Folding mechanism, electronic device and first synchronizing member

Abstract

A folding mechanism (100), an electronic device (1000) and a first synchronizing member (51). The folding mechanism comprises a main shaft (1), a first fixing frame (21), a second fixing frame (22), a first connecting member (31), a second connecting member (32) and the first synchronizing member (51), wherein a first rotating end (311) of the first connecting member (31) and a first rotating end (321) of the second connecting member (32) are both rotationally connected to the main shaft (1), a second rotating end (313) of the first connecting member (31) is rotationally connected to the first fixing frame (21), and a second rotating end (323) of the second connecting member (32) is rotationally connected to the second fixing frame (22); the first rotating end (311) of the first connecting member (31) and the first rotating end (321) of the second connecting member (32) are of a non-mirror-symmetric structure; a first spiral groove (316) is provided at the first rotating end (311) of the first connecting member (31), and a second spiral groove (326) is provided at the first rotating end (321) of the second connecting member (32); the first synchronizing member (51) comprises a first transmission block (512) and a second transmission block (513), both the first transmission block (512) and the second transmission block (513) being spiral-shaped; the spiral axis (R1) of the first transmission block (512) is parallel to the spiral axis (R2) of the second transmission block (513); the distance between the spiral axis (R1) of the first transmission block (512) and the central plane (PA) of the main shaft (1) is not equal to the distance between the spiral axis (R2) of the second transmission block (513) and the central plane (PA) of the main shaft (1); the first transmission block (512) is disposed in the first spiral groove (316) and is movable in the first spiral groove (316); and the second transmission block (513) is disposed in the second spiral groove (326) and is movable in the second spiral groove (326). The first synchronizing member (51) enables synchronous rotation of the first rotating end (311) of the first connecting member (31) and the first rotating end (321) of the second connecting member (32), the two ends being of a non-mirror-symmetric structure.

Description

Folding mechanism, electronic equipment and first synchronization element

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411208400.1, filed with the China National Intellectual Property Administration on August 28, 2024, entitled "Folding Mechanism, Electronic Device and First Synchronizing Component", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of foldable electronic products technology, and in particular to a folding mechanism, an electronic device and a first synchronizing element. Background Technology

[0003] With the development of technology and the demand in the electronic device market, foldable electronic devices are being used more and more widely. The folding mechanism of a foldable electronic device includes a main shaft, a first connector, and a second connector. Both the first rotating ends of the first connector and the first rotating ends of the second connector are rotatably connected to the main shaft. However, because the first rotating ends of the first connector and the second connector in traditional designs are non-mirror-symmetrical, it is difficult for the first connector and the second connector to rotate synchronously relative to the main shaft. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a folding mechanism, an electronic device, and a first synchronizing element. The first synchronizing element enables the first rotating end of a first connecting member with a non-mirror-symmetric structure and the first rotating end of a second connecting member to rotate synchronously.

[0005] In a first aspect, this application provides a folding mechanism. The folding mechanism includes a main shaft, a first fixed frame, a second fixed frame, a first connecting member, a second connecting member, and a first synchronizing member; the first rotating end of the first connecting member and the first rotating end of the second connecting member are both rotatably connected to the main shaft, the second rotating end of the first connecting member is rotatably connected to the first fixed frame, and the second rotating end of the second connecting member is rotatably connected to the second fixed frame, wherein the first rotating end of the first connecting member and the first rotating end of the second connecting member have a non-mirror symmetrical structure; the first rotating end of the first connecting member is provided with a first helical groove, and the first rotating end of the second connecting member is provided with a second helical groove;

[0006] The first synchronization component includes a first transmission block and a second transmission block. Both the first transmission block and the second transmission block are spiral-shaped. The spiral axis of the first transmission block and the spiral axis of the second transmission block are parallel. The distance between the spiral axis of the first transmission block and the center plane of the main shaft and the distance between the spiral axis of the second transmission block and the center plane of the main shaft are not equal. The center plane of the main shaft is parallel to the length extension direction of the main shaft.

[0007] The first transmission block is disposed in the first spiral groove and can move within the first spiral groove; the second transmission block is disposed in the second spiral groove and can move within the second spiral groove.

[0008] It is understood that the first transmission block of the first synchronizing member is disposed within the first helical groove of the first connecting member and is capable of moving within the first helical groove. Through the relative movement of the two, a movable connection is achieved between the first rotating end of the first connecting member and the first transmission block of the first synchronizing member. The second transmission block of the first synchronizing member is disposed within the second helical groove of the second connecting member and is capable of moving within the second helical groove. Through the relative movement of the two, a movable connection is achieved between the first rotating end of the second connecting member and the second transmission block of the first synchronizing member.

[0009] It is understandable that by setting the helical axis of the first transmission block to be parallel to the helical axis of the second transmission block, and making the distance between the helical axis of the first transmission block and the center plane of the main shaft unequal to the distance between the helical axis of the second transmission block and the center plane of the main shaft, the first and second transmission blocks form a non-mirror-symmetrical structure. In this case, the first transmission block can match the movement trajectory of the first connecting member, and the second transmission block can match the movement trajectory of the second connecting member. This ensures that the first synchronizing member allows the first rotating end of the non-mirror-symmetrical first connecting member and the first rotating end of the second connecting member to rotate synchronously during the movement of the folding mechanism, thereby controlling the rotation angles of the first and second fixed frames relative to the main shaft to be consistent. Furthermore, when the folding mechanism is applied to electronic devices, since the first connecting member can be rotatably connected to the first fixed frame fixedly connected to the first housing, and the second connecting member can be rotatably connected to the second fixed frame fixedly connected to the second housing, the rotational movements of the first and second housings are synchronized and consistent. The folding and unfolding movements of the folding mechanism have better symmetry, thus improving the operational experience of the folding mechanism and the electronic device.

[0010] For example, when the distance between the axis of rotation of the second rotating end of the second connector relative to the second fixed frame and the center plane of the main shaft is changed, this embodiment can change the distance between the helical axis of the second transmission block and the center plane of the main shaft. Thus, when the second transmission block is disposed in the second helical groove of the second connector, the second transmission block can match the movement trajectory of the second connector, thereby ensuring that the first synchronizing member can make the first rotating end of the non-mirror-symmetric first connector and the first rotating end of the second connector rotate synchronously during the movement of the folding mechanism, thereby controlling the rotation angle of the first fixed frame and the second fixed frame relative to the main shaft to be consistent.

[0011] For example, when the distance between the axis of rotation of the second rotating end of the second connector relative to the second fixed frame and the center plane of the main shaft increases, this embodiment can increase the distance between the helical axis of the second transmission block and the center plane of the main shaft.

[0012] It is understandable that through the cooperation of the first transmission block and the first helical groove, and the cooperation of the second transmission block and the second helical groove, the relative rotation of the first connecting member, the second connecting member, and the main shaft can be converted into the relative sliding of the first synchronizing member and the main shaft. Thus, compared to the relative rotational motion between the first synchronizing member and the main shaft, the first synchronizing member in this embodiment can be made thinner, which is beneficial for the miniaturization of the folding mechanism and electronic device.

[0013] It is understandable that by setting the first rotating ends of the first and second connecting members to be non-mirror-symmetrical structures, and the first rotating ends of the third and fourth connecting members to be non-mirror-symmetrical structures, when the folding mechanism is applied to an electronic device, and the first and second housings are folded relative to each other to a closed state, the accommodating space enclosed by the first support plate, the second support plate, and the main shaft shifts towards the first or second housing. Compared to the symmetrical accommodating space of traditional foldable electronic devices, the accommodating space in this embodiment is asymmetrical due to its shift towards the first or second housing. At this time, the second display area accommodated in the accommodating space also shifts towards the first or second housing, and the flexible screen is also roughly asymmetrically shaped like a "water droplet."

[0014] In one possible implementation, the axis of rotation of the first rotating end of the first connector relative to the main shaft is the first rotation axis, and the axis of rotation of the first rotating end of the second connector relative to the main shaft is the second rotation axis. The first rotation axis and the second rotation axis are parallel, and the distance between the first rotation axis and the center plane of the main shaft and the distance between the second rotation axis and the center plane of the main shaft are not equal.

[0015] It is understandable that by setting the distance between the first rotation axis and the center plane of the main shaft to be unequal to the distance between the second rotation axis and the center plane of the main shaft, the first rotating end of the first connector and the first rotating end of the second connector are made to have a non-mirror symmetrical structure.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the axis of rotation of the second rotating end of the first connector relative to the first fixed frame is parallel to the axis of rotation of the second rotating end of the second connector relative to the second fixed frame, and the distance between the axis of rotation of the second rotating end of the first connector relative to the first fixed frame and the center plane of the main shaft is not equal to the distance between the axis of rotation of the second rotating end of the second connector relative to the second fixed frame and the center plane of the main shaft.

[0017] It is understandable that by setting the distance between the axis of rotation of the second rotating end of the first connector relative to the first fixed frame and the center plane of the main shaft to be unequal to the distance between the axis of rotation of the second rotating end of the second connector relative to the second fixed frame and the center plane of the main shaft, the second rotating ends of the first connector and the second rotating ends of the second connector are made to have a non-mirror symmetrical structure.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the helix angle of the first transmission block is not equal to the helix angle of the second transmission block.

[0019] Understandably, by setting the helix angles of the first and second transmission blocks to be unequal, a non-mirror-symmetrical structure is formed between the first and second transmission blocks. In this case, the first transmission block can match the movement trajectory of the first connecting member, and the second transmission block can match the movement trajectory of the second connecting member. This ensures that the first synchronizing member allows the first rotating end of the non-mirror-symmetrical first connecting member and the first rotating end of the second connecting member to rotate synchronously during the movement of the folding mechanism, thereby controlling the rotation angles of the first and second fixed frames relative to the main shaft to be consistent.

[0020] For example, when the distance between the axis of rotation of the first rotating end of the second connector relative to the main shaft and the center plane of the main shaft is changed, this embodiment can change the helix angle of the second transmission block so that when the second transmission block is disposed in the second helical groove of the second connector, the second transmission block can match the movement trajectory of the second connector, thereby ensuring that the first synchronizing member can make the first rotating end of the non-mirror symmetrical first connector and the first rotating end of the second connector rotate synchronously during the movement of the folding mechanism, thereby controlling the rotation angle of the first fixed frame and the second fixed frame relative to the main shaft to be consistent.

[0021] For example, when the distance between the axis of rotation of the first rotating end of the second connector relative to the main shaft and the center plane of the main shaft decreases, this embodiment can increase the helix angle of the second transmission block.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the first synchronizing element includes a first base, which includes a top surface and a bottom surface facing away from each other, a first side surface and a second side surface facing away from each other, and a third side surface and a fourth side surface facing away from each other. The first side surface and the second side surface of the first base are connected between the top surface and the bottom surface of the first base, and the third side surface and the fourth side surface of the first base are connected between the top surface and the bottom surface of the first base, and also connected between the first side surface and the second side surface of the first base.

[0023] The first transmission block protrudes from the top surface of the first base and extends spirally from the first side of the first base to the middle of the third side.

[0024] The second transmission block protrudes from the top surface of the first base and extends spirally from the second side of the first base to the middle of the third side.

[0025] It is understandable that the structures of the first transmission block and the second transmission block in this embodiment are relatively simple.

[0026] In one possible implementation, the first synchronizing element includes a first guide block protruding from the bottom surface of the first base; the main shaft is provided with a first guide groove, the first guide block is disposed in the first guide groove, and the first base is slidably connected to the main shaft through the first guide block.

[0027] It is understood that the first guide block of the first synchronizing element can be located within the first guide groove of the main shaft. Through the relative movement of the two, the first base is slidably connected to the main shaft via the first guide block, that is, the first synchronizing element and the main shaft slide along the length extension direction of the main shaft. The two sidewalls of the first guide groove in the width direction of the main shaft can limit the first guide block of the first synchronizing element, thereby preventing the first synchronizing element from moving in the width direction of the main shaft.

[0028] In one possible implementation, the first guide block is strip-shaped and extends from the fourth side of the first base to the third side.

[0029] It is understandable that the structure of the first guide block in this embodiment is relatively simple.

[0030] In one possible implementation, the folding mechanism includes a third fixed frame, a fourth fixed frame, a third connector, a fourth connector, and a second synchronizing element; the first rotating end of the third connector and the first rotating end of the fourth connector are both rotatably connected to the main shaft, the second rotating end of the third connector is rotatably connected to the third fixed frame, and the second rotating end of the fourth connector is rotatably connected to the fourth fixed frame, wherein the first rotating end of the third connector and the first rotating end of the fourth connector are non-mirror symmetrical structures;

[0031] The first rotating end of the third connector is provided with a third spiral groove, and the first rotating end of the fourth connector is provided with a fourth spiral groove.

[0032] The second synchronization component includes a third transmission block and a fourth transmission block. Both the third and fourth transmission blocks are spiral-shaped. The spiral axes of the third and fourth transmission blocks are parallel. The distance between the spiral axis of the third transmission block and the center plane of the main shaft is not equal to the distance between the spiral axis of the fourth transmission block and the center plane of the main shaft.

[0033] The third transmission block is located in the third spiral groove and can move in the third spiral groove; the fourth transmission block is located in the fourth spiral groove and can move in the fourth spiral groove.

[0034] It is understood that the third transmission block of the second synchronizing member is located within the third helical groove of the third connecting member and can move within the third helical groove. Through the relative movement of the two, a movable connection is achieved between the third transmission block of the second synchronizing member and the first rotating end of the third connecting member. The fourth transmission block of the second synchronizing member is located within the fourth helical groove of the fourth connecting member and can move within the fourth helical groove. Through the relative movement of the two, a movable connection is achieved between the first rotating end of the fourth connecting member and the fourth transmission block of the second synchronizing member.

[0035] It is understandable that by setting the helical axes of the third and fourth transmission blocks to be parallel, and the distances between the helical axes of the third and fourth transmission blocks and the center plane of the main shaft to be unequal, a non-mirror symmetrical structure is formed between the third and fourth transmission blocks. In this case, the third transmission block can match the movement trajectory of the third connecting member, and the fourth transmission block can match the movement trajectory of the fourth connecting member. This ensures that the first synchronizing member allows the first rotating ends of the non-mirror symmetrical third and fourth connecting members to rotate synchronously during the movement of the folding mechanism, thereby controlling the rotation angles of the third and fourth fixed frames relative to the main shaft to be consistent. Furthermore, since the third connecting member is rotatably connected to the third fixed frame fixedly connected to the first housing, and the fourth connecting member is rotatably connected to the fourth fixed frame fixedly connected to the second housing, the rotational movements of the first and second housings are synchronized and consistent. This results in better symmetry between the folding and unfolding movements of the folding mechanism, thereby improving the operational experience of the folding mechanism and the electronic device.

[0036] In one possible implementation, the folding mechanism includes a third fixing frame, a fourth fixing frame, a third connector, a fourth connector, a first support plate, and a second support plate;

[0037] The first rotating end of the third connector and the first rotating end of the fourth connector are both rotatably connected to the main shaft. The second rotating end of the third connector is rotatably connected to the third fixed frame, and the second rotating end of the fourth connector is rotatably connected to the fourth fixed frame.

[0038] The axis of rotation of the first rotating end of the first connector relative to the main shaft is the first rotation axis; the axis of rotation of the first rotating end of the second connector relative to the main shaft is the second rotation axis; the first rotation axis and the second rotation axis are located on both sides of the center plane of the main shaft; the axis of rotation of the first rotating end of the third connector relative to the main shaft is the third rotation axis; the axis of rotation of the first rotating end of the fourth connector relative to the main shaft is the fourth rotation axis; the third rotation axis and the fourth rotation axis are located on both sides of the center plane of the main shaft.

[0039] The first and third rotation axes are located on the same side of the central plane of the main shaft and do not coincide; the second and fourth rotation axes are located on the same side of the central plane of the main shaft and do not coincide.

[0040] One of the first and third connecting pieces is fixedly connected to the first support plate, while the other is not fixedly connected to the first support plate. One of the second and fourth connecting pieces is fixedly connected to the second support plate, while the other is not fixedly connected to the second support plate. When the folding mechanism is in the flattened state, the first and second support plates together form a support surface. When the folding mechanism is in the closed state, the first and second support plates are arranged opposite to each other and together with the main shaft, they enclose an accommodating space.

[0041] It is understandable that by setting the first rotating end of the first connector to be rotatably connected to the main shaft, the second rotating end of the first connector to be rotatably connected to the first fixed frame, the first rotating end of the third connector to be rotatably connected to the main shaft, and the second rotating end of the third connector to be rotatably connected to the third fixed frame, the first and third fixed frames can be used to fix the first housing. Furthermore, the axis of rotation of the first rotating end of the third connector relative to the main shaft is located on the same side of the central axis of the main shaft as the axis of rotation of the first rotating end of the first connector relative to the main shaft, but they do not coincide. Therefore, during the unfolding or folding process of the folding mechanism, the first, third, first, and third connectors can constrain the movement trajectory of the first housing, allowing the degree of freedom of the first housing relative to the main shaft to be 1, and the movement trajectory of the first housing relative to the main shaft to be determined. In addition, when both the first and third connectors rotate relative to the main shaft, they can pull the first and third fixed frames back to approach the main shaft, or push them out to move away from the main shaft, thereby driving the first housing to achieve inward and outward movements through the first and third fixed frames.

[0042] It is understood that the first rotating end of the second connector is rotatably connected to the main shaft, the second rotating end of the second connector is rotatably connected to the second fixed frame, the first rotating end of the fourth connector is rotatably connected to the main shaft, and the second rotating end of the fourth connector is rotatably connected to the fourth fixed frame. The second and fourth fixed frames can be used to fix the second housing. The axis of rotation of the first rotating end of the fourth connector relative to the main shaft is located on the same side of the central axis of the main shaft as the axis of rotation of the first rotating end of the second connector relative to the main shaft, but they do not coincide. Therefore, during the unfolding or folding process of the folding mechanism, the second connector, the fourth connector, the second fixed frame, and the fourth fixed frame can constrain the movement trajectory of the second housing, allowing the degree of freedom of the second housing relative to the main shaft to be 1, and the movement trajectory of the second housing relative to the main shaft to be determined. Furthermore, when both the second and fourth connectors rotate relative to the main shaft, they can pull the second and fourth fixed frames back to approach the main shaft, and they can also push the second and fourth fixed frames outwards from the main shaft, thereby driving the second housing to achieve inward and outward movements through the second and fourth fixed frames.

[0043] In a conventional folding mechanism, four connectors are used at the first end of the rotating main shaft, and four connectors are also used at the second end of the rotating main shaft. These eight connectors enable the conventional folding mechanism to unfold and fold. In other words, the conventional folding mechanism has eight main moving parts. This results in a complex structure and a large number of components, leading to higher costs. Furthermore, the long dimensional chain at either the first or second end of the rotating main shaft makes the mechanism prone to wear and tear, potentially causing malfunctions and significantly shortening its lifespan. However, in this application, by incorporating a first, second, third, and fourth connector, the folding mechanism can achieve both unfolding and folding. In other words, these four connectors constitute the main moving parts of the folding mechanism. Thus, the number of main moving parts can be four: the first, second, third, and fourth connectors. At this point, on the one hand, the folding mechanism has fewer components, simpler matching relationships and matching positions, and the components are easy to manufacture and assemble, which can simplify the structure of the folding mechanism and reduce the cost of the folding mechanism; on the other hand, the dimensional chain of the first end or the second end of the main shaft is short, the folding mechanism is not easy to wear, the folding mechanism is not easy to produce functional abnormalities, and the service life of the folding mechanism is significantly increased.

[0044] Furthermore, the description takes the example of a first support plate fixed to a first connector and a second support plate fixed to a fourth connector. It is understood that, since the first support plate is fixed to the first connector, it can move with the first connector. Similarly, since the second support plate is fixed to the fourth connector, it moves with the fourth connector. Thus, during the transition of the folding mechanism from a closed state to a flattened state, and vice versa, the first and second support plates gradually open or close, ensuring that the folding mechanism can fully support the flexible screen in all its configurations, thereby improving the reliability and lifespan of the flexible screen and electronic devices.

[0045] Furthermore, the description takes the example of a first support plate fixed to a first connector and a second support plate fixed to a fourth connector. It is understood that, since the first support plate is fixed to the first connector, it can move with the first connector. Similarly, since the second support plate is fixed to the fourth connector, it moves with the fourth connector. Thus, during the transition of the folding mechanism from a closed state to a flattened state, and vice versa, the first and second support plates gradually open or close, ensuring that the folding mechanism can fully support the flexible screen in all its configurations, thereby improving the reliability and lifespan of the flexible screen and electronic devices.

[0046] In one possible implementation, the first connector is fixedly connected to the first support plate, the third connector is not fixedly connected to the first support plate, the second connector is fixedly connected to the second support plate, and the fourth connector is not fixedly connected to the second support plate.

[0047] In one possible implementation, the first connector is fixedly connected to the first support plate, the third connector is not fixedly connected to the first support plate, the second connector is not fixedly connected to the second support plate, and the fourth connector is fixedly connected to the second support plate.

[0048] Understandably, since the first support plate is fixed to the first connector, it can move along with the first connector. Furthermore, since the second support plate is fixed to the second connector, it moves along with the second connector. Thus, during the transition of the folding mechanism from a closed state to a flattened state, and vice versa, the first and second support plates gradually open or gradually move closer together. This ensures that the folding mechanism can fully support the flexible screen in all its configurations, improving the reliability and lifespan of the flexible screen and electronic devices.

[0049] In one possible implementation, the first connector, the second connector, the third connector, and the fourth connector constitute a connector group, and the number of connector groups is one group;

[0050] Along the length extension direction of the spindle, the spindle includes a first end and a second end, the first end and the second end of the spindle are located on both sides of the center of the spindle; the first rotating end of the first connector and the first rotating end of the second connector are both rotatably connected to the first end of the spindle, the second rotating end of the first connector is rotatably connected to the first fixed frame, and the second rotating end of the second connector is rotatably connected to the second fixed frame.

[0051] The first rotating end of the third connector and the first rotating end of the fourth connector are both rotatably connected to the second end of the main shaft. The second rotating end of the third connector is rotatably connected to the third fixed frame, and the second rotating end of the fourth connector is rotatably connected to the fourth fixed frame.

[0052] It is understood that in this application, by providing a first connector, a second connector, a third connector, and a fourth connector in the folding mechanism, the folding mechanism can achieve both unfolding and folding. In this embodiment, the number of connector groups consisting of the first connector, the second connector, the third connector, and the fourth connector is limited to one group. This results in a smaller number of connector groups, a simpler and smaller structure and size of the folding mechanism, fewer components, and lower cost. When the folding mechanism is applied to electronic devices, the electronic device can achieve small size and low cost.

[0053] In one possible implementation, the first connector, the second connector, the third connector, and the fourth connector constitute a connector group, and there are multiple connector groups. The first fixed frame, the second fixed frame, the third fixed frame, and the fourth fixed frame constitute a fixed frame group, and there are multiple fixed frame groups. The multiple connector groups are connected to the multiple fixed frame groups in a one-to-one correspondence.

[0054] Multiple sets of connectors are arranged at intervals along the length of the spindle.

[0055] It is understood that in this application, by providing a first connector, a second connector, a third connector, and a fourth connector in the folding mechanism, the folding mechanism can achieve both unfolding and folding. In this embodiment, the number of connector groups consisting of the first connector, the second connector, the third connector, and the fourth connector is limited to multiple groups. This results in a larger number of main moving parts in the folding mechanism, allowing it to be adapted to larger electronic devices.

[0056] In one possible implementation, the folding mechanism includes a first damping element; the first damping element is disposed on the main shaft and is used to apply damping force to the first connector and / or the second connector.

[0057] Understandably, the first damping element can provide a certain amount of resistance during the process of unfolding the electronic device to enter the open state and folding it to release the flattened state, so that the user can experience a better sense of operation of the mechanism.

[0058] In one possible implementation, a second damping element is disposed on the spindle, and the second damping element is used to apply damping force to the third and / or fourth connecting elements.

[0059] Understandably, the second damping element can provide a certain amount of resistance during the process of unfolding the electronic device to enter the open state and folding it to release the flattened state, so that the user can experience a better sense of mechanical operation.

[0060] In one possible implementation, the first rotating end of the first connector is provided with an installation space, and the first rotating end of the second connector is provided with an installation space; the first damping element includes a first bracket, a second bracket, and a first elastic element, the first elastic element is connected between the first bracket and the second bracket, the first bracket and the second bracket are slidably connected to the main shaft, and are located in the installation space of the first connector and the installation space of the second connector;

[0061] The first elastic element is in a compressed state. The first bracket is located between one side wall of the mounting space between the first elastic element and the first connector, and between one side wall of the mounting space between the second connector. The second bracket is located between the other side wall of the mounting space between the first elastic element and the first connector, and between the other side wall of the mounting space between the second connector. This provides a certain amount of resistance during the unfolding process of the folding mechanism to enter the open state, and during the folding process to release the flattened state, allowing the user to experience a better feel for the mechanism's operation.

[0062] In one possible implementation, the first rotating end of the first connector includes a first protrusion, which protrudes from one side wall of the mounting space of the first connector; the first rotating end of the second connector includes a first protrusion, which protrudes from one side wall of the mounting space of the second connector; the first bracket includes a first base plate, a first protrusion, and a second protrusion, which protrude from the first base plate at intervals; the first protrusion of the first connector and the first protrusion of the first bracket are arranged alternately to form a snap-fit ​​structure, and the first protrusion of the second connector and the second protrusion of the first bracket are arranged alternately to form a snap-fit ​​structure.

[0063] Understandably, when the folding mechanism is in the flattened state, the first rotating end of the first connector forms a first locking structure with the first bracket. When the folding mechanism is in the closed state, the first rotating end of the first connector forms a second locking structure with the first bracket. The first and second locking structures enable the first connector to maintain a certain relative position to the main shaft, allowing the first and second housings to better maintain a flattened or closed state when the folding mechanism is applied to electronic devices, thus improving the user experience. Furthermore, the first and second locking structures provide a certain amount of resistance during the unfolding process to enter the open state and during the folding process to release the flattened state, allowing the user to experience a better tactile feedback from the mechanism.

[0064] When the folding mechanism is in the flattened state, the first rotating end of the second connector forms a third locking structure with the first bracket. When the folding mechanism is in the flattened state, the first rotating end of the second connector forms a fourth locking structure with the first bracket. It can be understood that the third and fourth locking structures allow the second connector to maintain a certain relative position to the main shaft, enabling the first and second housings to better maintain a flattened or closed state, thus improving the user experience. Furthermore, the third and fourth locking structures provide a certain amount of resistance during the unfolding process to enter the open state and during the folding process to release the flattened state, allowing the user to experience a better tactile feedback from the mechanism.

[0065] In one possible implementation, the first rotating end of the first connector includes a first limiting block, which protrudes from one side wall of the mounting space of the first connector; the first rotating end of the second connector includes a first limiting block, which protrudes from one side wall of the mounting space of the second connector; a portion of the first substrate is located between the spindle and the first limiting block of the first rotating end of the first connector, and a portion is located between the spindle and the first limiting block of the first rotating end of the second connector.

[0066] Understandably, since a portion of the first substrate is located between the first limiting block of the first rotating end of the main shaft and the first limiting block of the first connector, and a portion is located between the second limiting block of the first rotating end of the main shaft and the second connector, the first and second connectors can simultaneously control the movement of the first and second housings and limit the first support in the thickness direction of the folding structure. Therefore, the folding mechanism has high integration, a simple overall connection relationship, and high reliability. The first and second connectors have a multi-functional effect.

[0067] Secondly, this application provides an electronic device. It includes a first housing, a second housing, a flexible screen, and the folding mechanism described above. A first fixing frame is fixedly connected to the first housing, and a second fixing frame is fixedly connected to the second housing.

[0068] The flexible screen includes a first display area, a second display area, and a third display area connected in sequence. The first display area is fixed to the first housing, and the third display area is fixed to the second housing.

[0069] Understandably, when folding mechanisms are applied to electronic devices, the folding and unfolding actions of the electronic devices are more symmetrical, thereby improving the user experience of both the folding mechanism and the electronic devices.

[0070] Thirdly, this application provides a first synchronization element. The first synchronization element is applied to a folding mechanism. The first synchronization element includes a first base, a first transmission block, and a second transmission block, wherein the first transmission block and the second transmission block protrude from the same side of the first base;

[0071] The first base has a central surface, which is located between the first transmission block and the second transmission block.

[0072] Both the first transmission block and the second transmission block are spiral-shaped. The spiral axis of the first transmission block and the spiral axis of the second transmission block are parallel. The distance between the spiral axis of the first transmission block and the center surface of the first base and the distance between the spiral axis of the second transmission block and the center surface of the first base are not equal.

[0073] It is understandable that by setting the spiral axes of the first and second transmission blocks to be parallel, and the distances between the spiral axes of the first and second transmission blocks and the center plane of the first base to be unequal, a non-mirror-symmetric structure is formed between the first and second transmission blocks. In this case, when the first synchronizing element is applied to the folding mechanism, the first transmission block can match the movement trajectory of the first connecting member, and the second transmission block can match the movement trajectory of the second connecting member. This ensures that the first synchronizing element allows the first rotating end of the non-mirror-symmetric first connecting member and the first rotating end of the second connecting member to rotate synchronously during the movement of the folding mechanism, thereby controlling the rotation angles of the first and second fixed frames relative to the main shaft to be consistent. Furthermore, since the first connecting member can be rotatably connected to the first fixed frame fixedly connected to the first housing, and the second connecting member can be rotatably connected to the second fixed frame fixedly connected to the second housing, the rotational movements of the first and second housings are synchronized and consistent. This results in better symmetry between the folding and unfolding movements of the folding mechanism, thereby improving the operational experience of the folding mechanism and the electronic device.

[0074] For example, when the distance between the axis of rotation of the second rotating end of the second connector relative to the second fixed frame and the center plane of the main shaft is changed, this embodiment can change the distance between the helical axis of the second transmission block and the center plane of the main shaft. Thus, when the second transmission block is disposed in the second helical groove of the second connector, the second transmission block can match the movement trajectory of the second connector, thereby ensuring that the first synchronizing member can make the first rotating end of the non-mirror-symmetric first connector and the first rotating end of the second connector rotate synchronously during the movement of the folding mechanism, thereby controlling the rotation angle of the first fixed frame and the second fixed frame relative to the main shaft to be consistent.

[0075] For example, when the distance between the axis of rotation of the second rotating end of the second connector relative to the second fixed frame and the center plane of the main shaft increases, this embodiment can increase the distance between the helical axis of the second transmission block and the center plane of the main shaft.

[0076] In one possible implementation, the helix angle of the first transmission block is not equal to the helix angle of the second transmission block.

[0077] Understandably, by setting the helix angle of the first transmission block to be unequal to that of the second transmission block, a non-mirror-symmetric structure is formed between the first and second transmission blocks. In this case, when the first synchronizing element is applied to the folding mechanism, the first transmission block can match the movement trajectory of the first connecting member, and the second transmission block can match the movement trajectory of the second connecting member. This ensures that the first synchronizing element allows the first rotating end of the non-mirror-symmetric first connecting member and the first rotating end of the second connecting member to rotate synchronously during the movement of the folding mechanism, thereby controlling the rotation angle of the first and second fixed frames relative to the main shaft to be consistent.

[0078] For example, when the distance between the axis of rotation of the first rotating end of the second connector relative to the main shaft and the center plane of the main shaft is changed, this embodiment can change the helix angle of the second transmission block so that when the second transmission block is disposed in the second helical groove of the second connector, the second transmission block can match the movement trajectory of the second connector, thereby ensuring that the first synchronizing member can make the first rotating end of the non-mirror symmetrical first connector and the first rotating end of the second connector rotate synchronously during the movement of the folding mechanism, thereby controlling the rotation angle of the first fixed frame and the second fixed frame relative to the main shaft to be consistent.

[0079] For example, when the distance between the axis of rotation of the first rotating end of the second connector relative to the main shaft and the center plane of the main shaft decreases, this embodiment can increase the helix angle of the second transmission block.

[0080] In one possible implementation, the first base includes a top surface and a bottom surface facing away from each other, a first side surface and a second side surface facing away from each other, and a third side surface and a fourth side surface facing away from each other. The first side surface and the second side surface of the first base are connected between the top surface and the bottom surface of the first base, and the third side surface and the fourth side surface of the first base are connected between the top surface and the bottom surface of the first base, and also connected between the first side surface and the second side surface of the first base.

[0081] The first transmission block protrudes from the top surface of the first base and extends spirally from the first side of the first base to the middle of the third side.

[0082] The second transmission block protrudes from the top surface of the first base and extends spirally from the second side of the first base to the middle of the third side.

[0083] It is understandable that the structures of the first transmission block and the second transmission block in this embodiment are relatively simple.

[0084] In one possible implementation, the first synchronizing element includes a first guide block that protrudes from the bottom surface of the first base.

[0085] It is understandable that when the first synchronizing element is applied to the folding mechanism, the first guide block of the first synchronizing element can be located within the first guide groove of the main shaft. Through the relative movement of the two, the first base is slidably connected to the main shaft via the first guide block, that is, the first synchronizing element and the main shaft slide along the length extension direction of the main shaft. The two sidewalls of the first guide groove in the width direction of the main shaft can limit the first guide block of the first synchronizing element, thereby preventing the first synchronizing element from moving in the width direction of the main shaft.

[0086] In one possible implementation, the first guide block is strip-shaped and extends from the fourth side of the first base to the third side.

[0087] It is understandable that the structure of the first guide block in this embodiment is relatively simple.

[0088] In one possible implementation, the first synchronizing element is a one-piece molded structural component.

[0089] It is understandable that the structure of the first synchronization element in this embodiment is relatively simple. Attached Figure Description

[0090] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the electronic device provided in the embodiment of this application in a flattened state;

[0091] Figure 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the electronic device shown in Figure 1 at line AA;

[0092] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of the electronic device shown in Figure 1 in a closed state;

[0093] Figure 4 is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the electronic device shown in Figure 3 at the BB line;

[0094] Figure 5 is a partially exploded view of one embodiment of the electronic device shown in Figure 1;

[0095] Figure 6 is a partially exploded view of the folding mechanism, the first housing, and the second housing shown in Figure 5 in one embodiment;

[0096] Figure 7 is a partially exploded view of one embodiment of the folding mechanism shown in Figure 6;

[0097] Figure 8 is a structural schematic diagram of one embodiment of the spindle shown in Figure 7;

[0098] Figure 9 is a structural schematic diagram of the main shaft shown in Figure 8 at another angle;

[0099] Figure 10 is a structural schematic diagram of one embodiment of the first and second fixing frames shown in Figure 7;

[0100] Figure 11 is a structural schematic diagram of the first and second fixing frames shown in Figure 10 from another angle;

[0101] Figure 12 is a structural schematic diagram of one embodiment of the first and second connectors shown in Figure 7;

[0102] Figure 13 is a structural schematic diagram of the first and second connectors shown in Figure 12 from another angle;

[0103] Figure 14 is a partially exploded schematic diagram of one embodiment of the folding mechanism shown in Figure 6;

[0104] Figure 15 is a partial structural schematic diagram of one embodiment of the folding mechanism shown in Figure 6;

[0105] Figure 16 is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the partial folding mechanism shown in Figure 15 at the CC line;

[0106] Figure 17 is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the folding mechanism shown in Figure 16 in a closed state;

[0107] Figure 18 is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the partial folding mechanism shown in Figure 15 at the DD line;

[0108] Figure 19 is a structural schematic diagram of one embodiment of the third and fourth fixing frames shown in Figure 7;

[0109] Figure 20 is a structural schematic diagram of one embodiment of the third and fourth connectors shown in Figure 7;

[0110] Figure 21 is a structural schematic diagram of the third and fourth connectors shown in Figure 20 from another angle;

[0111] Figure 22 is a partially exploded view of one embodiment of the folding mechanism shown in Figure 6;

[0112] Figure 23 is a partial structural schematic diagram of one embodiment of the folding mechanism shown in Figure 6;

[0113] Figure 24 is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the partial folding mechanism shown in Figure 23 at line EE;

[0114] Figure 25 is a partial structural schematic diagram of the folding mechanism shown in Figure 6 in one embodiment;

[0115] Figure 26 is a structural schematic diagram of one embodiment of the first support plate and the second support plate shown in Figure 7;

[0116] Figure 27 is a partial structural schematic diagram of one embodiment of the folding mechanism shown in Figure 6;

[0117] Figure 28 is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the partial folding mechanism shown in Figure 27 at line FF;

[0118] Figure 29 is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the partial folding mechanism shown in Figure 27 at line GG.

[0119] Figure 30 is a schematic diagram of the structure of part of the folding mechanism shown in Figure 28 when it is in the closed state;

[0120] Figure 31 is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the partial folding mechanism shown in Figure 30 at line HH;

[0121] Figure 32 is a structural schematic diagram of one embodiment of the first and second support plates shown in Figure 7 from another angle;

[0122] Figure 33 is a partially exploded schematic diagram of one embodiment of the folding mechanism shown in Figure 6;

[0123] Figure 34 is a partial structural schematic diagram of one embodiment of the folding mechanism shown in Figure 6 from another angle;

[0124] Figure 35 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of one embodiment of the folding mechanism shown in Figure 30 at line II;

[0125] Figure 36 is a partial cross-sectional schematic diagram of one embodiment of the folding mechanism shown in Figure 6 at line JJ.

[0126] Figure 37 is a structural schematic diagram of one embodiment of the first and second synchronization components shown in Figure 7;

[0127] Figure 38A is a structural schematic diagram of the first and second synchronizing components shown in Figure 37 from another angle;

[0128] Figure 38B is a structural schematic diagram of the first and second synchronizing elements shown in Figure 37 at another angle;

[0129] Figure 39 is an exploded view of one embodiment of the first synchronizing element, second synchronizing element, first connecting element, second connecting element, third connecting element and fourth connecting element shown in Figure 7;

[0130] Figure 40 is a schematic diagram of the first synchronizing element, the second synchronizing element, the first connecting element, the second connecting element, the third connecting element, and the fourth connecting element shown in Figure 39 in a flattened state.

[0131] Figure 41 is a schematic diagram of the first synchronizing element, the second synchronizing element, the first connecting element, the second connecting element, the third connecting element, and the fourth connecting element shown in Figure 40 in the closed state.

[0132] Figure 42 is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the folding mechanism shown in Figure 6 at line KK;

[0133] Figure 43 is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the electronic device shown in Figure 3 at line LL;

[0134] Figure 44 is a partially exploded view of the first and second damping elements shown in Figure 7 in one embodiment;

[0135] Figure 45 is an enlarged schematic diagram of the first and second damping elements shown in Figure 7 in one embodiment;

[0136] Figure 46 is an exploded view of one embodiment of the first damping member, second damping member, first connector, second connector, third connector and fourth connector shown in Figure 7;

[0137] Figure 47 is a partial structural schematic diagram of one embodiment of the folding mechanism shown in Figure 6;

[0138] Figure 48 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first damping component, the second damping component, the first synchronizing component, the second synchronizing component, the first connecting component, the second connecting component, the third connecting component, and the fourth connecting component shown in Figure 7 in a flattened state.

[0139] Figure 49 is a schematic diagram of the first damping element, the second damping element, the first synchronizing element, the second synchronizing element, the first connecting element, the second connecting element, the third connecting element, and the fourth connecting element shown in Figure 48 in the closed state.

[0140] Figure 50 is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the folding mechanism shown in Figure 6 at the MM line;

[0141] Figure 51 is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the electronic device shown in Figure 3 at the NN line;

[0142] Figure 52 is a structural schematic diagram of the folding mechanism shown in Figure 6 in another embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0143] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0144] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "joining" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "joining" can be a detachable connection or a non-detachable connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can be an electrical connection or a mechanical connection. "Fixed connection" refers to a connection where the relative positional relationship remains unchanged after connection. "Rotary connection" refers to a connection where the components can rotate relative to each other after connection. "Sliding connection" refers to a connection where the components can slide relative to each other after connection. "Movable connection" refers to a connection where the components can move relative to each other after connection. Furthermore, the integrated structure obtained by a one-piece molding process means that during the formation of one of the two components, that component is connected to the other component without requiring further processing (such as bonding, welding, snap-fit ​​connection, or screw connection) to connect the two components. Components A and B can be arranged relative to each other such that component A is projected along a target direction to obtain projection C, and component B is projected along a target direction to obtain projection D, with projection C and projection D at least largely overlapping. In some embodiments, the majority overlap can be any of the following: projection C is completely located within projection D. Alternatively, projection D lies entirely within projection C. Alternatively, projection C and projection D intersect each other, and the intersection area of ​​projection C and projection D accounts for more than 50% of projection C or projection D.

[0145] The directional terms mentioned in the embodiments of this application, such as "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," are only for reference to the directions in the accompanying drawings. Therefore, the directional terms used are for better and clearer explanation and understanding of the embodiments of this application, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0146] The terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification and claims of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and not to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such use of data can be interchanged where appropriate so that embodiments of this application can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein, and the objects distinguished by "first," "second," etc., are generally of the same class and the number of objects is not limited; for example, a first object can be one or more. Furthermore, in the specification and claims, "and / or" indicates at least one of the connected objects, and the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following objects are in an "or" relationship. "Multiple" means at least two.

[0147] Furthermore, in the embodiments of this application, the mathematical concepts mentioned, such as symmetry, equality, parallelism, and perpendicularity, are all limitations relative to the current technological level, rather than absolute and strict mathematical definitions. Slight deviations are permissible; approximations of symmetry, equality, 45°, parallelism, and perpendicularity are all acceptable. For example, "A and B are parallel" means that A and B are parallel or approximately parallel, and the angle between A and B can be between 0 and 10 degrees.

[0148] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the electronic device 1000 provided in the present application in a flattened state. Figure 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of the electronic device 1000 shown in Figure 1 at line AA in one embodiment. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the electronic device 1000 shown in Figure 1 in a closed state in one embodiment. Figure 4 is a partial cross-sectional view of the electronic device 1000 shown in Figure 3 at line BB in one embodiment.

[0149] As shown in Figures 1 to 4, this application provides a foldable electronic device 1000. The foldable electronic device 1000 can be a foldable device such as a mobile phone, tablet computer, personal computer, laptop computer, in-vehicle device, or wearable device (such as a smart bracelet). This application provides a detailed description using a mobile phone as an example of the electronic device 1000.

[0150] For ease of description, exemplarily, the thickness direction of the electronic device 1000 is defined as the Z-axis direction, and the extension direction of the rotation axis of the electronic device 1000 is defined as the Y-axis direction. The direction perpendicular to both the Y-axis and Z-axis is defined as the X-axis direction. It is understood that the coordinate system of the electronic device 1000 can also be flexibly set according to specific needs. Exemplarily, the Z-axis direction is defined as the first direction, the X-axis direction as the second direction, and the Y-axis direction as the third direction. In other embodiments, the directions of the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction in the coordinate system are not specifically limited. It is only necessary to ensure that the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction are different from each other.

[0151] It is understood that in this embodiment, the rotation axis of the electronic device 1000 is in the Y-axis direction, meaning the electronic device 1000 can be relatively flattened or folded along the Y-axis. Thus, when the electronic device 1000 is in a closed state, its size in the X-axis direction decreases. This embodiment is illustrated using the example of "the rotation axis of the electronic device 1000 being in the Y-axis direction." In this case, the electronic device 1000 can be folded left and right, and the folding and flattening of the electronic device 1000 affects its length. In other embodiments, the rotation axis of the electronic device 1000 can also be in the X-axis direction, meaning the electronic device 1000 can be relatively flattened or folded along the X-axis. In this case, the electronic device 1000 can be folded up and down, and the folding and flattening of the electronic device 1000 affects its width.

[0152] Figure 5 is a partially exploded view of one embodiment of the electronic device 1000 shown in Figure 1. Figure 6 is a partially exploded view of one embodiment of the folding mechanism 100, the first housing 300, and the second housing 400 shown in Figure 5.

[0153] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the electronic device 1000 includes a folding mechanism 100, a flexible screen 200, a first housing 300, and a second housing 400. The flexible screen 200 can be an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, an active-matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) display, a mini-organic light-emitting diode (MLED) display, a micro-organic light-emitting diode (MOLED) display, or a quantum dot light-emitting diode (QLED) display, etc. Exemplarily, the thickness direction of the folding mechanism 100 can be the Z-axis direction, the length direction of the folding mechanism 100 can be the Y-axis direction, and the width direction of the folding mechanism 100 can be the X-axis direction. In other embodiments, it is understood that the coordinate system of the folding mechanism 100 can also be flexibly set according to specific needs.

[0154] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, exemplarily, a folding mechanism 100 is connected between the first housing 300 and the second housing 400. The folding mechanism 100 is used to unfold or fold the first housing 300 and the second housing 400 relative to each other.

[0155] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, when the first housing 300 and the second housing 400 are unfolded to a flattened state, the electronic device 1000 is in a flattened state, and the first housing 300 and the second housing 400 can be approximately 180° apart. In other embodiments, the first housing 300 and the second housing 400 may also have a slight deviation from 180°, such as 165°, 177°, or 185°.

[0156] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, when the first housing 300 and the second housing 400 are folded together to a closed state, the electronic device 1000 is in a closed state. The first housing 300 and the second housing 400 can close together without significant gaps. This results in a better appearance for the electronic device 1000 and improved waterproof, dustproof, and foreign object protection performance. The closing of the first housing 300 and the second housing 400 includes both situations where they are pressed against each other, and situations where there is a small gap between them. When there is a small gap between the first housing 300 and the second housing 400, foreign objects from outside the electronic device 1000 will not be able to enter between the first housing 300 and the second housing 400 through this gap.

[0157] The first housing 300 and the second housing 400 can also be unfolded or folded to an intermediate state, so that the electronic device 1000 is in an intermediate state, which can be any state between the flattened state and the closed state.

[0158] Referring to Figure 5, and in conjunction with Figures 1 to 4, the flexible screen 200 includes a first display area 201, a second display area 202, and a third display area 203. The second display area 202 is connected between the first display area 201 and the third display area 203. Figures 1, 2, and 5 schematically distinguish the first display area 201, the second display area 202, and the third display area 203 using dashed lines. The first display area 201 of the flexible screen 200 can be fixed to the first housing 300. The third display area 203 can be fixed to the second housing 400. During the relative unfolding or folding of the first housing 300 and the second housing 400, the first housing 300 can drive the first display area 201 to move, and the second housing 400 can drive the third display area 203 to move. When the first display area 201 and the third display area 203 unfold or fold relative to each other, the second display area 202 can deform.

[0159] It is understandable that, since the first display area 201 is fixed to the first housing 300 and the third display area 203 is fixed to the second housing 400, when the first housing 300 and the second housing 400 are unfolded or folded relative to each other, the relative unfolding and folding actions between the first display area 201 and the third display area 203 can be accurately controlled, making the folding process and movement of the flexible screen 200 controllable and highly reliable.

[0160] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, when the electronic device 1000 is in a flattened state, the flexible screen 200 can also be in a flattened state. Exemplarily, the first display area 201, the second display area 202, and the third display area 203 of the flexible screen 200 can be at a 180° angle. In other embodiments, the first display area 201, the second display area 202, and the third display area 203 may also deviate slightly from 180°, for example, by 165°, 177°, or 185°. In this case, the flexible screen 200 has a continuous large display area, meaning the flexible screen 200 can achieve large-screen display, resulting in a better user experience.

[0161] For example, when the electronic device 1000 is in a flattened state, at least a portion of the folding mechanism 100 forms a support surface 100a to support the second display area 202. Thus, when the second display area 202 is subjected to pressing, squeezing, or impact forces, the folding mechanism 100 can improve the pressure resistance and impact resistance of the second display area 202, thereby ensuring that the second display area 202 is less prone to dents or other problems.

[0162] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, when the electronic device 1000 is in a closed state, the flexible screen 200 is also in a closed state. For example, the first display area 201 and the third display area 203 of the flexible screen 200 are close together. The second display area 202 is bent. At this time, the flexible screen 200 can be roughly shaped like a teardrop.

[0163] For example, when the electronic device 1000 is in the closed state, the first display area 201 and the third display area 203 can be located between the first housing 300 and the second housing 400. Furthermore, at least a portion of the folding mechanism 100 encloses the receiving space 100b. The second display area 202 is received within the receiving space 100b. Thus, the electronic device 1000 has a smaller planar dimension (a smaller width dimension), making it easier for users to carry and store.

[0164] Figure 7 is a partially exploded view of one embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Figure 6.

[0165] As shown in Figure 7, the folding mechanism 100 includes a main shaft 1, a first fixing frame 21, a second fixing frame 22, a third fixing frame 23, a fourth fixing frame 24, a first connecting member 31, a second connecting member 32, a third connecting member 33, a fourth connecting member 34, a first support plate 41, a second support plate 42, a first synchronizing member 51, a second synchronizing member 52, a first damping member 61, and a second damping member 62. The main shaft 1 can be located between the first housing 300 and the second housing 400. It is understood that Figure 7 only schematically shows some of the components included in the folding mechanism 100, and the actual shape, size, position, and construction of these components are not limited to those shown in Figure 7. In other embodiments, the folding mechanism 100 may have more or fewer components. For example, the folding mechanism 100 may also exclude the first synchronizing member 51, and / or the second synchronizing member 52, and / or the first damping member 61, and / or the second damping member 62.

[0166] In this embodiment, the length extension direction of the spindle 1 can be the Y-axis direction. In other embodiments, the length extension direction of the spindle 1 is not specifically limited.

[0167] In this embodiment, the first fixing frame 21, the second fixing frame 22, the third fixing frame 23, and the fourth fixing frame 24 constitute a fixing frame group 20. The number of fixing frame groups 20 is one. In other embodiments, the number of fixing frame groups 20 may be multiple, i.e., at least two groups. This embodiment does not specifically limit the number of fixing frame groups.

[0168] In this embodiment, the first connector 31, the second connector 32, the third connector 33, and the fourth connector 34 constitute a connector group 30. The number of connector groups 30 is one. In other embodiments, the number of connector groups 30 may be multiple, i.e., at least two groups. This embodiment does not specifically limit the number of groups.

[0169] Figure 8 is a structural schematic diagram of one embodiment of the spindle 1 shown in Figure 7. Figure 9 is a structural schematic diagram of the spindle 1 shown in Figure 8 from another angle.

[0170] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, along the length extension direction of the spindle 1 (i.e., along the Y-axis), the spindle 1 includes a first end 1a, a middle portion 1b, and a second end 1c connected sequentially. In other words, the middle portion 1b of the spindle 1 connects the first end 1a and the second end 1c of the spindle 1. It can be understood that the first end 1a and the second end 1c of the spindle 1 are located on either side of the center of the spindle 1.

[0171] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, exemplarily, the main shaft 1 is bent to form an inner space 10 of the main shaft 1. The inner space 10 is located inside the main shaft 1.

[0172] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, exemplarily, the first end 1a of the spindle 1 is provided with a first arc-shaped groove 11. The first arc-shaped groove 11 of the spindle 1 can communicate with the inner space 10 of the spindle 1. The spindle 1 can have one or more first arc-shaped grooves 11. When the spindle 1 has multiple first arc-shaped grooves 11, the multiple first arc-shaped grooves 11 of the spindle 1 can be arranged along the Y-axis direction. This embodiment is described using the example of two first arc-shaped grooves 11 of the spindle 1.

[0173] For example, the first end 1a of the spindle 1 is also provided with a second arc-shaped groove 12. The arrangement of the second arc-shaped groove 12 of the spindle 1 can be referred to the arrangement of the first arc-shaped groove 11 of the spindle 1. Specific details will not be repeated here.

[0174] In one embodiment, the first arc-shaped groove 11 and the second arc-shaped groove 12 of the spindle 1 can be arranged at intervals along the X-axis direction. In other embodiments, the relative positions of the first arc-shaped groove 11 and the second arc-shaped groove 12 of the spindle 1 are not specifically limited.

[0175] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, exemplarily, the second end 1c of the spindle 1 is provided with a third arc-shaped groove 13. The third arc-shaped groove 13 of the spindle 1 can communicate with the inner space 10 of the spindle 1. The spindle 1 can have one or more third arc-shaped grooves 13. When the spindle 1 has multiple third arc-shaped grooves 13, the multiple third arc-shaped grooves 13 of the spindle 1 can be arranged along the Y-axis direction. This embodiment is described using the example of two third arc-shaped grooves 13 of the spindle 1.

[0176] For example, the second end 1c of the spindle 1 is also provided with a fourth arc-shaped groove 14. The arrangement of the fourth arc-shaped groove 14 of the spindle 1 can be referred to the arrangement of the third arc-shaped groove 13 of the spindle 1. Specific details will not be elaborated here.

[0177] In one embodiment, the third arc-shaped groove 13 and the fourth arc-shaped groove 14 of the spindle 1 can be arranged at intervals along the X-axis direction. In other embodiments, the relative positions of the third arc-shaped groove 13 and the fourth arc-shaped groove 14 of the spindle 1 are not specifically limited.

[0178] Figure 10 is a structural schematic diagram of one embodiment of the first fixing frame 21 and the second fixing frame 22 shown in Figure 7. Figure 11 is a structural schematic diagram of the first fixing frame 21 and the second fixing frame 22 shown in Figure 10 from another angle.

[0179] As shown in Figures 10 and 11, by way of example, the first fixing frame 21 includes a top surface 211a, a bottom surface 211b, a first side surface 211c, a second side surface 211d, a third side surface 211e, and a fourth side surface 211f. The top surface 211a and the bottom surface 211b of the first fixing frame 21 are disposed opposite to each other. The first side surface 211c and the second side surface 211d of the first fixing frame 21 are disposed opposite to each other. The third side surface 211e and the fourth side surface 211f of the first fixing frame 21 are disposed opposite to each other. The first side surface 211c and the second side surface 211d of the first fixing frame 21 are located between the top surface 211a and the bottom surface 211b of the first fixing frame 21. The third side surface 211e and the fourth side surface 211f of the first fixing frame 21 are connected between the first side surface 211c and the second side surface 211d of the first fixing frame 21, and are also connected between the top surface 211a and the bottom surface 211b of the first fixing frame 21.

[0180] For example, at least a portion of the top surface 211a of the first fixing frame 21 is inclined relative to the bottom surface 211b of the first fixing frame 21, that is, an angle is formed between the top surface 211a and the bottom surface 211b of the first fixing frame 21. The top surface 211a and the bottom surface 211b of the first fixing frame 21 are close to each other in the direction close to the first side surface 211c of the first fixing frame 21.

[0181] As shown in Figures 10 and 11, the first fixing frame 21 is provided with a first movable space 212. The first movable space 212 can form openings on the top surface 211a, bottom surface 211b, first side surface 211c, and second side surface 211d of the first fixing frame 21. The first movable space 212 of the first fixing frame 21 includes a first side wall 2121 and a second side wall 2122 disposed opposite to each other.

[0182] For example, the first sidewall 2121 and the second sidewall 2122 of the first movable space 212 of the first fixed frame 21 are both provided with arc-shaped grooves 213.

[0183] As shown in Figures 10 and 11, by way of example, the second fixing frame 22 includes a top surface 221a, a bottom surface 221b, a first side surface 221c, a second side surface 221d, a third side surface 221e, and a fourth side surface 221f. The top surface 221a and the bottom surface 221b of the second fixing frame 22 are disposed opposite to each other. The first side surface 221c and the second side surface 221d of the second fixing frame 22 are disposed opposite to each other. The third side surface 221e and the fourth side surface 221f of the second fixing frame 22 are disposed opposite to each other. The first side surface 221c and the second side surface 221d of the second fixing frame 22 are located between the top surface 221a and the bottom surface 221b of the second fixing frame 22. The third side surface 221e and the fourth side surface 221f of the second fixing frame 22 are connected between the first side surface 221c and the second side surface 221d of the second fixing frame 22, and are also connected between the top surface 221a and the bottom surface 221b of the second fixing frame 22.

[0184] For example, at least a portion of the top surface 221a of the second fixing frame 22 is inclined relative to the bottom surface 221b of the second fixing frame 22, that is, an angle is formed between the top surface 221a and the bottom surface 221b of the second fixing frame 22. The top surface 221a and the bottom surface 221b of the second fixing frame 22 are close to each other in the direction close to the first side surface 221c of the second fixing frame 22.

[0185] As shown in Figures 10 and 11, the second fixing frame 22 is provided with a second movable space 222. The second movable space 222 can form openings on the top surface 221a, bottom surface 221b, first side surface 221c, and second side surface 221d of the second fixing frame 22. For example, the side wall of the second movable space 222 of the second fixing frame 22 is provided with a pivot hole 223.

[0186] Figure 12 is a structural schematic diagram of one embodiment of the first connector 31 and the second connector 32 shown in Figure 7. Figure 13 is a structural schematic diagram of the first connector 31 and the second connector 32 shown in Figure 12 from another angle.

[0187] As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the first connector 31 includes a first rotating end 311, a first connecting segment 312, and a second rotating end 313. The first connecting segment 312 of the first connector 31 connects the first rotating end 311 and the second rotating end 313 of the first connector 31. The first connector 31 can be an integrally formed structural component to have high structural strength. In other embodiments, the first connector 31 may not include the first connecting segment 312.

[0188] For example, the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 includes a first end portion 3111, a middle portion 3112, and a second end portion 3113 connected in sequence. In other words, the middle portion 3112 of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 is connected between the first end portion 3111 and the second end portion 3113 of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31. Both the first end portion 3111 and the second end portion 3113 of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 are arc-shaped.

[0189] For example, the middle portion 3112 of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 may be provided with an installation space 3114. The installation space 3114 of the first connector 31 can be used to assemble other structural components to achieve connection with other structural components. It is understood that there are no specific limitations on the shape, size and number of the installation space 3114.

[0190] In other embodiments, the middle portion 3112 of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 may not have an installation space 3114. In this case, the middle portion 3112 of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 may also be arc-shaped. In this way, the first end portion 3111, the middle portion 3112, and the second end portion 3113 of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 can form a complete arc-shaped block.

[0191] As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the second rotating end 313 of the first connector 31 may also include a first end 3131, a middle part 3132, and a second end 3133 connected in sequence. The first end 3131 and the second end 3133 of the second rotating end 313 of the first connector 31 are both arc-shaped.

[0192] As shown in Figures 12 and 13, by way of example, the first connector 31 further includes a first protrusion 315. The first protrusion 315 may protrude from the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31, and / or the first connecting segment 312 of the first connector 31, and / or the second rotating end 313 of the first connector 31. It is understood that the number of first protrusions 315 may be one or more. When the number of first protrusions 315 is multiple, the multiple first protrusions 315 are spaced apart.

[0193] As shown in Figures 12 and 13, by way of example, the second connector 32 may also include a first rotating end 321, a first connecting segment 322, and a second rotating end 323. It is understood that the arrangement of the first rotating end 321 and the first connecting segment 322 of the second connector 32 can refer to the arrangement of the first rotating end 311 and the first connecting segment 312 of the first connector 31. For example, the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 includes a first end portion 3211, a middle portion 3212, and a second end portion 3213 connected in sequence. Both the first end portion 3211 and the second end portion 3213 of the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 are arc-shaped. The middle portion 3212 of the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 may be provided with an installation space 3214. In other embodiments, the second connector 32 may not include the first connecting segment 322.

[0194] As shown in Figures 12 and 13, by way of example, the second rotating end 323 of the second connector 32 is provided with a pivot hole 3231. The pivot hole 3231 of the second rotating end 313 of the first connector 31 can form openings on both end faces of the second rotating end 323 of the second connector 32.

[0195] As shown in Figures 12 and 13, by way of example, the second connector 32 further includes a second protrusion 325. The second protrusion 325 may protrude from the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32, and / or the first connecting segment 322 of the second connector 32, and / or the second rotating end 323 of the second connector 32. It is understood that the number of second protrusions 325 may be one or more. When the number of second protrusions 325 is multiple, the multiple second protrusions 325 are spaced apart.

[0196] Figure 14 is a partially exploded view of one embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Figure 6. Figure 15 is a partially structural schematic diagram of one embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Figure 6.

[0197] Please refer to Figures 14 and 15, and in conjunction with Figures 8 to 13, the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 is rotatably connected to the first end 1a of the main shaft 1. The second rotating end 313 of the first connector 31 is rotatably connected to the first fixed frame 21.

[0198] Figure 16 is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Figure 15 at the CC line. Figure 17 is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Figure 16 in a closed state.

[0199] Please refer to Figures 16 and 17, and in conjunction with Figures 8, 9, and Figures 12 to 15. The first end 3111 and the second end 3113 of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 are respectively disposed within the two first arc-shaped grooves 11 of the main shaft 1. Through relative movement, the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 and the main shaft 1 form a rotating connection structure via the engagement of the arc-shaped block and the arc-shaped groove. That is, the first connector 31 and the main shaft 1 can be rotatably connected via a virtual axis. It is understood that the structure of rotational connection via a virtual axis is simple, occupies little space, and is beneficial for reducing the thickness of the folding mechanism 100, making it easier to achieve a thinner and lighter design for the folding mechanism 100 and the electronic device 1000.

[0200] Figure 18 is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the partial folding mechanism 100 shown in Figure 15 at line DD.

[0201] Please refer to Figure 18, and in conjunction with Figures 8, 9 and Figures 12 to 15, the middle part 3112 of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 is located between the two first arc-shaped grooves 11 of the main shaft 1, and the middle part 3112 of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 is spaced apart from the main shaft 1.

[0202] It is understood that the arrangement of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 rotatably connecting to the main shaft 1 via a virtual axis is not limited to the structures described in Figures 8, 9, and 12 to 18. For example, in one embodiment, the middle portion 3112 of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 may be arc-shaped. The middle portion 3112 of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 is disposed within the arc-shaped groove of the main shaft 1. Through the relative movement of the two, the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 is rotatably connected to the main shaft 1 via the virtual axis. At this time, the middle portion 3112 of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 may also be in contact with the main shaft 1. As another example, in one embodiment, the main shaft 1 is provided with an arc-shaped groove. The first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 includes an arc-shaped block. The arc-shaped block of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 may be disposed within the arc-shaped groove of the main shaft 1. The relative movement between the two components allows the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 to be rotatably connected to the main shaft 1 via a virtual axis. This application does not limit the specific implementation. Furthermore, in other embodiments, other structural arrangements can also be used to allow the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 to be rotatably connected to the main shaft 1 via a virtual axis. This application does not limit the specific implementation either.

[0203] In other embodiments, the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 is rotatably connected to the main shaft 1 via a solid shaft. In this case, the connection between the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 and the main shaft 1 is reliable, with small rotational play, and the rotational action is precise and stable.

[0204] Please refer to Figures 16 to 18, and in conjunction with Figures 8, 9, and 12 to 15, the first end 3131 and the second end 3133 of the second rotating end 313 of the first connector 31 are respectively disposed within the two arc-shaped grooves 213 of the first fixing frame 21. Through the relative movement of the two, the second rotating end 313 of the first connector 31 and the first fixing frame 21 form a rotating connection structure through the cooperation of the arc-shaped block and the arc-shaped groove, that is, the second rotating end 313 of the first connector 31 and the first fixing frame 21 are rotatably connected through a virtual axis. It can be understood that the structure of rotational connection through a virtual axis is simple, occupies little space, and is conducive to reducing the thickness of the folding mechanism 100, making it easier to achieve a thinner and lighter design for the folding mechanism 100 and the electronic device 1000.

[0205] Referring to Figure 18, and in conjunction with Figures 8, 9, and Figures 12 to 15, the middle portion 3132 of the second rotating end 313 of the first connector 31 is located within the first movable space 212 of the first fixing frame 21. The middle portion 3132 of the second rotating end 313 of the first connector 31 can rotate within the first movable space 212 of the first fixing frame 21. Exemplarily, the middle portion 3132 of the second rotating end 313 of the first connector 31 can contact the wall surface of the first movable space 212 of the first fixing frame 21.

[0206] It is understood that the arrangement of the second rotating end 313 of the first connector 31 rotatably connecting to the first fixed frame 21 via a virtual axis is not limited to the structures described in Figures 8, 9, and 12 to 18. For example, in one embodiment, the middle portion 3132 of the second rotating end 313 of the first connector 31 may be arc-shaped. The middle portion 3132 of the second rotating end 313 of the first connector 31 is disposed within the arc-shaped groove 213 of the first fixed frame 21. Through the relative movement of the two, the second rotating end 313 of the first connector 31 is rotatably connected to the first fixed frame 21 via a virtual axis. As another example, in one embodiment, the first fixed frame 21 is provided with an arc-shaped groove. The second rotating end 313 of the first connector 31 includes an arc-shaped block. The arc-shaped block of the second rotating end 313 of the first connector 31 may be disposed within the arc-shaped groove of the first fixed frame 21. Through the relative movement of the two, the second rotating end 313 of the first connector 31 is rotatably connected to the first fixed frame 21 via a virtual axis. Specifically, this application does not limit the specific implementation. Furthermore, in other embodiments, other structural arrangements can be used to allow the second rotating end 313 of the first connector 31 to be rotatably connected to the first fixing frame 21 via a virtual axis. This application does not specifically limit the details.

[0207] In other embodiments, the second rotating end 313 of the first connector 31 can also be rotatably connected to the first fixed frame 21 via a solid shaft. In this case, the connection between the second rotating end 313 of the first connector 31 and the first fixed frame 21 is reliable, with small rotational play, and the rotational action is precise and stable.

[0208] Please refer to Figures 14 to 18, and in conjunction with Figures 8 to 13, the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 is rotatably connected to the first end 1a of the main shaft 1. The second rotating end 323 of the second connector 32 is rotatably connected to the second fixed frame 22.

[0209] It is understandable that the configuration of the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 being rotatably connected to the main spindle 1 via a virtual axis can be found in the configuration of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 being rotatably connected to the main spindle 1 via a virtual axis. Further details will not be elaborated here.

[0210] Referring to Figures 14 to 18, and in conjunction with Figures 8 to 13, exemplarily, the second rotating end 323 of the second connector 32 can be located within the second movable space 222 of the second fixing frame 22. Furthermore, the folding mechanism 100 also includes a first rotating shaft 71. The first rotating shaft 71 passes sequentially through the rotating shaft hole 3231 of the second rotating end 323 of the second connector 32 and the rotating shaft hole 223 of the second movable space 222 of the second fixing frame 22. In one embodiment, one end of the first rotating shaft 71 can be fixed within the rotating shaft hole 223 of the second movable space 222 of the second fixing frame 22. The first rotating shaft 71 can rotate relative to the hole wall of the rotating shaft hole 3231 of the second rotating end 323 of the second connector 32.

[0211] In this embodiment, the second rotating end 323 of the second connector 32 is rotatably connected to the second fixed frame 22 via a solid shaft. At this time, the connection between the second rotating end 323 of the second connector 32 and the second fixed frame 22 is reliable, with small rotational play, and the rotational action is precise and stable.

[0212] In other embodiments, the second rotating end 323 of the second connector 32 can also be rotatably connected to the second fixed frame 22 through other rotational methods. For example, the second rotating end 323 of the second connector 32 and the second fixed frame 22 can form a rotatable connection structure through the cooperation of an arc-shaped block and an arc-shaped groove, that is, the second rotating end 323 of the second connector 32 and the second fixed frame 22 can be rotatably connected through a virtual axis. It is understood that the structure of rotatable connection through a virtual axis is simple, occupies little space, and is conducive to reducing the thickness of the folding mechanism 100, making it easier to achieve a thinner and lighter design for the folding mechanism 100 and the electronic device 1000.

[0213] Please refer to Figures 14 to 16 and Figure 18. Exemplarily, when the folding mechanism 100 is in the flattened state, the first end 3111 and the second end 3113 of the first rotating end 311 of the first connecting member 31 respectively rotate into the two first arc-shaped grooves 11 of the main shaft 1, and the first end 3211 and the second end 3213 of the first rotating end 321 of the second connecting member 32 respectively rotate into the two second arc-shaped grooves 12 of the main shaft 1. Furthermore, the main shaft 1 is located between the first fixing frame 21 and the second fixing frame 22, that is, the first fixing frame 21 and the second fixing frame 22 are located on both sides of the main shaft 1. Exemplarily, the first end 1a of the main shaft 1 is located between the first fixing frame 21 and the second fixing frame 22.

[0214] Referring to Figure 17, exemplarily, when the folding mechanism 100 is in the closed state, a portion of the first end 3111 of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 rotates out of a first arcuate groove 11 of the main shaft 1, a portion of the second end 3113 of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 rotates out of another first arcuate groove 11 of the main shaft 1, a portion of the first end 3211 of the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 rotates out of a second arcuate groove 12 of the main shaft 1, and a portion of the second end 3213 of the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 rotates out of another second arcuate groove 12 of the main shaft 1. Furthermore, the first fixing bracket 21 and the second fixing bracket 22 are located on the same side of the main shaft 1. Exemplarily, the first fixing bracket 21 and the second fixing bracket 22 are located on the same side of the first end 1a of the main shaft 1.

[0215] Figure 19 is a structural schematic diagram of one embodiment of the third fixing frame 23 and the fourth fixing frame 24 shown in Figure 7.

[0216] Referring to Figure 19, and in conjunction with Figures 10 and 11, the third fixing frame 23 is provided with a third movable space 232. The side wall of the third movable space 232 of the third fixing frame 23 is provided with a pivot hole 233. It is understood that the third fixing frame 23 and the second fixing frame 22 can have the same or similar structure, a symmetrical or partially symmetrical structure, or different structures. In this embodiment, the third fixing frame 23 and the second fixing frame 22 are symmetrical structures. The basic design of the component structure of the third fixing frame 23, the design of the connection relationship between components, and the design of the connection relationship between components and other structures besides the assembly can all refer to the relevant scheme of the second fixing frame 22. At the same time, slight differences in the detailed structure or positional arrangement of components are allowed between the third fixing frame 23 and the second fixing frame 22. Specific details will not be elaborated here.

[0217] Referring to Figure 19, and in conjunction with Figures 10 and 11, the fourth fixing frame 24 is provided with a fourth movable space 242. The fourth movable space 242 of the fourth fixing frame 24 includes a first sidewall 2421 and a second sidewall 2422 disposed opposite to each other. Both the first sidewall 2421 and the second sidewall 2422 of the fourth movable space 242 of the fourth fixing frame 24 are provided with arc-shaped grooves 243. It is understood that the fourth fixing frame 24 and the first fixing frame 21 can have the same or similar structure, a symmetrical or partially symmetrical structure, or different structures. In this embodiment, the fourth fixing frame 24 and the first fixing frame 21 are symmetrical structures. The basic design of the component structure of the fourth fixing frame 24, the design of the connection relationship between components, and the design of the connection relationship between components and other structures besides the assembly can all refer to the relevant scheme of the first fixing frame 21. At the same time, slight differences in the detailed structure or positional arrangement of components are allowed between the fourth fixing frame 24 and the first fixing frame 21. Specific details will not be elaborated here.

[0218] Figure 20 is a structural schematic diagram of one embodiment of the third connector 33 and the fourth connector 34 shown in Figure 7. Figure 21 is a structural schematic diagram of the third connector 33 and the fourth connector 34 shown in Figure 20 from another angle.

[0219] As shown in Figures 20 and 21, the third connector 33 includes a first rotating end 331, a first connecting section 332, and a second rotating end 333. The first rotating end 331 of the third connector 33 includes a first end portion 3311, a middle portion 3312, and a second end portion 3313 connected in sequence. Both the first end portion 3311 and the second end portion 3313 of the first rotating end 331 of the third connector 33 are arc-shaped. The middle portion 3312 of the first rotating end 331 of the third connector 33 may be provided with an installation space 3314. The second rotating end 333 of the third connector 33 is provided with a pivot hole 3331.

[0220] As shown in Figures 20 and 21, by way of example, the third connector 33 further includes a third protrusion 335. The third protrusion 335 may protrude from the first rotating end 331 of the third connector 33, and / or the first connecting segment 332 of the third connector 33, and / or the second rotating end 333 of the third connector 33. It is understood that the number of third protrusions 335 may be one or more. When the number of third protrusions 335 is multiple, the multiple third protrusions 335 are spaced apart.

[0221] It is understood that the third connector 33 and the second connector 32 can have the same or similar structures, symmetrical or partially symmetrical structures, or different structures. In this embodiment, the third connector 33 and the second connector 32 are symmetrical structures. The basic design of the component structure of the third connector 33, the design of the connection relationship between components, and the design of the connection relationship between the component and other structures outside the assembly can all refer to the relevant scheme of the second connector 32. At the same time, slight differences are allowed between the third connector 33 and the second connector 32 in the detailed structure or positional arrangement of the components. Specific details will not be elaborated here.

[0222] As shown in Figures 20 and 21, the fourth connector 34 includes a first rotating end 341, a first connecting section 342, and a second rotating end 343. The first rotating end 341 of the fourth connector 34 includes a first end portion 3411, a middle portion 3412, and a second end portion 3413 connected in sequence. Both the first end portion 3411 and the second end portion 3413 of the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connector 34 are arc-shaped. The middle portion 3412 of the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connector 34 may be provided with an installation space 3414. The second rotating end 343 of the fourth connector 34 includes a first end portion 3431, a middle portion 3432, and a second end portion 3433 connected in sequence. Both the first end portion 3431 and the second end portion 3433 of the second rotating end 343 of the fourth connector 34 are arc-shaped.

[0223] As shown in Figures 20 and 21, by way of example, the fourth connector 34 further includes a fourth protrusion 345. The fourth protrusion 345 may protrude from the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connector 34, and / or the second connecting segment 342 of the fourth connector 34, and / or the second rotating end 343 of the fourth connector 34. It is understood that the number of fourth protrusions 345 may be one or more. When the number of fourth protrusions 345 is multiple, the multiple fourth protrusions 345 are spaced apart.

[0224] Referring to Figures 20 and 21, and in conjunction with Figures 12 and 13, it can be understood that the fourth connector 34 and the first connector 31 can have the same or similar structures, symmetrical or partially symmetrical structures, or different structures. In this embodiment, the fourth connector 34 and the first connector 31 are symmetrical structures. The basic design of the component structure of the fourth connector 34, the design of the connection relationship between components, and the design of the connection relationship between the component and other structures outside the assembly can all refer to the relevant scheme of the first connector 31. At the same time, slight differences are allowed between the fourth connector 34 and the first connector 31 in the detailed structure or positional arrangement of the components. Specific details will not be elaborated here.

[0225] Figure 22 is a partially exploded schematic diagram (3) of one embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Figure 6. Figure 23 is a partially structural schematic diagram (2) of one embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Figure 6. Figure 24 is a partially cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Figure 23 at line EE.

[0226] Please refer to Figures 22 to 24, and in conjunction with Figures 19 to 21, the first rotating end 331 of the third connector 33 is rotatably connected to the second end 1c of the main shaft 1.

[0227] For example, the first end 3311 and the second end 3313 of the first rotating end 331 of the third connector 33 are respectively disposed in the two third arc-shaped grooves 13 of the main shaft 1. Through the relative movement of the two, the first rotating end 331 of the third connector 33 and the main shaft 1 form a rotating connection structure through the cooperation of the arc-shaped block and the arc-shaped groove, that is, the third connector 33 and the main shaft 1 are rotated through a virtual axis. It can be understood that the structure of rotating connection through a virtual axis is simple, occupies little space, and is conducive to reducing the thickness of the folding mechanism 100, making it easier to achieve a thinner and lighter design for the folding mechanism 100 and the electronic device 1000.

[0228] For example, the middle part 3312 of the first rotating end 331 of the third connector 33 is located between the two third arcuate grooves 13 of the main shaft 1, and the middle part 3312 of the first rotating end 331 of the third connector 33 can be spaced apart from the main shaft 1.

[0229] In other embodiments, the first rotating end 331 of the third connector 33 can also be rotatably connected to the main shaft 1 via a solid shaft.

[0230] Please refer to Figures 22 to 24, and in conjunction with Figures 19 to 21, the second rotating end 333 of the third connector 33 is rotatably connected to the third fixing frame 23. Exemplarily, when the folding mechanism 100 is in a flattened state, the third fixing frame 23 and the first fixing frame 21 are located on the same side of the main shaft 1.

[0231] For example, the folding mechanism 100 also includes a second pivot 72. The second rotating end 333 of the third connector 33 is rotatably connected to the third fixing frame 23 via the second pivot 72. That is, the second rotating end 333 of the third connector 33 is rotatably connected to the third fixing frame 23 via a solid shaft.

[0232] In other embodiments, the second rotating end 333 of the third connector 33 can also be rotatably connected to the third fixing frame 23 via a virtual axis.

[0233] Please refer to Figures 22 to 24, and in conjunction with Figures 19 to 21, the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connector 34 is rotatably connected to the second end 1c of the main shaft 1.

[0234] For example, the first end 3411 and the second end 3413 of the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connector 34 are respectively disposed in the two fourth arc-shaped grooves 14 of the main shaft 1. Through the relative movement of the two, the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connector 34 and the main shaft 1 form a rotating connection structure through the cooperation of the arc-shaped block and the arc-shaped groove. The fourth connector 34 and the main shaft 1 are rotated through a virtual axis. It can be understood that the structure of rotating connection through a virtual axis is simple, occupies little space, and is conducive to reducing the thickness of the folding mechanism 100, making it easier to achieve a thinner and lighter design for the folding mechanism 100 and the electronic device 1000.

[0235] In other embodiments, the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connector 34 may also be rotatably connected to the second end 1c of the main shaft 1 via a solid shaft.

[0236] For example, the middle part 3412 of the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connector 34 is located between the two fourth arcuate grooves 14 of the main shaft 1, and the middle part 3412 of the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connector 34 can be spaced apart from the main shaft 1.

[0237] Referring to Figures 22 to 24, and in conjunction with Figures 19 to 21, the second rotating end 343 of the fourth connector 34 is rotatably connected to the fourth fixing frame 24. Exemplarily, the main shaft 1 can be located between the third fixing frame 23 and the fourth fixing frame 24. Furthermore, when the folding mechanism 100 is in a flattened state, the fourth fixing frame 24 and the second fixing frame 22 are located on the same side of the main shaft 1.

[0238] For example, the first end 3431 and the second end 3433 of the second rotating end 343 of the fourth connector 34 are respectively disposed in the two arc-shaped grooves 243 of the fourth fixing frame 24. Through the relative movement of the two, the second rotating end 343 of the fourth connector 34 and the fourth fixing frame 24 form a rotating connection structure through the cooperation of the arc-shaped block and the arc-shaped groove, that is, the second rotating end 343 of the fourth connector 34 and the fourth fixing frame 24 can be rotatably connected through a virtual axis.

[0239] For example, the middle portion 3432 of the second rotating end 343 of the fourth connector 34 can be located within the fourth movable space 242 of the fourth fixing frame 24. The middle portion 3432 of the second rotating end 343 of the fourth connector 34 can rotate within the fourth movable space 242 of the fourth fixing frame 24.

[0240] In other embodiments, the second rotating end 343 of the fourth connector 34 may also be rotatably connected to the fourth fixing frame 24 via a solid shaft.

[0241] Figure 25 is a partial structural schematic diagram of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Figure 6 in one embodiment. In Figure 25, two dashed lines are used as cut-off lines to schematically show the two ends of the folding mechanism 100.

[0242] Referring to Figure 25, and in conjunction with Figures 14 to 17, the main shaft 1 exemplarily has a center plane PA, which is parallel to the length extension direction of the main shaft 1. Exemplarily, the center plane PA of the main shaft 1 is parallel to the Y-axis direction. It is understood that the center plane PA of the main shaft 1 is a virtual plane passing through the central axis of the main shaft 1 and parallel to the length extension direction of the main shaft 1. Therefore, Figure 25 simply illustrates this with dashed lines. Furthermore, the central axis of the main shaft 1 can be a virtual axis passing through the center of the main shaft 1 and parallel to the length extension direction of the main shaft 1. It is understood that the center plane PA of the main shaft 1 can be the same plane as the center plane of the electronic device 1000 and the center plane of the folding mechanism 100.

[0243] Referring to Figure 25, and in conjunction with Figures 14 to 17, exemplarily, the axis of rotation of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 relative to the main shaft 1 is the first rotation axis P1. Figure 25 schematically illustrates the first rotation axis P1 using dashed lines. Since the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 is rotatably connected to the main shaft 1 via a virtual axis, the first rotation axis P1 is a virtual axis.

[0244] Referring to Figure 25, and in conjunction with Figures 22 to 24, exemplarily, the axis of rotation of the first rotating end 331 of the third connector 33 relative to the main shaft 1 is the third rotation axis P3. Figure 25 schematically illustrates the third rotation axis P3 using dashed lines. Since the first rotating end 331 of the third connector 33 is rotatably connected to the main shaft 1 via a virtual axis, the third rotation axis P3 is a virtual axis.

[0245] In this embodiment, the axis of rotation of the first rotating end 331 of the third connector 33 relative to the main shaft 1 and the axis of rotation of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 relative to the main shaft 1 are located on the same side of the center plane PA of the main shaft 1 and do not coincide. That is, the third rotation axis P3 and the first rotation axis P1 are located on the same side of the center plane PA of the main shaft 1 and are not on the same straight line.

[0246] In one embodiment, the axis of rotation of the first rotating end 331 of the third connector 33 relative to the main shaft 1 is parallel to the axis of rotation of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 33 relative to the main shaft 1, and the axis of rotation of the first rotating end 331 of the third connector 33 relative to the main shaft 1 and the axis of rotation of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 relative to the main shaft 1 are spaced apart in any direction of the first plane. In other words, the third rotation axis P3 is parallel to the first rotation axis P1, and the third rotation axis P3 and the first rotation axis P1 are spaced apart in any direction of the first plane. The first plane is perpendicular to the first rotation axis P1. For example, the first plane is the XZ plane.

[0247] In one embodiment, the axis of rotation of the first rotating end 331 of the third connector 33 relative to the main shaft 1 is parallel to the axis of rotation of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 33 relative to the main shaft 1, and the axis of rotation of the first rotating end 331 of the third connector 33 relative to the main shaft 1 and the axis of rotation of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 relative to the main shaft 1 are spaced apart in a first direction or in a second direction. In other words, the third rotation axis P3 is parallel to the first rotation axis P1, and the third rotation axis P3 and the first rotation axis P1 can be spaced apart along the X-axis direction or the Z-axis direction.

[0248] In this embodiment, the first fixing frame 21 and the third fixing frame 23 can be fixedly connected to the first housing 300 (see Figures 5 and 6). Exemplarily, the first fixing frame 21 and the third fixing frame 23 can be fixedly connected to the first housing 300 using fasteners (see Figures 5 and 6). Fasteners include, but are not limited to, screws, bolts, rivets, and pins. It is understood that since the first fixing frame 21 and the third fixing frame 23 can be fixedly connected to the first housing 300, the first housing 300 can move with the first fixing frame 21 and the third fixing frame 23, and the folding mechanism 100 can control the movement trajectory of the first housing 300 by controlling the movement trajectory of the first fixing frame 21 and the third fixing frame 23.

[0249] It is understood that by setting the first rotating end 311 of the first connecting member 31 to rotatably connect to the first end 1a of the main shaft 1, the second rotating end 313 of the first connecting member 31 to rotatably connect to the first fixed frame 21, the first rotating end 331 of the third connecting member 33 to rotatably connect to the second end 1c of the main shaft 1, and the second rotating end 333 of the third connecting member 33 to rotatably connect to the third fixed frame 23, the first fixed frame 21 and the third fixed frame 23 can be fixedly connected to the first housing 300 (see Figures 5 and 6). The axis of rotation of the first rotating end 331 of the third connecting member 33 relative to the main shaft 1 is located on the same side of the center plane PA of the main shaft 1 and does not coincide with it. Thus, during the unfolding or folding process of the folding mechanism 100, the first connecting member 31, the third connecting member 33, the first fixed frame 21 and the third fixed frame 23 can constrain the movement trajectory of the first housing 300, so that the degree of freedom of the first housing 300 relative to the main shaft 1 can be 1, and the movement trajectory of the first housing 300 relative to the main shaft 1 can be determined. Furthermore, when both the first connecting member 31 and the third connecting member 33 rotate relative to the main shaft 1, they can pull the first fixing frame 21 and the third fixing frame 23 back to approach the main shaft 1, and they can also push the first fixing frame 21 and the third fixing frame 23 out to move away from the main shaft 1, thereby driving the first housing 300 to achieve inward and outward movements through the first fixing frame 21 and the third fixing frame 23.

[0250] Referring to Figure 25 and in conjunction with Figures 14 to 17, exemplarily, the axis of rotation of the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 relative to the main shaft 1 is the second rotation axis P2. Figure 25 schematically illustrates the second rotation axis P2 using dashed lines. Since the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 is rotatably connected to the main shaft 1 via a virtual axis, the second rotation axis P2 is a virtual axis. Exemplarily, the second rotation axis P2 and the first rotation axis P1 are located on opposite sides of the center plane PA of the main shaft 1.

[0251] Referring to Figure 25, and in conjunction with Figures 22 to 24, exemplarily, the axis of rotation of the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connector 34 relative to the main shaft 1 is the fourth rotation axis P4. Figure 25 schematically illustrates the fourth rotation axis P4 using dashed lines. Since the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connector 34 is rotatably connected to the main shaft 1 via a virtual axis, the fourth rotation axis P4 is a virtual axis. Exemplarily, the fourth rotation axis P4 and the third rotation axis P3 are located on opposite sides of the center plane PA of the main shaft 1.

[0252] In this embodiment, the axis of rotation of the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connector 34 relative to the main shaft 1 and the axis of rotation of the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 relative to the main shaft 1 are located on the same side of the center plane PA of the main shaft 1 and do not coincide. That is, the fourth rotating axis P4 and the second rotating axis P2 are located on the same side of the center plane PA of the main shaft 1 and are not on the same straight line.

[0253] In one embodiment, the axis of rotation of the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connector 34 relative to the main shaft 1 is parallel to the axis of rotation of the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 relative to the main shaft 1, and the axes of rotation of the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connector 34 relative to the main shaft 1 and the axes of rotation of the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 relative to the main shaft 1 are spaced apart in any direction of the second plane. In other words, the second rotation axis P2 is parallel to the fourth rotation axis P4, and the second rotation axis P2 and the fourth rotation axis P4 are spaced apart in any direction of the second plane. The second plane is perpendicular to the second rotation axis P2. For example, the second plane is the XZ plane.

[0254] In one embodiment, the axis of rotation of the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connector 34 relative to the main shaft 1 is parallel to the axis of rotation of the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 relative to the main shaft 1. Furthermore, the axes of rotation of the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connector 34 relative to the main shaft 1 and the axes of rotation of the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 relative to the main shaft 1 are spaced apart in a first direction or in a second direction. In other words, the fourth rotation axis P4 is parallel to the second rotation axis P2, and the fourth rotation axis P4 and the second rotation axis P2 can be spaced apart along the X-axis or Z-axis direction.

[0255] In this embodiment, the second fixing bracket 22 and the fourth fixing bracket 24 can be fixedly connected to the second housing 400 (see Figures 5 and 6). Exemplarily, the second fixing bracket 22 and the fourth fixing bracket 24 can be connected to the second housing 400 via fasteners. Fasteners include, but are not limited to, screws, bolts, rivets, and pins. It is understood that since the second fixing bracket 22 and the fourth fixing bracket 24 can be fixedly connected to the second housing 400, the second housing 400 can move with the second fixing bracket 22 and the fourth fixing bracket 24, and the folding mechanism 100 can control the movement trajectory of the second housing 400 by controlling the movement trajectory of the second fixing bracket 22 and the fourth fixing bracket 24.

[0256] It is understood that the first rotating end 321 of the second connecting member 32 is rotatably connected to the first end 1a of the main shaft 1, the second rotating end 323 of the second connecting member 32 is rotatably connected to the second fixed frame 22, the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connecting member 34 is rotatably connected to the second end 1c of the main shaft 1, and the second rotating end 343 of the fourth connecting member 34 is rotatably connected to the fourth fixed frame 24. The second fixed frame 22 and the fourth fixed frame 24 can be fixedly connected to the second housing 400 (see Figures 5 and 6). The axis of rotation of the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connecting member 34 relative to the main shaft 1 is located on the same side of the center plane PA of the main shaft 1 as the axis of rotation of the first rotating end 321 of the second connecting member 32 relative to the main shaft 1, and they do not coincide. Therefore, during the unfolding or folding process of the folding mechanism 100, the second connecting member 32, the fourth connecting member 34, the second fixed frame 22 and the fourth fixed frame 24 can constrain the movement trajectory of the second housing 400, so that the degree of freedom of the second housing 400 relative to the main shaft 1 can be 1, and the movement trajectory of the second housing 400 relative to the main shaft 1 can be determined. Furthermore, when the second connector 32 and the fourth connector 34 rotate relative to the main shaft 1, they can pull the second fixed frame 22 and the fourth fixed frame 24 back to approach the main shaft 1, and they can also push the second fixed frame 22 and the fourth fixed frame 24 out to move away from the main shaft 1, thereby driving the second housing 400 to achieve inward and outward movements through the second fixed frame 22 and the fourth fixed frame 24.

[0257] Understandably, when the electronic device 1000 switches from a flattened state to a closed state, the first housing 300 and the second housing 400 move closer together. The first housing 300 can drive the first fixing frame 21 to rotate relative to the main shaft 1 via the first connecting member 31, and can also drive the third fixing frame 23 to rotate relative to the main shaft 1 via the third connecting member 33. The second housing 400 can drive the second fixing frame 22 to rotate relative to the main shaft 1 via the second connecting member 32, and can also drive the fourth fixing frame 24 to rotate relative to the main shaft 1 via the fourth fixing frame 24. During the process of the first housing 300 and the second housing 400 unfolding relative to each other, the first fixing frame 21 and the third fixing frame 23 can drive the first housing 300 to move away from the main shaft 1, and the second fixing frame 22 and the fourth fixing frame 24 can drive the second housing 400 to move away from the main shaft 1. That is, the folding mechanism 100 can realize the inward pulling movement of the housing during the change from a flattened state to a closed state, and the outward pushing movement of the housing during the change from a closed state to a flattened state. Therefore, during the unfolding or folding process, the folding mechanism 100 can reduce the risk of pulling or squeezing the flexible screen 200, thereby protecting the flexible screen 200, improving the reliability of the flexible screen 200, and enabling the flexible screen 200 and the electronic device 1000 to have a longer service life.

[0258] In a conventional folding mechanism, four connectors are used at the first end of the rotating main shaft, and four connectors are also used at the second end of the rotating main shaft. These eight connectors enable the conventional folding mechanism to unfold and fold. In other words, the conventional folding mechanism consists of eight main moving parts. This results in a complex structure and a large number of components, leading to higher costs. Furthermore, the long dimensional chain at either the first or second end of the rotating main shaft makes the mechanism prone to wear and tear, potentially causing malfunctions and significantly shortening its lifespan. However, in this application, by incorporating a first connector 31, a second connector 32, a third connector 33, and a fourth connector 34 into the folding mechanism 100, both unfolding and folding are achieved. In other words, these four connectors constitute the main moving parts of the folding mechanism 100. Thus, the folding mechanism 100 can have four main moving parts, namely, the first connecting part 31, the second connecting part 32, the third connecting part 33, and the fourth connecting part 34. In this case, on the one hand, the folding mechanism 100 has fewer components, simpler mating relationships and positions, and easier manufacturing and assembly of the components, simplifying the structure of the folding mechanism 100 and reducing its cost; on the other hand, the dimensional chain of the first end 1a or the second end 1c of the main shaft 1 is short, making the folding mechanism 100 less prone to wear and functional malfunctions, and significantly extending its service life. It is understood that although the folding mechanism 100 of this application can have four main moving parts, secondary moving parts can also be provided in the folding mechanism 100 of this application, such as a first auxiliary connecting part (not shown) and a second auxiliary connecting part (not shown). The first auxiliary connecting part connects the main shaft 1 and the first housing 300. The second auxiliary connecting part connects the main shaft 1 and the second housing 400. Of course, the first auxiliary connector can also be connected to the first housing 300 via a first auxiliary fixing bracket (not shown). The second auxiliary connector is connected to the second housing 400 via a second auxiliary fixing bracket (not shown). The secondary moving parts of the folding mechanism 100 are mainly used to assist the movement of the main moving parts of the folding mechanism 100, so as to make the movement of the folding mechanism 100 more precise during unfolding or folding.

[0259] As shown in Figure 25, the first rotating end 311 of the first connecting member 31 and the first rotating end 321 of the second connecting member 32 are non-mirror-symmetrical structures. Exemplarily, the axis of rotation of the first rotating end 311 of the first connecting member 31 relative to the main shaft 1 and the axis of rotation of the first rotating end 321 of the second connecting member 32 relative to the main shaft 1 are asymmetrical about the center plane PA of the main shaft 1; that is, the first rotation axis P1 and the second rotation axis P2 are asymmetrical about the center plane PA of the main shaft 1. Thus, in this embodiment, the first rotation axis P1 and the second rotation axis P2 adopt an asymmetrical structure.

[0260] For example, the first rotation axis P1 is parallel to the second rotation axis P2. The distance between the first rotation axis P1 and the center plane PA of the main shaft 1 is not equal to the distance between the second rotation axis P2 and the center plane PA of the main shaft 1.

[0261] As shown in Figure 25, the first rotating end 331 of the third connector 33 and the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connector 34 are non-mirror-symmetrical structures. Exemplarily, the axis of rotation of the first rotating end 331 of the third connector 33 relative to the main shaft 1 and the axis of rotation of the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connector 34 relative to the main shaft 1 are asymmetrical about the center plane PA of the main shaft 1; that is, the third rotation axis P3 and the fourth rotation axis P4 are asymmetrical about the center plane PA of the main shaft 1. Thus, the third rotation axis P3 and the fourth rotation axis P4 in this embodiment adopt an asymmetrical structure.

[0262] For example, the third rotation axis P3 is parallel to the fourth rotation axis P4. The distance between the third rotation axis P3 and the center plane PA of the main shaft 1 is not equal to the distance between the fourth rotation axis P4 and the center plane PA of the main shaft 1.

[0263] As shown in Figure 25, the second rotating end 313 of the first connector 31 and the second rotating end 323 of the second connector 32 are non-mirror symmetrical structures. For example, the axis of rotation of the second rotating end 313 of the first connector 31 relative to the first fixing frame 21 is parallel to the axis of rotation of the second rotating end 323 of the second connector 32 relative to the second fixing frame 22. The distance between the axis of rotation of the second rotating end 313 of the first connector 31 relative to the first fixing frame 21 and the center plane PA of the main shaft 1 is not equal to the distance between the axis of rotation of the second rotating end 323 of the second connector 32 relative to the second fixing frame 22 and the center plane PA of the main shaft 1.

[0264] As shown in Figure 25, the second rotating end 333 of the third connector 33 and the second rotating end 343 of the fourth connector 34 are non-mirror-symmetrical structures. For example, the axis of rotation of the second rotating end 333 of the third connector 33 relative to the third fixed frame 23 is parallel to the axis of rotation of the second rotating end 343 of the fourth connector 34 relative to the fourth fixed frame 24. The distance between the axis of rotation of the second rotating end 333 of the third connector 33 relative to the third fixed frame 23 and the center plane PA of the main shaft 1 is not equal to the distance between the axis of rotation of the second rotating end 343 of the fourth connector 34 relative to the fourth fixed frame 24 and the center plane PA of the main shaft 1.

[0265] Figure 26 is a structural schematic diagram of one embodiment of the first support plate 41 and the second support plate 42 shown in Figure 7.

[0266] As shown in Figure 26, in the length extension direction of the first support plate 41, the first support plate 41 includes a first end 41a, a middle portion 41b, and a second end 41c connected in sequence. In other words, the middle portion 41b of the first support plate 41 is connected between the first end 41a and the second end 41c of the first support plate 41. It can be understood that the first end 41a and the second end 41c of the first support plate 41 are located on both sides of the center of the first support plate 41.

[0267] For example, the first end 41a of the first support plate 41 is provided with a first fixing hole 411. It is understood that the number of first fixing holes 411 can be one or more. When the number of first fixing holes 411 is multiple, the multiple first fixing holes 411 are arranged at intervals.

[0268] For example, the second end 41c of the first support plate 41 is provided with a first sliding hole 412. It is understood that the number of first sliding holes 412 can be one or more. When the number of first sliding holes 412 is multiple, the multiple first sliding holes 412 are arranged at intervals.

[0269] In other embodiments, the positions of the first fixing hole 411 and the first sliding hole 412 can also be interchanged, that is, the first end 41a of the first support plate 41 is provided with the first sliding hole 412, and the second end 41c of the first support plate 41 is provided with the first fixing hole 411.

[0270] As shown in Figure 26, in the length extension direction of the second support plate 42, the second support plate 42 includes a first end 42a, a middle portion 42b, and a second end 42c connected in sequence. In other words, the middle portion 42b of the second support plate 42 is connected between the first end 42a and the second end 42c of the second support plate 42. It can be understood that the first end 42a and the second end 42c of the second support plate 42 are located on both sides of the center of the second support plate 42.

[0271] For example, the first end 42a of the second support plate 42 is provided with a second sliding hole 422. It is understood that the number of second sliding holes 422 can be one or more. When the number of second sliding holes 422 is multiple, the multiple second sliding holes 422 are arranged at intervals.

[0272] For example, the second end 42c of the second support plate 42 is provided with a second fixing hole 421. It is understood that the number of second fixing holes 421 can be one or more. When the number of second fixing holes 421 is multiple, the multiple second fixing holes 421 are arranged at intervals.

[0273] In other embodiments, the positions of the second fixing hole 421 and the second sliding hole 422 can also be interchanged, that is, the first end 42a of the second support plate 42 is provided with the second fixing hole 421, and the second end 42c of the second support plate 42 is provided with the second sliding hole 422.

[0274] Figure 27 is a partial structural schematic diagram of one embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Figure 6. Figure 28 is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Figure 27 at line FF. Figure 29 is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Figure 27 at line GG. Figure 30 is a structural schematic diagram of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Figure 28 in the closed state. Figure 31 is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Figure 30 at line HH.

[0275] Please refer to Figures 27 to 31, and in conjunction with Figure 25, as shown, the first support plate 41 is fixedly connected to the first connecting member 31. The first support plate 41 is not fixedly connected to the third connecting member 33. In other words, the first support plate 41 and the third connecting member 33 are movably connected or separately disposed from each other. It can be understood that the first support plate 41 and the third connecting member 33 being separately disposed from each other can mean that the first support plate 41 and the third connecting member 33 have no connection relationship.

[0276] For example, the first end 41a of the first support plate 41 is fixedly connected to the first connector 31. The second end 41c of the first support plate 41 is not fixedly connected to the third connector 33.

[0277] In other embodiments, the arrangement of the first support plate 41 and the first connecting member 31, and the arrangement of the first support plate 41 and the third connecting member 33, can be interchanged. In other words, the first support plate 41 and the third connecting member 33 are fixedly connected. The first support plate 41 and the first connecting member 31 are not fixedly connected. In one embodiment, the first end 41a of the first support plate 41 is not fixedly connected to the first connecting member 31, and the second end 41c of the first support plate 41 is fixedly connected to the third connecting member 33.

[0278] Please refer to Figures 27 to 31, and in conjunction with Figure 25, as shown, the first protrusion 315 of the first connector 31 is fixed within the first fixing hole 411 of the first support plate 41. Thus, the mutual engagement between the first protrusion 315 of the first connector 31 and the first fixing hole 411 of the first support plate 41 achieves mutual fixation and positioning between the first support plate 41 and the first connector 31. Exemplarily, the first protrusion 315 of the first connector 31 can be interference-fitted with the first fixing hole 411 of the first support plate 41. Alternatively, the first protrusion 315 of the first connector 31 can be fixedly connected to the wall of the first fixing hole 411 of the first support plate 41 via an adhesive layer. It is understood that this application does not specifically limit the connection method between the first protrusion 315 of the first connector 31 and the first fixing hole 411 of the first support plate 41.

[0279] In other embodiments, the first connector 31 can also be locked and fixed to the first support plate 41 by fasteners. Fasteners include, but are not limited to, screws, bolts, rivets, pins, etc.

[0280] In other embodiments, the first support plate 41 and the first connector 31 can be assembled into a single component. Therefore, the first connector 31 can directly control the movement trajectory of the first support plate 41, resulting in high control accuracy and low backlash in the movement process of the first support plate 41.

[0281] Referring to Figures 27 to 31, and in conjunction with Figure 25, the third protrusion 335 of the third connector 33 can be located within the first sliding hole 412 of the first support plate 41, and can move within the first sliding hole 412. Thus, the mutual cooperation between the third protrusion 335 of the third connector 33 and the first sliding hole 412 of the first support plate 41 achieves a movable connection between the first support plate 41 and the third connector 33. It can be understood that the mutual cooperation between the third protrusion 335 of the third connector 33 and the first sliding hole 412 of the first support plate 41 ensures high control precision and low backlash in the movement process of the first support plate 41.

[0282] In other embodiments, this application does not specifically limit the manner in which the first support plate 41 and the third connector 33 are connected.

[0283] Please refer to Figures 27 to 31, and in conjunction with Figure 25, when the first connecting member 31 is fixedly connected to the first support plate 41, and the third connecting member 33 is not fixedly connected to the first support plate 41, at least a portion of the third connecting member 33 is spaced apart from the first support plate 41 in the second direction (i.e., the Z-axis direction). In other words, in the Z-axis direction, there is a space for movement between at least a portion of the third connecting member 33 and the first support plate 41.

[0284] In other embodiments, the first support plate 41 is fixedly connected to the third connector 33. The first support plate 41 is not fixedly connected to the first connector 31. In this case, at least a portion of the first connector 31 is spaced apart from the first support plate 41 in a first direction. In other words, in the Z-axis direction, there is a space of movement between at least a portion of the first connector 31 and the first support plate 41.

[0285] Please refer to Figures 27 to 31, and in conjunction with Figure 25, to see that the second support plate 42 is fixedly connected to the fourth connecting member 34. The second support plate 42 is not fixedly connected to the second connecting member 32. In other words, the second support plate 42 and the second connecting member 32 are either movably connected or separately disposed from each other. It can be understood that the second support plate 42 and the second connecting member 32 being separately disposed from each other can mean that the second support plate 42 and the second connecting member 32 have no connection relationship.

[0286] For example, the second end 42c of the second support plate 42 is fixedly connected to the fourth connector 34. The first end 42a of the second support plate 42 is not fixedly connected to the second connector 32.

[0287] In other embodiments, the arrangement relationships between the second support plate 42 and the fourth connector 34, and between the second support plate 42 and the second connector 32, can be interchanged. In other words, the second support plate 42 and the second connector 32 are fixedly connected. The second support plate 42 and the fourth connector 34 are not fixedly connected. In one embodiment, the second end 42c of the second support plate 42 is not fixedly connected to the fourth connector 34. The first end 42a of the second support plate 42 is fixedly connected to the second connector 32.

[0288] Please refer to Figures 27 to 31, and in conjunction with Figure 25, as shown, the fourth protrusion 345 of the fourth connector 34 is fixed within the second fixing hole 421 of the second support plate 42. Thus, the mutual fixing and positioning of the second support plate 42 and the fourth connector 34 is achieved through the mutual engagement of the fourth protrusion 345 of the fourth connector 34 and the second fixing hole 421 of the second support plate 42. Exemplarily, the fourth protrusion 345 of the fourth connector 34 can be press-fitted with the second fixing hole 421 of the second support plate 42. Alternatively, the fourth protrusion 345 of the fourth connector 34 can be fixedly connected to the hole wall of the second fixing hole 421 of the second support plate 42 by an adhesive layer. It is understood that this application does not specifically limit the connection method between the fourth protrusion 345 of the fourth connector 34 and the second fixing hole 421 of the second support plate 42.

[0289] In other embodiments, the fourth connector 34 can also be locked to the second support plate 42 by fasteners. Fasteners include, but are not limited to, screws, bolts, rivets, pins, etc.

[0290] In other embodiments, the second support plate 42 and the fourth connector 34 can be assembled into a single component. Therefore, the fourth connector 34 can directly control the movement trajectory of the second support plate 42, resulting in high control accuracy and low backlash in the movement process of the second support plate 42.

[0291] Referring to Figures 27 to 31, and in conjunction with Figure 25, the second protrusion 325 of the second connector 32 can be located within the second sliding hole 422 of the second support plate 42, and can move within the second sliding hole 422. Thus, the mutual cooperation between the second protrusion 325 of the second connector 32 and the second sliding hole 422 of the second support plate 42 achieves a movable connection between the second support plate 42 and the second connector 32. It can be understood that the mutual cooperation between the second protrusion 325 of the second connector 32 and the second sliding hole 422 of the second support plate 42 ensures high control precision and low backlash in the movement process of the second support plate 42.

[0292] In other embodiments, this application does not specifically limit the manner in which the second support plate 42 and the second connector 32 are connected.

[0293] Referring to Figures 27 to 31, and in conjunction with Figure 25, the second end 42c of the second support plate 42 is fixedly connected to the fourth connector 34. When the first end 42a of the second support plate 42 is not fixedly connected to the second connector 32, at least a portion of the second connector 32 is spaced apart from the second support plate 42 in the second direction (i.e., the Z-axis direction). In other words, there is a space of movement between at least a portion of the second connector 32 and the second support plate 42 in the Z-axis direction.

[0294] In other embodiments, the second end 42c of the second support plate 42 is not fixedly connected to the fourth connector 34. The first end 42a of the second support plate 42 is fixedly connected to the second connector 32. In this case, at least a portion of the fourth connector 34 is spaced apart from the second support plate 42 in the first direction. In other words, in the Z-axis direction, there is a space for movement between at least a portion of the fourth connector 34 and the second support plate 42.

[0295] As shown in Figures 27 and 29, and in conjunction with Figure 2, when the folding mechanism 100 is in a flattened state, the first support plate 41 and the second support plate 42 are joined together to form at least a portion of the support surface 100a. At this time, the first support plate 41 and the second support plate 42 are close to each other, and the distance between the first support plate 41 and the second support plate 42 is small.

[0296] The splicing of the first support plate 41 and the second support plate 42 may include, but is not limited to, the following scenarios: a part of the first support plate 41 and a part of the second support plate 42 are in contact with each other without gaps, while a notch or gap may be formed between another part of the first support plate 41 and another part of the second support plate 42; or, the first support plate 41 and the second support plate 42 are in overall contact without gaps; or, a part of the first support plate 41 and a part of the second support plate 42 are close to each other with small gaps between the close-to-each parts, while a notch or gap may be formed between another part of the first support plate 41 and another part of the second support plate 42; or, the first support plate 41 and the second support plate 42 are close to each other with small gaps between them. Understandably, when there is a small gap between the first support plate 41 and the second support plate 42, or a small gap between a part of the first support plate 41 and a part of the second support plate 42, the user can press the flexible screen in the area corresponding to the gap, and no obvious pit will appear in the corresponding area of ​​the flexible screen. The first support plate 41 and the second support plate 42 can provide strong support for the flexible screen.

[0297] When there is a gap or slit between the first support plate 41 and the second support plate 42, or when there is a gap or slit between a part of the first support plate 41 and a part of the second support plate 42, the area of ​​the gap or slit can be minimized by optimizing the component size and shape of the folding mechanism 100. This allows the area of ​​the flexible screen corresponding to the gap or slit to sink slightly under the user's pressure, but without producing an obvious dent.

[0298] As shown in Figures 27 and 29, exemplarily, when the folding mechanism 100 is in a flattened state, the first support plate 41 and the second support plate 42 together cover at least a portion of the main shaft 1. This arrangement of the first support plate 41 and the second support plate 42 is more compact, thereby facilitating the miniaturization of the folding mechanism 100.

[0299] As shown in Figures 30 and 31, and in conjunction with Figure 4, when the folding mechanism 100 is in the closed state, the first support plate 41 and the second support plate 42 are arranged opposite to each other, and the first support plate 41, the second support plate 42 and the main shaft 1 together enclose a part of the accommodating space 100b.

[0300] As shown in Figures 30 and 31, exemplarily, when the folding mechanism 100 is in the closed state, both the first support plate 41 and the second support plate 42 are inclined relative to the main shaft 1, and the first support plate 41 and the second support plate 42 are close to each other in the direction away from the main shaft 1. It can be understood that when the folding mechanism 100 is in the closed state, the first support plate 41 and the second support plate 42 form an angle, and the first support plate 41 and the second support plate 42 can roughly present an upright "V" shape.

[0301] As shown in Figures 30 and 31, exemplarily, when the folding mechanism 100 is in the closed state, at least a portion of the first support plate 41 and at least a portion of the second support plate 42 are projected onto the main shaft 1 along the Z-axis direction. This arrangement of the first support plate 41 and the second support plate 42 is more compact, thus facilitating the miniaturization of the folding mechanism 100.

[0302] Please refer to Figures 27 to 31. Since the first support plate 41 is fixed to the first connector 31, the first support plate 41 can move with the first connector 31. Furthermore, since the second support plate 42 is fixed to the fourth connector 34, the second support plate 42 moves with the fourth connector 34. Thus, during the transition of the folding mechanism 100 from a closed state to a flattened state, and vice versa, the first support plate 41 and the second support plate 42 gradually open or gradually move closer together. This ensures that the folding mechanism 100 can fully support the flexible screen in various configurations, improving the reliability and lifespan of the flexible screen and electronic devices.

[0303] Furthermore, since the first support plate 41 is fixedly connected to the first connector 31 and the second support plate 42 is fixedly connected to the fourth connector 34, the first connector 31 and the fourth connector 34 can control the movement of the first housing 300 and the second housing 400, as well as the movement of the first support plate 41 and the second support plate 42. Therefore, the folding mechanism 100 has a high degree of integration, a simple overall connection relationship, and high reliability.

[0304] It is understood that in this embodiment, the folding mechanism 100 includes a first support plate 41 and a second support plate 42. The first support plate 41 and the second support plate 42 jointly support the second display area 202 of the flexible screen 200 when the electronic device 1000 is in a flattened state, and enclose the accommodating space 100b when the electronic device 1000 is in a closed state. The folding mechanism 100 of this embodiment has fewer components, simpler mating relationships and positions, and easier-to-manufacture and assemble components. This simplifies the structure of the folding mechanism 100, enabling its miniaturization, and also reduces its cost, making mass production easier.

[0305] As can be understood from the preceding text, as shown in Figure 25, by setting the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 and the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 to be non-mirror symmetrical structures, and the first rotating end 331 of the third connector 33 and the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connector 34 to be non-mirror symmetrical structures, when the first housing 300 and the second housing 400 are folded relative to each other to a closed state, the accommodating space 100b enclosed by the first support plate 41, the second support plate 42, and the main shaft 1 shifts towards the first housing 300 or the second housing 400. Compared to the symmetrical accommodating space of conventional foldable electronic devices, the accommodating space 100b in this embodiment is asymmetrical because it shifts towards the first housing 300 or the second housing 400. At this time, the second display area 202 accommodated in the accommodating space 100b also shifts towards the first housing 300 or the second housing 400, and the flexible screen 200 is also roughly asymmetrically shaped like a "water droplet".

[0306] It is understood that this embodiment is described using the example of the accommodating space 100b being offset towards the first housing 300. Due to the shape of the accommodating space 100b offset towards the first housing 300, the size reserved at the connection between the first housing 300 and the main shaft 1 for forming the accommodating space 100b can be set to be larger, while the size reserved at the connection between the second housing 400 and the main shaft 1 for forming the accommodating space 100b can be set to be smaller. In this case, the thickness of the portion of the first housing 300 near the main shaft 1 can be set to be larger, while the thickness of the portion of the second housing 400 near the main shaft 1 can be set to be smaller. Therefore, the electronic device 1000 of this embodiment can achieve flexible thickness settings, thereby enabling flexible arrangement of the electronic device 1000's structural space.

[0307] Figure 32 is a structural schematic diagram of one embodiment of the first support plate 41 and the second support plate 42 shown in Figure 7 from another angle. Figure 33 is a partially exploded schematic diagram of one embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Figure 6. Figure 34 is a partially structural schematic diagram of one embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Figure 6 from another angle. Figure 35 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of one embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Figure 30 at line II.

[0308] As shown in Figures 32 to 35, in this embodiment, when the first end 41a of the first support plate 41 is fixedly connected to the first connecting member 31, and the second end 41c of the first support plate 41 is not fixedly connected to the third connecting member 33, the second end 41c of the first support plate 41 is also rotatably connected to the third fixing frame 33. It can be understood that by setting the second end 41c of the first support plate 41 to be rotatably connected to the third fixing frame 33, the movement trajectory of the first support plate 41 can be better constrained by the movement trajectory of the third fixing frame 33, thereby achieving high control accuracy and low hysteresis in the movement process of the first support plate 41.

[0309] For example, the second end 41c of the first support plate 41 further includes a first arc-shaped block 413. The third fixing frame 23 is also provided with an auxiliary arc-shaped groove 234. The first arc-shaped block 413 of the first support plate 41 can be located within the auxiliary arc-shaped groove 234 of the third fixing frame 23. Through the relative movement of the two, the second end 41c of the first support plate 41 and the third fixing frame 23 form a rotatable connection structure through the engagement of the arc-shaped block and the arc-shaped groove.

[0310] It is understood that the second end 41c of the first support plate 41 is connected to the third fixing frame 23 via a virtual shaft. The rotating connection structure is relatively simple, occupies little space, and is conducive to reducing the thickness of the folding mechanism 100, making it easier to achieve a thinner and lighter design for the folding mechanism 100 and the electronic device 1000. In some other embodiments, the first support plate 41 and the third fixing frame 23 can also be connected via a real shaft, and this application does not strictly limit this.

[0311] In other embodiments, when the first end 41a of the first support plate 41 is not fixedly connected to the first connector 31, and the second end 41c of the first support plate 41 is fixedly connected to the third connector 33, the first end 41a of the first support plate 41 can be rotatably connected to the first fixing frame 21.

[0312] Figure 36 is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Figure 6 at line JJ.

[0313] Referring to Figure 36, and in conjunction with Figures 32 to 35, the second end 42c of the second support plate 42 is fixedly connected to the fourth connecting member 34. When the first end 42a of the second support plate 42 is not fixedly connected to the second connecting member 32, the first end 42a of the second support plate 42 is also rotatably connected to the second fixing frame 22. It can be understood that by setting the first end 42a of the second support plate 42 to be rotatably connected to the second fixing frame 22, the movement trajectory of the second support plate 42 can be better constrained by the movement trajectory of the second fixing frame 22, thereby making the control accuracy of the movement process of the second support plate 42 high and the backlash small.

[0314] For example, the first end 42a of the second support plate 42 further includes a second arcuate block 423. The second fixing frame 22 is also provided with an auxiliary arcuate groove 224. The second arcuate block 423 of the second support plate 42 can be located within the auxiliary arcuate groove 224 of the second fixing frame 22. Through the relative movement of the two, the first end 42a of the second support plate 42 and the second fixing frame 22 form a rotatable connection structure through the engagement of the arcuate block and the arcuate groove.

[0315] It is understood that the first end 42a of the second support plate 42 is connected to the second fixing frame 22 via a virtual shaft. The rotating connection structure is relatively simple, occupies little space, and is conducive to reducing the thickness of the folding mechanism 100, making it easier to achieve a thinner and lighter design for the folding mechanism 100 and the electronic device 1000. In some other embodiments, the first end 42a of the second support plate 42 can also be connected to the second fixing frame 22 via a real shaft, and this application does not strictly limit this.

[0316] In other embodiments, when the first end 42a of the second support plate 42 is fixedly connected to the second connector 32, and the second end 42c of the second support plate 42 is not fixedly connected to the fourth connector 34, the second end 42c of the second support plate 42 can be rotatably connected to the fourth fixing frame 24.

[0317] Figure 37 is a structural schematic diagram of one embodiment of the first synchronization element 51 and the second synchronization element 52 shown in Figure 7. Figure 38A is a structural schematic diagram of the first synchronization element 51 and the second synchronization element 52 shown in Figure 37 from another angle. Figure 38B is a structural schematic diagram of the first synchronization element 51 and the second synchronization element 52 shown in Figure 37 from yet another angle.

[0318] As shown in Figures 37, 38A, and 38B, the first synchronization element 51 includes a first base 511, a first transmission block 512, a second transmission block 513, and a first guide block 514. The first transmission block 512 and the second transmission block 513 can both be spiral-shaped. It is understood that although this embodiment divides the first synchronization element 51 into four parts, the first synchronization element 51 can also be a one-piece structural component to achieve higher structural strength. Exemplarily, the first synchronization element 51 can be formed using computer numerical control (CNC) milling. In some other embodiments, the first synchronization element 51 can also be formed using metal injection molding; this application does not strictly limit this process.

[0319] Exemplarily, the first base 511 of the first synchronizing element 51 includes a top surface 5111 and a bottom surface 5112 disposed opposite to each other, a first side surface 5113 and a second side surface 5114 disposed opposite to each other, and a third side surface 5115 and a fourth side surface 5116 disposed opposite to each other. The first side surface 5113 and the second side surface 5114 of the first base 511 are connected between the top surface 5111 and the bottom surface 5112 of the first base 511. The third side surface 5115 and the fourth side surface 5116 of the first base 511 are connected between the top surface 5111 and the bottom surface 5112 of the first base 511, and also between the first side surface 5113 and the second side surface 5114 of the first base 511. In other embodiments, the first base 511 may also have other shapes. Specifically, this embodiment is not limited to any particular shape.

[0320] For example, the first transmission block 512 protrudes from the top surface 5111 of the first base 511. For instance, the first transmission block 512 may extend spirally from the first side surface 5113 of the first base 511 to the middle of the third side surface 5115.

[0321] For example, the second transmission block 513 protrudes from the top surface 5111 of the first base 511. For instance, the second transmission block 513 may extend spirally from the second side surface 5114 of the first base 511 to the middle of the third side surface 5115.

[0322] It is understandable that the first transmission block 512 and the second transmission block 513 protrude from the same side of the first base 511.

[0323] Exemplarily, a first guide block 514 protrudes from the bottom surface 5112 of the first base 511. The first guide block 514 is disposed opposite to the first transmission block 512 and the second transmission block 513. The first guide block 514 may be strip-shaped, and may extend from the fourth side surface 5116 of the first base 511 to the third side surface 5115. For example, the first guide block 514 may extend along the Y-axis direction. In other embodiments, the first guide block 514 may also take other shapes, such as square or spherical. Specifically, this embodiment is not limited to any particular shape.

[0324] As shown in Figures 37, 38A and 38B, the first transmission block 512 and the second transmission block 513 are, by way of example, non-mirror symmetry structures.

[0325] Exemplarily, the first base 511 includes a center plane PB. The center plane PB of the first base 511 is located between the first transmission block 512 and the second transmission block 513. It is understood that the center plane PB of the first base 511 is a virtual plane passing through the central axis of the first base 511. Therefore, Figures 37, 38A, and 38B are simply shown by dashed lines. Furthermore, the central axis of the first base 511 can be a virtual axis passing through the center of the first base 511 and parallel to the length extension direction of the first base 511. It is understood that the center plane PB of the first base 511 can be the same plane as the center plane PA of the main shaft 1, the center plane of the folding mechanism 100, and the center plane of the electronic device 1000. Among them, the first transmission block 512 and the second transmission block 513 are asymmetrical about the center plane PB of the first base 511.

[0326] For example, the helical axis R1 of the first transmission block 512 and the helical axis R2 of the second transmission block 513 are asymmetrical about the center plane PB of the first base 511. It is understood that Figure 38B uses dashed circles of different sizes to match the first transmission block 512 and the second transmission block 513, thereby identifying the helical axis R1 of the first transmission block 512 and the helical axis R2 of the second transmission block 513, and further using black dots to indicate the helical axis R1 of the first transmission block 512 and the helical axis R2 of the second transmission block 513.

[0327] In one embodiment, the helical axis R1 of the first transmission block 512 is parallel to the helical axis R2 of the second transmission block 513, and the distance between the helical axis R1 of the first transmission block 512 and the center surface PB of the first base 511 is not equal to the distance between the helical axis R2 of the second transmission block 513 and the center surface PB of the first base 511.

[0328] For example, the helix angle of the first transmission block 512 is different from that of the second transmission block 513.

[0329] It is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary structures of the first synchronization element 51, and the first synchronization element 51 may also have other implementation structures, which are not strictly limited in this application.

[0330] As shown in Figures 37, 38A, and 38B, the second synchronizing element 52 includes a second base 521, a third transmission block 522, a fourth transmission block 523, and a second guide block 524. The third transmission block 522 and the fourth transmission block 523 protrude from the second base 521. Both the third transmission block 522 and the fourth transmission block 523 may be helical. The third transmission block 522 and the fourth transmission block 523 have a non-mirror-symmetrical structure.

[0331] As shown in Figures 37, 38A, and 38B, the second base 521, by way of example, includes a center plane PC. The center plane PC of the second base 521 is located between the third transmission block 522 and the fourth transmission block 523. It is understood that the center plane PC of the second base 521 is a virtual plane passing through the central axis of the second base 521. Therefore, Figures 37, 38A, and 38B simply show this with dashed lines. Furthermore, the central axis of the second base 521 can be a virtual axis passing through the center of the second base 521 and parallel to the length extension direction of the second base 521. It is understood that the center plane PC of the second base 521 can be the same plane as the center plane PA of the main shaft 1, the center plane of the folding mechanism 100, and the center plane of the electronic device 1000.

[0332] Among them, the third transmission block 522 and the fourth transmission block 523 are asymmetrical about the center plane PC of the second base 521.

[0333] For example, the helical axis R3 of the third transmission block 522 and the helical axis R4 of the fourth transmission block 523 are asymmetrical about the center plane PC of the second base 521. It is understood that Figure 38B uses dashed circles of different sizes to match the third transmission block 522 and the fourth transmission block 523, thereby identifying the helical axis R3 of the third transmission block 522 and the helical axis R4 of the fourth transmission block 523, and further illustrating the helical axis R3 of the third transmission block 522 and the helical axis R4 of the fourth transmission block 523 with black dots.

[0334] In one embodiment, the helical axis R3 of the third transmission block 522 is parallel to the helical axis R4 of the fourth transmission block 523. The distance between the helical axis R3 of the third transmission block 522 and the center surface PC of the second base 521 is not equal to the distance between the helical axis R4 of the fourth transmission block 523 and the center surface PC of the second base 521.

[0335] For example, the helix angle of the third transmission block 522 is different from that of the fourth transmission block 523.

[0336] It is understood that the arrangement of the second base 521, the third transmission block 522, the fourth transmission block 523, and the second guide block 524 of the second synchronizing element 52 can be referred to the arrangement of the first base 511, the first transmission block 512, the second transmission block 513, and the first guide block 514 of the first synchronizing element 51, respectively. Specific details will not be elaborated here.

[0337] Figure 39 is an exploded view of one embodiment of the first synchronization member 51, the second synchronization member 52, the first connector 31, the second connector 32, the third connector 33, and the fourth connector 34 shown in Figure 7.

[0338] As shown in Figure 39, the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 is provided with a first spiral groove 316. Exemplarily, the first spiral groove 316 may extend spirally from the connection point between the first connecting segment 312 and the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 towards the surface of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 away from the first connecting segment 312. In other embodiments, the position of the first spiral groove 316 is not specifically limited.

[0339] As shown in Figure 39, the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 is provided with a second spiral groove 326. Exemplarily, the second spiral groove 326 may extend spirally from the connection point between the first connecting segment 322 and the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 towards the surface of the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 away from the first connecting segment 322. In other embodiments, the position of the second spiral groove 326 is not specifically limited.

[0340] For example, the first helical groove 316 and the second helical groove 326 are non-mirror symmetrical structures.

[0341] As shown in Figure 39, the first rotating end 331 of the third connector 33 is provided with a third helical groove 336. Exemplarily, the third helical groove 336 may extend helically from the connection point between the first connecting segment 332 and the first rotating end 331 of the third connector 33 towards the surface of the first rotating end 331 of the third connector 33 away from the first connecting segment 332. In other embodiments, the position of the third helical groove 336 is not specifically limited.

[0342] As shown in Figure 39, the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connector 34 is provided with a fourth spiral groove 346. Exemplarily, the fourth spiral groove 346 may extend spirally from the connection point between the first connecting segment 342 and the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connector 34 towards the surface of the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connector 34 away from the first connecting segment 342. In other embodiments, the position of the fourth spiral groove 346 is not specifically limited.

[0343] For example, the fourth spiral groove 346 and the third spiral groove 336 are non-mirror symmetrical structures.

[0344] Figure 40 is a schematic diagram of the first synchronizing element 51, the second synchronizing element 52, the first connecting element 31, the second connecting element 32, the third connecting element 33, and the fourth connecting element 34 shown in Figure 39 in a flattened state. Figure 41 is a schematic diagram of the first synchronizing element 51, the second synchronizing element 52, the first connecting element 31, the second connecting element 32, the third connecting element 33, and the fourth connecting element 34 shown in Figure 40 in a closed state.

[0345] Referring to Figures 40 and 41, and in conjunction with Figures 37 to 39, exemplarily, a portion of the first synchronizing member 51 is movably connected to the first connecting member 31, and a portion is movably connected to the second connecting member 32. Exemplarily, the first transmission block 512 of the first synchronizing member 51 is disposed within the first helical groove 316 of the first connecting member 31 and is movable within the first helical groove 316. Through the relative movement of the two, a movable connection is achieved between the first rotating end 311 of the first connecting member 31 and the first transmission block 512 of the first synchronizing member 51. The second transmission block 513 of the first synchronizing member 51 is disposed within the second helical groove 326 of the second connecting member 32 and is movable within the second helical groove 326. Through the relative movement of the two, a movable connection is achieved between the first rotating end 321 of the second connecting member 32 and the second transmission block 513 of the first synchronizing member 51.

[0346] It is understandable that by setting the first transmission block 512 and the second transmission block 513 to be non-mirror symmetrical structures, and the first spiral groove 316 and the second spiral groove 326 to be non-mirror symmetrical structures, when the first transmission block 512 is located in the first spiral groove 316 of the first connecting member 31 and the second transmission block 513 is located in the second spiral groove 326 of the second connecting member 32, the first transmission block 512 and the second transmission block 513 form a non-mirror symmetrical structure. At this time, the first transmission block 512 can match the movement trajectory of the first connecting member 31, and the second transmission block 513 can match the movement trajectory of the second connecting member 32. The first synchronizing member 51 can ensure that the first rotating end 311 of the non-mirror symmetrical first connecting member 31 and the first rotating end 321 of the second connecting member 32 maintain synchronous rotation during the movement of the folding mechanism 100, thereby controlling the rotation angle of the first fixed frame 21 and the second fixed frame 22 relative to the main shaft 1 to be consistent. Furthermore, since the first connector 31 is rotatably connected to the first fixing frame 21 which is fixedly connected to the first housing 300 (see Figures 5 and 6), and the second connector 32 is rotatably connected to the second fixing frame 22 which is fixedly connected to the second housing 400 (see Figures 5 and 6), the rotational movements of the first housing 300 and the second housing 400 are synchronized and consistent, and the folding and unfolding movements of the folding mechanism 100 are more symmetrical, thereby improving the operational experience of the folding mechanism 100 and the electronic device 1000.

[0347] For example, by setting the helical axis R1 of the first transmission block 512 to be parallel to the helical axis R2 of the second transmission block 513, the distance between the helical axis R1 of the first transmission block 512 and the center plane PB of the first base 511 and the distance between the helical axis R2 of the second transmission block 513 and the center plane PB of the first base 511 are not equal, so that the first transmission block 512 and the second transmission block 513 form a non-mirror symmetrical structure. At this time, the first transmission block 512 can match the movement trajectory of the first connecting member 31, and the second transmission block 513 can match the movement trajectory of the second connecting member 32, thereby ensuring that the first synchronizing member 51 can make the first rotating end 311 of the non-mirror symmetrical first connecting member 31 and the first rotating end 321 of the second connecting member 32 rotate synchronously during the movement of the folding mechanism 100, thereby controlling the rotation angle of the first fixing frame 21 and the second fixing frame 22 relative to the main shaft 1 to be consistent.

[0348] The following will describe in more detail some specific, non-limiting examples of embodiments of this application with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is understood that, since both the first rotating end 311 and the second rotating end 313 of the first connecting member 31 in this embodiment are rotatably connected to the main shaft 1 and the first fixed frame 21 via virtual axes, the rotational accuracy of the first connecting member 31 with the main shaft 1 and the first fixed frame 21 is not as high as that of a connection via a physical shaft. Therefore, this embodiment uses the first connecting member 31 as a reference and changes the structure of the first rotating end 321 and / or the second rotating end 323 of the second connecting member 32 to make the second connecting member 32 and the first connecting member 31 have a non-mirror-like structure. At this time, the structure of the second transmission block 513 of the first synchronizing member 51 is further configured to make the second transmission block 513 and the first transmission block 512 have a non-mirror-like symmetrical structure. Finally, the second transmission block 513 and the first transmission block 512 are respectively matched with the second spiral groove 326 of the second connector 32 and the first spiral groove 316 of the first connector 31, thereby ensuring that the first synchronizing member 51 can keep the first rotating end 311 of the non-mirror-symmetric first connector 31 and the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 rotating synchronously during the movement of the folding mechanism 100, thereby controlling the rotation angle of the first fixing frame 21 and the second fixing frame 22 relative to the main shaft 1 to be consistent. Of course, in other embodiments, the second connector 32 can also be used as a reference, and the structure of the first rotating end 311 and / or the second rotating end 313 of the first connector 31 can be changed so that the first connector 31 and the second connector 32 have a non-mirror structure. Specifically, this embodiment is not limited.

[0349] For example, when the distance between the axis of rotation of the second rotating end 323 of the second connector 32 relative to the second fixed frame 22 and the center plane PA of the main shaft 1 is changed, this embodiment can change the distance between the helical axis R2 of the second transmission block 513 and the center plane PA of the main shaft 1. Thus, when the second transmission block 513 is located in the second helical groove 326 of the second connector 32, the second transmission block 513 can match the movement trajectory of the second connector 32, thereby ensuring that the first synchronization member 51 can make the first rotating end 311 of the non-mirror symmetrical first connector 31 and the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 rotate synchronously during the movement of the folding mechanism 100, thereby controlling the rotation angle of the first fixed frame 21 and the second fixed frame 22 relative to the main shaft 1 to be consistent.

[0350] For example, when the distance between the axis of rotation of the second rotating end 323 of the second connector 32 relative to the second fixed frame 22 and the center plane PA of the main shaft 1 increases, this embodiment can increase the distance between the helical axis R2 of the second transmission block 513 and the center plane PA of the main shaft 1.

[0351] For example, when the distance between the axis of rotation of the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 relative to the main shaft 1 (i.e., the second rotating axis P2) and the center plane PA of the main shaft 1 is changed, this embodiment can change the helical angle of the second transmission block 513 so that when the second transmission block 513 is disposed in the second helical groove 326 of the second connector 32, the second transmission block 513 can match the movement trajectory of the second connector 32, thereby ensuring that the first synchronizing member 51 can make the first rotating end 311 of the non-mirror symmetrical first connector 31 and the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 rotate synchronously during the movement of the folding mechanism 100, thereby controlling the rotation angle of the first fixing frame 21 and the second fixing frame 22 relative to the main shaft 1 to be consistent.

[0352] For example, when the distance between the axis of rotation of the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 relative to the main shaft 1 (i.e., the second rotating axis P2) and the center plane PA of the main shaft 1 decreases, this embodiment can increase the helix angle of the second transmission block 513.

[0353] It is understandable that through the cooperation of the first transmission block 512 with the first spiral groove 316, and the cooperation of the second transmission block 513 with the second spiral groove 326, the relative rotation of the first connecting member 31, the second connecting member 32, and the main shaft 1 can be converted into the relative sliding of the first synchronizing member 51 and the main shaft 1. Thus, compared to the relative rotational motion between the first synchronizing member 51 and the main shaft 1, the first synchronizing member 51 in this embodiment can be made thinner, which is beneficial for the slim design of the folding mechanism 100 and the electronic device 1000.

[0354] Referring to Figures 40 and 41, and in conjunction with Figures 37 to 39, a portion of the second synchronizing element 52 is movably connected to the third connecting element 33, and a portion is movably connected to the fourth connecting element 34. Exemplarily, the third transmission block 522 of the second synchronizing element 52 is disposed within the third helical groove 336 of the third connecting element 33, and is movable within the third helical groove 336. Through the relative movement of the two, a movable connection is achieved between the third transmission block 522 of the second synchronizing element 52 and the first rotating end 331 of the third connecting element 33. The fourth transmission block 523 of the second synchronizing element 52 is disposed within the fourth helical groove 346 of the fourth connecting element 34, and is movable within the fourth helical groove 346. Through the relative movement of the two, a movable connection is achieved between the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connecting element 34 and the fourth transmission block 523 of the second synchronizing element 52.

[0355] It is understandable that by setting the third transmission block 522 and the fourth transmission block 523 to be non-mirror symmetrical structures, and the third spiral groove 336 and the fourth spiral groove 346 to be non-mirror symmetrical structures, when the third transmission block 522 is located in the third spiral groove 336 of the third connector 33 and the fourth transmission block 523 is located in the fourth spiral groove 346 of the fourth connector 34, the second synchronizing member 52 can ensure that the first rotating end 331 of the non-mirror symmetrical third connector 33 and the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connector 34 maintain synchronous rotation during the movement of the folding mechanism 100, thereby controlling the rotation angle of the third fixed frame 23 and the fourth fixed frame 24 relative to the main shaft 1 to be consistent. Furthermore, since the third connector 33 is rotatably connected to the third fixing frame 23 which is fixedly connected to the first housing 300 (see Figures 5 and 6), and the fourth connector 34 is rotatably connected to the fourth fixing frame 24 which is fixedly connected to the second housing 400 (see Figures 5 and 6), the rotational movements of the first housing 300 and the second housing 400 are synchronized and consistent, and the folding and unfolding movements of the folding mechanism 100 are more symmetrical, thereby improving the operational experience of the folding mechanism 100 and the electronic device 1000.

[0356] For example, the helical axis R3 of the third transmission block 522 is set to be parallel to the helical axis R4 of the fourth transmission block 523. The distance between the helical axis R3 of the third transmission block 522 and the center plane PC of the second base 521 and the distance between the helical axis R4 of the fourth transmission block 523 and the center plane PC of the second base 521 are not equal, so that the third transmission block 522 and the fourth transmission block 523 form a non-mirror symmetrical structure. At this time, the third transmission block 522 can match the movement trajectory of the third connecting member 33, and the fourth transmission block 523 can match the movement trajectory of the fourth connecting member 34, thereby ensuring that the first synchronizing member 51 can make the first rotating end 311 of the non-mirror symmetrical third connecting member 33 and the first rotating end 321 of the fourth connecting member 34 rotate synchronously during the movement of the folding mechanism 100, thereby controlling the rotation angle of the third fixing frame 23 and the fourth fixing frame 24 relative to the main shaft 1 to be consistent.

[0357] It is understood that the arrangement of the third transmission block 522 and the fourth transmission block 523 with the third connecting member 33 and the fourth connecting member 34 in this embodiment can be referred to the arrangement of the first transmission block 512 and the second transmission block 513 with the first connecting member 31 and the second connecting member 32 described above. Specific details will not be elaborated here.

[0358] It is understandable that through the cooperation of the third transmission block 522 and the third spiral groove 336, and the cooperation of the fourth transmission block 523 and the fourth spiral groove 346, the relative rotation of the third connecting member 33, the fourth connecting member 34 and the main shaft 1 can be converted into the relative sliding of the second synchronizing member 52 and the main shaft 1. Thus, compared to the relative rotational motion between the second synchronizing member 52 and the main shaft 1, the second synchronizing member 52 in this embodiment can be made thinner, which is beneficial for the slim design of the folding mechanism 100 and the electronic device 1000.

[0359] Figure 42 is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Figure 6 at line KK. Figure 43 is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the electronic device 1000 shown in Figure 3 at line LL.

[0360] Referring to Figures 42 and 43, and in conjunction with Figures 40 and 41, the first synchronizing element 51 is slidably connected to the first end 1a of the main shaft 1. Exemplarily, the first synchronizing element 51 can slide relative to the first end 1a of the main shaft 1 along the Y-axis direction.

[0361] Referring to Figure 42, and in conjunction with Figures 37, 38A, and 38B, the first transmission block 512 and the second transmission block 513 are, by way of example, asymmetrical about the center plane PA of the spindle 1. Figure 42 simply illustrates the center plane PA of the spindle 1 with a dashed box.

[0362] Please refer to Figure 42, and in conjunction with Figures 37, 38A and 38B, for example, the helical axis R1 of the first transmission block 512 and the helical axis R2 of the second transmission block 513 are asymmetrical about the center plane PA of the main shaft 1.

[0363] Referring to Figure 42, and in conjunction with Figures 37, 38A, and 38B, exemplarily, the helical axis R1 of the first transmission block 512 and the helical axis R2 of the second transmission block 513 are parallel. The distance between the helical axis R1 of the first transmission block 512 and the center plane PA of the main shaft 1, and the distance between the helical axis R2 of the second transmission block 513 and the center plane PA of the main shaft 1 are not equal.

[0364] Referring to Figures 42 and 43, and in conjunction with Figures 40 and 41, exemplarily, in the Z-axis direction, a portion of the first base 511 is located between the first end 1a of the main shaft 1 and the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31, and a portion is located between the first end 1a of the main shaft 1 and the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32. Thus, by limiting the movement of the main shaft 1, the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31, and the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 in the Z-axis direction, movement of the first synchronizing member 51 along the Z-axis direction can be prevented.

[0365] For example, the first end 1a of the spindle 1 is provided with a first guide groove 15. In one embodiment, the first guide groove 15 can be a strip groove. The extending direction of the first guide groove 15 can be the Y-axis direction. The first guide block 514 of the first synchronizing member 51 can be located within the first guide groove 15 of the spindle 1. Through the relative movement of the two, the first base 511 is slidably connected to the spindle 1 through the first guide block 514, that is, the first synchronizing member 51 and the spindle 1 are slidably connected along the Y-axis direction. Wherein, the two side walls of the first guide groove 15 in the X-axis direction can limit the first guide block 514 of the first synchronizing member 51, thereby preventing the first synchronizing member 51 from moving along the X-axis direction.

[0366] It is understandable that when the first synchronizer 51 is limited in the Z-axis and X-axis directions, but not limited in the Y-axis direction, the first synchronizer 51 can move relative to the main shaft 1 along the Y-axis direction. In this way, the first synchronizer 51 has a single direction of movement relative to the main shaft 1, which can reduce the movement space of the first synchronizer 51 on the main shaft 1, which is conducive to the miniaturization of the main shaft 1, and thus conducive to the miniaturization of the folding mechanism 100 and the electronic device 1000.

[0367] Please refer to Figure 42, and in conjunction with Figures 37 to 40, when the folding mechanism 100 is in the flattened state, most of the first transmission block 512 is located in the first spiral groove 316, and most of the second transmission block 513 is located in the second spiral groove 326.

[0368] Please refer to Figure 43, and in conjunction with Figures 37 to 41, when the folding mechanism 100 is in the closed state, a portion of the first transmission block 512 is located inside the first spiral groove 316 and a portion is located outside the first spiral groove 316, and a portion of the second transmission block 513 is located inside the second spiral groove 326 and a portion is located outside the second spiral groove 326.

[0369] Referring to Figures 42 and 43, and in conjunction with Figures 37 to 40, as the folding mechanism 100 switches from a flattened state to a closed state, the first synchronizing element 51 moves along the positive Y-axis. Furthermore, a portion of the first transmission block 512 slides out of the first helical groove 316, and a portion of the second transmission block 513 slides out of the second helical groove 326. The first guide block 514 of the first synchronizing element 51 moves along the positive Y-axis within the first guide groove 15 of the main shaft 1.

[0370] Please refer to Figures 42 and 43, and in conjunction with Figures 37 to 40, as the folding mechanism 100 switches from the closed state to the flattened state, the first synchronizing element 51 moves along the negative Y-axis. Most of the first transmission block 512 slides into the first spiral groove 316, and most of the second transmission block 513 slides into the second spiral groove 326. The first guide block 514 of the first synchronizing element 51 moves along the negative Y-axis within the first guide groove 15 of the main shaft 1.

[0371] It is understandable that during the process of the folding mechanism 100 switching from the flattened state to the closed state, or during the process of the folding mechanism 100 switching from the closed state to the flattened state, the first synchronizing member 51 can ensure that the first connecting member 31 and the second connecting member 32 rotate synchronously during the movement of the folding mechanism 100.

[0372] Referring to Figures 42 and 43, and in conjunction with Figures 37 to 40, the second synchronizing element 52 is slidably connected to the second end 1c of the main spindle 1. Exemplarily, the second synchronizing element 52 can slide relative to the second end 1c of the main spindle 1 along the Y-axis direction. For details regarding the arrangement of the second synchronizing element 52 and the second end 1c of the main spindle 1, please refer to the arrangement of the first synchronizing element 51 and the first end 1a of the main spindle 1. Further details will not be elaborated here.

[0373] Referring to Figure 42, and in conjunction with Figures 37, 38A, and 38B, exemplarily, the third transmission block 522 and the fourth transmission block 523 are asymmetrical about the center plane PA of the main shaft 1. Exemplarily, the helical axis R3 of the third transmission block 522 and the helical axis R4 of the fourth transmission block 523 are asymmetrical about the center plane PA of the main shaft 1. Exemplarily, the helical axis R3 of the third transmission block 522 and the helical axis R4 of the fourth transmission block 523 are parallel. The distance between the helical axis R3 of the third transmission block 522 and the center plane PA of the main shaft 1 and the distance between the helical axis R4 of the fourth transmission block 523 and the center plane PA of the main shaft 1 are not equal.

[0374] It is understood that in this application, the second synchronization element 52 and the first synchronization element 51 can have the same or similar structure, a symmetrical or partially symmetrical structure, or different structures. In this embodiment, the second synchronization element 52 and the first synchronization element 51 are symmetrical structures. The basic design of the component structure of the second synchronization element 52, the design of the connection relationship between components, and the design of the connection relationship between components and other structures besides the assembly can all refer to the relevant scheme of the first synchronization element 51. At the same time, it is permissible for the second synchronization element 52 and the first synchronization element 51 to have slight differences in the detailed structure or positional arrangement of components. Specific details will not be elaborated here.

[0375] Figure 44 is a partially exploded view of the first damping element 61 and the second damping element 62 shown in Figure 7 in one embodiment. Figure 45 is an enlarged view of the first damping element 61 and the second damping element 62 shown in Figure 7 in one embodiment.

[0376] As shown in Figures 44 and 45, the first damping member 61 includes a first support 611, a second support 612, and a first elastic member 613. Exemplarily, the first support 611 and the second support 612 can be rigid structures that are not easily deformed under external force. The first elastic member 613 can be an elastic structure that is easily deformed under external force. The first elastic member 613 can be a spring, a sheet, an elastic rubber block, or other elastic structural component. There can be two first elastic members 613. In other embodiments, the number, shape, and size of the first elastic members 613 are not specifically limited in this application.

[0377] As shown in Figures 44 and 45, exemplarily, the first bracket 611 includes a first substrate 6111, a first fixing post 6112, a first protrusion 6113, and a second protrusion 6114. Both the first protrusion 6113 and the second protrusion 6114 are arc-shaped. It is understood that although this embodiment divides the first bracket 611 into four parts, it does not affect the fact that the first bracket 611 can be a one-piece molded structural component with high structural strength. Exemplarily, the first bracket 611 can be formed by CNC milling. In other embodiments, the first bracket 611 can also be formed by metal injection molding; this application does not strictly limit this.

[0378] For example, the number of first fixing posts 6112 may be equal to the number of first elastic members 613. For instance, this embodiment is described with two first fixing posts 6112 as an example. In other embodiments, the number of first fixing posts 6112 is not specifically limited.

[0379] For example, the number of the first protrusion 6113 and the second protrusion 6114 is one. In other embodiments, the number of the first protrusion 6113 and the second protrusion 6114 is not specifically limited.

[0380] As shown in Figures 44 and 45, exemplarily, the first substrate 6111 includes a first surface 6115 and a second surface 6116 disposed opposite to each other. A first fixing post 6112 protrudes from the first surface 6115 of the first substrate 6111. A first protrusion 6113 and a second protrusion 6114 protrude from the second surface 6116 of the first substrate 6111. Exemplarily, the first protrusion 6113 and the second protrusion 6114 may have a symmetrical structure.

[0381] As shown in Figures 44 and 45, the second bracket 612 includes a second base plate 6121, a second fixing post 6122, a third protrusion 6123, and a fourth protrusion 6124. The second bracket 612 can be an integrally formed structural component to have high structural strength. The third protrusion 6123 and the fourth protrusion 6124 are both arc-shaped.

[0382] It is understood that the second support 612 and the first support 611 can have the same or similar structure, be symmetrical or partially symmetrical, or have different structures. In this embodiment, the second support 612 and the first support 611 are symmetrical structures. The basic design of the component structure of the second support 612, the design of the connection relationship between components, and the design of the connection relationship between components and other structures outside the assembly can all refer to the relevant scheme of the first support 611. At the same time, slight differences are allowed between the second support 612 and the first support 611 in the detailed structure or positional arrangement of components. Specific details will not be elaborated here.

[0383] As shown in Figures 44 and 45, a first elastic element 613 is connected between a first support 611 and a second support 612. Exemplarily, the first elastic element 613 can apply an elastic force along the Y-axis to the first support 611 and the second support 612. For example, the first elastic element 613 can apply an elastic force along the positive Y-axis to the first support 611 and an elastic force along the negative Y-axis to the second support 612. It is understood that when the first elastic element 613 switches from a compressed state to a relaxed state, the first support 611 and the second support 612 move away from each other under the elastic force of the first elastic element 613.

[0384] For example, one end of the first elastic member 613 is sleeved on the first fixing post 6112 of the first bracket 611, and the other end is sleeved on the second fixing post 6122 of the second bracket 612. At this time, the first protrusion 6113 and the second protrusion 6114 of the first bracket 611 are located on the side of the first substrate 6111 away from the first elastic member 613. The third protrusion 6123 and the fourth protrusion 6124 of the second bracket 612 are located on the side of the second substrate 6121 away from the first elastic member 613.

[0385] Understandably, when the first support 611 is subjected to a first force in the negative Y-axis direction, the first support 611 can move along the negative Y-axis direction and compress the first elastic element 613, so that the first elastic element 613 is in a compressed state. When the first support 611 is no longer subjected to the first force in the negative Y-axis direction, the first elastic element 613 can apply an elastic force to the first support 611 in the positive Y-axis direction, and the first support 611 can move along the positive Y-axis direction under the elastic force.

[0386] Similarly, when the second support 612 is subjected to a second force in the positive Y-axis direction, the second support 612 can move in the positive Y-axis direction and compress the first elastic member 613, so that the first elastic member 613 is in a compressed state. When the second support 612 is no longer subjected to the second force in the positive Y-axis direction, the first elastic member 613 can apply an elastic force in the negative Y-axis direction to the second support 612, and the second support 612 can move in the negative Y-axis direction under the elastic force.

[0387] It is understood that the first damping member 61 of this application can have various implementation structures. For example, the first support 611 may not include the second protrusion 6114. As another example, the second support 612 may not include the third protrusion 6123 and / or the fourth protrusion 6124. The above embodiments are exemplary structures of the first damping member 61, and the first damping member 61 may also have other implementation structures, which are not strictly limited in this application.

[0388] As shown in Figures 44 and 45, the second damping element 62 includes a third support 621, a fourth support 622, and a second elastic element 623. The third support 621 may include a first protrusion 6213 and a second protrusion 6214, etc. The fourth support 622 may include a third protrusion 6223 and a fourth protrusion 6224, etc. It is understood that the arrangement of the third support 621, the fourth support 622, and the second elastic element 623 can be referenced to the arrangement of the first support 611, the second support 612, and the first elastic element 613. Specific details will not be elaborated here.

[0389] It is understood that the second damping element 62 and the first damping element 61 can have the same or similar structure, a symmetrical or partially symmetrical structure, or different structures. In this embodiment, the second damping element 62 and the first damping element 61 are symmetrical structures. The basic design of the component structure of the second damping element 62, the design of the connection relationship between components, and the design of the connection relationship between the component and other structures outside the assembly can all refer to the relevant scheme of the first damping element 61. At the same time, slight differences are allowed between the second damping element 62 and the first damping element 61 in the detailed structure or positional arrangement of the components. Specific details will not be elaborated here.

[0390] Figure 46 is an exploded view of one embodiment of the first damping member 61, the second damping member 62, the first connector 31, the second connector 32, the third connector 33, and the fourth connector 34 shown in Figure 7.

[0391] As shown in Figure 46, by way of example, the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 has a first protrusion 3115 and a second protrusion 3316. Both the first protrusion 3115 and the second protrusion 3116 of the first connector 31 are arc-shaped. In other embodiments, the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 may only have the first protrusion 3115, that is, it may not include the second protrusion 3116; or, the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 may only have the second protrusion 3116, that is, it may not include the first protrusion 3115.

[0392] It is understood that the first protrusion 3115 and the second protrusion 3116 of the first connector 31 may be part of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31. Exemplarily, the first protrusion 3115 and the second protrusion 3116 of the first connector 31 may be part of the middle portion 3112 of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31, that is, the first protrusion 3115 and the second protrusion 3116 of the first connector 31 are located between the first end portion 3111 and the second end portion 3113 of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31. Exemplarily, the first protrusion 3115 of the first connector 31 is disposed near the first end portion 3111 of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31. The second protrusion 3116 of the first connector 31 is disposed near the second end portion 3313 of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31.

[0393] For example, the first connector 31 has one first protrusion 3115 and one second protrusion 3116. In other embodiments, the number of the first protrusion 3115 and the second protrusion 3116 of the first connector 31 is not specifically limited.

[0394] As shown in Figure 46, in one embodiment, the first protrusion 3115 and the second protrusion 3116 of the first connector 31 can protrude from two opposite sidewalls in the installation space 3114.

[0395] For example, the first protrusion 3115 and the second protrusion 3116 of the first connector 31 may be disposed opposite to each other. In other embodiments, the relative positions of the first protrusion 3115 and the second protrusion 3116 of the first connector 31 are not specifically limited.

[0396] As shown in Figure 46, by way of example, the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 has a first limiting block 3117 and a second limiting block 3118. The first limiting block 3117 and the second limiting block 3118 of the first connector 31 may protrude from two opposite sidewalls in the mounting space 3114. In other embodiments, the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 may only have the first limiting block 3117, that is, it does not include the second limiting block 3118.

[0397] For example, the first limiting block 3117 of the first connector 31 is located on one side of the first protrusion 3115. The surface of the first limiting block 3117 of the first connector 31 facing the first protrusion 3115 of the first connector 31 can be a curved surface.

[0398] For example, the second limiting block 3118 of the first connector 31 is located on one side of the second protrusion 3116 of the first connector 31. The surface of the second limiting block 3118 of the first connector 31 facing the second protrusion 3116 of the first connector 31 is an arc surface.

[0399] As shown in Figure 46, the structural configuration of the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 can also be referred to the structural configuration of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31. For example, the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 includes a first protrusion 3215 and a second protrusion 3216. Both the first protrusion 3215 and the second protrusion 3216 are arc-shaped. As another example, the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 has a first limiting block 3217 and a second limiting block 3218. And so on. Specific details will not be elaborated here.

[0400] As shown in Figure 46, the structural configuration of the first rotating end 331 of the third connector 33 can also be referred to the structural configuration of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31. For example, the first rotating end 331 of the third connector 33 includes a first protrusion 3315 and a second protrusion 3316. Both the first protrusion 3315 and the second protrusion 3316 are arc-shaped. As another example, the first rotating end 331 of the third connector 33 has a first limiting block 3317 and a second limiting block 3318. And so on. Specific details will not be elaborated here.

[0401] As shown in Figure 46, the structural configuration of the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connector 34 can also be referred to the structural configuration of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31. For example, the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connector 34 includes a first protrusion 3415 and a second protrusion 3416. Both the first protrusion 3415 and the second protrusion 3416 are arc-shaped. As another example, the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connector 34 has a first limiting block 3417 and a second limiting block 3418. And so on. Specific details will not be elaborated here.

[0402] Figure 47 is a partial structural schematic diagram of one embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Figure 6.

[0403] As shown in Figure 47, a first damping element 61 is disposed at the first end 1a of the main shaft 1. The first bracket 611 and the second bracket 612 are slidably connected to the main shaft 1. For example, the first bracket 611 and the second bracket 612 can slide relative to the main shaft 1 along the Y-axis direction.

[0404] As shown in Figure 47, the second damping element 62 is disposed at the second end 1c of the main shaft 1. The third support 621 and the fourth support 622 of the second damping element 62 are slidably connected to the main shaft 1. For example, the third support 621 and the fourth support 622 can slide relative to the main shaft 1 along the Y-axis direction.

[0405] Figure 48 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first damping member 61, the second damping member 62, the first synchronizing member 51, the second synchronizing member 52, the first connecting member 31, the second connecting member 32, the third connecting member 33, and the fourth connecting member 34 shown in Figure 7 in a flattened state. Figure 49 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first damping member 61, the second damping member 62, the first synchronizing member 51, the second synchronizing member 52, the first connecting member 31, the second connecting member 32, the third connecting member 33, and the fourth connecting member 34 shown in Figure 48 in a closed state. Figure 50 is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Figure 6 at the MM line. Figure 51 is a partial cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the electronic device shown in Figure 3 at the NN line.

[0406] Referring to Figures 48 to 51, and in conjunction with Figures 44 to 47, the first damping member 61 can be disposed between the first connecting member 31 and the second connecting member 32. The first damping member 61 can apply a damping force to the first connecting member 31 and the second connecting member 32.

[0407] In one embodiment, a portion of the first support 611 is located between the first end 1a of the main shaft 1 and the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31, and a portion is located between the main shaft 1 and the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32. In this way, the movement of the first support 611 in the Z-axis direction is restricted by the mutual cooperation of the main shaft 1, the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31, and the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32.

[0408] For example, a portion of the first base plate 6111 of the first support 611 is located between the main shaft 1 and the first limiting block 3117 of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31, and a portion is located between the main shaft 1 and the first limiting block 3217 of the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32. In this way, the movement of the first support 611 in the Z-axis direction is restricted by the mutual cooperation of the main shaft 1, the first limiting block 3117 of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31, and the first limiting block 3217 of the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32.

[0409] In one embodiment, in the X-axis direction, the two sides of the first base plate 6111 of the first support 611 respectively abut against the main shaft 1. In this way, the main shaft 1 can restrict the movement of the first support 611 in the X-axis direction.

[0410] For example, a groove is provided on the main shaft 1, and the groove sidewall is used to restrict the movement of the first bracket 611 in the X-axis direction and / or Y-axis direction.

[0411] It is understandable that the connection relationship between the second support 612 and the main shaft 1 can be referenced to the connection relationship between the first support 611 and the main shaft 1. For example, the movement of the second support 612 in the Z-axis direction is restricted by the mutual cooperation of the main shaft 1, the second limiting block 3118 of the first rotating end 311 of the first connecting member 31, and the second limiting block 3218 of the first rotating end 321 of the second connecting member 32, and so on. Specific details will not be elaborated here.

[0412] Referring to Figures 48 to 51, and in conjunction with Figures 44 to 47, exemplarily, the first protrusion 3115 of the first connector 31 and the first protrusion 6113 of the first bracket 611 are arranged alternately to form a snap-fit ​​structure. The second protrusion 3116 of the first connector 31 and the third protrusion 6123 of the second bracket 612 are arranged alternately to form a snap-fit ​​structure. In this way, the first connector 31 can remain in either a flattened or closed state when the folding mechanism 100 is in such a state. Furthermore, the snap-fit ​​structure can provide a certain amount of resistance during the unfolding process of the folding mechanism 100 to enter the flattened state and during the folding process to release the flattened state, allowing the user to experience a better feel for the mechanism's operation.

[0413] For example, the first protrusion 3215 of the second connector 32 and the second protrusion 6114 of the first bracket 611 are arranged alternately to form a snap-fit ​​structure. The second protrusion 3216 of the second connector 32 and the fourth protrusion 6124 of the second bracket 612 are arranged alternately to form a snap-fit ​​structure. In this way, the second connector 32 can remain in the flattened or closed state of the folding mechanism 100. In addition, the snap-fit ​​structure can provide a certain resistance during the process of unfolding the folding mechanism 100 to enter the open state and during the process of folding to release the flattened state, so that the user can experience better mechanical operation.

[0414] For example, the first elastic member 613 is in a compressed state. The first elastic member 613 pushes the first bracket 611 against one side wall of the mounting space 3114 of the first connector 31 and one side wall of the mounting space 3214 of the second connector 32. The first bracket 611 is located between the first elastic member 613 and one side wall of the mounting space 3114 of the first connector 31 and one side wall of the mounting space 3214 of the second connector 32. At this time, the first bracket 611 cooperates to press the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 and the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32, making the snap-fit ​​structure between the first connector 31 and the first bracket 611, and the snap-fit ​​structure between the second connector 32 and the first bracket 611 more stable. In addition, the first elastic member 613 also pushes the second bracket 612 against the other side wall of the mounting space 3114 of the first connector 31 and the other side wall of the mounting space 3214 of the second connector 32. The second bracket 612 is located between the other side wall of the mounting space 3114 of the first elastic member 613 and the first connector 31, and the other side wall of the mounting space 3214 of the second connector 32. At this time, the second bracket 612 cooperates to press the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 and the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32, making the snap-fit ​​structure between the first connector 31 and the second bracket 612 more stable, and the snap-fit ​​structure between the second connector 32 and the second bracket 612 more stable.

[0415] Please refer to Figures 48 to 51, and in conjunction with Figures 44 to 47. When the folding mechanism 100 is in the flattened state, the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 forms a first engaging structure with the first bracket 611 and the second bracket 612. When the folding mechanism 100 is in the closed state, the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 forms a second engaging structure with the first bracket 611 and the second bracket 612. It can be understood that the first engaging structure and the second engaging structure enable the first connector 31 to maintain a certain relative positional relationship with the main shaft 1, allowing the first housing 300 (see Figures 5 and 6) and the second housing 400 (see Figures 5 and 6) to better maintain their flattened or closed states, improving the user experience. Furthermore, the first engaging structure and the second engaging structure can provide a certain resistance during the unfolding process of the electronic device 1000 to enter the open state and during the folding process to release the flattened state, allowing the user to experience a better sense of mechanism operation.

[0416] Please refer to Figures 48 to 51, and in conjunction with Figures 44 to 47. When the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 forms a first engaging structure with the first bracket 611 and the second bracket 612, the first protrusion 6113 of the first bracket 611 is located on the side of the first protrusion 3115 of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 311 away from the second connector 32, and the third protrusion 6123 of the second bracket 612 is located on the side of the second protrusion 3116 of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 away from the second connector 32. In other words, the first protrusion 6113 of the first bracket 611 and the groove on the side of the first protrusion 3115 of the first connector 31 away from the second connector 32 form a concave-convex engaging structure. Furthermore, the third protrusion 6123 of the second bracket 612 and the groove on the side of the second protrusion 3116 of the first connector 31 away from the second connector 32 also form a concave-convex engaging structure.

[0417] Please refer to Figures 48 to 51, and in conjunction with Figures 44 to 47. When the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 forms a second snap-fit ​​structure with the first bracket 611 and the second bracket 612, the first protrusion 6113 of the first bracket 611 is located on the side of the first protrusion 3115 of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 311 near the second connector 32, and the third protrusion 6123 of the second bracket 612 is located on the side of the second protrusion 3116 of the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 near the second connector 32. In other words, the first protrusion 6113 of the first bracket 611 and the groove on the side of the first protrusion 3115 of the first connector 31 near the second connector 32 form a snap-fit ​​structure with a concave-convex fit. Furthermore, the third protrusion 6123 of the second bracket 612 and the groove on the side of the second protrusion 3116 of the first connector 31 near the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 also form a snap-fit ​​structure with a concave-convex fit.

[0418] Please refer to Figures 48 to 51, and in conjunction with Figures 44 to 47. When the folding mechanism 100 is in the flattened state, the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 forms a third locking structure with the first bracket 611 and the second bracket 612. When the folding mechanism 100 is in the flattened state, the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 forms a fourth locking structure with the first bracket 611 and the second bracket 612. It can be understood that the third and fourth locking structures enable the second connector 32 to maintain a certain relative positional relationship with the main shaft 1, allowing the first housing 300 and the second housing 400 to better maintain a flattened or closed state, improving the user experience. Furthermore, the third and fourth locking structures provide a certain resistance during the unfolding process of the electronic device 1000 to enter the open state and during the folding process to release the flattened state, allowing the user to experience a better sense of mechanism operation.

[0419] Please refer to Figures 48 to 51, and in conjunction with Figures 44 to 47. When the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 forms a third engaging structure with the first bracket 611 and the second bracket 612, the second protrusion 6114 of the first bracket 611 is located on the side of the first protrusion 3215 of the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 that is away from the first connector 31, and the fourth protrusion 6124 of the second bracket 612 is located on the side of the second protrusion 3216 of the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 that is away from the first connector 31. In other words, the second protrusion 6114 of the first bracket 611 and the groove on the side of the first protrusion 3215 of the second connector 32 that is away from the first connector 31 form a concave-convex engaging structure. Furthermore, the fourth protrusion 6124 of the second bracket 612 and the groove on the side of the second protrusion 3216 of the second connector 32 that is away from the first connector 31 also form a concave-convex engaging structure.

[0420] Please refer to Figures 48 to 51, and in conjunction with Figures 44 to 47. When the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 forms a fourth engaging structure with the first bracket 611 and the second bracket 612, the second protrusion 6114 of the first bracket 611 is located on the side of the first protrusion 3215 of the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 near the first connector 31, and the fourth protrusion 6124 of the second bracket 612 is located on the side of the second protrusion 3216 of the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 near the first connector 31. In other words, the second protrusion 6114 of the first bracket 611 and the groove on the side of the first protrusion 3215 of the second connector 32 near the first connector 31 form a concave-convex engaging structure. Furthermore, the fourth protrusion 6124 of the second bracket 612 and the groove on the side of the second protrusion 3216 of the second connector 32 near the first connector 31 also form a concave-convex engaging structure.

[0421] Please refer to Figures 48 to 51, and in conjunction with Figures 44 to 47, it can be understood that when the folding mechanism 100 is in the intermediate state, the first rotating end 311 of the first connecting member 31 and the first rotating end 321 of the second connecting member 32 rotate relative to the first support 611 and the second support 612. The first protrusion 3115 of the first connecting member 31 and the first protrusion 3215 of the second connecting member 32 can slide out of one groove of the first support 611 and then slide into the other groove. That is, the "protrusion-groove" mating structure changes to a "protrusion-protrusion" transition structure, and then to a "protrusion-another groove" mating structure. The first support 611 rotates relative to the first connecting member 612. The first rotating end 311 of the connector 31 and the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32 are in a "near-far-near" positional relationship. In addition, the second protrusion 3116 of the first connector 31 and the second protrusion 3216 of the second connector 32 can slide out of one of the grooves of the second bracket 612 and then slide into the other groove. That is, the "protrusion-groove" mating structure is transformed into a "protrusion-protrusion" transitional structure, and then into a "protrusion-another groove" mating structure. The second bracket 612 is in a "near-far-near" positional relationship relative to the first rotating end 311 of the first connector 31 and the first rotating end 321 of the second connector 32.

[0422] It is understood that in this embodiment, by setting the first protrusion 3115 of the first connector 31, the first protrusion 6113 of the first bracket 611, the second protrusion 3116 of the first connector 31, and the third protrusion 6123 of the second bracket 612 to be arc-shaped, the mating structure formed by the first protrusion 3115 of the first connector 31 and the first protrusion 6113 of the first bracket 611, and the mating structure formed by the second protrusion 3116 of the first connector 31 and the third protrusion 6123 of the second bracket 612 are relatively simple and occupy little space. This allows the first damping member 61 to be made thinner, which is beneficial to the thinner design of the folding mechanism 100 and the electronic device.

[0423] Similarly, in this embodiment, by setting the first protrusion 3215 of the second connector 32, the second protrusion 6114 of the first bracket 611, the second protrusion 3216 of the second connector 32, and the fourth protrusion 6124 of the second bracket 612 to be arc-shaped, the mating structure formed by the first protrusion 3215 of the second connector 32 and the second protrusion 6114 of the first bracket 611, and the mating structure formed by the second protrusion 3216 of the second connector 32 and the fourth protrusion 6124 of the second bracket 612, occupies less space, further making the first damping member 61 thinner, which is more conducive to the thinner design of the folding mechanism 100 and the electronic device.

[0424] Similarly, in this embodiment, the first protrusion 3315 of the third connector 33, the first protrusion 6213 of the third bracket 621, the second protrusion 3316 of the third connector 33, and the third protrusion 6223 of the fourth bracket 622 are all arc-shaped. This makes the mating structure formed by the first protrusion 3315 of the third connector 33 and the first protrusion 6213 of the third bracket 621, and the mating structure formed by the second protrusion 3316 of the third connector 33 and the third protrusion 6223 of the fourth bracket 622 simpler and occupies less space. This allows the first damping member 61 to be made thinner, which is beneficial to the thinner design of the folding mechanism 100 and the electronic device 1000.

[0425] Similarly, in this embodiment, by setting the first protrusion 3415 of the fourth connector 34, the second protrusion 6214 of the third bracket 621, the second protrusion 3416 of the fourth connector 34, and the fourth protrusion 6224 of the fourth bracket 622 to be arc-shaped, the mating structure formed by the first protrusion 3415 of the fourth connector 34 and the second protrusion 6214 of the third bracket 621, and the mating structure formed by the second protrusion 3416 of the fourth connector 34 and the fourth protrusion 6224 of the fourth bracket 622, occupies less space, further making the first damping member 61 thinner, which is more conducive to the thinner design of the folding mechanism 100 and the electronic device.

[0426] As shown in Figures 48 and 49, exemplarily, during the transition of the folding mechanism 100 from a flattened state to a closed state, the first synchronizing element 51 moves along the positive Y-axis. At this time, the first synchronizing element 51 can be positioned close to the first damping element 61. During the transition of the folding mechanism 100 from a closed state to a flattened state, the first synchronizing element 51 moves along the negative Y-axis. At this time, the first synchronizing element 51 can be positioned away from the first damping element 61. This arrangement of the first synchronizing element 51 and the first damping element 61 is more compact, which is beneficial for improving the space utilization of the folding mechanism 100. In other embodiments, the positional relationship between the first synchronizing element 51 and the first damping element 61, as well as their relative movement, are not specifically limited.

[0427] It is understandable that, in Figures 48 and 49, regardless of whether the first synchronizing element 51 moves along the positive or negative Y-axis direction, the first base 511 and the first guide block 514 of the first synchronizing element 51 are both located on the top side of the first rotating end 311 of the first connecting element 31 and the top side of the first rotating end 321 of the second connecting element 32. Thus, regardless of whether the first synchronizing element 51 moves along the positive or negative Y-axis direction, the first base 511 and the first guide block 514 of the first synchronizing element 51 will not interfere with the first rotating end 311 of the first connecting element 31 or the first rotating end 321 of the second connecting element 32, and will not push the first rotating end 311 of the first connecting element 31 or the first rotating end 321 of the second connecting element 32 to move along either the positive or negative Y-axis direction.

[0428] Similarly, as shown in Figures 48 and 49, exemplarily, during the transition of the folding mechanism 100 from a flattened state to a closed state, the second synchronizing element 52 moves along the negative Y-axis. In this case, the second synchronizing element 52 can be positioned close to the second damping element 62. During the transition of the folding mechanism 100 from a closed state to a flattened state, the second synchronizing element 52 moves along the positive Y-axis. In this case, the second synchronizing element 52 can be positioned away from the second damping element 62. This arrangement of the second synchronizing element 52 and the second damping element 62 is more compact, which is beneficial for improving the space utilization of the folding mechanism 100. In other embodiments, the positional relationship between the second synchronizing element 52 and the second damping element 62, as well as their relative movement, are not specifically limited.

[0429] It is understandable that, in Figures 48 and 49, regardless of whether the second synchronizing element 52 moves along the positive or negative Y-axis, its second base 521 and second guide block 524 are both located on the top side of the first rotating end 331 of the third connecting element 33 and the top side of the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connecting element 34. Thus, regardless of whether the second synchronizing element 52 moves along the positive or negative Y-axis, its second base 521 and second guide block 524 will not interfere with the first rotating end 331 of the third connecting element 33 or the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connecting element 34, nor will they push the first rotating end 331 of the third connecting element 33 or the first rotating end 341 of the fourth connecting element 34 to move along either the positive or negative Y-axis.

[0430] It is understandable that by setting a structure of a first synchronizer 51 and a second synchronizer 52, and by movably connecting the first synchronizer 51 to the first connector 31 and the second connector 32, and by movably connecting the second synchronizer 52 to the third connector 33 and the fourth connector 34, the first synchronizer 51 enables the first connector 31 and the second connector 32 to rotate synchronously during the movement of the folding mechanism 100, that is, to move closer to or further away from each other synchronously. The second synchronizer 52 enables the third connector 33 and the fourth connector 34 to rotate synchronously during the movement of the folding mechanism 100, that is, to move closer to or further away from each other synchronously. Since the first connector 31 is rotatably connected to the first fixed frame 21 which is fixedly connected to the first housing 300, the third connector 33 is rotatably connected to the third fixed frame 23 which is fixedly connected to the first housing 300, the second connector 32 is rotatably connected to the second fixed frame 22 which is fixedly connected to the second housing 400, and the fourth connector 34 is rotatably connected to the fourth fixed frame 24 which is fixedly connected to the second housing 400, the rotation of the first housing 300 and the second housing 400 relative to the main shaft 1 is synchronized, which improves the operating experience of the folding mechanism 100 and the electronic device. Secondly, by setting a structure of a first damping element 61 and a second damping element 62, and placing the first damping element 61 between the first connecting member 31 and the second connecting member 32, the first damping element 61 applies damping force to the first connecting member 31 and the second connecting member 32. The second damping element 62 is placed between the third connecting member 33 and the fourth connecting member 34, so as to provide a certain resistance during the process of unfolding the folding mechanism 100 to enter the open state and during the process of folding to release the flattened state, so that the user can experience a better sense of operation of the mechanism.

[0431] It is understandable that, compared to a folding mechanism 100 where the first synchronizing element 51 and the first damping element 61 are separately configured, in this embodiment, the first synchronizing element 51 and the first damping element 61 can form an integrated synchronized damping folding module with the first connecting element 31 and the second connecting element 32. The synchronized damping folding module is smaller in size, which is beneficial for miniaturizing the folding mechanism 100, thereby saving internal space in the electronic device. Furthermore, the integrated synchronized damping folding module can reduce the manufacturing cost of the folding mechanism 100. Additionally, the second synchronizing element 52 and the second damping element 62 can also form an integrated synchronized damping folding module with the third connecting element 33 and the fourth connecting element 34. The synchronized damping folding module is also smaller in size, which is beneficial for miniaturizing the folding mechanism 100, thereby saving internal space in the electronic device.

[0432] The preceding text introduced a folding mechanism 100. The folding mechanism 100 includes a first fixing frame 21, a second fixing frame 22, a third fixing frame 23, a fourth fixing frame 24, a first connecting member 31, a second connecting member 32, a third connecting member 33, and a fourth connecting member 34. The first fixing frame 21, the second fixing frame 22, the third fixing frame 23, and the fourth fixing frame 24 constitute a fixing frame group 20. The number of fixing frame groups 20 is one group. The first connecting member 31, the second connecting member 32, the third connecting member 33, and the fourth connecting member 34 constitute a connecting member group 30. The number of connecting member groups 30 is also one group. It is understood that because the number of connecting member groups 30 is small, the folding mechanism 100 has a simple structure and small size, fewer components, and lower cost. Thus, when the folding mechanism 100 is applied to an electronic device 1000, the electronic device 1000 can also achieve goals such as small size. In the following text, this application will specifically describe another folding mechanism 100 with reference to the relevant accompanying drawings.

[0433] Figure 52 is a structural schematic diagram of the folding mechanism 100 shown in Figure 6 in another embodiment.

[0434] As shown in Figure 52, there are multiple sets of fixing bracket assemblies 20, i.e., at least two sets. There are also multiple sets of connector assemblies 30, i.e., at least two sets. Each set of connector assemblies 30 is connected to one of the multiple sets of fixing bracket assemblies 20 in a one-to-one correspondence. Furthermore, the multiple sets of connector assemblies 30 are arranged at intervals along the length of the main shaft 1. It is understood that although Figure 52 illustrates two sets of fixing bracket assemblies 20 and connector assemblies 30, in other embodiments, the number of fixing bracket assemblies 20 and connector assemblies 30 can be greater. In addition, Figure 52 schematically distinguishes the positions of the two sets of fixing bracket assemblies 20 and connector assemblies 30 using dashed boxes. Furthermore, in different sets of fixing bracket assemblies 20 and connector assemblies 30, the positions of the first connector 31 and the third connector 33 can be interchanged. The positions of the second connector 32 and the fourth connector 34 can also be interchanged. Specific details are not limited.

[0435] It is understandable that by increasing the number of fixing brackets 20 and connectors 30, the folding mechanism 100 can be made longer, thereby allowing the folding mechanism 100 to be adapted to larger electronic devices 1000.

[0436] It should be noted that, in the absence of conflict, the embodiments and features in the embodiments of this application can be combined with each other, and any combination of features in different embodiments is also within the scope of protection of this application. That is to say, the multiple embodiments described above can also be arbitrarily combined according to actual needs. It should be noted that all the above drawings are exemplary illustrations of this application and do not represent the actual size of the product. Moreover, the dimensional ratio between the components in the drawings is not intended to limit the actual product of this application. The above are only some embodiments and implementation methods of this application, and the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of protection of the claims.

Claims

1. A folding mechanism (100), characterized in that, It includes a spindle (1), a first fixed frame (21), a second fixed frame (22), a first connecting member (31), a second connecting member (32), and a first synchronizing member (51); The first rotating end (311) of the first connector (31) and the first rotating end (321) of the second connector (32) are both rotatably connected to the main shaft (1). The second rotating end (313) of the first connector (31) is rotatably connected to the first fixed frame (21). The second rotating end (323) of the second connector (32) is rotatably connected to the second fixed frame (22). The first rotating end (311) of the first connector (31) and the first rotating end (321) of the second connector (32) are non-mirror symmetrical structures. The first rotating end (311) of the first connector (31) is provided with a first spiral groove (316), and the first rotating end (321) of the second connector (32) is provided with a second spiral groove (326); The first synchronization element (51) includes a first transmission block (512) and a second transmission block (513). Both the first transmission block (512) and the second transmission block (513) are spiral-shaped. The spiral axis (R1) of the first transmission block (512) and the spiral axis (R2) of the second transmission block (513) are parallel. The distance between the spiral axis (R1) of the first transmission block (512) and the center plane (PA) of the main shaft (1) and the distance between the spiral axis (R2) of the second transmission block (513) and the center plane (PA) of the main shaft (1) are not equal. The center plane (PA) of the main shaft (1) is parallel to the length extension direction of the main shaft (1). The first transmission block (512) is disposed in the first spiral groove (316) and can move in the first spiral groove (316). The second transmission block (513) is disposed in the second spiral groove (326) and can move in the second spiral groove (326).

2. The folding mechanism (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first rotating end (311) of the first connector (31) rotates relative to the main shaft (1) along a first rotating axis (P1), and the first rotating end (321) of the second connector (32) rotates relative to the main shaft (1) along a second rotating axis (P2). The first rotating axis (P1) and the second rotating axis (P2) are parallel. The distance between the first rotating axis (P1) and the center plane (PA) of the main shaft (1) and the distance between the second rotating axis (P2) and the center plane (PA) of the main shaft (1) are not equal.

3. The folding mechanism (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The axis of rotation of the second rotating end (313) of the first connector (31) relative to the first fixed frame (21) is parallel to the axis of rotation of the second rotating end (323) of the second connector (32) relative to the second fixed frame (22). The distance between the axis of rotation of the second rotating end (313) of the first connector (31) relative to the first fixed frame (21) and the center plane (PA) of the main shaft (1) is not equal to the distance between the axis of rotation of the second rotating end (323) of the second connector (32) relative to the second fixed frame (22) and the center plane (PA) of the main shaft (1).

4. The folding mechanism (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The helix angle of the first transmission block (512) is not equal to the helix angle of the second transmission block (513).

5. The folding mechanism (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The first synchronization element (51) includes a first base (511), which includes a top surface (5111) and a bottom surface (5112) facing away from each other, a first side surface (5113) and a second side surface (5114) facing away from each other, and a third side surface (5115) and a fourth side surface (5116) facing away from each other. The first side surface (5113) and the second side surface (5114) of the first base (5111) are connected between the top surface (5111) and the bottom surface (5112) of the first base (5111), and the third side surface (5115) and the fourth side surface (5116) of the first base (5111) are connected between the top surface (5111) and the bottom surface (5112) of the first base (5111), and are also connected between the first side surface (5113) and the second side surface (5114) of the first base (5111). The first transmission block (512) protrudes from the top surface (5111) of the first base (511), and the first transmission block (512) extends spirally from the first side surface (5113) of the first base (511) to the middle of the third side surface (5115). The second transmission block (513) protrudes from the top surface (5111) of the first base (511) and extends spirally from the second side surface (5114) of the first base (511) to the middle of the third side surface (5115).

6. The folding mechanism (100) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first synchronization element (51) includes a first guide block (514), which protrudes from the bottom surface (5112) of the first base (511). The main shaft (1) is provided with a first guide groove (15), the first guide block (514) is provided in the first guide groove (15), and the first base (511) is slidably connected to the main shaft (1) through the first guide block (514).

7. The folding mechanism (100) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first guide block (514) is strip-shaped and extends from the fourth side (5116) of the first base (511) to the third side (5115).

8. The folding mechanism (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The folding mechanism (100) includes a third fixing frame (23), a fourth fixing frame (24), a third connecting member (33), a fourth connecting member (34), and a second synchronizing member (52); The first rotating end (331) of the third connector (33) and the first rotating end (341) of the fourth connector (34) are both rotatably connected to the main shaft (1). The second rotating end (333) of the third connector (33) is rotatably connected to the third fixed frame (23). The second rotating end (343) of the fourth connector (34) is rotatably connected to the fourth fixed frame (24). The first rotating end (331) of the third connector (33) and the first rotating end (341) of the fourth connector (34) are non-mirror symmetrical structures. The first rotating end (331) of the third connector (33) is provided with a third spiral groove (336), and the first rotating end (341) of the fourth connector (34) is provided with a fourth spiral groove (346). The second synchronization element (52) includes a third transmission block (522) and a fourth transmission block (523). Both the third transmission block (522) and the fourth transmission block (523) are spiral in shape. The spiral axis (R3) of the third transmission block (522) and the spiral axis (R2) of the fourth transmission block (523) are parallel. The distance between the spiral axis (R3) of the third transmission block (522) and the center plane (PA) of the main shaft (1) and the distance between the spiral axis (R2) of the fourth transmission block (523) and the center plane (PA) of the main shaft (1) are not equal. The third transmission block (522) is disposed in the third spiral groove (336) and can move in the third spiral groove (336). The fourth transmission block (523) is disposed in the fourth spiral groove (346) and can move in the fourth spiral groove (346).

9. The folding mechanism (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The folding mechanism (100) includes a third fixing frame (23), a fourth fixing frame (24), a third connector (33), a fourth connector (34), a first support plate (41), and a second support plate (42); The first rotating end (331) of the third connector (33) and the first rotating end (341) of the fourth connector (34) are both rotatably connected to the main shaft (1), the second rotating end (333) of the third connector (33) is rotatably connected to the third fixing frame (23), and the second rotating end (343) of the fourth connector (34) is rotatably connected to the fourth fixing frame (24). The first rotating end (311) of the first connector (31) rotates relative to the main shaft (1) along the first rotating axis (P1), and the first rotating end (321) of the second connector (32) rotates relative to the main shaft (1) along the second rotating axis (P2). The first rotating axis (P1) and the second rotating axis (P2) are located on both sides of the center plane (PA) of the main shaft (1). The first rotating end (331) of the third connector (33) rotates relative to the main shaft (1) along the third rotating axis (P3), and the first rotating end (341) of the fourth connector (34) rotates relative to the main shaft (1) along the fourth rotating axis (P4). The third rotating axis (P3) and the fourth rotating axis (P4) are located on both sides of the center plane (PA) of the main shaft (1). The first rotation axis (P1) and the third rotation axis (P3) are located on the same side of the center plane (PA) of the main shaft (1) and do not coincide; the second rotation axis (P2) and the fourth rotation axis (P4) are located on the same side of the center plane (PA) of the main shaft (1) and do not coincide. One of the first connector (31) and the third connector (33) is fixedly connected to the first support plate (41), and the other is not fixedly connected to the first support plate (41). One of the second connector (32) and the fourth connector (34) is fixedly connected to the second support plate (42), and the other is not fixedly connected to the second support plate (42). When the folding mechanism (100) is in the flattened state, the first support plate (41) and the second support plate (42) together form a support surface (100a). When the folding mechanism (100) is in the closed state, the first support plate (41) and the second support plate (42) are arranged opposite to each other and together with the main shaft (1) enclose an accommodating space (100b).

10. The folding mechanism (100) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first connector (31) is fixedly connected to the first support plate (41), the third connector (33) is not fixedly connected to the first support plate (41), the second connector (32) is fixedly connected to the second support plate (42), and the fourth connector (34) is not fixedly connected to the second support plate (42).

11. The folding mechanism (100) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that, The first connector (31), the second connector (32), the third connector (33) and the fourth connector (34) constitute a connector group (30), and the number of connector groups (30) is one group; In the length extension direction of the main shaft (1), the main shaft (1) includes a first end (1a) and a second end (1c), and the first end (1a) and the second end (1c) of the main shaft (1) are located on both sides of the center of the main shaft (1); The first rotating end (311) of the first connector (31) and the first rotating end (321) of the second connector (32) are both rotatably connected to the first end (1a) of the main shaft (1), the second rotating end (313) of the first connector (31) is rotatably connected to the first fixed frame (21), and the second rotating end (323) of the second connector (32) is rotatably connected to the second fixed frame (22); The first rotating end (331) of the third connector (33) and the first rotating end (341) of the fourth connector (34) are both rotatably connected to the second end (1c) of the main shaft (1). The second rotating end (333) of the third connector (33) is rotatably connected to the third fixed frame (23). The second rotating end (343) of the fourth connector (34) is rotatably connected to the fourth fixed frame (24).

12. The folding mechanism (100) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that, The first connector (31), the second connector (32), the third connector (33), and the fourth connector (34) constitute a connector group (30), and there are multiple connector groups (30). The first fixing frame (21), the second fixing frame (22), the third fixing frame (23), and the fourth fixing frame (24) constitute a fixing frame group (20), and there are multiple fixing frame groups (20). The multiple connector groups (30) are connected to the multiple fixing frame groups (20) in a one-to-one correspondence. Multiple sets of the connectors (30) are arranged at intervals along the length extension direction of the main shaft (1).

13. The folding mechanism (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that, The folding mechanism (100) includes a first damping element (61); The first damping element (61) is disposed on the main shaft (1) and is used to apply damping force to the first connector (31) and / or the second connector (32).

14. An electronic device (1000), characterized in that, It includes a first housing (300), a second housing (400), a flexible screen (200), and a folding mechanism (100) as described in any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the first fixing frame (21) is fixedly connected to the first housing (300), and the second fixing frame (22) is fixedly connected to the second housing (400); The flexible screen (200) includes a first display area (201), a second display area (202) and a third display area (203) connected in sequence. The first display area (201) is fixed to the first housing (300) and the third display area (203) is fixed to the second housing (400).

15. A first synchronizing element (51), applied to a folding mechanism (100), characterized in that, It includes a first base (511), a first transmission block (512) and a second transmission block (513), wherein the first transmission block (512) and the second transmission block (513) protrude from the same side of the first base (511); The first base (511) has a center surface (PB), which is located between the first transmission block (512) and the second transmission block (513). Both the first transmission block (512) and the second transmission block (513) are spiral-shaped. The spiral axis (R1) of the first transmission block (512) and the spiral axis (R2) of the second transmission block (513) are parallel. The distance between the spiral axis (R1) of the first transmission block (512) and the center plane (PB) of the first base (511) and the distance between the spiral axis (R2) of the second transmission block (513) and the center plane (PB) of the first base (511) are not equal.

16. The first synchronization element (51) according to claim 15, characterized in that, The helix angle of the first transmission block (512) is not equal to the helix angle of the second transmission block (513).

17. The first synchronization element (51) according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that, The first base (511) includes a top surface (5111) and a bottom surface (5112) facing away from each other, a first side surface (5113) and a second side surface (5114) facing away from each other, and a third side surface (5115) and a fourth side surface (5116) facing away from each other. The first side surface (5113) and the second side surface (5114) of the first base (511) are connected between the top surface (5111) and the bottom surface (5112) of the first base (511), and the third side surface (5115) and the fourth side surface (5116) of the first base (511) are connected between the top surface (5111) and the bottom surface (5112) of the first base (511), and are also connected between the first side surface (5113) and the second side surface (5114) of the first base (511). The first transmission block (512) protrudes from the top surface (5111) of the first base (511), and the first transmission block (512) extends spirally from the first side surface (5113) of the first base (511) to the middle of the third side surface (5115). The second transmission block (513) protrudes from the top surface (5111) of the first base (511) and extends spirally from the second side surface (5114) of the first base (511) to the middle of the third side surface (5115).

18. The first synchronization element (51) according to claim 17, characterized in that, The first synchronization element (51) includes a first guide block (514), which protrudes from the bottom surface (5112) of the first base (511).

19. The first synchronization element (51) according to claim 18, characterized in that, The first guide block (514) is strip-shaped and extends from the fourth side (5116) of the first base (511) to the third side (5115).

20. The first synchronization element (51) according to any one of claims 15 to 19, characterized in that, The first synchronization component (51) is an integrally formed structural component.

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