Latch assembly

Abstract

A latch assembly according to the present application comprises: an operating assembly; the at least one lock rod can be driven by the operation assembly and slides in the longitudinal direction; the at least one locking assembly comprises a guide piece and a locking piece, the locking piece is driven by the lock rod to slide in the longitudinal direction, and the locking piece is guided by the guide piece, so that the locking piece rotates around the transverse axis while sliding.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates to a latch assembly, in particular to a multi-point latch assembly. Background Art

[0002] Latch assemblies are common mechanical devices used, for example, to lock a first object, such as a door panel, to a second object, such as a door frame. In some applications, it is desirable for a single operating component in the latch assembly to simultaneously activate multiple locking components, i.e., a multi-point latch. Latch assemblies are also desirable for smooth and fluid operation, minimizing clashing and noise. They are also desirable for flexible configuration to accommodate different operating orientations. They are also desirable for good sealing properties. Utility Model Content

[0003] According to the present application, a latch assembly includes: an operating assembly; at least one locking rod, which can be driven by the operating assembly and slide longitudinally; at least one locking assembly, including a guide member and a locking member, the locking member is driven by the locking rod to slide longitudinally, and the locking member is guided by the guide member so that the locking member rotates around the transverse axis while sliding.

[0004] In one embodiment, the guide member includes: a bottom wall; and two side walls opposite to each other, respectively connected to the two sides of the bottom wall, the locking member slides between the two side walls, each of the side walls has a first guide groove, and the first guide groove extends at least partially obliquely relative to the longitudinal direction; the locking assembly includes a first guide pin connected to the locking member, and the two ends of the first guide pin are respectively inserted into the first guide grooves of the two side walls to guide the locking member to rotate as it slides.

[0005] In one embodiment, each of the first guide grooves includes a first longitudinal segment, a second longitudinal segment and an inclined segment, the first longitudinal segment is closer to the bottom wall than the second longitudinal segment, and the inclined segment extends obliquely from the first longitudinal segment to the second longitudinal segment; when the locking member is in a locked position, the first guide pin is located in the first longitudinal segment, and when the locking member is in an unlocked position, the first guide pin is located in the second longitudinal segment.

[0006] In one embodiment, the locking assembly further comprises a dragging member fixed to the locking rod and rotationally connected to the locking member, so that the locking member can be driven by the locking rod through the dragging member and can rotate relative to the dragging member.

[0007] In one embodiment, each of the side walls further has a second guide groove extending longitudinally, and the locking assembly further includes a second guide pin connected to the dragging member, with both ends of the second guide pin respectively inserted into the second guide grooves of the two side walls.

[0008] In one embodiment, the locking member includes a locking end and a connecting end opposite to each other, the connecting end is driven by the locking rod, and the locking end moves in the thickness direction as the locking member slides; when the locking member is in the locking position, the locking end abuts against a lock catch along the thickness direction, so that the latch assembly is locked to the lock catch; when the locking member is in the unlocking position, the locking end is away from the lock catch, allowing the latch assembly to disengage from the lock catch.

[0009] In one embodiment, the lock is fixed to the second object and includes a laterally extending locking rod; when the locking member is in the locked position, the locking end is inserted between the locking rod and the second object.

[0010] In one embodiment, the operating assembly includes: a handle; a first link connected to the handle; and at least one second link connected between the first link and the second link; wherein, the handle can drive the first link to rotate, and the rotation of the first link in any direction drives the locking rod to move toward the unlocked position through the second link.

[0011] In one embodiment, the operating component includes a first connecting pin and a second connecting pin, the first connecting pin is pivotally connected between the first link and the second link, so that the rotation of the first link drives the rotation of the second link, the second connecting pin is pivotally connected between the second link and the locking rod, so that the rotation of the second link drives the longitudinal sliding of the locking rod, and the operating component is provided with a connecting pin guide groove extending longitudinally, and the second connecting pin is inserted into the connecting pin guide groove to be limited to moving longitudinally.

[0012] In one embodiment, the first connecting pin and the second connecting pin both extend in the thickness direction and are located at both longitudinal ends of the second connecting rod.

[0013] In one embodiment, when the latch assembly is in the locked position, the first link and the second link both extend in a longitudinal direction.

[0014] In one embodiment, the middle portion of the first connecting rod is connected to the handle, the two ends of the first connecting rod are respectively connected to two second connecting rods, and the two second connecting rods are respectively connected to two locking rods; when the first connecting rod rotates in any direction, the two second connecting rods rotate in opposite directions to each other, and the two locking rods slide in directions opposite to each other.

[0015] In one embodiment, the operating assembly includes: a handle; a gear connected to the handle and rotating together with the handle; and a rack engaged with the gear, and the locking rod is connected to the rack; the gear drives the rack to move longitudinally, so that the rack drives the locking rod to move longitudinally.

[0016] In one embodiment, a plurality of locking bars connected to the rack move in the same direction.

[0017] In one embodiment, the operating assembly includes: a housing; a handle capable of rotating relative to the housing between an open position and a closed position; and a handle lock capable of locking the handle in the closed position; the handle lock is at least partially embedded in the handle and includes a moving member capable of being embedded in the housing.

[0018] In one embodiment, the housing is provided with a receiving cavity capable of receiving the handle lock, and an inner wall of the receiving cavity is provided with a groove, and when the handle is in the closed position, the moving member is inserted into the groove.

[0019] In one embodiment, the handle lock includes a lock core, which can be rotated by a key inserted from the outside, and the lock core has a protrusion; the movable member has a supporting portion, and when the lock core is rotated, the protrusion of the lock core abuts against the supporting portion to drive the movable member to exit the groove.

[0020] In one embodiment, the handle lock further includes: a base plate, which is arranged at the lower surface of the handle lock and extends longitudinally, and the moving member can slide along the base plate; a moving member spring, which is arranged between the base plate and the moving member and biases the moving member to pop out from the handle lock.

[0021] In one embodiment, the handle lock further includes: a lock cylinder inserted into the hole of the handle; a lock cover pin inserted into the handle; a lock cover rotated around the lock cover pin to cover or expose the lock cylinder; a lock cover spring surrounding the lock cover pin and biasing the lock cover to pop out from the handle; and a sealing ring disposed in a lower groove of the lock cover and abutting against the inner side wall of the hole to form a seal.

[0022] In one embodiment, the operating assembly further comprises at least one transmission gear, wherein the gear is meshed with the rack via the transmission gear to change the transmission direction and / or transmission ratio of the gear. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] Figures 1A to 1C They are respectively a front view, a side view, and a rear view of a latch assembly according to a first embodiment of the present application;

[0024] Figure 2is an exploded perspective view of the latch assembly;

[0025] Figure 3 is Figure 2 is a partial enlarged view of block A in

[0026] Figure 4 is Figure 2 is a partial enlarged view of block B in

[0027] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the catch of the latch assembly;

[0028] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the drag and lock of the locking assembly;

[0029] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the guide of the locking assembly;

[0030] Figure 8 is a front partial perspective view of the operating member and one locking assembly;

[0031] Figure 9A is a back partial perspective view of the operating member and one locking assembly;

[0032] Figure 9B is Figure 9A is a partial enlarged view of block in

[0033] Figure 10 is a front perspective view of the guide, drag and lock in assembled condition;

[0034] Figure 11 is a back perspective view of the guide, drag and lock in assembled condition;

[0035] Figure 12A is a perspective view of the second lock bar, guide, drag, lock and catch, with the lock in the locked position, Figure 12B and Figure 12C are respectively a side view and a side sectional view corresponding to Figure 12A

[0036] Figure 13A is a perspective view of the second lock bar, guide, drag, lock and catch, with the lock in the locked position, Figure 13B and Figure 13C are respectively a side view and a side sectional view corresponding to Figure 13A

[0037] Figure 14A is a perspective view of the second lock bar, guide, drag, lock and catch, with the lock in the unlocked position, Figure 14B and Figure 14C are respectively a side view and a side sectional view corresponding to​​ Figure 14A side view and side sectional view of

[0038] Figure 15 side sectional view of the operating assembly and the first lock rod, with the handle of the operating assembly in the closed position;

[0039] Figure 16A and Figure 16B perspective views of the operating assembly and the first lock rod, at different angles, with the handle in the open position;

[0040] Figure 16C side sectional views of Figure 16A and Figure 16B ;

[0041] Figure 17A and Figure 17B perspective views of the operating assembly and the first lock rod, at different angles, with the handle in the open position and rotated towards the first direction;

[0042] Figure 18A and Figure 18B perspective views of the operating assembly and the first lock rod, at different angles, with the handle in the open position and continuing to rotate towards the first direction;

[0043] Figure 19A and Figure 19B perspective views of the operating assembly and the first lock rod, at different angles, with the handle in the open position and rotated towards a second direction opposite to the first direction;

[0044] 20A to 20C front, side and rear views of a latching assembly according to a second embodiment of the application;

[0045] Figure 21 exploded perspective view of the latching assembly;

[0046] Figure 22 is a partial enlarged view of the C box in Figure 21 ;

[0047] Figure 23 is a partial enlarged view of the D box in Figure 21 ;

[0048] Figure 24 and Figure 25 are perspective views of the operating assembly and the locking assembly, respectively, of the latching assembly, with the handle in the closed position;

[0049] Figure 26A is a perspective view of the operating assembly, with the housing removed, and with the handle lock in the locked position, Figure 26B is an end view of the operating assembly;

[0050] Figure 27A is a sectional view taken along the line A-A in Figure 26B Figure 27B and Figure 27C are respectively Figure 27A partial enlarged views at the E-ring and the F-ring in

[0051] Figure 28A is a perspective view of the operating assembly with the housing removed and with the handle lock in the unlocked position, Figure 28B is an end view of the operating assembly;

[0052] Figure 29A is a sectional view taken along the line A-A in Figure 28B Figure 29B and Figure 29C are respectively Figure 29A partial enlarged views at the G-ring and the H-ring in

[0053] Figure 30 and Figure 31 are respectively perspective views of the operating assembly and the locking assembly of the latch assembly with the handle in the open position;

[0054] Figure 32 are side sectional views corresponding to Figure 30 and Figure 31 ;

[0055] Figure 33 is a side partial sectional view showing the drive gear of the latch assembly with the handle in the closed position;

[0056] Figure 34 is a side partial sectional view showing the drive gear of the latch assembly with the handle in the open position.

[0057] List of reference signs

[0058] 1 latch assembly

[0059] 100 operating assembly

[0060] 110 housing

[0061] 111 accommodation cavity

[0062] 111a recess

[0063] 120 handle

[0064] 121 handle shaft

[0065] 122 handle inner part

[0066] 123 hole

[0067] 130 drive shaft​​

[0068] 140 First connecting rod

[0069] 150 Second connecting rod

[0070] 160 handle lock

[0071] 161 lock cylinder

[0072] 161a protrusion

[0073] 162 Lock cover

[0074] 163 base plate

[0075] 164 moving parts

[0076] 164a abutment portion

[0077] 164b Insertion

[0078] 165 moving part spring

[0079] 166 Locking pin

[0080] 167 Lock cover spring

[0081] 168 sealing ring

[0082] 171 First seal

[0083] 172 Second seal

[0084] 173 First bottom piece

[0085] 174 Second bottom piece

[0086] 174a Connecting pin guide groove

[0087] 175 First connecting pin

[0088] 176 Second connecting pin

[0089] 177 Third connecting pin

[0090] 180 Gear

[0091] 181 transmission gear

[0092] 185 rack

[0093] 200 Locking assembly

[0094] 210 guide

[0095] 211 bottom wall

[0096] 212 sidewall

[0097] 213 First guide groove

[0098] 213a First longitudinal section

[0099] 213b inclined section

[0100] 213c Second longitudinal segment

[0101] 214 Second guide groove

[0102] 220 drag piece

[0103] 230 Locking piece

[0104] 231 Locking end

[0105] 232 connector

[0106] 240 First guide pin

[0107] 250 Second guide pin

[0108] 271 Rotating Connector

[0109] 272 Sliding connector

[0110] 273 fixed connector

[0111] 310 First locking lever

[0112] 320 Second locking lever

[0113] 330 connecting rod

[0114] 340 connecting shaft

[0115] 400 lock

[0116] 410 snap-on lever

[0117] 420 sidewall

[0118] 430 bottom wall

[0119] 440 Insertion cavity DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0120] While the present invention has been illustrated and described herein with reference to specific embodiments, the invention should not be limited to the details shown, but rather various modifications may be made to the details within the scope and range of equivalents of the claims and without departing from the invention.

[0121] The descriptions of directions such as "front", "back", "up", and "down" involved in this article are only for the convenience of understanding. The present invention is not limited to these directions, but can be adjusted according to actual conditions.

[0122] Reference Figures 1A to 2 The latch assembly 1 according to the first embodiment of the present application is generally described. The latch assembly 1 includes an operating assembly 100, at least one locking assembly 200, and at least one first locking rod 310 and at least one second locking rod 320 for connecting the operating assembly 100 and the locking assembly 200. In use, the latch assembly 1 is mounted to a first object, such as a door panel, and the lock catch 400 is mounted to a second object, such as a door frame. The user operates the lock assembly 200 via the operating assembly 100 via the first locking rod 310 and the second locking rod 320, causing the lock assembly 200 (specifically, the locking member 230 therein, which will be described in detail later) to lock to or unlock from the lock catch 400, thereby locking the first object (not shown) to the second object (not shown) or unlocking it from the second object.

[0123] In this embodiment, four latch assemblies 1 are arranged longitudinally on both sides of the operating assembly 100. It should be understood that in other embodiments, more or fewer latch assemblies 1 may be provided, and multiple latch assemblies 1 may be located on the same side of the operating assembly 100.

[0124] In this embodiment, multiple locking rods are sequentially connected to each side of the operating assembly 100. For ease of description, the locking rod directly connected to the operating assembly 100 is referred to as the first locking rod 310, and the locking rod directly connected to the locking assembly 200 is referred to as the second locking rod 320. The second locking rod 320 is connected to the first locking rod 310 or another second locking rod 320. It should be understood that the number and size of the first locking rod 310 and the second locking rod 320 can be adjusted according to the shape of the first object, and each second locking rod 320 can be connected to multiple locking assemblies 200. It should also be understood that the first locking rod 310 and the second locking rod 320 can form a single locking rod, and therefore, the term "locking rod" herein refers to the collection of the first locking rod 310 and the second locking rod 320.

[0125] The first locking rod 310 is connected to the second locking rod 320 via the connecting shaft 340 , thereby allowing the first locking rod 310 and the second locking rod 320 to rotate relative to each other to increase the flexibility of the latch assembly 1 . The plurality of second locking rods 320 are fixedly connected to each other via the connecting rod 330 .

[0126] The operating assembly 100 can be operated to drive the locking rod, which in turn drives the locking assembly 200. In this embodiment, the operating assembly 100 drives the locking rods on both sides to move toward the operating assembly 100, that is, the locking rods on both sides move in opposite directions, so that the locking assemblies 200 on both sides are locked to or unlocked from the corresponding lock catch 400.

[0127] Reference Figure 3The operating assembly 100 is described in detail. The operating assembly 100 includes a housing 110, a handle 120, a transmission shaft 130, a first connecting rod 140, a second connecting rod 150, a first sealing member 171, a second sealing member 172, a first bottom member 173, a second bottom member 174, a first connecting pin 175, a second connecting pin 176, and a third connecting pin 177.

[0128] The housing 110 houses the other components of the operating assembly 100. The housing 110 is generally rectangular, extending longitudinally and open vertically (i.e., through its thickness) at its upper and lower sides. A first seal 171 and a second seal 172 are attached to the upper and lower peripheries of the housing 110, respectively, to provide a seal. The handle 120 is disposed on the open upper side of the housing 110 and substantially covers the upper side of the housing 110.

[0129] The transmission shaft 130 extends through the housing 110 in the thickness direction, and its upper and lower ends are connected to the handle 120 and the first connecting rod 140 respectively. In this embodiment, the handle 120 can rotate up and down relative to the transmission shaft 130 (i.e., Figure 3 110 in the closed position (see Figure 5 ) and open position (see Figure 16A ). The handle 120 is configured to drive the transmission shaft 130 to rotate about an axis in the thickness direction. For example, the handle 120 is connected to the transmission shaft 130 via a laterally extending pin, allowing the handle 120 to rotate up and down independently of the transmission shaft 130, but rotating together with the transmission shaft 130 about the axis in the thickness direction. In other embodiments, the handle 120 may be configured to be unable to rotate up and down, and only drive the transmission shaft 130 to rotate about the thickness direction.

[0130] The first bottom member 173 and the second bottom member 174 respectively cover the bottom side of the housing 110, facilitating a sealed structure for the housing 110. The transmission shaft 130 passes through the second bottom member 174 and connects to the first connecting rod 140 located below the second bottom member 174, allowing the first connecting rod 140 to rotate along with the transmission shaft 130 about its thickness axis. For example, the bottom end of the transmission shaft 130 has a rectangular cross-section, and the first connecting rod 140 has a corresponding rectangular hole. Therefore, the first connecting rod 140, when mounted on the transmission shaft 130, rotates along with the transmission shaft 130. A third connecting pin 177, in the form of a screw or rivet, is connected to the transmission shaft 130 from below, preventing the first connecting rod 140 from being detached from the transmission shaft 130 from below.

[0131] This embodiment includes two rod-shaped second connecting rods 150. The end of each second connecting rod 150, which is closest to the first connecting rod 140, is pivotally connected to one end of the first connecting rod 140 via a first connecting pin 175. The end of each second connecting rod 150, which is further away from the second connecting rod 330, is pivotally connected to a locking rod (specifically, the first locking rod 310) via a second connecting pin 176. Furthermore, the second connecting pin 176 is slidably disposed within a connecting pin guide slot 174a of the second bottom member 174, restricting the end of the second connecting pin 176, which is further away from the first connecting rod 330, to longitudinal movement, thereby driving longitudinal movement of the locking rod.

[0132] In this embodiment, the first connecting pin 175 and the second connecting pin 176 both extend in the thickness direction and are located at the longitudinal ends of the second connecting rod 150. When the latch assembly 1 is in the locked position, the first connecting rod 140 and the second connecting rod 150 both extend in the longitudinal direction, that is, the first connecting rod 140 and the two second connecting rods 150 are substantially aligned. This facilitates the simplicity and compactness of the operating assembly 100.

[0133] In other embodiments, the first connecting rod 140 and the second connecting rod 150 may be in different forms, such as a disc, a cam, a gear 180, etc., as long as the rotation of the handle 120 is converted into the longitudinal movement of the locking rod. The second connecting rod 330 may also be provided with only one or more than two, each driving a corresponding locking rod.

[0134] Reference Figure 5 、 Figure 6 、 Figures 15 to 19B The operation of the operating assembly 100 according to the first embodiment of the present application will be described.

[0135] exist Figure 5 、 Figure 6 、 Figure 15 In the illustrated state, the handle 120 is located at the top of the housing 110, so the handle 120 extends longitudinally. The first link 140 and the two second links 150 also extend substantially longitudinally, and the two second connecting pins 176 are respectively located in the corresponding connecting pin guide grooves 174a and are located away from the first link 140.

[0136] from Figure 5 、 Figure 6 、 15 Starting from the state shown, the user lifts the handle 120, that is, rotates it in the up and down direction so that the handle 120 is separated from the top of the housing 110. At this time, the operating assembly 100 reaches 16A to 16C Since the handle 120 can rotate up and down independently of the transmission shaft 130, the transmission shaft 130 does not rotate at this time, and the first connecting rod 140 and the second connecting rod 150 do not rotate either.

[0137] from 16A to 16C Starting from the state shown, the user rotates the handle 120 in one direction around the vertical axis (i.e., the thickness direction), for example, rotating the handle 120 counterclockwise, until the handle 120 reaches the vertical axis. 17A to 17B The state shown. During this process, the transmission shaft 130 rotates vertically counterclockwise along with the handle 120, and the transmission shaft 130 drives the first connecting rod 140 to rotate in the same direction. Therefore, the two ends of the first connecting rod 140 respectively drive the two second connecting rods 150 to rotate and move toward the first connecting rod 140. Since the end of the second connecting rod 150 away from the first connecting rod 140 is connected to the second connecting pin 176, and the second connecting pin 176 is guided by the connecting pin guide groove 174a to move longitudinally, this end of the second connecting rod 150 moves longitudinally toward the first connecting rod 140, thereby driving the two locking rods (specifically the first locking rod 310) to move longitudinally toward the first connecting rod 140 respectively. That is, the two locking rods move relative to each other.

[0138] from 17A to 17B The state shown starts, and the user continues to rotate the handle 120 so that the operating assembly 100 reaches 18A to 18B At this time, the handle 120 reaches a substantially transverse position, and thus the first link 140 also reaches a substantially transverse position, so that the longitudinal displacement of the two locking rods is maximum.

[0139] from 16A to 16C Starting from the state shown, the user can rotate the handle 120 in another direction, for example, in a clockwise direction, to Figures 19A to 19B At this time, the first connecting rod 140 is driven by the transmission shaft 130 to rotate in the clockwise direction, and the two ends of the first connecting rod 140 still drive the two second connecting rods 150 to move toward the first connecting rod 140, thereby driving the two locking rods to move longitudinally toward the first connecting rod 140 respectively.

[0140] Therefore, the user can rotate the handle 120 in any vertical direction to enable the two locking rods to move relative to the first connecting rod 140 .

[0141] Reference Figures 4 to 7 The detailed structure of the locking assembly 200 is described as follows: The locking assembly 200 includes a guide member 210 , a drag member 220 , a locking member 230 , a first guide pin 240 , a second guide pin 250 , a rotating connection member 271 , and a sliding connection member 272 .

[0142] The guide member 210 is fixed to a first object, such as a door panel, and does not move with the locking rod. The guide member 210 includes a bottom wall 211 and two side walls 212 that oppose each other in the transverse direction. The two side walls 212 are connected to either side of the bottom wall 211. The locking member 230 and the drag member 220 slide between the two side walls 212. Each side wall 212 has a first guide groove 213 and a second guide groove 214. The first guide groove 213 guides a first guide pin 240 fixed to the locking member 230, and the second guide groove 214 guides a second guide groove 214 fixed to the drag member 220. The first guide groove 213 extends at least partially at an angle relative to the longitudinal direction, while the second guide groove 214 extends substantially in the longitudinal direction.

[0143] More specifically, with reference to Figure 10 Each first guide slot 213 includes a first longitudinal section 213a, a second longitudinal section 213c, and an inclined section 213b. The first longitudinal section 213a is closer to the bottom wall 211 than the second longitudinal section 213c. The inclined section 213b extends obliquely from the first longitudinal section 213a to the second longitudinal section 213c. When the locking member 230 is in the locked position, the first guide pin 240 is located in the first longitudinal section 213a. When the locking member 230 is in the unlocked position, the first guide pin 240 is located in the second longitudinal section 213c. Thanks to the structure of the first guide slot 213, the movement sequence of the locking member 230 between the locked and unlocked positions is longitudinal movement-tilted rotation-longitudinal movement. This prevents collision between the locking member 230 and the lock catch 400, thereby facilitating smooth and stable locking of the locking member 230 to the lock catch 400.

[0144] Combined with reference Figure 2 In this embodiment, the guide member 210 is positioned above the second locking bar 320, with its bottom wall 211 close to the second locking bar 320. The first guide groove 213 is further away from the operating assembly 100 than the second guide groove 214, and the first guide groove 213 is located above the second guide groove 214. However, it should be understood that the guide member 210 can be positioned below the second locking bar 320 by simply flipping the guide member 210 upside down, as described in the second embodiment below.

[0145] The drag member 220 and the locking member 230 are located within the guide member 210 and are guided by the guide member 210 for movement. The drag member 220 is fixed to the locking rod (specifically, the second locking rod 320) and moves longitudinally with the locking rod. The second guide pin 250 is fixed to the drag member 220 and inserted into the second guide slot 214, thereby guiding the movement direction of the drag member 220 and limiting its longitudinal movement. The drag member 220 is connected to the locking member 230 via a laterally extending rotary connector 271, enabling the drag member 220 to drive the locking member 230 for longitudinal movement and allowing the locking member 230 to rotate relative to the drag member 220 about a transverse axis.

[0146] More specifically, the drag member 220 is substantially rectangular and is connected to the second guide pin 250 at the center. The drag member 220 has an upwardly raised protrusion on one side close to the locking member 230, which is inserted into the locking member 230 and connected to the locking member 230 by a rotating connection member 271.

[0147] The locking member 230 includes a locking end 231 and a connecting end 232 that are opposite to each other. The connecting end 232 is pivotally connected to the drag member 220, allowing the locking member 230 to be driven by the locking rod (specifically, the second locking rod 320) via the drag member 220. The locking end 231 is a free end and can be locked to the lock buckle 400, specifically, the locking rod 410. The first guide pin 240 is fixed to the middle portion of the locking member 230 and inserted into the second guide groove 214. Because the second guide groove 214 is inclined relative to the longitudinal direction, the locking end 231 moves in the thickness direction as the locking member 230 slides, causing the locking end 231 to abut against or disengage from the lock buckle 400. The operation of the locking member 230 will be described in detail below.

[0148] The lock catch 400 is attached to or is a portion of a second object. In this embodiment, the lock catch 400 has a bottom wall 211 and two side walls 212 extending from the bottom wall 211. A laterally extending locking rod 410 is connected between the side walls 212. The bottom wall 211 is fixed to the second object and does not extend the entire longitudinal length of the lock catch 400. The locking rod 410 is offset longitudinally from the bottom wall 211, forming an open insertion cavity 440 on the bottom side of the locking rod 410 for the locking member 230 to be inserted and abut against the locking rod 410.

[0149] More specifically, the locking member 230 can be in the shape of a groove extending longitudinally and open downward, having a larger height at the connecting end 232 so as to be pivotally connected to the dragging member 220, and having a smaller height and a triangular shape at the locking end 231 so as to be inserted between the lock buckle 400 and the second object.

[0150] Reference Figures 8 to 11 The latch assembly 200 is further described, shown in a locked position. The first guide pin 240 and the second guide pin 250 are located in the first guide slot 213 and the second guide slot 214, respectively, at positions away from the operating assembly 100. The locking member 230 extends generally longitudinally, with the locking end 231 abutting against the engaging member of the shackle 400. Thus, the latch assembly 1 is locked to the shackle 400 and cannot laterally move away from the shackle 400, thereby locking a first object secured to the latch assembly 1 to a second object secured to the shackle 400.

[0151] Figure 9BIt is clearly shown that the drag member 220 is connected to the second locking rod 320 via a fixed connection 273, so that the drag member 220 moves longitudinally with the second locking rod 320. The bottom wall 211 of the guide member 210 is connected to the first object (not shown) via a sliding connection 272. The sliding connection 272 passes through a longitudinal slot in the second locking rod 320, so that the guide member 210 is not affected by the longitudinal sliding of the second locking rod 320.

[0152] Reference 12A to 14C The operation of the locking assembly 200 is described.

[0153] 12A to 12C The locking assembly 200 is shown in the locked position. From the locked state, the second locking rod 320 drives the drag member 220 to move toward the operating assembly 100 (ie 12A to 12C ), so that the locking assembly 200 transitions to 13A to 13C The state shown in FIG. At this point, the dragging member 220 and the second guide pin 250 have moved a certain distance along the second guide slot 214. The locking member 230, driven by the dragging member 220, has also moved longitudinally, and the locking member 230 and the first guide pin 240 have moved a certain distance along the first guide slot 213 and reached the inclined section 213b. As a result, the locking member 230 rotates while moving longitudinally, causing the locking portion to disengage from the engaging rod 410 of the lock catch 400.

[0154] from 13A to 13C Starting from the state shown, the second locking rod 320 continues to move toward the operating assembly 100, so that the locking assembly 200 transitions to 14A to 14C At this point, the dragging member 220 and the second guide pin 250 have essentially moved to the end of the second guide slot 214 near the locking assembly 200. The locking member 230 is driven by the dragging member 220 to move longitudinally, and the locking member 230 and the first guide pin 240 are guided along the first guide slot 213 to the second longitudinal section 213c of the first guide slot 213.

[0155] Therefore, thanks to the dual guide rod structure of the locking assembly 200, the locking member 230 is driven by the locking rod to slide longitudinally, and the locking member 230 is guided by the guide member 210, so that the locking member 230 rotates about the transverse axis while sliding. In this way, the locking member 230 can move smoothly and stably, and the locking member 230 is prevented from colliding with the lock catch 400 during the longitudinal movement, thereby generating noise.

[0156] Reference FIG. 20A to FIG. 21 The latch assembly 1 according to the second embodiment of the present application will be generally described. Hereinafter, the same components of the second embodiment as those of the first embodiment will be represented by the same names and reference numerals, and different components will be represented by different names and reference numerals.

[0157] The latch assembly 1 of the second embodiment includes an operating assembly 100, at least one locking assembly 200, and at least one first locking rod 310 and at least one second locking rod 320 for connecting the operating assembly 100 and the locking assembly 200. The operating assembly 100 is operable to drive the locking rods, which in turn drive the locking assembly 200. In this embodiment, the operating assembly 100 drives the locking rods on both sides to move in the same direction, that is, the locking rod on one side moves toward the operating assembly 100, while the locking rod on the other side moves away from the operating assembly 100, so that the locking assemblies 200 on both sides are locked to or unlocked from the corresponding lock catch 400.

[0158] Reference Figure 22 The specific structure of the operating assembly 100 is described. The operating assembly 100 includes a housing 110, a handle 120, a handle shaft 121, an inner handle component 122, a gear 180, a transmission gear 181 ( Figure 33 and Figure 34 ), rack 185.

[0159] Gear 180 is connected to handle 120 and rotates along with it around the transverse axis. Specifically, the lower portion of handle 120 is fixedly connected to handle inner member 122. Handle inner member 122 can be embedded in handle 120 or formed as an integral component with handle 120. One end of handle inner member 122 defines a transversely extending handle 120 hole. This handle 120 hole is square or other non-circular in shape, allowing handle shaft 121 to be inserted into this handle 120 hole and rotate along with handle 120 around the transverse axis.

[0160] Each end of the handle shaft 121 is connected to a gear 180, allowing the gear 180 to rotate along with the handle shaft 121 (and the handle 120) about the transverse axis. A rack 185 is meshed with the gear 180. For example, the rack 185 has a plurality of longitudinally arranged tooth holes. As the handle 120 rotates, at least one tooth of the gear 180 engages with a corresponding tooth hole in the rack 185, causing the rack 185 to move longitudinally.

[0161] Combined with reference Figure 33 and Figure 34 , gear 180 can be coupled to rack 185 via at least one transmission gear 181. Transmission gear 181 is disposed between gear 180 and rack 185 and is rotatable about a transverse axis, i.e., is disposed parallel to gear 180. More specifically, one side of transmission gear 181 meshes with gear 180, and the other side meshes with rack 185, so that gear 180 is meshed with rack 185 via transmission gear 181. By providing one or more transmission gears 181, the transmission direction and / or transmission ratio of gear 180 can be varied. Figure 33 and Figure 34It is also shown that the handle 120 and the gear 185 can be an integral part. Figure 33 Rotate to the closed position shown Figure 34 In the open position shown, the gear 185 drives the transmission gear 181, and the transmission gear 181 further drives the rack 185, so that the rack 185 moves in the longitudinal direction, and vice versa.

[0162] The locking rod is connected to the rack 185. For example, the two first locking rods 310 are respectively connected to the longitudinal ends of the rack 185. Therefore, the gear 180 drives the rack 185 to move in the longitudinal direction, so that the rack 185 drives the locking rod to move in the longitudinal direction.

[0163] The operating assembly 100 of the second embodiment further includes a handle lock 160. It should be understood that the operating assembly 100 of the first embodiment may include a similar handle lock 160. The handle lock 160 is disposed in the handle 120 and can be fixed to the housing 110. The handle lock 160 includes a lock cylinder 161, a lock cover 162, a base plate 163, a moving member 164, a moving member spring 165, a lock cover pin 166, a lock cover spring 167, and a sealing ring 168.

[0164] The lock cylinder 161 is generally cylindrical and extends vertically (i.e., in the thickness direction). It is embedded in the hole 123 of the handle 120. Its upper surface is generally flush with the handle 120, and its lower portion extends below the handle 120. A key (not shown) can be inserted into the lock cylinder 161 through the outside of the handle 120 to rotate the lock cylinder 161. The lock cylinder 161 has a protrusion 161a on one side, which can rotate with the lock cylinder 161.

[0165] The lock cover 162 is provided on the upper surface of the handle 120, which is pivotally connected to the handle 120 via a lock cover pin 166 and can be rotated around the lock cover pin 166 to cover or expose the lock cylinder 161. The lock cover 162 is circular in the present embodiment, and may be square, hexagonal, or other appropriate shapes in other embodiments. The lock cover pin 166 extends in the thickness direction and is inserted into the handle 120. The lock cover spring 167 surrounds the lock cover pin 166 and biases the lock cover 162 to pop out from the handle 120. For example, the lock cover spring 167 is configured as a compression spring, and its upper end abuts against the lower surface of the lock cover 162, and the lower end of the lock cover spring 167 abuts in the handle 120 or against the lower end of the lock cover pin 166 to bias the lock cover 162 to pop out from the handle 120. Combined with reference Figure 27A 、 Figure 29A , the sealing ring 168 is set in the groove at the bottom of the lock cover 162. When the lock cover 162 rotates to cover the lock core 161 (that is, to cover the hole 123 of the handle 120, as shown in FIG. Figure 27AAs shown in FIG, the lower portion of the lock cover 162 is pressed into the handle 120, and the sealing ring 168 abuts against the inner wall of the handle 120 to form a seal. At this time, the friction between the sealing ring 168 and the inner wall of the hole 123 of the handle 120 abuts against the bias of the lock cover spring 167 to keep the lock cover 162 in the handle 120. When the user removes the lock cover 162 from the handle 120, the lock cover spring 167 assists in ejecting the lock cover 162. The user can then rotate the lock cover 162 to expose the lock cylinder 161 (as shown in FIG. Figure 29A shown).

[0166] Base plate 163 is arranged on the lower surface of lock core 161, and moving member 164 is arranged on base plate 163 top and can slide longitudinally along base plate 163.Moving member spring 165 is arranged between base plate 163 and moving member 164, so that moving member 164 is biased to ejecting from base plate 163.The operation of handle lock 160 will be described in detail hereinafter.The longitudinal both sides of moving member 164 are respectively equipped with abutment portion 164a and insertion portion 164b, wherein insertion portion 164b can be inserted in the housing 110 so that handle lock 160 is fixed to housing 110, and abutment portion 164a can be abutted by the protrusion 161a of lock core 161, so that moving member 164 is retracted in the base plate 163 and insertion portion 164b breaks away from housing 110.The operation of handle lock 160 will be described in detail hereinafter.

[0167] Reference Figure 23 The locking assembly 200 of the second embodiment is described, which is substantially the same as the locking assembly 200 of the first embodiment. The difference between the two is that the engagement reference Figure 21 The locking assembly 200 of the second embodiment is disposed below the locking rod, that is, the operating assembly 100 and the locking assembly 200 are located on either side of the locking rod. It should be understood that the locking assembly 200 of the first embodiment can also be disposed below the locking rod as required, thus providing flexibility in the location of the locking assembly 200 of the present application.

[0168] Another difference between the second embodiment and the first embodiment is that the locking lever on one side (eg Figure 23 The second locking bar 320 (shown) moves away from the operating assembly 100 during the unlocking process. In contrast, each locking bar in the first embodiment moves toward the operating assembly 100 during the unlocking process. Therefore, simply rotating the locking assembly 200 of the second embodiment back and forth can accommodate locking bars moving in opposite directions. Therefore, the locking assembly 200 of the present application offers flexibility in setting the unlocking direction.

[0169] The operation of the latch assembly 1 of the second embodiment will be described below. Figures 24 to 27AThe latch assembly 1 is shown in the locked position, with the handle 120 in the closed position. The handle 120 is clearly shown mounted to the handle inner member 122, which is connected to the handle shaft 121, which is connected to the gear 180, which is engaged to the rack 185, and the rack 185 is connected to the first locking bar 310.

[0170] Reference Figure 27B The housing 110 is provided with a housing cavity 111 capable of accommodating the handle lock 160, and the inner wall of the housing cavity 111 is provided with a groove 111a. When the handle 120 is in the closed position, the insertion portion 164b of the moving member 164 is inserted into the groove 111a. Therefore, the handle 120 is locked to the housing 110 and cannot rotate relative to the housing 110. Figure 27C The moving member spring 165 biases the moving member 164 relative to the bottom plate 163 to pop out from the lock core 161, and the protrusion 161a of the lock core 161 does not resist the biasing force of the moving member spring 165 at this time, thereby allowing the moving member 164 to be inserted into the groove 111a.

[0171] from Figures 26A to 27C Starting from the state shown, the user rotates the lock cover 162 to expose the lock cylinder 161, and turns the lock cylinder 161 by a key (not shown), so that the latch assembly 1 transitions to Figures 28A to 29C At this time, the protrusion 161a rotates with the lock core 161 and abuts against the abutting portion 164a of the moving member 164, thereby resisting the biasing force of the moving member spring 165, so that the abutting portion 164a of the moving member 164 exits the groove 111a. Like this, the handle 120 is no longer locked to the housing 110.

[0172] from Figures 28A to 29C In the state shown, the user rotates the handle 120 so that the handle 120 drives the locking rod through the gear 180 and the rack 185 to reach Figure 30 to Figure 23 The locking rods on both sides of the operating assembly 100 move in the same direction and respectively drive the locking members 230 in each locking assembly 200 to move to the unlocked position. The specific operation of the locking assembly 200 is similar to that of the first embodiment and will not be described in detail.

[0173] Although preferred embodiments have been shown and described herein, it should be understood that these embodiments are provided by way of example only. Many variations, modifications, and substitutions will occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Therefore, the appended claims are intended to cover all such variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A latch assembly, characterized in that: The latch assembly comprises: operating assembly (100); At least one locking rod capable of being driven by the operating assembly (100) and sliding in the longitudinal direction; At least one locking assembly (200) includes a guide member (210) and a locking member (230), wherein the locking member (230) is driven by the locking rod to slide in the longitudinal direction, and the locking member (230) is guided by the guide member (210) so that the locking member (230) rotates around a transverse axis while sliding.

2. The latch assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The guide member (210) comprises: a bottom wall (211); and Two side walls (212) facing each other are respectively connected to both sides of the bottom wall (211), the locking member (230) slides between the two side walls (212), each of the side walls (212) has a first guide groove (213), and the first guide groove (213) at least partially extends obliquely relative to the longitudinal direction; The locking assembly (200) includes a first guide pin (240) connected to the locking member (230), and both ends of the first guide pin (240) are respectively inserted into the first guide grooves (213) of the two side walls (212) to guide the locking member (230) to rotate as it slides.

3. The latch assembly according to claim 2, wherein: Each of the first guide grooves (213) comprises a first longitudinal section (213a), a second longitudinal section (213c), and an inclined section (213b), wherein the first longitudinal section (213a) is closer to the bottom wall (211) than the second longitudinal section (213c), and the inclined section (213b) extends obliquely from the first longitudinal section (213a) to the second longitudinal section (213c); When the locking member (230) is in the locked position, the first guide pin (240) is located in the first longitudinal section (213a); when the locking member (230) is in the unlocked position, the first guide pin (240) is located in the second longitudinal section (213c).

4. The latch assembly according to claim 2, wherein: The locking assembly (200) further includes a drag member (220), which is fixed to the locking rod and rotationally connected to the locking member (230), so that the locking member (230) can be driven by the locking rod through the drag member (220) and can rotate relative to the drag member (220).

5. The latch assembly according to claim 4, wherein: Each of the side walls (212) further comprises a second guide groove (214) extending longitudinally. The locking assembly (200) further comprises a second guide pin (250) connected to the drag member (220), and both ends of the second guide pin (250) are respectively inserted into the second guide grooves (214) of the two side walls (212).

6. The latch assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The locking member (230) comprises a locking end (231) and a connecting end (232) opposite to each other, the connecting end (232) is driven by the locking rod, and the locking end (231) moves in the thickness direction as the locking member (230) slides; When the locking member (230) is located in the locking position, the locking end (231) abuts against a lock catch (400) along the thickness direction, so that the latch assembly is locked to the lock catch (400); when the locking member (230) is located in the unlocking position, the locking end (231) is away from the lock catch (400), allowing the latch assembly to disengage from the lock catch (400).

7. The latch assembly according to claim 6, wherein: The lock buckle (400) is fixed to the second object and includes a laterally extending locking rod (410); When the locking member (230) is located at the locking position, the locking end (231) is inserted between the buckling rod (410) and the second object.

8. The latch assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The operating component (100) comprises: handle (120); a first connecting rod (140) connected to the handle (120); and at least one second connecting rod (150) connected between the first connecting rod (140) and the second connecting rod (150); The handle (120) can drive the first connecting rod (140) to rotate, and the rotation of the first connecting rod (140) in any direction drives the locking rod to move toward the unlocking position through the second connecting rod (150).

9. The latch assembly according to claim 8, wherein: The operating assembly (100) includes a first connecting pin (175) and a second connecting pin (176), wherein the first connecting pin (175) is pivotally connected between the first link (140) and the second link (150), so that the rotation of the first link (140) drives the rotation of the second link (150), and the second connecting pin (176) is pivotally connected between the second link (150) and the locking rod, so that the rotation of the second link (150) drives the longitudinal sliding of the locking rod. The operating assembly (100) is provided with a connecting pin guide groove (174a) extending in the longitudinal direction, and the second connecting pin (176) is inserted into the connecting pin guide groove (174a) to be limited to move in the longitudinal direction.

10. The latch assembly according to claim 9, wherein: The first connecting pin (175) and the second connecting pin (176) both extend in the thickness direction and are located at both longitudinal ends of the second connecting rod (150).

11. The latch assembly according to claim 8, wherein: When the latch assembly is in the locked position, the first link (140) and the second link (150) both extend longitudinally.

12. The latch assembly according to claim 8, wherein: The middle portion of the first connecting rod (140) is connected to the handle (120), and both ends of the first connecting rod (140) are respectively connected to two second connecting rods (150), and the two second connecting rods (150) are respectively connected to two locking rods; When the first link (140) rotates in any direction, the two second links (150) rotate in opposite directions to each other, and the two locking rods slide in directions opposite to each other.

13. The latch assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The operating component (100) comprises: handle (120); a gear (180) connected to the handle (120) and rotating together with the handle (120); and a rack (185) meshed with the gear (180), the locking rod being connected to the rack (185); The gear (180) drives the rack (185) to move longitudinally, so that the rack (185) drives the locking rod to move longitudinally.

14. The latch assembly according to claim 13, wherein: A plurality of locking rods connected to the rack (185) move in the same direction.

15. The latch assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The operating component (100) comprises: Housing (110); a handle (120) rotatable relative to the housing (110) between an open position and a closed position; and a handle lock (160) capable of locking the handle lock (160) in the closed position; The handle lock (160) is at least partially embedded in the handle (120) and includes a moving member (164) that can be embedded in the housing (110).

16. The latch assembly according to claim 15, wherein: The housing (110) is provided with a receiving cavity (111) capable of receiving the handle lock (160), and the inner wall of the receiving cavity (111) is provided with a groove (111a); when the handle (120) is in the closed position, the moving member (164) is inserted into the groove (111a).

17. The latch assembly according to claim 16, wherein: The handle lock (160) includes a lock core (161), the lock core (161) can be rotated by a key inserted from the outside, and the lock core (161) has a protrusion (161a); The movable member (164) has abutting portion (164a), and when the lock core (161) is screwed, the protrusion (161a) of the lock core (161) abuts against the abutting portion (164a), thereby driving the movable member (164) to exit the groove (111a).

18. The latch assembly according to claim 15, wherein: The handle lock (160) further comprises: A bottom plate (163) is provided on the lower surface of the handle lock (160) and extends in the longitudinal direction, and the moving member (164) can slide along the bottom plate (163); A moving member spring (165) is provided between the base plate (163) and the moving member (164) to bias the moving member (164) to pop out from the handle lock (160).

19. The latch assembly according to claim 15, wherein: The handle lock (160) further comprises: A lock core (161) is inserted into the hole (123) of the handle (120); a locking cover pin (166) inserted into the handle (120); a lock cover (162) that rotates around the lock cover pin (166) to cover or expose the lock cylinder (161); a lock cover spring (167) surrounding the lock cover pin (166) and biasing the lock cover (162) to pop out of the handle (120); and The sealing ring (168) is disposed in the lower groove of the locking cover (162) and abuts against the inner wall of the hole (123) to form a seal.

20. The latch assembly according to claim 13, wherein: The operating assembly (100) further comprises at least one transmission gear (181), and the gear (180) is engaged with the rack (185) via the transmission gear (181) to change the transmission direction and / or transmission ratio of the gear (180).

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