Rotating shaft mechanism and foldable electronic device

Abstract

A rotating shaft mechanism, comprising a support (310), first swing arms (320), connecting assemblies (330) and screen stretching structures (340), wherein the connecting assemblies are arranged on either side of the support, and the connecting assemblies are used for bearing a flexible screen (100) of a foldable electronic device; one end of the first swing arm is rotatably connected to the support, and the other end of the first swing arm is connected to the connecting assembly; one end of the screen stretching structure is rotatably connected to the support, and the other end of the screen stretching structure is connected to the connecting assembly; and the screen stretching structures are used for providing a thrust to the connecting assemblies away from the support at least when the foldable electronic device is fully unfolded. Further provided is a foldable electronic device comprising the rotating shaft mechanism. By using the rotating shaft mechanism, an intervention can be carried out before creases are generated on the flexible screen, thus fundamentally alleviating the creasing problem of the flexible screen of the foldable electronic device.

Description

Hinge mechanism and foldable electronic device

[0001] This application claims priority to the Chinese patent application filed with the China Patent Office on August 31, 2023, with application number 202311136569.6 and application name “Hinge mechanism and foldable electronic device”, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference into this application. Technical Field

[0002] The embodiments of the present application relate to the technical field of electronic products, and in particular to a hinge mechanism and a foldable electronic device. Background Art

[0003] With the gradual development of flexible screen technology, foldable electronic devices have emerged. Foldable electronic devices have become a hot technology today due to their larger display area and good portability. Foldable electronic devices generally include a left shell, a right shell, a hinge mechanism and a flexible screen. The flexible screen covers the left shell and the right shell. The left shell and the right shell are respectively located on the left and right sides of the hinge mechanism. The left shell and the right shell can be rotated relative to the hinge mechanism to fold together or unfold. During the process of multiple unfolding and closing of the foldable electronic device, due to the plastic deformation of the flexible screen itself, the flexible screen corresponding to the hinge mechanism area will inevitably produce creases, which seriously affects the overall aesthetics of the screen and the consumer's experience.

[0004] In order to alleviate the impact of creases, in a related technology, a floating plate is set on the main bracket of the hinge mechanism. The floating plate is not fixedly connected to the flexible screen. During the relative closing or unfolding of the left shell and the right shell, the floating plate can move up and down relative to the main bracket. When the left shell and the right shell are unfolded to 180 degrees, the floating plate is at the highest position, so that the floating plate can support the curved part of the flexible screen.

[0005] However, the role of the floating plate in the above method is to alleviate the screen crease through the supporting effect after the flexible screen has been deformed and creased, and it cannot fundamentally alleviate the crease problem of the screen of the foldable electronic device. Technical issues

[0006] The embodiments of the present application provide a hinge mechanism and a foldable electronic device, which can fundamentally alleviate the crease problem of the flexible screen of the foldable electronic device. Technical Solutions

[0007] On the one hand, an embodiment of the present application provides a hinge mechanism for a foldable electronic device, including: a bracket, a first swing arm, a connecting component and a screen-supporting structure. Connecting components are provided on both sides of the bracket, and the connecting component is used to support the flexible screen of the foldable electronic device. One end of the first swing arm is rotatably connected to the bracket, and the other end of the first swing arm is connected to the connecting component. One end of the screen-supporting structure is rotatably connected to the bracket, and the other end of the screen-supporting structure is connected to the connecting component. The screen-supporting structure is used to provide a thrust to the connecting component away from the bracket at least when the foldable electronic device is fully unfolded.

[0008] In one possible embodiment, the screen-supporting structure is used to provide a pushing force to the connecting component away from the bracket when the foldable electronic device is closed, unfolded, or fully unfolded.

[0009] The thrust exerted by the screen-supporting structure on the connecting component causes the connecting component to tend to move toward both sides relative to the flexible screen when the foldable electronic device is closed, during the unfolding process, and fully unfolded, thereby exerting a pulling effect on the flexible screen. This improves the crease problem from the perspective of the flexible screen's own force, and intervenes before the flexible screen creases. This can fundamentally alleviate the crease problem of the flexible screen of foldable electronic devices.

[0010] In one possible implementation, the screen-supporting structure is used to provide a pushing force to the connecting assembly away from the bracket during the unfolding process and when the foldable electronic device is fully unfolded.

[0011] The thrust exerted by the screen-supporting structure on the connecting component causes the connecting component to tend to move toward both sides relative to the flexible screen during the unfolding process of the foldable electronic device and when it is fully unfolded, exerting a pulling effect on the flexible screen, thereby improving the crease problem from the perspective of the flexible screen's own force. By intervening before the flexible screen creases, the crease problem of the flexible screen of the foldable electronic device can be fundamentally alleviated.

[0012] In a possible embodiment, a first arcuate sliding groove and a first rotating shaft are provided on the bracket, and one end of the first swing arm, which is rotatably connected to the bracket, is slidably arranged around the first rotating shaft in the first arcuate sliding groove.

[0013] In this way, the connection assembly can have a displacement difference relative to the bracket during rotation, allowing the screen support structure to be set in a relaxed state when the flexible screen is closed. As the flexible screen gradually unfolds, the screen support structure is compressed by the displacement difference of the connection assembly relative to the bracket during rotation, so that the screen support structure provides a pushing force to the connection assembly away from the bracket during the unfolding process and when the foldable electronic device is fully unfolded. As a result, the flexible screen is not pulled to the sides when closed, reducing the risk of damage to the flexible screen.

[0014] In a possible embodiment, the screen supporting structure includes: a first screen supporting member, the first screen supporting member having a flexible section and connecting sections located at both ends of the flexible section, one of the connecting sections located at both ends of the flexible section is hinged to the bracket, and the other connecting section is fixedly, hingedly or slidingly connected to the connecting assembly.

[0015] The first screen-supporting member can be compressed by the connecting component and the bracket to deform along the axial direction of the first screen-supporting member itself. The flexible section is the main deformation area. The reaction force generated by the axial deformation of the first screen-supporting member provides a thrust to the connecting component away from the bracket, so that the connecting component has a tendency to move toward both sides of the flexible screen, pulling the flexible screen to both sides, thereby alleviating the creases of the flexible screen and improving the crease problem from the perspective of the screen's own force deformation.

[0016] In a possible embodiment, the hinge mechanism also includes: a second swing arm, a damping module is provided on the bracket, one end of the second swing arm is rotatably connected to the damping module, and the other end of the second swing arm is connected to the connecting assembly, and the damping module is used to provide damping force when the foldable electronic device is closed, during the unfolding process, and when fully unfolded.

[0017] The damping module is used to provide damping force when the foldable electronic device is closed, unfolded, and fully unfolded, so that the foldable electronic device can maintain a closed state, a partially unfolded state, and a fully unfolded state.

[0018] In a possible implementation, the screen supporting structure includes: a second screen supporting member, the second swing arm is the second screen supporting member, and the second swing arm has a flexible section.

[0019] The second swing arm can be compressed by the connecting component and the bracket to deform along its own axial direction. The flexible section is the main deformation area. The reaction force generated by the axial deformation of the second swing arm provides a thrust to the connecting component away from the bracket, so that the connecting component has a tendency to move toward both sides of the flexible screen, pulling the flexible screen to both sides, thereby alleviating the crease of the flexible screen and improving the crease problem from the perspective of the screen's own force deformation.

[0020] In one possible embodiment, the rotating shaft mechanism further includes a third swing arm. The connecting assembly includes a connecting block and a door panel, the connecting block and the door panel being rotatably arranged relative to each other, a first slide groove and a second slide groove being respectively provided in the connecting block and the door panel, one end of the second swing arm connected to the connecting assembly slidingly arranged in the first slide groove, a second arcuate slide groove and a second rotating shaft being provided on the bracket, one end of the third swing arm slidingly arranged in the second arcuate slide groove around the second rotating shaft, the other end of the third swing arm slidingly arranged in the second slide groove, and the first swing arm being rotatably connected to the connecting assembly.

[0021] The first swing arm is rotatably connected to the connecting assembly, which allows the connecting assembly to have a degree of rotational freedom. When the first swing arm drives the flexible screen to close, due to the travel difference between the second and third swing arms and the first swing arm, the second and third swing arms will generate an inward force on the connecting assembly, and the connecting assembly will rotate and fold the flexible screen into a teardrop shape. On the one hand, the central angle of the inward fold of the flexible screen can be large enough, and the curved part will not be subjected to a large degree of bending, thereby avoiding damage to the flexible screen due to excessive bending and minimizing the bending marks. On the other hand, the top of the teardrop-shaped curved part is a smooth closing, which can make the two fixed parts fit well with the two main parts of the foldable electronic device without leaving any gaps.

[0022] In a possible implementation, when the second swing arm is a second screen supporting member, during the unfolding process of the foldable electronic device, one end of the second swing arm that is slidably connected to the first slide groove abuts against the side wall of the first slide groove away from the bracket.

[0023] When the second swing arm serves as the second screen supporting member, during the unfolding process of the foldable electronic device, one end of the second swing arm that is slidably connected to the first slide groove abuts against the side wall of the first slide groove away from the bracket. The first swing arm forms a displacement difference between the connecting component and the bracket, so that before the foldable electronic device is fully unfolded, the third swing arm abuts against the end of the second slide groove, thereby causing the flexible section to deform, and the second swing arm generates a reaction force toward both ends, driving the connecting component to pull the flexible screen, thereby achieving intervention before the flexible screen is creased, fundamentally alleviating the crease problem of the flexible screen of the foldable electronic device.

[0024] In a possible embodiment, the screen supporting structure includes: a third screen supporting member, a third swing arm is a third screen supporting member, the third swing arm has a flexible section, and during the unfolding process of the foldable electronic device, one end of the third swing arm slidingly connected to the second slide groove abuts against the side wall of the second slide groove away from the bracket.

[0025] When the third swing arm serves as the third screen-supporting member, during the unfolding process of the foldable electronic device, one end of the third swing arm that is slidably connected to the second slide groove abuts against the side wall of the second slide groove away from the bracket. The first swing arm forms a displacement difference between the connecting component and the bracket, so that before the foldable electronic device is fully unfolded, the third swing arm abuts against the end of the second slide groove, thereby causing the flexible section to deform. The third swing arm generates a reaction force toward both ends, driving the connecting component to pull the flexible screen, thereby achieving intervention before the flexible screen is creased, fundamentally alleviating the crease problem of the flexible screen of the foldable electronic device.

[0026] In a possible embodiment, one of the connecting block and the door panel is provided with a third arc-shaped sliding groove, and the other of the connecting block and the door panel is provided with an arc-shaped slider, which is slidably arranged in the third arc-shaped sliding groove to realize the relative rotation setting of the connecting block and the door panel.

[0027] In a possible implementation, the hinge mechanism further includes: a shaft cover, which is arranged on a side of the bracket away from the flexible screen of the foldable electronic device.

[0028] The shaft cover can cover the bracket to ensure the aesthetics of the foldable electronic device, and can also protect the bracket to prevent the bracket from being exposed and damaged by collision.

[0029] On the other hand, an embodiment of the present application provides a foldable electronic device, including: a flexible screen, two main bodies and a hinge mechanism as described above, wherein the two main bodies are respectively connected to both sides of the hinge mechanism, and the two main bodies are relatively unfolded and folded through the hinge mechanism, and the flexible screen is attached to the upper surfaces of the two main bodies.

[0030] In a possible implementation, the flexible screen includes: a bending portion and two fixed portions, the two fixed portions are fixedly connected to the two main portions respectively, and the bending portion is arranged corresponding to the rotating shaft mechanism. Beneficial effects

[0031] The hinge mechanism provided in the embodiments of the present application has connecting assemblies disposed on both sides of a bracket. The connecting assemblies are used to support the flexible screen of a foldable electronic device. One end of a first swing arm is rotatably connected to the bracket and the other end is connected to the connecting assembly. When the first swing arm rotates, the flexible screen can rotate with the connecting assembly to achieve relative expansion and folding of the flexible screen. The hinge mechanism also includes a screen support structure, one end of which is rotatably connected to the bracket and the other end is connected to the connecting assembly. The function of the screen support structure is to provide a thrust to the connecting assembly away from the bracket when the foldable electronic device is fully expanded. The thrust acts on the connecting assembly, causing the connecting assembly to tend to move toward the sides relative to the flexible screen, exerting a pulling effect on the flexible screen, improving the crease problem from the perspective of the flexible screen's own force, and can fundamentally alleviate the crease problem of the flexible screen of a foldable electronic device. In addition, the tension of the screen support structure itself can also reduce the virtual displacement between the connecting assembly and the first swing arm, and between the bracket and the first swing arm when the first swing arm rotates, reducing the looseness of the hinge mechanism during rotation and improving the overall performance of the hinge mechanism.

[0032] The present application provides a foldable electronic device in which a hinge mechanism includes a connecting assembly disposed on either side of a support bracket. The connecting assembly is configured to support the flexible screen of the foldable electronic device. A first swing arm has one end pivotally connected to the support bracket and the other end connected to the connecting assembly. When the first swing arm rotates, the flexible screen rotates with the connecting assembly to achieve relative expansion and folding of the flexible screen. The hinge mechanism also includes a screen-supporting structure pivotally connected to the support bracket at one end and to the connecting assembly at the other end. The screen-supporting structure is configured to provide a thrust to the connecting assembly away from the support bracket, at least when the foldable electronic device is fully expanded. The thrust acts on the connecting assembly, causing the connecting assembly to move toward the side relative to the flexible screen, exerting a pulling effect on the flexible screen. This improves the crease problem from the perspective of the flexible screen's own stress, intervening before the flexible screen creases, and can fundamentally alleviate the crease problem of the flexible screen of the foldable electronic device. Furthermore, the tension of the screen-supporting structure reduces the virtual displacement between the connecting assembly and the first swing arm, as well as between the support bracket and the first swing arm, when the first swing arm rotates, alleviating the looseness of the hinge mechanism during rotation and improving the overall performance of the hinge mechanism. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the present application or the prior art, a brief introduction will be given below to the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the description of the prior art. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present application. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without any creative labor.

[0034] FIG1 is a schematic structural diagram of a foldable electronic device provided in one embodiment of the present application;

[0035] FIG2 is a schematic diagram of the exploded structure of a foldable electronic device provided in one embodiment of the present application;

[0036] FIG3 is a schematic diagram of a partial structure of a foldable electronic device in a folded state according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0037] FIG4 is a schematic structural diagram of a rotating shaft mechanism provided in one embodiment of the present application;

[0038] FIG5 is a schematic diagram of the cooperation between the rotating shaft mechanism and the flexible screen provided in one embodiment of the present application;

[0039] FIG6 is a schematic diagram of a partial structure of a rotating shaft mechanism provided in one embodiment of the present application;

[0040] FIG7 is a schematic diagram of a partial structure of a rotating shaft mechanism provided in one embodiment of the present application;

[0041] FIG8 is a schematic diagram of the function of the screen supporting structure in the rotating shaft mechanism provided in one embodiment of the present application;

[0042] FIG9 is a schematic diagram illustrating the function of the screen supporting structure in the rotating shaft mechanism according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0043] FIG10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a first swing arm of a rotating shaft mechanism according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0044] FIG11 is a schematic structural diagram of a first screen supporting member provided in one embodiment of the present application;

[0045] FIG12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a first screen-supporting member of a rotating shaft mechanism according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0046] FIG13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a second swing arm of a rotating shaft mechanism according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0047] FIG14 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the third swing arm of the rotating shaft mechanism provided in one embodiment of the present application;

[0048] FIG15 is a schematic diagram of the cooperation between the connecting block and the door panel according to an embodiment of the present application;

[0049] FIG16 is a schematic structural diagram of a third swing arm provided in one embodiment of the present application;

[0050] FIG17 is a simplified diagram of a screen support structure provided in one embodiment of the present application;

[0051] FIG18 is a state diagram of a third swing arm provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0052] FIG19 is a state diagram of a third swing arm provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0053] FIG20 is a state diagram of the third swing arm provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0054] Description of reference numerals:

[0055] 10- Foldable electronic devices;

[0056] 100-flexible screen; 110-bending part; 120-fixing part;

[0057] 200-main body;

[0058] 300-rotating shaft mechanism;

[0059] 310- bracket; 311- first arc-shaped slide; 312- first rotating shaft; 313- second arc-shaped slide; 314- second rotating shaft;

[0060] 320-first swing arm;

[0061] 330-connecting assembly; 331-connecting block; 3311-first slide groove; 3312-arc-shaped slider;

[0062] 332-door panel; 3321-second chute; 3322-third curved chute;

[0063] 340-screen supporting structure; 341-first screen supporting member; 3411-flexible section; 3412-connecting section;

[0064] 350-second swing arm; 360-damping module; 370-synchronizing module; 380-third swing arm; 381-flexible section;

[0065] 390-Axle cover. Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0066] The terms used in the implementation section of this application are only used to explain the specific embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application. The implementation of the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0067] In the embodiments of the present application, the terms "comprises," "comprising," or any other variations thereof are intended to encompass non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus comprising a series of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not explicitly listed, or elements inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. In the absence of further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising a" does not preclude the presence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus comprising the element.

[0068] The foldable electronic device provided in the embodiments of the present application can be a mobile terminal such as a mobile phone, a tablet computer, a tablet computer accessory, a wearable device, a vehicle-mounted device, an augmented reality (AR) device, a virtual reality (VR) device, a laptop computer, an ultra-mobile personal computer (UMPC), a netbook, a personal digital assistant (PDA), etc., and can also be a professional shooting device such as a digital camera, a SLR camera, a micro single-lens camera, a sports camera, a gimbal camera, and a drone. The embodiments of the present application do not limit the specific type of the foldable electronic device, as long as it is an electronic device that realizes relative rotation of two main bodies through a hinge mechanism. For ease of understanding, the embodiments of the present application take a foldable mobile phone as an example for explanation.

[0069] Figure 1 is a schematic structural diagram of a foldable electronic device 10 provided in an embodiment of the present application, and Figure 2 is a schematic decomposition structural diagram of a foldable electronic device 10 provided in an embodiment of the present application. Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the foldable electronic device 10 provided in an embodiment of the present application includes: a flexible screen 100, two main body parts 200 and a hinge mechanism 300.

[0070] Specifically, the two main bodies 200 are connected to either side of the hinge mechanism 300, respectively. The hinge mechanism 300 enables the two main bodies 200 to be relatively unfolded and folded. For a mobile phone, the main body 200 can be a middle frame. It is understood that the specific structure of the main body 200 can vary depending on the specific electronic device, and this application is not limited to the example of the main body 200 being a middle frame. Furthermore, the structures of the two main bodies 200 can be identical, not identical, or completely different.

[0071] The flexible screen 100 is attached to the upper surfaces of the two main bodies 200. During the relative unfolding and folding of the two main bodies 200, the flexible screen 100 is also in the unfolding and folding state at the same time.

[0072] The flexible screen 100 may include a display module and a transparent cover. The display module can display images and videos. The display module may be a liquid crystal display (LCD), organic light-emitting diode (OLED), active-matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED), flexible light-emitting diode (FLED), or quantum dot light-emitting diode (QLED). The transparent cover covers the side of the display module facing away from the interior of the electronic device to protect the display module. The transparent cover may be glass or other transparent materials that can provide protection. The flexible screen 100 may also have touch functionality, meaning it can be a touch screen.

[0073] FIG3 is a schematic diagram of a partial structure of a foldable electronic device 10 in a folded state provided by an embodiment of the present application. Referring to FIG3 , in the foldable electronic device 10 provided by an embodiment of the present application, the flexible screen 100 may include: a bending portion 110 and two fixing portions 120, and the two fixing portions 120 are respectively used to be fixedly connected to the two main portions 200 in the foldable electronic device 10. The bending portion 110 is arranged corresponding to the hinge mechanism 300, and at least part of the bending portion 110 is not fixedly connected to the hinge mechanism 300 to meet the requirement that the bending portion 110 bends and deforms when folded. When the foldable electronic device 10 is in a folded state, the bending portion 110 can form an arc-shaped bending state.

[0074] For example, as shown in FIG3 , when the foldable electronic device 10 is in the folded state, the curved portion 110 of the flexible screen 100 is bent into a teardrop shape. In this way, on the one hand, the central angle of the inward fold of the screen can be made large enough, and the curved portion 110 will not be subjected to a large degree of bending, thereby preventing the flexible screen 100 from being damaged due to excessive bending, and minimizing the bending marks. On the other hand, the top of the teardrop-shaped curved portion 110 is a smooth closing, which enables the two fixing portions 120 to fit well with the two main parts 200 in the foldable electronic device 10 without leaving any gaps. Of course, when the flexible screen 100 is in the folded state, the folding shape of the curved portion 110 is not limited to the teardrop shape shown above, and can also be other shapes.

[0075] However, during the use of the foldable electronic device 10, the flexible screen 100 is unfolded and folded multiple times, which will inevitably cause creases in the area of ​​the flexible screen 100 corresponding to the hinge mechanism 300, seriously affecting the overall aesthetics of the flexible screen 100 and the consumer's usage experience.

[0076] To address the aforementioned issues, a related technology employs a hinge mechanism comprising a main support, a swing arm, a left door panel, and a right door panel. The left and right door panels are pivotally connected to the two sides of the main support via the swing arm, and the two main bodies of the foldable electronic device are fixed to the left and right door panels, respectively. Furthermore, a floating plate is provided on the main support, located between the left and right door panels. The floating plate is not fixedly connected to the flexible screen. During the relative closing or unfolding of the two main bodies of the foldable electronic device, the floating plate can move up and down relative to the main support. When the two main bodies of the foldable electronic device are unfolded to a certain degree, the floating plate is at its highest position. This allows the floating plate to support the curved portion of the flexible screen, thereby alleviating the crease problem of the flexible screen.

[0077] However, the above method alleviates the crease problem by supporting the flexible screen 100. In other words, this method alleviates the problem after the flexible screen 100 has creased, and the effect is limited. Therefore, it is difficult to fundamentally alleviate the crease problem of the flexible screen 100 of the foldable electronic device 10.

[0078] In view of this, an embodiment of the present application provides a hinge mechanism 300 and a foldable electronic device 10, wherein the hinge mechanism 300 is used for the foldable electronic device 10 and includes a bracket 310, a first swing arm 320, and a connecting assembly 330. Connecting assemblies 330 are provided on both sides of the bracket 310. The connecting assembly 330 is used to support the flexible screen 100 of the foldable electronic device 10. One end of the first swing arm 320 is rotatably connected to the bracket 310, and the other end is connected to the connecting assembly 330. When the first swing arm 320 rotates, the flexible screen 100 can rotate with the connecting assembly 330 to achieve relative expansion and folding of the flexible screen 100. The hinge mechanism 300 also includes a screen-supporting structure 340, one end of which is rotatably connected to the bracket 310, and the other end is connected to the connecting assembly 330. The function of the screen-supporting structure 340 is to provide a thrust to the connecting assembly 330 away from the bracket 310 when the foldable electronic device 10 is closed, during the unfolding process, and when it is fully unfolded, or to provide a thrust to the connecting assembly 330 away from the bracket 310 when the foldable electronic device 10 is unfolded and when it is fully unfolded. The thrust acts on the connecting assembly 330, causing the connecting assembly 330 to have a tendency to move toward both sides relative to the screen, exerting a pulling effect on the screen, improving the crease problem from the perspective of the screen's own force, and intervening before the flexible screen 100 is creased, which can fundamentally alleviate the crease problem of the flexible screen 100 of the foldable electronic device 10. In addition, the tension of the screen support structure 340 itself can also reduce the virtual displacement between the connecting component 330 and the first swing arm 320 and the bracket 310 and the first swing arm 320 when the first swing arm 320 rotates, thereby alleviating the looseness of the rotating shaft mechanism 300 during rotation and improving the overall performance of the rotating shaft mechanism 300.

[0079] The following describes in detail the rotating shaft mechanism 300 provided in the embodiment of the present application with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0080] FIG4 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a hinge mechanism 300 provided in an embodiment of the present application. Referring to FIG4 , the hinge mechanism 300 provided in an embodiment of the present application includes: a bracket 310 and a connecting assembly 330. Connecting assemblies 330 are provided on both sides of the bracket 310. The connecting assembly 330 is used to support the flexible screen 100 of the foldable electronic device 10, as shown in FIG5 . FIG5 is a schematic diagram of the connection between the flexible screen 100 and the connecting assembly 330 in the unfolded state. The connection method between the flexible screen 100 and the connecting assembly 330 can be a series of conventional connection methods such as bonding, clamping, and welding. The present application does not limit the connection method between the flexible screen 100 and the connecting assembly 330.

[0081] It should be mentioned that the connection component 330 on a single side of the bracket 310 can be one or more. Generally, in order to ensure consistency in the movement of the flexible screen 100 when folded, the connection component 330 on a single side of the bracket 310 is generally set as a whole. For example, as shown in Figure 4, in some embodiments of the present application, a connection component 330 is provided on both sides of the bracket 310, and the connection component 330 is an integral part with the same length as the bracket 310. Of course, in other embodiments of the present application, multiple connection components 330 can also be provided on a single side of the bracket 310, and the connection components 330 are arranged along the length direction of the bracket 310.

[0082] To facilitate a clearer description of the diagram, a section of the rotating shaft mechanism 300 in FIG4 is enlarged. FIG6 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the structure of the rotating shaft mechanism 300 provided in one embodiment of the present application. Referring to FIG6 , the rotating shaft mechanism 300 provided in one embodiment of the present application further includes a first swing arm 320. One end of the first swing arm 320 is rotatably connected to the bracket 310, and the other end of the first swing arm 320 is connected to the connecting assembly 330. The end of the first swing arm 320 connected to the connecting assembly 330 can be fixed, hinged, or the like.

[0083] For example, when the connection component 330 does not need to rotate with respect to the first swing arm 320, the first swing arm 320 and the connection component 330 can be fixedly connected. When the connection component 330 needs to rotate with respect to the first swing arm 320, the first swing arm 320 and the connection component 330 can be hinged. For example, in some embodiments of the present application, the first swing arm 320 and the connection component 330 are connected in a hinged manner as shown in FIG6 . The present application does not impose any restrictions on the connection method between the first swing arm 320 and the connection component 330. It is sufficient that the first swing arm 320 can rotate relative to the bracket 310. In this way, the connection component 330 can drive the flexible screen 100 to rotate, thereby achieving the purpose of unfolding and folding the flexible screen 100.

[0084] When the first swing arm 320 rotates around the bracket 310, the connecting component 330 rotates with the first swing arm 320, as shown in Figure 7. Combined with Figure 5, when the first swing arms 320 on both sides of the bracket 310 rotate together, the two connecting components 330 move closer to each other, and the flexible screen 100 can achieve the purpose of folding. When the two connecting components 330 move away from each other, the flexible screen 100 can achieve the purpose of unfolding.

[0085] It should be noted that the number of first swing arms 320 on a single side of the bracket 310 can be one or more. For example, in the fragments of the rotating shaft mechanism 300 shown in Figures 6 and 7, there are two pairs of first swing arms 320, and the two pairs of first swing arms 320 are arranged opposite each other. It should also be noted that the number of first swing arms 320 on both sides of the bracket 310 can be the same or different, and the first swing arms 320 on both sides of the bracket 310 can be arranged opposite each other or staggered, as long as the first swing arms 320 on both sides of the bracket 310 can drive the connecting components 330 on both sides to move closer to and away from each other. In actual use, the first swing arms 320 are generally arranged in pairs and opposite each other, which helps to improve the synchronization performance of the rotating shaft mechanism 300.

[0086] Continuing with reference to FIG4 , the hinge mechanism 300 provided in the embodiment of the present application further includes: a screen-supporting structure 340, one end of which is rotatably connected to the bracket 310, and the other end of which is connected to the connecting assembly 330. The end of the screen-supporting structure 340 connected to the connecting assembly 330 can be fixed, hinged, or slidably connected, and the specific connection method can be set according to specific needs. For example, when the first swing arm 320 and the connecting assembly 330 are fixedly connected, the screen-supporting structure 340 and the connecting assembly 330 can be fixedly connected. When the first swing arm 320 and the connecting assembly 330 are hinged, it means that the connecting assembly 330 needs to have other degrees of freedom. The screen-supporting structure 340 and the connecting assembly 330 can be connected in a hinged or sliding manner. The present application does not limit the connection method between the screen-supporting structure 340 and the connecting assembly 330.

[0087] Among them, Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the function of the screen-supporting structure 340 in the hinge mechanism 300 provided in an embodiment of the present application. Referring to Figure 8, Figure 8 illustrates the force exerted by the screen-supporting structure 340 on the connecting component 330 when the foldable electronic device 10 is closed, during the unfolding process, and when it is fully unfolded. As can be seen from Figure 8, the function of the screen-supporting structure 340 is to provide a thrust to the connecting component 330 away from the bracket 310 when the foldable electronic device 10 is closed, during the unfolding process, and when it is fully unfolded. The thrust exerted by the screen-supporting structure 340 on the connecting component 330 can cause the connecting component 330 to pull on both sides of the flexible screen 100 when the foldable electronic device 10 is closed, during the unfolding process, and when it is fully unfolded, thereby improving the crease problem from the perspective of the force applied to the flexible screen 100 itself.

[0088] FIG9 is a schematic diagram of the function of the screen-supporting structure 340 in the hinge mechanism 300 provided in one embodiment of the present application. Referring to FIG9 , the function of the screen-supporting structure 340 is to provide a thrust to the connecting assembly 330 away from the bracket 310 during the unfolding process and when the foldable electronic device 10 is fully unfolded. The thrust exerted by the screen-supporting structure 340 on the connecting assembly 330 can cause the connecting assembly 330 to pull on both sides of the flexible screen 100 during the unfolding process and when the foldable electronic device 10 is fully unfolded, thereby improving the crease problem from the perspective of the force applied to the flexible screen 100 itself.

[0089] Of course, the screen-supporting structure 340 may also provide a pushing force to the connecting component 330 away from the bracket 310 only when the foldable electronic device 10 is fully unfolded.

[0090] It should be noted that, for the sake of clarity and simplicity, the flexible screen 100 of the foldable electronic device 10 when closed and unfolded is omitted in Figures 8 and 9. It should also be noted that the arrows in Figures 8 and 9 only indicate the direction of the force, and the length of the arrows does not represent the magnitude of the force.

[0091] It is understandable that the hinge mechanism 300 provided in the embodiment of the present application has connecting assemblies 330 provided on both sides of the bracket 310. The connecting assembly 330 is used to support the flexible screen 100 of the foldable electronic device 10. One end of the first swing arm 320 is rotatably connected to the bracket 310, and the other end is connected to the connecting assembly 330. When the first swing arm 320 rotates, the flexible screen 100 can rotate along with the connecting assembly 330 to achieve relative expansion and folding of the flexible screen 100. The hinge mechanism 300 also includes a screen-supporting structure 340. One end of the screen-supporting structure 340 is rotatably connected to the bracket 310, and the other end is connected to the connecting assembly 330. The function of the screen-supporting structure 340 is to provide a thrust to the connecting assembly 330 away from the bracket 310 at least when the foldable electronic device 10 is fully expanded. The thrust acts on the connecting assembly 330, causing it to tend to move toward the sides relative to the flexible screen 100, exerting a pulling effect on the flexible screen 100 and improving the crease problem from the perspective of the force applied to the flexible screen 100 itself. When the screen-supporting structure 340 provides a thrust away from the bracket 310 to the connecting assembly 330 when the foldable electronic device 10 is closed, during the unfolding process, and fully unfolded, or during the unfolding process and fully unfolded, it can also intervene before the flexible screen 100 creases, fundamentally alleviating the crease problem of the flexible screen 100 of the foldable electronic device 10. In addition, the tension of the screen-supporting structure 340 itself can also reduce the virtual displacement between the connecting assembly 330 and the first swing arm 320, and between the bracket 310 and the first swing arm 320 when the first swing arm 320 rotates, thereby alleviating the looseness of the hinge mechanism 300 during rotation and improving the overall performance of the hinge mechanism 300.

[0092] It is easy to understand that it is relatively easy to implement the screen-supporting structure 340 continuously providing a pushing force to the connecting component 330 away from the bracket 310 when the foldable electronic device 10 is closed, during the unfolding process, and when fully unfolded. For example, a compressed structural member can be provided between the bracket 310 and the connecting component 330 to serve as the screen-supporting structure 340. However, the flexible screen 100 does not need to have a pulling force to the sides at all times. The foldable electronic device 10 is generally closed for a long time. If the flexible screen 100 also has a pulling force to the sides when closed, there may be a risk of damage to the flexible screen 100.

[0093] In order to ensure that the screen-supporting structure 340 provides a thrust to the connecting assembly 330 away from the bracket 310 only during the unfolding process of the foldable electronic device 10 and when it is fully unfolded, Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the first swing arm 320 of the rotating shaft mechanism 300 provided in an embodiment of the present application. Referring to Figure 10, in some embodiments of the present application, a first arc-shaped slide groove 311 and a first rotating shaft 312 are provided on the bracket 310, and the end of the first swing arm 320 connected to the bracket 310 is rotatably arranged around the first rotating shaft 312 in the first arc-shaped slide groove 311.

[0094] It can be understood that the end of the first swing arm 320 connected to the bracket 310 is rotatably arranged around the first rotation axis 312 in the first arc-shaped slot 311, so that the connecting component 330 has a displacement difference relative to the bracket 310 during rotation. Referring to Figure 10, it can be understood that when the flexible screen 100 is closed (as shown in the state of the first swing arm 320 on the left side of Figure 10), the end of the first swing arm 320 connected to the bracket 310 is at the outermost side of the first arc-shaped slot 311. At this time, the connecting component 330 is farthest from the bracket 310. When the flexible screen 100 is gradually unfolded, the end of the first swing arm 320 connected to the bracket 310 gradually moves inward along the first arc-shaped slot 311, and the distance between the connecting component 330 and the bracket 310 gradually decreases. When the flexible screen 100 is fully unfolded (as shown in the state of the first swing arm 320 on the right side in Figure 10), the end of the first swing arm 320 connected to the bracket 310 is at the innermost side of the first arc-shaped slide groove 311. At this time, the connecting component 330 is closest to the bracket 310.

[0095] In this way, the screen support structure 340 can be set to be in a relaxed state when the flexible screen 100 is closed. When the flexible screen 100 gradually unfolds, the displacement difference between the connecting component 330 and the bracket 310 during rotation compresses the screen support structure 340, so that the screen support structure 340 provides a pushing force to the connecting component 330 away from the bracket 310 during the unfolding process of the foldable electronic device 10 and when it is fully unfolded. As a result, the flexible screen 100 is not subjected to a pulling force to the sides when closed, reducing the risk of damage to the flexible screen 100.

[0096] The screen-supporting structure 340 can be a component inherent in the rotating shaft mechanism 300 or a separately added component. For example, FIG11 is a schematic structural diagram of a first screen-supporting member 341 provided in an embodiment of the present application, and FIG12 is a schematic cross-sectional structural diagram of the first screen-supporting member 341 of the rotating shaft mechanism 300 provided in an embodiment of the present application. Referring to FIG11 and FIG12 , in some embodiments of the present application, the screen-supporting structure 340 includes: a first screen-supporting member 341, which is a separately added component.

[0097] The first screen-supporting member 341 has a flexible section 3411 and connecting sections 3412 at both ends of the flexible section 3411. The flexible section 3411 can adopt a curved beam structure, in which one connecting section 3412 is hinged to the bracket 310, so that the first screen-supporting member 341 has only one degree of freedom of rotation. The other connecting section 3412 and the connecting assembly 330 can be fixed, hinged, or slidably connected, etc. It is only necessary to ensure that the first screen-supporting member 341 provides a thrust to the connecting assembly 330 away from the bracket 310 when the foldable electronic device 10 is closed, during the unfolding process, and when it is fully unfolded, or when the foldable electronic device 10 is unfolded and when it is fully unfolded. For example, as shown in Figure 12, the other connecting section 3412 and the connecting assembly 330 are hinged.

[0098] In the example of Figure 12 , when the flexible screen 100 is closed (as shown by the first swing arm 320 on the left side of Figure 12 ), the first screen-supporting member 341 is in a relaxed state. As the flexible screen 100 gradually unfolds to its fully unfolded state (as shown by the first swing arm 320 on the right side of Figure 12 ), the first screen-supporting member 341 is compressed by the connecting assembly 330 and the bracket 310 due to the displacement difference between the connecting assembly 330 and the bracket 310 during rotation, causing deformation along its own axis. The flexible segment 3411 is the primary deformation region. The reaction force generated by the axial deformation of the first screen-supporting member 341 pushes the connecting assembly 330 away from the bracket 310, causing the connecting assembly 330 to move toward the sides of the flexible screen 100, thereby pulling the flexible screen 100 to the sides. This alleviates the crease on the flexible screen 100 and improves the crease problem from the perspective of the screen's own force deformation.

[0099] The number of first screen-supporting members 341 located on a single side of the bracket 310 may be one or more, and the first screen-supporting members 341 located on both sides of the bracket 310 may be arranged opposite each other or staggered, which is not limited in this application. In actual use, the first screen-supporting members 341 are generally arranged in one or more pairs, with each pair of first screen-supporting members 341 arranged opposite each other on the bracket 310, to improve the rotational synchronization of the hinge mechanism 300.

[0100] Continuing with FIG. 6 , in some embodiments of the present application, the hinge mechanism 300 may further include a second swing arm 350. A damping module 360 ​​is provided on the bracket 310. One end of the second swing arm 350 is rotatably connected to the damping module 360, and the other end is connected to the connecting assembly 330. The end of the second swing arm 350 connected to the connecting assembly 330 may be fixedly connected, hingedly connected, or slidably connected, depending on the specific needs of the foldable electronic device 10.

[0101] The damping module 360 ​​is used to provide a damping force when the foldable electronic device 10 is closed, unfolding, and fully unfolded, allowing the foldable electronic device 10 to maintain its closed, partially unfolded, and fully unfolded state. The specific operating principles of the damping module 360 ​​can be found in the prior art and will not be detailed in this application.

[0102] The number of second swing arms 350 located on a single side of the bracket 310 can be one or more. The second swing arms 350 located on both sides of the bracket 310 can be arranged opposite each other or staggered, and this is not limited in this application. In actual use, the second swing arms 350 are generally arranged in one or more pairs, with each pair of second swing arms 350 arranged opposite each other on the bracket 310 to improve the rotational synchronization of the hinge mechanism 300.

[0103] Of course, the present application is not limited to this. The second swing arm 350 can also be used as the screen supporting structure 340. It can be understood that the second swing arm 350 is used as a second screen supporting member, different from the first screen supporting member 341. The second swing arm 350 is provided with a flexible section, which can adopt a curved beam structure. The principle of the second swing arm 350 generating thrust on the connecting assembly 330 can be referred to the first screen supporting member 341 and will not be repeated here.

[0104] Continuing with FIG. 6 , in some embodiments of the present application, a synchronization module 370 may be further provided on the bracket 310. The synchronization module 370 is configured to synchronize the plurality of damping modules 360, thereby enabling the plurality of second swing arms 350 to achieve synchronous rotation. The specific operating principle of the synchronization module 370 may be referred to in the prior art and will not be further described in this application.

[0105] Continuing to refer to FIG6 , in some embodiments of the present application, the hinge mechanism 300 may further include: a third swing arm 380, the third swing arm 380 being connected between the bracket 310 and the connecting assembly 330. FIG13 is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the second swing arm 350 of the hinge mechanism 300 provided in an embodiment of the present application, and FIG14 is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the third swing arm 380 of the hinge mechanism 300 provided in an embodiment of the present application. Referring to FIG13 and FIG14 and in combination with FIG6 , in these embodiments, the connecting assembly 330 includes: a connecting block 331 and a door panel 332, the door panel 332 being used to support the flexible screen 100, and the connecting block 331 and the door panel 332 being arranged for relative rotation. At this time, in order to ensure that the first screen supporting member 341 directly applies force to the flexible screen 100, the first screen supporting member 341 can be connected to the door panel 332.

[0106] The connecting block 331 is provided with a first slot 3311, in which the end of the second swing arm 350 connected to the connecting assembly 330 slides. The door panel 332 is provided with a second slot 3321, in which the end of the third swing arm 380 connected to the connecting assembly 330 slides. Furthermore, the bracket 310 is provided with a second curved slot 313 and a second rotation axis 314. The end of the third swing arm 380 connected to the bracket 310 rotates about the second rotation axis 314 in the second curved slot 313, thereby enabling the first swing arm 320 to be rotationally connected to the connecting assembly 330. For example, as shown in FIG10 , the first swing arm 320 is hinged to the connecting block 331.

[0107] The first swing arm 320 is rotatably connected to the connecting assembly 330, allowing the connecting assembly 330 to have one degree of rotational freedom. When the first swing arm 320 drives the flexible screen 100 to close, the second and third swing arms 350, 380, and the first swing arm 320 have a travel difference. These arms exert forces on the connecting assembly 330, as indicated by the dotted arrows in Figures 13 and 14. The connecting assembly 330 rotates and folds the flexible screen 100 into the teardrop-shaped configuration shown in Figure 3. This ensures a sufficiently large central angle for the inward fold of the flexible screen 100, preventing the curved portion 110 from undergoing significant bending, thus preventing damage to the flexible screen 100 due to excessive bending and minimizing bending marks. Furthermore, the teardrop-shaped curved portion 110 has a smooth top, allowing the two fixing portions 120 to fit seamlessly with the two main portions 200 of the foldable electronic device 10.

[0108] The purpose of the second swing arm 350 sliding in the first slide groove 3311 is to prevent the connection assembly 330 from getting stuck before the flexible screen 100 is folded into a teardrop shape. The purpose of configuring the second swing arm 350 to slide in the first slide groove 3311 and configuring the third swing arm 380 to slide in the second slide groove 3321 is that when the connection block 331 reaches its rotation limit, due to the relative rotation between the connection block 331 and the door panel 332, the third swing arm 380 can continue to drive the door panel 332 to fold the flexible screen 100 into a teardrop shape, thereby preventing the flexible screen 100 from getting stuck before it is folded into a teardrop shape.

[0109] The number of third swing arms 380 located on a single side of the bracket 310 can be one or more. The third swing arms 380 located on both sides of the bracket 310 can be arranged opposite each other or staggered, and this is not limited in this application. In actual use, the third swing arms 380 are generally arranged in one or more pairs, with each pair of third swing arms 380 arranged opposite each other on the bracket 310 to improve the rotational synchronization of the hinge mechanism 300.

[0110] FIG15 is a schematic diagram of the cooperation between the connecting block 331 and the door panel 332 provided in one embodiment of the present application. Referring to FIG15 , in some embodiments of the present application, one of the connecting block 331 and the door panel 332 is provided with a third arcuate slot 3322, and the other of the connecting block 331 and the door panel 332 is provided with a curved slider 3312. For example, as shown in FIG15 , a curved slider 3312 is provided on the connecting block 331, and a third arcuate slot 3322 is provided on the door panel 332. The curved slider 3312 slides in the third arcuate slot 3322 to achieve relative rotation between the connecting block 331 and the door panel 332.

[0111] Of course, the present application is not limited to this. FIG16 is a schematic structural diagram of the third swing arm 380 provided in one embodiment of the present application. Referring to FIG16 , in some embodiments of the application, the third swing arm 380 can be used as a screen-supporting structure 340. It can be understood that the third swing arm 380 can be a third screen-supporting member different from the first screen-supporting member 341 and the second screen-supporting member. A flexible section 381 is provided on the third swing arm 380. The flexible section 381 can be formed by weakening the rigidity of the region to form a curved beam structure. A simplified structural form can be shown in FIG17 , where one end can be hinged to the bracket 310 and the other end can be slidably connected to the connecting assembly 330. It can be understood that in some embodiments of the present application, the first screen-supporting member 341 and the second screen-supporting member can also adopt the form shown in FIG17 .

[0112] When the third swing arm 380 serves as the third screen supporting member, during the unfolding process of the foldable electronic device 10, one end of the third swing arm 380 that is slidably connected to the second slide groove 3321 abuts against the side wall of the second slide groove 3321 away from the bracket 310, and the first swing arm 320 forms a displacement difference between the connecting component 330 and the bracket 310, so that before the foldable electronic device 10 is fully unfolded, the third swing arm 380 abuts against the end of the second slide groove 3321, thereby causing the flexible section 381 to deform, and the flexible section 381 of the third swing arm 380 generates a reaction force toward both ends, driving the connecting component 330 to pull the flexible screen 100, thereby achieving intervention before the flexible screen 100 is creased, thereby fundamentally alleviating the crease problem of the flexible screen 100 of the foldable electronic device 10.

[0113] The working principle of the third swing arm 380 can be seen in Figures 18, 19 and 20:

[0114] Figure 18 is a state diagram of the third swing arm 380 provided in an embodiment of the present application. Referring to Figure 18, when the foldable electronic device 10 is in the folded state, the third swing arm 380 is in a relaxed state, and the sliding section of the third swing arm 380 in the second slide groove 3321 does not abut the side wall of the second slide groove 3321 away from the bracket 310.

[0115] Figure 19 is a state diagram of the third swing arm 380 provided in an embodiment of the present application. Referring to Figure 19, when the foldable electronic device 10 is in the unfolding process, the sliding section of the third swing arm 380 in the second slide groove 3321 abuts against the side wall of the second slide groove 3321 away from the bracket 310, thereby causing the flexible section 381 of the third swing arm 380 to deform. The flexible section 381 of the third swing arm 380 generates a reaction force toward both ends, driving the connecting component 330 to pull the flexible screen 100, thereby achieving intervention before the flexible screen 100 is creased, thereby fundamentally alleviating the crease problem of the flexible screen 100 of the foldable electronic device 10.

[0116] Figure 20 is a state diagram of the third swing arm 380 provided in an embodiment of the present application. Referring to Figure 20, when the foldable electronic device 10 is in a fully expanded state, the third swing arm 380 is still in contact with the side wall of the second slide groove 3321 away from the bracket 310, and the flexible section 381 of the third swing arm 380 generates a reaction force toward both ends, driving the connecting component 330 to pull the flexible screen 100, thereby achieving intervention before the flexible screen 100 is creased, thereby fundamentally alleviating the crease problem of the flexible screen 100 of the foldable electronic device 10.

[0117] When the second swing arm 350 is the second screen supporting member, during the unfolding process of the foldable electronic device 10, the end of the second swing arm 350 connected to the first slide groove 3311 must abut against the side wall of the first slide groove 3311 away from the bracket 310. The working principle can be referred to the third swing arm 380 and will not be repeated here.

[0118] It should be noted that the terms "first screen-supporting member 341," "second screen-supporting member," and "third screen-supporting member" herein are merely used to distinguish similar objects and are not intended to describe the order or precedence of the three. Furthermore, the terms "first screen-supporting member 341," "second screen-supporting member," and "third screen-supporting member" may exist individually, simultaneously, or in pairs.

[0119] Please refer to Figure 3. In some embodiments of the present application, the hinge mechanism 300 may further include: a shaft cover 390. The shaft cover 390 is arranged on the side of the bracket 310 away from the flexible screen 100 to cover the bracket 310, ensure the aesthetics of the foldable electronic device 10, and protect the bracket 310 to prevent the bracket 310 from being exposed and damaged by collision.

[0120] In summary, the hinge mechanism 300 provided in the embodiment of the present application can take effect during the deformation process of the flexible screen 100, change its stress deformation state, and fundamentally improve the crease problem of the flexible screen 100. In addition, the hinge mechanism 300 provided in the embodiment of the present application has a simple structure, a small number of parts, and a simple assembly process. In addition, the first screen-supporting member 341, the second screen-supporting member and the third screen-supporting member have good connectivity with the bracket 310 and the connecting component 330, and have strong reliability and adaptability. Furthermore, the first screen-supporting member 341, the second screen-supporting member and the third screen-supporting member can also reduce the virtual displacement generated between the connecting component 330 and the bracket 310 when the hinge mechanism 300 is working, alleviate the loose feeling of the hinge mechanism 300 during rotation, and improve the overall performance of the hinge mechanism 300.

[0121] The directional terms mentioned in the embodiments of this application, such as "inside" and "outside", are only used to refer to the directions of the drawings. Therefore, the directional terms used are for better and clearer description and understanding of the embodiments of this application, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the devices or components referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operate in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be understood as limiting the embodiments of this application. In addition, unless otherwise specified in this application, "a plurality" in this application means two or more.

[0122] In the embodiments of this application, "and / or" is simply a description of the association relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent three situations: A exists alone, A and B exist at the same time, and B exists alone. In addition, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the related objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0123] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," and "connected" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they may refer to a fixed connection, an indirect connection via an intermediate medium, internal communication between two components, or an interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of the above terms in the embodiments of this application based on specific circumstances.

[0124] The terms "first", "second", "third", "fourth", etc. (if any) in the description and claims of the embodiments of this application and the above-mentioned drawings are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence.

[0125] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, rather than to limit them. Although the embodiments of the present application have been described in detail with reference to the aforementioned embodiments, ordinary technicians in this field should understand that they can still modify the technical solutions recorded in the aforementioned embodiments, or replace some or all of the technical features therein with equivalents. These modifications or replacements do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application.

Claims

1. A hinge mechanism for a foldable electronic device, characterized in that: include: Bracket, first swing arm, connecting assembly and screen supporting structure; The connecting components are arranged on both sides of the bracket, and the connecting components are used to carry the flexible screen of the foldable electronic device; One end of the first swing arm is rotatably connected to the bracket, and the other end of the first swing arm is connected to the connecting assembly; One end of the screen-supporting structure is rotatably connected to the bracket, and the other end of the screen-supporting structure is connected to the connecting component. The screen-supporting structure is used to provide a thrust to the connecting component away from the bracket at least when the foldable electronic device is fully unfolded.

2. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that: The screen-supporting structure is used to provide a pushing force to the connecting component away from the bracket when the foldable electronic device is closed, unfolded, or fully unfolded.

3. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that: The screen-supporting structure is used to provide a pushing force to the connecting component away from the bracket during the unfolding process of the foldable electronic device and when the foldable electronic device is fully unfolded.

4. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The bracket is provided with a first arc-shaped sliding groove and a first rotating shaft, and one end of the first swing arm which is rotatably connected to the bracket is slidably arranged around the first rotating shaft in the first arc-shaped sliding groove.

5. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The screen supporting structure comprises: a first screen supporting member; The first screen supporting member has a flexible section and connecting sections at both ends of the flexible section, one of the connecting sections at both ends of the flexible section is hinged to the bracket, and the other connecting section is fixedly, hingedly or slidably connected to the connecting assembly.

6. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: Also includes: Second swing arm; The bracket is provided with a damping module, one end of the second swing arm is rotatably connected to the damping module, and the other end of the second swing arm is connected to the connecting assembly; The damping module is used to provide a damping force when the foldable electronic device is closed, unfolded, and fully unfolded.

7. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 6, characterized in that: The screen supporting structure includes: a second screen supporting member, the second swing arm is the second screen supporting member, and the second swing arm has a flexible section.

8. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that: Also includes: The third swing arm; The connecting assembly comprises: a connecting block and a door panel, the connecting block and the door panel are arranged to rotate relative to each other, a first slide groove and a second slide groove are arranged in the connecting block and the door panel respectively, and one end of the second swing arm connected to the connecting assembly is slidably arranged in the first slide groove; The bracket is provided with a second arc-shaped slide groove and a second rotating shaft, one end of the third swing arm is slidably arranged in the second arc-shaped slide groove around the second rotating shaft, and the other end of the third swing arm is slidably arranged in the second slide groove; The first swing arm is rotatably connected to the connecting assembly.

9. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 8, characterized in that: When the second swing arm is a second screen supporting member, during the unfolding process of the foldable electronic device, one end of the second swing arm that is slidably connected to the first slide slot abuts against a side wall of the first slide slot away from the bracket.

10. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that: The screen supporting structure comprises: a third screen supporting member, the third swing arm is the third screen supporting member, and the third swing arm has a flexible section; During the unfolding process of the foldable electronic device, one end of the third swing arm that is slidably connected to the second slide slot abuts against a side wall of the second slide slot away from the bracket.

11. The rotating shaft mechanism according to claim 8, characterized in that: One of the connecting block and the door panel is provided with a third arc-shaped sliding groove, and the other of the connecting block and the door panel is provided with an arc-shaped sliding block, and the arc-shaped sliding block is slidably arranged in the third arc-shaped sliding groove to realize the relative rotation arrangement of the connecting block and the door panel.

12. The rotating shaft mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that: Also includes: Shaft cap; The shaft cover is arranged on a side of the bracket away from the flexible screen of the foldable electronic device.

13. A foldable electronic device, characterized in that: include: A flexible screen, two main bodies and a hinge mechanism as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12; The two main bodies are respectively connected to the two sides of the rotating shaft mechanism, and the two main bodies are relatively unfolded and folded through the rotating shaft mechanism; The flexible screen is attached to the upper surfaces of the two main bodies.

14. The foldable electronic device according to claim 13, characterized in that: The flexible screen comprises: a bending portion and two fixing portions; The two fixing parts are fixedly connected to the two main body parts respectively, and the bending part is arranged corresponding to the rotating shaft mechanism.

Images