, and the mating part 271 is in the initial position, that is, the entire rotating mechanism 2 is in a flattened state.

[0079] In this structure, the damping element 3, the opening 303, and the fixed part 304 form an angle of approximately 90 degrees on the circumference, creating an elastic arm 305. The length of this elastic arm 305 is approximately three-quarters of a circular arc. Compared to Figure 5 The embodiment shown, Figure 6 In the middle, the elastic arm 305 of the damping component 3 is longer, and the allowable deformation of the damping component 3 is greater, which helps to improve the service life of the damping component 3.

[0080] Please see Figure 3 , Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 , Figure 3 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 All are based on Figure 5 The structure of the damping member 3 shown is a cross-sectional view of the damping member 3 when the pushing member 21 is rotated to different angles.

[0081] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the damping member 3 when the entire rotating mechanism 2 is in a flattened state. At this time, the mating part 271 (rotating shaft 27) is in the initial position, and the second planar structure 272 of the rotating shaft 27 and the first planar structure 3021 of the damping part 302 are in contact.

[0082] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of the damping element 3 when the entire rotating mechanism 2 is rotated to its intermediate state; the intermediate state refers to the state between the entire rotating mechanism 2 being flattened and fully folded. At this time, the mating part 271 of the rotating shaft 27 and the damping part 302 of the damping element 3 abut against each other, causing the damping element 3 to undergo elastic deformation. Figures 3 to 7 In the process, or from Figures 7 to 3 During the process, the elastic arm 305 will deform and the opening 303 will also change. The damping element 3 provides frictional resistance to hinder the rotation of the shaft 27.

[0083] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the damping member 3 when the entire rotating mechanism 2 is rotated to the fully folded state. At this time, the mating part 271 of the rotating shaft 27 and the damping part 302 of the damping member 3 abut against each other, causing the damping member 3 to undergo elastic deformation.

[0084] Please see Figure 2 and Figure 9 The elastic component 23 includes an elastic element 231 and a mounting base 232. The elastic element 231 is sleeved on the rotating shaft 27, and the mounting base 232 is connected to the rotating shaft 27. One end of the elastic element 231 abuts against the side of the abutment 22 opposite to the pusher 21, and the other end of the elastic element 231 abuts against the mounting base 232.

[0085] When the pushing member 21 rotates and pushes against the holding member 22, the holding member 22 moves away from the base 1 along the rotation axis R. The end of the elastic member 231 away from the holding member 22 elastically abuts against the mounting seat 232, and the elastic member 231 is compressed to store elastic potential energy. When the pushing member 21 rotates in the opposite direction and pushes against the holding member 22, the holding member 22 moves closer to the base 1 along the rotation axis R, and the elastic member 231 releases its elastic potential energy. During compression and release, the elastic member 231 provides elastic driving force to make the pushing member 21 and the holding member 22 elastically push against each other along the rotation axis R.

[0086] In some embodiments, the pushing member 21 includes a first cam 211. The holding member 22 includes a second cam 221. The first cam 211 and the second cam 221 are arranged opposite each other along the rotation axis R and can rotate and abut against each other. The rotating mechanism 2 also includes a first connecting rod 241 rotatably connected to opposite sides of the base 1. The first cam 211 and the first connecting rod 241 are fixed or integrally formed to rotate synchronously with the first connecting rod 241.

[0087] When one of the first connecting rods 241 on one side of the base 1 rotates to the other first connecting rod 241 on the other side to close, it drives the first cam 211 to rotate around the pivot 27. The first cam 211 rotates and pushes against the second cam 221, causing the second cam 221 to slide along the rotation axis R and compress the elastic element 231. The end of the elastic element 231 away from the second cam 221 elastically abuts against the mounting seat 232. The elastic element 231 compresses and stores energy, while also providing resistance. When the first connecting rod 241 rotates in the opposite direction to unfold, it drives the first cam 211 to rotate. The first cam 211 pushes against the second cam 221, and as the second cam 221 slides along the rotation axis R, the elastic element 231 releases its elastic potential energy, assisting the first connecting rod 241 to reset.

[0088] Please continue reading Figure 9The rotating shaft 27 passes through the second cam 221 and the first cam 211. Multiple first teeth 2101 are provided on the opposing surfaces of the first cam 211 and the second cam 221 around the rotation axis R. The first teeth 2101 of the first cam 211 and the first teeth 2101 of the second cam 221 are staggered so that the first cam 211 and the second cam 221 can rotate and abut against each other. The arrangement of the first teeth 2101 also allows for suspension during the rotation of the first connecting rod 241; that is, the two first connecting rods 241 provide damping between unfolding and folding, and can stop rotation at a specific rotation angle. Two first cams 211 and two second cams 221 are symmetrically arranged on opposite sides of the base 1. The abutment member 22 also includes a first connecting plate 223, and the two second cams 221 are fixedly connected to opposite ends of the first connecting plate 223. In some embodiments, the two second cams 221 can also be made into a connected cam structure. It is understood that the second cams 221 do not rotate with the rotation of the first connecting rod 241.

[0089] In some embodiments, the rotating mechanism 2 further includes two drive gears 251. The two drive gears 251 are located between two first connecting rods 241 and mesh with each other. Each drive gear 251 is fixed to the adjacent first connecting rod 241. The first cam 211 and the drive gear 251 are fixedly connected along the rotation axis R, and the rotating shaft 27 passes through the first cam 211 and the drive gear 251 along the rotation axis R.

[0090] When the first link 241 on one side rotates, it will drive the meshing drive gear 251 to rotate, and the other drive gear 251 will rotate accordingly, further driving the first link 241 on the other side to rotate, thus realizing the mutual rotation between the first links 241 on both sides.

[0091] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 9 , Figure 10 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 In some embodiments, the rotating mechanism 2 further includes two meshing synchronous gears 252, which are located between the two drive gears 251 and respectively mesh with the adjacent drive gear 251. Figure 7 Taking the structure and orientation of the illustrated embodiment as an example, when the first link 241 on the left rotates towards the first link 241 on the right, that is, in a clockwise direction, it folds. The drive gear 251 on the left is driven and rotates clockwise, the synchronous gear 252 on the left is driven and rotates counterclockwise, and the synchronous gear 252 on the right rotates clockwise at the same time, which further drives the first link 241 on the right to rotate counterclockwise. In this way, the first links 241 on both sides can move closer to each other and fold.

[0092] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the rotating mechanism 2 also includes a connecting shaft 253, which passes through the synchronous gear 252 along its axial direction. One end of the connecting shaft 253 is connected to the base 1, and the other end is connected to the first connecting plate 223. In this way, the synchronous gear 252 can effectively transmit power when the rotating mechanism 2 is folded or unfolded.

[0093] In some embodiments, the pushing member 21 further includes a third cam 212. The holding member 22 further includes a fourth cam 222. The third cam 212 and the fourth cam 222 are disposed opposite each other along the rotation axis R and can rotate and abut against each other. Along the rotation axis R, the third cam 212 and the first cam 211 are disposed opposite each other.

[0094] When the third cam 212 rotates, it will push against the fourth cam 222, providing frictional torque.

[0095] In some embodiments, the rotating mechanism 2 further includes second connecting rods 242 rotatably connected to opposite sides of the base 1. The third cam 212 and the second connecting rod 242 are fixed to rotate synchronously with the second connecting rod 242.

[0096] When the second link 242 on one side rotates, it will drive the third cam 212 to rotate. The third cam 212 will then rotate and push against the fourth cam 222. The third cam 212 and the fourth cam 222 push against each other, which can provide frictional resistance.

[0097] Please see Figure 9 The rotating shaft 27 passes through the third cam 212 and the fourth cam 222 along the rotation axis R. Multiple second teeth 2102 are provided on the opposing surfaces of the third cam 212 and the fourth cam 222 around the rotation axis R. The second teeth 2102 of the third cam 212 and the second teeth 2102 of the fourth cam 222 are staggered so that the third cam 212 and the fourth cam 222 can rotate and abut against each other. The second teeth 2102 also allow the second link 242 to hover during rotation, providing damping between its unfolding and folding movements, stopping rotation at a specific angle. Two third cams 212 and two fourth cams 222 are symmetrically arranged on opposite sides of the base 1. The abutment member 22 also includes a second connecting plate 224, to which the two fourth cams 222 are fixedly connected. In some embodiments, the two fourth cams 222 can also be made into a single cam structure. Understandably, the fourth cams 222 do not rotate with the rotation of the second link 242.

[0098] In some embodiments, the rotating mechanism 2 further includes a fixing member 26. A damping member 3 is disposed between the fixing member 26 and the fourth cam 222. The fixing member 26 is connected to the rotating shaft 27 and is configured to press the damping member 3 against the side of the fourth cam 222 away from the third cam 212.

[0099] The fixing member 26 presses the damping member 3 against the fourth cam 222. When the first link 241 and / or the second link 242 rotate, the first cam 211 will push against the second cam 221, and the third cam 212 will push against the fourth cam 222. This will further drive the rotating shaft 27 to rotate. The damping member 3 can provide frictional resistance to hinder the rotation of the rotating shaft 27. Setting the damping member 3 can reduce the torque requirements between the first cam 211 and the second cam 221, and between the third cam 212 and the fourth cam 222, thereby improving the life of the entire rotating mechanism 2.

[0100] Please see Figure 9 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 The circumferential sidewall of the rotating shaft 27 also has a third planar structure 273, and the inner wall of the through hole through which the driving gear 251 passes has a fourth planar structure 2511. When the driving gear 251 rotates, the fourth planar structure 2511 and the third planar structure 273 are adapted to and abut against each other. When the first connecting rod 241 rotates, it drives the first cam 211 and the driving gear 251 to rotate. The first cam 211 further drives the rotating shaft 27 to rotate, and the damping element 3 hinders the rotation of the rotating shaft 27. It can be understood that the second planar structure 272 and the third planar structure 273 can be the same structure and integrally set on the rotating shaft 27.

[0101] The working process of the folding hinge structure 100 provided in this embodiment is roughly as follows:

[0102] The first link 241 and / or the second link 242 rotate about the rotation axis R. The first link 241 on both sides moves synchronously through two drive gears 251 and two synchronization gears 252. When the first link 241 rotates, the first cam 211 rotates and pushes against the second cam 221, causing the second cam 221 to move away from the base 1 along the rotation axis R, thereby compressing the elastic component 23 until the first link 241 on both sides rotates from a flattened state to a fully folded state or from a fully folded state to a flattened state. At this time, the elastic component 23 pushes the second cam 221 towards the base 1. At the same time, the rotating shaft 27 rotates with the first cam 211, and the damping element 3 provides frictional resistance to prevent the rotation of the rotating shaft 27.

[0103] When the second link 242 rotates, the third cam 212 rotates and pushes against the fourth cam 222, causing the fourth cam 222 to move away from the base 1. Since the side of the fourth cam 222 away from the third cam 212 is provided with a damping element 3 and a fixing element 26, the fourth cam 222 will push against the third cam 212 in the opposite direction, causing the third cam 212 to move away from the fourth cam 222 along the rotation axis R, and driving the first cam 211 to move away from the base 1. The first cam 211 pushes against the second cam 221, causing the second cam 221 to move away from the base 1 along the rotation axis R, thereby compressing the elastic component 23, until the second links 242 on both sides rotate from the flattened state to the fully folded state or from the fully folded state to the flattened state. At this time, the elastic component 23 pushes the second cam 221 to move towards the base 1. At the same time, the rotating shaft 27 rotates with the first cam 211, and the damping element 3 provides frictional resistance to hinder the rotation of the rotating shaft 27.

[0104] Please continue reading Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 The folding hinge structure 100 also includes a linkage mechanism 4. The linkage mechanism 4 is rotatably connected to opposite sides of the base 1 and is configured to slide relative to the rotation mechanism 2. The linkage mechanism 4 includes housing connectors 41 located on opposite sides of the base 1, and the housing connectors 41 are configured to connect to the housing of the folding electronic device. The housing connectors 41 are slidably connected to the rotation mechanism 2, and when the hinge 27 rotates, the housing connectors 41 move away from the base 1 in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis R of the hinge 27. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing connectors 41 and the first connecting rod 241 are slidably connected on the side away from the base 1. Please refer to [link to previous section]. Figure 1 and Figure 11 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure where the first connecting rods 241 on both sides are unfolded relative to each other. Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first connecting rods 241 on both sides folding relative to each other. During the process of the first connecting rods 241 on both sides unfolding relative to each other and folding relative to each other, the housing connector 41 moves away from the base 1 along the rotation axis R perpendicular to the rotating shaft 27.

[0105] In some embodiments, the housing connector 41 is also slidably connected to the side of the second link 242 away from the base 1. This can improve the stability of the housing connector 41 sliding relative to the base 1.

[0106] In some embodiments, the linkage mechanism 4 further includes a rotating connector 42 located on opposite sides of the base 1. The rotating connector 42 includes a first component 421 and a second component 422. The first component 421 of the rotating connector 42 is rotatably connected to the housing connector 41, and the second component 422 of the rotating connector 42 is rotatably connected to the base 1 and can slide relative to the base 1.

[0107] In the application scenario of this embodiment, on one side of the base 1, when the first link 241 and the second link 242 rotate relative to the base 1, the housing connector 41 rotates together with the rotation axis R of the pivot 27 and slides relative to the first link 241 and / or the second link 242, causing the rotating connector 42 to slide within the arcuate groove 101. The housing connector 41 is also connected to the housing of the folding electronic device, which also includes a flexible screen. The flexible screen is disposed on the housing and the folding pivot structure 100, and can be folded or flattened with the folding pivot structure 100. When the folding electronic device is folded, the housing connector 41 slides away from the base 1, which effectively keeps the length of the flexible screen unchanged and helps prevent the inner screen of the flexible screen from being squeezed and damaged during folding. When the folding electronic device is flattened, the housing connector 41 slides towards the base 1, which helps to flatten the inner screen of the flexible screen.

[0108] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 In some feasible embodiments, the base 1 has an arcuate groove 101, and the second component 422 of the rotary connector 42 has an arcuate structure. The second component 422 of the rotary connector 42 is slidably connected to the arcuate groove 101 through the arcuate structure.

[0109] Understandably, when the first links 241 on both sides rotate to bring them closer together so that the foldable electronic device is fully folded, the second component 422 of the rotating connector 42 is still partially located within the arcuate groove 101. In this way, the rotating connector 42 will not detach from the arcuate groove 101 of the base 1, and the housing connector 41 will not separate from the first link 241 and the second link 242.

[0110] One embodiment of this application provides a folding assembly (not shown in the figure), which includes a first housing, a second housing, and a folding hinge structure 100. The folding hinge structure 100 is disposed between the first housing and the second housing.

[0111] The folding hinge structure of the folding assembly is equipped with a damping element 3. When the first housing and the second housing are folded or unfolded relative to each other, the damping element 3 can provide frictional resistance to impede the rotation of the hinge 27, thereby reducing the torque requirements of other components of the rotating mechanism 2, increasing the life of the hinge mechanism, and thus increasing the number of folds of the folding assembly.

[0112] One embodiment of this application provides a foldable electronic device (not shown in the figure), which includes a flexible screen, a first housing, a second housing, and a folding hinge structure 100. The flexible screen is disposed in the first housing, the folding hinge structure 100, and the second housing. The flexible screen can be folded or flattened with the folding hinge structure 100.

[0113] The foldable electronic device of this application has a damping element 3 provided in the folding hinge structure 100. The damping element 3 provides frictional resistance that hinders the rotation of the hinge 27, which can further provide a damping effect during the folding or flattening of the flexible screen.

[0114] Understandably, when the angle between the first links 241 on opposite sides of the base 1 is 180 degrees, the folding assembly and the folding electronics are in a flattened state. When the angle between the two first links 241 is 0 degrees, the folding assembly and the folding electronics are in a fully folded state, meaning that the folding assembly and the folding electronics can no longer be bent inwards.

[0115] Furthermore, those skilled in the art should recognize that the above embodiments are merely illustrative of this application and are not intended to limit this application. Any appropriate changes and variations made to the above embodiments within the essential spirit and scope of this application fall within the scope of this application's disclosure.

Claims

1. A folding hinge structure, characterized in that, include: Base; A rotating mechanism is rotatably connected to opposite sides of the base. The rotating mechanism includes a pushing member, a holding member, a rotating shaft, and an elastic component. The rotating shaft is rotatably disposed on the base and passes through the pushing member and the holding member. The pushing member is slidably disposed on the rotating shaft along the rotation axis of the rotating shaft, and the pushing member and the rotating shaft rotate synchronously. The holding member is rotatably disposed on the rotating shaft. The elastic component is configured to provide an elastic driving force to cause the pushing member and the holding member to push against each other along the rotation axis of the pushing member. A damping element configured to provide frictional resistance that impedes rotation of the shaft.

2. The folding hinge structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The damping element is provided with a connecting hole, through which the rotating shaft passes; the damping element has a damping part, which is located on the inner wall of the connecting hole; The rotating shaft is provided with a mating part, and the damping part is at least partially located on the rotation path of the mating part. The mating part rotates relative to the damping part to cause the damping element to elastically deform.

3. The folding hinge structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, The damping part has a first planar structure, and the mating part has a second planar structure along the rotation axis; The second planar structure abuts against the first planar structure to impede the rotation of the shaft.

4. The folding hinge structure according to claim 2, characterized in that, The damping member has an opening that connects the interior and exterior of the connecting hole; the damping member also includes a fixing part configured to fix the damping member relative to the base. When the shaft rotates, the opening allows the damping element to undergo elastic deformation.

5. The folding hinge structure according to claim 4, characterized in that, Along the radial direction of rotation of the axis, the opening and the fixing part are disposed opposite to each other; around the circumferential direction of rotation of the axis, the damping part is located between the opening and the fixing part.

6. The folding hinge structure according to claim 4, characterized in that, The folding pivot structure also includes a fixed arm, and the number of damping elements is at least two, with each pair of damping elements connected to opposite ends of the fixed arm; the fixing part is the connection point between the damping elements and the fixed arm.

7. The folding hinge structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rotating mechanism further includes a fixing member, and the damping member is disposed between the fixing member and the supporting member. The fixing member is connected to the rotating shaft and is configured to press the damping member against the side of the supporting member away from the pushing member.

8. The folding hinge structure according to claim 1, characterized in that, The folding hinge structure also includes a linkage mechanism, which is rotatably connected to opposite sides of the base and is configured to slide in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation to move closer to or further away from the base.

9. The folding hinge structure according to claim 8, characterized in that, The linkage mechanism includes housing connectors located on opposite sides of the base, and the housing connectors and the rotating mechanism are slidably connected on the side away from the base; When the rotating mechanism rotates around the rotation axis, the housing connector moves closer to or further away from the base in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis.

10. The folding hinge structure according to claim 9, characterized in that, The linkage mechanism further includes rotating connectors located on opposite sides of the base. Each rotating connector includes a first component and a second component. The first component of the rotating connector is fixedly connected to the housing connector, and the second component of the rotating connector is rotatably connected to the base about the rotation axis and can slide relative to the base.

11. A folding assembly, characterized in that, It includes a first housing, a second housing, and a folding hinge structure as described in any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the folding hinge structure is disposed between the first housing and the second housing.

12. A foldable electronic device, characterized in that, The device includes a flexible screen, a first housing, a second housing, and a folding hinge structure as described in any one of claims 1 to 10. The flexible screen is disposed in the first housing, the folding hinge structure, and the second housing, and the flexible screen can be folded or flattened along with the folding hinge structure.

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