Retention fastener, retention system, garden machine, power tool, method of operation

Abstract

The invention provides a retaining fastener, a retaining system, a garden machine, a power tool, and a method of operation. The holding fastener provided by the invention can be a fastening device, and the fastening device is provided with a special locking part for locking the fastening device on the output shaft of the electric tool and preventing the fastening device from falling off from the output shaft. The locking component can be actuated by a user to achieve locking and releasing, operation is fast, and the user can replace the operation component of the electric tool conveniently. And on the other hand, in the electric tool provided by the invention, the output shaft transmits the torque to the working part through the torque transmission assembly on which the working part is clamped, and the torque transmission process is realized by virtue of pushing force (not friction force) between the parts, so that the torque transmission process is relatively stable, and the torque transmission efficiency is improved. And stable operation can also be realized in an operation environment in which vibration is possibly generated.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a retaining fastener for securing a detachable cutting blade to a gardening machine. In particular, the present invention relates to a retaining fastener that can be fastened and loosened without tools, the retaining fastener comprising means for preventing loosening or accidental loosening. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a retaining system for fastening a cutting blade to a gardening machine, a method of operating the retaining system and a gardening machine having the retaining system. Background Art

[0002] Some electric tools currently on the market have replaceable working parts (such as blades). Usually, the working parts are installed on the output shaft of the electric tool, and a nut is installed at the end of the output shaft, which can prevent the working parts from falling off the output shaft. When the working parts need to be replaced, the nut needs to be unscrewed, and then the nut is screwed back after the working parts are replaced. In order to avoid the nut from falling off due to vibration and other reasons, it is usually necessary to tighten the nut too tightly on the output shaft, so the torque required for removing and installing the nut is relatively large. Therefore, the operation of unloading and installing the nut needs to rely on tools, which brings inconvenience to the user. In addition, frequent removal and installation of the nut with such a large torque will also cause certain wear on the nut and the end of the output shaft. Without the use of tools, sufficient holding torque may not be achieved, and the holding fastener may loosen, resulting in safety and reliability problems.

[0003] On the other hand, in the electric tools currently on the market, the torque transmission between the output shaft and the working parts is usually achieved by friction. Such torque transmission has a certain instability, especially in the presence of vibration (such as working on uneven ground), which may lead to poor working results.

[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a retaining fastener, a retaining system, a garden machine, a power tool and an operating method to at least partially solve the above problems. Summary of the invention

[0005] The object of the present invention is to provide a retaining fastener, a retaining system, a garden machine, an electric tool and an operating method. For example, the fastening device provided by the present invention as a retaining fastener is provided with a special locking component to lock the fastening device on the output shaft of the electric tool and prevent the fastening device from falling off the output shaft. Due to the presence of the locking component, there is no need to use excessive torque to install the fastening device, so the installation and removal of the fastening device can be completed by the user's bare hands. Among them, the locking component can be actuated by the user to achieve locking and release, and the operation is quick and convenient for the user to replace the working parts of the electric tool. On the other hand, in the electric tool provided by the present invention, the output shaft transmits torque to the working part via a torque transmission assembly that clamps the working part thereon. The process of torque transmission is achieved by relying on the driving force (rather than friction) between the parts. The process of torque transmission is relatively stable and can operate smoothly even in an operating environment where vibration may occur.

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a retaining fastener for fastening at least one cutting blade to a cutting blade drive shaft, the retaining fastener comprising a threaded portion and a retaining feature, the retaining fastener comprising:

[0007] an outer shell defining an interior volume;

[0008] a threaded portion disposed on the housing, the threaded portion being configured to engage with a corresponding threaded portion of the cutting blade drive shaft by relative rotation of the retaining fastener in a tightening direction;

[0009] at least one locking element configured to releasably engage the retention feature when the retention fastener is in a tightened state, thereby restricting rotation of the retention fastener in a direction opposite to the tightening direction; and

[0010] At least one actuation element is coupled to the at least one locking element to enable the at least one locking element to be disengaged from the retention feature.

[0011] In one embodiment, the retaining fastener is a fastening device, the cutting blade drive shaft is an output shaft of a power tool, the threaded portion of the retaining fastener is an external thread, the retaining feature is a locking groove, a through hole is formed on the fastening device, a portion of the through hole is a threaded hole adapted to the external thread, and:

[0012] The at least one locking element includes a locking member movable between a locking position extending into the locking slot and a release position disengaged from the locking slot;

[0013] The at least one actuating element includes an actuating member that contacts the locking member and is configured to be operable to actuate the locking member from the locking position to the releasing position.

[0014] In one embodiment, the locking component comprises a pair of locking plates symmetrical with respect to the through hole. Preferably, the pair of locking plates jointly define a locking end extending in the circumferential direction. Preferably, the locking end is provided with a guiding inclined surface.

[0015] In one embodiment, the actuation component includes a pair of actuation plates symmetrically arranged with respect to the pair of locking plates, and the pair of actuation plates are configured to simultaneously push the pair of locking plates when approaching each other so that the pair of locking plates move away from each other.

[0016] In one embodiment, the pair of actuating plates form an arrow shape pointing to the output shaft, and two sides of each of the actuating plates defining the arrow shape apply force to the pair of locking plates respectively.

[0017] In one embodiment, the pair of actuating plates and the pair of locking plates extend along the same plane. Preferably, the fastening device includes a pressure plate, which is pressed against the radial inner side or radial outer side of the pair of actuating plates and the pair of locking plates. Preferably, the pressure plate is a cross-shaped plate.

[0018] In one embodiment, the fastening device includes a pair of shell halves butted together axially along the through hole, in particular, the threaded hole is formed on the first shell half, and in particular, an axially compressed spring is arranged in the pair of shell halves, which abuts against the pressure plate and the second shell half.

[0019] In one embodiment, the second shell half is provided with a through hole extension section extending toward the first shell half; or

[0020] The fastening device comprises a bushing with a through-hole extension, which is mounted on the second housing half.

[0021] In one embodiment, the fastening device further comprises an elastic member in contact with the locking component, wherein the elastic member is configured to continuously apply a biasing force to the locking component to bias the locking component from the release position toward the locking position, and in particular, the elastic member comprises a spring arranged radially outside the pair of locking plates.

[0022] In one embodiment, the fastening device further comprises a limiting component in contact with the locking component, wherein the limiting component is configured to fix the locking component when the locking component is located at the releasing position and can be operated to release the locking component.

[0023] In one embodiment, the locking component is located axially inside the threaded hole and is adjacent to the threaded hole. In particular, the thickness of the locking end of the locking component is greater than the pitch of the threaded hole.

[0024] In one embodiment, the at least one locking element includes at least one pawl and the retention feature includes a plurality of ratchet teeth, the at least one pawl releasably engaging the ratchet teeth.

[0025] In one embodiment, the at least one pawl rotates about an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cutting blade drive shaft;

[0026] The at least one actuating element is arranged to translate in a radial direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the cutting blade drive shaft, and radial inward translation of the at least one actuating element causes rotation of the at least one pawl to disengage the plurality of ratchet teeth on the cutting blade drive shaft.

[0027] In one embodiment, the at least one locking element includes at least one sliding plate, which is arranged to translate in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cutting blade drive shaft, and the retaining feature includes an annular groove, and the at least one sliding plate is releasably engaged in the annular groove.

[0028] In one embodiment, the at least one slide plate is arranged to translate in a first radial direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the cutting blade drive shaft;

[0029] The at least one actuating element is arranged to translate in a second radial direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the cutting blade drive shaft, and

[0030] Radially inward translation of the at least one actuating element causes radially outward translation of the at least one slide plate out of engagement with the annular groove on the cutting blade drive shaft.

[0031] In one embodiment, the at least one actuating element includes a first surface and the at least one sliding plate includes a second surface corresponding to the first surface, wherein translation of the at least one actuating element in one embodiment causes the first surface to slide against the second surface to cause translation of the at least one sliding plate.

[0032] In one embodiment, the retaining fastener comprises:

[0033] two actuation elements arranged to translate in first relative radial directions, each actuation element comprising two first surfaces; and

[0034] two sliding plates arranged to translate in second opposite radial directions perpendicular to the first opposite radial directions, each sliding plate comprising two second surfaces, wherein radially inward translation of one of the two actuating elements causes each first surface of the corresponding actuating element to slide against the second surface of one sliding plate and the second surface of the other sliding plate, thereby causing radially outward translation of both the two sliding plates, and

[0035] The radial inward translation of the other of the two actuating elements causes each first surface of the actuating element to slide relative to the second surface of one sliding plate and the second surface of the other sliding plate, causing both sliding plates to translate radially outward.

[0036] In one embodiment, the at least one actuating element is coupled to the at least one sliding plate by at least one linking element, wherein a translation of the at least one actuating element causes a translation of the at least one sliding plate via the linking element.

[0037] In one embodiment, the retaining fastener comprises:

[0038] two actuating elements arranged to translate in first relative radial directions;

[0039] two sliding plates arranged to translate in a second opposite radial direction perpendicular to the first opposite radial direction; and

[0040] Four connecting rod elements connecting the two actuating elements and the two sliding plates,

[0041] Therein, the radially inward translation of the two actuating elements causes the radially outward translation of the two sliding plates.

[0042] In one embodiment, the at least one sliding plate includes a chamfered surface, and optionally the cutting blade drive shaft includes a corresponding grooved surface, such that when the retaining fastener is secured to the cutting blade drive shaft, the at least one sliding plate translates radially outward.

[0043] In one embodiment, it further comprises at least one biasing spring, the at least one biasing spring biasing the at least one locking element and / or the at least one actuating element to a state in which the at least one locking element engages with the retaining feature.

[0044] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a retaining system for fastening at least one cutting blade to a garden machine, the system comprising:

[0045] a cutting blade drive shaft, the retaining fastener comprising a threaded portion clamping feature; a cutting blade holder comprising at least one rotating clamp, the cutting blade holder being configured to support the at least one cutting blade in a fixed position relative to the cutting blade drive shaft; and

[0046] A retaining fastener according to any one of the above schemes,

[0047] Preferably, wherein the retaining feature comprises one of the group consisting of a plurality of ratchet teeth and a circumferential groove.

[0048] In one embodiment, the blade holder is removably mounted to the cutting blade drive shaft and includes a retention feature that engages the threaded portion and the retention fastener.

[0049] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a gardening machine, comprising: at least one cutting blade;

[0050] a motor configured to rotationally drive the at least one cutting blade; and

[0051] According to any one of the above-mentioned retention systems, preferably, the garden machine is one of the group consisting of a push mower, a riding mower, a robot mower, an edge trimmer or a brush cutter.

[0052] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an electric tool, the electric tool comprising:

[0053] a working component mounted on an output shaft of the electric tool; and

[0054] According to any one of the above solutions, the fastening device is installed on the output shaft to block the outside of the working component.

[0055] In one embodiment, the electric tool further comprises a torque transmission assembly directly mounted on the output shaft, wherein the torque transmission assembly and the working component are fixed together in a clamp manner to transmit the rotation of the output shaft to the working component.

[0056] In one embodiment, the output shaft comprises a shaped section, the cross-sectional profile of the shaped section comprises a straight line segment, and the torque transmission assembly comprises:

[0057] A washer, wherein the washer is provided with a through hole, and the shape of the through hole is adapted to the special-shaped section;

[0058] A clamp member is positioned between the washer and the working component, and has a first clamp portion for radially clamping the washer and a second clamp portion for radially clamping the working component.

[0059] In one embodiment, the method comprises at least one of the following:

[0060] securing the retaining fastener to the cutting blade drive shaft by threading the retaining fastener onto a threaded portion of the cutting blade drive shaft such that the at least one locking element engages the retaining feature; and / or

[0061] The retaining fastener is released from the cutting blade drive shaft by actuating the at least one actuation element to engage the at least one locking element with the retaining feature and loosen the retaining fastener from the threaded portion of the cutting blade drive shaft. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0062] In order to better understand the above and other purposes, features, advantages and functions of the present invention, reference may be made to the preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals in the accompanying drawings refer to the same components. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that the accompanying drawings are intended to schematically illustrate the preferred embodiments of the present invention and have no limiting effect on the scope of the present invention, and the components in the drawings are not drawn to scale.

[0063] Figure 1A is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of an assembled state of a motor, a working tool and a fastening device of an electric tool according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0064] Figure 1B is a bottom view of the structure shown in Figure 1;

[0065] Figure 2 is a separate three-dimensional schematic diagram of the fastening device in Figure 1;

[0066] Figure 3 To remove Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a partial structure of a fastening device in FIG. 1 , which shows the internal structure of the fastening device;

[0067] Figure 4 To remove Figure 3 Schematic diagram after the pressure plate in;

[0068] Figure 5 For along Figure 2 The cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG.

[0069] Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional side view of a portion of a garden machine according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0070] Figure 7 shows a lower perspective view of a retention system according to various embodiments of the present invention;

[0071] Fig. 8A and 8B shows a top view of a retaining fastener according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0072] Fig. 9 shows a lower perspective view of a retention system according to various embodiments of the present invention;

[0073] Fig. 10A and 10B shows a top view of a retaining fastener according to one embodiment of the present invention; and

[0074] Fig.11A and 11B A top view of a retaining fastener according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0075] Now, with reference to the accompanying drawings, the specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail. What is described here is only the preferred embodiment of the present invention, and those skilled in the art can think of other ways to implement the present invention based on the preferred embodiment, and other ways also fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0076] Figure 1A-11B The preferred embodiments of the fastening device and the electric tool according to the present invention are shown. First of all, it should be noted that the directional terms and positional terms in the present invention should be understood as relative directions and positions, rather than absolute directions and positions. The directional terms and positional terms in the present invention can be explained with reference to the exemplary structures shown in Figures 1 to 8. For example, "axial" can be understood as the extension direction of the output shaft of the electric tool, shown as XX in Figure 1; "radial direction" is the radial direction with respect to the axial direction XX, where Figure 3 and Figure 4 The directions R1 and R2 shown in the figure are both radial directions; for the fastening device, "axially inner side" refers to the direction axially close to the motor, and "axially outer side" refers to the direction axially away from the motor.

[0077] The electric tool provided by the present invention may be, for example, an electric tool such as a lawn mower or a trimmer. Figure 1A and Figure 1B 1 shows only the motor 10, the working component 20 and the fastening device 30 of the electric tool 1000 in one embodiment, and other structures of the electric tool 1000 are omitted. Figure 1A and Figure 1B, the working component 20 is mounted on the output shaft 12 and can rotate with the output shaft 12, and the fastening device 30 is also mounted on the output shaft 12 and is located axially outside the working component 20 to prevent the working component 20 from falling off the output shaft 12. The working component 20 is clamped between the motor mounting part 11 of the motor 10 and the fastening device 30. The working component 20 can be a component with a sharp working edge, such as a blade or shearing blade. In this embodiment, the output shaft 12 can be the motor shaft of the motor 10. In other embodiments, the output shaft 12 can be driven by the motor shaft of the motor 10. The end of the output shaft 12 has an external thread 1210 and a locking groove 1220, and its specific structure is Figure 5 The joining method of the working member 20 and the output shaft 12, the joining method of the fastening device 30 and the output shaft 12, etc. will be described later in conjunction with Figure 2-Figure 5 Detailed description.

[0078] Figure 2-Figure 4 Shows Figure 1A and Figure 1B The fastening device 30 in the embodiment of the present invention. First, refer to Figure 2 The fastening device 30 is provided with a through hole 3010 for the output shaft 12 to pass through. The fastening device 30 includes a pair of shell halves axially butted together, namely, a first shell half 31 and a second shell half 32. The first shell half 31 and the second shell half 32 jointly define a receiving space. A bushing 33 independent of the second shell half 32 is installed at the through hole position of the second shell half 32. The bushing 33 has a through hole extension section extending in the axial direction. The axial dimension of the through hole extension section is greater than the thickness of the second shell half 32. The provision of the through hole extension section can prevent radial shaking of the fastening device 30 relative to the output shaft 12 when the fastening device 30 is sleeved on the output shaft 12.

[0079] Figure 3 and Figure 4 Shows Figure 2 Schematic diagram of the internal structure of the fastening device 30. Figure 3 For the general Figure 2 Schematic diagram after the second housing half 32, the bushing 33 and other axially inner structures are removed. Figure 4 For the general Figure 3 Schematic diagram after the pressure plate 35 is removed.

[0080] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The fastening device 30 includes a locking member 37 and an actuating member 34. The locking member 37 is movable between a locking position extending into the locking groove 1220 and a release position disengaged from the locking groove 1220. The actuating member 34 is in contact with the locking member 37 and is configured to be operable by a user to actuate the locking member 37 from the locking position to the release position. Figure 4In some embodiments, the locking member 37 includes a pair of locking plates symmetrically arranged about the output shaft 12, and the actuating member 34 includes a pair of actuating plates symmetrically arranged about the pair of locking plates. The pair of actuating plates 34 are configured to simultaneously push the pair of locking plates 37 when they are close to each other so that the pair of locking plates 37 are away from each other. Figure 4 It can be seen from the figure that the pair of locking plates 37 face each other in the radial direction R2, and the pair of actuating plates 34 face each other in the radial direction R1, and the radial direction R1 is perpendicular to the radial direction R2.

[0081] Preferably, reference Figure 4 The pair of locking plates 37 can jointly define a locking end 3720 that completely extends circumferentially around the output shaft 12, that is, when the locking member 37 is in the locking position, the locking plate 37 and the output shaft 12 are completely circumferentially engaged, which has a more stable locking effect, so that the fastening device 30 can be firmly fixed on the output shaft 12 and is not easy to fall off the output shaft 12. Preferably, the locking end 3720 can be provided with a guiding inclined surface to facilitate the locking end 3720 to enter the locking groove 1220 of the output shaft 12.

[0082] In some embodiments, the pair of actuating plates 34 are roughly formed into an arrow shape pointing to the output shaft 12. Correspondingly, each locking plate 37 is provided with a cut corner at the position in contact with the actuating plate 34, and the cut corner formed 3710 and the arrow-shaped edge 3410 of the adjacent actuating plate 34 are colinear, and the two arrow-shaped edges 3410 of each actuating plate 34 respectively apply force to the cut corner edges 3710 of the pair of locking plates 37, and when the pair of actuating plates 34 move toward each other, the pair of actuating plates 34 actually squeeze in between the pair of locking plates 37, so that the pair of locking plates 37 are relatively far away from each other, so that the locking end 3720 leaves the locking groove 1220 of the output shaft 12.

[0083] In some embodiments, the fastening device 30 also includes an elastic member in contact with the locking component 37, and the elastic member is configured to continuously apply a biasing force to the locking component 37 to bias it from the release position to the locking position. In particular, the elastic member includes a spring arranged radially outward of a pair of locking plates 37. Figure 3 and Figure 4 Four spring mounting positions 36 for placing these springs are shown in FIG. Figure 3 and Figure 4 It can be understood that when the locking plate 37 moves from the locking position to the disengaged position, the spring will be compressed to generate a biasing force.

[0084] In the process of installing the fastening device 30 to the output shaft 12, when the fastening device 30 is already in place on the output shaft 12, the user can loosen the actuating plate 34, and the locking plate 37 will move toward the output shaft 12 under the elastic force of the spring, so that the locking end 3720 enters the locking groove 1220 to complete the locking and fixing. Preferably, the spring can be further designed so that when the locking plate 37 is in the released position, the spring is still in a compressed state and continuously applies a thrust toward the output shaft 12 to the locking plate 37, so that the locking end 3720 is more stably located in the locking groove 1220, thereby improving the locking and fixing effect of the fastening device 30 on the output shaft 12.

[0085] In order to ensure that the actuating plates 34 and the locking plates 37 move within a predetermined radial plane, the pair of actuating plates 34 and the pair of locking plates 37 extend substantially along the same plane, and preferably the fastening device 30 includes a pressing plate 35, which is pressed against the radial inner side or radial outer side of the pair of actuating plates 34 and the pair of locking plates 37, and preferably the pressing plate 35 is a cross-shaped plate. The cross-shaped plate can not only limit the movement of the pair of actuating plates 34 and the pair of locking plates 37 within a predetermined radial plane, but also save materials and reduce the weight of the fastening device 30.

[0086] In order to further ensure that the axial positions of the components in the fastening device 30 are fixed, the fastening device 30 also includes an axial spring 39, which abuts between the pressure plate 35 and the second housing half 32 and is in a compressed state. Preferably, the axial spring 39 is sleeved on the outside of the output shaft 12. The axial spring 39 is arranged at Figure 5 Shown in.

[0087] Continue to refer Figure 3 and Figure 4 , a part of the through hole 3010 of the fastening device 30 is a threaded hole 3020 adapted to the external thread 1210 of the output shaft 12, and the threaded hole 3020 can be formed on the first housing half 31. Preferably, the first housing half 31 can extend a section axially inward, and the threaded hole 3020 is formed on the section, that is, the axial dimension of the section forming the threaded hole 3020 is greater than the thickness of other parts of the first housing half 31. It can be seen that in this embodiment, the locking component 37 is located on the axial inner side of the threaded hole 3020 and is adjacent to the threaded hole 3020.

[0088] In particular, the thickness of the locking end 3720 is greater than the pitch of the threaded hole 3020. When the locking end 3720 leaves the locking groove 1220 and the user rotates the fastening device 30 one circle relative to the output shaft 12, a slight axial distance is generated between the locking end 3720 and the locking groove 1220. At this time, the locking end 3720 radially faces the external thread 1210 of the output shaft 12. Since the thickness of the locking end 3720 is greater than the pitch of the threaded hole 3020 (that is, greater than the pitch of the external thread 1210 of the output shaft 12), the locking end 3720 will not mesh with the external thread 1210 of the output shaft 12. It can be understood that, under such a design, when the fastening device 30 needs to be removed from the output shaft 12, the user only needs to continuously press the actuating component 34 and rotate the fastening device 30 for one circle, and then the actuating component 34 can be loosened, and even if the locking component 37 is continuously pushed toward the output shaft 12 by the spring, the locking end 3720 of the locking component 37 will not be pressed into the recessed circle of the thread teeth on the output shaft 12. Of course, it can be understood that the shape and extension direction of the thread teeth can also limit their engagement with the locking end 3720, and designing the thickness of the locking end 3720 to be greater than the pitch of the threaded hole 3020 can enhance this limitation.

[0089] In other embodiments not shown, a limiting component in contact with the locking component may be additionally provided, and the limiting component is configured to fix the locking component when the locking component is in the release position, and can be operated to release the locking component. With such a design, when the fastening device needs to be removed from the output shaft, the user only needs to press the actuating component once, and the locking component will be fixed there after reaching the release position. After that, when the user rotates the fastening device relative to the output shaft, the locking component will not interfere with the output shaft, which can make the unloading process of the fastening device smoother. When installing the fastening device, after the fastening device is installed in place, the user can manually trigger the limiting component to allow the limiting component to release the locking component.

[0090] In other embodiments not shown, the threaded hole may also be formed on the axial inner side of the locking component, that is, the locking groove of the output shaft is located on the axial outer side of the threaded hole of the fastening device. In some embodiments, there may be a large gap between the locking groove and the threaded hole.

[0091] The state where the fastening device 30 is installed on the output shaft 12 is Figure 5 Reference Figure 5, the output shaft 12 passes through the through hole 3010 on the fastening device 30, the threaded hole 3020 on the first shell half 31 of the fastening device 30 is meshed with the external thread 1210 on the output shaft 12, and the locking plate 37 of the fastening device 30 surrounds the locking groove 1220 on the output shaft 12 (at this time, the locking plate 37 is in the released position). The axial inner side of the locking plate 37 is a pressure plate 35, and an axial spring 39 is installed between the pressure plate 35 and the second shell half 32. The axial spring 39 presses the pressure plate 35 axially outward, and the combined action of the axial spring 39 and the pressure plate 35 limits the movement of the locking plate 37 and the actuating plate 34 within a predetermined radial plane. Preferably, a mounting seat 38 is also provided in the fastening device 30, and mounting positions for placing components such as the pressure plate 35, the locking plate 37 and the actuating plate 34 are correspondingly provided on the mounting seat 38. Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, a bushing 33 having an extension section is provided on the second housing half 32 of the fastening device 30 . However, in other embodiments not shown, the extension section for passing the output shaft may be directly formed on the second housing half.

[0092] Continue to refer Figure 5 , the torque of the output shaft 12 of the electric tool 1000 is transmitted to the working part 20 through the torque transmission assembly 40. The torque transmission assembly 40 and the working part 20 are fixed together in a clamping manner to transmit the rotation of the output shaft 12 to the working part 20. Specifically, the torque transmission assembly 40 includes a washer 41 and a clamp 42. The washer 41 and the output shaft 12 are engaged in a shape-fitting manner, for example, the output shaft 12 includes a special-shaped section, the cross-sectional profile of the special-shaped section includes a straight line section, and the washer 41 is provided with a through hole 3010, and the shape of the through hole 3010 is adapted to the special-shaped section.

[0093] The clamp 42 is positioned between the washer 41 and the working component 20, and the clamp 42 has a first clamp portion 4110 that radially clamps the washer 41 and a second clamp portion 4120 that radially clamps the working component 20. It can be understood that the output shaft 12 transmits torque to the working component 20 via the torque transmission assembly 40 that clamps the working component 20 thereon, and the torque transmission process is achieved by relying on the driving force (rather than friction) between the components. The torque transmission process is relatively stable and can operate smoothly even in a working environment where vibration may occur.

[0094] Below Figure 6-11B The illustrated embodiment is described.

[0095] Reference Figure 6, which shows a cross-sectional side view of a portion of a garden machine 100. A garden machine, in particular a garden machine for cutting grass or the like, is schematically shown as having a motor 110 and cutting blades 130a, 130b. The motor 110 may include an electric motor, an internal combustion motor, or any suitable power source for rotating and driving the cutting blades. For example, the motor 110 may be a dedicated motor directly connected to the cutting blades 130a, 130b, and has the sole function of rotating and driving the cutting blades 130a, 130b, such as in a brush cutter. Alternatively, the motor 110 may be a drive motor having other functions, such as driving the garden machine in addition to rotating and driving the cutting blades 130a, 130b, such as in a riding lawn mower. Although the cutting blades 130a, 130b are exemplarily shown, the garden machine 100 of the present invention is not limited thereto, and any number of cutting blades may be attached to the garden machine 100. For example, a single cutting blade may be mounted on a gardening machine, or a sandwich structure of cutting blades 130a, 130b may be mounted on a gardening machine, thereby providing a specific configuration of cutting blades to optimize the cutting performance of the gardening machine according to grass type, cutting depth and cutting speed.

[0096] The cutting blades 130a, 130b are rotatably connected to the motor 110 by starting the blade drive shaft 140. Although the cutting blade drive shaft 140 is processed to be directly connected between the motor 110 and the cutting blades 130a, 130b, the present invention is not limited thereto. The cutting blade drive shaft 140 can, for example, be an element of a transmission system or a transmission device that can operably connect the cutting blades 130a, 130b to the motor 110. For example, the cutting blade drive shaft 140 can be provided with another transmission element, such as a gear, a sprocket or a pulley, for connecting to the motor 110 through a drive transmission device. Alternatively, the cutting blade drive shaft 140 can be an output shaft of the motor 110.

[0097] The cutting blades 130a, 130b are detachably mounted to the cutting blade drive shaft 140 so that the cutting blades can be removed for sharpening, maintenance or replacement, or for changing the configuration of the cutting blades. The cutting blade holder 120 can be integral with the cutting blade drive shaft 140, such as a flange or protrusion, or can be a separate component connected to the cutting blade drive shaft 140. The cutting blade drive shaft 140 includes a threaded portion 141, and the threaded portion of the corresponding fastener 200, 300, 400 is engaged on the threaded portion 141. Therefore, the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 is fastened to the threaded portion 141 so that the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 clamps the cutting blade 130a, 130b to the cutting blade holder 120. The cutting blade holder 120 further comprises at least one rotation clamp 121a, 121b, which prevents the cutting blades 130a, 130b from rotating relative to the cutting blade holder 120, thereby preventing the cutting blades 130a, 130b from rotating relative to the cutting blade drive shaft 140. In conventional gardening machines, the retaining fasteners 200, 300, 400 comprise simple hexagonal nuts that are screwed onto the cutting blade drive shaft 140 to secure the cutting blades 130a, 130b to the cutting blade holder 120. However, conventional hexagonal nuts cannot be fully tightened by hand, and tools are required to securely and reliably tighten the cutting blades 130a, 130b. In view of this, the present invention provides a retaining system, and more particularly, relates to a retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 itself, which can be tightened by hand without tools, and the retaining fastener comprises various means for retaining the retaining fasteners 200, 300, 400, thereby avoiding undesirable loosening.

[0098] Since the means for retaining the fastener 200, 300, 400 is contained in the housing of the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 itself, the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 of the present invention provides improvements in ergonomics, reliability and durability. Therefore, the periphery of the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 is free of any locking elements or locking means and can be grasped by the user so that the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 can be tightened. In addition, the means for retaining the fastener 200, 300, 400 is not arranged, for example, under the lawn mower, reducing the chance of damage to the retaining means and reducing the chance of the retaining means being entangled or catching debris. In addition, the retaining feature 142 with which the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 engages is arranged on the cutting blade drive shaft 140, thereby reducing the number of components in the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400. Since the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 is easy to be damaged or lost, the replacement cost of the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 is reduced. The present invention describes several embodiments of the fastener 200, 300, 400 with these purposes, and FIG. Figure 5 An embodiment of a holding device 1000 is shown.

[0099] The cutting blade drive shaft 140 of the present invention includes a threaded portion 141 to which a retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 is engaged. In addition to the threaded portion 141, the cutting blade drive shaft 140 also includes an additional retaining feature 142 to which the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 is also engaged. In contrast to the threaded portion 141 that allows the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 to generate the required clamping force to fix the cutting blades 130a, 130b, the retaining feature 142 provides a feature for the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 to engage so that the retaining fastener is retained on the cutting blade drive shaft 140. In particular, in the case where the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 is engaged with the threaded portion 141 of the cutting blade drive shaft 140 by rotating in the fastening direction, the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 is engaged with the retaining feature 142 so that rotation in the direction opposite to the fastening direction is physically limited or restricted. The retaining fasteners 200, 300, 400 are also configured to selectively engage with the retaining feature 142 via corresponding locking elements so that a user can simply unlock the retaining fasteners 200, 300, 400, disengage the retaining fasteners 200, 300, 400 from the retaining feature 142, and remove the retaining fasteners 200, 300, 400 from the cutting blade drive shaft 140.

[0100] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a retention system for fastening at least one cutting blade 130a, 130b to a garden machine 100. The system includes a cutting blade drive shaft 140 having a threaded portion 141 and a retention feature 142, a cutting blade holder 120 having at least one rotating clamp 121a, 121b, the cutting blade holder 120 being configured for supporting at least one cutting blade 130a, 130b in a fixed position relative to the cutting blade drive shaft 140, and including a fastener according to aspects and embodiments of the present invention, which will be described in more detail below.

[0101] According to another aspect of the present invention, a gardening machine 100 is provided. The gardening machine 100 includes at least one cutting blade 130a, 130b, a motor 110 configured to rotationally drive the at least one cutting blade 130a, 130b, and a holding system according to aspects and embodiments of the present invention. The gardening machine according to the aspects and embodiments described herein is not limited to any specific gardening machine, and it can be applied to any gardening machine with rotating blades. Preferably, the gardening machine is one of the group consisting of a push mower, a riding mower, a robot mower, an edge trimmer or a brush cutter.

[0102] The retaining fasteners 200, 300, 400 are configured to releasably fasten the cutting blades 130a, 130b to the cutting blade drive shaft 140. Specifically, as Figure 6 As exemplarily shown in FIG. 1 , the retaining fasteners 200 , 300 , 400 clamp the cutting blades 130 a , 130 b to the cutting blade holder 120 by being screwed onto the threaded portion 141 of the cutting blade 10 .

[0103] According to one aspect of the present invention, the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 includes a housing 230 defining an internal volume, the housing 230 having a threaded portion, the threaded portion being configured to engage with a corresponding threaded portion 141 of the cutting blade drive shaft 140 by relative rotation of the retaining fastener in a tightening direction. The device also includes at least one locking element 210, 310, 410 disposed in the internal volume, the at least one locking element 210, 310, 410 being configured to releasably engage with the retaining feature 142 when the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 is in a tightened state, restricting the rotation of the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 in a direction opposite to the tightening direction. The device also includes at least one actuating element 220, 320, 420, which is coupled to the at least one locking element 210, 310, 410 so that the at least one locking element 210, 310, 410 can be disengaged from the retaining feature 142.

[0104] In the context of the present invention, the term "fastening direction" refers to the rotational direction of the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 rotating around the longitudinal axis A of the cutting blade drive shaft 140, so that the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 and the corresponding threaded portion of the cutting blade drive shaft engage, and the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 is engaged to the fastened state. Conversely, the term "direction opposite to the fastening direction" refers to the rotational direction of the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 rotating around the longitudinal axis A of the cutting blade drive shaft 140 to release the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 from the fastened state. The retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 according to the present invention is configured to prevent, limit or restrict rotation in the direction opposite to the fastening direction when in the fastened state, i.e., when at least one locking element 210, 310, 410 is engaged with the retaining feature 142. The blocking, limiting or restricting of rotation can be achieved directly, for example, by causing at least one locking element 210, 310, 410 to engage with the retaining feature 142 by corresponding contact in the circumferential direction, or can be achieved indirectly, for example, by causing at least one locking element 210, 310, 410 to engage with the retaining feature 142 by corresponding contact in the axial direction, which indirectly causes blocking in the rotational direction due to the characteristics of the corresponding threaded portions. In addition, the blocking, limiting or restricting of rotation can include some amount of rotation in the direction opposite to the tightening direction before at least one locking element 210, 310, 410 is fully engaged with the retaining feature 142.

[0105] However, with some rotation permitted, engagement of the at least one locking element 210, 310, 410 is configured such that the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 is retained in such a manner that at least the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 and cutting blade 130a, 130b are prevented from disengaging from the garden machine.

[0106] The retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 has a housing 230 to which a corresponding portion of the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 is attached. The housing 230 is formed to define an internal volume, and at least one locking element 210, 310, 410 is accommodated within the internal volume. For example, the housing 230 may include a pin-shaped lower housing and a cover-shaped upper housing. Alternatively, the housing 230 may include only a cup-shaped lower housing, so that when the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 is attached to the garden machine in a fastened state, the cutting blade 130a, 130b or the cutting blade holder 120 forms a cover-shaped upper housing. By accommodating the at least one locking element 210, 310, 410 within the internal volume, the at least one locking element is shielded from the hazardous environment around the cutting blade of the garden machine and prevents debris, flying stones, entanglement, etc. In addition, the protection provided by the housing 230 prevents dirt and dust from accumulating on the at least one locking element 210, 310, 410 and the retaining feature 142 with which the locking element engages, so that when a user wishes to operate the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400, the mechanism functions as intended without being blocked or having additional resistance from accumulated debris. Thus, the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 provides improvements in reliability, durability, and user operability.

[0107] The housing 230 also includes a threaded portion corresponding to the threaded portion 141 on the cutting blade drive shaft 140. The threaded portion provided in the housing 230 may be integrally formed with the housing 230, for example by machining the threaded portion directly into the housing, or may be provided as an insert fixedly mounted to the housing 230. For example, the housing 230 may be made of a lightweight metal (particularly aluminum) or plastic (particularly thermoplastic), and the threaded portion may be provided by an insert (e.g. a threaded clamping nut) in which threads are formed. The outer surface of the housing 230 is intended to be gripped by a user to facilitate fastening the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 to the garden machine. By providing at least one locking element 210, 310, 410 within the internal volume of the housing 230, the outer surface of the housing is more accessible to the user and the outer circumference of the housing 230 can be easily gripped. Therefore, in the absence of a locking element or other features on the outer surface, the user can apply a greater torque to obtain the fastener 200, 300, 400, and ergonomics are improved. Optionally, the outer circumference of the housing 230 may be provided with grip-enhancing features to further improve ergonomics and user operability.The retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 may further include a shaped surface on the outer circumference of the housing 230 that is shaped to provide a gripping surface.

[0108] The retaining fastener 230 also includes at least one actuating element 220, 320, 420 connected to at least one locking element 210, 310, 410. The at least one actuating element 220, 320, 420 is actuated by a user to disengage the at least one locking element 210, 310, 410 within the housing 230 from the retaining feature 142 so that the retaining fastener can be released. Preferably, the at least one actuating element 220, 320, 420 is configured to extend from the interior volume to the exterior of the housing 230. For example, the at least one actuating element 220, 320, 420 can be in the shape of a button or a lever that a user can press to disengage the at least one locking element 210, 310, 410. Alternatively, the at least one actuating element 220, 320, 420 can be accessed via a hole or cutout in the housing 230.

[0109] According to the present invention, the at least one locking element 210,310,410 and the at least one actuating element 220,320,420 are separate components that are operatively coupled together. Therefore, the direction of movement of the at least one actuating element can be arranged to be substantially independent of the direction of movement of the at least one locking element 210,310,410, so that an advantageous and intuitive movement of the at least one actuating element 220,320,420 and / or mechanical advantages is provided. For example, in terms of ergonomics and user operability, the at least one actuating element 220,320,420 moves in a radial direction to enable the user to disengage the retaining fastener 200,300,400 by a "squeezing" action, and the "squeezing" action can be the same action as clamping the housing 230 of the retaining fastener 200,300,400 in order to unscrew.

[0110] Furthermore, by making the at least one locking element 210, 310, 410 and the at least one actuating element 220, 320, 420 as separate components, the material of each respective component can be optimally selected. For example, for high durability and reliable engagement with the retaining feature 142, the at least one locking element 210, 310, 410 can be made of metal, and the at least one actuating element 220, 320, 420 can be made of plastic, particularly thermoplastic, so that it can be ergonomic, lightweight and low-cost. Lightweight structures are desirable so that the rotating mass can be reduced, which has a positive effect on energy consumption and dynamic load reduction.

[0111] A first preferred embodiment will now be described in which the retaining fastener utilizes a ratchet type mechanism to engage the retaining fastener to the cutting blade drive shaft. Figure 78a and 8b, the retaining system comprises a cutting blade drive shaft 140 having a threaded portion 141 with which the retaining fastener 200 engages, as in the general embodiment. However, in a first preferred embodiment, the retaining member 142 comprises a plurality of ratchet teeth fixed relative to the cutting blade drive shaft 140. The plurality of ratchet teeth may be an integral part of the cutting blade drive shaft 140, such as formed by machining, casting or forging, may be an integral part of the cutting blade holder 120, or may be provided as a separate component fixed to the cutting blade drive shaft 140 or the cutting blade holder 120. According to one embodiment, which may be combined with other embodiments described herein, the at least one locking element 210 comprises at least one pawl 210a, 210b, and the retaining feature 142 comprises a plurality of ratchet teeth, with which the at least one pawl releasably engages.

[0112] Reference Fig. 8A and 8B , which shows a retaining fastener 200 according to a first preferred embodiment. Fig. 8A The retention fastener 200 is shown in an engaged state, wherein the locking element is engaged with the plurality of ratchet teeth, and Figure 8B The retaining fastener 200 is shown in a disengaged state, wherein the locking element is disengaged from the plurality of ratchet teeth. Fig. 8A In the embodiment, the actuating element of the retaining fastener 200 can be actuated by the user to unlock the retaining fastener 200, and once the retaining fastener 200 is unlocked, Figure 8B The user can loosen the released retaining fastener 200 by rotating as shown in action B.

[0113] The retaining fastener 200 is configured to selectively engage at least one locking element 210 with a plurality of ratchet teeth constituting the retaining feature 142, the locking element being in the form of at least one pawl 210a, 210b. The illustrated retaining fastener 200 includes two pawls 210a, 210b for engaging with the plurality of ratchet teeth. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and any number of pawls may be provided. Each pawl includes at least one pawl tooth 212 that engages with a corresponding ratchet tooth of the retaining feature 142, thereby limiting the rotation of the retaining fastener in a direction opposite to the tightening direction.

[0114] The at least one pawl 210a, 210b includes at least one tooth 212 corresponding to the plurality of ratchet teeth. The at least one tooth 212 is shaped in a typical manner known in the art so that the at least one pawl 210a, 210b provides a one-way blocking, limiting or restricting effect when engaging with the plurality of ratchet teeth. In other words, the shape of the at least one tooth 212 is such that when the retaining fastener 200 is rotated in the tightening direction, the at least one pawl 210a, 210b jumps over the plurality of ratchet teeth, and when the retaining fastener is rotated in a direction opposite to the tightening direction, the at least one pawl 210a, 210b blocks the rotation by engaging with the plurality of ratchet teeth.

[0115] Furthermore, because the plurality of ratchet teeth extend along the cutting blade drive shaft 140 on the longitudinal axis A, and because the respective pawls 210a, 210b can engage the plurality of ratchet teeth anywhere along their respective lengths, the fastener 200 can be retained at a variable axial position relative to the cutting blade holder 120. Thus, even with cutting blades of varying thickness, or with a varying number of sandwich cutting blades, the retaining fastener 200 will remain on the cutting blade drive shaft 140.

[0116] Optionally, the retaining fastener 200 may be provided with at least one biasing spring 240. In particular, the number of the biasing springs 240 may be the same as the number of the pawls 210a, 210b. The biasing spring 240 acts on the pawls 210a, 210b and one of the actuating elements 220a, 220b, so that the pawls 210a, 210b are biased toward an engagement position in which the pawls 210a, 210b engage with the ratchet teeth.

[0117] The at least one pawl 210a, 210b further includes an axis of rotation 211 about which the pawl 210a, 210b rotates. The axis of rotation 211 can be a pin feature integrally formed with the pawl 210a, 210b, a pin feature integrally formed with the housing 230, or a separate pin about which the pawl 210a, 210b rotates. The axis of rotation 211 can be parallel to the longitudinal axis A of the cutting blade drive shaft 140. The pawl 210a, 210b is further coupled to a corresponding actuation element 220a, 220b such that actuation of the actuation element 220a, 220b by a user causes the pawl 210a, 210b to disengage from the plurality of ratchet teeth. As shown, the coupling between the pawl 210a, 210b and the actuating element 220a, 220b includes a pin 221 in a slot, and translational movement of the actuating element 220a, 220b results in rotational movement of the pawl 210a, 210b.

[0118] As shown, the first preferred embodiment includes two pawls 210a, 210b and two corresponding actuating elements 220a, 220b. According to one embodiment that can be combined with other embodiments described herein, at least one pawl 210a, 210b rotates about an axis 211 parallel to the longitudinal axis A of the cutting blade drive shaft 140, at least one actuating element 220a, 220b is arranged to translate in a radial direction R relative to the longitudinal axis A of the cutting blade drive shaft 140, and radial inward translation of at least one actuating element 220a, 220b causes rotation of at least one pawl 210a, 210b to disengage from a plurality of ratchet teeth on the cutting blade drive shaft 140. By providing two actuating elements 220a, 220b with radial translation motion, ergonomics and user operability are improved because the user only needs to grasp the retaining fastener 200, which simultaneously unlocks the retaining fastener 200, allowing the user to rotate and unscrew the retaining fastener 200 with one grasping motion.

[0119] Other preferred embodiments will now be described in which the fastener utilizes a slide and groove type mechanism to retain the fastener engaged to the cutting blade drive shaft. Fig. 9 10a-10b and 11a-11b. The retaining system includes a cutting blade drive shaft 140 having a threaded portion 141 to which the retaining fastener 200 is engaged, as in the general embodiment. However, in the second and third preferred embodiments, the retaining feature 142 includes a circumferential groove formed in a circumferential direction around the longitudinal axis A of the cutting blade drive shaft 140. The circumferential groove can be integrally formed in the cutting blade drive shaft 140, or alternatively formed in the cutting blade holder 120, as exemplarily shown. The retaining fastener 300, 400 according to the second and third preferred embodiments includes at least one slide plate configured to selectively engage with the circumferential groove to secure the retaining fastener 300, 400.

[0120] According to an embodiment that can be combined with other embodiments described herein, the at least one locking element 210 includes at least one slide plate 310a, 310b, 410a, 410b, and the at least one slide plate 310a, 310b, 410a, 410b is arranged to translate in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A of the cutting blade drive shaft 140, and the retaining feature 142 includes a circumferential groove, and the at least one slide plate can be releasably engaged in the circumferential groove.

[0121] According to an embodiment that can be combined with other embodiments herein, at least one sliding plate 310a, 310b, 410a, 410b is arranged to translate in a first radial direction R1 relative to the longitudinal axis A of the cutting blade drive shaft 140, and at least one actuating element 320a, 320b, 420a, 420b is arranged to translate in a second radial direction R2 relative to the longitudinal axis A of the cutting blade drive shaft 140. The radial inward translation of the at least one actuating element 320a, 320b, 420a, 420b causes the radial outward translation of the at least one sliding plate 310a, 310b, 410a, 410b to disengage from the circumferential groove on the cutting blade drive shaft 140. The radial translation movement of the at least one actuating element 320a, 320b, 420a, 420b provides improvements in ergonomics and user operability similar to the first preferred embodiment.

[0122] Referring to Figures 10a and 10b, a retaining fastener 300 according to another preferred embodiment is shown. In these figures, the circumferential groove is shown with dashed lines and solid lines, the dashed line represents the upper surface 142a formed with the circumferential groove, and the solid line represents the bottom surface 142b of the circumferential groove. Figure 10a shows the retaining fastener 300 in an engaged state. Figure 10b shows the retaining fastener 300 in an engaged state, wherein the sliding plate is engaged with the circumferential groove, i.e., within the boundary of the upper surface 142a, and the sliding plate is disengaged from the circumferential groove, i.e., outside the boundary of the upper surface 142a. As shown in action A in Figure 10a, the actuating element of the retaining fastener 300 can be actuated by the user to unlock the retaining fastener 300, and once the retaining fastener 300 is disengaged as in Figure 10b, the user can unscrew the released retaining fastener 300 by rotating as shown in action B.

[0123] In the preferred embodiment, the coupling of the at least one sliding plate 310a, 310b with the at least one actuating element 320a, 320b is achieved by corresponding surfaces that slide against each other. As shown, at least one actuating element 320a, 320b includes a first surface 311, and at least one sliding plate 310a, 310b includes a second surface 311 corresponding to the first surface 321. The corresponding first surface 321 and the second surface 311 are butted against each other, but are configured to butt against each other so that the translational movement of the actuating element 320a, 320b causes the corresponding translational movement of the sliding plate 310a, 310b. The corresponding angles of the first surface 321 and the second surface 311 are exemplarily shown as 45 degrees with the corresponding translational directions R1 and R2, however this angle can be adjusted so that a mechanical advantage can be provided while reducing the force required for the user to disengage the sliding plate 310a, 310b from the circumferential groove. Furthermore, the sliding surface coupling demonstrated by the preferred embodiment results in a simpler retaining mechanism that is cheaper to produce and simpler to maintain.

[0124] The first surface 321 and the second surface 311 are exemplarily shown as the outer flat surfaces of the corresponding sliding plates in the retaining fastener 300, so that the movement between the actuating elements 320a, 320b and the sliding plates 310a, 310b can be coupled in only one direction. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the first surface 321 may include an inner surface or a curved surface. For example, the first surface 321 of the actuating elements 320a, 320b may be an inclined slotted hole, and the second surface 311 of the sliding plates 310a, 310b may be a protrusion sliding in the slotted hole. Therefore, each surface can be configured to couple motion in two directions. Optionally, the retaining fastener 300 may be provided with at least one biasing spring 240. In particular, the number of biasing springs 240 may be the same as the number of slide plates 310a, 310b, or may be a multiple of the number of slide plates 310a, 310b. The bias spring 240 acts on the sliding plates 310a, 310b and on the actuating elements 220a, 220b via sliding contact between the first surface 321 and the second surface 311 so that the sliding plates 310a, 310b are biased toward an engaged position in which the sliding plates 310a, 310b engage with the circumferential groove.

[0125] As shown, the second preferred embodiment includes two slide plates 310a, 310b and two corresponding actuating elements 320a, 320b. According to an embodiment that can be combined with other embodiments described herein, the two actuating elements 320a, 320b are arranged to translate in a first relative radial direction R1 and each include two first surfaces 321, and the two slide plates 310a, 310b are arranged to translate in a second relative radial direction R1 and each include two second surfaces 311. The radial inward translation of one of the two actuating elements 320a causes each first surface 321 of the corresponding actuating element 320a to slide against the second surface 311 of one sliding plate 310a and the second surface 311 of the other sliding plate 310b, causing the radial outward translation of the two sliding plates. Similarly, the radial inward translation of the other of the two actuating elements 320b causes each first surface 321 of the corresponding actuating element 320b to slide relative to the second surface 311 of one sliding plate 310a and the second surface 311 of the other sliding plate 310b. By providing two actuation elements 220a, 220b with radial translational motion, ergonomics and user operability are improved because the user only needs to grasp the retention fastener 200, which simultaneously unlocks the retention fastener 200, allowing the user to rotate and loosen the retention fastener 200 with one grasping motion.

[0126] Referring to Figures 11a and 11b, a retaining fastener 400 according to another preferred embodiment is shown. In these figures, the circumferential groove is shown with dashed lines and solid lines, the dashed lines represent the upper surface 142a forming the circumferential groove, and the solid lines represent the bottom surface 142b of the circumferential groove. Figure 11a shows the retaining fastener 400 in an engaged state, wherein the sliding plate is engaged with the circumferential groove. Figure 11b shows the retaining fastener 400 in an engaged state, wherein the sliding plate is disengaged from the circumferential groove, i.e., outside the boundary of the upper surface 142a. As shown in action A in Figure 11a, the actuating element of the retaining fastener 400 can be actuated by the user to unlock the retaining fastener 400, and once the retaining fastener 400 is disengaged as in Figure 11b, the user can unscrew the released retaining fastener 400 by rotation as shown in action B.

[0127] Another preferred embodiment shown in Figures 11a and 1b is similar in concept to the preferred embodiment shown in Figures 10a and 10b, wherein at least one connecting element 440 is added, which is arranged to connect at least one slide plate 410a, 410b and at least one actuating element 420a, 420b. By providing an additional connecting element 440, the connection between the sliding plate 410a, 410b and the actuating element 420a, 420b, further ergonomic and user operability improvements can be achieved. Compared with the aforementioned preferred embodiment, the unlocking mechanism of the retaining fastener 400 can be made stronger by a more direct connection, and any resistance caused by friction can be reduced. In addition, the link element 440 allows a non-linear mechanical advantage between the actuating element 420a, 420b and the sliding plate 410a, 410b, which may be particularly advantageous in the case of providing at least one bias spring 240, because the increased force due to the spring displacement can be compensated by a small increase in mechanical advantage.

[0128] As shown in the figure, the present embodiment includes two slide plates 410a, 410b, two actuating elements 420a, 420b and four connecting elements 440 connecting the two actuating elements 420a, 420b and the two slide plates 410a, 410b, and in particular, the four connecting elements 440 are arranged to form a diamond-shaped connecting rod between the corresponding actuating elements 420a, 420b and the slide plates 410a, 410b. Similar to the aforementioned preferred embodiment, the two actuating elements 420a, 420b are arranged to translate in a first relative radial direction R1, and the two slide plates 410a, 410b are arranged to translate in a second relative radial direction R2 perpendicular to the first relative radial direction R1.

[0129] For the second and third preferred embodiments including sliding plates 310a, 310b, 410a, 410b as corresponding locking elements 310, 410, the sliding plates 310a, 310b, 410a, 410b may optionally be provided with leading chamfered surfaces 320. The retaining fasteners 300, 400 are more easily fastened to the cutting blade drive shaft 140, and the chamfers may be provided on the edge of the sliding plate facing the cutting blade, so that when the user screws the retaining fasteners 300, 400 onto the cutting blade drive shaft 140, the chamfered surface slides on the cutting blade drive shaft 140 and automatically retracts the sliding plate. Therefore, it is no longer necessary for the user to manually retract the slide plates 310a, 310b, 410a, 410b in order to install the retaining fasteners. As a further modification, the cutting blade drive shaft 140 may also be provided with corresponding chamfered surfaces on its leading edge for making the slide plates 310a, 310b, 410a, 410b slide relative to each other.

[0130] See again Figure 7 and 4, which shows the relationship between the ratchet type ( Figure 7 ) and circumferential groove types ( Fig. 9 ) can be seen in different embodiments of the retention system of the present invention. Although the description of the threaded portion 141 and the retention feature 142 (as a plurality of ratchet teeth or as a circumferential groove) is generally described as the threaded portion 141 and the retention feature 142 of the cutting blade drive shaft 140, this does not limit these features to integral features of the cutting blade drive shaft 140 itself. On the contrary, the threaded portion 141 and the retention feature 142 can be arranged or provided in any form as long as the features are fixed relative to the cutting blade drive shaft 140, so that the retention fastener 200, 300, 400 can be connected thereto by engaging with the threaded portion 141 and the retention feature 142.

[0131] For example, Figure 7 The ratchet type retaining system shown is exemplarily shown as having a threaded portion 141 integrally formed into the end of the cutting blade drive shaft 140, and a plurality of ratchets are provided on a sleeve-like member mounted to the cutting blade drive shaft 140. The threaded portion 141 is located at the more distal end of the cutting blade drive shaft 140 relative to the cutting blade holder 120. As another example, Fig. 9 The circumferential groove type retaining mechanism shown is exemplarily shown as having a threaded portion 141 and a circumferential groove integrally formed in the cutting blade holder 120. The cutting blade drive shaft 140 includes a different threaded portion connected with a hexagonal nut, thereby fixing the cutting blade holder 120 thereon. In addition, the retaining feature 142, i.e., the circumferential groove, is located at the more distal end of the cutting blade drive shaft 140 relative to the cutting blade holder 120.

[0132] As shown in the exemplary embodiment, the construction of the cutting blade drive shaft 140, the threaded portion 141 and the retaining feature 142 is flexible, and further, in the case where one or both of the threaded portion 141 and the retaining feature 142 are included as separate components attached to the cutting blade drive shaft 140, other advantages are presented, such as simple and low-cost replacement in the case of damage and flexibility in terms of material selection. In addition, the position of the various elements can be adapted to different cutting blade standards to allow upgrading or cross-upgrading to new or alternative blade designs without the need to change the cutting blade drive shaft 140 or the retaining fasteners 200, 300, 400.

[0133] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for operating a retention system according to the present invention and embodiments is provided. The method according to this aspect specifically involves the operation of a retention fastener 200, 300, 400 by a user, and includes at least one step of tightening the retention fastener 200, 300, 400 and releasing the retention fastener 200, 300, 400. Specifically, the tightening of the retention fastener 200, 300, 400 to the cutting blade drive shaft 140 includes threading the retention fastener 200, 300, 400 onto the threaded portion 141 of the cutting blade drive shaft 140 so that at least one locking element 210, 310, 410 engages with the retention feature 142. Further specifically, the release of the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 from the cutting blade drive shaft 140 includes actuating at least one actuating element 220, 320, 420 to disengage at least one locking element 210, 310, 410 from the retaining feature 142 and loosening the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 from the threaded portion of the cutting blade drive shaft 140.

[0134] According to the respective method steps of fastening and / or releasing the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400, the method may preferably include the user grasping the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 so that at least one actuating element 220, 320, 420 is actuated and with the same grasping action the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400 is rotated about the longitudinal axis A of the cutting blade drive shaft 140. The embodiments of the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400, 1000 described in the present invention allow the user to perform unlocking and rotation of the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400, 1000 with the same grasping action, which improves the ergonomics and user operability of the retaining fastener 200, 300, 400, 1000 and the subsequent retaining system.

[0135] The above-mentioned embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments, which are also within the scope of the present invention. For example, the description of retaining fasteners 200, 300, 400, such as the description of the installation method of the related blade, etc., can also be applied to retaining fastener 1000.

[0136] The fastening device and the electric tool having the same provided by the present invention can allow the user to replace the working parts without using tools. The fastening device is provided with a special locking component for locking the fastening device on the output shaft of the electric tool and preventing the fastening device from falling off the output shaft. Due to the presence of the locking component, there is no need to use excessive torque to install the fastening device, so the installation and removal of the fastening device can be completed by the user's bare hands. Among them, the locking component can be actuated by the user to achieve locking and release, which is quick to operate and convenient for the user to replace the working parts of the electric tool.

[0137] The above description of various embodiments of the present invention is provided to one of ordinary skill in the relevant art for the purpose of description. It is not intended that the present invention be exclusive or limited to a single disclosed embodiment. As above, a person of ordinary skill in the field of the above teachings will understand the various substitutions and variations of the present invention. Therefore, although some alternative embodiments are specifically described, a person of ordinary skill in the art will understand or relatively easily develop other embodiments. The present invention is intended to include all substitutions, modifications and variations of the present invention described herein, as well as other embodiments that fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention described above.

Claims

1. A retaining fastener for securing at least one cutting blade to a cutting blade drive shaft, the retaining fastener comprising a threaded portion and a retaining feature, the retaining fastener comprising: an outer shell defining an interior volume; a threaded portion disposed on the housing, the threaded portion being configured to engage with a corresponding threaded portion of the cutting blade drive shaft by relative rotation of the retaining fastener in a tightening direction; at least one locking element configured to releasably engage the retention feature when the retention fastener is in a tightened state, thereby restricting rotation of the retention fastener in a direction opposite to the tightening direction; as well as At least one actuation element is coupled to the at least one locking element to enable the at least one locking element to be disengaged from the retention feature.

2. The retaining fastener according to claim 1, wherein: The retaining fastener is a fastening device (30), the cutting blade drive shaft is an output shaft (12) of a power tool, the threaded portion of the retaining fastener is an external thread (1210), the retaining feature is a locking groove (1220), a through hole (3010) is formed on the fastening device (30), a part of the through hole is a threaded hole (3020) adapted to the external thread, and: The at least one locking element comprises a locking component (37), the locking component being movable between a locking position extending into the locking groove (1220) and a release position disengaging from the locking groove; The at least one actuating element comprises an actuating component (34) which contacts the locking component (37) and is configured to be operable to actuate the locking component (37) from the locking position to the releasing position.

3. The retaining fastener according to claim 2, wherein: The locking component (37) comprises a pair of locking plates symmetrical with respect to the through hole (3010), preferably the pair of locking plates jointly define a locking end (3720) extending in the circumferential direction, preferably the locking end is provided with a guiding inclined surface.

4. The retaining fastener according to claim 3, wherein: The actuating member (34) comprises a pair of actuating plates symmetrically arranged with respect to the pair of locking plates (37), and the pair of actuating plates are configured to simultaneously push the pair of locking plates (37) when they are close to each other so that the pair of locking plates are away from each other.

5. The retaining fastener according to claim 4, wherein: The pair of actuating plates (34) form an arrow shape pointing to the output shaft, and the two sides (3410) defining the arrow shape of each actuating plate apply force to the pair of locking plates (37) respectively.

6. The retaining fastener according to claim 5, wherein: The pair of actuating plates (34) and the pair of locking plates (37) extend along the same plane. Preferably, the fastening device includes a pressure plate (35) which is pressed against the radial inner side or radial outer side of the pair of actuating plates (34) and the pair of locking plates (37). Preferably, the pressure plate is a cross-shaped plate.

7. A retaining fastener according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein: The fastening device (30) comprises a pair of shell halves (31, 32) butted together along the axial direction of the through hole, in particular the threaded hole (3020) is formed on the first shell half (31), in particular the pair of shell halves are provided with an axially compressed spring (39) resting between the pressure plate (35) and the second shell half (32).

8. The retaining fastener according to claim 7, wherein: The second shell half (31) is provided with a through hole extension section extending toward the first shell half; or The fastening device (30) comprises a bushing (33) having a through-hole extension, which is mounted on the second housing half (31).

9. The retaining fastener according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein: The fastening device (30) further comprises an elastic member in contact with the locking component (37), the elastic member being configured to continuously apply a biasing force to the locking component (37) to bias the locking component (37) from the release position toward the locking position, and in particular the elastic member comprises a spring arranged radially outside the pair of locking plates.

10. The retaining fastener according to claim 9, wherein: The fastening device further comprises a limiting component in contact with the locking component, wherein the limiting component is configured to fix the locking component when the locking component is located at the releasing position and can be operated to release the locking component.

11. The retaining fastener according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein: The locking component (37) is located axially inside the threaded hole (3020) and is closely adjacent to the threaded hole. In particular, the thickness of the locking end (3720) of the locking component is greater than the pitch of the threaded hole (3020).

12. The retaining fastener (200) according to claim 1, wherein: The at least one locking element (210) includes at least one pawl (210a, 210b) and the retention feature (142) includes a plurality of ratchet teeth, the at least one pawl (210a, 210b) being releasably engageable with the ratchet teeth.

13. The retaining fastener (200) according to claim 12, wherein: The at least one pawl (210a, 210b) rotates about an axis (211) parallel to a longitudinal axis (A) of the cutting blade drive shaft (140); The at least one actuating element (220a, 220b) is arranged to translate in a radial direction (R) relative to the longitudinal axis (A) of the cutting blade drive shaft (140), and radial inward translation of the at least one actuating element (220a, 220b) causes rotation of the at least one pawl (210a, 210b) to disengage from the plurality of ratchet teeth on the cutting blade drive shaft (140).

14. The retaining fastener (300, 400) according to claim 1, wherein: The at least one locking element (310, 410) includes at least one sliding plate (310a, 310b, 410a, 410b), the at least one sliding plate (310a, 310b, 410a, 410b) being arranged to translate in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (A) of the cutting blade drive shaft (140), and the retaining feature (142) includes an annular groove, the at least one sliding plate (310a, 310b, 410a, 410b) being releasably engaged in the annular groove.

15. The retaining fastener (300, 400) according to claim 14, wherein: The at least one sliding plate (310a, 310b, 410a, 410b) is arranged to translate in a first radial direction (R1) relative to a longitudinal axis (A) of the cutting blade drive shaft (140); The at least one actuating element (320a, 320b, 420a, 420b) is arranged to translate in a second radial direction (R2) relative to the longitudinal axis (A) of the cutting blade drive shaft (140), and Radially inward translation of the at least one actuating element (320a, 320b, 420a, 420b) causes radially outward translation of the at least one sliding plate (310a, 310b, 410a, 410b) to disengage the annular groove on the cutting blade drive shaft (140).

16. The retaining fastener (300) according to any one of claims 14 to 15, wherein: The at least one actuating element (320a, 320b) includes a first surface (321), and the at least one sliding plate (310a, 310b) includes a second surface (311) corresponding to the first surface (321), wherein translation of the at least one actuating element (320a, 320b) causes the first surface (321) to slide against the second surface (311) to cause translation of the at least one sliding plate (310a, 310b).

17. The retaining fastener (300) according to claim 16, wherein: The retaining fastener comprises: two actuating elements (320a, 320b) arranged to translate in first relative radial directions (R1), each actuating element comprising two first surfaces (321); and Two sliding plates (310a, 310b) arranged to translate in second opposite radial directions (R2) perpendicular to the first opposite radial directions (R1), each sliding plate comprising two second surfaces (311), wherein radial inward translation of one of the two actuating elements (320a) causes each first surface (321) of the corresponding actuating element (320a) to slide against the second surface (311) of one sliding plate (310a) and the second surface (311) of the other sliding plate (310b), thereby causing radial outward translation of both the two sliding plates (310a, 310b), and The radial inward translation of the other of the two actuating elements (320b) causes each first surface (321) of the actuating element (320b) to slide relative to the second surface (311) of one sliding plate (310a) and the second surface (311) of the other sliding plate (310b), causing both the two sliding plates (310a, 310b) to translate radially outward.

18. The retaining fastener (400) according to any one of claims 14 to 15, wherein: The at least one actuating element (420a, 420b) is coupled to the at least one sliding plate (410a, 410b) via at least one linking element (440), wherein translation of the at least one actuating element (420a, 420b) causes translation of the at least one sliding plate (410a, 410b) via the linking element (440).

19. The retaining fastener (400) of claim 18, wherein: The retaining fastener comprises: two actuating elements (420a, 420b) arranged to translate in first relative radial directions (R1); two sliding plates (410a, 410b) arranged to translate in a second opposite radial direction (R2) perpendicular to the first opposite radial direction (R1); and four link elements (440) connecting the two actuating elements (420a, 420b) and the two sliding plates (410a, 410b), The radially inward translation of the two actuating elements (420a, 420b) causes the radially outward translation of the two sliding plates (410a, 410b).

20. The retaining fastener (300, 400) according to any one of claims 14 to 19, wherein: The at least one sliding plate (310a, 310b, 410a, 410b) includes a beveled surface, and optionally the cutting blade drive shaft (140) includes a corresponding grooved surface, so that when the retaining fastener (300, 400) is fastened to the cutting blade drive shaft (140), the at least one sliding plate (310a, 310b, 410a, 410b) translates radially outward.

21. The retaining fastener (200, 300, 400) according to any one of claims 12 to 20, wherein: It further includes at least one biasing spring (240), which biases the at least one locking element (210, 310, 410) and / or the at least one actuating element (220, 320, 420) to a state in which the at least one locking element (210, 310, 410) engages with the retaining feature (142).

22. A retaining system for securing at least one cutting blade (130a, 130b) to a garden machine, the system comprising: a cutting blade drive shaft (140), the retaining fastener comprising a threaded portion (141) and a clamping feature (142); a cutting blade holder (120), the cutting blade holder comprising at least one rotating clamp (121a, 121b), the cutting blade holder being configured to support the at least one cutting blade (130a, 130b) in a fixed position relative to the cutting blade drive shaft (140); and The retaining fastener according to any one of claims 1 to 21, Preferably, wherein the retaining feature (142) comprises one of the group consisting of a plurality of ratchet teeth and a circumferential groove.

23. The retention system of claim 22, wherein: The blade holder (120) is removably mounted to the cutting blade drive shaft (140), and the blade holder (120) includes a retaining feature (142) that engages the threaded portion (141) and the retaining fastener.

24. A gardening machine (100), comprising: at least one cutting blade (130a, 130b); An electric motor (110) configured to rotationally drive the at least one cutting blade (130a, 130b); and a retaining system according to any one of claims 22 and 23, preferably wherein the garden machine is one of the group consisting of a push mower, a riding mower, a robotic mower, an edge trimmer or a brush cutter.

25. An electric tool, characterized in that: The electric tool comprises: an operating component (20) mounted on an output shaft (12) of the electric tool; and According to any one of claims 2 to 11, the fastening device (30) is mounted on the output shaft (12) to block the outside of the working component (20).

26. The electric tool according to claim 25, characterized in that The electric tool further comprises a torque transmission assembly (40) directly mounted on the output shaft (12); the torque transmission assembly (40) and the working component (20) are fixed together in a clamping manner to transmit the rotation of the output shaft (12) to the working component (20).

27. The electric tool according to claim 26, characterized in that The output shaft includes a profiled section, the cross-sectional profile of the profiled section includes a straight line segment, and the torque transmission assembly (40) includes: A washer (41), wherein a through hole is provided on the washer, and the shape of the through hole is adapted to the special-shaped section; A clamp member (42) is positioned between the gasket (41) and the working component (20), and the clamp member (42) has a first clamp portion (4110) for radially clamping the gasket and a second clamp portion (4120) for radially clamping the working component (20).

28. Method for operating a holding system according to any one of claims 22 and 23, wherein: The method includes at least one of the following: fastening the retaining fastener (200, 300, 400) to the cutting blade drive shaft (140) by threading the retaining fastener (200, 300, 400) onto the threaded portion (141) of the cutting blade drive shaft (140) such that the at least one locking element (210, 310, 410) engages the retaining feature (142); and / or The retaining fastener (200, 300, 400) is released from the cutting blade drive shaft (140) by actuating the at least one actuating element (220, 320, 420) to engage the at least one locking element (210, 310, 410) with the retaining feature (142) and loosening the retaining fastener (200, 300, 400) from the threaded portion (141) of the cutting blade drive shaft (140).

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