Supporting devices, display equipment, and vehicles

Abstract

A support device, a display device, and a vehicle are provided. The support device, used to support a flexible display module, includes: a movable housing, a fixed housing, and multiple guide rail assemblies; the movable housing is fixedly connected to the flexible display module; the multiple guide rail assemblies are spaced apart along a first direction, which is perpendicular to the thickness direction of the flexible display module and perpendicular to the expansion / contraction direction of the support device; each guide rail assembly includes a first guide rail, a second guide rail, and an intermediate support block, the intermediate support block having parallel first and second guide rail grooves; one end of the first guide rail is fixedly connected to the movable housing, at least a portion of the first guide rail is located in the first guide rail groove, and it is movable along the first guide rail groove; one end of the second guide rail is fixedly connected to the fixed housing, at least a portion of the second guide rail is located in the second guide rail groove, and it is movable along the second guide rail groove. This improves the movement stability of the support device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of display technology, and in particular to a support device, display equipment, and vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of display technology, flexible display modules are characterized by their thinness, lightness, and high flexibility, thus expanding the structural forms of display devices. The structural forms of display devices include, but are not limited to, folding and rolling.

[0003] In related technologies, the display device includes a flexible display module and a supporting device, with the back of the flexible display module fixedly connected to the supporting device. The supporting device can have two states: retracted and extended. When the supporting device is retracted, the display area of ​​the flexible display module is at its minimum; when the supporting device is extended, the flexible display module moves accordingly, increasing the display area of ​​the flexible display module.

[0004] However, the motion stability of the support device is insufficient when it switches between the retracted and extended states. Utility Model Content

[0005] This disclosure provides a support device, a display device, and a vehicle, which helps to improve the motion stability of the support device. The technical solution is as follows:

[0006] In a first aspect, a support device is provided for supporting a flexible display module. The support device includes: a movable housing, a fixed housing, and multiple guide rail assemblies; the movable housing is fixedly connected to the flexible display module; the multiple guide rail assemblies are spaced apart along a first direction, the first direction being perpendicular to the thickness direction of the flexible display module and perpendicular to the expansion / contraction direction of the support device; each guide rail assembly includes a first guide rail, a second guide rail, and an intermediate support block, the intermediate support block having parallel first guide rail grooves and second guide rail grooves; one end of the first guide rail is fixedly connected to the movable housing, at least a portion of the first guide rail is located in the first guide rail groove and is movable along the first guide rail groove; one end of the second guide rail is fixedly connected to the fixed housing, at least a portion of the second guide rail is located in the second guide rail groove and is movable along the second guide rail groove.

[0007] Optionally, at least one of the guide rail components further includes a first limiting structure and / or a second limiting structure. The first limiting structure is located at the other end of the first guide rail and is used to limit the position of the first guide rail in the first guide rail groove in a first direction and a second direction. The second limiting structure is located at the other end of the second guide rail and is used to limit the position of the second guide rail in the second guide rail groove in the first direction and the second direction. The first direction is perpendicular to the second direction and the extension / retraction direction of the support device, respectively, and the second direction is the thickness direction of the flexible display module.

[0008] Optionally, the first limiting structure includes a first rolling element and a second rolling element, the first rolling element and the second rolling element are arranged at intervals along the length direction of the first guide rail and are both connected to the first guide rail, the rotation axis of the first rolling element extends along the first direction and the rotation axis of the second rolling element extends along the second direction; the first rolling element and the second rolling element are both in contact with the sidewall of the first guide rail groove.

[0009] Optionally, the second limiting structure includes a third rolling element and a fourth rolling element, the third rolling element and the fourth rolling element are arranged at intervals along the length direction of the second guide rail and are both connected to the second guide rail, the rotation axis of the third rolling element extends along the first direction and the rotation axis of the fourth rolling element extends along the second direction; the third rolling element and the fourth rolling element are both in contact with the sidewall of the second guide rail groove.

[0010] Optionally, the plurality of guide rail assemblies include a side guide rail assembly located at the edge of the flexible display module. In the side guide rail assembly, the surface of the second guide rail away from the flexible display module has a first guide groove, and the surface of the second guide rail facing the first guide rail has a second guide groove. The length directions of both the first and second guide grooves are the same as the extension direction of the second guide rail groove. The intermediate support block includes a top wall, a partition, a first guide plate, and a second guide plate. The top wall is located on the side of the second and first guide rails away from the flexible display module. The partition is located on the side of the top wall facing the flexible display module and connected to the top wall. The first guide plate is parallel to the partition and connected to the top wall. The second guide plate is connected to the side of the partition away from the top wall. The top wall, partition, first guide plate, and second guide plate form the second guide rail groove. The first guide plate and the first guide groove are slidably engaged, and the second guide plate and the second guide groove are slidably engaged.

[0011] Optionally, in the side rail assembly, the surface of the first rail facing the second rail has a third guide groove, the length direction of the third guide groove being the same as the extension direction of the first rail groove; the intermediate support block further includes a third guide plate and a side wall, the third guide plate being connected to the side of the partition away from the top wall, the side wall being located on the side of the top wall facing the flexible display module and connected to the top wall, the top wall, the side wall, and the partition forming the first rail groove; wherein, the third guide plate and the third guide groove are slidably engaged.

[0012] Optionally, the flexible display module has a plurality of side sliders, which are spaced apart along the extension / retraction direction of the support device, and the surface of the second guide rail facing the flexible display module has a side slide rail for cooperating with the plurality of side sliders.

[0013] Optionally, the intermediate support block includes a body, a first limiting member, and a second limiting member. The first guide rail groove and the second guide rail groove penetrate the first surface and the second surface of the body. The first surface and the second surface of the body are two opposite surfaces of the body in the extension / retraction direction of the support device. The first limiting member is located on the first surface of the body and connected to the body, and is used to restrict the first guide rail from disengaging from the first guide rail groove. The second limiting member is located on the second surface of the body and connected to the body, and is used to restrict the second guide rail from disengaging from the second guide rail groove.

[0014] Optionally, the first limiting member includes a first connecting portion and a first limiting portion connected together. The first connecting portion is connected to a first surface of the body, and the first limiting portion covers a portion of the opening of the first guide rail groove on the first surface of the body. The first guide rail has a first limiting groove and a first stop. The first limiting groove extends from the end of the first guide rail connected to the movable housing along the length direction of the first guide rail toward the end of the first guide rail away from the movable housing, and the first stop is located at the end of the first limiting groove away from the movable housing.

[0015] Optionally, the second limiting member includes a second connecting portion and a second limiting portion connected together. The second connecting portion fits against the second surface of the body, and the second limiting portion covers a portion of the opening of the second guide rail groove on the second surface of the body. The second guide rail has a second limiting groove and a second stop. The second limiting groove extends from one end of the second guide rail connected to the fixed housing along the length direction of the second guide rail toward one end of the second guide rail away from the fixed housing. The second stop is located at one end of the second limiting groove away from the fixed housing.

[0016] Optionally, the movable housing includes a crossbeam and a plurality of first support blocks, the plurality of first support blocks being spaced apart along the first direction and connected to the crossbeam; the fixed housing includes a base plate and a plurality of second support blocks, the plurality of second support blocks being spaced apart along the first direction and connected to one side of the base plate; when the support device is in a retracted state, the plurality of first support blocks, the plurality of intermediate support blocks, and the plurality of second support blocks are arranged side by side in the first direction, the intermediate support blocks further including side wings, the side wings being located on one side of the body in the first direction and connected to the body, the side wings having a plurality of auxiliary sliding grooves, each of the auxiliary sliding grooves being slidably engaged with one of the first support blocks or one of the second support blocks.

[0017] Optionally, the plurality of auxiliary slides include at least one first auxiliary slide and at least one second auxiliary slide, wherein the opening of the first auxiliary slide is located on the surface of the side wing away from the flexible display module, and the opening of the second auxiliary slide is located on the surface of the side wing close to the flexible display module; a portion of the second support block is located in the first auxiliary slide and another portion of the second support block is located in the second auxiliary slide; and / or, a portion of the first support block is located in the first auxiliary slide and another portion of the first support block is located in the second auxiliary slide.

[0018] Optionally, the flexible display module has a plurality of sliders, which are spaced apart along the extension / retraction direction of the support device; the surface of the intermediate support block facing the flexible display module has an auxiliary slide rail for cooperating with the plurality of sliders.

[0019] Optionally, the movable housing includes a crossbeam and a plurality of first support blocks, the plurality of first support blocks being spaced apart along the first direction and connected to the crossbeam; the fixed housing includes a base plate and a plurality of second support blocks, the plurality of second support blocks being spaced apart along the first direction and connected to one side of the base plate, the plurality of second support blocks forming a V-shaped structure with the base plate; when the support device is in a retracted state, the plurality of first support blocks, the plurality of intermediate support blocks, and the plurality of second support blocks are arranged side by side in the first direction, and the base plate is located on the side of the plurality of second support blocks away from the flexible display module.

[0020] Optionally, the flexible display module has at least one intermediate slider group, the intermediate slider group including a plurality of intermediate sliders, the plurality of intermediate sliders being arranged at intervals along the extension and retraction direction of the support device; at least one of the second support blocks has an intermediate slide rail on the side facing the flexible display module that cooperates with the plurality of intermediate sliders.

[0021] Secondly, a display device is also provided, comprising: a flexible display module and any of the aforementioned supporting devices, wherein the flexible display module is connected to the supporting device.

[0022] Optionally, the display device further includes a printed circuit board, a flexible printed circuit board, and an interface board. The printed circuit board is located on the side of the movable housing away from the flexible display module and is fixedly connected to the movable housing. One end of the flexible printed circuit board is connected to the printed circuit board, and the other end is connected to the interface board.

[0023] Thirdly, a means of transport is also provided, which includes a housing and a display device installed in the housing, the display device being any of the aforementioned display devices.

[0024] The beneficial effects of the technical solutions provided in this disclosure are:

[0025] In this embodiment of the present disclosure, by setting parallel first and second guide rail grooves in the intermediate support block, the guide rail grooves can limit the position of the corresponding guide rails in the direction perpendicular to the extension and retraction of the support device, reduce the possibility of relative swaying of the guide rail assembly, and thus help improve the motion stability of the support device. Attached Figure Description

[0026] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this disclosure, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this disclosure. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a display device in a retracted state according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0028] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the unfolded state of the display device;

[0029] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure when the central support device is in the retracted state;

[0030] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the central support device in its deployed state;

[0031] Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional exploded view of a side guide rail assembly provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0032] Figure 6 yes Figure 5A three-dimensional exploded view of the side guide rail assembly from another perspective;

[0033] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the middle side guide rail assembly when the support device is in the retracted state;

[0034] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the middle side guide rail assembly along line AA;

[0035] Figure 9 This is a three-dimensional exploded view of an intermediate guide rail assembly provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0036] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the intermediate guide rail assembly when the support device is in the retracted state;

[0037] Figure 11 yes Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the intermediate guide rail assembly in the retracted state of the support device, from another perspective.

[0038] Figure 12 yes Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the intermediate guide rail assembly when the support device is in the retracted state;

[0039] Figure 13 yes Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the intermediate guide rail assembly in the retracted state of the support device, from another perspective.

[0040] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram showing the cooperation between the slider on the back of the flexible display module and the slide rail in the support device;

[0041] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another display device provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0042] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of another support device provided in this embodiment when it is in a retracted state;

[0043] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 A schematic diagram of the central support device in its deployed state;

[0044] Figure 18 yes Figure 16 Schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the central support device along line BB;

[0045] Figure 19 yes Figure 16An enlarged structural diagram of one of the intermediate support blocks;

[0046] Figure 20 yes Figure 16 A schematic diagram of the structure of the central support device after the intermediate support block is removed.

[0047] Figure Labels

[0048] Support device 1;

[0049] Movable shell 11; crossbeam 111; first support block 112;

[0050] Fixed housing 12; base plate 121; second support block 122; transition plate 1213; intermediate slide rail 122a;

[0051] Guide rail assembly 13; side guide rail assembly 13a; middle guide rail assembly 13b;

[0052] First guide rails 131a, 131b; second guide rails 132a, 132b; intermediate support blocks 133a, 133b; first limiting structures 134a, 134b; second limiting structures 135a, 135b;

[0053] Third guide groove 1311a; first limiting grooves 1312a, 1312b; first stop blocks 1313a, 1313b; first protruding ridge 1314b;

[0054] First guide groove 1321a; second guide groove 1322a; second limiting grooves 1323a, 1323b; second stop blocks 1324a, 1324b; second protruding rib 1325b; side slide rail 1326a;

[0055] First guide rail grooves 1331a, 1331b; second guide rail grooves 1332a, 1332b; body 1333a, 1333b; first limiting member 1334a, 1334b; second limiting member 1335a, 1335b; side wing 1336b;

[0056] First guide plate 13331a; second guide plate 13332a; top walls 13333a, 13333b; partitions 13334a, 13334b; third guide plate 13335a; side walls 13336a, 13336b; bottom wall 13337b; first through groove 13301; second through groove 13302;

[0057] First connecting portions 13341a, 13341b; first limiting portions 13342a, 13342b; first engaging portion 13343b; second engaging portion 13344b;

[0058] Second connecting parts 13351a, 13351b; second limiting parts 13352a, 13352b; first mating part 13338b; second mating part 13339b;

[0059] First auxiliary slide rail 13361b; Second auxiliary slide rail 13362b; Auxiliary slide rail 13363b;

[0060] First rolling elements 1341a, 1341b; Second rolling elements 1342a, 1342b;

[0061] Third rolling elements 1351a, 1351b; Fourth rolling elements 1352a, 1352b;

[0062] Base 14; PCB 15; FPC 16; Interface board 17; Driver assembly 18;

[0063] Flexible display module 2; slider 21. Detailed Implementation

[0064] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this disclosure clearer, the embodiments of this disclosure will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0065] Unless otherwise defined, the technical or scientific terms used herein shall have the ordinary meaning understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” and similar terms used in this patent application specification and claims do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different components. Similarly, the terms “an” or “a” and similar terms do not indicate a quantity limitation, but rather indicate the presence of at least one. The terms “comprising” or “including” and similar terms mean that the elements or objects preceding “comprising” or “including” encompass the elements or objects listed following “comprising” or “including” and their equivalents, and do not exclude other elements or objects. The terms “connected” or “linked” and similar terms are not limited to physical or mechanical connections, but can include electrical connections, whether direct or indirect. The terms “upper,” “lower,” “left,” “right,” “top,” and “bottom,” etc., are used only to indicate relative positional relationships, and these relative positional relationships may change accordingly when the absolute position of the described objects changes.

[0066] This disclosure provides a display device. Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a display device in a retracted state according to an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing the unfolded state of the display device. (Example) Figure 1As shown, the display device includes a support device 1 and a flexible display module 2. The flexible display module 2 has a display surface for displaying images and a back surface opposite to the display surface. The support device 1 is located on the back surface of the flexible display module 2.

[0067] When the support device 1 is in the retracted state, a portion of the flexible display module 2 is hidden, and at this time, the display surface of the flexible display module 2 is part of the entire display area of ​​the flexible display module. When the support device 1 switches from the retracted state to the extended state, the flexible display module 2 moves along with the extension of the support device 1 until the entire display area of ​​the flexible display module 2 is exposed.

[0068] The present invention does not limit the ratio of the area of ​​the display area when the support device 1 is in the retracted state to the area of ​​the display area when the support device 1 is in the extended state (this ratio can be called the retraction ratio), and can be set according to actual needs, such as 1:2, 1:3 or 1:4, or even larger.

[0069] Alternatively, the display device can be any product or component with display functionality, such as a mobile phone, tablet computer, television, monitor, game console, wearable device, or navigator.

[0070] For example, the support device 1 is V-shaped overall, and the flexible display module 2 is located on the outer convex surface of the support device 1, which can be referred to as a V-shaped sliding display device. This display device is particularly suitable for application in vehicles.

[0071] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure when the central support device is in the retracted state. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structure with the central support device in the deployed state. Figure 3 and Figure 4 Showing Figure 1 The structure on the back of the central support device. For example... Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the support device 1 includes a movable housing 11, a fixed housing 12, and multiple guide rail assemblies 13.

[0072] The movable housing 11 is fixedly connected to the flexible display module 2. Multiple guide rail assemblies 13 are arranged at intervals along a first direction X. The movable housing 11 and the fixed housing 12 are connected via the multiple guide rail assemblies 13. Each guide rail assembly 13 has its two ends connected to both the movable housing 11 and the fixed housing 12, allowing them to move away from or closer to each other. When the distance between the movable housing 11 and the fixed housing 12 is minimal, the support device 1 is in a retracted state; when the distance between the movable housing 11 and the fixed housing 12 is maximum, the support device 1 is in an extended state.

[0073] Wherein, the first direction X is perpendicular to the thickness direction Z of the flexible display module 2 and perpendicular to the retraction direction Y of the support device 1. Here, the retraction direction of the support device 1 refers to the direction in which the movable housing 11 and the fixed housing 12 move closer to each other and further away from each other.

[0074] In this embodiment, the plurality of guide rail assemblies 13 include two side guide rail assemblies 13a and at least one intermediate guide rail assembly 13b. The two side guide rail assemblies 13a are located on opposite sides of the flexible display module 2. The intermediate guide rail assembly 13b is located between the two side guide rail assemblies 13a. In practice, the two side guide rail assemblies 13a can be symmetrically arranged on both sides of the flexible display module 2.

[0075] Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional exploded view of the side guide rail assembly provided in the embodiments of this disclosure. Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A three-dimensional exploded view of the middle side guide rail assembly from another perspective. (Combined with...) Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 The side guide rail assembly 13a includes a first guide rail 131a, a second guide rail 132a, and a middle support block 133a. The middle support block 133a has a first guide rail groove 1331a and a second guide rail groove 1332a arranged in parallel. One end of the first guide rail 131a is fixedly connected to the movable housing 11, and at least a portion of the first guide rail 131a is located in the first guide rail groove 1331a and is movable along the first guide rail groove 1331a. One end of the second guide rail 132a is fixedly connected to the fixed housing 12, and at least a portion of the second guide rail 132a is located in the second guide rail groove 1332a and is movable along the second guide rail groove 1332a.

[0076] Figure 9 This is a three-dimensional exploded structural diagram of the side guide rail assembly provided in the embodiments of this disclosure. Combined with... Figure 4 and Figure 9 The intermediate guide rail assembly 13b includes a first guide rail 131b, a second guide rail 132b, and an intermediate support block 133b. The intermediate support block 133b has a first guide rail groove 1331b and a second guide rail groove 1332b arranged in parallel. One end of the first guide rail 131b is fixedly connected to the movable housing 11, and at least a portion of the first guide rail 131b is located in the first guide rail groove 1331b and is movable along the first guide rail groove 1331b. One end of the second guide rail 132b is fixedly connected to the fixed housing 12, and at least a portion of the second guide rail 132b is located in the second guide rail groove 1332b and is movable along the second guide rail groove 1332b.

[0077] That is, in this embodiment, each guide rail assembly 13 includes a first guide rail, a second guide rail, and an intermediate support block. When the first guide rail moves along the first guide rail groove and the second guide rail moves along the second guide rail groove, it drives the movable housing 11 to move relative to the fixed housing 12. When the first guide rail is maximally located in the first guide rail groove and the second guide rail is maximally located in the second guide rail groove, the distance between the movable housing 11 and the fixed housing 12 is minimal, and the support device is in a retracted state; when the first guide rail slides out of the first guide rail groove to the maximum extent and the second guide rail slides out of the second guide rail groove to the maximum extent, the distance between the movable housing 11 and the fixed housing 12 is maximum, and the support device is in an extended state.

[0078] By setting parallel first and second guide rail grooves in the intermediate support block, the guide rail grooves can restrict the position of the corresponding guide rails in the direction perpendicular to the extension and retraction of the support device, reduce the possibility of relative swaying between the first guide rail and the intermediate support block, as well as between the second guide rail and the intermediate support block, which is beneficial to improving the motion stability of the support device.

[0079] The common features of the side guide rail assembly and the middle guide rail assembly will be explained below.

[0080] Optionally, each guide rail assembly 13 further includes a first limiting structure and / or a second limiting structure. The first limiting structure is located at the other end of the first guide rail and is used to limit the position of the first guide rail in the first guide rail groove in a first direction and a second direction. The second limiting structure is located at the other end of the second guide rail and is used to limit the position of the second guide rail in the second guide rail groove in a first direction and a second direction. The second direction is the thickness direction Z of the flexible display module.

[0081] The first limiting structure can limit the movement of the first guide rail, reducing the possibility of it swaying within the intermediate support block; the second limiting structure can limit the movement of the second guide rail, reducing the possibility of it swaying within the intermediate support block. This improves the stability of the first and second guide rails during their movement relative to the intermediate support block.

[0082] Optionally, the first limiting structure includes a first rolling element and a second rolling element, which are arranged at intervals along the length direction of the first guide rail and are both connected to the first guide rail. The rotation axis of the first rolling element extends along a first direction, and the rotation axis of the second rolling element extends along a second direction. Both the first rolling element and the second rolling element are in contact with the sidewall of the first guide rail groove.

[0083] The first and second rolling elements can not only limit the first guide rail in the first and second directions, improving the stability of the relative movement between the first guide rail and the intermediate support block, but also make the friction between the first guide rail and the intermediate support block rolling friction, thereby reducing the frictional force between the first guide rail and the intermediate support block, and thus reducing the force required to push the movable housing.

[0084] Optionally, the first rolling element is a rolling bearing or a roller, and the second rolling element is a rolling bearing or a roller.

[0085] The specifications of the first rolling element and the second rolling element can be the same or different, as long as it can ensure that the first rolling element and the second rolling element can roll on the side wall of the first guide groove.

[0086] Optionally, the second limiting structure includes a third rolling element and a fourth rolling element, which are arranged at intervals along the length direction of the second guide rail and are both connected to the second guide rail. The rotation axis of the third rolling element extends along a first direction, and the rotation axis of the fourth rolling element extends along a second direction. Both the third rolling element and the fourth rolling element are in contact with the sidewall of the second guide rail groove.

[0087] The third and fourth rolling elements can not only limit the second guide rail in the first and second directions, improving the stability of the relative movement between the second guide rail and the intermediate support block, but also make the friction between the second guide rail and the intermediate support block rolling friction, thereby reducing the frictional force between the second guide rail and the intermediate support block, and thus reducing the force required to push the movable housing.

[0088] Optionally, the third rolling element is a rolling bearing or a roller, and the fourth rolling element is a rolling bearing or a roller.

[0089] The specifications of the third and fourth rolling elements can be the same or different, as long as they can ensure that the third and fourth rolling elements can roll on the side wall of the second guide groove.

[0090] Due to their different locations, the specific structures of the side guide rail assembly and the middle guide rail assembly may differ. The structures of the side guide rail assembly and the middle guide rail assembly will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0091] like Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, a first limiting structure 134a is provided at the end of the first guide rail 131a away from the movable housing 11. The first limiting structure 134a includes two first rolling members 1341a and one second rolling member 1342a. The second rolling member 1342a is located between the two first rolling members 1341a along the length of the first guide rail 131a. Both sides of the first rolling members 1341a in the second direction Z are in contact with the sidewalls of the first guide rail groove 1331a, thereby limiting the first guide rail 131a in the second direction Z. At least one side of the second rolling member 1342a in the first direction X is in contact with the sidewall of the first guide rail groove 1331a, thereby limiting the first guide rail 131a in the first direction.

[0092] For example, the first guide rail 131a has two first mounting grooves and one second mounting groove on both sides. The first rolling element 1341a is installed in the corresponding first mounting groove, and the second rolling element 1342a is installed in the corresponding second mounting groove. The first mounting groove extends through the first guide rail 131a in the second direction Z so that the two sides of the first rolling element 1341a in the second direction Z contact the sidewall of the first guide rail groove 1331a. The second mounting groove extends through the first guide rail 131a in the first direction X so that the two sides of the second rolling element 1342a in the first direction X contact the sidewall of the first guide rail groove 1331a.

[0093] The number of the first rolling element 1341a and the second rolling element in the first limiting structure 134a can be set according to actual needs, and the present disclosure does not limit this. For example, in other embodiments, the first limiting structure 134a may include only one first rolling element 1341a and one second rolling element 1342a, or it may include two first rolling elements 1341a and two second rolling elements 1342a, etc.

[0094] A second limiting structure 135a is provided at the end of the second guide rail 132a away from the fixed housing 12. The second limiting structure 135a includes two third rolling members 1351a and one fourth rolling member 1352a. The fourth rolling member 1352a is located between the two third rolling members 1351a along the length of the second guide rail 132a. Both sides of the third rolling members 1351a in the second direction Z contact the sidewalls of the second guide rail groove 1332a, thereby limiting the second guide rail 132a in the second direction Z. At least one side of the fourth rolling member 1352a in the first direction X contacts the sidewall of the second guide rail groove 1332a, thereby limiting the second guide rail 132a in the first direction X.

[0095] For example, the second guide rail 132a has two third mounting grooves and one fourth mounting groove on both sides. The third rolling element 1351a is installed in the corresponding first mounting groove, and the fourth rolling element 1352a is installed in the corresponding fourth mounting groove. The third mounting groove extends through the second guide rail 132a in the second direction Z so that the two sides of the third rolling element 1351a in the second direction Z contact the sidewall of the second guide rail groove 1332a. The fourth mounting groove extends through the second guide rail 132a in the first direction X so that the two sides of the fourth rolling element 1352a in the first direction X contact the sidewall of the second guide rail groove 1332a.

[0096] The number of the third rolling element 1351a and the fourth rolling element 1352a in the second limiting structure 135a can be set according to actual needs, and this embodiment does not limit this. For example, in other embodiments, the second limiting structure 135a may include only one third rolling element 1351a and one fourth rolling element 1352a, or it may include two third rolling elements 1351a and two fourth rolling elements 1352a, etc.

[0097] For example, the first guide rail 131a is located outside the second guide rail 131b, that is, on the side closer to the side of the support device 1. The first limiting structure 134a is located on the side of the first guide rail 131a facing the second guide rail 132a. The second limiting structure 135a is located on the side of the second guide rail 132a facing the first guide rail 131a.

[0098] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the middle side guide rail assembly when the support device is in the retracted state. (See diagram below.) Figure 7 As shown, when the support device is in the retracted state, the first guide rail 131a is substantially completely housed in the first track groove 1331a, and the second guide rail 132a is substantially completely housed in the second track groove 1332a.

[0099] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the middle side guide rail assembly along line AA. (Combined with...) Figure 8 Optionally, the surface of the second guide rail 132a away from the flexible display module 2 has a first guide groove 1321a, and the surface of the second guide rail 132a facing the first guide rail 131a has a second guide groove 1322a. The length directions of the first guide groove 1321a and the second guide groove 1322a are both the same as the extension direction of the second guide groove 1332a. The intermediate support block 133a includes a top wall 13333a, a partition 13334a, a first guide plate 13331a, and a second guide plate 13332a. The top wall 13333a is located on the side of the second guide rail 132a and the first guide rail 131a away from the flexible display module 2 (i.e., Figure 8Above the top of the flexible display module 2, a partition 13334a is located on the side of the top wall 13333a facing the flexible display module 2 and is connected to the top wall 13333a. A first guide plate 13331a is parallel to the partition 13334a and connected to the top wall 13333a. A second guide plate 13332a is connected to the side of the partition 13334a away from the top wall 13333a and extends towards the side where the first guide plate 13331a is located. The top wall 13333a, the partition 1332a, the first guide plate 13331a, and the second guide plate 13332a form a second guide groove 1332a. The first guide plate 13331a is slidably engaged with the first guide groove 1321a, and the second guide plate 13332a is slidably engaged with the second guide groove 1322a.

[0100] For the side guide rail assembly, guide grooves are respectively provided on the surface of the second guide rail away from the flexible display module and on the surface facing the second guide rail. The first guide groove and the first guide plate, and the second guide groove and the second guide plate form an interlocking structure, thereby limiting the second guide rail in the width direction of the two guide grooves (i.e. the aforementioned second direction Z and first direction X), further improving the stability of the first guide rail and the middle support block during relative movement.

[0101] The surface of the first guide rail 131a facing the second guide rail 132a has a third guide groove 1311a, the length direction of the third guide groove 1311a being the same as the extension direction of the first guide rail groove 1331a.

[0102] The intermediate support block also includes a third guide plate 13335a and a side wall 13336a. The third guide plate 13335a is connected to the side of the partition 13334a away from the top wall 13333a and extends toward the side where the side wall 13336a is located. The side wall 13336a and the first guide plate 13331a are located on both sides of the partition 13334a. The side wall 13336a is located on the side of the top wall 13333a facing the flexible display module 2 and is connected to the top wall 13333a. The partition 133345a, the top wall 13333a, the side wall 13336a, and the third guide plate 13335a form a first guide groove 1331a. The third guide plate 13335a slides in conjunction with the third guide groove 1311a.

[0103] By setting a third guide groove on the surface of the first guide rail facing the second guide rail, and making the third guide groove slide connected to the third guide plate of the intermediate support block, the relative position of the first guide rail and the intermediate support block can be further restricted in the direction perpendicular to the extension and retraction of the support device during the relative movement of the first guide rail and the intermediate support block, thereby improving the stability of the relative movement of the second guide rail and the intermediate support block.

[0104] In this embodiment, the first guide rail and the intermediate support block are constrained in the direction perpendicular to the retraction direction by the first limiting structure and the interlocking structure (first guide groove, second guide groove, first guide plate and second guide plate), and the second guide rail and the intermediate support block are constrained in the direction perpendicular to the retraction direction by the combination of the second limiting structure and the third guide groove and the third guide plate. This can effectively improve the stability of the slide rail assembly during movement and improve the reliability of the display device.

[0105] See you again Figure 5 and Figure 6 The intermediate support block 133a includes a body 1333a, a first limiting member 1334a, and a second limiting member 1335a. The first limiting member 1334a is located on the first surface of the body 1333a and connected to the body 1333a, and is used to prevent the first guide rail 131a from disengaging from the first guide rail groove 1331a. The second limiting member 1335a is located on the second surface of the body 1333a and connected to the body 1333a, and is used to prevent the second guide rail 132a from disengaging from the second guide rail groove 1332a. The first and second surfaces of the body 1333a are opposite surfaces of the body 1333a in the retraction direction X of the support device 1.

[0106] The first limiting member prevents the first guide rail from detaching from the intermediate support block, and the second limiting member prevents the second guide rail from detaching from the intermediate support block. The first and second limiting members work together to limit the maximum length of the track assembly, thereby limiting the sliding distance of the flexible display module within a set range.

[0107] In this embodiment, the first guide rail groove 1331a and the second guide rail groove 1332a penetrate the first surface and the second surface of the body 1333a. The first limiting member 1334a includes a first connecting portion 13341a and a first limiting portion 13342a connected together. The first connecting portion 13341a fits against the first surface of the body 1333a, and the first limiting portion 13342a covers a portion of the opening of the first guide rail groove 1331a on the first surface of the body 1333a.

[0108] The first connecting part 13341a has a mounting hole, through which a fastener (such as a screw) can pass to connect the first connecting part 13341a to the body 1333a.

[0109] The first guide rail 131a has a first limiting groove 1312a and a first stop 1313a that cooperate with the first limiting part 13342a. The first limiting groove 1312a extends along the length of the first guide rail 131a from the end of the first guide rail 131a connected to the movable housing 11 to the end of the first guide rail away from the movable housing 11. The first stop 1313a is located at the end of the first limiting groove 1312a away from the movable housing 11. When the first guide rail 131a slides out of the first guide groove 1331a, the first limiting part 13342a moves in the first limiting groove 1312a until the first limiting part 13342a abuts against the first stop 1313a. At this time, the first guide rail 131a reaches its limit position and will not disengage from the first guide groove 1331a.

[0110] The second limiting member 1335a includes a second connecting portion 13351a and a second limiting portion 13352a connected together. The second connecting portion 13351a is in contact with the second surface of the body 1333a, and the second limiting portion 13352a covers a portion of the opening of the second guide groove 1332a on the second surface of the body 1333a.

[0111] Optionally, the second connecting portion 13351a also covers at least a portion of the opening of the first guide rail groove 1331a on the second surface of the body 1333a to prevent the first guide rail 131a from extending out of the first guide rail groove 1331a when the support device 1 is in the retracted state. In other embodiments, the length of the first guide rail 131a may be slightly less than the length of the first guide rail groove 1331a. In this case, the second connecting portion 13351a does not need to cover the opening of the first guide rail groove 1331a on the second surface of the body 1333a.

[0112] The second connecting part 13351a has a mounting hole, through which a fastener (such as a screw) can be passed to connect the second connecting part 13351a to the main body.

[0113] The second guide rail 132a has a second limiting groove 1323a and a second stop 1324a that cooperate with the second limiting part 13352a. The second limiting groove 1323a extends along the length of the second guide rail 132a, from the end of the second guide rail 132a connected to the fixed housing 12 to the end of the second guide rail 132a away from the fixed housing 12. The second stop 1324a is located at the end of the second limiting groove 1323a away from the fixed housing 12. When the second guide rail 132a slides out of the second guide rail groove 1332a, the second limiting part 13352a moves in the second limiting groove until the second limiting part 13352a abuts against the second stop 1324a. At this time, the second guide rail 132a reaches its limit position and will not disengage from the second guide rail groove 1332a.

[0114] Figure 9 This is a three-dimensional exploded view of an intermediate guide rail assembly provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 9 As shown, two first limiting structures 134b are provided at the end of the first guide rail 131b away from the movable housing 11. The two first limiting structures 134b are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the first guide rail 131b in the first direction X.

[0115] Each first limiting structure 134b includes two first rolling elements 1341b and one second rolling element 1342b. The second rolling element 1342b is located between the two first rolling elements 1341b along the length of the first guide rail 131b. The first rolling elements 1341b contact the sidewalls of the first guide rail groove 1331b on both sides in the second direction, thereby limiting the first guide rail 131b in the second direction. The second rolling element 1342b contacts the sidewall of the first guide rail groove 1331b on one side in the first direction, thereby limiting the first guide rail 131b in the first direction.

[0116] For example, corresponding to a first limiting structure 134b, two first mounting grooves and one second mounting groove are provided on both sides of the first guide rail 131b. The first rolling element 1341b is installed in the corresponding first mounting groove, and the second rolling element 1342b is installed in the corresponding second mounting groove. The first mounting groove penetrates the first guide rail 131b in the second direction Z so that the two sides of the first rolling element 1341b in the second direction Z contact the side wall of the first guide rail groove 1331b. The second mounting groove penetrates one side wall of the first guide rail 131b in the first direction X so that one side of the second rolling element 1342b in the first direction X contacts the side wall of the first guide rail groove 1331b.

[0117] The number of the first rolling element 1341b and the second rolling element 1342b in the first limiting structure 134b can be set according to actual needs, and this embodiment does not limit this. For example, in other embodiments, the first limiting structure 134b may include only one first rolling element 1341b and one second rolling element 1342b, or it may include two first rolling elements 1341b and two second rolling elements 1342b, etc.

[0118] Two second limiting structures 135b are provided at the end of the second guide rail 132b away from the fixed housing 12. The two second limiting structures 135b are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the second guide rail 132b in the first direction X.

[0119] Each second limiting structure 135b includes two third rolling elements 1351b and one fourth rolling element 1352b. The fourth rolling element 1352b is located between the two third rolling elements 1351b along the length of the second guide rail 132b. The third rolling elements 1351b contact the sidewalls of the second guide rail groove 1332b on both sides in the second direction, thereby limiting the second guide rail 132b in the second direction. The fourth rolling element 1352b contacts the sidewall of the second guide rail groove 1332b on one side in the first direction, thereby limiting the second guide rail 132b in the first direction.

[0120] For example, corresponding to a second limiting structure 135b, two third mounting grooves and one fourth mounting groove are provided on both sides of the second guide rail 132b. The third rolling element 1351b is installed in the corresponding first mounting groove, and the fourth rolling element 1352b is installed in the corresponding fourth mounting groove. The third mounting groove penetrates the second guide rail 132b in the second direction Z so that the two sides of the third rolling element 1351b in the second direction Z contact the side wall of the second guide rail groove 1332b. The fourth mounting groove penetrates one side wall of the second guide rail 132b in the first direction X so that one side of the fourth rolling element 1352b in the first direction X contacts the side wall of the second guide rail groove 1332b.

[0121] The number of the third rolling element 1351b and the fourth rolling element 1352b in the second limiting structure 135b can be set according to actual needs, and this embodiment does not limit this. For example, in other embodiments, the second limiting structure 135b may include only one third rolling element 1351b and one fourth rolling element 1352b, or it may include two third rolling elements 1351b and two fourth rolling elements 1352b, etc.

[0122] The body 1333b of the intermediate support block 133b includes a top wall 13333b, a partition 13334b, a bottom wall 13337b, and two side walls 13336b. The top wall 13333b is located on the side of the second guide rail 132b and the first guide rail 131b away from the flexible display module 2 (i.e., Figure 9Above. Partition 13334b and two side walls 13336b are both located on the side of top wall 13333b facing the flexible display module 2 and are connected to top wall 13333b. Partition 13334b and two side walls 13336b extend in the same direction, and partition 13334b is located between two side walls 13336b. Bottom wall 13337b is connected to the side of partition 1332b and two side walls 13336b away from top wall 13333b. Top wall 13333b, partition 1332b, bottom wall 13337b and one side wall 13336b form a first guide rail groove 1331b, and top wall 13333b, partition 1332b, bottom wall 13337b and another side wall 13336b form a second guide rail groove 1332b.

[0123] The intermediate support block includes a body 1333b, a first limiting member 1334b, and a second limiting member 1335b. The first limiting member 1334b is located on the first surface of the body 1333b and connected to the body 1333b, and is used to prevent the first guide rail 131b from disengaging from the first guide rail groove 1331b. The second limiting member 1335b is located on the second surface of the body 1333b and connected to the body 1333b, and is used to prevent the second guide rail 132b from disengaging from the second guide rail groove 1332b. The first and second surfaces of the body 1333b are opposite surfaces of the body 1333b in the retraction / extension direction Y of the support device 1.

[0124] The first limiting member prevents the first guide rail from detaching from the intermediate support block, and the second limiting member prevents the second guide rail from detaching from the intermediate support block. The first and second limiting members work together to limit the maximum length of the track assembly, thereby limiting the sliding distance of the flexible display module within a set range.

[0125] In practice, the first guide rail groove 1331b and the second guide rail groove 1332b penetrate the first surface and the second surface of the body 1333b. The first limiting member 1334b includes a first connecting portion 13341b and a first limiting portion 13342b connected together. The first connecting portion 13341b fits against the first surface of the body 1333b, and the first limiting portion 13342b covers a portion of the opening of the first guide rail groove 1331b on the first surface of the body 1333b.

[0126] Optionally, the first connecting portion 13341b also covers at least a portion of the opening of the second guide rail groove 1332b on the first surface of the body 1333b to prevent the second guide rail 132b from extending out of the second guide rail groove 1332b when the support device 1 is in the retracted state. In other embodiments, the length of the second guide rail 132b may be slightly less than the length of the second guide rail groove 1332b. In this case, the first connecting portion 13341b does not need to cover the opening of the second guide rail groove 1332b on the first surface of the body 1333b.

[0127] The first connecting part 13341b has a mounting hole, through which a fastener (such as a screw) can pass to connect the first connecting part 13341b to the body 1333b.

[0128] The first guide rail 131b has a first limiting groove 1312b and a first stop 1313b that cooperate with the first limiting part 13342b. The first limiting groove 1312b extends along the length of the first guide rail 131b from the end of the first guide rail 131b connected to the movable housing 11 to the end of the first guide rail 131b away from the movable housing 11. The first stop 1313b is located at the end of the first limiting groove 1312b away from the movable housing 11. When the first guide rail 131b slides out of the first guide rail groove 1331b, the first limiting part 13342b moves in the first limiting groove 1312b until the first limiting part 13342b abuts against the first stop 1313b. At this time, the first guide rail 131b reaches its limit position and will not disengage from the first guide rail groove 1331b.

[0129] Optionally, the first limiting member 1334b further includes a first engaging portion 13343b, and the body 1333b has a first mating portion 13338b that matches the first engaging portion 13343b.

[0130] For example, the first engaging portion 13343b is a protrusion extending outward from the first connecting portion 13341a along the retraction direction Y of the support device 1; the first mating portion 13338b is a groove in the side wall 13336b that matches the protrusion, the opening of which is located on the first surface of the body 1333b. In other embodiments, the first engaging portion 13343b is a notch in the first connecting portion 13341a, and the first mating portion 13338b is a protrusion on the first surface of the body 1333b that matches the notch.

[0131] During the assembly process of the first limiting member 1334b and the body 1333b, the first engaging part 13343b and the first mating part 13338b can be made to cooperate with each other to achieve positioning between the first limiting member 1334b and the body 1333b, so that the two can be connected by fasteners.

[0132] The second limiting member 1335b includes a second connecting portion 13351b and a second limiting portion 13352b connected together. The second connecting portion 13351b is in contact with the second surface of the body 1333b, and the second limiting portion 13352b covers a portion of the opening of the second guide groove 1332b on the second surface of the body 1333b.

[0133] Optionally, the second connecting portion 13351b also covers at least a portion of the opening of the first guide rail groove 1331b on the second surface of the body 1333b to prevent the first guide rail 131b from extending out of the first guide rail groove 1331b when the support device 1 is in the retracted state. In other embodiments, the length of the first guide rail 131b may be slightly less than the length of the first guide rail groove 1331b. In this case, the second connecting portion 13351b does not need to cover the opening of the first guide rail groove 1331b on the second surface of the body 1333b.

[0134] The second connecting part 13351b has a mounting hole, through which a fastener (such as a screw) can pass to connect the second connecting part 13351b to the main body.

[0135] The second guide rail 132b has a second limiting groove 1323b and a second stop 1324b that cooperate with the second limiting part 13352b. The second limiting groove 1323b extends along the length of the second guide rail 132b, from the end of the second guide rail 132b connected to the fixed housing 12 to the end of the second guide rail 132b away from the fixed housing 12. The second stop 1324b is located at the end of the second limiting groove 1323b away from the fixed housing 12. When the second guide rail 132b slides out of the second guide rail groove 1332b, the second limiting part 13352b moves in the second limiting groove until the second limiting part 13352b abuts against the second stop 1324b. At this time, the second guide rail 132b reaches its limit position and will not disengage from the second guide rail groove 1332b.

[0136] Optionally, the second limiting member 1335b further includes a second engaging portion 13353b, and the body 1333b has a second mating portion 13339b that matches the second engaging portion 13353b.

[0137] For example, the second engaging portion 13344b is a protrusion extending from the second connecting portion 13341b along the retraction direction of the support device 1; the second mating portion 13339b is a groove in the side wall 13336b that matches the protrusion, the opening of which is located on the second surface of the body 1333b. In other embodiments, the second engaging portion 13344b is a notch in the second connecting portion 13341b, and the second mating portion 13339b is a protrusion on the second surface of the body 1333b that matches the notch.

[0138] During the assembly process of the second limiting member 1334b and the body 1333b, the second engaging part 13344b and the second mating part 13339b can be engaged with each other to achieve positioning between the second limiting member 1334b and the body 1333b, so that the two can be connected by fasteners.

[0139] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the intermediate guide rail assembly when the support device is in the extended state. Figure 11 yes Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the intermediate guide rail assembly in the retracted state from another perspective. Figure 12 yes Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the intermediate guide rail assembly when the support device is in the retracted state. Figure 13 yes Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the intermediate guide rail assembly in the retracted state from another perspective.

[0140] like Figures 10 to 13 As shown, optionally, a first through groove 13301 is formed in the bottom wall 13337b at a position corresponding to the first guide rail groove 1331b. The first through groove 13301 penetrates the bottom wall 13337b in both the first direction X and the second direction Z. The side of the first guide rail 131b facing the flexible display module 2 has a first protruding ridge 1314b. The length direction of the first protruding ridge 1314b is consistent with the length direction of the first guide rail 131b, and the first protruding ridge 1314b is located in the first through groove 13301. In this way, through the cooperation of the first protruding ridge and the first through groove, the first guide rail and the intermediate support block can be further limited in the first and second directions.

[0141] A second through groove 13302 is formed in the bottom wall 13337b at a position corresponding to the second guide rail groove 1332b. The second through groove 13302 penetrates the bottom wall 13337b in both the first direction X and the second direction Z. A second protruding ridge 1325b is provided on the side of the second guide rail 132b facing the flexible display module 2. The length direction of the second protruding ridge 1325b is consistent with the length direction of the second guide rail 132b, and the second protruding ridge 1325b is located in the second through groove 13302. Thus, through the cooperation of the second protruding ridge and the second through groove, the second guide rail and the intermediate support block can be further limited in the first and second directions.

[0142] In this embodiment of the present disclosure, the maximum size of the intermediate support block 133a in the first direction is smaller than the maximum size of the intermediate support block 133b in the first direction, which is beneficial to reducing the width of the bezel of the display device.

[0143] See you again Figure 3 and Figure 4 The movable housing 11 includes a crossbeam 111 and a plurality of first support blocks 112. The plurality of first support blocks 112 are arranged at intervals along the length direction of the crossbeam 111 and are connected to the crossbeam 111, with a gap between adjacent first support blocks 112. The crossbeam 111 is fixedly connected to one end of the aforementioned first guide rails 131a and 131b.

[0144] The fixed housing 12 includes a base plate 121 and a plurality of second support blocks 122. The plurality of second support blocks 122 are arranged at intervals along a first direction X and are connected to one side of the base plate 121, with gaps between adjacent second support blocks 122. This side of the base plate 121 is also fixedly connected to one end of the aforementioned second guide rails 132a and 132b.

[0145] When the support device 1 is in the retracted state, multiple first support blocks 111, multiple intermediate support blocks 133a and 133b, and multiple second support blocks 122 are arranged side by side in the first direction X. Thus, when the support device 1 is in the retracted state, the movable housing 11, the fixed housing 12, and the slide rail assembly 13 overlap, and the multiple intermediate support blocks 133a and 133b, the multiple first support blocks 111, and the multiple second support blocks 122 jointly support the flexible display module 2. When the support device 1 is in the extended state, the multiple first support blocks 111, the multiple second support blocks 122, and the intermediate support blocks 133a and 133b respectively support different areas of the flexible display module 2 in its sliding direction, ensuring the overall support of the flexible display module 2.

[0146] Optionally, the base plate 121 and the plurality of second support blocks 122 form a V-shaped structure, with the base plate 121 located on the side of the plurality of second support blocks 122 away from the flexible display module 2. That is, the flexible display module 2 is located on the protruding side of the fixed housing 12.

[0147] To facilitate the sliding of the flexible display module 2 along the surface of the base plate 121, the base plate 121 and the multiple second support blocks 122 are connected by a transition plate 1213, which is arc-shaped. This allows for a smooth transition between the surfaces of the base plate 121 and the flexible display module 2.

[0148] For example, the flexible display module 2 includes a flexible display panel and a support structure. The support structure is stacked on top of the flexible display panel and connected to the back side of the flexible display panel. The support structure includes a planar region and a flexible region. The side of the planar region of the support structure facing away from the flexible display panel can be bonded to the movable housing 11. There is no fixed connection between the flexible region of the support structure and the intermediate support blocks 133a, 133b and the fixed housing 12.

[0149] For example, the flexible display panel can be an Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) display panel, etc.

[0150] In practice, the planar area has no hollow structure, while the flexible area has a hollow structure to improve the bending performance of the flexible area.

[0151] In this embodiment, the flexible display module 2 has multiple sliders on its back side. The surface of the support device 1 opposite to the flexible display module 2 has slide rails corresponding to the sliders. By cooperating between the sliders on the back side of the flexible display module and the corresponding slide rails, the position of the flexible display module can be restricted, thereby improving the flatness of the flexible display module and enhancing its movement stability.

[0152] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram showing the interaction between the slider on the back of the flexible display module and the slide rail in the support device. (Example) Figure 14 As shown, slider 21 is T-shaped and includes a connected vertical rod and a horizontal rod. One end of the vertical rod is connected to the back of the flexible display module (not shown), and the other end of the vertical rod is connected to the middle of the horizontal rod. The horizontal rod is located in a slide rail (which may be the side slide rail 1326a or the middle slide rail 122a mentioned below).

[0153] In some examples, the back of the flexible display module 2 has at least one intermediate slider group, which includes a plurality of intermediate sliders spaced apart along the sliding direction of the flexible display module 2. At least one second support block 122 has an intermediate slide rail 122a on its side facing the flexible display module 2 (see...). Figure 4 One intermediate slide rail corresponds to one intermediate slider group. Multiple intermediate sliders in the intermediate slider group can slide within their corresponding intermediate slide rails.

[0154] By setting a middle slide rail and a middle slider, the center of the flexible display module can be limited, thereby improving the flatness of the display area of ​​the flexible display module.

[0155] Optionally, the back of the flexible display module 2 also has two side slider groups, each side slider group including a plurality of side sliders spaced apart along the sliding direction of the flexible display module 2. The two side slider groups are respectively located on the two sides of the flexible display module 2 extending in a direction perpendicular to the first direction. In the side guide rail assembly 13a, the surface of the second guide rail 132a facing the flexible display module 2 has a side slide rail 1326a for cooperating with the plurality of side sliders (see Figure 5 and Figure 6 ).

[0156] By setting the side slide rails and side sliders to cooperate, the two sides of the flexible display module are limited, which helps to improve the flatness of the display surface of the flexible display module and prevent the two sides of the flexible display module from warping.

[0157] Optionally, the support device 1 further includes a base 14, to which the fixed housing 12 is connected. The base 14 can support the aforementioned components and can also be used to house other structures of the display device, such as the driving structure of the movable housing and some circuit structures.

[0158] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another display device provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. For example... Figure 15 As shown, the display device also includes a printed circuit board (PCB) 15, a flexible printed circuit board (FPC) 16, and an interface board 17. The PCB 15 is located on the side of the movable housing 11 away from the flexible display module 2 and is fixedly connected to the movable housing 11. One end of the FPC 16 is connected to the PCB 15, and the other end is connected to the interface board 17.

[0159] During the sliding process of the flexible display module 2, the PCB remains relatively stationary with respect to the flexible display module 2, providing a certain degree of protection. Connecting the PCB and the interface board 17 via the FPC can accommodate the movement requirements of the flexible display module 2.

[0160] For example, the PCB 15 can be connected to the movable housing 11 by one or more of the following methods: adhesive bonding, snap-fit ​​structure, and fasteners (such as screws). For example, the PCB 15 can be fixedly connected to the movable housing 11 by adhesive bonding and screw fixing. In implementation, two screws arranged along the first direction X can be used to fix the PCB 15 to the movable housing 11.

[0161] The interface board can be housed in the aforementioned base 14 for connection with other electronic components, ensuring interoperability between external data and the display device.

[0162] Optionally, the display device further includes a drive assembly 19, which is connected to the movable housing 11 to drive the movable housing 11 to move relative to the fixed housing 12. The drive assembly 19 is mounted in the base 14.

[0163] The drive component 19 can be a motor drive component. The specific structure of the drive component 19 is not limited in this embodiment, as long as it can drive the movable housing 11 to move.

[0164] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of another support device provided in this embodiment when it is in a retracted state. Figure 17 yes Figure 16 A schematic diagram of the structure with the central support device in the deployed state. Figure 16 and Figure 17 The support device shown is Figure 2 and Figure 3 The main difference in the support devices shown is the structure of the intermediate support block.

[0165] like Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, in the intermediate track assembly 13b, the intermediate support block 133b includes a body 1333b and a side wing 1336b. The side wing 1336b is located on one side of the body 1333b and connected to the body 1333b in the first direction X. The side wing 1336b has multiple auxiliary sliding grooves, each of which is used for sliding engagement with a first support block 112 or a second support block 122.

[0166] By incorporating side wings, the central support block can support a larger area of ​​the back of the flexible display module when the support device is in the deployed state. Furthermore, the auxiliary grooves in the side wings can limit the movement of the first support block 112 and / or the second support block 122 in the first direction, thereby further improving the motion stability of the support device.

[0167] Figure 18 yes Figure 16 A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the central support device along line BB. (See diagram below.) Figure 18 As shown, by way of example, the plurality of auxiliary slides include at least one first auxiliary slide 13361b and at least one second auxiliary slide 13362b. The opening of the first auxiliary slide is located on the surface of the side wing 1336b away from the flexible display module 2 (i.e., the upper surface in the figure), and the opening of the second auxiliary slide 13362b is located on the surface of the side wing 1336b close to the flexible display module 2 (i.e., the lower surface in the figure).

[0168] A portion of the second support block 122 is located in the first auxiliary slide groove 13361b, and another portion of the second support block 122 is located in the second auxiliary slide groove 13362b; a portion of the first support block 112 is located in the first auxiliary slide groove 13361b, and another portion of the first support block 112 is located in the second auxiliary slide groove 13362b.

[0169] The two second support blocks 122 sandwich the side wing 1336b in the middle, and the two first support blocks 112 sandwich the side wing 1336b in the middle, thereby limiting the middle support block 133b in the second direction Z, further improving the reliability of the support device 1.

[0170] In some other embodiments, a portion of the second support blocks 122 are located in the first auxiliary slide groove 13361b, and another portion of the second support blocks 122 are located in the second auxiliary slide groove 13362b; while all the first support blocks 112 are located in either the first auxiliary slide groove 13361b or the second auxiliary slide groove 13362b. Alternatively, a portion of the first support blocks 112 are located in the first auxiliary slide groove 13361b, and another portion of the first support blocks 112 are located in the second auxiliary slide groove 13362b; while all the second support blocks 122 are located in either the first auxiliary slide groove 13361b or the second auxiliary slide groove 13362b. Both of these methods can also limit the intermediate support block 133b in the second direction Z, improving the reliability of the support device 1.

[0171] In other embodiments, the multiple auxiliary slides may all be either the first auxiliary slide 13361b or the second auxiliary slide 1332b.

[0172] Figure 19 yes Figure 16 An enlarged structural diagram of an intermediate support block. (See diagram below.) Figure 19 As shown, in this embodiment, the middle support block 133b of the middle track assembly 13b is connected to both sides of the middle wing 1336b, and one side of one of the side wings 1336b is connected to the middle support block 133b of the middle track assembly 13b, and the other side of the side wing 1336b is connected to the middle support block 133a of the side track assembly 13a, so as to further increase the support area of ​​the back of the flexible display module.

[0173] In other embodiments, all the intermediate support blocks of the track components can be connected by side wings, thereby maximizing the support area on the back of the flexible display module.

[0174] The surface of the support block (first support block 112 or second support block 122) in the second auxiliary slide 13362b facing the flexible display module is flush with the surface of the middle support block 133b closest to the flexible display module, which can produce a better support effect for the flexible display module.

[0175] Optionally, the surface of the intermediate support block 133b facing the flexible display module 2 has an auxiliary slide rail 13363b. The auxiliary slide rail 13363b is used to cooperate with the slider (not shown) on the back of the flexible display module 2 (which can be the aforementioned intermediate slider or side slider) to limit the flexible display module 2 and further improve the flatness of the flexible display module 2.

[0176] Figure 20 yes Figure 16 A schematic diagram of the structure of the central support device after removing the intermediate support block. (See diagram below.) Figure 20As shown, only one end of a portion of the first guide rail is provided with a first limiting structure, and only one end of a portion of the second guide rail is provided with a second limiting structure.

[0177] It should be noted that, Figure 16 and Figure 17 The support device shown can also be used with Figure 15 It combines circuit structures such as PCB, FPC, and interface board with driving structures.

[0178] This disclosure also provides a vehicle, which includes a housing and a display device installed in the housing. The display device can be any of the aforementioned display devices.

[0179] Optionally, the means of transport may include, but are not limited to, cars, trains, ships, or airplanes.

[0180] The above description is not intended to limit this disclosure in any way. Although this disclosure has been disclosed above through embodiments, it is not intended to limit this disclosure. Any person skilled in the art can make some modifications or alterations to the above-disclosed technical content to create equivalent embodiments without departing from the scope of the technical solution of this disclosure. Any simple modifications, equivalent changes and alterations made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of this disclosure without departing from the content of the technical solution of this disclosure shall still fall within the scope of the technical solution of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A support device for supporting a flexible display module, characterized in that, include: Movable housing, fixed housing, and multiple guide rail assemblies; The movable housing is fixedly connected to the flexible display module; The plurality of guide rail assemblies are arranged at intervals along a first direction, which is perpendicular to the thickness direction of the flexible display module and perpendicular to the expansion and contraction direction of the support device. The guide rail assembly includes a first guide rail, a second guide rail, and an intermediate support block. The intermediate support block has a first guide rail groove and a second guide rail groove arranged in parallel. One end of the first guide rail is fixedly connected to the movable housing. At least a portion of the first guide rail is located in the first guide rail groove and is movable along the first guide rail groove. One end of the second guide rail is fixedly connected to the fixed housing. At least a portion of the second guide rail is located in the second guide rail groove and is movable along the second guide rail groove.

2. The support device of claim 1, wherein At least one of the guide rail assemblies further includes a first limiting structure and / or a second limiting structure. The first limiting structure is located at the other end of the first guide rail, and the first limiting structure is used to limit the position of the first guide rail in the first guide rail groove in a first direction and a second direction; The second limiting structure is located at the other end of the second guide rail, and the second limiting structure is used to limit the position of the second guide rail in the second guide rail groove in the first direction and the second direction; Wherein, the first direction is perpendicular to the second direction and the expansion / contraction direction of the support device, and the second direction is the thickness direction of the flexible display module.

3. The support device of claim 2, wherein, The first limiting structure includes a first rolling element and a second rolling element. The first rolling element and the second rolling element are arranged at intervals along the length direction of the first guide rail and are both connected to the first guide rail. The rotation axis of the first rolling element extends along the first direction, and the rotation axis of the second rolling element extends along the second direction. Both the first rolling element and the second rolling element are in contact with the side wall of the first guide groove.

4. The support apparatus of claim 2, wherein The second limiting structure includes a third rolling element and a fourth rolling element. The third rolling element and the fourth rolling element are arranged at intervals along the length direction of the second guide rail and are both connected to the second guide rail. The rotation axis of the third rolling element extends along the first direction, and the rotation axis of the fourth rolling element extends along the second direction. Both the third and fourth rolling elements are in contact with the sidewall of the second guide groove.

5. Support device according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that The plurality of guide rail assemblies includes a side guide rail assembly, which is located at the edge of the flexible display module. Within the side guide rail assembly... The surface of the second guide rail away from the flexible display module has a first guide groove, and the surface of the second guide rail facing the first guide rail has a second guide groove. The length direction of the first guide groove and the length direction of the second guide groove are the same as the extension direction of the second guide rail groove. The intermediate support block includes a top wall, a partition, a first guide plate, and a second guide plate. The top wall is located on the side of the second guide rail and the first guide rail away from the flexible display module. The partition is located on the side of the top wall facing the flexible display module and is connected to the top wall. The first guide plate is parallel to the partition and is connected to the top wall. The second guide plate is connected to the side of the partition away from the top wall. The top wall, the partition, the first guide plate, and the second guide plate form the second guide rail groove. The first guide plate is slidably engaged with the first guide groove, and the second guide plate is slidably engaged with the second guide groove.

6. The support apparatus of claim 5, wherein In the side rail assembly, the surface of the first rail facing the second rail has a third guide groove, and the length direction of the third guide groove is the same as the extension direction of the first rail groove. The intermediate support block also includes a third guide plate and a side wall. The third guide plate is connected to the side of the partition away from the top wall. The side wall is located on the side of the top wall facing the flexible display module and is connected to the top wall. The top wall, the side wall and the partition form the first guide rail groove. The third guide plate is slidably fitted with the third guide groove.

7. The support apparatus of claim 5, wherein The flexible display module has multiple side sliders, which are spaced apart along the expansion and contraction direction of the support device. The surface of the second guide rail facing the flexible display module has side rails for engaging with the plurality of side sliders.

8. The support device according to any one of claims 1 to 4 and 6 to 7, characterized in that The intermediate support block includes a body, a first limiting member and a second limiting member. The first guide groove and the second guide groove penetrate the first surface and the second surface of the body. The first surface and the second surface of the body are two opposite surfaces of the body in the extension and retraction direction of the support device. The first limiting member is located on the first surface of the body and connected to the body, and is used to restrict the first guide rail from disengaging from the first guide rail groove; The second limiting member is located on the second surface of the body and connected to the body, and is used to restrict the second guide rail from disengaging from the second guide rail groove.

9. The support apparatus of claim 8, wherein, The first limiting member includes a first connecting part and a first limiting part connected together. The first connecting part is connected to the first surface of the body, and the first limiting part covers a portion of the opening of the first guide groove on the first surface of the body. The first guide rail has a first limiting groove and a first stop. The first limiting groove extends from the end of the first guide rail connected to the movable housing along the length of the first guide rail toward the end of the first guide rail away from the movable housing. The first stop is located at the end of the first limiting groove away from the movable housing.

10. The support apparatus of claim 9, wherein, The second limiting member includes a second connecting part and a second limiting part connected together. The second connecting part fits against the second surface of the body, and the second limiting part covers a portion of the opening of the second guide groove on the second surface of the body. The second guide rail has a second limiting groove and a second stop. The second limiting groove extends from one end of the second guide rail connected to the fixed housing along the length of the second guide rail toward the end of the second guide rail away from the fixed housing. The second stop is located at the end of the second limiting groove away from the fixed housing.

11. The support apparatus of claim 8, wherein, The movable housing includes a crossbeam and a plurality of first support blocks, the plurality of first support blocks being arranged at intervals along the first direction and connected to the crossbeam; The fixed housing includes a base plate and a plurality of second support blocks, the plurality of second support blocks being arranged at intervals along the first direction and connected to one side of the base plate; When the support device is in the retracted state, the plurality of first support blocks, the plurality of intermediate support blocks, and the plurality of second support blocks are arranged side by side in the first direction. The intermediate support block also includes a side wing, which is located on one side of the body and connected to the body in the first direction. The side wing has multiple auxiliary sliding grooves, each of which slides in cooperation with one of the first support blocks or one of the second support blocks.

12. The support apparatus of claim 11, wherein, The plurality of auxiliary slides include at least one first auxiliary slide and at least one second auxiliary slide, wherein the opening of the first auxiliary slide is located on the surface of the side wing away from the flexible display module, and the opening of the second auxiliary slide is located on the surface of the side wing close to the flexible display module. A portion of the second support block is located in the first auxiliary slide groove, and another portion of the second support block is located in the second auxiliary slide groove; and / or, a portion of the first support block is located in the first auxiliary slide groove, and another portion of the first support block is located in the second auxiliary slide groove.

13. The support device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The flexible display module has multiple sliders, which are spaced apart along the expansion and contraction direction of the support device. The surface of the intermediate support block facing the flexible display module has auxiliary slide rails for cooperating with the plurality of sliders.

14. The support device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, 6 to 7 and 9 to 13, characterized in that, The movable housing includes a crossbeam and a plurality of first support blocks, the plurality of first support blocks being arranged at intervals along the first direction and connected to the crossbeam; The fixed housing includes a base plate and a plurality of second support blocks. The plurality of second support blocks are arranged at intervals along the first direction and connected to one side of the base plate. The plurality of second support blocks and the base plate form a V-shaped structure. When the support device is in a retracted state, the plurality of first support blocks, the plurality of intermediate support blocks, and the plurality of second support blocks are arranged side by side in the first direction, and the base plate is located on the side of the plurality of second support blocks away from the flexible display module.

15. The support apparatus of claim 14, wherein, The flexible display module has at least one intermediate slider group, the intermediate slider group includes multiple intermediate sliders, and the multiple intermediate sliders are arranged at intervals along the expansion and contraction direction of the support device. At least one of the second support blocks has an intermediate slide rail on the side facing the flexible display module that cooperates with the plurality of intermediate sliders.

16. A display device comprising a flexible display module and a support device as described in any one of claims 1 to 15.

17. The display device of claim 16, wherein, It also includes a printed circuit board, a flexible printed circuit board, and an interface board. The printed circuit board is located on the side of the movable housing away from the flexible display module and is fixedly connected to the movable housing. One end of the flexible printed circuit board is connected to the printed circuit board, and the other end is connected to the interface board.

18. A vehicle, characterized by It includes a housing and a display device as described in claim 16 or 17, which is installed in the housing.

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