Foldable device and hinge mechanism

Abstract

A foldable device and a hinge mechanism. A first main swing arm and a second main swing arm of the hinge mechanism are rotatably provided on two sides of the axis of a main shaft assembly so as to be switched between a folded state and an unfolded state relative to the main shaft assembly; sliding supports are respectively provided on the two main swing arms, and the sliding supports can slide towards or in a direction away from the main shaft assembly relative to the main swing arms; damping modules are provided on the sliding supports, and cam parts are provided on the main swing arms; and a first damping friction element is provided at one end of each damping module, and the first damping friction elements abut against the cam parts so as to provide damping torque when the sliding supports slide relative to the main swing arms. In this way, the damping modules are configured in a sliding fit relationship between the main swing arms and the sliding supports, and on the basis of the structural characteristic of the damping modules provided away from the main shaft assembly, the damping modules are located beside the main shaft assembly and away from the main shaft assembly, and do not occupy the structural space of the main shaft assembly, so that the hinge mechanism is thinned.

Description

Folding device and hinge mechanism

[0001] This application claims priority to the Chinese patent application filed with the State Intellectual Property Office on January 5, 2024, with application number 202410026711.X and invention name “A folding device and hinge mechanism”, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference into this application. Technical Field

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

[0003] Foldable devices have two main bodies connected by a hinge mechanism, allowing them to fold or unfold relative to each other. Examples include flip phones, foldable tablets, laptops, and other foldable electronic devices. The hinge mechanism is a crucial component for folding, and to ensure a smooth user experience, it typically requires a damping module to enable automatic opening and closing, as well as hovering functions.

[0004] However, as terminal electronic products become increasingly miniaturized and lightweight, the space required to accommodate hinge mechanisms in devices is shrinking. Therefore, the hinge mechanism in the folded state needs to be significantly thinned to ensure that it can fit within the limited assembly space available while still providing good damping performance.

[0005] Summary of the Invention

[0006] The embodiments of the present application provide a folding device and a hinge mechanism, which can effectively reduce the thickness through structural optimization.

[0007] The first aspect of an embodiment of the present application provides a hinge mechanism, which includes a main shaft assembly, a first main swing arm, a second main swing arm, a first sliding bracket and a damping module; the first main swing arm and the second main swing arm are arranged on both sides of the axis of the main shaft assembly, and are respectively rotatably connected to the main shaft assembly on their sides, and the rotation center lines of the first main swing arm and the second main swing arm are parallel to the extension direction of the main shaft assembly so as to switch between a folded state and an unfolded state relative to the main shaft assembly; a first sliding bracket is provided on the first main swing arm, and the first sliding bracket can slide relative to the first main swing arm in a direction close to or away from the main shaft assembly; a damping module is provided on the first sliding bracket, a cam portion is provided on the first main swing arm, and a first damping friction member is provided at one end of the damping module, and the first damping friction member abuts against the cam portion to provide a damping torque when the first sliding bracket and the first main swing arm slide relative to each other. With this arrangement, the sliding bracket and the main swing arm's body are both positioned away from the main shaft assembly on their respective sides, and the damping module is positioned within the sliding fit between the first main swing arm and the first sliding bracket. Due to the damping module's structural characteristic of being positioned away from the main shaft assembly, when the hinge mechanism switches to the deployed state, the damping module is positioned to the side of the main shaft assembly away from the main shaft assembly. When the hinge mechanism switches to the folded state, the damping module is also positioned to the side of the main shaft assembly. In this way, the damping module, which provides the damping torque for opening and closing operations, does not occupy the structural space of the main shaft assembly. In other words, the hinge size is not directly related to the assembly space required to configure the damping module, allowing for a thinner hinge mechanism design, in line with the trend toward smaller and lighter products.

[0008] Furthermore, due to the damping module's structural feature of being located away from the main shaft assembly, the space adjacent to the main shaft assembly can be fully utilized without changing the overall dimensions of the main shaft assembly and hinge mechanism. This provides further room for expansion, allowing for the damping module to be increased in size. This allows for a greater damping torque, ensuring the reliability of the automatic opening and closing and hovering functions.

[0009] In actual application, sliding brackets can be provided on the main swing arms on both sides of the main shaft assembly, that is, a second sliding bracket is also provided on the second main swing arm, and the damping module is provided between the sliding brackets and the damping module on both sides to obtain a good user experience.

[0010] In other practical applications, an asymmetrical arrangement on both sides can also be adopted. For example, a sliding bracket and a damping module can be provided on only one main swing arm. The width adjustment of the hinge mechanism during deployment is achieved based on the side of the main swing arm where the sliding bracket is provided. The self-opening and hovering functions are achieved by the damping module provided between the main swing arm and the sliding bracket. For another example, sliding brackets can be provided on both main swing arms on the main shaft assembly, and a damping module can be provided between the main swing arms on the side where one of the sliding brackets is provided. The width adjustment of the hinge mechanism during deployment is achieved based on the sliding brackets on both sides. The self-opening and hovering functions are achieved by the damping module provided between the main swing arm and the sliding bracket on one side.

[0011] For example, the damping module can be embedded in the sliding bracket, which can further reasonably control the thickness of the hinge mechanism. In actual application, the damping module can be completely embedded in the concave accommodating cavity of the sliding bracket along the thickness direction, or a configuration in which the damping module is partially embedded in the concave accommodating cavity of the sliding bracket can be adopted.

[0012] Based on the first aspect, the present application also provides a first embodiment of the first aspect: the first damping friction member is a first spherical member; the damping module further includes a slider and an elastic member, the slider being disposed between the first spherical member and the elastic member; the slider having a first inclined surface for pressing against the first spherical member, the first inclined surface being inclined from an end of the slider away from the elastic member toward a direction closer to the first sliding bracket; and the first sliding bracket having a second inclined surface for pressing against the first spherical member, the second inclined surface being disposed opposite the second inclined surface in the thickness direction, and the second inclined surface being inclined from a body side of the first sliding bracket toward a direction away from the first spherical member. With this arrangement, the elastic member enables the first spherical member to maintain close contact with the cam portion, the first inclined surface, and the second inclined surface. Thus, a reaction force generated by the compression of the elastic member is transmitted to the first spherical member via the first inclined surface of the slider, and acts together with the second inclined surface of the sliding bracket on the first spherical member. Because the contact surfaces provided by the slider and the sliding bracket are both inclined toward the first spherical member, a greater damping effect can be achieved through the force component amplification effect of the inclined surfaces at the angles.

[0013] On this basis, for the same damping effect, a relatively smaller spring can be used, or a smaller spring compression amount can be configured, thereby reducing the space occupied by the damping module and further reducing the thickness of the hinge mechanism.

[0014] Based on the first embodiment of the first aspect, the present application also provides a second embodiment of the first aspect: a second damping friction member is provided at the other end of the damping module. The second damping friction member can abut against the first main swing arm, generating friction to provide a damping torque on the first main swing arm. This arrangement fully utilizes the elastic deformation energy reserve of the elastic member under compressive deformation, simultaneously generating friction forces on both ends of the damping module to provide a damping torque, thereby achieving an optimal damping effect. This also avoids the possibility of unilateral load on the cam arm during the movement of the first main swing arm, which could lead to motion jamming, and ensures the kinematic stability of the dynamic fit between the components.

[0015] Based on the second embodiment of the first aspect, the embodiment of the present application also provides a third embodiment of the first aspect: the second damping friction member is a second spherical member, the damping module further includes a base, the base is arranged between the elastic member of the damping module and the second spherical member; the base has a third inclined surface that presses against the second spherical member, the third inclined surface is inclined from the end of the base away from the elastic member toward the direction close to the first sliding bracket; the first sliding bracket has a fourth inclined surface that presses against the second spherical member, the fourth inclined surface and the third inclined surface are arranged opposite to each other in the thickness direction, and the fourth inclined surface is inclined from the main body side of the first sliding bracket toward the direction away from the second spherical member. With this arrangement, based on the action of the elastic member, the second spherical member can maintain close contact with the first main swing arm, the second inclined surface, and the fourth inclined surface. In this way, the reaction force formed by the pressure on the elastic member can also achieve a large damping effect at the second end of the damping module.

[0016] Based on the third embodiment of the first aspect, the embodiment of the present application also provides a fourth embodiment of the first aspect: the first main swing arm includes a cam arm and a sliding arm, and the cam portion is arranged on the surface of the cam arm opposite to the damping module; in the extension direction of the main shaft assembly, the cam arm and the sliding arm are arranged at intervals, and both extend in the direction away from the main shaft assembly; a sliding groove and a receiving groove are provided on the first sliding bracket, and the sliding arm is inserted in the sliding groove so that the sliding bracket slides relative to the main swing arm toward or away from the main shaft assembly, and the width of the hinge mechanism is adjusted by changing the position of the hinge connection part, and the cam The support arm is inserted into the receiving slot, providing space for the cam portion when the sliding bracket slides relative to the main swing arm. The first spherical member is disposed in the receiving slot, and a first inwardly concave groove is formed on the side wall of the receiving slot near the damping module. The first inwardly concave groove is inclined from the bottom of the receiving slot toward the space within the receiving slot, and the groove wall of the first inwardly concave groove forms a second inclined surface. The second spherical member is disposed in the chute, and a second inwardly concave groove is formed on the side wall of the chute near the damping module. The second inwardly concave groove is inclined from the bottom of the chute toward the space within the chute, and the groove wall of the second inwardly concave groove forms a fourth inclined surface. This arrangement allows the cam portion and the damping module to be aligned in the width direction to accommodate the sliding displacement of the sliding bracket, meet the functional requirements of adjusting the width of the hinge mechanism, and achieve a more compact overall structure.

[0017] Exemplarily, the second spherical member may abut against the sliding arm of the first main swing arm.

[0018] Based on the fourth embodiment of the first aspect, the present application also provides a fifth embodiment of the first aspect: the damping module further includes a friction plate disposed between the second spherical member and the sliding arm. This reduces friction loss between the second spherical member and the sliding arm, thereby increasing service life.

[0019] Illustratively, the friction plate may be made of a wear-resistant material or a self-lubricating material.

[0020] Based on the fourth embodiment of the first aspect or the fifth embodiment of the first aspect, the present application also provides a sixth embodiment of the first aspect: the first sliding bracket further defines a concave accommodating cavity, the concave accommodating cavity being located between the accommodating groove and the slide groove, and communicating with both the accommodating groove and the slide groove, with at least a portion of the damping module being embedded in the concave accommodating cavity. This further improves structural integration and reduces assembly space.

[0021] In practical applications, the slider and the base can both be arranged in the concave accommodating cavity, and the slider can slide in the concave accommodating cavity, so the structure is more compact and reasonable.

[0022] Based on the sixth embodiment of the first aspect, the embodiment of the present application further provides a seventh embodiment of the first aspect: the slider has a first limiting protrusion extending laterally, a first limiting groove is correspondingly provided on the side wall of the concave accommodating cavity, the first limiting protrusion is inserted into the first limiting groove, and a second limiting pair is formed in the thickness direction to limit the slider from escaping from the concave accommodating cavity; the base has a second limiting protrusion extending laterally, a second limiting groove is correspondingly provided on the side wall of the concave accommodating cavity, the second limiting protrusion is inserted into the second limiting groove, and a third limiting pair is formed in the thickness direction to limit the base from escaping from the concave accommodating cavity. With such an arrangement, the spring mounted on the positioning column can be maintained in a stable assembly position in the thickness direction, providing a basic guarantee for ensuring good actuation performance of the damping module.

[0023] In other practical applications, the first limiting protrusion and the first limiting groove forming the second limiting pair can be arranged in reverse between the slider and the concave accommodating cavity, that is, the first limiting protrusion is configured on the side wall of the concave accommodating cavity, and the first limiting groove is configured on the slider. Correspondingly, the second limiting protrusion and the second limiting groove forming the third limiting pair can also be arranged in reverse between the base and the concave accommodating cavity, that is, the second limiting protrusion is configured on the side wall of the concave accommodating cavity, and the second limiting groove is configured on the base.

[0024] Based on the fourth embodiment of the first aspect, the present application also provides an eighth embodiment of the first aspect: a positioning groove is defined on one of the sidewall of the chute and the sliding arm, and a positioning protrusion is defined on the other. The positioning groove extends in the same direction as the chute, and the positioning protrusion is embedded in the positioning groove. With this arrangement, a first limiting pair is formed between the positioning protrusion and the positioning groove in the thickness direction to prevent the sliding arm from escaping from the chute along the thickness direction.

[0025] For example, the positioning groove can be opened on the side wall of the slide groove, and correspondingly, the positioning protrusion is provided on the opposite side of the sliding arm and the positioning groove, which has better processing properties.

[0026] In other exemplary embodiments, the positioning protrusion may be provided on the side wall of the slide groove of the sliding bracket, and correspondingly, the positioning groove is provided on the opposite side of the sliding arm and the positioning protrusion, which can also limit the sliding arm from being separated from the slide groove.

[0027] Based on the third embodiment of the first aspect, or the fourth embodiment of the first aspect, or the fourth embodiment of the first aspect, or the fifth embodiment of the first aspect, or the sixth embodiment of the first aspect, or the seventh embodiment of the first aspect, or the eighth embodiment of the first aspect, the embodiment of the present application further provides a ninth embodiment of the first aspect: the elastic member is a spring, a first positioning post is provided on the opposite side of the slider and the spring, a second positioning post is provided on the opposite side of the base and the spring, and the spring coils at both ends of the spring are respectively mounted on the first positioning post and the second positioning post. In this way, the spring can maintain a stable posture when deformed by pressure.

[0028] Based on the first aspect, or the first embodiment of the first aspect, or the second embodiment of the first aspect, or the third embodiment of the first aspect, or the fourth embodiment of the first aspect, or the fifth embodiment of the first aspect, or the sixth embodiment of the first aspect, or the seventh embodiment of the first aspect, or the eighth embodiment of the first aspect, or the ninth embodiment of the first aspect, the embodiment of the present application further provides a tenth embodiment of the first aspect: the cam portion includes a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion connected in sequence, the second portion being the highest point of the cam portion; the first portion is located on a side of the cam portion close to the main shaft assembly and is a slanted surface or arcuate surface that gradually converges from the second portion; the second portion is located on a side of the cam portion away from the main shaft assembly and is a slanted surface or arcuate surface that gradually converges from the second portion. With this arrangement, when the hinge mechanism switches between the folded state and the unfolded state, based on the relative sliding between the sliding bracket and the main swing arm, the first damping friction member will move along the surface of the cam portion on the main swing arm.

[0029] For example, the self-closing section can be an inclined surface that gradually retracts from the suspended section. In the folded state, the damping torque formed by the force provided by the damping module manifests as a self-closing effect. In other exemplary embodiments, the self-closing section can be an arc surface that gradually retracts from the suspended section.

[0030] In actual application, when the hinge mechanism is in the intermediate state between the folded state and the unfolded state, the hovering section at the high point of the cam further compresses the elastic part through the first damping friction part; in this state, based on the damping torque formed by the force provided by the damping module, the damping module exhibits a hovering effect.

[0031] Based on the first aspect, or the first embodiment of the first aspect, or the second embodiment of the first aspect, or the third embodiment of the first aspect, or the fourth embodiment of the first aspect, or the fifth embodiment of the first aspect, or the sixth embodiment of the first aspect, or the seventh embodiment of the first aspect, or the eighth embodiment of the first aspect, or the ninth embodiment of the first aspect, or the tenth embodiment of the first aspect, the embodiment of the present application also provides an eleventh embodiment of the first aspect: the hinge mechanism also includes a pulling component, one end of the pulling component is connected to the sliding bracket, and the other end is rotatably connected to the main shaft component; the main swing arm rotates relative to the main shaft component around a first rotation center, and the pulling component rotates relative to the main shaft component around a second rotation center, and the first rotation center is closer to the center line of the main shaft component than the second rotation center. Such a setting can be widely used in inward folding electronic devices, that is, in the folded state, its flexible screen is located inside the two opposite main bodies.

[0032] Based on the first aspect, or the first embodiment of the first aspect, or the second embodiment of the first aspect, or the third embodiment of the first aspect, or the fourth embodiment of the first aspect, or the fifth embodiment of the first aspect, or the sixth embodiment of the first aspect, or the seventh embodiment of the first aspect, or the eighth embodiment of the first aspect, or the ninth embodiment of the first aspect, or the tenth embodiment of the first aspect, the embodiment of the present application also provides a twelfth embodiment of the first aspect: the hinge mechanism also includes a pulling assembly, one end of the pulling assembly is connected to the sliding bracket, and the other end is rotatably connected to the main shaft assembly; the main swing arm rotates relative to the main shaft assembly around a first rotation center, and the pulling assembly rotates relative to the main shaft assembly around a second rotation center, and the second rotation center is closer to the center line of the main shaft assembly than the first rotation center. Such a configuration can be widely used in external folding electronic devices, that is, in the folded state, its flexible screen is located on the outside of two opposite main bodies.

[0033] Based on the eleventh embodiment of the first aspect, or the twelfth embodiment of the first aspect, the embodiment of the present application further provides a thirteenth embodiment of the first aspect: the pulling assembly includes a connector and an arc arm, one end of the connector is connected to the arc arm, the other end of the connector is connected to the sliding bracket, and the arc arm is rotatably connected to the main shaft assembly. For example, an arc-shaped slider is provided on the arc arm, and an arc groove is provided on the main shaft assembly, and a notch on one side of the arc groove is provided on the inner surface of the main shaft assembly. The arc slider is built into the arc groove and slides along the arc groove so that the arc arm can rotate relative to the main shaft assembly. The overall structure is more compact and reasonable.

[0034] A second aspect of an embodiment of the present application provides a folding device, which includes two main bodies connected by a hinge mechanism, and the hinge mechanism adopts the hinge mechanism described above.

[0035] Exemplarily, the foldable device is a mobile or fixed terminal with a foldable screen, such as a laptop computer, a foldable tablet computer, or a foldable mobile phone.

[0036] In practical applications, the foldable device also includes a mobile or fixed terminal with a display device provided on one main body and a keyboard provided on the other main body.

[0037] In other practical applications, the foldable device may also be a foldable non-electronic device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] FIG1 is a schematic diagram of a folding and unfolding state of a folding device provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0039] FIG2 is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a hinge mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0040] FIG3 is an exploded schematic diagram of an assembly relationship of the hinge mechanism shown in FIG2 ;

[0041] FIG4 is a schematic diagram of a sliding bracket provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0042] FIG5 is a top view of the sliding bracket shown in FIG4 ;

[0043] FIG6 is a top view of the hinge mechanism shown in FIG2 ;

[0044] FIG7 is a schematic diagram showing the coordination relationship between the damping module and the cam portion in the folded state;

[0045] FIG8 is a schematic diagram showing the coordination relationship between the damping module and the cam portion in an intermediate state;

[0046] FIG9 is a schematic diagram showing the coordination relationship between the damping module and the cam portion in the deployed state;

[0047] FIG10 is a partial cross-sectional view of FIG6 AA;

[0048] FIG11 is an exploded schematic diagram of the structure of a damping module provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0049] FIG12 is a partial cross-sectional view BB in FIG5;

[0050] FIG13 is a schematic diagram of force analysis of the damping module described in an embodiment of the present application;

[0051] FIG14 is an exploded schematic diagram of another assembly relationship of the hinge mechanism shown in FIG2 ;

[0052] FIG15 is a cross-sectional view taken along line CC in FIG6 ;

[0053] FIG16 is a sectional view taken along line DD in FIG6 ;

[0054] FIG17 is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the sliding bracket and the main swing arm shown in FIG6 when the sliding bracket and the main swing arm are switched to a folded state;

[0055] FIG18 is a schematic structural diagram of the arc arm shown in FIG14 . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0056] The embodiment of the present application provides a hinge mechanism with optimized structure to effectively reduce the thickness.

[0057] Hinge mechanisms used in foldable devices typically require a damping structure to achieve self-opening and hovering functions. This damping structure allows the two main bodies of the foldable device to remain stably in the unfolded, folded, or unfolded state, providing a good user experience.

[0058] Please refer to Figure 1, which is a schematic diagram of the folding state and the unfolded state of a folding device provided in an embodiment of the present application. For example, the folding device 100 shown in Figure 1 is an inward-folding electronic device. In the folded state, its flexible screen is located on the inner side of two opposite main bodies 20. At the same time, Figure 1 illustrates the unfolded state of the folding device from the outer side perspective and the screen side perspective, respectively. The "inside" and "outside" here refer to the two opposite sides of the main body 20 in the thickness direction: in order to clearly illustrate the positional relationship between the hinge mechanism 10 and the two main bodies 20, the unfolded state schematic diagram formed from the screen side perspective does not show the flexible screen.

[0059] Hinge mechanisms 10 used in foldable electronic devices typically also require a connection position adjustment mechanism. Taking the foldable electronic device with a flexible screen shown in Figure 1 as an example, the main axis assembly of the hinge mechanism 10 extends along the connection between the two main bodies 20. The direction of extension of the main axis assembly can be seen as indicated by arrow X in Figure 1 . Main swing arms are rotatably connected to either side of the axis of the main axis assembly of the hinge mechanism 10, and sliding brackets are slidable relative to the main swing arms. The sliding brackets serve as hinge connections to the two main bodies 20. Rotation of the main swing arms relative to the main axis assembly drives the sliding brackets to rotate. Simultaneously, the sliding brackets can slide relative to the main swing arms toward or away from the main axis assembly, allowing the width of the hinge mechanism 10 to be adjusted during deployment. The width of the hinge mechanism 10 can be seen as indicated by arrow Y in Figure 1 . This ensures that the flexible screens covering the two main bodies 20 of the foldable electronic device are not squeezed or stretched during relative folding and deployment.

[0060] The damping module of traditional hinge mechanisms is often located on the main shaft assembly or, together with the main swing arm, on the hinge exterior (the component exposed from the device body), affecting the hinge's thickness. As terminal electronic products become increasingly miniaturized and lightweight, the space required to accommodate the hinge mechanism is shrinking. Limited by the damping implementation methods of traditional hinge mechanisms, the hinge's thickness cannot be further reduced, thus limiting the evolution of foldable electronic devices towards miniaturization and lightweighting.

[0061] Based on this, an embodiment of the present application provides a hinge mechanism, which includes a main shaft assembly, a main swing arm, a sliding bracket and a damping module; wherein the main shaft assembly is the basic structure for assembling other hinge components, and main swing arms are provided on both sides of the axis of the main shaft assembly, and each main swing arm is rotatably connected to the main shaft assembly on its side, and the rotation centerline is parallel to the extension direction of the main shaft assembly; the main swing arms located on both sides of the main shaft assembly can be rotated relative to the main shaft assembly in a direction approaching each other to a folded state, and the inner sides of the two main swing arms in the folded state are arranged relative to each other, and can be rotated relative to the main shaft assembly in a direction away from each other to an unfolded state, and the two main swing arms in the unfolded state can extend along the same plane, or extend along two different planes respectively.

[0062] Among them, a sliding bracket is provided on the main swing arm located at least on one side of the main shaft assembly, and the sliding bracket can slide along the corresponding main swing arm to adaptively adjust the distance from the hinge connection part to the main shaft assembly during the state switching process; the damping module is provided between the main swing arm located at least on one side of the main shaft assembly and the sliding bracket to provide a damping torque when the sliding bracket slides relative to the corresponding main swing arm.

[0063] With this arrangement, the sliding bracket and the main swing arm's body are both positioned away from the main shaft assembly on their respective sides. The damping module is positioned within the sliding fit between the main swing arm and the sliding bracket, allowing the damping module to be positioned away from the main shaft assembly. When the hinge mechanism switches to the deployed state, the damping module is positioned to the side away from the main shaft assembly. When the hinge mechanism switches to the folded state, the damping module is also positioned to the side of the main shaft assembly. This allows the damping module, which provides the damping torque for opening and closing operations, to occupy no structural space within the main shaft assembly. This means that the hinge size is not directly related to the assembly space required to configure the damping module, enabling a thinner hinge mechanism design, in line with the trend toward smaller and lighter products.

[0064] Furthermore, due to the damping module's structural feature of being located away from the main shaft assembly, the space next to the main shaft assembly can be fully utilized without changing the overall dimensions of the main shaft assembly and hinge mechanism. This provides further room for expansion, allowing for the damping module to be increased in size. This results in a greater damping torque, ensuring the reliability of the automatic opening and closing and hovering functions.

[0065] To better understand the technical solutions and effects of this application, without loss of generality, the following description will focus on a foldable device with a flexible screen, with detailed descriptions of specific embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Please refer to Figures 2 and 3 , where Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a hinge mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application, and Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of an exploded assembly relationship of the hinge mechanism shown in Figure 2 .

[0066] As shown in Figure 2, the hinge mechanism 10 includes a main shaft assembly 1, on both sides of the axis of the main shaft assembly 1, main swing arms 2 are rotatably provided, and each main swing arm 2 is provided with a sliding bracket 3 and a damping module 4. In this embodiment, the damping module 4 for providing the opening and closing damping torque is provided between the main swing arm 2 and the sliding bracket 3 on the same side. Here, the structures of the main swing arms 2, sliding brackets 3 and damping modules 4 on both sides of the main shaft assembly 1 are respectively mirror images of the center line L of the main shaft assembly 1 in the extension direction; that is, the first main swing arm, the first sliding bracket and the first damping module are located on one side of the main shaft assembly 1, and the second main swing arm, the second sliding bracket and the second damping module are located on the other side of the main shaft assembly 1. In order to simplify the drawing, Figure 3 only shows the main swing arm 2, sliding bracket 3 and damping module 4 on one side as a decomposition diagram. In addition, in order to clearly illustrate the composition and relative positional relationship of the hinge mechanism, in FIG2 and FIG3 , arrow X is used to indicate the extension direction of the main shaft assembly, and arrow Y is used to indicate the width direction of the hinge mechanism 10 .

[0067] As shown in Figure 3, one end side of the main swing arm 2 is rotatably connected to the main shaft assembly 1 through a pivot shaft 11, that is, the main swing arm 2 is rotatably arranged on both sides of the axis of the main shaft assembly 1, and the other end side of the main swing arm 2 has a sliding support arm 21, which extends in a direction away from the main shaft assembly 1 and is used to slide and adapt with the corresponding sliding bracket 3.

[0068] In a specific implementation, when the main swing arms 2 located on either side of the main shaft assembly 1 rotate toward each other relative to the main shaft assembly 1 to a folded state, the inner sides of the two main swing arms 2 are arranged relative to each other; when the main swing arms 2 located on either side of the main shaft assembly 1 rotate toward each other relative to the main shaft assembly 1 to an unfolded state, taking the example of the extension direction of the main swing arms 2 being consistent with the extension direction of the main body of the folding device, the two main swing arms 2 in the unfolded state can extend along the same plane. Of course, in other possible implementations, the two main swing arms 2 in the unfolded state can also extend along two different planes.

[0069] The sliding bracket 3 is provided with a slot 31, into which the sliding arm 21 of the main swing arm 2 is inserted, allowing the sliding bracket 3 to slide relative to the main swing arm 2 toward or away from the main shaft assembly 1. The width of the hinge mechanism 10 is adjusted by changing the position of the hinge connection portion (the sliding bracket 3). Please refer to Figures 4 and 5 , where Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a sliding bracket provided in an embodiment of the present application, and Figure 5 is a top view of the sliding bracket shown in Figure 4 .

[0070] A positioning groove 32 is defined on the sidewall of the chute 31 , extending in the same direction as the chute 31 . Accordingly, a positioning protrusion 22 is provided on the side of the sliding arm 21 opposite the positioning groove 32 . The positioning protrusion 22 on the main swing arm 2 fits within the positioning groove 32 on the sliding bracket 3 , forming a first position-limiting pair between the positioning protrusion 22 and the positioning groove 32 to prevent the sliding arm 21 from escaping from the chute 31 along the thickness direction. It should be understood that this thickness direction is perpendicular to the directions indicated by arrows X and Y.

[0071] In a possible implementation, the positioning protrusion 22 and the positioning groove 32 may also be provided on the slide groove 31 and the sliding arm 21 in the opposite direction (not shown in the figure); in other words, the positioning protrusion is provided on the side wall of the slide groove 31 of the sliding bracket 3, and correspondingly, the positioning groove is provided on the side of the sliding arm 21 opposite to the positioning protrusion, which can also prevent the sliding arm 21 from disengaging from the slide groove 31. This embodiment of the present application is not limited thereto.

[0072] Based on the matching positioning protrusions 22 and positioning grooves 32, the sliding bracket 3 and the main swing arm 2 can rotate synchronously relative to the main shaft assembly 1. At the same time, based on the matching sliding support arm 21 and slide groove 31, the pulling assembly can achieve relative sliding between the sliding bracket 3 and the main swing arm 2, so that the sliding bracket 3 can move closer to or away from the main shaft assembly 1. Specifically, when the main swing arms 2 located on both sides of the main shaft assembly 1 rotate toward each other to a folded state, the pulling assembly can push the sliding bracket 3 to slide relative to the main swing arm 2 in a direction away from the main shaft assembly 1, ensuring that the state switching hinge mechanism 10 does not generate external force interference with the flexible screen covering the surface of the main body 20, preventing damage to the flexible screen during the folding process, and effectively extending the service life of the flexible screen.

[0073] As shown in Figures 2 and 3 , the damping module 4 in this embodiment is mounted on the sliding bracket 3. Accordingly, the main swing arm 2 is provided with a cam portion 23 that abuts against the damping module 4. This creates a damping torque between the sliding bracket 3 and the main swing arm 2, which slide relative to each other. Along the extension direction of the main shaft assembly, the damping module 4 includes a first end and a second end that are spaced apart. A first spherical member 41 of the damping module 4 is located at the first end. Under the action of a spring 42, the first spherical member 41 presses against the surface of the cam portion 23 on the side of the main swing arm 2. In other words, when the spring 42 is compressed, it generates a reaction force. The friction generated by this reaction force provides a damping torque, thereby achieving the self-opening, self-closing, and hovering functions of the hinge mechanism 10.

[0074] In other possible implementations, the damping module 4 for providing the opening and closing damping torque can also be arranged on the side where the main swing arm 2 is located. Correspondingly, the cam portion adapted to the damping module 4 is arranged on the side of the sliding bracket 3 (not shown in the figure), which can also provide the opening and closing operation damping torque without occupying the structural space of the main shaft assembly.

[0075] Please refer to Figure 6, which is a top view of the hinge mechanism shown in Figure 2. As shown in Figure 6, the cam portion 23 on the main swing arm 2 includes a self-opening section 231, a hovering section 232, and a self-closing section 233 connected in sequence. The self-opening section 231 is the first part of the cam portion 23 and is located on the side of the cam portion 23 close to the main shaft assembly 1. The self-closing section 233 is the third part of the cam portion 23 and is located on the side of the cam portion 23 away from the main shaft assembly 1. The hovering section 232 is the second part of the cam portion 23 and is the highest point of the cam portion 23. The "highest point" here refers to the part of the cam profile on the cam portion that is used to achieve the hovering function, that is, the part where the spring compression amount is the largest when in contact with the cam portion 23. The length of this part of the cam profile can be determined according to the actual dynamic matching requirements. It should be understood that the "highest point" is not limited to a specific point on the cam profile.

[0076] When the hinge mechanism 10 switches between the folded and unfolded states, the first spherical member 41 rolls along the surface of the cam portion 23 on the main swing arm 2 due to the relative sliding between the sliding bracket 3 and the main swing arm 2. The following describes the cooperation principle between the damping module 4 and the cam portion 23 with reference to Figures 7, 8, and 9.

[0077] Please refer to Figure 7, which illustrates the mating relationship between the damping module 4 and the cam portion 23 in the folded state. As shown in Figure 7, when the hinge mechanism 10 is in the folded state, the first spherical member 41 presses against the self-closing section 233, which is a sloped surface that gradually converges from the suspended section 232. In this state, based on the damping torque generated by the force provided by the damping module 4, if the hinge mechanism 10 is unfolded and the sliding bracket 3 moves toward the main shaft assembly, the sliding bracket 3 must overcome resistance in the direction indicated by the arrow in Figure 7, which is away from the main shaft assembly, causing the damping module 4 to exhibit a self-closing effect.

[0078] It is understood that the shape of the cam surface formed by the self-closing section 233 can be selected based on the overall product design requirements and is not limited to the inclined surface shown in the figure. In other possible implementations, the self-closing section 233 can be a curved surface (not shown) that gradually converges from the hovering section 232, such as, but not limited to, an outward convex curved surface or an inward concave curved surface, which can also achieve a reliable self-closing effect in conjunction with the force provided by the damping module 4.

[0079] Please refer to Figure 8, which illustrates the coordination between the damping module 4 and the cam portion 23 in an intermediate state. This intermediate state refers to the state in which the hinge mechanism switches between the folded and unfolded states. As shown in Figure 8, when the hinge mechanism 10 is in the intermediate state, the first spherical member 41 presses against the hovering section 232. At the cam's high point, the first spherical member 41 further compresses the spring 42. In this state, the damping torque generated by the force provided by the damping module 4 allows the hinge mechanism 10 to remain in any intermediate state. If the hinge mechanism 10 is unfolded or folded, the sliding bracket 3 must overcome resistance in the direction indicated by the arrow in Figure 8, causing the damping module 4 to exhibit a hovering effect.

[0080] Please refer to Figure 9, which illustrates the mating relationship between the damping module 4 and the cam portion 23 in the deployed state. As shown in Figure 9, when the hinge mechanism 10 is deployed, the first spherical member 41 presses against the self-opening section 231, which is a sloped surface that gradually converges from the suspended section 232. In this state, based on the damping torque generated by the force provided by the damping module 4, if the hinge mechanism 10 is folded and the sliding bracket 3 moves away from the main shaft assembly, the sliding bracket 3 must overcome resistance in the direction indicated by the arrow in Figure 9, which is toward the main shaft assembly, causing the damping module 4 to exhibit a self-opening effect.

[0081] In a possible implementation, the self-opening section 231 may also be a curved surface (not shown) that gradually converges from the suspended section 232, rather than being limited to the inclined surface shown in the figure. For example, but not limited to, an outward convex curved surface or an inward concave curved surface can also cooperate with the force provided by the damping module 4 to achieve a reliable self-closing effect. This is not limited in the present embodiment.

[0082] In other possible implementations, the structural configuration of the cam portion 23 is not limited to the sequentially connected self-opening section 231, the hovering section 232, and the self-closing section 233. In other words, one or two of the self-opening section 231, the hovering section 232, and the self-closing section 233 can be selectively configured. For application scenarios that only require hovering and self-opening functions, the cam portion 23 can selectively be provided with the self-opening section 231 and the hovering section 232; for application scenarios that only require hovering and self-closing functions, the cam portion 23 can selectively be provided with the self-closing section 233 and the hovering section 232. In specific implementations, the structural configuration of the cam portion 23 can be determined based on the overall product design requirements and is not limited in the present embodiment.

[0083] As shown in FIG3 , a cam arm 24 can also be provided on the other end side of the main swing arm 2. The cam arm 24 extends in a direction away from the main shaft assembly 1 and is spaced apart from the sliding arm 21 in the extension direction of the main shaft assembly 1. The cam portion 23 is provided on the surface of the cam arm 24 opposite to the damping module 4. As shown in FIG4 and FIG5 , correspondingly, a receiving groove 33 is provided on the sliding bracket 3. The cam arm 24 can be inserted into the receiving groove 33 of the sliding bracket 3 so that the sliding bracket 3 moves synchronously when sliding relative to the main swing arm 2. The receiving groove 33 provides space for accommodating the cam portion 23. In a specific implementation, the cam arm 24 and the receiving groove 33 can be slidably adapted, or a non-sliding adapted assembly relationship can be adopted.

[0084] Based on the arrangement of the cam arm 24 , the cam portion 23 and the damping module 4 can be arranged correspondingly in the width direction to adapt to the sliding displacement of the sliding bracket 3 and meet the functional requirement of adjusting the width of the hinge mechanism 10 .

[0085] Regarding the damping module 4 provided on the sliding bracket 3, in order to further reasonably control the thickness of the hinge mechanism 10, the damping module 4 can be embedded in the sliding bracket 3. Please refer to Figures 3, 4, 5, 6 and 10, wherein Figure 10 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line AA in Figure 6.

[0086] As shown in Figures 3, 4, and 5, the sliding bracket 3 defines a recessed accommodating cavity 34, the opening of which is located on the inner surface of the sliding bracket 3 to facilitate assembly of the damping module 4. In a specific implementation, the damping module 4 can be completely or partially contained within the recessed accommodating cavity 34 along the thickness direction. This configuration can be determined based on the actual assembly space available, and is not limited in this embodiment of the present application.

[0087] At the same time, as shown in Figures 6 and 10, the concave accommodating cavity 34 is at least connected to the accommodating groove 33, so that the first spherical member 41 of the damping module 4 extends out of the concave accommodating cavity 34 and presses against the cam portion 23 inserted into the accommodating groove 33. In this way, when the sliding bracket 3 and the main swing arm 2 slide relative to each other, and the damping module 4 moves synchronously with the sliding bracket 3 relative to the main swing arm 2, the first spherical member 41 can roll along the surface of the cam portion 23 on the side of the main swing arm 2.

[0088] To fully utilize the elastic deformation energy reserve of spring 42 under compression, the other end of spring 42 can optionally act on the sliding arm 21 of the main swing arm 2 via a second spherical member 43. This second spherical member 43 is located at the second end of the damping module 4, generating friction to provide a damping torque on the sliding arm 21. As shown in Figures 6 and 10, the concave accommodating cavity 34 also extends through the chute 31, allowing the force of spring 42 to act on the side of the sliding arm 21 inserted into the chute 31 via the second spherical member 43. Thus, when the sliding bracket 3 slides relative to the main swing arm 2 and the damping module 4 moves synchronously with the sliding bracket 3 relative to the main swing arm 2, the force of the second spherical member 43 generates friction on the sliding arm 21, providing a damping torque to achieve self-opening and hovering. Furthermore, this prevents single-sided load (on the cam arm 24 side) during the movement of the main swing arm 2, effectively avoiding the possibility of motion jamming caused by unbalanced loads and ensuring the stability of the dynamic coordination between the components.

[0089] Furthermore, to avoid friction loss between the second spherical member 43 and the sliding arm 21, a friction plate 44 may be optionally provided between the second spherical member 43 and the sliding arm 21. In a specific implementation, the friction plate 44 may be made of a wear-resistant material or a self-lubricating material and may be implemented using existing technologies, so details thereof will not be repeated.

[0090] In other possible implementations, for springs that deform under pressure and store elastic deformation energy, other structural elastic members, such as but not limited to rubber elastic members, can also be used to push the first spherical member 41 and the second spherical member 43 into respective compressive engagement. Compared to rubber elastic members, using springs as the elastic members of the damping module 4 offers a simpler and more reliable structure and can reasonably control process implementation costs.

[0091] In addition, in order to keep the spring 42 in a stable compressed state, the damping module 4 may optionally further include a slider 45 and a base 46. Please also refer to FIG11 , which is an exploded schematic diagram of the structure of a damping module provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0092] As shown in the figure, the slider 45 is disposed between the spring 42 and the first spherical member 41 and is slidable within the concave accommodating cavity 34. When the first spherical member 41 rolls along the self-opening section 231 and the self-closing section 233 on the surface of the cam portion 23, the slider 45 is moved away from or toward the spring 42 under the action of the first spherical member 41. The base 46 is disposed between the spring 42 and the second spherical member 43. The reaction force generated by the compression and deformation of the spring 42 is applied to the spherical members on both sides through the slider 45 and the base 46, respectively.

[0093] A first positioning post 451 is provided on the opposite side of the slider 45 and the spring 42, and a second positioning post 461 is provided on the opposite side of the base 46 and the spring 42. The spring coils at both ends of the spring 42 are respectively mounted on the first positioning post 451 and the second positioning post 461, so that the spring 42 can maintain a stable posture when it is compressed and deformed.

[0094] Furthermore, the slider 45 has a laterally extending first stopper protrusion 452. Accordingly, as shown in FIG4 , the sidewall of the concave accommodating cavity 34 has a first stopper groove 35. When the slider 45 is assembled in the concave accommodating cavity 34, the first stopper protrusion 452 fits into the first stopper groove 35, forming a second stopper in the thickness direction to prevent the slider 45 from exiting the concave accommodating cavity 34. The base 46 has a laterally extending second stopper protrusion 462. Accordingly, as shown in FIG4 , the sidewall of the concave accommodating cavity 34 has a second stopper groove 36. When the base 46 is assembled in the concave accommodating cavity 34, the second stopper protrusion 462 fits into the second stopper groove 36, forming a third stopper in the thickness direction to prevent the base 46 from exiting the concave accommodating cavity 34. In this way, the spring 42 mounted on the positioning column can maintain a stable assembly position in the thickness direction, providing a fundamental guarantee for ensuring the good operating performance of the damping module 4.

[0095] In a specific implementation, both sides of the slider 45 can be provided with laterally extending first limiting protrusions 452, and corresponding first limiting grooves 35 can be provided on the two side walls of the concave accommodating cavity 34. Similarly, both sides of the base 46 can be provided with laterally extending second limiting protrusions 462, and corresponding second limiting grooves 36 can be provided on the two side walls of the concave accommodating cavity 34. Overall, the structural reliability can be further improved.

[0096] In a possible implementation, the first limiting protrusion 452 and the first limiting groove 35 that form the second limiting pair can be reversely arranged between the slider 45 and the concave accommodating cavity 34 (not shown in the figure), that is, the first limiting protrusion is configured on the side wall of the concave accommodating cavity 34, and the first limiting groove is configured on the slider 45. In other possible implementations, the second limiting protrusion 462 and the second limiting groove 36 that form the third limiting pair can also be reversely arranged between the base 46 and the concave accommodating cavity 34 (not shown in the figure), that is, the second limiting protrusion is configured on the side wall of the concave accommodating cavity 34, and the second limiting groove is configured on the base 46. The second limiting pair and the third limiting pair formed by the above-mentioned reverse configuration can also be reliably assembled in the thickness direction. This is not limited to the embodiments of the present application.

[0097] The force provided by the damping module 4 is generally positively correlated with the structural dimensions of the elastic component. For example, the force generated by the spring's compression deformation is directly related to parameters such as the spring wire diameter and the spring winding ratio. Large springs are typically used to achieve adequate damping. To rationally control the dimensions of the spring and associated structures, the damping module 4 described in this embodiment further provides a force-amplifying effect.

[0098] As shown in Figures 10 and 11 , the pressing end of the slider 45 is a first inclined surface 453, which is inclined from the end of the slider 45 away from the spring 42 toward the sliding bracket 3. At the same time, a first inwardly concave inclined groove 37 is formed on the side wall of the receiving groove 33 on the sliding bracket 3 near the damping module 4. Please refer to Figures 4 , 5 , and 12 , with Figure 12 being the partial cross-sectional view taken along line BB in Figure 5 . This first inwardly concave inclined groove 37 is inclined from the bottom of the receiving groove 33 toward a direction away from the space within the receiving groove 33.

[0099] As shown in FIG10 , the first spherical member 41 is disposed in the receiving groove 33 and abuts the cam portion 23 on the main swing arm 2, the first inclined surface 453 of the slider 45, and the first inwardly concave groove 37 on the sliding bracket 3, respectively. The spring 42 maintains close contact therewith. Thus, the reaction force generated by the compression of the spring 42 is transmitted to the first spherical member 41 via the first inclined surface 453 of the slider 45, and acts together with the first inwardly concave groove 37 on the sliding bracket 3 on the first spherical member 41. Because the contact surfaces provided by the slider 45 and the sliding bracket 3 are both inclined toward the first spherical member 41, a significant damping effect is achieved through the force component amplification effect of the inclined surfaces at the angles.

[0100] Please also refer to FIG13 , which is a schematic diagram of the force analysis of the damping module described in the embodiment of the present application.

[0101] As shown in Figure 13, the first spherical member 41 abuts the cam portion 23, the first inclined surface 453, and the first inwardly concave beveled groove 37, respectively. This creates a two-stage amplification relationship for the force f0 applied by the spring 42, between the first spherical member 41 and the first inclined surface 453, and between the first spherical member 41 and the wall (second inclined surface) of the first inwardly concave beveled groove 37. The following example briefly illustrates the principle of amplifying the spring reaction force, assuming the force f0 applied by the spring 42 is 1.0 N, the angle α between the first inclined surface 453 of the slider 45 and the horizontal direction (the direction of the spring force) is 50°, and the angle β between the wall of the first inwardly concave beveled groove 37 and the horizontal direction is 60°.

[0102] First, at the force point between the first spherical part 41 and the first inclined surface 453, the downward component of f0 acting on the first spherical part 41 is decomposed into f1, where f1 = f0*tanα = 1*tan50° = 1.19N. Next, at the force point between the first spherical part 41 and the groove wall of the first concave inclined groove 37, the upward force of the first concave inclined groove 37 acting on the first spherical part 41 is f2, where f2 = f1 = 1.19N. The force f2 acting on the first spherical part 41 is again decomposed to the left into f3, where f3 = f2*tanβ = 1.19*tan60° = 2.06N.

[0103] In this way, in the horizontal direction, the resultant force F output to the first spherical part 41 is F = f0 + f3 = 3.06N. Under the above-mentioned angular relationship, the output force F is 3.06 times the force f0 input from the spring side. In other words, based on the joint action of the aforementioned multiple inclined surfaces, the spring force can be amplified, and the force acting from the first spherical part 41 on the main swing arm 2 is greater than the reaction force formed by the compression of the spring 42. With such a setting, for the same damping effect, a relatively smaller spring size can be used, or a smaller spring compression amount can be configured, thereby reducing the space occupied by the damping module and further reducing the thickness of the hinge mechanism, which meets the design requirements of the trend of miniaturization of equipment.

[0104] In a specific implementation, the walls of the first inwardly concave bevel groove 37 can be formed as an inwardly concave arc surface, forming a second bevel surface on the sliding bracket side opposite the first bevel surface 453 in the thickness direction. The curvature of this inwardly concave arc surface can be adapted to the dimensions of the first spherical member 41, such as, but not limited to, a close clearance fit. This allows the first spherical member 41 to smoothly and adaptively shift within the first inwardly concave bevel groove 37 as it rolls along the cam portion, resulting in excellent actuation performance. Furthermore, the restraining action of the sidewalls of the first inwardly concave bevel groove 37 prevents the first spherical member 41 from moving out of the accommodating groove 33 in the hinge width direction, providing improved reliability.

[0105] In other possible implementations, the groove wall of the first concave inclined groove 37 may also be a non-concave arc surface structure, and a second inclined surface (not shown in the figure) that is pressed against the first spherical member 41 may also be provided only on the sliding bracket side. This is not limited to the embodiments of the present application.

[0106] Here, the first spherical member 41 serves as a first friction damping member that is pressed against the cam portion 23. The rolling motion of the first spherical member 41 reduces friction between the mating components, thereby reducing wear and improving service life. In other possible implementations, the first friction damping member can also adopt other structural forms, not limited to the spherical member shown in the figure.

[0107] Likewise, the second spherical member 43 side of the damping module 4 may also adopt the same force-increasing structure as that of the first spherical member 41 side.

[0108] As shown in Figures 10 and 11, the pressing end of the base 46 is a third inclined surface 463, and the third inclined surface 463 is inclined from the end of the base 46 away from the spring 42 toward the direction close to the sliding bracket 3; at the same time, a second concave inclined groove 38 is provided on the side wall of the slide groove 31 on the sliding bracket 3 close to the damping module 4, please refer to Figures 5 and 12, the second concave inclined groove 38 is inclined from the bottom of the slide groove 31 toward the direction away from the space in the slide groove 31.

[0109] The second spherical member 43 and friction plate 44 are positioned within the slide groove 31, respectively abutting the friction plate 44, the third inclined surface 463 of the base 46, and the second inwardly concave groove 38 (fourth inclined surface) of the sliding bracket 3. These forces, driven by the action of the spring 42, maintain close contact. Thus, the reaction force generated by the compression of the spring 42 is transmitted to the second spherical member 43 via the third inclined surface 463 of the base 46, where it acts in conjunction with the second inwardly concave groove 38 of the sliding bracket 3 on the second spherical member 43. Because the contact surfaces on both the base 46 and the sliding bracket 3 are inclined toward the second spherical member 43, the force component amplification effect of the inclined surfaces achieves a significant damping effect. The specific force amplification principle is identical to that of the first spherical member 41 and will not be further elaborated here.

[0110] In a specific implementation, the groove wall of the second concave inclined groove 38 can also adopt a concave arc surface to form a fourth inclined surface opposite to the third inclined surface 463 in the thickness direction on the sliding bracket side, and the curvature can be adapted to the size of the second spherical part 43. When the sliding arm 21 moves in the sliding groove 31 relative to the sliding bracket 3, the second spherical part 43 can adaptively roll in the second concave inclined groove 38 to reduce component wear; and it can prevent the second spherical part 43 from moving out of the sliding groove 31 in the hinge width direction, which has better reliability.

[0111] In other possible implementations, the groove wall of the second concave inclined groove 38 may also be a non-concave arc surface structure, and a fourth inclined surface (not shown in the figure) that is pressed against the second spherical member 43 may also be provided only on the sliding bracket side. This is not limited to the embodiments of the present application.

[0112] Here, the second spherical member 43 serves as a second damping friction member adapted to the side pressure of the sliding arm 21 . In other possible implementations, other structural forms may be adopted instead of being limited to the spherical member shown in the figure.

[0113] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first inclined surface 453 of the slider 45 presses against the first spherical member 41 on the side opposite the sliding bracket 3, while the third inclined surface 463 of the base 46 presses against the second spherical member 43 on the side opposite the sliding bracket 3. This simultaneously restricts the first and second spherical members 41, 43 from moving out of their slots in the thickness direction. This allows the damping module 4 to be securely mounted on the sliding bracket 3 after the hinge mechanism is assembled, improving assembly processability and facilitating component management.

[0114] In the above embodiment, the main swing arms 2 on both sides of the main shaft assembly 1 are provided with sliding brackets 3 and damping modules 4. In other specific implementations, an asymmetrical arrangement on both sides may also be adopted.

[0115] For example, in a possible implementation, a sliding bracket 3 and a damping module 4 can be set only on a single-side main swing arm 2. In this way, the width adjustment of the hinge mechanism 10 during the unfolding process is achieved based on the side of the main swing arm 2 where the sliding bracket 3 is set, and the self-opening and hovering functional effects are obtained by the damping module 4 set between the main swing arm 2 and the sliding bracket 3.

[0116] For another example, in another possible implementation, sliding brackets 3 are provided on the main swing arms 2 on both sides of the main shaft assembly 1, and a damping module 4 is provided between one of the sliding brackets 3 and the main swing arm 2 on that side. In this way, the width adjustment of the hinge mechanism 10 during deployment is achieved based on the sliding brackets 3 on both sides, and the damping module 4 provided between the main swing arm 2 and the sliding bracket 3 on one side achieves the self-opening and hovering functions.

[0117] The pull assembly that drives the sliding bracket 3 to slide relative to the main swing arm 2 can be implemented in various structural configurations. For example, one end of the pull assembly is connected to the sliding bracket 3, and the other end is rotationally connected to the main shaft assembly 1. The main swing arm 2 rotates relative to the main shaft assembly 1 about a first rotation center O1, while the pull assembly rotates relative to the main shaft assembly 1 about a second rotation center O2. The first rotation center O1 is located closer to the centerline L of the main shaft assembly 1 than the second rotation center O2. The pull assembly is connected to the sliding bracket 3 and drives the sliding bracket 3 to rotate about the second rotation center O2, allowing the sliding bracket 3 to slide relative to the main swing arm 2. In this way, the main swing arm 2 and the sliding bracket 3 can rotate about their respective rotation centers while sliding relative to each other.

[0118] Please refer to Figures 2, 3 and 14, wherein Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of another assembly relationship decomposition of the hinge mechanism shown in Figure 2.

[0119] The pulling assembly of the hinge mechanism 10 includes a connector 5 and an arc arm 6, wherein the sliding bracket 3 is connected to the arc arm 6 via the connector 5, and the arc arm 6 is rotatably connected to the main shaft assembly 1. Here, the connection method of the connector 5 and the sliding bracket 3 can be selected as needed, for example but not limited to, the connector 5 can be fixedly mounted on the mounting portion 39 on the sliding bracket 3.

[0120] Among them, an arc-shaped slider 61 is provided on the arc arm 6, and accordingly, an arc groove 12 is provided on the spindle assembly 1. A notch on one side of the arc groove 12 is provided on the inner surface of the spindle assembly 1, so that the arc-shaped slider 61 of the arc arm 6 is built into the arc groove 12 from the notch and can slide along the arc groove 12 to realize the rotational connection between the arc arm 6 and the spindle assembly 1.

[0121] In the specific implementation, in order to improve the reliability of the rotational connection between the arc arm 6 and the main shaft assembly 1, optionally, two connecting parts 5 are arranged at intervals along the extension direction of the main shaft assembly 1, and arc-shaped sliders 61 are provided at both ends of the arc arm 6, and are respectively slidably adapted to the corresponding arc grooves 12 provided on the main shaft assembly 1, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the arc arm 6 driving the sliding bracket 3 to rotate.

[0122] Please refer to FIG. 15 and FIG. 16 , wherein FIG. 15 is a CC cross-sectional view in FIG. 6 , and FIG. 16 is a DD cross-sectional view in FIG. 6 .

[0123] As shown in Figure 15, the arc-shaped slider 61 of the arc arm 6 can rotate relative to the main shaft assembly 1 around the second rotation center O2. The second rotation center O2 is also the rotation center of the sliding bracket 3 relative to the main shaft assembly 1. In the width direction of the hinge mechanism, the length of the second rotation center O2 from the center line of the main shaft assembly 1 is shown as the dimension mark L2 in the figure; as shown in Figure 16, the main swing arm 2 can rotate relative to the main shaft assembly 1 around the first rotation center O1. The first rotation center O1 is also the axis of the pivot axis 11. In the width direction of the hinge mechanism, the length of the first rotation center O1 from the center line of the main shaft assembly 1 is shown as the dimension mark L1 in the figure.

[0124] In comparison, the first rotation center O1 is positioned closer to the centerline L of the main shaft assembly 1 than the second rotation center O2. Thus, when the hinge mechanism 10 switches between the deployed and folded states, a displacement difference is created between the main swing arm 2 and the sliding bracket 3. Taking the hinge mechanism switching from the deployed to the folded state as an example, the displacement difference between the main swing arm 2 and the sliding bracket 3 is shown by dimension mark P in Figure 17.

[0125] To further improve the operability of the hinge mechanism, the hinge mechanism 10 also needs to have a linkage function so that the two bodies maintain synchronous movement relative to the hinge during the opening and closing process. As shown in Figures 14 and 18, Figure 18 is a schematic structural diagram of the arc arm 6 shown in Figure 14, which is a view formed from the inner side of the self-service arc arm 6.

[0126] In this embodiment, a bevel gear 7 is rotatably mounted on the main shaft assembly 1. Correspondingly, bevel gear portions 62 are provided on the arc arms 6 connected to the sliding brackets 3 on either side. The bevel gear portions 62 of both arc arms 6 mesh with the bevel gear 7 rotatably mounted on the main shaft assembly 1. Thus, when force is applied to perform a folding or unfolding operation, the arc arms 6 on either side drive the corresponding sliding brackets 3 to move synchronously based on this meshing relationship.

[0127] In addition, after the arc arms 6 on both sides are assembled on the main shaft assembly 1, the limiter 8 can be buckled on the outside of the arc arms 6. For example, but not limited to, threaded fasteners can be used to fix the limiter 8 on the main shaft assembly 1. This embodiment of the present application is not limited thereto.

[0128] In other possible implementations, the linkage function of the hinge mechanism 10 can be implemented using other structures, rather than being limited to the bevel gear engagement method shown in the figure.

[0129] In addition, in order to further improve the stability of the hinge mechanism, the hinge mechanism 10 can also include a secondary main arm 9. Corresponding to the main swing arm 2, the secondary main arm 9 is rotatably connected to the main shaft assembly 1, and the secondary main arm 9 located on the same side coincides with the rotation center of the main swing arm 2; accordingly, a secondary slide groove 310 is provided on the sliding bracket 3, and the sliding support arm of the secondary main arm 9 can be inserted into the secondary slide groove 310 of the sliding bracket 3 to adapt to the sliding bracket 3 sliding relative to the secondary main arm 9 toward or away from the main shaft assembly 1.

[0130] In the hinge mechanism 10 described in the preceding embodiment, the first rotation center O1 of the main swing arm 2 is positioned closer to the centerline of the main shaft assembly 1 than the second rotation center O2 of the pull assembly, enabling use in an inward-folding electronic device. In other specific implementations, the design concept of the aforementioned scheme can also be used in outward-folding electronic devices, where, in the folded state, the flexible screen is located outside of two opposing main bodies.

[0131] In the hinge mechanism for an outward-folding electronic device (not shown), the pull assembly's second rotation center is positioned closer to the centerline of the main shaft assembly 1 than the main swing arm's first rotation center. When the main swing arms 2, located on either side of the main shaft assembly 1, rotate toward each other to fold, the pull assembly pushes the sliding bracket 3 to slide relative to the main swing arms 2 toward the main shaft assembly 1, ensuring that the hinge mechanism 10, while switching between states, does not interfere with the flexible screen overlying the main body 20.

[0132] In a specific implementation, other components of the hinge mechanism for the outward-folding electronic device are the same as the hinge mechanism described in FIG. 2 , and are not described in detail here.

[0133] The hinge mechanism implementation scheme described in the aforementioned embodiment can be widely applied to different foldable devices, including but not limited to ultra-mobile personal computers (UMPCs), handheld computers, walkie-talkies, netbooks, POS machines, personal digital assistants (PDAs), wearable devices, virtual reality devices, and other mobile or fixed terminals with foldable screens.

[0134] In a specific implementation, the foldable device also includes a mobile or fixed terminal with a display device on one body and a keyboard on the other body. In addition, in other possible implementations, the hinge mechanism can also be applied to foldable non-electronic devices.

[0135] The above are only preferred embodiments of the present invention. It should be pointed out that for ordinary technicians in this technical field, several improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the principles of the present invention. These improvements and modifications should also be regarded as the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A hinge mechanism, characterized in that, It includes a main shaft assembly, a first main swing arm, a second main swing arm, a first sliding bracket and a damping module; The first main swing arm and the second main swing arm are arranged on both sides of the axis of the main shaft assembly and are respectively rotatably connected to the main shaft assembly on their respective sides. The rotation center lines of the first main swing arm and the second main swing arm are parallel to the extension direction of the main shaft assembly so as to switch between a folded state and an unfolded state relative to the main shaft assembly; The first sliding bracket is arranged on the first main swing arm, and the first sliding bracket can slide relative to the first main swing arm in a direction close to or away from the main shaft assembly; The damping module is arranged on the first sliding bracket, a cam portion is arranged on the first main swing arm, one end of the damping module is provided with a first damping friction member, and the first damping friction member abuts against the cam portion to provide a damping torque when the first sliding bracket slides relative to the first main swing arm.

2. The hinge mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that The first damping friction member is a first spherical member, and the damping module further includes a slider and an elastic member. The slider is arranged between the first spherical member and the elastic member; The slider has a first inclined surface that presses against the first spherical member, and the first inclined surface is inclined from the end of the slider away from the elastic member towards the direction close to the first sliding bracket; The first sliding bracket has a second inclined surface that presses against the first spherical member. The second inclined surface is arranged opposite to the first inclined surface in the thickness direction, and the second inclined surface is inclined from the body side of the first sliding bracket towards the direction away from the first spherical member.

3. The hinge mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that The other end of the damping module is provided with a second damping friction member, and the second damping friction member can abut against the first main swing arm.

4. The hinge mechanism according to claim 3, characterized in that The second damping friction member is a second spherical member, and the damping module further includes a base. The base is arranged between the elastic member of the damping module and the second spherical member; The base has a third inclined surface that presses against the second spherical member, and the third inclined surface is inclined from the end of the base away from the elastic member towards the direction close to the first sliding bracket; The first sliding bracket has a fourth inclined surface that presses against the second spherical member. The fourth inclined surface is arranged opposite to the third inclined surface in the thickness direction, and the fourth inclined surface is inclined from the body side of the first sliding bracket towards the direction away from the second spherical member.

5. The hinge mechanism according to claim 4, characterized in that The first main swing arm includes a cam support arm and a sliding support arm. The cam portion is arranged on the surface of the cam support arm opposite to the damping module. In the extension direction of the main shaft assembly, the cam support arm and the sliding support arm are arranged at intervals and both extend towards the direction away from the main shaft assembly. A chute and a receiving groove are formed in the first sliding bracket. The sliding support arm is inserted into the chute, and the cam support arm is inserted into the receiving groove; The first spherical member is disposed in the receiving groove. The side wall of the receiving groove near the damping module has a first concave inclined groove, which is inclined from the bottom of the receiving groove towards a direction away from the inner space of the receiving groove, and the groove wall of the first concave inclined groove forms the second inclined surface; The second spherical member is disposed in the sliding groove. The side wall of the sliding groove near the damping module has a second concave inclined groove, which is inclined from the bottom of the sliding groove towards a direction away from the inner space of the sliding groove, and the groove wall of the second concave inclined groove forms the fourth inclined surface.

6. The hinge mechanism according to claim 5, wherein, The second spherical member abuts against the sliding arm of the first main swing arm.

7. The hinge mechanism according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, The damping module further includes a friction plate, which is disposed between the second spherical member and the sliding arm.

8. The hinge mechanism according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that, The first sliding bracket is further provided with a concave receiving cavity, which is located between the receiving groove and the sliding groove and is respectively communicated with the receiving groove and the sliding groove. At least part of the damping module is disposed in the concave receiving cavity.

9. The hinge mechanism according to claim 8, characterized in that, Both the slider and the base are disposed in the concave receiving cavity, and the slider can slide in the concave receiving cavity.

10. The hinge mechanism according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The slider has a first limiting convex block protruding laterally, and a first limiting groove is correspondingly formed on the side wall of the concave receiving cavity. The first limiting convex block is inserted into the first limiting groove; the base has a second limiting convex block protruding laterally, and a second limiting groove is correspondingly formed on the side wall of the concave receiving cavity. The second limiting convex block is inserted into the second limiting groove.

11. The hinge mechanism according to claim 5, characterized in that, Among the side wall of the sliding groove and the sliding arm, a positioning groove is formed on one of them, and a positioning convex block is provided on the other. The positioning groove is in the same direction as the extending direction of the sliding groove, and the positioning convex block is disposed in the positioning groove.

12. The hinge mechanism according to any one of claims 4 to 11, characterized in that, The elastic member is a spring. A first positioning post is disposed on the opposite side of the slider to the spring, and a second positioning post is disposed on the opposite side of the base to the spring. The spring coils at both ends of the spring are respectively sleeved on the first positioning post and the second positioning post.

13. The hinge mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that, The cam portion includes a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion connected in sequence. The second portion is the high point of the cam portion; the first portion is located on the side of the cam portion close to the main shaft assembly and is an inclined surface or an arc surface gradually converging from the second portion; the second portion is located on the side of the cam portion away from the main shaft assembly and is an inclined surface or an arc surface gradually converging from the second portion.

14. The hinge mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that, A second sliding bracket is disposed on the second main swing arm, and the second sliding bracket can slide relative to the second main swing arm towards or away from the main shaft assembly.

15. The hinge mechanism according to claim 14, characterized in that, A second damping module is disposed on the second sliding bracket to provide a damping moment when the second sliding bracket slides relative to the second main swing arm.

16. The hinge mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that, The hinge mechanism further includes a pulling component, one end of the pulling component is connected to the sliding bracket, and the other end is rotatably connected to the main shaft component; the main swing arm rotates relative to the main shaft component around a first rotation center, the pulling component rotates relative to the main shaft component around a second rotation center, and the first rotation center is closer to the center line of the main shaft component than the second rotation center.

17. The hinge mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that, The hinge mechanism further includes a pulling component, one end of the pulling component is connected to the sliding bracket, and the other end is rotatably connected to the main shaft component; the main swing arm rotates relative to the main shaft component around a first rotation center, the pulling component rotates relative to the main shaft component around a second rotation center, and the second rotation center is closer to the center line of the main shaft component than the first rotation center.

18. The hinge mechanism according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that, The pulling component includes a connecting piece and an arc arm, one end of the connecting piece is connected to the arc arm, the other end of the connecting piece is connected to the sliding bracket, and the arc arm is rotatably connected to the main shaft component.

19. The hinge mechanism according to claim 18, characterized in that, An arc-shaped slider is arranged on the arc arm, an arc groove is formed in the main shaft component, one side notch of the arc groove is arranged on the inner surface of the main shaft component, and the arc-shaped slider is placed in the arc groove and slides along the arc groove so that the arc arm rotates relative to the main shaft component.

20. A folding device, characterized in that, The folding device includes two main bodies connected by a hinge mechanism, and the hinge mechanism adopts the hinge mechanism described in any one of claims 1 to 19.

21. The folding device according to claim 20, wherein, The folding device is a laptop computer, a foldable tablet computer or a foldable mobile phone.

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