Rotating shaft mechanism and foldable electronic device

Abstract

The application provides a rotating shaft mechanism and a foldable electronic device. The rotating shaft mechanism is applied to a foldable electronic device with a folding screen and comprises a base, a first surface of the base facing the folding screen, and a second surface opposite to the first surface, a first through hole being arranged on the base and penetrating the first surface and the second surface; a cover plate, the cover plate being arranged on the first surface, the cover plate having a third surface facing the first surface, a first welding column being fixedly arranged on the third surface, a front end of the first welding column extending into the first through hole and being welded and fixed with the first through hole. The application can improve the extrusion resistance of the folding screen of the foldable electronic device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of electronic device technology, and in particular to a pivot mechanism and a foldable electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of terminal technology, users have increasingly higher demands for electronic devices that are large in size and easy to carry. As a result, foldable electronic devices with foldable screens (such as foldable phones) have received widespread attention. Foldable electronic devices can be unfolded when in use to provide a larger display interface and enhance the user's visual experience, and folded when not in use for convenient storage and carrying.

[0003] As a key component for enabling the folding function of foldable electronic devices, the hinge mechanism can drive the foldable screen to flatten or fold during the unfolding and closing of the electronic device. However, in existing hinge mechanisms, the cover plate and base are assembled by screw fastening, and there are obvious screw holes on the side of the cover plate facing the foldable screen. The area where the screw holes are located cannot provide reliable support for the foldable screen, thereby reducing the impact resistance of the foldable screen. Utility Model Content

[0004] This application provides a pivot mechanism and a foldable electronic device, which can improve the compression resistance of the foldable screen of the foldable electronic device.

[0005] In a first aspect, a pivot mechanism is provided for use in a foldable electronic device with a foldable screen, comprising: a base having a first surface facing the foldable screen and a second surface opposite to the first surface, the base having a first through hole penetrating the first surface and the second surface; a cover plate covering the first surface, the cover plate having a third surface facing the first surface, a first welding post being fixedly disposed on the third surface, the front end of the first welding post extending into the first through hole and being welded and fixed to the first through hole.

[0006] According to the rotating shaft mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application, a first through hole is provided on the base, which penetrates both sides (i.e., the first surface and the second surface) along the thickness direction. A first welding post is fixedly provided on the surface of the cover plate facing the base (i.e., the third surface). The front end of the first welding post extends into the first through hole, and the first welding post can be welded and fixed in the first through hole on the side of the base away from the folding screen, thereby realizing the welding assembly of the cover plate and the base.

[0007] This application achieves a fixed connection between the cover plate and the base through welding, and the welding position is located on the surface of the base away from the folding screen, which is equivalent to the traditional screw fastening method. The cover plate of the pivot mechanism provided in this application embodiment does not need to be made with screw holes, and the side of the cover plate facing the folding is flatter, which can improve the support performance of the folding screen, thereby improving the impact resistance of the folding screen, avoiding the appearance of bright spots on the folding screen, improving the flatness of the folding screen in the unfolded state, reducing creases and bumps on the folding screen, improving the light and shadow refinement of the folding screen, and improving the user experience.

[0008] In one possible design, there are multiple first welded pillars distributed at different locations on the edge of the third surface.

[0009] The above settings ensure the reliable connection between the cover plate and the base.

[0010] For example, multiple first welded posts can be arranged sequentially at intervals along the circumferential edge of the third surface, thereby ensuring that the cover plate and the base can be reliably connected in any orientation.

[0011] In one possible design, the first welded columns are arranged in pairs along the width direction of the base, and multiple pairs of the first welded columns are spaced apart along the length direction of the base.

[0012] Considering that components such as swing arms are usually distributed in pairs on both sides of the width direction of the base, and multiple pairs of swing arms are spaced apart along the length direction of the base, this application sets the first welding column in a similar manner, so that the setting position of the first welding column corresponds to the possible stress position, thereby improving the connection reliability between the cover plate and the base, and ensuring that each swing arm can be reliably installed (held) on the base (spindle).

[0013] For example, two first welded columns arranged in pairs are distributed on both sides of the base width direction, and are symmetrically arranged with respect to the center line of the base.

[0014] In one possible design, the cover plate is a rectangular plate (e.g., a rounded rectangular plate), and there are four first welded posts, which are distributed one-to-one at the four corners of the rectangular plate.

[0015] By setting four first welding posts at the four corners of the rectangular cover plate, the reliability of the connection between the cover plate and the base can be ensured. The area between two first welding posts can also provide installation space for structures such as swing arms, and help ensure that components such as swing arms are reliably installed on the base.

[0016] For example, the two long sides of the cover plate are parallel to the length direction of the base, and the two short sides of the cover plate are parallel to the width direction of the base.

[0017] In one possible design, the first through hole is a stepped hole, including a small diameter section located on one side of the first surface, a large diameter section located on one side of the second surface, and a stepped surface connecting the small diameter section and the large diameter section.

[0018] By setting the first through hole as a stepped hole and placing the large-diameter section on one side of the second surface located on the outer side, it is not only convenient to weld the first welding column to the first through hole, but also because the solder can be contained in the large-diameter section, the surface flatness of the second surface will not be adversely affected by the welding.

[0019] For example, after the front end of the first welding column extends into the first through hole from the first surface, the front end face is flush with the step surface, or the front end face is slightly higher or lower than the step surface. By performing a welding operation on the front end face and the step surface, the welding assembly of the cover plate and the base is achieved.

[0020] In one possible design, a second welding post is fixedly disposed in the middle of the third surface, and a second through hole is disposed on the base, penetrating the first surface and the second surface. The front end of the second welding post extends into the second through hole and is welded and fixed to the second through hole.

[0021] By further configuring a second welding post and a second through hole that are welded together, and placing the second welding post in the middle of the cover plate, the connection reliability between the cover plate and the base can be further improved.

[0022] In one possible design, the first surface is provided with a first arc-shaped groove and a second arc-shaped groove, and the third surface is provided with a first arc-shaped protrusion and a second arc-shaped protrusion. The rotating shaft mechanism further includes a first swing arm and a second swing arm, respectively disposed on both sides of the width direction of the base. The first swing arm includes a first arc-shaped slider, and the second swing arm includes a second arc-shaped slider. The first arc-shaped slider is rotatably disposed between the first arc-shaped groove and the first arc-shaped protrusion. The second arc-shaped slider is rotatably disposed between the second arc-shaped groove and the second arc-shaped protrusion.

[0023] Through the above-mentioned configuration, the first swing arm, the second swing arm, and the base can be rotatably connected by a virtual shaft. This helps to reduce the space occupied by the first swing arm and the second swing arm on the base, thereby facilitating the miniaturization of the rotating shaft mechanism.

[0024] In one possible design, the second through hole is located between the first arc-shaped groove and the second arc-shaped groove, the front end of the first arc-shaped slider is provided with a first clearance opening, and the front end of the second arc-shaped slider is provided with a second clearance opening; when the rotating shaft mechanism is in a flattened state, the second welding column is accommodated inside the first clearance opening and the second clearance opening.

[0025] This application improves the connection reliability between the cover plate and the base by placing a second through hole between the first and second arc-shaped grooves, i.e., by placing a second welding post between the first and second arc-shaped sliders. The placement of the second welding post corresponds to the main stress-bearing position of the cover plate. Furthermore, because clearance openings are provided on the front edges of the two arc-shaped sliders, the second welding post can be accommodated within these openings in the flattened state. This helps reduce the width dimension of the main shaft and facilitates a miniaturized design of the rotating shaft mechanism.

[0026] In one possible design, the cover plate has a clearance through hole in the middle, and when the rotating shaft mechanism is in a flattened state, the front ends of the first arc-shaped slider and the second arc-shaped slider are accommodated in the clearance through hole.

[0027] The above-mentioned design facilitates the reduction of the spindle's thickness dimension and enables the miniaturization of the rotating shaft mechanism.

[0028] In one possible design, the first arc-shaped slider has a third arc-shaped groove on its arc-shaped side facing the third surface, and the second arc-shaped slider has a fourth arc-shaped groove on its arc-shaped side facing the third surface; the third surface also has a third arc-shaped protrusion that engages with the third arc-shaped groove, and a fourth arc-shaped protrusion that engages with the fourth arc-shaped groove.

[0029] Through the above-mentioned configuration, this application enables the third arc-shaped protrusion to be inserted into or extended into the third arc-shaped groove, and the fourth arc-shaped protrusion to be inserted into or extended into the fourth arc-shaped protrusion. This allows the cover plate and base to better guide and limit the rotation of the arc-shaped slider, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the swing arm rotation.

[0030] In one possible design, there are multiple cover plates, and each cover plate is arranged sequentially along the length of the base.

[0031] This application enables more flexible cover plate configuration by setting the cover plate as a larger number of small plate structures instead of a single large strip plate. The cover plate can be configured as needed to meet the installation requirements of different components.

[0032] For example, multiple cover plates can be configured in a one-to-one correspondence with multiple first swing arms (second swing arms), such as four of each. This not only helps to make the pivot mechanism thinner and lighter, but also helps to ensure the installation reliability of each swing arm.

[0033] In a second aspect, a foldable electronic device is provided, comprising a first housing, a second housing, a foldable screen, and a hinge mechanism provided by any possible design in the first aspect, wherein the first housing and the second housing are respectively connected to opposite sides of the hinge mechanism; the foldable screen continuously covers the first housing, the hinge mechanism, and the second housing, and the foldable screen is fixedly connected to the first housing and the second housing.

[0034] Understandably, the foldable electronic device provided in the second aspect above includes the hinge mechanism provided in the first aspect above. Therefore, the beneficial effects it can achieve can be referred to the beneficial effects in the corresponding hinge mechanism provided above, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0035] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism in current technology.

[0036] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a foldable electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0037] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 The foldable electronic device shown is a side view when it is folded.

[0038] Figure 4 This is a side view of a foldable electronic device in a folded state, as provided in another embodiment of this application.

[0039] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another example of a foldable electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0040] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 The foldable electronic device shown is a side view when it is folded.

[0041] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0042] Figure 8 This is an exploded view of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0043] Figure 9 This is a connection diagram of a portion of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0044] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the cover plate provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0045] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first surface of the base provided in the embodiment of this application.

[0046] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second surface of the base provided in the embodiment of this application.

[0047] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first swing arm provided in the embodiment of this application.

[0048] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second swing arm provided in the embodiment of this application.

[0049] Figure 15 yes Figure 9 Sectional view at point AA.

[0050] Figure 16 yes Figure 9 Sectional view at point BB.

[0051] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the cover plate and the swing arm.

[0052] Figure label:

[0053] 1. Spindle; 1a. Base; 1b. Cover plate; 2. First swing arm; 3. Second swing arm; 4. Screw holes;

[0054] 01. Foldable electronic device; 10. Foldable screen; 11. First part; 12. Second part; 13. Third part; 14. Fourth part; 15. Fifth part; 20. Support device; 21. First housing; 22. Second housing; 23. Rotating mechanism; 24. Third housing; 25. Second rotating mechanism; 30. Sub-screen;

[0055] 23a. Main spindle; 23b. First rotating assembly; 23c. Second rotating assembly;

[0056] 231. Base; 2311. First arc-shaped groove; 2312. Second arc-shaped groove; 2313. First through hole; 2314. Second through hole; 2315. Stepped surface; 2316. First surface; 2317. Second surface;

[0057] 232. Cover plate; 2321. First arc-shaped protrusion; 2322. Second arc-shaped protrusion; 2323. Third arc-shaped protrusion; 2324. Fourth arc-shaped protrusion; 2325. First welded post; 2326. Second welded post; 2327. Clearance through hole; 2328. Third surface;

[0058] 233, First swing arm; 2331, First arc-shaped slider; 2332, First connecting end; 2333, Third arc-shaped groove; 2334, First clearance opening;

[0059] 234. Second swing arm; 2341. Second arc-shaped slider; 2342. Second connecting end; 2343. Fourth arc-shaped groove; 2344. Second clearance opening;

[0060] 235. First connecting component; 2351. First rotating shaft; 2352. Second rotating shaft;

[0061] 236. Second connecting component; 2361. Third rotating shaft; 2362. Fourth rotating shaft;

[0062] 237. First housing fixing frame;

[0063] 238. Second housing fixing bracket. Detailed Implementation

[0064] The embodiments of this application are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain this application, and should not be construed as limiting this application.

[0065] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation" and "connection" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows communication between the components; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication between two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0066] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "upper", "lower", "side", "front", "rear", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the installation orientation or positional relationship, and are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0067] It should also be noted that in the embodiments of this application, the same reference numerals are used to represent the same component or part. For the same part in the embodiments of this application, the reference numerals may only be used to mark one part or component as an example. It should be understood that the reference numerals are also applicable to other identical parts or components.

[0068] Hereinafter, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of embodiments of this application, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0069] In this article, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this article generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0070] Currently, to address the issues of large size and inconvenience in carrying traditional tablets, foldable electronic devices with foldable screens have emerged. Foldable electronic devices can be unfolded when in use to provide a larger display interface and enhance the user's visual experience, and folded when not in use for easy storage and portability. Currently, common foldable electronic devices on the market include bi-fold or tri-fold foldable phones and foldable laptops.

[0071] Foldable screen devices typically include a foldable screen and a support device that carries the foldable screen. The support device includes two side shells and a pivot mechanism connecting the two side shells. As a key component for realizing the folding function, the pivot mechanism is used to enable the relative rotation of the two side shells, thereby allowing the foldable screen to be flattened or folded.

[0072] Figure 1 This is a structural schematic diagram of a rotating shaft mechanism in related technologies, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the pivot mechanism typically includes a main shaft 1, a first swing arm 2, and a second swing arm 3. The first swing arm 2 and the second swing arm 3 are arranged in pairs and are positioned on both sides of the main shaft 1 in the width direction. The main shaft 1 includes a base 1a and a cover plate 1b. The cover plate 1b covers the base 1a and forms an installation space between the two for the first swing arm 2 and the second swing arm 3. The ends of the first swing arm 2 and the second swing arm 3 closest to the main shaft 1 are rotatably mounted in this installation space, while the ends furthest from the main shaft 1 are respectively connected to the corresponding side of the housing. The first swing arm 2 and the second swing arm 3 can rotate around the main shaft 1; for example, their distal ends can move closer or further apart, thereby achieving relative rotation of the two housings and realizing the flattening or folding of the folding screen.

[0073] like Figure 1As shown, in the related technology, the cover plate 1b and the base 1a are assembled by screw fastening, and the cover plate 1b is located between the base 1a and the folding screen (not shown in the figure). To achieve the screw connection, the circumferential edge of the cover plate 1b is provided with multiple screw holes 4 (e.g., ...). Figure 1 (The four screws in the picture) have their front ends inserted from the side of the base 1a away from the folding screen and screwed into the screw hole 4, thereby achieving a tight connection between the cover plate 1b and the base 1a.

[0074] like Figure 1 As shown, the screw hole 4 penetrates the cover plate 1b. Even on the side of the cover plate 1b facing the foldable screen, the screw hole 4 is quite noticeable. The area where the screw hole 4 is located cannot reliably support the foldable screen, thus reducing the foldable screen's impact and compression resistance. This further makes the foldable screen more prone to impact-induced chipping, and the display area of ​​the foldable screen located in the axis region is prone to creases or bumps. It also affects the light and shadow refinement of the foldable screen, resulting in a poor user experience.

[0075] Furthermore, due to the difficulty in controlling the force of the screws in this assembly method, different screw-locking forces can lead to the inability to precisely control the fit between the cover plate 1b, the swing arm, and the base 1a. This may result in the swing arm rotating unevenly, causing serious problems such as jamming and abnormal noise.

[0076] To address the aforementioned issues, this application provides a hinge mechanism and a foldable electronic device that improves the compression and impact resistance of the foldable screen. Specifically, this application uses welding to fix the cover plate of the main shaft to the base, with the welding point located on the surface of the base facing away from the foldable screen, equivalent to a traditional screw fastening method. In this embodiment, the cover plate does not require screw holes, and the side of the cover plate facing the foldable screen is flatter, improving the support performance for the foldable screen, thereby enhancing its impact resistance, preventing bright spots on the foldable screen, improving the flatness of the foldable screen in the unfolded state, reducing creases and bumps, enhancing the light and shadow refinement of the foldable screen, and improving the user experience.

[0077] This application first provides a foldable electronic device, which may be, for example, a mobile phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a tablet computer, a laptop computer, an e-reader, an in-vehicle device, an augmented reality (AR) / virtual reality (VR) device, and a wearable device, but is not limited thereto. Foldable mobile phones, as a common type of foldable electronic device, are gradually becoming more widespread in people's daily lives. This application will use a mobile phone as an example for illustration.

[0078] Specifically, Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an example of the foldable electronic device 01 provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the foldable electronic device 01 includes a foldable screen 10 and a support device 20. The foldable screen 10 is supported and attached to the support device 20, and the support device 20 can drive the foldable screen 10 to switch between a flattened state and a folded state. It is understood that... Figure 2 Only some components of the foldable electronic device 01 are shown schematically; the actual shape, size, location, and construction of these components are not subject to change. Figure 2 The limitations of the structure shown.

[0079] For ease of description in the following embodiments, an XYZ coordinate system is established. When the foldable electronic device 01 is in a flattened or folded state, the width direction of the foldable electronic device 01 is defined as the X-axis, the length direction as the Y-axis, and the thickness direction as the Z-axis. It should be noted that this XYZ coordinate system can be flexibly transformed according to actual needs. The embodiments in this application only provide one possible example and should not be considered as a special limitation of this application.

[0080] The foldable screen 10 is used to display images, videos, and other content. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the foldable screen 10 may include a first portion 11, a second portion 12, and a third portion 13, with the third portion 13 disposed between the first portion 11 and the second portion 12. When the foldable electronic device 01 is in a folded state, the third portion 13 of the foldable screen 10 is bent, and the first portion 11 and the second portion 12 are positioned opposite each other. At least the third portion 13 of the foldable screen 10 is a flexible screen. The first portion 11 and the second portion 12 of the foldable screen 10 may be flexible screens, or they may be non-flexible screens, or they may be partially flexible screens and partially non-flexible screens. Therefore, this application does not impose specific limitations in this regard.

[0081] In some examples, the foldable screen 10 can be an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, an active-matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) display, a mini organic light-emitting diode (MLED) display, a micro organic light-emitting diode (MOLED) display, a quantum dot light-emitting diode (QLED) display, a liquid crystal display (LCD), etc., but is not limited to these.

[0082] The support device 20 is used to support the foldable screen 10. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the support device 20 includes a first housing 21, a second housing 22, and a pivot mechanism 23, which is connected between the first housing 21 and the second housing 22. A foldable screen 10 continuously covers the first housing 21, the pivot mechanism 23, and the second housing 22. The first housing 21 is fixedly connected to the first part 11 of the foldable screen 10, the second housing 22 is fixedly connected to the second part 12 of the foldable screen 10, and the pivot mechanism 23 is opposite to the third part 13 of the foldable screen 10. The first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are rotatably connected through the pivot mechanism 23, thereby allowing the foldable electronic device 01 to rotate. Figure 2 The flattened state shown and Figure 3 Switch between the shown folded states.

[0083] like Figure 2 As shown, when the foldable electronic device 01 is in a flattened state, the first part 11, the second part 12, and the third part 13 of the foldable screen 10 are on the same plane, ensuring sufficient flatness of the foldable screen 10. In this state, a large-screen display of the foldable electronic device 01 can be achieved, providing a better user experience. For example, when watching a movie, the user can use a large screen to watch, which enhances the viewing experience.

[0084] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 The foldable electronic device 01 shown is a side view when it is in a folded state. Figure 3As shown, when the foldable electronic device 01 is in the folded state, the first part 11 and the second part 12 of the foldable screen 10 are opposite each other, the third part 13 is bent, and the support device 20 covers the outside of the foldable screen 10, that is, the foldable screen 10 is located between the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 of the support device 20. In this state, the foldable screen 10 is not visible to the user, to prevent the foldable screen 10 from being scratched or damaged, thereby providing effective protection for the foldable screen 10. Exemplarily, when the device is not in use, the foldable electronic device 01 can be folded and placed to avoid damage to the screen, while also making it convenient for the user to carry.

[0085] Figure 4 This is a side view of a foldable electronic device 01 in a folded state, as provided in another embodiment of this application. Figure 4 As shown, the foldable electronic device 01 may also include a secondary screen 30 (also referred to as an outer screen or rear screen). The secondary screen 30 is located on the side of the first housing 21 opposite to the foldable screen 10. When the foldable electronic device 01 is folded, the secondary screen 30 can display image content, allowing users to operate it with one hand, thus diversifying the usage scenarios of the foldable electronic device 01. For example, when a user is riding public transportation, one hand may need to hold the handrail. In this case, the secondary screen 30 can be used to display information for one-handed operation, further enhancing the user experience.

[0086] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of another example of a foldable electronic device 01 provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 6 yes Figure 5 The foldable electronic device 01 shown is a side view when it is in a folded state. (Compared to the aforementioned...) Figures 2-4 The foldable electronic device 01 shown has a double-folding configuration. Figure 5 and Figure 6 A foldable electronic device 01 in a three-fold configuration is shown, such as... Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, in this embodiment, the support device 20 includes three housings and two rotating shaft mechanisms.

[0087] Specifically, the support device 20 includes a first housing 21, a second housing 22, a third housing 24, a pivot mechanism 23, and a second pivot mechanism 25. The pivot mechanism 23 is located between the first housing 21 and the second housing 22, and the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 are rotatably connected via the pivot mechanism 23. The second pivot mechanism 25 is located between the first housing 21 and the third housing 24, and the first housing 21 and the third housing 24 are rotatably connected via the second pivot mechanism 25. When in use, the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 can rotate towards or away from each other under the action of the pivot mechanism 23, and the first housing 21 and the third housing 24 can rotate towards or away from each other under the action of the second pivot mechanism 25. This allows the electronic device to close and unfold according to different usage scenarios, meeting different user needs.

[0088] The foldable screen 10 is continuously covered on the third housing 24, the second pivot mechanism 25, the first housing 21, the pivot mechanism 23, and the second housing 22. The third housing 24 is fixedly connected to the fourth part 14 of the foldable screen 10. The second pivot mechanism 25 is opposite to the fifth part 15 of the foldable screen. The first housing 21 is fixedly connected to the first part 11 of the foldable screen 10. The pivot mechanism 23 is opposite to the third part 13 of the foldable screen 10. The second housing 22 is fixedly connected to the second part 12 of the foldable screen 10.

[0089] like Figure 5 As shown, when the foldable electronic device 01 is in a flattened state, the third housing 24, the second pivot mechanism 25, the first housing 21, the pivot mechanism 23, and the second housing 22 are arranged side by side in sequence. The first part 11, the second part 12, the third part 13, the fourth part 14, and the fifth part 15 of the foldable screen 10 are on the same plane, ensuring that the foldable screen 10 has sufficient flatness. In this state, the foldable electronic device 01 can achieve a large-screen display, providing users with a better viewing experience.

[0090] like Figure 6 As shown, when the foldable electronic device 01 is in the folded state, the third housing 24 and the second housing 22 can be folded onto the sides of the first housing 21, respectively. This folding method can be regarded as a "Z" shaped fold or an "S" shaped fold. At this time, the first part 11 and the second part 12 of the foldable screen 10 are opposite each other, and the third part 13 is bent. The above three parts are covered by the support device 20, that is, hidden inside the folded part of the electronic device. The fifth part 15 of the foldable screen 10 is bent and covered on the outside of the second pivot mechanism 25, and the fourth part 14 of the foldable screen 10 is exposed on the outside, which can serve as an appearance surface of the electronic device in the folded state. Image content can be displayed using the fourth part 14, thereby making the application scenarios of the foldable electronic device 01 more diversified.

[0091] It should be understood that, relative to Figure 5 The flattened state shown and Figure 6 The folded state shown illustrates that the foldable electronic device 01 can have many other usage configurations, which are not specifically limited in this application. For example, in Figure 6 Based on this, the first shell 21 and the second shell 22 can remain unfolded. At this time, the first part 11, the second part 12 and the third part 13 of the foldable screen 10 are unfolded, and users can perform human-computer interaction through the above three parts of the foldable screen 10, thereby meeting the user's usage needs in different scenarios.

[0092] The above Figures 2-6 The present invention illustrates a foldable electronic device 01 in a double-fold or triple-fold configuration. The foldable electronic device 01 provided in this application embodiment may also be an electronic device in other folding configurations. For example, the foldable electronic device 01 may be a foldable mobile phone with an inward folding configuration, or a foldable mobile phone with an outward folding configuration, or a laptop or tablet computer with an inward folding configuration, or an electronic device with a four-fold, five-fold, or more folding configuration. This application does not limit the scope of the invention.

[0093] Furthermore, the pivot mechanism 23 in the foregoing embodiments is mainly used for inward folding of the folding screen 10. In other examples, the pivot mechanism 23 can also be used for outward folding of the folding screen 10. The second pivot mechanism 25 in the foregoing embodiments is mainly used for outward folding of the folding screen 10. In other examples, the second pivot mechanism 25 can also be used for inward folding of the folding screen 10. This application does not limit this.

[0094] Based on this, please refer to Figure 7 , Figure 8 as well as Figure 9 , Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 provided in the embodiment of this application. Figure 8 This is an exploded view of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 9 This is a connection diagram of a portion of the rotating shaft mechanism 23 provided in an embodiment of this application. Wherein, Figure 7 and Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the hinge mechanism 23 when the foldable electronic device 01 (foldable screen 10) is in a flattened state.

[0095] The aforementioned rotating shaft mechanism 23 includes a main shaft 23a, a first rotating assembly 23b, and a second rotating assembly 23c. The main shaft 23a serves as the supporting component for the first rotating assembly 23b and the second rotating assembly 23c. The first rotating assembly 23b and the second rotating assembly 23c are respectively disposed on both sides of the main shaft 23a, and the first rotating assembly 23b and the second rotating assembly 23c can be symmetrically arranged relative to the main shaft 23a.

[0096] One end of the first rotating component 23b is rotatably connected to the main shaft 23a, and the other end is connected to the aforementioned first housing 21. One end of the second rotating component 23c is rotatably connected to the main shaft 23a, and the other end is connected to the aforementioned second housing 22. The first rotating component 23b and the second rotating component 23c can rotate relative to the main shaft 23a (e.g., rotate synchronously) to drive the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 to rotate relative to each other, thereby enabling the foldable electronic device 01 to switch between a flattened state and a folded state.

[0097] It is worth mentioning that, although not shown, the pivot mechanism 23 provided in this application embodiment may also include a synchronization component. The synchronization component is used to synchronize the movement of the first rotating component 23b and the second rotating component 23c relative to the main shaft 23a, so that the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 rotate synchronously, thereby ensuring the stability and reliability of the support device 20. The pivot mechanism 23 provided in this application embodiment may also include a damping component. The damping component is used to provide damping force to ensure the stability of the support device 20 in the flattened state, folded state, and state transition process, improving the operational feel of the foldable electronic device 01. The aforementioned synchronization component and damping component may both be connected to the main shaft 23a. Other functional components may also be connected to the main shaft 23a; this application does not limit this.

[0098] Please continue reading. Figures 7-9 The first rotating assembly 23b includes a first swing arm 233, a first connecting member 235, and a first housing fixing frame 237. One end of the first swing arm 233 is rotatably connected to the main shaft 23a, and the other end is drive-connected to the first housing fixing frame 237 via the first connecting member 235. The first housing fixing frame 237 is fixedly connected to the first housing 21. For example, the first housing fixing frame 237 can be fixed to the middle frame of the first housing 21 by means of screwing or bonding.

[0099] like Figure 9 As shown, the first rotating assembly 23b may further include a first rotating shaft 2351 and a second rotating shaft 2352. The axes of the two rotating shafts are parallel to each other and do not coincide, and are set along the width direction (i.e., the X-axis direction) of the main shaft 23a. One end of the first swing arm 233 is rotatably connected to the main shaft 23a, and the other end is rotatably connected to the first connecting member 235 through the first rotating shaft 2351. The end of the first connecting member 235 away from the first swing arm 233 is rotatably connected to the first housing fixing frame 237 through the second rotating shaft 2352.

[0100] The first rotating assembly 23b may include a plurality of first swing arms 233, which are arranged parallel to each other and spaced apart along the length direction (i.e., the Y-axis direction) of the main shaft 23a. Each first swing arm 233 is connected to a first housing fixing frame 237 via a first connector 235. For example, there are four first swing arms 233 and four first connectors 235, and two first housing fixing frames 237. The first housing fixing frames 237 can be elongated structures arranged along the length direction of the main shaft 23a, and the two first housing fixing frames 237 are distributed at both ends of the main shaft 23a. Two adjacent first swing arms 233 on one side are each connected to the first housing fixing frame 237 on the same side via a first connector 235, and two adjacent first swing arms 233 on the other side are also each connected to the first housing fixing frame 237 on the other side via a first connector 235.

[0101] Similarly, the second rotating assembly 23c includes a second swing arm 234, a second connecting member 236, and a second housing fixing frame 238. One end of the second swing arm 234 is rotatably connected to the main shaft 23a, and the other end is drive-connected to the second housing fixing frame 238 via the second connecting member 236. The second housing fixing frame 238 is fixedly connected to the second housing 22. For example, the second housing fixing frame 238 can be fixed to the middle frame of the second housing 22 by means of screwing or bonding.

[0102] like Figure 9 As shown, the second rotating assembly 23c may further include a third rotating shaft 2361 and a fourth rotating shaft 2362. The axes of the two rotating shafts are parallel to each other and do not coincide, and are arranged along the width direction of the main shaft 23a. One end of the second swing arm 234 is rotatably connected to the main shaft 23a, and the other end is rotatably connected to the second connector 236 through the third rotating shaft 2361. The end of the second connector 236 away from the second swing arm 234 is rotatably connected to the second housing fixing frame 238 through the fourth rotating shaft 2362.

[0103] The second rotating assembly 23c may include a plurality of second swing arms 234, which are arranged parallel to each other and spaced apart along the length of the main shaft 23a. Each second swing arm 234 is connected to the second housing fixing frame 238 via a second connector 236. For example, there are four second swing arms 234 and four second connectors 236, and two second housing fixing frames 238. The second housing fixing frames 238 can be elongated structures arranged along the length of the main shaft 23a, with the two second housing fixing frames 238 distributed at both ends of the main shaft 23a. Two adjacent second swing arms 234 on one side are each connected to the second housing fixing frame 238 on the same side via a second connector 236, and two adjacent second swing arms 234 on the other side are also each connected to the second housing fixing frame 238 on the other side via a second connector 236.

[0104] like Figures 7-9 As shown, the first swing arm 233 and the second swing arm 234 can be arranged in pairs, respectively located on both sides of the width direction (i.e., the X-axis direction) of the main shaft 23a, and the first swing arm 233 and the second swing arm 234 can be symmetrically arranged with respect to the main shaft 23a. The first swing arm 233 and the second swing arm 234 can be rotatably connected to the main shaft 23a by means of a physical axis or a virtual axis. This application does not limit this, and the rotatable connection method between the swing arm and the main shaft 23a will be further described below.

[0105] In the foldable electronic device 01 by Figure 2 The flattened state shown has been switched to Figure 3 During the folding process shown, please refer to the following: Figure 2 , Figure 3 as well as Figure 7 The first housing 21 and the second housing 22 rotate synchronously and gradually approach each other. The first housing 21 and the second housing 22 respectively drive the first housing fixing frame 237 and the second housing fixing frame 238 to move towards each other. At this time, the first housing fixing frame 237 drives the first swing arm 233 to rotate clockwise around the main shaft 23a through the first connecting member 235, while the second housing fixing frame 238 drives the second swing arm 234 to rotate counterclockwise around the main shaft 23a through the second connecting member 236.

[0106] In the foldable electronic device 01, Figure 3 The folded state shown has switched to Figure 2During the flattening process shown, the first housing 21 and the second housing 22 rotate synchronously and gradually move away from each other. The first housing 21 and the second housing 22 respectively drive the first housing fixing frame 237 and the second housing fixing frame 238 to move in opposite directions. At this time, the first housing fixing frame 237 drives the first swing arm 233 to rotate counterclockwise around the main shaft 23a through the first connecting member 235, while the second housing fixing frame 238 drives the second swing arm 234 to rotate clockwise around the main shaft 23a through the second connecting member 236.

[0107] like Figures 7-9 As shown in this embodiment, the spindle 23a includes a base 231 and a cover plate 232. The cover plate 232 is fixedly fitted onto the base 231, and the base 231 and the cover plate 232 together form a mounting chamber to provide mounting and movement space for the aforementioned rotating components (e.g., swing arms), synchronization components, and damping components. For example, the mounting chamber formed between the base 231 and the cover plate 232 is used to mount the aforementioned first swing arm 233 and second swing arm 234.

[0108] In some examples, there are multiple cover plates 232, which are sequentially spaced along the length of the base 231 (i.e., the length of the main shaft 23a, the Y-axis direction). This application, by setting the cover plates 232 as a larger number of small plate structures instead of a single large strip, allows for more flexible arrangement of the cover plates 232. The cover plates 232 can be configured as needed to meet the installation requirements of different components. For example, multiple cover plates 232 can be arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with multiple first swing arms 233 (second swing arms 234), for example, four of each. This not only helps to make the rotating shaft mechanism thinner and lighter but also helps to ensure the installation reliability of each swing arm.

[0109] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the cover plate 232 provided in the embodiment of this application. Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first surface 2316 of the base 231 provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second surface 2317 of the base 231 provided in the embodiments of this application. The following is a description of the structure in conjunction with... Figures 10-12 The assembly method of the base 231 and the cover plate 232 of this application will be further described.

[0110] like Figures 10-12As shown, the base 231 has a first surface 2316 facing the folding screen 10 and a second surface 2317 opposite to the first surface 2316. The second surface 2317 is the side surface of the base 231 away from the folding screen 10. The base 231 is provided with a first through hole 2313 penetrating the first surface 2316 and the second surface 2317. The center line of the first through hole 2313 can be parallel to the thickness direction (i.e., the Z-axis direction) of the base 231.

[0111] The cover plate 232 is placed on the first surface 2316. The cover plate 232 has a third surface 2328 facing the first surface 2316. That is, the third surface 2328 and the first surface 2316 are directly opposite each other and spaced apart. A first welding post 2325 is fixedly provided on the third surface 2328. The position of the first welding post 2325 corresponds to the position of the first through hole 2313. The front end of the first welding post 2325 extends into the first through hole 2313 and is welded and fixed to the first through hole 2313, thereby realizing the welding and fixing of the cover plate 232 and the base 231.

[0112] According to the rotating shaft mechanism 23 provided in the embodiment of this application, the base 231 is provided with a first through hole 2313 that penetrates both sides (i.e., the first surface 2316 and the second surface 2317) along the thickness direction. The cover plate 232 is fixedly provided with a first welding post 2325 on the surface (i.e., the third surface 2328) facing the base 231. The front end of the first welding post 2325 extends into the first through hole 2313, and the first welding post 2325 can be welded and fixed in the first through hole 2313 on the side of the base 231 away from the folding screen 10, thereby realizing the welding assembly of the cover plate 232 and the base 231.

[0113] This application achieves a fixed connection between the cover plate 232 and the base 231 by welding, and the welding position is located on the surface of the base 231 facing away from the folding screen 10, which is equivalent to the traditional screw fastening method. The cover plate 232 of the pivot mechanism 23 provided in this application embodiment does not need to be made with screw holes. The side of the cover plate 232 facing the folding screen 10 is flatter, which can improve the support performance of the folding screen 10, thereby improving the impact resistance of the folding screen 10, avoiding the appearance of bright spots on the folding screen 10, improving the flatness of the folding screen 10 in the unfolded state, reducing creases and bumps of the folding screen, improving the light and shadow refinement of the folding screen, and improving the user experience.

[0114] In some examples, the first through hole 2313 and the first welding post 2325 are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence, and the number of the two is the same. Each first welding post 2325 is welded and fixed in the corresponding first through hole 2313, thereby realizing a reliable connection between the cover plate 232 and the base 231. For example, there is one or two, three, four, five or more of both.

[0115] In some examples, the first welded column 2325 and the cover plate 232 can be made into an integral structure by means of casting, forging, 3D printing or powder metallurgy, thereby improving the reliability of their connection.

[0116] In some examples, the front end of the first welding post 2325 is welded to the first through hole 2313, which can be either direct or indirect welding. For example, the first welding post 2325 (e.g., the front or side wall surface) can be welded to the wall or opening of the first through hole 2313. Alternatively, the first welding post 2325 can be welded to a second surface 2317 near the first through hole 2313. Exemplarily, the first welding post 2325 and the first through hole 2313 can be welded using precision welding techniques such as laser welding.

[0117] like Figure 12 As shown, the first through hole 2313 can be configured as a stepped hole, including a small diameter section located on one side of the first surface 2316, a large diameter section located on one side of the second surface 2317, and a stepped surface 2315 connecting the small diameter section and the large diameter section.

[0118] By setting the first through hole 2313 as a stepped hole and setting the large-diameter section on one side of the second surface 2317 located on the outer side, it is not only convenient to weld the first welding column 2325 to the first through hole 2313, but also because the solder can be contained in the large-diameter section, the surface flatness of the second surface 2317 will not be adversely affected by the welding.

[0119] For example, after the front end of the first welding column 2325 extends from the first surface 2316 into the first through hole 2313, the front end face is flush with the step surface 2315, or the front end face is slightly higher or lower than the step surface 2315. By performing welding operation on the front end face and the step surface 2315, the welding assembly of the cover plate 232 and the base 231 is realized.

[0120] like Figures 10-12 As shown, there are multiple first welding posts 2325, distributed at different positions along the edge of the third surface 2328. Correspondingly, there are also multiple first through holes 2313, each corresponding to one of the multiple first welding posts 2325. This arrangement ensures the reliable connection between the cover plate 232 and the base 231. For example, the multiple first welding posts 2325 can be sequentially spaced along the circumferential edge of the third surface 2328, thereby ensuring a reliable connection between the cover plate 232 and the base 231 in any orientation.

[0121] like Figures 10-12As shown, along the width direction of the base 231, the first welding posts 2325 are arranged in pairs, and along the length direction of the base 231, multiple pairs of the first welding posts 2325 are arranged at intervals, such as two pairs, three pairs, or more pairs. For example, the two pairs of first welding posts 2325 are distributed on both sides of the width direction of the base 231, and the two are symmetrically arranged with respect to the center line of the base 231.

[0122] Considering that components such as swing arms are usually distributed in pairs on both sides of the width direction of the base 231, and multiple pairs of swing arms are spaced apart along the length direction of the base 231, this application sets the first welding post 2325 in a similar manner, so that the setting position of the first welding post 2325 corresponds to the possible stress position, thereby improving the connection reliability between the cover plate 232 and the base 231, and ensuring that each swing arm can be reliably installed (held) on the base 231 (main shaft 23a).

[0123] In some examples, a first welding post 2325 is provided on each side of the length direction of the aforementioned first swing arm 233, and a first welding post 2325 is provided on each side of the length direction of the second swing arm 234. That is, the first swing arm 233 is rotatably mounted on the base 231 between the two first welding posts 2325 on the same side, and the second swing arm 234 is also rotatably mounted on the base 231 between the two first welding posts 2325 on the same side. With the above arrangement, the connection reliability between the cover plate 232 and the base 231 can be improved, and it can be ensured that the first swing arm 233 and the second swing arm 234 are reliably rotatably mounted on the base 231.

[0124] like Figures 10-12 As shown, the cover plate 232 is a rectangular plate (e.g., a rounded rectangular plate), and there are four first welding posts 2325, which are distributed one-to-one at the four corners of the rectangular plate. Correspondingly, there are four first through holes 2313, which are also provided one-to-one with the four first welding posts 2325. For example, the two long sides of the cover plate 232 are parallel to the length direction of the base 231, and the two short sides of the cover plate 232 are parallel to the width direction of the base 231.

[0125] By setting four first welding posts 2325 at the four corners of the rectangular cover plate 232, the connection reliability between the cover plate 232 and the base 231 can be ensured. The area between two first welding posts 2325 can also provide installation space for structures such as swing arms, and help ensure that components such as swing arms are reliably installed on the base 231.

[0126] like Figures 10-12As shown, a second welding post 2326 is fixedly provided in the middle of the third surface 2328 of the cover plate 232. A second through hole 2314 is provided on the base 231, penetrating the first surface 2316 and the second surface 2317. The front end of the second welding post 2326 extends into the second through hole 2314 and is welded and fixed to the second through hole 2314.

[0127] By further configuring a second welding post 2326 and a second through hole 2314 that are welded together, and by placing the second welding post 2326 in the middle of the cover plate 232, the connection reliability between the cover plate 232 and the base 231 can be further improved.

[0128] In some examples, the second welding post 2326 and the second through hole 2314 are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence, and the number of both is the same. Each second welding post 2326 is welded and fixed in the corresponding second through hole 2314, thereby realizing a reliable connection between the cover plate 232 and the base 231. For example, there may be one, two, three, four, five or more of both.

[0129] In some examples, the first welded column 2325, the second welded column 2326 and the cover plate 232 can be made into an integral structure by integral molding processes such as casting, forging, 3D printing or powder metallurgy, thereby improving the reliability of the connection between the welded column and the cover plate 232.

[0130] In some examples, such as Figure 12 As shown, the second through hole 2314 can also be configured as a stepped hole, including a small diameter section located on one side of the first surface 2316, a large diameter section located on one side of the second surface 2317, and a stepped surface 2315 connecting the small diameter section and the large diameter section.

[0131] Building upon this, the embodiments of this application will further describe the structural details of the cover plate 232 and the base 231. Please refer to... Figure 10 , Figure 11 as well as Figures 12-15 ,in, Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first swing arm 233 provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second swing arm 234 provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 15 yes Figure 9 Sectional view at point AA.

[0132] like Figure 10 and Figure 11As shown, the first surface 2316 of the base 231 is provided with a first arc-shaped groove 2311 and a second arc-shaped groove 2312, and the third surface 2328 of the cover plate 232 is provided with a first arc-shaped protrusion 2321 and a second arc-shaped protrusion 2322. The first arc-shaped groove 2311 and the second arc-shaped groove 2312 are distributed on both sides of the width direction of the base 231. The first arc-shaped protrusion 2321 and the first arc-shaped groove 2311 are directly opposite each other with a gap between them, and the second arc-shaped protrusion 2322 and the second arc-shaped groove 2312 are also directly opposite each other with a gap between them.

[0133] like Figures 13-15 As shown, the first swing arm 233 includes a first arc-shaped slider 2331 and a first connecting end 2332. The first arc-shaped slider 2331 is rotatably connected to the base 231, and the first connecting end 2332 is connected to the first housing fixing frame 237 via a first connecting member 235. The second swing arm 234 includes a second arc-shaped slider 2341 and a second connecting end 2342. The second arc-shaped slider 2341 is rotatably connected to the base 231, and the second connecting end 2342 is connected to the second housing fixing frame 238 via a second connecting member 236.

[0134] Furthermore, the first arc-shaped slider 2331 includes two opposing arc surfaces, so that the first arc-shaped slider 2331 presents an arc shape. The first arc-shaped slider 2331 is rotatably disposed in the gap between the first arc-shaped groove 2311 and the first arc-shaped protrusion 2321. Through the mutual sliding cooperation between the upper arc surface of the first arc-shaped slider 2331 and the first arc-shaped protrusion 2321, and the mutual sliding cooperation between the lower arc surface and the first arc-shaped groove 2311, the first arc-shaped slider 2331 can rotate as a whole relative to the base 231, thereby causing the first swing arm 233 to rotate or swing relative to the base 231.

[0135] Similarly, the second arc-shaped slider 2341 includes two opposing arc surfaces, so that the second arc-shaped slider 2341 is arc-shaped. The second arc-shaped slider 2341 is rotatably disposed in the gap between the second arc-shaped groove 2312 and the second arc-shaped protrusion 2322. Through the mutual sliding engagement between the upper arc surface of the second arc-shaped slider 2341 and the second arc-shaped protrusion 2322, and the mutual sliding engagement between the lower arc surface and the second arc-shaped groove 2312, the second arc-shaped slider 2341 can rotate as a whole relative to the base 231, thereby causing the second swing arm 234 to rotate or swing relative to the base 231.

[0136] Through the above-described configuration, this application enables the first swing arm 233, the second swing arm 234, and the base 231 to be rotatably connected via a virtual axis. This reduces the space occupied by the first swing arm 233 and the second swing arm 234 on the base 231, thereby facilitating the miniaturization of the pivot mechanism 23. Furthermore, it is understood that for inward-folding electronic devices, when the first swing arm 233, the second swing arm 234, and the base 231 are rotatably connected via a virtual axis, the axis of rotation of the first swing arm 233 and the second swing arm 234 around the base 231 is located on the side of the base 231 closest to the folding screen 10.

[0137] It is worth mentioning that, in this application, the virtual axis refers to the axis of an arc-shaped structure, and two rotatably connected components can rotate relative to the virtual axis. As the two rotatably connected components rotate relative to each other, the position of the virtual axis remains fixed.

[0138] Furthermore, during assembly, the first swing arm 233 and the second swing arm 234 can be clamped between the base 231 and the cover plate 232 to form a pre-assembled structure. This pre-assembled structure can be placed on a fixing fixture, and then pressed down from the outer surface of the cover plate 232 (i.e., the side facing the folding screen 10) by a pressing fixture. By controlling the pressing force of the pressing fixture, the relative positions of the base 231, the arc-shaped slider (arc arm), and the inside of the cover plate 232 can be adjusted (e.g., adjusting the gap distance between the protrusion and the arc-shaped groove and / or the position of the virtual pivot, etc.), so that the rotation of the swing arm can be smoother and more natural, effectively optimizing the stuttering noise and improving the opening and closing feel of the folding machine.

[0139] Figure 16 yes Figure 9 Sectional view at point BB. Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between cover plate 232 and the swing arm. (See diagram below.) Figure 10 , Figure 11 as well as Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the second through hole 2314 is located between the first arc groove 2311 and the second arc groove 2312. The front end of the first arc slider 2331 is provided with a first clearance opening 2334, and the front end of the second arc slider 2341 is provided with a second clearance opening 2344.

[0140] The positions of the first clearance opening 2334, the second clearance opening 2344, and the second welding post 2326 correspond to each other. When the rotating shaft mechanism 23 is in the flattened state, the second welding post 2326 is accommodated inside the first clearance opening 2334 and the second clearance opening 2344. That is, at least a portion of the second welding post 2326 is accommodated inside the first clearance opening 2334, and at least a portion of the second welding post 2326 is accommodated inside the second clearance opening 2344.

[0141] This application improves the connection reliability between the cover plate 232 and the base 231 by placing the second through hole 2314 between the first arc-shaped groove 2311 and the second arc-shaped groove 2312, that is, by placing the second welding post 2326 between the first arc-shaped slider 2331 and the second arc-shaped slider 2341. The placement position of the second welding post 2326 corresponds to the main stress position of the cover plate 232. In addition, since a clearance opening is provided on the front edge of the two arc-shaped sliders, the second welding post 2326 can be accommodated in the clearance opening in the flattened state. This helps to reduce the width dimension of the main shaft 23a and facilitates the miniaturization design of the rotating shaft mechanism 23.

[0142] like Figure 9 , Figure 10 as well as Figure 15 As shown, a clearance through hole 2327 is provided in the middle of the cover plate 232. When the rotating shaft mechanism 23 is in the flattened state, the front ends of the first arc-shaped slider 2331 and the second arc-shaped slider 2341 are accommodated in the clearance through hole 2327. For example, there can be two clearance through holes 2327, located on both sides of the second welding post 2326, so that the two clearance through holes 2327 can be used to accommodate the front ends of the two arc-shaped sliders on the corresponding side.

[0143] The above-mentioned design facilitates the reduction of the thickness dimension of the spindle 23a and enables the miniaturization of the rotating shaft mechanism 23.

[0144] like Figure 10 , Figure 13 as well as Figure 14 As shown, the first arc-shaped slider 2331 has a third arc-shaped groove 2333 (recessed) on its arc-shaped side facing the third surface 2328, and the second arc-shaped slider 2341 has a fourth arc-shaped groove 2343 (recessed) on its arc-shaped side facing the third surface 2328. The third surface 2328 of the cover plate 232 also has a third arc-shaped protrusion 2323 that is inserted into the third arc-shaped groove 2333, and a fourth arc-shaped protrusion 2324 that is inserted into the fourth arc-shaped groove 2343.

[0145] For example, there can be two third arc-shaped grooves 2333, which are distributed on both sides of the first clearance opening 2334, and two corresponding third arc-shaped protrusions 2323, which are located on both sides of the second welding post 2326; there can be two fourth arc-shaped grooves 2343, which are distributed on both sides of the second clearance opening 2344, and two corresponding fourth arc-shaped protrusions 2324, which are located on both sides of the second welding post 2326. The two third arc-shaped protrusions 2323 and the two fourth arc-shaped protrusions 2324 are symmetrically arranged with respect to the center line of the cover plate 232.

[0146] Through the above-mentioned configuration, this application enables the third arc-shaped protrusion 2323 to be inserted into or extended into the third arc-shaped groove 2333, and the fourth arc-shaped protrusion 2324 to be inserted into or extended into the fourth arc-shaped protrusion 2324. This allows the cover plate 232 and the base 231 to better guide and limit the rotation of the arc-shaped slider, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the swing arm rotation.

[0147] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A rotating shaft mechanism, characterized in that, Applications to foldable electronic devices having a foldable screen (10), including: The base (231) has a first surface (2316) facing the folding screen (10) and a second surface (2317) opposite to the first surface (2316), and the base (231) is provided with a first through hole (2313) penetrating the first surface (2316) and the second surface (2317); A cover plate (232) is provided on the first surface (2316). The cover plate (232) has a third surface (2328) facing the first surface (2316). A first welding post (2325) is fixedly provided on the third surface (2328). The front end of the first welding post (2325) extends into the first through hole (2313) and is welded and fixed to the first through hole (2313).

2. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The number of the first welded pillars (2325) is multiple, and they are distributed at different positions on the edge of the third surface (2328).

3. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, Along the width direction of the base (231), the first welding columns (2325) are arranged in pairs, and along the length direction of the base (231), multiple pairs of the first welding columns (2325) are arranged at intervals.

4. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 3, characterized in that, The cover plate (232) is a rectangular plate, and there are four first welding columns (2325), which are distributed one by one at the four corners of the rectangular plate.

5. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The first through hole (2313) is a stepped hole, including a small diameter section located on one side of the first surface (2316), a large diameter section located on one side of the second surface (2317), and a stepped surface (2315) connecting the small diameter section and the large diameter section.

6. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, A second welding post (2326) is fixedly provided in the middle of the third surface (2328). A second through hole (2314) is provided on the base (231) that penetrates the first surface (2316) and the second surface (2317). The front end of the second welding post (2326) extends into the second through hole (2314) and is welded and fixed to the second through hole (2314).

7. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first surface (2316) is provided with a first arc-shaped groove (2311) and a second arc-shaped groove (2312), and the third surface (2328) is provided with a first arc-shaped protrusion (2321) and a second arc-shaped protrusion (2322). The rotating shaft mechanism further includes: The first swing arm (233) and the second swing arm (234) are respectively disposed on both sides of the base (231) in the width direction. The first swing arm (233) includes a first arc-shaped slider (2331), and the second swing arm (234) includes a second arc-shaped slider (2341). The first arc-shaped slider (2331) is rotatably disposed between the first arc-shaped groove (2311) and the first arc-shaped protrusion (2321); The second arc-shaped slider (2341) is rotatably disposed between the second arc-shaped groove (2312) and the second arc-shaped protrusion (2322).

8. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 7, characterized in that, The second through hole (2314) is located between the first arc groove (2311) and the second arc groove (2312). The front end of the first arc slider (2331) is provided with a first clearance opening (2334), and the front end of the second arc slider (2341) is provided with a second clearance opening (2344). When the rotating shaft mechanism is in a flattened state, the second welding column (2326) is accommodated inside the first clearance opening (2334) and the second clearance opening (2344).

9. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 8, characterized in that, The cover plate (232) is provided with a clearance through hole (2327) in the middle. When the rotating shaft mechanism is in a flattened state, the front ends of the first arc-shaped slider (2331) and the second arc-shaped slider (2341) are accommodated in the clearance through hole (2327).

10. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 7-9, characterized in that, The first arc-shaped slider (2331) has a third arc-shaped groove (2333) on its arc-shaped side facing the third surface (2328), and the second arc-shaped slider (2341) has a fourth arc-shaped groove (2343) on its arc-shaped side facing the third surface (2328). The third surface (2328) is also provided with a third arc-shaped protrusion (2323) that is inserted into the third arc-shaped groove (2333), and a fourth arc-shaped protrusion (2324) that is inserted into the fourth arc-shaped groove (2343).

11. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 1-4 and 7-9, characterized in that, There are multiple cover plates (232), and each cover plate (232) is arranged sequentially along the length direction of the base (231).

12. A foldable electronic device, characterized in that, It includes a first housing (21), a second housing (22), a folding screen (10), and a pivot mechanism as described in any one of claims 1-11, wherein, The first housing (21) and the second housing (22) are respectively connected to opposite sides of the rotating shaft mechanism; The folding screen (10) continuously covers the first housing (21), the pivot mechanism and the second housing (22), and the folding screen (10) is fixedly connected to the first housing (21) and the second housing (22).

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