Hinge mechanism and electronic device

Abstract

The present application provides a hinge mechanism and an electronic device. The hinge mechanism includes a base, a first rotating assembly, a second rotating assembly, and a damping assembly. The damping assembly includes an elastic module and an even number of friction assemblies. Each friction assembly includes an intermediate shaft and a gear member. The intermediate shaft includes a shaft body and a mounting portion. The shaft body is connected to the base. The mounting portion is disposed on the shaft body. The mounting portion has a tapered groove. The gear member includes an insert portion. The insert portion has a tapered surface, and the insert portion is inserted into the tapered groove. The tapered surface abuts against the groove surface of the tapered groove under the action of the elastic force of the elastic module. The even number of friction assemblies are disposed between the first rotating assembly and the second assembly. The first swing arm of the first rotating assembly and the second swing arm of the second rotating group rotate around the base and drive the gear member to rotate around the intermediate shaft. In this way, the tapered surface and the groove surface of the tapered groove move relatively to each other to generate a friction force. The friction force can be used as a state-maintaining force for the electronic device, and the friction force helps to realize the hovering function of the electronic device in any state.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202310318227.X, entitled "HINGE MECHANISM AND ELECTRONIC DEVICE," filed with the State Intellectual Property Office of the People's Republic of China on March 22, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

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

[0003] As flexible display technology matures, the display methods of electronic devices will change dramatically. Mobile phones with foldable flexible displays, tablet computers with foldable flexible displays, and wearable electronic devices with foldable flexible displays are important development directions for intelligent electronic devices in the future.

[0004] The hinge mechanism is used as an important component in the process of switching the folding mode of a foldable electronic device, and the folding reliability and operating experience of the foldable electronic device depend heavily on the performance of the hinge mechanism. For example, maintaining the foldable electronic device in a folded state, an unfolded state, or an intermediate state depends on the damping force provided by a damping assembly of the hinge mechanism. However, some current damping assemblies provide a small damping force. Although the damping assembly can provide an effective damping force for maintaining the foldable electronic device in a folded state or an unfolded state, it is very difficult to achieve hovering in an intermediate state, which significantly affects the user experience.

[0005] In view of this, how to realize hovering of a foldable electronic device in an intermediate state has become a difficult problem that those skilled in the art urgently need to solve. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present application provides a hinge mechanism and an electronic device for realizing a hovering function of the electronic device in any rotation state to improve user experience.

[0007] According to a first aspect, the present application provides a hinge mechanism. The hinge mechanism may include a base, a first rotating assembly, a second rotating assembly, and a damping assembly. The first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly are respectively disposed on two opposing sides of the base. The damping assembly includes an elastic module and an even number of friction assemblies. Each friction assembly includes an intermediate shaft and a gear member. The intermediate shaft includes a shaft body and a mounting portion. The shaft body is connected to the base. The mounting portion is disposed on the shaft body. The mounting portion has a tapered groove. An opening of the tapered groove faces toward the gear member. The gear member is rotatably connected to the intermediate shaft, and the gear member includes an insert portion. The insert portion has a tapered surface, and the insert portion is inserted into the tapered groove. Additionally, the tapered surface abuts against the groove surface of the tapered groove under the action of an elastic force of the elastic module in the axial extension direction of the intermediate shaft. Additionally, the gear members of the even number of friction assemblies may be positioned between the first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly, with the gear surfaces of two adjacent gear members meshing with each other. The first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly may be used as drive components for rotating the gear members about the intermediate shaft. Specifically, the first rotating assembly includes a first swing arm. The first swing arm is rotatably connected to the base. The second rotating assembly includes a second swing arm. The second swing arm is rotatably connected to the base. Additionally, a first gear surface is disposed on an end of the first swing arm facing the even number of gear members. A second gear surface is disposed on an end of the second swing arm facing the even number of gear members. The first gear surface meshes with the gear surface of an adjacent gear member. The second gear surface meshes with the gear surface of an adjacent gear member. In this case, the gear members can be driven to rotate about the intermediate shaft in the process of rotating the first swing arm and the second swing arm about the base. In addition, the tapered surface of the gear member abuts against the groove surface of the mounting groove under the action of the elastic force of the elastic module, so that a frictional force can be generated due to the relative movement between the tapered surface and the groove surface of the mounting groove when the gear member rotates around the intermediate shaft, and the frictional force can be applied to a foldable electronic device in which the hinge mechanism is used.The friction force exists regardless of the rotation state of the electronic device. Therefore, the friction force can be used as a state-maintaining force for the electronic device. By using the friction force, the electronic device can achieve a hovering function regardless of the rotation state, thereby improving the user experience.

[0008] In a possible implementation of the present application, at least two first notches may be provided in the groove wall of the tapered groove. In this manner, the tapered groove can be deformed under the action of the pushing force of the insert of the gear member into the tapered groove. This effectively increases the contact force between the tapered surface and the groove surface of the tapered groove. This contact force can increase the friction force generated between the tapered surface and the groove surface of the tapered groove when the gear member rotates relative to the intermediate shaft. In addition, the at least two first notches are arranged symmetrically about the center of the circumference of the tapered groove. In this manner, the at least two first notches are evenly distributed around the circumference of the tapered groove. This helps to improve the uniformity of force transmission by the friction assembly, thereby improving the state-retention stability of an electronic device in which the hinge mechanism is used.

[0009] Additionally, at least two second notches may be provided in the insert portion of the gear member. In this manner, when the insert portion is inserted into the tapered groove, the insert portion can be deformed under the action of the pushing force of the tapered groove surface. Therefore, the contact force between the tapered surface and the tapered groove surface is increased, and the friction force generated between the tapered surface and the tapered groove surface is increased when the gear member rotates relative to the central shaft. In addition, the at least two second notches are arranged symmetrically about the center in the circumferential direction of the insert portion. In this manner, the at least two second notches are evenly distributed in the circumferential direction of the insert portion. This helps improve the uniformity of force transmission by the friction assembly, thereby improving the state-retention stability of the electronic device in which the hinge mechanism is used.

[0010] In a possible implementation of the present application, the base may have an accommodation cavity. In addition, the damping assembly further includes a damping support. The damping support may be accommodated in the accommodation cavity and fixed to the base. The damping support may be used as a positioning component of the damping assembly in the hinge mechanism. The shaft body of the intermediate shaft may be inserted into the damping support. This may help improve the positioning accuracy of the damping assembly in the hinge mechanism and effectively avoid deflection of the damping assembly relative to the base, thereby improving the structural reliability of the hinge mechanism.

[0011] In the present application, the first rotating assembly further includes a first rotating shaft. The first rotating shaft may pass through the damping support, and the first swing arm may be rotatably connected to the first rotating shaft. In this manner, the rotatable connection between the first swing arm and the base may be realized by rotation of the first swing arm about the first rotating shaft. In addition, the second rotating assembly further includes a second rotating shaft. The second rotating shaft may pass through the damping support, and the second swing arm may be rotatably connected to the second rotating shaft. In this manner, the rotatable connection between the second swing arm and the base may be realized by rotation of the second swing arm about the second rotating shaft.

[0012] In a possible implementation of the present application, the first swing arm includes a first rotating portion. A first avoidance opening is disposed in the first rotating portion. The second swing arm includes a second rotating portion. A second avoidance opening is disposed in the second rotating portion. In addition, the damping support portion includes a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion. The first connecting portion is inserted into the first avoidance opening. The first rotating shaft passes through both the first rotating portion and the first connecting portion. The second connecting portion is inserted into the second avoidance opening. The second rotating shaft passes through both the second rotating portion and the second connecting portion. In this way, when a rotatable connection between the first swing arm and the damping support portion and a rotatable connection between the second swing arm and the damping support portion can be realized, the structure of the hinge mechanism can be made compact. This helps to realize a compact design of the hinge mechanism.

[0013] It should be noted that if the damping assembly does not include a damping support, the first and second rotating shafts can be attached to a base. For example, mounting holes can be separately arranged on the base corresponding to the first and second rotating shafts. In this way, the first and second rotating shafts pass through the corresponding mounting holes, respectively, and the base can be used to support and restrict the first and second rotating shafts.

[0014] In a possible implementation of the present application, the first swing arm further includes a first drive unit. The first drive unit is detachably connected to the first rotating unit. The first drive unit and the first rotating unit are relatively fixed in the rotational direction of the first swing arm. In this case, the first gear surface is disposed on the first rotating unit, or the first gear surface is disposed on the first drive unit. In addition, the first gear surface can be meshed with the gear surface of an adjacent gear member, so that rotation of the first swing arm can drive the gear member to rotate about the intermediate shaft.

[0015] Similarly, the second swing arm includes a second drive portion. The second drive portion is detachably connected to the second rotating portion. The second drive portion and the second rotating portion are relatively fixed in the direction of rotation of the second swing arm. The second gear surface is disposed on the second rotating portion, or the second gear surface is disposed on the second drive portion. Additionally, the second gear surface can be meshed with a gear surface of an adjacent gear member, so that rotation of the second swing arm can drive the gear member to rotate about the intermediate shaft.

[0016] In a possible implementation of the present application, the damping assembly may further include a first conjoined cam. The first conjoined cam may be sleeved on the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft. The first conjoined cam is located between the elastic module and the first swing arm, and the first conjoined cam is located between the elastic module and the second swing arm. Additionally, an end of the first swing arm facing the first conjoined cam has a first cam surface. An end of the second swing arm facing the first conjoined cam has a second cam surface. An end of the first conjoined cam facing the first swing arm has a third cam surface. An end of the first conjoined cam facing the second swing arm has a fourth cam surface.

[0017] The first cam surface abuts against the third cam surface under the action of the elastic force of the elastic module in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft. The second cam surface abuts against the fourth cam surface under the action of the elastic force of the elastic module in the axial direction of the second rotating shaft. In this way, a damping force can be generated by using the abutting cam surfaces during the process of the first swing arm rotating around the first rotating shaft and the process of the second swing arm rotating around the second rotating shaft. The damping force can realize the self-unfolding function of the electronic device at the end of the unfolded state or the self-closing function of the electronic device at the end of the closed state. In addition, the damping force can provide a clear sense of frustration to the user during the process of opening and closing the electronic device, improving the user experience.

[0018] In addition, there is both a friction force generated by the relative rotation between the tapered surface and the groove surface of the tapered groove in the hinge mechanism and a damping force generated by the contact of the cam surfaces. This can help increase the damping force provided by the entire hinge mechanism. Therefore, an electronic device using this hinge mechanism can hover stably in any rotation state. In addition, because the two forces are separated from each other, they can exist independently. As a result, if one force fails, the electronic device can maintain its function under the action of the other force. For example, when the friction assembly wears, the damping force generated by the contact of the cam surfaces can provide a specific state-holding force for the electronic device, thereby realizing the hovering function of the electronic device in this rotation state. In another example, when the contacting cam surfaces wear, the friction force exists, and the user can feel a clear damping sensation when opening and closing the electronic device.

[0019] In a possible implementation of the present application, the damping assembly further includes a first limiting member. The elastic module is located between the first coupling cam and the first limiting member. One end of the first limiting member can be clamped to the first rotating shaft for limiting, and the other end of the first limiting member can be clamped to the second rotating shaft for limiting. The elastic module abuts the first limiting member in the extension direction of the axis of the first rotating shaft. In this way, it is possible to effectively prevent parts arranged on the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft from falling off the corresponding rotating shaft, thereby improving the structural reliability of the hinge mechanism.

[0020] When the first restricting member is specifically clamped to the first and second rotating shafts for restriction, a first contraction portion may be arranged on the first rotating shaft, a second contraction portion may be arranged on the second rotating shaft, and a first and second bayonet may be arranged on the first restricting member. In this way, the first bayonet can be clamped by the first contraction portion, and the second bayonet can be clamped by the second contraction portion. As a result, the first restricting member can be securely connected to the first and second rotating shafts.

[0021] To further increase the damping force generated by the hinge mechanism, a fifth cam surface may be disposed on the end of the gear member facing the first coupling cam, and a sixth cam surface may be disposed on the end of the first coupling cam facing each gear member. In addition, the fifth cam abuts against the sixth cam under the action of the elastic force of the elastic module in the extension direction of the axis of the intermediate shaft. In this way, increasing the number of abutting cam surfaces increases the damping force provided by the hinge mechanism.

[0022] Additionally, the damping assembly may further include a second limiting member. The second limiting member is located between the first coupling cam and the elastic module, and the second limiting member may be clamped to each intermediate shaft for limiting movement. The first coupling cam abuts against the second limiting member. Additionally, the fifth cam surface abuts against the sixth cam surface under the action of an abutment force between the first coupling cam and the second limiting member in the axis extension direction of each intermediate shaft. The second limiting member can limit the movement of the first coupling cam along the intermediate shaft and ensure that the fifth cam surface abuts against the sixth cam surface. This improves the stability of the damping force generated by the relative movement process of the fifth cam surface and the sixth cam surface.

[0023] When the second limiting member is clamped to each intermediate shaft for limiting movement, a third contraction portion may be disposed on the shaft body of each intermediate shaft. The third contraction portion includes a shoulder. The second limiting member may be located between the first coupling cam and the shoulder in the axial extension direction of each intermediate shaft. In addition, the second limiting member abuts the shoulder when the top of the protrusion of the fifth cam surface is flush with the top of the protrusion of the sixth cam surface. In this case, the shoulder of the third contraction portion can limit the maximum distance the first limiting member moves along the intermediate shaft in a direction away from the gear member, and can also limit the maximum distance the first coupling cam moves in a direction away from the gear member. This ensures that the fifth cam surface abuts the sixth cam surface reliably.

[0024] In a possible implementation of the present application, the damping assembly may further include a second coupling cam. The second coupling cam is sleeved onto the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft. The first swing arm is located between the first coupling cam and the second coupling cam. The second swing arm is located between the first coupling cam and the second coupling cam. In addition, a seventh cam surface is disposed on an end of the first swing arm facing the second coupling cam. An eighth cam surface is disposed on an end of the second swing arm facing the second coupling cam. The end of the second coupling cam facing the first swing arm has a ninth cam surface. The end of the second coupling cam facing the second swing arm has a tenth cam surface. The seventh cam surface abuts against the ninth cam surface under the action of an elastic force of an elastic module in the extension direction of the axis of the first rotating shaft. The eighth cam surface abuts against the tenth cam surface under the action of an elastic force of an elastic module in the extension direction of the axis of the second rotating shaft. In this way, the damping force that the damping assembly can provide is increased by adding cam surfaces that abut against each other, thereby providing the user with a more noticeable damping feel in the process of opening and closing the electronic device.

[0025] In a possible implementation of the present application, the damping assembly further includes a connector. The connector is sleeved onto the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft. The first swing arm is positioned between the connector and the first coupling cam. The second swing arm is positioned between the connector and the first coupling cam. A first flat surface is disposed on an end of the first swing arm facing the second connector. A second flat surface is disposed on an end of the second swing arm facing the second connector. The end of the second connector facing the first swing arm has a third flat surface. The end of the second coupling cam facing the second swing arm has a fourth flat surface. The first flat surface abuts against the third flat surface under the action of an elastic force of the elastic module in the extension direction of the axis of the first rotating shaft. The second flat surface abuts against the fourth flat surface under the action of an elastic force of the elastic module in the extension direction of the axis of the second rotating shaft. During the process of rotation of the first swing arm and the second swing arm relative to the base, a frictional force is also generated when relative movement occurs between the abutting flat surfaces. The friction force can also be used as a state-holding force for the electronic device, improving the stability of the electronic device hovering in any rotational state.

[0026] According to a second aspect, the present application further provides an electronic device. The electronic device includes a first housing, a second housing, and a hinge mechanism according to the first aspect. The first housing and the second housing are respectively disposed on two opposite sides of the hinge mechanism. A first swing arm is slidably connected to the first housing, and a second swing arm is slidably connected to the second housing.

[0027] In the electronic device provided in the present application, the friction force provided by the hinge mechanism can be transmitted to the first housing by using the first swing arm and to the second housing by using the second swing arm. Since the hinge mechanism can provide a large friction force in any rotation state, the electronic device can achieve a hovering function in any rotation state, improving the user experience. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0028] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram of a structure of an electronic device in a closed state according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 2a] 1 is a diagram of a structure of an electronic device in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 2b] FIG. 2b is an exploded view of the electronic device shown in FIG. 2a. [Figure 3] 1 is a diagram of an end cam structure of a damping assembly according to an embodiment of the present application; [Figure 4] 1 is a diagram of a structure of a damping assembly with two end cams in contact according to an embodiment of the present application; [Figure 5] 1 is a diagram of a structure of a damping assembly according to an embodiment of the present application; [Figure 6a] 1 is a diagram of an assembled structure of a damping assembly and a base according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 6b] FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the damping assembly shown in FIG. 5. [Figure 7a] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a three-dimensional structure of an intermediate shaft according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 7b] FIG. 7b is a front view of the intermediate shaft shown in FIG. 7a. [Figure 7c] FIG. 7b is a cross-sectional view of a partial structure of the intermediate shaft shown in FIG. [Figure 8] 1 is a diagram of a gear member structure according to an embodiment of the present application; [Figure 9a] FIG. 10 is a diagram of an assembled structure of a gear member and an intermediate shaft according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 9b] FIG. 9b is a cross-sectional view of the structure shown in FIG. 9a. [Figure 10] 10A and 10B are diagrams of another structure of a damping assembly according to an embodiment of the present application; [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an exploded view of the damping assembly shown in FIG.

[0029] Reference Number: 1: hinge mechanism, 11: first end cam, 1101: first inclined surface, 1102: first flat surface, 12: second end cam, 1201: 2nd slope, 1202: 2nd plane, 101: first rotating assembly, 1011: first swing arm, 10111: first rotating part, 101111: first avoidance opening, 101112: 1st gear surface, 101113: 1st cam surface, 101114: 7th cam surface, 101115: 1st plane, 1012: first rotating shaft, 10121: first stop portion, 10122: first contraction portion, 102: second rotating assembly, 1021: second swing arm, 10211: second rotating portion, 102111: second avoidance opening, 102112: Second gear surface, 102113: Second cam surface, 102114: Eighth cam surface, 102115: Second plane, 1022: second rotating shaft, 10221: second stop portion, 10222: second contraction portion, 103: damping assembly, 1031: friction assembly, 10311: intermediate shaft, 103111: shaft body, 103112: mounting portion, 1031121: Tapered groove, 10311211: Groove surface, 10311212: First notch, 103113: Third contraction portion, 1031131: Shoulder portion, 10312: Gear member, 103121: Insertion portion, 1031211: Tapered surface, 1031212: Second notch, 103122: 5th cam surface, 1032: damping support portion, 10321: first connection portion, 10322: second connection portion, 1033: elastic module, 1034: first coupling cam, 10341: third cam surface, 10342: fourth cam surface, 10343: sixth cam surface, 10344: accommodation slot, 1035: second coupling cam, 10351: ninth cam surface, 10352: tenth cam surface, 1036: first limiting member, 10361: first bayonet, 10362: second bayonet, 1037: second restricting member, 10371: third bayonet, 1038: Fixed mount, 1039: Connector, 10391: Third plane, 10392: Fourth plane, 104: Base, 1041: Accommodating cavity, 2: First housing, 3: Second housing, 4: Flexible display. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0030] In order to make the objectives, technical solutions and advantages of the present application clearer, the present application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The terms used in the following embodiments of the present application are only intended to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present application. As used in this specification and the appended claims of the present application, the singular terms "one," "a," "the," "the preceding," "this," and "the one" also include expressions such as "one or more," unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0031] References to "one embodiment," "some embodiments," etc. described herein indicate that one or more embodiments of the present application include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic described with reference to the embodiment. Thus, the appearance of phrases such as "in one embodiment," "in some embodiments," "in some other embodiments," "in other embodiments," etc. in different places throughout this specification are not necessarily meant to refer to the same embodiment. Instead, these phrases mean "one or more, but not all, of the embodiments," unless specifically emphasized otherwise. The terms "include," "comprise," "have," and variations of these terms all mean "including, but not limited to," unless specifically emphasized otherwise.

[0032] To facilitate understanding of the hinge mechanism and electronic device provided in the embodiments of the present application, the following first describes an application scenario. The hinge mechanism may be used in foldable electronic devices, such as, but not limited to, mobile phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), notebook computers, or tablet computers. When the hinge mechanism provided in the embodiments of the present application is used in an electronic device, please refer to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a diagram of the structure of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present application. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the electronic device is in a closed state. In addition to the hinge mechanism 1, the electronic device may further include two housings and a flexible display (not shown in FIG. 1). For ease of explanation, in the present application, the two housings of the electronic device may be referred to as a first housing 2 and a second housing 3, respectively. The first housing 2 and the second housing 3 are located on two sides of the hinge mechanism 1 and may rotate around the hinge mechanism 1. The electronic device provided in the present application may be a self-folding electronic device. When used, the electronic device may be closed or unfolded depending on the usage scenario.

[0033] Please refer to Fig. 2a, which is a diagram of the structure of the electronic device in an unfolded state. Additionally, please refer to Fig. 2b, which is an exploded view of the electronic device in Fig. 2a. The flexible display 4 is omitted in Fig. 2b. In this case, it can be seen from Fig. 2a and Fig. 2b that in the unfolded state, the first housing 2 and the second housing 3 are still located on two sides of the hinge mechanism 1, and the first housing 2 and the second housing 3 can support the flexible display 4, so that the flexible display 4 is in a flat state.

[0034] It can be understood that the process of the electronic device changing from the unfolded state shown in Fig. 2a to the closed state shown in Fig. 1 or from the closed state shown in Fig. 1 to the unfolded state shown in Fig. 2a is a process of the first housing 2 and the second housing 3 rotating around the hinge mechanism 1. As an important functional component in a foldable electronic device, the hinge mechanism 1 may be disposed corresponding to the foldable portion of the flexible display 4. Therefore, the hinge mechanism 1 is important for supporting the foldable portion of the flexible display 4 in the unfolded state shown in Fig. 2a and for accommodating the foldable portion of the flexible display 4 in the closed state shown in Fig. 1.

[0035] Additionally, a reliable structure of the hinge mechanism 1 can be important for ensuring reliable operation of the electronic device and maintaining its state during the operation process. For example, the electronic device may be held in the closed state shown in FIG. 1 or the unfolded state shown in FIG. 2a largely depending on the damping force provided by the hinge mechanism 1. Currently, the hinge mechanisms 1 of some foldable electronic devices mainly use the end cam structure shown in FIG. 3 to provide the damping force. FIG. 3 is a diagram of the structure of the first end cam 11 and / or the second end cam 12 according to a possible embodiment. When the electronic device is in the closed or unfolded state, please refer to FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a diagram of a structure in which two end cams are in contact according to one embodiment of the present application. In this embodiment, the contact between the first slope 1101 of the first end cam 11 and the second slope 1201 of the second end cam 12 can provide an effective state-maintaining force. However, when the electronic device moves to an intermediate state between the closed state and the unfolded state, the first flat surface 1102 of the first end cam 11 comes into contact with the second flat surface 1202 of the second end cam 12, generating a small damping force. In this case, the repulsive force generated by the bent flexible display is applied to the two housings, making it difficult for the electronic device to hover in the intermediate state, which greatly reduces the user experience.

[0036] The hinge mechanism provided in the present application aims to solve the above-mentioned problems. Therefore, when the electronic device is in a closed state, an unfolded state, or an intermediate state, a sufficient hovering force can be provided to the electronic device, thereby stably holding the electronic device in the corresponding state and improving the user experience. To facilitate understanding of the hinge mechanism provided in the embodiments of the present application, the specific structure of the hinge mechanism will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0037] First, please refer to FIG. 2b. In the present application, the hinge mechanism 1 may include a base 104. Additionally, please refer to FIG. 5. FIG. 5 is a diagram of a partial structure of a hinge mechanism according to an embodiment of the present application. The hinge mechanism 1 may further include a first rotating assembly 101, a second rotating assembly 102, and a damping assembly 103. The first rotating assembly 101 and the second rotating assembly 102 are disposed on two opposite sides of the base 104, and the first rotating assembly 101 and the second rotating assembly 102 are rotatably connected to the base 104. In the present application, the process by which an electronic device in which the hinge mechanism 1 is used changes from an unfolded state to a closed state is a process by which the first rotating assembly 101 and the second rotating assembly 102 rotate toward each other about the base 104, and the process by which the electronic device changes from a closed state to an unfolded state is a process by which the first rotating assembly 101 and the second rotating assembly 102 rotate away from each other about the base 104.

[0038] Please refer to Figures 6a and 6b. Figure 6a is a diagram of an assembled structure of the damping assembly 103 and the base 104 in the hinge mechanism 1 shown in Figure 5. Figure 6b is an exploded view of the hinge mechanism 1 shown in Figure 5. The first rotating assembly 101 may include a first swing arm 1011. The first swing arm 1011 is rotatably connected to the base 104 shown in Figure 6a. In a specific implementation, the first rotating assembly 101 may further include a first rotating shaft 1012. The first rotating shaft 1012 may be attached to the base 104. The first swing arm 1011 is rotatably connected to the first rotating shaft 1012. In this manner, rotation of the first swing arm 1011 relative to the base 104 is achieved by rotation of the first swing arm 1011 around the first rotating shaft 1012.

[0039] In the present application, the second rotating assembly 102 and the first rotating assembly 101 may be disposed symmetrically with respect to the base 104. As shown in FIGS. 6a and 6b, the second rotating assembly 102 may include a second swing arm 1021. The second swing arm 1021 is rotatably connected to the base 104. In addition, the second rotating assembly 102 may further include a second rotating shaft 1022. The second rotating shaft 1022 may be attached to the base 104. The second swing arm 1021 may rotate about the second rotating shaft 1022. This realizes the rotation of the second swing arm 1021 with respect to the base 104.

[0040] It should be noted that in the present application, the axis of the first rotatable shaft 1012 and the axis of the second rotatable shaft 1022 may be arranged parallel to each other. In this way, the extension direction of the axis of the first rotatable shaft 1012 is the same as the extension direction of the axis of the second rotatable shaft 1022.

[0041] 5 and 6b. In the present application, the damping assembly 103 may include a friction assembly 1031. The friction assembly 1031 may be located between the first rotating assembly 101 and the second rotating assembly 102. The friction assembly 1031 may include an intermediate shaft 10311 and a gear member 10312. The gear member 10312 may be sleeved onto the intermediate shaft 10311, and the gear member 10312 may be rotatably connected to the intermediate shaft 10311.

[0042] For the specific arrangement of the intermediate shaft 10311, please refer to Fig. 7a. Fig. 7a is a diagram of the three-dimensional structure of the intermediate shaft 10311 according to one embodiment of the present application. The intermediate shaft 10311 may include a shaft body 103111 and an attachment portion 103112. The shaft body 103111 is connected to the base 104 shown in Fig. 2b. The axis of the shaft body 103111 may extend in the same direction as the axis of the first rotating shaft 1012 and the axis of the second rotating shaft 1022.

[0043] The mounting portion 103112 is disposed on the shaft body 103111, and the mounting portion 103112 may be disposed along the circumferential direction of the shaft body 103111. See FIG. 7b. FIG. 7b is a front view of the intermediate shaft 10311 shown in FIG. 7a. In addition, see FIG. 7c. FIG. 7c is a cross-sectional view of a partial structure of the intermediate shaft 103111 shown in FIG. 7b, which may be used to display the cross-sectional structure at point A in FIG. 7b. As shown in FIG. 7c, the mounting portion 103112 has a tapered groove 1031121. An opening of the tapered groove 1031121 faces the gear member 10312. See FIG. 5 and FIG. 7c together. The circumferential radius of the tapered groove 1031121 gradually increases in the direction toward the gear member 10312. In addition, the center line of the tapered groove 1031121 coincides with the axis of the shaft body 103111. The shape of the mounting portion 103112 is not particularly limited in the present application. For example, it may be a cylindrical shape as shown in FIGS. 7a to 7c, or any other possible shape. The included angle between the groove surface 10311211 of the tapered groove 1031121 and the center line of the tapered groove 1031121 is not particularly limited in the present application. Those skilled in the art may adjust the included angle through simulation, experiment, etc. based on specific overall design requirements. In some possible embodiments, the included angle between the groove surface 10311211 of the tapered groove 1031121 and the center line of the tapered groove 1031121 may be 45° or 60°.

[0044] In the present application, when the gear member 10312 is specifically arranged, please refer to Figure 8. Figure 8 is a diagram of the structure of the gear member 10312 according to one embodiment of the present application. The gear member 10312 may include an insert portion 103121, and the insert portion 103121 has a tapered surface 1031211. Please refer to Figures 5 and 8 together. In a direction away from the mounting portion 103112, the circumferential radius of the tapered surface 1031211 gradually increases.

[0045] Please refer to Fig. 9a. Fig. 9a is a diagram of a structure in which the gear member 10312 and the intermediate shaft 10311 are assembled, according to one embodiment of the present application. The insert portion 103121 can be inserted into the tapered groove 1031121 of the mounting portion 103112 of the intermediate shaft 10311. In addition, please refer to Fig. 9b. Fig. 9b is a cross-sectional view of the structure shown in Fig. 9a. From Fig. 9b, it can be seen that the tapered surface 1031211 of the insert portion 103121 abuts against the groove surface 10311211 of the tapered groove 1031121 of the mounting portion 103112. In addition, in the present application, the tapered surface 1031211 may be in frictional contact with the groove surface 10311211 of the tapered groove 1031121.

[0046] In the present application, frictional contact between two parts means that, in the process of the two parts rotating relative to each other, a frictional force may be generated between the contact surfaces of the two parts, and this frictional force may prevent the two parts from continuing to move relative to each other. In consideration of this, in the process of the gear member 10312 rotating about the intermediate shaft 10311, the tapered surface 1031211 of the gear member 10312 may rotate against the groove surface 10311211 of the tapered groove 1031121. As a result, a frictional force may be generated between the gear member 10312 and the intermediate shaft 10311. The above-mentioned frictional force exists throughout the process of the gear member 10312 rotating about the intermediate shaft 10311. Therefore, when the damping assembly 103 is used in the hinge mechanism 1 of an electronic device, the damping assembly 103 can provide a reliable state-holding force for the electronic device to hover in a corresponding state when the electronic device is in a closed state, an unfolded state, or an intermediate state. This can meet users' usage requirements for electronic devices in different rotation states, thereby improving the user experience.

[0047] It can be understood that a larger contact force between the tapered surface 1031211 of the gear member 10312 and the groove surface 10311211 of the tapered groove 1031121 of the mounting portion 103112 generally indicates a larger friction force that may occur between the tapered surface 1031211 and the groove surface 10311211 during the relative rotation process. In consideration of this, in different application scenarios, the magnitude of the contact force between the tapered surface 1031211 of the gear member 10312 and the groove surface 10311211 of the tapered groove 1031121 of the mounting portion 103112 is adjusted based on the requirement for friction force. For example, when the restoring force of a flexible display of an electronic device in a bent state is large, a large friction force is required to realize hovering of the flexible display in different folded states. In this case, the contact force between the tapered surface 1031211 of the gear member 10312 and the groove surface 10311211 of the tapered groove 1031121 of the attachment portion 103112 can be increased.

[0048] In the present application, there may be several ways to increase the contact force between the tapered surface 1031211 of the gear member 10312 and the groove surface 10311211 of the tapered groove 1031121 of the mounting portion 103112. For example, in the intermediate shaft 10311 shown in FIG. 7a, a first notch 10311212 may be provided in the groove wall of the tapered groove 1031121.

[0049] The number of first notches 10311212 in the tapered groove 1031121 is not limited in the present application. For example, there may be at least two, for example, two to four, first notches 10311212. In the intermediate shaft 10311 shown in FIG. 7a, four first notches 10311212 are arranged in the tapered groove 1031121. In the present application, the number of first notches 10311212 in the tapered groove 1031121 is set to two to four. This can further improve the structural reliability of the mounting portion 103112 when the tapered groove 1031121 can be significantly deformed. In addition, to improve the uniformity of force transmission by the intermediate shaft 10311, at least two first notches 10311212 can be arranged symmetrically about the center in the circumferential direction of the tapered groove 1031121. In other words, at least two first cutouts 10311212 are evenly distributed in the circumferential direction of the tapered groove 1031121. For example, when four first cutouts 10311212 are arranged in the tapered groove 1031121, the central angle between any two first cutouts 10311212 is equal in the circumferential direction of the tapered groove 1031121. Taking this into consideration, the size of the insertion portion 103121 of the gear member 10312 may be increased. In this way, in the process of inserting the insertion portion 103121 into the tapered groove 1031121, the opening of the tapered groove 1031121 is adaptively deformed under the action of the pushing force of the gear member 10312. This helps to increase the contact force between the groove surface 10311211 of the tapered groove 1031121 and the tapered surface 1031211 of the insert 103121, thereby increasing the friction force in the process of the groove surface 10311211 and the tapered surface 1031211 rotating against each other.

[0050] Additionally, in the present application, a notch may also be provided in the insertion portion 103121 of the gear member 10312. For a specific implementation, please continue to refer to FIG. 8. For ease of distinction, the notch in the insertion portion 103121 may be defined as a second notch 1031212. The number of second notches 1031212 in the insertion portion 103121 is not limited in the present application. For example, there may be at least two, for example, two to four, second notches 1031212. In the gear member 10312 shown in FIG. 8, three second notches 1031212 are arranged in the insertion portion 103121. In the present application, the number of second notches 1031212 in the insertion portion 103121 is set to two to four. This can further improve the structural reliability of the insertion portion 103121 when the insertion portion 103121 can be significantly deformed. Additionally, to improve the uniformity of force transmission by the insert 103121, the second notches 1031212 may be arranged symmetrically about the center in the circumferential direction of the insert 103121. In other words, at least two second notches 1031212 are evenly distributed in the circumferential direction of the insert 103121. For example, when three second notches 1031212 are arranged in the insert 103121, the central angles between any two second notches 1031212 are equal in the circumferential direction of the insert 103121.

[0051] It should be noted that in the present application, the first notch 10311212 may be provided only in the tapered groove 1031121, and the second notch 1031212 may not be provided in the insert portion 103121, and the second notch 1031212 may be provided only in the insert portion 103121, and the first notch 10311212 may not be provided in the tapered groove 1031121, or the second notch 1031212 may be provided in the insert portion 103121 when the first notch 10311212 is provided in the tapered groove 1031121. In this way, at least one of the insertion portion 103121 and the tapered groove 1031121, which are inserted into each other, is deformed, increasing the contact force between the tapered surface 1031211 of the insertion portion 103121 and the groove surface 10311211 of the tapered groove 1031121, and increasing the frictional force generated in the process of the gear member 10312 and the intermediate shaft 10311 rotating relative to each other.

[0052] Please continue to refer to FIGS. 5 and 6b. In the present application, the damping assembly 103 may further include a damping support 1032. The damping support 1032 may be used as a positioning component for the damping assembly 103 on the entire shaft of the hinge mechanism 1. Specifically, please refer to FIG. 2b. The base 104 may include an accommodating cavity 1041. The damping support 1032 may be accommodated in the accommodating cavity 1041, and the damping support 1032 is fixed to the base 104. In addition, please refer to FIGS. 5 and 7a together. An end of the intermediate shaft 10311 may be inserted into the damping support 1032. In addition, as shown in FIG. 7a, the cross section of the end of the intermediate shaft 10311 configured to be inserted into the damping support 1032 may be a non-circular surface, for example, a square surface. In this manner, when the intermediate shaft 10311 is inserted into the damping support portion 1032, the intermediate shaft 10311 can be prevented from rotating relative to the damping support portion 1032. This can improve the reliability of rotation of the gear member 10312 relative to the intermediate shaft 10311. In addition, the intermediate shaft 10311 is inserted into the damping support portion 1032. This can effectively prevent the damping assembly 103 from bending relative to the base 104, thereby improving the positioning accuracy of the damping assembly 103 in the hinge mechanism 1.

[0053] The damping support 1032 is fixed to the base 104. Therefore, in consideration of this, it can be understood that the rotatable connection between the first swing arm 1011 and the base 104 can be realized by a rotatable connection between the first swing arm 1011 and the damping support 1032. Specifically, the first rotating shaft 1012 can pass through the damping support 1032. In addition, as shown in FIG. 6b, the first swing arm 1011 can include a first rotating portion 10111. A first avoidance opening 101111 can be arranged in the first rotating portion 10111 of the first swing arm 1011. In the extension direction of the axis of the first rotating shaft 1012, the first avoidance opening 101111 can be arranged at a middle position of the first rotating portion 10111, but is not limited to this. The damping support 1032 can include a first connecting portion 10321. The first connecting portion 10321 can be inserted into the first avoidance opening 101111. In this case, the first rotating shaft 1012 can pass through both the first rotating portion 10111 and the first connecting portion 10321. In this way, the first rotating portion 10111 is rotatably connected to the first connecting portion 10321, thereby making the structure of the hinge mechanism 1 compact when a rotatable connection between the first swing arm 1011 and the damping support portion 1032 is realized. This helps to realize a compact design of the hinge mechanism 1.

[0054] In the present application, the second swing arm 1021 may be rotatably connected to the damping support portion 1032. The second rotating shaft 1022 may pass through the damping support portion 1032. In addition, the second swing arm 1021 includes a second rotating portion 10211. A second avoidance opening 102111 may be arranged in the second rotating portion 10211 of the second swing arm 1021. In the extension direction of the axis of the second rotating shaft 1022, the second avoidance opening 102111 may be arranged at a middle position of the second rotating portion 10211, but is not limited to this. The damping support portion 1032 may include a second connecting portion 10322. The second connecting portion 10322 may be inserted into the second avoidance opening 102111. In this case, the second rotating shaft 1022 may pass through both the second rotating portion 10211 and the second connecting portion 10322. In this way, the second rotating part 10211 is rotatably connected to the second connecting part 10322, which makes the hinge mechanism 1 have a compact structure when the rotatable connection between the second swing arm 1021 and the damping support part 1032 is realized.

[0055] From the foregoing description of the structure of the friction assembly 1031, it can be seen that the friction force of the friction assembly 1031 is provided based on the rotation of the gear member 10312 relative to the intermediate shaft 10311. Additionally, the first rotating assembly 101 and the second rotating assembly 102 may rotate about the base 104. Thus, in the present application, the gear member 10312 may rotate about the intermediate shaft 10311 driven by the rotation of the first rotating assembly 101 and the second rotating assembly 102.

[0056] For specific implementations, please continue to refer to FIGS. 5 and 6b. In the present application, it can be understood that the damping assembly 103 can include an even number of friction assemblies 1031 to enable the first rotating assembly 101 and the second rotating assembly 102 to rotate toward or away from each other. For example, the number of friction assemblies 1031 shown in FIG. 5 can be two, four, six, or eight, and can be selected according to the size of the hinge mechanism 1. In addition, typically, a larger number of friction assemblies 1031 indicates a larger friction force that the damping assembly 103 can provide. Therefore, the number of friction assemblies 1031 in the damping assembly 103 can be further selected based on the friction force required by the electronic device in which the damping assembly 103 is used to hover at any rotation angle.

[0057] Continuing to refer to FIG. 5 , in the gear members 10312 of an even number of friction assemblies 1031, the gear surfaces of two adjacent gear members 10312 mesh with each other. In addition, the gear members 10312 of an even number of friction assemblies 1031 may be located between the first rotating assembly 101 and the second rotating assembly 102. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6 b, the even number of gear members 10312 may be located between the first swing arm 1011 and the second swing arm 1021. The first gear surface 101112 may be located at the end of the first swing arm 1011 facing the even number of gear members 10312. For example, the first gear surface 101112 may be located on the first rotating portion 10111 of the first swing arm 1011. When the axis of rotation of the first gear surface 101112 coincides with the axis of rotation of the first rotating part 10111, both the first gear surface 101112 and the first rotating part 10111 rotate about the first rotating shaft 1012.

[0058] In another possible embodiment of the present application, the first swing arm 1011 may further include a first drive unit (not shown in FIG. 5 ). The first drive unit is detachably connected to the first rotating unit 10111. In addition, the first drive unit and the first rotating unit 10111 are relatively fixed in the rotation direction of the first swing arm 1011. In this manner, the first drive unit can rotate synchronously with the first rotating unit 10111 around the base 104. The method of connecting the first drive unit to the first rotating unit 10111 is not limited in the present application. For example, the first drive unit and the first rotating unit 10111 may be connected by using a positioning pin. In consideration of this, a first gear surface 101112 may be further arranged on the first drive unit.

[0059] In addition, the second gear surface 102112 may be disposed on the end of the second swing arm 1021 that faces the even number of gear members 10312. For example, the second gear surface 102112 may be disposed on the second rotating portion 10211 of the second swing arm 1021. When the rotation axis of the second gear surface 102112 coincides with the rotation axis of the second rotating portion 10211, both the second gear surface 102112 and the second rotating portion 10211 rotate around the second rotating shaft 1022.

[0060] In another possible embodiment of the present application, the second swing arm 1021 may further include a second drive unit (not shown in FIG. 5 ). The second drive unit is detachably connected to the second rotating unit 10211. In addition, the second drive unit and the second rotating unit 10211 are relatively fixed in the rotation direction of the second swing arm 1021. In this manner, the second drive unit can rotate synchronously with the second rotating unit 10211 around the base 104. The method of connecting the second drive unit to the second rotating unit 10211 is not limited in the present application. For example, the second drive unit and the second rotating unit 10211 may be connected by using a positioning pin. In consideration of this, a second gear surface 102112 may be further disposed on the second drive unit.

[0061] Continuing to refer to FIG. 5, when the gear surfaces of two adjacent gear members 10312 mesh with each other, the first gear surface 101112 is transmission-connected to the second gear surface 102112 by using an even number of gear members 10312 of the friction assembly 1031. In this case, the first gear surface 101112 may mesh with the gear surface of the adjacent gear member 10312, and the second gear surface 102112 may mesh with the gear surface of the adjacent gear member 10312. In this way, in the process of rotating the first swing arm 1011 and the second swing arm 1021 about the damping support 1032, each gear member 10312 may be driven to rotate about the intermediate shaft 10311 corresponding to the gear member 10312.

[0062] It should be noted that in the present application, the first swing arm 1011 and the second swing arm 1021 can be used as driving components for rotating the gear member 10312 around the intermediate shaft 10311. Additionally, the first swing arm 1011 is transmission-connected to the second swing arm 1021 by using the gear member 10312 of the even-numbered friction assembly 1031. In this way, when the first swing arm 1011 and the second swing arm 1021 drive and rotate the gear member 10312, the first swing arm 1011 and the second swing arm 1021 can further rotate synchronously toward or away from each other. Then, the first rotating assembly 101 and the second rotating assembly 102 can rotate synchronously toward or away from each other. In this case, when the hinge mechanism 1 is used in an electronic device, the electronic device can achieve a hovering function in any rotation state, effectively improving the movement stability of the electronic device. As a result, the structural reliability of the flexible display of the electronic device can be improved, and the service life of the flexible display can be extended.

[0063] In the present application, the damping assembly 103 may further include an elastic module 1033 to allow the insertion portion 103121 of the gear member 10312 to be always inserted into the tapered groove 1031121 of the mounting portion 103112, thereby keeping the tapered surface 1031211 and the groove surface 10311211 of the tapered groove 1031121 in a always pressing state. Under the action of the elastic force of the elastic module 1033, the gear member 10312 can be pressed toward the mounting portion 103112. For a specific implementation, please continue to refer to FIGS. 5 and 6b. The gear member 10312 is located between the mounting portion 103112 and the elastic module 1033. In the axial extension direction of the intermediate shaft 10311, the elastic module 1033 presses the gear member 10312 toward the mounting portion 103112. In this way, the tapered surface 1031211 can be brought into contact with the groove surface 10311211 of the tapered groove 1031121.

[0064] The present application does not limit the specific type of the elastic module 1033. For example, the elastic module 1033 may be a spring, and the elastic module 1033 may include multiple springs. In this manner, at least one spring may be sleeved onto each intermediate shaft 10311.

[0065] 5 and 6b. The damping assembly 103 provided in this embodiment of the present application may further include a first coupling cam 1034. The first coupling cam 1034 may be located between the elastic module 1033 and the first swing arm 1011. In addition, the first coupling cam 1034 may also be located between the elastic module 1033 and the second swing arm 1021, and the first coupling cam 1034 may be sleeved onto the first rotating shaft 1012 and the second rotating shaft 1022.

[0066] As shown in FIG. 6b , the end of the first swing arm 1011 facing the first coupling cam 1034 has a first cam surface 101113. For example, the first cam surface 101113 may be located at the end of the first connecting portion 10321. The end of the second swing arm 1021 facing the first coupling cam 1034 has a second cam surface 102113. For example, the second cam surface 102113 may be located at the end of the second connecting portion 10322. In addition, the end of the first coupling cam 1034 facing the first swing arm 1011 may have a third cam surface 10341. The end of the first coupling cam 1034 facing the second swing arm 1021 may have a fourth cam surface 10342. In this case, the first cam surface 101113 can abut against the third cam surface 10341 under the action of the elastic force of the elastic module 1033 in the axial extension direction of the first rotating shaft 1012. The second cam surface 102113 can abut against the fourth cam surface 10342 under the action of the elastic force of the elastic module 1033 in the axial extension direction of the second rotating shaft 1022.

[0067] In the present application, the cam surface may include a protrusion and a recess in the direction of extension of the axis of each corresponding shaft. A slope exists between the protrusion and the recess or between the recess and the protrusion. From the above description, it can be understood that the two end cams in the embodiment shown in FIG. 4 can provide a damping force when their slopes contact each other. When the first swing arm 1011 and the second swing arm 1021 rotate around the corresponding rotating shaft, a corresponding damping force can be generated when the slopes of the two abutting cam surfaces contact each other. The existence of the damping force can realize the self-deployment function of the electronic device at the end of the unfolded state or the self-closing function of the electronic device at the end of the closed state. In addition, the damping force can provide a clear sense of frustration to the user during the process of opening and closing the electronic device, improving the user experience.

[0068] It may be understood that in the present application, the elastic module 1033 may be further sleeved onto the first rotating shaft 1012 and the second rotating shaft 1022. This may increase the elastic force applied by the elastic module 1033 to the first coupling cam 1034. As a result, the first cam surface 101113 is securely in contact with the third cam surface 10341, and the second cam surface 102113 is securely in contact with the fourth cam surface 10342.

[0069] Continuing to refer to FIG. 6b, a fifth cam surface 103122 may be disposed on an end of each gear member 10312 facing the first coupling cam 1034. A sixth cam surface 10343 may be disposed on an end of each first coupling cam 1034 facing the gear member 10312. The fifth cam surface 103122 may abut against the sixth cam surface 10343 under the action of the elastic force of the elastic module 1033 in the direction of extension of the axis of the intermediate shaft 10311. In this manner, a damping force can be generated between the gear member 10312 and the first coupling cam 1034 in the process in which the first swing arm 1011 and the second swing arm 1021 drive the gear member 10312 to rotate about the intermediate shaft 10311. As a result, the hinge mechanism 1 can obtain a larger damping force. This can improve the stability of the electronic device controlled by the hinge mechanism 1 in the unfolded state, the closed state, or an intermediate state. In addition, this can further effectively improve the user's touch feeling in the process of opening and closing the electronic device, thereby improving the user experience.

[0070] From the above description, it can be seen that the damping force provided by the hinge mechanism 1 can be increased by increasing the number of cam surfaces that abut against each other. With this in mind, please continue to refer to FIGS. 5 and 6b. The damping assembly 103 may further include a second coupling cam 1035. The second coupling cam 1035 is sleeved onto the first rotating shaft 1012 and the second rotating shaft 1022. The first swing arm 1011 is positioned between the first coupling cam 1034 and the second coupling cam 1035. The second swing arm 1021 is positioned between the first coupling cam 1034 and the second coupling cam 1035. In addition, a seventh cam surface 101114 is disposed on the end of the first swing arm 1011 facing the second coupling cam 1035. For example, the seventh cam surface 101114 may be disposed at the end of the first connecting portion 10321. An eighth cam surface 102114 is arranged on the end of the second swing arm 1021 facing the second coupling cam 1035. For example, the eighth cam surface 102114 can be arranged on the end of the second connecting portion 10322. The end of the second coupling cam 1035 facing the first swing arm 1011 has a ninth cam surface 10351. The end of the second coupling cam 1035 facing the second swing arm 1021 has a tenth cam surface 10352. The seventh cam surface 101114 abuts against the ninth cam surface 10351 under the action of the elastic force of the elastic module 1033 in the direction of extension of the axis of the first rotating shaft 1012. The eighth cam surface 102114 abuts against the tenth cam surface 10352 under the action of the elastic force of the elastic module 1033 in the direction of extension of the axis of the second rotating shaft 1022. In this way, the hinge mechanism 1 can provide a greater damping force.

[0071] It can be understood that a portion of the second coupling cam 1035, on which the ninth cam surface 10351 is arranged, can be sleeved onto the first rotating shaft 1012. In addition, please continue to refer to FIGS. 5 and 6b. A first stop 10121 can be further arranged on the first rotating shaft 1012. The portion of the second coupling cam 1035 that is sleeved onto the first rotating shaft 1012 can be located between the first stop 10121 and the first swing arm 1011. In the extension direction of the axis of the first rotating shaft 1012, the second coupling cam 1035 can abut against the first stop 10121. Similarly, a portion of the second coupling cam 1035, on which the tenth cam surface 10352 is arranged, can be sleeved onto the second rotating shaft 1022. A second stop 10221 can be further arranged on the second rotating shaft 1022. The portion of the second coupling cam 1035 that is sleeved onto the second rotating shaft 1022 may be located between the second stop portion 10221 and the second swing arm 1021. The second coupling cam 1035 may abut against the second stop portion 10221 in the axial extension direction of the second rotating shaft 1022. In this case, the first stop portion 10121 and the second stop portion 10221 can limit the movement of the second coupling cam 1035 in the axial extension direction of the first rotating shaft 1012 and the axial extension direction of the second rotating shaft 1022. This can prevent the second coupling cam 1035 from falling off the first rotating shaft 1012 and the second rotating shaft 1022, thereby improving the structural reliability of the hinge mechanism 1.

[0072] In the present application, the damping assembly 103 may further include a first limiting member 1036 to enable the elastic module 1033 to firmly press the first coupling cam 1034, the first swing arm 1011, and the second coupling cam 1035, and to firmly press the first coupling cam 1034, the second swing arm 1021, and the second coupling cam 1035. Please continue to refer to FIGS. 5 and 6b. The elastic module 1033 may be located between the first coupling cam 1034 and the first limiting member 1036. One end of the first limiting member 1036 may be clamped to the first rotating shaft 1012 for limiting, and the other end of the first limiting member 1036 may be clamped to the second rotating shaft 1022 for limiting. In addition, the elastic module 1033 may abut against the first limiting member 1036 in the extension direction of the axis of the first rotating shaft 1012. This prevents the structures disposed on the first rotating shaft 1012 and the second rotating shaft 1022 from falling off the corresponding rotating shafts, thereby improving the structural reliability of the damping assembly 103.

[0073] Continuing to refer to FIG. 6b, a first constriction 10122 may be arranged on the first rotating shaft 1012 to clamp the first restricting member 1036 to the first rotating shaft 1012 for restriction. In this case, a first bayonet 10361 may be arranged on an end of the first restricting member 1036, and the first bayonet 10361 may be clamped by the first constriction 10122. Similarly, a second constriction 10222 may be arranged on the second rotating shaft 1022. A second bayonet 10362 may be arranged on the other end of the first restricting member 1036, and the second bayonet 10362 may be clamped by the second constriction 10222. In this application, a constriction is a portion of a shaft where the diameter decreases.

[0074] 5 and 6b, cam surfaces are arranged at both ends of the first swing arm 1011 in the extension direction of the axis of the first rotating shaft 1012, cam surfaces are arranged at both ends of the second swing arm 1021 in the extension direction of the axis of the second rotating shaft 1022, and cam surfaces are arranged only at the end of the gear member 10312 facing the first coupling cam 1034. In consideration of this, the damping assembly 103 may further include a second limiting member 1037 to improve the reliability of the contact of the fifth cam surface 103122 of the gear member 10312 with the sixth cam surface 10343 of the first coupling cam 1034. The second limiting member 1037 is located between the first coupling cam 1034 and the elastic module 1033, and the second limiting member 1037 is clamped to each intermediate shaft 10311 for limiting. The first coupling cam 1034 abuts against the second limiting member 1037. This limits the movement of the first coupling cam 1034 in the axial direction of the intermediate shaft 10311. As a result, the fifth cam surface 103122 abuts against the sixth cam surface 10343 under the action of the abutment force between the first coupling cam 1034 and the second limiting member 1037 in the axial extension direction of each intermediate shaft 10311.

[0075] Continuing to refer to FIG. 6b , a third bayonet 10371 may be arranged on the second limiting member 1037 to clamp the second limiting member 1037 to each intermediate shaft 10311, and a third contraction portion 103113 shown in FIG. 7a may be arranged on the shaft body 103111 of each intermediate shaft 10311. In this case, the third bayonet 10371 may be clamped by the third contraction portion 103113. In addition, it can be understood that the second limiting member 1037 may move within the third contraction portion 103113 in the axial extension direction of the intermediate shaft 10311, thereby allowing the first coupling cam 1034 to move in the axial extension direction of the intermediate shaft 10311 in the process of rotating the gear member 10312 around the intermediate shaft 10311.

[0076] Please continue to refer to FIG. 7a. When the third contraction portion 103113 is specifically disposed, the third contraction portion 103113 includes a shoulder portion 1031131. Please refer to FIGS. 6b and 7a together. In the axial extension direction of each intermediate shaft 10311, the second limiting member 1037 is located between the first coupling cam 1034 and the shoulder portion 1031131. In addition, the second limiting member 1037 abuts against the shoulder portion 1031131 when the top of the protrusion of the fifth cam surface 103122 of the gear member 10312 is flush with the top of the protrusion of the sixth cam surface 10343 of the first coupling cam 1034. Taking this into consideration, the third contraction portion 103113 can limit the maximum distance that the second limiting member 1037 can move relative to the gear member 10312. In addition, the first coupling cam 1034 is always in contact with the second restricting member 1037. Therefore, the structure of the third contraction portion 103113 is arranged to also restrict the relative position between the first coupling cam 1034 and the gear member 10312. This improves the reliability with which the first coupling cam 1034 abuts against the cam surface of the gear member 10312, and improves the reliability with which the insertion portion 103121 of the gear member 10312 is inserted into the tapered groove 1031121 of the mounting portion 103112.

[0077] It should be noted that the implementation form in which the first coupling cam 1034 abuts against the second limiting member 1037 mentioned in the preceding description of this application includes the following two cases: when the second limiting member 1037 moves within the third contraction section 103113 in the extension direction of the axis of the intermediate shaft 10311, the first coupling cam 1034 abuts against the second limiting member 1037 under the action of the elastic force of the elastic module 1033. In addition, when the second limiting member 1037 abuts against the shoulder portion 1031131, the first coupling cam 1034 can abut against the second limiting member 1037 under the action of the elastic force of the elastic module 1033 and the action of the abutment force between the second limiting member 1037 and the shoulder portion 1031131. In either case, the first connecting cam 1034 and the second limiting member 1037 are always in a pressed state, and the fifth cam surface 103122 can always abut against the sixth cam surface 10343 under the action of the abutment force between the first connecting cam 1034 and the second limiting member 1037.

[0078] 5 and 6b, a receiving slot 10344 may be further disposed on the side of the first coupling cam 1034 facing the second limiting member 1037. In this case, at least a portion of the second limiting member 1037 may be received in the receiving slot 10344. In this way, the layout of the first coupling cam 1034 and the second limiting member 1037 can be made compact, and the size of the first coupling cam 1034 in the extension direction of the axis of the intermediate shaft 10311 can be effectively reduced. This helps reduce the size of the hinge mechanism 1, thereby realizing a compact design of the hinge mechanism 1.

[0079] 5 and 6b. In this embodiment of the present application, the hinge mechanism 1 may further include a fixed mount 1038. The fixed mount 1038 may be located between the elastic module 1033 and the first limiting member 1036. In addition, the elastic module 1033 presses the fixed mount 1038 toward the first limiting member 1036. In addition, the first rotating shaft 1012, the second rotating shaft 1022, and each intermediate shaft 10311 may all pass through the fixed mount 1038. In this way, the fixed mount 1038 can support the first rotating shaft 1012, the second rotating shaft 1022, and each intermediate shaft 10311, and the structural stability of the hinge mechanism 1 can be improved.

[0080] Please refer to Figure 10. Figure 10 is a diagram of another structure of the hinge mechanism 1 according to one embodiment of the present application. Unlike the hinge mechanism 1 shown in Figures 5 and 6b, in the damping assembly 103 of Figure 10, the second coupling cam 1035 is replaced with a connector 1039. Specifically, the first swing arm 1011 is located between the connector 1039 and the first coupling cam 1034. The second swing arm 1021 is located between the connector 1039 and the first coupling cam 1034. One end of the connector 1039 is sleeved onto the first rotating shaft 1012, and the other end of the connector 1039 is sleeved onto the second rotating shaft 1022. The connector 1039 may be configured to support the first rotating shaft 1012 and the second rotating shaft 1022.

[0081] Additionally, please refer to Figure 11. Figure 11 is an exploded view of the hinge mechanism 1 shown in Figure 10. A first flat surface 101115 is arranged at the end of the first swing arm 1011 that faces the connector 1039. For example, the first flat surface 101115 may be arranged at the end of the first rotating portion 10111. A second flat surface 102115 is arranged at the end of the second swing arm 1021 that faces the connector 1039. For example, the second flat surface 102115 may be arranged at the end of the second rotating portion 10211. A third flat surface 10391 is arranged at the end of the connector 1039 that faces the first swing arm 1011. A fourth flat surface 10392 is arranged at the end of the connector 1039 that faces the second swing arm 1021. In this case, the first plane 101115 abuts against the third plane 10391, and the second plane 102115 abuts against the fourth plane 10392. In this way, in the process of rotating the first swing arm 1011 and the second swing arm 1021 relative to the damping support part 1032, the friction force generated by the relative rotation between the abutting planes between the first swing arm 1011 and the connector 1039 and between the second swing arm 1021 and the connector 1039 can also be used as a state holding force for output. The friction force helps to improve the hovering stability of an electronic device in which the hinge mechanism is used, in any rotation state.

[0082] In this embodiment, the first swing arm 1011, the second swing arm 1021, and the gear member 10312 each have only a cam surface that abuts against the first coupling cam 1034. Therefore, the first coupling cam 1034 can always maintain stable contact with the first swing arm 1011, the second swing arm 1021, and the gear member 10312 under the action of the elastic force of the elastic part. Therefore, the second limiting member 1037 shown in FIG. 6b does not need to be disposed on the damping assembly 103, and the third contraction portion 103113 is not disposed on the intermediate shaft 10311. Of course, to improve the reliability of the first coupling cam 1034 abutting against the first swing arm 1011, the second swing arm 1021, and the gear member 10312, the second limiting member 1037 may alternatively be retained. In addition, another structure of the hinge mechanism 1 shown in Figures 10 and 11 can be arranged with reference to the hinge mechanism 1 shown in Figures 5 and 6b, and the details will not be described again here.

[0083] In the present application, several hinge mechanisms with other possible structures may be further obtained through modifications based on the structure of the hinge mechanism described above. It should be understood that these hinge mechanisms fall within the scope of protection of the present application. These hinge mechanisms will not be described one by one in this specification. For example, based on the hinge mechanism 1 shown in FIGS. 5 and 6b, structures such as the friction assembly 1031, the first coupling cam 1034, the elastic module 1033, and the second limiting member 1037 may be symmetrically arranged in the axial extension direction of the first rotating shaft 1012 and the axial extension direction of the second rotating shaft 1022. In this case, the damping support 1032 may be omitted. In addition, two symmetrically arranged friction assemblies 1031 may share an intermediate shaft 10311. In this case, each intermediate shaft 10311 may be provided with two mounting portions 103112 for mounting the gear members 10312. In this way, the structure of the hinge mechanism 1 is simplified.

[0084] From the above description of the hinge mechanism 1 provided in the embodiment of the present application, it can be seen that, during the process of the gear member 10312 rotating about the intermediate shaft 10311, a frictional force can be generated due to the relative motion between the tapered surface 1031211 of the insertion portion 103121 and the groove surface 10311211 of the tapered groove 1031121 of the mounting portion 103112. This frictional force can be used as a state-holding force for the electronic device to hover at any rotation angle. The damping force provided by the hinge mechanism 1 is generated by using cam surfaces that abut against each other. In this case, the structure that generates the frictional force is independent of the structure that generates the damping force. This can help improve the structural reliability of the hinge mechanism 1 and extend the wear life of the hinge mechanism 1. In addition, during the overall process of the first swing arm 1011 and the second swing arm 1021 rotating about their corresponding rotational shafts, a frictional force is generated when the gear member 10312 rotates about the intermediate shaft 10311. Therefore, the friction force can provide the electronic device with sufficient state retention force required to stably hold the electronic device in the unfolded state, the closed state, or an intermediate state, which enables the electronic device to hover in any state, thereby improving the user experience.

[0085] Additionally, in the damping assembly 103 provided in the present application, there is both a frictional force generated when the gear member 10312 rotates around the intermediate shaft 10311 and a damping force generated by using the cam surfaces abutting against each other. This can help increase the damping force provided by the entire damping assembly 103. As a result, an electronic device using the damping assembly 103 can stably hover in a corresponding rotational state. In addition, because the aforementioned two force portions are separated from each other, the two force portions can exist independently. As a result, if one force fails, the effect of the electronic device can be obtained under the action of the other force. For example, when the friction assembly 1031 wears, the damping force generated by the abutting cam surfaces can provide a specific state-holding force for the electronic device, thereby realizing the hovering function of the electronic device in this rotational state. In another example, when the abutting cam surfaces wear, the frictional force exists, and the user can feel a clear damping sensation when opening or closing the electronic device.

[0086] The hinge mechanism 1 provided in the above-described embodiment of the present application may be applied to the electronic device shown in FIGS. 1 and 2a. Additionally, the hinge mechanism 1 may further include a first housing fixed mount and a second housing fixed mount. The first housing fixed mount and the first rotating assembly 101 are located on the same side of the base 104. The second housing fixed mount and the second rotating assembly 102 are located on the same side of the base 104. The first swing arm 1011 may be slidably connected to the first housing fixed mount. The second swing arm 1021 may be slidably connected to the second housing fixed mount. The first swing arm 1011 and the second swing arm 1021 may be slidably connected to the corresponding housing fixed mount in multiple ways. For example, sliding blocks may be disposed on the first swing arm 1011 and the second swing arm 1021. In addition, sliding slots may be disposed on the corresponding housing fixed mounts. In this manner, a slidable connection between the corresponding swing arm and the housing fixed mount can be achieved through sliding of the sliding blocks along the sliding slots. In order to improve the reliability of the connection between the swing arm and the corresponding side housing fixed mount, the sliding block can be further clamped in the sliding slot, which prevents the sliding block from falling off in the process of sliding along the sliding slot.

[0087] Additionally, when the hinge mechanism 1 is used in an electronic device, the first housing fixed mount can be fixed to the first housing 2, and the second housing fixed mount can be fixed to the second housing 3. From the above description of the hinge mechanism 1 provided in this application, it can be seen that the damping assembly 103 in the hinge mechanism 1 can provide a large frictional force. The frictional force can be transmitted to the corresponding housing via the first rotating assembly 101 and the second rotating assembly 102. In this way, the electronic device can be stably held in the unfolded state shown in FIG. 2a, the closed state shown in FIG. 1, or an intermediate state between the unfolded and closed states. This helps improve the user experience. Additionally, the damping force generated by the contact between the cam surfaces in the hinge mechanism 1 can realize the self-unfolding function of the electronic device at the end of the unfolded state or the self-closing function of the electronic device at the end of the closed state. Additionally, under the action of the damping force, the user can experience a clear sense of frustration in the process of opening and closing the electronic device, improving the user experience.

[0088] The above description is merely a specific implementation form of the present application and does not limit the protection scope of the present application. Any variations or replacements that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the present application shall fall within 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 comprising a base, a first rotating assembly, a second rotating assembly, and a damping assembly, the first rotating assembly and the second rotating assembly being disposed on two opposite sides of the base, respectively; the damping assembly comprises an elastic module, an even number of friction assemblies, and a damping support portion, each friction assembly comprising an intermediate shaft and a gear member, the intermediate shaft comprising a shaft body and an attachment portion, the shaft body connected to the base, the damping support portion fixed to the base, the shaft body inserted into the damping support portion, the attachment portion disposed on the shaft body spaced apart from the damping support portion, the attachment portion having a tapered groove, an opening of the tapered groove facing a gear member, the gear member rotatably connected to the intermediate shaft, the gear member comprising an insert portion having a tapered surface, the insert portion being inserted into the tapered groove, the tapered surface abutting against a groove surface of the tapered groove under the action of an elastic force of the elastic module in the axial extension direction of the intermediate shaft, the gear members of the even number of friction assemblies being located between a first rotating assembly and a second rotating assembly, and gear surfaces of two adjacent gear members mesh with each other; the first rotating assembly includes a first swing arm, the first swing arm rotatably connected to the base; the second rotating assembly includes a second swing arm, the second swing arm rotatably connected to the base; a first gear surface is disposed on an end of the first swing arm facing the even number of gear members; and a second gear surface is disposed on an end of the second swing arm facing the even number of gear members; the first gear surface meshes with a gear surface of an adjacent gear member; and the second gear surface meshes with a gear surface of an adjacent gear member. Hinge mechanism.

2. The hinge mechanism according to claim 1 , wherein the tapered groove has a groove wall provided with at least two first notches, the at least two first notches being evenly distributed in a circumferential direction of the tapered groove.

3. The hinge mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the insert portion is provided with at least two second cutouts, the at least two second cutouts being evenly distributed in a circumferential direction of the insert portion.

4. The hinge mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the base has a receiving cavity, and the damping assembly is received in the receiving cavity.

5. the first rotating assembly further comprises a first rotating shaft, the first rotating shaft passing through the damping support, and the first swing arm rotatably connected to the first rotating shaft; the second rotating assembly further comprises a second rotating shaft, the second rotating shaft passing through the damping support, and the second swing arm rotatably connected to the second rotating shaft; 5. The hinge mechanism of claim 4.

6. the damping assembly further comprises a first coupling cam, the first coupling cam being sleeved onto the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft, the first coupling cam being positioned between the elastic module and the first swing arm, and the first coupling cam being positioned between the elastic module and the second swing arm; an end of the first swing arm facing the first coupling cam has a first cam surface, an end of the second swing arm facing the first coupling cam has a second cam surface, an end of the first coupling cam facing the first swing arm has a third cam surface, and an end of the first coupling cam facing the second swing arm has a fourth cam surface, the first cam surface abuts against the third cam surface under the action of the elastic force of the elastic module in the extension direction of the axis of the first rotating shaft, and the second cam surface abuts against the fourth cam surface under the action of the elastic force of the elastic module in the extension direction of the axis of the second rotating shaft.

6. The hinge mechanism of claim 5.

7. 7. The hinge mechanism according to claim 6, wherein the damping assembly further comprises a first limiting member, the elastic module being located between the first connecting cam and the first limiting member, one end of the first limiting member being clamped to the first rotating shaft for limiting, and the other end of the first limiting member being clamped to the second rotating shaft for limiting, and the elastic module abutting against the first limiting member in the extension direction of the axis of the first rotating shaft.

8. 8. The hinge mechanism according to claim 7, wherein a first contraction portion is disposed on the first rotating shaft, a second contraction portion is disposed on the second rotating shaft, a first bayonet and a second bayonet are disposed on the first restricting member, the first bayonet is clamped by the first contraction portion, and the second bayonet is clamped by the second contraction portion.

9. 7. The hinge mechanism according to claim 6, wherein a fifth cam surface is disposed at an end of each gear member facing the first coupling cam, a sixth cam surface is disposed at an end of each first coupling cam facing the gear member, and the fifth cam surface abuts against the sixth cam surface under the action of the elastic force of the elastic module in the extension direction of the axis of the intermediate shaft.

10. 10. The hinge mechanism according to claim 9, wherein the damping assembly further comprises a second limiting member, the second limiting member being located between the first coupling cam and the elastic module, the second limiting member being clamped to each intermediate shaft for limiting, the first coupling cam abutting against the second limiting member, and the fifth cam surface abutting against the sixth cam surface under the action of an abutment force between the first coupling cam and the second limiting member in the extension direction of the axis of each intermediate shaft.

11. a third contracted portion is disposed on the shaft body of each intermediate shaft, the third contracted portion having a shoulder portion, and the second limiting member is located between the first coupling cam and the shoulder portion in the extension direction of the axis of each intermediate shaft; the second limiting member abuts against the shoulder portion when the top of the protrusion of the fifth cam surface is flush with the top of the protrusion of the sixth cam surface; The hinge mechanism of claim 10.

12. the damping assembly further comprises a second coupling cam, the second coupling cam being sleeved onto the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft, the first swing arm being positioned between the first coupling cam and the second coupling cam, the second swing arm being positioned between the first coupling cam and the second coupling cam, the first swing arm having an end facing the second coupling cam with a seventh cam surface disposed thereon, the second swing arm having an end facing the second coupling cam with an eighth cam surface disposed thereon, the second coupling cam having an end facing the first swing arm with a ninth cam surface disposed thereon, and the second coupling cam having an end facing the second swing arm with a tenth cam surface disposed thereon; the seventh cam surface abuts against the ninth cam surface under the action of the elastic force of the elastic module in the extension direction of the axis of the first rotating shaft, and the eighth cam surface abuts against the tenth cam surface under the action of the elastic force of the elastic module in the extension direction of the axis of the second rotating shaft.

7. The hinge mechanism of claim 6.

13. the damping assembly further comprises a connector, the connector being sleeved onto the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft, the first swing arm being positioned between the connector and the first coupling cam, the second swing arm being positioned between the connector and the first coupling cam, the first swing arm having an end facing the connector with a first flat surface, the second swing arm having an end facing the connector with a second flat surface, the end of the connector facing the first swing arm having a third flat surface, and the end of the connector facing the second swing arm having a fourth flat surface; the first plane abuts against the third plane under the action of the elastic force of the elastic module in the extension direction of the axis of the first rotating shaft, and the second plane abuts against the fourth plane under the action of the elastic force of the elastic module in the extension direction of the axis of the second rotating shaft.

7. The hinge mechanism of claim 6.

14. the first swing arm has a first rotating portion, and a first avoidance opening is disposed in the first rotating portion; the second swing arm has a second rotating portion, and a second avoidance opening is disposed in the second rotating portion; The damping support portion includes a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion, the first connecting portion is inserted into the first avoidance opening, a first rotating shaft passes through both the first rotating portion and the first connecting portion, the second connecting portion is inserted into the second avoidance opening, and a second rotating shaft passes through both the second rotating portion and the second connecting portion.

5. The hinge mechanism of claim 4.

15. the first swing arm further includes a first driving unit, the first driving unit is detachably connected to the first rotating unit, the first driving unit and the first rotating unit are relatively fixed in a rotation direction of the first swing arm, and the first gear surface is disposed on the first rotating unit or the first gear surface is disposed on the first driving unit; the second swing arm includes a second driving unit, the second driving unit is detachably connected to the second rotating unit, the second driving unit and the second rotating unit are relatively fixed in a rotation direction of the second swing arm, and the second gear surface is disposed on the second rotating unit, or the second gear surface is disposed on the second driving unit; 15. The hinge mechanism of claim 14.

16. 16. An electronic device comprising a first housing, a second housing, and the hinge mechanism of claim 1, wherein the first housing and the second housing are respectively arranged on two opposite sides of the hinge mechanism, the first swing arm is slidably connected to the first housing, and the second swing arm is slidably connected to the second housing.

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