Hinge mechanism and electronic device

Abstract

The present application provides a hinge mechanism and an electronic device. The hinge mechanism includes a base, and a first rotating assembly and a second rotating assembly respectively disposed on two side portions of the base. When the first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly rotate towards each other, the length of the hinge mechanism may be increased; or when the first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly rotate in opposite directions, the length of the hinge mechanism may be shortened, and a support surface for supporting a flexible display can be formed. According to the hinge mechanism in the present application, the number of components of the hinge mechanism can be reduced, thereby simplifying the structure of the hinge mechanism. Furthermore, in the folding process and the unfolding process, acting forces such as tensile force or compressive force are not applied to the flexible display, thereby improving the use effect and safety of the electronic device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - reference to Related Applications This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202310383872.X, entitled "HINGE MECHANISM AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE", filed with the China National Intellectual Property Administration on March 31, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] This application relates to the field of electronic device technology, and in particular, to hinge mechanisms and electronic devices.

Background Art

[0003] With the gradual maturity of flexible display technology, the display form of electronic devices has changed greatly. Mobile phones with foldable flexible displays, tablet computers with foldable flexible displays, wearable electronic devices with foldable flexible displays, etc. are important evolutionary directions for future intelligent electronic devices.

[0004] Existing foldable electronic devices include a flexible display and a hinge, and the flexible display is deployed and folded via the hinge. In addition to changing the folded state of the electronic device, the hinge is further configured to provide support for the flexible display of the electronic device in different folded states. Taking an inward - foldable electronic device as an example. During the folding or unfolding process, the flexible display is located inside the rotation of the hinge. Since the rotation radius of the flexible display is smaller than that of the hinge, the flexible display tends to be pulled or warped. As a result, the flexible display is damaged after long - term use.

[0005] Furthermore, current hinges typically include a rotation assembly and a slide assembly. The rotation assembly is configured to fold and unfold the hinge, and the slide assembly is configured to limit the rotation direction of the rotation assembly. However, such a hinge structure is complex, has high requirements for manufacturing precision, and has a high manufacturing cost. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present application provides a hinge mechanism and an electronic device such that a rotation assembly implements both rotation and slide functions in order to reduce the number of parts of the hinge mechanism.

[0007] According to a first aspect, the present application provides a hinge mechanism. The hinge mechanism includes a base, a first rotating assembly, and a second rotating assembly, where the first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly are respectively arranged on two sides of the base. Specifically, the first rotating assembly has a first rotating shaft, a first rotating member, a first sliding member, and a first housing support. The first rotating shaft is arranged on a side of the base. The first rotating member is rotatably connected to the base through the first rotating shaft. One end of the first sliding member is rotatably connected to the base, and the other end of the first sliding member is slidably connected to the first rotating member. The first sliding member is slidable relative to the first rotating member in a direction parallel to the first rotating shaft. The first housing support is slidably connected to the first rotating member. The first housing support is slidable relative to the first rotating member in a direction perpendicular to the first rotating shaft. The first sliding member is provided with a first spiral rotating portion, and a first spiral groove is provided on a side of the base close to the first sliding member. The first spiral rotating portion is received in the first spiral groove and rotates in the first spiral groove, whereby the first sliding member slides relative to the first rotating member in a direction parallel to the first rotating shaft. One of the first housing support and the first sliding member is provided with a first inclined groove, and the other of the first housing support and the first sliding member is provided with a first protrusion. When the first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly rotate towards each other, the first protrusion is slidable in the first inclined groove so as to push the first housing support to slide relative to the first rotating member in a direction away from the base. Specifically, the first housing support is provided with the first inclined groove, and the first sliding member is further provided with the first protrusion. The first protrusion is restricted in the first inclined groove.

[0008] Correspondingly, the second rotating assembly has a second rotating shaft, a second rotating member, a second sliding member, and a second housing support. The second rotating shaft is disposed on another side of the base, and the second rotating shaft and the first rotating shaft are arranged in parallel. The second rotating member is rotatably connected to the base through the second rotating shaft. One end of the second sliding member is rotatably connected to the base, and the other end of the second sliding member is slidably connected to the second rotating member. The second housing support is slidably connected to the second rotating member. The second sliding member is provided with a second spiral rotating portion, and a second spiral groove is provided on a side of the base close to the second sliding member. The second spiral rotating portion is received in the second spiral groove and rotates in the second spiral groove, whereby the second sliding member slides relative to the second rotating member in a direction parallel to the second rotating shaft. A second inclined groove is provided in one of the second housing support and the second sliding member, and a second protrusion is provided in the other of the second housing support and the second sliding member. When the first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly rotate towards each other, the second protrusion is slidable in the second inclined groove so as to push the second housing support to slide away from the base relative to the second rotating member. Specifically, the second housing support is provided with the second inclined groove, and the second sliding member is further provided with the second protrusion, and the second protrusion is restricted in the second inclined groove.

[0009] When the hinge mechanism is folded, the first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly rotate towards each other. The first rotating member rotates around the first rotating shaft, and the first sliding member rotates relative to the base. Further, the first sliding member slides relative to the first rotating member in a direction parallel to the first rotating shaft by using the first helical rotating portion and the first helical groove. During the sliding process of the first sliding member, the first protrusion slides simultaneously in the first inclined groove so as to push the first housing support towards the first rotating member in a direction away from the base. Correspondingly, the second rotating member rotates around the second rotating shaft, and the second sliding member rotates relative to the base. Further, the second sliding member slides relative to the second rotating member in a direction parallel to the second rotating shaft by using the second helical rotating portion and the second helical groove. During the sliding process of the second sliding member, the second protrusion slides simultaneously in the second inclined groove so as to push the second housing support towards the second rotating member in a direction away from the base. Both the first housing support and the second housing support slide in a direction away from the base, thereby increasing the length of the hinge mechanism. This ensures that the flexible display is not crushed.

[0010] When the hinge mechanism is deployed, the first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly rotate in opposite directions to each other. The first rotating member rotates around the first rotating shaft, and the first sliding member rotates relative to the base and slides relative to the first rotating member in a direction parallel to the first rotating shaft. Thereby, the first protrusion slides in the first inclined groove so as to push the first housing support toward the first rotating member in a direction approaching the base. The second rotating member rotates around the second rotating shaft, and the second sliding member rotates relative to the base and slides relative to the second rotating member in a direction parallel to the second rotating shaft. Thereby, the second protrusion slides in the second inclined groove so as to push the second housing support toward the second rotating member in a direction approaching the base. Both the first housing support and the second housing support slide in a direction approaching the base, thereby shortening the length of the hinge mechanism. This ensures that the flexible display is not pulled.

[0011] In the hinge mechanism of the present application, when the hinge mechanism is folded, the length of the hinge mechanism may be increased in a direction perpendicular to the base, and the first housing support, the second housing support, and the base may surround the accommodation space. When the hinge mechanism is deployed, the length of the hinge mechanism may be shortened in a direction perpendicular to the base, and the first housing support, the second housing support, and the base may be deployed to form a support surface. In both the folding process and the deployment process, the hinge mechanism does not exert an acting force such as a tensile force or a compressive force on the flexible display. Thereby, the use effect and safety of the electronic device can be improved. Further, the first rotation assembly and the second rotation assembly may each limit the rotation direction. Thereby, the number of components of the hinge mechanism can be reduced, and thus the structure of the hinge mechanism can be simplified. Further, since the structure of the hinge mechanism is simple, when the hinge mechanism is in a folded state, the screen accommodation space for accommodating the flexible display is also larger, and thus the screen accommodation can be performed better. Thereby, the occurrence of creases in the flexible display is prevented.

[0012] In the hinge mechanism, the hinge module may further include a sliding connection member. On the side of the first sliding member close to the first rotating shaft, a first limiting notch is provided. One end of the sliding connection member is restricted at the first limiting notch and covers the first rotating shaft. On the side of the second sliding member close to the second rotating shaft, a second limiting notch is provided. The other end of the sliding connection member is restricted within the second limiting notch and covers the second rotating shaft. When the first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly rotate towards each other or in opposite directions, at least one of the first sliding member and the second sliding member may push the sliding connection member so as to slide in the same direction on the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft. Further, the sliding connection member slides on the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft, thereby pushing the first sliding member and the second sliding member to slide synchronously in the same direction, and thus realizing the synchronous movement of the first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly. Through the combined design of the spiral grooves, synchronous movement can be achieved by combining the first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly with folding structural features with the sliding connection member, without the need to add a complex synchronous module. Thereby, the number of components of the hinge mechanism can be further reduced, and the structure of the hinge mechanism can be simplified.

[0013] The shape of the sliding connection member in the hinge mechanism is not specifically limited. For example, the sliding connection member may be in a cross shape or a linear shape.

[0014] In the hinge mechanism of the present application, the sliding connection between the first rotating member and the first sliding member may be implemented by using a sliding groove and a sliding portion. Specifically, in the technical solution, the first sliding member may be provided with a first sliding groove parallel to the first rotating shaft, and the first rotating member may be provided with a first sliding portion. The first sliding portion is accommodated in the first sliding groove and slides in the first sliding groove, thereby realizing the sliding connection between the first rotating member and the first sliding member. Correspondingly, the second sliding member may be provided with a second sliding groove parallel to the second rotating shaft, and the second rotating member may be provided with a second sliding portion. The second sliding portion is accommodated in the second sliding groove and slides in the second sliding groove, thereby realizing the sliding connection between the second rotating member and the second sliding member. Of course, the positions of the sliding portion and the sliding groove are not limited to the foregoing technical solution. For example, in another technical solution, the first rotating member is provided with a third sliding groove parallel to the first rotating shaft, and the first sliding member is further provided with a third sliding portion. The third sliding portion is accommodated in the third sliding slot and slides in the third sliding groove, thereby realizing the sliding connection between the first rotating member and the first sliding member. The second rotating member is provided with a fourth sliding groove parallel to the second rotating shaft, and the second sliding member is further provided with a fourth sliding portion. The fourth sliding portion is accommodated in the fourth sliding groove and slides in the fourth sliding groove, thereby realizing the sliding connection between the second rotating member and the second sliding member.

[0015] In the technical solution of the present application, in order to improve space utilization and realize miniaturization of the hinge mechanism, the first rotating member and the second rotating member may have a frame structure. Specifically, the first rotating member has a first frame body and a first rotating part. The first frame body surrounds a first hollow region, and the first frame body is slidably connected to a first slide member and a first housing support separately. The first rotating part is arranged on a side portion of the first frame body close to the base, and is rotatably connected to a first rotating shaft. The first slide member includes a first slide block body. The first slide block body is arranged in the first hollow region of the first frame body, and a first spiral rotating part is arranged on a side portion of the first slide block body close to the base. When the first rotating member and the first slide member rotate with respect to the base, the first slide member moves in a direction parallel to the first rotating shaft within the first hollow region.

[0016] Correspondingly, the second rotating member may have a second frame body and a second rotating part. The second frame body surrounds a second hollow region, and the second frame body is slidably connected to a second slide member and a second housing support separately. The second rotating part is arranged on a side portion of the second frame body close to the base, and is rotatably connected to a second rotating shaft. The second slide member includes a second slide block body. The second slide block body is arranged in the second hollow region of the second frame body, and a second spiral rotating part is arranged on a side portion of the second slide block body close to the base. When the second rotating member and the second slide member rotate with respect to the base, the second slide member moves in a direction parallel to the second rotating shaft within the second hollow region.

[0017] In the foregoing technical solution, the first protrusion may be disposed on the first slide block body of the first slide member. The first protrusion passes through the first hollow region and is slidably connected to the first inclined groove. The second protrusion may be disposed on the second slide block body of the second slide member. The second protrusion passes through the second hollow region and is slidably connected to the second inclined groove.

[0018] Furthermore, the shapes of the first protrusion and the second protrusion may not be specifically limited. For example, the shape of a cross-section of the first protrusion parallel to the first slide block body may be circular, elliptical, or rectangular; the shape of a cross-section of the second protrusion parallel to the second slide block body may be circular, elliptical, or rectangular.

[0019] In the hinge mechanism, the first diagonal groove extends in a direction away from the base from the side closer to the base to the side farther from the base, and may form a first included angle with the first rotating shaft, where the first included angle is an acute angle. When the first sliding member slides in a direction parallel to the first rotating shaft, a first included angle is formed between the moving track of the first protrusion and the base. Specifically, the moving track of the first protrusion has a first track component in a direction parallel to the first rotating shaft and a second track component in a direction perpendicular to the base. The second track component of the first protrusion may push the first housing support so as to move relative to the first rotating member in a direction approaching or away from the base. Correspondingly, the second diagonal groove extends in a direction away from the base and may form a second narrow angle with the second rotating shaft, where the second narrow angle is an acute angle. When the second sliding member slides in a direction parallel to the second rotating shaft, a second narrow angle is formed between the moving track of the second protrusion and the base. Specifically, the moving track of the second protrusion has a third track component in a direction parallel to the second rotating shaft and a fourth track component in a direction perpendicular to the base. The fourth track component of the second protrusion may push the second housing support so as to move relative to the second rotating member in a direction approaching or away from the base. In this way, it can be ensured that the flexible display maintains a certain length during the folding process and the unfolding process, and the flexible display is not pulled or warped. Specifically, when the first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly rotate towards each other, the first protrusion slides in a direction approaching the base within the first diagonal groove, and the second protrusion slides in a direction approaching the base within the second diagonal groove.

[0020] When the slide connection between the first housing support and the first rotating member is particularly arranged, the first housing support may be further provided with a first limiting slide groove, where the first limiting slide groove extends in a direction away from the base. The first rotating member is provided with a first limiting slide portion. The first limiting slide portion is accommodated in the first limiting slide groove and is slidable within the first limiting slide groove, thereby realizing the slide connection between the first housing support and the first rotating member. Correspondingly, the second housing support may be further provided with a second limiting slide groove, where the second limiting slide groove extends in a direction away from the base. The second rotating member is provided with a second limiting slide portion. The second limiting slide portion is accommodated in the second limiting slide groove and is slidable within the second limiting slide groove, thereby realizing the slide connection between the second housing support and the second rotating member.

[0021] Of course, the specific positions of the limiting slide groove and the limiting slide portion are not limited. For example, in another technical solution, the first housing support may be provided with a third limiting slide portion, the first rotating member may be provided with a third limiting slide groove, and the third limiting slide groove extends in a direction away from the base. The third limiting slide portion is accommodated in the third limiting slide groove and slides within the third limiting slide groove, thereby realizing the slide connection between the first housing support and the first rotating member. Correspondingly, the second housing support may be provided with a fourth limiting slide portion, the second rotating member may be provided with a fourth limiting slide groove, and the fourth limiting slide groove extends in a direction away from the base. The fourth limiting slide portion is accommodated in the fourth limiting slide groove and is slidable within the fourth limiting slide groove, thereby realizing the slide connection between the second housing support and the second rotating member.

[0022] Furthermore, the hinge mechanism may further include a first door plate and a second door plate that are disposed opposite to two side portions of the base. The first door plate and the second door plate are configured to provide support for the flexible display. Specifically, the first door plate is rotatably connected to the first housing support and slidably connected to the first rotating member. The second door plate is rotatably connected to the second housing support and slidably connected to the second rotating member. When the first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly rotate towards each other, the first door plate may rotate with respect to the first housing support and slide with respect to the first rotating member, and the second door plate may rotate with respect to the second housing support and slide with respect to the second rotating member. In this way, when the hinge mechanism is in the folded state, the first door plate and the second door plate are each disposed at an angle with the base, whereby the first door plate, the second door plate, and the base surround a triangular space, and thus, a part of the flexible display is accommodated in a water droplet-shaped space.

[0023] On the side of the first door plate facing the flexible display, there is a first support surface. On the side of the second door plate facing the flexible display, there is a second support surface. On the side of the base facing the flexible display, there is a third support surface. When the hinge mechanism is in the deployed state, the first support surface, the second support surface, and the third support surface may form a flat support surface for supporting the flexible display. When the hinge mechanism is actually used in an electronic device, the flexible display may be disposed on one surface of the hinge mechanism and continuously cover the first housing support, the first door plate, the base, the second door plate, and the second housing support. In this way, the first support surface, the second support surface, and the third support surface provide good support for the flexible display. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the flexible display from being recessed or warped.

[0024] When the first door plate and the second door plate are specifically arranged, a first arc-shaped rotating block is provided on the side of the first door plate away from the flexible display, and a first arc-shaped guide groove is provided on the side of the first housing support facing the first door plate. The first arc-shaped rotating block is accommodated in the first arc-shaped guide groove and can slide in the first arc-shaped guide groove, thereby realizing a rotational connection between the first door plate and the first housing support. Correspondingly, a second arc-shaped rotating block is provided on the side of the second door plate away from the flexible display, and a second arc-shaped guide groove is provided on the side of the second housing support facing the second door plate. The second arc-shaped rotating block is accommodated in the second arc-shaped guide groove and slides in the second arc-shaped guide groove, thereby realizing a rotational connection between the second door plate and the second housing support. When the first housing support and the second housing support are folded or unfolded towards each other, the first door plate and the second door plate are also folded or unfolded together with the first housing support and the second housing support.

[0025] A first track groove may be further provided on the side of the first door plate away from the flexible display, and a first pin is provided on the first rotating member. The first pin is accommodated in the first track groove and slides in the first track groove, thereby driving the first door plate to move relative to the first housing support. Correspondingly, a second track groove may be further provided on the side of the second door plate away from the flexible display, and a second pin is provided on the second rotating member. The second pin is accommodated in the second track groove and slides in the second track groove, thereby driving the second door plate to move relative to the second housing support.

[0026] According to a second aspect, the present application provides an electronic device. The electronic device includes a flexible display, a first housing, a second housing, and a hinge mechanism according to the first aspect. Specifically, the first housing and the second housing are respectively disposed on two opposite sides of the base. The first housing is fixed to a first housing support, and the second housing is fixed to a second housing support. The flexible display continuously covers the first housing, the second housing, and the hinge mechanism and is separately fixed to the first housing and the second housing.

[0027] When the electronic device is folded, the first housing and the second housing rotate towards each other, and under the action of the first housing support and the second housing support, the first housing and the second housing translate away from the base. Thereby, the compressive force applied to the flexible display can be avoided. When the electronic device is unfolded, the first housing and the second housing rotate in opposite directions, and under the action of the first housing support and the second housing support, the first housing and the second housing translate towards the base. Thereby, the tensile force applied to the flexible display can be avoided. Further, in the folding process, the hinge mechanism may form a space for accommodating the flexible display such that the flexible display is accommodated in a water droplet-shaped space. Thereby, it is possible to prevent an undesired phenomenon such as creases being crushed in the flexible display. Further, the hinge mechanism itself may implement operation restrictions. Thereby, both the number of components of the hinge mechanism can be reduced and the structure of the electronic device can be simplified.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0028]

Figure 1

[0029]

Figure 2

[0030]

Figure 3

[0031]

Figure 4

[0032]

Figure 5

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Figure 6

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Figure 7

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[0037]

Figure 10

[0038]

Figure 11

[0039]

Figure 12

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Figure 14

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Figure 15

[0043] Reference numerals 10: Electronic device; 11: Hinge mechanism; 12: Flexible display; 13: First housing; 14: Second housing; 110: Base; 111: Hinge module; 112a: First door plate; 112b: Second door plate; 1101a: First spiral groove; 1101b: Second spiral groove; 1111a: First rotation assembly; 1111b: Second rotation assembly; 1112: Slide connection member; 1112a: First end; 1112b: Second end; 1113a: First rotation shaft; 1113b: Second rotation shaft; 1114a: First rotation member; 1114b: Second rotation member; 1115a: First slide member; 1115b: Second slide member; 1116a: First housing support; 1116b: Second housing support; 1117a: First spiral rotation part; 1117b: Second spiral rotation part; 1118a: First slide groove; 1118b: Second slide groove; 1119a: First slide part; 1119b: Second slide part; 1120a: First limiting slide groove; 1120b: Second limiting slide groove; 1121a: First diagonal groove; 1121b: Second diagonal groove; 1122a: First limiting slide part; 1122b: Second limiting slide part; 1123a: First protrusion; 1123b: Second protrusion; 1124a: First limiting notch; 1124b: Second limiting notch; 1125a: First arc-shaped rotating block; 1126a - First arc-shaped guide groove; 1127a: First track groove; 1127b: Second track groove; 1128a: First pin; 1128b: Second pin; 1129a: First frame body; 1129b: Second frame body; 1130a: First rotating part; 1130b: Second rotating part; 1131a: First hollow region; 1131b: Second hollow region; 1132a: First slide block body; 1132b: Second slide block body.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0044] In some current foldable electronic devices, the rotation and sliding of the hinge mechanism are realized by different assemblies. This occupies a large space and does not contribute to the miniaturization of foldable electronic devices.

[0045] Therefore, the present application provides a hinge mechanism and an electronic device so that the rotation assembly implements both rotation and sliding functions in order to reduce the number of parts of the hinge mechanism.

[0046] It should be noted that the terms used in the following embodiments are merely intended to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present application. The singular terms "one", "a", "the above", "the foregoing", "this", and "one of them" used in the specification and appended claims of the present application are intended to include expressions such as "one or more" unless otherwise specified clearly in the context.

[0047] References to "one embodiment", "some embodiments", etc. described in this specification indicate that one or more embodiments of the present application include the specific features, structures, or characteristics described with reference to the embodiments. Thus, descriptions such as "in one embodiment", "in some embodiments", "in some other embodiments", and "in other embodiments" that appear in various places in this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Instead, such descriptions mean "one or more embodiments, but not all" unless otherwise specifically emphasized to the contrary. The terms "comprising", "having", and their variants all mean "include but are not limited to" unless otherwise specifically emphasized to the contrary.

[0048] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the present application more clear, the present application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0049] To facilitate the understanding of the hinge mechanism provided in the embodiments of the present application, the following describes application scenarios of the hinge mechanism. The hinge mechanism may be applied to foldable electronic devices, such as mobile phones, intelligent wearable devices, tablet computers, or notebook computers, although not limited thereto. When the hinge mechanism provided in the embodiments of the present application is used in an electronic device, refer to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 1 is a diagram of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present application. FIG. 2 is a three-dimensional assembly diagram of the electronic device in FIG. 1. The electronic device 10 provided in the present application may be an electronic device foldable inward. FIG. 3 is a partial diagram of an electronic device in a folded state according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the electronic device 10 may further include a flexible display 12, a first housing 13, and a second housing 14 in addition to the hinge mechanism 11. The flexible display 12 is disposed on the hinge mechanism 11. The first housing 13 and the second housing 14 are disposed on two sides of the hinge mechanism 11 and may rotate around the hinge mechanism 11. When used, the electronic device 10 may be folded and unfolded in different usage scenarios. When the electronic device 10 is in an unfolded state, the flexible display 12 is disposed on the same side of the hinge mechanism 11, the first housing 13, and the second housing 14 and is connected to the hinge mechanism 11, the first housing 13, and the second housing 14. In this case, the outer surface of the first housing 13 away from the flexible display 12 and the outer surface of the second housing 14 away from the flexible display 12 may be used in combination as the appearance surface of the electronic device 10, and the flexible display 12 is configured to display images.As shown in FIG. 3, when the electronic device 10 is in the folded state, the first housing 13 and the second housing 14 are arranged facing each other, and the flexible display 12 is folded and in a water droplet shape, whereby the stress applied to the flexible display 12 by folding the first housing 13 and the second housing 14 can be reduced. It can be understood that the process of switching from the unfolded state to the folded state or from the folded state to the unfolded state of the electronic device 10 is a process in which the first housing 13 and the second housing 14 rotate around the hinge mechanism 11. In this process, the flexible display 12 is bent or unfolded together with the first housing 13 and the second housing 14.

[0050] FIG. 4 is a diagram of the structure of a hinge mechanism according to an embodiment of the present application. FIG. 5 is a three-dimensional assembly diagram of the hinge mechanism in FIG. 4. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the hinge mechanism 11 includes a base 110 and at least one hinge module 111. FIG. 6 is a diagram of the structure of the base according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown in FIG. 6, a first spiral groove 1101a and a second spiral groove 1101b are provided in the base 110. Further, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the hinge module 111 may have a first rotating assembly 1111a and a second rotating assembly 1111b, and the first rotating assembly 1111a and the second rotating assembly 1111b are respectively arranged on two side portions of the base 110. The first rotating assembly 1111a may include a first rotating shaft 1113a, a first rotating member 1114a, a first sliding member 1115a, and a first housing support 1116a. The first rotating shaft 1113a is arranged on the side portion of the base 110. The first rotating member 1114a is rotatably connected to the base 110 through the first rotating shaft 1113a. One end of the first sliding member 1115a is rotatably connected to the base 110 portion, and the other end of the first sliding member 1115a is slidably connected to the first rotating member 1114a, and the first sliding member 1115a may slide relative to the first rotating member 1114a in a direction parallel to the first rotating shaft 1113a. Correspondingly, the second rotating assembly 1111b may include a second rotating shaft 1113b, a second rotating member 1114b, a second sliding member 1115b, and a second housing support 1116b. The second rotating shaft 1113b is arranged on the other side portion of the base 110. The second rotating member 1114b is rotatably connected to the base 110 through the second rotating shaft 1113b. One end of the second sliding member 1115b is rotatably connected to the base 110, and the other end of the second sliding member 1115b is slidably connected to the second rotating member 1114b, and the second sliding member 1115b may slide relative to the second rotating member 1114b in a direction parallel to the second rotating shaft 1113b.

[0051] FIG. 7 is a diagram of the structure of the first slide member according to an embodiment of the present application. FIG. 8 is a diagram of another structure of the hinge mechanism according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the first slide member 1115a is provided with a first spiral rotating portion 1117a. As shown in FIGS. 5, 7, and 8, the first spiral rotating portion 1117a is accommodated in the first spiral groove 1101a and may be rotated in the first spiral groove 1101a, whereby the first slide member 1115a slides with respect to the first rotating member 1114a in a direction parallel to the first rotating shaft 1113a. The first housing support 1116a is provided with a first inclined groove 1121a. FIG. 9 is a diagram of another structure of the hinge mechanism according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown in FIG. 9, the first slide member 1115a is provided with a first protrusion 1123a, and the first protrusion 1123a is restricted within the first inclined groove 1121a and may slide within the first inclined groove 1121a.

[0052] Correspondingly, the second slide member 1115b is provided with a second spiral rotating portion 1117b. The second spiral rotating portion 1117b is accommodated in the second spiral groove 1101b and may rotate within the second spiral groove 1101b, whereby the second slide member 1115b slides with respect to the second rotating member 1114b in a direction parallel to the second rotating shaft 1113b. The second housing support 1116b is provided with a second inclined groove 1121b, and the second slide member 1115b is provided with a second protrusion 1123b. The second protrusion 1123b is restricted within the second inclined groove 1121b and may slide within the second inclined groove 1121b.

[0053] When the hinge mechanism 11 is folded, the first rotating assembly 1111a and the second rotating assembly 1111b rotate towards each other. The first rotating member 1114a rotates around the first rotating shaft 1113a, and the first sliding member 1115a rotates relative to the base 110. Further, the first sliding member 1115a slides relative to the first rotating member 1114a in a direction parallel to the first rotating shaft 1113a by using the first spiral rotating part 1117a and the first spiral groove 1101a. In the sliding process of the first sliding member 1115a, the first protrusion 1123a slides in the first inclined groove 1121a while pushing the first housing support 1116a so as to slide relative to the first rotating member 1114a in a direction away from the base 110. The second rotating member 1114b rotates around the second rotating shaft 1113b, and the second sliding member 1115b rotates relative to the base 110. Further, the second sliding member 1115b slides relative to the second rotating member 1114b in a direction parallel to the second rotating shaft 1113b by using the second spiral rotating part 1117b and the second spiral groove 1101b. In the sliding process of the second sliding member 1115b, the second protrusion 1123b slides in the second inclined groove 1121b while pushing the second housing support 1116b so as to slide relative to the second rotating member 1114b in a direction away from the base 110. Both the first housing support 1116a and the second housing support 1116b slide in a direction away from the base 110, thereby increasing the length of the hinge mechanism 11. This ensures that the flexible display 12 is not crushed. Further, when the hinge mechanism 11 is in a folded state, the first housing support 1116a, the second housing support 1116b, and the base 110 may surround an accommodation space for accommodating the flexible display 12.

[0054] When the hinge mechanism 11 is deployed, the first rotating assembly 1111a and the second rotating assembly 1111b rotate in opposite directions to each other. The first rotating member 1114a rotates around the first rotating shaft 1113a, and the first sliding member 1115a rotates relative to the base 110 and slides relative to the first rotating member 1114a in a direction parallel to the first rotating shaft 1113a. As a result, the first protrusion 1123a slides within the first inclined groove 1121a so as to push the first housing support 1116a such that it slides relative to the first rotating member 1114a in a direction approaching the base 110. The second rotating member 1114b rotates around the second rotating shaft 1113b, and the second sliding member 1115b rotates relative to the base 110 and slides relative to the second rotating member 1114b in a direction parallel to the second rotating shaft 1113b. As a result, the second protrusion 1123b slides within the second inclined groove 1121b so as to push the second housing support 1116b such that it slides relative to the second rotating member 1114b in a direction approaching the base 110. Both the first housing support 1116a and the second housing support 1116b slide in a direction approaching the base 110, thereby shortening the length of the hinge mechanism 11. This ensures that the flexible display 12 is not pulled. Further, when the hinge mechanism 11 is in a deployed state, the first housing support 1116a, the second housing support 1116b, and the base 110 may be deployed to form a support surface.

[0055] In the hinge mechanism 11 of the present application, when the hinge mechanism 11 is folded, the length of the hinge mechanism 11 may be increased in a direction perpendicular to the base 110, and the first housing support 1116a, the second housing support 1116b, and the base 110 may surround the accommodation space. When the hinge mechanism 11 is deployed, the length of the hinge mechanism 11 may be shortened in a direction perpendicular to the base 110, and the first housing support 1116a, the second housing support 1116b, and the base 110 may be deployed to form a support surface. In both the folding process and the deployment process, the hinge mechanism 11 does not exert an acting force such as a tensile force or a compressive force on the flexible display 12. Thereby, the use effect and safety of the electronic device 10 can be improved. Further, the first rotation assembly 1111a and the second rotation assembly 1111b may each limit the rotation direction. Thereby, the number of parts of the hinge mechanism 11 can be reduced, and thus the structure of the hinge mechanism 11 can be simplified. Further, since the structure of the hinge mechanism 11 is simple, when the hinge mechanism 11 is in a folded state, the screen accommodation space for accommodating the flexible display 12 is also larger, and thus the screen accommodation can be performed better. Thereby, the occurrence of creases in the flexible display 12 is prevented.

[0056] In the hinge mechanism 11 of the present application, the sliding connection between the first rotating member 1114a and the first sliding member 1115a may be implemented by using a sliding groove and a sliding portion. As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the first sliding member 1115a may be provided with a first sliding groove 1118a parallel to the first rotating shaft 1113a. The first rotating member 1114a is provided with a first sliding portion 1119a. The first sliding portion 1119a is accommodated in the first sliding groove 1118a and rotates within the first sliding groove 1118a, whereby a sliding connection between the first rotating member 1114a and the first sliding member 1115a can be realized. Correspondingly, the second sliding member 1115b is provided with a second sliding groove 1118b parallel to the second rotating shaft 1113b. The second rotating member 1114b is provided with a second sliding portion 1119b. The second sliding portion 1119b is accommodated in the second sliding groove 1118b and slides within the second sliding groove 1118b, whereby a sliding connection between the second rotating member 1114b and the second sliding member 1115b can be realized. Naturally, the positions of the sliding portion and the sliding groove are not limited to the above-described technical solutions. For example, in another embodiment, the first sliding member 1115a may be provided with the first sliding portion 1119a, and the first rotating member 1114a may be provided with a first sliding groove 1118a parallel to the first rotating shaft 1113a. The second sliding member 1115b is provided with the second sliding portion 1119b, and the second rotating member 1114b is provided with a second sliding groove 1118b parallel to the second rotating shaft 1113b.

[0057] In the first housing support 1116a and the second housing support 1116b, the first diagonal groove 1121a and the second diagonal groove 1121b may be symmetrically arranged with respect to the base 110, and each is arranged at an acute angle with the base 110. Thereby, the first housing support 1116a and the second housing support 1116b may move separately in a direction away from the base 110. Thereby, it is possible to ensure that the flexible display 12 maintains a constant length during the folding process and the unfolding process, and to prevent the flexible display 12 from being pulled or warped. Specifically, the first diagonal groove 1121a extends from the side close to the base 110 to the side away from the base 110 in a direction away from the base 110, and may form a first included angle with the first rotating shaft 1113a. Here, the first included angle is an acute angle. When the first slide member 1115a slides in a direction parallel to the first rotating shaft 1113a, a first included angle is formed between the movement track of the first protrusion 1123a and the base 110. Specifically, the movement track of the first protrusion 1123a has a first track component in a direction parallel to the first rotating shaft 1113a and a second track component in a direction perpendicular to the base 110. The second track component of the first protrusion 1123a may push the first housing support 1116a so as to move relative to the first rotating member 1114a in a direction approaching the base or away from the base 110. Correspondingly, the second diagonal groove 1121b extends from the side close to the base 110 to the side away from the base 110 in a direction away from the base 110, and may form a second acute angle with the second rotating shaft 1113b. Here, the second acute angle is an acute angle. When the second slide member 1115b slides in a direction parallel to the second rotating shaft 1113b, a second included angle is formed between the movement track of the second protrusion 1123b and the base 110. Specifically, the movement track of the second protrusion 1123b has a third track component in a direction parallel to the second rotating shaft 1113b and a fourth track component in a direction perpendicular to the base 110. The fourth track component of the second protrusion 1123b may push the second housing support 1116b so as to move relative to the second rotating member 1114b in a direction approaching the base or away from the base 110.Specifically, when the first rotating assembly 1111a and the second rotating assembly 1111b rotate towards each other, the first protrusion 1123a slides in the first inclined groove 1121a in a direction approaching the base 110, and the second protrusion 1123b slides in the second inclined groove 1121b in a direction approaching the base 110.

[0058] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 8, when the sliding connection between the first housing support 1116a and the first rotating member 1114a is particularly arranged, the first housing support 1116a may be provided with a first limiting slide groove 1120a, where the extending direction of the first limiting slide groove 1120a is perpendicular to the first rotating shaft 1113a. The first rotating member 1114a may be provided with a first limiting slide portion 1122a. The first limiting slide portion 1122a is accommodated in the first limiting slide groove 1120a and may slide in the first limiting slide groove 1120a, thereby realizing a sliding connection between the first housing support 1116a and the first rotating member 1114a. Correspondingly, the second housing support 1116b is provided with a second limiting slide groove 1120b, where the extending direction of the second limiting slide groove 1120b is perpendicular to the second rotating shaft 1113b. The second rotating member 1114b is provided with a second limiting slide portion 1122b. The second limiting slide portion 1122b is accommodated in the second limiting slide groove 1120b and may slide in the second limiting slide groove 1120b, thereby realizing a sliding connection between the second housing support 1116b and the second rotating member 1114b. Of course, the specific positions of the limiting slide groove and the limiting slide portion are not limited. For example, in another embodiment, the first housing support 1116a may be provided with a first limiting slide portion 1122a, and the first rotating member 1114a may be provided with a first limiting slide groove 1120a. The second housing support 1116b is provided with a second limiting slide portion 1122b, and the second rotating member 1114b is provided with a second limiting slide groove 1120b.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 5, in this embodiment of the present application, the first rotating member 1114a and the second rotating member 1114b may have a frame structure. The first rotating member 1114a includes a first frame body 1129a and a first rotating portion 1130a. The first frame body 1129a surrounds a first hollow region 1131a, and the first frame body 1129a is slidably connected to the first slide member 1115a and the first housing support 1116a separately. The first rotating portion 1130a is disposed on a side portion of the first frame body 1129a close to the base 110 and is rotatably connected to the first rotating shaft 1113a. The first slide member 1115a includes a first slide block body 1132a. The first slide block body 1132a is disposed in the first hollow region 1131a of the first frame body 1129a, and the first spiral rotating portion 1117a is disposed on a side portion of the first slide block body 1132a close to the base 110. When the first rotating member 1114a and the first slide member 1115a rotate with respect to the base 110, the first slide member 1115a moves in a direction parallel to the first rotating shaft 1113a within the first hollow region 1131a.

[0060] Correspondingly, the second rotating member 1114b may have a second frame body 1129b and a second rotating portion 1130b. The second frame body 1129b surrounds a second hollow region 1131b, and the second frame body 1129b is separately and slidably connected to a second slide member 1115b and a second housing support 1116b. The second rotating portion 1130b is disposed on a side portion of the second frame body 1129b close to the base portion 110 and is rotatably connected to a second rotating shaft 1113b. The second slide member 1115b includes a second slide block body 1132b. The second slide block body 1132b is disposed in the second hollow region 1131b of the second frame body 1129b, and a second spiral rotating portion 1117b is disposed on a side portion of the second slide block body 1132b close to the base portion 110. When the second rotating member 1114b and the second slide member 1115b rotate with respect to the base portion 110, the second slide member 1115b moves in a direction parallel to the second rotating shaft 1113b within the second hollow region 1131b. In this way, space utilization can be improved, and miniaturization of the hinge mechanism 11 is promoted.

[0061] As shown in FIG. 8, a second rotating assembly 1111b is used as an example. In the process of folding or unfolding the hinge mechanism 11, the second rotating member 1114b and the second sliding member 1115b rotate separately with respect to the base 110. In one embodiment, the second rotating shaft 1113b passes through the second spiral groove 1101b, the second spiral rotating portion 1117b, and the second rotating portion 1130b and is installed on the base 110. In this embodiment, the center of the rotation axis of the second rotating member 1114b overlaps with the center of the rotation axis of the second sliding member 1115b. In other words, the second rotating member 1114b and the second sliding member 1115b share one center of the rotation axis. Of course, the center of the rotation axis of the second rotating member 1114b may alternatively not overlap with the center of the rotation axis of the second sliding member 1115b. For example, in another embodiment, the second rotating shaft 1113b passes through the second rotating portion 1130b of the second rotating member 1114b and is installed on the base 110. The second rotating assembly 1111b may further have a third rotating shaft (not shown in the figure) parallel to the second rotating shaft 1113b. The third rotating shaft passes through the second spiral groove 1101b and the second spiral rotating portion 1117b and is installed on the base 110. When the second rotating assembly 1111b rotates, the second rotating member 1114b rotates around the second rotating shaft 1113b, and the second sliding member 1115b rotates around the third rotating shaft.

[0062] As shown in FIG. 9, in the above-described technical solution, the first protrusion 1123a may be disposed on the first sliding block body 1132a of the first sliding member 1115a. The first protrusion 1123a passes through the first hollow region 1131a and is slidably connected to the first inclined groove 1121a. The second protrusion 1123b may be disposed on the second sliding block body 1132b of the second sliding member 1115b. The second protrusion 1123b passes through the second hollow region 1131b and is slidably connected to the second inclined groove 1121b.

[0063] FIG. 10 is a diagram of a folded hinge mechanism according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown in FIG. 10, when the first rotating assembly 1111a and the second rotating assembly 1111b are folded toward each other, the first housing support 1116a and the second housing support 1116b are pushed so as to move in a direction perpendicular to the base 110. Thus, the first protrusion 1123a slides from the end of the first inclined groove 1121a away from the base 110 toward the base 110, and the second protrusion 1123b slides from the end of the second inclined groove 1121b away from the base 110 toward the base 110. Therefore, in the process of folding and unfolding the electronic device 10, the first housing support 1116a and the second housing support 1116b may move toward the base 110 or move away from the base 110, thereby adapting to the position change of the intermediate layer of the flexible display 12 in the folding or unfolding process, and thus preventing the flexible display 12 from warping or being pulled in this process, the length of the hinge mechanism 11 in the direction perpendicular to the base 110 can be increased.

[0064] Furthermore, the shapes of the first protrusion 1123a and the second protrusion 1123b may not be specifically limited. For example, the shape of the cross-section of the first protrusion 1123a parallel to the first slide block body 1132a may be circular, elliptical, or rectangular. The shape of the cross-section of the second protrusion 1123b parallel to the second slide block body 1132b may be circular, elliptical, or rectangular.

[0065] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the hinge module 111 may further include a slide connection member 1112. The slide connection member 1112 is disposed between the first rotation assembly 1111a and the second rotation assembly 1111b. Here, the first end 1112a of the slide connection member 1112 is fitted over the first rotation shaft 1113a and may slide along the first rotation shaft 1113a. The second end 1112b of the slide connection member 1112 is fitted over the second rotation shaft 1113b and may slide along the second rotation shaft 1113b. The first slide member 1115a is connected to the first end 1112a, and the second slide member 1115b is connected to the second end 1112b. The shape of the slide connection member 1112 is not specifically limited. For example, the slide connection member 1112 may be in a cross shape or a linear shape.

[0066] FIG. 11 is a diagram of another folded hinge mechanism according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown in FIG. 11, when the first rotating assembly 1111a and the second rotating assembly 1111b are folded towards each other, the first rotating member 1114a rotates around the first rotating shaft 1113a, thereby rotating with respect to the base 110 and driving the first sliding member 1115a to slide along the first rotating shaft 1113a at the same time. The second rotating member 1114b rotates around the second rotating shaft 1113b, thereby rotating with respect to the base 110 and driving the second sliding member 1115b to slide along the second rotating shaft 1113b at the same time. The first sliding member 1115a slides along the first rotating shaft 1113a and drives the slide connection member 1112 to slide along the first rotating shaft 1113a. The second sliding member 1115b slides along the second rotating shaft 1113b and drives the slide connection member 1112 to slide along the second rotating shaft 1113b. Since the slide connection member 1112 slides along both the first rotating shaft 1113a and the second rotating shaft 1113b, the first sliding member 1115a and the second sliding member 1115b can be pushed to slide synchronously, whereby the first rotating member 1114a and the second rotating member 1114b rotate synchronously with respect to the base 110. Therefore, the first rotating assembly 1111a and the second rotating assembly 1111b having the folding structure features can be combined with the slide connection member 1112 by using the combination design of the spiral grooves to realize synchronous movement, and there is no need to add a complex synchronous module. This can reduce the number of parts of the hinge mechanism 11 and thus simplify the structure of the hinge mechanism 11.

[0067] FIG. 12 is a diagram of another structure of the hinge mechanism according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown in FIG. 12, when the first rotating assembly 1111a is particularly arranged, the first helical rotating part 1117a may be put on the first rotating shaft 1113a. The first helical rotating part 1117a is provided with a first limiting notch 1124a, and the first end 1112a of the slide connecting member 1112 is restricted within the first limiting notch 1124a. The second helical rotating part 1117b may be put on the second rotating shaft 1113b. The second helical rotating part 1117b is provided with a second limiting notch 1124b, and the second end 1112b of the slide connecting member 1112 is restricted within the second limiting notch 1124b. When the first slide member 1115a slides along the first rotating shaft 1113a, the first helical rotating part 1117a may drive the first end 1112a of the slide connecting member 1112 to slide along the first rotating shaft 1113a. When the second slide member 1115b slides along the second rotating shaft 1113b, the second helical rotating part 1117b may drive the second end 1112b of the slide connecting member 1112 to slide along the second rotating shaft 1113b, whereby the slide connecting member 1112 is adapted to slide along the first rotating shaft 1113a and the second rotating shaft 1113b.

[0068] FIG. 13 is a diagram of another structure of the hinge mechanism according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 13, the hinge mechanism 11 may further include a first door plate 112a and a second door plate 112b that are disposed opposite to two side portions of the base 110. The first door plate 112a is disposed near the first rotation assembly 1111a, and the second door plate 112b is disposed near the second rotation assembly 1111b. The first door plate 112a and the second door plate 112b are configured to provide support for the flexible display 12. Specifically, the first door plate 112a is rotatably connected to the first housing support 1116a and slidably connected to the first rotation member 1114a. The second door plate 112b is rotatably connected to the second housing support 1116b and slidably connected to the second rotation member 1114b. When the first rotation assembly 1111a and the second rotation assembly 1111b rotate toward each other, the first door plate 112a may rotate with respect to the first housing support 1116a and slide with respect to the first rotation member 1114a, and the second door plate 112b may rotate with respect to the second housing support 1116b and slide with respect to the second rotation member 1114b. In this way, when the hinge mechanism 11 is in a folded state, the first door plate 112a and the second door plate 112b are each disposed at an included angle with the base 110, whereby the first door plate 112a, the second door plate 112b, and the base 110 surround a triangular space, and thus, a part of the flexible display 12 is accommodated in a water droplet-shaped space. It should be noted that the first door plate 112a and the second door plate 112b may or may not contact the base 110. In other words, the included angle formed between the first door plate 112a and the base 110 may be the included angle formed when the first door plate 112a is in contact with the base 110, or may be the included angle formed between the extension line of the first door plate 112a and the base 110. The included angle is an acute angle.The included angle formed between the second door plate 112b and the base 110 may be the included angle formed when the second door plate 112b is in contact with the base 110, or may be the included angle formed between the extension line of the second door plate 112b and the base 110. The included angle is an acute angle.

[0069] As shown in FIG. 13, on the side of the first door plate 112a away from the flexible display 12, a first arc-shaped rotating block 1125a is provided, and on the side of the first housing support 1116a facing the first door plate 112a, a first arc-shaped guide groove 1126a is provided. The first arc-shaped rotating block 1125a is accommodated in the first arc-shaped guide groove 1126a and can slide within the first arc-shaped guide groove 1126a, thereby realizing a rotational connection between the first door plate 112a and the first housing support 1116a. Correspondingly, on the side of the second door plate 112b away from the flexible display 12, a second arc-shaped rotating block is provided, and on the side of the second housing support 1116b facing the second door plate 112b, a second arc-shaped guide groove is provided. The second arc-shaped rotating block is accommodated in the second arc-shaped guide groove and slides within the second arc-shaped guide groove, thereby realizing a rotational connection between the second door plate 112b and the second housing support 1116b.

[0070] FIG. 14 is a diagram of an unfolded hinge mechanism according to an embodiment of the present application. FIG. 15 is a diagram of a folded hinge mechanism according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, when the first housing support 1116a and the second housing support 1116b are folded or unfolded toward each other, the first door plate 112a and the second door plate 112b are also folded or unfolded together with the first housing support 1116a and the second housing support 1116b. When the flexible display 12 is particularly arranged, the flexible display 12 is located on one surface of the hinge mechanism 11 and is arranged near the first door plate 112a and the second door plate 112b. On the side of the first door plate 112a facing the flexible display 12, there is a first support surface. On the side of the second door plate 112b facing the flexible display 12, there is a second support surface. On the side of the base 110 facing the flexible display 12, there is a third support surface. When the hinge mechanism 11 is in the unfolded state, the first support surface, the second support surface, and the third support surface form a flat support surface for supporting the flexible display 12, thereby providing good support for the flexible display 12. Thereby, the flexible display 12 is prevented from being recessed or warped.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 13, a first track groove 1127a may be further provided on the side of the first door plate 112a away from the flexible display 12, and a first pin 1128a is provided on the first rotating member 1114a. The first pin 1128a is accommodated in the first track groove 1127a and slides within the first track groove 1127a, thereby driving the first door plate 112a to move relative to the first housing support 1116a. As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, correspondingly, a second track groove 1127b may be further provided on the side of the second door plate 112b away from the flexible display 12, and a second pin 1128b is provided on the second rotating member 1114b. The second pin 1128b is accommodated in the second track groove 1127b and slides within the second track groove 1127b, thereby driving the second door plate 112b to move relative to the second housing support 1116b.

[0072] The terms used in the foregoing embodiments are merely intended to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present application. The singular terms "a", "one", "the above", "the foregoing", "this", and "one of those" used in the specification and appended claims of the present application are intended to include expressions such as "one or more" unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0073] The foregoing description is merely specific embodiments of the present application and is not intended to limit the protection scope of the present application. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the present application shall be included in the protection scope of the present application. Therefore, the protection scope of the present application shall be subject to the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A hinge mechanism for use in a foldable electronic device, the hinge mechanism comprising a base, a first rotating assembly, and a second rotating assembly, the first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly being disposed on two sides of the base, respectively; The first rotating assembly includes: a first rotatable shaft disposed on a side of the base; a first rotating member rotatably connected to the base through the first rotating shaft; a first slide member, one end of which is rotatably connected to the base and another end of which is slidably connected to the first rotating member, the first slide member being slidable relative to the first rotating member in a direction parallel to the first rotating shaft; and a first housing support slidably connected to the first rotating member, wherein the first housing support is slidable relative to the first rotating member in a direction perpendicular to the first rotating shaft; where the first slide member is provided with a first helical rotation portion, and a first helical groove is provided on a side of the base close to the first slide member, the first helical rotation portion is received in the first helical groove and rotates within the first helical groove, thereby causing the first slide member to slide relative to the first rotating member in a direction parallel to the first rotating shaft; one of the first housing support and the first slide member is provided with a first diagonal groove and the other of the first housing support and the first slide member is provided with a first protrusion, the first protrusion being slidable within the first diagonal groove to urge the first housing support to slide relative to the first rotating member in a direction away from the base when the first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly rotate towards each other; The second rotating assembly includes: a second rotatable shaft disposed on another side of the base and disposed parallel to the first rotatable shaft; a second rotating member rotatably connected to the base through the second rotating shaft; a second slide member, one end of which is rotatably connected to the base and another end of which is slidably connected to the second rotating member, the second slide member being slidable relative to the second rotating member in a direction parallel to the second rotating shaft; and a second housing support slidably connected to the second rotating member, wherein the second housing support is slidable relative to the second rotating member in a direction perpendicular to the second rotating shaft; where the second slide member is provided with a second helical rotation portion, and a second helical groove is provided on a side of the base close to the second slide member, the second helical rotation portion is received in the second helical groove and rotates within the second helical groove, whereby the second slide member slides relative to the second rotating member in the direction parallel to the second rotating shaft; a hinge mechanism, wherein one of the second housing support and the second sliding member is provided with a second diagonal groove, and the other of the second housing support and the second sliding member is provided with a second protrusion, the second protrusion being slidable within the second diagonal groove to urge the second housing support to slide relative to the second rotating member in a direction away from the base when the first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly rotate toward each other.

2. The hinge module further comprises a sliding connecting member, wherein: a first limit notch is provided on the side of the first sliding member close to the first rotating shaft, one end of the sliding connecting member is limited in the first limit notch and is fitted over the first rotating shaft, a second limit notch is provided on the side of the second sliding member close to the second rotating shaft, another end of the sliding connecting member is limited in the second limit notch and is fitted over the second rotating shaft; 2. The hinge mechanism of claim 1, wherein when the first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly rotate towards or against each other, at least one of the first sliding member and the second sliding member pushes the sliding connecting member to slide in the same direction on the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft, whereby the sliding connecting member pushes the first sliding member and the second sliding member to slide synchronously in the same direction.

3. The hinge mechanism according to claim 2 , wherein the sliding connecting member is cross-shaped or straight-shaped.

4. the first sliding member is further provided with a first sliding groove parallel to the first rotating shaft, the first rotating member is provided with a first sliding part, the first sliding part is received in the first sliding groove and slides in the first sliding groove, thereby realizing a sliding connection between the first rotating member and the first sliding member; the second sliding member is provided with a second sliding groove parallel to the second rotating shaft, the second rotating member is provided with a second sliding part, the second sliding part is received in the second sliding groove and slides in the second sliding groove, thereby realizing a sliding connection between the second rotating member and the second sliding member; or 4. The hinge mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the first rotating member is provided with a third sliding groove parallel to the first rotating shaft, the first sliding member is further provided with a third sliding portion, the third sliding portion being received in the third sliding groove and sliding within the third sliding groove, thereby realizing a sliding connection between the first rotating member and the first sliding member; and the second rotating member is provided with a fourth sliding groove parallel to the second rotating shaft, the second sliding member is further provided with a fourth sliding portion, the fourth sliding portion being received in the fourth sliding groove and sliding within the fourth sliding groove, thereby realizing a sliding connection between the second rotating member and the second sliding member.

5. the first rotating member includes a first frame body and a first rotating portion, the first frame body enclosing a first hollow area, the first frame body being separately slidably connected to the first slide member and a first housing support, the first rotating portion being disposed on a side of the first frame body proximate to the base and rotatably connected to the first rotating shaft; the first slide member includes a first slide block body, the first slide block body is disposed in the first hollow region of the first frame body, and the first spiral rotation portion is disposed on a side of the first slide block body that is close to the base portion; the second rotating member includes a second frame body and a second rotating portion, the second frame body enclosing a second hollow region, the second frame body being separately slidably connected to the second slide member and the second housing support, the second rotating portion being disposed on a side of the second frame body proximate to the base and rotatably connected to the second rotating shaft; 5. The hinge mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the second slide member includes a second slide block body, the second slide block body being disposed in the second hollow region of the second frame body, and the second spiral rotation portion being disposed on a side of the second slide block body that is closer to the base portion.

6. the first housing support is provided with the first oblique groove, and the first protrusion is disposed on the first slide block body of the first slide member, passes through the first hollow area, and is slidably connected to the first oblique groove; 6. The hinge mechanism of claim 5, wherein the second housing support is provided with the second diagonal groove, and the second protrusion is disposed on the second slide block body of the second slide member, passes through the second hollow area, and is slidably connected to the second diagonal groove.

7. The shape of a cross section of the first protrusion parallel to the first slide block body is circular, elliptical, or rectangular; 7. The hinge mechanism according to claim 5, wherein a cross section of the second projection parallel to the second slide block body has a shape that is circular, elliptical, or rectangular.

8. the first diagonal groove extends in a direction away from the base from a side proximal to a side distal to the base and forms a first included angle with the first rotatable shaft, wherein the first included angle is an acute angle; the second angled groove extends away from the base and forms a second included angle with the second rotatable shaft, where the second included angle is an acute angle; 8. The hinge mechanism of claim 1, wherein when the first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly rotate toward each other, the first protrusion slides within the first diagonal groove in a direction toward the base and the second protrusion slides within the second diagonal groove in a direction toward the base.

9. the first housing support is further provided with a first limiting slide groove, the first limiting slide groove extends in a direction away from the base, the first rotating member is provided with a first limiting slide portion, the first limiting slide portion is received in the first limiting slide groove and slides in the first limiting slide groove, thereby realizing a sliding connection between the first housing support and the first rotating member; the second housing support is further provided with a second limiting slide groove, the second limiting slide groove extends in a direction away from the base, the second rotating member is provided with a second limiting slide portion, the second limiting slide portion is received in the second limiting slide groove and slides in the second limiting slide groove, thereby realizing a sliding connection between the second housing support and the second rotating member; or 9. The hinge mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the first housing support is further provided with a third limit slide portion, the first rotating member is provided with a third limit slide groove, the third limit slide groove extends in a direction away from the base, the third limit slide portion is accommodated in the third limit slide groove and slides within the third limit slide groove, thereby realizing a sliding connection between the first housing support and the first rotating member; the second housing support is further provided with a fourth limit slide portion, the second rotating member is provided with a fourth limit slide groove, the fourth limit slide groove extends in a direction away from the base, the fourth limit slide portion is accommodated in the fourth limit slide groove and slides within the fourth limit slide groove, thereby realizing a sliding connection between the second housing support and the second rotating member.

10. the hinge mechanism further comprises a first door plate and a second door plate disposed oppositely on the two sides of the base, the first door plate and the second door plate configured to support a flexible display of the electronic device, the first door plate being rotatably connected to the first housing support and slidably connected to the first rotating member, and the second door plate being rotatably connected to the second housing support and slidably connected to the second rotating member; 10. The hinge mechanism of claim 1, wherein when the first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly rotate towards each other, the first door plate rotates relative to the first housing support and slides relative to the first rotating member and the second door plate rotates relative to the second housing support and slides relative to the second rotating member, such that when the hinge mechanism is in a folded position, the first door plate and the second door plate are each disposed at an included angle with the base.

11. a first support surface on the side of the first door plate facing the flexible display, a second support surface on the side of the second door plate facing the flexible display, and a third support surface on the side of the base facing the flexible display; 11. The hinge mechanism of claim 10, wherein when the hinge mechanism is in an unfolded state, the first support surface, the second support surface, and the third support surface form a flat support surface for supporting the flexible display.

12. a first arc-shaped rotation block is provided on a side of the first door plate away from the flexible display, and a first arc-shaped guide groove is provided on a side of the first housing support facing the first door plate, the first arc-shaped rotation block is received in the first arc-shaped guide groove and slides in the first arc-shaped guide groove, thereby realizing a rotational connection between the first door plate and the first housing support; 12. The hinge mechanism according to claim 10 or 11, wherein a second arc-shaped rotation block is provided on a side of the second door plate away from the flexible display, and a second arc-shaped guide groove is provided on a side of the second housing support facing the second door plate, the second arc-shaped rotation block is accommodated in the second arc-shaped guide groove and slides within the second arc-shaped guide groove, thereby realizing a rotational connection between the second door plate and the second housing support.

13. a first track groove is further provided on a side of the first door plate away from the flexible display, and the first rotating member is provided with a first pin, the first pin being received in the first track groove and adapted to slide within the first track groove to drive the first door plate to move relative to the first housing support; 13. The hinge mechanism of claim 10, further comprising a second track groove on a side of the second door plate facing away from the flexible display, and a second pin is provided on the second rotating member, the second pin being received in the second track groove and adapted to slide within the second track groove to drive the second door plate to move relative to the second housing support.

14. An electronic device comprising a first housing, a second housing, a flexible display, and the hinge mechanism of any one of claims 1 to 13, the first housing and the second housing are disposed on two opposite sides of a base, respectively, the first housing being secured to a first housing support and the second housing being secured to a second housing support; The electronic device, wherein the flexible display continuously covers the first housing, the second housing, and the hinge mechanism, and the flexible display is secured to the first housing and the second housing.

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