Connection assembly

Abstract

The present application relates to a connecting assembly configured to connect an end portion of a lead screw and a link, the end portion having a through hole, the connecting assembly being configured to enable the link to be pivotably connected to the connecting assembly, the connecting assembly comprising a first member and a second member, the first and second members being engageable with each other via the through hole to locate the end portion of the lead screw therebetween, the first member restricting movement of the end portion at least in one direction towards one side, and comprising a receiving portion at least partially aligned with the through hole, the second member comprising an insertion portion insertable into the through hole and engageable with the receiving portion, the connecting assembly having a neck portion engageable with an opening of the link when the first and second members are engaged together, to enable the link and the connecting assembly to rotate relative to each other. The connecting assembly according to the present application can achieve the advantages of simple forming process and installation process, lower cost, and reliable and stable connection of the end portion of the lead screw and the link.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of vehicles, and more particularly to a connecting assembly, which is especially a connecting assembly between the end of the lead screw of a motor used as an adjustment mechanism in a vehicle seat and a connecting rod. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of vehicle technology, the personalization functions of vehicles are constantly evolving and improving. Vehicle seats are an important component of a vehicle, and to meet various personalized needs and adapt to different application scenarios, there is a desire for flexible adjustment of vehicle seats. For example... Figure 1 As shown, at the front end of the seat cushion support 1 of the vehicle seat, the motor 2, lead screw 3 and linkage mechanism 4 can be used to realize the up-and-down lifting and forward-and-backward displacement adjustment of the front part of the seat cushion support 1.

[0003] Typically, the link 6 in the linkage mechanism 4, connected to the end 5 of the lead screw 3, is configured to rotate relative to the end 5 of the lead screw 3 and has a rotation axis perpendicular to the extension direction of the lead screw 3. Typically, the end 5 of the lead screw 3 is configured to have a through hole 7 (e.g., Figure 2B As shown in the figure), and in the prior art, there are methods such as Figure 2A and Figure 2B The connecting assembly shown is a technical solution for connecting the end 5 of the lead screw 3 and the connecting rod 6. This connecting assembly mainly includes a stepped bolt 9 and a bushing 10. The connection between the end 5 of the lead screw 3 and the connecting rod 6 is achieved by connecting the stepped bolt 9 and the bushing 10 to the connecting rod 6, which has been drilled and tapped. The stepped bolt 9, the bushing 10, and the through hole 7 in the end 5 all have an axial direction parallel to the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6, thereby allowing the connecting rod 6 to rotate relative to the end 5 around a rotation axis y corresponding to this axial direction. This technical solution requires drilling and tapping the connecting rod 6 and tightening the stepped bolt 9, making the installation process relatively complex. Figure 3A Another technical solution for connecting the end 5 of the lead screw 3 and the connecting rod 6 is shown. This solution involves an integral connector 11 with features for connecting to the end 5 of the lead screw 3 and the connecting rod 6, respectively. However, as... Figure 3B As shown, when this connector 11 is subjected to frictional rotational torque M from the connecting rod 6 during operation, the U-shaped opening groove 12 at the end 5 connected to the lead screw 3 is easily subjected to a force F transverse to the opening direction of the opening groove 12, which leads to a greater risk of cracking of the connector 11. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In the sense of this application, the term "vehicle" can be generally understood as a means of transport, such as a land vehicle, a water vehicle (or a ship) or an air vehicle (or an aircraft), especially a motor vehicle such as a passenger car or a truck.

[0005] The present invention provides a connecting assembly configured to connect an end of a lead screw and a connecting rod, the end having a through hole, the connecting assembly being configured such that the connecting rod is pivotally connected to the connecting assembly, and the connecting rod having a rotation axis perpendicular to the extension direction of the lead screw, the connecting assembly including a first member and a second member, the first member and the second member being capable of engaging with each other via the through hole to limit the end of the lead screw therebetween to prevent movement of the end relative to the connecting assembly.

[0006] The first member at least restricts the movement of the end toward one side in one direction, and includes a receiving portion at least partially aligned with the through hole.

[0007] The second component includes an insertion portion capable of being inserted into the through hole and configured to mate with the receiving portion.

[0008] The connecting assembly has a neck that engages with an opening in the connecting rod when the first and second components are joined together, thereby allowing the connecting rod and the connecting assembly to rotate relative to each other about the axis of rotation.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first and second components restrict the movement of the end of the lead screw by means of the portion of the end located distal to the through hole.

[0010] In some embodiments, the neck is formed at the middle position of the connecting assembly in the direction of the rotation axis.

[0011] In some embodiments, when viewed along the axis of rotation, the neck has an elongated shape, wherein the length of the neck extends along the extension direction of the lead screw, and the width of the neck extends in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the lead screw.

[0012] In some embodiments, the axial direction of the through hole is perpendicular to the rotation axis and perpendicular to the extension direction of the lead screw.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first component includes a first neck feature and the second component includes a second neck feature, and when the first component and the second component are joined together, the first neck feature and the second neck feature are spliced ​​together to form the neck.

[0014] In some embodiments, when the first and second components are engaged together, when viewed along the direction of the rotation axis, the cross-section of the portion of the end of the lead screw located far from the through hole is rectangular, and at least one of the first neck feature and the second neck feature contacts three sides of the rectangle.

[0015] In some embodiments, the insertion portion includes two insert rods, which are respectively positioned on both sides of the neck in the direction of the rotation axis.

[0016] In some embodiments, the neck structure is integrally formed on either the first member or the second member.

[0017] In some embodiments, the first component and the second component each include at least two mating surfaces, the two mating surfaces being adjacent to each other and forming a certain angle, and being parallel to the rotation axis respectively.

[0018] In some embodiments, the movement of the end toward the distal side along the extension direction of the lead screw is limited by the first member and / or the second member; and / or, the first member and / or the second member limit the movement of the end toward the distal side along the extension direction of the lead screw by engaging the distal end face of the end.

[0019] In some embodiments, the movement of the end toward the proximal side along the extension direction of the lead screw is limited by the first member and / or the second member, and / or the first member and / or the second member limits the movement of the end toward the proximal side along the extension direction of the lead screw by engaging the proximal end face of the through hole.

[0020] In some embodiments, the movement of the end portion on one or both sides along the direction of the rotation axis is limited by the first member and / or the second member, and / or the first member and / or the second member limit the movement of the end portion on one or both sides along the direction of the rotation axis by engaging the outer end face of the end portion and / or the through-hole side end face of the end portion.

[0021] In some embodiments, the movement of the end portion along one or both sides of the axial direction of the through hole is limited by the first member and / or the second member; and / or, the movement of the end portion along a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the lead screw and the axis of rotation is limited by the first member and / or the second member.

[0022] In some embodiments, the first member includes a guide portion extending along the extension direction of the lead screw, the guide portion being shaped to restrict movement of the end relative to the first member along the axis of rotation and / or along a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation and the extension direction of the lead screw when viewed along the extension direction of the lead screw, and to guide movement of the end relative to the first member along the extension direction of the lead screw.

[0023] In some embodiments, as the insertion portion mates with the receiving portion, an interference fit gradually develops between the insertion portion and the receiving portion.

[0024] In some embodiments, the relative movement between the first member and the second member along the extension direction of the lead screw is limited by the engagement between the insertion portion and the receiving portion, or between the insertion portion and the receiving portion and the end portion; and / or by the engagement between the mating surfaces on the second member (excluding the insertion portion) and the corresponding mating surfaces on the first member, or by the engagement between the mating surfaces on the second member (excluding the insertion portion) and the corresponding mating surfaces on the first member and the end portion.

[0025] In some embodiments, the relative movement between the first member and the second member along the axis of rotation is limited by: the engagement between the insertion portion and the receiving portion, or the engagement between the insertion portion and the receiving portion and the end portion of the first member; and / or by the engagement between the mating surfaces on the second member (excluding the insertion portion) and the corresponding mating surfaces on the first member, or by the engagement between the mating surfaces on the second member (excluding the insertion portion) and the corresponding mating surfaces on the first member and the end portion.

[0026] In some embodiments, the relative movement between the first member and the second member along a first direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the lead screw and the axis of rotation is limited by: the engagement between the insertion portion and the receiving portion, or the engagement between the insertion portion and the receiving portion and the end portion of the first member; and / or, the engagement between the mating surfaces on the second member (excluding the insertion portion) and the corresponding mating surfaces on the first member, or the engagement between the mating surfaces on the second member (excluding the insertion portion) and the corresponding mating surfaces and the end portion of the first member.

[0027] In some embodiments, the first direction is along the axis of the through hole.

[0028] In some embodiments, the first member includes a first snap-fit ​​portion, and the second member includes a second snap-fit ​​portion capable of engaging with the first snap-fit ​​portion, wherein the first snap-fit ​​portion and the second snap-fit ​​portion are configured to snap together when the insertion portion and the receiving portion engage, thereby defining the relative position of the first member and the second member in at least one direction.

[0029] In some embodiments, the first snap-fit ​​portion is formed on the receiving portion, and the second snap-fit ​​portion is formed on the insertion portion.

[0030] In some embodiments, the second snap-fit ​​portion is formed on the insertion portion, and as the insertion portion moves through the through hole to engage with the receiving portion, the second snap-fit ​​portion moves from one side of the through hole through the through hole to the other side of the through hole to snap onto the first snap-fit ​​portion.

[0031] In some embodiments, as the insertion portion moves in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the through hole after passing through the through hole to engage with the receiving portion, the second snap-fit ​​portion snaps onto the first snap-fit ​​portion.

[0032] In some embodiments, along the axial direction of the through hole, the first component includes at least two first engaging portions located on one side and the other side of the end of the lead screw, and the second component includes second engaging portions corresponding to the number and position of the first engaging portions; and / or, along the rotation axis, the first component includes at least two first engaging portions located on one side and the other side of the neck, and the second component includes second engaging portions corresponding to the number and position of the first engaging portions.

[0033] In some embodiments, the receiving portion is configured as a hole, and the relative movement of the first member and the second member in a direction parallel to the extension direction of the lead screw is limited by the engagement of the insertion portion and the hole.

[0034] In some embodiments, the receiving portion corresponds in size to the insertion portion, such that when the insertion portion mates with the receiving portion, the sidewalls surrounding the receiving portion prevent movement of the insertion portion along the extension direction of the lead screw and along the direction of the rotation axis.

[0035] In some embodiments, the receiving portion is configured to have an opening that opens to one side in an opening direction perpendicular to the axis of the through hole. When the insertion portion engages with the opening, the sidewall forming the opening and the end of the lead screw together restrict the movement of the insertion portion in a plane perpendicular to the opening direction, as well as its movement toward the other side along the opening direction.

[0036] In some embodiments, the insertion portion of the second member includes a hook, the receiving portion of the first member includes a protrusion, a groove is formed between the hook and the main body portion of the insertion portion, and the relative movement of the first member and the second member along the axial direction of the through hole is limited by the second member moving in a direction parallel to the extension direction of the lead screw to engage the groove with the protrusion on the first member.

[0037] In some embodiments, the first component includes at least one first guide surface, and the second component includes at least one second guide surface that mates with the first guide surface. The first guide surface and the second guide surface are configured to guide the movement of the first component and / or the second component as the first component and the second component move relative to each other along the axial direction of the through hole.

[0038] In some embodiments, the first component includes at least one first guide surface, and the second component includes at least one second guide surface that mates with the first guide surface. The first guide surface and the second guide surface are configured to guide the movement of the first component and / or the second component as the first component and the second component move relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the through hole.

[0039] In some embodiments, the connection assembly includes a flexible connector that connects the first component and the second component.

[0040] Another aspect of the present invention relates to an adjustment mechanism for a vehicle seat, the adjustment mechanism comprising a motor, a lead screw, a connecting rod, and a connecting assembly as described above, the connecting assembly connecting the end of the lead screw to the connecting rod.

[0041] The technical features mentioned above, the technical features to be mentioned below, and the technical features that can be derived from the accompanying drawings can be combined arbitrarily, as long as the individual technical features in the combination are not contradictory. Attached Figure Description

[0042] The invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and exemplary embodiments, but the invention is not limited thereto. Wherein:

[0043] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing a portion of a vehicle seat cushion support, with a connecting assembly located at the front end of the cushion support.

[0044] Figure 2A This is a schematic diagram illustrating a connection component and some associated components in the prior art when they are connected together.

[0045] Figure 2B To show Figure 2A An exploded diagram of the connecting components and some of the associated parts.

[0046] Figure 3A An exploded schematic diagram of a connector and some associated components in the prior art is shown.

[0047] Figure 3B To show Figure 3A A schematic diagram showing the forces that the connectors may experience during operation.

[0048] Figure 4A This is a schematic diagram illustrating the connection components and associated components of some embodiments of this application when they are connected together.

[0049] Figure 4B To show Figure 4A An exploded diagram of the connecting components and some of the associated parts.

[0050] Figures 5A to 5F To show Figure 4A A schematic diagram illustrating the installation process of the connecting components, the end of the lead screw, and the connecting rod.

[0051] Figure 6A This shows how the end of the lead screw will be connected to Figure 4A The diagram shows the first component of the connecting assembly.

[0052] Figure 6B It shows Figure 6A A schematic diagram of the first component viewed from another perspective.

[0053] Figure 6C This shows when the end of the lead screw is already connected to... Figure 6A A schematic diagram of the first components being connected together.

[0054] Figure 6D It shows along Figure 6C The planar sectional view after cutting along line BB.

[0055] Figure 6E It shows along Figure 6C A three-dimensional view of line BB after it has been cut open.

[0056] Figure 7A This shows the second component of the connecting assembly to be connected. Figure 6C The diagram shows the first component and the end of the lead screw connected together.

[0057] Figure 7B This shows when the second component has been... Figure 6CThe diagram shows the first component and the end of the lead screw connected together.

[0058] Figure 7C It shows along Figure 7B The planar sectional view after cutting along line CC.

[0059] Figure 7D It shows Figure 7B The diagram shows another perspective of the ends of the lead screws connected together and the connecting components.

[0060] Figure 7E It shows along Figure 7D The three-dimensional view after the line DD is cut open.

[0061] Figure 8A It shows Figure 4A A first perspective view of the second component of the connecting assembly in the diagram.

[0062] Figure 8B It shows Figure 4A The second perspective view of the second component of the connecting assembly.

[0063] Figure 8C It shows Figure 4A The third perspective view of the second component of the connecting assembly.

[0064] Figure 8D It shows Figure 4A A first perspective view of the first component of the connecting assembly in the diagram.

[0065] Figure 8E It shows Figure 4A The second perspective view of the first component of the connecting assembly.

[0066] Figure 8F It shows Figure 4A The third perspective view of the first component of the connecting assembly in the diagram.

[0067] Figure 9A It shows Figure 4A The fourth perspective view of the second component of the connecting assembly.

[0068] Figure 9B It shows Figure 4A The fourth perspective view of the first component of the connecting assembly in the diagram.

[0069] Figure 9C It shows along Figure 9A A three-dimensional view of the line EE after it has been cut open.

[0070] Figure 9D It shows along Figure 9B The three-dimensional view after the line FF is cut open.

[0071] Figure 10A This shows that the link will be connected to Figure 7B The diagram shows the ends of the lead screw that have been connected together and the connecting assembly connected together.

[0072] Figure 10B This shows when the link has already... Figure 7B The diagram shows the end of the lead screw and the connecting assembly connected together.

[0073] Figure 10C It shows Figure 10B The diagram shows the connecting rod, lead screw, and connecting assembly rotated relative to each other to the working position.

[0074] Figure 11A This is a schematic diagram illustrating the connection components and associated components of some other embodiments of this application when they are connected together.

[0075] Figure 11B To show Figure 11A An exploded diagram of the connecting components and some of the associated parts.

[0076] Figures 12A to 12F To show Figure 11A A schematic diagram illustrating the installation process of the connecting components, the end of the lead screw, and the connecting rod.

[0077] Figure 13A This shows how the end of the lead screw will be connected to Figure 11A The diagram shows the first component of the connecting assembly.

[0078] Figure 13B It shows Figure 13A A schematic diagram of the first component viewed from another perspective.

[0079] Figure 13C This shows when the end of the lead screw is already connected to... Figure 13A A schematic diagram of the first components being connected together.

[0080] Figure 13D It shows along Figure 13C The planar sectional view after cutting along line GG.

[0081] Figure 13E It shows along Figure 13C A three-dimensional view of the line GG after it has been cut open.

[0082] Figure 14A It shows that it will be Figure 11A The second component of the connecting assembly is connected to Figure 13C The diagram shows the first component and the end of the lead screw connected together.

[0083] Figure 14B It shows when the second component is with Figure 13C This is a schematic diagram showing the partial completion of the connection steps between the first component and the end of the lead screw.

[0084] Figure 14C It shows when the second component is with Figure 13C This diagram shows the complete connection process between the first component and the end of the lead screw.

[0085] Figure 14D It shows along Figure 14A A schematic diagram after the line HH in the diagram is cut open.

[0086] Figure 14E It shows along Figure 14B A schematic diagram after cutting through line II.

[0087] Figure 14F It shows along Figure 14C A schematic diagram of line JJ after it has been cut open.

[0088] Figure 15A It shows Figure 11A A first perspective view of the second component of the connecting assembly in the diagram.

[0089] Figure 15B It shows Figure 11A The second perspective view of the second component of the connecting assembly.

[0090] Figure 15C It shows Figure 11A A first perspective view of the first component of the connecting assembly in the diagram.

[0091] Figure 15D It shows Figure 11A The second perspective view of the first component of the connecting assembly.

[0092] Figure 16A It shows Figure 11A The third perspective view of the second component of the connecting assembly.

[0093] Figure 16B It shows Figure 11A The third perspective view of the first component of the connecting assembly in the middle.

[0094] Figure 16C It shows along Figure 16A The three-dimensional diagram after cutting through line KK.

[0095] Figure 16D It shows along Figure 16B A three-dimensional view after the line LL is cut open.

[0096] Figure 17AThis shows that the link will be connected to Figure 14C The diagram shows the ends of the lead screw that have been connected together and the connecting assembly connected together.

[0097] Figure 17B This shows when the link has already... Figure 14C The diagram shows the end of the lead screw and the connecting assembly connected together.

[0098] Figure 17C It shows Figure 17B The diagram shows the connecting rod, lead screw, and connecting assembly rotated relative to each other to the working position. Detailed Implementation

[0099] Exemplary embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that this application can be presented in many different ways and is not limited to the embodiments described below. It should also be understood that the embodiments disclosed herein can be combined in various ways to provide further additional embodiments. Throughout the drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same or functionally identical elements.

[0100] In the context of this application, unless otherwise specified, the term "far side" refers to the side that is farther from the motor along the direction of extension of the lead screw, for example, relative to the end of the lead screw, and "near side" refers to the side that is closer to the motor relative to the end of the lead screw.

[0101] like Figure 4A and Figure 4B As shown, according to some embodiments of this application, it is used for connection and bonding. Figures 1 to 3B The described connecting assembly 20 for the end 5 of the lead screw 3 and the connecting rod 6 may include a first component 21 and a second component 22. As described above, the lead screw 3 may be, for example, a lead screw 3 for cooperating with a motor 2 in an adjustment mechanism of a vehicle seat cushion support 1, and the connecting rod 6 may be, for example, a connecting rod 6 in a linkage mechanism 4 of the aforementioned adjustment mechanism for connecting to the end 5 of the lead screw 3. On one hand, the first component 21 and the second component 22 are configured to cooperate with each other via a through hole 7 in the end 5 of the lead screw 3 to limit the end 7 of the lead screw 3 therebetween, thereby preventing the end 5 of the lead screw 3 from moving relative to the connecting assembly 20. Figure 4A and Figure 4BIn the illustrated embodiment, the first member 21 and the second member 22 are configured to restrict the movement of the end 5 of the lead screw 3 by means of the portion of the end 5 located distal to the through hole 7. It should be understood that in other embodiments not shown, the first member 21 and the second member 22 may also be configured to restrict the movement of the end 5 by means of other portions of the end 5 (e.g., the portion of the end 5 located near the through hole 7, the portion of the end 5 located on one and / or the other side of the through hole 7 in the direction of the rotation axis y of the connecting rod 6, etc.). On the other hand, when the first member 21 and the second member 22 are engaged together, rotation of the connecting rod 6 about a rotation axis y perpendicular to the extension direction x of the lead screw 3 can be achieved. For example, when the first member 21 and the second member 22 are engaged together, the connecting assembly 20 may have a neck that engages with the opening 24 in the connecting rod 6, thereby allowing the connecting rod 6 and the connecting assembly 20 to rotate relative to each other about the aforementioned rotation axis y. Advantageously, the neck may be formed at a midpoint in the direction of the rotation axis y of the connecting rod 6, thereby achieving a favorable force-bearing mode for the connecting assembly 20. Further detailed features of the neck will be described below in conjunction with the specific construction of the first component 21 and the second component 22.

[0102] Advantageously, the connecting assembly 20 may include a flexible connector 23, which can be configured to connect the first component 21 and the second component 22 to facilitate the management and storage of the connecting assembly 20 and prevent the loss of either the first component 21 or the second component 22. The connector 23 may be, for example, a flexible connecting cable.

[0103] Figures 5A to 5F To show Figure 4A A schematic diagram illustrating the installation process of the connecting assembly 20 with the end 5 of the lead screw 3 and the connecting rod 6. For example, it can be first along... Figure 5A The arrow in the diagram indicates that the first component 21 is engaged with the end 5 of the lead screw 3 to reach... Figure 5B The state within. Then, one can follow... Figure 5B The arrow in the middle rotates the second member 22 so that it engages with the first member 21 through the through hole 7 in the end 5, thereby confining the end 5 therebetween. Figure 5C The state within. Then, one can follow... Figure 5D The arrow in the diagram indicates that the opening 24 of the connecting rod 6 mates with the neck of the connecting assembly 20 to achieve... Figure 5E The state is shown by the solid line in the image. Finally, it can be followed... Figure 5E The arrow in the diagram rotates motor 2, along with lead screw 3 and connecting assembly 20, relative to connecting rod 6 to achieve... Figure 5E The state indicated by the dashed line, that is... Figure 5F The design state is shown below. It should be understood that... Figures 5A to 5FThe specific relative motions described are merely exemplary, although combined with Figures 5A to 5F It describes the movement of some components relative to other components in one direction to transition from one state to another, but this transition can also be achieved by the movement of the other components relative to the aforementioned components in the opposite direction, without requiring creative effort.

[0104] Below, in conjunction with Figures 6A to 6E Describes the engagement between the end 5 of the lead screw 3 and the first component 21 of the connecting assembly 20.

[0105] like Figure 6A and Figure 6C As shown, engagement between end 5 and first member 21 can be achieved by movement of the two relative to each other in the extension direction of lead screw 3, and the first member 21 is configured to at least restrict movement of end 5 toward one side in one direction. It should be understood that in other embodiments not shown, depending on the specific construction of the first member 21 and the second member 22, engagement between end 5 and first member 21 can also be achieved by movement of the two relative to each other in other directions (e.g., in the direction of the rotation axis of link 6, etc.).

[0106] like Figure 6A and Figure 6B As clearly shown, the first member 21 may include a guide portion 28 extending along the extension direction of the lead screw 3. The guide portion 28 is shaped to restrict movement of the end portion 5 relative to the first member 21 along the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6 and / or in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis and the extension direction of the lead screw 3, and to guide the movement of the end portion 5 relative to the first member 21 along the extension direction of the lead screw 3. For example, as... Figure 6A and Figure 6B As clearly shown, the first member 21 may include a first limiting surface 25, which may be configured to limit the movement of the end portion 5 toward at least one side in the direction of the rotation axis of the link 6. While in this embodiment, the first limiting surface 25 includes a pair of mutually facing surfaces to limit the movement of the end portion 5 toward both sides in the direction of the rotation axis of the link 6, in other embodiments not shown, the first limiting surface 25 may include more surfaces to limit the movement of the end portion 5 in this direction, or it may be configured to limit only the movement of the end portion 5 toward one side in the direction of the rotation axis of the link 6; for example, the first limiting surface 25 may include only one surface. It should be understood that the movement of the end portion 5 to one or both sides in the direction of the rotation axis of the link 6 may alternatively or further be limited by the second member 22, and the first member 21 and / or the second member 22 may limit the movement of the end portion 5 in this direction by engaging the outer end face of the end portion 5 and / or the through-hole side end face of the end portion 5.

[0107] For example, such as Figure 6D As clearly shown, the first member 21 may include a second limiting surface 26 configured to limit the distal movement of the end portion 5 in the extension direction of the lead screw 3. While in this embodiment the second limiting surface 26 comprises only one surface, thereby limiting only the distal movement of the end portion 5 in the extension direction of the lead screw 3, in other embodiments not shown, the second limiting surface 26 may also comprise two or more surfaces, thereby limiting lateral movement of the end portion 5 in the extension direction of the lead screw 3. It should be understood that the distal and / or proximal movement of the end portion 5 in the extension direction of the lead screw 3 may alternatively or further be limited by the second member 22, and on the one hand, the first member 21 and / or the second member 22 may limit the distal movement of the end portion 5 in the extension direction of the lead screw 3, for example, by engaging the distal end face of the end portion 5; on the other hand, the first member 21 and / or the second member 22 may limit the proximal movement of the end portion 5 in the extension direction of the lead screw 3, for example, by engaging the proximal end face of the through hole 7.

[0108] For example, such as Figure 6D As shown, the first component 21 may include a third limiting surface 27, which may be configured to limit the movement of the end 5 in at least one side in a first direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the lead screw 3 and the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6. In this embodiment, the first direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the lead screw 3 and the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6 corresponds to the axial direction of the through hole 7 of the end 5. It should be understood that in other embodiments not shown, this first direction may not correspond to the axial direction of the through hole 7 of the end 5. For example, depending on the different specific configurations of the first component 21 and the second component 22, the connecting assembly 20 may also be adapted, for example, to... Figure 2B The scenario shown illustrates a scenario where the axial direction of the through-hole 7 is parallel to the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6. While in this embodiment, the third limiting surface 27 includes multiple surfaces to limit the movement of the end portion 5 toward both sides in the aforementioned first direction, in other embodiments not shown, the third limiting surface 27 may include fewer surfaces to limit the movement of the end portion 5 in this direction; for example, it may include only one surface, thereby limiting only the movement of the end portion 5 toward one side in this direction. It should be understood that the movement of the end portion 5 in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the lead screw 3 and the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6 (in this embodiment, the axial direction of the through-hole 7) may alternatively or further be limited by the second member 22.

[0109] Below, we will further combine Figures 7A to 9D The connection between the second component 22 of the connecting assembly 20 and the first component 21, as well as the end 5 of the lead screw 3, will be described.

[0110] First, as described above, the first component 21 and the second component 22 are configured to engage with each other via a through hole 7 in the end 5 of the lead screw 3 to confine the end 7 of the lead screw 3 therebetween, thereby preventing the end 5 of the lead screw 3 from moving relative to the connecting assembly 20. For this purpose, as... Figure 6D and Figure 6E As is clearly shown in the diagram, the first member 21 may include a receiving portion 29 that is at least partially aligned with the through hole 7, and as... Figure 7A and Figure 7C As clearly shown, the second member 22 may include an insertion portion 30 configured to be inserted into the through hole 7 and engage with the receiving portion 29, thereby achieving the engagement of the first member 21 and the second member 22 and confining the end 7 of the lead screw 3 therebetween. Advantageously, the insertion portion 30 and the receiving portion 29 may be configured such that an interference fit gradually develops between them as they engage, thereby helping to ensure a reliable engagement between the insertion portion 30 and the receiving portion 29 and reducing the risk of loosening between them during the operation of the connecting assembly 20. Advantageously, the receiving portion 29 may be configured as a hole, and the relative movement of the first member 21 and the second member 22 in a direction parallel to the extension direction of the lead screw 3 is limited by the engagement of the insertion portion 30 and the aforementioned hole. Advantageously, the receiving portion 29 can correspond in size to the insertion portion 30, so that when the insertion portion 30 mates with the receiving portion 29, the sidewall surrounding the receiving portion 29 can prevent the insertion portion 29 from moving along the extension direction of the lead screw 3 and along the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6, for example, as Figure 7C and Figure 7E It is shown more clearly in the text.

[0111] like Figure 7C As shown, the neck 31 of the connecting assembly 20, as mentioned above, is clearly illustrated, and the neck 31 can be formed by splicing a first neck feature 32 on the first member 21 and a second neck feature 33 on the second member 22 when the first member 21 and the second member 22 are engaged together. Figure 9A , Figure 9C and Figure 9D The first neck feature 32 on the first member 21 and the second neck feature 33 on the second member 22 are shown more clearly in the image. Figure 7CAs further shown, in some embodiments, when the first member 21 and the second member 22 are engaged, the cross-section of the portion of the end 5 of the lead screw 3 located distal to the through hole 7, viewed along the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6, can be rectangular. Advantageously, at least one of the first neck feature 32 and the second neck feature 33 contacts three sides of the rectangle to help reduce the wobbling of the connecting assembly 20 relative to the end 5 during operation and improve the connection quality. It should be understood that it is also feasible for the first neck feature 32 and the second neck feature 33 to contact two sides of the rectangle respectively. Furthermore, it should be understood that the neck 31 does not necessarily have to be formed by splicing the first neck feature 32 on the first member 21 and the second neck feature 33 on the second member 22; the neck 31 can also be constructed integrally formed on either the first member 21 or the second member 22. (Continue to the reference) Figure 7A It is clear that the insertion part 30 of the second component 22 may include, for example, two insertion rods 34. These two insertion rods 34 can be positioned on both sides of the neck 31 in the direction of the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6, so as to help to cooperate with the receiving part 29 in a more symmetrical and balanced manner in the direction of the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6, thereby achieving a better force distribution.

[0112] like Figures 8A to 8F As shown, in some embodiments, it is advantageous that the second component 22 may include at least two mating surfaces that are parallel to the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6, adjacent to each other and forming an angle. For example, the second component 22 may include two or more mating surfaces A, A', B, B', C, C', D, D', etc., that are adjacent to each other and forming an angle. The first component 21 may include at least two mating surfaces corresponding to the mating surfaces of the second component 22. For example, the first component 21 may include two or more mating surfaces a, a', b, b', c, c', d, d', etc., that are adjacent to each other and forming an angle, parallel to the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6. These mating surfaces in the first component 21 and the second component 22 help to disperse the forces acting between the first component 21 and the second component 22 during relative rotation between the connecting rod 6 and the connecting assembly 20, thereby reducing the risk of failure due to partial or overall breakage or damage of the first component 21 and / or the second component 22.

[0113] For example, such as Figure 8B and Figure 8EAs shown, in some embodiments, to further reliably engage the first member 21 and the second member 22 together, the first member 21 may include a first engaging portion 35, and the second member 22 may include a second engaging portion 36 capable of engaging with the first engaging portion 35. The first engaging portion 35 and the second engaging portion 36 may be configured to engage together when the insertion portion 30 and the receiving portion 29 engage, thereby defining the relative position of the first member 21 and the second member 22 in at least one direction (e.g., in the direction of the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6, in the extension direction of the lead screw 3, in the extension direction of the through hole 7, etc.). It should be understood that the first engaging portion 35 and the second engaging portion 36 may have any form known in the art that enables the engaging function. For example, the first engaging portion 35 may be configured as a protrusion, and the second engaging portion 36 may be configured as a corresponding groove, or vice versa. For example, a first engaging portion 35 may be formed on the receiving portion 29, and a second engaging portion 36 may be formed on the insert portion 30. The first engaging portion 35 and the second engaging portion 36 may be configured such that as the insert portion 30 moves through the through hole 7 to engage with the receiving portion 29, the second engaging portion 36 moves from one side of the through hole 7 to the other side of the through hole 7. For example, Figure 7E The image clearly shows the state when the second snap-fit ​​part 36 has reached the other side of the through hole 7 and snaps together with the first snap-fit ​​part 35.

[0114] Below, in conjunction with Figures 7A to 8F The fit between the first component 21 and the second component 22 is further described.

[0115] The relative movement between the first member 21 and the second member 22 along the extension direction of the lead screw 3 can be limited by the cooperation between the insertion part 30 and the receiving part 29, or it can be limited by the cooperation between the insertion part 30, the receiving part 29, and the end part 5. For example, as Figure 7C As clearly shown, the fit between the insertion portion 30 and the receiving portion 29 restricts the relative movement between the first member 21 and the second member 22 along the extension direction of the lead screw 3. Furthermore, as... Figure 7C As shown, when the insertion portion 30 contacts the end portion 5 in the extending direction of the lead screw 3, the relative movement between the first member 21 and the second member 22 in the extending direction of the lead screw 3 can also be limited by the cooperation between the insertion portion 30 and the receiving portion 29 and the end portion 5. The relative movement between the first member 21 and the second member 22 in the extending direction of the lead screw 3 can alternatively or further be limited by the cooperation between the mating surfaces on the sections of the second member 22 other than the insertion portion 30 and the corresponding mating surfaces on the first member 21. For example, Figure 8A and Figure 8D The mating surfaces G and g shown, and as... Figure 8C and Figure 8FThe mating surfaces B, B', b, b', etc. shown can all be used to restrict the relative movement between the first component 21 and the second component 22 along the extension direction of the lead screw 3.

[0116] The relative movement between the first member 21 and the second member 22 along the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6 can be limited by the cooperation between the insertion part 30 and the receiving part 29, or by the cooperation between the insertion part 30, the receiving part 29, and the end part 5. For example, as Figure 7E As clearly shown, the fit between the insertion portion 30 and the receiving portion 29 restricts the relative movement between the first member 21 and the second member 22 along the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6. Furthermore, when the second member 22 contacts the end portion 5 along the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6, the relative movement between the first member 21 and the second member 22 along the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6 can also be restricted by the fit between the insertion portion 30 and the receiving portion 29 and the end portion 5. The relative movement between the first member 21 and the second member 22 along the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6 can alternatively or further be restricted by the fit between the mating surfaces on the sections of the second member 22 other than the insertion portion 30 and the corresponding mating surfaces on the first member 21. For example, as... Figure 8A and Figure 8D The mating surfaces C, C', c, and c' shown are as follows: Figure 8B and Figure 8E The mating surfaces H, H', c, h', etc. shown can all be used to restrict the relative movement between the first component 21 and the second component 22 in the direction of rotation axis of the connecting rod 6.

[0117] The relative movement between the first component 21 and the second component 22 in a first direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the lead screw 3 and the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6 (for example, in this embodiment, this first direction is along the axis of the through hole 7) can be limited by the cooperation between the insertion part 30 and the receiving part 29, or it can be limited by the cooperation between the insertion part 30, the receiving part 29, and the end part 5. For example, as Figure 7EAs clearly shown, the engagement between the second engaging portion 36 on the insertion portion 30 and the first engaging portion 35 on the receiving portion 29 restricts the relative movement between the first member 21 and the second member 22 along the first direction. Furthermore, as described above, the insertion portion 30 and the receiving portion 29 can be configured such that as the insertion portion 30 engages with the receiving portion 29, an interference fit gradually develops between them. Therefore, this interference fit can also restrict the relative movement between the first member 21 and the second member 22 along the first direction. Moreover, when the second member 22 contacts the end portion 5 along the first direction, the relative movement between the first member 21 and the second member 22 along the first direction can also be restricted by the engagement between the insertion portion 30 and the receiving portion 29 and the end portion 5 (e.g., as shown in the diagram). Figure 7E As clearly shown, the fit between the surface E of the insertion portion 30 and the corresponding surface of the end portion 5 can also be used to limit the relative movement between the first member 21 and the second member 22 along the first direction. The relative movement between the first member 21 and the second member 22 along the first direction can alternatively or further be limited by the fit between the mating surfaces on the portion of the second member 22 other than the insertion portion 30 and the corresponding mating surfaces on the first member 21. For example, as... Figure 8C and Figure 8F The mating surfaces A, A', a, a', D, D', d, d', etc. shown can all be used to restrict the relative movement between the first component 21 and the second component 22 along the first direction.

[0118] Continue to refer to Figures 8A to 8F As the first component 21 and the second component 22 move relative to each other along the axial direction of the through hole 7, for example, one or more of the mating surfaces C, C', G, G', H, H', B, and B' of the first component 21 can be used as the first guide surface, and one or more of the corresponding mating surfaces c, c', g, g', h, h', b, and b' of the second component 22 can be used as the second guide surface. The first guide surface and the second guide surface can guide the movement of the first component 21 and / or the second component 22 in response to the above-mentioned relative movement.

[0119] like Figures 10A to 10CAs is clearly shown in some embodiments, when viewed along the axis of rotation of the connecting rod 6, the neck 31 may have an elongated shape, and the neck 31 may be configured such that its length extends along the extension direction of the lead screw 3 and its width extends in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the lead screw 3, thereby facilitating the fitting of the connecting rod 6 to the neck 31 and preventing the connecting rod 6 from disengaging from the neck 31 after it has been fitted onto the neck 31 and rotated at a certain angle relative to the neck 31.

[0120] Below, in conjunction with Figures 11A to 17C Description of the connection component 20' in relation to other embodiments of this application.

[0121] like Figure 11A and Figure 11B As shown, according to other embodiments of this application, the connecting assembly 20' may include a first member 21' and a second member 22'. On one hand, the first member 21' and the second member 22' are configured to engage with each other via a through-hole 7 in the end portion 5 of the lead screw 3 to confine the end portion 7 of the lead screw 3 therebetween, thereby preventing movement of the end portion 5 of the lead screw 3 relative to the connecting assembly 20'. In such cases... Figure 11A and Figure 11B In the illustrated embodiment, the first member 21' and the second member 22' are configured to restrict the movement of the end 5 of the lead screw 3 by means of the portion of the end 5 located distal to the through hole 7. It should be understood that in other embodiments not shown, the first member 21' and the second member 22' may also be configured to restrict the movement of the end 5 by means of other portions of the end 5 (e.g., the portion of the end 5 located near the through hole 7, the portion of the end 5 located on one and / or the other side of the through hole 7 in the direction of the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6, etc.). On the other hand, when the first member 21' and the second member 22' are engaged together, rotation of the connecting rod 6 about a rotation axis y perpendicular to the extension direction x of the lead screw 3 can be achieved. For example, when the first member 21' and the second member 22' are engaged together, the connecting assembly 20' may have a neck that engages with an opening 24 in the connecting rod 6, thereby allowing the connecting rod 6 and the connecting assembly 20' to rotate relative to each other about the aforementioned rotation axis y. Advantageously, the neck can be formed at the middle position of the connecting assembly 20' in the direction of the rotation axis y of the connecting rod 6, thereby achieving a good force-bearing mode for the connecting assembly 20'. Further detailed features of the neck will be described below in conjunction with the specific construction of the first member 21' and the second member 22'.

[0122] Advantageously, the connecting assembly 20' may also include a flexible connector 23', which can be configured to connect the first component 21' and the second component 22' to facilitate the management and storage of the connecting assembly 20' and prevent the loss of either the first component 21' or the second component 22'. The connector 23' may be, for example, a flexible connecting cable.

[0123] Figures 12A to 12F To show Figure 11A A schematic diagram illustrating the installation process of the connecting assembly 20' with the end 5 of the lead screw 3 and the connecting rod 6. For example, it can be first along... Figure 12A The arrow in the diagram indicates that the first component 21' is engaged with the end 5 of the lead screw 3 to reach... Figure 12B The state within. Then, one can follow... Figure 12B The arrow in the middle rotates the second member 22' so that it engages with the first member 21' through the through hole 7 in the end 5, thereby confining the end 5 therebetween. Figure 12C The state within. Then, one can follow... Figure 12D The arrow in the diagram indicates that the opening 24 of the connecting rod 6 mates with the neck of the connecting assembly 20' to achieve... Figure 12E The state is shown by the solid line in the image. Finally, it can be followed... Figure 12E The arrow in the diagram rotates motor 2, along with lead screw 3 and connecting assembly 20, relative to connecting rod 6 to achieve... Figure 12E The state indicated by the dashed line, that is... Figure 12F The design state is shown below. It should be understood that... Figures 12A to 12F The specific relative motions described are merely exemplary, although combined with Figures 12A to 12F It describes the movement of some components relative to other components in one direction to transition from one state to another, but this transition can also be achieved by the movement of the other components relative to the aforementioned components in the opposite direction, without requiring creative effort.

[0124] Below, in conjunction with Figures 13A to 13E Describes the engagement between the end 5 of the lead screw 3 and the first component 21' of the connecting assembly 20'.

[0125] like Figure 12A and Figure 12C As shown, the engagement of end 5 with the first member 21' can be achieved by the movement of these two relative to each other in the extension direction of the lead screw 3, and the first member 21' is configured to at least restrict the movement of end 5 toward one side in one direction. Figure 13A and Figure 13BAs clearly shown, the first member 21' may include a guide portion 28' extending along the extension direction of the lead screw 3. The guide portion 28' is shaped to restrict the movement of the end portion 5 relative to the first member 21' along the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6 and / or in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis and the extension direction of the lead screw 3, and to guide the movement of the end portion 5 relative to the first member 21' along the extension direction of the lead screw 3. It should be understood that in other embodiments not shown, depending on the specific construction of the first member 21' and the second member 22', engagement of the end portion 5 with the first member 21' may also be achieved by the movement of both relative to each other in other directions (e.g., in the direction of the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6, etc.).

[0126] For example, such as Figure 13A and Figure 13B As clearly shown, the first member 21' may include a first limiting surface 25', which may be configured to limit the movement of the end 5 toward at least one side in the direction of the rotation axis of the link 6. While in this embodiment, the first limiting surface 25' includes a pair of mutually facing surfaces to limit the movement of the end 5 toward both sides in the direction of the rotation axis of the link 6, in other embodiments not shown, the first limiting surface 25' may include more surfaces to limit the movement of the end 5 in this direction, or it may be configured to limit only the movement of the end 5 toward one side in the direction of the rotation axis of the link 6; for example, the first limiting surface 25' may include only one surface. It should be understood that the movement of the end 5 to one or both sides in the direction of the rotation axis of the link 6 may alternatively or further be limited by the second member 22', and the first member 21' and / or the second member 22' may limit the movement of the end 5 in this direction by engaging the outer end face of the end 5 and / or the through-hole side end face of the end 5.

[0127] For example, such as Figure 13DAs clearly shown, the first member 21' may include a second limiting surface 26', which may be configured to limit the distal movement of the end 5 in the extension direction of the lead screw 3. Although in this embodiment, the second limiting surface 26' includes only one surface, thereby limiting only the distal movement of the end 5 in the extension direction of the lead screw 3, in other embodiments not shown, the second limiting surface 26' may also include two or more surfaces, thereby limiting the lateral movement of the end 5 in the extension direction of the lead screw 3. It should be understood that the distal and / or proximal movement of the end 5 in the extension direction of the lead screw 3 may alternatively or further be limited by the second member 22', and on the one hand, the first member 21' and / or the second member 22' may limit the distal movement of the end 5 in the extension direction of the lead screw 3 by engaging the distal end face of the end 5, and on the other hand, the first member 21' and / or the second member 22' may limit the proximal movement of the end 5 in the extension direction of the lead screw 3 by engaging the proximal end face of the through hole 7.

[0128] For example, such as Figure 13D As shown, the first component 21' may include a third limiting surface 27', which may be configured to limit the movement of the end 5 in at least one side in a first direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the lead screw 3 and the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6. In this embodiment, the first direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the lead screw 3 and the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6 corresponds to the axial direction of the through hole 7 of the end 5. It should be understood that in other embodiments not shown, this first direction may not correspond to the axial direction of the through hole 7 of the end 5. For example, depending on the different specific constructions of the first component 21' and the second component 22', the connecting assembly 20' may also be adapted, for example, to... Figure 2B The scenario shown illustrates a scenario where the axial direction of the through-hole 7 is parallel to the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6. While in this embodiment, the third limiting surface 27' includes multiple surfaces to limit the movement of the end portion 5 toward both sides in the aforementioned first direction, in other embodiments not shown, the third limiting surface 27' may include fewer surfaces to limit the movement of the end portion 5 in this direction; for example, it may include only one surface, thereby limiting only the movement of the end portion 5 toward one side in this direction. It should be understood that the movement of the end portion 5 along a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the lead screw 3 and the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6 (in this embodiment, the axial direction of the through-hole 7) may alternatively or further be limited by the second member 22'.

[0129] Below, we will further combine Figures 14A to 16DThe connection between the second member 22' and the first member 21' of the connecting assembly 20' and the end 5 of the lead screw 3 will be described. As described above, the first member 21' and the second member 22' are configured to engage with each other via a through hole 7 in the end 5 of the lead screw 3 to confine the end 7 of the lead screw 3 therebetween, thereby preventing the end 5 of the lead screw 3 from moving relative to the connecting assembly 20'. To this end, firstly, as Figure 13D and Figure 13E As is clearly shown in the diagram, the first member 21' may include a receiving portion 29' that is at least partially aligned with the through hole 7, and as... Figure 14A and Figure 14C As clearly shown, the second member 22' may include an insertion portion 30' configured to be inserted into the through hole 7 and engage with the receiving portion 29', thereby achieving the engagement of the first member 21' and the second member 22' and confining the end 7 of the lead screw 3 therebetween. Advantageously, for example, as... Figure 14F As shown, the receiving part 29' can be configured as an opening that opens to one side in an opening direction perpendicular to the axis of the through hole 7, and when the insertion part 30' engages with the opening, the side wall forming the opening can, together with the end of the lead screw 5, restrict the movement of the insertion part 30' in a plane perpendicular to the opening direction, as well as its movement to the other side along the opening direction.

[0130] like Figure 14F As shown, the neck 31' of the connecting component 20' mentioned above is shown more clearly, and the neck 31' can be formed by splicing a first neck feature 32' on the first component 21' and a second neck feature 33' on the second component 22' when the first component 21' and the second component 22' are engaged together. Figures 16A to 16D The first neck feature 32' on the first member 21' and the second neck feature 33' on the second member 22' are shown more clearly in the image. Figure 14FAs further shown, in some embodiments, when the first member 21' and the second member 22' are engaged, the cross-section of the portion of the end 5 of the lead screw 3 located distal to the through hole 7, viewed along the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6, can be rectangular. Advantageously, at least one of the first neck feature 32' and the second neck feature 33' contacts three sides of the rectangle to help reduce the wobbling of the connecting assembly 20' relative to the end 5 during operation and improve connection quality. It should be understood that it is also feasible for the first neck feature 32' and the second neck feature 33' to contact two sides of the rectangle respectively. Furthermore, it should be understood that the neck 31' does not necessarily have to be formed by splicing the first neck feature 32' on the first member 21' and the second neck feature 33' on the second member 22'; the neck 31' can also be constructed integrally formed on either the first member 21' or the second member 22'.

[0131] like Figure 15A and Figure 15C As shown, in some embodiments, it is advantageous that the second component 22' may include at least two mating surfaces that are adjacent to each other and at a certain angle, parallel to the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6. For example, the second component 22' may include two or more mating surfaces A, A', B, B', C, C', etc., that are adjacent to each other and at a certain angle. The first component 21' may include at least two mating surfaces corresponding to the mating surfaces of the second component 22'. For example, the first component 21' may include two or more mating surfaces a, a', b, b', c, c', etc., that are adjacent to each other and at a certain angle, parallel to the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6. These mating surfaces in the first component 21' and the second component 22' help to disperse the forces acting between the first component 21' and the second component 22' during relative rotation between the connecting rod 6 and the connecting assembly 20', thereby reducing the risk of failure due to partial or overall breakage or damage of the first component 21' and / or the second component 22'.

[0132] like Figure 15B and Figure 15DAs further shown, in some embodiments, to further reliably engage the first member 21' and the second member 22' together, the first member 21' may include a first engaging portion 35', and the second member 22' may include a second engaging portion 36' capable of engaging with the first engaging portion 35'. The first engaging portion 35' and the second engaging portion 36' may be configured to engage together when the insertion portion 30' and the receiving portion 29' engage, thereby defining the relative position of the first member 21' and the second member 22' in at least one direction (e.g., in the direction of the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6, in the extension direction of the lead screw 3, in the extension direction of the through hole 7, etc.). It should be understood that the first engaging portion 35' and the second engaging portion 36' may have any form known in the art capable of achieving the engaging function. For example, the first engaging portion 35' may be configured as a protrusion, and the second engaging portion 36' may be configured as a corresponding groove, or vice versa. For example, a first engaging portion 35' can be formed on a receiving portion 29', and a second engaging portion 36' can be formed on an insert portion 30'. The first engaging portion 35' and the second engaging portion 36' can be configured such that after the insert portion 30' passes through the through hole 7, it moves in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the through hole 7 to engage with the receiving portion 29', thereby engaging the second engaging portion 36' onto the first engaging portion 35'. For example, Figures 14D to 14E The process of the insertion part 30' passing through the through hole 7 is shown more clearly. Figures 14E to 14F This clearly illustrates the process by which the insertion part 30' engages with the receiving part 29' in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the through hole 7 after passing through the through hole 7 (during this process, the second locking part 36' engages with the first locking part 35'). Figure 15B and Figure 15D As shown, along the axial direction of the through hole 7, the first component 21' may include at least two first engaging portions 35' located on one side and the other side of the end 5 of the lead screw 3, respectively, and the second component 22' may include second engaging portions 36' corresponding to the number and position of the first engaging portions 35', thereby enabling reliable engagement on both sides of the end 5 of the lead screw 3 along the axial direction of the through hole 7. Figure 15B and Figure 15D As further shown, alternatively or further, in the direction of rotation axis of link 6, the first member 21' may include at least two first latching portions 35' located on one side and the other side of the first neck feature 32', and the second member 22' may include second latching portions 36' corresponding to the number and position of the first latching portions 35', thereby enabling reliable latching on both sides of the neck 31' in the axial direction of link 6.

[0133] Below, in conjunction with Figures 14A to 15D The fit between the first component 21' and the second component 22' is further described.

[0134] The relative movement between the first member 21' and the second member 22' along the extension direction of the lead screw 3 can be limited by the cooperation between the insertion part 30' and the receiving part 29', or it can be limited by the cooperation between the insertion part 30', the receiving part 29', and the end part 5. For example, as Figure 14F As clearly shown, the fit between the insertion portion 30' and the receiving portion 29' restricts the relative movement of the first member 21' and the second member 22' along the extension direction of the lead screw 3. Furthermore, as... Figure 14F As shown, when the insertion portion 30' contacts the end portion 5 in the extending direction of the lead screw 3, the relative movement between the first member 21' and the second member 22' in the extending direction of the lead screw 3 can also be limited by the cooperation between the insertion portion 30' and the receiving portion 29' and the end portion 5. The relative movement between the first member 21' and the second member 22' in the extending direction of the lead screw 3 can alternatively or further be limited by the cooperation between the mating surfaces on the sections of the second member 22' other than the insertion portion 30' and the corresponding mating surfaces on the first member 21'. For example, Figure 15A and Figure 15C The mating surfaces B, B', b, b', D, D', d, d', etc. shown can all be used to restrict the relative movement between the first component 21' and the second component 22' along the extension direction of the lead screw 3.

[0135] The relative movement between the first member 21' and the second member 22' along the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6 can be limited by the fit between the insertion part 30' and the receiving part 29', or by the fit between the insertion part 30', the receiving part 29', and the end part 5. For example, Figure 15B The mating surfaces E and E' of the insertion part 30' in the middle Figure 15D The fit between the corresponding mating surfaces e and e' of the receiving portion 29' restricts the relative movement between the first member 21' and the second member 22' along the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6. Furthermore, when the second member 22' contacts the end portion 5 along the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6, the relative movement between the first member 21' and the second member 22' along the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6 can also be restricted by the fit between the insertion portion 30' and both the receiving portion 29' and the end portion 5. The relative movement between the first member 21' and the second member 22' along the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6 can alternatively or further be restricted by the fit between the mating surfaces on the section of the second member 22' (excluding the insertion portion 30') and the corresponding mating surfaces on the first member 21'. For example, as... Figure 15B and Figure 15DThe mating surfaces F, F', f, f', etc. shown can all be used to restrict the relative movement between the first component 21' and the second component 22' along the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6.

[0136] The relative movement between the first component 21' and the second component 22' in a first direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the lead screw 3 and the rotation axis of the connecting rod 6 (for example, in this embodiment, this first direction is along the axis of the through hole 7) can be limited by the cooperation between the insertion portion 30' and the receiving portion 29', or it can be limited by the cooperation between the insertion portion 30', the receiving portion 29', and the end portion 5. For example, as Figure 14F and Figure 15A As clearly shown, the insertion portion 30' may include a hook 37', which may form a groove 38' with the main body of the insertion portion 30', correspondingly, as Figure 14F and 15C As clearly shown, the receiving portion 29' may include a protrusion 39', and the movement of the first member 21' relative to the second member 22' along the axial direction of the through hole 7 can be limited by the movement of the second member 22' in a direction parallel to the extension direction of the lead screw 3, thereby engaging the groove 38' onto the protrusion 39'. Furthermore, the engagement between the second engaging portion 36' on the insertion portion 30' and the first engaging portion 35' on the receiving portion 29' can also be configured to limit the relative movement between the first member 21' and the second member 22' along the first direction. Moreover, when the second member 22' contacts the end portion 5 along the first direction, the relative movement between the first member 21' and the second member 22' along the first direction can also be limited by the engagement between the insertion portion 30' and both the receiving portion 29' and the end portion 5 (e.g., as shown in the diagram). Figure 14F As clearly shown, the engagement between the surface of the insertion portion 30', such as surface G, and the corresponding surface between the end portion 5 can also be used to limit the relative movement between the first member 21' and the second member 22' along the first direction. The relative movement between the first member 21' and the second member 22' along the first direction can alternatively or further be limited by the engagement between the mating surfaces on the segments of the second member 22' other than the insertion portion 30' and the corresponding mating surfaces on the first member 21'. For example, as... Figure 15A and Figure 15C The mating surfaces A, A', a, a', C, C', c, c', c', etc. shown can all be used to restrict the relative movement between the first member 21' and the second member 22' along the first direction.

[0137] Continue to refer to Figures 14A to 15DAs the first component 21' and the second component 22' move relative to each other along the axial direction of the through hole 7, for example, one or more of the mating surfaces B, B', F, F', D, and D' of the first component 21' can be used as the first guide surface, and one or more of the corresponding mating surfaces b, b', f, f', d, and d' of the second component 22' can be used as the second guide surface. The first guide surface and the second guide surface can guide the movement of the first component 21' and / or the second component 22' in response to the aforementioned relative movement. On the other hand, as the first component 21' and the second component 22' move relative to each other along the direction perpendicular to the axis of the through hole 7, for example, one or more of the mating surfaces A, A', C, C', F, F', E, and E' of the first component 21' can be used as the first guide surface, and one or more of the corresponding mating surfaces a, a', c, c', f, f', e, and e' of the second component 22' can be used as the second guide surface. The first guide surface and the second guide surface can guide the movement of the first component 21' and / or the second component 22' in response to the aforementioned relative movement.

[0138] like Figures 17A to 17C As is clearly shown in some embodiments, when viewed along the axis of rotation of the connecting rod 6, the neck 31' may have an elongated shape, and the neck 31' may be configured such that its length extends along the extension direction of the lead screw 3 and its width extends in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the lead screw 3, thereby facilitating the fitting of the connecting rod 6 onto the neck 31' and preventing the connecting rod 6 from disengaging from the neck 31' after it has been fitted onto the neck 31' and rotated at a certain angle relative to the neck 31'.

[0139] The connecting component according to this application enables a simple forming and installation process, fewer parts, higher connection strength, lighter overall weight, and lower cost, and can reliably and stably connect the end of the lead screw and the connecting rod together.

[0140] It should be understood that the terminology used in this specification is for describing specific embodiments only and is not intended to limit this application. All terms used in this specification, unless otherwise defined, have the meanings commonly understood by those skilled in the art. For the sake of brevity or clarity, well-known functions or structures may not be described in detail.

[0141] Unless otherwise specified, the singular forms “a,” “the,” and “the” used in this specification include the plural forms. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “containing” used in this specification indicate the presence of the claimed feature but do not exclude the presence of one or more other features. The term “and / or” used in this specification includes any and all combinations of one or more of the relevant listed items.

[0142] In the specification, when an element is described as being "on," "attached," "connected," "coupled," or "in contact" with another element, the element can be directly located on, attached to, connected to, coupled to, or in contact with the other element, or there may be intermediate elements present. Conversely, when an element is described as being "directly" located on, directly attached to, directly connected to, directly coupled to, or directly in contact with another element, no intermediate elements are present. In the specification, the description of a feature being arranged "adjacent" to another feature can mean that a feature has a portion overlapping with the adjacent feature or a portion located above or below the adjacent feature.

[0143] It is understood that although the terms "first," "second," etc., may be used herein to describe different elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are merely used to distinguish one element from another. Therefore, a first element may be referred to as a second element without departing from the teachings of this application.

[0144] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are merely for understanding this application and do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this application. Those skilled in the art can make modifications based on the above embodiments, and these modifications will not depart from the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A connecting assembly configured to connect an end of a lead screw and a connecting rod, the end having a through-hole, the connecting assembly being configured such that the connecting rod can be pivotally connected to the connecting assembly, and the connecting rod having a rotation axis perpendicular to the extension direction of the lead screw, characterized in that, The connecting assembly includes a first component and a second component, which are capable of engaging with each other via the through hole to limit the end of the lead screw between the first component and the second component, thereby preventing the end from moving relative to the connecting assembly. The first member at least restricts the movement of the end toward one side in one direction, and includes a receiving portion at least partially aligned with the through hole. The second component includes an insertion portion capable of being inserted into the through hole and configured to mate with the receiving portion. The connecting assembly has a neck that engages with an opening in the connecting rod when the first and second components are joined together, thereby allowing the connecting rod and the connecting assembly to rotate relative to each other about the axis of rotation.

2. The connection component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first and second components restrict the movement of the end of the lead screw by means of the portion of the end located far from the through hole.

3. The connection component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The neck is formed in the direction of the rotation axis at the middle position of the connecting assembly.

4. The connection component according to claim 1, characterized in that, When viewed along the axis of rotation, the neck has an elongated shape, wherein the length of the neck extends along the extension direction of the lead screw, and the width of the neck extends in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the lead screw.

5. The connection component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The axis of the through hole is perpendicular to the axis of rotation and perpendicular to the extension direction of the lead screw.

6. The connecting component according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first component includes a first neck feature portion, and the second component includes a second neck feature portion. When the first component and the second component are assembled together, the first neck feature portion and the second neck feature portion are joined together to form the neck.

7. The connecting component according to claim 6, characterized in that, When the first component and the second component are engaged together, when viewed along the direction of the rotation axis, the cross-section of the portion of the end of the lead screw located far from the through hole is rectangular, and at least one of the first neck feature and the second neck feature contacts three sides of the rectangle.

8. The connecting component according to claim 5, characterized in that, The insertion part includes two insertion rods, which are respectively positioned on both sides of the neck in the direction of the rotation axis.

9. The connection component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The neck structure is integrally formed on either the first member or the second member.

10. The connection component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first component and the second component each include at least two mating surfaces, which are adjacent to each other and at a certain angle, and are parallel to the rotation axis respectively.

11. The connecting component according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The movement of the end toward the distal side along the extension direction of the lead screw is limited by the first member and / or the second member; and / or, the first member and / or the second member limit the movement of the end toward the distal side along the extension direction of the lead screw by engaging the distal end face of the end.

12. The connecting component according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The movement of the end toward the proximal side along the extension direction of the lead screw is limited by the first member and / or the second member, and / or the first member and / or the second member limits the movement of the end toward the proximal side along the extension direction of the lead screw by engaging the proximal end face of the through hole.

13. The connecting component according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The movement of the end portion along one or both sides of the direction of the rotation axis is restricted by the first member and / or the second member, and / or the first member and / or the second member restricts the movement of the end portion along one or both sides of the direction of the rotation axis by engaging the outer end face of the end portion and / or the through-hole end face of the end portion.

14. The connecting component according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The movement of the end portion along one or both sides of the axial direction of the through hole is restricted by the first component and / or the second component; and / or, the movement of the end portion along the direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the lead screw and the rotation axis is restricted by the first component and / or the second component.

15. The connecting component according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The first component includes a guide portion extending along the extension direction of the lead screw. When viewed along the extension direction of the lead screw, the shape of the guide portion is configured to restrict the movement of the end relative to the first component along the axis of rotation and / or along a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation and the extension direction of the lead screw, and to guide the movement of the end relative to the first component along the extension direction of the lead screw.

16. The connecting component according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, As the insertion part mates with the receiving part, an interference fit gradually develops between the insertion part and the receiving part.

17. The connecting component according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The relative movement between the first member and the second member along the extension direction of the lead screw is limited by the engagement between the insertion part and the receiving part, or between the insertion part and the receiving part and the end; and / or by the engagement between the mating surfaces on the second member (excluding the insertion part) and the corresponding mating surfaces on the first member, or by the engagement between the mating surfaces on the second member (excluding the insertion part) and the corresponding mating surfaces on the first member and the end.

18. The connecting component according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The relative movement between the first member and the second member along the axis of rotation is limited by the engagement between the insertion portion and the receiving portion, or between the insertion portion and the receiving portion and the end portion of the first member; and / or by the engagement between the mating surfaces on the second member (excluding the insertion portion) and the corresponding mating surfaces on the first member, or by the engagement between the mating surfaces on the second member (excluding the insertion portion) and the corresponding mating surfaces on the first member and the end portion.

19. The connecting component according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The relative movement between the first component and the second component in a first direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the lead screw and the axis of rotation is limited by the engagement between the insertion portion and the receiving portion, or between the insertion portion and the receiving portion and the end portion of the first component; and / or by the engagement between the mating surfaces on the second component (excluding the insertion portion) and the corresponding mating surfaces on the first component, or by the engagement between the mating surfaces on the second component (excluding the insertion portion) and the corresponding mating surfaces and the end portion of the first component.

20. The connecting component according to claim 19, characterized in that, The first direction is along the axis of the through hole.

21. The connecting component according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The first component includes a first snap-fit ​​portion, and the second component includes a second snap-fit ​​portion capable of engaging with the first snap-fit ​​portion, wherein the first snap-fit ​​portion and the second snap-fit ​​portion are configured to snap together when the insertion portion and the receiving portion engage, thereby defining the relative position of the first component and the second component in at least one direction.

22. The connection component according to claim 21, characterized in that, The first snap-fit ​​portion is formed on the receiving portion, and the second snap-fit ​​portion is formed on the insertion portion.

23. The connection component according to claim 21, characterized in that, The second snap-fit ​​portion is formed on the insertion portion, and as the insertion portion moves through the through hole to engage with the receiving portion, the second snap-fit ​​portion moves from one side of the through hole through the through hole to the other side of the through hole to snap onto the first snap-fit ​​portion.

24. The connection component according to claim 21, characterized in that, As the insertion part passes through the through hole, it moves in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the through hole to engage with the receiving part, and the second snap-fit ​​part snaps onto the first snap-fit ​​part.

25. The connection component according to claim 21, characterized in that, Along the axial direction of the through hole, the first component includes at least two first latching portions located on one side and the other side of the end of the lead screw, and the second component includes second latching portions corresponding to the number and position of the first latching portions; and / or, along the rotation axis, the first component includes at least two first latching portions located on one side and the other side of the neck, and the second component includes second latching portions corresponding to the number and position of the first latching portions.

26. The connecting component according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The receiving portion is configured as a hole, and the relative movement of the first member and the second member in a direction parallel to the extension direction of the lead screw is limited by the cooperation of the insertion portion and the hole.

27. The connection component according to claim 26, characterized in that, The size of the receiving portion corresponds to that of the insertion portion, such that when the insertion portion mates with the receiving portion, the sidewall around the receiving portion prevents the insertion portion from moving along the extension direction of the lead screw and along the direction of the rotation axis.

28. The connecting component according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The receiving part is configured to have an opening that opens to one side in an opening direction perpendicular to the axis of the through hole. When the insertion part engages with the opening, the sidewall forming the opening and the end of the lead screw together restrict the movement of the insertion part in a plane perpendicular to the opening direction, as well as its movement toward the other side along the opening direction.

29. The connecting component according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The insertion portion of the second component includes a hook, and the receiving portion of the first component includes a protrusion. A groove is formed between the hook and the main body portion of the insertion portion. The relative movement of the first component and the second component along the axial direction of the through hole is limited by the movement of the second component in a direction parallel to the extension direction of the lead screw, which engages the groove with the protrusion on the first component.

30. The connecting component according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The first component includes at least one first guide surface, and the second component includes at least one second guide surface that mates with the first guide surface. The first guide surface and the second guide surface are configured to guide the movement of the first component and / or the second component as the first component and the second component move relative to each other along the axial direction of the through hole.

31. The connecting component according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The first component includes at least one first guide surface, and the second component includes at least one second guide surface that mates with the first guide surface. The first guide surface and the second guide surface are configured to guide the movement of the first component and / or the second component as they move relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the through hole.

32. The connecting component according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The connection assembly includes a flexible connector that connects the first component and the second component.

33. A vehicle seat adjustment mechanism, characterized in that, The adjusting mechanism includes a motor, a lead screw, a connecting rod, and a connecting assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 32, the connecting assembly connecting the end of the lead screw to the connecting rod.

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