Foldable electronic device

Abstract

Provided in the present application is a foldable electronic device, comprising a folding apparatus and a flexible display screen. The folding apparatus comprises a first housing, a second housing and an outward folding mechanism. The flexible display screen comprises a first non-bending portion, an outward bending portion and a second non-bending portion, wherein the first non-bending portion is fixedly connected to the first housing, and the second non-bending portion is fixedly connected to the second housing. In an open state, the flexible display screen is flattened, the top end region of a support surface of a main shaft supports the outward bending portion, a first reference surface is perpendicular to the outward bending portion and coincides with a center line of the top end region, and a distance between the second non-bending portion and the first reference surface is greater than a distance between the first non-bending portion and the first reference surface; and in a closed state, the outward bending portion is bent, the second non-bending portion is disposed opposite to and parallel to the first non-bending portion, the second non-bending portion is closer to the first non-bending portion than a part of the outward bending portion, and a distance between the second non-bending portion and the first reference surface is less than a distance between the first non-bending portion and the first reference surface. The electronic device has a small overall thickness.

Description

Foldable electronic devices

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202510109778.4, filed on January 21, 2025, entitled "Foldable Electronic Device", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of foldable electronic products technology, and more particularly to a foldable electronic device. Background Technology

[0003] In recent years, flexible displays have been widely used in various foldable electronic devices due to their lightweight, thinness, and durability. Currently, in electronic devices with outward-folding flexible displays, to ensure the reliability of the display, the bending radius of the outward fold cannot be too small, resulting in a limitation on the overall thickness of the electronic device and hindering the achievement of a thinner and lighter design. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a foldable electronic device that has a small overall thickness without reducing the bending radius of the outer bending portion of the flexible display screen.

[0005] This application provides a foldable electronic device, including a folding device and a flexible display screen. The folding device includes a first housing, a second housing, and an outer folding mechanism connected between the first housing and the second housing. The folding device has an open state and a closed state.

[0006] The outward folding mechanism includes a main shaft with a support surface, and the outward folding mechanism has a first reference surface. The flexible display screen includes a first non-bending portion, an outward folding portion, and a second non-bending portion connected in sequence. The first non-bending portion is fixedly connected to a first housing, and the second non-bending portion is fixedly connected to a second housing.

[0007] In the open state, the first housing and the second housing unfold relative to each other, the flexible display screen flattens out, the top area of ​​the support surface of the main shaft supports the outer bending part, the first reference surface is perpendicular to the outer bending part and coincides with the center line of the top area, and the distance between the second non-bending part and the first reference surface is greater than the distance between the first non-bending part and the first reference surface.

[0008] In the closed state, the first housing and the second housing are folded relative to each other, the outer bend is bent, the support surface of the main shaft supports the outer bend, the second non-bend is opposite to and parallel to the first non-bend, the outer bend of the second non-bend is close to the first non-bend, the distance between the second non-bend and the first reference surface is less than the distance between the first non-bend and the first reference surface, and the contact surface or center surface of the first housing and the second housing is located between the first reference surface and the first non-bend.

[0009] In this application, the flexible display screen can move with the folding device. When the electronic device is in the open state, the flexible display screen flattens out, enabling full-screen display and giving the electronic device a larger display area to improve the user's viewing experience. When the electronic device is in the closed state, its planar dimensions are small, making it easy for users to carry and store.

[0010] In this design, the outer bending portion of the flexible display screen is offset, and a larger length is reserved on the side of the first reference surface closer to the second non-bending portion. This allows for a larger bending radius in the closed state, ensuring the reliability of the flexible display screen, while also bringing the second non-bending portion closer to the first reference surface, resulting in a smaller distance between the second and first non-bending portions. This makes the overall thickness of the electronic device thinner, which is beneficial for the miniaturization of electronic devices.

[0011] Since the center surface or contact surface of the first housing and the second housing is located on the side of the first reference surface close to the first non-bent portion of the flexible display screen, the thickness of the second housing is more flexible when the distance between the second non-bent portion and the first non-bent portion of the flexible display screen is small, which can better meet the space requirements of its internal device layout.

[0012] In some possible implementations, the outward bending portion includes a first segment, a second segment, and a third segment connected in sequence. The first segment connects to a first non-bending portion, and the third segment connects to a second non-bending portion. In the closed state, the first segment is located on the side of the first reference surface facing the first housing, and the center of curvature of the first segment is on the side of the first segment closer to the outward bending mechanism. The second and third segments are located on the side of the first reference surface facing the second housing, with the center of curvature of the second segment on the side of the second segment closer to the outward bending mechanism, and the center of curvature of the third segment on the side of the third segment away from the outward bending mechanism.

[0013] In this embodiment, in the closed state, the first segment of the outer bending portion of the flexible display bends inward, the second segment bends inward, and the third segment bends outward, so that the outer bending portion bends smoothly. While maintaining a large bending radius, the second non-bending portion can bend smoothly to the desired position on the back side of the first non-bending portion, and the outer bending portion and the second non-bending portion transition smoothly, which is beneficial to improving the reliability of the flexible display.

[0014] For example, the first segment of the outer bending portion of the flexible display screen is smoothly connected to the first non-bending portion, and the two can be in a tangential positional relationship.

[0015] In some possible implementations, the thickness of the second housing is equal to the thickness of the first housing. In this case, when the device is in the open state, the thickness of the structure corresponding to the first housing and the structure corresponding to the second housing are equal, resulting in a better user experience when holding the device and better stability when the device is placed on a table or similar surface.

[0016] In some possible implementations, the thickness of the second housing is greater than that of the first housing. In this case, the second housing can house components with larger height dimensions, while the first housing can house components with smaller height dimensions. Thus, components of various heights can be arranged inside the electronic device, and the overall thickness of the electronic device when closed is relatively small.

[0017] In some possible implementations, the outward folding mechanism also has a second reference surface, which is perpendicular to the first reference surface and coincides with the top region. In the closed state, the distance between the second non-bent portion and the second reference surface is greater than the distance between the first non-bent portion and the second reference surface.

[0018] In this embodiment, by designing a large distance between the second non-bending portion of the flexible display screen and the second reference surface, the outer bending portion can have sufficient arrangement space in the thickness direction of the electronic device to have a large bending radius, and can also have sufficient arrangement space in the width direction of the electronic device to smoothly transition and connect with the second non-bending portion, thereby improving the reliability of the flexible display screen.

[0019] In some possible implementations, the outward folding mechanism further includes a first fixed frame, a first swing arm, a second fixed frame, and a second swing arm. The first fixed frame is fixedly connected to the first housing. The first swing arm includes a rotating end and a sliding end. The rotating end of the first swing arm is rotatably connected to the main shaft, and the sliding end of the first swing arm is slidably connected to the first fixed frame. The second fixed frame is fixedly connected to the second housing. The second swing arm includes a rotating end and a sliding end. The rotating end of the second swing arm is rotatably connected to the main shaft, and the sliding end of the second swing arm is slidably connected to the second fixed frame.

[0020] The distance between the rotation center of the rotating end of the second swing arm and the first reference surface is less than the distance between the rotation center of the rotating end of the first swing arm and the first reference surface, and the distance between the rotation center of the rotating end of the second swing arm and the second reference surface is less than the distance between the rotation center of the rotating end of the first swing arm and the second reference surface.

[0021] In this embodiment, by setting the rotation center of the rotating end of the second swing arm to be closer to the first reference surface and closer to the second reference surface than the rotation center of the rotating end of the first swing arm, the rotation radius of the second fixed frame is larger when the second swing arm drives the second fixed frame to rotate. This allows the second non-bending part of the flexible display screen to move along the desired motion path, and the outer bending part to present the desired bending shape. This makes it easier for the electronic device to balance the appropriate bending radius of the flexible display screen and the smaller thickness of the whole device in the closed state.

[0022] In some possible implementations, during the switching between the open and closed states, the relative movement distance between the second swing arm and the second fixed frame is greater than the relative movement distance between the first swing arm and the first fixed frame. In this case, during the unfolding of the outward folding mechanism, the second fixed frame drives the second housing to push outward a greater distance relative to the main shaft. This facilitates the movement of the second non-bending portion of the flexible display screen into place, flattens the outward folding portion of the flexible display screen, reduces the risk of warping, and improves the light and shadow effects of the flexible display screen.

[0023] In some possible implementations, the outward folding mechanism further includes a first connecting arm and a second connecting arm. The first connecting arm includes a first end and a second end, the first end of which is rotatably connected to the rotating end of the first swing arm, and the second end of which is rotatably connected to the second fixed frame. The second connecting arm includes a first end and a second end, the first end of which is rotatably connected to the rotating end of the second swing arm, and the second end of which is rotatably connected to the first fixed frame.

[0024] In the implementation of this application, during the process of the first fixed frame and the second fixed frame unfolding to the open state, the first swing arm rotates into the main shaft, causing the first connecting arm to extend out of the main shaft and the first fixed frame to move away from the main shaft; the second swing arm rotates into the main shaft, causing the second connecting arm to extend out of the main shaft and the second fixed frame to move away from the main shaft. During the process of the first fixed frame and the second fixed frame folding to the closed state, the first swing arm rotates out of the main shaft, causing the first connecting arm to extend into the main shaft and the first fixed frame to move closer to the main shaft; the second swing arm rotates out of the main shaft, causing the second connecting arm to extend into the main shaft and the second fixed frame to move closer to the main shaft. Therefore, during the unfolding process of the outward folding mechanism and the folding device, the first fixed frame pushes the first housing away from the main shaft, and the second fixed frame pushes the second housing away from the main shaft; during the folding process of the outward folding mechanism and the folding device, the first fixed frame pulls the first housing into the main shaft, and the second fixed frame pulls the second housing into the main shaft. In other words, the outward folding mechanism enables the inward pulling motion of the housing during the change from the open state to the closed state of the folding device, and the outward pushing motion of the housing during the change from the closed state to the open state of the folding device. This allows the folding device to achieve deformation motion with the flexible display screen as the neutral plane during unfolding or folding, thereby reducing the risk of pulling or squeezing the flexible display screen, keeping the flexible display screen at a constant length, protecting the flexible display screen, improving the reliability of the flexible display screen, and giving the flexible display screen and electronic devices a longer service life.

[0025] Furthermore, since the first fixed frame and the second fixed frame are connected not only by the first swing arm and the first connecting arm, but also by the second swing arm and the second connecting arm, during the movement of the outward folding mechanism, the first swing arm, the first connecting arm, the second swing arm and the second connecting arm move without any play or shifting, which improves the tensile strength and reliability of the outward folding mechanism.

[0026] In some possible implementations, a first gap is formed between the rotation center of the first end of the first connecting arm and the rotation center of the rotation end of the first swing arm; a second gap is formed between the rotation center of the second end of the first connecting arm and the rotation center of the first end of the first connecting arm; a third gap is formed between the rotation center of the first end of the second connecting arm and the rotation center of the rotation end of the second swing arm; and a fourth gap is formed between the rotation center of the second end of the second connecting arm and the rotation center of the first end of the second connecting arm. The sum of the first and second gaps is greater than the sum of the third and fourth gaps.

[0027] In this implementation, by setting the connection position and arm length of the first connecting arm and the second connecting arm, the moving displacement of the second fixed frame is made greater than the moving displacement of the first fixed frame during the movement of the outward folding mechanism, so as to better meet the shape change requirements of the flexible display screen and improve the reliability of the flexible display screen.

[0028] In some possible implementations, the rotating end of the first swing arm includes a first arc-shaped arm, the main shaft includes a first arc-shaped groove, the first arc-shaped arm is mounted in the first arc-shaped groove, and the first end of the first connecting arm is rotatably connected to the first arc-shaped arm. The rotating end of the second swing arm includes a second arc-shaped arm, the main shaft includes a second arc-shaped groove, the second arc-shaped arm is mounted in the second arc-shaped groove, and the first end of the second connecting arm is rotatably connected to the second arc-shaped arm.

[0029] In this implementation, since the rotating end of the first swing arm and the main shaft adopt a virtual shaft rotation connection structure, and the rotating end of the second swing arm and the main shaft adopt a virtual shaft rotation connection structure, the thickness of the virtual shaft rotation connection structure is relatively thin while meeting the design requirements of the rotation center position, which is conducive to realizing the thinning of the outward folding mechanism.

[0030] During the relative movement between the first fixed frame and the second fixed frame, the rotating end of the first swing arm drives the first end of the first connecting arm to rotate around the rotation center of the rotating end of the first swing arm, forming a first-stage linkage motion. At the same time, the second end of the first connecting arm rotates around the first end of the first connecting arm, forming a second-stage linkage motion. Therefore, the linkage motion of the first connecting arm is equivalent to a two-stage linkage motion.

[0031] During the relative rotation of the first housing and the second housing, the rotating end of the second swing arm drives the first end of the second connecting arm to rotate around the rotation center of the rotating end of the second swing arm, forming a first-stage linkage motion. At the same time, the second end of the second connecting arm rotates around the first end of the second connecting arm, forming a second-stage linkage motion. Therefore, the linkage motion of the second connecting arm is equivalent to a two-bar linkage motion.

[0032] In this implementation, the linkage motion of the first connecting arm and the second connecting arm is equivalent to a two-bar linkage motion. Therefore, the first fixed frame and the second fixed frame can have a large stroke during the movement of the outward folding mechanism, so as to better meet the unfolding and folding needs of the flexible display screen, avoid the risk of squeezing or pulling of the flexible display screen, and improve the reliability of the flexible display screen.

[0033] In some possible implementations, the first housing includes a first supporting surface, and the first fixing frame includes a third supporting surface. The third supporting surface is embedded in the first supporting surface and is spliced ​​with the first supporting surface to form a first splicing surface. In both the open and closed states, the first splicing surface supports the first non-bending portion.

[0034] In this implementation, the connection area between the first non-bending portion of the flexible display screen and the folding device is large, resulting in a secure connection. Furthermore, since the end of the first non-bending portion of the flexible display screen near the outer bending portion can be fixed to the third support surface, and thus fixed to the folding device without being suspended, the position of one end of the outer bending portion can be constrained during the movement of the electronic device. This facilitates control over the shape changes of the outer bending portion and improves the reliability of the flexible display screen.

[0035] In some possible implementations, the second housing includes a second support surface, and the second fixing frame includes a fourth support surface. The fourth support surface is embedded in the second support surface and is spliced ​​with the second support surface to form a second splicing surface.

[0036] In the open state, the second splicing surface supports the outer bending portion and the second non-bending portion; in the closed state, a gap is formed between the portion of the second splicing surface near the main shaft and the outer bending portion, and the remaining portion of the second splicing surface supports the second non-bending portion.

[0037] In this embodiment, the second fixing frame can support the outward bending portion when it is open, reducing the risk of the outward bending portion being dented due to pressure, and improving the light and shadow effect and reliability of the flexible display screen. Furthermore, in the closed state, the shape of the outward bending portion is not restricted by the second splicing surface and can be bent freely to better meet its shape requirements.

[0038] In some possible implementations, the second housing includes a second support surface, a second non-bent portion is fixedly connected to the second support surface, and in the closed state, a portion of the main shaft structure protrudes relative to the second support surface in a direction away from the first housing.

[0039] In this embodiment, by setting a portion of the main shaft structure to protrude relative to the second support surface, the support surface of the main shaft can better support the outward bending portion of the flexible display screen, and a portion of the outward bending portion can protrude relative to the second non-bending portion. This better balances the bending radius requirements of the outward bending portion and the thinness requirements of the electronic device. Furthermore, because the support surface of the main shaft supports the outward bending portion, the outward bending portion can maintain its bent shape better when the user holds or presses it, which also helps reduce damage to the outward bending portion from external forces, resulting in higher reliability of the flexible display screen.

[0040] In some possible implementations, the top region is a linear region. The support surface of the spindle can be curved, and the contact between the spindle's support surface and the outward bend is a line contact. In this case, the contact area between the two, i.e., the top region, is a linear region. It is understandable that in actual products, due to assembly relationships and external forces, although the top region is linear, it can have a certain line width.

[0041] In some possible implementations, the top region is a strip-shaped region. The support surface of the spindle may include a plane located at the top of the spindle, forming the top region of the spindle's support surface. This plane contacts the outward bend, forming a surface contact.

[0042] In some possible implementations, the outward folding mechanism further includes a first synchronous swing arm and a second synchronous swing arm. The first synchronous swing arm includes a first end and a second end, the first end of which is rotatably connected to the main shaft, and the second end of which is movably connected to the first fixed frame. The second synchronous swing arm includes a first end and a second end, the first end of which is rotatably connected to the main shaft, and the second end of which is movably connected to the second fixed frame, and the first end of the second synchronous swing arm engages with the first end of the first synchronous swing arm.

[0043] In this implementation, since the first end of the first synchronous swing arm meshes with the first end of the second synchronous swing arm, when one of the first and second synchronous swing arms rotates relative to the main shaft, the other also rotates relative to the main shaft. This allows the first and second fixed frames to rotate synchronously relative to the main shaft, resulting in good motion synchronization between the outward folding mechanism and the folding device, and a better user experience for operating the electronic device.

[0044] In this configuration, the line connecting the rotation center of the first end of the first synchronous swing arm and the rotation center of the first end of the second synchronous swing arm is perpendicular to the first reference plane. This results in better synchronization between the first and second fixed frames when they rotate relative to the main shaft.

[0045] In some possible implementations, the folding device further includes an inner folding mechanism and a third housing. The inner folding mechanism is connected between the second housing and the third housing. In the closed state, the third housing is located on the side of the second housing facing away from the first housing. The flexible display also includes an inner bending portion and a third non-bending portion. The inner bending portion connects the second non-bending portion and the third non-bending portion, and the third non-bending portion is fixedly connected to the third housing.

[0046] In this embodiment, the electronic device adopts a tri-fold shape, which can have a larger display area in the open state to improve the user's viewing experience, and a smaller planar size in the closed state to facilitate user carrying and storage.

[0047] In some possible implementations, the thickness of the third shell is equal to the thickness of the second shell.

[0048] In this embodiment, since the third shell and the second shell have the same thickness, the inner folding mechanism can adopt a symmetrical structure, which helps to reduce the design difficulty of the inner folding mechanism and makes the structure of the folding device easier to realize.

[0049] The outward folding mechanism adopts the asymmetric mechanism mentioned above. The thickness of the second shell and the thickness of the first shell can be designed to be unequal, so that one of them can be designed to be thinner, which is conducive to the thin design of electronic devices.

[0050] In some possible implementations, the third housing has an end that is away from the inward folding mechanism, and the thickness of the end of the third housing decreases in the direction away from the inward folding mechanism to form a clearance space. In the closed state, in the thickness direction of the electronic device, the outward bend faces the clearance space, or a portion of the outward bend is located in the clearance space.

[0051] In this embodiment, by providing a clearance space at the end of the third housing, a portion of the structure of the outer bending part of the flexible display screen can be arranged using this clearance space to maintain a suitable bending radius and avoid interference between the outer bending part and the third housing. This not only facilitates the compact arrangement of the third housing, the second housing, and the outer bending mechanism, but also helps to prevent damage to the outer bending part of the flexible display screen due to impact, thereby improving the reliability of the electronic device.

[0052] In some possible implementations, in the closed state, the third non-bent portion is staggered from the outer bent portion along the thickness direction of the electronic device. In this case, the risk of collision between the third non-bent portion and the outer bent portion of the flexible display is low, which helps improve the reliability of the flexible display. Attached Figure Description

[0053] To illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments or background art of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments or background art of this application will be described below.

[0054] Figure 1A is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device in the open state according to an embodiment of this application;

[0055] Figure 1B is a schematic diagram of the electronic device shown in Figure 1A when it is in a closed state;

[0056] Figure 2A is a schematic diagram of the folding device of the electronic device shown in Figure 1A in some embodiments;

[0057] Figure 2B is a schematic diagram of the folding device shown in Figure 2A when it is in the closed state;

[0058] Figure 3 is a partially exploded structural diagram of the folding device shown in Figure 2A;

[0059] Figure 4A is a simplified schematic diagram of the internal structure of the electronic device shown in Figure 1A;

[0060] Figure 4B is a simplified schematic diagram of the internal structure of the electronic device shown in Figure 4A when it is in a closed state.

[0061] Figure 5 is a partial structural schematic diagram of the electronic device shown in Figure 1A in some embodiments;

[0062] Figure 6 is a partially exploded structural diagram of the outward folding mechanism shown in Figure 3;

[0063] Figure 7 is an exploded structural diagram of the connecting components of the outward folding mechanism shown in Figure 6;

[0064] Figure 8A is a structural schematic diagram of the first connecting member of the connecting assembly shown in Figure 7;

[0065] Figure 8B is an exploded structural diagram of the first connecting member shown in Figure 8A;

[0066] Figure 9A is a structural schematic diagram of the second connecting member of the connecting assembly shown in Figure 7;

[0067] Figure 9B is an exploded structural diagram of the second connecting member shown in Figure 9A;

[0068] Figure 10A is a schematic diagram of the synchronization component of the connection assembly shown in Figure 7;

[0069] Figure 10B is an exploded structural diagram of the synchronization component shown in Figure 10A;

[0070] Figure 11 is a structural schematic diagram of the first and second fixing frames of the connecting assembly shown in Figure 7;

[0071] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of the connecting components of the outward folding mechanism shown in Figure 6;

[0072] Figure 13 is a partial structural diagram of the main inner shaft of the outward folding mechanism shown in Figure 6;

[0073] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the connecting component shown in Figure 12 and the main inner shaft shown in Figure 13;

[0074] Figure 15 is a partial structural schematic diagram of the outward folding mechanism shown in Figure 3;

[0075] Figure 16A is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the outward folding mechanism shown in Figure 15, cut along point AA;

[0076] Figure 16B is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the structure shown in Figure 16A when it is in a closed state;

[0077] Figure 17A is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the outward folding mechanism shown in Figure 15, cut along BB.

[0078] Figure 17B is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the structure shown in Figure 17A when it is in a closed state;

[0079] Figure 18 is a partial structural diagram of the outward folding mechanism shown in Figure 15;

[0080] Figure 19A is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the outward folding mechanism shown in Figure 15, cut along CC.

[0081] Figure 19B is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the structure shown in Figure 19A when it is in a closed state;

[0082] Figure 20 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device provided in this application in some other embodiments;

[0083] Figure 21 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device provided in some other embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0084] The following embodiments of this application will be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0085] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation" and "connection" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a detachable connection or a non-detachable connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. "Fixed connection" refers to a connection where the relative positional relationship remains unchanged after connection. "Rotary connection" refers to a connection where the objects can rotate relative to each other after connection. "Sliding connection" refers to a connection where the objects can slide relative to each other after connection. The directional terms mentioned in the embodiments of this application, such as "top," "bottom," "left," "right," "inner," and "outer," are only for reference to the directions in the accompanying drawings. Therefore, the directional terms used are for better and clearer explanation and understanding of the embodiments of this application, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or component referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this application. "Multiple" refers to at least two. "And / or" describes the 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, or B existing alone.

[0086] This application provides an electronic device including a folding device and a flexible display screen fixed to the folding device. The folding device can be unfolded to an open state, folded to a closed state, or in an intermediate state between the open and closed states. The flexible display screen unfolds and folds along with the folding device. By optimizing the structure of the folding device and the fixing structure between the flexible display screen and the folding device, the overall thickness of the electronic device can be reduced without reducing the bending radius of the outer bending portion of the flexible display screen, which is beneficial for achieving a thinner electronic device.

[0087] In some embodiments, the electronic device may be a foldable electronic product such as a mobile phone, tablet computer, laptop computer, or wearable device. Wearable devices may be smartwatches, smart bracelets, etc. This application uses a mobile phone as an example for illustration.

[0088] Please refer to Figures 1A and 1B. Figure 1A is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device 100 in the open state according to an embodiment of this application, and Figure 1B is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electronic device 100 shown in Figure 1A in the closed state.

[0089] In some embodiments, the electronic device 100 includes a folding device 10 and a flexible display screen 20, the flexible display screen 20 being mounted on the folding device 10. The folding device 10 has an open state and a closed state, and the folding device 10 is capable of switching between the open and closed states. The flexible display screen 20 moves with the folding device 10. When the folding device 10 is in the open state, the flexible display screen 20 is in an open state, and the electronic device 100 is also in an open state; when the folding device 10 is in the closed state, the flexible display screen 20 is in a closed state, and the electronic device 100 is also in a closed state.

[0090] Please refer to Figures 2A to 3. Figure 2A is a structural schematic diagram of the folding device 10 of the electronic device 100 shown in Figure 1A in some embodiments. Figure 2B is a structural schematic diagram of the folding device 10 shown in Figure 2A when it is in a closed state. Figure 3 is a partially exploded structural schematic diagram of the folding device shown in Figure 2A.

[0091] In some embodiments, the folding device 10 includes a first housing 1, a second housing 2, and an outward folding mechanism 3, which is connected between the first housing 1 and the second housing 2. That is, the outward folding mechanism 3 is located between the first housing 1 and the second housing 2, with one side of the outward folding mechanism 3 connected to the first housing 1 and the other side connected to the second housing 2. Through the movement of the outward folding mechanism 3, the first housing 1 and the second housing 2 can be relatively unfolded to an open state or relatively folded to a closed state.

[0092] As shown in Figure 2A, the folding device 10 is in the open state, with the first housing 1 and the second housing 2 unfolded relative to each other. At this time, the outward folding mechanism 3 is also in the open state. In the open state, the angle between the first housing 1 and the second housing 2 can be approximately 180° (slight deviations are also allowed, such as 165°, 177°, or 185°). In this state, the electronic device 100 has a larger width and a larger planar size, resulting in a better user experience.

[0093] As shown in Figure 2B, the folding device 10 is in the closed state, with the first housing 1 and the second housing 2 folded relative to each other. At this time, the outward folding mechanism 3 is also in the closed state. In the closed state, the first housing 1 and the second housing 2 can be completely closed to be parallel to each other (a slight deviation is also allowed). There may be no gap or a small gap between the first housing 1 and the second housing 2; for example, Figure 2B illustrates a small gap between them. In this state, the electronic device 100 has a smaller width, making it easier for the user to store and hold the electronic device 100.

[0094] Furthermore, the folding device 10, the outward folding mechanism 3, and the electronic device 100 can also be in an intermediate state between an open state and a closed state. In this state, the angle between the first housing 1 and the second housing 2 can be greater than the angle between them in the closed state and less than the angle between them in the open state. Therefore, the electronic device 100 can switch between the open state, the intermediate state, and the closed state through the movement of the outward folding mechanism 3.

[0095] As shown in Figures 1A and 1B, in some embodiments, the flexible display screen 20 can integrate display functionality and touch sensing functionality. The display function of the flexible display screen 20 is used to display images, videos, etc., and the touch sensing function is used to sense user touch actions to achieve human-computer interaction. For example, the flexible display screen 20 can be an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display screen, an active-matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) display screen, a mini organic light-emitting diode (MLED) display screen, a micro organic light-emitting diode (MOLED) display screen, a quantum dot light-emitting diode (QLED) display screen, etc.

[0096] For example, the flexible display screen 20 may include a first non-bending portion 201, an outer bending portion 202, and a second non-bending portion 203 connected in sequence. The first non-bending portion 201 of the flexible display screen 20 is fixedly connected to the first housing 1, and the second non-bending portion 203 of the flexible display screen 20 is fixedly connected to the second housing 2. At this time, the outer bending portion 202 of the flexible display screen 20 at least partially corresponds to the outer bending mechanism 3. During the relative movement between the first housing 1 and the second housing 2, the first non-bending portion 201 of the flexible display screen 20 moves with the first housing 1, the second non-bending portion 203 of the flexible display screen 20 moves with the second housing 2, and the outer bending portion 202 of the flexible display screen 20 deforms.

[0097] When the folding device 10 is in the open state, the flexible display screen 20 is flattened and in an open state. At this time, the first non-bending portion 201, the outer bending portion 202, and the second non-bending portion 203 of the flexible display screen 20 can be coplanar, so that the flexible display screen 20 can be in a planar or near-planar shape, with a large display area and a better user experience.

[0098] When the folding device 10 is in the closed state, the flexible display screen 20 is located outside the first housing 1, the outer folding mechanism 3 and the second housing 2. The outer bending portion 202 is bent, and the second non-bending portion 203 is arranged opposite to and parallel to the first non-bending portion 201. The flexible display screen 20 is in a closed state.

[0099] Understandably, when the folding device 10 is in the intermediate state, the flexible display screen 20 is in an intermediate state between the open and closed states.

[0100] In this embodiment, the flexible display screen 20 can move with the folding device 10. When the electronic device 100 is in the open state, the flexible display screen 20 is flattened, enabling full-screen display and giving the electronic device 100 a larger display area to improve the user's viewing experience. When the electronic device 100 is in the closed state, its planar dimensions are smaller, making it easier for users to carry and store.

[0101] In some embodiments, the electronic device 100 may further include multiple modules (not shown in the figures), which can be housed inside the folding device 10. These multiple modules of the electronic device 100 may include, but are not limited to, a motherboard, processor, memory, battery, camera module, earpiece module, speaker module, microphone module, antenna module, sensor module, etc. This application does not specifically limit the number, type, or location of the modules in the electronic device 100.

[0102] In this embodiment, the electronic device 100 has two perpendicular length directions, width directions, and thickness directions. This embodiment is illustrated by the example where the rotation axis of the electronic device 100 is parallel to its length direction. In this case, the electronic device 100 can rotate left and right, and the folding and unfolding of the electronic device 100 affects its width. The thickness direction of the electronic device 100 is perpendicular to the flexible display screen 20. In the description of the electronic device 100, the side of the electronic device 100 with the flexible display screen 20 is designated as the "top," and the side of the electronic device 100 away from the flexible display screen 20 is designated as the "bottom." For example, the direction of the folding device 10 facing the flexible display screen 20 is the "top," and the direction away from the flexible display screen 20 is the "bottom." In other embodiments, the rotation axis of the electronic device 100 may also be parallel to its width direction. In this case, the electronic device 100 can rotate up and down, and the folding and unfolding of the electronic device 100 affects its length.

[0103] Please refer to Figures 4A and 4B, and also to Figures 2A and 3. Figure 4A is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the electronic device 100 shown in Figure 1A, and Figure 4B is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the electronic device 100 shown in Figure 4A when it is in a closed state.

[0104] In some embodiments, the outward folding mechanism 3 includes a main shaft 31 and a connecting assembly 32. The connecting assembly 32 connects the main shaft 31 to the first housing 1 and also connects the main shaft 31 to the second housing 2. The structure of the connecting assembly 32 is simplified in Figures 4A and 4B. By moving the connecting assembly 32, the first housing 1 and the second housing 2 can move relative to the main shaft 31 to achieve relative unfolding or relative folding.

[0105] The main shaft 31 has a support surface 311, which faces the flexible display screen 20. In the open state, the top region 3111 of the support surface 311 of the main shaft 31 supports the outer bend 202 of the flexible display screen 20. The top region 3111 of the support surface 311 of the main shaft 31 extends along the length of the main shaft 31. In the closed state, the support surface 311 of the main shaft 31 supports the outer bend 202 of the flexible display screen 20. The supporting area of ​​the support surface 311 of the main shaft 31 in the closed state is greater than the supporting area of ​​the outer bend 202 in the open state. In the closed state, the support surface 311 of the main shaft 31 can either support the entire outer bend 202 of the flexible display screen 20, or most of its area can support the outer bend 202 of the flexible display screen 20, with a small portion not used for support.

[0106] It is understandable that the support surface 311 or its top area 3111 of the main shaft 31 supports the outer bend 202 of the flexible display screen 20. This includes the case where the support surface 311 or its top area 3111 of the main shaft 31 is in contact with the outer bend 202, and also the case where the support surface 311 or its top area 3111 of the main shaft 31 is in contact with the outer bend 202 under the user's pressing pressure when the user uses the electronic device 100 to perform a touch operation on the outer bend 202.

[0107] In the structure shown in Figure 4A, in the open state, there may be a small gap between the top region 3111 of the support surface 311 of the main shaft 31 and the outer bending portion 202 of the flexible display screen 20. Adhesive (e.g., back adhesive or spot adhesive) can be applied at this gap to connect and support the top region 3111 of the support surface 311 of the main shaft 31 and the outer bending portion 202 of the flexible display screen 20. Alternatively, this gap may also be retained in the actual product, and this application embodiment does not strictly limit it.

[0108] In some examples, the top region 3111 of the support surface 311 of the spindle 31 is a strip-shaped region. The support surface 311 of the spindle 31 may include a plane located at the top of the spindle 31, which is the top region 3111 of the support surface 311 of the spindle 31. When the plane contacts (or supports) the outer bend 202, it forms a surface contact (or support).

[0109] In other examples, the top region 3111 can also be a linear region. In this case, the support surface 311 of the spindle 31 can be curved, and the contact (or support) between the support surface 311 of the spindle 31 and the outer bend 202 is a line contact (or support). In this case, the contact area between the two, i.e., the top region 3111, is a linear region. It is understood that in actual products, due to assembly relationships and external forces, although the top region 3111 is a linear region, it can have a certain line width. This application embodiment does not strictly limit the specific line width.

[0110] For example, the outward folding mechanism 3 has a first reference surface 3a. In the open state, the first reference surface 3a is perpendicular to the outward folding portion 202 and coincides with the centerline of the top region 3111. Specifically, when the top region 3111 is a strip-shaped region, the first reference surface 3a is perpendicular to the top region 3111. The centerline of the top region 3111 is parallel to the length extension direction of the main shaft 31. It can be understood that when the top region 3111 is a linear region, the centerline of the top region 3111 can also be understood as the top region 3111 itself.

[0111] In some embodiments, in the open state, the distance S1 between the second non-bent portion 203 of the flexible display screen 20 and the first reference surface 3a is greater than the distance S2 between the first non-bent portion 201 and the first reference surface 3a; in the closed state, the relative portion of the second non-bent portion 203 with the outer bend portion 202 is closer to the first non-bent portion 201, and the distance S3 between the second non-bent portion 203 and the first reference surface 3a is less than the distance S4 between the first non-bent portion 201 and the first reference surface 3a.

[0112] In this embodiment, the outer bending portion 202 of the flexible display screen 20 is offset. The outer bending portion 202 has a larger length reserved on the side of the first reference surface 3a near the second non-bending portion 203. This allows for a larger bending radius in the closed state to ensure the reliability of the flexible display screen 20. It also allows the second non-bending portion 203 to be closer to the first reference surface 3a, resulting in a smaller distance between it and the first non-bending portion 201. This makes the overall thickness of the electronic device 100 thinner, which is beneficial for the thinning of the electronic device 100.

[0113] It is understood that, in the closed state, the thickness direction of the electronic device 100 is perpendicular to the first non-bent portion 201 and the second non-bent portion 203. The thickness of the structure of the electronic device 100 with a larger planar dimension is understood as the overall thickness of the electronic device 100, and the thickness of a portion of the electronic device 100 (with a smaller planar dimension) may be greater than the overall thickness. For example, in the closed state, the thickness of the structure corresponding to the second non-bent portion 203 is understood as the overall thickness, and the thickness of the structure corresponding to the outward bending portion 202 may be greater than the overall thickness.

[0114] In some embodiments, in the closed state, the distance between the first non-bent portion 201 and the first reference surface 3a can be about 4 mm, and the distance between the second non-bent portion 203 and the first reference surface 3a can be in the range of 2.5 mm to 4 mm. In this case, the outer bending portion 202 of the flexible display screen 20 can have a suitable bending radius to meet reliability and small size requirements, and the overall thickness of the electronic device 100 is relatively thin.

[0115] In some embodiments, the outward bending portion 202 of the flexible display screen 20 includes a first segment 2021, a second segment 2022, and a third segment 2023 connected in sequence. The first segment 2021 is connected to the first non-bending portion 201, and the third segment 2023 is connected to the second non-bending portion 203. In the closed state, the first segment 2021 is located on the side of the first reference surface 3a facing the first housing 1, and the center of curvature of the first segment 2021 is on the side of the first segment 2021 closer to the outward bending mechanism 3. At this time, the first segment 2021 bends inward. The second segment 2022 and the third segment 2023 are located on the side of the first reference surface 3a facing the second housing 2, the center of curvature of the second segment 2022 is on the side of the second segment 2022 closer to the outward bending mechanism 3, and the center of curvature of the third segment 2023 is on the side of the third segment 2023 away from the outward bending mechanism 3. At this time, the second segment 2022 bends inward, and the third segment 2023 bends outward.

[0116] In this embodiment, in the closed state, the first segment 2021 of the outer bending portion 202 of the flexible display screen 20 bends inward, the second segment 2022 bends inward, and the third segment 2023 bends outward, so that the outer bending portion 202 bends smoothly. While maintaining a large bending radius, the second non-bending portion 203 can bend smoothly to the desired position on the back side of the first non-bending portion 201. Furthermore, the outer bending portion 202 and the second non-bending portion 203 transition smoothly, which is beneficial to improving the reliability of the flexible display screen 20.

[0117] Understandably, in the open state, the greater the distance between the second non-bent portion 203 and the first reference surface 3a, the longer the length of the portion of the outer bent portion 202 located on the side of the first reference surface 3a closer to the second non-bent portion 203. In the closed state, the larger the radius of curvature of the second segment 2022 and the third segment 2023, the larger the bending radius of the outer bent portion 202, and the smaller the distance between the second non-bent portion 203 and the first reference surface 3a, as well as the smaller the distance between the second non-bent portion 203 and the first non-bent portion 201, which is beneficial for the thinning of the electronic device 100. Of course, the bending radius of the outer bent portion 202 of the electronic device 100 will also be controlled within a certain size to avoid the overall thickness of the structure of the electronic device 100 corresponding to the outer bent portion 202 being too large.

[0118] When the top region 3111 of the support surface 311 of the main shaft 31 is a strip-shaped region with a certain plane width, in the closed state, the first segment 2021 of the outer bending portion 202 of the flexible display screen 20 may include a straight line segment, and the second segment 2022 of the outer bending portion 202 also includes a straight line segment. The curvature center of the first segment 2021 and the second segment 2022 is the curvature center of its curve segment (excluding the straight line segment).

[0119] For example, the first segment 2021 of the outer bending portion 202 of the flexible display 20 is smoothly connected to the first non-bending portion 201, and the two can be in a tangential positional relationship.

[0120] For example, the radius of curvature of the second segment 2022 of the outer bending portion 202 of the flexible display screen 20 can also be equal to the radius of curvature of the first segment 2021. In this case, the second segment 2022 and the first segment 2021 can be symmetrically arranged with respect to the first reference surface 3a.

[0121] In some other embodiments, the radius of curvature of the second segment 2022 of the outer bending portion 202 of the flexible display screen 20 is larger than that of the first segment 2021. In this case, the overall bending radius of the outer bending portion 202 of the flexible display screen 20 is larger, which is beneficial for improving reliability. Furthermore, since the outer bending portion 202 is provided with an outwardly curved third segment 2023, even if the radius of curvature of the second segment 2022 is larger, the second segment 2022 can still be smoothly connected to the second non-bent portion 203 through the third segment 2023, ensuring the reliability of the flexible display screen 20.

[0122] In some embodiments, the outward folding mechanism 3 further has a second reference surface 3b, which is perpendicular to the first reference surface 3a and coincides with the top end region 3111 of the support surface 311 of the main shaft 31. In the closed state, the distance between the second non-bending portion 203 and the second reference surface 3b is greater than the distance between the first non-bending portion 201 and the second reference surface 3b.

[0123] In this embodiment, by designing a large distance between the second non-bending portion 203 and the second reference surface 3b of the flexible display screen 20, the outer bending portion 202 can have sufficient arrangement space in the thickness direction of the electronic device 100 to have a large bending radius, and can also have sufficient arrangement space in the width direction of the electronic device 100 to smoothly transition and connect with the second non-bending portion 203, thereby improving the reliability of the flexible display screen 20.

[0124] In some embodiments, in the closed state, a gap is formed between the first housing 1 and the second housing 2, and the center surfaces 6 of the first housing 1 and the second housing 2 are located between the first reference surface 3a and the first non-bent portion 201 of the flexible display screen 20. That is, the center surfaces 6 of the first housing 1 and the second housing 2 are located on the side of the first reference surface 3a closer to the first non-bent portion 201 of the flexible display screen 20. Alternatively, in other embodiments, in the closed state, the first housing 1 and the second housing 2 can also be in contact. In this case, the contact surfaces of the first housing 1 and the second housing 2 are located between the first reference surface 3a and the first non-bent portion 201 of the flexible display screen 20.

[0125] In this embodiment, since the center surface 6 or contact surface of the first housing 1 and the second housing 2 is located on the side of the first reference surface 3a close to the first non-bent portion 201 of the flexible display screen 20, the thickness of the second housing 2 is more flexible when the distance between the second non-bent portion 203 and the first non-bent portion 201 of the flexible display screen 20 is small, which can better meet the space requirements of its internal device layout.

[0126] For example, the thickness of the second housing 2 can be equal to the thickness of the first housing 1. In this case, when in the open state, the thickness of the structure of the electronic device 100 corresponding to the first housing 1 and the structure corresponding to the second housing 2 are equal, resulting in a better user experience when holding the electronic device 100 and better stability when the electronic device 100 is placed on a table or other similar location.

[0127] Alternatively, the thickness of the second housing 2 can be greater than the thickness of the first housing 1. In this case, some devices with larger height dimensions can be arranged in the second housing 2, while some devices with smaller height dimensions can be arranged in the first housing 1. Thus, devices of various heights can be arranged inside the electronic device 100, and the overall thickness of the electronic device 100 when in the closed state is relatively small.

[0128] Alternatively, the thickness of the second housing 2 may be less than the thickness of the first housing 1. This application does not impose strict limitations on this aspect.

[0129] In some embodiments, the first housing 1 includes a first support surface 11, and a first non-bending portion 201 of the flexible display screen 20 is fixedly connected to the first support surface 11. The second housing 2 includes a second support surface 21, and a second non-bending portion 203 is fixedly connected to the second support surface 21. In the closed state, a portion of the structure of the main shaft 31 protrudes away from the first housing 1 relative to the second support surface 21.

[0130] In this embodiment, by setting a portion of the main shaft 31 to protrude relative to the second support surface 21, the support surface 311 of the main shaft 31 can better support the outer bending portion 202 of the flexible display screen 20, and a portion of the structure of the outer bending portion 202 can protrude relative to the second non-bending portion 203, thereby better balancing the bending radius requirements of the outer bending portion 202 and the thinness requirements of the electronic device 100. Furthermore, since the support surface 311 of the main shaft 31 supports the outer bending portion 202, the outer bending portion 202 can maintain its bent shape better when the user holds or presses it, which also helps reduce damage to the outer bending portion 202 from external forces, resulting in higher reliability of the flexible display screen 20.

[0131] In some embodiments, the support surface 311 of the spindle 31 further includes a first support region 3112 and a second support region 3113, with the top region 3111 connected between the first support region 3112 and the second support region 3113. In some examples, the first support region 3112 is a curved surface, and the second support region 3113 is also a curved surface. It can be understood that when the top region 3111 is a strip-shaped region, the first support region 3112 and the second support region 3113 are respectively connected to two opposite sides of the top region 3111. When the top region 3111 is a line-shaped region, the first support region 3112 connects to the second support region 3113, and the connection point between the two forms the top region 3111. In this case, it can also be understood that the top region 3111 is connected between the first support region 3112 and the second support region 3113.

[0132] The first support region 3112 is located on the side of the top region 3111 near the first housing 1, and the second support region 3113 is located on the side of the top region 3111 near the second housing 2. The radius of curvature of the second support region 3113 is equal to that of the first support region 3112. In this configuration, the second support region 3113 and the first support region 3112 can be symmetrically arranged relative to the first reference surface 3a. In the closed state, the first support region 3112 can support the first segment 2021 of the outer bend 202 of the flexible display screen 20 together with a portion of the top region 3111, or support the first segment 2021 of the outer bend 202 of the flexible display screen 20 alone. The second support region 3113 can support a portion of the second segment 2022 of the outer bend 202 of the flexible display screen 20 together with a portion of the top region 3111, or support the portion of the second segment 2022 of the outer bend 202 of the flexible display screen 20 alone.

[0133] In some other embodiments, the radius of curvature of the second support region 3113 is greater than the radius of curvature of the first support region 3112. In this case, by setting the radius of curvature of the second support region 3113 to be greater than the radius of curvature of the first support region 3112, the overall radius of curvature of the support surface 311 of the main shaft 31 is larger, which is beneficial to ensure that the outer bending portion 202 of the flexible display screen 20 has a larger bending radius.

[0134] In this embodiment, since the first non-bending portion 201 of the flexible display screen 20 is fixedly connected to the first housing 1 and the second non-bending portion 203 is fixedly connected to the second housing 2, the movement paths of the first non-bending portion 201 and the second non-bending portion 203 can be controlled by controlling the relative movement paths of the first housing 1 and the second housing 2, thereby controlling the shape changes of the outer bending portion 202 and the entire flexible display screen 20 in the open and closed states.

[0135] Referring again to Figures 2A to 4B, in some embodiments, the connecting component 32 of the outward folding mechanism 3 includes a first fixing frame 33 and a second fixing frame 34. The first fixing frame 33 is fixedly connected to the first housing 1, and the second fixing frame 34 is fixedly connected to the second housing 2. In this case, the movement of the first fixing frame 33 is synchronized with the movement of the first housing 1, and the movement of the second fixing frame 34 is synchronized with the movement of the second housing 2. The first fixing frame 33 and the second fixing frame 34 of the outward folding mechanism 3 can be relatively unfolded or relatively folded. Specifically, when the outward folding mechanism 3 is in the open state, the first fixing frame 33 and the second fixing frame 34 are relatively unfolded; when the outward folding mechanism 3 is in the closed state, the first fixing frame 33 and the second fixing frame 34 are relatively folded.

[0136] In this embodiment, by designing the movement paths of the first fixing frame 33 and the second fixing frame 34, the movement paths of the first housing 1 and the second housing 2 can be controlled, thereby controlling the shape changes of the flexible display screen 20.

[0137] In some embodiments, the first housing 1 may be provided with a first mounting groove 12, and a first fixing bracket 33 may be embedded in the first mounting groove 12 for assembly with the first housing 1. The first fixing bracket 33 may be fixedly connected to the first housing 1 by fasteners (not shown in the figure).

[0138] For example, the first fixing frame 33 includes a third supporting surface 331, which is embedded in the first supporting surface 11 and spliced ​​with the first supporting surface 11 to form a first splicing surface. The third supporting surface 331 can be coplanar with the first supporting surface 11. In both the open and closed states, the first splicing surface supports the first non-bending portion 201 of the flexible display screen 20. At this time, the folding device 10 provides a larger supporting area for the first non-bending portion 201 of the flexible display screen 20, offering a better supporting environment and helping to ensure the flatness and reliability of the flexible display screen 20.

[0139] In some embodiments, the second housing 2 may be provided with a second mounting groove 22, and the second fixing bracket 34 may be embedded in the second mounting groove 22 for assembly with the second housing 2. The second fixing bracket 34 may be fixedly connected to the second housing 2 by fasteners (not shown in the figure).

[0140] For example, the second mounting bracket 34 includes a fourth support surface 341, which is embedded in the second support surface 21 and spliced ​​with the second support surface 21 to form a second splicing surface. The fourth support surface 341 may be coplanar with the second support surface 21. In the open state, the second splicing surface supports a portion of the outwardly bent portion 202 and the second non-bent portion 203 of the flexible display screen 20; in the closed state, a gap is formed between a portion of the second splicing surface near the main shaft 31 and the outwardly bent portion 202, while the remaining area of ​​the second splicing surface supports the second non-bent portion 203.

[0141] In this embodiment, the portion of the second splicing surface near the main shaft 31 includes at least part or all of the fourth support surface 341. Therefore, the second fixing frame 34 can support the outward bending portion 202 when in the open state, reducing the risk of the outward bending portion 202 being pressed and dented, thus improving the light and shadow effect and reliability of the flexible display screen 20. Furthermore, in the closed state, the shape of the outward bending portion 202 is not restricted by the fourth support surface 341 and can be bent freely to better meet its shape requirements.

[0142] In the closed state, a portion of the main shaft 31 protrudes away from the first fixing frame 33 relative to the fourth support surface 341. At this time, the second fixing frame 34, when closed, can form a space relative to the main shaft 31 in the thickness direction of the electronic device 100 to avoid the outward bending portion 202, allowing the outward bending portion 202 to bend freely in this space to better meet its shape requirements.

[0143] Please refer to Figures 4B and 5 in conjunction with Figure 5, which is a partial structural schematic diagram of the electronic device 100 shown in Figure 1A in some embodiments.

[0144] In some embodiments, the electronic device 100 may further include a first adhesive layer 301 and a second adhesive layer 302. The first adhesive layer 301 and the second adhesive layer 302 are schematically illustrated with cross-sections in FIG5.

[0145] For example, the first adhesive layer 301 is fixedly connected to the first splicing surface, and the first non-bending portion 201 of the flexible display screen 20 is fixedly connected to the first adhesive layer 301. The first adhesive layer 301 can cover the entire area of ​​the first support surface 11 and the third support surface 331, so that the first non-bending portion 201 of the flexible display screen 20 is fixedly connected to the third support surface 331 and the first support surface 11. The connection area between the first non-bending portion 201 and the folding device 10 is large, resulting in a strong connection.

[0146] In some other embodiments, the first adhesive layer 301 may cover a portion of the first support surface 11, or a portion of the third support surface 331, or may not cover the third support surface 331. In some other embodiments, the third support surface 331 and the first support surface 11 may be side-by-side or interlocking; this application does not strictly limit this. In some other embodiments, the first fixing frame 33 may not have a third support surface 331; the first fixing frame 33 is located on the bottom side of the first support surface 11 of the first housing 1 and is covered by the first support surface 11. In this case, the first non-bending portion 201 of the flexible display screen 20 is not directly connected to the first fixing frame 33. It is understood that this application does not strictly limit the relative positional relationship between the first fixing frame 33 and the first support surface 11 of the first housing 1, nor the specific connection structure between the first non-bending portion 201 of the flexible display screen 20 and the first support surface 11 and the first fixing frame 33.

[0147] For example, the second adhesive layer 302 is fixedly connected to the second splicing surface, and the second non-bending portion 203 of the flexible display screen 20 is fixedly connected to the second adhesive layer 302. Specifically, the second adhesive layer 302 does not cover the portion of the second support surface 21 near the main shaft 31 and the portion of the fourth support surface 341 near the main shaft 31; however, the second adhesive layer 302 can cover the remaining areas of the second support surface 21 and the fourth support surface 341. In this case, the second non-bending portion 203 of the flexible display screen 20 is fixedly connected to a portion of the fourth support surface 341 and a portion of the second support surface 21, resulting in a large connection area between the second non-bending portion 203 and the folding device 10, and a strong connection.

[0148] In some other embodiments, the second adhesive layer 302 may not cover the fourth support surface 341. In some other embodiments, the fourth support surface 341 and the second support surface 21 may be side-by-side or interlocking; this application does not strictly limit this. In some other embodiments, the first fixing frame 33 may not have the fourth support surface 341, and the second fixing frame 34 may be located on the bottom side of the second support surface 21 of the second housing 2 and covered by the second support surface 21. It is understood that this application does not strictly limit the relative positional relationship between the second fixing frame 34 and the second support surface 21 of the second housing 2, nor the specific connection structure between the second non-bending portion 203 of the flexible display screen 20 and the second support surface 21 and the second fixing frame 34.

[0149] The following example illustrates the implementation structure of the external folding mechanism 3.

[0150] Please refer to Figures 3 and 6. Figure 6 is a partially exploded structural diagram of the outward folding mechanism 3 shown in Figure 3.

[0151] In some embodiments, the main shaft 31 of the outward folding mechanism 3 may include an inner main shaft 31a and an outer main shaft 31b, with a support surface 311 formed on one side surface of the outer main shaft 31b. The inner main shaft 31a may be mounted on the side of the outer main shaft 31b opposite to the support surface 311 of the main shaft 31. An installation space is formed between the inner main shaft 31a and the outer main shaft 31b for mounting other structural components of the outward folding mechanism 3.

[0152] The number of connecting components 32 of the outward folding mechanism 3 can be two, with each connecting component 32 connected to one end of the main shaft 31. In some other embodiments, the number of connecting components 32 can be one or more, and this application does not strictly limit this. The following description will use one of the connecting components 32 as an example; other connecting components 32 can be the same as, symmetrical to, or similar to this connecting component 32, and the specific design will not be elaborated further.

[0153] Please refer to Figures 6 and 7. Figure 7 is an exploded structural diagram of the connecting component 32 of the outward folding mechanism 3 shown in Figure 6.

[0154] In some embodiments, the connecting component 32 of the outward folding mechanism 3 includes the aforementioned first fixing frame 33 and second fixing frame 34, and further includes a first connecting member 35, a second connecting member 36, and a synchronization member 37. A first connecting member 35 and a second connecting member 36 form a set of connecting components. For example, the connecting component 32 may include two sets of connecting components, which respectively connect the two ends of the first fixing frame 33 and the two ends of the second fixing frame 34 to increase the stability and reliability of the connection between the first fixing frame 33 and the second fixing frame 34. The synchronization member 37 may be located between the two sets of connecting components, and the synchronization member 37 may connect the first fixing frame 33 and the second fixing frame 34.

[0155] In some other embodiments, the connecting assembly 32 may also include a set of connecting members, wherein a first connecting member 35 is connected to one end of the first fixing frame 33 and one end of the second fixing frame 34, and a second connecting member 36 is connected to the other end of the first fixing frame 33 and the other end of the second fixing frame 34. A synchronization member 37 may be located between the first connecting member 35 and the second connecting member 36.

[0156] Please refer to Figures 8A and 8B. Figure 8A is a structural schematic diagram of the first connecting member 35 of the connecting assembly 32 shown in Figure 7, and Figure 8B is an exploded structural schematic diagram of the first connecting member 35 shown in Figure 8A.

[0157] In some embodiments, the first connecting member 35 may include a first swing arm 351 and a first connecting arm 352. The first swing arm 351 includes a rotating end 351a and a sliding end 351b, and the first connecting arm 352 includes a first end 352a and a second end 352b. The first end 352a of the first connecting arm 352 is rotatably connected to the rotating end 351a of the first swing arm 351.

[0158] For example, the rotating end 351a of the first swing arm 351 may include a first arc-shaped arm 3511. The first arc-shaped arm 3511 has a first rotating hole 3512 and a first clearance notch 3513. The axial direction of the first rotating hole 3512 is parallel to the centerline of the first arc-shaped arm 3511. The first clearance notch 3513 connects to the first rotating hole 3512 and extends from the first rotating hole 3512 to the end face of the first arc-shaped arm 3511 away from the sliding end 351b of the first swing arm 351. The first arc-shaped arm 3511 may include two arc-shaped sliders, which are disposed opposite to each other on both sides of the first arc-shaped arm 3511.

[0159] For example, the sliding end 351b of the first swing arm 351 may include a first slider 3514 and a first groove 3515. The first slider 3514 may be disposed on one side of the sliding end 351b of the first swing arm 351, and the first groove 3515 and the first slider 3514 are spaced apart.

[0160] For example, the first end 352a of the first connecting arm 352 may include a first shaft 3521. The first shaft 3521 may be inserted into the first rotating hole 3512 so that the first end 352a of the first connecting arm 352 is rotatably connected to the first arc-shaped arm 3511. During the relative rotation of the first connecting arm 352 and the first swing arm 351, the first clearance notch 3513 provides space for the first connecting arm 352 to move.

[0161] For example, the second end 352b of the first connecting arm 352 is provided with a pivot hole 3522.

[0162] Please refer to Figures 9A and 9B. Figure 9A is a structural schematic diagram of the second connecting member 36 of the connecting assembly 32 shown in Figure 7, and Figure 9B is an exploded structural schematic diagram of the second connecting member 36 shown in Figure 9A.

[0163] In some embodiments, the second connecting member 36 may include a second swing arm 361 and a second connecting arm 362. The second swing arm 361 includes a rotating end 361a and a sliding end 361b, and the second connecting arm 362 includes a first end 362a and a second end 362b. The first end 362a of the second connecting arm 362 is rotatably connected to the rotating end 361a of the second swing arm 361.

[0164] For example, the rotating end 361a of the second swing arm 361 may include a second arc-shaped arm 3611. The second arc-shaped arm 3611 has a second rotating hole 3612 and a second clearance notch 3613. The axial direction of the second rotating hole 3612 is parallel to the centerline of the second arc-shaped arm 3611. The second clearance notch 3613 communicates with the second rotating hole 3612 and extends from the second rotating hole 3612 to the end face of the second arc-shaped arm 3611 away from the sliding end 361b of the second swing arm 3611. The second arc-shaped arm 3611 may include two arc-shaped sliders, which are disposed opposite to each other on both sides of the second arc-shaped arm 3611.

[0165] For example, the sliding end 361b of the second swing arm 361 may include a second slider 3614 and a second groove 3615. The second slider 3614 may be disposed on one side of the sliding end 361b of the second swing arm 361, and the second groove 3615 and the second slider 3614 are spaced apart.

[0166] For example, the first end 362a of the second connecting arm 362 may include a second shaft 3621. The second shaft 3621 may be inserted into the second rotating hole 3612 so that the first end 362a of the second connecting arm 362 is rotatably connected to the second arc-shaped arm 3611. During the relative rotation of the second connecting arm 362 and the second swing arm 361, the second clearance notch 3613 provides space for the second connecting arm 362 to move.

[0167] For example, the second end 362b of the second connecting arm 362 is provided with a pivot hole 3622.

[0168] Please refer to Figures 10A and 10B. Figure 10A is a structural schematic diagram of the synchronization component 37 of the connecting component 32 shown in Figure 7, and Figure 10B is an exploded structural schematic diagram of the synchronization component 37 shown in Figure 10A.

[0169] In some embodiments, the synchronization component 37 may include a first synchronization swing arm 371, a second synchronization swing arm 372, a first rotating shaft 373, a second rotating shaft 374, a first limiting block 375, and a second limiting block 376.

[0170] For example, the first synchronous swing arm 371 includes a first end 371a and a second end 371b. The first end 371a of the first synchronous swing arm 371 is provided with a pivot hole 3711 and a plurality of first teeth 3712. The pivot hole 3711 passes through the first end 371a of the first synchronous swing arm 371, and the plurality of first teeth 3712 are partially arranged around the pivot hole 3711. The second end 371b of the first synchronous swing arm 371 includes a first end face 3713, which is a curved surface, for example, an arc surface.

[0171] For example, the second synchronous swing arm 372 includes a first end 372a and a second end 372b. The first end 372a of the second synchronous swing arm 372 is provided with a pivot hole 3721 and a plurality of second teeth 3722. The pivot hole 3721 passes through the first end 372a of the second synchronous swing arm 372, and the plurality of second teeth 3722 are partially arranged around the pivot hole 3721. The second end 372b of the second synchronous swing arm 372 includes a second end face 3723, which is a curved surface, for example, an arc-shaped surface.

[0172] For example, the first limiting block 375 is plate-shaped and has two first through holes 3751 arranged at intervals.

[0173] For example, the second limiting block 376 is plate-shaped and has two second through holes 3761 arranged at intervals.

[0174] For example, the first rotating shaft 373 passes through a first through hole 3751 of the first limiting block 375, the rotating shaft hole 3711 of the first end 371a of the first synchronous swing arm 371, and a second through hole 3761 of the second limiting block 376; the second rotating shaft 374 passes through another first through hole 3751 of the first limiting block 375, the rotating shaft hole 3721 of the first end 372a of the second synchronous swing arm 372, and another second through hole 3761 of the second limiting block 376. The first end 371a of the first synchronous swing arm 371 and the first end 372a of the second synchronous swing arm 372 are located between the first limiting block 375 and the second limiting block 376, and both can rotate relative to the first limiting block 375 and the second limiting block 376.

[0175] The second teeth 3722 of the second synchronous swing arm 372 mesh with the first teeth 3712 of the first synchronous swing arm 371, such that the first end 372a of the second synchronous swing arm 372 meshes with the first end 371a of the first synchronous swing arm 371. When one of the second synchronous swing arm 372 and the first synchronous swing arm 371 rotates, the other also rotates synchronously.

[0176] Please refer to Figure 11, which is a structural schematic diagram of the first fixing frame 33 and the second fixing frame 34 of the connecting assembly 32 shown in Figure 7.

[0177] In some embodiments, the first fixing frame 33 includes a first sliding groove 332 and a first sliding block 333, wherein the first sliding block 333 is located within the first sliding groove 332 and protrudes from the bottom wall of the first sliding groove 332. There are two of each of the first sliding groove 332 and the first sliding block 333, arranged at intervals along the length of the first fixing frame 33.

[0178] For example, the first fixing frame 33 further includes a first rotating block 334, which has a pivot hole. The axis of the pivot hole is parallel to the length direction of the first fixing frame 33. There are two first rotating blocks 334, which are arranged at intervals along the length direction of the first fixing frame 33.

[0179] For example, the first fixing frame 33 further includes a third sliding groove 335, which has a top wall and a bottom wall, and the top wall and bottom wall are arranged opposite to each other and spaced apart in the thickness direction of the first fixing frame 33. The third sliding groove 335 is located between the two first sliding grooves 332 and between the two first rotating blocks 334.

[0180] In some embodiments, the second fixing frame 34 includes a second sliding groove 342 and a second sliding block 343, the second sliding block 343 being located within the second sliding groove 342 and protruding from the bottom wall of the second sliding groove 342. There are two of each of the second sliding groove 342 and the second sliding block 343, arranged at intervals along the length of the second fixing frame 34.

[0181] For example, the second fixing frame 34 further includes a second rotating block 344, which has a pivot hole. The axis of the pivot hole is parallel to the length direction of the second fixing frame 34. There are two second rotating blocks 344, which are arranged at intervals along the length direction of the second fixing frame 34.

[0182] For example, the second fixing frame 34 further includes a fourth sliding groove 345, which has a top wall and a bottom wall, and the top wall and bottom wall are arranged opposite to each other and spaced apart in the thickness direction of the second fixing frame 34. The fourth sliding groove 345 is located between the two second sliding grooves 342 and between the two second rotating blocks 344.

[0183] Please refer to Figure 12, and in conjunction with Figures 8A, 9A, 10A and 11. Figure 12 is a structural schematic diagram of the connecting component 32 of the outward folding mechanism 3 shown in Figure 6.

[0184] In some embodiments, the first connecting member 35 connects the first fixed frame 33 and the second fixed frame 34. Specifically, the sliding end 351b of the first swing arm 351 is slidably connected to the first fixed frame 33, and the second end 352b of the first connecting arm 352 is rotatably connected to the second fixed frame 34.

[0185] For example, the sliding end 351b of the first swing arm 351 is mounted in the first sliding groove 332 of the first fixed frame 33. The first slider 3514 of the sliding end 351b of the first swing arm 351 can be slidably connected to the groove wall of the first sliding groove 332. The first sliding block 333 of the first fixed frame 33 is mounted in the first sliding groove 3515 of the sliding end 351b of the first swing arm 351, and the two are slidably connected.

[0186] In this embodiment, two sliding connection structures are provided between the sliding end 351b of the first swing arm 351 and the first fixed frame 33, so that the relative sliding action between the two is accurate, stable and reliable. In some other embodiments, only one sliding connection structure may be provided between the sliding end 351b of the first swing arm 351 and the first fixed frame 33, or more sliding connection structures may be provided. This application does not strictly limit this.

[0187] The first sliding block 333 can be a T-shaped block, and the first sliding groove 3515 can be a matching T-shaped groove. The T-shaped block and the T-shaped groove cooperate to avoid the risk that the sliding end 351b of the first swing arm 351 will accidentally detach from the first fixed frame 33, making the connection structure between the two more reliable.

[0188] For example, the pivot hole 3522 of the second end 352b of the first connecting arm 352 is aligned with the pivot hole of the second rotating block 344 of the second fixing frame 34. A pivot (not shown in the figure) can be inserted into the two pivot holes to form a solid shaft rotation connection structure between the second end 352b of the first connecting arm 352 and the second rotating block 344 of the second fixing frame 34.

[0189] In some embodiments, the second connecting member 36 connects the first fixed frame 33 and the second fixed frame 34. Specifically, the sliding end 361b of the second swing arm 361 is slidably connected to the second fixed frame 34, and the second end 362b of the second connecting arm 362 is rotatably connected to the first fixed frame 33.

[0190] For example, the sliding end 361b of the second swing arm 361 is mounted in the second sliding groove 342 of the second fixed frame 34. The second slider 3614 of the sliding end 361b of the second swing arm 361 can be slidably connected to the groove wall of the second sliding groove 342. The second sliding block 343 of the second fixed frame 34 is mounted in the second sliding groove 3615 of the sliding end 361b of the second swing arm 361, and the two are slidably connected.

[0191] In this embodiment, two sliding connection structures are provided between the sliding end 361b of the second swing arm 361 and the second fixed frame 34, making their relative sliding action accurate, stable and reliable. In some other embodiments, only one sliding connection structure may be provided between the sliding end 361b of the second swing arm 361 and the second fixed frame 34, or more sliding connection structures may be provided. This application does not strictly limit this.

[0192] The second sliding block 343 can be a T-shaped block, and the second sliding groove 3615 can be a matching T-shaped groove. The T-shaped block and the T-shaped groove cooperate to avoid the risk that the sliding end 361b of the second swing arm 361 will accidentally detach from the second fixed frame 34, making the connection structure between the two more reliable.

[0193] For example, the pivot hole 3622 of the second end 362b of the second connecting arm 362 is aligned with the pivot hole of the first rotating block 334 of the first fixing frame 33. A pivot (not shown in the figure) can be inserted into the two pivot holes to form a solid shaft rotation connection structure between the second end 362b of the second connecting arm 362 and the first rotating block 334 of the first fixing frame 33.

[0194] In some embodiments, the synchronization member 37 connects the first fixed frame 33 and the second fixed frame 34. Specifically, the second end 371b of the first synchronization arm 371 is movably connected to the first fixed frame 33, and the second end 372b of the second synchronization arm 372 is movably connected to the second fixed frame 34.

[0195] For example, the second end 371b of the first synchronous swing arm 371 can be installed in the third sliding groove 335 of the first fixed frame 33. The first end face 3713 of the second end 371b of the first synchronous swing arm 371 can contact the top wall and the bottom wall of the third sliding groove 335 and can slide relative to each other.

[0196] The second end 372b of the second synchronous swing arm 372 can be installed in the fourth sliding groove 345 of the second fixed frame 34. The second end face 3723 of the second end 372b of the second synchronous swing arm 372 can contact the top wall and the bottom wall of the fourth sliding groove 345 and can slide relative to each other.

[0197] Please refer to Figures 13 and 14. Figure 13 is a partial structural schematic diagram of the main inner shaft 31a of the outward folding mechanism 3 shown in Figure 6, and Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the connecting component 32 shown in Figure 12 and the main inner shaft 31a shown in Figure 13.

[0198] In some embodiments, the main inner shaft 31a may include two mating portions 312 arranged at intervals. Each mating portion 312 includes a first protrusion 3121, a second protrusion 3122, and a synchronizing groove 3123. There are two first protrusions 3121 and two second protrusions 3122, which are arranged at intervals. The synchronizing groove 3123 is located between the two first protrusions 3121 and between the two second protrusions 3122. The first protrusions 3121 and the second protrusions 3122 may be disposed towards the two sides of the main inner shaft 31a, respectively.

[0199] The connecting assembly 32 is mounted on the main inner shaft 31a, with the first fixing bracket 33 and the second fixing bracket 34 located on opposite sides of the main inner shaft 31a. The first connecting member 35 is positioned corresponding to the first protrusion 3121, and the rotating end 351a of the first swing arm 351 engages with the first protrusion 3121. The second connecting member 36 is positioned corresponding to the second protrusion 3122, and the rotating end 361a of the second swing arm 361 engages with the second protrusion 3122. The synchronizing member 37 is positioned corresponding to the synchronizing groove 3123, and the first limiting block 375, the second limiting block 376, the first rotating shaft 373, and the second rotating shaft 374 are installed in the synchronizing groove 3123.

[0200] Please refer to Figures 14 to 16B. Figure 15 is a partial structural schematic diagram of the outward folding mechanism 3 shown in Figure 3. Figure 16A is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of the outward folding mechanism 3 shown in Figure 15 cut along point AA. Figure 16B is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of the structure shown in Figure 16A when it is in the closed state.

[0201] In some embodiments, the outer main shaft 31b covers the top side of the inner main shaft 31a, and the outer main shaft 31b and the inner main shaft 31a cooperate to form multiple spaces, in which the connecting assembly 32 can be installed.

[0202] For example, the main shaft 31 includes a first arcuate groove 313. For instance, the first arcuate groove 313 is formed between the first protrusion 3121 (see Figure 13) of the outer main shaft 31b and the inner main shaft 31a. The first arcuate arm 3511 of the rotating end 351a of the first swing arm 351 can be mounted in the first arcuate groove 313. In this case, a virtual shaft rotational connection structure is formed between the rotating end 351a of the first swing arm 351 and the main shaft 31, and the rotating end 351a of the first swing arm 351 is rotatably connected to the main shaft 31.

[0203] Please refer to Figures 15, 17A, and 17B. Figure 17A is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the outward folding mechanism 3 shown in Figure 15 cut along BB. Figure 17B is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the structure shown in Figure 17A when it is in the closed state.

[0204] In some embodiments, the main shaft 31 further includes a second arcuate groove 314. For example, a second arcuate groove 314 is formed between the second protrusion 3122 (see FIG. 13) of the outer main shaft 31b and the inner main shaft 31a. The second arcuate arm 3611 of the rotating end 361a of the second swing arm 361 can be mounted in the second arcuate groove 314. In this case, a virtual shaft rotational connection structure is formed between the rotating end 361a of the second swing arm 361 and the main shaft 31, and the rotating end 361a of the second swing arm 361 is rotatably connected to the main shaft 31.

[0205] Referring to Figures 16A to 17B, in this embodiment, the rotating end 351a of the first swing arm 351 is rotatably connected to the main shaft 31, and the sliding end 351b of the first swing arm 351 is slidably connected to the first fixed frame 33. The first end 352a of the first connecting arm 352 is rotatably connected to the rotating end 351a of the first swing arm 351, and the second end 352b of the first connecting arm 352 is rotatably connected to the second fixed frame 34. The rotating end 361a of the second swing arm 361 is rotatably connected to the main shaft 31, and the sliding end 361b of the second swing arm 361 is slidably connected to the second fixed frame 34. The first end 362a of the second connecting arm 362 is rotatably connected to the rotating end 361a of the second swing arm 361, and the second end 362b of the second connecting arm 362 is rotatably connected to the first fixed frame 33.

[0206] During the process of the first fixed frame 33 and the second fixed frame 34 unfolding to the open state, the first swing arm 351 rotates into the main shaft 31, causing the first connecting arm 352 to extend out of the main shaft 31 and the first fixed frame 33 to move away from the main shaft 31. The second swing arm 361 rotates into the main shaft 31, causing the second connecting arm 362 to extend out of the main shaft 31 and the second fixed frame 34 to move away from the main shaft 31. During the process of the first fixed frame 33 and the second fixed frame 34 folding to the closed state, the first swing arm 351 rotates out of the main shaft 31, causing the first connecting arm 352 to extend into the main shaft 31 and the first fixed frame 33 to move closer to the main shaft 31. The second swing arm 361 rotates out of the main shaft 31, causing the second connecting arm 362 to extend into the main shaft 31 and the second fixed frame 34 to move closer to the main shaft 31. Therefore, during the unfolding process of the outward folding mechanism 3 and the folding device 10, the first fixing frame 33 pushes the first housing 1 away from the main shaft 31, and the second fixing frame 34 pushes the second housing 2 away from the main shaft 31. During the folding process of the outward folding mechanism 3 and the folding device 10, the first fixing frame 33 pulls the first housing 1 into the main shaft 31, and the second fixing frame 34 pulls the second housing 2 into the main shaft 31. That is, the outward folding mechanism 3 can realize the inward pulling movement of the housing during the change of the folding device 10 from the open state to the closed state, and the outward pushing movement of the housing during the change of the folding device 10 from the closed state to the open state. This allows the folding device 10 to achieve deformation movement with the flexible display screen 20 as the neutral plane during the unfolding or folding process, thereby reducing the risk of pulling or squeezing the flexible display screen 20, keeping the flexible display screen 20 at a constant length, protecting the flexible display screen 20, improving the reliability of the flexible display screen 20, and giving the flexible display screen 20 and electronic devices a longer service life.

[0207] Furthermore, since the first fixed frame 33 and the second fixed frame 34 are connected not only by the first swing arm 351 and the first connecting arm 352, but also by the second swing arm 361 and the second connecting arm 362, during the movement of the outward folding mechanism 3, the first swing arm 351, the first connecting arm 352, the second swing arm 361 and the second connecting arm 362 move without any play or shifting, thus improving the tensile strength and reliability of the outward folding mechanism 3.

[0208] In this embodiment, since the rotating end 351a of the first swing arm 351 and the main shaft 31 are connected by a virtual shaft rotational connection structure, and the rotating end 361a of the second swing arm 361 and the main shaft 31 are also connected by a virtual shaft rotational connection structure, the thickness of the virtual shaft rotational connection structure is relatively thin while meeting the design requirements for the rotation center position, which is beneficial for achieving a thinner outer folding mechanism 3. It is understood that in some other embodiments, the rotating end 351a of the first swing arm 351 and the main shaft 31 and / or the rotating end 361a of the second swing arm 361 and the main shaft 31 may also be connected by a solid shaft rotational connection structure, and this application embodiment does not strictly limit this.

[0209] Please refer to Figures 16A to 18. Figure 18 is a partial structural diagram of the outward folding mechanism 3 shown in Figure 15.

[0210] In some embodiments, the distance between the rotation center 3616 of the rotating end 361a of the second swing arm 361 and the first reference surface 3a is smaller than the distance between the rotation center 3516 of the rotating end 351a of the first swing arm 351 and the first reference surface 3a, and the distance between the rotation center 3616 of the rotating end 361a of the second swing arm 361 and the second reference surface 3b is smaller than the distance between the rotation center 3516 of the rotating end 351a of the first swing arm 351 and the second reference surface 3b. The first swing arm 351 rotates relative to the main shaft 31 about the rotation center 3516 of the rotating end 351a of the first swing arm 351, and the second swing arm 361 rotates relative to the main shaft 31 about the rotation center 3616 of the rotating end 361a of the second swing arm 361.

[0211] In this embodiment, by setting the rotation center 3616 of the rotating end 361a of the second swing arm 361 to be closer to the first reference surface 3a and closer to the second reference surface 3b than the rotation center 3516 of the rotating end 351a of the first swing arm 351, the rotation radius of the second fixed frame 34 is larger when the second swing arm 361 drives the second fixed frame 34 to rotate. This allows the second non-bending portion 203 of the flexible display screen 20 to move along the desired motion path, and the outer bending portion to present the desired bending shape. This makes it easier for the electronic device to balance the appropriate bending radius of the flexible display screen 20 and the smaller thickness of the whole device in the closed state.

[0212] In some embodiments, during the switching between the open and closed states, the relative movement distance between the second swing arm 361 and the second fixed frame 34 is greater than the relative movement distance between the first swing arm 351 and the first fixed frame 33. At this time, during the unfolding of the outward folding mechanism 3, the second fixed frame 34 drives the second housing 2 to push outward a longer distance relative to the main shaft 31. This facilitates the movement of the second non-bending portion 203 of the flexible display screen 20 into place, flattens the outward folding portion 202 of the flexible display screen 20, reduces the risk of warping, and improves the light and shadow effects of the flexible display screen 20.

[0213] In some embodiments, the first end 352a of the first connecting arm 352 is rotatably connected to the first arc-shaped arm 3511. At this time, during the relative movement of the first fixed frame 33 and the second fixed frame 34, the rotating end 351a of the first swing arm 351 drives the first end 352a of the first connecting arm 352 to rotate around the rotation center 3516 of the rotating end 351a of the first swing arm 351, forming a first-stage linkage motion. At the same time, the second end 352b of the first connecting arm 352 rotates around the first end 352a of the first connecting arm 352, forming a second-stage linkage motion. Therefore, the linkage motion of the first connecting arm 352 is equivalent to a two-bar linkage motion.

[0214] The first end 362a of the second connecting arm 362 is rotatably connected to the second arc-shaped arm 3611. At this time, during the relative rotation of the first housing 1 and the second housing 2, the rotating end 361a of the second swing arm 361 drives the first end 362a of the second connecting arm 362 to rotate around the rotation center 3616 of the rotating end 361a of the second swing arm 361, forming the first-stage linkage motion. At the same time, the second end 362b of the second connecting arm 362 rotates around the first end 362a of the second connecting arm 362, forming the second-stage linkage motion. Therefore, the linkage motion of the second connecting arm 362 is equivalent to the two-bar linkage motion.

[0215] In this embodiment, the linkage movement of the first connecting arm 352 and the second connecting arm 362 is equivalent to a two-bar linkage movement. Therefore, the first fixed frame 33 and the second fixed frame 34 can have a large stroke during the movement of the outward folding mechanism 3, so as to better meet the unfolding and folding needs of the flexible display screen 20, avoid the risk of squeezing or pulling of the flexible display screen 20, and improve the reliability of the flexible display screen 20.

[0216] In some embodiments, a first gap is formed between the rotation center 3523 of the first end 352a of the first connecting arm 352 and the rotation center 3516 of the rotation end 351a of the first swing arm 351; a second gap is formed between the rotation center 3524 of the second end 352b of the first connecting arm 352 and the rotation center 3523 of the first end 352a of the first connecting arm 352. A third gap is formed between the rotation center 3623 of the first end 362a of the second connecting arm 362 and the rotation center 3616 of the rotation end 361a of the second swing arm 361; and a fourth gap is formed between the rotation center 3624 of the second end 362b of the second connecting arm 362 and the rotation center 3623 of the first end 362a of the second connecting arm 362. The sum of the first gap and the second gap is greater than the sum of the third gap and the fourth gap.

[0217] In this embodiment, by setting the connection position and arm length of the first connecting arm 352 and the second connecting arm 362, the moving displacement of the second fixed frame 34 is made greater than the moving displacement of the first fixed frame 33 during the movement of the outward folding mechanism 3, so as to better meet the shape change requirements of the flexible display screen 20 and improve the reliability of the flexible display screen 20.

[0218] It is understood that in some other embodiments, the first connecting arm 352 may not be connected to the first arcuate arm 3511 of the first swing arm 351, but may be connected to the rotation center 3516 of the rotating end 351a of the first swing arm 351 or to other positions other than the rotation center 3516. In this case, the first connecting arm 352 is a first-stage linkage. Alternatively, the first connecting arm 352 may not be connected to the first swing arm 351, and the first end 352a of the first connecting arm 352 may be rotatably connected to the main shaft 31. In the above cases, the first connecting arm 352 can also cooperate with the second swing arm 361 to constrain the movement of the second fixed frame 34.

[0219] Similarly, the second connecting arm 362 may not be connected to the second arcuate arm 3611 of the second swing arm 361, but may be connected to the rotation center 3616 of the rotating end 361a of the second swing arm 361 or to other positions other than the rotation center 3516. In this case, the second connecting arm 362 is a first-stage linkage. Alternatively, the second connecting arm 362 may not be connected to the second swing arm 361, and the first end 362a of the second connecting arm 362 may be rotatably connected to the main shaft 31. In the above cases, the second connecting arm 362 can also cooperate with the first swing arm 351 to constrain the movement of the first fixed frame 33.

[0220] It is understandable that the first connecting arm 352 and / or the second connecting arm 362 can also be replaced with other structures, as long as they can cooperate with the swing arm to constrain the fixed frame so that the fixed frame moves along the desired motion path. This will not be elaborated here.

[0221] Please refer to Figures 13, 14, 19A and 19B. Figure 19A is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the outward folding mechanism 3 shown in Figure 15 cut along CC. Figure 19B is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the structure shown in Figure 19A when it is in the closed state.

[0222] In some embodiments, the main shaft 31 further includes a synchronization space 315. The synchronization space 315 is formed between the synchronization grooves 3123 of the outer main shaft 31b and the inner main shaft 31a. The first limiting block 375 and the second limiting block 376 of the synchronization members 37 of the connecting assembly 32 are fixed to the main shaft 31, such that the first rotating shaft 373 and the second rotating shaft 374 are also fixed relative to the main shaft 31, or can rotate relative to the main shaft 31 but not move. In this case, the first end 371a of the first synchronization arm 371 can rotate around the first rotating shaft 373, thereby rotatably connecting to the main shaft 31; the first end 372a of the second synchronization arm 372 can rotate around the second rotating shaft 374, thereby rotatably connecting to the main shaft 31.

[0223] In this embodiment, since the first end 371a of the first synchronous swing arm 371 meshes with the first end 372a of the second synchronous swing arm 372, when one of the first synchronous swing arm 371 and the second synchronous swing arm 372 rotates relative to the main shaft 31, the other also rotates relative to the main shaft 31. This allows the first fixed frame 33 and the second fixed frame 34 to rotate synchronously relative to the main shaft 31, resulting in good motion synchronization between the outward folding mechanism 3 and the folding device 10, and a better user experience for operating the electronic device.

[0224] In this embodiment, when the second end 371b of the first synchronous swing arm 371 slides relative to the third sliding groove 335 of the first fixed frame 33, the first synchronous swing arm 371 can also swing relative to the third sliding groove 335 of the first fixed frame 33. By making the first end face 3713 of the second end 371b of the first synchronous swing arm 371 curved, it is beneficial to the smooth connection and movement between the first end face 3713 and the top and bottom walls of the third sliding groove 335. Similarly, when the second end 372b of the second synchronous swing arm 372 slides relative to the fourth sliding groove 345 of the second fixed frame 34, the second synchronous swing arm 372 can also swing relative to the fourth sliding groove 345 of the second fixed frame 34. By making the second end face 3723 of the second end 372b of the second synchronous swing arm 372 curved, it is beneficial to the smooth connection and movement between the second end face 3723 and the top and bottom walls of the fourth sliding groove 345.

[0225] For example, the line connecting the rotation center 3714 of the first end 371a of the first synchronous swing arm 371 and the rotation center 3724 of the first end 372a of the second synchronous swing arm 372 is perpendicular to the first reference plane 3a. In this case, the synchronization of the first fixed frame 33 and the second fixed frame 34 when rotating relative to the main shaft 31 is better.

[0226] It is understood that in some other embodiments, the first end 371a of the first synchronous swing arm 371 and the first end 372a of the second synchronous swing arm 372 may also adopt other connection structures to achieve a rotatable connection with the main shaft 31, such as directly inserting a shaft into the rotation hole provided in the main shaft 31. The embodiments of this application do not strictly limit the specific rotatable connection structure.

[0227] For example, the center of the line connecting the rotation center 3714 of the first end 371a of the first synchronous swing arm 371 and the rotation center 3724 of the first end 372a of the second synchronous swing arm 372 is located on the side of the first reference surface 3a closer to the first fixed frame 33. At this time, the synchronization of the first fixed frame 33 and the second fixed frame 34 when rotating relative to the main shaft 31 is better.

[0228] For example, the rotation center 3714 of the first end 371a of the first synchronous swing arm 371 may not coincide with the rotation center 3516 of the rotation end 351a of the first swing arm 351, and the rotation center 3724 of the first end 372a of the second synchronous swing arm 372 may not coincide with the rotation center 3616 of the rotation end 361a of the second swing arm 361, making the design of the outward folding mechanism 3 more flexible.

[0229] Of course, in some other embodiments, the rotation center 3714 of the first end 371a of the first synchronous swing arm 371 may also coincide with the rotation center 3516 of the rotation end 351a of the first swing arm 351, and the rotation center 3724 of the first end 372a of the second synchronous swing arm 372 may also coincide with the rotation center 3616 of the rotation end 361a of the second swing arm 361. In this case, the second end 371b of the first synchronous swing arm 371 can be slidably connected to the first fixed frame 33, and the second end 372b of the second synchronous swing arm 372 can be slidably connected to the second fixed frame 34.

[0230] The above embodiments mainly use a two-fold structure for the electronic device 100 as an example for description. The following embodiments will use a three-fold structure for the electronic device 100 as an example for description.

[0231] Please refer to Figure 20, which is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device 100 provided in this application embodiment in some other embodiments. The electronic device 100 shown in Figure 20 may include most or all of the technical features of the electronic device 100 in the above embodiments. The parts that are the same in both will not be described again. The following mainly describes the differences between the two.

[0232] In some embodiments, the folding device 10 of the electronic device 100 includes a first housing 1, an outer folding mechanism 3, a second housing 2, an inner folding mechanism 4, and a third housing 5. The outer folding mechanism 3 is connected between the first housing 1 and the second housing 2, and the inner folding mechanism 4 is connected between the second housing 2 and the third housing 5.

[0233] In the open state, the first housing 1, the outer folding mechanism 3, the second housing 2, the inner folding mechanism 4, and the third housing 5 are unfolded. In the closed state, the outer folding mechanism 3 is bent, the second housing 2 is located on one side of the first housing 1, the inner folding mechanism 4 is bent, and the third housing 5 is located on the side of the second housing 2 facing away from the first housing 1. The descriptions of the first housing 1, the outer folding mechanism 3, and the second housing 2 in the above embodiments are provided and will not be repeated here.

[0234] The flexible display screen 20 of the electronic device 100 includes a first non-bending portion 201, an outer bending portion 202, a second non-bending portion 203, an inner bending portion 204, and a third non-bending portion 205. The outer bending portion 202 connects the first non-bending portion 201 and the second non-bending portion 203. The first non-bending portion 201 is fixedly connected to the first housing 1, and the second non-bending portion 203 is fixedly connected to the second housing 2. The inner bending portion 204 connects the second non-bending portion 203 and the third non-bending portion 205, and the third non-bending portion 205 is fixedly connected to the third housing 5. When the second housing 2 and the third housing 5 of the electronic device 100 move relative to each other, the inner bending portion 204 deforms. The second non-bending portion 203, the inner bending portion, and the third non-bending portion 205 are enclosed inside the folding device 10.

[0235] In this embodiment, the electronic device 100 adopts a tri-fold shape, which can have a larger display area in the open state to improve the user's viewing experience, and a smaller planar size in the closed state to facilitate user carrying and storage.

[0236] In some embodiments, the thickness of the third housing 5 is equal to the thickness of the second housing 2. In this embodiment, since the third housing 5 and the second housing 2 are of equal thickness, the inner folding mechanism 4 can adopt a symmetrical structure, which helps to reduce the design difficulty of the inner folding mechanism 4 and makes the structure of the folding device 10 easier to realize.

[0237] In some embodiments, the third housing 5 has an end 51 away from the inward folding mechanism 4, and the thickness of the end 51 of the third housing 5 decreases in the direction away from the inward folding mechanism 4 to form a clearance space 52. In the closed state, in the thickness direction of the electronic device 100, the outward bend 202 is directly opposite the clearance space 52, or a portion of the outward bend 202 is located in the clearance space 52.

[0238] In this embodiment, by providing a clearance space 52 at the end 51 of the third housing 5, a portion of the structure of the outer bending portion 202 of the flexible display screen 20 can be arranged using the clearance space 52 to maintain a suitable bending radius and avoid interference between the outer bending portion 202 and the third housing 5. This not only facilitates the compact arrangement of the third housing 5, the second housing 2, and the outer bending mechanism 3, but also helps to prevent damage to the outer bending portion 202 of the flexible display screen 20 due to impact, thereby improving the reliability of the electronic device 100.

[0239] For example, the third housing 5 may have a support surface 53 and a bottom surface 54 disposed opposite to each other, and the third non-bending portion 205 of the flexible display screen 20 is fixedly connected to the support surface 53 of the third housing 5. The end 51 of the third housing 5 may be provided with an inclined surface 55, which is connected to the support surface 53 of the third housing 5. In the direction away from the inward folding mechanism 4, the inclined surface 55 is inclined towards the bottom surface 54 of the third housing 5. A clearance space 52 is formed on the side of the inclined surface 55 facing away from the bottom surface 54 of the third housing 5.

[0240] In some embodiments, in the closed state, the third non-bent portion 205 of the flexible display screen 20 is staggered from the outer bent portion 202 in the thickness direction of the electronic device 100. In this case, the risk of collision between the third non-bent portion 205 and the outer bent portion 202 is low, which helps improve the reliability of the flexible display screen 20.

[0241] Please refer to Figure 21, which is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device 100 provided in this application embodiment in some other embodiments. The electronic device 100 shown in Figure 21 may include most or all of the technical features of the electronic device 100 in the above embodiments. The parts that are the same in both will not be described again. The following mainly describes the differences between the two.

[0242] In some embodiments, the third non-bending portion 205 of the flexible display screen 20 is also fixedly connected to the inclined surface 55 of the third housing 5. In this case, the third non-bending portion 205 of the flexible display screen 20 has a larger area, which is beneficial to increasing the display area of ​​the flexible display screen 20 in the open state.

[0243] It should be noted that, in the absence of conflict, the embodiments and features in the embodiments of this application can be combined with each other, and any combination of features in different embodiments is also within the protection scope of this application. That is to say, the multiple embodiments described above can also be arbitrarily combined according to actual needs.

[0244] It should be noted that all the above figures are exemplary illustrations of this application and do not represent the actual size of the product. Furthermore, the dimensional proportions between the components in the figures are not intended to limit the actual product of this application.

[0245] The above are merely some embodiments and implementation methods of this application. The scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A foldable electronic device (100), characterized in that, Includes a folding device (10) and a flexible display screen (20); The folding device (10) includes a first housing (1), a second housing (2) and an outward folding mechanism (3). The outward folding mechanism (3) is connected between the first housing (1) and the second housing (2). The folding device (10) has an open state and a closed state. The outward folding mechanism (3) includes a main shaft (31), the main shaft (31) has a support surface (311), and the outward folding mechanism (3) has a first reference surface (3a); The flexible display screen (20) includes a first non-bending part (201), an outer bending part (202) and a second non-bending part (203) connected in sequence. The first non-bending part (201) is fixedly connected to the first housing (1), and the second non-bending part (203) is fixedly connected to the second housing (2). In the open state, the first housing (1) and the second housing (2) are unfolded relative to each other, the flexible display screen (20) is flattened, the top area (3111) of the support surface (311) of the main shaft (31) supports the outer bending part (202), the first reference surface (3a) is perpendicular to the outer bending part (202) and coincides with the center line of the top area (3111), and the distance between the second non-bending part (203) and the first reference surface (3a) is greater than the distance between the first non-bending part (201) and the first reference surface (3a); In the closed state, the first housing (1) and the second housing (2) are folded relative to each other, the outer bend (202) is bent, the support surface (311) of the main shaft (31) supports the outer bend (202), the second non-bend (203) is opposite to and parallel to the first non-bend (201), the second non-bend (203) is closer to the outer bend (202) than the first non-bend (201), the distance between the second non-bend (203) and the first reference surface (3a) is smaller than the distance between the first non-bend (201) and the first reference surface (3a), and the contact surface or center surface (6) of the first housing (1) and the second housing (2) is located between the first reference surface (3a) and the first non-bend (201).

2. The electronic device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer bending portion (202) includes a first segment (2021), a second segment (2022) and a third segment (2023) connected in sequence. The first segment (2021) is connected to the first non-bending portion (201), and the third segment (2023) is connected to the second non-bending portion (203). In the closed state, the first segment (2021) is located on the side of the first reference surface (3a) facing the first housing (1), and the center of curvature of the first segment (2021) is on the side of the first segment (2021) closer to the outer folding mechanism (3). The second segment (2022) and the third segment (2023) are located on the side of the first reference surface (3a) facing the second housing (2), and the center of curvature of the second segment (2022) is on the side of the second segment (2022) closer to the outer folding mechanism (3). The center of curvature of the third segment (2023) is on the side of the third segment (2023) away from the outer folding mechanism (3).

3. The electronic device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The thickness of the second shell (2) is equal to the thickness of the first shell (1); Alternatively, the thickness of the second housing (2) is greater than the thickness of the first housing (1).

4. The electronic device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The outward folding mechanism (3) also has a second reference surface (3b), which is perpendicular to the first reference surface (3a) and coincides with the top region (3111). In the closed state, the distance between the second non-bent portion (203) and the second reference surface (3b) is greater than the distance between the first non-bent portion (201) and the second reference surface (3b).

5. The electronic device (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The outward folding mechanism (3) further includes a first fixed frame (33), a first swing arm (351), a second fixed frame (34), and a second swing arm (361); The first fixed frame (33) is fixedly connected to the first housing (1), and the first swing arm (351) includes a rotating end (351a) and a sliding end (351b). The rotating end (351a) of the first swing arm (351) is rotatably connected to the main shaft (31), and the sliding end (351b) of the first swing arm (351) is slidably connected to the first fixed frame (33). The second fixed frame (34) is fixedly connected to the second housing (2). The second swing arm (361) includes a rotating end (361a) and a sliding end (361b). The rotating end (361a) of the second swing arm (361) is rotatably connected to the main shaft (31), and the sliding end (361b) of the second swing arm (361) is slidably connected to the second fixed frame (34). The distance between the rotation center (3616) of the rotating end (361a) of the second swing arm (361) and the first reference surface (3a) is less than the distance between the rotation center (3516) of the rotating end (351a) of the first swing arm (351) and the first reference surface (3a), and the distance between the rotation center (3616) of the rotating end (361a) of the second swing arm (361) and the second reference surface (3b) is less than the distance between the rotation center (3516) of the rotating end (351a) of the first swing arm (351) and the second reference surface (3b).

6. The electronic device (100) according to claim 5, characterized in that, During the switching process between the open state and the closed state, the relative movement distance between the second swing arm (361) and the second fixed frame (34) is greater than the relative movement distance between the first swing arm (351) and the first fixed frame (33).

7. The electronic device (100) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, The outward folding mechanism (3) further includes a first connecting arm (352) and a second connecting arm (362); The first connecting arm (352) includes a first end (352a) and a second end (352b). The first end (352a) of the first connecting arm (352) is rotatably connected to the rotating end (351a) of the first swing arm (351), and the second end (352b) of the first connecting arm (352) is rotatably connected to the second fixing frame (34). The second connecting arm (362) includes a first end (362a) and a second end (362b). The first end (362a) of the second connecting arm (362) is rotatably connected to the rotating end (361a) of the second swing arm (361), and the second end (362b) of the second connecting arm (362) is rotatably connected to the first fixing frame (33).

8. The electronic device (100) according to claim 7, characterized in that, A first distance is formed between the rotation center (3523) of the first end (352a) of the first connecting arm (352) and the rotation center (3516) of the rotation end (351a) of the first swing arm (351), and a second distance is formed between the rotation center (3524) of the second end (352b) of the first connecting arm (352) and the rotation center (3523) of the first end (352a) of the first connecting arm (352). A third distance is formed between the rotation center (3623) of the first end (362a) of the second connecting arm (362) and the rotation center (3616) of the rotating end (361a) of the second swing arm (361), and a fourth distance is formed between the rotation center (3624) of the second end (362b) of the second connecting arm (362) and the rotation center (3623) of the first end (362a) of the second connecting arm (362). The sum of the first spacing and the second spacing is greater than the sum of the third spacing and the fourth spacing.

9. The electronic device (100) according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, The rotating end (351a) of the first swing arm (351) includes a first arc-shaped arm (3511), the main shaft (31) includes a first arc-shaped groove (313), the first arc-shaped arm (3511) is installed in the first arc-shaped groove (313), and the first end (352a) of the first connecting arm (352) is rotatably connected to the first arc-shaped arm (3511). The rotating end (361a) of the second swing arm (361) includes a second arc-shaped arm (3611), the main shaft (31) includes a second arc-shaped groove (314), the second arc-shaped arm (3611) is mounted in the second arc-shaped groove (314), and the first end (362a) of the second connecting arm (362) is rotatably connected to the second arc-shaped arm (3611).

10. The electronic device (100) according to any one of claims 5 to 9, characterized in that, The first housing (1) includes a first support surface (11), and the first fixing frame (33) includes a third support surface (331). The third support surface (331) is embedded in the first support surface (11) and splices with the first support surface (11) to form a first splicing surface. In both the open and closed states, the first splicing surface supports the first non-bent portion (201).

11. The electronic device (100) according to any one of claims 5 to 10, characterized in that, The second housing (2) includes a second support surface (21), and the second fixing frame (34) includes a fourth support surface (341). The fourth support surface (341) is embedded in the second support surface (21) and splices with the second support surface (21) to form a second splicing surface. In the open state, the second splicing surface support portion includes the outer bending portion (202) and the second non-bending portion (203); In the closed state, a gap is formed between a portion of the second splicing surface near the main shaft (31) and the outer bend (202), and the remaining portion of the second splicing surface supports the second non-bend (203).

12. The electronic device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The second housing (2) includes a second support surface (21), and the second non-bent portion (203) is fixedly connected to the second support surface (21). In the closed state, a portion of the structure of the main shaft (31) protrudes away from the first housing (1) relative to the second support surface (21).

13. The electronic device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that, The top region (3111) is a linear region or a strip-shaped region.

14. The electronic device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that, The outward folding mechanism (3) further includes a first synchronous swing arm (371) and a second synchronous swing arm (372); The first synchronous swing arm (371) includes a first end (371a) and a second end (371b). The first end (371a) of the first synchronous swing arm (371) is rotatably connected to the main shaft (31), and the second end (371b) of the first synchronous swing arm (371) is movably connected to the first fixed frame (33). The second synchronous swing arm (372) includes a first end (372a) and a second end (372b). The first end (372a) of the second synchronous swing arm (372) is rotatably connected to the main shaft (31), and the second end (372b) of the second synchronous swing arm (372) is movably connected to the second fixed frame (34). The first end (372a) of the second synchronous swing arm (372) meshes with the first end (371a) of the first synchronous swing arm (371). The line connecting the rotation center (3714) of the first end (371a) of the first synchronous swing arm (371) and the rotation center (3724) of the first end (372a) of the second synchronous swing arm (372) is perpendicular to the first reference plane (3a).

15. The electronic device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that, The folding device (10) further includes an inward folding mechanism (4) and a third housing (5). The inward folding mechanism (4) is connected between the second housing (2) and the third housing (5). In the closed state, the third housing (5) is located on the side of the second housing (2) facing away from the first housing (1). The flexible display screen (20) further includes an inner bending portion (204) and a third non-bending portion (205). The inner bending portion (204) connects the second non-bending portion (203) and the third non-bending portion (205). The third non-bending portion (205) is fixedly connected to the third housing (5).

16. The electronic device (100) according to claim 15, characterized in that, The thickness of the third shell (5) is equal to the thickness of the second shell (2).

17. The electronic device (100) according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that, The third housing (5) has an end (51) away from the inward folding mechanism (4), and the thickness of the end (51) of the third housing (5) decreases in the direction away from the inward folding mechanism (4) to form a clearance space (52). In the closed state, in the thickness direction of the electronic device (100), the outer bend (202) is directly opposite the clearance space (52), or a portion of the outer bend (202) is located in the clearance space (52).

18. The electronic device (100) according to claim 17, characterized in that, In the closed state, the third non-bent portion (205) is staggered from the outer bent portion (202) in the thickness direction of the electronic device (100).

Images