Locking device, transmission and guided vehicle

Abstract

The present application relates to a kind of locking device, comprising: guide, with first end and second end;Sliding member, including stop, first locking portion and first guide portion, guide is fitted to first guide portion to allow sliding member reciprocating movement along guide in first direction;And locking block, locking block is pivotally attached to the second end of guide and is provided with second locking portion, wherein, as sliding member relative to guide in first direction or opposite direction of first direction moves, locking block is actuated by stop and first locking portion in second direction rotation, to make sliding member relative to guide switch between locking state and release state, in locking state, constrain sliding member in first direction movement, and in release state, release the locking between sliding member and locking block.It can realize quick locking and release, easy and fast and reliable operation.In addition, the present application also relates to a kind of transmission device and guide car.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a locking device. Additionally, this invention also relates to a transmission device and a guided vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] Guided vehicles, such as assisted guided vehicles, or other devices that can drive themselves, be manually propelled, or a combination of both, can be used in hospitals, factories, warehouses, and other environments to improve transfer efficiency, reduce labor costs, and in some cases provide greater motion accuracy and consistency.

[0003] Typically, existing guided vehicles can be powered by a battery or similar source and can utilize a power unit (motor) and drive wheels to provide driving or auxiliary power. For example, the drive wheels of these devices can be connected to the power unit (motor) via a transmission (rotating shaft). Guided vehicles with this structure rely on the rotation of the motor to propel them forward.

[0004] Guided vehicles can utilize built-in control systems and sensors for assisted navigation, eliminating the need for human intervention. They can employ various guidance technologies and can be reprogrammed and adapted to different transport tasks and routes. Furthermore, guided vehicles must be equipped with multiple safety features, such as collision detection sensors and emergency stop mechanisms, to ensure the safety of personnel and goods.

[0005] However, in the event of a power outage or other abnormal situation, it may be necessary to quickly disconnect the power connection between the power unit (motor) and the drive wheels and maintain this disconnected state so that the drive wheels can move freely, allowing the operator to manually move the guided vehicle to a safe location.

[0006] Many attempts have been made with existing technologies; however, the locking or unlocking (or releasing) of existing locking devices is not quick or reliable enough, and is not conducive to the operation of operators.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need for an improved guided vehicle equipped with a transmission and locking mechanism to overcome one or more drawbacks of the prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The object of this invention is to provide a locking device that can reliably lock or release and is easy for operators to use. Another object of this invention is to provide a transmission device including a locking device that can reliably change the connection state between the drive wheel and the power unit (motor) and maintain a disconnected state. Yet another object of this invention is to provide a guided vehicle that allows for automatic drive via a power unit and manual movement by an operator, and can flexibly and reliably switch between these two operating modes.

[0009] According to a first aspect of the invention, a locking device is provided, which may include: a guide extending in a first direction and having a first end and an opposing second end; a slider including a stop at one end of the slider, a first locking portion at the other end of the slider, and a first guide portion, the guide engaging with the first guide portion to allow the slider to reciprocate along the guide in the first direction; and a locking block pivotally attached to the second end of the guide and having a second locking portion, wherein, as the slider moves relative to the guide in the first direction or in a direction opposite to the first direction, the locking block is actuated by the stop and the first locking portion to rotate in the second direction, such that the slider switches between a locked state and a released state relative to the guide, wherein, in the locked state, the first locking portion of the slider is locked by the second locking portion of the locking block to constrain the movement of the slider in the first direction, and in the released state, the locking between the slider and the locking block is released.

[0010] This locking device can convert the linear motion of one locking component into the rotational motion of another locking component, and can be locked or unlocked by a locking part. Thus, it can achieve rapid locking and unlocking through the relative motion between the two locking components, making it convenient, fast and reliable to operate.

[0011] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, in the locked state, the locking block can rotate in a second direction by a first angle between 45 degrees and 70 degrees relative to the central axis coinciding with the first direction.

[0012] This arrangement enables a more stable and reliable locking mechanism without accidental release from the locked state, thus facilitating reliable locking operations by the operator.

[0013] According to the above aspects of the invention, preferably, between two consecutive locking states, the locking block rotates by an angle of 180 degrees in the second direction, and / or, between two consecutive releasing states, the locking block rotates by an angle of 180 degrees in the second direction.

[0014] This arrangement allows the locking device to operate cyclically during locking or unlocking, that is, to be in a locked state-unlocked state-locked state in sequence, and this cyclic operation only requires reciprocating actuation of the slider in the first direction.

[0015] According to the above aspects of the invention, preferably, the slider may further include an actuation mechanism that may be attached to the slider so that the slider can reciprocate relative to the guide in a first direction.

[0016] This actuation mechanism can transmit the motion of an external actuator to the locking device, thereby allowing the operator to control the state of the locking device as needed.

[0017] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the actuation mechanism may include: guide wheels disposed on both sides of the slider to cooperate with an opening on an external actuation rod and drive the slider to move in a first direction; and a first reset member attached to the slider to bias the slider in a direction opposite to the first direction.

[0018] This arrangement reduces the force required for actuation and allows operators to change the locking device's state by actuating in only one direction (e.g., by simply pressing down on the foot pedal or pulling the handle), thus facilitating operation and further improving efficiency and convenience.

[0019] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the slider may further include an adjustment hole arranged along a first direction on the side of the slider for mounting a guide wheel.

[0020] This arrangement helps to adjust the locking travel, thus adapting to a wider range of equipment or operator habits.

[0021] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, in order to achieve more reliable locking and facilitate the processing and maintenance of the component, the second locking portion may include two M-shaped locking portions disposed opposite each other, and a V-shaped recess is formed in the middle.

[0022] According to the above aspects of the invention, preferably, the slider may further include a second guide portion arranged parallel to the first guide portion, and the locking block includes a third guide portion, wherein the third guide portion cooperates with the second guide portion to allow the slider to move relative to the guide portion in a first direction in the released state.

[0023] This arrangement increases the travel range of the locking block, thereby allowing the associated mechanism to have a correspondingly larger travel range. For example, it allows the clutch mechanism associated with the locking block to engage and disengage more reliably.

[0024] According to the above aspects of the present invention, in order to more reliably lock the slider relative to the locking block and prevent accidental disengagement, preferably, in the locked state, one corner of the M-shaped locking portion abuts against the second guide portion of the slider.

[0025] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, in the released state, the locking device can satisfy the following relationship: a first distance is greater than a second distance, wherein the first distance is the distance between the first side of the first protrusion of the slider and the center of the locking block in a third direction, and the second distance is the distance between the center of the locking block and the first side of the locking block in a third direction.

[0026] This relative distance ensures that the first guide does not obstruct the rotation of the locking block, thereby enabling reciprocating locking and unlocking with reliable locking.

[0027] According to the above aspects of the invention, preferably, in the released state, the locking device can further satisfy the following relationship: the second distance is greater than the sum of the following: the third distance plus the first radius plus twice the second radius, wherein the third distance is the distance between the first side of the second protrusion of the slider and the center of the locking block in the third direction, the first radius is the radius of the end of the stop portion, and the second radius is the radius of the end of the locking block's locking portion.

[0028] This relative distance relationship allows the stop to abut against at least a portion of the locking block, thereby forcing the locking block to rotate as it moves in the opposite direction to the first direction, thus enabling reciprocating locking and unlocking with reliable locking.

[0029] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, at the position where the end of the shaped locking portion enters contact with the stop portion, the locking device can satisfy the following relationship: the fourth distance is greater than the third radius, wherein the fourth distance is the minimum distance between the center of the locking block and the first locking portion, and the third radius is the distance between the center of the locking block and the end of the shaped locking portion.

[0030] This relative distance ensures that the first locking part does not obstruct the rotation of the locking block, thus allowing for reciprocating locking and unlocking.

[0031] According to the above aspects of the invention, preferably, in the position where the first side of the locking block enters contact with the stop portion, the locking device can satisfy the following relationship: the fifth distance is less than the sixth distance, wherein the fifth distance is the minimum distance in the third direction between the first and second protrusions of the sliding block excluding the arc portion, and the sixth distance is the maximum distance between the two ends of the M-shaped locking portion along the first side excluding the arc portion.

[0032] This relative distance allows for defining the limit of movement of the locking block relative to the slider and ensures that the locking block does not rotate undesirably relative to the slider. For example, this arrangement prevents the locking block from rotating in a direction opposite to the second direction.

[0033] According to a second aspect of the invention, a transmission device is provided for selectively disengaging the connection between a drive wheel and a drive unit, and may include: a clutch device comprising a first portion and a second portion cooperating with the first portion, the first portion being attached to the drive wheel and the second portion being attached to the drive unit; and a clutch drive device comprising: a push rod abutting against the first portion of the clutch device and movable in an axial direction to move the first portion away from the second portion, thereby placing the clutch device in a disengaged state; an actuating device capable of switching between a first position and a second position; a transmission mechanism disposed between the actuating device and the push rod such that switching of the actuating device between the first and second positions causes the push rod to move in an axial direction; and a locking device disposed between the actuating device and the transmission mechanism, wherein the locking device includes a push-type locking mechanism and is capable of locking with movement of the actuating device to allow the clutch device to remain in the disengaged state.

[0034] This transmission mechanism selectively disconnects the drive wheel from the drive unit and maintains the disconnected state through a locking device, allowing the drive wheel to move freely. This enables personnel to move self-propelled devices, such as guided vehicles, to a safe location.

[0035] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the locking device can be the locking device of the first aspect. Such a transmission device will be able to reliably maintain or lock the clutch device in the disengaged state, and is convenient, quick and reliable to operate.

[0036] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the actuating device may include: a rocker arm having a first end, an opposing second end, and an attachment portion disposed between the first end and the second end, wherein the attachment portion is pivotally attached to a slider to drive the slider to reciprocate in a first direction; and an actuating portion attached to the second end of the rocker arm, thereby allowing the actuating device to be switched between a first position and a second position, wherein the first end of the rocker arm is attached to a transmission mechanism.

[0037] In this way, by controlling the locking device and the transmission mechanism through the actuation device, the operation of the clutch device and the locking device can be realized simultaneously, thereby improving operating efficiency.

[0038] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, in order to facilitate operation by the operator using hands or feet, the actuating part may include a foot pedal and / or a handle.

[0039] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the clutch drive device may further include a second reset member disposed between the drive wheel and the first part of the clutch device, such that the first part moves toward the second part, thereby causing the clutch device to be in a default engaged state.

[0040] This arrangement allows the clutch to automatically return to the engaged state in the unlocked or released state, and the engagement and disengagement of the clutch can be achieved by the operator applying force in only one direction.

[0041] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the transmission mechanism may include a multi-link mechanism, the multi-link mechanism including a lever, the lever including a first end, an opposing second end, and a pivot portion disposed between the first end and the second end of the lever, wherein the first end of the lever is attached to an actuating device, and the second end of the lever abuts against a push rod, wherein the lever is configured such that pulling the first end of the lever causes the second end of the lever to push the push rod. This configuration can convert the pulling motion into the pushing motion of the push rod, thereby achieving reliable disengagement of the clutch device.

[0042] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the transmission mechanism may include a cable connected between the locking device and the lever. This cable simplifies the structure of the transmission mechanism and significantly reduces its production and assembly costs.

[0043] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the transmission mechanism may include a pull rod assembly pivotally connected between the locking device and the lever, the pull rod assembly including a first pull rod and a branch pull rod pivotally connected to the first pull rod, wherein the branch pull rod may be provided with a tension adjustment member.

[0044] This structure compensates for the difference between the actuation stroke and the push rod stroke, and allows the transmission mechanism according to the invention to be applied to more types of equipment.

[0045] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the clutch drive device may further include a thrust bearing disposed against a push rod.

[0046] This design reduces friction in the axial direction of the push rod, decreases wear, and avoids potential dust generation, especially in medical environments.

[0047] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the clutch device may include a toothed clutch, and the first part and the second part are provided with end face teeth.

[0048] This clutch engagement method is reliable, reduces wear during engagement, and avoids potential dust generation, especially in medical environments.

[0049] According to a second aspect of the invention, a guided vehicle is provided, which may include a housing and a transmission device according to the second aspect, the transmission device being disposed on the bottom side of the housing.

[0050] Therefore, the locking device of the present invention can meet the usage requirements, overcome the shortcomings of the prior art, and achieve the intended purpose. Attached Figure Description

[0051] To further describe the locking device according to the present invention clearly, the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments, in which:

[0052] Figure 1 A first schematic perspective view of a guided vehicle according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0053] Figure 2 A second schematic perspective view of a guided vehicle according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0054] Figure 3 A schematic perspective view of the bottom of a guided vehicle according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0055] Figure 4 A schematic perspective view of a portion of the bottom of a guided vehicle according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0056] Figure 5 Another schematic perspective view of the transmission device of a guided vehicle according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0057] Figure 6 A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a transmission device according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0058] Figure 7 A schematic cross-sectional perspective view of a portion of a transmission device according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the clutch device is in an engaged state;

[0059] Figure 8 A schematic cross-sectional perspective view of a portion of a transmission device according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the clutch device is in a disengaged state;

[0060] Figure 9 A schematic perspective view of a portion of a transmission device according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0061] Figure 10 It shows Figure 7 An enlarged view of a portion of the transmission device shown;

[0062] Figure 11 It shows Figure 7 Another enlarged view of a portion of the transmission device shown;

[0063] Figure 12 It shows Figure 10 An enlarged view of a portion of the transmission device shown;

[0064] Figure 13 It shows Figure 8 An enlarged view of a portion of the transmission device shown;

[0065] Figure 14 A schematic cross-sectional perspective view of a portion of a transmission device according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0066] Figure 15 It shows Figure 14 The schematic top view of the transmission device shown shows the clutch device in the engaged state;

[0067] Figure 16 It shows Figure 13 The schematic top view of the transmission device shown shows the clutch device in the disengaged state;

[0068] Figure 17 A schematic perspective view of a locking device according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the cover plate is shown separately;

[0069] Figure 18 A schematic perspective view of a locking device according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein a cover plate has been installed;

[0070] Figure 19 A schematic perspective view of a locking device without a cover plate according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0071] Figure 20 A schematic cross-sectional perspective view of a locking device according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0072] Figure 21 A schematic side view of a portion of a transmission device according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the locking device is in a first state;

[0073] Figure 22 It shows Figure 21 A schematic front view of the locking device of the transmission device shown;

[0074] Figure 23 It shows Figure 21 A schematic perspective view of the locking device of the transmission device shown;

[0075] Figure 24 A schematic side view of a portion of a transmission device according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the locking device is in a second state;

[0076] Figure 25 It shows Figure 24 A schematic front view of the locking device of the transmission device shown;

[0077] Figure 26 It shows Figure 24 A schematic perspective view of the locking device of the transmission device shown;

[0078] Figure 27 A schematic side view of a portion of a transmission device according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the locking device is in a third state;

[0079] Figure 28 It shows Figure 27 A schematic perspective view of the locking device of the transmission device shown;

[0080] Figure 29 It shows Figure 27 A schematic front view of the locking device of the transmission device shown;

[0081] Figure 30 A schematic side view of a portion of a transmission device according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the locking device is in a fourth state;

[0082] Figure 31 It shows Figure 30 A schematic front view of the locking device of the transmission device shown;

[0083] Figure 32 It shows Figure 30 A schematic perspective view of the locking device of the transmission device shown;

[0084] Figure 33 A schematic front view of a locking device according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0085] Figure 34 Another schematic front view of a locking device according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown; and

[0086] Figure 35 A further schematic front view of a locking device according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0087] The above figures are for illustrative purposes only and are not drawn to scale.

[0088] The reference numerals in the figures are listed in the figures and embodiments: 1000 - Guided vehicle, including:

[0089] 1010 - Housing, comprising:

[0090] 1010A base plate assembly;

[0091] 200 - Transmission device, including:

[0092] 100 A locking device, comprising:

[0093] 10-Guide components, including:

[0094] 11-First end;

[0095] 12 - Second end;

[0096] 20- Slider, including:

[0097] 20A - First protrusion;

[0098] 201A - First High Section;

[0099] 202A - First Lower Section;

[0100] 20B - Second protrusion;

[0101] 201B - Second High Section;

[0102] 202B - Second Lowest Section;

[0103] 20C - Third protrusion;

[0104] 20D - Fourth protrusion;

[0105] 20E - Groove section;

[0106] 21-Stop section;

[0107] 22-First locking part;

[0108] 23-First Guiding Section;

[0109] 24-Actuation mechanism, including:

[0110] 241 - Guide wheel;

[0111] 242 - First reset component;

[0112] 243 - First reset component tie rod; 25 - Second guide part;

[0113] 26. Adjustment hole;

[0114] 27-U-shaped structure, including:

[0115] 27A - First arm section;

[0116] 27B - Second Arm;

[0117] 30-Locked blocks, including:

[0118] 31-Second locking part;

[0119] 32-3rd Guiding Section;

[0120] 40 - Cover plate;

[0121] 300 - Drive wheel;

[0122] 400-Drive;

[0123] 500- Clutch assembly, comprising:

[0124] 501 - Part 1;

[0125] 501A - First Axle;

[0126] 502 - Part Two;

[0127] 600 - Clutch drive unit, including:

[0128] 601-Top rod, including:

[0129] 601A - First Terminal;

[0130] 601B - Second End;

[0131] 602 - Actuating device, comprising:

[0132] 6021-joystick, including:

[0133] 6021A - First Terminal;

[0134] 6021B - Second end;

[0135] 6021C - Attached Section;

[0136] 6022 - Actuating part;

[0137] 6023 - Stent;

[0138] 6023A - Pivot Shaft;

[0139] 603 A transmission mechanism, comprising:

[0140] 6031 - Leverage, including:

[0141] 6031A - First Terminal;

[0142] 6031B - Second Terminal;

[0143] 6031C - Pivot section;

[0144] 6032 - Tie rod assembly, including:

[0145] 6032A - First pull rod;

[0146] 6032B - Branch Tie Rod;

[0147] 6032C - Tension Adjustment Component;

[0148] 6032D - Branch Kit;

[0149] 604 - Second Reset Component;

[0150] 605 - Thrust bearing;

[0151] 606 - Spline socket;

[0152] 607 - Casing steel wire;

[0153] 700-Power Supply;

[0154] 800 - Control device;

[0155] Y - First direction;

[0156] C - Second direction;

[0157] X - Third-party direction;

[0158] A - Axial direction;

[0159] α - First angle;

[0160] a - First distance;

[0161] b - Second distance;

[0162] c - Third distance;

[0163] d - Fourth distance;

[0164] e - the fifth distance;

[0165] f - Sixth distance;

[0166] R′ - First radius;

[0167] R″ - Second radius;

[0168] R″′ is the third radius. Detailed Implementation

[0169] It should be understood that, unless explicitly stated otherwise, the present invention may employ various alternative orientations and sequences of steps. It should also be understood that the specific apparatus shown in the drawings and described in the specification are merely exemplary embodiments of the inventive concept disclosed and defined herein. Therefore, unless otherwise expressly stated, the specific orientations, directions, or other features involved in the various disclosed embodiments should not be considered as limiting. Furthermore, it should be understood that the relevant content described in the background section of this invention is for the purpose of facilitating understanding of the inventive concept by those skilled in the art, and therefore does not necessarily constitute a disclosure of prior art.

[0170] Figure 1 A first schematic perspective view of a guided vehicle 1000 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown, while Figure 2 A second schematic perspective view of a guide vehicle 1000 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0171] As shown in the figure and by way of non-limiting example, the guided vehicle 1000 may include a housing 1010 and various components housed in or attached to the housing 1010. Additionally, an actuating part 6022 may be provided on the side of the housing 1010. This actuating part 6022 can be connected to a corresponding transmission component to, for example, change the state of a clutch, and will be described in further detail below.

[0172] It should be understood that the term "guided vehicle" as used herein may include automated guided vehicles (AGVs), power-assisted guided vehicles, and other mobile devices that can be driven by an electric motor and simultaneously allowed to be pushed or pulled by human power.

[0173] exist Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the actuating part 6022 is configured as a foot pedal. This foot pedal may, for example, be located on the front side of the housing 1010 near the bottom and be pivotally mounted relative to the housing 1010 to allow operation by the operator using their foot (e.g., stepping on it). Such a foot pedal can be any type of foot pedal known in the art and will not be described in detail herein.

[0174] exist Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, the actuating part 6022 is configured in the form of a handle. This handle may, for example, be located on the front side of the housing 1010 near the upper right portion, and similarly pivotally mounted relative to the housing 1010 to facilitate operation by hand (e.g., pulling or pushing). Such a handle may also be any type of handle known in the art and will not be described in detail herein.

[0175] A base plate assembly 1010A may be provided at the bottom of the housing 1010. Figure 1 and 2(The middle part is blocked by the casing 1010). Figure 3 A schematic perspective view of the bottom of a guided vehicle 1000 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown, while Figure 4 A schematic perspective view of a portion of the bottom of a guide vehicle 1000 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 4 The base plate is not shown in the image, so that the components below the base plate assembly 1010A can be clearly seen.

[0176] The base plate assembly 1010A can be used to support the guided vehicle 1000, and as... Figure 3 and 4 As shown, the base plate assembly 1010A may be equipped with a transmission device 200, a drive wheel 300, a driver 400, a clutch device 500 (not visible), a clutch drive device 600, a power supply 700, and a control device 800, etc.

[0177] The drive wheels 300 of the guided vehicle 1000 are typically connected to the drive unit 400 (e.g., an electric motor) via a linkage device (such as a rotating shaft). Guided vehicles with this structure rely on the drive unit 400 for propulsion during operation. In the event of a power outage or other abnormal situation, it may be necessary to quickly disconnect the power connection between the drive unit 400 and the drive wheels 300, allowing the drive wheels 300 to move freely, thus enabling personnel to transfer the guided vehicle 1000 to a safe location. According to the present invention, the guided vehicle 1000 achieves this selective power switching operation through a transmission device 200.

[0178] The power supply 700 may include various batteries or be connected to an additional external power supply via power lines, and may include various electrical components such as rectifiers, inverters, or transformers. The control device 800 may be a power management and motion control unit, and may include a controller and a memory, which may store programs or instructions or signals received from various sensors to control the operation of, for example, the drive wheel 300.

[0179] like Figure 3 and 4 As schematically shown, the transmission device 200 may be disposed on the bottom side of the housing 1010 for selectively connecting or disconnecting the drive wheel 300 from the driver 400.

[0180] As is commonly understood by those skilled in the art, “connected” as used herein means that the drive wheel 300 can be driven by the driver 400, while “disconnected” means that the connection between the drive wheel 300 and the driver 400 is broken, thereby allowing the drive wheel 300 to rotate freely, for example, to be moved by an operator.

[0181] Figure 5Another schematic perspective view of the transmission device 200 of a guided vehicle 1000 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown; while Figure 6 A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a transmission device 200 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0182] As shown in the figure, the transmission device 200 may mainly include: a clutch drive device 600, a locking device 100, and a clutch device 500, etc.

[0183] The connection and disconnection between the drive wheel 300 and the drive unit 400 are specifically achieved through the clutch device 500, which can be driven by the clutch drive device 600. The locking device can cooperate with the clutch drive device 600 and the clutch device 500 to keep the clutch device 500 in the disconnected state, thereby allowing the drive wheel 300 to rotate freely.

[0184] It should be understood that the guided vehicle 1000 can typically be provided with two drive wheels 300, and these two drive wheels 300 can be arranged symmetrically. The clutch device 500 according to the invention can be provided on at least one drive wheel 300. If each drive wheel 300 is provided with a clutch device 500, then they can have similar constructions, for example, symmetrical constructions. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, the following description focuses only on the construction of one clutch device 500 and its clutch drive device 600.

[0185] Figure 7 A schematic cross-sectional perspective view of a portion of a transmission device 200 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the clutch device 500 is in an engaged state; Figure 8 A schematic cross-sectional perspective view of a portion of a transmission device 200 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the clutch device 500 is in a disengaged state.

[0186] As shown in the figure and as a limiting embodiment, the clutch device 500 may include a first portion 501 and a second portion 502 that engages with the first portion 501. The first portion 501 may be attached to the drive wheel 300, while the second portion 502 may be attached to the drive 400, for example, via a drive shaft or a drive structure such as a drive shaft.

[0187] In the embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, the clutch device 500 may include a toothed clutch, and the first portion 501 and the second portion 502 may be provided with end face teeth. Thus, when the first portion 501 moves toward the second portion 502, the end face teeth of the two portions can engage to transmit power from the second portion 502 to the first portion 501. Conversely, when the first portion 501 moves away from the second portion 502, the end face teeth of the two portions can disengage, preventing power from being transmitted from the second portion 502 to the first portion 501.

[0188] It should be understood that although the present invention describes the working principle of the clutch device 500 in conjunction with a toothed clutch, those skilled in the art can conceive of other types of clutches, including but not limited to friction clutches, electromagnetic clutches, etc., without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0189] In a non-limiting embodiment of the invention, a clutch drive device 600 is provided, which enables movement of the second portion 502 relative to the first portion 501.

[0190] As an example, the clutch drive device 600 may mainly include: push rod 601, actuation device 602, and transmission mechanism 603, etc.

[0191] The push rod 601 may be a generally slender rod and includes an opposing first end 601A ( Figure 7 The upper end) and the second end 601B ( Figure 7 (Lower end of the structure). The push rod 601 can extend through the corresponding support structure, for example, through a through hole provided in the corresponding support structure.

[0192] The first end 601A of the push rod 601 can abut against the first part 501 of the clutch device 500, and the push rod 601 can move along the axial direction A to move the first part 501 away from the second part 502. For example, when the push rod 601 moves upward, the end face teeth of the first part 501 and the second part 502 can be disengaged, thereby putting the clutch device 500 in an unconnected state.

[0193] The clutch drive device 600 according to the invention further includes an actuating device 602, which can move the push rod 601 along the axial direction A, and the actuating device 602 can switch between a first position and a second position.

[0194] Figure 9 A schematic perspective view of a portion of a transmission device 200 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown, in which an example of an actuating device 602 is shown.

[0195] As shown in the figure, the actuation device 602 may mainly include a rocker arm 6021 and an actuating part 6022. The rocker arm 6021 may be pivotally supported below the base plate assembly 1010A via a bracket 6023, for example via a pivot shaft 6023A and a retaining pin, as schematically shown in the figure.

[0196] As an example, the joystick 6021 may have a generally L-shaped structure and include a first end 6021A, an opposing second end 6021B, and an attachment portion 6021C disposed between the first end 6021A and the second end 6021B.

[0197] The rocker arm 6021 can be pivotally supported by a bracket 6023 at the corner of the generally L-shaped structure. The first end 6021A of the rocker arm 6021 can be pivotally attached to the transmission mechanism 603, for example via a pivot shaft and a retaining pin schematically shown in the figures.

[0198] The attachment portion 6021C of the rocker arm 6021 can be pivotally attached to the slider 20 of the locking device 100. For example, the attachment portion 6021C may include an elongated hole that can engage with the guide wheel 241 to drive the slider 20 to reciprocate in a first direction Y. An exemplary structure of the locking device 100 will be described below with reference to the appendix. Figure 17-35 Let me describe it in more detail.

[0199] The second end 6021B of the rocker arm 6021 can be attached to the actuating part 6022, for example via a fastening device shown in the figure (e.g., by means of a threaded fastener such as a bolt or nut that mates with a hole), thereby allowing the actuating part 602 to switch between a first position and a second position.

[0200] exist Figure 9 In the example shown, the working principle of the actuator 6022 is described by means of a foot pedal, but it should be understood that in embodiments that include a handle as the actuator 6022, the actuator 602 can function in a similar manner.

[0201] As shown in the figure, when the foot pedal (actuator 6022) is moved downward, the rocker arm 6021 will pivot about the pivot axis 6023A, thereby causing the first end 6021A of the rocker arm 6021 to face towards the pivot. Figure 9 The movement to the right generates a pulling force in the transmission mechanism 603. Simultaneously, the sliding member 20 is driven to move in the first direction Y, that is, in... Figure 9 The middle moves downward to achieve the desired synchronous locking construction.

[0202] Return to reference Figure 5-7The transmission mechanism 603 can be disposed between the actuating device 602 and the push rod 601, such that the change of the actuating device 602 between the first position and the second position causes the push rod 601 to move along the axial direction A.

[0203] As shown in the figure and as a non-limiting embodiment, the transmission mechanism 603 may include a multi-link mechanism, which may include, for example, a lever 6031 and a pull rod assembly 6032.

[0204] like Figure 6 and 7 As can be seen more clearly, lever 6031 can be formed as a generally arc-shaped flat bar, and can include a first end 6031A, an opposing second end 6031B, and a pivot portion 6031C disposed between the first end 6031A and the second end 6031B of lever 6031.

[0205] The first end 6031A of the lever 6031 can be attached to the actuating device 602, for example, the first end 6021A of the rocker 6021 of the actuating device 602 is pivotally attached to the actuating device 602 via the lever assembly 6032.

[0206] The second end 6031B of the lever 6031 abuts against the push rod 601, for example, via a corresponding bearing. In the embodiment shown in the figures, this bearing may be a thrust bearing 605. The thrust bearing 605 abuts against the second end 601B of the push rod 601.

[0207] Thus, as the first end 6031A of lever 6031 moves, the second end 6031B of lever 6031 will move accordingly. For example, in Figure 7 In the embodiment, as the first end 6031A of the lever 6031 in the upper part of the figure moves counterclockwise downward, the second end 6031B of the lever 6031 will move counterclockwise upward accordingly.

[0208] Thus, if the first end 6031A of the lever 6031 is pulled, the second end 6031B of the lever 6031 will push the push rod 601, and as described above, as the push rod 601 moves along the axial direction A, the first part 501 will move away from the second part 502, thereby putting the clutch device 500 in a disengaged state.

[0209] The lever assembly 6032 can be connected between the actuating device 602 and the lever 6031, and allows pivoting movement between them, for example at the ends where the various links are attached to each other. The lever assembly 6032 can be used to transmit the motion of the actuating unit 6022 to the lever 6031, and further to the push rod 601, to control the state of the clutch device 500.

[0210] As a non-restrictive example and as Figure 6 and 7 As shown, the lever assembly 6032 may include a first lever 6032A and a branch lever 6032B pivotally connected to the first lever 6032A. For example, in an embodiment where control of two drive wheels 300 is required, two branch levers 6032B may be provided.

[0211] In a preferred embodiment, a tension adjustment member 6032C may be provided on the branch tie rod 6032B to compensate for size or positional differences between components and to balance the magnitude of the working force applied by the operator.

[0212] Figure 10 It shows Figure 7 An enlarged view of a portion of the transmission device 200 shown. Figure 11 It shows Figure 7 Another enlarged view of a portion of the transmission device 200 shown, while Figure 12 It shows Figure 10 An enlarged view of a portion of the transmission device 200 shown.

[0213] As shown in detail in the accompanying drawings, the tension adjusting member 6032C can be in the form of a helical spring and is arranged around the branch tie rod 6032B, i.e., the helical spring is sleeved on the outside of the branch tie rod 6032B. The first end of the branch tie rod 6032D ( Figure 11 The right end of the lever 6031 is pivotally connected to the first end 6031A of the lever 6031, and the second end of the branch sleeve 6032D. Figure 11 The left end of the branch sleeve 6032D is fitted onto the branch tie rod 6032B, and the helical spring is clamped between the second end of the branch sleeve 6032D and the free end of the branch tie rod 6032B. Figure 11 Between the right ends of the two components. Thus, by adjusting the length of the helical spring fixed between them, the ineffective travel or preload can be adjusted, ensuring that the lever 6031 only moves when the pulling distance applied to the branch lever 6032B exceeds a predetermined threshold or the pulling force exceeds a predetermined pulling force. Furthermore, the pulling force adjustment member 6032C can also balance the magnitude of the working force, preventing damage to the corresponding components due to excessive applied working force and thus transmitted pulling force.

[0214] As an alternative embodiment to the lever assembly 6032, the transmission mechanism 603 may include a cable connecting the actuating device 602 (e.g., via the locking device 100) and the lever 6031.

[0215] Figure 13 It shows Figure 8 An enlarged view of a portion of the transmission device 200 shown, wherein the clutch device 500 is in a disengaged state.

[0216] exist Figure 13 As can be clearly seen, the clutch drive device 600 also includes a second reset member 604, which is disposed between the drive wheel 300 and the first part 501 of the clutch device 500, so that the first part 501 moves toward the second part 502, thereby putting the clutch device 500 in the default engaged state. As an example, the second reset member 604 may be in the form of a coil spring.

[0217] in addition, Figure 13 The diagram shows a spline holder 606, which is fixed to the drive wheel 300 (e.g., via threaded fasteners) and may be provided with a keyway (not shown) extending along the axial direction A. A spline may be provided on a first wheel shaft 501A extending from the first portion 501 toward the drive wheel 300, which engages with the keyway on the spline holder 606 to allow the first portion 501 to move freely along the axial direction A and constrain the drive wheel 300 to rotate with the first wheel shaft 501A of the first portion 501.

[0218] Figure 14 A schematic cross-sectional perspective view of a portion of a transmission device 200 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown, while Figure 15 It shows Figure 14 A schematic top view of the transmission device 200 shown.

[0219] As shown in the figure, the clutch device 500 is in the engaged state, and as the second part 502 is driven to rotate by the driver 400, the first part 501 will rotate synchronously with the second part 502, thereby driving the drive wheel 300 to rotate via the first wheel shaft 501A and spline seat 606 which are integral with the first part 501.

[0220] As mentioned above Figure 9 As described and as a non-limiting embodiment of the invention, the actuating device 602 may further include a locking device 100. The locking device 100 may be disposed between the actuating part 6022 and the transmission mechanism 603 (e.g., lever 6031), particularly close to the actuating device 602, thereby allowing the clutch device 500 to be selectively maintained in a disengaged state. Figure 16 As schematically shown, in the disconnected state, the first part 501 of the clutch device 500 is separated from the second part 502, that is, the end face teeth of the first part 501 and the second part 502 disengage, so that power is not transmitted from the second part 502 to the first part 501. Figure 17 A schematic perspective view of a locking device 100 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the cover plate 40 is shown separately; while Figure 18A schematic perspective view of a locking device 100 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein a cover plate 40 has been installed.

[0221] As shown in the figure, the locking device 100 according to the present invention may include a push-type locking mechanism and can be locked as the actuating device 602 moves, so as to allow the clutch device 500 to remain in the disconnected state.

[0222] Specifically, the locking device 100 may mainly include: a guide 10, a slider 20, a locking block 30, and a cover plate 40, etc.

[0223] The guide 10 may extend in a first direction Y. For example, the guide 10 may be fixed to the bottom of the base plate assembly 1010A and extend downward therefrom. The first direction Y, as described herein, may refer to a generally vertical direction.

[0224] The guide 10 can be formed as a rod with a square cross-section and has a first end 11 and an opposing second end 12. The first end 11 of the guide 10 can be provided with a threaded hole for fixing to the base plate assembly 1010A via a threaded fastener or the like, and the second end 12 of the guide 10 can be provided with an opening that can pivotally receive the locking block 30 and allow the locking block 30 to rotate freely.

[0225] like Figure 17 As shown, the slider 20 may be a block-shaped structure with a centrally recessed portion forming protrusions at the four corners, and the protrusions may include a first protrusion 20A, a second protrusion 20B, a third protrusion 20C, and a fourth protrusion 20D. These protrusions are suitably shaped to allow the locking block 30 to pivot relative to the slider 20 to a locked or released state, and may cooperate with the cover plate 40 to constrain the guide 10 and the locking block 30 between the slider 20 and the cover plate 40.

[0226] It should be understood that "free rotation" here refers to the locking block 30 rotating under the action of an external force, and not solely due to its own weight. As described in detail below, the locking block 30 can be pushed and rotated to a predetermined angle by the second protrusion 20B of the slider 20, and will maintain this angle until it is pushed and rotated by another protrusion. For example, a predetermined frictional force can exist between the inner surface of the opening at the second end 12 of the guide 10 and the contact surface of the locking block 30 to prevent the locking block 30 from rotating relative to the pivot axis solely under its own weight.

[0227] At the middle position of the slider 20, a groove portion 20E extending along the first direction Y is formed. This groove portion 20E is formed to be approximately the same as the guide 10 in the width direction (or the third direction X) perpendicular to the first direction Y, but less than the thickness of the guide 10 in the thickness direction perpendicular to both the first direction Y and the third direction X, such that at least the first protrusion 20A and the second protrusion 20B form a stepped structure. That is, the height of the first protrusion 20A and the second protrusion 20B near the guide 10 is less than the height away from the guide 10, such as... Figure 17 and 18 It is clearly visible in the text, and by reference Figure 34 In the embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, the first protrusion 20A may include a first high portion 201A away from the guide 10 and a first low portion 202A close to the guide 10, while the second protrusion 20B may include a second high portion 201B away from the guide 10 and a second low portion 202B close to the guide 10.

[0228] In a preferred embodiment, the height difference of at least a portion of the stepped portion of the first protrusion 20A can be greater than the thickness of the locking block 30. For example, the height difference between the first high portion 201A and the first low portion 202A is greater than the thickness of the locking block 30, thereby allowing at least a portion of the locking block 30 to rotate at least partially over the stepped portion. In another preferred embodiment, the height difference of the stepped portion of the second protrusion 20B can be less than the thickness of the locking block 30. For example, the height difference between the second high portion 201B and the second low portion 202B is less than the thickness of the locking block 30, thereby preventing the locking block 30 from rotating over the stepped portion.

[0229] The slider 20 also includes an actuation mechanism 24, which can be attached to the slider 20 to cause the slider 20 to reciprocate relative to the guide 10 in a first direction Y.

[0230] As an example, the actuation mechanism 24 may include a guide wheel 241 and a first reset member 242. (As combined below) Figure 20 In more detail, guide wheels 241 may be disposed on both sides of the slider 20 to cooperate with openings on an external actuating rod (e.g., rocker arm 6021) and drive the slider 20 to move in the first direction Y. A first reset member 242 may be attached to the slider 20, for example via a first reset member pull rod 243, to bias the slider 20 in a direction opposite to the first direction Y.

[0231] Figure 19 A schematic perspective view of a locking device 100 without a cover plate 40 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0232] Combination Figure 17-18As can be seen, a stop 21 can be formed at the second protrusion 20B, a first locking part 22 can be formed at the third protrusion 20C, and a first guide part 23 can be formed on the side of the stepped portion of the first protrusion 20A (especially the side closest to the guide 10). The first guide part 23 can also be part of the sidewall of the groove portion 20E. The guide 10 can engage with the first guide part 23 to allow the slider 20 to reciprocate along the guide 10 in the first direction Y.

[0233] In addition, such as Figure 17 As shown, the slider 20 may further include a second guide portion 25, which may be formed on the side of the third protrusion 20C, for example... Figure 17 It is located on the right side of the first guide section 23 and can be arranged parallel to it.

[0234] The locking block 30 can be a generally flat structure and, as described above, has two generally planar contact surfaces that contact the inner surface of the opening at the second end 12 of the guide 10. Two M-shaped locking portions can be provided at both ends of the locking block 30, and a V-shaped recess is formed in the middle. The two adjacent sides of the V-shaped recess can be formed as straight sides, i.e. Figure 17 The upper and lower sides of the locking block 30. The M-shaped locking portion of the locking block 30 can form a second locking portion 31.

[0235] The flat side of the locking block 30 can form a third guide 32, which can cooperate with the second guide 25 to allow the slider 20 to move relative to the guide 10 in the first direction Y in the released state.

[0236] As the slider 20 moves relative to the guide 10 in the first direction Y or the opposite direction, the locking block 30 can be actuated by the stop 21 and the first locking part 22 to rotate in the second direction C, so that the slider 20 switches between a locked state and a released state relative to the guide 10.

[0237] The end of the stop portion 21 (i.e., the end extending toward the interior of the slider 20) can be rounded, and this rounded portion can have a first radius R′. Similarly, the end of the M-shaped locking portion can also be rounded, and this rounded portion can have a second radius R″. In addition, the four ends of the M-shaped locking portion can be formed on a virtual circle, and this virtual circle can have a third radius R″′, such as... Figure 19 As shown in the image.

[0238] As described herein, in the locked state, the first locking portion 22 of the slider 20 can be locked by the second locking portion 31 of the locking block 30 to constrain the movement of the slider 20 in the first direction Y. At this time, as described below... Figure 28 and 29As shown, a corner (e.g., the lower corner) at one end of the second locking portion 31 of the locking block 30 can abut against the side of the first locking portion 22, for example, against a portion of the second guide portion 25 on the right side of the figure. In the released state, the locking between the slider 20 and the locking block 30 can be released.

[0239] Figure 20 A schematic cross-sectional perspective view of a locking device 100 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0240] As shown in the figure, Figure 20 In the locking device 100, the cover plate 40 is already installed on the slider 20, for example, by abutting against the four protrusions of the slider 20. In addition, as shown in the figure, the cover plate 40 may also be provided with a guide groove that engages with the groove portion 20E of the slider 20 to accommodate the guide 10 and allow the guide 10 to reciprocate in the first direction Y.

[0241] Continue to refer to Figure 20 A U-shaped structure 27 is provided on the side of the sliding member 20 opposite to the cover plate 40. The U-shaped structure 27 includes a first arm 27A and a second arm 27B arranged in approximately parallel.

[0242] Guide wheels 241 and multiple adjustment holes 26 can be symmetrically arranged on the two arms of the U-shaped structure 27. The multiple adjustment holes 26 can be spaced apart in the first direction Y, and the guide wheels 241 can be idlingly mounted on the first arm 27A and the second arm 27B via fasteners that mate with the adjustment holes 26, and can mate with the elongated hole on the attachment portion 6021C of the rocker arm 6021 to allow the rocker arm 6021 to drive the slider 20 to reciprocate in the first direction Y while pivoting around the pivot axis 6023A.

[0243] Additionally, the first reset member pull rod 243 can extend through mounting holes on the first arm 27A and the second arm 27B, and be fixed via corresponding limiting pins. The first reset member pull rod 243 can be used to mount the first reset member 242 (e.g., in...). Figure 21 (as shown in the image).

[0244] As an example, the first reset member 242 may be in the form of a linear spring, with one end attached to the base plate assembly 1010A and the other end attached to the first reset member pull rod 243, and biasing the slider 20 toward the base plate assembly 1010A, i.e., pulling the slider 20 in a direction opposite to the first direction Y.

[0245] The locking device 100 according to the invention can switch between a locked (or locked) and a released state according to the action of the actuating part 6022 (e.g., a foot pedal). For example, an operator can press the foot pedal for the first time and then release it, which will cause the locking device 100 to lock (or lock); the operator can press the foot pedal again and then release it, which will cause the locking device 100 to release or reset.

[0246] During the aforementioned operation of the actuating unit 6022, the locking device 100 may have at least four limit states, which will be described below in conjunction with... Figures 21-32 Detailed description.

[0247] Figure 21 A schematic side view of a portion of a transmission device 200 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the locking device is in a first state; Figure 22 It shows Figure 21 A schematic front view of the locking device 100 of the transmission device 200 shown; and Figure 23 It shows Figure 21 A schematic perspective view of the locking device 100 of the transmission device 200 shown.

[0248] Figure 21-23 The first state shown can be a default state, a free state, or an initial state. In this state, the operator is not pressing the foot pedal, and the slider 20 can be biased by the first reset member 242 to abut against the bottom of the base plate assembly 1010A. The locking block 30 can be located relatively below the slider 20, and the third guide portion 32 (i.e., the flat side) of the locking block 30 can abut against or approach the second guide portion 25 of the slider 20. In other words, the locking block 30 can be positioned between the third protrusion 20C and the fourth protrusion 20D.

[0249] At this time, no pulling force is transmitted to the transmission mechanism 603 via the actuating device 602. Therefore, the push rod 601 is not actuated to move in the axial direction A, and the first part 501 is biased towards the second part 502 by the second reset member 604, so that the clutch device 500 is in the default engaged state, and the drive wheel 300 can be driven to rotate by the driver 400.

[0250] Figure 24 A schematic side view of a portion of a transmission device 200 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the locking device 100 is in a second state; Figure 25 It shows Figure 24 A schematic front view of the locking device 100 of the transmission device shown; and Figure 26 It shows Figure 24 A schematic perspective view of the locking device 100 of the transmission device shown.

[0251] like Figure 24 As shown, the foot pedal is now in its lowest position, and the rocker arm 6021 pivots around the pivot axis 6023A, causing it to... Figure 31 Compared to the position shown, the first end 6021A of the joystick 6021 faces... Figure 24 The movement to the right generates a pulling force in the transmission mechanism 603. Simultaneously, the pedaling force overcomes the elastic biasing force of the first reset member 242, causing the slider 20 to be moved in the first direction Y by the rocker arm 6021, that is, in... Figure 24 Move downwards from the center.

[0252] like Figure 25 and 26 As shown, at this time, the upper left portion of the M-shaped locking portion of the upper part of the locking block 30 can move freely upward relative to the slider 20, while the upper right portion is blocked by the stop portion 21. In addition, the third guide portion 32 of the locking block 30 is also blocked by the first protrusion 20A, thereby causing the locking block 30 to be actuated to rotate a predetermined angle in the second direction C. At this time, the slider 20 can no longer move downward.

[0253] When the operator releases the foot pedal, the slider 20, under the biasing force of the first reset member 242, will move toward the base plate assembly 1010A, that is, move in a direction opposite to the first direction Y, for example, toward... Figure 27-29 The state transition is shown in the diagram.

[0254] Figure 27 A schematic side view of a portion of a transmission device 200 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the locking device 100 is in a third state; Figure 28 It shows Figure 27 A schematic perspective view of the locking device 100 of the transmission device 200 shown; and Figure 29 It shows Figure 27 A schematic front view of the locking device 100 of the transmission device 200 shown.

[0255] As shown in the figure, as the slider 20 moves upward relative to the guide 10, the locking block 30 moves relative to the slider 20 in the first direction Y, so that the first locking part 22 can contact the V-shaped recess in the middle of the M-shaped locking part, and... Figure 28 and 29 The lower leftmost portion (i.e., the pointed portion) of the M-shaped locking part shown in the figure abuts against the right side of the third protrusion 20C, that is, the rounded end abuts against the second guide portion 25. At this time, the slider 20 is locked by the locking block 30 and held in that position and cannot continue to move toward the base plate assembly 1010A.

[0256] As an example, in this locked state, the first angle α of the rotation of the locking block 30 relative to the central axis coinciding with the first direction Y in the second direction can be between 45 degrees and 70 degrees (e.g., Figure 29 (Illustrated in the image).

[0257] At this time, the upward movement of the slider 20 is suppressed by the locking block 30, while the downward movement of the slider 20 is suppressed by the biasing force of the first reset member 242, and the biasing force of the first reset member 242 can still be overcome by stepping down on the foot pedal.

[0258] Figure 30 A schematic side view of a portion of a transmission device 200 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein the locking device 100 is in a fourth state; Figure 31 It shows Figure 30 A schematic front view of the locking device 100 of the transmission device 200 shown; and Figure 32 It shows Figure 30 A schematic perspective view of the locking device 100 of the transmission device 200 shown.

[0259] As shown in the figure, the slider 20 has been actuated to move downwards again, causing the third guide portion 32 of the locking block 30 to contact the first protrusion 20A and the second protrusion 20B (or its stop portion 21), preventing the slider 20 from moving further downwards. That is, the pedal has been pressed to the lowest position, i.e., the second time it has been pressed to the lowest position. This lowest position is not necessarily... Figure 24-26 The lowest position described in the text is not the same as the lowest position, but rather the actual lowest position of the pedal movement.

[0260] It can be seen that, with Figure 27-29 Compared to the rotation angle of the locking block 30 shown in the figure, in Figure 30-32 Meanwhile, locking block 30 continues to rotate in the second direction C.

[0261] At this point, the foot pedal can be released, and the slider 20 will move upward under the elastic biasing force of the first reset member 242, so that... Figure 31 and 32 The lower left portion of the M-shaped locking part on the left side of the locking block 30 shown contacts the first locking part 22, thereby forcing the locking block 30 to continue rotating in the second direction C, thus returning to its original position. Figure 21-23 The first state is shown in the diagram.

[0262] In combination Figure 21-32 During the described state transition, the pedal was pressed twice, and the locking block 30 rotated 180 degrees in the second direction C.

[0263] In other words, between two consecutive release states, the locking block 30 rotates 180 degrees in the second direction C.

[0264] In this way, by actuating the actuator 6022 in only one direction, such as by simply pressing down on the foot pedal, the locking or unlocking process can be cycled, thereby achieving locking-unlocking-locking... When the locking device 100 is in the locked state, due to the connection relationship between the transmission devices 200 as described above, the current positions of the push rod 601, the actuator 602, and the transmission mechanism 603 will be maintained, and the clutch device 500 will ultimately be kept in the disengaged state.

[0265] Figure 33 A schematic front view of a locking device 100 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0266] As shown in the figure and as a non-limiting embodiment, in the released state, the positions and dimensions between the components of the locking device 100 can satisfy the following relationship: first distance a > second distance b.

[0267] like Figure 33 As clearly shown in the figure, the first distance a is the distance between the first side of the first protrusion 20A of the slider 20 (i.e., the right side in the figure) and the center of the locking block 30 (i.e., the geometric center of the locking block 30 in the figure) in the third direction X, while the second distance b is the distance between the center of the locking block 30 and the first side of the locking block 30 in the third direction X.

[0268] Continue to refer to Figure 33 In this released state, the positions and dimensions between the components of the locking device 100 can further satisfy the following relationship: second distance b > (third distance c + first radius R′ + 2 * second radius R″). The third distance c is the distance in the third direction X between the first side (i.e., the left side shown in the figure) of the second protrusion 20B of the slider 20 and the center of the locking block 30. (As stated above...) Figure 19 As described, the first radius R′ is the radius of the end of the stop portion 21, while the second radius R” is the radius of the end of the M-shaped locking portion of the locking block 30.

[0269] Figure 34 Another schematic front view of a locking device 100 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0270] exist Figure 34 At the position shown, the end of the M-shaped locking part (the upper end) comes into contact with the stop part 21 of the second protrusion 20B, and the position and size between the components of the locking device 100 can satisfy the following relationship: the fourth distance d > the third radius R″′.

[0271] As shown in the figure, the fourth distance d is the minimum distance between the center of the locking block 30 and the first locking part 22, and as mentioned above... Figure 19 As described, the third radius R"′ is the distance between the center of the locking block 30 and the end of the M-shaped locking part.

[0272] Figure 35 Another schematic front view of a locking device 100 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0273] exist Figure 35 In the position shown, the first side (i.e., the flat upper side) of the locking block 30 comes into contact with the first protrusion 20A and the second protrusion 20B (e.g., its stop 21), and the positions and dimensions between the components of the locking device 100 can satisfy the following relationship: fifth distance e < sixth distance f

[0274] As shown in the figure, the fifth distance e is the minimum distance between the first protrusion 20A and the second protrusion 20B excluding the arc portion in the third direction X, while the sixth distance f is the maximum distance between the two ends of the M-shaped locking part along the first side excluding the arc portion, that is, the length of the straight portion of the M-shaped locking part.

[0275] Although the working principle of the locking device 100's state change caused by the action of the actuating part 6022 has been described above in conjunction with the foot pedal, it should be understood that the state change of the locking device 100 can also be achieved similarly using a handle. In this case, a sleeve wire 607 can be used to connect the handle and the rocker arm 6021, for example... Figure 2 The details are shown schematically and will not be described in detail herein. In addition, besides using a handle and a sleeve wire 607 instead of a foot pedal, in other embodiments, both a handle and a foot pedal can be provided.

[0276] The terms “top” and “bottom” used herein to indicate orientation or location, and “first” and “second” used to indicate sequence, are merely to enable those skilled in the art to better understand the concept of the invention as illustrated in preferred embodiments, and are not intended to limit the invention. Unless otherwise stated, all sequences, orientations, or locations are used only to distinguish one element / component / structure from another, and do not indicate any particular order, sequence of operations, direction, or orientation unless otherwise stated. For example, in alternative embodiments, “top” may be “bottom”, and “first end” may be “second end”.

[0277] As used herein, unless otherwise specified, the terms “approximately” and “about” are interpreted as indicating a value or range of values ​​plus or minus five percent, or a deviation of the shape and / or position from the value by plus or minus five percent.

[0278] In summary, the locking device 100 according to the embodiments of the present invention overcomes the shortcomings of the prior art and achieves the intended purpose of the invention.

[0279] While the locking device of the present invention has been described above with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art should recognize that the above examples are merely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the invention. Therefore, various modifications and variations can be made to the invention within the spirit and scope of the claims, and all such modifications and variations will fall within the scope claimed by the claims.

Claims

1. A locking device (100), comprising: a guide (10) extending in a first direction (Y) and having a first end (11) and an opposite second end (12); a slider (20) including a stopper (21) provided at one end of the slider (20), a first catch (22) provided at the other end of the slider (20), and a first guide portion (23) to which the guide (10) is fitted to allow the slider (20) to reciprocate along the guide (10) in the first direction (Y); and a locking block (30) pivotally attached to the second end (12) of the guide (10) and provided with a second catch (31), wherein, as the slider (20) moves relative to the guide (10) in the first direction (Y) or in a direction opposite to the first direction, the locking block (30) is actuated by the stopper (21) and the first catch (22) to rotate in a second direction (C) to switch the slider (20) relative to the guide (10) between a catch state and a release state, wherein, in the catch state, the first catch (22) of the slider (20) is caught by the second catch (31) of the locking block (30) to restrict the movement of the slider (20) in the first direction (Y), and in the release state, the catch between the slider (20) and the locking block (30) is released.

2. The locking device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that In the catch state, a first angle (a) of the locking block (30) rotated in the second direction (C) relative to a central axis coinciding with the first direction (Y) is between 45 degrees and 70 degrees.

3. The locking device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that Between two successive catch states, the locking block (30) is rotated by an angle of 180 degrees in the second direction (C), and / or, Between two successive release states, the locking block (30) is rotated by an angle of 180 degrees in the second direction (C).

4. The locking device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that The slider (20) further comprises an actuating mechanism (24) attached to the slider (20) to reciprocate the slider (20) relative to the guide (10) in the first direction (Y).

5. The locking device (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that The actuating mechanism (24) comprises: guide wheels (241) provided on both sides of the slider (20) to cooperate with openings on an external actuating rod and drive the movement of the slider (20) in the first direction (Y); and a first return member (242) attached to the slider (20) to bias the slider (20) in a direction opposite to the first direction (Y).

6. The locking device (100) according to claim 5, characterized in that The slider (20) further comprises an adjustment hole (26) arranged on a side of the slider (20) along the first direction (Y) for mounting the guide wheels (241).

7. The locking device (100) according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The second locking portion (31) includes two M-shaped locking portions arranged opposite to each other, and a V-shaped recess is formed in the middle.

8. The locking device (100) according to claim 7, characterized in that The slide (20) further includes a second guide portion (25) arranged parallel to the first guide portion (23), and the locking block (30) includes a third guide portion (32), wherein the third guide portion (32) cooperates with the second guide portion (25) to allow the slide (20) to move relative to the guide (10) in a first direction (Y) in the release state.

9. The locking device (100) according to claim 8, characterized in that In the locking state, one corner of the M-shaped locking portion abuts against the second guide portion (25) of the slide (20).

10. The locking device (100) according to claim 7, characterized in that In the release state, the locking device (100) satisfies the following relationship: A first distance (a) > a second distance (b), wherein the first distance (a) is a distance between a first side of a first protruding portion (20A) of the slide (20) and a center of the locking block (30) in a third direction (X), and the second distance (b) is a distance between the center of the locking block (30) and a first side of the locking block (30) in the third direction (X).

11. The locking device (100) according to claim 10, characterized in that In the release state, the locking device (100) further satisfies the following relationship: The second distance (b) > a third distance (c) + a first radius (R') + 2* a second radius (R''), wherein the third distance (c) is a distance between a first side of a second protruding portion (20B) of the slide (20) and the center of the locking block (30) in the third direction (X), the first radius (R') is a radius of an end of the stop portion (21), and the second radius (R'') is a radius of an end of the M-shaped locking portion of the locking block (30).

12. The locking device (100) according to claim 7, characterized in that In a position where the end of the M-shaped locking portion and the stop portion (21) enter into contact, the locking device (100) satisfies the following relationship: A fourth distance (d) > a third radius (R'''), wherein the fourth distance (d) is a minimum distance between the center of the locking block (30) and the first locking portion (22), and the third radius (R''') is a distance between the center of the locking block (30) and the end of the M-shaped locking portion.

13. The locking device (100) according to claim 7, characterized in that In a position where the first side of the locking block (30) and the stop portion (21) enter into contact, the locking device (100) satisfies the following relationship: A fifth distance (e) < a sixth distance (f), wherein the fifth distance (e) is a minimum distance between the first protruding portion (20A) of the slide (20) and the second protruding portion (20B) of the slide (20) in the third direction (X) excluding arc portions, and the sixth distance (f) is a maximum distance between the two ends of the M-shaped locking portion along the first side excluding the arc portions.

14. A transmission device (200) for selectively disconnecting a connection between a drive wheel (300) and a driver (400), and comprising: A clutch device (500) comprising a first part (501) and a second part (502) cooperating with the first part, the first part (501) being attached to the drive wheel (300) and the second part (502) being attached to the driver (400); and A clutch drive device (600) comprising: a jack rod (601) abutting against the first part (501) of the clutch device (500) and being movable along an axial direction (A) to move the first part (501) away from the second part (502) to bring the clutch device (500) into a disconnected state; an actuating device (602) being transitable between a first position and a second position; a transmission mechanism (603) being provided between the actuating device (602) and the jack rod (601) such that a transition of the actuating device between the first position and the second position causes the jack rod (601) to move along the axial direction (A); and a locking device (100) being provided between the actuating device (602) and the transmission mechanism (603), wherein the locking device (100) comprises a push-on locking mechanism and is lockable with a movement of the actuating device (602) to allow the clutch device (500) to be maintained in the disconnected state, wherein the locking device (100) is according to any one of claims 1-13.

15. The transmission (200) of claim 14, characterized by The actuating device (602) comprises: a rocker lever (6021) having a first end (6021A), an opposite second end (6021B) and an attachment portion (6021C) provided between the first end (6021A) and the second end (6021B), wherein the attachment portion (6021C) is pivotally attached to the slider (20) to drive the slider (20) to reciprocate in the first direction (Y); and an actuating portion (6022) being attached to the second end (6021B) of the rocker lever (6021) to allow the actuating device (602) to be transitable between the first position and the second position, wherein the first end (6021A) of the rocker lever (6021) is attached to the transmission mechanism (603).

16. The transmission (200) of claim 15, characterized by The actuating portion (6022) comprises a foot pedal and / or a handle.

17. The transmission (200) of claim 14, characterized by The clutch drive device (600) further comprises a second return member (604) being provided between the drive wheel (300) and the first part (501) of the clutch device (500) to move the first part (501) towards the second part (502) to bring the clutch device (500) into a connected state by default.

18. The transmission (200) of claim 14, characterized by The transmission mechanism (603) comprises a multi-link mechanism, the multi-link mechanism comprising a lever (6031), the lever (6031) comprising a first end (6031A), an opposite second end (6031B), and a pivot portion (6031C) disposed between the first end (6031A) and the second end (6031B) of the lever (6031), wherein the first end (6031A) of the lever (6031) is attached to the actuator (602), and the second end (6031B) of the lever (6031) abuts against the top rod (601), wherein the lever (6031) is arranged such that pulling the first end (6031A) of the lever (6031) causes the second end (6031B) of the lever (6031) to push against the top rod (601).

19. The transmission (200) of claim 18, characterized by The transmission mechanism (603) comprises a pull cable, the pull cable being connected between the locking device (100) and the lever (6031).

20. The transmission (200) of claim 18, characterized by The transmission mechanism (603) comprises a pull rod set (6032), the pull rod set being pivotally connected between the locking device (100) and the lever (6031), the pull rod set (6032) comprising a first pull rod (6032A) and a branch pull rod (6032B) pivotally connected to the first pull rod (6032A), wherein the branch pull rod (6032B) is provided with a tension adjusting member (6032C).

21. The transmission (200) of claim 14, characterized by The clutch driving device (600) further comprises a thrust bearing (605), the thrust bearing being arranged against the top rod (601).

22. The transmission (200) of claim 14, characterized by The clutch device (500) comprises a tooth clutch, and the first part (501) and the second part (502) are provided with end face teeth.

23. A guided vehicle (1000), the guided vehicle comprising a housing and a transmission device (200) according to any one of claims 14-22, the transmission device being arranged at a bottom side of the housing.

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