Folding mechanism and electronic device

Abstract

Provided in the present application are a folding mechanism and an electronic device. The folding mechanism comprises a spindle, a first fixing frame, a second fixing frame, a first movable member, a second movable member, a first support plate, a second support plate and a first elastic member, wherein the first movable member is connected to the spindle and the first fixing frame, and the second movable member is connected to the spindle and the second fixing frame; and the first support plate is connected to the first fixing frame and the first movable member, and the second support plate is connected to the second fixing frame and the second movable member. The first elastic member is connected to the first support plate and the first fixing frame, the first elastic member is in a compressed state, a first force application point is located on the side of a first axis of rotation away from the spindle, and when the folding mechanism is in a folded state, a first included angle formed between a connecting line between the first force application point and a second force application point and a first support face in a first direction is an acute angle. The end of the first support plate that is close to the spindle spreads in a direction away from the second support plate. A screen containing a space enclosed by the first support plate, the spindle and the second support plate is increased.

Description

Folding mechanism and electronic equipment

[0001] This application claims priority to the Chinese patent application filed with the State Intellectual Property Office of China on December 29, 2023, with application number 202311867296.2, and priority to the Chinese patent application with the invention name “Folding mechanism and electronic device”, all contents of which are incorporated by reference into this application. Technical Field

[0002] The present application relates to the technical field of foldable electronic products, and in particular to a folding mechanism and electronic equipment. Background Art

[0003] With the development of technology and the demand for electronic devices in the market, foldable electronic devices are becoming increasingly popular, and users are demanding higher and higher levels of sophistication in these devices. A foldable electronic device includes a first housing, a second housing, a folding mechanism, and a flexible screen. Due to the irrational design of traditional folding mechanisms, the bending area of ​​the flexible screen is prone to damage after a period of use, resulting in poor reliability.

[0004] Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present application provides a folding mechanism and electronic device that can improve the reliability of a flexible screen.

[0006] In the first aspect, the present application provides a folding mechanism. The folding mechanism includes a main shaft, a first fixed frame, a second fixed frame, a first movable member, a second movable member, a first support plate, a second support plate and a first elastic member. The main shaft is located between the first fixed frame and the second fixed frame; the first movable member movably connects the main shaft and the first fixed frame, and the second movable member movably connects the main shaft and the second fixed frame; the first support plate is rotatably connected to the first fixed frame and movably connected to the first movable member, the second support plate is rotatably connected to the second fixed frame and movably connected to the second movable member. When the folding mechanism is in the unfolded state, the first support surface of the main shaft, the second support surface of the first support plate and the third support surface of the second support plate jointly form a support surface. When the folding mechanism is in the folded state, the second support surface It is arranged opposite to the third support surface, and encloses at least part of the screen space with the first support surface; the first elastic member connects the first support plate and the first fixed frame, the first elastic member is in a compressed state, the force application point of the first elastic member on the first support plate is the first force application point, the force application point of the first elastic member on the first fixed frame is the second force application point, and the axis of rotation of the first support plate relative to the first fixed frame is the first rotation axis; the first force application point is located on the side of the first rotation axis away from the main axis, and when the folding mechanism is in a folded state, the first angle formed by the line between the first force application point and the second force application point and the first support surface in the first direction is an acute angle, wherein the first direction is the direction from the first support plate to the second support plate.

[0007] It is understood that when the folding mechanism is in the folded state, the first elastic member is in a compressed state, and thus can exert a first force on the first support plate. Because the first angle formed by the line connecting the first and second force application points and the first support surface is acute, the first force can generate a first force component in the first direction. Furthermore, because the first force application point is located on the side of the first rotation axis away from the main shaft, the first force component can cause the end of the first support plate away from the main shaft to move toward the second support plate. In this case, a force in the first direction can be generated on the end of the first support plate near the main shaft. The end of the first support plate near the main shaft can be expanded away from the second support plate. This significantly increases the screen space enclosed by the first support plate, the main shaft, and the second support plate. When the folding mechanism is used in an electronic device with a flexible screen, when the second display area of ​​the flexible screen is located within the screen space, the second display area has more room for deformation, allowing for less bending. This reduces the risk of damage to the second display area of ​​the flexible screen, improving the reliability of the flexible screen. In particular, when the electronic device is subjected to unusual conditions such as being dropped or impacted, the folding mechanism is less likely to squeeze the flexible screen, preventing the flexible screen from failing. Furthermore, when the end of the first support plate, close to the main axis, opens away from the second support plate, the first support plate can also cause some components of the folding mechanism to move slightly, thereby reducing the gaps between some components and making the folding mechanism more compact and space-efficient.

[0008] In a possible implementation, the contact position between the first elastic member and the first support plate is located on a side of the first rotation axis away from the main shaft.

[0009] It is understandable that, since the first force application point can be the center of the contact position between the first elastic member and the first support plate, when the contact position between the first elastic member and the first support plate is located on the side of the first rotation axis away from the main axis, it can be ensured that the first force application point is always located on the side of the first rotation axis away from the main axis. In this case, the first force applied by the first elastic member to the first support plate can always cause the end of the first support plate away from the main axis to move closer to the second support plate, and the end of the first support plate close to the main axis can expand in a direction away from the second support plate.

[0010] In one possible implementation, the folding mechanism also includes a second elastic member, which connects the second support plate and the second fixed frame; the second elastic member is in a compressed state, the point of force applied by the second elastic member to the second support plate is a third force point, the point of force applied by the second elastic member to the second fixed frame is a fourth force point, and the axis of rotation of the second support plate relative to the second fixed frame is the second rotation axis; the third force point is located on the side of the second rotation axis away from the main axis, and when the folding mechanism is in a folded state, the second angle formed by the line between the third force point and the fourth force point and the first support surface in the second direction is an acute angle, wherein the second direction is opposite to the first direction.

[0011] It can be understood that when the folding mechanism is in a folded state, since the second elastic member is in a compressed state, the second elastic member applies a second force to the second support plate. Since the second angle formed by the line between the third force application point and the fourth force application point and the first support surface is an acute angle, the second force can generate a second component force in the second direction. In addition, since the third force application point is located on the side of the second rotation axis away from the main shaft, the second component force can make the end of the second support plate away from the main shaft move closer to the first support plate. At this time, a force in the second direction can be formed on the end of the second support plate close to the main shaft, and the end of the second support plate close to the main shaft opens in the direction away from the first support plate. In this way, on the one hand, the screen space enclosed by the first support plate, the main shaft and the second support plate can be further increased.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the first fixing frame has a first guide block, the first support plate has a first mounting block, and the first mounting block is arranged opposite to the first guide block; the first elastic member is a spring, one end of the first elastic member is sleeved on the first guide block and abuts against the first fixing frame, and the other end of the first elastic member is sleeved on the first mounting block and abuts against the first support plate.

[0013] It is understandable that when the folding mechanism is in the folded state, the first guide block of the first fixing frame is disposed opposite the first mounting block of the first support plate. In this way, the first guide block and the first mounting block can be used to better guide the deformation direction of the first elastic member, thereby preventing damage to the first elastic member due to deformation. In other implementations, when the folding mechanism is in the flattened state or any other state, the first guide block of the first fixing frame can also be disposed opposite the first mounting block of the first support plate. In this way, the first guide block and the first mounting block can always guide the deformation direction of the first elastic member, thereby preventing damage to the first elastic member due to deformation.

[0014] In one possible implementation, when the folding mechanism is in the folded state, at least a portion of the first mounting block can be located within the first mounting hole. This allows the first mounting block and the first fixing bracket to overlap in the thickness direction of the first fixing bracket, thereby making the arrangement between the first fixing bracket and the first support plate more compact and facilitating improved space utilization of the folding mechanism.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the first fixing bracket is provided with a first mounting hole, which passes through the top and bottom surfaces of the first fixing bracket; the first guide block is protruded from the hole wall of the first mounting hole, and the first elastic member is supported against the hole wall of the first mounting hole.

[0016] It can be understood that by setting the first mounting hole on the first fixing frame and protruding the first guide block on the hole wall of the first mounting hole, the distance between the first guide block and the first support plate is reduced, making it easier for the first guide block to be set relative to the first mounting block.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the first support plate includes a first support plate body and a first connecting plate, the first support plate body includes a first fixing surface, and the first fixing surface and the second supporting surface are arranged back to back; the first connecting plate is protruded from the first fixing surface, the first mounting block is protruded from the first connecting plate, and the first elastic member is supported against the first connecting plate.

[0018] It is understandable that by providing the first connecting plate and protruding the first mounting block on the first connecting surface of the first connecting plate, the distance between the first mounting block and the first fixing surface is increased, making it easier for the first mounting block to be arranged relative to the first guide block.

[0019] In a possible implementation, at least a portion of the first mounting block is located in the first mounting hole.

[0020] It is understandable that by locating at least a portion of the first mounting block in the first mounting hole, the first mounting block and the first fixing frame have an overlapping area in the thickness direction of the first fixing frame, which is beneficial to improving space utilization.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the first support plate also includes a first baffle and a second baffle, the first baffle and the second baffle are both protruding from the first fixed surface, the first baffle and the second baffle are also connected to the two ends of the first connecting plate, and are located on the same side of the first connecting plate; the first mounting block is located between the first baffle and the second baffle.

[0022] It can be understood that the first connecting plate, the first baffle and the second baffle can be used to protect the first elastic member and prevent the first elastic member from interfering with other structural members.

[0023] In one possible implementation, when the folding mechanism is in the flattened state, the first force application point is closer to the second support surface relative to the second force application point. In other words, when the folding mechanism is in the flattened state, the angle formed by the line connecting the first force application point and the second force application point and the second support surface is an acute angle, that is, the first elastic member is arranged at an angle relative to the second support surface.

[0024] It can be understood that since the first elastic member is in a compressed state, the first elastic member can apply a fourth force to the first support plate. Since the first force application point is arranged close to the second support surface relative to the second force application point, the fourth force can generate a fourth component in the positive direction of the Z axis. In addition, since the first force application point is located on the side of the first rotation axis away from the main shaft, the fourth component can cause the end of the first support plate close to the main shaft to generate a force in the negative direction of the Z axis. The end of the first support plate close to the main shaft has a tendency to move in the negative direction of the Z axis, thereby ensuring that the end of the first support plate close to the main shaft will not warp in the positive direction of the Z axis, thereby ensuring that the end of the first support plate close to the main shaft will not press against the flexible screen, causing damage or failure of the flexible screen.

[0025] In one possible implementation, the folding mechanism also includes a first suction member and a second suction member, the first suction member is fixed to the first fixed frame, the second suction member is fixed to the first support plate, and the second suction member is located on the side of the first rotation axis close to the main axis; when the folding mechanism is in a folded state, the second suction member and the first suction member attract each other.

[0026] It can be understood that the attraction generated between the first suction member and the second suction member can act on the first support plate. When the folding mechanism is in a folded state, the attraction between the first suction member and the second suction member can apply a third force to the first support plate. The third force can form a third component along the positive direction of the X-axis on the end of the first support plate close to the main shaft. Since the second suction member is located on the side of the first rotation axis close to the main shaft, the third component can cause the end of the first support plate close to the main shaft to open in the direction away from the second support plate. At this time, the third component of force can be such that, on the one hand, the screen space enclosed by the first support plate, the main shaft and the second support plate can be greatly increased.

[0027] It can be understood that by arranging a first suction member on the first fixed frame and a second suction member on the first support plate, and utilizing the attraction between the first suction member and the second suction member to open the end of the first support plate close to the main axis, the size of the screen space is greatly increased.

[0028] In one possible implementation, the first rotation axis is positioned closer to the second side of the first support plate relative to the first side of the first support plate, and the second suction member is positioned closer to the first side of the first support plate relative to the second side of the first support plate. The first side and second side of the first support plate are disposed opposite each other, and the first side of the first support plate faces the main axis. In this way, the second suction member can be positioned significantly further away from the first rotation axis. In this case, the torque exerted by the second suction member on the first support plate is greater.

[0029] In one possible implementation, when the folding mechanism is in the folded state, the distance between the second suction member and the first suction member is a first distance, and when the folding mechanism is in the flattened state, the distance between the second suction member and the first suction member is a second distance, which is greater than the first distance. Thus, when the folding mechanism is in the flattened state, the attraction between the second suction member and the first suction member is relatively small. The attraction between the second suction member and the first suction member does not easily drive the first support plate and the first fixing frame to rotate relative to each other.

[0030] In one possible implementation, the first fixing frame is provided with a first accommodating groove, and at least a portion of the first suction member is located in the first accommodating groove; and / or, the first support plate is provided with a first accommodating groove, and at least a portion of the second suction member is located in the first accommodating groove.

[0031] It can be understood that the second suction member and the first support plate have an overlapping area, so that the second suction member and the first support plate are arranged more compactly and the space utilization rate is higher.

[0032] In a possible implementation, the first suction member and the second suction member are both magnets. It is understandable that the material cost of the first suction member and the second suction member is low, and the structure of the folding mechanism is simple.

[0033] In one possible implementation, the folding mechanism also includes a third suction member and a fourth suction member, the third suction member is fixed to the second fixed frame, the fourth suction member is fixed to the second support plate, and the third suction member is located on the side of the second rotation axis close to the main axis; when the folding mechanism is in a folded state, the third suction member and the fourth suction member attract each other.

[0034] It can be understood that by utilizing the attraction between the third suction member and the fourth suction member, the end of the second support plate close to the main shaft can be opened in the direction away from the first support plate, and the screen space enclosed by the first support plate, the main shaft and the second support plate can be greatly increased.

[0035] In a possible implementation, the first movable member includes a first rotating end and a second rotating end, the first rotating end of the first movable member is rotatably connected to the main shaft, and the second rotating end of the first movable member is rotatably connected to the first fixed frame.

[0036] In one possible implementation, the first rotating end of the first movable part can be connected to the main shaft through a virtual axis. The structure of the rotating connection is relatively simple and occupies little space, which is conducive to reducing the thickness of the folding mechanism, making it easier for the folding mechanism and electronic equipment to achieve a lightweight and thin setting.

[0037] In a possible implementation, the first movable member includes a connecting section, which connects the first rotating end and the second rotating end of the first movable member; the first support plate is movably connected to the connecting section of the first movable member through a first rotating pair.

[0038] In one possible implementation, the first movable part is provided with a rotating shaft hole, and the first support plate is provided with a rotating shaft hole; the first rotating pair includes a connecting bracket, a first pin shaft and a second pin shaft, the connecting bracket is provided with a first pin shaft hole and a second pin shaft hole arranged at intervals, the first pin shaft passes through the first pin shaft hole of the connecting bracket, and both ends are connected to the rotating shaft hole of the first movable part, the second pin shaft passes through the second pin shaft hole of the connecting bracket, and both ends are connected to the rotating shaft hole of the first support plate, and the connecting bracket rotates to connect the first pin shaft and the second pin shaft.

[0039] In a possible implementation, when the folding mechanism is in the flattened state, the first supporting surface of the main shaft protrudes relative to the second supporting surface of the first supporting plate and the third supporting surface of the second supporting plate.

[0040] It is understandable that when the folding mechanism is applied to an electronic device with a flexible screen, when the electronic device is in a flattened state, the second display area of ​​the flexible screen will be concave in the direction of the main axis to form an obvious crease, thereby causing light and shadow problems. In this embodiment, the first support surface of the main axis is set to bulge relative to the second support surface of the first support plate and the third support surface of the second support plate, so that the first support surface of the main axis is closer to the second display area of ​​the flexible screen. In this way, when the rewinding force of the flexible screen and the gravity of the flexible screen drive the first support plate and the second support plate to fall in the direction of the main axis, the first support surface of the main axis can support the second display area of ​​the flexible screen, thereby avoiding the problem of the second display area of ​​the flexible screen forming a crease due to the concave direction of the main axis, and further avoiding light and shadow problems in the second display area of ​​the flexible screen.

[0041] In a second aspect, the present application provides an electronic device. The electronic device includes a first housing, a second housing, a flexible screen, and the folding mechanism described in the first aspect above, wherein a first fixing frame is fixedly connected to the first housing, and a second fixing frame is fixedly connected to the second housing; the flexible screen includes a first display area, a second display area, and a third display area connected in sequence, the first display area being fixed to the first housing, and the third display area being fixed to the second housing; when the folding mechanism is in an unfolded state, the support surface supports the second display area; and when the folding mechanism is in a folded state, the second display area is located within the screen space.

[0042] It is understandable that when the second display area of ​​the flexible screen is located within the screen space, the free deformation space of the second display area of ​​the flexible screen is better released, and the degree of curvature of the second display area of ​​the flexible screen can be smaller. At this time, the second display area of ​​the flexible screen is not easily damaged, and the reliability of the flexible screen is better. In particular, when the electronic device is in an unconventional environment such as falling or impacting, the folding mechanism is not easy to squeeze the flexible screen, and the flexible screen is not prone to failure and other problems. On the other hand, when the end of the second support plate close to the main axis is opened in the direction away from the first support plate, the second support plate can also drive some components of the folding mechanism to move slightly, thereby reducing the problem of virtual position between components, and the folding mechanism is more compact and the space utilization rate is higher.

[0043] It is understandable that by providing the first elastic member, the size of the screen space is greatly increased. This can solve the problem of the screen space being reduced after the electronic device is folded many times due to the rewinding force of the flexible screen driving the first and second support plates to rotate relative to the main axis. It can also solve the problem of the screen space being reduced after the electronic device is folded many times due to the rewinding force of the flexible screen and the gravity of the flexible screen driving the first and second support plates to fall toward the main axis.

[0044] In a third aspect, the present application provides a folding mechanism. The folding mechanism includes a main shaft, a first fixed frame, a second fixed frame, a first movable member, a second movable member, a first support plate, a second support plate, and a first force member, wherein the main shaft is located between the first fixed frame and the second fixed frame; the first movable member movably connects the main shaft and the first fixed frame, and the second movable member movably connects the main shaft and the second fixed frame; the first support plate movably connects the first fixed frame and the first movable member, and the second support plate movably connects the second fixed frame and the second movable member, when the folding mechanism is in an unfolded state, the main shaft, the first support plate, and the second support plate jointly form a support surface, when the folding mechanism is in a folded state, the first support plate and the second support plate are arranged opposite to each other and enclose a screen space with the main shaft; a portion of the first force member is connected to the first support plate, and a portion is connected to the first fixed frame, and the first force member is used to form a force along a second direction on the end of the first support plate close to the main shaft, and the first direction is the direction in which the second support plate points to the first support plate.

[0045] It will be appreciated that when the folding mechanism is in the folded state, because the first force-applying member is used to generate a force in the second direction on the end of the first support plate near the main axis, the end of the first support plate near the main axis can be opened away from the second support plate. This significantly increases the screen-holding space enclosed by the first support plate, the main axis, and the second support plate. When the folding mechanism is applied to an electronic device with a flexible screen, when the second display area of ​​the flexible screen is located within the screen-holding space, the free deformation space of the second display area of ​​the flexible screen is released, and the degree of bending of the second display area of ​​the flexible screen can be reduced. In this manner, the second display area of ​​the flexible screen is less susceptible to damage, and the reliability of the flexible screen is improved. In particular, when the electronic device is subjected to unusual conditions such as drops or impacts, the folding mechanism is less likely to squeeze the flexible screen, making it less likely to fail. Furthermore, when the end of the first support plate near the main axis is opened away from the second support plate, the first support plate can also cause some components of the folding mechanism to move slightly, thereby reducing the gaps between some components and achieving a more compact folding mechanism layout with higher space utilization.

[0046] In a possible implementation, the first force applying member may be a first elastic member, and may also be a first suction member and a second suction member.

[0047] In one possible implementation, the folding mechanism also includes a second force-applying member, a portion of which is connected to the second support plate, and a portion of which is connected to the second fixed frame. The second force-applying member is used to form a force along a first direction on the end of the second support plate close to the main axis, and the second direction is opposite to the first direction.

[0048] It will be appreciated that when the folding mechanism is in the folded state, because the second force-applying member is used to generate a force in the first direction on the end of the second support plate near the main axis, the end of the second support plate near the main axis can be opened away from the first support plate. This significantly increases the screen-holding space enclosed by the first support plate, the main axis, and the second support plate. When the folding mechanism is applied to an electronic device with a flexible screen, when the second display area of ​​the flexible screen is located within the screen-holding space, the free deformation space of the second display area of ​​the flexible screen is released, and the degree of bending of the second display area of ​​the flexible screen can be reduced. In this way, the second display area of ​​the flexible screen is less susceptible to damage, and the reliability of the flexible screen is improved. In particular, when the electronic device is subjected to unusual conditions such as being dropped or impacted, the folding mechanism is less likely to squeeze the flexible screen, making it less likely to fail. Furthermore, when the end of the first support plate near the main axis is opened away from the second support plate, the first support plate can also cause some components of the folding mechanism to move slightly, thereby reducing the gap between some components and achieving a more compact folding mechanism layout with higher space utilization.

[0049] In a possible implementation, the second force applying member may be a second elastic member, and may also be a third suction member and a fourth suction member.

[0050] In a fourth aspect, the present application provides an electronic device. The electronic device includes a first housing, a second housing, a flexible screen, and the folding mechanism described in the third aspect above, wherein a first fixing frame is fixedly connected to the first housing, and a second fixing frame is fixedly connected to the second housing; the flexible screen includes a first display area, a second display area, and a third display area connected in sequence, the first display area being fixed to the first housing, and the third display area being fixed to the second housing; when the folding mechanism is in an unfolded state, the support surface supports the second display area; when the folding mechanism is in a folded state, the second display area is located within the screen space.

[0051] It is understandable that when the second display area of ​​the flexible screen is located within the screen space, the free deformation space of the second display area of ​​the flexible screen is better released, and the degree of curvature of the second display area of ​​the flexible screen can be smaller. At this time, the second display area of ​​the flexible screen is not easily damaged, and the reliability of the flexible screen is better. In particular, when the electronic device is in an unconventional environment such as falling or impacting, the folding mechanism is not easy to squeeze the flexible screen, and the flexible screen is not prone to failure and other problems. On the other hand, when the end of the second support plate close to the main axis is opened in the direction away from the first support plate, the second support plate can also drive some components of the folding mechanism to move slightly, thereby reducing the problem of virtual position between components, and the folding mechanism is more compact and the space utilization rate is higher.

[0052] It is understandable that by providing the first elastic member, the size of the screen space is greatly increased. This can solve the problem of the screen space being reduced after the electronic device is folded many times due to the rewinding force of the flexible screen driving the first and second support plates to rotate relative to the main axis. It can also solve the problem of the screen space being reduced after the electronic device is folded many times due to the rewinding force of the flexible screen and the gravity of the flexible screen driving the first and second support plates to fall toward the main axis. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0053] FIG1 is a schematic structural diagram of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of the present application in a flattened state;

[0054] FIG2 is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of an embodiment of the electronic device shown in FIG1 taken along line AA;

[0055] FIG3 is a schematic structural diagram of an embodiment of the electronic device shown in FIG1 in a folded state;

[0056] FIG4 is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of an embodiment of the electronic device shown in FIG3 taken along line BB;

[0057] FIG5 is a partially exploded view of the electronic device shown in FIG1 in one embodiment;

[0058] FIG6 is a partially exploded view of the folding mechanism shown in FIG5 in one embodiment;

[0059] FIG7 is a schematic structural diagram of the folding mechanism shown in FIG6 at another angle;

[0060] FIG8 is a partially exploded view of the folding mechanism shown in FIG7 in one embodiment;

[0061] FIG9 is a schematic diagram of a partial structure of the main shaft shown in FIG7 in one embodiment;

[0062] FIG10 is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of an embodiment of the main shaft shown in FIG9 at line CC;

[0063] FIG11 is a partially exploded schematic diagram of an embodiment of the end connection assembly shown in FIG8 ;

[0064] FIG12 is a partially exploded schematic diagram of the end connection assembly shown in FIG11 at another angle;

[0065] FIG13 is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of an embodiment of the connection assembly shown in FIG7 at line DD;

[0066] FIG14 is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of an embodiment of the folding mechanism shown in FIG7 at line EE;

[0067] FIG15 is a schematic structural diagram of the first support plate and the second support plate shown in FIG8 in one embodiment;

[0068] FIG16 is a schematic diagram of a partial structure of the folding mechanism shown in FIG7 in one embodiment;

[0069] FIG17 is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of an embodiment of the folding mechanism shown in FIG16 at line FF at another angle;

[0070] FIG18 is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of an embodiment of the folding mechanism shown in FIG16 at line GG;

[0071] FIG19 is a schematic diagram of a partial structure of the electronic device shown in FIG3 in one embodiment;

[0072] FIG20 is a schematic structural diagram of the first fixing frame and the second fixing frame shown in FIG11 at another angle;

[0073] FIG21 is a schematic structural diagram of the first fixing frame and the second fixing frame shown in FIG20 at another angle;

[0074] FIG22 is an enlarged schematic diagram of the first support plate and the second support plate shown in FIG15 in one embodiment;

[0075] FIG23 is a schematic structural diagram of the first support plate and the second support plate shown in FIG22 at another angle;

[0076] FIG24 is a schematic diagram of a partial structure of the folding mechanism shown in FIG7 at another angle;

[0077] FIG25 is a partial cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the folding mechanism shown in FIG24 taken along line HH;

[0078] FIG26 is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of an embodiment of the folding mechanism shown in FIG19 at line II;

[0079] FIG27 is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of an embodiment of the folding mechanism shown in FIG19 at line JJ;

[0080] FIG28 is a schematic structural diagram of the folding mechanism shown in FIG27 at another angle;

[0081] FIG29 is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of an embodiment of the folding mechanism shown in FIG16 at line KK;

[0082] FIG30 is a schematic structural diagram of an embodiment of the folding mechanism shown in FIG29 in a folded state;

[0083] FIG31 is a schematic structural diagram of the folding mechanism shown in FIG30 at another angle;

[0084] Figure 32 is a partial structural schematic diagram of another embodiment of the folding mechanism and flexible screen provided in an embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0085] The technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be described clearly and completely below in conjunction with the drawings in the embodiments of the present application.

[0086] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," "connected," and "connected" should be understood broadly. For example, "connected" can mean removable or non-removable; directly or indirectly through an intermediary; electrically or mechanically. "Fixed connection" refers to a connection in which the relative positional relationship remains unchanged after connection. "Rotational connection" refers to a connection in which the connection allows relative rotation. "Sliding connection" refers to a connection in which the connection allows relative sliding. "Moveable connection" refers to a connection in which the connection allows relative movement. Furthermore, two components forming an integrated structure through an integral molding process mean that, during the formation of one of the two components, the component is connected to the other without requiring further processing (such as bonding, welding, snap-fit ​​connection, or screw connection) to connect the two components. Components A and B can be arranged relative to each other so that component A is projected along a target direction to form projection C, and component B is projected along the target direction to form projection D, and projections C and D can at least substantially overlap. In some embodiments, the substantial overlap can be any of the following: projection C is completely within projection D. Alternatively, projection D is completely located within projection C. Alternatively, projection C and projection D intersect each other, and the intersection area of ​​projection C and projection D accounts for more than 50% of projection C or projection D.

[0087] The directional terms mentioned in the embodiments of the present application, such as "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., are only used to refer to the directions in the drawings. Therefore, the directional terms used are for better and clearer description and understanding of the embodiments of the present application, and do not 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 the present application. For those skilled in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0088] The terms "first", "second", etc. in the specification and claims of this application are used to distinguish similar objects, and are not used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that the data used in this way can be interchangeable where appropriate, so that the embodiments of the present application can be implemented in an order other than those illustrated or described here, and the objects distinguished by "first", "second", etc. are generally of the same type, and the number of objects is not limited. For example, the first object can be one or more. In addition, "and / or" in the specification and claims represents at least one of the connected objects, and the character " / " generally indicates that the objects associated with each other are in an "or" relationship. "Multiple" means at least two.

[0089] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device 1000 provided in an embodiment of the present application in a flattened state. Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a partial cross-section of the electronic device 1000 shown in Figure 1 taken along line AA. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the electronic device 1000 shown in Figure 1 in a folded state. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a partial cross-section of the electronic device 1000 shown in Figure 3 taken along line BB.

[0090] As shown in Figures 1 to 4, the present application provides a foldable electronic device 1000. The foldable electronic device 1000 can be a foldable device such as a mobile phone, tablet computer, personal computer, laptop computer, vehicle-mounted device, or wearable device (such as a smart bracelet). The present application embodiment is described in detail using the example of the electronic device 1000 being a mobile phone.

[0091] For ease of description, for example, the thickness direction of the electronic device 1000 is defined as the Z-axis direction, and the extension direction of the rotation axis of the electronic device 1000 is the Y-axis direction, that is, the width direction of the electronic device 1000 is the Y-axis direction. The direction perpendicular to the Y-axis direction and the Z-axis direction is the X-axis direction, that is, the length direction of the electronic device 1000 is the X-axis. It will be understood that the coordinate system of the electronic device 1000 can also be flexibly set according to specific needs. For example, the negative direction of the X-axis is defined as the first direction, and the positive direction of the X-axis is defined as the second direction. In other embodiments, the first direction and the second direction can also be flexibly set as needed, as long as the first direction and the second direction are opposite.

[0092] It can be understood that in this embodiment, the direction of the rotation axis of the electronic device 1000 is the Y-axis direction, that is, the electronic device 1000 can be relatively flattened or folded along the Y-axis direction. In this way, when the electronic device 1000 is in a folded state, the size of the electronic device 1000 in the X-axis direction becomes smaller. This embodiment is explained by taking "the direction of the rotation axis of the electronic device 1000 is the Y-axis direction" as an example. At this time, the electronic device 1000 can be folded left and right, and the folding and flattening of the electronic device 1000 affects the length dimension of the electronic device 1000. In some other embodiments, the rotation axis of the electronic device 1000 can also be the X-axis direction, that is, the electronic device 1000 can be relatively flattened or folded along the X-axis direction. At this time, the electronic device 1000 can be folded up and down, and the folding and flattening of the electronic device 1000 affects the width dimension of the electronic device 1000.

[0093] Fig. 5 is a partially exploded view of an embodiment of the electronic device 1000 shown in Fig. 1. Fig. 6 is a partially exploded view of an embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Fig. 5.

[0094] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the electronic device 1000 includes a folding mechanism 100, a flexible screen 200, a first shell 300, and a second shell 400. The flexible screen 200 can be an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, an active-matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) display, a mini organic light-emitting diode (MID) display, a micro organic light-emitting diode (MID) display, or a quantum dot light-emitting diode (QLED) display. In addition, the folding mechanism 100 can be an internal folding mechanism or an external folding mechanism. The internal folding mechanism can be a folding mechanism that folds at least part of the flexible screen 200 between the first shell 300 and the second shell 400. The external folding mechanism can be a folding mechanism that folds at least part of the flexible screen 200 to the outside of the first shell 300 and the second shell 400. This application does not limit the specific structure of the folding mechanism 100. In this embodiment, the folding mechanism 100 is described as an inner folding mechanism. For example, the thickness direction of the folding mechanism 100 may be the Z-axis direction, the length direction of the folding mechanism 100 may be the Y-axis direction, and the width direction of the folding mechanism 100 may be the X-axis direction.

[0095] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, illustratively, the folding mechanism 100 is connected between the first housing 300 and the second housing 400. The folding mechanism 100 is used to unfold or fold the first housing 300 and the second housing 400 relative to each other. It is understood that the direction in which the first housing 300 points toward the second housing 400 can be the negative direction of the X-axis. The direction in which the second housing 400 points toward the first housing 300 can be the positive direction of the X-axis.

[0096] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, when the first housing 300 and the second housing 400 are relatively unfolded to a flat state, the electronic device 1000 is in a flat state, and the first housing 300 and the second housing 400 can be 180 degrees apart. In other embodiments, the first housing 300 and the second housing 400 can also have a slight deviation from 180 degrees, such as 165 degrees, 177 degrees, or 185 degrees.

[0097] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, when the first shell 300 and the second shell 400 are folded relative to each other to a closed state, the electronic device 1000 is in a folded state, the first shell 300 and the second shell 400 can be closed to each other, and there can be no large gap between the first shell 300 and the second shell 400. In this way, the appearance experience of the electronic device 1000 is better, and the waterproof, dustproof and foreign body-proof performance is better. The situation where the first shell 300 and the second shell 400 are closed includes the situation where the two are against each other, and can also include the situation where there is a small gap between the two. When there is a small gap between the first shell 300 and the second shell 400, some foreign objects outside the electronic device 1000 will not enter between the first shell 300 and the second shell 400 through the gap.

[0098] The first shell 300 and the second shell 400 can also be relatively unfolded or folded to an intermediate state, so that the electronic device 1000 is in an intermediate state. The intermediate state can be any state between the unfolded state and the folded state.

[0099] Referring to Figure 5 , and in conjunction with Figures 1 to 4 , the flexible screen 200 includes a first display area 201, a second display area 202, and a third display area 203. The second display area 202 is connected between the first display area 201 and the third display area 203. Figures 1 , 2 , and 5 all use dotted lines to schematically distinguish the first display area 201, the second display area 202, and the third display area 203. The first display area 201 of the flexible screen 200 is fixed to the first shell 300. The third display area 203 is fixed to the second shell 400. During the relative expansion or folding of the first shell 300 and the second shell 400, the first shell 300 can drive the first display area 201 to move, and the second shell 400 can drive the third display area 203 to move. The first display area 201 and the third display area 203 are relatively expanded or folded, and the second display area 202 can deform.

[0100] It can be understood that since the first display area 201 is fixed to the first shell 300 and the third display area 203 is fixed to the second shell 400, when the first shell 300 and the second shell 400 are relatively unfolded or folded, the relative unfolding and folding movements between the first display area 201 and the third display area 203 can be accurately controlled, so that the folding process and movement form of the flexible screen 200 are controllable and the reliability is relatively high.

[0101] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, when the electronic device 1000 is in a flattened state, the flexible screen 200 can be in a flattened state. For example, the first display area 201, the second display area 202, and the third display area 203 of the flexible screen 200 can be 180 degrees. In other embodiments, the first display area 201, the second display area 202, and the third display area 203 can also have a slight deviation from 180 degrees, such as 165 degrees, 177 degrees, or 185 degrees. In this case, the flexible screen 200 has a continuous large display area, that is, the flexible screen 200 can achieve large-screen display, and the user experience is better.

[0102] For example, when the electronic device 1000 is in a flattened state, at least a portion of the folding mechanism 100 can be used to support the second display area 202. Thus, when the second display area 202 is subjected to pressing, squeezing, or impact forces, the folding mechanism 100 can be used to improve the second display area 202's ability to withstand pressure and impact, thereby preventing the second display area 202 from denting.

[0103] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, when the electronic device 1000 is in a folded state, the flexible screen 200 is in a folded state. For example, the first display area 201 and the third display area 203 of the flexible screen 200 are close to each other. The second display area 202 is bent. At this time, the flexible screen 200 can be roughly in the shape of a "water drop". In addition, the flexible screen 200 is located in the space surrounded by the first shell 300, the folding mechanism 100 and the second shell 400. The first display area 201 and the third display area 203 are located between the first shell 300 and the second shell 400. At this time, the plane size of the electronic device 1000 is small (with a smaller width dimension), which is convenient for users to carry and store.

[0104] Fig. 7 is a schematic structural diagram of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Fig. 6 at another angle. Fig. 8 is a partial exploded view of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Fig. 7 in one embodiment.

[0105] 7 and 8 , in conjunction with FIG5 and FIG6 , the folding mechanism 100 includes a main shaft 1, a connecting assembly 2, a first support plate 4, and a second support plate 5. The main shaft 1 may extend in the Y-axis direction.

[0106] Illustratively, the main shaft 1 is located between the first housing 300 and the second housing 400. A connecting assembly 2 connects the first housing 300, the main shaft 1, and the second housing 400. Illustratively, there may be multiple connecting assemblies 2, spaced apart along the length of the main shaft 1. For example, the connecting assemblies 2 may be connected to the top and bottom of the main shaft 1, respectively. It will be appreciated that the connecting assembly 2 can primarily be used to expand or fold the first housing 300 and the second housing 400 relative to each other.

[0107] Referring to Figures 7 and 8 , in conjunction with Figures 5 and 6 , the first support plate 4 is located on the side of the main shaft 1 near the first housing 300. The first support plate 4 connects the main shaft 1 and the first housing 300 via a connecting assembly 2. The specific connection between the first support plate 4, the first housing 300, and the connecting assembly 2 will be described in detail below in conjunction with the relevant drawings and will not be repeated here.

[0108] In addition, the second support plate 5 is located on the side of the main shaft 1 close to the second housing 400. The second support plate 5 connects the second housing 400 and the main shaft 1 via the connecting assembly 2. It is understood that the second support plate 5 and the first support plate 4 can have the same or similar structures, symmetrical or partially symmetrical structures, or different structures. In this embodiment, the second support plate 5 and the first support plate 4 are symmetrical structures. The basic design of the component structure of the second support plate 5, the connection relationship design between the components, and the connection relationship design between the components and other structures outside the assembly can all refer to the relevant solutions of the first support plate 4. At the same time, the second support plate 5 and the first support plate 4 are allowed to have slight differences in the detailed structure or position arrangement of the components. The details will not be repeated here. It is understood that the direction from the first support plate 4 to the second support plate 5 can be the negative direction of the X-axis. The direction from the second support plate 5 to the first support plate 4 can be the positive direction of the X-axis.

[0109] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the spindle 1 includes, for example, a first support surface 1a. The first support surface 1a can be a plane. The first support plate 4 has a second support surface 4a. The second support surface 4a can be a plane. The second support plate 5 has a third support surface 5a. The third support surface 5a can be a plane.

[0110] As shown in Figure 2, when the first shell 300 and the second shell 400 are relatively unfolded to a flattened state (that is, the electronic device 1000 is in a flattened state), the main shaft 1 is located between the first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5, and the first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5 are open relative to the main shaft 1. The first support surface 1a of the main shaft 1, the second support surface 4a of the first support plate 4, and the third support surface 5a of the second support plate 5 can form a support surface 100b. The support surface 100b supports the second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200, so that when the second display area 202 is touched, the second display area 202 is not easily damaged or dented due to external force, thereby significantly improving the reliability of the flexible screen 200.

[0111] For example, when the electronic device 1000 is in a flattened state, the first support surface 1a of the main shaft 1, the second support surface 4a of the first support plate 4, and the third support surface 5a of the second support plate 5 can be flush. In this case, the flatness of the flexible screen 200 is better, and the user experience is better.

[0112] For example, the second support surface 4a of the first support plate 4 and the third support surface 5a of the second support plate 5 can be fixedly connected to the second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200 by means of bonding or other fixing methods, or the second support surface 4a of the first support plate 4 and the third support surface 5a of the second support plate 5 may not be connected to the second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200.

[0113] As shown in FIG4 , when the electronic device 1000 is in a folded state, the main shaft 1 is located between the first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5 , and the first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5 are located on the same side of the main shaft 1 . The first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5 are close to each other, and the second support surface 4a of the first support plate 4 and the third support surface 5a of the second support plate 5 are arranged opposite each other. The first support surface 1a of the main shaft 1, the second support surface 4a of the first support plate 4, and the third support surface 5a of the second support plate 5 can enclose at least a portion of the screen space 100a. The second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200 can be located within the screen space 100a.

[0114] Exemplarily, the end of the first support plate 4 away from the main shaft 1 and the end of the second support plate 5 away from the main shaft 1 are close to each other. In one embodiment, the first support surface 1a of the main shaft 1, the second support surface 4a of the first support plate 4, and the third support surface 5a of the second support plate 5 can enclose a shape with a triangular cross section. The first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5 can act together on the second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200, so that the first display area 201 and the third display area 203 of the flexible screen 200 can be close to each other, or even fit together, so that the flexible screen 200 is in the shape of a "water drop". In other embodiments, the shape of the cross section enclosed by the first support surface 1a of the main shaft 1, the second support surface 4a of the first support plate 4, and the third support surface 5a of the second support plate 5 can also be other shapes, which is not specifically limited in this application.

[0115] It is understandable that, regardless of whether the electronic device 1000 is in a flat state or in a folded state, the arrangement of the main shaft 1, the first support plate 4, and the second support plate 5 will affect the shape of the second display area 202, the angle between the second display area 202 and the first display area 201, the angle between the second display area 202 and the third display area 203, etc. The arrangement of the main shaft 1, the first support plate 4, and the second support plate 5 plays a key role in the shape of the flexible screen 200 when the electronic device 1000 is in a flat state or a folded state. In this application, by adjusting the structural settings of some components of the folding mechanism 100 (including the main shaft 1, the first support plate 4, and the second support plate 5, etc.) and the coordination between the components, the arrangement of the main shaft 1, the first support plate 4, and the second support plate 5 is adjusted, thereby better controlling the shape of the flexible screen 200, so that the appearance of the flexible screen 200 better meets the needs of users, that is, the electronic device 1000 has a higher degree of refinement and the user experience of the electronic device 1000 is better. Among them, the arrangement of the main shaft 1, the first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5 can be the angle between the first support plate 4 and the main shaft 1, the angle between the second support plate 5 and the main shaft 1, the angle between the first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5, etc.

[0116] FIG9 is a schematic diagram of a partial structure of the main shaft 1 shown in FIG7 in one embodiment.

[0117] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, in some embodiments, the spindle 1 includes a base 11 and an upper cover 12. For example, there may be two upper covers 12. In other embodiments, the number of upper covers 12 is not specifically limited.

[0118] Exemplarily, the base 11 includes a top surface 111 and a bottom surface 112. The bottom surface 112 of the base 11 is connected to the top surface 111 of the base 11. The bottom surface 112 of the base 11 is the surface of the base 11 facing the flexible screen 200. The top surface 111 of the base 11 is the surface of the base 11 facing away from the flexible screen 200.

[0119] Exemplarily, the upper cover 12 includes a top surface 121 and a bottom surface 122. The bottom surface 122 of the upper cover 12 is connected to the top surface 121 of the upper cover 12.

[0120] FIG10 is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of an embodiment of the main shaft 1 shown in FIG9 at line CC.

[0121] As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the upper cover 12 is fixed to the base 11. In one embodiment, the base 11 and the upper cover 12 are fixedly connected by fasteners (not shown in the figures). The fasteners can be screws, bolts, rivets, pins, etc.

[0122] As shown in Figure 9, the bottom surface 122 of the upper cover 12 faces the top surface 111 of the base 11. A portion of the bottom surface 122 of the upper cover 12 and the bottom surface 112 of the base 11 can be spliced ​​to form the first support surface 1a of the spindle 1. In one embodiment, a portion of the bottom surface 122 of the upper cover 12 can be flush with the bottom surface 112 of the base 11.

[0123] As shown in FIG. 10 , a portion of the bottom surface 122 of the upper cover 12 is opposite to and spaced from a portion of the top surface 111 of the base 11 , and forms an arc-shaped groove 131 .

[0124] As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the multiple three-dimensional spatial structures of the base 11 and the multiple three-dimensional spatial structures of the upper cover 12 together form multiple activity spaces 132 of the main shaft 1. For example, activity spaces 132 with different structures can be used to cooperate with structural members with different structures, making the connection structure between the main shaft 1 and the multiple connection components 2 more flexible and diverse. Activity spaces 132 with the same structure can be used to cooperate with structural members with the same structure, which is conducive to reducing the design difficulty and cost of the main shaft 1 and the connection component 2. Among them, Figures 9 and 10 schematically indicate the numbers of a portion of the activity spaces 132.

[0125] In some embodiments, some protrusions (not shown) of the base 11 have a limiting function. These protrusions are located in the active space 132 and are used to limit the connecting component 2 to prevent the connecting component 2 from accidentally detaching from the main shaft 1, so as to improve the connection reliability and movement reliability between the connecting component 2 and the main shaft 1, thereby making the folding mechanism 100 more reliable.

[0126] Figure 11 is a partially exploded schematic diagram of one embodiment of the connection assembly 2 shown in Figure 8. Figure 12 is a partially exploded schematic diagram of the connection assembly 2 shown in Figure 11 at another angle.

[0127] As shown in Figures 11 and 12, the connecting assembly 2 includes a first fixed frame 21, a second fixed frame 22, a first movable member 23, a second movable member 24, a first gear connecting rod 25, a second gear connecting rod 26, a first rotating member 27a, a second rotating member 27b, a damping member 28, a first elastic member 31, a second elastic member 32, a first suction member 33, a second suction member 34, a third suction member 37, and a fourth suction member 38. It is understood that although Figures 11 and 12 illustrate that the number of the first movable member 23, the second movable member 24, the first gear connecting rod 25, and the second gear connecting rod 26 is two, and the number of the first rotating member 27a and the second rotating member 27b is one, in other embodiments, the number of the first movable member 23, the second movable member 24, the first gear connecting rod 25, the second gear connecting rod 26, the first rotating member 27a, and the second rotating member 27b is not specifically limited. It is understood that the first elastic member 31 can serve as a structure of the first force-applying member of the present application. The combination of the first suction member 33 and the second suction member 34 can serve as another structure of the first force-applying member of the present application. The second elastic member 32 can serve as another structure of the second force-applying member of the present application. The combination of the third suction member 37 and the fourth suction member 38 can serve as another structure of the second force-applying member of the present application.

[0128] It is understood that both the first gear connecting rod 25 and the first rotating member 27a can serve as the structure of the first connecting member 20a of the folding mechanism 100. In other words, the first connecting member 20a can include the first gear connecting rod 25 or the first rotating member 27a. Of course, the first connecting member 20a can also include a first connecting member located elsewhere in the folding mechanism 100, wherein the first connecting member 20a movably connects the main shaft 1 and the first fixed frame 21. This application does not limit the specific location of the first connecting member 20a.

[0129] Furthermore, the second gear connecting rod 26 and the second rotating member 27b can both serve as the structure of the second connecting member 20b of the connecting assembly 2. In other words, the second connecting member 20b can include the second gear connecting rod 26 or the second rotating member 27b. Of course, the second connecting member 20b can also include a second connecting member 20b located elsewhere in the folding mechanism 100, wherein the second connecting member 20b movably connects the main shaft 1 and the second fixed frame 22. This application does not limit the specific location of the second connecting member 20b.

[0130] In some embodiments, the connection assembly 2 may include more or fewer structures. For example, the connection assembly 2 may not include the first rotating member 27a, the second rotating member 27b, or the damping member 28.

[0131] As shown in Figures 11 and 12, the first fixing frame 21 includes a first fixing frame body 211, a plurality of through holes 212, a plurality of protrusions 213, a plurality of grooves 214, and a plurality of fastening holes 215. The plurality of through holes 212, the plurality of protrusions 213, and the plurality of grooves 214 are formed in the first fixing frame body 211. The plurality of through holes 212, the plurality of protrusions 213, and the plurality of grooves 214 are combined to form a plurality of sliding spaces 216 and a rotation space 217 arranged at intervals. In addition, a plurality of fastening holes 215 are formed in the first fixing frame body 211. Figures 11 and 12 schematically illustrate the numbers of a portion of the through holes 212, a portion of the protrusions 213, a portion of the grooves 214, and a portion of the fastening holes 215.

[0132] The first fixing frame 21 further includes an arc-shaped block 218. The arc-shaped block 218 can be protruded on the end surface of the first fixing frame body 211.

[0133] It is understood that the second fixing frame 22 and the first fixing frame 21 can have the same structure, a symmetrical structure, a partially symmetrical structure, or different structures, and this application does not impose strict restrictions on this. For example, the second fixing frame 22 and the first fixing frame 21 can have symmetrical structures. Among them, the basic design of the component structure of the second fixing frame 22, the connection relationship design between the components, and the connection relationship design between the components and other structures outside the assembly can all refer to the relevant solutions of the first fixing frame 21. At the same time, it is allowed that the second fixing frame 22 and the first fixing frame 21 have slight differences in the detailed structure or position arrangement of the components.

[0134] As shown in Figures 11 and 12, the first gear connecting rod 25 includes a sliding end 251 and a rotating end 252. For example, the sliding end 251 of the first gear connecting rod 25 can be in the shape of a slider, and the rotating end 252 of the first gear connecting rod 25 can have a gear structure.

[0135] FIG13 is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of an embodiment of the connection assembly 2 shown in FIG7 at line DD.

[0136] Referring to Figure 13 , in conjunction with Figures 11 and 12 , the sliding end 251 of the first gear connecting rod 25 is slidably connected to the first fixed frame 21. The rotating end 252 of the first gear connecting rod 25 is rotationally connected to the main shaft 1. In other embodiments, the movable connection method between the first gear connecting rod 25 and the first fixed frame 21 and the movable connection method between the first gear connecting rod 25 and the main shaft 1 are not specifically limited in this application.

[0137] Exemplarily, the sliding end 251 of the first gear connecting rod 25 is located in a sliding space 216 of the first fixing frame 21 and can slide in the sliding space 216 .

[0138] For example, the rotating end 252 of the first gear connecting rod 25 can be connected to the main shaft 1 via a physical shaft.

[0139] Referring to FIG. 13 , and in conjunction with FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 , the second gear connecting rod 26 includes a sliding end 261 and a rotating end 262 . The sliding end 261 of the second gear connecting rod 26 is slidably connected to the second fixed frame 22 . The rotating end 262 of the second gear connecting rod 26 is rotationally connected to the main shaft 1 . It is understood that the second gear connecting rod 26 and the first gear connecting rod 25 can have the same structure, a symmetrical structure, a partially symmetrical structure, or different structures, and this is not strictly limited in this application. For example, the second gear connecting rod 26 and the first gear connecting rod 25 can have symmetrical structures. The basic design of the component structure of the second gear connecting rod 26 , the design of the connection relationship between the components, and the design of the connection relationship between the components and other structures outside the assembly can all refer to the relevant solutions of the first gear connecting rod 25 . At the same time, slight differences in the detailed structure or position arrangement of the components of the second gear connecting rod 26 and the first gear connecting rod 25 are permitted.

[0140] Referring to FIG13 , and in conjunction with FIG11 and FIG12 , the damping member 28 is fixedly connected to the base 11 of the main shaft 1. It is understood that the damping member 28 can apply a damping force to the first gear link 25 and the second gear link 26 , thereby limiting the position of the first gear link 25 and the second gear link 26 to a certain extent. In other words, when the first gear link 25 and the second gear link 26 are not subjected to a large external force, the damping member 28 can enable the first gear link 25 and the second gear link 26 to maintain a preset relative position relationship, that is, the folding mechanism 100 can stay at a preset angle, and the folding mechanism 100 can maintain a flat state or a folded state, thereby improving the user experience of the folding mechanism 100 and the electronic device 1000.

[0141] Exemplarily, the damping member 28 includes a synchronous gear 281. The rotating end 252 of the first gear connecting rod 25 engages the rotating end 262 of the second gear connecting rod 26 via a plurality of synchronous gears 281. It will be appreciated that the rotating end 252 of the first gear connecting rod 25 and the rotating end 262 of the second gear connecting rod 26 are connected via the plurality of synchronous gears 281, so that the rotation angles of the rotating end 252 of the first gear connecting rod 25 and the rotating end 262 of the second gear connecting rod 26 are equal in magnitude and opposite in direction, thereby maintaining synchronization in the rotational movement of the first gear connecting rod 25 and the second gear connecting rod 26 relative to the main shaft 1, i.e., synchronously moving closer to or farther away from each other.

[0142] Illustratively, the damping member 28 further includes a plurality of rotating shafts 282. The plurality of rotating shafts 282 are fixed to the main shaft 1 at intervals. The rotating end 252 of the first gear connecting rod 25 is rotatably connected to one of the rotating shafts 282. The rotating end 262 of the second gear connecting rod 26 is rotatably connected to another rotating shaft 282. In this manner, the first gear connecting rod 25 and the second gear connecting rod 26 are rotatably connected to the main shaft 1 via the rotating shafts 282 of the damping member 28.

[0143] It is understandable that, although FIG. 11 to FIG. 13 illustrate a structure of the damping member 28 , the present application does not limit the specific structure of the damping member 28 .

[0144] Referring to Figure 13 , in conjunction with Figures 11 and 12 , the first rotating member 27a includes a sliding end 271a and a rotating end 272a connected to the sliding end 271a. The sliding end 271a of the first rotating member 27a is slidably connected to the first fixed frame 21. The rotating end 272a of the first rotating member 27a is rotatably connected to the main shaft 1. In other embodiments, the manner in which the first rotating member 27a is movably connected to the first fixed frame 21 or the manner in which the first rotating member 27a is movably connected to the main shaft 1 is not specifically limited in this application.

[0145] Exemplarily, the sliding end 271 a of the first rotating member 27 a is located in a sliding space 216 of the first fixing frame 21 and can slide in the sliding space 216 .

[0146] For example, the rotating end 272a of the first rotating member 27a is rotatably connected to one of the rotating shafts 282. The first rotating member 27a can be rotatably connected to the main shaft 1 through the rotating shaft 282 of the damping member 28.

[0147] Referring to Figure 13 , in conjunction with Figures 11 and 12 , the second rotating member 27b includes a sliding end 271b and a rotating end 272b. The sliding end 271b of the second rotating member 27b is slidably connected to the second fixed frame 22. The rotating end 272b of the second rotating member 27b is rotationally connected to the main shaft 1. It is understood that the second rotating member 27b and the first rotating member 27a can have the same structure, a symmetrical structure, a partially symmetrical structure, or different structures, and this is not strictly limited in this application. For example, the second rotating member 27b and the first rotating member 27a can have symmetrical structures. The basic design of the component structure of the second rotating member 27b, the design of the connection relationship between the components, and the design of the connection relationship between the components and other structures outside the assembly can all refer to the relevant solutions of the first rotating member 27a. However, slight differences in the detailed structure or positional arrangement of the components of the second rotating member 27b and the first rotating member 27a are permitted.

[0148] As shown in FIG13 , the first fixing bracket 21 can be fixed to the first housing 300 (see FIG5 and FIG6 ). The second fixing bracket 22 can be fixed to the second housing 400 (see FIG5 and FIG6 ). For example, the first fixing bracket 21 can be connected to the first housing 300 using screws. The second fixing bracket 22 can also be connected to the second housing 400 using screws.

[0149] It can be understood that since the first fixing frame 21 is fixed on the first shell 300, the second fixing frame 22 is fixed to the second shell 400, the first gear connecting rod 25 connects the first fixing frame 21 and the main shaft 1, the first rotating member 27a connects the first fixing frame 21 and the main shaft 1, the second gear connecting rod 26 connects the second fixing frame 22 and the main shaft 1, and the second rotating member 27b connects the second fixing frame 22 and the main shaft 1, therefore, the first shell 300 and the second shell 400 can be connected through the first fixing frame 21, the first gear connecting rod 25, the second gear connecting rod 26, the first rotating member 27a, the second rotating member 27b and the second fixing frame 22. Thus, when the electronic device 1000 switches from the flat state to the folded state, the first housing 300 and the second housing 400 move closer to each other, and the first housing 300 can drive the first fixing frame 21 to rotate relative to the main shaft 1 via the first gear connecting rod 25 and the first rotating member 27a, and the second housing 400 can drive the second fixing frame 22 to rotate relative to the main shaft 1 via the second gear connecting rod 26 and the second rotating member 27b. When the electronic device 1000 switches from the folded state to the flat state, the first housing 300 and the second housing 400 open to each other, and the first housing 300 can drive the first fixing frame 21 to rotate relative to the main shaft 1 via the first gear connecting rod 25 and the first rotating member 27a, and the second housing 400 can drive the second fixing frame 22 to rotate relative to the main shaft 1 via the second gear connecting rod 26 and the second rotating member 27b.

[0150] It can be understood that because the sliding end 251 of the first gear connecting rod 25 is slidably connected to the first fixed frame 21, the rotating end 252 of the first gear connecting rod 25 is rotationally connected to the main shaft 1, the sliding end 261 of the second gear connecting rod 26 is slidably connected to the second fixed frame 22, and the rotating end 262 of the second gear connecting rod 26 is rotationally connected to the main shaft 1, so that during the relative expansion or folding of the first housing 300 and the second housing 400, the relative motion trajectory of the first fixed frame 21 and the main shaft 1 can be determined, and the relative motion trajectory of the second fixed frame 22 and the main shaft 1 can be determined. Of course, through the mutual cooperation of the first rotating member 27a and the second rotating member 27b with the first fixed frame 21 and the second fixed frame 22, respectively, the relative motion trajectory of the first fixed frame 21 and the main shaft 1 can also be determined, and the relative motion trajectory of the second fixed frame 22 and the main shaft 1 can also be determined during the relative expansion or folding of the first housing 300 and the second housing 400.

[0151] FIG14 is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of an embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in FIG7 at line EE.

[0152] 14 , in conjunction with FIG11 and FIG12 , the first movable member 23 includes a first rotating end 231 , a second rotating end 232 , and a connecting section 233 . The connecting section 233 of the first movable member 23 connects the first rotating end 231 and the second rotating end 232 .

[0153] For example, the first rotating end 231 of the first movable member 23 may be arc-shaped. The second rotating end 232 of the first movable member 23 may be cylindrical. In other embodiments, the first rotating end 231 and the second rotating end 232 of the first movable member 23 may also adopt other structures.

[0154] For example, the connecting section 233 of the first movable member 23 is provided with an escape hole 234 and a shaft hole 235. The escape hole 234 of the first movable member 23 may pass through the top and bottom surfaces of the connecting section 233 of the first movable member 23. The shaft hole 235 of the first movable member 23 passes through both end surfaces of the connecting section 233 of the first movable member 23 and passes through the escape hole 234 of the first movable member 23.

[0155] As shown in Figure 14, the first rotating end 231 of the first movable member 23 is rotatably connected to the main shaft 1. The second rotating end 232 of the first movable member 23 is rotatably connected to the first fixed frame 21. In other embodiments, the movable connection method between the first movable member 23 and the main shaft 1 and the movable connection method between the first movable member 23 and the first fixed frame 21 are not specifically limited in this application.

[0156] Exemplarily, the first rotating end 231 of the first movable member 23 can be located in the arc groove 131 of the main shaft 1. The first rotating end 231 of the first movable member 23 can rotate in the arc groove 131 of the main shaft 1. It can be understood that the first rotating end 231 of the first movable member 23 is connected to the main shaft 1 through a virtual axis. The structure of the rotating connection is relatively simple and occupies little space, which is conducive to reducing the thickness of the folding mechanism 100, making it easier for the folding mechanism 100 and the electronic device 1000 to achieve a lightweight and thin setting. In some other embodiments, the first rotating end 231 of the first movable member 23 can also be connected to the main shaft 1 through a real axis, and the embodiments of the present application are not strictly limited to this.

[0157] For example, at least a portion of the second rotating end 232 of the first movable member 23 may be located in the rotating space 217 of the first fixed frame 21 . The second rotating end 232 of the first movable member 23 may rotate in the rotating space 217 of the first fixed frame 21 .

[0158] Referring to FIG14 , and in combination with FIG11 and FIG12 , the second movable member 24 includes a first rotating end 241, a second rotating end 242, and a connecting section 243. The first rotating end 241 of the second movable member 24 is rotationally connected to the main shaft 1. The second rotating end 242 of the second movable member 24 is rotationally connected to the second fixed frame 22. It is understandable that the second movable member 24 and the first movable member 23 can be of the same structure, a symmetrical structure, a partially symmetrical structure, or different structures, and this application does not strictly limit this. For example, the second movable member 24 and the first movable member 23 can be of symmetrical structures. The basic design of the component structure of the second movable member 24, the connection relationship design between the components, and the connection relationship design between the components and other structures outside the assembly can all refer to the relevant scheme of the first movable member 23. For example, it is allowed that the second movable member 24 and the first movable member 23 have slight differences in the detailed structure or position arrangement of the components.

[0159] FIG15 is a schematic structural diagram of the first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5 shown in FIG8 in one embodiment.

[0160] As shown in Figure 15, the first support plate 4 includes a first support plate body 41 and a first rotating block 42. It is understood that the number of the first rotating blocks 42 is not limited to the three shown in Figure 15. In other embodiments, the number of the first rotating blocks 42 is not specifically limited.

[0161] Exemplarily, the first support plate body 41 has a second support surface 4a and a first fixing surface 413 disposed in opposite directions. In other words, the second support surface 4a of the first support plate 4 is located on the first support plate body 41. Furthermore, the first support plate body 41 also includes a right side surface 411 (also referred to as the first side surface 411) and a left side surface 412 (also referred to as the second side surface 412).

[0162] Exemplarily, the first rotating block 42 is protruded from the first fixing surface 413. The first rotating block 42 has an arc-shaped space 421.

[0163] Exemplarily, the first support plate 4 further includes a first pin block 43 and a second pin block 44 spaced apart from each other. The first pin block 43 and the second pin block 44 are protruding from the first fixing surface 413. The first pin block 43 has a rotation shaft hole 431. The second pin block 44 has a rotation shaft hole 441. The rotation shaft hole 431 of the first pin block 43 is arranged opposite the rotation shaft hole 441 of the second pin block 44.

[0164] It is understandable that the first rotating block 42, the first pin block 43 and the second pin block 44 of the first support plate 4 can together form a connection structure. The first support plate 4 can include a plurality of connection structures arranged at intervals.

[0165] As shown in Figure 15, the second support plate 5 includes a second support plate body 51, a second rotating block 52, a third rotating shaft block 53 and a fourth rotating shaft block 54. It is understandable that the second support plate 5 and the first support plate 4 can be of the same structure, a symmetrical structure, a partially symmetrical structure or a different structure, and this application does not strictly limit this. For example, the second support plate 5 and the first support plate 4 can be symmetrical structures. Among them, the basic design of the component structure of the second support plate 5, the connection relationship design between the components, and the connection relationship design between the components and other structures outside the assembly can all refer to the relevant scheme of the first support plate 4. For example, it is allowed that the second support plate 5 and the first support plate 4 are slightly different in the detailed structure or position arrangement of the components.

[0166] Fig. 16 is a partial structural schematic diagram of an embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Fig. 7. Fig. 17 is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of an embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Fig. 16 at line FF at another angle.

[0167] Referring to Figures 16 and 17 , in conjunction with Figure 15 , the spindle 1 is positioned between the first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5 . Relative to the left side 412 of the first support plate body 41 , the right side 411 of the first support plate body 41 faces the spindle 1 . Relative to the right side 511 of the second support plate body 51 , the left side 512 of the second support plate body 51 faces the spindle 1 .

[0168] Exemplarily, the first support plate 4 is also rotatably connected to the first fixed frame 21. Exemplarily, the arc block 218 of the first fixed frame 21 can be located in the arc space 421 of the first rotating block 42 of the first support plate 4. The arc block 218 of the first fixed frame 21 can rotate in the arc space 421. It can be understood that the first support plate 4 and the first fixed frame 21 are connected by a virtual axis. The structure of the rotational connection is relatively simple and occupies little space, which is conducive to reducing the thickness of the folding mechanism 100, making it easier for the folding mechanism 100 and the electronic device 1000 to achieve a lightweight and thin setting. In some other embodiments, the first support plate 4 and the first fixed frame 21 can also be connected by a real axis, and the embodiments of the present application are not strictly limited to this. In other embodiments, the connection method of the first support plate 4 and the first fixed frame 21 is not specifically limited.

[0169] Illustratively, a portion of the first fixing frame 21 is located near the first fixing surface 413 of the first support plate body 41, and a portion is located near the left side 412 of the first support plate body 41. At this time, the first fixing surface 413 of the first support plate body 41 faces the first fixing frame 21.

[0170] It is understandable that the connection method between the second support plate 5 and the second fixing frame 22 can refer to the connection method between the first support plate 4 and the first fixing frame 21. The details will not be repeated here.

[0171] FIG18 is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of an embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in FIG16 at line GG.

[0172] As shown in Figure 18, by way of example, the first support plate 4 is movably connected to the connecting section 233 of the first movable member 23 via the first rotational pair 35. At this point, the first support plate 4 is connected to the main shaft 1 via the first movable member 23. In other embodiments, the manner in which the first support plate 4 and the first movable member 23 are movably connected is not specifically limited.

[0173] As shown in Figure 18, the first rotational pair 35 illustratively includes a connecting bracket 351, a first pin 352, and a second pin 353. The connecting bracket 351 is provided with a first pin hole 354 and a second pin hole 355 spaced apart from each other. The first pin 352 passes through the first pin hole 354 of the connecting bracket 351. The second pin 353 passes through the second pin hole 355 of the connecting bracket 351. The connecting bracket 351 rotatably connects the first pin 352 and the second pin 353. In other words, the connecting bracket 351 can rotate relative to the first pin 352 and the second pin 353.

[0174] As shown in Figure 18 , a portion of the connecting bracket 351 of the first rotating pair 35 is located within the avoidance hole 234 of the connecting section 233 of the first movable member 23. Both ends of the first pin 352 of the first rotating pair 35 are connected to the rotating shaft hole 235 (see Figures 11 and 12 ) of the connecting section 233 of the first movable member 23.

[0175] Referring to Figure 18 and in conjunction with Figure 15 , a portion of the connecting bracket 351 of the first rotating pair 35 is located in the space between the first pin block 43 and the second pin block 44 of the first support plate 4. Both ends of the second pin 353 of the first rotating pair 35 are connected to the rotating shaft hole 431 of the first pin block 43 and the rotating shaft hole 441 of the second pin block 44.

[0176] As shown in Figure 18, for example, the second support plate 5 is connected to the second movable member 24 via the second rotating pair 36. At this time, the second support plate 5 is connected to the main shaft 1 via the second movable member 24. It is understandable that the structure of the second rotating pair 36 can refer to the structure of the first rotating pair 35. The details will not be repeated here. In addition, the connection method between the second support plate 5 and the second rotating pair 36, and the connection method between the second rotating pair 36 and the second movable member 24 can refer to the connection method between the first support plate 4 and the first rotating pair 35, and the connection method between the first rotating pair 35 and the first movable member 23. The details will not be repeated here.

[0177] FIG19 is a schematic diagram of a partial structure of the electronic device 1000 shown in FIG3 in one embodiment.

[0178] As shown in FIG19 , when the folding mechanism 100 is in the folded state, the main shaft 1 is located between the first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5. The first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5 are located on the same side of the main shaft 1, the first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5 are arranged opposite each other, at least a portion of the first fixing frame 21 is located on a side of the first support plate 4 away from the second support plate 5, and at least a portion of the second fixing frame 22 is located on a side of the second support plate 5 away from the first support plate 4. In other words, the first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5 can be located between the first fixing frame 21 and the second fixing frame 22.

[0179] For example, the end of the first support plate 4 near the left side 412 of the first support plate 4 and the end of the second support plate 5 near the right side 511 of the second support plate 5 are close to each other. The end of the first support plate 4 near the left side 412 of the first support plate 4 and the end of the second support plate 5 near the right side 511 of the second support plate 5 are open to each other. At this time, the main shaft 1, the first support plate 4, and the second support plate 5 can roughly enclose a screen space 100a with a triangular cross-section. The second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200 can be located within the screen space 100a.

[0180] In one embodiment, when the folding mechanism 100 is in the folded state, the first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5 can apply a force to the second display area 202, causing the second display area 202 to bend and the first display area 201 and the third display area 203 to move closer together. In this case, the flexible screen 200 can be roughly in the shape of a "teardrop." In other embodiments, the flexible screen 200 can also form other shapes when folded, and the specific application is not limited thereto.

[0181] It is understandable that the screen space 100a is used to accommodate the second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200. If the screen space 100a is small, the free deformation space of the second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200 is small, and the degree of bending of the second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200 is large. At this time, the second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200 is easily damaged. In particular, when the electronic device 1000 is in an unconventional environment such as falling or impact, the folding mechanism 100 is likely to squeeze the flexible screen 200, thereby causing the flexible screen 200 to fail and other problems. The following will specifically introduce several ways to increase the screen space 100a in conjunction with the relevant drawings. It is understandable that since the first support plate 4 is rotatably connected to the first fixed frame 21 (for example, the first support plate 4 and the first fixed frame 21 are constrained by a virtual axis), the first support plate 4 is connected to the first movable member 23 through the first rotating pair 35, and the motion trajectory of the first support plate 4 is constrained by the first fixed frame 21 and the first movable member 23. The second support plate 5 is rotatably connected to the second fixed frame 22 (for example, the second support plate 5 and the second fixed frame 22 are constrained by a virtual axis), and the second support plate 5 is connected to the second movable member 24 through a second rotation pair 36. The motion trajectory of the second support plate 5 is constrained by the second fixed frame 22 and the second movable member 24. When the motion trajectory of the first fixed frame 21 and the second fixed frame 22 relative to the main shaft 1 is determined, the motion trajectory of the first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5 can also be determined.

[0182] Figure 20 is a schematic structural diagram of the first fixing frame 21 and the second fixing frame 22 shown in Figure 11 at another angle. Figure 21 is a schematic structural diagram of the first fixing frame 21 and the second fixing frame 22 shown in Figure 20 at yet another angle.

[0183] As shown in Figures 20 and 21, the first mounting frame body 211 includes a top surface 211a and a bottom surface 211b, which are disposed in opposite directions, as well as a right side surface 211c (also referred to as a first side surface) and a left side surface 211d (also referred to as a second side surface), which are disposed in opposite directions. The top surface 211a and the bottom surface 211b of the first mounting frame body 211 are connected between the right side surface 211c and the left side surface 211d of the first mounting frame body 211. It is understood that the right side surface 211c of the first mounting frame body 211 is disposed toward the spindle 1.

[0184] Illustratively, the first fixing frame body 211 is provided with a first mounting hole 2111. The first mounting hole 2111 can be spaced apart from the sliding space 216 and the rotation space 217 of the first fixing frame 21. The first mounting hole 2111 extends from the top surface 211a of the first fixing frame body 211 to the bottom surface 211b of the first fixing frame body 211. The first mounting hole 2111 has a first hole wall 2112. The first hole wall 2112 faces the left side 211d of the first fixing frame body 211. It is understood that this application does not specifically limit the shape, size, number, and position of the first mounting hole 2111.

[0185] Exemplarily, the first fixing bracket 21 includes a first guide block 219. The first guide block 219 is protruding from the first hole wall 2112. It is understood that the first guide block 219 may be a combination of a frustum and a cylinder. In other embodiments, the first guide block 219 may also have other shapes, such as a frustum or a cylinder. This application does not limit this in detail.

[0186] As shown in Figure 21, the first fixing frame body 211 is provided with a first receiving groove 2113. The first receiving groove 2113 may be formed as an opening on the bottom surface 211b of the first fixing frame body 211. It is understood that the present application does not impose any specific restrictions on the shape, size, number, and position of the first receiving groove 2113.

[0187] As shown in Figures 20 and 21, the second mounting frame body 221 includes a top surface 221a and a bottom surface 221b, which are disposed in opposite directions, as well as a right side surface 221c (also referred to as the second side surface) and a left side surface 221d (also referred to as the second side surface). The top surface 221a and the bottom surface 221b of the second mounting frame body 221 are connected between the right side surface 221c and the left side surface 221d of the second mounting frame body. It should be understood that the left side 221d of the second mounting frame body 221 is disposed toward the spindle 1.

[0188] Illustratively, the second fixing frame body 221 is provided with a second mounting hole 2211. The second mounting hole 2211 can be spaced apart from the sliding space 226 and the rotation space 227 of the second fixing frame 22. The second mounting hole 2211 extends from the top surface 221a of the second fixing frame body 221 to the bottom surface 221b of the second fixing frame body 221. The second mounting hole 2211 has a second hole wall 2212. The second hole wall 2212 faces the right side 221c of the second fixing frame body 221. It is understood that this application does not specifically limit the shape, size, number, or position of the second mounting holes 2211.

[0189] Exemplarily, the second fixing bracket 22 includes a second guide block 229. The second guide block 229 is protruding from the second hole wall 2212. It is understood that the second guide block 229 can be a combination of a frustum and a cylinder. In other embodiments, the second guide block 229 can also have other shapes, such as a frustum or a cylinder. This application does not limit this specifically.

[0190] As shown in Figure 21, the second fixing frame body 221 is provided with a second receiving groove 2213. The second receiving groove 2213 may be formed as an opening on the bottom surface 221b of the second fixing frame body 221. It is understood that the present application does not impose any specific restrictions on the shape, size, number, and position of the second receiving groove 2213.

[0191] Figure 22 is an enlarged schematic diagram of an embodiment of the first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5 shown in Figure 15. Figure 23 is a schematic structural diagram of the first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5 shown in Figure 22 at another angle.

[0192] As shown in Figures 22 and 23, the first support plate 4 includes a first connecting plate 45 and a first mounting block 46. The first connecting plate 45 is protruded from the first fixing surface 413 of the first support plate body 41. The first connecting plate 45 includes a first connecting surface 451. The first connecting surface 451 faces the right side 411 of the first support plate body 41.

[0193] Exemplarily, the first connecting plate 45 is disposed close to the left side 412 of the first supporting plate body 411 relative to the right side 411 of the first supporting plate body 41. For example, the first connecting plate 45 may also be connected to the left side 412 of the first supporting plate body 41.

[0194] For example, the first mounting block 46 is protruding from the first connecting surface 451. It is understood that the first mounting block 46 can be cylindrical. In other embodiments, the first mounting block 46 can also be in other shapes, such as a frustum or a combination of a frustum and a cylinder. This application does not limit this in detail.

[0195] Exemplarily, the first support plate 4 further includes a first baffle 47 and a second baffle 48. Both the first baffle 47 and the second baffle 48 are protruding from the first fixing surface 413 of the first support plate body 41. The first baffle 47 and the second baffle 48 can be connected to both ends of the first connecting plate 45 and located on the same side of the first connecting plate 45. In this case, the first baffle 47, the second baffle 48, and the first connecting plate 45 form a first groove 49. The first mounting block 46 is located within the first groove 49, that is, between the first baffle 47 and the second baffle 48.

[0196] As shown in Figures 22 and 23, the first support plate body 41 is provided with a first receiving groove 416. The first receiving groove 416 may be formed as an opening in the first fixing surface 413 of the first support plate body 41. It is understood that this application does not impose any specific restrictions on the shape, size, number, and position of the first receiving groove.

[0197] As shown in Figures 22 and 23, the second support plate 5 includes a second connecting plate 55 and a second mounting block 56. The second connecting plate 55 is protruded from the second fixing surface 513 of the second support plate body 51. The second connecting plate 55 includes a second connecting surface 551. The second connecting surface 551 faces the left side 512 of the second support plate body 51.

[0198] Exemplarily, the second connecting plate 55 is disposed close to the right side 511 of the second supporting plate body 51 relative to the left side 512 of the second supporting plate body 51. For example, the second connecting plate 55 may also be connected to the right side 511 of the second supporting plate body 51.

[0199] For example, the second mounting block 56 is protruding from the second connection surface 551. It is understood that the second mounting block 56 can be cylindrical. In other embodiments, the second mounting block 56 can also be in other shapes, such as a frustum or a combination of a frustum and a cylinder. This application does not limit this in detail.

[0200] Exemplarily, the second support plate 5 further includes a third baffle 57 and a fourth baffle 58. The third baffle 57 and the fourth baffle 58 can be connected to both ends of the second connecting plate 55 and located on the same side of the second connecting plate 55. In this case, the third baffle 57, the fourth baffle 58, and the second connecting plate 55 form a second groove 59. The second mounting block 56 is located in the second groove 59, that is, the second mounting block 56 is located between the third baffle 57 and the fourth baffle 58.

[0201] As shown in Figures 22 and 23, the second support plate body 51 is provided with a second receiving groove 516. The second receiving groove 516 may be formed as an opening in the second fixing surface 513 of the second support plate body 51. It is understood that the present application does not impose any specific restrictions on the shape, size, number, and position of the second receiving groove 516.

[0202] Figure 24 is a schematic diagram of a portion of the structure of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Figure 7 at another angle. Figure 25 is a partial cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Figure 24 at line HH. Figure 26 is a partial cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Figure 19 at line II.

[0203] As shown in Figures 24 to 26, the first elastic member 31 and the second elastic member 32 can be, for example, springs, spring sheets, or elastic structural members. Specific limitations are not provided herein. The first elastic member 31 and the second elastic member 32 of this embodiment are described using springs as an example.

[0204] As shown in Figures 24 to 26 , the first elastic member 31 connects the first fixing frame 21 and the first support plate 4. For example, one end of the first elastic member 31 is sleeved over the first guide block 219 of the first fixing frame 21 and abuts against the first hole wall 2112 of the first mounting hole 2111 of the first fixing frame 21. The other end of the first elastic member 31 is sleeved over the first mounting block 46 of the first support plate 4 and abuts against the first connecting plate 45 of the first support plate 4.

[0205] It is understood that a portion of the first elastic member 31 is located within the first mounting hole 2111 of the first fixing frame 21, and a portion is located within the first groove 49 of the first support plate 4. In this way, the first fixing frame 21, the first connecting plate 45, the first baffle 47, and the second baffle 48 can be used to protect the first elastic member 31 and prevent the first elastic member 31 from interfering with other structural components.

[0206] As shown in Figure 26, by way of example, when the electronic device 1000 is in the folded state, the first guide block 219 of the first fixing frame 21 is positioned opposite the first mounting block 46 of the first support plate 4. This allows the first guide block 219 and the first mounting block 46 to better guide the deformation direction of the first elastic member 31, thereby preventing damage to the first elastic member 31 due to deformation. In other embodiments, when the electronic device 1000 is in the flattened state or any other state, the first guide block 219 of the first fixing frame 21 may also be positioned opposite the first mounting block 46 of the first support plate 4. This allows the first guide block 219 and the first mounting block 46 to consistently guide the deformation direction of the first elastic member 31, thereby preventing damage to the first elastic member 31 due to deformation. In other embodiments, when the electronic device 1000 is in the folded state, the first guide block 219 of the first fixing frame 21 and the first mounting block 46 of the first support plate 4 do not need to be positioned opposite each other.

[0207] As shown in FIG26 , for example, when the electronic device 1000 is in the folded state, at least a portion of the first mounting block 46 can be located within the first mounting hole 2111. In this way, the first mounting block 46 and the first fixing frame 21 have an overlapping area in the thickness direction of the first fixing frame 21, thereby making the arrangement between the first fixing frame 21 and the first support plate 4 more compact, which is conducive to improving the space utilization of the folding mechanism 100. In other embodiments, when the electronic device 1000 is in the flattened state or any other state, at least a portion of the first mounting block 46 can be located within the first mounting hole 2111. In other embodiments, when the electronic device 1000 is in the folded state, at least a portion of the first mounting block 46 may not be located within the first mounting hole 2111.

[0208] As shown in Figure 26, by way of example, at least a portion of the first connecting plate 45 can be located within the first mounting hole 2111. In this way, the first connecting plate 45 and the first fixing frame 21 have an overlapping area in the thickness direction of the first fixing frame 21, thereby making the arrangement between the first fixing frame 21 and the first support plate 4 more compact, which is conducive to improving the space utilization of the folding mechanism 100. In other embodiments, when the electronic device 1000 is in a flattened state or any other state, at least a portion of the first connecting plate 45 can be located within the first mounting hole 2111. In other embodiments, when the electronic device 1000 is in a folded state, at least a portion of the first connecting plate 45 may not be located within the first mounting hole 2111.

[0209] It can be understood that compared with the solution of directly protruding the first mounting block 46 from the first fixed surface 413, as shown in Figures 25 and 26, this embodiment sets a first connecting plate 45 and protrudes the first mounting block 46 from the first connecting surface 451 of the first connecting plate 45, thereby raising the distance between the first mounting block 46 and the first fixed surface 413, thereby making it easier for the first mounting block 46 to be set relative to the first guide block 219.

[0210] It can be understood that compared with the solution of directly protruding the first guide block 219 on the top surface 211a of the first fixing frame 21, as shown in Figure 25, this embodiment provides a first mounting hole 2111 on the first fixing frame 21, and protrudes the first guide block 219 on the first hole wall 2112 of the first mounting hole 2111, thereby reducing the distance between the first guide block 219 and the first support plate 4, and the first guide block 219 can be more easily arranged relative to the first mounting block 46.

[0211] It is understandable that by locating at least a portion of the first mounting block 46 in the first mounting hole 2111 , the first mounting block 46 and the first fixing frame 21 have an overlapping area in the thickness direction of the first fixing frame 21 , thereby facilitating improved space utilization.

[0212] In other embodiments, the present application does not make any specific limitations on the connection method between the first elastic member 31 and the first fixing frame 21 , and the connection method between the first elastic member 31 and the first support plate 4 .

[0213] It is understood that by adjusting the position of the first guide block 219 of the first fixing frame 21, the height of the first connecting plate 45 of the first support plate 4, and the position of the first mounting block 46 of the first support plate 4, the first guide block 219 of the first fixing frame 21 can be positioned directly opposite the first mounting block 46 of the first support plate 4, regardless of whether the electronic device 1000 is in a flattened state or a folded state. In this way, the first elastic member 31 is less likely to be damaged due to deformation.

[0214] FIG27 is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of an embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in FIG19 at line JJ.

[0215] As shown in Figures 26 and 27 , the first elastic member 31 is in a compressed state. At this time, the first elastic member 31 can apply elastic force to the first support plate 4 and the first fixing bracket 21 .

[0216] As shown in Figures 26 and 27, illustratively, the point of force application of the first elastic member 31 on the first support plate 4 is the first force application point P1. The first force application point P1 can be the center of the contact position between the first elastic member 31 and the first support plate 4. It can be understood that, in general, the first elastic member 31 and the first support plate 4 achieve the application of force through surface-to-surface contact. Therefore, the position where the first elastic member 31 contacts the first support plate 4 can be a force application point. In this case, there are multiple force application points between the first elastic member 31 and the first support plate 4. In this embodiment, in order to facilitate the understanding and description of the solution, the following description is based on the center of the contact position between the first elastic member 31 and the first support plate 4 as an example.

[0217] 26 and 27 , the force application point of the first elastic member 31 on the first fixing frame 21 is exemplarily the second force application point P2. It is understood that the force application point of the first elastic member 31 on the first fixing frame 21 may be the center of the contact position of the first elastic member 31 on the first fixing frame 21.

[0218] In addition, as can be seen from the above, the first support plate 4 is rotatably connected to the first fixing frame 21. The axis of rotation of the first support plate 4 relative to the first fixing frame 21 is the first rotation axis L1.

[0219] 27 , the first force application point P1 is located on a side of the first rotation axis L1 that is away from the main shaft 1. In other words, the first rotation axis L1 is closer to the main shaft 1 than the first force application point P1.

[0220] FIG28 is a schematic structural diagram of the folding mechanism 100 shown in FIG27 at another angle.

[0221] As shown in Figure 28, when the folding mechanism 100 is in the folded state, the first angle a formed between the line L3 connecting the first force application point P1 and the second force application point P2 and the first support surface 1a in the negative direction of the X-axis is an acute angle. In other words, the line connecting the first force application point P1 and the second force application point P2 is inclined relative to the first support surface 1a, and the first elastic member 31 is inclined relative to the first support surface 1a. It will be understood that in order to more clearly illustrate the first angle a, Figure 28 schematically moves the line L3 connecting the first force application point P1 and the second force application point P2 onto the first support surface 1a, forming the first angle a with the first support surface 1a.

[0222] Referring to FIG. 28 , in conjunction with FIG. 26 and FIG. 27 , when the folding mechanism 100 is in the folded state, the first elastic member 31 is in a compressed state, and thus can apply a first force F1 to the first support plate 4 (the direction of the first force F1 is schematically illustrated in FIG. 28 by the dashed arrow). Because the first angle a formed by the line connecting the first force application point P1 and the second force application point P2 with the first support surface 1a is acute, the first force F1 can generate a first force component F1x in the negative X-axis direction (the direction of the first force component F1x is schematically illustrated in FIG. 28 by the dashed arrow). Furthermore, because the first force application point P1 is located on the side of the first rotation axis L1 away from the main shaft 1, the first force component F1x can cause the end of the first support plate 4 away from the main shaft 1 (i.e., the end of the first support plate 4 including the left side 412 of the first support plate 4) to move toward the second support plate 5. At this time, a force acting along the positive direction of the X-axis can be generated on the end of the first support plate 4 near the main shaft 1 (i.e., the end of the first support plate 4 including the right side 411 of the first support plate 4). The end of the first support plate 4 near the main shaft 1 can be opened away from the second support plate 5. This significantly increases the screen space 100a enclosed by the first support plate 4, the main shaft 1, and the second support plate 5. When the second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200 (see Figure 19) is located within the screen space 100a, the second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200 has room for free deformation, and the degree of bending of the second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200 can be reduced. In this case, the second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200 is less susceptible to damage, and the reliability of the flexible screen 200 is improved. In particular, when the electronic device 1000 is subjected to unconventional environments such as being dropped or impacted, the folding mechanism 100 is less likely to squeeze the flexible screen 200, and the flexible screen 200 is less likely to fail. On the other hand, when the end of the first support plate 4 close to the main shaft 1 is opened in the direction away from the second support plate 5, the first support plate 4 can also drive some components of the folding mechanism 100 (such as the first fixed frame 21, the first gear connecting rod 25, the first rotating member 27a, the damping member 28, etc.) to move slightly, thereby reducing the problem of virtual position between some components. In addition, the folding mechanism 100 is arranged more compactly and the space utilization rate is higher.

[0223] It is understandable that the folding mechanism 100 does not include a first elastic member 31. After the electronic device 1000 is folded a large number of times, the damping force decreases due to wear of the folding mechanism 100 components and spring attenuation of the damping member 28. The rewinding force of the flexible screen 200 (see Figure 19) will drive the first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5 to rotate relative to the main shaft 1, thereby reducing the screen space 100a. In addition, the rewinding force of the flexible screen 200 and the gravity of the flexible screen 200 will also cause the first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5 to fall toward the main shaft 1, further reducing the screen space 100a. In this embodiment, a first elastic member 31 is provided between the first fixing frame 21 and the first support plate 4, and the elastic force of the first elastic member 31 is used to open the end of the first support plate 4 near the main shaft 1, thereby significantly increasing the size of the screen space 100a. In this way, on the one hand, the problem that after the electronic device 1000 is folded many times, the screen space 100a is reduced because the rewinding force of the flexible screen 200 drives the first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5 to rotate relative to the main axis 1, which can be solved. On the other hand, the problem that after the electronic device 1000 is folded many times, the screen space 100a is reduced because the rewinding force of the flexible screen 200 and the gravity of the flexible screen 200 drive the first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5 to fall toward the direction of the main axis 1, which can be solved.

[0224] Referring to FIG. 28 , and in combination with FIG. 26 and FIG. 27 , in one embodiment, the contact position between the first elastic member 31 and the first support plate 4 is located on a side of the first rotation axis L1 away from the main shaft 1 .

[0225] It is understood that since the first force application point P1 can be the center of the contact point between the first elastic member 31 and the first support plate 4, when the contact point between the first elastic member 31 and the first support plate 4 is located on the side of the first rotation axis L1 away from the main shaft 1, the first force application point P1 can be ensured to always be located on the side of the first rotation axis L1 away from the main shaft 1. In this case, the first component force F1x can always cause the end of the first support plate 4 away from the main shaft 1 to move closer to the second support plate 5, and the end of the first support plate 4 close to the main shaft 1 can expand away from the second support plate 5.

[0226] It can be understood that when the electronic device 1000 is in a folded state, the magnitude of the elastic force applied by the first elastic member 31 on the first support plate 4 can be adjusted by adopting first elastic members 31 of different materials, first elastic members 31 with different elastic coefficients, etc., thereby adjusting the opening angle of the first support plate 4 to different degrees to better control the size of the screen space 100a.

[0227] As shown in Figure 25 , when the folding mechanism 100 is in the flattened state, the first force application point P1 is positioned closer to the second support surface 4a relative to the second force application point P2. In other words, when the folding mechanism 100 is in the flattened state, the angle formed by the line connecting the first force application point P1 and the second force application point P2 and the second support surface 4a is acute, meaning that the first elastic member 31 is tilted relative to the second support surface 4a.

[0228] It is understood that because the first elastic member 31 is in a compressed state, the first elastic member 31 can apply a fourth force F4 to the first support plate 4 (Figure 25 schematically shows the direction of one embodiment of the fourth force F4 through a dotted line with an arrow). Since the first force application point P1 is located near the second support surface 4a relative to the second force application point P2, the fourth force F4 can generate a fourth force component F4z in the positive direction of the Z axis. In addition, since the first force application point P1 is located on the side of the first rotation axis L1 (see Figure 27) away from the main shaft 1, the fourth force component F4z can cause the end of the first support plate 4 near the main shaft 1 to generate a force in the negative direction of the Z axis. The end of the first support plate 4 close to the main shaft 1 has a tendency to move in the negative direction of the Z axis (Figure 25 schematically shows the movement trend of the end of the first support plate 4 close to the main shaft 1 through a dotted line with an arrow), thereby ensuring that the end of the first support plate 4 close to the main shaft 1 will not be tilted along the positive direction of the Z axis, and further ensuring that the end of the first support plate 4 close to the main shaft 1 will not cause damage or failure of the flexible screen 200 due to supporting the flexible screen 200.

[0229] As shown in Figures 24 to 28 , the second elastic member 32 connects the second fixing frame 22 and the second support plate 5, for example. The connection methods of the second elastic member 32 and the second fixing frame 22, and the connection methods of the second elastic member 32 and the second support plate 5, can be referred to as the connection methods of the first elastic member 31 and the first fixing frame 21, and the connection methods of the first elastic member 31 and the first support plate 4. For example, one end of the second elastic member 32 is sleeved on the second guide block 229 of the second fixing frame 22 and abuts against the second hole wall 2212 of the second mounting hole 2211 of the second fixing frame 22. The other end of the second elastic member 32 is sleeved on the second mounting block 56 of the second support plate 5 and abuts against the second connecting plate 55 of the second support plate 5. Details are not described here.

[0230] In this embodiment, the second elastic member 32 is in a compressed state. At this point, the second elastic member 32 can apply an elastic force to the second support plate 5 and the second fixing bracket 22. The point where the second elastic member 32 applies force to the second support plate 5 is the third force application point P3. It is understood that the third force application point P3 can be the center of the contact between the second elastic member 32 and the second support plate 5.

[0231] For example, the force application point of the second elastic member 32 on the second fixing frame 22 is the fourth force application point P4. It is understood that the fourth force application point P4 may be the center of the contact position between the second elastic member 32 and the second fixing frame 22.

[0232] In addition, as can be seen from the above, the second support plate 5 is rotatably connected to the second fixing frame 22. The axis of rotation of the second support plate 5 relative to the second fixing frame 22 is the second rotation axis L2.

[0233] 27 and 28 , the third force application point P3 is located on a side of the second rotation axis L2 that is away from the main shaft 1. In other words, the second rotation axis L2 is closer to the main shaft 1 than the third force application point P3.

[0234] As shown in Figure 28, when the folding mechanism 100 is in the folded state, the second angle b formed between the line L4 connecting the third force application point P3 and the fourth force application point P4 and the first support surface 1a in the positive X-axis direction is an acute angle. In other words, the line L4 connecting the third force application point P3 and the fourth force application point P4 is tilted relative to the first support surface 1a, meaning that the second elastic member 32 is tilted relative to the first support surface 1a. It will be appreciated that to more clearly illustrate the second angle b, Figure 28 schematically shows the line L4 connecting the third force application point P3 and the fourth force application point P4 being moved onto the first support surface 1a, forming the second angle b with the first support surface 1a.

[0235] As shown in FIG28 , when the folding mechanism 100 is in the folded state, the second elastic member 32 is in a compressed state, and the second elastic member 32 applies a second force F2 to the second support plate 5 ( FIG28 schematically illustrates the direction of one embodiment of the second force F2 via a dashed arrow). Because the second angle b formed by the line connecting the third force application point P3 and the fourth force application point P4 with the first support surface 1a is an acute angle, the second force F2 can generate a second force component F2x in the positive direction of the X-axis ( FIG28 schematically illustrates the direction of one embodiment of the second force F2x via a dashed arrow). In addition, because the third force application point P3 is located on the side of the second rotation axis L2 away from the main shaft 1, the second force component F2x can cause the end of the second support plate 5 away from the main shaft 1 (i.e., the end of the second support plate 5 including the right side surface 511 of the second support plate 5) to move closer to the first support plate 4. At this point, a force acting along the negative X-axis can be generated on the end of the second support plate 5 near the spindle 1 (i.e., the end of the second support plate 5 including the left side 512 of the second support plate 5), causing the end of the second support plate 5 near the spindle 1 to expand away from the first support plate 4. This further increases the screen space 100a enclosed by the first support plate 4, the spindle 1, and the second support plate 5. When the second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200 (see Figure 19) is located within the screen space 100a, the free deformation space of the second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200 is further expanded, and the degree of bending of the second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200 can be reduced. In this case, the second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200 is less susceptible to damage, and the reliability of the flexible screen 200 is improved. In particular, when the electronic device 1000 is subjected to unusual conditions such as being dropped or impacted, the folding mechanism 100 is less likely to squeeze the flexible screen 200, making the flexible screen 200 less likely to fail. On the other hand, when the end of the second support plate 5 close to the main shaft 1 is opened in the direction away from the first support plate 4, the second support plate 5 can also drive some components of the folding mechanism 100 (such as the second fixed frame 22, the second gear connecting rod 26, the second rotating member 27b, the damping member 28, etc.) to move slightly, thereby reducing the problem of virtual space between the components, and the folding mechanism 100 is arranged more compactly and the space utilization rate is higher.

[0236] In this embodiment, a second elastic member 32 is provided between the second fixing frame 22 and the second support plate 5, and the elastic force of the second elastic member 32 is used to open the end of the second support plate 5 close to the main shaft 1, thereby greatly increasing the size of the screen space 100a. In this way, on the one hand, it can solve the problem that after the electronic device 1000 is folded many times, the screen space 100a is reduced due to the rewinding force of the flexible screen 200 (see Figure 19) driving the first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5 to rotate relative to the main shaft 1. On the other hand, it can also solve the problem that after the electronic device 1000 is folded many times, the screen space 100a is reduced due to the rewinding force of the flexible screen 200 and the gravity of the flexible screen 200 driving the first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5 to fall toward the main shaft 1.

[0237] As shown in FIG. 28 , the contact position between the second elastic member 32 and the second support plate 5 is located on the side of the second rotation axis L2 away from the main shaft 1 .

[0238] It is understood that because the third force application point P3 can be the center of the contact point between the second elastic member 32 and the second support plate 5, when the contact point between the second elastic member 32 and the second support plate 5 is located on the side of the second rotation axis L2 away from the spindle 1, the third force application point P3 can be ensured to always be located on the side of the second rotation axis L2 away from the spindle 1. In this case, the second component force F2x can cause the end of the second support plate 5 away from the spindle 1 to move closer to the first support plate 4, while the end of the second support plate 5 close to the spindle 1 can expand away from the first support plate 4.

[0239] It can be understood that when the electronic device 1000 is in a folded state, the magnitude of the elastic force applied by the second elastic member 32 to the second support plate 5 can be adjusted by adopting a second elastic member 32 of different materials, a second elastic member 32 with different elastic coefficients, etc., thereby adjusting the opening angle of the second support plate 5 to different degrees to better control the size of the screen space 100a.

[0240] As shown in FIG25 , when the folding mechanism 100 is in the flattened state, the positional relationship between the third force application point P3 and the fourth force application point P4 can also refer to the positional relationship between the first force application point P1 and the second force application point P2 .

[0241] It is understandable that in the foregoing, both the specific implementation methods and the drawings in the specification are described as an example in which the first force application point P1 is located on the side of the second force application point P2 away from the main shaft 1. In other embodiments, the positions of the first force application point P1 and the second force application point P2 can also be swapped. At this time, when the first angle a formed by the connecting line L3 between the first force application point P1 and the second force application point P2 and the first support surface 1a in the first direction (that is, the negative direction of the X-axis) is an acute angle, the end of the first support plate 4 close to the main shaft 1 can also be opened in the direction away from the second support plate 5, and the screen space 100a enclosed by the first support plate 4, the main shaft 1 and the second support plate 5 can also be greatly increased. Specifically, this application does not limit this. Similarly, the third force application point P3 and the fourth force application point P4 can also adopt the same setting method. The details will not be repeated here.

[0242] FIG29 is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of an embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in FIG16 at line KK.

[0243] As shown in Figure 29, illustratively, the first suction member 33 and the second suction member 34 can be two magnets that can attract each other, or a coil and a magnet that can attract each other, or two other structures that can attract each other. Specifically, this application does not make any limitation. The first suction member 33 and the second suction member 34 of this embodiment are described by taking two magnets that can attract each other as an example. It can be understood that this application does not make any specific limitation on the shape, size and number of the first suction member 33 and the second suction member 34.

[0244] As shown in Figure 29, the first suction member 33 is fixed to the first fixing frame 21. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the first suction member 33 is located within the first receiving groove 2113 of the first fixing frame 21. For example, the first suction member 33 can be fixed to the bottom wall of the first receiving groove 2113 by gluing or other fixing methods. It is understood that the first suction member 33 and the first fixing frame 21 have an overlapping area, thereby making the first suction member 33 and the first fixing frame 21 more compact and improving space utilization.

[0245] As shown in Figure 29, the second suction member 34 is fixed to the first support plate 4. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the second suction member 34 is located within the first receiving groove 416 of the first support plate 4. For example, the second suction member 34 can be fixed to the bottom wall of the first receiving groove 416 by gluing or other fixing methods. It is understood that the second suction member 34 and the first support plate 4 have an overlapping area, thereby making the second suction member 34 and the first support plate 4 more compact and improving space utilization.

[0246] FIG30 is a schematic structural diagram of an embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in FIG29 in a folded state.

[0247] As shown in Figure 30, when the folding mechanism 100 is in the folded state, an attractive force can be generated between the first suction member 33 and the second suction member 34. In this way, the attractive force generated between the first suction member 33 and the second suction member 34 can act on the first support plate 4. Exemplarily, the first suction member 33 and the second suction member 34 can be arranged relative to each other. The magnetism of the portion of the first suction member 33 facing the second suction member 34 is different from the magnetism of the portion of the second suction member 34 facing the first suction member 33. For example, the magnetism of the portion of the first suction member 33 facing the second suction member 34 is the South Pole, and the magnetism of the portion of the second suction member 34 facing the first suction member 33 is the North Pole. Alternatively, the magnetism of the portion of the first suction member 33 facing the second suction member 34 is the North Pole, and the magnetism of the portion of the second suction member 34 facing the first suction member 33 is the South Pole.

[0248] As shown in Figure 30, the second suction member 34 is located on a side of the first rotation axis L1 that is closer to the main shaft 1. In other words, the second suction member 34 is closer to the main shaft 1 relative to the first rotation axis L1.

[0249] FIG31 is a schematic structural diagram of the folding mechanism 100 shown in FIG30 at another angle.

[0250] As shown in Figures 30 and 31, when the folding mechanism 100 is in the folded state, the attraction between the first suction member 33 and the second suction member 34 can apply a third force F3 to the first support plate 4 (Figure 30 schematically shows the direction of an embodiment of the third force F3 through a dotted line with an arrow). The third force F3 can form a third component force F3x along the positive direction of the X-axis on the end of the first support plate 4 close to the main shaft 1 (that is, the end of the right side 411 of the first support plate 4 in the first support plate 4). Since the second suction member 34 is located on the side of the first rotation axis L1 close to the main shaft 1, the third component force F3x can cause the end of the first support plate 4 close to the main shaft 1 to open in the direction away from the second support plate 5. In this way, on the one hand, the screen space 100a enclosed by the first support plate 4, the main shaft 1 and the second support plate 5 can be greatly increased. When the second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200 (see FIG. 19 ) is located within the screen-containing space 100a, the second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200 has room for free deformation, allowing the second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200 to bend less. In this case, the second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200 is less susceptible to damage, improving the reliability of the flexible screen 200. In particular, when the electronic device 1000 is subjected to unusual conditions such as drops or impacts, the folding mechanism 100 is less likely to squeeze the flexible screen 200, making the flexible screen 200 less susceptible to failure. Furthermore, when the end of the first support plate 4 near the main shaft 1 opens away from the second support plate 5, the first support plate 4 can also cause some components of the folding mechanism 100 (such as the first fixed frame 21, the first gear connecting rod 25, the first rotating member 27a, the damping member 28, etc.) to move slightly, thereby reducing the gaps between components. This results in a more compact layout and improved space utilization for the folding mechanism 100.

[0251] In addition, in this embodiment, by providing a first suction member 33 on the first fixing frame 21 and a second suction member 34 on the first support plate 4, and utilizing the attraction between the first suction member 33 and the second suction member 34 to cause the end of the first support plate 4 near the main axis 1 to open, the size of the screen space 100a is greatly increased. In this way, on the one hand, the problem of the screen space 100a being reduced due to the rewinding force of the flexible screen 200 driving the first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5 to rotate relative to the main axis 1 after the electronic device 1000 is folded many times can be solved. On the other hand, the problem of the screen space 100a being reduced due to the rewinding force of the flexible screen 200 and the gravity of the flexible screen 200 driving the first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5 to fall toward the main axis 1 after the electronic device 1000 is folded many times can be solved.

[0252] As shown in Figures 30 and 31 , in one embodiment, the first rotation axis L1 is positioned closer to the left side 412 of the first support plate 4 relative to the right side 411 of the first support plate 4. The second suction member 34 is positioned closer to the right side 411 of the first support plate 4 relative to the left side 412 of the first support plate 4. This allows the second suction member 34 to be positioned significantly away from the first rotation axis L1. In this case, the torque exerted by the second suction member 34 on the first support plate 4 is relatively large.

[0253] As shown in Figures 30 and 31, in one embodiment, when the folding mechanism 100 is in the folded state, the distance between the second suction member 34 and the first suction member 33 is a first distance. As shown in Figure 29, in one embodiment, when the folding mechanism 100 is in the flattened state, the distance between the second suction member 34 and the first suction member 33 is a second distance, and the second distance is greater than the first distance. In this way, when the folding mechanism 100 is in the flattened state, the attraction between the second suction member 34 and the first suction member 33 is relatively small. The attraction between the second suction member 34 and the first suction member 33 does not easily drive the first support plate 4 and the first fixing frame 21 to rotate relative to each other.

[0254] As shown in Figures 29 to 31, the third suction member 37 is fixed to the second fixed frame 21. The fourth suction member 38 is fixed to the second support plate 5. The third suction member 37 is located on the side of the second rotation axis P1 close to the main shaft 1. In addition, when the folding mechanism 100 is in the folded state, an attractive force can be generated between the third suction member 37 and the fourth suction member 38. At this time, the attractive force between the third suction member 37 and the fourth suction member 38 can cause the end of the second support plate 5 close to the main shaft 1 to open away from the first support plate 4, thereby significantly increasing the space 100a enclosed by the first support plate 4, the main shaft 1, and the second support plate 5. It is understood that the arrangement of the third suction member 37 and the fourth suction member 38 can refer to the arrangement of the first suction member 33 and the second suction member 34. The details will not be repeated here. In addition, the positional relationship between the fourth suction member 38 and the second support plate 5 can also refer to the positional relationship between the second suction member 34 and the first support plate 4. The details will not be described here.

[0255] It is understandable that, in the foregoing, the folding mechanism 100 is provided with the first elastic member 31, the second elastic member 32, the first suction member 33, the second suction member 34, the third suction member 37 and the fourth suction member 38. In other embodiments, the folding mechanism 100 may also be provided with only the first elastic member 31, and use this as a complete solution. In this way, the folding mechanism 100 may not be provided with the second elastic member 32, the first suction member 33, the second suction member 34, the third suction member 37 and the fourth suction member 38. Similarly, the folding mechanism 100 may also be provided with only the second elastic member 32, and use this as a complete solution. The folding mechanism 100 may also be provided with only the first suction member 33 and the second suction member 34, and use this as a complete solution. The folding mechanism 100 may also be provided with only the third suction member 37 and the fourth suction member 38, and use this as a complete solution. In other embodiments, two of them can be combined (for example, the first elastic member 31 and the second elastic member 32 are combined, or the first elastic member 31 and the first suction member 33 and the second suction member 34 are combined, etc.) and used as a complete solution. Three of them can also be combined (for example, the first elastic member 31, the second elastic member 32, the first suction member 33, the second suction member 34 are combined, etc.) and used as a complete solution. This application does not make any specific limitations. Figure 32 is a partial structural diagram of another embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 and the flexible screen 200 provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0256] As shown in Figure 32 , when the folding mechanism 100 is in the flattened state, the first support surface 1a of the main shaft 1 protrudes relative to the second support surface 4a of the first support plate 4 and the third support surface 5a of the second support plate 5. In other words, the first support surface 1a of the main shaft 1 is closer to the flexible screen 200 (see Figure 19 ) relative to the second support surface 4a of the first support plate 4 and the third support surface 5a of the second support plate 5.

[0257] It is understandable that in one solution, after the electronic device 1000 has been folded a large number of times, the rewinding force of the flexible screen 200 and the gravity of the flexible screen 200 will drive the first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5 to fall in the direction of the main axis 1. At this time, when the electronic device 1000 is in a flattened state, the second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200 will be concave in the direction of the main axis 1 to form a significant crease, thereby causing light and shadow problems. In this embodiment, the first support surface 1a of the main axis 1 is set to bulge relative to the second support surface 4a of the first support plate 4 and the third support surface 5a of the second support plate 5, so that the first support surface 1a of the main axis 1 is closer to the second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200. In this way, when the rewinding force of the flexible screen 200 and the gravity of the flexible screen 200 drive the first support plate 4 and the second support plate 5 to fall toward the direction of the main axis, the first support surface 1a of the main axis 1 can support the second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200, thereby avoiding the problem of the second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200 forming a crease due to being recessed in the direction of the main axis 1, and further avoiding the light and shadow problem in the second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200.

[0258] It is understandable that the embodiment shown in FIG32 may adopt the folding mechanism 100 introduced above, or may not adopt the folding mechanism 100 introduced above (for example, the folding mechanism 100 may not be provided with the first elastic member 31, the second elastic member 32, the first suction member 33, the second suction member 34, the third suction member 37 and the fourth suction member 38). This embodiment does not limit the specific structure of the folding mechanism 100. It should be noted that, in the absence of conflict, the embodiments and features in the embodiments of this application may be combined with each other, and any combination of features in different embodiments is also within the scope of protection of this application. That is to say, the multiple embodiments described above may also be arbitrarily combined according to actual needs.

[0259] It should be noted that all the above drawings are illustrative illustrations of this application and do not represent the actual size of the product. The dimensional ratio relationship between the components in the drawings does not serve as a limitation on the actual product of this application. The above are only some of the embodiments and implementation methods of this application. The scope of protection of this application is not limited to this. Any person skilled in the art who is familiar with the technical scope disclosed in this application can easily think of changes or replacements, which should be covered by the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application shall be based on the scope of protection of the claims.

Claims

1. A folding mechanism (100), characterized in that, It includes a main shaft (1), a first fixing bracket (21), a second fixing bracket (22), a first movable member (23), a second movable member (24), a first support plate (4), a second support plate (5), and a first elastic member (31). The main shaft (1) is located between the first fixing bracket (21) and the second fixing bracket (22). The first movable member (23) is movably connected to the main shaft (1) and the first fixing bracket (21), and the second movable member (24) is movably connected to the main shaft (1) and the second fixing bracket (22). The first support plate (4) is rotatably connected to the first fixing bracket (21) and movably connected to the first movable member (23). The second support plate (5) is rotatably connected to the second fixing bracket (22) and movably connected to the second movable member (24). When the folding mechanism (100) is in the unfolded state, the first support surface (1a) of the main shaft (1), the second support surface (4a) of the first support plate (4), and the third support surface (5a) of the second support plate (5) jointly form a support surface (100b). When the folding mechanism (100) is in the folded state, the second support surface (4a) and the third support surface (5a) are arranged oppositely and enclose at least part of the screen accommodating space (100a) with the first support surface (1a). The first elastic member (31) connects the first support plate (4) and the first fixing bracket (21). The first elastic member (31) is in a compressed state. The force application point of the first elastic member (31) on the first support plate (4) is the first force application point (P1), and the force application point of the first elastic member (31) on the first fixing bracket (21) is the second force application point (P2). The axis of rotation of the first support plate (4) relative to the first fixing bracket (21) is the first axis of rotation (L1). The first force application point (P1) is located on the side of the first axis of rotation (L1) away from the main shaft (1). When the folding mechanism (100) is in the folded state, the included angle (a) formed between the line connecting the first force application point (P1) and the second force application point (P2) and the first support surface (1a) in the first direction is an acute angle, where the first direction is the direction from the first support plate (4) to the second support plate (5).

2. The folding mechanism (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The contact position of the first elastic member (31) and the first support plate (4) is located on the side of the first axis of rotation (L1) away from the main shaft (1).

3. The folding mechanism (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The folding mechanism (100) further includes a second elastic member (32), and the second elastic member (32) connects the second support plate (5) and the second fixing bracket (22). The second elastic member (32) is in a compressed state. The force application point of the second elastic member (32) on the second support plate (5) is the third force application point (P3), and the force application point of the second elastic member (32) on the second fixing bracket (22) is the fourth force application point (P4). The axis of rotation of the second support plate (5) relative to the second fixing bracket (22) is the second rotation axis (L2). The third force application point (P3) is located on the side of the second rotation axis (L2) away from the main shaft (1). When the folding mechanism (100) is in the folded state, the included angle (b) formed between the line connecting the third force application point (P3) and the fourth force application point (P4) and the first support surface (1a) in the second direction is an acute angle, where the second direction is opposite to the first direction.

4. The folding mechanism (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first fixing bracket (21) has a first guiding block (219), and the first support plate (4) has a first mounting block (46). The first mounting block (46) and the first guiding block (219) are arranged opposite to each other. The first elastic member (31) is a spring. One end of the first elastic member (31) is sleeved on the first guiding block (219) and abuts against the first fixing bracket (21), and the other end of the first elastic member (31) is sleeved on the first mounting block (46) and abuts against the first support plate (4).

5. The folding mechanism (100) according to claim 4, wherein, The first fixing bracket (21) is provided with a first mounting hole (2111) that penetrates through the top surface (211a) and the bottom surface (211b) of the first fixing bracket (21). The first guiding block (219) protrudes from the inner wall of the first mounting hole (2111), and the first elastic member (31) abuts against the inner wall of the first mounting hole (2111).

6. The folding mechanism (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first support plate (4) includes a first support plate body (41) and a first connecting plate (45). The first support plate body (41) includes a first fixing surface (413), and the first fixing surface (413) is arranged opposite to the second support surface (4a). The first connecting plate (45) protrudes from the first fixing surface (413), the first mounting block (46) protrudes from the first connecting plate (45), and the first elastic member (31) abuts against the first connecting plate (45).

7. The folding mechanism (100) according to claim 6, characterized in that, At least a part of the first mounting block (46) is located within the first mounting hole (2111).

8. The folding mechanism (100) according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that, The first support plate (4) further includes a first baffle (47) and a second baffle (48). Both the first baffle (47) and the second baffle (48) protrude from the first fixing surface (413). The first baffle (47) and the second baffle (48) are also connected to both ends of the first connecting plate (45) and are located on the same side of the first connecting plate (45). The first mounting block (46) is located between the first baffle (47) and the second baffle (48).

9. The folding mechanism (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, When the folding mechanism (100) is in the flattened state, the first force application point (P1) is closer to the second support surface (4a) than the second force application point (P2).

10. The folding mechanism (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The folding mechanism (100) further includes a first suction member (33) and a second suction member (34). The first suction member (33) is fixed to the first fixing frame (21), and the second suction member (34) is fixed to the first support plate (4). The second suction member (34) is located on a side of the first rotation axis (P1) closer to the main shaft (1). When the folding mechanism (100) is in the folded state, the second suction member (34) and the first suction member (33) attract each other.

11. The folding mechanism (100) according to claim 10, wherein, Relative to the first side surface (411) of the first support plate (4), the first rotation axis (L1) is disposed closer to the second side surface (412) of the first support plate (4). Relative to the second side surface (412) of the first support plate (4), the second suction member (34) is disposed closer to the first side surface (411) of the first support plate (4), where the first side surface (411) and the second side surface (412) of the first support plate (4) face away from each other, and the first side surface (411) of the first support plate (4) faces the main shaft (1).

12. The folding mechanism (100) according to claim 10, characterized in that, When the folding mechanism (100) is in the folded state, the distance between the second suction member (34) and the first suction member (33) is a first distance. When the folding mechanism (100) is in the flattened state, the distance between the second suction member (34) and the first suction member (33) is a second distance, and the second distance is greater than the first distance.

13. The folding mechanism (100) according to claim 10, characterized in that, The first fixing frame (21) is provided with a first receiving groove (416), and at least a part of the first suction member (33) is located in the first receiving groove (2113); and / or, the first support plate (4) is provided with a first accommodating groove (2113), and at least a part of the second suction member (34) is located in the first accommodating groove (416).

14. The folding mechanism (100) according to claim 10, characterized in that, Both the first suction member (33) and the second suction member (34) are magnets.

15. The folding mechanism (100) according to claim 10, characterized in that, The folding mechanism (100) further includes a third suction member (37) and a fourth suction member (38). The third suction member (37) is fixed to the second fixing frame (22), and the fourth suction member (38) is fixed to the second support plate (5). The axis of rotation of the second support plate (5) relative to the second fixing frame (22) is a second rotation axis (L2). The third suction member (37) is located on a side of the second rotation axis (P1) closer to the main shaft (1). When the folding mechanism (100) is in the folded state, the third suction member (37) and the fourth suction member (38) attract each other.

16. The folding mechanism (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that, The first movable member (23) includes a first rotating end (231) and a second rotating end (232). The first rotating end (231) of the first movable member (23) is rotatably connected to the main shaft (1), and the second rotating end (232) of the first movable member (23) is rotatably connected to the first fixing bracket (21).

17. The folding mechanism (100) according to claim 16, characterized in that, The first movable member (23) includes a connecting section (233). The connecting section (233) of the first movable member (23) connects the first rotating end (231) and the second rotating end (232) of the first movable member (23). The first support plate (4) is movably connected to the connecting section (233) of the first movable member (23) through a first rotating pair (35).

18. The folding mechanism (100) according to claim 17, wherein The first movable member (23) is provided with a rotating shaft hole (235), and the first support plate (4) is provided with a rotating shaft hole (431). The first rotating pair (35) includes a connecting bracket (351), a first pin shaft (352) and a second pin shaft (353). The connecting bracket (351) is provided with a first pin shaft hole (354) and a second pin shaft hole (355) arranged at intervals. The first pin shaft (352) passes through the first pin shaft hole (354) of the connecting bracket (351) and is connected to both ends in the rotating shaft hole (235) of the first movable member (23). The second pin shaft (353) passes through the second pin shaft hole (355) of the connecting bracket (351) and is connected to both ends in the rotating shaft hole (431) of the first support plate (4). The connecting bracket (351) is rotatably connected to the first pin shaft (352) and the second pin shaft (353).

19. The folding mechanism (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that, When the folding mechanism (100) is in a flattened state, the first support surface (1a) of the main shaft (1) protrudes relative to the second support surface (4a) of the first support plate (4) and the third support surface (5a) of the second support plate (5).

20. An electronic device (1000), characterized in that, It includes a first housing (300), a second housing (400), a flexible screen (200) and the folding mechanism (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 19. The first fixing bracket (21) is fixedly connected to the first housing (300), and the second fixing bracket (22) is fixedly connected to the second housing (400). The flexible screen (200) includes a first display area (201), a second display area (202) and a third display area (203) connected in sequence. The first display area (201) is fixed to the first housing (300), and the third display area (203) is fixed to the second housing (400). When the folding mechanism (100) is in an unfolded state, the support surface (100b) supports the second display area (202). When the folding mechanism (100) is in a folded state, the second display area (202) is located in the screen receiving space (100a).

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