Track limiting lock and track guiding and limiting system comprising same

Abstract

The present application relates to high-end equipment manufacturing industry in the field of aircraft, high-speed rail, railway and other industry infrastructure manufacturing, especially relates to a track limiting lock and a track guiding limiting system comprising the same. The track limiting lock comprises: a base, the inner side and the outer side of which extend upward to form inner wings and outer wings respectively; a lock supporting arm, the bottom of which is hinged between the inner wings and the outer wings, and the top of which is fixed with a limiting block facing the transported object; wherein, the inner wings and the outer wings are formed with locking positioning holes on the side close to the limiting block; a positioning part is formed on the lower part of the lock supporting arm extending towards the limiting block, and the locking positioning holes are formed on the positioning part; in the locked state, the lock supporting arm is supported; the lock pin passes through each locking positioning hole in turn, and the supporting position of the lock supporting arm is locked. Compared with other types of track limiting locks, the track limiting lock of the present application has a simpler structure and higher reliability.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of infrastructure manufacturing in the high-end equipment manufacturing industry, including aircraft, high-speed rail, and railways, and particularly to a track limit lock and a track guiding and limiting system including the same. Background Technology

[0002] Modern air cargo transportation primarily uses standard air containers or standard pallets as carriers. During transportation, airlines may select different sizes of cargo containers or pallets depending on the weight and volume of the cargo. Common specifications are listed below. Figure 1 As shown.

[0003] According to ISO 7116, "Basic types and geometry of floor rails for aircraft," floor rails in cargo aircraft are generally designed in a standardized form. While the cross-sectional shape of the rail may vary depending on the aircraft fuselage structure, the spacing of the slots remains 25.4 ± 0.1. The dimensions of the rails must be compatible with the tethering systems for aircraft seats, galleys, and cargo.

[0004] However, in the process of realizing this invention, the applicant found that the existing track limiting mechanism in rail transportation has a complex structure, poor reliability, and inconvenient state transition. Summary of the Invention

[0005] (a) Technical problems to be solved

[0006] The present invention aims to at least partially solve one of the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0007] (II) Technical Solution

[0008] The first aspect of the present invention provides a track limiting lock, comprising: a base having an inner wing and an outer wing extending upward from its inner and outer sides, respectively; a locking arm having its bottom hinged between the inner wing and the outer wing, and a limiting block fixed at its top facing the object being transported; wherein the inner wing and the outer wing have locking positioning holes formed on the side near the limiting block; a positioning part extending from the lower part of the locking arm toward the limiting block is formed, and a locking positioning hole is formed on the positioning part; in the locked state, the locking arm is raised, and the limiting block at its top abuts against the object being transported; a locking pin passes sequentially through the locking positioning hole on the inner wing of the base, the locking positioning hole on the positioning part of the locking arm, and the locking positioning hole on the outer wing of the base to lock the raised position of the locking arm.

[0009] In some embodiments of the present invention, an unlocking positioning hole is formed on the side of the inner wing and outer wing away from the limiting block; an unlocking positioning groove is formed above the positioning part of the locking arm; in the unlocked state, the locking arm flips and lies flat in the opposite direction; the locking pin passes through the unlocking positioning hole on the inner wing of the base, the unlocking positioning groove on the positioning part of the locking arm, and the unlocking positioning hole on the outer wing of the base in sequence, thereby locking the flipped and flat position of the locking arm.

[0010] In some embodiments of the present invention, a reset torsion spring is provided at the hinge axis between the locking arm and the base; the outer side of the reset torsion spring is fixed to the base, and the inner side is hooked to the side of the locking arm near the limiting block. Under the torsion of the reset torsion spring, the unforced position of the locking arm is the flipped and flat position.

[0011] In some embodiments of the present invention, the locking arm includes: a hook-shaped structure with a limiting block connected to its top and a positioning part formed at its bottom; and a slat structure with its upper part fixed to the hook-shaped structure and its lower part hinged to the inner wing and the outer wing.

[0012] In some embodiments of the present invention, there is one locking arm, the top of which is connected to the middle position of the limiting block.

[0013] In some embodiments of the present invention, there are two locking arms: an inner locking arm and an outer locking arm. The tops of the two arms are respectively connected to the inner and outer sides of the limiting block, forming an inverted U-shaped structure together with the limiting block. A reinforcing beam is provided between the slat structures of the inner locking arm and the outer locking arm.

[0014] In some embodiments of the present invention, the lower part of the base extends vertically downward to form a flange; the track limiting lock further includes: a through shaft that passes vertically downward through the base, a limiting pin extending horizontally above the base, and a rotating handle below the base; wherein the flange and the through shaft are arranged along the track extension direction; the limiting pin and the rotating handle are linked by the through shaft; wherein, in the constrained state, the flange is inserted into the circular groove of the track, the limiting pin is perpendicular to the direction of the track strip groove along a first direction, and its two ends are engaged with the track strip groove, the flange and the limiting pin together lock the track limiting lock on the track; in the disassembly state, the limiting pin is aligned with the direction of the track strip groove along a second direction, thereby removing the track limiting lock from the track.

[0015] In some embodiments of the present invention, the base further includes: a limiting spring, the fixed end of which is fixed to the internal groove of the base, the free end of which extends horizontally toward the direction of the rotating handle, and a limiting ball fixed at its top; a locking limiting hole is provided on the circumferential surface of the rotating handle at a position corresponding to the limiting pin in the first direction; a disassembly limiting hole is provided at a position corresponding to the limiting pin in the second direction; wherein, when the limiting pin is in the first direction, the limiting ball is pushed into the locking limiting hole on the circumferential surface of the rotating handle under the elastic force of the limiting spring, thereby locking the constraint state; when the limiting pin is in the second direction, the limiting ball is pushed into the disassembly limiting hole on the circumferential surface of the rotating handle under the elastic force of the limiting spring, thereby locking the disassembly state; wherein, the track is an aircraft floor slide rail as specified in ISO 7116; the flange matches the circular groove of the node of the aircraft floor slide rail; the limiting pin corresponds to the position of the strip groove between the two nodes; wherein, the inner side is the side facing the track in the horizontal direction, and the outer side is the opposite side of the inner side.

[0016] A second aspect of the present invention provides a track guiding and limiting system, comprising: a track limiting lock as described above, and a track lateral limiting unit; wherein the track lateral limiting unit comprises: a limiting bracket, a mounting surface, and a mounting along a vertical plane; N lower horizontal shafts, disposed on the inner side of the mounting surface, extending horizontally from the mounting surface along the inner side, N≥1; M side vertical shafts, disposed on the inner side of the mounting surface, with a height higher than the lower horizontal shafts, extending vertically, M≥1; S upper horizontal shafts, disposed on the inner side of the mounting surface, with a height higher than the side vertical shafts, extending parallel to the lower horizontal shafts, S≥1; N lower rollers, fitted onto the corresponding lower horizontal shafts, with the lower horizontal shafts as their rolling shafts; M side rollers, fitted onto the corresponding side vertical shafts, with the side vertical shafts as their rolling shafts; and S upper rollers, fitted onto the corresponding upper horizontal shafts, with the upper horizontal shafts as their rolling shafts.

[0017] In some embodiments of the present invention, the track lateral limiting unit further includes: a first connecting ear extending outward from the mounting surface, having a first mounting hole thereon; the track lateral limiting unit further includes: a guide bracket connected to the front or rear of the mounting surface, comprising: a body surface, the shape of which extends smoothly outward from the mounting surface, and T side guide shafts arranged vertically on the inner side of the body surface; the direction of the side guide shafts is parallel to the direction of the side vertical shaft, T≥1; T side guide wheels, sleeved on the corresponding side guide shafts, with the side guide shaft as its rolling shaft; the guide bracket further includes: a second connecting ear extending outward from the body surface. Extending, a second connecting hole matching the first mounting hole is provided on it; wherein, the first connecting ear and the second connecting ear are connected by bolts passing through the first mounting hole and the second mounting hole, thereby fixing the guide bracket to the limiting bracket; the limiting bracket is provided with first connecting ears at the front and rear, and the two first connecting ears are arranged in an inverted "V" shape; the guide bracket is provided with second connecting ears at the front and rear, and the two second connecting ears are arranged in a "V" shape; the guide bracket can be selectively installed in front of or behind the limiting bracket; wherein, M≥2, T≥2, the limiting path formed by M side rollers is tangent to the guiding path formed by T side guide rollers.

[0018] A third aspect of the present invention provides a track guide limiting system, comprising: a track limiting lock as described above, and a track intermediate guide unit; wherein the track intermediate guide unit comprises: a base, the bottom of which extends vertically downward to form a flange; at least one guide assembly, the guide assembly comprising: a horizontal shaft, inserted into the base; and a left roller and a right roller, symmetrically mounted on both sides of the horizontal shaft.

[0019] (III) Beneficial Effects

[0020] As can be seen from the above technical solution, the present invention has at least one of the following beneficial effects compared to the prior art:

[0021] (1) Compared with other types of track limit locks, the track limit lock structure of the present invention is simpler and more reliable.

[0022] (2) Locking positioning holes and unlocking positioning holes are respectively set in the inner wing and outer wing of the track limit lock. With the locking positioning holes and unlocking positioning grooves on the lock arm, the state switching is simple and convenient, and the track limit lock can be stabilized in a specific state, which makes it more reliable.

[0023] (3) A reset torsion spring is installed at the hinge shaft between the lock arm and the base of the track limit lock to make the track limit lock more reliable in maintaining its state.

[0024] (4) In the lateral limiting unit, the lower roller provides upward support for the transported goods, and the side roller provides lateral limiting for the transported goods, thereby ensuring that the transported goods move forward or backward along the track and preventing lateral deviation during transportation.

[0025] (5) In the lateral limiting unit, for the transported goods of the container type, the upper roller provides downward limiting for the corresponding part of the container, so that the container is more stable during transportation.

[0026] (6) In the lateral limiting unit, guide wheels are set at the beginning or end of the track to guide the transported goods to move in the direction of the track, which facilitates the transfer of the transported goods to the track.

[0027] (7) In the lateral limiting unit, connecting ears are provided at the front and rear of the limiting bracket, and connecting ears are provided on both sides of the guide bracket, so that the guide bracket can be conveniently installed in front of or behind the limiting bracket, which is suitable for installation at various positions on the track.

[0028] (8) By using the intermediate guide unit of the track, the resistance of the transported goods can be reduced and the efficiency of goods transportation can be improved.

[0029] (9) The flange and through shaft and other components facilitate the installation and removal of each unit on the track, enabling rapid and flexible adjustment during cargo aircraft operation and facilitating rapid customer-customized modification.

[0030] (10) By designing quick-disassembly guide units and limit units, and by flexibly combining track guide units, track lateral limit units, and track limit locks, compatibility with various types of air containers is achieved, enabling rapid and flexible adjustments during cargo aircraft operation and facilitating quick customer-customized modifications. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the floor rails for a cargo aircraft that conforms to the ISO 7116 standard.

[0032] Figure 2 and Figure 3 These are schematic diagrams showing the application of the track lateral limiting unit, track limiting lock, and intermediate guiding unit of the track guiding and limiting system of the present invention to the floor slide rail when there is no cargo and when there is cargo.

[0033] Figure 4 and Figure 5 These are schematic diagrams showing the track lateral limiting unit located at the end and middle of the track, respectively, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 6 This is an example diagram of the track lateral limiting unit in an embodiment of the present invention without the guide bracket installed.

[0035] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the guide bracket in the track lateral limiting unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 8 and Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the track lateral limiting unit in the constrained state and the disassembled state according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the through-shaft related components in the track lateral limiting unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the intermediate guide unit of the track according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 12 and Figure 13 These are schematic diagrams of the track limit lock in the locked and unlocked states according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 14 This is a view of the track limit lock according to an embodiment of the present invention from another angle.

[0041] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the base, reset spring, etc. in the track limit lock of an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0042] This invention is compatible with various types of air containers, enabling rapid and flexible adjustments during cargo aircraft operations and facilitating quick customization for customers.

[0043] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the present invention clearer, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments and accompanying drawings.

[0044] Before detailing the embodiments of the present invention, it is necessary to explain the directional terms used in the present invention for a clearer understanding. In the following text, "inner side" refers to the side facing the track in a horizontal direction, and "outer side" refers to the opposite side of the inner side; "front" refers to the direction in which the transported goods move horizontally, and "rear" refers to the opposite side of the front. "Above" refers to the direction from the track towards the goods, and "below" refers to the opposite direction of "above".

[0045] The track guiding and limiting system of this invention comprises three separate components: a track lateral limiting unit, a track limiting lock, and an intermediate guiding unit, which are described below. It should be noted that these three components can be implemented individually or in combination with other components; both methods can achieve the present invention and should be within the scope of protection of this invention.

[0046] In the following description, air cargo transportation is used as an example. However, those skilled in the art should understand that other types of transportation, such as aircraft seat tracks, railway container tracks, ordinary railway tracks, and sliding rails used in scientific research, can also be applied to this invention and are also within the scope of protection of this invention.

[0047] Modern air cargo transportation primarily utilizes standard air containers or standard pallets as carriers. During transportation, airlines may select different specifications of cargo containers or pallets depending on the weight and volume of the cargo. According to ISO 7116, "Basic types and geometry of aircraft floor rails," floor rails in cargo aircraft are generally designed in a standardized form. However, the cross-sectional shape of the rails may vary depending on the characteristics of the aircraft fuselage structure. Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of cargo aircraft floor rails conforming to ISO 7116 standards. Figure 1 As shown, periodically distributed node slots on the floor rails are used to secure cargo at specific locations. A typical node shape is a circular slot with a diameter of Φ19.8±0.1, and the spacing between connected circular slots is 25.4±0.1. The dimensions of the rails are required for tethering aircraft seats, galleys, cargo, etc.

[0048] The cargo slide rail is made of aerospace aluminum alloy pultruded profile and is machined according to the structural design requirements of the fuselage. The slide rail is connected to the fuselage floor structure by riveting / bolts and other means, and shares the load with the fuselage as a whole, which can improve structural efficiency.

[0049] Figure 2 and Figure 3 These are schematic diagrams illustrating the application of the track lateral limiting unit, track limiting lock, and intermediate guiding unit of the track guiding and limiting system of the present invention to floor slide rails with and without cargo. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, each cargo hold floor is equipped with four standard sliding rails 1. Several lateral restraint units 2 are installed on the side rails to provide lateral and longitudinal restraint to the containers and offer some guidance. Several intermediate guide units 3 are installed on the middle rail to reduce friction, provide guidance, and ensure smooth entry and exit of containers from the cargo hold. Each container / pallet is restrained by four rail movement locks 4 to limit its forward and backward displacement, ensuring safety during aircraft flight. The density of the lateral restraint units 2 and intermediate guide units 3 is determined by the dimensions of the cargo or container to be transported.

[0050] I. Track Lateral Limiting Unit

[0051] The first aspect of the present invention provides a track lateral limiting unit.

[0052] Figure 4 and Figure 5 These are schematic diagrams showing the track lateral limiting unit located at the end and middle of the track, respectively, according to embodiments of the present invention. The difference lies in that when the track lateral limiting unit is located at the end, guide accessories can be added to guide the container / pallet from outside the track onto the track. The following is in conjunction with... Figure 4 and Figure 5 The track lateral limiting unit of this embodiment will be described in detail.

[0053] Please refer to Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 The track lateral limiting unit in this embodiment includes: a limiting bracket 101, a guide bracket 110, two lower rollers 102, two side rollers 108, three upper rollers 106, and two side guide wheels 108.

[0054] Please refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The limiting bracket 101 includes: a mounting surface, which is arranged along a vertical plane; a base, which extends horizontally along the inner side of the bottom of the mounting surface; two lower horizontal shafts 103, which are arranged on the inner side of the mounting surface, which are horizontal along the inner side and perpendicular to the track direction; two side vertical shafts 109, which are connected to the inner side of the mounting surface, which are vertical and perpendicular to the track extension direction, and whose height is higher than the lower horizontal shafts; and three upper horizontal shafts 107, which are connected to the inner side of the mounting surface, whose extension direction is parallel to the lower horizontal shafts, and whose height is higher than the side vertical shafts 109.

[0055] In this embodiment, two side extensions extend horizontally inward from the mounting surface, and a side vertical shaft 109 is mounted on the side extensions. Furthermore, the upper horizontal bracket is a rectangular frame that extends horizontally inward from the mounting surface, and its height is higher than the side vertical shaft 109. Three upper horizontal shafts 107 are mounted within the upper horizontal bracket.

[0056] In this embodiment, the lower roller provides upward support for the transported goods, while the side rollers provide lateral restraint, thereby ensuring that the transported goods move forward or backward along the track and preventing deviation during transportation. Furthermore, for container-type transported goods, the upper roller provides downward restraint for the corresponding part of the container, thus making the container more stable during transportation.

[0057] Regarding the limit bracket 101, the following two points need special explanation.

[0058] 1. Formed as a single unit or as separate units

[0059] In this embodiment, the base, mounting surface, lower horizontal shaft, side extension, and upper horizontal bracket are integrally machined from aerospace-grade aluminum alloy, while the side vertical shaft 109 is a separate component fixed to the side extension, and the upper horizontal shaft is a separate component installed within the upper horizontal frame. However, this invention is not limited thereto.

[0060] In other embodiments of the present invention, the lower horizontal shaft can also be formed separately and then installed on the mounting surface at the corresponding position, the side extension can also be formed separately and then installed on the mounting surface at the corresponding position, and the upper horizontal bracket can also be formed separately and then installed on the mounting surface at the corresponding position. All of these can achieve the present invention and are also within the protection scope of the present invention.

[0061] In other embodiments of the present invention, the side vertical shaft can also be integrally formed with the side extension and then installed on the mounting surface, which can also achieve the present invention and is also within the protection scope of the present invention.

[0062] 2. The lateral vertical axis extends upward or downward.

[0063] In this embodiment, the side vertical axis extends upward in the side extension, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0064] In other embodiments of the present invention, the lateral vertical axis may also extend downwards, which can also achieve the present invention and is also within the protection scope of the present invention.

[0065] 3. The number and relative positions of the lower horizontal axis, the side vertical axis, and the upper horizontal axis.

[0066] Those skilled in the art should understand that the number of shafts determines the number of corresponding rollers. Although this embodiment provides two lower rollers 102, two side rollers 108, and three upper rollers 106, the present invention is not limited thereto. In other embodiments of the present invention, the number of lower rollers, side rollers, and upper rollers can be set as needed, as long as there is not less than one, the present invention can be achieved. However, to ensure the stability of the goods, at least two corresponding rollers can be provided.

[0067] In this embodiment, the mounting surface is wider at the bottom and narrower at the top in the vertical plane. Two lower horizontal axes are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the wider lower portion of the mounting surface; two side vertical axes are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the middle portion of the mounting surface; and three upper horizontal axes are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the upper portion of the mounting surface. However, this invention is not limited to this. In other embodiments of this invention, the shape of the mounting surface can be set as needed, and the lower horizontal axes and side vertical axes can also be asymmetrically arranged. All of these can achieve the present invention, but the balance effect will be slightly inferior to that of this embodiment.

[0068] 4. Types of shafts

[0069] In this embodiment, the lower horizontal axis, the side vertical axis, and the upper horizontal axis are flat-headed axes, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In other embodiments of the present invention, other types of lower horizontal axes, side vertical axes, and upper horizontal axes may also be used.

[0070] Please continue to refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 In this embodiment, the track lateral limiting unit further includes: a lower roller 102 providing upward support; a side roller 108 providing lateral limiting; and an upper roller 106 providing downward limiting. Wherein:

[0071] Two lower rollers 102 are fitted onto corresponding lower horizontal shafts, with the lower horizontal shafts serving as their rolling shafts. The lower rollers 102 provide upward support for the transported object.

[0072] Two side rollers 108 are fitted onto the corresponding side vertical shaft, with the side vertical shaft as its rolling shaft, and the side rollers 108 provide lateral restraint for the transported object;

[0073] Three upper rollers 106 are disposed inside the limiting bracket and sleeved on the corresponding upper horizontal shaft, with the upper horizontal shaft as its rolling shaft. The upper rollers 106 provide downward limiting for the transported object.

[0074] Among them, the lower roller 102, the upper roller 106, and the side roller 108 are made of aluminum core rubber-coated wheels to increase structural rigidity and wear resistance; and considering that most of the weight of the goods or container falls on the lower roller 102, the wheel diameter of the lower roller 102 is larger than the wheel diameter of the side roller 108 and the upper roller 106.

[0075] Those skilled in the art should understand that the type, material, size, etc. of the lower roller, upper roller, and side roller can be adjusted according to the needs of the actual scenario, and the present invention is not limited to this embodiment.

[0076] Figure 6 This is an example diagram of the track lateral limiting unit in an embodiment of the present invention without the guide bracket installed. Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the guide bracket in the track lateral limiting unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] Please refer to Figure 4 In this embodiment, the track lateral limiting unit also includes: a guide bracket 110 and two side guide wheels 108.

[0078] The guide bracket 110 is connected to the front or rear of the mounting surface and includes: a main body surface, which is shaped like a "trumpet mouth" and extends smoothly outward from the mounting surface, with a side guide shaft extending vertically on its inner side. The direction of the side guide shaft is parallel to the direction of the side vertical shaft.

[0079] Two side guide wheels are located inside the guide bracket and are fitted onto the side guide shaft, which serves as their rolling axis. The limiting path formed by the two side rollers 108 is tangent to the guiding path formed by the two side guide wheels.

[0080] To connect the guide bracket 110 and the limiting bracket 101, the limiting bracket 101 further includes: a first connecting ear 111 extending outward from the mounting surface and having a first mounting hole thereon; the guide bracket 110 includes: a second connecting ear 112 extending outward from the body surface and having a second connecting hole corresponding to the first mounting hole thereon. The first and second connecting ears are matched and connected by bolts passing through the first and second mounting holes, thereby fixing the guide bracket 110 to the limiting bracket 101.

[0081] Furthermore, the limiting bracket is provided with first connecting ears at both the front and rear, and the two first connecting ears are arranged in an inverted "V" shape; the guide bracket is provided with second connecting ears at both the front and rear, and the two second connecting ears are arranged in a "V" shape. Relying on the first connecting ears and the second connecting ears, the guide bracket can be selectively installed in front of or behind the limiting bracket.

[0082] Depending on their position on the track, the track lateral limiting unit is divided into two sub-modes: intermediate lateral limiting unit and end lateral limiting unit. When the lateral limiting unit is arranged at the end of the slide rail, the guide bracket 110 and the side guide wheel can play a guiding role, ensuring that the container / pallet enters the cargo hold smoothly, such as... Figure 4 As shown. When the lateral limiting unit is located in the middle of the slide rail, the guide bracket and side guide wheel located on one side can be removed. Figure 5 As shown.

[0083] As can be seen, in this embodiment, by setting side guide wheels at the beginning or end of the track, the transported goods are guided to move towards the track, facilitating the transfer of the transported goods onto the track. Furthermore, connecting ears are provided at the front and rear of the limiting bracket, and on both sides of the guide bracket, allowing the guide bracket to be easily installed in front of or behind the limiting bracket, adapting to installation at various positions on the track.

[0084] Regarding the guide bracket and side guide wheels, the following points need to be explained:

[0085] 1. Presence or absence of guide accessories

[0086] In this embodiment, a guide accessory is provided, including a guide bracket and side guide wheels. However, in other embodiments of the invention, this guide accessory may be omitted, and the invention can still be partially implemented, but its ability to guide goods onto the track will be slightly inferior.

[0087] 2. Direction of connection to the ear

[0088] In this embodiment, connecting ears are provided at both the front and rear of the limiting bracket, and each connecting ear is provided with a mounting hole for installing the guide bracket. This allows it to be adapted to symmetrically arranged limiting brackets, making it replaceable. Furthermore, since the guide bracket also has connecting ears at both the front and rear, and each connecting ear is provided with a mounting hole, when moving the track lateral limiting unit from one side to the other, it is only necessary to install the guide bracket on the other side of the limiting bracket, greatly facilitating its use in practical scenarios. However, this invention is not limited to this.

[0089] In other embodiments of the present invention, connecting ears may be provided only on one side of the limiting bracket and the guide bracket, and not on the other side. The present invention can still be achieved, but it will be slightly inconvenient in actual use.

[0090] 3. Number of side guide wheels

[0091] In this embodiment, two side guide wheels are provided. However, the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0092] In other embodiments of the present invention, other numbers of side guide wheels can be provided, as long as there is more than one, and the present invention can still be achieved, but the guiding effect may be affected.

[0093] 4. Guiding direction

[0094] To achieve a smooth switch between the guide path and the travel path, in this embodiment, the limiting path formed by the two side rollers is tangent to the guide path formed by the two side guide wheels. However, this invention is not limited to this.

[0095] In other embodiments of the present invention, the direction of the guide path and the travel path can also be set as needed, and the present invention can be achieved in the same way.

[0096] Figure 8 and Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the track lateral limiting unit in the constrained state and the disassembled state according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0097] Please refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 In this embodiment, the limiting bracket 101 includes:

[0098] The base surface extends horizontally along the inner side of the bottom of the mounting surface;

[0099] The flange extends vertically downward from the side of the base surface away from the mounting surface;

[0100] A through shaft passes vertically downward through the base surface. A limiting pin 105 extending horizontally is provided at its lower end, and a rotating handle 104 is provided at its upper end. The limiting pin 105 is located below the base surface, and the rotating handle 104 is located above the base surface.

[0101] The flange and the through shaft are arranged perpendicular to the track direction, and the limiting pin 105 and the rotating handle 104 are linked through the through shaft;

[0102] In this embodiment, the track is an aircraft floor rail as specified in ISO 7116; the flange matches the circular groove of the aircraft floor rail node; the limiting pin 105 corresponds to the strip groove between the two nodes. In the constrained state, the flange is inserted into the circular groove of the track, and the limiting pin 105 is engaged with the strip groove of the track at both ends along the first direction; in the disassembled state, the limiting pin 105 is along the second direction and can be removed from the strip groove. The first direction is perpendicular to the track direction, and the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0103] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the through-shaft related components in the track lateral limiting unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 10 As shown, the limiting bracket also includes a limiting spring 111, whose fixed end is fixed to the inner groove of the mounting surface, and whose free end extends toward the direction of the rotating handle, with a limiting ball 112 fixed at the top. In this embodiment, the limiting ball is a steel ball.

[0104] On the circumferential surface of the rotating handle, a locking limit hole is provided at the position corresponding to the limit pin in the first direction; a disassembly limit hole is provided at the position corresponding to the limit pin in the second direction.

[0105] The limit pin 105 can be rotated by turning the handle 104:

[0106] (1) As Figure 8 and Figure 10 As shown, the rotating handle 104 is perpendicular to the track direction, and the limiting pin 105 is along the first direction, with both ends engaged in the track groove. The limiting pin and the flange together lock the limiting bracket on the track. At this time, the limiting ball 112 is pushed into the locking limiting hole on the circumference of the rotating handle under the action of the limiting spring, thereby locking the state.

[0107] (2) Figure 9As shown, rotating the handle 104 clockwise compresses the limiting spring 111, causing the limiting ball 112 to disengage from the locking limiting hole. The handle 104 continues to rotate clockwise. When the handle 104 is parallel to the track direction, the limiting pin 105 is aligned with the second direction. At this time, the limiting ball 112, under the elastic force of the limiting spring, pushes into the disassembly limiting hole on the circumference of the handle, thus locking the disassembly state. At this point, the limiting pin aligns with the direction of the slot, allowing the limiting bracket to be removed from the slot.

[0108] As can be seen, in this embodiment, components such as flanges and through shafts facilitate the installation and removal of each unit on the track, enabling rapid and flexible adjustments during cargo aircraft operation and facilitating quick customization.

[0109] II. Track Intermediate Guide Unit

[0110] A second aspect of the present invention provides a track intermediate guide unit.

[0111] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the intermediate guide unit of the track according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11 As shown, the intermediate guide unit of the track in this embodiment includes:

[0112] The guide bracket 201 extends vertically downward at its bottom to form a flange;

[0113] Two guide assemblies, each including: a horizontal shaft 203, which is inserted into a guide bracket; and left and right rollers 202, which are symmetrically installed on both sides of the horizontal shaft.

[0114] A through shaft passes vertically downward through a guide bracket. Its lower end is provided with a limiting pin 205 extending in the horizontal direction, and its upper end is provided with a rotating handle 204.

[0115] The flange and the through shaft are arranged along the track direction, and the through shaft, the limit pin and the rotating handle are linked.

[0116] The through shaft, limit pin, and rotating handle are the same as the components of the track lateral limit unit, so they will not be described again here.

[0117] In this embodiment, during use, the intermediate guide unit of the track is in a constrained state, with the flange inserted into the circular groove of the track and the limiting pin along the first direction, its two ends engaging with the strip groove of the track; in the disassembly state, the limiting pin is along the second direction and can be removed from the strip groove.

[0118] During use, the left and right rollers 202 are located below the load-bearing goods, providing upward load-bearing force for the goods. Due to the rolling action, the resistance to goods transportation is greatly reduced, improving the efficiency of goods transportation.

[0119] Those skilled in the art should understand that although two guide components are provided in this embodiment, the present invention is not limited thereto. In other embodiments of the present invention, n guide components can be provided as needed, where n≥1.

[0120] III. Track Limit Lock

[0121] A third aspect of the present invention provides a track limit lock.

[0122] Figure 12 and Figure 13 These are schematic diagrams of the track limit lock in the locked and unlocked states according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0123] like Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, the track limit lock in this embodiment includes:

[0124] The base 301 extends upward on its inner and outer sides to form an inner wing and an outer wing, respectively.

[0125] Locking arm 304, the bottom of which is hinged between the inner wing and the outer wing, and the top of which is fixed to a limiting block facing the transported object;

[0126] Among them, the inner wing and the outer wing have a locking positioning hole 307 on the side near the limit block and an unlocking positioning hole 308 on the side away from the limit block; a positioning part is formed on the lower part of the locking arm extending toward the limit block, a locking positioning hole is formed on the positioning part, and an unlocking positioning groove is provided above the positioning part.

[0127] Specifically, the base 301 is integrally machined from aerospace-grade aluminum alloy and features a concentric rotating shaft and positioning holes arranged symmetrically. The locking arm 304 and the limit block 305 are connected as a whole by screws and can rotate around the fixed rotating shaft of the bracket. They are fixed to the two positioning holes—the locking positioning hole 307 and the unlocking positioning hole 308—as needed by the locking pin 306.

[0128] Figure 14 This is a view of the track-limiting lock according to an embodiment of the present invention from another angle. Please refer to... Figure 14 In this embodiment, the locking arm includes: a hook-shaped structure with a limiting block connected to its top and a positioning part formed at its bottom; and a slat structure with its upper part fixed to the hook-shaped structure and its lower part hinged to the inner wing and the outer wing.

[0129] In this embodiment, in order to enhance the mechanical strength of the locking arm, the locking arm is divided into two parts, and a reinforcing crossbeam is added between the inner locking arm and the outer locking arm. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. In other embodiments of the present invention, the locking arm can also be a single piece, which can also achieve the present invention and is also within the protection scope of the present invention.

[0130] In this embodiment, the limiting block and the locking arms on both sides form an inverted U-shaped structure, which enhances the mechanical strength of the locking arms. However, this invention is not limited to this. In other embodiments of this invention, there may be only one locking arm, that is, the locking arm is connected to the middle of the limiting block to form a T-shaped structure, which can also achieve the present invention and is also within the protection scope of this invention.

[0131] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the base, return spring, etc., in the track limit lock according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, in this embodiment of the track limit lock, a reset torsion spring 309 is provided at the hinge shaft between the lock arm and the base; wherein, the outer side of the reset torsion spring 309 is fixed to the base, and the inner side is hooked to the side of the lock arm near the limit block. Under the torsion of the reset torsion spring, the unforced position of the lock arm is the flipped flat position.

[0132] Furthermore, in this embodiment of the track limit lock, the lower part of the lower bracket extends vertically downward to form a flange. The track limit lock also includes: a through shaft that passes vertically downward through the base, a limit pin extending horizontally is provided below the base, and a rotating handle 302 is provided above the base; wherein, the flange and the through shaft are arranged along the track direction, and the limit pin and the rotating handle are linked through the through shaft; wherein, in the constrained state, the flange is inserted into the circular groove of the track, and the limit pin is along the first direction, with its two ends engaged with the strip groove of the track; in the disassembly state, the limit pin is along the second direction and can be removed from the strip groove, thereby removing the track limit lock from the track.

[0133] Similar to the track lateral limiting unit, the base also includes a limiting spring, whose fixed end is fixed to the internal groove of the base, and whose free end extends horizontally toward the rotating handle, with a limiting ball fixed at the top. In this embodiment, the limiting ball is a steel ball. On the circumferential surface of the rotating handle, a locking limiting hole is provided at a position corresponding to the limiting pin in the first direction; a disassembly limiting hole is provided at a position corresponding to the limiting pin in the second direction.

[0134] The limit pin can be rotated by turning the handle:

[0135] (1) When the handle is rotated perpendicular to the track direction, the limiting pins are engaged in the track grooves at both ends along the first direction. The limiting pins and flanges together lock the track limit lock on the track. At this time, the limiting ball is pushed into the locking limiting hole on the circumference of the handle under the elastic force of the limiting spring, thereby locking the state.

[0136] (2) Rotate the handle clockwise. The limit spring is compressed, and the limit ball disengages from the locking limit hole. Continue rotating the handle clockwise. When the handle is parallel to the track direction, the limit pin is in the second direction. At this time, the limit ball, under the elastic force of the limit spring, pushes into the disassembly limit hole on the circumference of the handle, thereby locking the disassembly state. At this time, the limit pin is aligned with the direction of the slot, and the track limit lock can be removed from the track.

[0137] In addition, it should be noted that in the track limit lock of this embodiment, the through shaft, limit pin, and rotating handle are the same as the relevant components of the track lateral limit unit, and will not be described again here.

[0138] In the locked state, such as Figure 12 As shown, the locking arm is raised; the locking pin passes through the locking positioning hole on the inner wing of the base, the locking positioning hole on the locking arm positioning part, and the locking positioning hole on the outer wing of the base in sequence, thereby locking the raised position of the locking arm. The baffle can restrict the forward and backward movement of the container or pallet. Adjusting the position of the limiting lock assembly can adapt to containers or pallets of different sizes.

[0139] In the unlocked state, such as Figure 13 As shown, when the locking pin in the locking positioning hole is pulled out, the locking arm automatically resets in the opposite direction due to the action of the torsion spring and flips to lie flat. The locking pin is then passed through the unlocking positioning hole on the inner wing of the base, the unlocking positioning groove on the locking arm positioning part, and the unlocking positioning hole on the outer wing of the base in sequence to lock the lying position of the locking arm, so that the container / pallet can smoothly enter and exit the cargo hold.

[0140] As can be seen from the above description, compared with other types of track limit locks, the track limit lock of the present invention has a simpler structure and higher reliability. Furthermore, locking and unlocking positioning holes are respectively provided in the inner and outer wing portions of the base. Combined with the locking and unlocking positioning slots on the lock arm, the track limit lock can be stabilized in a specific state, further enhancing reliability. A return torsion spring is provided at the hinge axis between the lock arm and the base of the track limit lock, making the state of the track limit lock even more reliably maintained.

[0141] IV. Track Guiding and Limiting System

[0142] A fourth aspect of the present invention provides a track guiding and limiting system.

[0143] In a first exemplary embodiment of the track guidance and limiting system of the present invention, the track guidance and limiting system includes: a track lateral limiting unit and a track intermediate guiding unit.

[0144] In a second exemplary embodiment of the track guiding and limiting system of the present invention, the track guiding and limiting system includes: a track lateral limiting unit and a track limiting lock.

[0145] In a third exemplary embodiment of the track guidance and limiting system of the present invention, the track guidance and limiting system includes: a track lateral limiting unit, a track intermediate guiding unit, and a track limiting lock.

[0146] For details regarding the track lateral limiting unit, the track intermediate guiding unit, and the track limiting lock, please refer to the relevant descriptions in the prior embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0147] This invention achieves compatibility with various types of air containers by designing quick-disassembly guide units and limiting units, and by flexibly combining the guide units and limiting units, enabling rapid and flexible adjustments during cargo aircraft operation and facilitating quick customer-customized modifications.

[0148] This concludes the description of the various embodiments of the present invention. Based on the above description, those skilled in the art should have a clear understanding of the present invention.

[0149] It should be noted that the directional terms mentioned in the embodiments, such as "center," "lateral," "longitudinal," "top," "bottom," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "inner," and "outer," indicate only the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms are used solely for the convenience of describing the invention and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the invention. Furthermore, throughout the accompanying drawings, the same elements are represented by the same or similar reference numerals. Also, the shapes and dimensions of the components in the drawings do not reflect actual size and proportion, but are only illustrative of the embodiments of the invention.

[0150] It should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms according to the specific circumstances.

[0151] The ordinal numbers used in the specification and claims, such as "first," "second," "third," "primary," "secondary," as well as Arabic numerals and letters, are used to modify the corresponding elements. Their purpose is only to make one element (or step) with a certain name clearly distinguishable from another element with the same name, and does not mean that the element (or step) has any ordinal number, nor does it represent the order of one element with another element.

[0152] Those skilled in the art will understand that in the claims and specification of this invention, the word "comprising" does not exclude the presence of elements not listed in the claims. The word "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements.

[0153] For certain implementations, if they are not key aspects of the present invention and are well-known to those skilled in the art, they have not been described in detail in the accompanying drawings or text due to space limitations. In such cases, reference can be made to relevant prior art for understanding. Furthermore, the purpose of providing the above embodiments is merely to ensure that the present invention meets legal requirements. The present invention can be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments described herein. Moreover, the above definitions of elements and methods are not limited to the various specific structures, shapes, or methods mentioned in the embodiments, and those skilled in the art can make simple modifications or substitutions.

[0154] Similarly, it should be understood that, for the sake of brevity, in the above description of exemplary embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof. However, this method of invention should not be construed as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the claims, the various inventive aspects consist of fewer than all the features of the preceding single embodiment. Furthermore, embodiments may be used in combination with each other or with other embodiments based on design and reliability considerations; that is, technical features from different embodiments can be freely combined to form more embodiments. Therefore, the claims following the detailed description are hereby expressly incorporated into that detailed description, wherein each claim itself is a separate embodiment of the invention.

[0155] The above specific embodiments have provided a detailed description of the purpose, technical means, and beneficial effects of the present invention. It should be understood that the purpose of the detailed description is to enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present invention, and it is not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A track limit lock, characterized in that, include: The base extends upwards on its inner and outer sides to form an inner wing and an outer wing, respectively. The locking arm has its bottom hinged between the inner wing and the outer wing, and its top is fixed with a limiting block facing the transported object. Among them, the inner wing and the outer wing are formed with locking positioning holes on the side near the limiting block; a positioning part is formed on the lower part of the locking arm extending toward the limiting block, and a locking positioning hole is formed on the positioning part; In the locked state, the locking arm is raised, and the limiting block at its top abuts against the transported object; the locking pin passes through the locking positioning hole on the inner wing of the base, the locking positioning hole on the locking arm positioning part, and the locking positioning hole on the outer wing of the base in sequence, thereby locking the raised position of the locking arm. The inner wing and outer wing have unlocking positioning holes on the side away from the limiting block; an unlocking positioning groove is formed above the positioning part of the locking arm; in the unlocked state, the locking arm flips and lies flat in the opposite direction; the locking pin passes through the unlocking positioning hole on the inner wing of the base, the unlocking positioning groove on the positioning part of the locking arm, and the unlocking positioning hole on the outer wing of the base in sequence, thereby locking the flipped and flat position of the locking arm.

2. The track limiting lock according to claim 1, characterized in that, A reset torsion spring is provided at the hinge axis between the locking arm and the base; The outer side of the reset torsion spring is fixed to the base, and the inner side is hooked to the side of the locking arm near the limiting block. Under the torque of the reset torsion spring, the unforced position of the locking arm is the flipped and flat position.

3. The track limiting lock according to claim 1, characterized in that, The locking arm includes: A hook-shaped structure, with a limiting block connected to its top and the positioning part formed at its bottom; The slat structure has its upper part fixed to the hook-shaped structure and its lower part hinged to the inner and outer wings.

4. The track limiting lock according to claim 3, characterized in that, The locking arm is a single unit, with its top connected to the middle position of the limiting block; or, There are two locking arms: an inner locking arm and an outer locking arm. The tops of the two arms are connected to the inner and outer sides of the limiting block, respectively, forming an inverted U-shaped structure together with the limiting block. A reinforcing beam is provided between the slat structures of the inner and outer locking arms.

5. The track limiting lock according to claim 1, characterized in that, The lower part of the base extends vertically downward to form a flange; The track limit lock also includes: a through shaft that passes vertically downward through the base, a limit pin extending horizontally above the base, and a rotating handle below the base. The flange and the through shaft are arranged along the extension direction of the track; the limiting pin and the rotating handle are linked by the through shaft; In the constrained state, the flange is inserted into the circular groove of the track, and the limiting pin is perpendicular to the direction of the track strip groove along the first direction, with both ends engaged in the track strip groove. The flange and the limiting pin together lock the track limiting lock on the track. In the disassembled state, the limiting pin is aligned with the direction of the track strip groove along the second direction, thereby removing the track limiting lock from the track.

6. The track limiting lock according to claim 5, characterized in that, The base also includes: The limiting spring has its fixed end fixed to the internal groove of the base, its free end extending horizontally toward the direction of the rotating handle, and a limiting ball fixed to its top. On the circumferential surface of the rotating handle, a locking limit hole is provided at the position corresponding to the state of the limit pin along the first direction; a disassembly limit hole is provided at the position corresponding to the state of the limit pin along the second direction. Wherein, when the limiting pin is along the first direction, the limiting ball is pushed into the locking limiting hole on the circumference of the rotating handle under the action of the elastic force of the limiting spring, thereby locking the constraint state; when the limiting pin is along the second direction, the limiting ball is pushed into the disassembly limiting hole on the circumference of the rotating handle under the action of the elastic force of the limiting spring, thereby locking the disassembly state. The track is an aircraft floor slide rail as specified in ISO 7116; the flange matches the circular groove of the node of the aircraft floor slide rail; the limiting pin corresponds to the position of the strip groove between the two nodes; The inner side is the side facing the track in the horizontal direction, and the outer side is the opposite side of the inner side.

7. A track guiding and limiting system, characterized in that, include: The track limiting lock and track lateral limiting unit as described in any one of claims 1 to 6; wherein the track lateral limiting unit comprises: Limit bracket, Mounting surface, set along the vertical plane; N lower horizontal shafts are disposed on the inner side of the mounting surface and extend from the mounting surface in the inner horizontal direction, where N≥1; M vertical axes are provided on the inner side of the mounting surface, with a height higher than the lower horizontal axis, and extend in the vertical direction, where M≥1; S upper horizontal axes are set inside the mounting surface, their height is higher than the side vertical axis, and their extension direction is parallel to the lower horizontal axis, S≥1; N lower rollers are fitted onto the corresponding lower horizontal shaft, with the lower horizontal shaft serving as its rolling shaft; M side rollers are fitted onto the corresponding side vertical shafts, with the side vertical shafts serving as their rolling shafts; S upper rollers are fitted onto corresponding upper horizontal shafts, with the upper horizontal shafts serving as their rolling shafts.

8. The track guiding and limiting system according to claim 7, characterized in that, In the track lateral limiting unit, the limiting bracket further includes: a first connecting ear, which extends outward from the mounting surface and has a first mounting hole thereon; The track lateral limiting unit also includes: A guide bracket, connected to the front or rear of the mounting surface, includes: a main body surface, the shape of which extends smoothly outward from the mounting surface; T side guide shafts are provided on the inner side of the main body surface in the vertical direction; the direction of the side guide shafts is parallel to the direction of the side vertical shafts, and T≥1; T side guide wheels are fitted onto the corresponding side guide shafts, with the side guide shafts serving as their rolling shafts; The guide bracket further includes: a second connecting ear extending outward from the body surface, having a second connecting hole that matches the first mounting hole; wherein the first connecting ear and the second connecting ear are connected by bolts passing through the first mounting hole and the second mounting hole, thereby fixing the guide bracket to the limiting bracket; The limiting bracket is provided with a first connecting ear at both the front and the rear, and the two first connecting ears are arranged in an inverted "V" shape; the guide bracket is provided with a second connecting ear at both the front and the rear, and the two second connecting ears are arranged in a "V" shape; the guide bracket can be selectively installed in front of or behind the limiting bracket. Where M≥2, T≥2, the limiting path formed by M side rollers is tangent to the guiding path formed by T side guide rollers.

9. A track guiding and limiting system, characterized in that, include: The track limiting lock and the track intermediate guide unit as described in any one of claims 1 to 6; wherein the track intermediate guide unit comprises: The base extends vertically downwards at its bottom, forming a flange; At least one guide component, the guide component comprising: A horizontal shaft is inserted and fixed to the base; The left and right rollers are symmetrically mounted on both sides of the horizontal shaft.

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