Edge protection assembly and foldable device

Abstract

An edge protection assembly (100) and a foldable device (1000). The edge protection assembly (100) comprises a fixed member (110) and a flexible insert (120). The flexible insert (120) is an integrally formed structure of an elastic piece (121) and a flexible body (122), the flexible body (122) is easy to bend and deform, and the elastic piece (121) has a reinforcing function. The elastic piece (121) is embedded in an elongated portion (1221) of the flexible body (122), and a first connecting portion (1222) and a second connecting portion (1223) are correspondingly connected to two ends (1221a, 1221b) of the elongated portion (1221). The first connecting portion (1222) and the second connecting portion (1223) are correspondingly embedded in an edge (400a) of a first body (400) and an edge (500a) of a second body (500). The fixed member (110) is fixed on a rotating shaft assembly (200). The position of a middle portion (1221f) of the elongated portion (1221) is limited by a protruding portion (111) of the fixed member (110), and the elongated portion (1221) can be bent around the protruding portion (111). The elongated portion (1221) can keep covering the edge of a bending area (302) a display surface (300a) of a flexible screen (300), so as to achieve edge protection of the bending area (302). Under long-term repeated bending, static bending or high-temperature and high-humidity environments, the flexible insert (120) is not prone to creases, warpage or detachment. The flexible insert (120) facilitates formation of a uniform bending form when the flexible screen (300) is bent, and reduces crack damage caused by compression of the flexible screen (300).

Description

Edge protection component and foldable device

[0001] This application claims priority to the Chinese patent application filed with the State Intellectual Property Office on January 11, 2024, with application number 202410047842.6 and application name “An edge protection component and foldable device”, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference into this application. Technical Field

[0002] The embodiments of the present application relate to the technical field of electronic devices, and in particular to an edge protection component and a foldable device. Background Art

[0003] Foldable devices of related art offer a large display area when flattened, and a compact, portable design when closed. Edge protection components can be installed at the edges of the flexible screen's folding zone to provide shielding and protection. However, edge protection components of related art are prone to plastic deformation after prolonged bending, making it difficult to return to their natural shape when flattened, and prone to creases and bulging. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The embodiments of the present application provide an edge protection component and a foldable device, which solve the problem that edge protection components in related technologies are prone to creases and arches after being bent for a long time.

[0005] The embodiments of this application adopt the following technical solutions:

[0006] In a first aspect, the edge protection assembly provided by the embodiments of the present application is applied to a foldable device having a hinge assembly, a first body, a second body and a flexible screen, and the edge protection assembly includes a fixing member and a flexible insert, and the fixing member is used to be fixed to the hinge assembly. In the axial direction of the hinge assembly, the projection of the fixing member covers part of the side surface of the flexible screen. The fixing member has a protrusion. The flexible insert includes an elastic sheet and a flexible body, and the elastic sheet and the flexible body are an integrally molded structure. The flexible body includes a strip, a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion. The first connecting portion is connected to one end of the strip, and the second connecting portion is connected to the other end of the strip, and the elastic sheet is embedded in the strip. The strip has a first surface and a second surface facing each other, and the edges of the bending area of ​​the first surface and the display surface of the flexible screen are arranged to face each other, and the protrusion and the second surface are arranged to face each other in the middle of the length direction of the strip. The first connecting portion is used to be embedded in the edge of the first body, and the second connecting portion is used to be embedded in the edge of the second body.

[0007] Among them, the arrangement direction of the first body and the second body when the foldable device is in a flat state is defined as the X direction, the width direction of the foldable device or the axial direction of the hinge assembly is defined as the Y direction, and the thickness direction of the foldable device is defined as the Z direction. The thickness direction of the flexible screen in the flat state is also the Z direction. The X direction, Y direction and Z direction are perpendicular to each other.

[0008] The side of the flexible screen is the outer perimeter connecting the display surface and the back surface. The length direction (X direction) of the strip portion refers to the length of the strip portion when the foldable device is in the flattened state. The length direction (X direction) of the strip portion is perpendicular to the axial direction (Y direction) of the hinge assembly.

[0009] In the edge protection assembly provided by the embodiment of the present application, the flexible insert is an integrally formed structure of an elastic sheet and a flexible body. The flexible body is easily bent and deformed, and the elastic sheet plays a reinforcing role. The elastic sheet is embedded in the strip portion of the flexible body, and the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion are correspondingly connected to the two ends of the strip portion. The first surface of the strip portion faces the edge of the bending area of ​​the display surface of the flexible screen, the fixing member is fixed on the rotating shaft assembly, and the protrusion of the fixing member faces the middle of the second surface of the strip portion, thereby reducing the flexible insert from being pulled out by external forces. During the switching process of the foldable device between the flattened state and the closed state, the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion are correspondingly embedded in the edges of the first main body and the second main body, so that the flexible insert follows the movement of the first main body and the second main body. The middle part of the strip portion is limited by the protrusion of the fixing member, and the strip portion can be bent around the protrusion. When the first and second bodies are at different angles, the strip can maintain coverage of the edge of the bending zone of the display surface of the flexible screen, thereby protecting the edge of the bending zone, reducing the ingress of dust, water, and other external foreign matter into the interior of the flexible screen, and making the edge of the bending zone of the flexible screen beautiful. Under long-term repeated bending, static bending, or high-temperature and high-humidity environments, the flexible insert deforms less and is less likely to crease, arch, or fall out. When flattened, it can return to a flat natural shape, providing a good user experience, high reliability, and a long folding life. The flexible insert is conducive to forming a uniform bending shape when the flexible screen is bent, reducing the mutual extrusion force between the flexible insert and the flexible screen during the folding process, and reducing the damage to the flexible screen caused by cracks due to extrusion.

[0010] When the foldable device is closed, the middle of the strip is held in place by the protrusion of the fixing member, allowing it to conform to the edge of the bending zone of the folded flexible screen display. If the cross-section of the folded flexible screen is a teardrop-shaped curve, the strip's cross-section will also roughly resemble a teardrop-shaped curve, effectively covering the edge of the bending zone of the flexible screen display.

[0011] In an optional implementation, the fixing member and the rotating shaft assembly can be fixed by adhesive bonding, snap connection, fasteners (such as screws), etc. The fixing member can be arranged near the end of the rotating shaft assembly.

[0012] In an optional implementation, the fixing member may be made of metal or plastic. The fixing member is made of hard materials such as metal and plastic, which facilitates the fixing member to be reliably connected to the shaft assembly.

[0013] In an optional implementation, the fixing member may be substantially plate-shaped, with the thickness direction of the fixing member being the axial direction (Y direction) of the rotating shaft assembly. Alternatively, the fixing member may be block-shaped or in other shapes.

[0014] In one optional implementation, the fixing member may include an inserting portion and an assembly portion, the inserting portion and the assembly portion being connected, the inserting portion being inserted into the shaft assembly, and the assembly portion being connected to the support member. The inserting portion and the assembly portion are generally T-shaped, facilitating insertion of the inserting portion into the shaft assembly, with both ends of the assembly portion abutting against the surface of the shaft assembly to limit the position of the fixing member.

[0015] In one optional implementation, the strip can be configured as a generally elongated strip. Both the elastic sheet and the strip in the flexible insert can extend along the edge of the flexible screen's bend, tightly connecting the elastic sheet and the strip to provide shielding and protection for the display's bend. The strip can be straight, partially curved, or have a curvature.

[0016] In one optional implementation, the elastic sheet can be a thin plastic or metal sheet, the flexible body can be made of soft rubber, and the elastic sheet and flexible body are formed as an insert injection molded structure. The flexible body is easy to injection mold, and the elastic sheet has a certain degree of rigidity and strength. The elastic sheet and flexible body complement each other, and the connection between them is stable, forming an integrated flexible insert with a small overall thickness, weight, and high reliability.

[0017] In an optional implementation, the elastic sheet may be a plastic sheet, such as a polyethylene terephthalate sheet, a polyimide sheet, etc. The elastic sheet may also be a metal sheet, such as a steel sheet.

[0018] In an optional implementation, the material of the flexible body can be a soft rubber that is resistant to high temperature and high humidity, such as silicone, thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic polyurethane rubber, polyvinyl chloride soft rubber, rubber (such as silicone rubber, natural rubber, butadiene rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber, hexamethylene propylene rubber, etc.) and other materials.

[0019] In one optional implementation, the elastic sheet is disposed on the first surface of the strip. Using an integrated molding process allows for a thinner flexible insert, for example, approximately 0.1 mm thick, facilitating a thinner overall foldable device. The flexible body serves as the exterior surface, enhancing the aesthetics of the flexible insert.

[0020] In an optional implementation, the first surface of the strip portion has a first groove, and the elastic sheet is embedded in the first groove. The flexible body covers one surface of the elastic sheet, increasing the connection area between the flexible body and the elastic sheet, making the connection between the flexible body and the elastic sheet reliable.

[0021] In one optional implementation, the strip portion has a first side facing the fixing member, the first connecting portion is provided at one end of the first side, and the second connecting portion is provided at the other end of the first side. The first connecting portion and the second connecting portion are staggered relative to the side of the flexible screen along the axial direction (Y direction) of the hinge assembly, thereby facilitating corresponding insertion of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion into the first body and the second body.

[0022] In an optional implementation, a first slide groove is provided on the edge of the first body near the rotating shaft assembly, the length direction of the first slide groove is the same as the length direction (X direction) of the strip portion, and the first connecting portion is slidably mounted on the first slide groove. A second slide groove is provided on the edge of the second body near the rotating shaft assembly, the length direction of the second slide groove is the same as the length direction (X direction) of the strip portion, and the second connecting portion is slidably mounted on the second slide groove. During the switching process between the flattened state and the closed state of the foldable device, the first connecting portion is allowed to slide relative to the first body, and the second connecting portion is allowed to slide relative to the second body, so that the strip portion connected between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion can form a uniform bending shape.

[0023] In one optional implementation, the sliding distance L of the first connecting portion within the first chute ranges from 0.2 mm to 1 mm, and the sliding distance L of the second connecting portion within the second chute ranges from 0.2 mm to 1 mm. This facilitates the corresponding installation of the first and second connecting portions at both ends of the strip within the first and second chute, allowing the strip to form a relatively uniform bending shape during the transition between the flattened and closed states of the foldable device, thereby reducing the risk of the flexible insert falling out of the first and second bodies.

[0024] In an optional implementation, the first connecting portion includes a first supporting portion and a first sliding portion, the first supporting portion is connected between the first side edge and the first sliding portion, the end of the first supporting portion away from the first side edge is located in the first sliding groove, the first sliding portion is located in the first sliding groove, and the first sliding portion and the first sliding groove are respectively adapted to each other in cross-sectional shapes in a length direction perpendicular to the strip portion.

[0025] The first sliding portion is offset a certain distance in the thickness direction (Z direction) of the flexible screen, and is slidably mounted on the first body at a predetermined distance from the display surface of the flexible screen. The first sliding portion can slide stably and linearly along the length direction of the first sliding groove.

[0026] In an optional implementation, in the longitudinal direction (X direction) of the strip portion, the end surface of the first support portion close to the fixing member and the end surface of the first chute are arranged facing each other, thereby limiting the range of movement of the first connecting portion and reducing the possibility of the first connecting portion falling out of the first chute.

[0027] In one optional implementation, the first sliding portion and the first sliding groove each bend and extend in a cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the length direction (X direction) of the strip portion. The first sliding portion is buckled into the first sliding groove along the axial direction (Y direction) of the shaft assembly, preventing the first sliding portion from easily falling out of the first body along the axial direction (Y direction) of the shaft assembly, thereby retaining the flexible insert on the first body.

[0028] In an optional implementation, the cross-sectional shapes of the first sliding portion and the first sliding groove in the length direction (X direction) perpendicular to the strip portion are L-shaped, arc-shaped, or other bent extension shapes, so that the first sliding portion can be buckled on the first sliding groove along the axial direction (Y direction) of the rotating shaft assembly without being easily dislodged.

[0029] In an optional implementation, the second connecting portion includes a second supporting portion and a second sliding portion, the second supporting portion is connected between the first side edge and the second sliding portion, the end of the second supporting portion away from the first side edge is located in the second slide groove, the second sliding portion is located in the second slide groove, and the second slide groove and the second slide groove respectively have matching cross-sectional shapes in the length direction perpendicular to the length of the strip portion (X direction). The second sliding portion can be offset a certain distance along the thickness direction of the flexible screen (Z direction), so that the second sliding portion can be slidably installed on the second body at a predetermined distance from the display surface of the flexible screen. The second sliding portion can slide stably and linearly along the length direction of the second slide groove.

[0030] In one optional implementation, the end surface of the second support portion, which is closest to the fixing member, faces the end surface of the second chute in the longitudinal direction (X direction) of the strip. The abutment between the end surface of the second chute and the end surface of the second support portion prevents further movement of the second support portion, limiting the range of movement of the second connecting portion and reducing the risk of the second connecting portion falling out of the second chute.

[0031] In an optional implementation, the second sliding portion and the second sliding groove are each bent and extended in a cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the length direction (X direction) of the strip portion. The second sliding portion is not easily dislodged from the second body along the axial direction (Y direction) of the rotating shaft assembly, thereby retaining the flexible insert on the second body.

[0032] In an optional implementation, the cross-sectional shape of the second sliding portion and the second sliding groove in the direction perpendicular to the length of the strip portion is an L-shaped, arc-shaped or other bent extension shape, which enables the second sliding portion to be buckled on the second sliding groove along the axial direction (Y direction) of the rotating shaft assembly without being easily dislodged.

[0033] In an optional implementation, in the length direction (X direction) of the strip portion, the fixing member can be located between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion, so that the strip portion between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion can be shortened to ensure that the strip portion covers the edge of the bending area of ​​the display surface of the flexible screen to achieve shielding protection.

[0034] In an optional implementation, in the length direction (X direction) of the strip portion, the fixing member can be located between the first supporting portion in the first connecting portion and the second supporting portion in the second connecting portion, so that the thickness of the fixing member can be made thinner, so that it can be fixed at the end of the shaft assembly and occupy less space in the shaft assembly.

[0035] In one optional implementation, in the thickness direction (Z direction) of the flexible screen, the first connecting portion is located between the first frame and the first body, and the second connecting portion is located between the second frame and the second body. This allows the strip and elastic sheet between the first and second connecting portions to remain in a predetermined position and not easily fall out, allowing the flexible insert to be securely assembled between the first and second bodies.

[0036] In one optional implementation, a first stopper is connected to the middle portion of the first side of the strip-shaped portion, facing the flexible screen. The first stopper and the side surface of the flexible screen are disposed opposite each other. Under external force, the first stopper abuts against the side surface of the flexible screen, reducing the risk of the flexible insert falling out of the flexible screen under external force. The flexible insert is retained in its predetermined position, shielding and protecting the edge of the curved area of ​​the display surface of the flexible screen and improving reliability.

[0037] In an optional implementation, the side of the fixing member facing the flexible screen may have an escape groove, and the first limiting portion is at least partially embedded in the escape groove. This allows the foldable device to have a smaller axial (Y-direction) dimension of the hinge assembly. The first limiting portion and the inner wall of the escape groove are arranged facing each other. When the first and second bodies drive the strip to bend, the first limiting portion and the inner wall of the escape groove gradually approach each other and abut against each other, thereby limiting the bending shape of the strip.

[0038] In an optional implementation, there is a safety gap between the strip portion and the protrusion, and a second limiting portion is connected to the middle portion of the first side facing away from the flexible screen. In the thickness direction (Z direction) of the flexible screen, the second limiting portion and the protrusion are arranged facing each other.

[0039] When the foldable device is in a flattened state, there is a certain safety gap between the protrusion and the strip in the thickness direction (Z direction) of the flexible screen. A second limiting portion is provided in the middle of the first side edge of the strip. At the moment when the foldable device in the flattened state is folded, the second limiting portion will abut against the protrusion, making it difficult for the middle of the strip to arch back. Then, the strip and the elastic sheet gradually bend as a whole, so that the flexible insert has a better bending shape during the bending process. When the flexible insert is subjected to external force, the second limiting portion can abut against the protrusion of the fixing member, reducing the possibility of the flexible insert falling out along the axial direction (Y direction) of the rotating shaft assembly and improving reliability.

[0040] In an optional implementation, the fixing member has an escape groove on the side facing the flexible screen, and the second limiting portion is at least partially embedded in the escape groove, so that the foldable device can be made smaller in the axial direction (Y direction) of the hinge assembly.

[0041] In a second aspect, embodiments of the present application provide a foldable device comprising: a hinge assembly, a first body, a second body, a flexible screen, and an edge protection assembly. The hinge assembly is positioned between the first and second bodies, and the first and second bodies are connected by the hinge assembly. The flexible screen has a display surface and a back surface facing each other, and the back surface of the flexible screen is fixed to the first and second bodies.

[0042] In one optional implementation, one end of the first body and one end of the second body can rotate relative to the hinge assembly, and the end of the first body away from the hinge assembly and the end of the second body away from the hinge assembly can move toward or away from each other. The flexible screen can bend or unfold in response to the position changes of the first and second bodies, allowing the foldable device to switch between a flattened state, an intermediate state, and a closed state.

[0043] In an optional implementation, the foldable device can be configured as an inward-folding structure. When the hinge assembly is in the closed state, a screen-holding space is formed between the first body, the hinge assembly, and the second body, and the flexible screen is partially bent and located within the screen-holding space. The bending shape of the flexible screen is affected by the hinge assembly. When the hinge assembly is in the closed state, the cross-section of the bent flexible screen can have a teardrop-shaped or U-shaped curve.

[0044] In one optional implementation, the flexible screen has a first fixing area, a bending area, and a second fixing area connected in sequence. The first fixing area is fixed to the first body, and the second fixing area is fixed to the second body. The bending areas and the hinge assembly are correspondingly arranged. The first fixing area and the first body, and the second fixing area and the second body can be connected by adhesive bonding or other methods.

[0045] In one optional implementation, the hinge assembly may include a hinge body, a hinge housing, a first plate, and a second plate. The hinge body and the hinge housing both extend in the Y direction, with the hinge body positioned proximate to the flexible screen, and the hinge housing positioned on a side of the hinge body away from the flexible screen. The first plate and the second plate are respectively connected to opposite sides of the hinge body along the X direction and are rotatable relative to the hinge body. The first plate and the second plate may be fixedly connected to the first and second bodies in a one-to-one correspondence using fasteners or other means, such that the first and second bodies can rotate relative to the hinge body.

[0046] In one optional implementation, both the first and second bodies may include a middle shell and a rear shell. The middle shell may be referred to as a middle frame. The rear shell is disposed on a side of the middle shell away from the flexible screen. The middle shell and rear shell may be assembled. The middle shell and rear shell may also be integrally molded.

[0047] In one optional implementation, a first frame is provided on the first body, located at the edge of the flexible screen corresponding to the first body. A second frame is provided on the second body, located at the edge of the flexible screen corresponding to the second body. The first frame can shield and protect the edge of the first fixed area of ​​the flexible screen, while the second frame can shield and protect the edge of the second fixed area of ​​the flexible screen, thereby reducing damage to the edge of the flexible screen and improving the appearance.

[0048] In an optional implementation, the first body and the first frame may be an assembled structure, for example, the first frame is fixed to the first body by bonding, snapping, or the like. The first body and the first frame may also be an integrally formed structure. The second body and the second frame may be an assembled structure, for example, the second frame is fixed to the second body by bonding, snapping, or the like. The second body and the second frame may also be an integrally formed structure.

[0049] In an optional implementation, the flexible screen in a flattened state is roughly rectangular with rounded corners, and the first body and the second body are roughly rectangular parallelepiped. The first frame and the second frame both extend roughly in a right-angled U-shape, and the cross-sectional shape of the first frame and the second frame perpendicular to their extension direction can be roughly L-shaped or other shapes. The opening of the first frame and the opening of the second frame are arranged facing each other. The first frame and the second frame are respectively arranged to correspond to different edges of the flexible screen, thereby providing shielding protection for the corresponding edge positions of the flexible screen.

[0050] In an optional implementation, an edge protection component can be provided at each end of the hinge assembly to shield and protect the edges of the bending areas of the flexible screen corresponding to the two ends of the hinge assembly.

[0051] In one optional implementation, in the thickness direction (Z direction) of the flexible screen, a first gap is formed between the first frame and the display surface of the flexible screen, and a second gap is formed between the second frame and the display surface of the flexible screen. One end of the strip is located in the first gap, and the other end of the strip is located in the second gap, thereby limiting the position of both ends of the strip.

[0052] In one optional implementation, in the axial direction (Y direction) of the hinge assembly, a third gap is formed between the first frame and the side of the flexible screen, and a fourth gap is formed between the second frame and the side of the flexible screen. The first connecting portion (i.e., the first supporting portion in the first connecting portion) is partially located in the third gap, and the second connecting portion (i.e., the second supporting portion in the second connecting portion) is partially located in the fourth gap. This allows the ends of the flexible insert to follow the movement of the first and second bodies, allowing the flexible insert to remain at the edge of the flexible screen and prevent it from falling out. This provides reliable shielding and protection for the edge of the flexible screen and reduces the risk of the flexible insert falling out under external forces.

[0053] In one optional implementation, the first frame has a first shielding portion near the hinge assembly, and the second frame has a second shielding portion near the hinge assembly. In the axial direction (Y direction) of the hinge assembly, the projection of the first shielding portion partially covers the fixing member, and the projection of the second shielding portion partially covers the fixing member. This protects the fixing member, reduces the risk of foreign matter such as particles entering the gap between the fixing member and the hinge assembly, improves reliability, and enhances the appearance of the hinge assembly end. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0054] FIG1 is a schematic diagram of the cooperation between the edge protection assembly and the flexible screen in the foldable device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0055] FIG2 is a schematic structural diagram of a foldable device provided in an embodiment of the present application in a flattened state;

[0056] FIG3 is a schematic structural diagram of the foldable device of FIG2 in a closed state;

[0057] FIG4 is an exploded perspective view of the foldable device of FIG2 ;

[0058] FIG5 is a schematic structural diagram of the foldable device of FIG2 after the first frame is removed;

[0059] FIG6 is a schematic structural diagram of a display screen, an edge protection assembly, and a rotating shaft assembly in the foldable device of FIG4 ;

[0060] FIG7 is a schematic diagram of the assembly of the display screen, edge protection assembly, and rotating shaft assembly of FIG6 ;

[0061] FIG8 is a three-dimensional assembly diagram of an edge protection assembly provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0062] FIG9 is a perspective view of the edge protection assembly of FIG8 from another angle;

[0063] FIG10 is an exploded perspective view of the edge protection assembly of FIG8 ;

[0064] FIG11 is a partial cross-sectional view of the foldable device of FIG2 along line AA;

[0065] FIG12 is a partial cross-sectional view of the foldable device of FIG2 along line BB;

[0066] FIG13 is an exploded schematic diagram of the edge protection assembly, the first body, and the second body of the foldable device of FIG4 ;

[0067] FIG14 is a schematic diagram of the assembly of the edge protection assembly of FIG13 disposed between the first body and the second body;

[0068] FIG15 is a perspective view of the edge protection assembly of FIG8 from another angle;

[0069] FIG16 is an exploded perspective view of the edge protection assembly of FIG15 ;

[0070] FIG17 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the edge protection assembly of FIG8 taken along line CC.

[0071] Explanation of Reference Numerals: 1-shielding member; 1a-soft glue; 1b-steel sheet; 2-flexible screen; 1000-foldable device; 100-edge protection assembly; 110-fixing member; 111-protruding portion; 112-connecting portion; 113-assembly portion; 114-avoidance groove; 120-flexible insert; 121-elastic sheet; 122-flexible body; 1221-strip portion; 1221a-end; 1221b-end; 1221c-first surface; 1221d - first groove; 1221e - second surface; 1221f - middle portion; 1221g - first side edge; 1221h - middle portion; 1222 - first connecting portion; 1222a - first supporting portion; 1222b - end surface; 1222c - first sliding portion; 1223 - second connecting portion; 1223a - second supporting portion; 1223b - end surface; 1223c - second sliding portion; 1224 - first limiting portion; 1225 - second limiting portion; 200 - rotating shaft assembly; 200a - end portion; 210 - rotating shaft body; 220 - rotating shaft housing; 230 - first plate; 240 - second plate; 300 - flexible screen; 300a - display surface; 300b - back surface; 300c - side surface; 301 - first fixing area; 302 - bending area; 303 - second fixing area; 400-first body; 400a-edge; 401-first slide groove; 401a-end surface; 410-middle shell; 420-back shell; 500-second body; 500a-edge; 501-second slide groove; 501a-end surface; 600-first frame; 601-opening; 602-first shielding part; 611-first gap; 612-second gap; 613-third gap; 700-second frame; 701-opening; 702-second shielding part. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0072] In order to make the technical problems, technical solutions and beneficial effects to be solved by this application clearer, the application is further described in detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and examples. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to explain this application and are not used to limit this application. Although the description of this application will be introduced in conjunction with some embodiments, this does not mean that the features of this application are limited to this embodiment. On the contrary, the purpose of introducing the application in conjunction with the embodiment is to cover other options or modifications that may be extended based on the claims of this application. In order to provide an in-depth understanding of the application, the following description will contain many specific details. This application can also be implemented without using these details. In addition, in order to avoid confusion or blurring the focus of this application, some specific details will be omitted in the description. It should be noted that the embodiments in this application and the features in the embodiments can be combined with each other unless there is a conflict.

[0073] It should be noted that when an element is referred to as being “fixed on” or “disposed on” another element, it may be directly on the other element or indirectly on the other element. When an element is referred to as being “connected to” another element, it may be directly connected to the other element or indirectly connected to the other element.

[0074] It should be understood that in the description of the embodiments of the present application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the terms "installation" and "connection" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, "connection" can be a detachable connection or a non-detachable connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. The orientation or positional relationship indicated by the terms "length", "width", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", etc. is based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. It is only for the convenience of describing the present application and simplifying the description, and does not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore cannot be understood as a limitation on the present application.

[0075] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of the technical features being referred to. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the features. Throughout the description of this application, "plurality" means two or more, unless otherwise specifically defined.

[0076] In the embodiments of this application, "and / or" is simply a description of the association relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent three situations: A exists alone, A and B exist at the same time, and B exists alone. In addition, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the related objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0077] References to "one embodiment" or "some embodiments" in this specification mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in conjunction with that embodiment is included in one or more embodiments of the present application. Thus, phrases such as "in one embodiment," "in some embodiments," "in other embodiments," and "in yet other embodiments" appearing in various places in this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, but rather mean "one or more but not all embodiments," unless otherwise specifically emphasized. The terms "including," "comprising," "having," and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to," unless otherwise specifically emphasized.

[0078] Referring to Figure 1 , an embodiment of the present application provides an edge protection assembly applicable to foldable devices. The edge protection assembly comprises a shielding member 1 that shields and protects the edge of the bending area of ​​a flexible screen 2. Shielding member 1 can be an integrated injection-molded structure consisting of a soft adhesive 1a wrapped around a steel sheet 1b, with soft adhesive 1a on both the top and bottom sides of the steel sheet 1b.

[0079] Referring to Figures 2 and 3, in order to facilitate the description of the position and direction of the foldable device 1000 and the edge protection assembly 100 of the embodiment of the present application, the arrangement direction of the first body 400 and the second body 500 when the foldable device 1000 is in a flat state is defined as the X direction, the width direction of the foldable device 1000 or the axial direction of the hinge assembly 200 is defined as the Y direction, and the thickness direction of the foldable device 1000 is defined as the Z direction. The thickness direction of the flexible screen 300 in the flat state is also the Z direction. The X direction, Y direction and Z direction are perpendicular to each other.

[0080] 2 and 3 , an embodiment of the present application provides a foldable device 1000 , which may be a mobile phone, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, an e-book reader, a netbook, a personal digital assistant, a smart wearable device (such as a smart watch), etc.

[0081] 4 , an embodiment of the present application provides a foldable device 1000, comprising: a hinge assembly 200, a first body 400, a second body 500, a flexible screen 300, and an edge protection assembly 100. The hinge assembly 200 is located between the first body 400 and the second body 500, and the first body 400 and the second body 500 are connected by the hinge assembly 200. The flexible screen 300 has a display surface 300a and a back surface 300b facing each other, and the back surface 300b of the flexible screen 300 is fixed to the first body 400 and the second body 500.

[0082] One end of the first body 400 and one end of the second body 500 can rotate relative to the hinge assembly 200. The end of the first body 400 away from the hinge assembly 200 and the end of the second body 500 away from the hinge assembly 200 can move toward or away from each other. The flexible screen 300 can bend or unfold in response to the position changes of the first body 400 and the second body 500, allowing the foldable device 1000 to switch between a flattened state, an intermediate state, and a closed state.

[0083] Referring to Figure 2, when the foldable device 1000 is in a flattened state, the first body 400 and the second body 500 are unfolded on both sides of the hinge assembly 200, with the first body 400 and the second body 500 being approximately 180° apart. The flexible screen 300 is unfolded and supported on the first body 400, the hinge assembly 200 and the second body 500.

[0084] Referring to Figure 3, when the foldable device 1000 is in the closed state, the first body 400 and the second body 500 are folded together to form a stacked structure, and the flexible screen 300 bends along with the first body 400 and the second body 500. The intermediate state of the foldable device 1000 is a state between the flattened state and the closed state.

[0085] The foldable device 1000 can be configured as an inward-folding structure. When the hinge assembly 200 is closed, a screen-accommodating space is formed between the first body 400, the hinge assembly 200, and the second body 500. The flexible screen 300 is partially bent and located within the screen-accommodating space. The bending shape of the flexible screen 300 is influenced by the hinge assembly 200. When the hinge assembly 200 is closed, the cross-section of the bent flexible screen 300 can have a teardrop-shaped or U-shaped curve.

[0086] Flexible screen 300 is used to display images and information. Flexible screen 300 can be an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, an active-matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) display, a mini LED display, a micro LED display, a micro OLED display, a quantum dot LED display, or the like. A touch layer can be provided within flexible screen 300 to implement touch functionality.

[0087] Referring to Figures 2 and 4 , the flexible screen 300 comprises a first fixing area 301, a bending area 302, and a second fixing area 303, which are sequentially connected. The first fixing area 301 is fixed to the first body 400, and the second fixing area 303 is fixed to the second body 500. The bending area 302 corresponds to the hinge assembly 200. The first fixing area 301 and the first body 400, and the second fixing area 303 and the second body 500 can be connected using adhesive bonding or other methods.

[0088] When setting up the hinge assembly 200, referring to FIG. 4 , the hinge assembly 200 may include a hinge body 210, a hinge housing 220, a first plate 230, and a second plate 240. The hinge body 210 and the hinge housing 220 both extend along the Y direction, with the hinge body 210 positioned proximate to the flexible screen 300, and the hinge housing 220 positioned on the side of the hinge body 210 away from the flexible screen 300. The first plate 230 and the second plate 240 are respectively connected to opposite sides of the hinge body 210 along the X direction and are rotatable relative to the hinge body 210. The first plate 230 and the second plate 240 may be fixedly connected to the first body 400 and the second body 500 in a one-to-one correspondence manner using fasteners or the like, allowing the first body 400 and the second body 500 to rotate relative to the hinge body 210.

[0089] When setting the first body 400 and the second body 500, referring to Figure 2, the first body 400 and the second body 500 can both include a middle shell 410 and a rear shell 420. The middle shell 410 can be called a middle frame. The rear shell 420 is provided on the side of the middle shell 410 away from the flexible screen 300. The middle shell 410 and the rear shell 420 can be an assembled structure, for example, the rear shell 420 is fixed to the middle shell 410 by bonding, snapping, etc. The middle shell 410 and the rear shell 420 can also be an integrally molded structure. Circuit boards, batteries, receivers, speakers, cameras, antennas and other devices can be installed on the first body 400 and the second body 500. The circuit boards can be provided with devices such as processors and storage units.

[0090] To shield and protect the edges of the flexible screen 300, in some embodiments, referring to Figures 2, 4, and 5, a first bezel 600 is provided on the first body 400. The first bezel 600 is located at the edge 400a of the flexible screen 300 corresponding to the first body 400. A second bezel 700 is provided on the second body 500. The second bezel 700 is located at the edge 500a of the flexible screen 300 corresponding to the second body 500. The first bezel 600 shields and protects the edge of the first fixing area 301 of the flexible screen 300, while the second bezel 700 shields and protects the edge of the second fixing area 303 of the flexible screen 300, thereby reducing damage to the edges of the flexible screen 300 and improving the appearance.

[0091] The first body 400 and the first frame 600 may be assembled structures, for example, the first frame 600 is fixed to the first body 400 by means of bonding, snapping, etc. The first body 400 and the first frame 600 may also be an integrally formed structure. The second body 500 and the second frame 700 may be assembled structures, for example, the second frame 700 is fixed to the second body 500 by means of bonding, snapping, etc. The second body 500 and the second frame 700 may also be an integrally formed structure.

[0092] When setting the shape of the first body 400 and the second body 500, and the shape of the first frame 600 and the second frame 700, they can be set according to the shape of the flexible screen 300. For example, referring to Figure 4, the flexible screen 300 in a flattened state is roughly a rounded rectangle, and the outer shape of the first body 400 and the second body 500 is roughly a plate-shaped cuboid. The first frame 600 and the second frame 700 both extend roughly in a right-angled U-shape, and the cross-sectional shape of the first frame 600 and the second frame 700 perpendicular to their extension direction can be roughly L-shaped or other shapes. The opening 601 of the first frame 600 and the opening 701 of the second frame 700 are arranged facing each other. The first frame 600 and the second frame 700 are respectively arranged to correspond to different edges of the flexible screen 300 to achieve shielding protection of the corresponding edge positions of the flexible screen 300. In addition, the first body 400 and the second body 500, the first frame 600 and the second frame 700 can be set to other shapes based on the flexible screen 300.

[0093] Referring to Figures 2, 5, and 7, the edge of the bending zone 302 of the flexible screen 300 is bent. An edge protection assembly 100 is provided between the first frame 600 and the second frame 700, that is, between the first body 400 and the second body 500, to shield and protect the edge of the bending zone 302 of the flexible screen 300, reduce the ingress of dust, water, and other external foreign matter into the flexible screen 300, and also enhance the aesthetic appearance of the edge of the bending zone 302 of the flexible screen 300. An edge protection assembly 100 can be provided at each end 200a of the hinge assembly 200 to shield and protect the edge of the bending zone 302 of the flexible screen 300 corresponding to the end 200a of the hinge assembly 200.

[0094] Referring to Figures 8 to 11, Figure 11 is a partial cross-sectional view of the foldable device 1000 of Figure 2 along line AA. The edge protection assembly 100 provided in an embodiment of the present application is applied to the foldable device 1000 having a hinge assembly 200, a first body 400, a second body 500, and a flexible screen 300. The edge protection assembly 100 includes a fixing member 110 and a flexible insert 120. The fixing member 110 is used to be fixed to the hinge assembly 200. In the axial direction (Y direction) of the hinge assembly 200, the projection of the fixing member 110 covers a portion of the side surface 300c of the flexible screen 300. The fixing member 110 has a protrusion 111. The flexible insert 120 includes an elastic sheet 121 and a flexible body 122. The elastic sheet 121 and the flexible body 122 are integrally molded. The flexible body 122 includes a strip portion 1221, a first connecting portion 1222, and a second connecting portion 1223. The first connecting portion 1222 is connected to one end 1221a of the strip portion 1221, and the second connecting portion 1223 is connected to the other end 1221b of the strip portion 1221. The elastic sheet 121 is embedded in the strip portion 1221. The strip portion 1221 has a first surface 1221c and a second surface 1221e that are opposite to each other. The first surface 1221c and the edge of the bending region 302 of the display surface 300a of the flexible screen 300 are arranged facing each other. The protrusion 111 and the second surface 1221e are arranged facing each other in the middle portion 1221f of the strip portion 1221 in the longitudinal direction. In conjunction with Figures 12 to 14, Figure 12 is a partial cross-sectional view of the foldable device 1000 along line BB of Figure 2, Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of the decomposition of the edge protection component, the first body and the second body, and Figure 14 is an assembly schematic diagram of the edge protection component 100 arranged on the first body and the second body, the first connecting portion 1222 is used to be embedded in the edge 400a of the first body 400, and the second connecting portion 1223 is used to be embedded in the edge 500a of the second body 500.

[0095] Referring to Figures 4, 6, and 11, the side surface 300c of the flexible screen 300 is the outer peripheral surface connecting the display surface 300a and the back surface 300b. The display surface 300a of the flexible screen 300 is the side from which light is emitted from the flexible screen 300. The display surface 300a may include a display area and a non-display area located at the edge of the display area. In the thickness direction (Z direction) of the flexible screen 300, the flexible insert 120 can block part of the edge of the non-display area without affecting the light emission and display effect of the display area of ​​the flexible screen 300.

[0096] The length direction (X direction) of the strip 1221 refers to the length direction of the strip 1221 when the foldable device 1000 is in the flattened state. The length direction (X direction) of the strip 1221 is perpendicular to the axial direction (Y direction) of the hinge assembly 200. The middle portion 1221f of the second surface 1221e in the length direction (X direction) of the strip 1221 may not be the absolute middle position in the length direction, but rather the middle area of ​​the second surface 1221e in the length direction of the strip 1221. All positions other than the two ends (1221a, 1221b) of the strip 1221 in the length direction can be understood as the middle portion 1221f in the length direction.

[0097] The edge 400a of the first body 400 refers to the edge of the first body 400 for connecting with the flexible screen 300. The edge 500a of the second body 500 refers to the edge of the second body 500 for connecting with the flexible screen 300.

[0098] The edge protection assembly 100 provided in the embodiment of the present application has a flexible insert 120 that is an integrally formed structure of an elastic sheet 121 and a flexible body 122. The flexible body 122 is easily bent and deformed, and the elastic sheet 121 serves as a reinforcement. The elastic sheet 121 is embedded in the strip 1221 of the flexible body 122, and the first connecting portion 1222 and the second connecting portion 1223 are correspondingly connected to the two ends (1221a, 1221b) of the strip 1221. The first surface 1221c of the strip 1221 faces the edge of the bending area 302 of the display surface 300a of the flexible screen 300. The fixing member 110 is fixed to the hinge assembly 200, and the protrusion 111 of the fixing member 110 faces the middle portion 1221f of the second surface 1221e of the strip 1221, thereby reducing the risk of the flexible insert 120 being pulled out by external forces. When the foldable device 1000 switches between the flattened and closed states, the first connecting portion 1222 and the second connecting portion 1223 are respectively embedded in the edge 400a of the first body 400 and the edge 500a of the second body 500, allowing the flexible insert 120 to follow the movement of the first and second bodies 400, 500. The middle portion 1221f of the strip 1221 is restrained by the protrusion 111 of the fixing member 110, and the strip 1221 can bend around the protrusion 111. When the first and second bodies 400, 500 are at different angles, the strip 1221 can maintain coverage of the edge of the bending zone 302 of the display surface 300a of the flexible screen 300, providing protection for the edge of the bending zone 302, reducing the ingress of dust, water, and other foreign matter into the flexible screen 300, and enhancing the aesthetics of the edge of the bending zone 302 of the flexible screen 300. Under prolonged, repeated bending, static bending, or high-temperature, high-humidity conditions, the flexible insert 120 exhibits minimal deformation and is less susceptible to creases, bulging, or dislodging. When flattened, it returns to a smooth, natural shape, providing a positive user experience, high reliability, and a long folding life. The flexible insert 120 facilitates a uniform bending profile when the flexible screen 300 is bent, reducing the mutual squeezing forces between the flexible insert 120 and the flexible screen 300 during folding, thereby minimizing the risk of cracks and damage to the flexible screen 300 caused by squeezing. Even with a bending radius of 1.5 mm, the flexible screen 300 is not susceptible to cracks and damage caused by squeezing from the flexible insert 120.

[0099] When the foldable device 1000 is in the closed state, the middle portion 1221f of the strip 1221 is restrained by the protrusion 111 of the fixing member 110, allowing the strip 1221 to conform to the edge of the bending region 302 of the display surface 300a of the bent flexible screen 300. Given that the cross-section of the bent flexible screen 300 is a teardrop-shaped curved surface, the cross-section of the strip 1221 also has a substantially teardrop-shaped curved surface, effectively covering the edge of the bending region 302 of the display surface 300a of the flexible screen 300.

[0100] When fixing the fixing member 110 to the shaft assembly 200, referring to Figures 7 and 11, the fixing member 110 and the shaft assembly 200 can be fixed by adhesive bonding, snap connection, fasteners (such as screws), etc. The fixing member 110 can be arranged near the end 200a of the shaft assembly 200.

[0101] 8 to 10 , the fixing member 110 can be made of metal or plastic. The fixing member 110 is made of hard materials such as metal and plastic to facilitate reliable connection of the fixing member 110 to the rotating shaft assembly 200.

[0102] When the fixing member 110 is made of metal, it has high strength and can achieve a good anti-collision effect. The metal material can be stainless steel, cast iron, aluminum alloy or magnesium alloy.

[0103] For example, the fixing member 110 can be manufactured by a metal injection process, which has high dimensional accuracy and good structural strength, and can provide good protection for the edge of the flexible screen 300. Alternatively, the fixing member 110 can also be manufactured by a process such as die casting.

[0104] When setting the shape of the fixing member 110, refer to Figure 10 and adjust it as needed based on the appearance and volume of the flexible screen 300 and the appearance and volume of the hinge assembly 200. For example, the fixing member 110 can be roughly plate-shaped, with the thickness of the fixing member 110 aligning with the axial direction (Y direction) of the hinge assembly 200. Alternatively, the fixing member 110 can be block-shaped or other shapes.

[0105] For example, referring to Figures 8 to 11 , the fixing member 110 may include a plug-in portion 112 and an assembly portion 113. The plug-in portion 112 and the assembly portion 113 are connected. In conjunction with Figures 6 and 7 , the plug-in portion 112 is configured to be inserted into the shaft assembly 200, and the assembly portion 113 is configured to be connected to the support member. The length of the plug-in portion 112 in the X-direction is less than the length of the assembly portion 113 in the X-direction. The plug-in portion 112 and the assembly portion 113 are generally T-shaped, facilitating insertion of the plug-in portion 112 into the shaft assembly 200. The ends of the assembly portion 113 abut against the surface of the shaft assembly 200 to limit the position of the fixing member 110.

[0106] When setting the shape of the strip portion 1221, it can be set as needed according to the appearance and volume of the flexible screen 300. For example, referring to Figures 8 to 10, the strip portion 1221 can be roughly set as a long strip structure. The elastic sheet 121 and the strip portion 1221 in the flexible insert 120 can both be extended along the edge of the bending area 302 of the flexible screen 300, so that the elastic sheet 121 and the strip portion 1221 are tightly connected to achieve shielding protection for the edge of the bending area 302 of the display surface 300a. The strip portion 1221 can be a straight, partially curved or long strip structure with a certain curvature. In addition, the elastic sheet 121 and the strip portion 1221 can also be set to other shapes.

[0107] When manufacturing the elastic sheet 121 and the flexible body 122, referring to Figures 8 to 10, the elastic sheet 121 can be a plastic sheet or a metal sheet, the flexible body 122 can be made of soft rubber, and the elastic sheet 121 and the flexible body 122 are insert injection molding structures.

[0108] The elastic sheet 121 and the flexible body 122 adopt an insert injection molding structure. Insert injection molding is to pre-fix the insert in a predetermined position in the mold, and then inject plastic to form it. After the mold is opened, the insert is wrapped in the cooled and solidified plastic in the product. The flexible body 122 is easy to injection mold, and the elastic sheet 121 has a certain rigidity and strength. With the elastic sheet 121 as the insert, the flexible body 122 that wraps the elastic sheet 121 is obtained by injection molding. The elastic sheet 121 and the flexible body 122 complement each other, and the two are stably connected to form an integrated flexible insert 120. The overall thickness and weight are small, the reliability is high, and it can be bent repeatedly for a long time and used in high temperature and high humidity environments. It is not easy to crease, arch, or fall out.

[0109] The elastic sheet 121 may be a plastic sheet, such as a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) sheet, a polyimide (PI) sheet, etc. The elastic sheet 121 may also be a metal sheet, such as a steel sheet.

[0110] The material of the flexible body 122 can be a soft rubber that is resistant to high temperature and high humidity, such as silicone, thermoplastic elastomer (thermoplastomer, TPE), thermoplastic urethane rubber (thermoplastic urethane, TPU), polyvinyl chloride (polyvinyl chloride, PVC) soft rubber, rubber (such as silicone rubber, natural rubber, butadiene rubber, styrene butadiene rubber, hexamethylene propylene rubber, etc.) and other materials.

[0111] When setting the relative positions of the elastic sheet 121 and the strip portion 1221, referring to Figures 11, 15, and 16, the elastic sheet 121 is provided on the first surface 1221c of the strip portion 1221. In the thickness direction (Z direction) of the flexible screen 300, the strip portion 1221 covers the elastic sheet 121, and the edges of the elastic sheet 121 and the bending area 302 of the display surface 300a of the flexible screen 300 are arranged facing each other. The use of an integrated molding process can obtain a flexible insert 120 with a smaller thickness, for example, the thickness of the flexible insert 120 is about 0.1 mm, which is conducive to the thinning of the foldable device 1000. The flexible body 122 portion serves as the appearance surface. From the outside, the top of the flexible body 122 can be seen but the elastic sheet 121 cannot be seen, making the flexible insert 120 more beautiful.

[0112] To achieve a tight connection between the elastic sheet 121 and the strip portion 1221, in some embodiments, referring to Figures 11, 15, and 16, the first surface 1221c of the strip portion 1221 has a first groove 1221d, into which the elastic sheet 121 is embedded. The elastic sheet 121 is embedded in the first groove 1221d, so that the flexible body 122 serves as an exterior component. The flexible body 122 covers one surface of the elastic sheet 121, increasing the connection area between the flexible body 122 and the elastic sheet 121 and ensuring a reliable connection between the flexible body 122 and the elastic sheet 121.

[0113] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1 , the shielding member 1 utilizes an integrated injection-molded structure consisting of a soft adhesive layer 1a wrapped around a steel sheet 1b. The soft adhesive layer 1a is applied to both the upper and lower sides of the steel sheet 1b. The total thickness D0 of the shielding member 1 is the sum of the thickness D2 of the two layers of soft adhesive layer 1a and the thickness D1 of the steel sheet 1b. The thickness D2 of the soft adhesive layer 1a, produced using the relevant process, is significantly greater than the thickness D1 of the steel sheet 1b (or plastic sheet), resulting in a relatively large overall thickness D0 of the shielding member 1 as shown in Figure 1 .

[0114] In the embodiment shown in Figures 8 to 11 , the protrusion 111 of the fixing member 110 can be a sheet made of metal or plastic. The thickness D11 of the protrusion 111 in the embodiment shown in Figures 8 to 11 can be equivalent to the thickness D1 of a layer of steel sheet in the shielding member shown in Figure 1 . The combined thickness D12 of the strip 1221 and elastic sheet 121 in the flexible body 122 in the embodiment shown in Figures 8 to 11 can be equivalent to the thickness D2 of a layer of soft adhesive in the shielding member shown in Figure 1 . Compared to the shielding member shown in Figure 1 (a), the embodiment shown in Figures 8 to 11 eliminates a thicker layer of soft adhesive. The combined thickness D10 of the protrusion 111, strip 1221, and elastic sheet 121 is reduced. Even with a safety gap D13 (e.g., 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm) between the protrusion 111 and strip 1221, the combined thickness D10 is also reduced, which helps reduce the overall thickness of the foldable device 1000 at the center portion 1221f of the strip 1221. In this embodiment, the position of the protrusion 111 can be set relatively low to reduce the possibility of the protrusion 111 scratching hands.

[0115] When configuring the flexible body 122, referring to Figures 9, 10, and 16, the strip portion 1221 has a first side 1221g facing the fixing member 110. The first connecting portion 1222 is provided at one end of the first side 1221g, and the second connecting portion 1223 is provided at the other end of the first side 1221g. The first side 1221g can extend along the X-direction.

[0116] The first side 1221g of the strip portion 1221 is a side surface having a certain area. One end and the other end of the first side 1221g are different areas of a certain area on the first side 1221g, so that the first connecting portion 1222 and the second connecting portion 1223 are respectively connected to the two ends of the first side 1221g.

[0117] The first connection portion 1222 and the second connection portion 1223 are connected to the opposite ends of the first side 1221g of the strip portion 1221 facing the fixed member 110. Referring to Figure 12, the first connection portion 1222 and the second connection portion 1223 are staggered relative to the side 300c of the flexible screen 300 along the axial direction (Y direction) of the hinge assembly 200, facilitating the corresponding embedding of the first connection portion 1222 and the second connection portion 1223 on the first body 400 and the second body 500. The strip portion 1221 shields and protects the edge of the bending region 302 in the thickness direction (Z direction) of the flexible screen 300.

[0118] To ensure a uniform bending shape of the flexible insert 120 during bending, in some embodiments, referring to Figures 4, 13, and 14, an edge 400a of the first body 400, near the shaft assembly 200, has a first slot 401. The length of the first slot 401 is the same as the length (X-direction) of the strip 1221, and the first connecting portion 1222 is slidably mounted in the first slot 401. An edge 500a of the second body 500, near the shaft assembly 200, has a second slot 501. The length of the second slot 501 is the same as the length (X-direction) of the strip 1221, and the second connecting portion 1223 is slidably mounted in the second slot 501.

[0119] When the foldable device 1000 switches between the flattened and closed states, the first connecting portion 1222 is allowed to slide relative to the first body 400, and the second connecting portion 1223 is allowed to slide relative to the second body 500, allowing the strip portion 1221 connecting the first connecting portion 1222 and the second connecting portion 1223 to form a uniform bending configuration. There is no fixed connection between the first connecting portion 1222 and the first body 400, nor between the second connecting portion 1223 and the second body 500. Under prolonged, repeated bending, static bending, or high temperature and humidity environments, the flexible insert 120 exhibits minimal deformation, is less susceptible to creases and bulging, and returns to a smooth, natural configuration when flattened.

[0120] When setting the sliding amount of the first connecting portion 1222 and the second connecting portion 1223, referring to FIG. 14 , the sliding amount L of the first connecting portion 1222 in the first sliding groove 401 ranges from 0.2 mm to 1 mm, and the sliding amount L of the second connecting portion 1223 in the second sliding groove 501 ranges from 0.2 mm to 1 mm.

[0121] The sliding amount of the first connecting portion 1222 in the first chute 401 refers to the movable distance of the first connecting portion 1222 when the first connecting portion 1222 is inserted into the first chute 401. The sliding amount of the second connecting portion 1223 in the second chute 501 refers to the movable distance of the second connecting portion 1223 when the second connecting portion 1223 is inserted into the second chute 501.

[0122] Setting the sliding range to the above range facilitates the corresponding installation of the first connecting portion 1222 and the second connecting portion 1223 at both ends (1221a, 1221b) of the strip 1221 within the first and second slide grooves 401, 501. This allows the strip 1221 to form a relatively uniform bending shape during the switching between the flattened and closed states of the foldable device 1000, thereby reducing the risk of the flexible insert 120 falling out of the first and second bodies 400, 500. This provides a certain degree of structural strength in the area of ​​the first body 400 with the first slide groove 401 and the area of ​​the second body 500 with the second slide groove 501, thereby improving structural reliability.

[0123] Exemplarily, the sliding amount L can be 0.2 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm, or 1 mm, and can be set as needed.

[0124] When setting the first connecting portion 1222, referring to Figures 9, 10, 13 and 14, the first connecting portion 1222 includes a first supporting portion 1222a and a first sliding portion 1222c. The first supporting portion 1222a is connected between the first side 1221g and the first sliding portion 1222c. Combined with Figure 12, the end of the first supporting portion 1222a away from the first side 1221g is located in the first slide groove 401, and the first sliding portion 1222c is located in the first slide groove 401. The cross-sectional shapes of the first sliding portion 1222c and the first slide groove 401 are respectively adapted to each other in the length direction perpendicular to the strip portion 1221.

[0125] The first support portion 1222a is connected between the first side 1221g and the first sliding portion 1222c. This means that a certain area on the first side 1221g is connected to the first sliding portion 1222c via the first support portion 1222a. The first support portion 1222a is connected between the first side 1221g of the strip 1221 and the first sliding portion 1222c. This allows the first sliding portion 1222c to be offset a certain distance along the thickness direction (Z direction) of the flexible screen 300, allowing the first sliding portion 1222c to be slidably mounted on the first body 400 at a predetermined distance from the display surface 300a of the flexible screen 300. The first support portion 1222a can be a rectangular parallelepiped or other shape. The cross-sectional shapes of the first sliding portion 1222c and the first slide groove 401, respectively, perpendicular to the length of the strip 1221, are matched, meaning that the shapes are substantially identical, allowing the first sliding portion 1222c to slide stably and linearly along the length of the first slide groove 401.

[0126] When configuring the first support portion 1222a and the first sliding portion 1222c, the lengths of the first support portion 1222a and the first sliding portion 1222c in the X-direction may be equal or unequal, as desired. The length L1 of the first support portion 1222a in the X-direction is the distance between two opposing end surfaces of the first support portion 1222a in the X-direction. The length L2 of the first sliding portion 1222c in the X-direction is the distance between two opposing end surfaces of the first sliding portion 1222c in the X-direction. For example, referring to FIG. 9 , the length L1 of the first support portion 1222a in the X-direction is greater than the length L2 of the first sliding portion 1222c in the X-direction.

[0127] To reduce the risk of the first connecting portion 1222 falling out of the first chute 401 and improve reliability, in some embodiments, referring to Figures 9, 10, 13, and 14, the first supporting portion 1222a is disposed so as to face the end surface 1222b of the first supporting portion 1222a and the end surface 401a of the first chute 401 along the length (X direction) of the strip portion 1221. When the foldable device 1000 switches between the flattened and closed positions, the first connecting portion 1222 slides within the first chute 401. The abutment between the end surface 401a of the first chute 401 and the end surface 1222b of the first supporting portion 1222a prevents further movement of the first supporting portion 1222a, thereby limiting the range of movement of the first connecting portion 1222 and reducing the risk of the first connecting portion 1222 falling out of the first chute 401.

[0128] When designing the cross-sectional shapes of the first sliding portion 1222c and the first sliding groove 401, referring to Figures 9, 10, and 12, the first sliding portion 1222c and the first sliding groove 401 are each bent and extended in a cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the length direction (X direction) of the strip portion 1221. When the first sliding portion 1222c is installed in the first sliding groove 401, the first sliding portion 1222c is locked onto the first sliding groove 401 along the axial direction (Y direction) of the rotating shaft assembly 200, preventing the first sliding portion 1222c from easily falling out of the first body 400 along the axial direction (Y direction) of the rotating shaft assembly 200, thereby maintaining the flexible insert 120 on the first body 400.

[0129] For example, referring to Figure 12, the cross-sectional shapes of the first sliding portion 1222c and the first sliding groove 401 in the length direction (X direction) perpendicular to the strip portion 1221 are L-shaped, arc-shaped or other bent extension shapes, which can enable the first sliding portion 1222c to be buckled on the first sliding groove 401 along the axial direction (Y direction) of the rotating shaft assembly 200 without being easily dislodged.

[0130] When setting the second connecting portion 1223, referring to Figures 9, 13 to 15, the second connecting portion 1223 includes a second supporting portion 1223a and a second sliding portion 1223c. The second supporting portion 1223a is connected between the first side 1221g and the second sliding portion 1223c. The end of the second supporting portion 1223a away from the first side 1221g is located in the second slide groove 501. The second sliding portion 1223c is located in the second slide groove 501. The cross-sectional shapes of the second sliding portion 1223c and the second slide groove 501 are respectively adapted to each other in the length direction (X direction) perpendicular to the strip portion 1221.

[0131] The second supporting portion 1223a is connected between the first side 1221g and the second sliding portion 1223c, which means that a region with a certain area on the first side 1221g and the second sliding portion 1223c are connected through the second supporting portion 1223a.

[0132] The second support portion 1223a is connected between the first side 1221g of the strip 1221 and the second sliding portion 1223c, allowing the second sliding portion 1223c to be offset a certain distance along the thickness direction (Z direction) of the flexible screen 300, so that the second sliding portion 1223c can be slidably installed on the second body 500 at a predetermined distance from the display surface 300a of the flexible screen 300. The second support portion 1223a can be configured as a rectangular parallelepiped or other shapes. The cross-sectional shapes of the second sliding portion 1223c and the second chute 501 in the direction perpendicular to the length of the strip 1221 (X direction) are adapted, meaning that the two shapes are substantially the same, allowing the second sliding portion 1223c to slide stably and linearly along the length direction of the second chute 501.

[0133] When configuring the second support portion 1223a and the second sliding portion 1223c, the lengths of the second support portion 1223a and the second sliding portion 1223c in the X-direction may be equal or unequal, as desired. The length of the second support portion 1223a in the X-direction is the distance between two opposing end surfaces of the second support portion 1223a in the X-direction. The length of the second sliding portion 1223c in the X-direction is the distance between two opposing end surfaces of the second sliding portion 1223c in the X-direction. For example, referring to FIG. 9 , the length of the second support portion 1223a in the X-direction is greater than the length of the second sliding portion 1223c in the X-direction.

[0134] To reduce the risk of the second connecting portion 1223 falling out of the second chute 501 and improve reliability, in some embodiments, referring to Figures 9, 13, and 14, the second supporting portion 1223a is positioned adjacent to the end surface 1223b of the fixing member 110 and faces the end surface 501a of the second chute 501 in the longitudinal direction (X direction) of the strip portion 1221. When the foldable device 1000 switches between the flattened and closed positions, the second connecting portion 1223 slides within the second chute 501. The abutment between the end surface 501a of the second chute 501 and the end surface 1223b of the second supporting portion 1223a prevents further movement of the second supporting portion 1223a, thereby limiting the range of movement of the second connecting portion 1223 and reducing the risk of the second connecting portion 1223 falling out of the second chute 501.

[0135] When designing the cross-sectional shapes of the second sliding portion 1223c and the second slide groove 501, referring to Figures 9, 13, and 14, the second sliding portion 1223c and the second slide groove 501 are each bent and extended in a cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the length direction (X direction) of the strip portion 1221. When the second sliding portion 1223c is installed in the second slide groove 501, the second sliding portion 1223c is locked in the second slide groove 501 along the axial direction (Y direction) of the rotating shaft assembly 200, preventing the second sliding portion 1223c from easily falling out of the second body 500 along the axial direction (Y direction) of the rotating shaft assembly 200, thereby maintaining the flexible insert 120 on the second body 500.

[0136] For example, referring to Figures 9, 13, and 14, the cross-sectional shapes of the second sliding portion 1223c and the second slide groove 501 in the length direction perpendicular to the strip portion 1221 are L-shaped, arc-shaped, or other bent extension shapes, which can enable the second sliding portion 1223c to be buckled on the second slide groove 501 along the axial direction (Y direction) of the rotating shaft assembly 200 without being easily dislodged.

[0137] When positioning the fixing member 110, the first connecting portion 1222, and the second connecting portion 1223, referring to FIG9 , in the lengthwise direction (X-direction) of the strip portion 1221, the fixing member 110 can be positioned between the first connecting portion 1222 and the second connecting portion 1223. This allows the strip portion 1221 between the first connecting portion 1222 and the second connecting portion 1223 to be shortened, ensuring that the strip portion 1221 covers the edge of the bending region 302 of the display surface 300a of the flexible screen 300 for shielding and protection. In the lengthwise direction (X-direction) of the strip portion 1221, the fixing member 110 can be positioned between the first supporting portion 1222a of the first connecting portion 1222 and the second supporting portion 1223a of the second connecting portion 1223. This allows the fixing member 110 to be thinner, allowing it to be fixed to the end portion 200a of the hinge assembly 200, thereby occupying less space within the hinge assembly 200.

[0138] When assembling the first connection part 1222 and the second connection part 1223 in the flexible insert 120, referring to Figure 12, in the thickness direction (Z direction) of the flexible screen 300, the first connection part 1222 is located between the first frame 600 and the first main body 400. Combined with Figures 5 and 9, the second connection part 1223 is located between the second frame 700 and the second main body 500.

[0139] The first connecting part 1222 is maintained between the first frame 600 and the first main body 400, and the second connecting part 1223 is maintained between the second frame 700 and the second main body 500, so that the strip part 1221 and the elastic sheet 121 between the first connecting part 1222 and the second connecting part 1223 can be maintained in a predetermined position and are not easily removed, so that the flexible insert 120 can be reliably assembled between the first main body 400 and the second main body 500, so that the flexible insert 120 can fold and protect the edge of the bending area 302 of the display surface 300a of the flexible screen 300.

[0140] In order to reduce the risk of the flexible insert 120 falling off the flexible screen 300, in some embodiments, referring to Figures 8, 10, 11, and 17, a first limiting portion 1224 is connected to the middle portion 1221h of the first side edge 1221g of the strip portion 1221 facing the flexible screen 300, and the first limiting portion 1224 and the side surface 300c of the flexible screen 300 are arranged facing each other.

[0141] The middle part 1221h of the first side 1221g facing the flexible screen 300 is connected to the first limiting portion 1224, which means that the middle part 1221h of the first side 1221g facing the flexible screen 300 has an area with a certain area connected to the first limiting portion 1224.

[0142] The first limiting portion 1224 in the middle of the strip 1221 faces the side 300c of the flexible screen 300 and is spaced apart from each other. This allows for a certain clearance between the first limiting portion 1224 and the side 300c of the flexible screen 300, preventing contact. Under external force, the first limiting portion 1224 abuts against the side 300c of the flexible screen 300, reducing the risk of the flexible insert 120 slipping out of the flexible screen 300 under external force. This maintains the flexible insert 120 in its predetermined position, shielding and protecting the edge of the bending zone 302 of the display surface 300a of the flexible screen 300 and improving reliability. The first limiting portion 1224 can be sheet-like or in other shapes. The first limiting portion 1224 and the strip 1221 can be integrally formed and made of the same material.

[0143] Based on the first limiting portion 1224 connected to the middle portion 1221h of the first side 1221g of the strip 1221, referring to Figures 8, 10, and 11, the side of the fixing member 110 facing the flexible screen 300 may include a relief groove 114, with the first limiting portion 1224 at least partially embedded within the relief groove 114. Partially embedding the first limiting portion 1224 within the relief groove 114 of the fixing member 110 utilizes the thickness of the fixing member 110 to minimize the axial (Y-direction) dimension of the foldable device 1000 in the hinge assembly 200. The first limiting portion 1224 and the inner wall of the relief groove 114 face each other. During the bending process of the strip 1221 driven by the first and second bodies 400 and 500, the first limiting portion 1224 and the inner wall of the relief groove 114 gradually approach and abut against each other, thereby defining the bending shape of the strip 1221.

[0144] In other embodiments, the first limiting portion 1224 may not be provided in the middle portion 1221h of the first side 1221g of the strip portion 1221. The first supporting portion 1222a and the second supporting portion 1223a are respectively arranged facing the side 300c of the flexible screen 300 to reduce the risk of the flexible insert 120 falling off the flexible screen 300.

[0145] In order to improve the drop reliability of the foldable device 1000, the flexible insert 120 has a better bending shape. In some embodiments, referring to Figures 8, 10, 11, and 17, there is a safety gap D13 between the strip portion 1221 and the protrusion 111, and the middle portion 1221h of the first side edge 1221g is connected to the side facing away from the flexible screen 300 with a second limiting portion 1225. In the thickness direction (Z direction) of the flexible screen 300, the second limiting portion 1225 and the protrusion 111 are arranged facing each other.

[0146] The middle portion 1221h of the first side 1221g facing away from the flexible screen 300 is connected to the second limiting portion 1225 , which means that an area of ​​a certain area on the middle portion 1221h of the first side 1221g facing away from the flexible screen 300 is connected to the second limiting portion 1225 .

[0147] When the foldable device 1000 is flattened, a safety gap D13 of, for example, 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm, is provided between the protrusion 111 and the strip portion 1221 in the thickness direction (Z direction) of the flexible screen 300. A clearance distance, such as 0.1 mm, is provided between the protrusion 111 and the second stopper 1225. This allows for some deformation and vibration of the flexible screen 300 when the foldable device 1000 is dropped, minimizing damage to the flexible screen 300 from being squeezed by the protrusion 111 of the fixture 110. A second stopper 1225 is provided in the middle portion 1221h of the first side 1221g of the strip 1221. When the foldable device 1000 is folded from its flattened state, the second stopper 1225 abuts against the protrusion 111, preventing the middle portion 1221f of the strip 1221 from buckling. The strip 1221 and the elastic sheet 121 then gradually bend as a whole, ensuring that the flexible insert 120 maintains a well-defined bending shape during the bending process, providing a better user experience. When the flexible insert 120 is subjected to external forces, the second stopper 1225 abuts against the protrusion 111 of the fixing member 110, reducing the risk of the flexible insert 120 dislodging along the axial direction (Y direction) of the hinge assembly 200 and improving reliability. The second stopper 1225 can be rectangular or in other shapes. In the thickness direction (Z direction) of the flexible screen 300, the second stopper 1225 is located below the protrusion 111. The second stopper 1225 is obscured by the protrusion 111, making it difficult to see from the outside and not affecting the appearance. The second stopper 1225 and the strip portion 1221 can be integrally formed and can be made of the same material.

[0148] Based on the second limiting portion 1225 connected to the middle portion 1221h of the first side 1221g, referring to Figures 8, 10, and 11, the side of the fixing member 110 facing the flexible screen 300 has an escape groove 114, and the second limiting portion 1225 is at least partially embedded in the escape groove 114. By partially embedding the second limiting portion 1225 in the escape groove 114 of the fixing member 110, the space in the thickness direction of the fixing member 110 is utilized, and the axial dimension (Y direction) of the foldable device 1000 in the hinge assembly 200 can be reduced.

[0149] In other embodiments, the middle portion 1221h of the first side 1221g facing away from the flexible screen 300 may not be connected to the second limiting portion 1225 .

[0150] In some embodiments, referring to Figures 2 and 12 , in the thickness direction (Z direction) of the flexible screen 300, a first gap 611 is formed between the first frame 600 and the display surface 300a of the flexible screen 300, and a second gap 612 is formed between the second frame 700 and the display surface 300a of the flexible screen 300. One end 1221a of the strip 1221 is located in the first gap 611, and the other end 1221b of the strip 1221 is located in the second gap 612.

[0151] One end 1221a of the strip 1221 is positioned between the first frame 600 and the flexible screen 300, while the other end 1221b is positioned between the second frame 700 and the flexible screen 300, thereby limiting the position of the strip 1221. Both ends (1221a, 1221b) of the strip 1221 are covered by the first frame 600 and the second frame 700, improving the appearance.

[0152] In order to prevent the flexible insert 120 from easily falling off the edge of the flexible screen 300, in some embodiments, referring to Figures 9 and 12, in the axial direction (Y direction) of the hinge assembly 200, a third gap 613 is formed between the first frame 600 and the side 300c of the flexible screen 300. Combined with Figure 5, a fourth gap (not shown) is formed between the second frame 700 and the side 300c of the flexible screen 300; a portion of the first connection portion 1222 (i.e., the first support portion 1222a in the first connection portion 1222) is located in the third gap 613, and a portion of the second connection portion 1223 (i.e., the second support portion 1223a in the second connection portion 1223) is located in the fourth gap.

[0153] During the switching process of the foldable device 1000 between the flattened state and the closed state, the middle part 1221f of the strip portion 1221 of the flexible insert 120 is limited by the protrusion 111 of the fixing part 110, and a part of the first connection portion 1222 (a part of the second connection portion 1223) of the flexible body 122 is arranged in the gap between the first frame 600 (the second frame 700) and the side 300c of the flexible screen 300, so that the two ends of the flexible insert 120 follow the movement of the first body 400 and the second body 500, and the flexible insert 120 remains at the edge of the flexible screen 300 and is not easy to fall out, thereby achieving reliable shielding protection for the edge of the flexible screen 300 and reducing the risk of the flexible insert 120 falling out under external force.

[0154] To protect the fixing member 110, in some embodiments, referring to Figures 2, 4, and 5, the first frame 600 has a first shielding portion 602 near the hinge assembly 200, and the second frame 700 has a second shielding portion 702 near the hinge assembly 200; in the axial direction (Y direction) of the hinge assembly 200, the projection of the first shielding portion 602 partially covers the fixing member 110, and the projection of the second shielding portion 702 partially covers the fixing member 110. Figure 5 shows that after the first frame 600 of the foldable device 1000 is removed, the fixing member 110 is not shielded by the first shielding portion 602, and the second frame 700 is installed on the second body 500, with a portion of the surface of the fixing member 110 being shielded by the second shielding portion 702 of the second frame 700.

[0155] In the axial direction (Y direction) of the hinge assembly 200, the first shielding portion 602 of the first frame 600 and the second shielding portion 702 of the second frame 700 can cover a portion of the surface of the side of the fixing member 110 away from the flexible screen 300. This can protect the fixing member 110, reduce the gap between the fixing member 110 and the hinge assembly 200 caused by external foreign matter such as particles, improve reliability, and improve the appearance of the end 200a of the hinge assembly 200. The first shielding portion 602 and the second shielding portion 702 can be strip-shaped. When the foldable device 1000 is flattened, the end 200a of the first shielding portion 602 and the end 200a of the second shielding portion 702 are arranged relative to each other.

[0156] When confirming the edge protection assembly 100 and the foldable device 1000 of the embodiment of the present application, the device can be disassembled for analysis. When the object to be confirmed is the edge protection assembly 100, it is confirmed that the flexible insert 120 in the edge protection assembly 100 includes an elastic sheet 121 and a flexible body 122. The elastic sheet 121 and the flexible body 122 are an integrally molded structure. The flexible body 122 includes a strip 1221, a first connecting portion 1222, and a second connecting portion 1223. The first connecting portion 1222 is connected to one end 1221a of the strip 1221, and the second connecting portion 1223 is connected to the other end 1221b of the strip 1221. The elastic sheet 121 is embedded in the strip 1221. The first surface 1221c of the strip 1221 faces the edge of the bending region 302 of the display surface 300a of the flexible screen 300. The protrusion 111 of the fixing member 110 faces the second surface 1221e of the strip 1221 at a longitudinally intermediate portion 1221f of the strip 1221. If the object to be confirmed is a device, the device is confirmed to have a foldable flexible screen 300 and the aforementioned edge protection assembly 100 is disposed between the first body 400 and the second body 500.

[0157] Finally, it should be noted that the above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be included in the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be based on the scope of protection of the claims.

Claims

1. An edge protection component, characterized in that, Applied to a foldable device having a rotating shaft assembly, a first body, a second body, and a flexible screen, the rotating shaft assembly is located between the first body and the second body, and the first body and the second body are connected by the rotating shaft assembly; The flexible screen has a display surface and a back surface facing away from each other, and the back surface of the flexible screen is fixed to the first body and the second body; the edge protection assembly includes a fixing member and a flexible insert; The fixing member is used to be fixed on the rotating shaft assembly; in the axial direction of the rotating shaft assembly, the projection of the fixing member covers a part of the side surface of the flexible screen; the fixing member has a protruding portion; The flexible insert includes an elastic sheet and a flexible body, and the elastic sheet and the flexible body are an integrally formed structure; the flexible body includes a strip portion, a first connecting portion, and a second connecting portion; the first connecting portion is connected to one end of the strip portion, the second connecting portion is connected to the other end of the strip portion, and the elastic sheet is embedded in the strip portion; The strip portion has a first surface and a second surface facing away from each other, the first surface is arranged facing the bending area edge of the display surface of the flexible screen, and the protruding portion and the second surface are arranged facing each other in the middle in the length direction of the strip portion; The first connecting portion is used to be embedded in the edge of the first body, and the second connecting portion is used to be embedded in the edge of the second body.

2. The edge protection component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The elastic sheet is a plastic thin sheet or a metal thin sheet, the material of the flexible body is soft rubber, and the elastic sheet and the flexible body are an insert injection molding structure.

3. The edge protection component according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The elastic sheet is arranged on the first surface; And / or, the first surface has a first groove, and the elastic sheet is embedded in the first groove.

4. The edge protection component according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The strip portion has a first side edge facing the fixing member, the first connecting portion is arranged at one end of the first side edge, and the second connecting portion is arranged at the other end of the first side edge.

5. The edge protection component according to claim 4, characterized in that, The edge of the first body near the rotating shaft assembly has a first sliding groove, the length direction of the first sliding groove is the same as the length direction of the strip portion, and the first connecting portion is slidably installed in the first sliding groove; The edge of the second body near the rotating shaft assembly has a second sliding groove, the length direction of the second sliding groove is the same as the length direction of the strip portion, and the second connecting portion is slidably installed in the second sliding groove.

6. The edge protection component according to claim 5, characterized in that, The sliding amount range of the first connecting portion in the first sliding groove is 0.2 mm to 1 mm, and the sliding amount range of the second connecting portion in the second sliding groove is 0.2 mm to 1 mm.

7. The edge protection component according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, The first connecting portion includes a first supporting portion and a first sliding portion, the first supporting portion is connected between the first side edge and the first sliding portion, one end of the first supporting portion away from the first side edge is located in the first sliding groove, the first sliding portion is located in the first sliding groove, and the cross-sectional shapes of the first sliding portion and the first sliding groove in the direction perpendicular to the length direction of the strip portion are adapted to each other.

8. The edge protection component according to claim 7, wherein, In the length direction of the strip portion, the end surface of the first supporting portion close to the fixing member and the end surface of the first sliding groove are arranged facing each other; And / or, the cross-sectional shapes of the first sliding part and the first sliding groove are bent and extended in a direction perpendicular to the length direction of the strip part.

9. The edge protection component according to any one of claims 4 to 8, characterized in that, A first limiting part is connected to one side of the middle part of the first side edge facing the flexible screen, and the first limiting part and the side surface of the flexible screen are arranged opposite to each other; And / or, a safety gap is provided between the strip part and the protruding part, and a second limiting part is connected to one side of the middle part of the first side edge facing away from the flexible screen. In the thickness direction of the flexible screen, the second limiting part and the protruding part are arranged opposite to each other.

10. The edge protection component according to claim 9, characterized in that, One side of the fixing part facing the flexible screen has an avoidance groove, and at least part of the first limiting part and / or at least part of the second limiting part are embedded in the avoidance groove.

11. A foldable device, characterized in that, Comprising: A rotating shaft assembly, a first main body, a second main body, a flexible screen, and an edge protection assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 10; The rotating shaft assembly is located between the first main body and the second main body, and the first main body and the second main body are connected by the rotating shaft assembly; The flexible screen has a display surface and a back surface facing away from each other, and the back surface of the flexible screen is fixed to the first main body and the second main body; The first connecting part is embedded in the edge of the first main body, and the second connecting part is embedded in the edge of the second main body.

12. The foldable device according to claim 11, wherein, A first frame is provided on the first main body, and the first frame is provided at the edge of the flexible screen corresponding to the first main body; a second frame is provided on the second main body, and the second frame is provided at the edge of the flexible screen corresponding to the second main body; The flexible insert is located between the first frame and the second frame.

13. The foldable device according to claim 12, wherein, In the thickness direction of the flexible screen, the first connecting part is located between the first frame and the first main body, and the second connecting part is located between the second frame and the second main body.

14. The foldable device according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that, In the thickness direction of the flexible screen, a first gap is formed between the first frame and the display surface of the flexible screen, and a second gap is formed between the second frame and the display surface of the flexible screen; one end of the strip part is located in the first gap, and the other end of the strip part is located in the second gap.

15. The foldable device according to any one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that, In the axial direction of the rotating shaft assembly, a third gap is formed between the first frame and the side surface of the flexible screen, and a fourth gap is formed between the second frame and the side surface of the flexible screen; a part of the first connecting part is located in the third gap, and a part of the second connecting part is located in the fourth gap.

16. The foldable device according to any one of claims 12 to 15, characterized in that, The first frame has a first shielding part near the rotating shaft assembly, and the second frame has a second shielding part near the rotating shaft assembly; in the axial direction of the rotating shaft assembly, the projection of the first shielding part partially covers the fixing part, and the projection of the second shielding part partially covers the fixing part.

Images