Patent Description:
This application relates to the field of electronic technologies, and in particular, to a support apparatus and a foldable electronic device.

With the development of electronic technologies, foldable electronic devices are increasingly favored by users. To support folding of a foldable electronic device, two housings of the foldable electronic device are connected through a hinge assembly. The hinge assembly allows the two housings to rotate relative to each other to fold or unfold the foldable electronic device. To ensure that each housing rotates without interference, a gap is present between the housing and a shaft cover of the hinge assembly. However, the gap leads to poor sealing, waterproof and dustproof effects of the foldable electronic device.

<CIT> discloses an electronic device. The electronic device includes a first housing, a second housing, a hinge housing disposed between the first housing and the second housing, and a flexible display at least partially disposed on the first housing and the second housing. The first housing and the second housing perform a folding or unfolding operation based on the hinge housing, and include at least one fiber structure disposed on at least a portion of a side of the first housing, the portion of the side being adjacent to the hinge housing within a predetermined distance.

<CIT> discloses a foldable display device.

<CIT> discloses a portable communication device.

Embodiments of this application provide a support apparatus and a foldable electronic device, and the foldable electronic device has good sealing performance.

According to a first aspect, this application provides a support apparatus. The support apparatus includes a hinge assembly, a first housing, a second housing, and a first flexible sealing member. The hinge assembly includes a rotating shaft mechanism and a shaft cover, where the rotating shaft mechanism is fastened to the shaft cover. The first housing and the second housing are respectively located on two opposite sides of the hinge assembly, the first housing and the second housing are configured to rotate relative to the shaft cover through the rotating shaft mechanism, the first housing, the second housing, and the rotating shaft mechanism each have a support surface for supporting a foldable screen, and a first movement gap is present between the first housing and an outer surface of the shaft cover. The first flexible sealing member fits into and seals the first movement gap. An embedded groove is formed on one of the first housing and the shaft cover, the first flexible sealing member includes a flexible body portion, and the flexible body portion is disposed in the embedded groove. The embedded groove is disposed to accommodate at least part of the first flexible sealing member, thereby limiting the first flexible sealing member by using the embedded groove. This allows the first flexible sealing member to be reliably connected to either the first housing or the shaft cover, preventing the first flexible sealing member from being displaced during the rotation of the first housing relative to the shaft cover. A retaining groove is formed on a groove surface of the embedded groove, and a protruding portion adapted to the retaining groove is formed on the flexible body portion. In this way, the embedded groove can better limit the first flexible sealing member.

In the support apparatus in the embodiments of this application, the first flexible sealing member fits into and seals the first movement gap. Because the first flexible sealing member is compact, non-porous, soft, and deformable, the first flexible sealing member is used to seal the first movement gap to achieve waterproof and dustproof effects of the foldable electronic device, thereby preventing moisture and dust outside the foldable electronic device from entering inside of the foldable electronic device through the first movement gap, and further ensuring that the first housing moves relative to the hinge assembly without much obstruction.

In some embodiments of the first aspect of this application, there may be one first flexible sealing member or a plurality of first flexible sealing members arranged in parallel.

In some embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the first flexible sealing member includes a flexible body portion and a flexible abutting rib, the flexible body portion is fastened to one of the first housing and the shaft cover, and the flexible abutting rib is fastened to the flexible body portion and abuts against the other one of the first housing and the shaft cover. Therefore, when the flexible body portion is fastened to the first housing, the flexible abutting rib abuts against the shaft cover; and when the flexible body portion is fastened to the shaft cover, the flexible abutting rib abuts against the first housing. In this way, the flexible abutting rib abuts against the other one of the first housing and the shaft cover, which helps improve a sealing effect.

Optionally, a cross section of the flexible abutting rib is triangular, semicircular, or wedge-shaped.

In some embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the flexible body portion is fastened to one of the first housing and the shaft cover, the other one of the first housing and the shaft cover is provided with a rib, and the rib abuts against the flexible body portion. Therefore, when the flexible body portion is fastened to the first housing, the shaft cover is provided with the rib abutting against the flexible body portion. When the flexible body portion is fastened to the shaft cover, the first housing is provided with the rib abutting against the flexible body portion. In this way, the sealing effect is achieved by the rib abutting against the flexible body portion.

In some embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the flexible body portion forms the first flexible sealing member, which facilitates processing and manufacture of the first flexible sealing member, and also facilitates cooperation between the first flexible sealing member and the rib. This prevents the flexible abutting rib of the first flexible sealing member from interfering with the rib during the rotation of the first housing relative to the shaft cover, thereby avoiding impact on a hand feel of rotating the foldable electronic device.

In some embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the rib is integrally formed with a wall plate in which the rib is located. In other words, when the rib is disposed on the first housing, the rib is integrally formed with the wall plate that is on the first housing and in which the rib is located. This helps improve structural strengths of the rib and the wall plate in which the rib is located, and increase the service life of the rib.

In some embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the rib is a metal member or a hard plastic member. This helps improve an effect of the rib abutting against the flexible body portion, delivering reliable sealing performance.

In some embodiments of the first aspect of this application, in a direction from a bottom surface of the embedded groove to a notch of the embedded groove, opposite groove surfaces of the embedded groove obliquely extend toward each other. In this way, the embedded groove can better limit the first flexible sealing member.

In some embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the first flexible sealing member is integrally formed with a wall plate in which the first flexible sealing member is located, thereby improving connection strength between the first flexible sealing member and the wall plate, simplifying a processing technology, and reducing production costs.

In some embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the first housing includes a first middle plate, a first back cover, and a first side frame. The first middle plate and the first back cover are arranged opposite each other. The support surface of the first housing is formed on a surface of the first middle plate facing away from the first back cover, the first side frame is connected between the first middle plate and the first back cover and is arranged around a periphery of the first middle plate, one end of the first back cover adjacent to the shaft cover extends beyond the first side frame to form a first shielding plate, and the first side frame has a first side surface facing toward the shaft cover. In an unfolded state of the support apparatus, the support surface of the first housing, the support surface of the second housing, and the support surface of the rotating shaft mechanism are coplanar and face toward a same direction, the first shielding plate is located on a side of the shaft cover facing away from the foldable screen, and the first side surface is located on a side of the shaft cover farther away from the second housing. In a folded state of the support apparatus, the first housing and the second housing are arranged opposite each other, the first shielding plate is located on a side of the shaft cover farther away from the second housing, and the first side surface is located on a side of the shaft cover facing toward the foldable screen. In this way, the first shielding plate can be used to shield part of the rotating shaft mechanism, preventing the rotating shaft mechanism from being exposed in the folded state to visually affect user experience. In addition, in the unfolded state, the first shielding plate is used to hide the hinge assembly, improving appearance consistency of the support apparatus.

To improve structural strength of the first housing, optionally, the first side frame is integrally formed with the first middle plate.

In some embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the first side surface and a surface of the first shielding plate that faces toward a same direction as the support surface of the first housing does define an avoidance surface. The first movement gap includes a first gap located between the avoidance surface and an outer peripheral surface of the shaft cover. The first flexible sealing member includes a first sealing segment, where the first sealing segment fits into and seals the first gap.

In some embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the first sealing segment includes a first body portion and a first rib segment, where the first body portion is fastened to one of the avoidance surface and the outer peripheral surface of the shaft cover, the first rib segment is fastened to the first body portion, the other one of the avoidance surface and the outer peripheral surface of the shaft cover has an arc-shaped abutting surface, a center line of the arc-shaped abutting surface is collinear with a rotation axis of the first housing, and the first rib segment abuts against the arc-shaped abutting surface. In this way, during the rotation of the first housing relative to the shaft cover, consistent pre-tightening force is applied to the first sealing segment, preventing the first sealing segment from interfering with the rotation of the first housing relative to the shaft cover.

In some embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the first sealing segment includes a first body portion, where the first body portion is fastened to one of the avoidance surface and the outer peripheral surface of the shaft cover, the first body portion is an arc-shaped sheet, a center line of the first body portion is collinear with the rotation axis of the first housing, the other one of the first housing and the shaft cover is provided with a first rib portion, and the first rib portion abuts against the first body portion. In this way, during the rotation of the first housing relative to the shaft cover, rotation of the first housing relative to the shaft cover is less obstructed by the cooperation of the first body portion and the first rib portion.

In some embodiments of the first aspect of this application, an arc-shaped surface adapted to the first body portion is formed on one of the avoidance surface and the outer peripheral surface of the shaft cover. In this way, the arc-shaped surface can be used to reliably support the first body portion to ensure an arc shape of the first body portion.

In some embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the first housing includes two first extension plates, the two first extension plates are arranged opposite each other in an extension direction of the rotation axis of the first housing, each of the first extension plates is connected to the first side surface and the first shielding plate, and the shaft cover is located between the two first extension plates. The first movement gap includes a second gap, and the second gap is formed between each of end surfaces of two ends of the shaft cover in the extension direction of the rotation axis of the first housing and each of the two first extension plates. The first flexible sealing member includes two second sealing segments, the two second sealing segments are in one-to-one correspondence with the two second gaps, and each of the second sealing segments fits into and seals the corresponding second gap.

Specifically, the second sealing segment includes a second body portion and two second rib segments. The second body portion is fastened to one of the first extension plate and the shaft cover, the second rib segment is fastened to the second body portion, and the second rib segment abuts against the other one of the first extension plate and the shaft cover. In this way, the second gap can be better sealed.

Specifically, the second sealing segment includes the second body portion. The second body portion is fastened to one of the first extension plate and the shaft cover, the other one of the first extension plate and the shaft cover is provided with a second rib portion, and the second rib portion abuts against the second body portion. In this way, the second gap can be better sealed.

Further, the second gap communicates with the first gap, and the first rib portion is connected to the second rib portion to form the rib.

Further, the second body portion is fan-shaped.

Further, the second gap communicates with the first gap, and the second body portion is connected to the first body portion to form the flexible body portion.

Further, the second gap communicates with the first gap, and the second body portion is connected to the first body portion to form the flexible body portion. In addition, the first rib segment is connected to the second rib segment to form the flexible abutting rib.

To improve the structural strength of the first housing and simplify a processing technology of the first housing, in some embodiments, the first extension plate is integrally formed with the first shielding plate. In some other embodiments, the first extension plate, the first back cover, and the first side frame may be integrally formed. In this way, any two of the first extension plate, the first back cover, and the first side frame are integrated as a whole in appearance, which helps improve appearance aesthetics of the first housing. In some other embodiments, the first middle plate, the first side frame, and the first extension plate are integrally formed.

In some embodiments of the first aspect of this application, a second movement gap is present between the second housing and the outer surface of the shaft cover; and the support apparatus further includes a second flexible sealing member, where the second flexible sealing member fits into and seals the second movement gap.

In the support apparatus in the embodiments of this application, the second flexible sealing member fits into and seals the second movement gap. Because the second flexible sealing member is compact, non-porous, soft, and deformable, the second flexible sealing member is used to seal the second movement gap to achieve waterproof and dustproof effects of the foldable electronic device, thereby preventing moisture and dust outside the foldable electronic device from entering inside of the foldable electronic device through the second movement gap, and further ensuring that the second housing moves relative to the hinge assembly without much obstruction.

In some embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the second flexible sealing member has a same structure as the first flexible sealing member.

In some embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the first flexible sealing member is a silicone member or a rubber member, which has low costs and good sealing effect.

In some embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the shaft cover has an accommodating space, and at least part of the rotating shaft mechanism is located in the accommodating space. In this way, a component of the rotating shaft mechanism can be hidden inside the shaft cover, which can improve appearance aesthetics of the support apparatus.

In some embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the rotating shaft mechanism includes a first swing arm, a first rotating shaft, a second rotating shaft, and a second swing arm. The first swing arm is configured to be fastened to the first housing. The first rotating shaft is rotatably connected to the accommodating space, and the first swing arm is fastened relative to the first rotating shaft. The second swing arm is configured to be fastened to the second housing. The second rotating shaft is rotatably connected to the accommodating space. The second rotating shaft is arranged parallel to the first rotating shaft, and the second swing arm is fastened relative to the second rotating shaft. In this way, the first housing and the second housing can rotate relative to a shaft seat, so that the support apparatus can change between the unfolded state and the folded state.

In some embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the first swing arm includes a first swing arm body and two first connecting portions. The first swing arm body is fastened and connected to the first housing. The two first connecting portions are arranged on a side of the first swing arm body closer to the shaft cover and are spaced apart along a rotation axis of the first rotating shaft. A first shaft hole is formed on each of the first connecting portions, and the first shaft hole is non-circular. The first rotating shaft is provided with a first cooperation segment, and the first cooperation segment fits into the first shaft hole. Because the first shaft hole is non-circular, and the first cooperation segment fits into the first shaft hole, limitation can be formed between the first rotating shaft and the first swing arm. In this way, when the first housing rotates, the first swing arm can rotate with the first housing, thereby driving the first rotating shaft to rotate to implement relative rotation between the first housing and the shaft cover.

Specifically, the first shaft hole is oval, and a cross section of the first cooperation segment is an oval that fits into the first shaft hole.

In some embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the second swing arm includes a second swing arm body and two second connecting portions. The second swing arm body is fastened and connected to the second housing. The two second connecting portions are arranged on a side of the second swing arm body closer to the shaft cover and are spaced apart along a rotation axis of the second rotating shaft. A second shaft hole is formed on each of the second connecting portions, and the second shaft hole is non-circular. The second rotating shaft is provided with a second cooperation segment. The second cooperation segment fits into the second shaft hole. Because the second shaft hole is non-circular, and the second cooperation segment fits into the second shaft hole, limitation can be formed between the second rotating shaft and the second swing arm. In this way, when the second housing rotates, the second swing arm may rotate with the second housing, thereby driving the second rotating shaft to rotate to implement relative rotation between the second housing and the shaft cover.

Specifically, the second shaft hole is oval, and a cross section of the second cooperation segment is an oval that fits into the second shaft hole.

In some embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the rotating shaft mechanism further includes a transmission assembly. The transmission assembly is located in the accommodating space. The transmission assembly is configured to enable the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft to synchronously rotate in opposite directions, thereby speeding up folding and unfolding of the support apparatus to reduce operation time of the user. Moreover, such synchronous rotation design allows the user to operate only on either of the first housing and the second housing, not necessarily on both of the first housing and the second housing, thereby simplifying the operation and improving user experience.

In some embodiments of the first aspect of this application, the transmission assembly includes a first gear, a second gear, and an intermediate gear. The first gear is fastened to the first rotating shaft and coaxially disposed with the first rotating shaft. The second gear is fastened to the second rotating shaft and coaxially disposed with the second rotating shaft. The intermediate gear is provided in an even quantity, and the even quantity of intermediate gears are sequentially arranged in arrangement directions of the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft and mesh with each other. The even quantity of intermediate gears are located between the first gear and the second gear. Among the even quantity of intermediate gears, an intermediate gear closest to the first gear meshes with the first gear, and an intermediate gear closest to the second gear meshes with the second gear. In this way, the first gear and the second gear can synchronously rotate in opposite directions, so that the first housing and the second housing synchronously rotate in opposite directions, enabling the support apparatus to change between the folded state and the unfolded state at a higher speed.

In some embodiments of the first aspect of this application, part of a surface of the first middle plate facing away from the first back cover is recessed in a direction toward the first back cover to form a first groove. The first groove extends to an edge of the first middle plate in a direction approaching the shaft cover. Part of the first swing arm is located in the first groove. Such arrangement helps ensure that the support surface of the first housing and a support surface of the first swing arm are coplanar, thereby preventing a problem that the foldable screen is not flat caused by the support surface of the first swing arm protruding out of the support surface of the first housing due to absence of the first groove. This helps ensure reliable support for the foldable screen, thereby ensuring flatness of the foldable screen.

According to a second aspect, this application provides a foldable electronic device. The foldable electronic device includes a support apparatus and a foldable screen. The support apparatus is the support apparatus according to any one of the foregoing embodiments. The foldable screen includes a first part, a second part, and a third part, where the third part is connected between the first part and the second part, the first part provides support on and is fastened to a support surface of a first housing, the second part provides support on and is fastened to a support surface of a second housing, and the third part provides support on a support surface of a rotating shaft mechanism.

In the foldable electronic device of the embodiments of this application, the support apparatus is disposed, and in the support apparatus, the first flexible sealing member fits into and seals the first movement gap. Because the first flexible sealing member is compact, non-porous, soft, and deformable, the first flexible sealing member is used to seal the first movement gap to achieve waterproof and dustproof effects of the foldable electronic device, thereby preventing moisture and dust outside the foldable electronic device from entering inside of the foldable electronic device through the first movement gap, and further ensuring that the first housing moves relative to the hinge assembly without much obstruction.

In the embodiments of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are merely intended for a purpose of description, and shall not be understood as an indication or implication of relative importance or an implicit indication of a quantity of the indicated technical features. Therefore, a feature limited by "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more features.

In the descriptions of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that unless otherwise specified and defined explicitly, the terms "mount", "connect", and "join" should be understood in their general senses. For example, "join" may refer to a detachable connection or a non-detachable connection; or may refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection via an intermediate medium. "Fixedly connected" means being connected to each other and a relative position relationship after connection remaining unchanged. "Rotatably connected" means being connected to each other and capable of rotating relative to each other after connection. "Slidably connected" means being connected to each other and capable of sliding relative to each other after connection.

Orientation terms such as "inside", "outside" mentioned in the embodiments of this application merely refer to directions of the accompanying drawings. Therefore, the orientation terms are used for better and clearer description and understanding of the embodiments of this application, rather than indicating or implying that an apparatus or a component must have a particular orientation or must be constructed and operated in a particular orientation, and therefore shall not be construed as limitations on this application. In addition, unless otherwise specified, "a plurality of" described in this application means two or more.

In the descriptions of the embodiments of this application, the term "include", "comprise", or any of their variants are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, so that a process, a method, an article, or an apparatus that includes a list of elements not only includes those elements but also includes other elements that are not expressly listed, or further includes elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. In absence of more constraints, an element preceded by "includes a. " does not preclude the existence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes the element.

In the embodiments of this application, the term "and/or" describes only an association relationship for describing associated objects and represents that three relationships may exist. In addition, the character "/" in this specification generally represents an "or" relationship between the associated objects. The terms "parallel", "coplanar", and "collinear" described in the specification allow for a specific error range. For example, A and B being parallel means that an included angle between A and B is equal to or less than <NUM>°, and specifically, may be equal to or less than <NUM>°, <NUM>° or <NUM>°. For example, A and B being coplanar means that an included angle between A and B is between <NUM>° and <NUM>°. For example, A and B being collinear means that a distance between A and B is equal to or less than <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>.

An embodiment of this application provides a foldable electronic device. The foldable electronic device may be any electronic device having a foldable screen and capable of changing the foldable screen and the electronic device itself to an unfolded or folded mode. According to different usage requirements, the foldable electronic device may be unfolded to an unfolded state, may be folded to a folded state, or may be in an intermediate state between the unfolded state and the folded state. In other words, the foldable electronic device has at least two states: the unfolded state and the folded state. In some cases, the foldable electronic device may further include a third state: the intermediate state between the unfolded state and the folded state. It can be understood that the intermediate state is not only one state, but may be any one or more states of the foldable electronic device between the unfolded state and the folded state.

Specifically, the foldable electronic device includes, but is not limited to, a mobile phone, a tablet personal computer (tablet personal computer), and the like.

Referring to <FIG> is a three-dimensional diagram of a foldable electronic device <NUM> in an unfolded state according to a first embodiment of this application. In this embodiment, the foldable electronic device <NUM> is a foldable phone. The foldable electronic device <NUM> includes a foldable screen <NUM> and a support apparatus <NUM>.

It can be understood that <FIG> merely shows an example of some components included in the foldable electronic device <NUM>. Actual shapes, actual sizes, actual positions, and actual structures of these components are not limited by <FIG>.

The foldable screen <NUM> can be configured to display information and provide an interactive interface for a user. In the embodiments of this application, the foldable screen <NUM> may be, but is not limited to, an organic light-emitting diode (organic light-emitting diode, OLED) display, an active-matrix organic light-emitting diode (active-matrix organic light-emitting diode, AMOLED) display, a mini organic light-emitting diode (mini organic light-emitting diode) display, a micro light-emitting diode (micro organic light-emitting diode) display, a micro organic light-emitting diode (micro organic light-emitting diode) display, a quantum dot light emitting diode (quantum dot light emitting diodes, QLED) display, and the like.

The foldable screen <NUM> can change between an unfolded state and a folded state. Specifically, still referring to <FIG>, the foldable screen <NUM> may include a first part <NUM>, a second part <NUM>, and a third part <NUM>. The third part <NUM> is connected between the first part <NUM> and the second part <NUM>. At least the third part <NUM> of the foldable screen <NUM> is made of a flexible material. The first part <NUM> and the second part <NUM> may be made of a flexible material, may be made of a rigid material, or may be partially made of a rigid material and partially made of a flexible material, which is not specifically limited herein.

Still referring to <FIG>, when the foldable screen <NUM> is in the unfolded state, the first part <NUM>, the second part <NUM>, and the third part <NUM> are coplanar and have a same orientation. In this state, the foldable screen <NUM> supports large-screen display, which can provide more information for a user and enhance user experience.

Referring to <FIG> is a three-dimensional diagram of the foldable electronic device <NUM> shown in <FIG> when in a folded state. When the foldable screen <NUM> is in the folded state, the third part <NUM> is in a bent state, and the first part <NUM> (not shown in <FIG>) is opposite the second part <NUM> (not shown in <FIG>). In this state, the foldable screen <NUM> is invisible to the user, and the support apparatus <NUM> provides protection outside the foldable screen <NUM> to prevent the foldable screen <NUM> from being scratched by a hard object. In addition, in this state, a volume of the foldable electronic device <NUM> can be reduced, allowing the foldable electronic device <NUM> to be easily accommodated.

The support apparatus <NUM> is configured to support the foldable screen <NUM> and allows the foldable screen <NUM> to change between the unfolded state and the folded state. Referring to <FIG> is a three-dimensional diagram of the support apparatus <NUM> of the foldable electronic device <NUM> shown in <FIG>. In this embodiment, the support apparatus <NUM> includes a first housing <NUM>, a second housing <NUM>, and a hinge assembly <NUM>.

It can be understood that <FIG> merely shows an example of some components included in the support apparatus <NUM>. Actual shapes, actual sizes, actual positions, and actual structures of these components are not limited by <FIG>.

The first housing <NUM> has a support surface M1. The first housing <NUM> fixes and supports the first part <NUM> of the foldable screen <NUM> in <FIG> through the support surface M1. For example, the support surface M1 is connected to the first part <NUM> by, without limitation to, gluing. The second housing <NUM> has a support surface M2. The second housing <NUM> fixes and supports the second part <NUM> of the foldable screen <NUM> in <FIG> through the support surface M2. For example, the support surface M2 is connected to the second part <NUM> by, without limitation to, gluing.

The hinge assembly <NUM> has a support surface M4. The hinge assembly <NUM> supports the third part <NUM> of the foldable screen <NUM> through the support surface M4. The hinge assembly <NUM> is connected between the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM>, and the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> are rotatably connected through the hinge assembly <NUM> to implement relative folding or relative unfolding of the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM>.

Specifically, still referring to <FIG>, in the unfolded state, the support surface M1 of the first housing <NUM>, the support surface M2 of the second housing, and the support surface M4 of the hinge assembly <NUM> are coplanar and have a same orientation, thereby supporting the foldable screen <NUM> reliably and ensuring flatness of the foldable screen <NUM>. In the folded state, the first housing <NUM> is opposite the second housing <NUM> (with reference to <FIG>) to hide the foldable screen <NUM> between the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM>, thereby protecting the foldable screen <NUM>.

The foldable electronic device <NUM> provided in the embodiments of this application can change between the unfolded state and the folded state. When a user uses the foldable electronic device <NUM> to perform an operation such as browsing web pages and information, watching videos, and playing games, the foldable electronic device <NUM> may be changed from the folded state to the unfolded state. Specifically, the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> may be respectively rotated <NUM>° in directions facing away from each other, so that an included angle between the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> is <NUM>°. In this way, the foldable electronic device <NUM> supports large-screen display, which can provide more information for the user and enhance user experience.

The user can change the foldable electronic device <NUM> from the unfolded state to the folded state after using the foldable electronic device <NUM>. Specifically, the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> may be respectively rotated <NUM>° toward directions approaching each other, so that an included angle between the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> is <NUM>°. In this way, a volume of the foldable electronic device <NUM> can be reduced, allowing the foldable electronic device <NUM> to be easily accommodated. In the folded state, the foldable screen <NUM> is invisible to the user, and the foldable screen <NUM> can be protected against scratches by a hard object.

Referring to <FIG> is an exploded view of the hinge assembly <NUM> of the support apparatus <NUM> shown in <FIG>. In this embodiment, the hinge assembly <NUM> includes a shaft cover <NUM> and a rotating shaft mechanism <NUM>.

It can be understood that <FIG> merely shows an example of some components included in the hinge assembly <NUM>. Actual shapes, actual sizes, actual positions, and actual structures of these components are not limited by <FIG>.

To facilitate descriptions of the following embodiments, an XYZ coordinate system is established for the shaft cover <NUM>. Specifically, a thickness direction of the shaft cover <NUM> is defined as a Z-axis direction, a length direction of the shaft cover <NUM> is defined as a Y-axis direction, and a direction perpendicular to both the Y-axis direction and the Z-axis direction is an X-axis direction. It can be understood that the coordinate system can be flexibly set based on actual needs, which is not specifically limited herein.

The shaft cover <NUM> is configured to keep the rotating shaft mechanism <NUM> in place. Still referring to <FIG>, the shaft cover <NUM> includes a bottom plate <NUM> and side plate <NUM>. The bottom plate <NUM> extends in the Y-axis direction. For example, the bottom plate <NUM> is made into a substantially rectangular plate-like structure. The side plate <NUM> surrounds a periphery of the bottom plate <NUM>, and the side plate <NUM> and the bottom plate <NUM> define an accommodating space 24a. At least part of a structure of the rotating shaft mechanism <NUM> may be accommodated in the accommodating space 24a. In this way, a component of the rotating shaft mechanism <NUM> can be hidden inside the shaft cover <NUM>, which can improve appearance aesthetics of the foldable electronic device <NUM>.

Specifically, still referring to <FIG>, the side plate <NUM> includes a first side plate <NUM>, a second side plate <NUM>, a first end plate <NUM>, and a second end plate <NUM>. The first side plate <NUM>, the first end plate <NUM>, the second side plate <NUM>, and the second end plate <NUM> are connected end to end in sequence. Specifically, both the first side plate <NUM> and the second side plate <NUM> extend in the Y-axis direction, and the first side plate <NUM> and the second side plate <NUM> are located on two sides of the bottom plate <NUM> in the X-axis direction. For example, the first side plate <NUM> and the second side plate <NUM> are both in an arc shape. A center line of the first side plate <NUM> extends in the Y-axis direction, and a center line of the second side plate <NUM> extends in the Y-axis direction. This helps reduce space occupied by the shaft cover <NUM> and improve appearance aesthetics of the shaft cover <NUM>. In addition, this helps the first housing <NUM> rotate relative to the shaft cover <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> rotate relative to the shaft cover <NUM>. Certainly, it can be understood that in other examples, the first side plate <NUM> and the second side plate <NUM> may alternatively be in a flat plate shape.

The first end plate <NUM> and the second end plate <NUM> are arranged opposite each other in the Y-axis direction. The first end plate <NUM> and the second end plate <NUM> are both in a flat plate shape. For example, to adapt to the arc shapes of the first side plate <NUM> and the second side plate <NUM>, the first end plate <NUM> and the second end plate <NUM> are small-semicircular flat plates.

It should be noted that a center line of component A described in the specification is a center axis of a cylinder in which component A is located.

The rotating shaft mechanism <NUM> may be provided in a quantity of one, two, or more. <FIG> merely shows an example in which there is only one rotating shaft mechanism <NUM>, but this shall not be considered as a special limitation on this application.

Still referring to <FIG>, the rotating shaft mechanism <NUM> has the support surface M4. Specifically, the rotating shaft mechanism <NUM> includes a first swing arm <NUM>, a first rotating shaft <NUM>, a second rotating shaft <NUM>, a second swing arm <NUM>, and a transmission assembly <NUM>.

The first swing arm <NUM> has the support surface M4. The support surface M4 on the first swing arm <NUM> is used to fix and support part of the third part <NUM>. For example, the support surface M4 on the first swing arm <NUM> may be connected to the third part <NUM> by gluing.

The first swing arm <NUM> is configured to be fastened to the first housing <NUM>. The first swing arm <NUM> may be fastened and connected to the first housing <NUM> by bonding, clamping, welding, screwing, or the like. For example, a surface of the first swing arm <NUM> facing away from the support surface M4 is fastened to the first housing <NUM> by gluing.

Specifically, still referring to <FIG>, the first swing arm <NUM> includes a first swing arm body <NUM> and two first connecting portions <NUM>. The first swing arm body <NUM> is in a rectangular plate shape. A length direction of the first swing arm body <NUM> is parallel to the Y-axis direction. The first swing arm <NUM> is fastened and connected to the first housing <NUM> by using the first swing arm body <NUM>.

Still referring to <FIG>, the two first connecting portions <NUM> are disposed on a side of the first swing arm body <NUM> closer to the shaft cover <NUM>. The two first connecting portions <NUM> are spaced apart in a length direction of the first swing arm <NUM>. The two first connecting portions <NUM> are connected to the first swing arm body <NUM> to form an integral structure. A first shaft hole 2512a is formed on each of the first connecting portions <NUM>, and the first shaft hole 2512a is non-circular. For example, the first shaft hole 2512a is oval, triangular, or trapezoidal.

The first rotating shaft <NUM> is located in the accommodating space 24a. The first rotating shaft <NUM> is rotatably connected to the shaft cover <NUM>, and a rotation axis of the first rotating shaft <NUM> extends in the Y-axis direction. The first rotating shaft <NUM> is provided with a first cooperation segment <NUM>. The first cooperation segment <NUM> fits the first shaft hole 2512a. Because the first shaft hole 2512a is non-circular, and the first cooperation segment <NUM> fits into the first shaft hole 2512a, a limitation can be formed between the first rotating shaft <NUM> and the first swing arm <NUM>. In this way, when the first housing <NUM> rotates, the first swing arm <NUM> can rotate with the first housing <NUM>, thereby driving the first rotating shaft <NUM> to rotate to implement relative rotation between the first housing <NUM> and the shaft cover <NUM>. It can be understood that a rotation axis of the first housing <NUM> is the rotation axis of the first rotating shaft <NUM>.

The second swing arm <NUM> is spaced apart from the first swing arm <NUM> in the x-axis direction. The second swing arm <NUM> has the support surface M4. The support surface M4 on the second swing arm <NUM> is used to fix and support part of the third part <NUM>. For example, the support surface M4 on the second swing arm <NUM> may be connected to the third part <NUM> by gluing.

The second swing arm <NUM> is configured to be fastened to the second housing <NUM>. The second swing arm <NUM> may be fastened and connected to the second housing <NUM> by bonding, clamping, welding, screwing, or the like. For example, a surface of the second swing arm <NUM> facing away from the support surface M4 is fastened to the second housing <NUM> by gluing.

Specifically, the second swing arm <NUM> includes a second swing arm body <NUM> and two second connecting portions <NUM>. The second swing arm body <NUM> is in a rectangular plate shape. A length direction of the second swing arm body <NUM> is parallel to the Y-axis direction. The second swing arm <NUM> is fastened and connected to the second housing <NUM> by using the second swing arm body <NUM>.

Still referring to <FIG>, the two second connecting portions <NUM> are disposed on a side of the second swing arm body <NUM> closer to the shaft cover <NUM>. The two second connecting portions <NUM> are spaced apart in a length direction of the second swing arm <NUM>. The two second connecting portions <NUM> are connected to the second swing arm body <NUM> to form an integral structure. A second shaft hole 2542a is formed on each of the second connecting portions <NUM>, and the second shaft hole 2542a is non-circular. For example, the second shaft hole 2542a is oval, triangular, or trapezoidal.

The second rotating shaft <NUM> is located in the accommodating space 24a. The second rotating shaft <NUM> is parallel to the first rotating shaft <NUM> and spaced apart from the first rotating shaft <NUM> in the X-axis direction. The second rotating shaft <NUM> is rotatably connected to the shaft cover <NUM>, and a rotation axis of the second rotating shaft <NUM> extends in the Y-axis direction. The second rotating shaft <NUM> is provided with a second cooperation segment <NUM>. The second cooperation segment <NUM> fits into the second shaft hole 2542a. Because the second shaft hole 2542a is non-circular, and the second cooperation segment <NUM> fits into the second shaft hole 2542a, a limitation can be formed between the second rotating shaft <NUM> and the second swing arm <NUM>. In this way, when the second housing <NUM> rotates, the second swing arm <NUM> can rotate with the second housing <NUM>, thereby driving the second rotating shaft <NUM> to rotate to implement relative rotation between the second housing <NUM> and the shaft cover <NUM>.

The transmission assembly <NUM> is located in the accommodating space 24a. The transmission assembly <NUM> is configured to enable the first rotating shaft <NUM> and the second rotating shaft <NUM> to synchronously rotate in opposite directions. That means the transmission assembly <NUM> can correlate the rotations of the first rotating shaft <NUM> and the second rotating shaft <NUM>, thereby correlating the rotations of the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM>. Specifically, the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> may synchronously rotate in opposite directions, that is, when the first housing <NUM> rotates, the second housing <NUM> rotates relative to the first housing <NUM> in an opposite direction. Such synchronous rotation design can speed up folding and unfolding of the foldable electronic device <NUM> to reduce operation time of the user. Moreover, such synchronous rotation design allows the user to operate only on either of the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM>, not necessarily on both of the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM>, thereby simplifying the operation and improving user experience.

The first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> that rotate in opposite directions may include two states. A first state is that when the foldable electronic device <NUM> is folded, the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> rotate toward (or relative to) each other. A second state is that when the foldable electronic device <NUM> is unfolded, the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> rotate facing away from each other.

Still referring to <FIG>, the transmission assembly <NUM> includes a first gear <NUM>, a second gear <NUM>, and an intermediate gear <NUM>. The first gear <NUM> is fastened to the first rotating shaft <NUM> and coaxially disposed with the first rotating shaft <NUM>. For example, the first gear <NUM> may be integrally formed with the first rotating shaft <NUM> by milling by a computer numerical control (computer numerical control, CNC) milling machine. In this way, structural accuracy of the first rotating shaft <NUM> and the first gear <NUM> can be improved, and connection strength between the first gear <NUM> and the first rotating shaft <NUM> can be improved, thereby simplifying an assembly process of the rotating shaft mechanism <NUM> to reduce an assembly error of the rotating shaft mechanism <NUM>.

The second gear <NUM> is fastened to the second rotating shaft <NUM> and coaxially disposed with the second rotating shaft <NUM>. For example, the second gear <NUM> may be integrally formed with the second rotating shaft <NUM> by milling by a computer numerical control (computer numerical control, CNC) milling machine. In this way, structural accuracy of the second rotating shaft <NUM> and the second gear <NUM> can be improved, and connection strength between the second gear <NUM> and the second rotating shaft <NUM> can be improved, thereby simplifying an assembly process of the rotating shaft mechanism <NUM> to reduce an assembly error of the rotating shaft mechanism <NUM>.

The intermediate gears <NUM> is provided in a quantity of two, and the two intermediate gears <NUM> mesh with each other. One of the intermediate gears <NUM> meshes with the first gear <NUM>, and the other intermediate gear <NUM> meshes with the second gear <NUM>. The intermediate gears <NUM>, the first gear <NUM>, and the second gear <NUM> have the same diameter and teeth count. In this way, the two intermediate gears <NUM> are disposed to mesh with the first gear <NUM> and the second gear <NUM>, so that the first gear <NUM> and the second gear <NUM> can synchronously rotate in opposite directions, that is, the first rotating shaft <NUM> and the second rotating shaft <NUM> can synchronously rotate in opposite directions. Therefore, when the user applies a force to one of the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM>, the first housing <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> can synchronously rotate in opposite directions, so that the foldable electronic device <NUM> can change between the folded state and the unfolded state, thereby increasing a change speed.

It should be noted that a quantity of intermediate gears <NUM> is not limited to <NUM>, as long as the intermediate gear <NUM> is provided in an even quantity. For example, the quantity of intermediate gears <NUM> is <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>. Certainly, the intermediate gear <NUM> may alternatively not be disposed in the transmission assembly <NUM>, but the first gear <NUM> directly meshes with the second gear <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> is a three-dimensional diagram of the first housing <NUM> of the support apparatus <NUM> shown in <FIG>. The first housing <NUM> includes a first middle plate <NUM>, a first back cover <NUM>, and a first side frame <NUM>.

The first middle plate <NUM> is in a rectangular flat plate shape. The first middle plate <NUM> and the first back cover <NUM> are arranged opposite each other. Specifically, part of a surface of the first middle plate <NUM> facing away from the first back cover <NUM> is recessed in a direction toward the first back cover <NUM> to form a first groove 211a. The first groove 211a extends to an edge of the first middle plate <NUM> in a direction approaching the shaft cover <NUM>. Part of the first swing arm body <NUM> is located in the first groove 211a (with reference to <FIG>). Such arrangement helps ensure that the support surface M1 of the first housing <NUM> and the support surface M4 of the first swing arm body <NUM> are coplanar, thereby preventing a problem that the foldable screen <NUM> is not flat caused by the support surface M4 of the first swing arm body <NUM> protruding out of the support surface M1 of the first housing <NUM> due to absence of the first groove 211a. This helps ensure reliable support for the foldable screen <NUM>, thereby ensuring flatness of the foldable screen <NUM>. The remaining part of the surface of the first middle plate <NUM> facing away from the first back cover <NUM> forms the support surface M1 of the first housing <NUM>.

The first side frame <NUM> is connected to the first middle plate <NUM> and the first back cover <NUM>, and the first side frame <NUM> is arranged around a periphery of the first middle plate <NUM>. In this way, the first side frame <NUM>, the first middle plate <NUM>, and the first back cover <NUM> can enclose a mounting space for mounting an electronic component of the foldable electronic device <NUM>, such as a circuit board, a battery, a receiver, a speaker, and a camera. Electronic components of the foldable electronic device <NUM>, such as a main controller, a storage unit, an antenna module, and a power management module, may be integrated on the circuit board, and the battery may supply power to the electronic components, such as the foldable screen <NUM>, the circuit board, the receiver, the speaker, and the camera.

To improve structural strength of the first housing <NUM>, optionally, the first side frame <NUM> is integrally formed with the first middle plate <NUM>. Certainly, this application is not limited thereto, and in other examples, the first side frame <NUM> and the first middle plate <NUM> may also be connected through clamping, gluing, or welding.

One end of the first back cover <NUM> adjacent to the shaft cover <NUM> extends beyond the first side frame <NUM> to form a first shielding plate <NUM>, and the first side frame <NUM> has a first side surface <NUM> adjacent to the shaft cover <NUM>. The first side surface <NUM> and a surface of the first shielding plate <NUM> that faces toward a same direction as the support surface M1 of the first housing <NUM> does define an avoidance surface. To be specific, the first side surface <NUM> and a surface of the first shielding plate <NUM> that faces toward the foldable screen <NUM> can define an avoidance surface. For example, the first side surface <NUM> transitions, through an arc-shaped surface, to the surface of the first shielding plate <NUM> that faces toward a same direction as the support surface M1 of the first housing <NUM> does. For example, the avoidance surface is an arc-shaped surface, and a center line of the avoidance surface extends in the Y-axis direction. Certainly, it can be understood that in other examples, the first side surface <NUM> and the surface of the first shielding plate <NUM> that faces toward the foldable screen <NUM> are both flat surfaces, with an included angle therebetween. For example, the two surfaces are vertically arranged.

Further, still referring to <FIG>, the first housing <NUM> further includes two first extension plates <NUM>. The two first extension plates <NUM> are arranged opposite each other in the Y-axis direction. The two first extension plates <NUM> are respectively disposed on two ends of the first side surface <NUM>, and each of the first extension plates <NUM> is connected to the first shielding plate <NUM>. In this way, the first shielding plate <NUM> and the two first extension plates <NUM> may form a U-shaped plate. Certainly, it can be understood that, in other examples, the first housing <NUM> may alternatively not include two first extension plates <NUM>. Alternatively, in other examples, the first housing <NUM> does not include the first shielding plate <NUM>, but includes two first extension plates <NUM>.

To improve the structural strength of the first housing <NUM> and simplify a processing technology of the first housing <NUM>, in some embodiments, the first extension plate <NUM> may be integrally formed with the first shielding plate <NUM>. For example, the first extension plate <NUM> and the first back cover <NUM> provided with the first shielding plate <NUM> may be integrally formed. In other words, after being integrally formed, the first extension plate <NUM> and the first back cover <NUM> are connected to the first side frame <NUM> through another assembly process such as welding and bonding. In some other embodiments, the first extension plate <NUM>, the first back cover <NUM>, and the first side frame <NUM> may be integrally formed. In this way, any two of the first extension plate <NUM>, the first back cover <NUM>, and the first side frame <NUM> are integrated as a whole in appearance, which helps improve appearance aesthetics of the first housing <NUM>. In some other embodiments, the first middle plate <NUM>, the first side frame <NUM>, and the first extension plate <NUM> are integrally formed.

Referring to <FIG> is a schematic diagram of cooperation between the first housing <NUM> of the support apparatus <NUM> shown in <FIG> and the shaft cover <NUM>. The shaft cover <NUM> is located between the two first extension plates <NUM>. Specifically, referring to <FIG> is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device <NUM> shown in <FIG> along a line A-A. Being along the line "A-A" means being along the line A-A and a plane enclosed as indicated by arrows at two ends of the line A-A. The same description hereinafter should be understood in the same way. In the unfolded state, the first shielding plate <NUM> is located on a side of the shaft cover <NUM> facing away from the foldable screen <NUM>, and the first side surface <NUM> is located on a side of the shaft cover <NUM> farther away from the second housing <NUM>, that is, the first side surface <NUM> and the first side plate <NUM> are opposite each other in the x-axis direction. In this way, in the unfolded state, the first shielding plate <NUM> is used to hide the hinge assembly <NUM> to improve appearance consistency of the support apparatus <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device <NUM> shown in <FIG> along a line B-B. In the folded state, the first shielding plate <NUM> is located on a side of the shaft cover <NUM> farther away from the second housing <NUM>, that is, the first shielding plate <NUM> is located on a side that the first side plate <NUM> faces toward, and the first side surface <NUM> is located on a side of the shaft cover <NUM> facing toward the foldable screen <NUM>. In this way, the first shielding plate <NUM> can be used to shield part of the rotating shaft mechanism <NUM>, preventing the rotating shaft mechanism <NUM> from being exposed in the folded state to visually affect user experience. Certainly, it can be understood that, in other examples, the first back cover <NUM> may alternatively not be provided with the first shielding plate <NUM>. In this case, the first back cover <NUM> has a same size as the first middle plate <NUM>, and the first side frame <NUM> is arranged around a periphery of the first back cover <NUM>.

The second housing <NUM> has a same structure as the first housing <NUM>. A cooperation relationship between the second housing <NUM> and the shaft cover <NUM> is the same as a cooperation relationship between the first housing <NUM> and the shaft cover <NUM>. A cooperation relationship between the second housing <NUM> and the second swing arm <NUM> is the same as a cooperation relationship between the first housing <NUM> and the first swing arm <NUM>. Details are not further described herein.

Still referring to <FIG>, to ensure that the first housing <NUM> rotates relative to the shaft cover <NUM> without interference, a first gap G1 is reserved between the avoidance surface and an outer peripheral surface of the shaft cover <NUM>. A second gap G2 is reserved between each of the two first extension plates <NUM> and an end of the shaft cover <NUM>. The first gap G1 communicates with the second gap G2, thereby forming a first movement gap G between the first housing <NUM> and the shaft cover <NUM>. However, the first movement gap G compromises waterproof and dustproof effects of the foldable electronic device <NUM>.

To resolve the technical problem, refer to <FIG>, and <FIG>. <FIG> is an exploded view of a foldable electronic device <NUM> according to a second embodiment of this application; <FIG> is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device <NUM> shown in <FIG> when in an unfolded state; and <FIG> is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device <NUM> shown in <FIG> when in a folded state. The support apparatus <NUM> further includes a first flexible sealing member <NUM>. The first flexible sealing member <NUM> fits into and seals the first movement gap G. That is, the first flexible sealing member <NUM> is located in the first movement gap G, and the first flexible sealing member <NUM> serves as a seal between the first housing <NUM> and the shaft cover <NUM>. Because the first flexible sealing member <NUM> is compact, non-porous, soft, and deformable, the first flexible sealing member <NUM> is used to seal the first movement gap G to achieve waterproof and dustproof effects of the foldable electronic device <NUM>, thereby preventing moisture and dust outside the foldable electronic device <NUM> from entering inside of the foldable electronic device <NUM> through the first movement gap G, and further ensuring that the first housing <NUM> moves relative to the hinge assembly <NUM> without much obstruction. A material of the first flexible sealing member <NUM> includes, but is not limited to, silicone, rubber, or sealing foam. There may be one first flexible sealing member <NUM> or a plurality of first flexible sealing members <NUM> arranged in parallel.

Still referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the first flexible sealing member <NUM> is fastened to the first housing <NUM> and abuts against an outer surface of the shaft cover <NUM>. Specifically, the first flexible sealing member <NUM> is fastened to the U-shaped plate formed by the first shielding plate <NUM> and the first extension plate <NUM>.

Specifically, still referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, during the rotation of the first housing <NUM> relative to the shaft cover <NUM>, the avoidance surface also rotates relative to the shaft cover <NUM> with the rotation of the first housing <NUM>. Therefore, a position of the avoidance surface changes with respect to the shaft cover <NUM>, which leads to a change in size of the first movement gap G. When the foldable electronic device <NUM> is in the folded state or the unfolded state, and the foldable electronic device <NUM> is changing between the folded state and the unfolded state, to keep the first flexible sealing member <NUM> as a seal between the first housing <NUM> and the shaft cover <NUM>, the first flexible sealing member <NUM> is fastened to an end of the U-shaped plate farther away from the first side frame <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> is a three-dimensional diagram of the first flexible sealing member <NUM> of the foldable electronic device <NUM> shown in <FIG>. The first flexible sealing member <NUM> includes a first sealing segment <NUM> and two second sealing segments <NUM>.

The first sealing segment <NUM> is fastened to the first shielding plate <NUM>, and the first sealing segment <NUM> extends to be a strip in the Y-axis direction. In the unfolded state, the first sealing segment <NUM> is located on a side of the shaft cover <NUM> farther away from the foldable screen <NUM> and abuts against a bottom plate <NUM> of the shaft cover <NUM> (with reference to <FIG>). In the folded state, the first sealing segment <NUM> is located on a side of the shaft cover <NUM> in the X-axis direction, that is, the first sealing segment <NUM> is located on the side that the first side plate <NUM> faces toward, and abuts against the first side plate <NUM>(with reference to <FIG>). In this way, the first sealing segment <NUM> is used to seal the first gap G1.

In some embodiments, to ensure that the first sealing segment <NUM> always seals the first gap G1 during the rotation of the first housing <NUM> relative to the shaft cover <NUM>, and to prevent the first sealing segment <NUM> from obstructing a relative rotation between the first housing <NUM> and the shaft cover <NUM>, part of the outer peripheral surface of the shaft cover <NUM> forms an arc-shaped abutting surface S. A center line of the arc-shaped abutting surface S is collinear with a rotation axis of the first housing <NUM>. The first sealing segment <NUM> abuts against the arc-shaped abutting surface S (with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>). In this way, during the rotation of the first housing <NUM> relative to the shaft cover <NUM>, consistent pre-tightening force is applied to the first sealing segment <NUM>, preventing the first sealing segment <NUM> from interfering with the rotation of the first housing <NUM> relative to the shaft cover <NUM>.

To adapt to the arc-shaped abutting surface S, at least part of the avoidance surface may also be an arc-shaped surface. Certainly, the avoidance surface may alternatively not be an arc-shaped surface, but a right-angled surface (that is, the first side surface is perpendicular to the first shielding plate).

The two second sealing segments <NUM> are respectively disposed at two ends of the first sealing segment <NUM> in a length direction, and the second sealing segment <NUM> is substantially perpendicular to the first sealing segment <NUM>. The two second sealing segments <NUM> are respectively fastened to corresponding first extension plates <NUM> and abut against ends of the shaft cover <NUM> (that is, the first end plate <NUM> and the second end plate <NUM>), to seal the second gap G2. Each of the second sealing segments <NUM> is strip-shaped.

Specifically, the first flexible sealing member <NUM> is integrally formed with a wall plate in which the first flexible sealing member <NUM> is located. In other words, in this embodiment, the first flexible sealing member <NUM> is integrally formed with the U-shaped plate formed by the first shielding plate <NUM> and the first extension plate <NUM>, thereby improving connection strength between the first flexible sealing member <NUM> and the U-shaped plate, simplifying a processing technology, and reducing production costs. For example, the first flexible sealing member <NUM> may be integrally formed with the U-shaped plate through two-color injection molding. It can be understood that the first flexible sealing member <NUM> is not limited to being integrally formed with the U-shaped plate. The first flexible sealing member <NUM> may alternatively be formed separately, and then bonded to the U-shaped plate through dispensing or back gluing. This is not limited, as long as, the first flexible sealing member <NUM> can be fastened to the first housing <NUM>.

Still referring to <FIG>, the first flexible sealing member <NUM> includes a flexible body portion 256a and a flexible abutting rib 256b. The flexible body portion 256a includes a first body portion 256a1 and two second body portions 256a2. The two second body portions 256a2 are respectively disposed at two ends of the first body portion 256a1 in a length direction, and the second body portions 256a2 are substantially perpendicular to the first body portion 256a1. The first body portion 256a1 is fastened to the first shielding plate <NUM>. The two second body portions 256a2 are in one-to-one correspondence with the two first extension plates <NUM>, and each of the second body portions 256a2 is fastened to a corresponding first extension plate <NUM>.

The flexible abutting rib 256b is fastened to the flexible body portion 256a. Specifically, the flexible abutting rib 256b includes a first rib segment 256b1 and two second rib segments 256b2. The first rib segment 256b1 is fastened to the first body portion 256a1. In this way, the first rib segment 256b1 and the first body portion 256a1 can define the first sealing segment <NUM>. The first rib segment 256b1 abuts against the outer peripheral surface of the shaft cover <NUM> (for example, the arc-shaped abutting surface S).

The two second rib segments 256b2 are respectively disposed at two ends of the first rib segment 256b1 in a length direction. The two second rib segments 256b2 are in one-to-one correspondence with the two second body portions 256a2, and each of the second rib segments 256b2 is fastened to a corresponding second body portion 256a2. In this way, the second body portion 256a2 and the second rib segment 256b2 located on the second body portion 256a2 can define the second sealing segment <NUM>. The two second rib segments 256b2 respectively abut against two side end surfaces (that is, the first end plate <NUM> and the second end plate <NUM>) of the shaft cover <NUM> in the Y-axis direction. Such arrangement helps completely seal the first movement gap G to improve a sealing effect. For example, referring to <FIG> is a partial enlarged view of the first flexible sealing member <NUM> at position D shown in <FIG>. A cross section of the flexible abutting rib 256b (that is, the first rib segment 256b1 and the second rib segment 256b2) is triangular, semicircular, or wedge-shaped.

One flexible abutting rib 256b is provided. Certainly, this application is not limited thereto. To improve a sealing effect of the first flexible sealing member <NUM>, refer to <FIG> is a partial enlarged view of a first flexible sealing member <NUM> according to another embodiment of this application. A plurality of flexible abutting ribs 256b is provided. The plurality of flexible abutting ribs 256b are arranged on the flexible body portion 256a in parallel and spaced apart. An avoidance space may be formed between two adjacent flexible abutting ribs 256b to give room for the flexible abutting rib 256b to deform when the flexible abutting rib 256b abuts against the shaft cover <NUM>. Specifically, in the example shown in <FIG>, there are three flexible abutting ribs 256b. Certainly, it can be understood that there may alternatively be two, four, or six flexible abutting ribs 256b, as long as a quantity of flexible abutting ribs 256b is equal to or greater than <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> is a partial enlarged view of the foldable electronic device <NUM> at position E shown in <FIG>. Specifically, the first housing <NUM> is provided with an embedded groove <NUM>, and the embedded groove <NUM> may form a part of the first movement gap G. The flexible body portion 256a of the first flexible sealing member <NUM> is fastened inside the embedded groove <NUM>. The flexible abutting rib 256b of the first flexible sealing member <NUM> is located outside the embedded groove <NUM> and abuts against the shaft cover <NUM>.

Specifically, the embedded groove <NUM> includes a first groove segment <NUM> and two second groove segments <NUM>. The first groove segment <NUM> is formed on the first shielding plate <NUM>, and one second groove segment <NUM> is formed on each first extension plate <NUM>. The first body portion 256a1 is disposed in the first groove segment <NUM>, and the first rib segment 256b1 is located outside the first groove segment <NUM>. The second body portion 256a2 is correspondingly disposed in the second groove segment <NUM>, and the second rib segment 256b2 is located outside the second groove segment <NUM>.

In this embodiment of this application, the embedded groove <NUM> is disposed on the first housing <NUM>, which helps accommodate part of the first flexible sealing member <NUM> by using the embedded groove <NUM>, thereby limiting the first flexible sealing member <NUM> by using the embedded groove <NUM>. This helps improve connection reliability between the first flexible sealing member <NUM> and the first housing <NUM> to prevent the first flexible sealing member <NUM> from being displaced during the rotation of the first housing <NUM> relative to the shaft cover <NUM>.

On this basis, to further improve a limiting effect of the embedded groove <NUM> on the first flexible sealing member <NUM>, refer to <FIG> is a schematic cross-sectional view of the embedded groove <NUM> according to an embodiment of this application. In a direction from a bottom surface of the embedded groove <NUM> to a notch of the embedded groove <NUM>, opposite groove surfaces of the embedded groove <NUM> obliquely extend toward each other. In other words, for the first groove segment <NUM>, in a direction from a bottom surface of the first groove segment <NUM> to a notch of the first groove segment <NUM>, opposite groove surfaces of the first groove segment <NUM> obliquely extend toward each other; and for the second groove segment <NUM>, in a direction from a bottom surface of the second groove segment <NUM> to a notch of the second groove segment <NUM>, opposite groove surfaces of the second groove segment <NUM> obliquely extend toward each other. In this way, the embedded groove <NUM> may be formed as a dovetail groove, thereby improving the limiting effect of the embedded groove <NUM> on the first flexible sealing member <NUM> to ensure connection strength between the first flexible sealing member <NUM> and the first housing <NUM>. Certainly, it can be understood that in other examples, in the direction from the bottom surface of the embedded groove <NUM> to the notch of the embedded groove <NUM>, the opposite groove surfaces of the embedded groove <NUM> obliquely extend in directions leaving each other, which facilitates forming or mounting of the first flexible sealing member <NUM>.

On this basis, to further improve the limiting effect of the embedded groove <NUM> on the first flexible sealing member <NUM>, refer to <FIG> is a schematic cross-sectional view of cooperation between an embedded groove <NUM> according to another embodiment of this application and the first flexible sealing member <NUM>. A retaining groove <NUM> is formed on a groove surface of the embedded groove <NUM> (for example, the groove surface of the first groove segment <NUM> and/or the groove surface of the second groove segment <NUM>). A protruding portion 256a3 matching the retaining groove <NUM> is formed on the flexible body portion 256a. For example, the retaining groove <NUM> may be provided in plurality. For another example, among the plurality of retaining grooves <NUM>, some of the retaining grooves <NUM> are located on the bottom surface of the embedded groove <NUM>, and other retaining grooves <NUM> are located on a side surface of the embedded grooves <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, <FIG> is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of a foldable electronic device <NUM> in an unfolded state according to a third embodiment of this application; and <FIG> is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device <NUM> shown in <FIG> when in a folded state. Different from the embodiment shown in <FIG>, in this embodiment, the first flexible sealing member <NUM> is fastened to the shaft cover <NUM>. In addition, to ensure that the first flexible sealing member <NUM> can always seal the gap between the first housing <NUM> and the shaft cover <NUM> during the rotation of the first housing <NUM> relative to the shaft cover <NUM>, the first flexible sealing member <NUM> is located on a part of a first side plate <NUM> of the shaft cover <NUM> closer to the foldable screen <NUM>.

Further, the first body portion 256a1 of the first sealing segment <NUM> is fastened to the outer peripheral surface of the shaft cover <NUM>. In the unfolded state, the first rib segment 256b1 of the first sealing segment <NUM> abuts against the first side surface <NUM> (with reference to <FIG>). In the folded state, the first rib segment 256b1 of the first sealing segment <NUM> abuts against the first shielding plate <NUM> (with reference to <FIG>). The second body portion 256a2 of the second sealing segment <NUM> is fastened to end surfaces of two ends of the shaft cover <NUM> in the Y-axis direction, and the second rib segment 256b2 of the second sealing segment <NUM> abuts against a corresponding first extension plate <NUM>.

In some embodiments, to ensure that the first sealing segment <NUM> always seals the first gap G1 during the rotation of the first housing <NUM> relative to the shaft cover <NUM>, and to prevent the first sealing segment <NUM> from obstructing the relative rotation between the first housing <NUM> and the shaft cover <NUM>, the avoidance surface has the arc-shaped abutting surface S. A center line of the arc-shaped abutting surface S is collinear with a rotation axis of the first housing <NUM>. For example, the avoidance surface is formed as the arc-shaped contact surface S. The first rib segment 256b1 of the first sealing segment <NUM> abuts against the arc-shaped abutting surface S (with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>). In this way, during the rotation of the first housing <NUM> relative to the shaft cover <NUM>, consistent pre-tightening force is applied to the first sealing segment <NUM>, preventing the first sealing segment <NUM> from interfering with the rotation of the first housing <NUM> relative to the shaft cover <NUM>.

On this basis, the first flexible sealing member <NUM> is integrally formed with the shaft cover <NUM>, thereby improving connection strength between the first flexible sealing member <NUM> and the shaft cover <NUM>, simplifying a processing technology, and reducing production costs. For example, the first flexible sealing member <NUM> may be integrally formed with the shaft cover <NUM> through two-color injection molding. The first flexible sealing member <NUM> is not limited to being integrally formed with the shaft cover <NUM>. The first flexible sealing member <NUM> may alternatively be formed separately, and then bonded to the shaft cover <NUM> through dispensing or back gluing.

Further, to limit the first flexible sealing member <NUM>, the embedded groove <NUM> may be formed on the shaft cover <NUM> (that is, the first groove segment <NUM> is formed on the first side plate <NUM>, and the second groove segment <NUM> is separately formed on the first end plate <NUM> and the second end plate <NUM>), and the flexible body portion 256a of the first flexible sealing member <NUM> is fastened inside the embedded groove <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG> is an exploded view of a foldable electronic device <NUM> according to a fourth embodiment of this application; and <FIG> is a partial enlarged view of the foldable electronic device <NUM> at position F shown in <FIG>. Different from the embodiment shown in <FIG>, in this embodiment, the first flexible sealing member <NUM> no longer includes the flexible abutting rib 256b, but includes only the flexible body portion 256a. In other words, the first flexible sealing member <NUM> is formed by the flexible body portion 256a. Arib <NUM> is disposed on the shaft cover <NUM>, and the rib <NUM> abuts against the flexible body portion 256a. To ensure that the flexible body portion 256a can always abut against the rib <NUM> during the rotation of the first housing <NUM> relative to the shaft cover <NUM>, the rib <NUM> is disposed on a side of the shaft cover <NUM> closer to the foldable screen <NUM>. Certainly, it can be understood that, in other examples, the rib <NUM> may alternatively be disposed on the avoidance surface of the first housing <NUM>, and the flexible body portion 256a is fastened to the shaft cover <NUM>.

Specifically, the rib <NUM> includes a first rib portion <NUM> and two second rib portions <NUM>. The first rib portion <NUM> is disposed at an end of the first side plate <NUM> adjacent to the foldable screen <NUM>, and the first rib portion <NUM> extends in the Y-axis direction. The two second rib portions <NUM> are respectively disposed at two ends of the first rib portion <NUM> in a length direction. The two second rib portions <NUM> are respectively located on end surfaces of two ends of the shaft cover <NUM> in the Y-axis direction, and each of the second rib portions <NUM> extends in the X-axis direction.

The first body portion 256a1 is fastened to the avoidance surface. Specifically, part of the first body portion 256a1 is fastened to the first shielding plate <NUM>, and the remaining part of the first body portion 256a1 is fastened to the first side surface <NUM>. Referring to <FIG> is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device <NUM> shown in <FIG> when in an unfolded state. In the unfolded state, the first rib portion <NUM> abuts against the part of the first body portion 256a1 located on the first side surface <NUM>. Referring to <FIG> is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device <NUM> shown in <FIG> when in a folded state. In the folded state, the first rib portion <NUM> abuts against the part of the first body portion 256a1 located on the first shielding plate <NUM>.

For example, to ensure that the first body portion 256a1 cooperates with the first rib portion <NUM> to always seal the first gap G1 during the rotation of the first housing <NUM> relative to the shaft cover <NUM>, and to prevent the cooperation of the first body portion 256a1 and the first rib portion <NUM> from obstructing the rotation of the first housing <NUM> relative to the shaft cover <NUM>, the first body portion 256a1 is an arc-shaped sheet. A center line of the first body portion 256a1 is collinear with the rotation axis of the first housing <NUM> (with reference to <FIG>). In this way, during the rotation of the first housing <NUM> relative to the shaft cover <NUM>, consistent pre-tightening force is applied to the first body portion 256a1, preventing the cooperation of the first body portion 256a1 and the first rib portion <NUM> from interfering with the rotation of the first housing <NUM> relative to the shaft cover <NUM>.

Because the first body portion 256a1 is made of a flexible material, to maintain an arc shape of the first body portion 256a1, the avoidance surface is formed as an arc-shaped surface, and a center line of the avoidance surface is collinear with the rotation axis of the first housing <NUM>.

The two second rib portions <NUM> are in one-to-one correspondence with the two second body portions 256a2, and each of the second rib portions <NUM> abuts against a corresponding second body portion 256a2. To adapt to the shape of the first body portion 256a1, and to ensure that the second body portion 256a2 cooperates with the second rib portion <NUM> to always seal the second gap G2 during the rotation of the first housing <NUM> relative to the shaft cover <NUM>, the second body portion 256a2 is a fan-shaped sheet.

In the embodiments of this application, the flexible body portion 256a forms the first flexible sealing member <NUM>, which facilitates processing and manufacture of the first flexible sealing member <NUM>, and also facilitates cooperation between the first flexible sealing member <NUM> and the rib <NUM>. This prevents the flexible abutting rib 256b of the first flexible sealing member <NUM> from interfering with the rib <NUM> during the rotation of the first housing <NUM> relative to the shaft cover <NUM>, thereby avoiding impact on a hand feel of rotating the foldable electronic device <NUM>.

On this basis, to limit the first flexible sealing member <NUM>, the first flexible sealing member <NUM> is entirely located in the embedded groove <NUM>. The first groove segment <NUM> of the embedded groove <NUM> is formed on the avoidance surface, and part of the first groove segment <NUM> is located on the first shielding plate <NUM>, the other end of the first groove segment <NUM> is located on the first side surface <NUM>, and the first groove segment <NUM> is in an arc shape matching the shape of the first body portion 256a1. The second groove segment <NUM> is in a fan shape matching the shape of the second body portion 256a2.

Referring to <FIG> is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of a foldable electronic device <NUM> in an unfolded state according to a fifth embodiment of this application; and <FIG> is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of the foldable electronic device <NUM> shown in <FIG> when in a folded state. Different from the embodiment shown in <FIG>, in this embodiment, the rib <NUM> is disposed on the shaft cover <NUM>, and the rib <NUM> abuts against the flexible body portion 256a. To ensure that the flexible body portion 256a can always abut against the rib <NUM> during the rotation of the first housing <NUM> relative to the shaft cover <NUM>, the rib <NUM> is disposed on a side of the shaft cover <NUM> closer to the foldable screen <NUM>.

In this way, while the flexible abutting rib 256b of the first flexible sealing member <NUM> abuts against the shaft cover <NUM>, the rib <NUM> on the shaft cover <NUM> may also abut against the flexible body portion 256a, thereby achieving a good sealing effect through double sealing.

The first body portion 256a1 is fastened to the avoidance surface. Specifically, part of the first body portion 256a1 is fastened to the first shielding plate <NUM>, and the remaining part of the first body portion 256a1 is fastened to the first side surface <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, in the unfolded state, the first rib portion <NUM> abuts against the part of the first body portion 256a1 located on the first side surface <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, in the folded state, the first rib portion <NUM> abuts against the part of the first body portion 256a1 located on the first shielding plate <NUM>.

On this basis, to limit the first flexible sealing member <NUM>, the first groove segment <NUM> of the embedded groove <NUM> is formed on the avoidance surface, and part of the first groove segment <NUM> is located on the first shielding plate <NUM>, the remaining part of the first groove segment <NUM> is located on the first side surface <NUM>, and the first groove segment <NUM> is in an arc shape matching the shape of the first body portion 256a1. The second groove segment <NUM> is in a fan shape matching the shape of the second body portion 256a2.

According to any one of the foregoing embodiments, referring to <FIG> again, to ensure that the second housing <NUM> rotates relative to the shaft cover <NUM> without interference, a second movement gap H is formed between the second housing <NUM> and the shaft cover <NUM>. To improve a sealing effect on the second movement gap H, the support apparatus <NUM> further includes a second flexible sealing member <NUM>, and the second flexible sealing member <NUM> fits into and seals the second movement gap H. Because the second flexible sealing member <NUM> is compact, non-porous, soft, and deformable, the second flexible sealing member <NUM> is used to seal the second movement gap H to achieve waterproof and dustproof effects of the foldable electronic device <NUM>, thereby preventing moisture and dust outside the foldable electronic device <NUM> from entering inside of the foldable electronic device <NUM> through the second movement gap H, and further ensuring that the second housing <NUM> moves relative to the hinge assembly <NUM> without much obstruction. A material of the second flexible sealing member <NUM> includes, but is not limited to, silicone, rubber, or sealing foam. There may be one second flexible sealing member <NUM> or a plurality of second flexible sealing members <NUM> arranged in parallel.

The second flexible sealing member <NUM> has a same structure as the first flexible sealing member <NUM>, and a cooperation relationship between the second flexible sealing member <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> is the same as a cooperation relationship between the first flexible sealing member <NUM> and the first housing <NUM>. A cooperation relationship between the second flexible sealing member <NUM> and the shaft cover <NUM> is the same as a cooperation relationship between the first flexible sealing member <NUM> and the shaft cover <NUM>. Therefore, a specific structure of the second flexible sealing member <NUM> and the cooperation relationships between the second flexible sealing member <NUM> and the second housing <NUM> and the shaft cover <NUM> are not described in detail herein.

The specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in this specification may be combined in a suitable manner in any one or more embodiments or examples.

Claim 1:
A support apparatus (<NUM>), comprising:
a hinge assembly (<NUM>), wherein the hinge assembly (<NUM>) comprises a rotating shaft mechanism (<NUM>) and a shaft cover (<NUM>), and the rotating shaft mechanism (<NUM>) is fastened to the shaft cover (<NUM>);
a first housing (<NUM>) and a second housing (<NUM>), wherein the first housing (<NUM>) and the second housing (<NUM>) are respectively located on two opposite sides of the hinge assembly (<NUM>), the first housing (<NUM>) and the second housing (<NUM>) are configured to rotate relative to the shaft cover (<NUM>) through the rotating shaft mechanism (<NUM>), the first housing (<NUM>), the second housing (<NUM>), and the rotating shaft mechanism (<NUM>) each have a support surface for supporting a foldable screen (<NUM>), and a first movement gap (G) is present between the first housing (<NUM>) and an outer surface of the shaft cover (<NUM>); and
a first flexible sealing member (<NUM>), wherein the first flexible sealing member (<NUM>) fits into and seals the first movement gap (G);
wherein an embedded groove (<NUM>) is formed on one of the first housing (<NUM>) and the shaft cover (<NUM>), the first flexible sealing member (<NUM>) comprises a flexible body portion (256a), and the flexible body portion (256a) is disposed in the embedded groove (<NUM>);
wherein a retaining groove (<NUM>) is formed on a groove surface of the embedded groove (<NUM>), and a protruding portion (256a3) adapted to the retaining groove (<NUM>) is formed on the flexible body portion (256a).