Gimbal assembly for rotary reducer and rotary reducer

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of reducers, and discloses a universal assembly for a rotary reducer and the rotary reducer. The universal assembly comprises a torque input piece, a torque output piece and a key pin. The torque input piece is rotatable relative to a base assembly of the rotary reducer, and the torque input piece is provided with a mounting cavity. The torque output piece comprises an output shaft and a spherical connecting piece. Along the axial direction of the output shaft, the spherical connecting piece is arranged at one end of the output shaft and at least partially arranged in the mounting cavity. The outer circumferential surface of the spherical connecting piece is provided with two first sliding grooves. Both the first sliding grooves extend along the outer surface of the spherical connecting piece. Along one radial direction of the spherical connecting piece, the projections of the two first sliding grooves are coincident with the projection of the axis of the spherical connecting piece. The key pin is two, each key pin is arranged on the inner wall of the mounting cavity, and each key pin is slidingly matched with the corresponding first sliding groove along the length direction of the first sliding groove.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of speed reducer technology, and more particularly to a universal joint assembly for a rotary speed reducer and a rotary speed reducer. Background Technology

[0002] A speed reducer is an independent component consisting of gear transmission, worm transmission, or gear-worm transmission enclosed in a rigid housing. It is commonly used as a speed reduction transmission device between the prime mover and the working machine, and plays a role in matching speed and transmitting torque between the prime mover and the working machine or actuator. It is widely used in modern machinery.

[0003] In large-scale commercial photovoltaic power plants, solar tracking systems can maximize the reception of solar radiation by adjusting the orientation of photovoltaic modules in real time. However, photovoltaic tracking systems are mostly deployed in open outdoor areas and must withstand complex conditions such as wind, sand, rain, snow, temperature fluctuations, and foundation settlement over a long period of time. The reducer that drives the main beam to rotate is the core power component, and its reliability directly determines the operational stability of the tracking system. Once the reducer fails to transmit torque or jams, it will not only cause a single photovoltaic module to stop, but may also trigger a chain of failures, resulting in huge power generation losses. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a universal joint assembly for a rotary reducer and a rotary reducer, which improves reliability.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the main technical solutions adopted in this application include: In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a universal assembly for a rotary reducer, comprising: a torque input component, a torque output component, and key pins; the torque input component is rotatable relative to the base assembly of the rotary reducer, and the torque input component has a mounting cavity; the torque output component includes an output shaft and a ball joint, the ball joint being disposed at one end of the output shaft and at least partially disposed in the mounting cavity along the axial direction of the output shaft, the outer peripheral surface of the ball joint being provided with two first sliding grooves, both of the two first sliding grooves extending along the outer surface of the ball joint and along one radial direction of the ball joint, the projections of the two first sliding grooves coinciding with the projection of the axis of the ball joint; there are two key pins, each key pin being disposed on the inner wall of the mounting cavity and along the length direction of the first sliding groove, each key pin slidably engaging with the corresponding first sliding groove.

[0006] According to the universal joint assembly for a rotary reducer proposed in the first aspect of this application, the outer circumferential surface of the spherical connector is provided with only two first sliding grooves, and the inner wall of the mounting cavity is provided with only two key pins, and each key pin slides into the first sliding groove. Compared with the prior art, which provides four sliding tracks on both the torque input and torque output components, the universal joint assembly of this application greatly increases the rotation range between the torque output and torque input components, and can even rotate within a 360° range, truly achieving rotation in any direction.

[0007] In one embodiment of this application, the position of each of the key pins on the inner wall of the mounting cavity remains unchanged.

[0008] In one embodiment of this application, the two key pins are symmetrically arranged about the rotation axis of the torque input element.

[0009] In one embodiment of this application, the inner wall of the mounting cavity is provided with two grooves, and each key pin includes a first mating part and a second mating part connected in sequence. The first mating part is movably mated to the corresponding groove, and the second mating part is slidably mated to the corresponding first groove along the length direction of the first groove.

[0010] In one embodiment of this application, the mounting cavity is a spherical cavity, and the projections of the two grooves at least partially overlap along the radial direction of the mounting cavity.

[0011] In one embodiment of this application, the shape of the first mating part is the same as the shape of the corresponding groove.

[0012] In one embodiment of this application, the first mating part includes a first segment, the first segment being configured as a hemispherical structure, the groove includes a first groove, the first groove being configured as a hemispherical groove, and the first segment being movably mated to the first groove.

[0013] In one embodiment of this application, the first mating part further includes a second segment, which is constructed as a cylindrical structure. Along the axial direction of the cylindrical structure, both ends of the second segment are connected to the first segment and the second mating part, respectively. The groove further includes a second groove, which is constructed as a cylindrical groove. Along the axial direction of the cylindrical groove, one end of the second groove is connected to the first groove. The second segment is movably fitted into the second groove.

[0014] In one embodiment of this application, at least a portion of the second mating part may be in contact with the corresponding inner sidewall of the first groove, optionally on a ground surface.

[0015] In one embodiment of this application, the inner wall of the first chute includes a bottom wall, a first side wall, and a second side wall, wherein the bottom wall connects the first side wall and the second side wall, and the first side wall and the second side wall are disposed opposite to each other; The second mating part includes a first side and a second side disposed opposite to each other. The first side can be selectively attached to the ground surface of the first sidewall, and the second side can be selectively attached to the ground surface of the second sidewall.

[0016] In one embodiment of this application, both the first side and the second side are constructed as planes, and both the first sidewall and the second sidewall are constructed as planar sidewalls.

[0017] In one embodiment of this application, both the first side and the second side are constructed as arcuate surfaces that protrude away from each other, the first sidewall is constructed as an arcuate sidewall that mates with the first side, and the second sidewall is constructed as an arcuate sidewall that mates with the second side.

[0018] In one embodiment of this application, at least a portion of the first mating part is a spherical structure, and the second mating part is a rectangular block structure.

[0019] In one embodiment of this application, the inner wall of the mounting cavity is provided with two grooves, the key pin is constructed as a spherical structure, a part of the key pin is disposed in the corresponding groove, and the other part of the key pin is slidably engaged with the corresponding first groove.

[0020] In one embodiment of this application, the projection of the rotation axis of the output shaft along the radial direction of the spherical connector falls within the projection of any of the first grooves.

[0021] In one embodiment of this application, the torque input element is constructed as a worm gear, and the output shaft is constructed as a square tube.

[0022] In one embodiment of this application, the worm gear includes a body portion and a cover plate, the cover plate being detachably disposed on the body portion, and the cover plate and the body portion defining the mounting cavity.

[0023] In one embodiment of this application, the body and the cover are connected in sequence along the rotational axis of the torque input element.

[0024] In one embodiment of this application, the universal assembly further includes a sealing cover located outside the output shaft and the torque input component, with both ends of the sealing cover connected to the output shaft and the torque input component, respectively.

[0025] In one embodiment of this application, the inner wall of the mounting cavity is provided with two second sliding grooves, the length direction of each second sliding groove is parallel to the length direction of the corresponding first sliding groove, one side of each key pin is engaged with the corresponding second sliding groove, and the other side of each key pin is slidably engaged with the corresponding first sliding groove.

[0026] Secondly, embodiments of this application propose a rotary reducer, including a base assembly, a drive member, and a universal joint assembly according to any embodiment, wherein a torque input member is rotatably disposed on the base assembly; the drive member is poweredly connected to the torque input member.

[0027] According to the rotary reducer proposed in the second aspect of this application, since it has the universal joint of any embodiment, the rotation range between the torque output member and the torque input member is greatly increased. When the ground is uneven, the angle between the torque output member and the torque input member can be adjusted by the universal joint, so that the photovoltaic panel connected to the output shaft can be maintained in the initial state without being affected by the ground unevenness. Attached Figure Description

[0028] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the specific embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0029] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the rotary reducer in use in some embodiments of this application; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the rotary reducer in some embodiments of this application; Figure 3 This is a front view structural schematic diagram of the rotary reducer in some other embodiments of this application; Figure 4 for Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure along the AA direction; Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the rotary reducer from another perspective; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the torque output component and key-pin engagement in some embodiments of this application; Figure 7 for Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure in the middle BB direction; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a torque output component according to other embodiments of this application.

[0030] [Explanation of Labels in the Attached Image] 1001. Universal joint assembly; 100. Torque input component; 110. Mounting cavity; 111. Groove; 200. Torque output component; 210. Output shaft; 220. Ball joint connector; 221, First groove; 221a, First sidewall; 221b, Bottom wall; 221c, Second sidewall; 300. Key pin; 310. First mating part; 311. First section; 312. Second section; 320. Second mating part; 321. First side surface; 322. Second side surface; 400. Worm gear; 410. Body section; 420. Cover plate; 500, Sealing Cover; 1000. Rotary reducer; 1002. Base assembly; 1003. Drive components; 2000, photovoltaic panels. Detailed Implementation

[0031] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0032] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains; the terminology used in the description of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the application; the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, in the description, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. The terms "first," "second," etc., in the description, claims, or accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish different objects, not to describe a specific order or hierarchy.

[0033] In this application, the reference to "embodiment" means that a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a mutually exclusive, independent, or alternative embodiment. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described in this application can be combined with other embodiments.

[0034] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "attachment" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0035] In this application, the term "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, in this application, the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0036] In this application, "multiple" refers to two or more (including two), similarly, "multiple sets" refers to two or more (including two sets), and "multiple pieces" refers to two or more (including two pieces).

[0037] A speed reducer is an independent component consisting of gear transmission, worm transmission, or gear-worm transmission enclosed in a rigid housing. It is commonly used as a speed reduction transmission device between the prime mover and the working machine, and plays a role in matching speed and transmitting torque between the prime mover and the working machine or actuator. It is widely used in modern machinery.

[0038] In large-scale commercial photovoltaic power plants, solar tracking systems can maximize the reception of solar radiation by adjusting the orientation of photovoltaic modules in real time. However, photovoltaic tracking systems are mostly deployed in open outdoor areas and must withstand complex conditions such as wind, sand, rain, snow, temperature fluctuations, and foundation settlement over a long period of time. The reducer that drives the main beam to rotate is the core power component, and its reliability directly determines the operational stability of the tracking system. Once the reducer fails to transmit torque or jams, it will not only cause a single photovoltaic module to stop, but may also trigger a chain of failures, resulting in huge power generation losses.

[0039] After the reducer base assembly is installed, ground subsidence or crustal movement will cause the angle of the photovoltaic panel 2000 to change with the undulation of the ground. Therefore, a structure is needed to keep the photovoltaic panel 2000 in its original state even if the ground is uneven.

[0040] Alternatively, in cases of uneven terrain, ensuring that all foundations are at the same height to guarantee that the speed reducer is installed at the same height presents a significant construction challenge.

[0041] However, existing speed reducers either have limited rotational range between their torque output and input components, making them unsuitable for a wider range of operating conditions, or they suffer from poor torque transmission efficiency, preventing them from outputting larger torques. Therefore, existing speed reducers have poor reliability. Improving the reliability of speed reducers is a pressing technical problem that needs to be solved.

[0042] In view of this, in order to improve the reliability of the reducer, this application embodiment proposes a universal assembly 1001 for a rotary reducer 1000. The torque output component 200 of the universal assembly 1001 includes an output shaft 210 and a ball joint 220. The outer peripheral surface of the ball joint 220 is provided with only two first sliding grooves 221, which are symmetrically arranged with respect to the axis of the ball joint 220. At the same time, there are only two key pins 300. Each key pin 300 is provided on the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110 and slides along the length direction of the first sliding groove 221. Each key pin 300 is slidably engaged with the corresponding first sliding groove 221.

[0043] In existing reducers, a torque input component is fitted onto a torque output component. The inner spherical surface of the torque input component has four first slide rails, evenly spaced and circumferentially arranged along the inner spherical surface. The outer spherical surface of the torque output component has four second slide rails, also evenly spaced and circumferentially arranged along the outer spherical surface. The reducer also includes four ball pins, each engaging with a corresponding first slide rail of the torque input component and a corresponding second slide rail of the torque output component. However, this configuration restricts the torque output component to rotation only within the rotational channel formed by the two sets of opposing first slide rails, preventing 360° rotation and significantly reducing the rotational range between the torque output and torque input components.

[0044] In this application, the outer peripheral surface of the spherical connector 220 is provided with only two first sliding grooves 221, and the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110 is provided with only two key pins 300. Each key pin 300 slides in the first sliding groove 221, thereby greatly increasing the rotation range between the torque output component 200 and the torque input component 100, and can even rotate within a 360° range.

[0045] The universal assembly 1001 for a rotary reducer 1000 proposed in this application is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0046] Please refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 According to the first aspect of the present application, the universal joint 1001 for a rotary reducer 1000 includes: a torque input component 100, a torque output component 200, and a key pin 300.

[0047] The torque input component 100 is rotatable relative to the base assembly 1002 of the rotary reducer 1000. The torque input component 100 has a mounting cavity 110, which can be constructed as a spherical chamber or a cavity that is narrow on both sides and wide in the middle. This allows the spherical connector 220 to rotate within the mounting cavity 110 without dislodging when it is positioned therein. It is understood that the torque input component 100 serves to input torque, providing an active output basis for torque transmission and ensuring that the torque from the power source can be stably input into the component.

[0048] As an example, the torque input component 100 is rotatable relative to the base assembly 1002 of the rotary reducer 1000. Its rotational fit can be achieved by a deep groove ball bearing or a tapered roller bearing. The inner ring of the bearing is interference-fitted with the outer circumferential surface of the torque input component 100, and the outer ring is transition-fitted with the bearing housing of the base assembly 1002, which ensures both rotational flexibility and the ability to withstand radial loads. The torque input component 100 has a mounting cavity 110, the inner diameter of which is adapted to the outer diameter of the spherical connector 220. A certain radial clearance is usually reserved to avoid interference between the two due to assembly errors or thermal expansion.

[0049] The torque output component 200 includes an output shaft 210 and a ball joint 220. Along the axial direction of the output shaft 210, the ball joint 220 is disposed at one end of the output shaft 210 and at least partially disposed in the mounting cavity 110. The outer circumferential surface of the ball joint 220 is provided with two first grooves 221, which are located on opposite sides of the axis of the ball joint 220. It should be noted that the axis of the ball joint 220 coincides with the central axis of the output shaft 210.

[0050] It is understood that the first groove 221 can extend along the outer surface of the spherical connector 220, and the projection of the two first grooves 221 on a radial direction of the spherical connector 220 coincides with the axis of the spherical connector 220. The extension lengths of the two first grooves 221 on the outer surface of the spherical connector 220 can be the same or different, and this application does not limit this.

[0051] There are two key pins 300. Each key pin 300 is disposed on the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110 and slides along the length of the first slide groove 221. Each key pin 300 is slidably engaged with the corresponding first slide groove 221.

[0052] According to the universal assembly 100 of this application, the outer peripheral surface of the ball connector 220 is provided with only two first sliding grooves 221, and the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110 is provided with only two key pins 300, and each key pin 300 slides in the first sliding groove 221. Compared with the prior art, which provides four sliding tracks on both the torque input component and the torque output component, the universal assembly 1001 of this application greatly increases the rotation range between the torque output component 200 and the torque input component 100, and can even rotate within a 360° range, truly achieving rotation in any direction.

[0053] According to some embodiments of this application, the position of each key pin 300 on the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110 remains unchanged. That is, the key pin 300 does not slide on the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110, but is in a relatively fixed position on the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110.

[0054] Understandably, although the position of each key pin 300 on the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110 remains unchanged, each key pin 300 is movably fitted to the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110, and the key pin 300 can rotate around its own axis, thereby increasing the range of rotation between the torque output component 200 and the torque input component 100, and truly realizing "universal" transmission.

[0055] Furthermore, the minimum distance between each key pin 300 and the axis of the torque input member 100 is approximately the same as the radius of the mounting cavity 110. Specifically, the mounting cavity 110 is a spherical chamber, defining a first plane perpendicular to the axis of the torque input member 100. The area where this first plane intersects with the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110 forms a first annulus, the radius of which is the same as the radius of the mounting cavity 110, and the first plane passes through two key pins 300. This allows the key pins 300 to transmit the maximum torque.

[0056] In the prior art, a retainer is used to fix the position of the key pin. However, after using a retainer, either the contact area between the key pin and the first slide groove becomes smaller, resulting in a smaller transmitted torque, or the overall structure of the universal assembly 1001 needs to be enlarged, which leads to an increase in the overall production cost and the corresponding increase in operating cost.

[0057] In some embodiments of this application, the two key pins 300 are symmetrically arranged about the axis of the torque input member 100. That is, the two key pins 300 are located on opposite sides of the axis of the torque input member 100.

[0058] Furthermore, the distances between the two key pins 300 and the axis of the torque input component 100 are equal. Therefore, the torque transmitted to the torque output component 200 through the two key pins 300 is the same, resulting in stable force distribution on the torque output component 200 and, to some extent, extending the service life of the two key pins 300.

[0059] In some embodiments of this application, please refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The inner wall of the mounting cavity 110 is provided with two grooves 111. Each key pin 300 includes a first mating part 310 and a second mating part 320 connected in sequence. The first mating part 310 is movably mated to the corresponding groove 111. Along the length direction of the first slide groove 221, the second mating part 320 is slidably mated to the corresponding first slide groove 221.

[0060] The first mating part 310 fits into the groove 111 and is rotatable relative to the groove 111. That is, when the torque output part 200 rotates relative to the torque input part 100, the key pin 300 can not only slide in the first slide groove 221, but also rotate in the groove 111, thereby ensuring that the torque output part 200 can rotate in any direction relative to the torque input part 100.

[0061] It should be noted that the length of the groove 111 is much smaller than the length of the first slide groove 221, so that when the first mating part 310 is mated with the groove 111, the position of the key pin 300 on the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110 will not change.

[0062] According to some embodiments of this application, the mounting cavity 110 is a spherical cavity, and the projections of the two grooves 111 at least partially overlap along the radial direction of the mounting cavity 110.

[0063] In other words, firstly, the two grooves 111 are located on both sides of the rotation axis of the torque input component 100, and secondly, the minimum distance between the two grooves 111 and the rotation axis of the torque input component 100 is approximately the same, thereby ensuring that the torque transmitted to the torque output component 200 through the two key pins 300 is the same, so that the torque output component 200 is subjected to stable force.

[0064] In some embodiments of this application, the shape of the first mating part 310 is the same as the shape of the corresponding groove 111. For example, the shape of the first mating part 310 and the shape of the groove 111 can be hemispherical. Thus, the first mating part 310 can be movably fitted into the groove 111, ensuring that the first mating part 310 can rotate within the groove 111.

[0065] In some embodiments of this application, please refer to Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 8The first mating part 310 includes a first segment 311, which is a hemispherical structure. The groove 111 includes a first groove, which is a hemispherical structure. The first segment 311 is movably mated to the first groove.

[0066] The first segment 311 of the hemispherical structure can be movably fitted into the first groove in the hemispherical shape, so that when the torque output member 200 rotates relative to the torque input member 100 in any direction, the first segment 311 can be rotatably fitted into the first groove without affecting the relative rotation between the torque output member 200 and the torque input member 100.

[0067] Furthermore, the first mating part 310 also includes a second section 312, which is constructed as a cylinder. Along the axial direction of the cylinder, the two ends of the second section 312 are respectively connected to the first section 311 and the second mating part 320. The groove 111 also includes a second groove, which is constructed as a cylindrical groove. Along the axial direction of the cylindrical groove, one end of the second groove is connected to the first groove, and the second section 312 is movably fitted into the second groove.

[0068] In other words, when the first mating part 310 rotates within the groove 111, the first mating part 310 can rotate around the axis of the second segment 312.

[0069] According to some embodiments of this application, at least a portion of the second mating part 320 may selectively conform to the inner sidewall of the first groove 221. It is understood that the sides that conform to each other are those capable of transmitting the force of the torque input member 100 to the torque output member 200.

[0070] Since at least a portion of the second mating part 320 can be fitted to the inner sidewall of the first slide groove 221, the force-bearing area between the second mating part 320 and the inner sidewall of the first slide groove 221 is increased, thereby enabling the torque input member 100 to transmit a larger torque to the torque output member 200.

[0071] As an example, at least a portion of the first mating part 310 can be a hemispherical structure. The arc surface of the hemispherical structure can fully fit with the inner wall of the groove 111, which helps the key pin 300 to always fit with the groove 111. The second mating part 320 forms a tight fit with the side wall of the first slide groove 221, ensuring that there is no uneven local force during torque transmission, while ensuring that a larger torque can be transmitted.

[0072] It is understood that the first mating part 310 can rotate in the groove 111, and the second mating part 320 can slide in the first slide groove 221. When the torque input member 100 rotates, it can transmit torque to the first mating part 310 through the groove 111. The second mating part 320 can transmit torque to the inner wall of the first slide groove 221 through surface contact. The torque input member 100 can drive the torque output member 200 to move and transmit torque through the key pin 300.

[0073] This design significantly increases the area for transmitting torque, which can increase the torque transmitted between the torque input component 100 and the torque output component 200, reduce contact pressure, and reduce deformation or slippage caused by local stress concentration. This not only improves torque transmission efficiency, but also significantly enhances the torque transmission stability and long-term operational reliability of the overall structure through the load-sharing effect of the multiple key pins 300.

[0074] In other specific embodiments, the output shaft 210 and the ball connector 220 are integrally forged and then machined. Compared with welding, this can completely eliminate the risk of stress concentration at the weld and avoid cracking during long-term torsion transmission. Both ends of the square tube are chamfered to prevent scratching the anti-corrosion coating of the connection end when installing the photovoltaic main beam, and to guide the main beam to quickly align with the assembly position, thereby improving on-site installation efficiency.

[0075] Meanwhile, the inner wall of the square tube can be pre-stressed with reinforcing ribs according to the driving requirements of the large-span photovoltaic main beam, which can further improve the torsional stiffness without increasing the weight too much, and prevent the output shaft 210 from bending deformation due to the additional bending moment generated by the main beam's own weight, thereby improving the overall reliability.

[0076] In other embodiments, please refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 The inner wall of the first sliding groove 221 includes a bottom wall 221b, a first side wall 221a, and a second side wall 221c. The bottom wall 221b connects the first side wall 221a and the second side wall 221c, and the first side wall 221a and the second side wall 221c are arranged opposite to each other. It can be understood that the bottom wall 221b, the first side wall 221a, and the second side wall 221c together enclose a semi-closed cavity, which can provide sliding space for the second mating part 320.

[0077] The second mating part 320 includes a first side surface 321 and a second side surface 322 disposed opposite to each other. The first side surface 321 can optionally be mated with the ground surface of the first side wall 221a, and the second side surface 322 can optionally be mated with the ground surface of the second side wall 221c. It can be understood that when the key pin 300 transmits torque, the torque can be transmitted to the first side wall 221a through the first side surface 321, or the torque can be transmitted to the second side wall 221c through the second side surface 322.

[0078] This configuration ensures that regardless of whether the torque input component 100 is rotated forward or backward to transmit torque, a larger torque can be transmitted between the torque input component 100 and the torque output component 200. Simultaneously, it significantly increases the contact area between the torque input component 100 and the torque output component 200 during torque transmission, reducing the possibility of relative slippage between the second mating part 320 and the first sliding groove 221. This ensures that the force is always transmitted along the preset effective direction during torque transmission, avoiding torque vector offset caused by slippage, allowing more input torque to be transmitted to the drive output shaft 210, increasing the effective torque transmission ratio, and thus improving torque transmission efficiency.

[0079] Meanwhile, even if the torque input component 100 and the torque output component 200 form different angles, the composite movement of the key pin 300 can maintain a stable torque transmission state through surface contact, avoiding interruption of torque transmission or jamming due to angle changes. It can also ensure torque transmission when the angle changes, allowing the torque input component 100 and the torque output component 200 to work at different angles. This helps to maintain the stability of the structure under complex working conditions and significantly improves the stability of torque transmission and long-term working reliability.

[0080] In addition, a bidirectional limiting constraint can be formed on the second mating part 320, which can effectively suppress its movement when sliding in the first slide groove 221, ensuring that the key pin 300 always moves within the preset trajectory and reducing torque transmission deviation caused by mating offset. Furthermore, this bidirectional torque transmission structure can also adapt to the working requirements of the reducer for forward and reverse steering. No matter how the torque input direction changes, it can achieve stable torque transmission by fitting the corresponding side with the side wall, further improving the torque transmission stability and overall reliability of the universal assembly 1001 under complex working conditions.

[0081] In other embodiments, please refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 Both the first side 321 and the second side 322 are constructed as planes, and both the first sidewall 221a and the second sidewall 221c are constructed as planar sidewalls.

[0082] Compared to the first side surface 321 and the second side surface 322, which are both constructed as curved surfaces, the first side surface 321 and the second side surface 322 are both constructed as flat surfaces. Under the same precision, the flat surface is easier to process, thereby reducing the processing cost of the first side surface 322 and the second side surface 322, as well as the processing cost of the first side wall 221a and the second side wall 221c.

[0083] Planar fit can avoid local suspension caused by the curvature or irregular protrusion of the contact surface, ensuring that each contact point can be evenly stressed. At the same time, the machining accuracy of the plane is easier to control through conventional grinding processes, reducing torque transmission deviation caused by manufacturing errors.

[0084] Understandably, the plane-to-plane mating configuration can maximize the full fit between the first side 321 and the first side wall 221a, and between the second side 322 and the second side wall 221c, avoiding the problem of insufficient local fit caused by the curvature or irregular shape of the contact surface, and improving the reliability and efficiency of torque transmission.

[0085] With this configuration, whether the torque is transmitted in the forward or reverse direction, the planar contact can provide a complete and uniform force interface, further improving the efficiency and reliability of torque transmission when the torque input component 100 and the torque output component 200 are working at different angles. At the same time, the rigid fit between the planes can form a more stable torque transmission constraint, ensuring the rapid transmission of torque from the key pin 300 to the first slide groove 221 when subjected to impact torque or load fluctuations.

[0086] In addition, the planar structure has higher guiding accuracy. When the second mating part 320 slides along the first slide groove 221 to adapt to the angle change, the planar sidewall can form a precise sliding guide for the first side 321 and the second side 322, avoiding the key pin 300 from wobbling or getting stuck during movement, and ensuring that the torque transmission is uninterrupted during the angle adjustment process.

[0087] In other words, the torque transmission path of planar mating is clearer and more stable, and the direction of force transmission is less likely to deviate due to the shape of the contact surface. Even during the sliding of the key pin 300 or the adjustment of the component angle, the mating state between the planes can be quickly restored to stability, ensuring that the torque is always transmitted efficiently along the preset direction, further enhancing the torque transmission reliability of the universal component 1001 in long-term use.

[0088] Of course, due to the planar fit, the torque transmitted between the torque input component 100 and the torque output component 200 can be greater, thus enabling the universal assembly 1001 to adapt to more application scenarios.

[0089] According to some embodiments of this application, the first side surface 321 and the second side surface 322 are both constructed as arcuate surfaces that protrude away from each other, the first side wall 221a is constructed as an arcuate side wall that cooperates with the first side surface 321, and the second side wall 221c is constructed as an arcuate side wall that cooperates with the second side surface 322.

[0090] In other words, the first side surface 321 and the first side wall 221a are in a curved surface fit with each other, and the second side surface 322 and the second side wall 221c are in a curved surface fit with each other.

[0091] Since both the first side surface 321 and the second side surface 322 are constructed as arc-shaped surfaces that protrude away from each other, the second mating part 320 is not easy to disengage from the first sliding groove 221 when it slides into the first sliding groove 221.

[0092] In some embodiments of this application, at least a portion of the first mating part 310 is configured as a spherical structure, and the second mating part 320 is a rectangular block structure. Thus, the first mating part 310 can rotatably engage with the groove 111, while its position on the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110 remains unchanged; simultaneously, the contact area between the second mating part 320 and the first sliding groove 221 is increased, thereby increasing the maximum torque that can be transmitted between the torque input member 100 and the torque output member 200.

[0093] In some embodiments of this application, the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110 is provided with two grooves 111, the key pin 300 is constructed as a spherical structure, a part of the key pin 300 is disposed in the corresponding groove 111, and the other part of the key pin 300 is slidably engaged with the first groove 221.

[0094] Thus, the key pin 300 is rotatably fitted into the groove 111, while ensuring that the position of the key pin 300 on the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110 remains unchanged; in addition, when all the key pins 300 are constructed as spherical structures, in order to increase the contact area between the key pin 300 and the inner wall of the first slide groove 221 and ensure that the torque input component 100 can transmit a larger torque to the torque output component 200, the sides of the first slide groove 221 used for transmitting torque (first side wall 221a and second side wall 221c) can both be constructed as arc-shaped side walls.

[0095] According to some embodiments of this application, along the radial direction of the spherical connector 220 (which is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the axis of the output shaft 210), the projection of the axis of the output shaft 210 falls within the projection of any one of the first grooves 221. That is, the first groove 221 extends along the axial direction of the output shaft 210 on the outer surface of the spherical connector 220.

[0096] In other embodiments, the torque input element 100 is constructed as a worm gear 400, and the output shaft 210 is constructed as a square tube. The self-locking property of the worm gear drive is particularly critical in photovoltaic tracking systems. When the system stops adjusting, it can effectively prevent the output shaft 210 from rotating in the opposite direction due to the weight of the photovoltaic modules or gusts of wind, thus avoiding displacement of the main beam position.

[0097] It is understandable that by using the worm gear 400 as the torque input component 100, it can directly form a mature worm gear 400 worm transmission pair with the worm. Utilizing the characteristics of the worm gear 400 worm transmission ratio, smooth transmission and self-locking, it can not only efficiently receive torque from the power source and realize speed reduction and torque increase, but also prevent the output shaft 210 from reverse driving when it stops working, thereby improving the braking safety of the reducer.

[0098] Using a square tube as the output shaft 210, its rectangular cross-section facilitates improved connection reliability with square or rectangular connection ends such as the main beam of the photovoltaic support, thereby improving the reliability and efficiency of torque transmission.

[0099] In addition, the square tube structure has higher bending and torsional stiffness than the round tube with the same amount of material, which can better withstand the radial load and bending moment generated during rotation, reduce the deformation risk of the output shaft 210, and further ensure the torque transmission stability of the universal assembly 1001 under complex working conditions, thereby improving the working reliability of the entire reducer.

[0100] In other embodiments, please refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The worm gear 400 includes a body portion 410 and a cover plate 420, the cover plate 420 being detachably disposed on the body portion 410, and the cover plate 420 and the body portion 410 defining a mounting cavity 110.

[0101] Understandably, the removable cover plate 420 allows the mounting cavity 110 to be open during assembly. This eliminates the need to forcibly insert parts such as the spherical connector 220 and key pin 300 from one end of the worm gear shaft. The spherical connector 220 can be directly placed inside the cavity of the main body 410, followed by the corresponding key pin 300. Finally, closing the cover plate 420 completes the assembly. This effectively avoids the difficulties in assembling internal parts and calibrating fitting accuracy that can occur with the integral worm gear 400 when the mounting cavity 110 is closed. Simultaneously, it facilitates the machining of the grooves 111. Compared to the complex machining of the annular mounting cavity 110 and the two grooves 111, separate machining makes it easier to control dimensional accuracy and reduces machining difficulty. Furthermore, if the internal key pin 300 or spherical connector 220 becomes worn or malfunctions later, it is not necessary to disassemble the entire worm gear 400 and the base assembly 1002. Only the cover plate 420 needs to be removed to directly access and replace the internal parts, significantly shortening maintenance time and reducing the impact on the overall operation of equipment such as the photovoltaic tracking system.

[0102] Furthermore, the detachable fit between the cover plate 420 and the main body 410 ensures the sealing and structural rigidity of the mounting cavity 110, while also providing flexibility for subsequent optimization of the groove 111 size and adjustment of the volume of the mounting cavity 110. There is no need to redesign and manufacture the entire worm gear 400; structural adjustments can be achieved simply by replacing the appropriate cover plate 420, further enhancing the versatility and design economy of the worm gear 400.

[0103] According to some embodiments of this application, the body portion 410 and the cover plate 420 are sequentially connected along the rotational axis of the torque input member 100. Therefore, compared to the worm gear 400 being separated along a plane parallel to the rotational axis of the torque input member 100, the reduction in strength caused by the worm gear 400 being a split structure can be reduced.

[0104] In a specific embodiment, the mating surfaces of the cover plate 420 and the main body 410 are provided with a sealing structure, which can effectively isolate outdoor dust and rainwater from entering the mounting cavity 110, prevent internal parts from rusting or jamming due to moisture or dust accumulation, and ensure the long-term stable operation of the universal assembly 1001.

[0105] In addition, the universal assembly 1001 also includes a sealing cover 500, which is located outside the output shaft 210 and the torque input component 100. The two ends of the sealing cover 500 are connected to the output shaft 210 and the torque input component 100 respectively, thereby reducing the probability of dust entering the mounting cavity 110.

[0106] In other embodiments, the first mating part 310 is a spherical structure and the second mating part 320 is a rectangular block structure.

[0107] Understandably, the first mating part 310 of the spherical structure forms an all-round rotational fit with the groove 111. Its curved surface characteristics enable it to rotate flexibly in any direction within the groove 111. No matter which direction the angle between the worm gear 400 and the output shaft 210 shifts, the sphere can maintain its fit with the groove 111 through adaptive rotation, providing a more comprehensive adaptability to angular deviations and avoiding mating jamming caused by angular changes.

[0108] The second mating part 320 of the rectangular block structure has regular planar side surfaces that can form maximum surface contact with the planar sidewall of the first slide groove 221. The rigid rectangular structure ensures that it is not easily deformed when transmitting torque, and the flatness of the mating surface is easier to control. It can stably transmit positive or reverse torque and reduce torque loss caused by poor contact.

[0109] It not only facilitates the improvement of reliability when angle changes in scenarios such as photovoltaic tracking systems, but also enhances torque transmission efficiency through surface contact and rigid structure. At the same time, the structure of spheres and rectangular blocks is easy to process and form, which can reduce the difficulty of manufacturing precision control and further improve the assembly reliability and long-term working stability of the components.

[0110] As an example, the first mating part 310 can also be a hemispherical structure, a cylindrical pin structure with a rounded end, etc. The second mating part 320 can be a square structure, a trapezoidal block structure, or an I-shaped block.

[0111] In some embodiments of this application, the inner wall of the mounting cavity 110 is provided with two second sliding grooves. The length direction of each second sliding groove is parallel to the length direction of the corresponding first sliding groove 221. One side of each key pin 300 is engaged with the corresponding second sliding groove, and the other side of each key pin 300 is slidably engaged with the first sliding groove 221.

[0112] At this time, the key pin 300 can be a spherical structure, or as described above, the part that fits into the second slide groove is a hemispherical structure, and the part that fits into the first slide groove 221 is a square structure.

[0113] Secondly, this application provides a rotary reducer 1000, including a base assembly 1002, a drive member 1003, and a universal joint 1001 according to any embodiment. The torque input member 100 is rotatably disposed on the base assembly 1002; the drive member 1003 is poweredly connected to the torque input member 100.

[0114] Understandably, the base assembly 1002 provides stable support for the torque input component 100 and the drive component 1003, preventing component position displacement caused by foundation vibration and ensuring the fitting accuracy of each component. The torque input component 100 is rotatably mounted on the base assembly 1002. The power connection between the drive component 1003 and the torque input component 100 adopts a flexible coupling. The coupling can compensate for the slight coaxiality deviation between the two, reduce the impact of vibration transmission on the torque input component 100, and prevent the increase of the fitting clearance between the groove 111 and the key pin 300 due to vibration.

[0115] According to the rotary reducer 1000 proposed in the second aspect of this application, since it has the universal joint 1001 of any embodiment, the rotation range between the torque output member 200 and the torque input member 100 is greatly increased. When the ground is uneven, the angle between the torque output member 200 and the torque input member 100 can be adjusted by the universal joint 1001, so that the photovoltaic panel 2000 connected to the output shaft 210 can be maintained in the initial state without being affected by the ground unevenness.

[0116] In addition, the rotary reducer 1000 of this application can significantly reduce the probability of relative slippage between the second mating part 320 and the first slide groove 221, which can ensure that the direction of force is more stable during torque transmission, reduce the torque vector offset caused by slippage, increase the proportion of effective torque transmission, and thus improve torque transmission efficiency; and can always maintain the stability of the structure under angle change conditions, significantly improving the stability and reliability of torque transmission.

[0117] In addition, when the ground on which the base assembly 1002 is located is uneven, the relative positional relationship between the torque output component 200 and the torque input component 100 can be adjusted so that the output direction and output position of the torque output component 200 are always kept in a suitable position.

[0118] In some specific embodiments, the housing is detachably connected to an end cover plate by bolts, and a flanged bushing is fitted on the worm gear 400. The outer wall of the flanged bushing contacts the end cover plate. The flanged bushing on the worm gear 400 and its contact with the end cover plate can effectively disperse the radial load when the worm gear 400 is running, reduce the wear of the end cover plate, and at the same time, the flanged bushing plays a guiding and limiting role, further improving the stability and accuracy of the worm gear operation.

[0119] It should also be noted that the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitation, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0120] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner. Similar or identical parts between embodiments can be referred to mutually. Each embodiment focuses on describing the differences from other embodiments. In particular, the system embodiments are basically similar to the method embodiments, so the description is relatively simple; relevant parts can be referred to the descriptions in the method embodiments.

[0121] The above description is merely an embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principle of this application should be included within the scope of the claims of this application.

[0122] Although embodiments of this application have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of this application, and such modifications and variations all fall within the scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A universal joint assembly for a rotary reducer, characterized in that, include: A torque input element, which is rotatable relative to the base assembly of the rotary reducer, and the torque input element has a mounting cavity; The torque input component is constructed as a worm gear; A torque output component includes an output shaft and a spherical connector. The output shaft is connected to a photovoltaic panel. Along the axial direction of the output shaft, the spherical connector is disposed at one end of the output shaft and at least partially disposed in the mounting cavity. The outer peripheral surface of the spherical connector is provided with two first sliding grooves. Both first sliding grooves extend along the outer surface of the spherical connector and along one radial direction of the spherical connector. The projections of the two first sliding grooves coincide with the projection of the axis of the spherical connector. Two key pins are provided, each key pin is disposed on the inner wall of the mounting cavity and along the length direction of the first slide groove, and each key pin is slidably engaged with the corresponding first slide groove. The two key pins are symmetrically arranged about the rotation axis of the torque input component. The inner wall of the mounting cavity is provided with two grooves. Each key pin includes a first mating part and a second mating part connected in sequence. The first mating part is movably mated to the corresponding groove. Along the length direction of the first groove, the second mating part is slidably mated to the corresponding first groove. The first mating part fits against the groove and is rotatable relative to the groove. When the ground where the base assembly is located is uneven, the relative positional relationship between the torque output component and the torque input component can be adjusted so that the output direction and output position of the torque output component are always kept in a suitable position, so that the photovoltaic panel connected to the output shaft can be maintained in the initial state without being affected by the ground unevenness.

2. The universal joint assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The position of each key pin on the inner wall of the mounting cavity remains unchanged.

3. The universal joint assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The mounting cavity is a spherical cavity, and the projections of the two grooves at least partially overlap along the radial direction of the mounting cavity.

4. The universal joint assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The shape of the first mating part is the same as the shape of the corresponding groove.

5. The universal joint assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first mating part includes a first segment, which is constructed as a hemispherical structure. The groove includes a first groove, which is constructed as a hemispherical groove. The first segment is movably fitted into the first groove.

6. The universal joint assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first mating part further includes a second section, which is constructed as a cylindrical structure. Along the axial direction of the cylindrical structure, both ends of the second section are connected to the first section and the second mating part, respectively. The groove further includes a second groove, which is constructed as a cylindrical groove. Along the axial direction of the cylindrical groove, one end of the second groove is connected to the first groove. The second section is movably fitted into the second groove.

7. The universal joint assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least a portion of the second mating part may be in contact with the corresponding inner sidewall of the first groove, preferably on a ground surface.

8. The universal joint assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that, The inner wall of the first chute includes a bottom wall, a first side wall, and a second side wall. The bottom wall connects the first side wall and the second side wall, and the first side wall and the second side wall are arranged opposite to each other. The second mating part includes a first side and a second side disposed opposite to each other. The first side can be selectively attached to the ground surface of the first sidewall, and the second side can be selectively attached to the ground surface of the second sidewall.

9. The universal joint assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, Both the first side and the second side are constructed as planes, and both the first sidewall and the second sidewall are constructed as planar sidewalls.

10. The universal joint assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that, Both the first side and the second side are constructed as arc-shaped surfaces that protrude away from each other. The first sidewall is constructed as an arc-shaped sidewall that mates with the first side, and the second sidewall is constructed as an arc-shaped sidewall that mates with the second side.

11. The universal joint assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least a portion of the first mating part is a spherical structure, and the second mating part is a rectangular block structure.

12. The universal joint assembly according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The inner wall of the mounting cavity is provided with two grooves, and the key pin is constructed as a spherical structure. A part of the key pin is disposed in the corresponding groove, and the other part of the key pin is slidably engaged with the corresponding first groove.

13. The universal joint assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, Along the radial direction of the spherical connector, the projection of the axis of the output shaft falls within the projection of any of the first grooves.

14. The universal joint assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The torque input component is constructed as a worm gear, and the output shaft is constructed as a square tube.

15. The universal joint assembly according to claim 14, characterized in that, The worm gear includes a body and a cover plate, the cover plate being detachably disposed on the body, and the cover plate and the body defining the mounting cavity.

16. The universal joint assembly according to claim 15, characterized in that, The body and the cover are connected in sequence along the rotation axis of the torque input component.

17. The universal joint assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The universal joint assembly also includes a sealing cover located outside the output shaft and the torque input component, with both ends of the sealing cover connected to the output shaft and the torque input component, respectively.

18. The universal joint assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner wall of the mounting cavity is provided with two second sliding grooves. The length direction of each second sliding groove is parallel to the length direction of the corresponding first sliding groove. One side of each key pin is engaged with the corresponding second sliding groove, and the other side of each key pin is slidably engaged with the corresponding first sliding groove.

19. A rotary reducer, characterized in that, include: Base assembly; The universal assembly according to any one of claims 1-18, wherein the torque input element is rotatably disposed on the base assembly; A drive unit, which is poweredly connected to the torque input unit.

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