Rotating mechanism and foldable electronic device
By incorporating guides and spiral grooves between the slider and base of the foldable electronic device, combined with elastic components, the problem of reduced synchronization caused by component wear is solved, resulting in a smoother rotation feel.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- HONOR DEVICE CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-12-11
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-23
AI Technical Summary
In foldable electronic devices, as usage time increases, wear and deformation occur between components in the synchronization module, leading to a decrease in the rotational synchronization of the first and second swing arms, affecting the feel of rotation.
By setting a guide between the slider and the base, the axial sliding stability of the slider is increased, and the cooperation of the spiral groove and the protrusion is used to reduce wear and deformation and improve synchronization. At the same time, the combination of elastic components and guide grooves enhances the orientation and stability of the slider.
The rotational synchronization of the first and second structural components has been improved, enhancing the tactile feel of the foldable electronic device and making the synchronous rotation smoother.
Smart Images

Figure CN2025141756_23072026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
Rotating mechanism and foldable electronic devices
[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202510092534.X, filed on January 20, 2025, entitled "Rotating Mechanism and Foldable Electronic Device", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field
[0002] This application relates to the field of electronic devices, and more particularly to a rotating mechanism and a foldable electronic device. Background Technology
[0003] With the continuous development of technologies related to electronic devices and the increasing demands of consumers, foldable electronic devices, such as foldable screen phones, have gradually become a hot topic in the field of electronic device technology development. Foldable electronic devices include a rotating mechanism, a first structural component, and a second structural component. The first and second structural components can rotate synchronously relative to the rotating mechanism, allowing the foldable electronic device to switch between an unfolded state and a folded state.
[0004] Within the rotating mechanism, the first and second swing arms located on both sides of the mechanism rotate synchronously via a synchronization module. However, with increasing usage time, the components in the synchronization module wear down and may even deform, leading to increased gaps between the components. This reduces the rotational synchronicity of the first and second swing arms on both sides of the rotating mechanism, affecting the tactile feel of the foldable electronic device. Summary of the Invention
[0005] This application provides a rotating mechanism and a foldable electronic device to improve the rotational synchronization of the first and second structural members on both sides of the rotating mechanism and to improve the rotational feel of the foldable electronic device.
[0006] To achieve the above objectives, this application adopts the following technical solution:
[0007] In a first aspect, this application provides a rotating mechanism, including a first base, a first rotating shaft, a second rotating shaft, a first swing arm, a second swing arm, a first slider, and a first guide portion. The first and second rotating shafts are arranged in parallel. The first and second rotating shafts are connected to the first base. The first swing arm is sleeved on the first rotating shaft and is rotatable relative to the first rotating shaft. The second swing arm is sleeved on the second rotating shaft and is rotatable relative to the second rotating shaft. The first slider is sleeved on the first and second rotating shafts and is located between the first and second swing arms. The first slider is slidable along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft. The rotating mechanism further includes a first helical groove, a second helical groove, a first protrusion, and a second protrusion. One of the first helical groove and the first protrusion is disposed on the first slider, and the other of the first helical groove and the first protrusion is disposed on the first swing arm. One of the second helical groove and the second protrusion is disposed on the first slider, and the other of the first helical groove and the first protrusion is disposed on the second swing arm.
[0008] The first and second spiral grooves rotate in opposite directions; the first protrusion is slidably connected to the first spiral groove, and the second protrusion is slidably connected to the second spiral groove; the first slider is slidably connected to the first base through the first guide portion, and the extension direction of the first guide portion is parallel to the axial direction of the first rotating shaft; wherein, when the first swing arm and the second swing arm rotate, the first protrusion slides along the first spiral groove, the second protrusion slides along the second spiral groove, and drives the first slider to slide along the first guide portion.
[0009] The foldable electronic device includes a first structural component and a second structural component. The first structural component is connected to the rotating mechanism via a first swing arm, and the second structural component is connected to the rotating mechanism via a second swing arm.
[0010] By providing a first guide portion between the first slider and the first base, compared to an embodiment where the first slider only slides on the first and second rotating shafts, the first slider can simultaneously slide along the first guide portion in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft. In this way, the first guide portion can share the force exerted on the first slider during sliding, reducing wear and deformation between the first slider and the rotating shaft, and minimizing gaps caused by wear and deformation between the first slider and the first and second rotating shafts. Simultaneously, the extension direction of the first guide portion is parallel to the axial direction of the first rotating shaft, increasing the constraint on the first slider in the axial direction perpendicular to the first rotating shaft, preventing the sliding direction of the first slider from shifting due to wear and deformation of the rotating shaft, thus making the sliding direction of the first slider along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft more stable.
[0011] Meanwhile, the wear and deformation between the first slider and the first and second rotating shafts are reduced, and the stability of the sliding direction of the first slider along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft is increased. This reduces the wear and deformation between the first protrusion and the first spiral groove, as well as between the second protrusion and the first spiral groove. This increases the orientation of the sliding of the first protrusion in the first spiral groove and the orientation of the sliding of the second protrusion in the second spiral groove. This improves the synchronization of the rotation of the first and second swing arms, enhances the rotation feel of the foldable electronic device, and makes the synchronous rotation of the first and second structural components relative to the rotating mechanism smoother and more fluid.
[0012] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the first guide portion includes a first guide groove and a first guide block. One of the first guide groove and the first guide block is disposed on the first slider, and the other of the first guide groove and the first guide block is disposed on the first base; the first guide groove and the first guide block are slidably connected. In this way, the first slider can slide along the first guide portion by sliding the first guide block on the first guide groove. Simultaneously, the sliding engagement of the first guide groove and the first guide block ensures that the sliding of the first slider is along the extension direction of the first guide block and the first guide groove (i.e., the axial direction of the first rotating shaft), reducing the possibility of sliding offset. Furthermore, since the sliding engagement between the first guide block and the first guide groove is an embedded structure, compared with planar contact sliding, the embedded structure sliding engagement can better resist the wobbling of the first slider in other directions (other than the axial direction of the first rotating shaft), improving the stability of the first slider's sliding.
[0013] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, a first guide block is disposed on a first base, and a first guide groove is disposed on a first slider; the first guide block and the first base are integrally formed. Integrating the first guide block with the first base increases the structural strength of the first guide block and improves the stability of the first slider sliding along the first guide portion.
[0014] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the first protrusion has a first helical surface near both ends of the first helical groove along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft. The first helical surface and the first helical groove have the same direction of rotation, and the first protrusion is slidably connected to the first helical groove via the first helical surface. The second protrusion has a second helical surface near both ends of the second helical groove along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft. The second helical surface and the second helical groove have the same direction of rotation, and the second protrusion is slidably connected to the second helical groove via the second helical surface. In this way, the first protrusion slides within the first helical groove via the first helical surface, and the second protrusion slides within the second helical groove via the second helical surface. This makes the force on the contact surface between the first protrusion and the first helical groove, and between the first protrusion and the first helical groove, more uniform, reducing wear deformation caused by localized force concentration. Simultaneously, transforming the sliding between the block and the surface into sliding between the surface and the surface increases the accuracy of the relative sliding between the first protrusion and the first helical groove, and between the first protrusion and the first helical groove, improving the rotational synchronization of the first and second swing arms.
[0015] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the first guide block and the first guide groove is rectangular, trapezoidal, arc-shaped, or dovetail-shaped. A rectangular longitudinal cross-section of the first guide groove and the first guide block is simple in structure and easy to process and manufacture. A trapezoidal longitudinal cross-section allows the side walls of the first guide groove and the first guide block to have a certain inclination angle, resulting in better sliding orientation of the first guide block along the first guide groove. An arc-shaped longitudinal cross-section can reduce stress concentration between the first guide block and the first guide groove, making the sliding between them smoother. A dovetail-shaped longitudinal cross-section of the first guide groove and the first guide block provides good self-locking properties, preventing the first guide block from dislodging from the first guide groove and improving the orientation and stability of the sliding of the first guide block along the first guide groove.
[0016] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the rotating mechanism further includes a groove and a ball; the first guide groove includes a first surface facing the first guide block; the first guide block includes a second surface facing the first guide groove; the first surface and / or the second surface have a groove, the opening of which faces the second surface and / or the first surface; the ball is located within the groove; the ball protrudes or is flush with the first surface, and / or the ball protrudes or is flush with the second surface. In this way, the sliding fit between the first guide block and the first guide groove is transformed into a rolling fit between the first guide block and the ball, the ball and the first guide groove, or the ball and the ball, reducing the friction between the first guide block and the first guide groove, making the sliding between the first guide block and the first guide groove smoother, and consequently making the synchronous rotation between the first swing arm and the second swing arm smoother.
[0017] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the rotating mechanism further includes an elastic component and a second slider; the first swing arm, the second slider, and the elastic component are arranged sequentially along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft; one end of the elastic component is fixedly connected to the first base, and the other end abuts against the second slider; the second slider is sleeved on the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft, and the second slider is slidably connected to the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft; the first swing arm has a third surface, and the second slider has a fourth surface opposite to the third surface; the rotating mechanism further includes a first recess and a first convex portion, one of the first recess and the first convex portion is disposed on the third surface, and the other of the first recess and the first convex portion is disposed on the fourth surface; the rotating mechanism has a first state and a second state, in the first state, the first convex portion is located in the first recess, and the elastic component produces a first deformation; in the second state, the first convex portion is offset from the first recess, and the elastic component produces a second deformation, the deformation amount of the second deformation being greater than the deformation amount of the first deformation.
[0018] The elastic element constantly presses against the first swing arm along the axial direction of the first pivot. This elastic element allows the user to smoothly rotate both the first and second swing arms, providing a good tactile feel. The cooperation of the first recess and the first protrusion locks the foldable electronic device in its first state. This ensures the foldable electronic device remains stable at least in its first state, enhancing the user experience.
[0019] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the rotating mechanism further includes a second guide portion, the extension direction of which is parallel to the axial direction of the first rotating shaft, and the second slider is slidably connected to the first base via the second guide portion. By providing the second guide portion between the second slider and the first base, compared to an embodiment where the second slider slides only on the first and second rotating shafts, the second slider can also slide along the second guide portion in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft. In this way, the second guide portion can share the force exerted on the second slider during sliding, reducing wear and deformation between the second slider and the rotating shaft, and reducing gaps caused by wear and deformation between the second slider and the rotating shaft. Simultaneously, the extension direction of the second guide portion is parallel to the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 22A, increasing the constraint on the second slider in the axial direction perpendicular to the first rotating shaft, preventing the second slider from deviating in the sliding direction due to wear and deformation of the rotating shaft, and making the sliding direction of the second slider along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft more stable. Meanwhile, the reduced wear and deformation between the second slider and the pivot, as well as the increased stability of the second slider's sliding direction along the first pivot axis, make the engagement point between the first concave and the first convex closer to the design value, reducing the abnormality of the torque curve, improving the synchronization of the rotation of the first and second swing arms, and enhancing the rotation feel of the foldable electronic device.
[0020] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the second guide portion includes a second guide groove and a second guide block. One of the second guide groove and the second guide block is disposed on the second slider, and the other of the second guide groove and the second guide block is disposed on the first base; the second guide groove and the second guide block are slidably connected. In this way, the second guide block can slide on the second guide groove, allowing the second slider to slide along the second guide portion. Simultaneously, the sliding engagement of the second guide groove and the second guide block ensures that the second slider slides along the extension direction of the second guide block and the second guide groove (i.e., the axial direction of the first rotating shaft), reducing the possibility of sliding offset. Furthermore, since the sliding engagement between the second guide block and the second guide groove is an embedded structure, compared to planar contact sliding, the embedded structure can better resist the wobbling of the first slider in other directions (other than the axial direction of the first rotating shaft), improving the stability of the second slider's sliding.
[0021] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the second guide block and the second guide groove is rectangular, trapezoidal, arc-shaped, or dovetail-shaped. A rectangular longitudinal cross-section of the second guide groove and the second guide block is simple in structure and easy to process and manufacture. A trapezoidal longitudinal cross-section allows the side walls of the second guide groove and the second guide block to have a certain inclination angle, resulting in better sliding orientation of the second guide block along the second guide groove. An arc-shaped longitudinal cross-section can reduce stress concentration between the second guide block and the second guide groove, making the sliding between them smoother. A dovetail-shaped longitudinal cross-section of the second guide groove and the second guide block provides good self-locking properties, preventing the second guide block from dislodging from the second guide groove and improving the orientation and stability of the second guide block sliding along the second guide groove.
[0022] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the rotating mechanism further includes a groove and a ball; the second guide groove includes a seventh surface facing the second guide block; the second guide block includes an eighth surface facing the second guide groove. The seventh surface and / or the eighth surface has a groove, the opening of which faces the eighth surface and / or the seventh surface, and a ball is disposed within the groove. This transforms the sliding engagement between the second guide block and the second guide groove into a rolling engagement between the second guide block and the ball, the ball and the second guide groove, or the ball and the ball, reducing the friction between the second guide block and the second guide groove, making the sliding between the second guide block and the second guide groove smoother, and consequently making the synchronous rotation between the first swing arm and the second swing arm smoother.
[0023] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the first swing arm includes a first portion and a second portion arranged axially along a first rotating shaft; the first portion is slidable along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft and abuts against a fourth surface; the second swing arm includes a third portion and a fourth portion arranged axially along a second rotating shaft; the third portion is slidable along the axial direction of the second rotating shaft and abuts against the fourth surface; the first helical groove includes a third helical surface and a fourth helical surface, the third helical surface being disposed on the surface of the first portion facing the second portion, and the fourth helical surface being disposed on the surface of the second portion facing the first portion; the second helical groove includes a fifth helical surface and a sixth helical surface, the fifth helical surface being disposed on the surface of the third portion facing the fourth portion, and the sixth helical surface being disposed on the surface of the fourth portion facing the third portion.
[0024] Since the first and second parts of the first swing arm together form the first helical groove, and the first part can slide relative to the first rotating shaft, under the action of the elastic component, the third and fourth helical surfaces on the first helical groove are always kept in a compressed state along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft. In this way, when wear occurs between the first protrusion and the first helical groove, creating a gap, this gap is offset by the damping force applied by the elastic component. This reduces wear between the first helical groove and the first protrusion, increases the directional sliding and rotation of the first protrusion within the first helical groove, improves the synchronization of the rotation of the first and second swing arms, enhances the rotational feel of the rotating mechanism, and makes the synchronous rotation of the first and second structural components relative to the rotating mechanism in the foldable electronic device smoother.
[0025] Similarly, since the third and fourth parts of the second swing arm together form the second helical groove, and the third part 233 can slide relative to the second rotating shaft, under the action of the elastic component, the fifth and sixth helical surfaces on the second helical groove are always kept in a compressed state along the axial direction of the second rotating shaft. In this way, when wear occurs between the second protrusion and the second helical groove, creating a gap, this gap is offset by the damping force applied by the elastic component. This reduces wear between the second helical groove and the second protrusion, increases the directional sliding and rotation of the second protrusion within the second helical groove, improves the synchronization of the rotation of the second and first swing arms, enhances the rotational feel of the rotating mechanism, and makes the synchronous rotation of the second and first structural components relative to the rotating mechanism in the foldable electronic device smoother.
[0026] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the second part is slidable along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft, and the fourth part is slidable along the axial direction of the second rotating shaft; the rotating mechanism further includes a third slider and a limiting member, the third slider being sleeved on the first and second rotating shafts and slidably connected to the first and second rotating shafts; the limiting member is fixedly connected to the first base; the elastic member, the first swing arm, the third slider, and the limiting member are arranged sequentially along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft; the first swing arm abuts against one end of the third slider, and the other end of the third slider abuts against the limiting member; the second part has a fifth surface, the third slider has a sixth surface opposite to the fifth surface, the rotating mechanism further includes a second recess and a second convex part, one of the second recess and the second convex part is disposed on the fifth surface, and one of the second recess and the second convex part is disposed on the sixth surface; the rotating mechanism has a third state and a fourth state, in the third state, the second convex part is located within the second recess, and the elastic member produces a third deformation; in the fourth state, the second convex part is offset from the second recess, and the elastic member produces a fourth deformation, the deformation of the fourth deformation being greater than the deformation of the third deformation.
[0027] The second concave portion and the second convex portion work together to lock the foldable electronic device in a third state, ensuring its stability at least in this state. Simultaneously, the third slider increases the pressure exerted by the second slider on the elastic component. Therefore, the damping force within the rotating mechanism can be increased by incorporating the third slider, based on the required rotation feel and damping force.
[0028] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the rotating mechanism further includes a third guide portion, the extension direction of which is parallel to the axial direction of the first rotating shaft, and the third slider is slidably connected to the first base via the third guide portion. By providing the third guide portion between the third slider and the first base, compared to embodiments where the third slider slides only on the first and second rotating shafts, the third slider can simultaneously slide along the third guide portion in the axial direction of the first rotating shaft. In this way, the third guide portion can share the force exerted on the third slider during sliding, reducing wear and deformation between the third slider and the rotating shaft, and reducing gaps caused by wear and deformation between the third slider and the first and second rotating shafts. Simultaneously, the parallel extension direction of the third guide portion to the axial direction of the first rotating shaft increases the constraint on the third slider in the axial direction perpendicular to the first rotating shaft, preventing the sliding direction of the third slider from shifting due to wear and deformation of the rotating shaft, thus making the sliding direction of the third slider along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft more stable.
[0029] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the third guide portion includes a third guide groove and a third guide block. One of the third guide groove and the third guide block is disposed on the third slider, and the other of the third guide groove and the third guide block is disposed on the first base; the third guide groove and the third guide block are slidably connected. In this way, the third guide block can slide on the third guide groove, allowing the third slider to slide along the third guide portion. Simultaneously, the sliding engagement of the third guide groove and the third guide block ensures that the sliding of the third slider is along the extension direction of the third guide block and the third guide groove (i.e., the axial direction of the first rotating shaft), reducing the possibility of sliding offset. Furthermore, since the sliding engagement between the third guide block and the third guide groove is an embedded structure, compared to planar contact sliding, the embedded structure can better resist the wobbling of the first slider in other directions (other than the axial direction of the first rotating shaft), improving the stability of the third slider's sliding.
[0030] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the third guide block and the third guide groove is rectangular, trapezoidal, arc-shaped, or dovetail-shaped. A rectangular longitudinal cross-section of the third guide groove and the third guide block is simple in structure and easy to process and manufacture. A trapezoidal longitudinal cross-section allows the two side walls of the third guide groove and the third guide block to have a certain inclination angle, resulting in better sliding orientation of the third guide block along the third guide groove. An arc-shaped longitudinal cross-section can reduce stress concentration between the third guide block and the third guide groove, making the sliding between them smoother. A dovetail-shaped longitudinal cross-section of the third guide groove and the third guide block provides good self-locking properties, preventing the third guide block from dislodging from the third guide groove and improving the orientation and stability of the sliding of the third guide block along the third guide groove.
[0031] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the rotating mechanism further includes a groove and a ball; the third guide groove includes a ninth surface facing the third guide block; the third guide block includes a tenth surface facing the third guide groove. The ninth and / or tenth surfaces have grooves, the openings of which face the tenth and / or ninth surfaces, and a ball is disposed within the groove. This transforms the sliding fit between the third guide block and the third guide groove into a rolling fit between the third guide block and the ball, the ball and the third guide groove, or the ball and the ball, reducing the friction between the third guide block and the third guide groove, making the sliding between the third guide block and the third guide groove smoother, and consequently making the synchronous rotation between the first and second swing arms smoother.
[0032] In one possible implementation of the first aspect, the rotating mechanism further includes a second base located on one side of the first base along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft; the rotating mechanism also includes a third swing arm, a fourth swing arm, a first connecting member, and a second connecting member; the third swing arm is rotatably connected to the second base; both the fourth and first swing arms are connected to the first connecting member; the fourth swing arm is rotatably connected to the second base, and both the fourth and second swing arms are connected to the second connecting member; the first and second bases are integrally formed. The integral formation of the first and second bases reduces the number of supports in the rotating mechanism, which is beneficial for improving the assembly accuracy of the rotating mechanism and reducing asynchronous rotation of the two swing arms (e.g., the first and third swing arms) on the same side due to assembly errors. Simultaneously, the integral formation of the first and second bases increases the overall rigidity of the rotating mechanism, avoiding asynchronous rotation of the two swing arms on the same side due to local deformation of the first and second bases. Therefore, the rotational synchronization of the first and second structural components is improved, enhancing the tactile feel of the foldable electronic device.
[0033] Secondly, this application provides a foldable electronic device, including a first structural member, a second structural member, and a rotation mechanism of any one of the first aspects; the rotation mechanism is connected between the first structural member and the second structural member.
[0034] Since the foldable electronic device provided in the second aspect of the present application includes the rotation mechanism of any of the above technical solutions, both can solve the same technical problem and achieve the same technical effect. Attached Figure Description
[0035] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a foldable electronic device provided in some embodiments of this application in its unfolded state;
[0036] Figure 2 is a partial exploded view of the foldable electronic device shown in Figure 1.
[0037] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the foldable electronic device shown in Figure 1 when it is in a folded state;
[0038] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the rotating mechanism provided in some embodiments of this application;
[0039] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the rotating mechanism shown in Figure 4 along line A0-A0;
[0040] Figure 6 is a structural schematic diagram of the rotating mechanism provided in some other embodiments of this application;
[0041] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure along line B0-B0 in the rotating mechanism shown in Figure 6;
[0042] Figure 8 is a structural schematic diagram of the rotating mechanism provided in some embodiments of this application;
[0043] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of the rotating mechanism provided in some embodiments of this application;
[0044] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of the rotating mechanism provided in some embodiments of this application;
[0045] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of the rotating mechanism provided in some embodiments of this application;
[0046] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of the rotating mechanism provided in some other embodiments of this application;
[0047] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of the rotating mechanism provided in some other embodiments of this application;
[0048] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of the rotating mechanism provided in some other embodiments of this application;
[0049] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first slider provided in some embodiments of this application;
[0050] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of the rotating mechanism provided in some other embodiments of this application;
[0051] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of the rotating mechanism provided in some other embodiments of this application;
[0052] Figure 18 is a partially exploded structural diagram of the rotating mechanism provided in some embodiments of this application;
[0053] Figure 19 is an exploded structural diagram of the rotating mechanism provided in some embodiments of this application;
[0054] Figure 20 is an exploded structural diagram of the rotating mechanism provided in some embodiments of this application in the unfolded state;
[0055] Figure 21 is an exploded structural diagram of the rotating mechanism provided in some embodiments of this application in the folded state;
[0056] Figure 22 is a partially exploded structural diagram of the rotating mechanism provided in some other embodiments of this application;
[0057] Figure 23 is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of the rotating mechanism provided in some other embodiments of this application;
[0058] Figure 24 is a partially exploded structural diagram of the rotating mechanism provided in some embodiments of this application;
[0059] Figure 25 is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of the rotating mechanism provided in some other embodiments of this application;
[0060] Figure 26 is a partially exploded structural diagram of the rotating mechanism provided in some embodiments of this application;
[0061] Figure 27 is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of the rotating mechanism provided in some other embodiments of this application;
[0062] Figure 28 is a partially exploded structural diagram of the rotating mechanism provided in some other embodiments of this application;
[0063] Figure 29 is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of the rotating mechanism provided in some other embodiments of this application.
[0064] Reference numerals: Foldable electronic device 100; Foldable screen 10; First display area 101; Second display area 102; Third display area 103; Arc segment 133; First transition segment 131; Second transition segment 132; Support device 20; First structural component 201; Second structural component 202; Rotation mechanism 203; Shaft seat 1; Accommodating space 1a; First rotating assembly 2; First base 211; First support part 211a; Second base 212; Second support part 212a; First rotating shaft 22A; Second rotating shaft 22B; First swing arm 23A; First rotating part 23A1; First swinging part 23A2; First section 231; Second section 232; Second swing arm 23B; Second rotating part 23B1; Second swinging part 23B2; Third section 233; Fourth section 234; First connecting member 24A; Second connecting member 24B; Third swing arm 25A; Fourth swing arm 25B; First slider 26; First spiral groove 27A; Second spiral groove 27B; First protrusion 28A; Second protrusion 28B; First guide part 291; First guide groove c1; First guide block k1; Second guide part 292; Second guide groove c2; second guide block k2; groove a1; block d1; ball g1; first surface m1; second surface m2; first helical surface s1; second helical surface s2; third helical surface s3; fourth helical surface s4; fifth helical surface s5; sixth helical surface s6; damping module 3; elastic component 31; second slider 32; positioning block 34; second guide groove c2; second guide block k2; third slider 33; limiting component 37; second guide groove c2; second guide block k2; third surface m3; fourth surface m4; fifth surface m5; sixth surface m6; seventh surface m7; eighth surface m8; ninth surface m9; tenth surface m10; first recess 351; first convex part 361; second recess 352; second convex part 362; third guide part 293; third guide groove c3; third guide block k3. Detailed Implementation
[0065] In the embodiments of this application, the terms "exemplarily" or "for example" are used to indicate examples, illustrations, or explanations. Any embodiment or design described as "exemplarily" or "for example" in the embodiments of this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or design solutions. Specifically, the use of terms such as "exemplarily" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner.
[0066] In the description of the embodiments of this application, the term "and / or" refers to and covers any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. The term "and / or" describes an association relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this application generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.
[0067] In the description of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation", "connection" and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "linking" can be a detachable connection or a non-detachable connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium.
[0068] In the description of embodiments of this application, the term "comprising" or any other variations thereof is intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes that element. Without further limitations, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes that element.
[0069] As used herein, “parallel” and “perpendicular” include the described situation and situations that are similar to the described situation, within an acceptable deviation range, which is determined by those skilled in the art taking into account the measurement under discussion and the error associated with the measurement of a particular quantity (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system). For example, “parallel” includes absolute parallelism and approximate parallelism, where the acceptable deviation range for approximate parallelism can be, for example, within ±10°; “perpendicular” includes absolute perpendicularity and approximate perpendicularity, where the acceptable deviation range for approximate perpendicularity can also be, for example, within ±10°.
[0070] This application provides a rotating mechanism that can be applied to foldable electronic devices.
[0071] This application provides a foldable electronic device, which can be user equipment (UE) or a terminal device. For example, the foldable electronic device can be a portable Android device (PAD), a personal digital assistant (PDA), a handheld device with wireless communication capabilities, a computing device, an in-vehicle device, a wearable device, a virtual reality (VR) terminal device, an augmented reality (AR) terminal device, a wireless terminal in industrial control, a wireless terminal in self-driving, a wireless terminal in remote medical care, a wireless terminal in a smart grid, a wireless terminal in transportation safety, a wireless terminal in a smart city, a wireless terminal in a smart home, and other mobile or fixed terminals. The form of the foldable electronic device is not specifically limited in the embodiments of this application.
[0072] This application uses a bi-fold foldable electronic device as an example for illustration, that is, a foldable electronic device that increases the screen size by unfolding it once, but this does not constitute a special limitation on this application. In other words, foldable electronic devices can also be tri-fold, quadruple-fold, penta-fold, etc.
[0073] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 is a perspective view of a foldable electronic device 100 provided in some embodiments of this application in its unfolded state. Figure 2 is a partially exploded structural diagram of the foldable electronic device 100 shown in Figure 1. This embodiment and the embodiments described below are exemplified by the foldable electronic device 100 as a handheld device with wireless communication capabilities, such as a mobile phone.
[0074] The foldable electronic device 100 includes a foldable screen 10 and a support device 20.
[0075] It is understood that Figure 1 only schematically shows some of the components included in the foldable electronic device 100, and the actual shape, size, location and construction of these components are not limited to those in Figure 1.
[0076] The foldable screen 10 is used to display images, videos and other information. The foldable screen 10 includes a first display area 101, a second display area 102 and a third display area 103, with the third display area 103 connected between the first display area 101 and the second display area 102.
[0077] At least the third display area 103 of the foldable screen 10 is a flexible screen structure. Thus, the third display area 103 can bend and deform under external force, allowing the foldable screen 10 to fold from the unfolded state shown in Figure 1 to the folded state. The first display area 101 and the second display area 102 of the foldable screen 10 can be flexible screen structures, rigid screen structures, or a combination of both; no specific limitations are made here.
[0078] In the foldable electronic device 100 shown in Figure 1, the foldable screen 10 is in the unfolded state, with the first display area 101, the third display area 103, and the second display area 102 arranged sequentially and facing the same direction. In this state, a large-screen display can be achieved to provide users with richer information and a better user experience.
[0079] Please refer to Figure 3, which is a structural schematic diagram of the foldable electronic device 100 shown in Figure 1 in a folded state. The foldable screen 10 in this foldable electronic device 100 is also in a folded state. Specifically, when the foldable screen 10 is in a folded state, the first display area 101 and the second display area 102 of the foldable screen 10 are approximately parallel and opposite to each other. It should be noted that the angle between the first display area 101 and the second display area 102 is within 30°, and the first display area 101 and the second display area 102 can be considered approximately parallel. The first display area 101 and the second display area 102 being opposite to each other means that the display surface of the first display area 101 and the display surface of the second display area 102 face each other.
[0080] When the foldable screen 10 is in the folded state, please refer to Figure 3. The third display area 103 is folded into a teardrop shape. In this shape, the third display area 103 includes an arc segment 133, a first transition segment 131, and a second transition segment 132. The first transition segment 131 connects the arc segment 133 and the first display area 101. The second transition segment 132 connects the arc segment 133 and the second display area 102. The distance between the end of the first transition segment 131 connecting to the first display area 101 and the end of the second transition segment 132 connecting to the second display area 102 is the third distance. The distance between the end of the first transition segment 131 connecting to the arc segment 133 and the end of the second transition segment 132 connecting to the arc segment 133 is the fourth distance, which is greater than the third distance. It is understood that when the foldable electronic device is in the folded state, the third display area 103 of the foldable screen 10 can also be folded into other shapes as needed, and this application does not impose any restrictions on this.
[0081] When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the folded state, please continue to refer to Figure 3. The support device 20 protects the outside of the foldable screen 10, and the foldable screen 10 is not visible to the user, which can prevent the foldable screen 10 from being scratched by hard objects. This foldable electronic device is an inwardly foldable electronic device, and the size of the foldable electronic device 100 is reduced, making it convenient to carry.
[0082] The support device 20 is used to support the foldable screen 10. The support device 20 includes a first structural member 201, a second structural member 202, and a rotation mechanism 203. The first structural member 201 supports the first display area 101, and the second structural member 202 supports the second display area 102. The rotation mechanism 203 is connected between the first structural member 201 and the second structural member 202, and supports the third display area 103.
[0083] In the above embodiments, other electronic components, such as cameras, earphones, handsets, buttons, and batteries, may also be provided on the first structural member 201 and the second structural member 202. This application does not limit the other electronic components provided on the first structural member 201 and the second structural member 202.
[0084] The first structural component 201 and the second structural component 202 can rotate along the first axis of the rotating mechanism 203, thereby driving the folding screen 10 to switch between the unfolded state shown in Figure 1 and the folded state shown in Figure 3.
[0085] This application does not limit the specific structure of the first structural member 201. For example, the first structural member 201 may be a housing, mid-frame structure, or the like of an electronic device. Similarly, this application does not limit the specific structure of the second structural member 202. For example, the second structural member 202 may be a housing, mid-frame structure, or the like of an electronic device.
[0086] Please refer to Figures 4 and 5. Figure 4 is a structural schematic diagram of the rotating mechanism 203 provided in some embodiments of this application, and Figure 5 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the rotating mechanism shown in Figure 4 along line A0-A0. The rotating mechanism 203 includes a bearing seat 1 and a first rotating assembly 2.
[0087] For ease of description in the following embodiments, an XYZ coordinate system is established for the rotating shaft mechanism. Specifically, the length direction of the rotating mechanism 203 is defined as the Y-axis direction, that is, the extension direction of the rotation axes of the first structural member 201 and the second structural member 202 is defined as the Y-axis direction, the thickness direction of the rotating mechanism 203 is defined as the Z-axis direction, and the direction perpendicular to both the Y-axis and Z-axis directions is defined as the X-axis direction. It is understood that the coordinate system setting of the rotating mechanism 203 can be flexibly set according to actual needs, and no specific limitation is made here.
[0088] The bearing seat 1 is used to fix the first rotating component 2. Specifically, in order to facilitate the fixing of the first rotating component 2, the bearing seat 1 has a receiving space 1a, in which a part of the first rotating component 2 is accommodated. In this way, the components of the first rotating component 2 can be hidden inside the bearing seat 1, which can improve the appearance of the foldable electronic device 100.
[0089] The first rotating component 2 can be one or more. In the specific example given in Figure 4, there is one first rotating component 2. This should not be considered a special limitation on this application. In other examples, when there are multiple first rotating components 2, there can be two, three, or four first rotating components 2, and the multiple first rotating components 2 are spaced apart in the Y-axis direction.
[0090] The first rotating component 2 can realize the synchronous relative rotation of the first structural component 201 and the second structural component 202.
[0091] Please refer to Figure 4. The first rotating assembly 2 includes a first base 211, a first rotating shaft 22A, a second rotating shaft 22B, a first swing arm 23A, and a second swing arm 23B.
[0092] It is understood that Figure 5 only schematically shows some of the components included in the first rotating assembly 2, and the actual shape, size, position and construction of these components are not limited by Figure 5.
[0093] The first rotating component 2 is fixed to the bearing 1 by means of the first base 211. Specifically, the first rotating component 2 is fixed within the receiving space 1a of the bearing 1. Exemplary methods of fixing the first base 211 to the bearing 1 include, but are not limited to, welding, snap-fitting, screw connection or adhesive bonding.
[0094] The first rotating shaft 22A and the second rotating shaft 22B are arranged in parallel. Specifically, the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 22A extends along the length direction of the rotating mechanism 203, that is, the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 22A is parallel to the Y-axis direction. Correspondingly, the axis of the second rotating shaft 22B is also parallel to the Y-axis direction.
[0095] The first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B are disposed opposite to each other on both sides of the first base 211 in the X-axis direction. Specifically, the first swing arm 23A is sleeved on the first rotating shaft 22A and can rotate relative to the first rotating shaft 22A; the second swing arm 23B is sleeved on the second rotating shaft 22B and can rotate relative to the second rotating shaft 22B.
[0096] The first swing arm 23A is connected to the first structural member 201, and the second swing arm 23B is connected to the second structural member 202, so as to realize the relative rotation of the first structural member 201 and the second structural member 202. This application does not limit the connection relationship between the first swing arm 23A and the first structural member 201, and between the second swing arm 23B and the second structural member 202, as long as the first swing arm 23A can rotate relative to the first rotating shaft 22A under the drive of the first structural member 201, and the second swing arm 23B can rotate relative to the second rotating shaft 22B under the drive of the second structural member 202.
[0097] When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the unfolded state, the first structural member 201, the rotating mechanism 203, and the second structural member 202 are arranged sequentially, and the rotating mechanism 203 is also in the unfolded state. The included angle between the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B is at its maximum value. When the foldable electronic device 100 is in the folded state, the first structural member 201 and the second structural member face each other, and the included angle between the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B is at its minimum value.
[0098] Please refer to Figures 4 and 5. In order to achieve synchronous rotation of the first structural member 201 and the second structural member, the rotating mechanism 203 also includes a first spiral groove 27A, a second spiral groove 27B, a first protrusion 28A, a second protrusion 28B, and a first slider 26.
[0099] The first spiral groove 27A is disposed on the side of the first swing arm 23A near the second swing arm 23B, and the center line of the spiral extension path of the first spiral groove 27A is parallel to the Y-axis direction.
[0100] The second spiral groove 27B and the first spiral groove 27A have opposite directions of rotation. The second spiral groove 27B is located on the side of the second swing arm 23B near the first swing arm 23A, and the center line of the spiral extension path of the second spiral groove 27B is parallel to the axial direction of the second rotating shaft 22B.
[0101] The first slider 26 is sleeved on the first rotating shaft 22A and the second rotating shaft 22B, and can slide relative to the first base 211 along the Y-axis direction.
[0102] The first protrusion 28A and the second protrusion 28B are disposed at both ends of the first slider 26 along the X-axis. The first protrusion 28A can slide along the rotation direction of the first helical groove 27A, and the second protrusion 28B can slide along the rotation direction of the second helical groove 27B.
[0103] In this way, through the first spiral groove 27A and the first protrusion 28A, the second spiral groove 27B and the second protrusion 28B, and the first slider 26, the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B can switch synchronously between the unfolded state and the folded state. Specifically, taking the user rotating the first structural member 201 as an example, the structural principle of the synchronous rotation of the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B is explained, which does not constitute a limitation of this application.
[0104] When the user fixes the second structural component and applies force to the first structural component 201, causing it to rotate relative to the first rotating shaft 22A, the first structural component 201 drives the first swing arm 23A to rotate. The first helical groove 27A rotates relative to the first protrusion 28A, causing the first protrusion 28A to slide along the rotation direction of the first helical groove 27A, thereby causing the first protrusion 28A to slide along the Y-axis. The sliding of the first protrusion 28A along the Y-axis causes the first slider 26 to slide along the Y-axis, further causing the second protrusion 28B to slide along the Y-axis, and causing the second protrusion 28B to slide along the rotation direction of the second helical groove 27B, thereby driving the second helical groove 27B to rotate, and further driving the second swing arm 23B and the second structural component 202 to rotate. Thus, synchronous rotation of the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B, as well as synchronous rotation of the first structural component 201 and the second structural component 202, are achieved.
[0105] However, with increased use and time, wear will occur between the first protrusion 28A and the first helical groove 27A, even causing deformation of both components, resulting in a deviation of their relative sliding trajectory from the designed path. Similarly, wear will occur between the second protrusion 28B and the second helical groove 27B, even causing deformation, leading to a deviation of their relative sliding trajectory from the designed path. Furthermore, wear between components can affect each other. For example, wear on the first slider 26 and the first rotating shaft 22A can cause the first protrusion 28A to tilt, further deviating its sliding trajectory relative to the first helical groove 27A from the designed path, thus causing wear on the first helical groove 27A. Similarly, when the first protrusion 28A and the first spiral groove 27A wear and deform, the rotation and sliding trajectory between the first protrusion 28A and the first spiral groove 27A deviates from the design value, which is then transmitted to the first slider 26, causing the first slider 26 to tilt, which in turn aggravates the wear between the first slider 26 and the first rotating shaft 22A and the second rotating shaft 22B.
[0106] Wear between the first protrusion 28A and the first spiral groove 27A, and wear between the first slider 26 and the first rotating shaft 22A and the second rotating shaft 22B, causes the sliding of the first protrusion 28A in the first spiral groove 27A, the sliding of the second protrusion 28B in the second spiral groove 27B, and the sliding of the first slider 26 along the Y-axis to deviate from the designed trajectory, resulting in poor rotational synchronization between the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B. Simultaneously, the gaps created by wear and deformation between the aforementioned components cause a wobbling or jamming sensation when the first structural member 201 and the second structural member 202 rotate relative to each other, affecting the tactile feel of the foldable electronic device 100.
[0107] The same problem exists between the second protrusion 28B and the second spiral groove 27B, which will not be elaborated here.
[0108] Therefore, this application provides a rotating mechanism 203. Please refer to FIG6, which is a structural schematic diagram of the rotating mechanism 203 provided in some other embodiments of this application. FIG7 is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of the rotating mechanism 203 shown in FIG6 along line B0-B0. The rotating mechanism 203 includes a first rotating component 2.
[0109] Similar to the rotating components shown in Figures 4 and 5, in the rotating mechanism 203, there can be one or more first rotating components 2. When there are multiple first rotating mechanisms, the multiple first rotating components 2 are arranged along the Y-axis direction.
[0110] The structure of the rotating mechanism 203 will be described below using a first rotating component 2 as an example.
[0111] The first rotating assembly 2 includes a first base 211, a first rotating shaft 22A, a second rotating shaft 22B, a first swing arm 23A, a second swing arm 23B, a first slider 26, and a first guide portion 291.
[0112] The first rotating shaft 22A and the second rotating shaft 22B are arranged parallel to each other along the Y-axis direction. That is, the first rotating shaft 22A and the second rotating shaft 22B extend along the Y-axis direction, and the axial direction of the first rotating shaft 22A and the axial direction of the second rotating shaft 22B are parallel to the Y-axis direction.
[0113] The first rotating shaft 22A is connected to the first base 211. The second rotating shaft 22B is connected to the first base 211.
[0114] The first swing arm 23A is sleeved on the first rotating shaft 22A, and the first swing arm 23A can rotate relative to the first rotating shaft 22A; the second swing arm 23B is sleeved on the second rotating shaft 22B, and the second swing arm 23B can rotate relative to the second rotating shaft 22B.
[0115] The first slider 26 is sleeved on the first rotating shaft 22A and the second rotating shaft 22B, and is located between the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B; the first slider 26 can slide along the Y-axis direction.
[0116] The first rotating assembly 2 further includes a first helical groove 27A, a second helical groove 27B, a first protrusion 28A, and a second protrusion 28B. One of the first helical groove 27A and the first protrusion 28A is disposed on the first slider 26, and the other of the first helical groove 27A and the first protrusion 28A is disposed on the first swing arm 23A. One of the second helical groove 27B and the second protrusion 28B is disposed on the first slider 26, and the other of the first helical groove 27A and the first protrusion 28A is disposed on the second swing arm 23B.
[0117] Figure 6 illustrates an example where a first spiral groove 27A is disposed on a first rocker arm 23A, a second spiral groove 27B is disposed on a second rocker arm 23B, and a first protrusion 28A and a second protrusion 28B are disposed at both ends of a first slider 26 along the X-axis direction. This does not constitute a limitation of this application.
[0118] The first spiral groove 27A and the second spiral groove 27B have opposite directions of rotation; the first protrusion 28A and the first spiral groove 27A are slidably connected, and the second protrusion 28B and the second spiral groove 27B are slidably connected.
[0119] The structural principle of the synchronous rotation between the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B through the first spiral groove 27A, the first protrusion 28A, the second spiral groove 27B, and the second protrusion 28B is the same as described above, and will not be repeated here.
[0120] The first rotating assembly 2 also includes a first guide portion 291, and the first slider 26 is slidably connected to the first base 211 through the first guide portion 291. The extension direction of the first guide portion 291 is parallel to the Y-axis direction. When the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B rotate, the first protrusion 28A slides along the first spiral groove 27A, and the second protrusion 28B slides along the second spiral groove 27B, which drives the first slider 26 to slide along the first guide portion 291.
[0121] By providing a first guide portion 291 between the first slider 26 and the first base 211, compared to an embodiment where the first slider 26 slides only on the first rotating shaft 22A and the second rotating shaft 22B, the first slider 26 can also slide along the first guide portion 291 in the Y-axis direction. In this way, the first guide portion 291 can share the force exerted by the first slider 26 during sliding, reducing wear and deformation between the first slider 26 and the rotating shaft, and reducing gaps caused by wear and deformation between the first slider 26 and the rotating shaft. Simultaneously, the extension direction of the first guide portion 291 is parallel to the Y-axis direction, increasing the constraint on the first slider 26 in the direction perpendicular to the Y-axis, preventing the sliding direction of the first slider 26 from deviating due to wear and deformation of the rotating shaft, thus making the sliding direction of the first slider 26 in the Y-axis direction more stable.
[0122] Meanwhile, the reduced wear and deformation between the first slider 26 and the rotating shaft, and the increased stability of the sliding direction of the first slider 26 along the Y-axis, alleviate the wear and deformation between the first protrusion 28A and the first spiral groove 27A, as well as between the second protrusion 28B and the first spiral groove 27A. This increases the orientation of the sliding and rotation of the first protrusion 28A within the first spiral groove 27A, and the orientation of the sliding of the second protrusion 28B within the second spiral groove. This improves the synchronization of the rotation of the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B, enhances the rotation feel of the foldable electronic device 203, and makes the rotation of the first structural member 201 and the second structural member 202 relative to the rotating mechanism 203 in the foldable electronic device 100 smoother and more fluid.
[0123] This application does not limit the connection relationship between the first rotating shaft 22A and the first base 211, as long as the position of the first rotating shaft 22A relative to the first base 211 remains unchanged. This application does not limit the connection relationship between the second rotating shaft 22B and the first base 211, as long as the position of the second rotating shaft 22B relative to the first base 211 remains unchanged.
[0124] In some embodiments, please refer to FIG8, which is a schematic diagram of the structure of a rotating mechanism 203 provided in some embodiments of this application. The rotating mechanism 203 further includes a second base 212, a first connector 24A, a second connector 24B, a third swing arm 25A, and a fourth swing arm 25B.
[0125] The third swing arm 25A is rotatably connected to the second base 212, and both the third swing arm 25A and the first swing arm 23A are connected to the first connecting member 24A. In some embodiments, after the third swing arm 25A and the first swing arm 23A are both connected to the first connecting member 24A, the first connecting member 24A is connected to the first door panel, and then connected to the first structural member 201 (not shown in FIG8) through the first door panel, thereby realizing the synchronous rotation of the first swing arm 23A and the third swing arm 25A.
[0126] In other embodiments, the first connector 24A is also the first door panel, and the first swing arm 23A and the third swing arm 25A are connected to the first structural member 201 through the first connector 24A, thereby realizing the synchronous rotation of the first swing arm 23A and the third swing arm 25A.
[0127] The fourth swing arm 25B is rotatably connected to the second base 212, and both the fourth swing arm 25B and the second swing arm 23B are connected to the second connecting member 24B. In some embodiments, after the second swing arm 23B and the fourth swing arm 25B are both connected to the second connecting member 24B, the second connecting member 24B is connected to the second door panel, and then connected to the second structural member 202 (not shown in FIG8) through the second door panel, thereby realizing the synchronous rotation of the second swing arm 23B and the fourth swing arm 25B.
[0128] Similarly, in other embodiments, the second connector 24B can also be a second door panel, and the second swing arm 23B and the fourth swing arm 25B are connected to the second structural member 202 through the second connector 24B, thereby realizing the synchronous rotation of the second swing arm 23B and the fourth swing arm 25B.
[0129] The second base 212 is located on one side of the first base 211 in the Y-axis direction, and the second base 212 is connected to the first base 211. This application does not limit the connection relationship between the first base 211 and the second base 212. For example, the first base 211 and the second base 212 can be connected by welding, snap-fitting, gluing, spiral connection, etc., or the first guide groove c1 and the first base 211 can also be integrally formed. Figure 8 illustrates an example of a bolted connection between the first base 211 and the second base 212.
[0130] The first base 211 and the second base 212 are integrally formed, which reduces the number of supports in the rotating mechanism 203, improves the assembly accuracy of the rotating mechanism 203, and reduces the possibility of asynchronous rotation of the two swing arms on the same side due to assembly errors. Simultaneously, the integral formation of the first base 211 and the second base 212 increases the overall rigidity of the rotating mechanism 203, preventing asynchronous rotation of the two swing arms on the same side due to local deformation of the first base 211 and the second base 212. Therefore, the rotational synchronization of the first structural component 201 and the second structural component is improved, enhancing the tactile feel of the foldable electronic device 100.
[0131] When the rotating mechanism 203 includes a second base 212, the first rotating shaft 22A and the second rotating shaft 22B can be simultaneously connected to the first base 211 and the second base 212, so that the first rotating shaft 22A and the second rotating shaft 22B have multiple support points in the Y-axis direction, thereby improving the connection stability of the first rotating shaft 22A and the second rotating shaft 22B relative to the first base 211. Specifically, as shown in FIG8, the first base 211 includes a first support portion 211a, the second base 212 includes a second support portion 212a, and the first rotating shaft 22A and the second rotating shaft 22B can be simultaneously connected to the first support portion 211a and the second support portion 212a.
[0132] The structure of the first guide section 291 will be described below.
[0133] Please refer back to Figure 7. The first guide section 291 includes a first guide groove c1 and a first guide block k1. The first guide groove c1 is disposed on the first slider 26, and the first guide block k1 is disposed on the first base 211. The first guide block k1 is slidably connected to the first guide groove. Both the first guide groove c1 and the first guide block k1 extend along the Y-axis direction.
[0134] In this way, the first guide block k1 can slide on the first guide groove c1, allowing the first slider 26 to slide along the first guide portion 291. Simultaneously, the sliding engagement between the first guide groove c1 and the first guide block k1 ensures that the first slider 26 slides along the extension direction of the first guide block k1 and the first guide groove c1 (i.e., the Y-axis direction), reducing the possibility of sliding deviation. Furthermore, since the sliding engagement between the first guide block k1 and the first guide groove c1 is an embedded structure, compared to planar contact sliding, the embedded structure can better resist the wobbling of the first slider 26 in other directions (other than the Y-axis direction, such as the X-axis and Y-axis directions), improving the stability of the first slider 26's sliding.
[0135] This application does not limit the connection relationship between the first guide block k1 and the first base 211, as long as there is no relative movement between them. For example, the first guide block k1 and the first base 211 can be connected by welding, snap-fitting, gluing, spiral connection, etc., or the first guide block k1 and the first base 211 can be integrally formed. Integral forming increases the structural strength of the first guide block k1 and improves the stability of the first slider 26 sliding along the first guide portion 291.
[0136] This application does not limit the connection relationship between the first guide groove c1 and the first slider 26, as long as there is no relative movement between them. For example, the first guide groove c1 and the first base 211 can be connected by welding, snap-fitting, gluing, spiral connection, etc., or the first guide groove c1 and the first base 211 can be integrally formed. Integral forming of the first guide groove c1 and the first base 211 increases the structural strength of the first guide groove c1 and improves the stability of sliding along the first guide portion 291.
[0137] It is understood that in some embodiments, the positions of the first guide block k1 and the first guide groove c1 can also be interchanged. Please refer to Figure 9, which is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the rotating mechanism 203 provided in some embodiments of this application. The first guide block k1 is disposed on the first slider 26, and the first guide groove c1 is disposed on the first base 211. It is sufficient that one of the first slider 26 and the first guide block k is disposed on the first slider, and the other is disposed on the first base.
[0138] The longitudinal cross-sectional shapes of the first guide groove c1 and the first guide block k1 are matched to make the relative sliding between the first guide groove c1 and the first guide block k1 smoother. This application does not limit the longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the first guide groove c1 and the first guide block k1. In some embodiments, referring to Figures 7 and 9, the longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the first guide groove c1 and the first guide block k1 is rectangular. The rectangular longitudinal cross-section of the first guide groove c1 and the first guide block k1 results in a simple structure that is easy to process and manufacture.
[0139] In some other embodiments, please refer to Figure 10, which is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of the rotating mechanism 203 provided in some embodiments of this application. The longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the first guide groove c1 and the first guide block k1 is trapezoidal. The trapezoidal longitudinal cross-section makes the two side walls of the first guide groove c1 and the first guide block k1 have a certain inclination angle, which makes the sliding orientation of the first guide block k1 along the first guide groove c1 more accurate.
[0140] In some other embodiments, please refer to FIG11, which is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of the rotating mechanism 203 provided in some other embodiments of this application. The longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the first guide groove c1 and the first guide block k1 is an inverted trapezoid.
[0141] In some other embodiments, please refer to Figure 12, which is a schematic cross-sectional view of the rotating mechanism 203 provided in some other embodiments of this application. The longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the first guide groove c1 and the first guide block k1 is arc-shaped. The arc-shaped longitudinal cross-sectional shape can reduce the stress concentration between the first guide block k1 and the first guide groove c1, making the sliding between the first guide groove c1 and the first guide block k1 smoother.
[0142] In other embodiments, please refer to Figure 13, which is a cross-sectional structural diagram of the rotating mechanism 203 provided in other embodiments of this application. The longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the first guide groove c1 and the first guide block k1 is dovetail-shaped. The dovetail-shaped first guide groove c1 and the first guide block k1 slide together, which can provide good self-locking performance, prevent the first guide block k1 from dislodging from the first guide groove c1, and improve the orientation and stability of the sliding of the first guide block k1 along the first guide groove c1.
[0143] To further improve the smoothness of the relative sliding between the first guide groove c1 and the first guide block k1, in some embodiments, please refer to Figures 14 and 15. Figure 14 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the rotation mechanism 203 provided in some other embodiments of this application, and Figure 15 is a structural schematic diagram of the first slider 26 provided in some embodiments of this application. The rotation mechanism 203 also includes a groove a1 and a ball g1.
[0144] The first guide groove c1 includes a first surface m1 facing the first guide block k1; the first guide block k1 includes a second surface m2 facing the first guide groove. That is, the first surface m1 and the second surface m2 are opposite to each other.
[0145] The first surface m1 has a groove a1, the opening of which faces the second surface m2; a ball g1 is located inside the groove a1. The ball g1 protrudes or is flush with the first surface m1.
[0146] In this way, the sliding fit between the first guide block k1 and the first guide groove c1 is transformed into the rolling fit between the first guide block k1 and the ball g1, which reduces the friction between the first guide block k1 and the first guide groove c1, making the sliding between the first guide block k1 and the first guide groove c1 smoother, and thus making the synchronous rotation between the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B smoother.
[0147] This application does not limit the number of balls g1. For example, the balls g1 can be one, two, three, four, five or more.
[0148] This application does not limit the shape of the groove a1, as long as the ball g1 can be installed in the groove a1. For example, as shown in Figure 15, the groove a1 is cylindrical, and the cross-sectional shape of the groove a1 matches the cross-sectional shape of the ball g1. The length direction of the groove a1 is parallel to the Y-axis direction. Blocks d1 are also provided at both ends of the groove a1 in the length direction to prevent the ball g1 from sliding out of the groove a1 and to facilitate the replacement of the ball g1.
[0149] This application does not limit the location of the groove a1 on the first surface m1, as long as the ball g1 located in the groove a1 can contact and slide with the second surface m2 of the first guide groove. In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 14 and 15, the groove a1 is located on the side of the first surface m1 along the X-axis direction. It is understood that in other embodiments, the groove a1 may also be located on one side of the first surface m1 along the Z-axis direction.
[0150] This application does not limit the number of grooves a1. For example, as shown in Figures 14 and 15, there are two grooves a1, which are symmetrically distributed on opposite sides of the first surface m1 along the X-axis.
[0151] In another embodiment, the groove a1 may also be provided on the second surface m2 of the first guide block k1, with the ball g1 protruding or flush with the second surface m2. Please refer to Figure 16, which is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of the rotation mechanism 203 provided in some other embodiments of this application. There are two grooves a1, located on opposite sides of the second surface m2 along the X-axis.
[0152] It is understood that in other embodiments, the groove a1 may also be simultaneously provided on the first surface m1 and the second surface m2. Please refer to Figure 17, which is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of the rotation mechanism 203 provided in some other embodiments of this application. There are four grooves a1, two of which are provided on opposite sides of the second surface m2 along the X-axis, and the other two are provided on opposite sides of the first surface m1 along the X-axis. Thus, the sliding fit between the first guide block k1 and the first guide groove c1 is transformed into a rolling fit between two balls g1, reducing the friction between the first guide block k1 and the first guide groove c1, making the sliding between the first guide block k1 and the first guide groove c1 smoother, and consequently making the synchronous rotation between the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B smoother.
[0153] In the above embodiment, by providing a first guide portion 291 extending along the Y-axis between the first sliders 26, the first sliders 26 can slide along the first guide portion 291 in addition to sliding on the first rotating shaft 22A and the second rotating shaft 22B, thereby improving the guiding performance of the first sliders 26 sliding in the first direction.
[0154] The following describes the specific implementation method of achieving synchronous rotation between the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B through a helical groove and a protrusion. Specifically, by setting a first helical groove 27A and a first protrusion 28A between the first slider 26 and the first swing arm 23A, and setting a second helical groove 27B and a second protrusion 28B between the first slider 26 and the second swing arm 23B, the synchronous rotation of the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B is achieved.
[0155] Please refer to Figure 18, which is a partially exploded structural diagram of a rotating mechanism provided in some embodiments of this application.
[0156] The first swing arm 23A includes a first rotating part 23A1 and a first swinging part 23A2 arranged along the X-axis. The first rotating part 23A1 is sleeved on the first rotating shaft 22A and can rotate relative to the first rotating shaft 22A. The first swinging part 23A2 and the first rotating part 23A1 are connected.
[0157] The first spiral groove 27A is disposed on the outer wall surface of the first rotating part 23A1, and the center line of the spiral extension path of the first spiral groove 27A is parallel to the Y-axis direction.
[0158] The second swing arm 23B includes a second rotating part 23B1 and a second swinging part 23B2 arranged along the X-axis. The second rotating part 23B1 is sleeved on the second rotating shaft 22B and is rotatable relative to the second rotating shaft 22B. The second swinging part 23B2 and the second rotating part 23B1 are connected.
[0159] The second spiral groove 27B and the first spiral groove 27A have opposite directions of rotation. The second spiral groove 27B is provided on the outer wall surface of the second rotating part 23B1, and the center line of the spiral extension path of the second spiral groove 27B is parallel to the axial direction of the second rotating shaft 22B.
[0160] The opening of the first spiral groove 27A faces the first slider 26. The first protrusion 28A is disposed on the side of the first slider 26 near the first swing arm 23A along the X-axis, and the first protrusion 28A can slide along the rotation direction of the first spiral groove 27A. The opening of the second spiral groove faces the first slider 26. The second protrusion 28B is disposed on the side of the first slider 26 near the second swing arm 23B along the X-axis, and the second protrusion 28B can slide along the rotation direction of the second spiral groove 27B.
[0161] In this way, when the first swing arm 23A rotates, the first rotating part 23A1 rotates relative to the first rotating shaft 22A under the drive of the first swing part 23A2, causing the first spiral groove 27A to rotate relative to the first rotating shaft 22A, and causing the first protrusion 28A to slide along the rotational extension direction of the spiral groove, thereby driving the first slider 26 to slide along the first direction. The first slider 26 slides along the first direction, causing the second protrusion 28B to slide along the first direction and simultaneously slide within the second spiral groove 27B along the rotational extension direction of the second spiral groove 27B, thereby driving the second swing arm 23B to rotate synchronously.
[0162] It is understood that the positions of the spiral groove and the protrusion can also be interchanged. That is, in some other embodiments, the first protrusion 28A can be disposed on the first rotating part 23A1, the second protrusion 28B can be disposed on the second rotating part 23B1, and the first spiral groove 27A and the spiral groove can be disposed on the first slider 26.
[0163] Based on the above embodiments, in some embodiments, please refer to FIG19, which is an exploded structural diagram of the rotating mechanism 203 provided in some embodiments of this application. The rotating mechanism 203 further includes a damping module 3. The damping module 3 is disposed on one side of the first swing arm 23A in the first direction.
[0164] The function of the damping module 3 is as follows: when the first swing arm 23A rotates relative to the first pivot 22A, the damping module 3 applies pressure (damping force) along the Y-axis to the first swing arm 23A to prevent it from rotating. This allows the first swing arm 23A to be held at one, several, or any opening angle, ensuring the stability of the foldable electronic device 100 at these angles. Simultaneously, the damping module 3 constantly presses against the first swing arm 23A along the Y-axis, requiring the user to apply an external force to overcome this pressing force (i.e., damping force) when the first swing arm 23A rotates relative to the first pivot 22A. Therefore, compared to a rotation mechanism 203 without the damping module 3, the damping module 3 allows the user to rotate the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B smoothly, providing a better rotation feel.
[0165] When the rotating mechanism 203 includes the damping module 3 (not shown in FIG20), please refer to FIG19, FIG20 and FIG21. FIG20 is an exploded structural diagram of the rotating mechanism provided in some embodiments of the present application in the unfolded state, and FIG21 is an exploded structural diagram of the rotating mechanism provided in some embodiments of the present application in the folded state. It also includes a first swing arm 23A including a first part 231 and a second part 232 arranged along the Y-axis direction. The first part 231 can slide along the Y-axis direction and abuts against the damping module 3.
[0166] The second swing arm 23B includes a third part 233 and a fourth part 234 arranged axially along the second pivot 22B. The third part 233 is capable of sliding along the axial direction of the second pivot 22B and abuts against the damping module 3.
[0167] Figure 21 only illustrates the structure of the first swing arm 23A fitted onto the first rotating shaft 22A, omitting the second swing arm 23B. The connection between the third part 233 and the fourth part 234 of the second swing arm 23B and the second rotating shaft 22B is the same as the connection between the first part 231 and the second part 232 of the first swing arm 23A and the first rotating shaft 22A. The second swing arm 23B and the first swing arm 23A are symmetrically arranged along the central axis of the first base 211.
[0168] In some embodiments, please continue to refer to Figures 20 and 21. The first protrusion 28A has a first helical surface s1 near both ends of the first helical groove 27A along the Y-axis direction. The first helical surface s1 and the first helical groove 27A have the same direction of rotation. The first protrusion 28A is slidably connected to the first helical groove 27A through the first helical surface s1.
[0169] The second protrusion 28B has a second helical surface s2 near both ends of the second helical groove along the Y-axis direction. The second helical surface s2 and the second helical groove have the same direction of rotation. The second protrusion 28B is slidably connected to the second helical groove through the second helical surface s2.
[0170] In this way, the first protrusion 28A slides within the first helical groove 27A via the first helical surface s1, and the second protrusion 28B slides within the second helical groove via the second helical surface s2. This makes the force distribution on the contact surfaces between the first protrusion 28A and the first helical groove 27A, and between the first protrusion 28A and the first helical groove 27A more uniform, reducing wear and deformation caused by localized force concentration. Simultaneously, transforming the sliding between the block and the surface into sliding between the surfaces increases the accuracy of the relative sliding between the first protrusion 28A and the first helical groove 27A, and between the first protrusion 28A and the first helical groove 27A, improving the rotational synchronization of the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B.
[0171] The first helical groove 27A includes a third helical surface s3 and a fourth helical surface s4 that are opposite each other along the Y-axis. The third helical surface s3 is disposed on the surface of the first part 231 of the first swing arm 23A facing the second part 232, and the fourth helical surface s4 is disposed on the surface of the second part 232 facing the first part 231.
[0172] The second spiral groove 27B includes a fifth spiral s5 and a sixth spiral surface s6 that are axially opposite each other along the second rotating shaft 22B. The fifth spiral surface s5 is disposed on the surface of the third part 233 of the second swing arm 23B facing the fourth part 234, and the sixth spiral surface s6 is disposed on the surface of the fourth part 234 facing the third part 233.
[0173] At this time, the opening of the first spiral groove 27A faces the first slider 26, and the first protrusion 28A is disposed on the side of the first slider 26 near the first swing arm 23A along the X-axis, and the first protrusion 28A can slide along the rotation direction of the first spiral groove 27A. The opening of the second spiral groove faces the first slider 26, and the second protrusion 28B is disposed on the side of the first slider 26 near the second swing arm 23B along the X-axis, and the second protrusion 28B can slide along the rotation direction of the second spiral groove 27B.
[0174] When the rotating mechanism 203 rotates, for example, when the rotating mechanism 203 switches from the unfolded state shown in FIG20 to the folded state shown in FIG21, the first spiral groove 27A rotates relative to the first rotating shaft 22A under the drive of the first swing arm 23A, so that the first spiral groove 27A rotates relative to the first rotating shaft 22A along direction b1, and causes the first spiral surface s1 on the first protrusion 28A to slide along the extension direction of the third spiral surface s3 and the fourth spiral surface s4, thereby driving the first slider 26 to slide along direction b2. The first slider 26 slides along direction b2, so that the second spiral surface on the first protrusion 28A slides along the extension direction of the fifth spiral surface s5 and the sixth spiral surface s6, thereby driving the second swing arm 23B to rotate synchronously from the unfolded state to the folded state.
[0175] Since the first part 231 and the second part 232 of the first swing arm 23A together form the first spiral groove 27A, and the first part 231 can slide relative to the first rotating shaft 22A, under the action of the damping module 3, the third spiral surface s3 and the fourth spiral surface s4 on the first spiral groove 27A are always kept in a compressed state along the Y-axis direction. In this way, when wear occurs between the first protrusion 28A and the first spiral groove 27A, creating a gap, this gap will be offset by the damping force of the damping module 3. As a result, the wear between the first spiral groove 27A and the first protrusion 28A is reduced, increasing the orientation of the sliding and rotation of the first protrusion 28A within the first spiral groove 27A, improving the synchronization of the rotation of the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B, enhancing the rotation feel of the rotating mechanism 203, and making the synchronous rotation of the first structural member 201 and the second structural member 202 relative to the rotating mechanism 203 in the foldable electronic device 100 smoother.
[0176] Similarly, since the third part 233 and the fourth part 234 of the second swing arm 23B together constitute the second helical groove 27B, and the third part 233 can slide relative to the second rotating shaft 22B, under the action of the damping module 3, the fifth helical surface s5 and the sixth helical surface s6 on the second helical groove 27B are always kept in a compressed state along the axial direction of the second rotating shaft 22B. In this way, when wear occurs between the second protrusion 28B and the second helical groove 27B, creating a gap, this gap will be offset by the damping force applied by the damping module 3. As a result, the wear between the second helical groove 27B and the second protrusion 28B is reduced, increasing the orientation of the sliding and rotation of the second protrusion 28B within the second helical groove 27B, improving the synchronization of the rotation of the second swing arm 23B and the first swing arm 23A, enhancing the rotation feel of the rotating mechanism 203, and making the synchronous rotation of the second structural member 202 and the first structural member 201 relative to the rotating mechanism 203 in the foldable electronic device 100 smoother.
[0177] The structure of the damping module 3 will be described below. Please refer to Figures 19 and 22. Figure 22 is a partially exploded structural diagram of the rotation mechanism 203 provided in some other embodiments of this application. The damping module 3 includes an elastic component 31 and a second slider 32.
[0178] The elastic component 31 can have various structural forms, and this application does not limit it, as long as the elastic component 31 always applies a damping force along the first direction to the first swing arm 23A. Exemplary examples include compression springs, disc springs, metal-rubber springs, gas springs, torsion springs, etc. Figure 22 illustrates this with the elastic component 31 as a compression spring.
[0179] The first swing arm 23A, the second slider 32, and the elastic component 31 are arranged sequentially along the Y-axis.
[0180] In the Y-axis direction, one end of the elastic member 31 is fixedly connected to the first base 211, and the other end abuts against the second slider 32. This application does not limit the connection relationship between one end of the elastic member 31 and the first base 211. For example, as shown in FIG19, to facilitate the positioning and installation of the elastic member 31 and its operation, the damping module 3 further includes a positioning block 34. The positioning block 34 is disposed on the side of the elastic member 31 away from the second slider 32. The elastic member 31 is located between the positioning block 34 and the second slider 32. The elastic member 31 is always in a compressed deformation state, thereby causing the elastic member 31 to always apply a force along the first direction toward the first swing arm 23A to the second slider 32.
[0181] Based on this, in order to prevent the elastic component 31 from detaching from the second slider 32 and the positioning block 34, the elastic component 31 can be simultaneously fitted onto the first rotating shaft 22A and the second rotating shaft 22B. This prevents the elastic component 31 from detaching and allows it to move axially along the first rotating shaft 22A and the second rotating shaft 22B, ensuring the direction of the damping force.
[0182] The second slider 32 is sleeved on the first rotating shaft 22A and the second rotating shaft 22B, and the second slider 32 is slidably connected to the first rotating shaft 22A and the second rotating shaft 22B.
[0183] Please refer to Figure 22. The first swing arm 23A has a third surface m3, and the second slider 32 has a fourth surface m4. The third surface m3 and the fourth surface m4 are opposite each other in the Y-axis direction. The rotation mechanism 203 also includes a first recess 351 and a first protrusion 361. One of the first recess 351 and the first protrusion 361 is disposed on the third surface m3, and the other of the first recess 351 and the first protrusion 361 is disposed on the fourth surface m4. Figure 22 is illustrated by way of the first protrusion 361 being disposed on the third surface m3 and the first recess 351 being disposed on the fourth surface m4, which does not constitute a limitation of this application.
[0184] The rotating mechanism 203 has a first state and a second state, in which the included angle between the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B is different. This application does not limit the included angle between the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B in the first state, or in the second state. For example, in the first state, the included angle between the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B is 170°, and in the second state, the included angle between the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B is 90°.
[0185] In the first state, the first protrusion 361 is located within the first recess 351, and the elastic member undergoes a first deformation. In the second state, the first protrusion 361 and the second recess 352 are misaligned, and the elastic member 31 undergoes a second deformation. The deformation amount of the second deformation is greater than the deformation amount of the first deformation.
[0186] When the user drives the foldable electronic device 100 to rotate from the second state to the first state, the first protrusion 361 rotates along with the rotation of the first swing arm 23A. During this process, the first protrusion 361 gradually slides into the first recess 351 until the first protrusion 361 is located within the first recess 351, at which point the elastic member 31 undergoes a first deformation. Through the cooperation of the first recess 351 and the first protrusion 361, the foldable electronic device 100 can be locked in the first state.
[0187] This allows the foldable electronic device 100 to remain stable at least in a first state. For example, when the first state is a folded state, it can prevent the foldable electronic device 100 from being accidentally unfolded, thereby protecting the foldable screen 10 and the internal components of the foldable electronic device 100.
[0188] In some embodiments, the first recess 351 and the first protrusion 361 may also be disposed between the second rocker arm 23B and the second slider 32. In other embodiments, there are two of each of the first recess 351 and the first protrusion 361, respectively disposed on the side of the first rocker arm 23A facing the second slider 32, the side of the second rocker arm 23B facing the second slider 32, the side of the second slider 32 facing the first rocker arm 23A, and the side of the second slider 32 facing the second rocker arm 23B, as shown in FIG22.
[0189] The combination of different numbers of recesses and protrusions allows the foldable electronic device 100 to remain locked at more angles. Therefore, in some other embodiments, the third surface m3 and the fourth surface m4 may also include multiple recesses and multiple protrusions. The recesses and protrusions on the same surface are spaced apart along the Y-axis direction. The multiple recesses and multiple protrusions on the third surface m3 and the fourth surface m4 are staggered, so that the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B can be locked at multiple angles, and the foldable electronic device 100 can remain stable at multiple angles, enhancing the user experience.
[0190] When the rotating shaft mechanism includes the second slider 32 in the damping module 3, with increased usage and time, wear and deformation will occur between the second slider 32 and the first rotating shaft 22A and the second rotating shaft 22B, causing the sliding of the second slider 32 on the first rotating shaft 22A to deviate from the Y-axis direction. This results in a deviation between the meshing point of the first recess 351 and the first protrusion 361 and the design value, leading to an abnormal torque curve. Consequently, the relative rotation between the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B will experience jamming or wobbling, affecting the rotational feel of the rotating mechanism 203.
[0191] The torque curve refers to the curve formed by the change of the force transmitted through the first sliding block to the other of the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B as the rotation angle changes when the user holds the first structural component 201 and the second structural component and applies torque to one of the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B.
[0192] To address the aforementioned problem of abnormal torque curves, in some embodiments, please refer to Figures 23 and 24. Figure 23 is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of the rotating mechanism 203 provided in other embodiments of this application, and Figure 24 is a partially exploded structural schematic diagram of the rotating mechanism 203 provided in some embodiments of this application. The rotating mechanism 203 further includes a second guide portion 292, the extension direction of which is parallel to the Y-axis direction. The second slider 32 is slidably connected to the first base 211 through the second guide portion 292.
[0193] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 23 and 24, the second guide portion 292 includes a second guide groove c2 and a second guide block k2, the extension directions of which are parallel to the Y-axis direction. One of the second guide groove c2 and the second guide block k2 is disposed on the second slider 32, and the other of the second guide groove c2 and the first guide block k2 is disposed on the first base 211. The second guide block k2 is slidably connected to the second guide groove c2. Figures 23 and 24 are illustrated with the example of the first base 211 including the second guide groove c2 and the second slider 32 including the second guide block k2.
[0194] It is understood that when the first base 211 includes both the first guide groove c1 and the second guide groove c2, or when the first base 211 includes both the first guide block k1 and the second guide block k2, the first guide groove c1 and the second guide groove c2 can be integrally formed parts, and the first guide block k1 and the second guide block k2 can also be integrally formed parts.
[0195] By providing a second guide portion 292 between the second slider 32 and the first base 211, compared to an embodiment where the second slider 32 slides only on the first rotating shaft 22A and the second rotating shaft 22B, the second slider 32 can also slide along the second guide portion 292 in the Y-axis direction. In this way, the second guide portion 292 can share the force exerted on the second slider 32 during sliding, reducing wear and deformation between the second slider 32 and the rotating shaft, and reducing gaps caused by wear and deformation between the second slider 32 and the rotating shaft. Simultaneously, the extension direction of the second guide portion 292 is parallel to the Y-axis direction, increasing the constraint on the second slider 32 in the direction perpendicular to the Y-axis, preventing the sliding direction of the second slider 32 from deviating due to wear and deformation of the rotating shaft, thus making the sliding direction of the second slider 32 in the Y-axis direction more stable.
[0196] Meanwhile, the reduced wear and deformation between the second slider 32 and the rotating shaft, as well as the increased stability of the sliding direction of the second slider 32 along the Y-axis, make the meshing point between the first concave portion 351 and the first convex portion 361 closer to the design value, reducing the abnormality of the torque curve, improving the synchronization of the rotation of the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B, and enhancing the rotation feel of the foldable electronic device 100.
[0197] This application does not limit the connection relationship between the second guide block k2 and the second slider 32, as long as there is no relative movement between the second guide block k2 and the second slider 32. For example, the second guide block k2 and the second slider 32 can be connected by welding, snap-fitting, gluing, spiral connection, etc., or the second guide block k2 and the second slider k2 can also be integrally formed parts.
[0198] This application does not limit the longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the second guide groove c2. For example, the longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the second guide groove c2 is the same as that of the first guide block. The longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the second guide groove includes rectangles, trapezoids, inverted trapezoids, arcs, dovetail grooves, etc. The longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the second guide block k2 matches that of the second guide groove c2.
[0199] Similarly, a groove a1 and a ball g1 can also be provided between the second guide groove c2 and the second guide block k2. Please refer to Figure 25, which is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of the rotation mechanism 203 provided in some other embodiments of this application. The second guide groove c2 includes a seventh surface m7, which faces the second guide block k2; the second guide block k2 includes an eighth surface m8, which faces the second guide groove c2. The seventh surface m7 and / or the eighth surface m8 have a groove a1, the opening of which faces the eighth surface m8 and / or the seventh surface m7, and a ball g1 is provided in the groove a1. The arrangement of the groove a1 and the ball g1 on the seventh surface m7 and the eighth surface m8 is the same as the arrangement of the groove a1 and the ball g1 on the first surface m1 and the second surface m2, and will not be repeated here.
[0200] In some embodiments, when the first swing arm 23A includes a first portion 231 and a second portion 232, and the second swing arm 23B includes a third portion 233 and a fourth portion 234, please refer back to FIG19. The second portion 232 can also slide along the Y-axis direction, and the fourth portion 234 can also slide along the axial direction of the second rotating shaft 22B.
[0201] The rotating mechanism 203 also includes a third slider 33 and a limiting member 37. The third slider 33 is sleeved on the first rotating shaft 22A and the second rotating shaft 22B, and is slidably connected to the first rotating shaft 22A and the second rotating shaft 22B. The limiting member 37 is fixedly connected to the first base 211. The elastic component 31, the first swing arm 23A, the third slider 33, and the limiting member 37 are arranged sequentially along the Y-axis direction; the first swing arm 23A abuts against one end of the third slider 33, and the other end of the third slider abuts against the limiting member 37.
[0202] Please refer to Figure 26, which is a partially exploded structural diagram of the rotating mechanism 203 provided in some embodiments of this application. The second part 232 has a fifth surface m5, and the third slider 33 has a sixth surface m6. The fifth surface m5 and the sixth surface m6 are opposite to each other in the Y-axis direction. The rotating mechanism 203 also includes a second recess 352 and a second protrusion 362. One of the second recess 352 and the second protrusion 362 is disposed on the fifth surface m5, and one of the second recess 352 and the second protrusion 362 is disposed on the sixth surface m6. Figure 26 is illustrated by taking the second protrusion 362 disposed on the fifth surface m5 and the second recess 352 disposed on the sixth surface m6 as an example, which does not constitute a limitation of this application.
[0203] The rotating mechanism 203 has a third state and a fourth state. The included angle between the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B is different in the third state and the fourth state. This application does not limit the included angle between the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B in the third state, or the included angle between the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B in the fourth state. For example, in the third state, the included angle between the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B is 135°, and in the fourth state, the included angle between the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B is 45°.
[0204] It is understood that in some embodiments, the third state may be the same as the first state, and the fourth state may be the same as the second state. The same state means that the included angle between the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B is the same.
[0205] In the third state, the second protrusion 362 is located inside the second recess 352, and the elastic member 31 produces a third deformation; in the fourth state, the second protrusion and the second recess are misaligned, and the elastic member produces a fourth deformation, the deformation of the fourth deformation being greater than the deformation of the third deformation.
[0206] When the user drives the foldable electronic device 100 to rotate from the fourth state to the third state, the second protrusion 362 rotates along with the first swing arm 23A. During this process, the second protrusion 362 gradually slides into the second recess 352 until it is located within the second recess 352, at which point the elastic member 31 exhibits a third deformation. Through the cooperation of the second recess 352 and the second protrusion 362, the foldable electronic device 100 can be locked in the third state, ensuring that the foldable electronic device 100 remains stable at least in the third state. Simultaneously, the third slider 33 increases the pressure of the second slider 32 on the elastic member 31. Therefore, the damping force inside the rotation mechanism 203 can be increased by setting the third slider 33 according to the requirements of rotation feel and damping force.
[0207] Similarly, there can be multiple second recesses 352 and second protrusions 362. When there are multiple second recesses 352 and second protrusions 362, the configuration can be referred to the description of the first recess 351 and the first protrusion 361 in the previous embodiment, which will not be repeated here.
[0208] When the rotating mechanism 203 includes a third slider 33, with increased usage and time, wear and deformation will occur between the third slider 33 and the first rotating shaft 22A and the second rotating shaft 22B, causing the sliding of the third slider 33 on the first rotating shaft 22A to deviate from the Y-axis direction. This results in a deviation between the meshing point of the second recess 352 and the second protrusion 362 and the design value, which in turn leads to an abnormal torque curve. Consequently, the relative rotation between the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B will experience jamming or wobbling, affecting the rotation feel of the rotating mechanism 203.
[0209] Therefore, in some embodiments, please refer to Figures 27 and 28. Figure 27 is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of the rotating mechanism 203 provided in other embodiments of this application, and Figure 28 is a partially exploded structural schematic diagram of the rotating mechanism 203 provided in other embodiments of this application. The rotating mechanism 203 also includes a third guide portion 293, the extension direction of which is parallel to the Y-axis direction. The third slider 33 is slidably connected to the first base 211 through the third guide portion 293.
[0210] By providing a third guide portion 293 between the third slider 33 and the first base 211, compared to an embodiment where the third slider 33 slides only on the first rotating shaft 22A and the second rotating shaft 22B, the third slider 33 can also slide along the third guide portion 293 in the Y-axis direction. In this way, the third guide portion 293 can share the force exerted by the third slider 33 during sliding, reducing wear and deformation between the third slider 33 and the rotating shaft, and reducing gaps caused by wear and deformation between the third slider 33 and the rotating shaft. Simultaneously, the extension direction of the third guide portion 293 is parallel to the Y-axis direction, increasing the constraint on the third slider 33 in the direction perpendicular to the Y-axis, preventing the sliding direction of the third slider 33 from shifting due to wear and deformation of the rotating shaft, thus making the sliding direction of the third slider 33 in the Y-axis direction more stable.
[0211] Meanwhile, the reduced wear and deformation between the third slider 33 and the rotating shaft, and the increased stability of the sliding direction of the third slider 33 along the Y-axis, make the meshing point between the second concave portion 352 and the second convex portion 362 closer to the design value, reducing the abnormality of the torque curve, improving the synchronization of the rotation of the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B, and improving the rotation feel of the foldable electronic device 100.
[0212] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 27 and 28, the third guide portion 293 includes a third guide block k3 and a third guide groove c3, the extending directions of the third guide block k3 and the third guide groove c3 being parallel to the Y-axis direction; one of the third guide block k3 and the third guide groove c3 is disposed on the third slider 33; the other of the third guide block k3 and the first guide groove c3 is disposed on the first base 211, and the third guide block k3 is slidably connected to the third guide groove c3. Figures 27 and 28 are illustrated with the example of the first base 211 including the third guide block k3 and the third slider 33 including the third guide groove c3.
[0213] It is understandable that when the first base 211 includes both the first guide groove c1 and the third guide groove c3, or when the first base 211 includes both the first guide block k1 and the third guide block k3, the first guide groove c1 and the third guide groove c3 can be integrally formed parts, and the first guide block k1 and the third guide block k3 can also be integrally formed parts.
[0214] This application does not limit the connection relationship between the third guide block k3 and the first base 211, as long as there is no relative movement between them. For example, the third guide block k3 and the first base 211 can be connected by welding, snap-fitting, gluing, spiral connection, etc., or they can be integrally formed. Integrating the third guide block k3 with the first base 211 increases the structural strength of the third guide block k3 and improves the stability of the third slider 33 sliding along the third guide portion 293.
[0215] This application does not limit the longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the third guide groove c3. For example, the longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the third guide groove c3 is the same as that of the first guide block. The longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the third guide groove includes rectangles, trapezoids, inverted trapezoids, arcs, dovetail grooves, etc. The longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the third guide block k3 matches that of the third guide groove c3.
[0216] Similarly, a groove a1 and a ball g1 can also be provided between the third guide groove c3 and the third guide block k3. Please refer to Figure 29, which is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of the rotation mechanism 203 provided in some other embodiments of this application. The third guide groove c3 includes a ninth surface m9, which faces the third guide block k3; the third guide block k3 includes a tenth surface m10, which faces the third guide groove c3. The ninth surface m9 and / or the tenth surface m10 have a groove a1, the opening of which faces the tenth surface m10 and / or the ninth surface m9, and a ball g1 is provided in the groove a1. The arrangement of the groove a1 and the ball g1 on the ninth surface m9 and the tenth surface m10 is the same as the arrangement of the groove a1 and the ball g1 on the first surface m1 and the second surface m2, and will not be repeated here.
[0217] In the above embodiments, by providing a first guide portion 291 extending along the length direction of the first rotating shaft 22A between the first slider 26 and the first base 211, a second guide portion 292 extending along the length direction of the first rotating shaft 22A between the second slider 32 and the first base 211, and a third guide portion 293 extending along the length direction of the first rotating shaft 22A between the third slider 33 and the first base 211, the synchronization of the rotation of the first swing arm 23A and the second swing arm 23B is improved, and the rotation feel of the rotating mechanism 203 is enhanced.
[0218] In the description of this specification, specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.
[0219] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.
Claims
1. A rotating mechanism, characterized in that, It includes a first base, a first rotating shaft, a second rotating shaft, a first swing arm, a second swing arm, a first slider, and a first guide portion. The first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft are arranged in parallel. The first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft are connected to the first base. The first swing arm is sleeved on the first rotating shaft and can rotate relative to the first rotating shaft; the second swing arm is sleeved on the second rotating shaft and can rotate relative to the second rotating shaft. The first slider is sleeved on the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft, and is located between the first swing arm and the second swing arm; the first slider can slide along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft; The rotating mechanism further includes a first helical groove, a second helical groove, a first protrusion, and a second protrusion. One of the first helical groove and the first protrusion is disposed on the first slider, and the other of the first helical groove and the first protrusion is disposed on the first swing arm. One of the second helical groove and the second protrusion is disposed on the first slider, and the other of the first helical groove and the first protrusion is disposed on the second swing arm. The first spiral groove and the second spiral groove have opposite rotation directions; the first protrusion and the first spiral groove are slidably connected, and the second protrusion and the second spiral groove are slidably connected. The first slider is slidably connected to the first base via a first guide portion, the extension direction of the first guide portion being parallel to the axial direction of the first rotating shaft; wherein, when the first swing arm and the second swing arm rotate, the first protrusion slides along the first spiral groove, the second protrusion slides along the second spiral groove, causing the first slider to slide along the first guide portion.
2. The rotating mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first guide portion includes a first guide groove and a first guide block. One of the first guide groove and the first guide block is disposed on the first slider, and the other of the first guide groove and the first guide block is disposed on the first base. The first guide groove and the first guide block are slidably connected.
3. The rotating mechanism according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first guide block is disposed on the first base, and the first guide groove is disposed on the first slider; the first guide block and the first base are integrally formed.
4. The rotating mechanism according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The first protrusion has a first helical surface near both ends of the first helical groove along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft. The first helical surface and the first helical groove have the same direction of rotation. The first protrusion is slidably connected to the first helical groove through the first helical surface. The second protrusion has a second helical surface near both ends of the second helical groove along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft. The second helical surface and the second helical groove have the same direction of rotation. The second protrusion is slidably connected to the second helical groove through the second helical surface.
5. The rotating mechanism according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The longitudinal cross-sectional shape of the first guide block and the first guide groove is rectangular, trapezoidal, arc-shaped or dovetail-shaped.
6. The rotating mechanism according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The rotating mechanism also includes grooves and ball bearings; The first guide groove includes a first surface facing the first guide block; the first guide block includes a second surface facing the first guide groove. The first surface and / or the second surface have grooves, the openings of which face the second surface and / or the first surface; the ball is located within the grooves; The ball protrudes or is flush with the first surface, and / or the ball protrudes or is flush with the second surface.
7. The rotating mechanism according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The rotating mechanism further includes an elastic component and a second slider; the first swing arm, the second slider, and the elastic component are arranged sequentially along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft; One end of the elastic component is fixedly connected to the first base, and the other end abuts against the second slider; The second slider is sleeved on the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft, and the second slider is slidably connected to the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft; The first swing arm has a third surface, and the second slider has a fourth surface opposite to the third surface; the rotation mechanism further includes a first recess and a first protrusion, one of the first recess and the first protrusion being disposed on the third surface, and the other of the first recess and the first protrusion being disposed on the fourth surface; The rotating mechanism has a first state and a second state. In the first state, the first protrusion is located in the first recess, and the elastic member undergoes a first deformation. In the second state, the first protrusion is misaligned with the first concave portion, and the elastic member undergoes a second deformation, the deformation amount of which is greater than that of the first deformation.
8. The rotating mechanism according to claim 7, characterized in that, The rotating mechanism further includes a second guide portion, the extension direction of which is parallel to the axial direction of the first rotating shaft, and the second slider is slidably connected to the first base through the second guide portion.
9. The rotating mechanism according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, The first swing arm includes a first part and a second part arranged axially along the first rotating shaft; the first part is capable of sliding along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft and abuts against the fourth surface. The second swing arm includes a third part and a fourth part arranged axially along the second pivot axis; the third part is slidable along the axial direction of the second pivot axis and abuts against the fourth surface; The first spiral groove includes a third spiral surface and a fourth spiral surface. The third spiral surface is disposed on the surface of the first part facing the second part, and the fourth spiral surface is disposed on the surface of the second part facing the first part. The second spiral groove includes a fifth spiral surface and a sixth spiral surface, the fifth spiral surface being disposed on the surface of the third part facing the fourth part, and the sixth spiral surface being disposed on the surface of the fourth part facing the third part.
10. The rotating mechanism according to claim 9, characterized in that, The second part is capable of sliding along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft, and the fourth part is capable of sliding along the axial direction of the second rotating shaft; The rotating mechanism further includes a third slider and a limiting member. The third slider is sleeved on the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft, and the third slider is slidably connected to the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft. The limiting member is fixedly connected to the first base. The elastic component, the first swing arm, the third slider, and the limiting member are arranged sequentially along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft; the first swing arm abuts against one end of the third slider, and the other end of the third slider abuts against the limiting member; The second part has a fifth surface, the third slider has a sixth surface opposite to the fifth surface, and the rotating mechanism further includes a second recess and a second protrusion, one of the second recess and the second protrusion being disposed on the fifth surface, and one of the second recess and the second protrusion being disposed on the sixth surface; The rotating mechanism has a third state and a fourth state. In the third state, the second protrusion is located inside the second recess, and the elastic member produces a third deformation. In the fourth state, the second protrusion is misaligned with the second recess, and the elastic member produces a fourth deformation. The deformation amount of the fourth deformation is greater than that of the third deformation.
11. The rotating mechanism according to claim 10, characterized in that, The rotating mechanism further includes a third guide portion, the extension direction of which is parallel to the axial direction of the first rotating shaft, and the third slider is slidably connected to the first base through the third guide portion.
12. The rotating mechanism according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The rotating mechanism further includes a second base, which is located on one side of the first base along the axial direction of the first rotating shaft; The rotating mechanism further includes a third swing arm, a fourth swing arm, a first connecting member, and a second connecting member; the third swing arm is rotatably connected to the second base; the fourth swing arm and the first swing arm are both connected to the first connecting member; the fourth swing arm is rotatably connected to the second base, and the fourth swing arm and the second swing arm are both connected to the second connecting member; The first base and the second base are integrally formed.
13. A foldable electronic device, characterized in that, The foldable electronic device includes a first structural member, a second structural member, and a rotating mechanism as described in any one of claims 1-12; The rotating mechanism is connected between the first structural member and the second structural member.