Hinge assembly, support apparatus, electronic device assembly and foldable device

Abstract

The present application relates to the field of electronic device fittings, and aims to solve the problem of it not being possible for known hinges to have a simple structure and also better meet rotational damping requirements. Provided are a hinge assembly, a support apparatus, an electronic device assembly and a foldable device. The hinge assembly comprises a rotary shaft, a first leaf and a second leaf. The first leaf comprises a first leaf plate and first sleeves. The second leaf comprises a second leaf plate and a second sleeve, wherein slits in the second leaf plate divide the second sleeve into a main sleeve and side sleeves. The first sleeves are provided with engagement recesses in a protruding manner, and the side sleeves are provided with engagement protrusions. In a first state, the engagement protrusions engage into the engagement recesses; and in a second state, the engagement protrusions and the engagement recesses are staggered in the circumferential direction, and the engagement protrusions of the side sleeves elastically abut against the first sleeves. The beneficial effect of the present application lies in: being capable of providing a better damping effect and a flattened state maintaining capacity.

Description

Hinge assemblies, support devices, electronic equipment assemblies, and foldable devices

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202410705482.4, filed on May 31, 2024, entitled "Hinge Assembly, Support Device, Electronic Device Assembly and Foldable Device", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to the field of electronic device accessories, and more specifically, to hinge assemblies, support devices, electronic device assemblies, and foldable devices. Background Technology

[0004] A hinge is a connection structure that allows two components to be rotatably connected. Hinges have many applications, such as being used between two support parts of the support components of electronic devices (such as tablets) to accommodate different support requirements of the electronic devices.

[0005] Known hinge technologies struggle to balance the requirements of structural simplicity with optimal rotational damping. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application provides hinge assemblies, support devices, electronic equipment assemblies, and foldable devices to address the problem that known hinges struggle to balance the requirements of structural simplicity and optimal rotational damping.

[0007] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a hinge assembly including a pivot, a first blade, and a second blade. The first blade includes a first blade plate and a first sleeve, the first sleeve being connected to the first blade plate; the first sleeve is fitted onto the pivot; the first sleeve has a first mating end face. The second blade includes a second blade plate and a second sleeve, the second sleeve being connected to the second blade plate, the second sleeve being fitted onto the pivot, and is rotatable relative to the first sleeve; the second blade has a slit that divides the second sleeve into a main sleeve and a side sleeve, the main sleeve and the side sleeve being spaced apart along the axial direction of the pivot; the side sleeve has a second mating end face. One of the first and second mating end faces has a protruding mating protrusion, and the other has a recessed mating groove. When the first blade and the second blade rotate relative to each other, the side sleeve can elastically deviate from the first sleeve, so that the side sleeve and the first sleeve elastically press against each other along the axial direction of the pivot.

[0008] In the hinge assembly of this application embodiment, during the relative rotation of the first blade and the second blade, the side sleeve undergoes elastic deformation that deviates from the first sleeve. This elastic deformation causes the side sleeve and the first sleeve to elastically press against each other along the axial direction of the rotating shaft, generating an elastic force. This elastic force creates friction between the side sleeve and the first sleeve, thereby providing additional damping for the relative rotation of the first blade and the second blade, which helps the hinge assembly to be suspended at the desired angle.

[0009] In one possible implementation, the hinge assembly has a first state and a second state, and is capable of switching between the first state and the second state as the first and second blades rotate relative to each other. In the first state, the mating protrusion engages with the mating groove, and the first mating end face and the second mating end face are close to each other. In the second state, the mating protrusion and the mating groove are circumferentially offset, and the mating protrusion abuts against one of the first and second mating end faces having a mating groove, so that the side sleeve elastically deviates from the first sleeve.

[0010] In this embodiment, when the hinge assembly is in the first state, i.e., when the first blade and the second blade rotate relative to each other so that the mating protrusion engages with the mating groove, the first blade and the second blade can remain locked in the current state. For example, by reasonably arranging the positions of the mating protrusion and the mating groove, when the hinge assembly is in a flattened state (meaning the first blade and the second blade are coplanar), the mating protrusion precisely engages with the mating groove. In this way, the hinge assembly can achieve the first state locking in the flattened state through the engagement of the mating groove and the mating protrusion.

[0011] In one possible implementation, there is a radial gap between the inner circumferential surface of the side sleeve and the outer surface of the rotating shaft.

[0012] In this embodiment, by setting a radial clearance, the side sleeve can be allowed to deflect relative to the rotating shaft.

[0013] In one possible implementation, the main sleeve is rotatably fitted onto the rotating shaft, and an interference fit is formed between the main sleeve and the rotating shaft.

[0014] In this embodiment, the main sleeve and the rotating shaft can provide damping for relative rotation.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the main sleeve is provided with a notch that extends through the main sleeve along the axial direction of the rotating shaft and extends through the inner and outer circumferential surfaces of the main sleeve.

[0016] In this embodiment, the notch allows the main sleeve to expand or shrink circumferentially to accommodate the gripping of the rotating shaft and improve the service life of the main sleeve.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the main sleeve has a superior arc-shaped cross-section, comprising an arc-shaped cylindrical wall and a flat cylindrical wall connected circumferentially. The arc-shaped cylindrical wall is connected to the second blade, and the flat cylindrical wall is perpendicular to the second blade, with a notch provided in the flat cylindrical wall. The rotating shaft has a mating shaft section, the mating shaft section having a superior arc-shaped cross-section, and the diameter of the superior arc of the mating shaft section is larger than the diameter of the superior arc of the inner hole of the main sleeve.

[0018] In this embodiment, when the hinge assembly is in the flattened first state, the superior arc of the mating shaft segment and the superior arc of the inner hole of the main sleeve are precisely matched, thus further improving the stability of the hinge assembly in the first state.

[0019] When the hinge assembly needs to change from the first state to the second state, the superior arc of the mating shaft segment and the superior arc of the inner hole of the main sleeve gradually shift apart. At this time, a sufficiently large external force is required to open the arc-shaped cylinder wall and the flat cylinder wall sufficiently to accommodate the shifted mating shaft segment. In this way, the mating damping between the main sleeve and the rotating shaft is sufficiently large, improving the damping feel.

[0020] In one possible implementation, there are multiple main sleeves, which are arranged sequentially along the axial direction of the rotating shaft, and each main sleeve is interference-fitted with the rotating shaft.

[0021] In this embodiment, the total length of the multiple main sleeves covering the rotating shaft is greater, which can provide greater damping for the relative rotation between the second blade and the rotating shaft.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the cut extends through the second blade along its thickness direction. The cut extends from one side of the second sleeve into the second blade; the second blade includes a base plate, a main plate, and a side swing arm. The main plate is connected between the base plate and the main sleeve, and the side swing arm is connected between the base plate and the side sleeve. The cut is located between the main plate and the side swing arm. The direction of the cut is perpendicular to or obliquely intersecting the axial direction of the rotating shaft, or the cut extends along a straight line, an arc, or a zigzag line.

[0023] In this embodiment, the cut extends into the second blade, providing a longer side swing arm, which facilitates the lateral elastic deformation of the side sleeve relative to the base plate.

[0024] In one possible implementation, there are two cuts, located on opposite sides of the second blade along the axial direction of the rotating shaft. These two cuts divide the second sleeve into a main sleeve and two side sleeves, each located on opposite sides of the main sleeve. There are two first sleeves, spaced apart along the axial direction of the rotating shaft. A second sleeve is located between the two first sleeves, and the two side sleeves mate with the two first sleeves along the axial direction of the rotating shaft.

[0025] In this embodiment, when the main sleeve holds the rotating shaft, the two side sleeves can be symmetrically offset, so that the second sleeve is subjected to overall force balance. Furthermore, the two side sleeves and the two first sleeves cooperate with each other to provide greater rotational damping.

[0026] In one possible implementation, in the first state, the first blade and the second blade are coplanar.

[0027] In this embodiment, the hinge assembly can be maintained in the unfolded state by the cooperation of the mating protrusion and the mating groove.

[0028] In one possible implementation, there are multiple mating protrusions that are evenly distributed circumferentially, and the number of mating grooves is equal to the number of mating protrusions, with the multiple mating grooves being evenly distributed circumferentially.

[0029] In this embodiment, the engagement of multiple mating protrusions and mating grooves can provide greater rotational damping.

[0030] In one possible implementation, a mating protrusion is provided on the second mating end face, and a mating groove is provided on the first mating end face. In the circumferential direction, the protrusion height of the mating protrusion gradually decreases from its center to both sides, and both sides of the mating protrusion are tangent to the second mating end face along the circumferential direction. The shape of the mating groove is adapted to the mating protrusion.

[0031] In this embodiment, the smooth arrangement of the mating protrusion and the mating groove facilitates their automatic engagement when they come close to each other.

[0032] In one possible embodiment, the rotating shaft includes a shaft portion and a shaft cap, the shaft cap being connected to one end of the shaft portion. The shaft cap has a first protruding tooth near one end of the shaft portion, and a first sleeve has a second protruding tooth extending axially. The first sleeve is fitted onto the shaft portion, with the first and second protruding teeth engaging and abutting against each other circumferentially. An interference fit is formed between the main sleeve and the shaft portion, allowing relative rotation, and a radial clearance exists between the inner circumferential surface of the side sleeve and the outer surface of the shaft portion.

[0033] In this embodiment, the cooperation of the first and second insert teeth enables axial positioning and circumferential mutual limiting.

[0034] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a support device including a first support plate, a second support plate, and the aforementioned hinge assembly. The first support plate is connected to a first blade. The second support plate is connected to a second blade.

[0035] The support device in this embodiment uses the aforementioned hinge assembly, thus having better rotational damping and first-state locking function.

[0036] In one possible implementation, a support device is used to support an electronic device having a front and a back facing away from each other. The front is used for display, and the back includes a first surface area and a second surface area. A first support plate is configured to overlap and connect to the first surface area, and a second support plate is rotatable relative to the first support plate to overlap with the second surface area or to form a predetermined angle with the second surface area. When the second support plate overlaps with the second surface area, a mating protrusion engages within a mating groove.

[0037] In this embodiment, the support device is able to reliably maintain the unfolded first state in a flattened state.

[0038] In one possible implementation, the electronic device includes a first magnetic clasp located at a first surface area. The hinge assembly further includes a second magnetic clasp located at a first support plate for magnetically connecting to the first magnetic clasp.

[0039] In this embodiment, the hinge assembly can be easily connected to or separated from the electronic device.

[0040] In one possible implementation, the support device further includes a connecting sleeve. There are two hinge assemblies, with the pivots of the two hinge assemblies coaxially sleeved at both ends of the connecting sleeve, and the first sleeves of the two hinge assemblies respectively abutting against each other circumferentially at both ends of the connecting sleeve.

[0041] In this embodiment, the connecting sleeve enables the two hinge components to rotate synchronously.

[0042] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide an electronic device assembly including an electronic device and the aforementioned support device. A first support plate is configured to be connected to the electronic device, and a second support plate is rotatable relative to the first support plate to overlap with the electronic device or to form a predetermined angle with the electronic device.

[0043] In this embodiment of the application, the electronic device component uses the aforementioned support device to support the electronic device, which is beneficial for the use or display of the electronic device.

[0044] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a foldable device, which includes a first body, a second body, and the aforementioned hinge assembly. The first body is connected to a first leaf plate. The second body is connected to a second leaf plate.

[0045] In this embodiment, the foldable device uses the aforementioned hinge assembly, thus having better rotational damping and first-state locking function. Attached Figure Description

[0046] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings in the embodiments will be briefly described below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this application and should not be regarded as a limitation of the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0047] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device component in a usage state according to an embodiment of this application;

[0048] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the electronic device components in Figure 1 when they are in another usage state;

[0049] Figure 3 is a structural schematic diagram of the electronic device component of Figure 1 using a support device of another embodiment;

[0050] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the electronic device components in Figure 3 when they are in another usage state;

[0051] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the support device in Figure 1;

[0052] Figure 6 is a bottom view of the support device in Figure 5;

[0053] Figure 7 is a structural schematic diagram of another embodiment of the support device in Figure 1;

[0054] Figure 8 is a bottom view of the support device in Figure 7;

[0055] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the hinge assembly in the first unfolded state according to an embodiment of this application.

[0056] Figure 10 is an exploded view of the hinge assembly in Figure 9;

[0057] Figure 11 is an enlarged view of point A in Figure 10;

[0058] Figure 12 is an enlarged view of section B in Figure 10;

[0059] Figure 13 is a perspective view of hinge assembly 9 in the second state;

[0060] Figure 14 is an enlarged view of point C in Figure 13;

[0061] Figure 15 is a front view of the hinge assembly in Figure 9;

[0062] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view along line DD in Figure 15;

[0063] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view along line EE in Figure 15;

[0064] Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the main sleeve in Figure 17;

[0065] Figure 19 is a schematic diagram of the two hinge components and connecting sleeve used in the support device of Figure 5;

[0066] Figure 20 is a partial enlarged view of Figure 19;

[0067] Figure 21 is a structural schematic diagram of one side of the back of the hinge assembly in Figure 9;

[0068] Figure 22 is a structural schematic diagram of another embodiment of the hinge assembly of this application;

[0069] Figure 23 is a structural schematic diagram of another embodiment of the hinge assembly of this application;

[0070] Figure 24 is a structural schematic diagram of another embodiment of the hinge assembly of this application;

[0071] Figure 25 is a structural schematic diagram of another embodiment of the hinge assembly of this application;

[0072] Figure 26 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a foldable electronic device according to an embodiment of this application.

[0073] Key component symbols: Electronic equipment assembly 100 Electronic equipment 110 Display screen 111 Back cover 112 First magnetic clasp 113 Support device 120 First part 121 First support plate 121a Second part 122 Second support plate 122a Third part 123 Second magnetic clasp 124 Sleeve 125 Hinge assembly 200, 200a, 200b, 200c, 200d First blade 10 First blade plate 11 First sleeve 12 Second insert 13 Second blade 20 Second blade plate 21 Base plate 21a Main plate 21b Side swing arm 21c Second sleeve 22 Main sleeve 22a Side sleeve 22b Arc-shaped cylinder wall 221 Flat cylinder wall 222 Mating protrusion 23 Rotating shaft 30 Shaft cap 31 Shaft part 32 Mating shaft section 32a First insert 33 Connecting sleeve 40 Third insert43 Adhesive strip 50 Front P1 Back P2 First surface area P21 Second surface area P22 First mating end face P3 Top surface area P31 First transition surface area P32 Second mating end face P4 Bottom surface area P41 Second transition surface area P42 Contact area S1 Cut C1 Cut groove C2 Mating groove C3 Notched groove C4 Through hole K1 Radial clearance f1 Axis L1 Dashed line L2 Foldable device 300 First body 310 Second body 320 Table 500 Detailed Implementation

[0074] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments.

[0075] It should be noted that when a component is said to be "fixed to" another component, it can be directly on the other component or there may be an intervening component. When a component is said to be "connected to" another component, it can be directly connected to the other component or there may be an intervening component. When a component is said to be "set on" another component, it can be directly set on the other component or there may be an intervening component. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "left," "right," and similar expressions used in this document are for illustrative purposes only.

[0076] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application. The term "or / and" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0077] Some embodiments of this application are described in detail. Unless otherwise specified, the following embodiments and features can be combined with each other.

[0078] Example

[0079] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, this embodiment provides an electronic device assembly 100, which includes an electronic device 110 and a support device 120.

[0080] The electronic device 110 can be a tablet computer, mobile phone, smart screen, etc. The support device 120, as an accessory to the electronic device 110, can support and / or protect the electronic device 110. The electronic device assembly 100, consisting of the electronic device 110 and the support device 120, can facilitate the use or display of the electronic device 110.

[0081] The electronic device 110 (such as a tablet computer) has a front side P1 and a back side P2 facing away from each other. The front side P1 of the electronic device 110 has a display screen 111 for display, touch, and button functions. The back side P2 of the electronic device 110 can be the outer surface of the back cover 112 of the electronic device 110.

[0082] In this embodiment, the support device 120 includes two parts that can rotate relative to each other (named as the first part 121 and the second part 122, respectively). Thus, the support device 120 can support the electronic device 110 in different states to adapt to different usage scenarios.

[0083] As shown in Figure 1, the support device 120 is in a flattened state, with the first part 121 and the second part 122 of the support device 120 overlapping on the back side P2 of the electronic device 110. At this time, the electronic device assembly 100 is more suitable for handheld use.

[0084] Since the first part 121 and the second part 122 overlap the back surface P2 of the electronic device 110, the support device 120 can protect the back surface P2 of the electronic device 110 from scratches. Furthermore, a contact area S1 can be provided in the area of ​​the first part 121 or the second part 122 where the hand needs to come into contact. The contact area S1 can be configured as needed to have functions such as anti-slip, anti-fingerprint, and providing a soft feel.

[0085] As shown in Figure 2, the support device 120 is in a partially folded state. The first part 121 of the support device 120 overlaps with the back side P2 of the electronic device 110. The second part 122 rotates relative to the first part 121 away from the electronic device 110 by a set angle α (e.g., α = 60°). At this time, the support device 120 can tilt to support the electronic device 110. The user can place the electronic device component 100 on the table 500 to view or operate it (e.g., touch operation, handwriting operation, etc.).

[0086] In this embodiment, the support device 120 and the electronic device 110 can be detachably connected (e.g., magnetically connected), so that the user can also remove the support device 120 from the electronic device 110 to use the electronic device 110 alone.

[0087] In the electronic device assembly 100 of this embodiment, the first portion 121 is configured to be connected to the back surface P2 of the electronic device 110. For example, the back surface P2 of the electronic device 110 has one or more first magnetic members 113 corresponding to the area of ​​the first portion 121 (defined as the first surface area P21), and the first portion 121 has one or more second magnetic members 124. Through the magnetic attraction of the first magnetic members 113 and the second magnetic members 124, the first portion 121 can be stacked and connected to the back surface P2 of the electronic device 110, or it can be removed from the electronic device 110.

[0088] The first magnetic attractor 113 and the second magnetic attractor 124 can both be magnets, or one of the first magnetic attractor 113 and the second magnetic attractor 124 can be a magnet and the other can be an iron-based alloy that can be attracted by a magnet. The first magnetic attractor 113 can be disposed inside the electronic device 110, or it can be served by the back cover 112 of the electronic device 110. For example, the second magnetic attractor 124 is a magnet, and the back cover 112 of the electronic device 110 is made entirely of an iron-based alloy or partially embedded with an iron-based alloy, and the area of ​​the back cover 112 corresponding to the second magnetic attractor 124 serves as the first magnetic attractor 113.

[0089] In other embodiments, the first part 121 may also be connected to the electronic device 110 by snap-fit, adhesive or other means, which is not limited here.

[0090] In some known technologies, in the state shown in Figure 1, the support device 120 is located below the electronic device 110. When the user holds the first part 121 without grasping the second part 122, the second part 122 is prone to separating downwards from the area on the back surface P2 of the electronic device 110 corresponding to the second part 122 (defined as the second surface area P22) due to its own weight, affecting the handheld user experience of the electronic device assembly 100. To address this, in other known technologies, this problem is avoided by also providing components that can magnetically attract each other on the second part 122 and the second surface area P22 of the electronic device 110. However, this further increases the weight of the electronic device 110 and / or the support device 120, affecting the user experience.

[0091] The support device 120 provided in this embodiment, in the state shown in FIG. 1, allows the second part 122 to remain stacked on the back side P2 of the electronic device 110 without being directly connected to it (magnetically or by snapping). This makes it convenient to use and facilitates the lightweight design of both the electronic device 110 and the support device 120. The specific implementation will be described in the following exemplary description.

[0092] Of course, in other embodiments, the second part 122 and the second surface region P22 can also be configured to magnetically engage. In this case, the magnetic engagement of the second part 122 and the second surface region P22 can provide additional force, further ensuring that the second part 122 is not easily detached from the electronic device 110 due to its own weight in the state of FIG. 1.

[0093] Referring to Figures 3 and 4, in another embodiment, the support device 120 further includes a third part 123, which is rotatably connected to the side of the second part 122 away from the first part 121. For example, the connection between the third part 123 and the second part 122 is made of a flexible material so that the third part 123 and the second part 122 can rotate relative to each other.

[0094] Referring to Figure 3, when the electronic device 110 is not in use, the first part 121 and the second part 122 together cover the back side P2 of the electronic device 110, and the third part 123 covers the front side P1 of the electronic device 110 to protect the display screen 111 of the electronic device 110.

[0095] Referring to Figure 4, in one usage state of the electronic device 110, the third part 123 is horizontally supported on the table 500, the first part 121 is connected (e.g., magnetically connected) to the back of the electronic device 110 P2, and the second part 122 is obliquely connected to the first part 121 and the third part 123 respectively, so that the second part 122 is obliquely supported on the back of the electronic device 110 P2, making it convenient for the user to view or operate the electronic device 110.

[0096] Figure 5 is a structural schematic diagram of the support device 120 in the unfolded state in the embodiment of this application, and Figure 6 is a bottom view of Figure 5.

[0097] Referring to Figures 5 and 6, in this embodiment, the support device 120 includes a first support plate 121a, a second support plate 122a, and a hinge assembly 200. The first support plate 121a and the second support plate 122a are respectively connected to both sides of the hinge assembly 200, and the first support plate 121a and the second support plate 122a can rotate relative to each other through the hinge assembly 200. The number of hinge assemblies 200 can be one or more. Optionally, as shown in Figure 5, there are two hinge assemblies 200, and the two hinge assemblies 200 are connected by a connecting sleeve 40.

[0098] In the embodiments shown in Figures 5 and 6, the first support plate 121a and the second support plate 122a serve as the first part 121 and the second part 122 of the support device 120, respectively. Optionally, the first support plate 121a is provided with a through hole K1 to avoid obstructing optical components such as cameras of the electronic device 110.

[0099] Referring to Figures 7 and 8, in some embodiments, the support device 120 further includes a sleeve 125, which covers the first support plate 121a, the hinge assembly 200, and the second support plate 122a. The portion of the sleeve 125 covering the first support plate 121a, together with the first support plate 121a, forms the first part 121 of the support device 120, and the portion of the sleeve 125 covering the second support plate 122a, together with the second support plate 122a, forms the second part 122 of the support device 120. The sleeve 125 also needs an opening at the position corresponding to the through hole K1 in the first support plate 121a.

[0100] In some embodiments, the first support plate 121a and the second support plate 122a are made of a harder material (such as a harder plastic plate, wood plate, aluminum alloy sheet, etc.) to provide better support; the sleeve 125 is made of a softer material (such as leather, silicone, etc.) to provide better tactile feel and avoid hindering the relative rotation of the first support plate 121a and the second support plate 122a.

[0101] Optionally, the inner surface of the sleeve 125 is bonded to the outer surface of the first support plate 121a, and the inner surface of the sleeve 125 is bonded to the outer surface of the second support plate 122a, so as to improve the integrity of the support device 120 and prevent the sleeve 125 from moving relative to the first support plate 121a or the second support plate 122a when the first part 121 and the second part 122 rotate relative to each other.

[0102] Of course, in other embodiments, the sleeve 125 and the first support plate 121a or the second support plate 122a may not be bonded together.

[0103] Referring to Figures 9 and 10, in this embodiment, the hinge assembly 200 includes a pivot 30, a first blade 10, and a second blade 20. The first blade 10 and the second blade 20 are rotatably connected relative to each other via the pivot 30.

[0104] Optionally, both the first blade 10 and the second blade 20 can be formed using metal powder injection molding (MIM) technology, which can achieve higher strength than stamping and improve the service life of the hinge assembly 200.

[0105] When the first blade 10 and the second blade 20 rotate relative to each other, the hinge assembly 200 can switch between its first state and its second state.

[0106] Referring to Figure 9, in the first state, the first blade 10 and the second blade 20 of the hinge assembly 200 are relatively flattened, and the support device 120 is correspondingly in a flattened state (see Figure 1, Figure 5 or Figure 7).

[0107] In the second state, the first blade 10 and the second blade 20 of the hinge assembly 200 are at a set angle (such as any angle less than 180°, such as 120°, 150°, etc.), and the support device 120 is in a partially folded state accordingly (see Figure 2 or Figure 4).

[0108] To enable relative rotation between the first blade 10 and the second blade 20, in this embodiment, the rotating shaft 30 and the first blade 10 are fixed relative to each other, while the second blade 20 is rotatably connected to the rotating shaft 30. Thus, when the second blade 20 rotates relative to the rotating shaft 30, the second blade 20 can rotate relative to the first blade 10.

[0109] In other embodiments, the shaft 30 and the second blade 20 may be fixed relative to each other, and the first blade 10 may be rotatably connected to the shaft 30.

[0110] In other embodiments, the first blade 10 may be rotatably connected to the shaft 30, and the second blade 20 may be rotatably connected to the shaft 30.

[0111] Referring again to Figures 9 and 10, in this embodiment, the rotating shaft 30 includes a shaft portion 32 and a shaft cap 31, with the shaft cap 31 connected to one axial end of the shaft portion 32. The diameter of the shaft cap 31 is larger than that of the shaft portion 32. The shaft cap 31 can be used for end decoration to cover the internal structure, and can also be used to achieve axial positioning of the first blade 10 and / or the second blade 20.

[0112] Referring again to Figures 9 and 10, in this embodiment, the first blade 10 includes a first blade plate 11 and a first sleeve 12, with the first sleeve 12 connected to the first blade plate 11. The first sleeve 12 is sleeved on the rotating shaft 30, for example, the first sleeve 12 and the rotating shaft 30 form a clearance fit or a transition fit. Optionally, there are two first sleeves 12, spaced apart along the axial direction of the rotating shaft 30 (referring to the extension direction of the axis L1 of the rotating shaft 30), and each sleeved on the shaft portion 32 of the rotating shaft 30.

[0113] Optionally, one of the first sleeves 12 directly or indirectly abuts against the shaft cap 31 along the axial direction, thereby achieving axial positioning of the first blade 10 and the rotating shaft 30.

[0114] Referring again to Figures 9 and 10, the second blade 20 includes a second blade plate 21 and a second sleeve 22. The second sleeve 22 is connected to the second blade plate 21 and is sleeved on the rotating shaft 30 and located between the two first sleeves 12.

[0115] The second blade 20 has a notch C1 that extends through the second blade 20 along the thickness direction of the second blade plate 21, dividing the second sleeve 22 into a main sleeve 22a and a side sleeve 22b. The extension direction of the notch C1 is perpendicular to the axial direction of the rotating shaft 30, and the main sleeve 22a and the side sleeve 22b are spaced apart along the axial direction of the rotating shaft 30. The notch C1 provides space for the axial deformation of the side sleeve 22b.

[0116] Optionally, the cut C1 extends from one side of the second sleeve 22 into the second blade 21, but does not penetrate the second blade 21. The second blade 21 includes a base plate 21a, a main plate 21b, and a side swing arm 21c. The main plate 21b is connected between the base plate 21a and the main sleeve 22a, and the side swing arm 21c is connected between the base plate 21a and the side sleeve 22b. The cut C1 is located between the main plate 21b and the side swing arm 21c. It should be noted that the second blade 21 can be a one-piece molded part (e.g., one-piece molded using MIM technology), and its base plate 21a, main plate 21b, and side swing arm 21c are all different parts of the second blade 21. For ease of understanding, the base plate 21a and the main plate 21b, as well as the base plate 21a and the side swing arm 21c, are schematically divided by dashed lines L2 in Figure 10.

[0117] The cutting depth h of the cut C1 in this embodiment can be set as needed. For example, when greater damping is required, the cutting depth h of the cut C1 can be set to be smaller. At this time, the length of the side swing arm 21c is shorter, the side swing arm 21c has greater structural stiffness, and a greater force is required to push it to drive the side sleeve 22b to undergo elastic deformation along the axial direction.

[0118] The bottom of the cut C1 (i.e. the end of the cut C1 away from the second sleeve 22) can be set to be arc-shaped to avoid stress concentration and cracking at that point.

[0119] In other embodiments, the extension direction of the cut C1 may also be configured to intersect the axial direction of the rotating shaft 30 at an angle. The cut C1 may be configured to extend along a straight line (as shown in Figure 10), or it may be configured to extend along an arc or a broken line, and there is no limitation on this.

[0120] As shown in Figures 9 and 10, there are two slits C1, which divide the second sleeve 22 into a main sleeve 22a and two side sleeves 22b. The two side sleeves 22b are located on both sides of the main sleeve 22a and correspond to the two first sleeves 12 along the axial direction of the rotating shaft 30. The two side sleeves 22b and the two first sleeves 12 respectively cooperate to provide greater rotational damping. Optionally, the two side sleeves 22b are arranged symmetrically, so that when the main sleeve 22a is held by the rotating shaft 30, the two side sleeves 22b can be symmetrically offset, so that the second sleeve 22 is subjected to overall force balance.

[0121] In this embodiment, the two cuts C1 are located on both sides of the second blade 20 near the axis of the rotating shaft 30, so that the main sleeve 22a has a larger axial extension length (referring to the length extending along the axis of the rotating shaft 30), while the side sleeve 22b has a shorter axial extension length. In this way, the longer main sleeve 22a can hold the rotating shaft 30 more stably, while the shorter side sleeve 22b is conducive to increasing the angle of elastic deflection of the side sleeve 22b along the axis under the compression of the first sleeve 12, so as to provide greater damping.

[0122] Referring again to Figures 9 and 10, in this embodiment, optionally, a cutting groove C2 is provided on the side of the side sleeve 22b away from the main sleeve 22a along the axial direction of the rotating shaft 30, and the first sleeve 12 extends at least partially into the cutting groove C2.

[0123] The cutting groove C2 allows the axial extension length of the side sleeve 22b to be less than that of the side swing arm 21c. This means the side swing arm 21c can maintain a larger axial extension length to retain greater elastic deformation damping. Simultaneously, the side sleeve 22b maintains a smaller axial extension length, allowing it to deflect at a larger angle relative to the pivot 30 without being obstructed. Furthermore, the cutting groove C2, accommodating at least a portion of the first sleeve 12, also reduces the total axial length occupied by the hinge assembly 200, resulting in a more compact hinge assembly structure.

[0124] Referring again to Figures 9 and 10, in this embodiment, the first sleeve 12 has a first mating end face P3, and the first mating end face P3 is recessed with a mating groove C3. The first mating end face P3 and the mating groove C3 are also visible in Figure 11. The first mating end face P3 can be a plane perpendicular to the axis L1 of the rotating shaft 30, and the mating groove C3 is formed recessed from the first mating end face P3. The number of mating grooves C3 can be one or more.

[0125] The side sleeve 22b has a second mating end face P4, and the second mating end face P4 is provided with a mating protrusion 23. The second mating end face P4 and the mating protrusion 23 are also visible in Figure 12. The second mating end face P4 can be a plane perpendicular to the axis L1 of the rotating shaft 30, and the mating protrusion 23 protrudes from the second mating end face P4. The number of mating protrusions 23 can be one or more, and the number of mating protrusions 23 is the same as the number of mating grooves C3. The shape of the mating grooves C3 is adapted to (same as or substantially the same as) the mating protrusions 23.

[0126] Referring to Figures 11 and 12, optionally, there are two mating protrusions 23 and two mating grooves C3, which are distributed at 180°.

[0127] In other embodiments, the mating protrusion 23 and the mating groove C3 may be one or more, and this is not limited here. When there are multiple mating protrusions 23 and mating grooves C3, the multiple mating grooves C3 and the multiple mating protrusions 23 are evenly distributed circumferentially.

[0128] Referring again to Figures 11 and 12, in the circumferential direction of the side sleeve 22b, the protrusion height of the mating protrusion 23 (referring to the height protruding from the second mating end face P4) gradually decreases from the middle of the mating protrusion 23 to both sides, and the two sides of the mating protrusion 23 along the circumferential direction are tangent to the second mating end face P4, so that the mating protrusion 23 and the second mating end face P4 transition smoothly; correspondingly, in the circumferential direction of the first sleeve 12, the recess depth of the mating groove C3 (referring to the depth recessed from the first mating end face P3) gradually decreases from the middle of the mating groove C3 to both sides, and the two sides of the mating groove C3 along the circumferential direction are tangent to the first mating end face P3, so that the mating groove C3 and the first mating end face P3 transition smoothly.

[0129] Optionally, the mating protrusion 23 has a top surface area P31 and two first transition surface areas P32, which are smoothly connected between the top surface area P31 and the first mating end face P3. Similarly, the mating groove C3 has a bottom surface area P41 and two second transition surface areas P42, which are smoothly connected between the bottom surface area P41 and the second mating end face P4.

[0130] In this embodiment, by reasonably setting the positions of the mating protrusion 23 and the mating groove C3, the mating protrusion 23 can be precisely fitted into the mating groove C3 when the hinge assembly 200 is in the first state (such as the unfolded state). When the hinge assembly 200 is in the second state (partially folded state), the mating protrusion 23 and the mating groove C3 are circumferentially offset, that is, the mating protrusion 23 moves out of the mating groove C3 and abuts against the first mating end face P3 of the first sleeve 12 (see Figures 13 and 14). In the second state, the side sleeve 22b undergoes elastic deformation that deviates from the first sleeve 12. This elastic deformation causes the side sleeve 22b and the first sleeve 12 to elastically press against each other along the axial direction of the rotating shaft 30.

[0131] During the transition of the hinge assembly 200 from the first state to the second state, the first sleeve 12 and the side sleeve 22b rotate relative to each other, causing the mating protrusion 23 to gradually move out of the mating groove C3 and abut against the first mating end face P3 of the first sleeve 12. During this process, the mating protrusion 23 and the side sleeve 22b undergo displacement away from the first sleeve 12 along the axis of the rotating shaft 30. To achieve this displacement, the side swing arm 21c connecting the side sleeve 22b needs to undergo elastic deformation relative to the base plate 21a of the second blade 21; that is, there is elastic damping between the side sleeve 22b and the first sleeve 12. Therefore, to allow the hinge assembly 200 to transition from the first state to the second state, the user needs to apply a force to the first blade 10 and / or the second blade 20 that is not less than the force required to cause the aforementioned elastic deformation. Therefore, the hinge assembly 200 can be stably maintained in the first state and is less likely to be accidentally changed to the second state by disturbing forces (such as the weight of the second part 122 of the support device 120, see Figure 1). Of course, when the user actively applies a force or torque to the first blade 10 and / or the second blade 20, and the force or torque is large enough to overcome the above-mentioned elastic damping, the first blade 10 and the second blade 20 can rotate relative to each other to the required angle, and the hinge assembly 200 changes to the second state.

[0132] Alternatively, when the hinge assembly 200 is in the first unfolded state, the first mating end face P3 and the second mating end face P4 can be configured to contact and abut against each other, and the bottom surfaces of the mating protrusion 23 and the mating groove C3 can also contact and abut against each other. A larger contact area can provide greater frictional resistance, thereby providing greater frictional damping between the side sleeve 22b and the first sleeve 12.

[0133] Therefore, when the hinge assembly 200 is in the first state, the aforementioned elastic damping and frictional damping can coexist between the side sleeve 22b and the first sleeve 12, thereby enabling the hinge assembly 200 to be held stably in the first state. Since the hinge assembly 200 in this embodiment can provide significant damping, when used to support the support device 120, only a smaller number (e.g., two sets) of hinge assemblies 200 are needed to meet the support requirements of the support device 120, reducing the structural complexity and cost of the support device 120.

[0134] Referring to Figures 13 and 14, when the hinge assembly 200 is in the second state, the first sleeve 12 and the side sleeve 22b rotate relative to each other. The mating protrusion 23 of the side sleeve 22b presses against the first mating end face P3 of the first sleeve 12, resulting in a certain amount of frictional damping between the side sleeve 22b and the first sleeve 12. Due to this frictional damping, the hinge assembly 200 can achieve a hovering function in the second state. That is, the support device 120 using the hinge assembly 200 can support the electronic device 110 at any angle within a certain range (see Figure 2).

[0135] Of course, the total damping of the hinge assembly 200 in the second state can be set to be less than the total damping of the hinge assembly 200 in the first state, so that the hinge assembly 200 has a better user experience.

[0136] Referring again to Figures 13 and 14, during the process of the user applying force to move the hinge assembly 200 from the second state to the first state, when the top surface area P31 of the mating protrusion 23 (see Figure 12) rotates to any of the second transition surface areas P42 (see Figure 11) of the corresponding mating groove C3, the elastic force between the side sleeve 22b and the first sleeve 12 can cause the mating protrusion 23 to automatically slide along the second transition surface area P42 into the position of the bottom surface area P41 (see Figure 11) of the corresponding mating groove C3, so that the mating protrusion 23 is fully engaged in the mating groove C3, and the hinge assembly 200 enters the first state. That is, due to the arc transition setting of the mating protrusion 23 and the mating groove C3, when the hinge assembly 200 moves from the second state to a position close to the first state (e.g., a distance of less than 5°), the engagement of the mating protrusion 23 and the mating groove C3 can guide the hinge assembly 200 to automatically enter the first state, improving the user experience.

[0137] For example, the hinge assembly 200 can be set to automatically slide into a first state when the included angle between the first leaf plate 11 and the second leaf plate 21 is greater than or equal to 175°. When the included angle between the first leaf plate 11 and the second leaf plate 21 is less than 175°, the hinge assembly 200 remains in a second state.

[0138] In some embodiments, when the hinge assembly 200 is in the flattened first state, there may be a certain gap between the mating protrusion 23 and the mating groove C3, and they may not be in direct contact. Alternatively, even if they are in contact, there may be no axial elastic force or the elastic force may be small between them. In this case, the hinge assembly 200 is easier to fold or unfold near the flattened first state (e.g., within 2°-3°). However, when the hinge assembly 200 needs to move from within 2°-3° of the first state to completely exit the first state and enter the second state, the damping will still increase due to the elastic force caused by the axial elastic deformation of the side sleeve 22b.

[0139] In other embodiments, the positions of the mating protrusion 23 and the mating groove C3 can be interchanged, that is, the mating protrusion 23 can be disposed on the first sleeve 12 and the mating groove C3 can be disposed on the side sleeve 22b.

[0140] Referring to Figures 15 and 16, in this embodiment, there is a radial clearance f1 between the inner circumferential surface of the side sleeve 22b and the outer surface of the rotating shaft 30. That is, the diameter of the inner hole of the side sleeve 22b is larger than the diameter of the rotating shaft 30. Thus, the rotating shaft 30 does not easily obstruct the deflection of the side sleeve 22b along the axial direction of the rotating shaft 30. Optionally, the radial clearance f1 is greater than 0.4 mm, thereby ensuring that the rotating shaft 30 can deflect at a large angle, thus providing greater elastic damping.

[0141] In this embodiment, the main sleeve 22a is rotatably sleeved on the rotating shaft 30, and an interference fit is formed between the main sleeve 22a and the rotating shaft 30.

[0142] For example, as shown in Figure 17, the main sleeve 22a has a notch C4 (also seen in Figure 12). The notch C4 extends through the main sleeve 22a along the axial direction of the pivot member 30, and radially extends through the inner and outer circumferential surfaces of the main sleeve 22a. When the pivot member 30 is not engaged, the diameter of the inner hole of the main sleeve 22a is slightly smaller than the diameter of the pivot member 30, for example, the diameter of the inner hole of the main sleeve 22a is 0.2-0.5 mm smaller than the diameter of the pivot member 30. Thus, when the shaft portion 32 of the pivot member 30 is engaged within the main sleeve 22a, the main sleeve 22a is elastically expanded by the pivot member 30, causing the main sleeve 22a to elastically grip the pivot member 30, thereby creating frictional damping between the main sleeve 22a and the pivot member 30. This frictional damping can further improve the rotational damping of the hinge assembly 200.

[0143] Furthermore, in the embodiment shown in Figure 17, the cross-section of the main sleeve 22a is an arc-shaped section (i.e., an arc with a central angle greater than 180°, or a truncated circle). The main sleeve 22a includes an arc-shaped cylindrical wall 221 and a flat cylindrical wall 222, which are connected circumferentially. The arc-shaped cylindrical wall 221 is connected to the second blade 21, and the flat cylindrical wall 222 is perpendicular to the second blade 21, with a notch C4 provided on the flat cylindrical wall 222. The rotating shaft 30 has a mating shaft section 32a, the cross-section of which is an arc-shaped section, and the diameter of the arc of the mating shaft section 32a is larger than the diameter of the arc of the inner hole of the main sleeve 22a. The mating shaft section 32a can refer to the section of the shaft portion 32 of the rotating shaft 30 that mates with the main sleeve 22a. The cross-section of the mating shaft section 32a may or may not be the same as other parts of the shaft portion 32.

[0144] Optionally, when the hinge assembly 200 is in the flattened first state, the superior arc of the mating shaft segment 32a and the superior arc of the inner hole of the main sleeve 22a are exactly matched (i.e., the arc segment matches the arc segment, and the straight segment matches the straight segment). In this way, the stability of the hinge assembly 200 in the first state can be further improved.

[0145] When the hinge assembly 200 needs to change from the first state to the second state, the superior arc of the mating shaft section 32a and the superior arc of the inner hole of the main sleeve 22a gradually shift apart. At this time, a sufficiently large external force is required to make the arc-shaped cylinder wall 221 and the flat cylinder wall 222 open sufficiently to accommodate the shifted mating shaft section 32a. In this way, the mating damping between the main sleeve 22a and the rotating shaft 30 is sufficiently large, improving the damping feel.

[0146] Referring to Figure 18, in another embodiment, the inner hole of the main sleeve 22a can also be a circular hole, and correspondingly, the cross-section of the mating shaft section 32a of the rotating shaft 30 can be circular or arc-shaped. Furthermore, the inner diameter of the main sleeve 22a is also set to be slightly smaller than that of the rotating shaft 30, so that the main sleeve 22a and the rotating shaft 30 form an interference fit. Of course, in this embodiment, the main sleeve 22a can also be provided with a notch C4 to give it the ability to expand or shrink elastically.

[0147] Referring to Figures 19 and 20, the support device 120 provided in this embodiment (see Figure 5) has two hinge assemblies 200, connected by a connecting sleeve 40. The pivots 30 of the two hinge assemblies 200 are coaxially sleeved on both ends of the connecting sleeve 40, and the first sleeves 12 of the two hinge assemblies 200 near the connecting sleeve 40 respectively abut against both ends of the connecting sleeve 40 circumferentially. For example, the pivots 30 of the two hinge assemblies 200 are respectively inserted into the inner holes of the connecting sleeve 40.

[0148] Optionally, the shaft cap 31 of the rotating shaft 30 has a first insert tooth 33 protruding from one end near the shaft portion 32 (also shown in Figure 9 or Figure 10), and the first sleeve 12 has a second insert tooth 13 extending axially along the rotating shaft 30. The first sleeve 12 is sleeved on the shaft portion 32, and the first insert tooth 33 and the second insert tooth 13 are inserted and engaged, abutting against each other circumferentially. There can be multiple first insert teeth 33 and multiple second insert teeth 13. Multiple first insert teeth 33 are engaged in the spacer grooves between the second insert teeth 13, and multiple second insert teeth 13 are engaged in the spacer grooves between the first insert teeth 33, thereby achieving circumferential abutment between the first insert teeth 33 and the second insert teeth 13. Thus, in this embodiment, the rotating shaft 30 and the first blade 10 are relatively fixed without relative rotation. Combined with the rotational engagement of the second blade 20 relative to the rotating shaft 30, the rotation of the second blade 20 relative to the first blade 10 can be achieved.

[0149] The connecting sleeve 40 has a third tooth 43 at each of its axial ends. The third tooth 43 engages with the second tooth 13 on the first sleeve 12 near the connecting sleeve 40 to achieve circumferential contact.

[0150] In this embodiment, the connecting sleeve 40 can both limit the axial movement of the two hinge assemblies 200 and keep the first blades 10 of the two hinge assemblies 200 in a coplanar state without circumferential relative deflection.

[0151] Referring to Figure 21, optionally, one side surface of the first blade plate 11 of the first blade 10 is provided with an adhesive strip 50, and the first blade plate 11 is bonded to the first support plate 121a (as shown in Figure 5) by the adhesive strip 50. One side surface of the second blade plate 21 of the second blade 20 is provided with an adhesive strip 50, and the second blade plate 21 is bonded to the second support plate 122a (as shown in Figure 5) by the adhesive strip 50.

[0152] In other embodiments, the first blade 11 and the first support plate 121a can also be connected by screws, snap-fit, or other means, and the second blade 21 and the second support plate 122a can also be connected by screws, snap-fit, or other means.

[0153] Figure 22 shows a hinge assembly 200a according to another embodiment of this application.

[0154] Referring to Figure 22, the hinge assembly 200a is an improvement upon the hinge assembly 200 shown in Figure 15. The difference between the hinge assembly 200a and the hinge assembly 200 in Figure 15 is that the second blade 20 of the hinge assembly 200a has only one slit C1. The second sleeve 22 of the second blade 20 is divided into a main sleeve 22a and a side sleeve 22b by this slit C1. The side sleeve 22b and one of the first sleeves 12 of the first blade 10 cooperate with each other in the same way as the cooperating protrusion 23 and cooperating groove C3 of the hinge assembly 200 in Figure 15, so as to realize the hovering function and the state locking function of the hinge assembly 200a.

[0155] In the hinge assembly 200a, the main sleeve 22a of the second blade 20 abuts against another first sleeve 12 of the first blade 10 along the axial direction of the rotating shaft 30. The end faces of the main sleeve 22a and the first sleeve 12 that come into contact can both be configured as planes perpendicular to the axis of the rotating shaft 30. In this way, the main sleeve 22a and the first sleeve 12 are axially limited, so that when the first blade 10 and the second blade 20 rotate relative to each other, the axial position of the main sleeve 22a and the second blade 21 remains unchanged, and only the side sleeve 22b undergoes a small-angle deflection along the axial direction to provide elastic damping.

[0156] Figure 23 illustrates a hinge assembly 200b according to another embodiment of this application.

[0157] Referring to Figure 23, the hinge assembly 200b is an improvement upon the hinge assembly 200 shown in Figure 15. The difference between the hinge assembly 200b and the hinge assembly 200 in Figure 15 is that the hinge assembly 200b has multiple main sleeves 22a for the second blade 20. These main sleeves 22a are arranged sequentially at intervals along the axial direction and each forms an interference fit with the rotating shaft 30. The total length covered by the multiple main sleeves 22a of the rotating shaft 30 is greater, providing greater damping for the relative rotation between the second blade 20 and the rotating shaft 30. The number and spacing of the main sleeves 22a can be set as needed and are not limited here.

[0158] Figure 24 shows a hinge assembly 200c according to another embodiment of this application.

[0159] Referring to Figure 24, the hinge assembly 200c is an improvement upon the hinge assembly 200 shown in Figure 15. The difference between the hinge assembly 200c and the hinge assembly 200 in Figure 15 is that the width of the cut C1 in the hinge assembly 200c (referring to the dimension extending along the axial direction of the pivot member 30) is larger. The first sleeve 12 fits within the cut C1, that is, the first sleeve 12 is sandwiched between the main sleeve 22a and the side sleeve 22b. Optionally, the main sleeve 22a and the first sleeve 12 abut against each other axially. The first sleeve 12 and the side sleeve 22b are engaged by the engaging protrusion 23 and engaging groove C3 used in the hinge assembly 200 in Figure 15 to realize the hovering function and the state locking function of the hinge assembly 200c.

[0160] Figure 25 shows a hinge assembly 200d according to another embodiment of this application.

[0161] Referring to Figure 25, the hinge assembly 200d is an improvement on the hinge assembly 200 shown in Figure 15. The difference between the hinge assembly 200d and the hinge assembly 200 in Figure 15 is that the depth of the cut C1 in the hinge assembly 200d is smaller. At this time, the elastic force required for the side sleeve 22b to offset axially is greater, thereby providing a greater damping force.

[0162] The aforementioned hinge assemblies 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d can replace hinge assembly 200 in the aforementioned support device 120 and electronic device assembly 100.

[0163] Referring to Figure 26, this embodiment also provides a foldable device 300, such as a flip watch, a laptop computer, a flip phone, or other flip-cover devices.

[0164] The foldable device 300 includes a first body 310, a second body 320, and the aforementioned hinge assembly 200. The first body 310 and the second body 320 are rotatably connected together via the hinge assembly 200 to achieve relative folding or unfolding. During connection, the first body 310 can be connected to the first blade 10 of the hinge assembly 200, and the second body 320 can be connected to the second blade 20 of the hinge assembly 200.

[0165] The foldable device 300, due to the use of the aforementioned hinge assembly 200, also has better opening and closing damping, hovering and status locking functions.

[0166] Optionally, the foldable device 300 has two hinge assemblies 200, and a connecting sleeve 40 is connected between the two hinge assemblies 200 (see also Figure 19).

[0167] For example, when the foldable device 300 is a laptop, the first body 310 can be the base of the laptop, which includes the motherboard, battery, keyboard assembly, etc. The second body 320 can be the screen part of the laptop, which mainly includes the computer screen, camera, etc.

[0168] For example, when the foldable device 300 is a flip phone, the first body 310 is the main body of the flip phone, and the second body 320 is the flip part of the flip phone.

[0169] The aforementioned hinge assemblies 200a, 200b, 200c, and 200d can replace hinge assembly 200 in the aforementioned foldable device 300.

[0170] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application and are not intended to limit it. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the above preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications or equivalent substitutions to the technical solutions of this application should not depart from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of this application.

Claims

1. A hinge assembly, characterized by The hinge assembly comprises: a rotating shaft; a first blade comprising a first blade plate and a first sleeve connected to the first blade plate, the first sleeve being sleeved on the rotating shaft, the first sleeve having a first mating end face; and a second blade comprising a second blade plate and a second sleeve connected to the second blade plate, the second sleeve being sleeved on the rotating shaft and being capable of rotating relative to the first sleeve, the second blade being provided with a cutout, the cutout separating the second sleeve into a main sleeve and a side sleeve, the main sleeve and the side sleeve being spaced apart along the axial direction of the rotating shaft, the side sleeve having a second mating end face; wherein one of the first mating end face and the second mating end face is provided with a mating protrusion, and the other of the first mating end face and the second mating end face is provided with a mating groove; when the first blade and the second blade rotate relative to each other, the side sleeve is capable of elastically deviating from the first sleeve, so that the side sleeve and the first sleeve elastically abut each other along the axial direction of the rotating shaft.

2. The hinge assembly according to claim 1, wherein: the hinge assembly has a first state and a second state and is capable of switching between the first state and the second state when the first blade and the second blade rotate relative to each other; in the first state, the mating protrusion is matched in the mating groove, and the first mating end face and the second mating end face abut each other; in the second state, the mating protrusion is circumferentially staggered from the mating groove, and the mating protrusion abuts against one of the first mating end face and the second mating end face provided with the mating groove, so that the side sleeve elastically deviates from the first sleeve.

3. The hinge assembly according to claim 1, wherein: a radial gap is formed between the inner circumferential surface of the side sleeve and the outer surface of the rotating shaft.

4. The hinge assembly according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein: the main sleeve is rotatably sleeved on the rotating shaft, and an interference fit is formed between the main sleeve and the rotating shaft.

5. The hinge assembly according to claim 4, wherein: the main sleeve is provided with a missing slot, the missing slot penetrating through the main sleeve along the axial direction of the rotating shaft, and the missing slot penetrates through the inner circumferential surface and the outer circumferential surface of the main sleeve.

6. The hinge assembly according to claim 5, wherein: the cross section of the main sleeve is an arcuate bow shape, the main sleeve comprises an arc-shaped sleeve wall and a planar sleeve wall, the arc-shaped sleeve wall and the planar sleeve wall are connected in the circumferential direction, the arc-shaped sleeve wall is connected to the second blade plate, the planar sleeve wall is perpendicular to the second blade plate, and the missing slot is arranged on the planar sleeve wall; the rotating shaft has a mating shaft segment, the cross section of the mating shaft segment is an arcuate bow shape, and the diameter of the arcuate bow of the cross section of the mating shaft segment is greater than the diameter of the arcuate bow of the cross section of the inner hole of the main sleeve.

7. The hinge assembly according to claim 4, wherein: The main sleeves are arranged along the axial direction of the rotating shaft in sequence, and each of the main sleeves is in interference fit with the rotating shaft.

8. The hinge assembly according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that: The cutout extends through the second vane in the thickness direction of the second vane; The cutout extends from one side of the second sleeve to the second vane; the second vane comprises a base plate body, a main plate body and a side swing arm, the main plate body is connected between the base plate body and the main sleeve, the side swing arm is connected between the base plate body and the side sleeve, and the cutout is located between the main plate body and the side swing arm; The extension direction of the cutout is perpendicular or obliquely intersected with the axial direction of the rotating shaft, or the cutout extends along a straight line or an arc or a broken line.

9. The hinge assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The cutout has two cutouts, and the two cutouts are respectively located on both sides of the second vane in the axial direction of the rotating shaft; The two cutouts separate the second sleeve into a main sleeve and two side sleeves, and the two side sleeves are respectively located on both sides of the main sleeve; The first sleeve has two first sleeves, and the two first sleeves are spaced apart along the axial direction of the rotating shaft; The second sleeve is located between the two first sleeves, and the two side sleeves are respectively matched with the two first sleeves in the axial direction of the rotating shaft.

10. The hinge assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that: In the first state, the first vane and the second vane are coplanar.

11. The hinge assembly according to any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that: The matching protrusions are uniformly distributed in the circumferential direction, the number of the matching grooves is equal to the number of the matching protrusions, and the matching grooves are uniformly distributed in the circumferential direction.

12. The hinge assembly according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that: The matching protrusions are arranged on the second matching end face, and the matching grooves are arranged on the first matching end face; In the circumferential direction, the protruding height of the matching protrusions gradually decreases from the middle to both sides, and the two sides of the matching protrusions in the circumferential direction are respectively tangent to the second matching end face; The shape of the matching groove is matched with the matching protrusion.

13. The hinge assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that: The rotating shaft comprises a shaft part and a shaft cap, and the shaft cap is connected to one end of the shaft part; The shaft cap is provided with a first spline near one end of the shaft part, and the first sleeve has a second spline extending in the axial direction; The first sleeve is sleeved on the shaft part, and the first spline and the second spline are inserted and matched and abut against each other in the circumferential direction; The main sleeve and the shaft part form an interference fit that can rotate relative to each other, and the inner circumferential surface of the side sleeve and the outer surface of the shaft part have a radial gap.

14. A support device characterized by, Comprise: The hinge assembly according to any one of claims 1-13; A first support plate connected to the first vane; A second support plate connected to the second vane.

15. The support device according to claim 14, characterized in that: The support device is used for supporting an electronic device, the electronic device has opposite front and back surfaces, the front surface is used for display, and the back surface includes a first surface area and a second surface area; The first support plate is configured to be foldably connected to the first surface area, and the second support plate is capable of rotating relative to the first support plate to be folded on the second surface area or to form a set angle with the second surface area; Wherein, in the state that the second support plate is folded on the second surface area, the matching protrusion is matched in the matching groove.

16. The support device according to claim 15, characterized in that: The electronic device is provided with a first magnetic attraction element, and the first magnetic attraction element is located at the first surface area; The hinge assembly further includes a second magnetic attraction element, and the second magnetic attraction element is located at the first support plate and is used for magnetically connecting the first magnetic attraction element.

17. The support device according to claim 16, characterized in that: The support device further includes a connecting sleeve; The hinge assembly has two, the shaft members of the two hinge assemblies are coaxially sleeved on both ends of the connecting sleeve, and the first sleeves of the two hinge assemblies respectively abut each other in the circumferential direction at both ends of the connecting sleeve.

18. An electronic device assembly, comprising: Including: An electronic device; The support device according to any one of claims 14-17; the first support plate is configured to be connected to the electronic device, and the second support plate is capable of rotating relative to the first support plate to be folded on the electronic device or to form a set angle with the electronic device.

19. A foldable device, characterized by Including: The hinge assembly according to any one of claims 1-13; A first body connected to the first leaf plate; And A second body connected to the second leaf plate.

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