Center lock and foldable tent with same

Abstract

The tent comprises a peripheral assembly and a plurality of inner telescopic units connected between the central lock and the peripheral assembly, each inner telescopic unit comprises a first ejector rod and a second ejector rod which are hinged to each other, and the central lock comprises a central rod, a first telescopic rod and a second telescopic rod, the bottom cap is arranged on the lower portion of the center rod and hinged to the second ejector rod. The top cap is arranged on the center rod in a sleeving manner and is hinged to the first top rod; the locking mechanism is arranged between the top cap and the center rod; the locking mechanism has a locking state in which the relative position between the top cap and the center rod is fixed and an unlocking state in which the relative position between the top cap and the center rod is released; an operating portion for locking and / or unlocking the locking mechanism is located at the bottom of the center lock, and the operating portion acts on the center rod. The locking mechanism is arranged between the top cap and the center rod, so that the structure of the locking mechanism is simplified; the bottom of the center lock is convenient to lock or unlock, the length of the center rod is not limited by a tent folding structure any more, and the center rod can extend upwards to erect the ceiling.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a central lock and a foldable tent having the central lock. Background Art

[0002] Traditional tents have locks located on their legs, requiring multiple people to coordinate and operate, making them extremely complex. Patent application number 201680023809.3 discloses a center lock and tent. The center pole in the center lock is fixedly connected to the top cap, and the locking mechanism is located between the center pole and the bottom cap. This results in a complex structure with numerous components. Furthermore, to accommodate the tent's expansion and folding, the center pole must be designed to a fixed length. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In order to solve the above problems, an object of the present invention is to provide a foldable tent.

[0004] In order to achieve the above purpose, the technical solution adopted by the present invention is:

[0005] A central lock for a foldable tent, the tent further comprising a peripheral assembly, a plurality of internal telescopic units connected between the central lock and the peripheral assembly, the internal telescopic units comprising a first top rod and a second top rod hinged to each other, the central lock comprising:

[0006] a bottom cap, wherein the second top rod is hingedly connected to the bottom cap;

[0007] a center rod, the lower portion of which is connected to the bottom cap;

[0008] a top cap, the top cap being arranged above the bottom cap, the first top rod being hinged to the top cap;

[0009] A locking mechanism is provided between the top cap and the center rod; the locking mechanism has a locked state and an unlocked state,

[0010] The center lock includes an operating portion, which is used for a user to operate to lock and / or unlock the locking mechanism, and the operating portion is located at the bottom of the center lock, and the operating portion acts on the center rod;

[0011] The locking mechanism includes a first locking member provided on the central rod and a second locking member provided on the top cap and adapted to the first locking member;

[0012] If the locking mechanism is in a locked state, the relative position between the top cap and the center rod is fixed and the relative position between the first locking member and the second locking member is fixed;

[0013] If the locking mechanism is in the unlocked state, the fixed relative position between the top cap and the center rod may be released and the fixed relative position between the first locking member and the second locking member may be released.

[0014] Furthermore, the first locking piece is arranged on the outer surface of the center rod, and the second locking piece is arranged on the inner surface of the top cap.

[0015] Furthermore, the central rod includes a lower rod and an upper rod, the lower rod is slidably connected to the upper rod, and the bottom cap is connected to the lower part of the lower rod.

[0016] Furthermore, if the locking mechanism is in a locked state, the top cap is connected to the lower rod;

[0017] If the tent is in a folded state, the top cap is separated from the lower pole.

[0018] Furthermore, the top cap is slidably connected to the center rod along the length direction of the center rod.

[0019] If the locking mechanism is in a locked state, the top cap is locked to the center rod;

[0020] If the tent is folded, the top cap slides toward the upper portion of the central pole;

[0021] If the tent is in a folded state, the top cap is located on the upper part of the central pole.

[0022] Furthermore, a top cover is provided on the top of the central pole, and the top cover is located above the top cap. If the tent is in a folded state, the top cap abuts against the top cover.

[0023] Furthermore, if the locking mechanism is in a locked state, the top cap is connected to the top of the center rod;

[0024] If the tent is in a folded state, the top cap is separated from the central pole.

[0025] Furthermore, a top cover is provided on the top of the top cap, and an accommodating cavity is provided inside the top cap. If the locking mechanism is in a locked state, the top of the center rod extends into the accommodating cavity and is located below the top cover.

[0026] Furthermore, the operating portion is located at the bottom cap or at the bottom of the center rod.

[0027] Furthermore, the locking mechanism includes:

[0028] The first locking member is a first clamping portion, which is provided on the central rod;

[0029] The second locking member is a second clamping portion, which is provided on the top cap;

[0030] If the locking mechanism is in a locked state, the first clamping portion is engaged with the second clamping portion; if the locking mechanism is in an unlocked state, the first clamping portion is separated from the second clamping portion.

[0031] Furthermore, a protrusion is provided on the center rod, and the protrusion has an upwardly protruding plug-in portion, and the first clamping portion is provided to protrude outward from the outer wall of the plug-in portion, and the top cap has a downwardly protruding extension portion, and there is a gap between the extension portion and the center rod, and the gap forms a slot, and the second clamping portion is a card slot provided on the inner wall of the slot. If the locking mechanism is in a locked state, the plug-in portion is inserted into the slot, and the first clamping portion and the second clamping portion are clamped to each other through the elasticity of the material itself.

[0032] Furthermore, the center rod and the bottom cap are rotationally connected, the first locking piece is a protrusion fixedly provided on the center rod, the second locking piece is a spiral groove provided on the top cap and a limiting groove connected to the terminal end of the spiral groove, and an elastic piece is arranged between the bottom cap and the center rod; the protrusion can move from the initial end of the spiral groove to the terminal end and press into the limiting groove under the action of external force; the elastic piece can apply force to the center rod under the action of external force so that the protrusion has a tendency to disengage from the limiting groove and move from the terminal end of the spiral groove to the initial end.

[0033] Furthermore, a blocking block is provided on the central rod, and the blocking block is located below the protruding portion, and the blocking block is used to limit the top cap.

[0034] Furthermore, the number of the protrusions is two and they are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the central rod, and the number of the spiral grooves is two and they correspond one-to-one to the two protrusions.

[0035] Furthermore, the locking mechanism includes:

[0036] The first locking member is a first magnetic member provided on the central rod;

[0037] The second locking member is a second magnetic member provided on the top cap;

[0038] If the locking mechanism is in a locked state, the first magnetic member is magnetically connected to the second magnetic member; if the locking mechanism is in an unlocked state, the first magnetic member is separated from the second magnetic member.

[0039] Furthermore, the first magnetic member is arranged on the top of the central rod; the second magnetic member is arranged on the upper part of the top cap, and a cavity is provided in the top cap;

[0040] When the locking mechanism is in a locked state, the central rod is at least partially located in the cavity, and the second magnetic member is magnetically connected to the first magnetic member.

[0041] Furthermore, the central rod comprises a lower rod and an upper rod, and the lower rod is slidably connected to the upper rod;

[0042] The first magnetic member is arranged on the upper part of the lower rod, the second magnetic member is arranged on the upper part of the top cap, a cavity is provided in the top cap, and the top cap is slidably arranged relative to the upper rod;

[0043] When the locking mechanism is in a locked state, the upper end of the upper rod is close to the upper end of the lower rod, the lower rod is at least partially located in the cavity, and the second magnetic member is magnetically connected to the first magnetic member; if the tent is in a folded state, the upper end of the upper rod is away from the upper end of the lower rod.

[0044] According to another aspect of the present invention, a foldable tent is provided, comprising the central lock as described above, the tent further comprising a peripheral component, a plurality of internal telescopic units connected between the central lock and the peripheral component, the internal telescopic units comprising a first top rod and a second top rod hinged to each other, the first top rod being hinged to the top cap, and the second top rod being hinged to the bottom cap.

[0045] Furthermore, the peripheral assembly includes a plurality of support legs, a plurality of external telescopic units connected between two adjacent support legs, a sliding sleeve being slidably provided on each support leg, each external telescopic unit including at least two cross rod groups connected in sequence, each cross rod group including two eaves rods arranged crosswise and hinged to each other, each end of the external telescopic unit having two connection points, of the two connection points at each end of the external telescopic unit, one is rotatably connected to the top of the corresponding support leg, and the other is rotatably connected to the sliding sleeve;

[0046] Each of the inner telescopic units includes at least two inner rod groups connected in sequence, each of the inner rod groups includes the first top rod and the second top rod, the outer end of the inner telescopic unit has two connection points, of the two connection points at the outer end of the inner telescopic unit, one is rotatably connected to the top of the corresponding support leg, and the other is rotatably connected to the sliding sleeve.

[0047] By adopting the above technical solution, the foldable tent of the present invention locates the locking mechanism between the top cap and the center pole, simplifying the locking mechanism's structure and saving costs. Furthermore, the center pole's length is no longer limited by the tent's folding structure, allowing it to be extended upward to raise the tent's fabric roof. Furthermore, unlocking the tent is performed at the base of the center lock, eliminating the need for the operator to insert their hand through the inner telescopic unit, resulting in greater convenience and reduced effort. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0048] In order to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present application or the technical solutions in the prior art, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the description of the prior art. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments recorded in this application. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without paying any creative work.

[0049] Attachment Figure 1 FIG2 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a foldable tent in an unfolded state according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the top of the center pole extends above the top cap, and the first top pole and the second top pole form an X shape;

[0050] Attachment Figure 2 For attachment Figure 1 A schematic structural diagram of the foldable tent in the folded state in the illustrated embodiment;

[0051] Attachment Figure 3 is a schematic structural diagram of a foldable tent in an unfolded state according to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the center pole does not extend out of the top cap, and the first top pole and the second top pole form an X shape;

[0052] Attachment Figure 4 This is a structural diagram of a foldable tent in an unfolded state according to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the first top rod and the second top rod are in a Y shape;

[0053] Attachment Figure 5 This is a structural diagram of a foldable tent in an unfolded state according to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the first top rod and the second top rod are in a Y shape;

[0054] Attachment Figure 6 FIG1 is a schematic structural diagram of a locking mechanism of a center lock in a locked state according to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the top of the center rod extends above the top cap;

[0055] Attachment Figure 7 For attachment Figure 6 A schematic cross-sectional view of the center lock shown;

[0056] Attachment Figure 8 For attachment Figure 6A schematic diagram of the structure of the locking mechanism of the central lock shown is in the unlocked state and the foldable tent is in the folded state;

[0057] Attachment Figure 9 For attachment Figure 8 A schematic cross-sectional view of the center lock shown;

[0058] Attachment Figure 10 For attachment Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of the locking mechanism of the center lock in the illustrated embodiment in the locked state, wherein the center rod does not extend out of the top cap;

[0059] Attachment Figure 11 For attachment Figure 10 A schematic cross-sectional view of the center lock shown;

[0060] Attachment Figure 12 For attachment Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the structure of the locking mechanism of the central lock shown is in the unlocked state and the foldable tent is in the folded state;

[0061] Attachment Figure 13 For attachment Figure 12 A schematic cross-sectional view of the center lock shown;

[0062] Attachment Figure 14 FIG1 is a schematic structural diagram of a locking mechanism of a center lock in a locked state according to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the top of the center rod extends above the top cap;

[0063] Attachment Figure 15 For attachment Figure 14 A schematic cross-sectional view of the center lock shown;

[0064] Attachment Figure 16 For attachment Figure 14 A schematic diagram of the structure of the locking mechanism of the central lock shown is in the unlocked state and the foldable tent is in the folded state;

[0065] Attachment Figure 17 For attachment Figure 16 A schematic cross-sectional view of the center lock shown;

[0066] Attachment Figure 18 For attachment Figure 14 A schematic diagram of the structure of the locking mechanism of the center lock in the illustrated embodiment in the locked state, wherein the center rod does not extend out of the top cap;

[0067] Attachment Figure 19 For attachment Figure 18 A schematic cross-sectional view of the center lock shown;

[0068] Attachment Figure 20 For attachment Figure 18 A schematic diagram of the structure of the locking mechanism of the central lock shown is in the unlocked state and the foldable tent is in the folded state;

[0069] Attachment Figure 21 For attachment Figure 20 A schematic cross-sectional view of the center lock shown;

[0070] Attachment Figure 22 FIG1 is a schematic structural diagram of a locking mechanism of a center lock in a locked state according to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the top of the center rod does not extend out of the top cap;

[0071] Attachment Figure 23 For attachment Figure 22 The main structural diagram of the center lock shown;

[0072] Attachment Figure 24 For attachment Figure 23 Schematic diagram of the AA section structure;

[0073] Attachment Figure 25 For attachment Figure 23 Schematic diagram of the BB cross-section structure;

[0074] Attachment Figure 26 For attachment Figure 22 A schematic structural diagram of the top cap of the center lock shown;

[0075] Attachment Figure 27 For attachment Figure 22 A schematic structural diagram showing a locking mechanism of the central lock in an unlocked state and a foldable tent in the process of folding;

[0076] Attachment Figure 28 For attachment Figure 27 The main structural diagram of the center lock shown;

[0077] Attachment Figure 29 For attachment Figure 28 Schematic diagram of the AA section structure;

[0078] Attachment Figure 30 For attachment Figure 22 A schematic diagram of the structure of the locking mechanism of the center lock in the locked state in the illustrated embodiment, wherein the top of the center rod extends above the top cap;

[0079] Attachment Figure 31 For attachment Figure 30 The main structural diagram of the center lock shown;

[0080] Attachment Figure 32 For attachment Figure 31 Schematic diagram of the AA section structure;

[0081] Attachment Figure 33 For attachment Figure 22 A schematic diagram of the structure of the locking mechanism of the central lock shown is in the unlocked state and the foldable tent is in the folded state;

[0082] Attachment Figure 34 For attachment Figure 33 The main structural diagram of the center lock shown;

[0083] Attachment Figure 35 For attachment Figure 34 Schematic diagram of the AA section structure;

[0084] Attachment Figure 36 This is a schematic diagram of a state in which the top cap is to be locked to the lower part of the center rod in another embodiment of the present invention;

[0085] Attachment Figure 37 for Figure 36 A schematic diagram of the top cap being separated from the center pole when the middle top cap is unlocked and the tent is in a folded state, wherein the first top pole connected to the top cap is omitted;

[0086] The numbers in the figure are:

[0087] 1-support leg; 11-sliding sleeve; 2-inner telescopic unit; 21-first top rod; 22-second top rod; 3-center lock; 31-bottom cap; 32-center rod; 32a-lower rod; 32b-upper rod; 321-first magnetic member; 322-first clamping portion; 323-protruding portion; 324-bump; 325-plug-in portion; 326-blocking block; 33-top cap; 331-second magnetic member; 332-second clamping portion; 333-spiral groove; 334-first accommodating groove; 335-second accommodating groove; 336-slot; 337-extension portion; 34-top cover; 35-elastic member; 4-outer telescopic unit; 41-eaves rod. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0088] The technical solution of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the embodiments described are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. All other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field based on the embodiments of the present invention without making any creative efforts shall fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0089] In the description of the present invention, it should be noted that the terms "upper," "lower," "inner," and "outer" are defined according to normal usage of tents. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0090] In addition, the technical features involved in the different embodiments of the present invention described below can be combined with each other as long as they do not conflict with each other.

[0091] Example 1: The tent in this embodiment has the following features: Figure 1 The expanded state shown and Figure 2 The folded state shown is shown in Figure 1 The foldable tent includes a central lock 3, a peripheral assembly, and multiple inner telescopic units 2 connected between the central lock 3 and the peripheral assembly. The peripheral assembly includes multiple support legs 1 and outer telescopic units 4 connected between two adjacent support legs 1. The support legs 1 in this embodiment are telescopic structures to further reduce the vertical dimensions of the tent when folded.

[0092] As attached Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the inner telescopic units 2 correspond to the support legs 1 one by one. The inner end of each inner telescopic unit 2 is connected to the center lock 3, and the outer end is connected to the corresponding support leg 1. Specifically, each inner telescopic unit 2 includes at least two inner rod groups connected in sequence, each inner rod group includes a first top rod 21 and a second top rod 22 that are hinged to each other, as shown in the attached figure. Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the middle portion of the first push rod 21 is hinged to the middle portion of the second push rod 22, so that the first push rod 21 and the second push rod 22 form an X shape. The specific connection method of the two adjacent inner rod groups is as follows: the first push rod 21 in one inner rod group is hinged to the second push rod 22 in the other inner rod group, and the second push rod 22 in one inner rod group is hinged to the first push rod 21 in the other inner rod group. The specific connection method of the inner telescopic unit 2 and the corresponding support leg 1 is as follows: a sliding sleeve 11 is slidingly provided on the support leg 1, and the outer end of the inner telescopic unit 2 has two connection points (i.e., the outer end of the first push rod 21 and the outer end of the second push rod 22 in the outermost inner rod group of the inner telescopic unit 2). Of the two connection points, one is rotationally connected to the top of the corresponding support leg 1, and the other is rotationally connected to the sliding sleeve 11. The specific connection structure between the external telescopic unit 4 and the support leg 1 is as follows: each external telescopic unit 4 includes at least two cross rod groups connected in sequence, each cross rod group includes two eaves rods 41 (crossed into an X shape) that are cross-arranged and hinged to each other, the two eaves rods 41 of the cross rod group in the external telescopic unit 4 correspond one-to-one with the two eaves rods 41 of the adjacent cross rod group and are hinged, the two ends of the external telescopic unit 4 correspond to different support legs 1, and each support leg 1 is respectively connected to the ends of two different external telescopic units 4. The specific connection method is as follows: each end of the external telescopic unit 4 has two connection points, and of the two connection points of each end of the external telescopic unit 4, one is rotatably connected to the top of the corresponding support leg 1, and the other is rotatably connected to the sliding sleeve 11.

[0093] In another embodiment, the number of internal telescopic units 2 is greater than the number of supporting legs 1. Among the multiple internal telescopic units 2, except for those connected one-to-one with the supporting legs 1, the outer ends of the remaining internal telescopic units 2 are connected to the outer telescopic units 4.

[0094] The center lock 3 comprises a bottom cap 31, a center rod 32, a top cap 33, and a locking mechanism. The inner end of the second top rod 22 (the second top rod 22 in the innermost inner rod group of the inner telescopic unit 2) is hingedly connected to the bottom cap 31, while the first top rod 21 (the first top rod 21 in the innermost inner rod group of the inner telescopic unit 2) is hingedly connected to the top cap 33. The bottom cap 31 is attached to the lower portion of the center rod 32, while the top cap 33 is located directly above the bottom cap 31 and is movable relative to the center rod 32.

[0095] The locking mechanism is arranged between the top cap 33 and the center pole 32. The locking mechanism has a locked state and an unlocked state. When the locking mechanism is in the locked state, the relative position between the top cap 33 and the center pole 32 is fixed, and the tent is locked in the expanded state. When the locking mechanism is in the unlocked state, the fixed relative position between the top cap 33 and the center pole 32 is released, and the tent can be folded or expanded.

[0096] In one embodiment, an operating portion for performing an unlocking or locking operation is further provided, and the operating portion is provided at the bottom of the center rod 32 or the bottom cap 31. By operating the bottom cap 31 or the bottom of the center rod 32, the locking mechanism is unlocked or locked.

[0097] As attached Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, a top cap 33 is slidably connected to the center pole 32 along the center pole 32. When the locking mechanism is locked, the top cap 33 is located in the middle of the center pole 32, and the top of the center pole 32 extends above the top cap 33. At this time, when the tarpaulin is draped over the tent frame, the upwardly extending center pole 32 serves to elevate the tarpaulin roof. When the locking mechanism is unlocked and the foldable tent is folded, the top cap 33 slides upward along the center pole 32 to the top of the center pole 32 as the tent folds.

[0098] In a more preferred embodiment, a top cover 34 is provided on top of the center pole 32. When the tent is folded, the top cap 33 is located below the top cover 34 (optionally abutting against the lower surface of the top cover 34). The top cover 34 supports the tarpaulin, preventing the center pole 32 from puncturing the tarpaulin. In addition, the top cover 34 can serve as an operating component when unlocking, folding, and unfolding the tent, making it easier for the user to grasp it during operation.

[0099] Example 2: Refer to the attached Figure 3The foldable tent in this embodiment differs from that in the first embodiment in that: in the center lock 3, the top cap 33 is detachably connected to the center rod 32, that is, when the locking mechanism is in a locked state, the top cap 33 is connected to the top of the center rod 32, that is, the center rod 32 does not extend out of the top cap 33; when the locking mechanism is unlocked and the foldable tent is in a folded state, the top cap 33 is detached from the center rod 32 as the tent folds upward.

[0100] Furthermore, the top cover 34 in this embodiment is arranged on the top of the top cap 33, and the top cap 33 has a first receiving groove 334. When the foldable tent is in the unfolded state and the locking mechanism is locked, the top of the center pole 32 extends into the first receiving groove 334 of the top cap 33 and is located below the top cover 34 (optionally abutting against the lower surface of the top cover 34). Please refer to the attached Figure 9 To the attached Figure 13 And attached Figure 18 To the attached Figure 29 The top cover 34 and the top cap 33 can be two fixedly connected parts, or can be integrally formed.

[0101] Example 3: The foldable tent in this embodiment is different from that in the above embodiments in that: in the center lock 3, the top cap 33 and the center pole 32 are connected in a manner that can slide relative to each other and can be detached, that is, different from the way in which the top cap 33 is connected to the top of the center pole 32 in Example 2, the top cap 33 in this embodiment is connected to the upper middle part of the center pole 32 or near the top. When the locking mechanism is in a locked state, the top cap 33 is located in the middle part of the center pole 32, and the top of the center pole 32 extends above the top cap 33. When the locking mechanism is unlocked, the top cap 33 slides upward along the center pole 32 as the tent is folded and finally detaches from the center pole 32.

[0102] Example 4: Refer to the attached Figure 4 Compared to the first embodiment, the foldable tent of this embodiment is similar in that each inner telescopic unit 2 includes two first top rods 21 and two second top rods 22, and the ends of the two first top rods 21 are hingedly connected. The difference is that the two second top rods 22 are respectively hingedly connected to the corresponding first top rod 21 near the middle (or middle) to form a "Y" shape at both ends of the inner telescopic unit 2. In this embodiment, each inner telescopic unit 2 has two inner rod groups. In the inner rod group on the inner side, the end of the second top rod 22 opposite to the end hinged to the bottom cap 31 is hingedly connected to the middle of the first top rod 21; in the outer rod group on the outer side, the end of the second top rod 22 opposite to the end hinged to the sleeve 11 is hingedly connected to the middle of the first top rod 21; and the outer end of the first top rod 21 in the inner rod group on the inner side is hingedly connected to the inner end of the first top rod 21 in the outer rod group on the outer side.

[0103] Compared with the X-shaped structure, the inner telescopic unit 2 with a "Y"-shaped structure uses fewer rods and the tent is lighter as a whole.

[0104] Example 5: Refer to the attached Figure 5 The foldable tent in this embodiment differs from the second embodiment described above in that the first and second top rods 21 and 22 of each inner rod group in the inner telescopic unit 2 form a Y-shape. The specific structure of the inner telescopic unit 2 and its connection with the support leg 1 and center lock 3 in this embodiment are essentially the same as those in the fourth embodiment described above and will not be repeated here.

[0105] Example 6: Refer to the attached Figure 6 To the attached Figure 13 This embodiment provides a specific structure of a locking mechanism, which is applicable to any of the foldable tents in the above-mentioned embodiments 1 to 5. Figure 6 To the attached Figure 9 The tent is shown in the unfolded state with the center pole 32 extending out of the top cap 33; Figure 10 To the attached Figure 13 The tent is shown in the unfolded state with the center pole 32 not extending out of the top cap 33 .

[0106] In this embodiment, the center rod 32 and the bottom cap 31 are fixedly connected.

[0107] The locking mechanism includes a first magnetic member 321 disposed on the center rod 32 and a second magnetic member 331 disposed on the top cap 33. When the locking mechanism is in a locked state, the first magnetic member 321 and the second magnetic member 331 are magnetically connected. When the locking mechanism is in an unlocked state, the first magnetic member 321 and the second magnetic member 331 are separated from each other.

[0108] Specifically, in the attached Figure 6 To the attached Figure 9 In the case where the tent is unfolded and the center pole 32 extends out of the top cap 33, the first magnetic member 321 is fixedly arranged in the middle of the center pole 32. Figure 6 To the attached Figure 9In the illustrated embodiment, the center pole 32 includes a lower pole 32a and an upper pole 32b. The lower portion of the lower pole 32a is connected to the bottom cap 31, and the bottom of the upper pole 32b is connected to the top of the lower pole 32a. The lower pole 32a is relatively thick, while the upper pole 32b is relatively thin. A first magnetic member 321 is disposed on the top of the lower pole 32a. A top cap 33 is slidably connected to the upper pole 32b and has a second receiving slot 335. When the tent is unfolded and the locking mechanism is locked, the top cap 33 slides to the bottom of the upper pole 32b, and the top of the lower pole 32a is inserted into the second receiving slot 335. This structural arrangement allows the lower pole 32a to support the top cap 33, thereby making the structure more stable after the center lock is locked. In an alternative embodiment, such as the seventh embodiment to be described below, the center rod 32 can be set to have the same thickness at the top and bottom, and then a protrusion 324 can be connected to the center rod 32 to replace the support function of the lower rod 32a on the top cap 33. The first magnetic member 321 is set on the protrusion 324 (no specific drawings are given, please refer to the attached figure). Figure 18 To the attached Figure 21 To understand the present structure), when locked, the top cap 33 slides along the center rod 32 to the position of the protrusion 324, and the protrusion 324 supports the top cap 33.

[0109] The lower rod 32a and upper rod 32b can be fixedly connected or slidably connected relative to each other. Specifically, the lower rod 32a has a cavity, and the upper rod 32b is retractably connected thereto. The slidable connection between the lower rod 32a and the upper rod 32b allows the overall length of the center rod 32 to be adjusted. When the tent is unfolded, the upper rod 32b slides relative to the lower rod 32a to a suitable position, for example, the lower portion of the upper rod 32b abuts the lower rod 32a, thereby propping up the tent tarpaulin to a suitable height. When the tent is folded, the top cap 33 slides to abut against the lower surface of the top cover 34, thereby pushing the upper rod 32b away from the lower rod 32a to meet the distance requirements between the first and second top rods 21 and 22 and the connection point with the center lock during folding. In particular, the overall length of the center rod 32 is made substantially the same as the length of the shortened support leg 1, thereby making the folded tent structure more compact.

[0110] Specifically, in the attached Figure 10 To the attached Figure 13 In the illustrated tent, with the center pole 32 deployed but not extending beyond the top cap 33, the first magnetic member 321 is fixed to the top of the center pole 32. When the locking mechanism is locked, the top of the center pole 32 is inserted into the first receiving slot 334 of the top cap 33, and the first magnetic member 321 and the second magnetic member 331 are attracted to each other.

[0111] Preferably, the first magnetic member 321 and the second magnetic member 331 are both annular, so that there is a relatively large contact area and an attractive force of magnetic connection between the two.

[0112] In a more preferred embodiment, in the above two cases, the second magnetic member 331 is arranged on the upper part of the top cap 33. When the first magnetic member 321 and the second magnetic member 331 are attracted to each other, the second magnetic member 331 is above the first magnetic member 321. The upper and lower structural settings can make the connection between the two more stable and prevent the two from detaching.

[0113] In the locking mechanism of this embodiment, when the tent is unfolded, after the top cap 33 slides to the corresponding position, the first magnetic part 321 and the second magnetic part 331 can automatically attract each other and connect. When unlocking is required, it is only necessary to use force to overcome the attraction of the magnetic connection between the first magnetic part 321 and the second magnetic part 331 to separate the two and achieve unlocking.

[0114] Example 7: Refer to the attached Figure 14 To the attached Figure 21 This embodiment provides a specific structure of a locking mechanism, which is applicable to any of the foldable tents in the above-mentioned embodiments 1 to 5. Figure 14 To the attached Figure 17 The tent is shown in the unfolded state with the center pole 32 extending out of the top cap 33; Figure 18 To the attached Figure 21 The tent is shown in the unfolded state with the center pole 32 not extending out of the top cap 33 .

[0115] In this embodiment, the center rod 32 and the bottom cap 31 are fixedly connected.

[0116] The locking mechanism in this embodiment includes a first clamping portion 322 arranged on the center rod 32 and a second clamping portion 332 arranged on the top cap 33. When the locking mechanism is in a locked state, the first clamping portion 322 is clamped with the second clamping portion 332. When the locking mechanism is in a locked state, the first clamping portion 322 is separated from the second clamping portion 332.

[0117] Specifically, in the above two situations (when the tent is unfolded, the center pole 32 extends out of the top cap 33 and the situation where 32 does not extend out of the top cap 33), a protrusion 324 is provided on the center pole 32, and the protrusion 324 is preferably annular. The protrusion 324 has an upwardly protruding plug-in portion 325, and the first clamping portion 322 is provided to protrude outward from the outer wall of the plug-in portion 325. The top cap 33 has a downwardly protruding extension portion 337, and there is a gap between the extension portion 337 and the center pole 32, which forms a slot 336. The second clamping portion 332 is a card groove provided on the inner wall of the slot 336. When the tent is unfolded, as the top cap 33 and the center pole 32 slide relative to each other, the plug-in portion 325 is inserted into the slot 336 of the top cap 33, and the first clamping portion 322 and the second clamping portion 332 are clamped to each other by the elasticity of the material itself, and at the same time, the protrusion 324 supports the top cap 33.

[0118] In the locking mechanism of this embodiment, when the tent is unfolded, after the top cap 33 slides to the corresponding position, the first clamping portion 322 and the second clamping portion 332 can be clamped to each other by the elasticity of the material itself. When unlocking is required, it is only necessary to use force to separate the first clamping portion 322 and the second clamping portion 332 to achieve unlocking.

[0119] Example 8: Refer to the attached Figure 22 To the attached Figure 35 This embodiment provides a specific structure of a locking mechanism, which is applicable to any of the foldable tents in the above-mentioned embodiments 1 to 5. Figure 22 To the attached Figure 29 The tent is shown in the unfolded state with the center pole 32 not extending out of the top cap 33; Figure 30 To the attached Figure 35 The tent is shown in the unfolded state with the center pole 32 extending out of the top cap 33 .

[0120] In this embodiment, the center rod 32 is connected to the bottom cap 31 in a rotational (eg, pivotal) manner. In addition to being able to slide relative to each other, the center rod 32 and the top cap 33 can also be relatively rotated (eg, pivoted).

[0121] The locking mechanism includes a protrusion 323 fixedly mounted on the center rod 32 and a spiral groove 333 disposed on the top cap 33. Preferably, there are two protrusions 323, symmetrically disposed on either side of the center rod 32, and correspondingly, two spiral grooves 333 are also symmetrically disposed. Specifically, the protrusion 323 may be a pin connected to the center rod 32. More specifically, the pin is fixedly inserted into the center rod 32, with both ends of the pin extending from the center rod 32 to form two symmetrical protrusions 323. The spiral groove 333 has a starting end and a terminal end, with a retaining groove at the terminal end that cooperates with the protrusion 323. The locking mechanism further includes an elastic member 35 disposed between the bottom cap 31 and the center rod 32. The elastic member 35 is preferably a torsion spring. In the above two situations (when the tent is unfolded, the center rod 32 extends out of the top cap 33 and the center rod 32 does not extend out of the top cap 33), the center rod 32 is manually rotated to switch the locking mechanism to the locked state. During the process of switching to the locked state, the protrusion 323 rotates from the starting end of the spiral groove 333 to the terminal end of the spiral groove 333. At this time, the torsion spring is in a deformed state. Therefore, after the external force is removed, the protrusion 323 returns to the original position. It is rotated into the limiting groove and abuts against the groove wall of the limiting groove. When the protrusion 323 is stuck in the limiting groove, the torsion spring is preferably restored to a natural state (the second choice is to restore to a state close to the natural state); when the locking mechanism needs to be converted from a locked state to an unlocked state, the rotating operating part on the bottom cap 31 is manually operated. The rotating operating part can drive the torsion spring to rotate, and then the torsion spring applies force to the center rod 32 to make the protrusion 323 disengage from the limiting groove and move from the terminal end of the spiral groove 333 to the starting end, and finally exit the spiral groove 333.

[0122] In a more preferred embodiment, a blocking block 326 is further provided on the center rod 32. The blocking block 326 is preferably annular and is located below the protrusion 323. When the locking mechanism is locked, the blocking block 326 supports the top cap 33 to reduce the force on the protrusion 323.

[0123] See further Figures 32-35 The center rod 32 includes a lower rod 32a and an upper rod 32b, the upper part of the lower rod 32a and the lower part of the upper rod 32b are slidingly connected, the protrusion 323 and the blocking block 326 are arranged on the lower rod 32a, and the top cap 33 is slidingly connected relative to the upper rod 32b.

[0124] In this embodiment, when the tent is deployed and the top cap 33 slides to its desired position, the protrusion 323 on the center rod 32 aligns with the corresponding spiral groove 333 and enters the shallower end of the spiral groove 333. As the protrusion 323 slides deeper along the spiral groove 333, the interaction between the spiral groove 333 and the protrusion 323 causes the center rod 32 to rotate relative to the top cap 33 and the bottom cap 31. Under the action of the elastic member 35, the protrusion 323 abuts against the retaining groove at the terminal end of the spiral groove 333 and prevents it from dislodging. To unlock the tent, the rotating operating portion on the bottom cap 31 is rotated, causing the elastic member 35 to rotate, which in turn rotates the center rod 32. The center rod 32 rotates in the opposite direction during the unlocking operation as during the locking operation, causing the protrusion 323 to exit the spiral groove 333, thereby achieving unlocking.

[0125] Example 9: Refer to the attached Figures 36-37 In this embodiment, the top cap 33 of the foldable tent is connected to the center pole 32 in a sliding manner along the center pole 32. If the locking mechanism is in a locked state, the top cap 33 is locked to the lower part of the center pole 32; when the tent is folded, the top cap 33 slides toward the upper part of the center pole 32; if the tent is in a folded state, the top cap 33 is detached from the center pole 32.

[0126] This embodiment mainly limits the locking position to the lower part of the center pole 32, and the top of the center pole 32 does not have the top cover 34 described in the previous embodiments. Therefore, when the tent is in the folded state, the top cap 33 moves upward and eventually separates from the center pole 32. Therefore, it can be optionally combined with the specific implementation methods of the locking mechanism of the above-mentioned embodiments 1 to 8, such as the locking mechanism including the first magnetic member 321 and the second magnetic member 331 in the sixth embodiment, the locking mechanism including the first clamping portion 322 and the second clamping portion 332 in the seventh embodiment, and the locking mechanism including the protrusion 323 and the spiral groove 333 in the eighth embodiment.

[0127] It should be noted that Figure 36 、 Figure 37 The protrusion 323 and the blocking block 326 shown in the figure on the center rod 32 are merely examples of the combination with the locking mechanism of the eighth embodiment, and are not intended to be a specific limitation of the locking mechanism in this embodiment.

[0128] In the foldable tent described above, the locking mechanism is positioned between the top cap and the center pole, simplifying the locking mechanism and reducing costs. Furthermore, the center pole's length is no longer limited by the tent's folding structure, allowing it to be extended upward to raise the tent's roof. Furthermore, unlocking the tent is performed at the base of the center lock, eliminating the need for operators to insert their hands through the inner telescopic unit, resulting in greater convenience and reduced effort.

[0129] The above embodiments are intended only to illustrate the technical concepts and features of the present invention. Their purpose is to enable those skilled in the art to understand the contents of the present invention and implement them accordingly. They are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present invention. Any equivalent changes or modifications made in accordance with the spirit of the present invention are intended to be covered by the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A central lock for a foldable tent, the tent further comprising a peripheral assembly, a plurality of inner telescopic units (2) connected between the central lock (3) and the peripheral assembly, the inner telescopic units (2) comprising a first push rod (21) and a second push rod (22) hinged to each other, characterized in that: The center lock (3) comprises: A bottom cap (31), wherein the second top rod (22) is hingedly connected to the bottom cap (31); a center rod (32), the lower portion of the center rod (32) being connected to the bottom cap (31); A top cap (33), the top cap (33) is arranged above the bottom cap (31), and the first top rod (21) is hinged to the top cap (33); A locking mechanism is provided between the top cap (33) and the center rod (32); the locking mechanism has a locked state and an unlocked state, The central lock comprises an operating portion, the operating portion being used for a user to operate to lock and / or unlock the locking mechanism, the operating portion being located at the bottom of the central lock (3) and acting on the central rod (32); The locking mechanism comprises a first locking member provided on the central rod (32) and a second locking member provided on the top cap (33) and adapted to the first locking member; If the locking mechanism is in a locked state, the relative position between the top cap (33) and the center rod (32) is fixed and the relative position between the first locking member and the second locking member is fixed; If the locking mechanism is in the unlocked state, the fixed relative position between the top cap (33) and the center rod (32) can be released and the fixed relative position between the first locking member and the second locking member can be released.

2. The center lock according to claim 1, characterized in that The first locking piece is arranged on the outer surface of the center rod (32), and the second locking piece is arranged on the inner surface of the top cap (33).

3. The center lock according to claim 1, characterized in that The center rod (32) includes a lower rod (32a) and an upper rod (32b), the lower rod (32a) is slidably connected to the upper rod (32b), and the bottom cap (31) is connected to the lower part of the lower rod (32a).

4. The center lock according to claim 3, characterized in that: If the locking mechanism is in a locked state, the top cap (33) is connected to the lower rod (32a); If the tent is in a folded state, the top cap (33) is separated from the lower pole (32a).

5. The center lock according to claim 1, characterized in that: The top cap (33) is connected to the center rod (32) in a sliding manner along the length direction of the center rod (32). If the locking mechanism is in a locked state, the top cap (33) is locked to the center rod (32); If the tent is folded, the top cap (33) slides toward the upper portion of the central pole (32); If the tent is in a folded state, the top cap (33) is located above the center pole (32).

6. The center lock according to claim 5, characterized in that: A top cover (34) is provided on the top of the central pole (32), and the top cover (34) is located above the top cap (33). If the tent is in a folded state, the top cap (33) and the top cover (34) are in contact with each other.

7. The center lock according to claim 1, characterized in that: If the locking mechanism is in a locked state, the top cap (33) is connected to the top of the center rod (32); If the tent is in a folded state, the top cap (33) is separated from the center pole (32).

8. The center lock according to claim 1, characterized in that: A top cover (34) is provided on the top of the top cap (33), and a receiving cavity is provided inside the top cap (33). If the locking mechanism is in a locked state, the top of the center rod (32) extends into the receiving cavity and is located below the top cover (34).

9. The center lock according to claim 1, characterized in that: The operating portion is located at the bottom cap (31) or at the bottom of the center rod (32).

10. The center lock according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that The locking mechanism comprises: The first locking member is a first clamping portion (322), which is arranged on the central rod (32); The second locking member is a second clamping portion (332), which is arranged on the top cap (33); If the locking mechanism is in a locked state, the first clamping portion (322) and the second clamping portion (332) are clamped together; if the locking mechanism is in an unlocked state, the first clamping portion (322) and the second clamping portion (332) are separated.

11. The center lock according to claim 10, characterized in that: The center rod (32) is provided with a protrusion (324), and the protrusion (324) has an upwardly protruding plug-in portion (325). The first clamping portion (322) is provided to protrude outward from the outer wall of the plug-in portion (325). The top cap (33) has a downwardly protruding extension portion (337). There is a gap between the extension portion (337) and the center rod (32), and the gap forms a slot (336). The second clamping portion (332) is a card slot provided on the inner wall of the slot (336). If the locking mechanism is in a locked state, the plug-in portion (325) is inserted into the slot (336), and the first clamping portion (322) and the second clamping portion (332) are clamped and connected to each other through the elasticity of the material itself.

12. The center lock according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that: The center rod (32) and the bottom cap (31) are rotatably connected, the first locking member is a protrusion (323) fixedly arranged on the center rod (32), the second locking member is a spiral groove (333) arranged on the top cap (33) and a limiting groove communicated with the terminal end of the spiral groove (333), and an elastic member (35) is arranged between the bottom cap (31) and the center rod (32); the protrusion (323) can move from the initial end of the spiral groove (333) to the terminal end and press into the limiting groove under the action of an external force; the elastic member (35) can apply a force to the center rod (32) under the action of an external force so that the protrusion (323) has a tendency to break away from the limiting groove and move from the terminal end of the spiral groove (333) to the initial end.

13. The center lock according to claim 12, characterized in that: A blocking block (326) is also provided on the central rod (32), and the blocking block (326) is located below the protruding portion (323). The blocking block (326) is used to limit the top cap (33).

14. The center lock according to claim 12, characterized in that: The number of the protrusions (323) is two and they are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the central rod (32), and the number of the spiral grooves (333) is two and they correspond one-to-one to the two protrusions (323).

15. The center lock according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that The locking mechanism comprises: The first locking member is a first magnetic member (321) provided on the central rod (32); The second locking member is a second magnetic member (331) provided on the top cap (33); If the locking mechanism is in a locked state, the first magnetic member (321) and the second magnetic member (331) are magnetically connected; if the locking mechanism is in an unlocked state, the first magnetic member (321) and the second magnetic member (331) are separated from each other.

16. The center lock according to claim 15, characterized in that: The first magnetic member (321) is arranged on the top of the central rod (32); the second magnetic member (331) is arranged on the upper part of the top cap (33); and a cavity is provided in the top cap (33); When the locking mechanism is in a locked state, the central rod (32) is at least partially located in the cavity, and the second magnetic member (331) is magnetically connected to the first magnetic member (321).

17. The center lock according to claim 15, characterized in that: The central rod (32) includes a lower rod (32a) and an upper rod (32b), wherein the lower rod (32a) is slidably connected to the upper rod (32b); The first magnetic member (321) is arranged on the upper part of the lower rod (32a), the second magnetic member (331) is arranged on the upper part of the top cap (33), a cavity is provided in the top cap (33), and the top cap (33) is slidably arranged relative to the upper rod (32b); When the locking mechanism is in a locked state, the upper end of the upper rod (32b) is close to the upper end of the lower rod (32a), the lower rod (32a) is at least partially located in the cavity, and the second magnetic member (331) is magnetically connected to the first magnetic member (321); if the tent is in a folded state, the upper end of the upper rod (32b) is away from the upper end of the lower rod (32a).

18. A foldable tent, characterized in that: The tent comprises a central lock as described in any one of claims 1 to 17, and further comprises a peripheral component, a plurality of internal telescopic units (2) connected between the central lock (3) and the peripheral component, the internal telescopic units (2) comprising a first top rod (21) and a second top rod (22) hinged to each other, the first top rod (21) being hinged to the top cap (33), and the second top rod (22) being hinged to the bottom cap (31).

19. The foldable tent according to claim 18, wherein: The peripheral assembly comprises a plurality of support legs (1), a plurality of external telescopic units (4) connected between two adjacent support legs (1), a sliding sleeve (11) being slidably provided on each support leg (1), each external telescopic unit (4) comprising at least two cross rod groups connected in sequence, each cross rod group comprising two eaves rods (41) cross-arranged and hinged to each other, each end of the external telescopic unit (4) having two connection points, one of the two connection points at each end of the external telescopic unit (4) being rotatably connected to the top of the corresponding support leg (1), and the other being rotatably connected to the sliding sleeve (11); Each of the inner telescopic units (2) comprises at least two inner rod groups connected in sequence, each of the inner rod groups comprises the first top rod (21) and the second top rod (22), the outer end of the inner telescopic unit (2) has two connection points, one of the two connection points at the outer end of the inner telescopic unit (2) is rotatably connected to the top of the corresponding support leg (1), and the other is rotatably connected to the sliding sleeve (11).

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