Caster linkage locking device and medical device

Abstract

This application provides a caster linkage locking device and a medical device, relating to the field of medical device auxiliary components technology. It includes a chassis and a caster assembly. The caster assembly has rollers and a braking mechanism. The braking mechanism has a locked position and an unlocked position. It also includes a linkage locking mechanism, comprising: an active unit capable of moving along a first direction or a second direction; a transmission unit disposed between the active unit and the braking mechanism, used to transmit the power generated when the active unit moves to the braking mechanism; and an operating unit used to control the active unit to move along the first direction or the second direction. When the active unit moves along the first direction, the transmission unit drives the braking mechanism to the locked position; when the active unit moves along the second direction, the transmission unit drives the braking mechanism to the unlocked position. This solves the defects of related technologies, such as cumbersome operation, low efficiency, and easy omission of locking, which exist in medical devices that require locking multiple casters one by one.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of auxiliary components for medical devices, and more specifically, to a caster linkage locking device and a medical device. Background Technology

[0002] In the medical field, various types of equipment are typically equipped with casters for easy movement. To ensure that the equipment can be stably parked after arriving at the designated working position and to prevent accidental slippage, a common practice is to install braking mechanisms, such as brake pads or locking pins, on the casters.

[0003] However, most existing caster locking devices employ an independent operation design, requiring users to perform a series of actions such as bending over and locking each caster individually. This operating mode reveals several drawbacks in practical use: First, for large medical equipment equipped with multiple casters, locking each one individually is not only cumbersome and inefficient, but may also delay crucial moments in emergency medical situations due to the time-consuming operation; second, because repetitive operations are required, personnel may overlook some casters due to negligence or environmental interference, posing safety hazards such as equipment slippage, tipping, or affecting the stability of medical operations; furthermore, frequent bending over significantly increases the workload of medical staff, and prolonged operation can easily lead to physical fatigue and affect work experience; thirdly, current casters are generally foot-locked, but during movement, the brake may rotate in the opposite direction, making it impossible to press, requiring the wheel to be twisted to lock or unlock. This process usually requires squatting down to turn the wheel or lifting the equipment to twist the wheel, which is inconvenient.

[0004] It should be noted that the information disclosed in the background section above is only used to enhance the understanding of the background of this application, and therefore may include information that does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this application is to provide a caster linkage locking device and a medical device, which aims to solve the defects of related technologies, such as cumbersome operation, low efficiency and easy omission of locking, which are caused by the need to lock multiple casters one by one.

[0006] Additional aspects and advantages of this application will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description or may be learned by practice of this application.

[0007] According to a first aspect of this application, a caster linkage locking device is provided, comprising a chassis and a caster assembly, the caster assembly having rollers and a braking mechanism, the braking mechanism being capable of approaching or moving away from the rollers, and having a locking position for locking the rollers and an unlocking position for releasing the rollers, further comprising a linkage locking mechanism disposed between the chassis and the caster assembly, the linkage locking mechanism comprising: The active unit is configured to move along a first direction or a second direction; A transmission unit is disposed between the active unit and the braking mechanism, and is used to transmit the power generated when the active unit moves to the braking mechanism; An operating unit is configured to control the active unit to move along the first direction or the second direction; Specifically, when the active unit moves along the first direction, the transmission unit drives the braking mechanism to the locking position; when the active unit moves along the second direction, the transmission unit drives the braking mechanism to the unlocking position.

[0008] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the active unit is disposed in the middle of the chassis, and the first direction is opposite to the second direction.

[0009] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the operation unit includes: An operating unit is disposed on one side of the chassis and has a drive end, the operating unit being configured to be operablely rotatable about the drive end; The operation connection part has one end configured as a fixed end fixedly connected to the drive end of the operation part, and the other end configured as a movable end rotatably connected to the active unit; the operation connection part rotates around the fixed end as the operation part rotates and drives the active unit to move.

[0010] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the rotation axis of the operating part is parallel to the upper surface of the chassis.

[0011] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the active unit includes a first active rod and a second active rod that are parallel to each other, and an active rod connecting portion is provided between the first active rod and the second active rod; the active rod connecting portion is fixedly connected to one of the first active rod and the second active rod, and rotatably connected to the other. The operating part includes a locking operating part and an unlocking operating part; the operating connection part includes a first connecting rod and a second connecting rod; the first connecting rod is connected between the locking operating part and the first driving rod, and the second connecting rod is connected between the unlocking operating part and the second driving rod.

[0012] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the operation unit further includes: An unlocking pedal is positioned above the unlocking operation unit, and the unlocking pedal coincides with the rotation axis of the unlocking operation unit; An unlocking reset component is disposed on the unlocking pedal. The unlocking reset component is configured to deform when the unlocking pedal is rotated operably, and to drive the unlocking pedal to reset after the operation is completed. A locking pedal is fixed to the upper surface of the locking operation part.

[0013] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the transmission unit includes a power conversion unit and a transmission assembly; The power conversion unit is connected between the active unit and the transmission assembly. The power conversion unit responds to the movement of the active unit. When the active unit moves along a first direction, the power conversion unit outputs rotational power along a third direction. When the active unit moves along a second direction, the power conversion unit outputs rotational power along a fourth direction. The transmission assembly is configured to receive the rotational power from the power conversion unit and transmit it to the braking mechanism; when the transmission assembly rotates in the third direction, the braking mechanism moves to the locking position, and when the transmission assembly rotates in the fourth direction, the braking mechanism moves to the unlocking position.

[0014] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, one end of the power conversion unit is configured as a power input end and the other end is configured as a power output end. The power input end is rotatably connected to the active unit, and the power conversion unit is configured to rotate around the power output end under the action of the movement of the active unit. The transmission assembly includes: a front rotating shaft, a universal coupling, and a rear rotating shaft; The rear rotating shaft is fixed relative to the power output end of the power conversion unit to receive the rotational power; One end of the universal joint is fixedly connected to one end of the rear rotating shaft, and the other end of the universal joint is fixedly connected to one end of the front rotating shaft, so as to transmit the rotational power. The other end of the front rotating shaft extends to the braking mechanism for transmitting the rotational power to the braking mechanism.

[0015] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the transmission unit further includes a first bearing and a second bearing. The first bearing is rotatably connected to the rear rotating shaft and fixedly connected to the chassis. The second bearing is rotatably connected to the front rotating shaft and fixedly connected to the chassis. The two ends of the universal coupling abut against the first bearing and the second bearing, respectively.

[0016] In an exemplary embodiment of this application, the front rotating shaft includes a drive shaft and a driven shaft arranged axially. One of the adjacent ends of the drive shaft and the driven shaft is provided with a slot, and the other is configured as a plug-in part that can be inserted into the slot. The plug-in part can rotate within the slot.

[0017] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the maximum value of the rotation angle that the plug-in portion can rotate within the slot is set to 5-10°.

[0018] According to a second aspect of this application, a medical device is provided, comprising the caster linkage locking device as described in any one of claims 1-11.

[0019] The exemplary embodiments of this application may have some or all of the following beneficial effects: In the caster linkage locking device provided in the example embodiment of this application, a linkage locking mechanism composed of an operating unit, an active unit, and a transmission unit achieves centralized control of the braking mechanisms in multiple caster assemblies. The specific operation is as follows: When locking the rollers is required, the user only needs to issue a command to the active unit through the operating unit, causing the active unit to move along a first direction. During this process, the active unit transmits the power generated during movement to the braking mechanisms of each caster assembly through the transmission unit, causing the braking mechanisms to move towards the rollers and make close contact with the roller surface, thereby stabilizing the braking mechanisms in the locked position and locking the rollers. When releasing the roller locking is required, the user only needs to issue another command to the active unit through the operating unit, causing the active unit to move along a second direction. The power generated during the movement of the active unit is still synchronously transmitted to the braking mechanisms through the transmission unit, causing the braking mechanisms to move away from the rollers until the braking mechanisms reach the unlocked position, thereby releasing the rollers.

[0020] Based on the aforementioned technical principles, this caster linkage locking device achieves centralized control of locking and unlocking multiple casters. Users do not need to operate the braking mechanism of each caster assembly individually; by controlling the operating unit once (driving the active unit along a first or second direction), the locking and unlocking of all casters can be completed simultaneously, effectively simplifying the operation process and reducing the difficulty of operating multi-caster equipment. Furthermore, by setting the operating unit and the caster assembly as two independent structures, the torsion of the casters will not affect the operating unit, thus ensuring that the operating unit is always in a convenient position for the user. During each unlocking and locking process, the user does not need to adjust the caster's posture, thus providing convenience for the operator.

[0021] In summary, this caster linkage locking device effectively improves the ease of operation, thereby increasing work efficiency during use and overcoming the defect of easy omission.

[0022] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and do not limit this application. Attached Figure Description

[0023] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this application. It is obvious that the drawings described below are merely some embodiments of this application, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without any inventive effort.

[0024] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a caster linkage locking device according to an embodiment of this application is shown; Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the active unit and the operation unit in the embodiments of this application is shown; Figure 3 An exploded view of the active unit and the operating unit in an embodiment of this application is shown; Figure 4 A partial schematic diagram of the operation unit in an embodiment of this application is shown; Figure 5 This invention provides a schematic diagram illustrating the structure between the transmission unit and the caster assembly in an embodiment of this application. Figure 6 An exploded view of the front rotating shaft in an embodiment of this application is shown.

[0025] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 1. Chassis; 2. Caster assembly; 3. Drive unit; 31. First drive rod; 32. Second drive rod; 33. Drive rod connecting part; 4. Transmission unit; 41. Power conversion part; 42. Transmission assembly; 421. Front rotating shaft; 422. Universal coupling; 423. Rear rotating shaft; 43. First bearing seat; 44. Second bearing seat; 45. Third bearing seat; 46. Bushing; 5. Drive shaft; 6. Drive shaft; 7. Slot; 8. Insertion part; 81. Rotating shaft; 9. Operating unit; 91. Operating part; 911. Locking operating part; 912. Unlocking operating part; 92. Operating connection part; 921. First connecting rod; 922. Second connecting rod; 93. Unlocking pedal; 931. Bracket; 94. Unlocking reset part; 95. Locking pedal. Detailed Implementation

[0026] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, these exemplary embodiments can be implemented in many forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this application will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the concept of the exemplary embodiments to those skilled in the art. The same reference numerals in the drawings denote the same or similar structures, and therefore their detailed descriptions will be omitted. Furthermore, the drawings are merely illustrative of this application and are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0027] Although relative terms such as "upper" and "lower" are used in this specification to describe the relative relationship of one component of an icon to another, these terms are used only for convenience, such as according to the orientation of the examples in the accompanying drawings. It is understood that if the device of the icon is flipped so that it is upside down, the component described as "upper" will become the component described as "lower." When a structure is "upper" of another structure, it may mean that the structure is integrally formed on the other structure, or that the structure is "directly" mounted on the other structure, or that the structure is "indirectly" mounted on the other structure through another structure.

[0028] The terms “a,” “one,” “the,” and “at least one” are used to indicate the existence of one or more elements / components / etc.; the terms “including” and “having” are used to indicate an open-ended inclusion and to mean that there may be other elements / components / etc. in addition to the listed elements / components / etc.; the terms “first” and “second” are used only as markers and are not a limitation on the number of objects. Example 1

[0029] Reference Figure 1 As shown in the embodiments of this application, a caster linkage locking device is disclosed, including a chassis 1, a caster assembly 2 and a linkage locking mechanism.

[0030] Furthermore, the chassis 1 serves as the load-bearing structure for the main body of the equipment, and caster mounting positions are provided at its four corners for installing caster assemblies 2. The caster assemblies 2 are installed at each caster mounting position, and each caster assembly 2 includes a roller, a wheel frame, and a braking mechanism. One end of the wheel frame is rotatably connected to the chassis 1, and the other end is rotatably engaged with the roller through an axle. The braking mechanism can move closer to or further away from the roller in a direction perpendicular to the roller axis, and has a locking position that abuts against the roller rim to lock the roller, and an unlocking position that separates from the roller rim to release the roller. A linkage locking mechanism is provided between the chassis 1 and the caster assemblies 2 to synchronously control the braking mechanisms of the four sets of caster assemblies 2 to switch to the locking or unlocking position.

[0031] It should be noted that the arrangement of four sets of caster assemblies 2 installed at the four corners of the chassis 1 is not a limitation. In other embodiments, the arrangement of caster assemblies 2 can be flexibly adjusted: for example, it can be set to two sets and installed on both sides of the chassis 1 respectively; it can also be set to three sets, which can be installed on the middle of the front end and both sides of the rear end of the chassis 1 respectively; in addition, it can be set to five, six or even more sets according to actual needs.

[0032] In this embodiment, the linkage locking mechanism is located above the chassis 1 and between the chassis 1 and the caster assembly 2. It is used to synchronously control the braking mechanisms of the four caster assemblies 2 to switch between locked and unlocked positions. The linkage locking mechanism specifically includes an active unit 3, a transmission unit 4, and an operating unit 9. The functions and coordination relationships of each unit are as follows: The active unit 3 is configured to move along a first direction or a second direction; A transmission unit 4 is disposed between the active unit 3 and the braking mechanism, and is used to transmit the power generated when the active unit 3 moves to the braking mechanism. The operation unit 9 is configured to control the active unit 3 to move along the first direction or the second direction; When the active unit 3 moves along the first direction, the transmission unit 4 drives the braking mechanism to the locking position; when the active unit 3 moves along the second direction, the transmission unit 4 drives the braking mechanism to the unlocking position.

[0033] In the embodiments of this application, no special restrictions are placed on the first direction and the second direction. The first direction and the second direction can be either rotational motion direction or linear motion direction.

[0034] Locking process (active unit 3 moves along the first direction): When it is necessary to lock the roller, the user only needs to send a command to the active unit 3 through the operation unit 9 to make the active unit 3 move along the first direction; during this process, the active unit 3 transmits the power generated during the movement to the braking mechanism of each caster assembly 2 through the transmission unit 4, causing the braking mechanism to move towards the roller and make close contact with the roller surface, so that the braking mechanism is stably in the locked position, thereby realizing the locking of the roller.

[0035] Unlocking process (active unit 3 moves along the second direction): When it is necessary to release the roller lock, the user only needs to issue another command to the active unit 3 through the operation unit 9 to make the active unit 3 move along the second direction. The power generated by the active unit 3 during the movement is still synchronously transmitted to the braking mechanism through the transmission unit 4, so that the braking mechanism moves away from the roller until the braking mechanism reaches the unlock position, thereby releasing the roller.

[0036] Furthermore, there are no special restrictions on the instructions issued by the user through the operation unit 9, including but not limited to the following two specific implementation methods: Mechanical structure command: The user can directly operate the operating unit 9 manually to make it move, thereby driving the active unit 3 to move accordingly; Electrical signal command: At this time, the operating unit 9 can use equipment such as cylinders, hydraulic cylinders, and motors to drive the active unit 3 to move through electric drive.

[0037] Based on the above structure, the caster linkage locking device realizes centralized control of locking and unlocking of multiple rollers. Users do not need to operate the braking mechanism of each caster assembly 2 one by one. They can lock and unlock all rollers simultaneously by controlling the operation unit 9 once (driving the active unit 3 to move along the first or second direction). This effectively simplifies the operation process, reduces the difficulty of operating multi-caster equipment, and is especially suitable for equipment with a large number of casters. It improves the convenience of operation, thereby effectively improving the work efficiency during use and overcoming the defect of easy omission.

[0038] In this embodiment, the active unit 3 of the linkage locking mechanism is located in the middle area above the chassis 1, and the transmission unit 4 is correspondingly distributed between the active unit 3 and each caster assembly 2; at the same time, it is defined that in the movement direction of the active unit 3, the first direction and the second direction are opposite directions. Specifically, for example, if the first direction is forward movement along the length direction of the chassis 1, then the second direction is backward movement along the same axis; if the first direction is clockwise rotation, then the second direction is counterclockwise rotation.

[0039] Based on the limitations of the above structure, on the one hand, by switching between two opposite directions of movement, the transmission unit 4 can accurately drive the braking mechanism of each caster assembly 2 synchronously, so that it can stably switch between the locked and unlocked positions, and it is not easy for a single braking mechanism to have a delayed action or failure, thus ensuring the intuitiveness of operation and the reliability of control. On the other hand, by placing the active unit 3 in the middle of the chassis 1 and the transmission unit 4 directly connecting the active unit 3 and the caster assembly 2, it is not necessary to occupy the space between adjacent caster assemblies 2, thus breaking the limitation on the shape of the chassis 1. The chassis 1 does not have to be set as a square or rectangle, but can have more adjustable shapes according to the actual equipment requirements. For example, it can be set as an irregular structure that lacks the area between adjacent caster assemblies 2 (such as...). Figure 1 As shown in the figure, this improves the adaptability of the linkage locking mechanism.

[0040] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown in the embodiment of this application, the operation unit 9 includes an operation part 91 and an operation connection part 92. The structure and linkage relationship of each component are as follows: The operating unit 91 has a plate-like structure and is located on the side of the chassis 1 for easy operation. One end is the operating end (away from the chassis 1 for easy application of force), and the other end is the driving end (close to the chassis 1, with a fixed pin that is rotatably connected to a pre-set support on the chassis 1 to form a fulcrum). When the user applies a downward or upward force to the operating end, the operating unit 91 can rotate clockwise or counterclockwise around the driving end. There are no special restrictions on the specific structure of the operating unit 91; it can be a press plate operated by hand or a pedal stepped on by foot.

[0041] The operation connection part 92 has a rod-shaped structure, with one end being a fixed end and the other end being a movable end. The fixed end is fixedly connected to the drive end (fixed pin) of the operation part 91 by means of bolts, welding or snap-fit, and the movable end is rotatably connected to the active unit 3 by a pin.

[0042] During operation, the user applies force to the operating end of the operating unit 91, driving the operating unit 91 to rotate around the driving end, which in turn drives the operating connection 92 to rotate synchronously with the fixed end; when the moving end of the operating connection 92 rotates, it generates a pushing or pulling force on the active unit 3, thereby driving the active unit 3 to move in the corresponding direction, so that the braking mechanism can be switched.

[0043] In this embodiment, the rotation axis of the operating part 91 is parallel to the upper surface of the chassis 1. That is, the operating part 91 can control the movement direction of the active unit 3 by flipping it downward and upward on the chassis 1, thereby realizing the locking and unlocking of the caster assembly 2.

[0044] In one specific embodiment, the operation unit 91 is configured with a single operation structure, which can be defined as an operation module. The specific operation and linkage logic is as follows: Caster assembly 2 locking operation: When it is necessary to lock caster assembly 2, the user applies downward pressure to the operating end of the operating module. Since the rotation axis of the operating module is parallel to the upper surface of the chassis 1, the operating module will rotate smoothly downward around the drive end of the chassis 1. The operating module drives the entire operating connection part 92 to rotate synchronously through the fixed end of the operating connection part 92. The movable end of the operating connection part 92 then exerts a force on the active unit 3, driving the active unit 3 to move along the first direction, causing the braking mechanism to switch to the locking position, thereby locking caster assembly 2.

[0045] Caster assembly 2 unlocking operation: When it is necessary to unlock caster assembly 2, the user applies an upward force to the operating end of the operating module (lifts the operating module), and the operating module rotates around the drive end in a direction away from the chassis 1; during this process, the operating module drives the active unit 3 synchronously through the operating connection part 92. At this time, the movable end of the operating connection part 92 generates a force on the active unit 3 opposite to that during the locking operation, thereby driving the active unit 3 to move in the second direction, thereby switching the braking mechanism to the unlocking position and completing the unlocking of caster assembly 2.

[0046] Of course, the above operation method is not restrictive. It can also be set so that when the pedal is turned upward, the corresponding active unit 3 moves along the first direction, and when the pedal is turned downward, the corresponding active unit 3 moves along the second direction. That is to say, when the pedal is lifted upward, it is a locking operation of the caster assembly 2; when the pedal is pressed down, it is an unlocking operation of the caster assembly 2.

[0047] In this embodiment, the operation module is preferably configured as a pedal.

[0048] In another specific embodiment, the operating unit 91 adopts a dual-operation structure design, which includes a locking operating unit 911 and an unlocking operating unit 912. The side of both the locking operating unit 911 and the unlocking operating unit 912 closest to the chassis 1 is defined as the drive end, and the side furthest from the chassis 1 is defined as the operating end. Rotating the unlocking operating unit 912 switches the caster assembly 2 to the unlocked state, while rotating the locking operating unit 911 directly switches the caster assembly 2 to the locked state. The specific structure is as follows: In this embodiment, the active unit 3 includes a first active rod 31 and a second active rod 32 that are parallel to each other, and both of them extend from the rear end to the front end of the chassis 1 in the length direction. An active rod connecting part 33 is provided between the first active rod 31 and the second active rod 32. One end of the active rod connecting part 33 is fixedly connected to one of the first active rod 31 and the second active rod 32, and is rotatably connected to the other.

[0049] In this embodiment, one end of the active rod connecting part 33 is integrally formed with the first active rod 31, and the other end of the active rod connecting part 33 is rotatably connected to one end of the second active rod 32.

[0050] Furthermore, the operating connection part 92 includes a first connecting rod 921 and a second connecting rod 922, each with one end defined as a fixed end and the other end defined as a movable end. The fixed end of the first connecting rod 921 is fixedly connected to the drive end of the locking operation part 911, and the movable end of the first connecting rod 921 is rotatably connected to the first active rod 31. The fixed end of the second connecting rod 922 is fixedly connected to the drive end of the unlocking operation part 912, and the movable end of the second connecting rod 922 is rotatably connected to the second active rod 32.

[0051] The specific operation method and linkage logic are as follows: Caster assembly 2 locking operation: When it is necessary to lock the caster assembly 2, the user applies downward pressure to the operating end of the locking operation part 911. Since the rotation axis of the locking operation part 911 is parallel to the upper surface of the chassis 1, the locking operation part 911 will rotate smoothly around the drive end towards the bottom of the chassis 1. The locking operation part 911 drives the entire first connecting rod 921 to rotate synchronously through the fixed end of the first connecting rod 921. The movable end of the first connecting rod 921 then exerts a force on the first active rod 31, driving the entire active unit 3 to move along the first direction, causing the braking mechanism to switch to the locking position, thereby locking the caster assembly 2.

[0052] Caster assembly 2 unlocking operation: When it is necessary to unlock caster assembly 2, the user applies downward pressure to the operating end of the unlocking operation part 912. Since the rotation axis of the unlocking operation part 912 is parallel to the upper surface of the chassis 1, the unlocking operation part 912 will rotate smoothly around the drive end towards the bottom of the chassis 1. The unlocking operation part 912 drives the entire second connecting rod 922 to rotate synchronously through the fixed end of the second connecting rod 922. The movable end of the second connecting rod 922 then exerts a force on the second active rod 32, driving the active unit 3 to move along the second direction, causing the braking mechanism to switch to the unlocking position, thus completing the unlocking of caster assembly 2.

[0053] It is worth noting that the fixed end and movable end of the first connecting rod 921 should be in the exact opposite positions to the fixed end and movable end of the second connecting rod 922. Specifically, in this embodiment, the fixed end of the first connecting rod 921 is located at the bottom of the rod body, and the movable end of the first connecting rod 921 is located at the top of the rod body. The fixed end of the second connecting rod 922 is located at the top of the rod body, and the movable end of the second connecting rod 922 is located at the bottom of the rod body.

[0054] Understandably, when the caster assembly 2 is locked (i.e., the active unit 3 moves in the first direction), the second active lever 32 can apply a reverse force to the unlocking operation part 912 via the second connecting rod 922, thereby causing the unlocking operation part 912 to rotate upwards and reset. Similarly, when the caster assembly 2 is unlocked (i.e., the active unit 3 moves in the second direction), the first active lever 31 can apply a reverse force to the locking operation part 911 via the first connecting rod 921, thereby causing the locking operation part 911 to rotate upwards and reset. In other words, when the user flips the unlocking operation part 912 downwards, the locking operation part 911 automatically flips upwards and resets; when the user flips the locking operation part 911 downwards, the unlocking operation part 912 automatically flips upwards and resets.

[0055] Of course, in other embodiments, the locking operation unit 911 can also be connected to the second driving rod 32 via the first connecting rod 921, and the unlocking operation unit 912 can be connected to the first driving rod 31 via the second connecting rod 922.

[0056] In this embodiment, the operating unit 91 preferably adopts a dual-operation structure design. Compared with a single-operation structure, its advantage is that the user only needs to apply a downward force to the operating unit 91 to perform either locking or unlocking operations, without needing to apply an additional upward force, thus effectively improving the convenience of daily use for the user.

[0057] Reference Figure 4 As shown, when the operating unit 9 adopts a dual-operation structure design, the operating unit 9 further includes an unlocking pedal 93 and a locking pedal 95. The unlocking pedal 93 is positioned above the unlocking operating part 912, and the locking pedal 95 is positioned above the locking operating part 911. Both the unlocking pedal 93 and the locking pedal 95 have operating areas on their upper surfaces, and the area of ​​these operating areas is larger than the upper surfaces of the unlocking operating part 912 and the locking operating part 911, respectively. The unlocking pedal 93 and the locking pedal 95 effectively increase the contact area with the foot during operation, thereby improving operational comfort.

[0058] Furthermore, the locking pedal 95 is fixedly mounted on the upper surface of the locking operation part 911; the unlocking pedal 93 is set to coincide with the axis of rotation of the unlocking operation part 912, that is, it rotates along the fixed pin of the unlocking operation part 912.

[0059] The operating unit 9 also includes an unlocking reset member 94, which is configured to elastically deform when the unlocking pedal 93 is rotated by the operation, and to drive the unlocking pedal 93 back to its initial position after the operation is completed. This application does not limit the specific structure of the unlocking reset member 94, for example, it can be a tension spring, a spring, a torsion spring, etc.

[0060] In one specific embodiment, a bracket 931 is fixedly connected to the bottom of the unlocking pedal 93, extending to the upper part of the chassis 1. A tension spring is connected between the end of the bracket 931 away from the operating area of ​​the unlocking operation part 912 and the upper surface of the chassis 1; the tension spring serves as the unlocking reset element 94. When the user presses the unlocking pedal 93, the unlocking pedal 93 and the unlocking operation part 912 flip downwards together, and the side of the bracket located above the chassis rotates upwards, at which point the tension spring is stretched. When the user removes the pressure on the unlocking pedal 93, the unlocking operation part 912 remains in the flipped position, while the tension spring, through its own contraction force, drives the unlocking pedal 93 and the bracket 931 to reset. When the user presses the locking pedal 95, the locking pedal 95 flips downwards along with the locking operation part 911 and remains in that position, while simultaneously causing the unlocking operation part 912 to return to its initial state.

[0061] Through the above structural design, except when the unlocking pedal 93 is stepped on, it will always remain in its initial horizontal position; while the locking pedal 95 will change position with the movement of the locking operation part 911. This allows for clear determination of the status: when both pedals are in their initial horizontal positions, the caster assembly 2 is currently in the unlocked state; when the two pedals are at opposite heights (the unlocking pedal 93 is higher than the locking pedal 95), the caster assembly 2 is currently in the locked state. This design provides users with an intuitive and convenient basis for observing the working status of the caster assembly 2.

[0062] Reference Figure 5 As shown in the embodiment of this application, the transmission unit 4 includes a power conversion unit 41 and a transmission component 42.

[0063] The power conversion unit 41 is connected between the drive unit 3 and the transmission assembly 42, and the power conversion unit 41 responds to the movement of the drive unit 3. Specifically, when the drive unit 3 moves along a first direction, the power conversion unit 41 outputs rotational power along a third direction; when the drive unit 3 moves along a second direction, the power conversion unit 41 outputs rotational power along a fourth direction.

[0064] The transmission assembly 42 is used to receive the rotational power output by the power conversion unit 41 and transmit it to the braking mechanism. When the power conversion unit 41 outputs rotational power in a third direction, the transmission assembly 42 will drive the braking mechanism to move to the locked position. When the power conversion unit 41 outputs rotational power in a fourth direction, the transmission assembly 42 will drive the braking mechanism to move to the unlocked position.

[0065] In one specific embodiment, the braking mechanism includes a brake pad, a cam, and an elastic element (not shown in the figure). The cam is located above the brake pad, and the transmission assembly 42 is fixedly connected to the cam along its axial direction. The elastic element is connected to the brake pad and is used to drive the brake pad away from the roller. It is understood that when the braking mechanism is in the locked position, the transmission assembly 42 transmits rotational power in a third direction to the cam, which then rotates until its convex point abuts against the brake pad, and the brake pad moves to contact the roller. At this time, the elastic element compresses and stores energy. When the braking mechanism is in the unlocked position, the transmission assembly 42 transmits rotational power in a fourth direction to the cam, which then rotates until its convex point moves away from the brake pad, and the elastic element releases its elastic potential energy, causing the brake pad to move away from the roller.

[0066] In this embodiment, the power conversion unit 41 is configured as a transmission rod, with one end as a power input end and the other end as a power output end. The power input end of the power conversion unit 41 is rotatably connected to the active unit 3. Specifically, the power input end of the power conversion unit 41 is rotatably connected to the rod body of the first active rod 31. The power output end of the power conversion unit 41 is fixedly connected to the transmission assembly 42. When the active unit 3 moves, it drives the power conversion unit 41 to move synchronously, causing the power conversion unit 41 to rotate around the power output end in a third or fourth direction, thereby driving the transmission assembly 42 to rotate in a third or fourth direction.

[0067] In this embodiment, the transmission assembly 42 includes a front rotating shaft 421, a universal coupling 422, and a rear rotating shaft 423. The rear rotating shaft 423 is fixed relative to the power output end of the power conversion unit 41 to receive the rotational power output from the power output end; one end of the universal coupling 422 is fixedly connected to one end of the rear rotating shaft 423, and the other end of the universal coupling 422 is fixedly connected to one end of the front rotating shaft 421 to transmit the rotational power; the other end of the front rotating shaft 421 extends to the braking mechanism to transmit the rotational power to the braking mechanism.

[0068] Furthermore, in each transmission assembly 42, there is one rear rotating shaft 423, and two front rotating shafts 421 and two universal couplings 422. The two ends of the rear rotating shaft 423 extend to both sides of the power conversion unit 41. The two universal couplings 422 are respectively fixed to the two ends of the rear rotating shaft 423. One end of each of the two front rotating shafts 421 is fixedly connected to the end of each of the two universal couplings 422 opposite to the rear rotating shaft 423. The other ends of the two front rotating shafts 421 are respectively connected to the caster assemblies 2 on both sides of the same end of the chassis 1 (for example, fixedly connected to the cams in the braking mechanism).

[0069] Furthermore, in this application, the caster assembly 2 is provided with four sets, the four sets of caster assemblies 2 are respectively located on both sides of the front end and both sides of the rear end of the chassis 1, and the transmission unit 4 is provided with two sets, the two sets of transmission are respectively located between the caster assembly 2 at the front end of the chassis 1 and the active unit 3, and between the caster assembly 2 at the rear end of the chassis 1 and the active unit 3.

[0070] Based on the above structure, on the one hand, the power generated during the movement of the active unit 3 can be efficiently and accurately transmitted to each caster assembly 2 through the transmission component 42, and the two sets of transmission units 4 share the active unit 3, while each set of transmission components 42 shares the rear rotating shaft 423. This effectively simplifies the mechanical structure, reduces manufacturing costs, and minimizes the space occupied by the chassis 1. On the other hand, the universal coupling 422 enables spatial adjustment of the rotational power, achieving a rational layout without occupying the space between adjacent casters. This allows the caster linkage locking device to adapt to more chassis 1s of different shapes, thus improving the applicability of the caster linkage locking device.

[0071] Reference Figure 1 As shown in the embodiment of this application, the transmission unit 4 further includes a first bearing seat 43 and a second bearing seat 44. The rear rotating shaft passes through the first bearing seat 43 and is rotatably connected to it, while the front rotating shaft passes through the second bearing seat 44 and is rotatably connected to it. Both the first bearing seat 43 and the second bearing seat 44 are fixedly connected to the upper surface of the chassis 1. Notably, both the first bearing seat 43 and the second bearing seat 44 abut against both ends of the universal coupling 422. The first bearing seat 43 and the second bearing seat 44 improve the stability of the front rotating shaft 421 and the rear rotating shaft 423 during rotation, and also limit the movement of the universal coupling 422, thus improving its stability during use.

[0072] In actual assembly, there will inevitably be assembly errors in the caster linkage locking device itself and between the caster linkage locking device and caster assembly 2. If the transmission assembly 42 is constructed as a rigid transmission, some braking mechanisms may reach the locking position, while some braking components may not reach the locking position, resulting in poor stability of the equipment in the locked state and the caster assembly 2 not being fully locked.

[0073] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, to solve the above problems, in this embodiment, the front rotating shaft 421 includes a drive shaft 5 and a driven shaft 6 arranged axially. One end of the drive shaft 5 is fixedly connected to a universal coupling 422, and one end of the driven shaft 6 is connected to a braking mechanism. One of the adjacent ends of the drive shaft 5 and the driven shaft 6 is provided with a slot 7, and the other end is constructed as a plug-in part 8 that can form a plug-in fit with the slot 7. The plug-in part 8 can rotate within the slot 7. When the locking pedal 95 is pressed, the drive shaft 5 will drive the driven shaft 6 to rotate together in a third direction. After the user completes the pressing action, the drive shaft 5 will stop rotating, and the cam in the caster assembly 2 will continue to rotate under inertia until the cam's protrusion abuts against the brake pad. The driven shaft 6 ensures that the cam can smoothly complete the rotation under inertia through the cooperation of the slot 7 and the plug-in part 8. Based on the cooperation between the slot 7 and the insertion part 8, after the drive shaft 5 stops transmitting power to the driven shaft 6, the cam, under the action of inertia, drives the driven shaft 6 to continue rotating until the braking mechanism reaches the locking position. Therefore, through the above structure, the possible errors in the assembly process of the caster linkage locking device are effectively solved, so that when the user presses the locking pedal 95, the braking mechanism in each caster assembly 2 can smoothly reach the locking position. Therefore, the stability of the equipment during use is effectively improved.

[0074] Furthermore, the maximum rotation angle that the insertion part 8 can rotate within the slot 7 is set to 5-10°. This ensures that after the drive shaft 5 stops rotating, the driven shaft 6 can still drive the cam in the braking mechanism to continue rotating by 5-10°. This ensures that the cam protrusion in each caster assembly 2 can abut against the brake pad.

[0075] Reference Figure 1 As shown, the transmission assembly 42 further includes a third bearing seat 45, which is located at the end of the drive shaft 5 away from the universal coupling 422. The drive shaft 5 is rotatably connected to the third bearing seat 45, and the third bearing seat 45 is fixedly connected to the chassis 1. The third bearing seat 45 effectively improves the stability of the drive shaft 5 during rotation.

[0076] Furthermore, the transmission assembly 42 also includes a bushing 46, which is fitted onto the connection between the slot 7 and the insertion part 8 and is fixedly connected to the transmission drive shaft 5. The bushing 46 constrains the insertion part 8 and the slot 7, preventing radial movement between them, thus effectively improving the stability between the transmission drive shaft 5 and the transmission driven shaft 6.

[0077] Example 2 In this application embodiment, a medical device is disclosed, which includes any of the caster linkage locking devices in Embodiment 1.

[0078] Other embodiments of this application will readily conceive of by those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the embodiments thereof. This application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this application that follow the general principles of this application and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not claimed in this application. The specification and embodiments are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of this application are indicated by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A caster linkage locking device, comprising a chassis and a caster assembly, the caster assembly having rollers and a braking mechanism, the braking mechanism being capable of approaching or moving away from the rollers, and having a locking position for locking the rollers and an unlocking position for releasing the rollers, characterized in that, It also includes a linkage locking mechanism disposed between the chassis and the caster assembly, the linkage locking mechanism comprising: The active unit is configured to move along a first direction or a second direction; A transmission unit is disposed between the active unit and the braking mechanism, and is used to transmit the power generated when the active unit moves to the braking mechanism; An operating unit is configured to control the active unit to move along the first direction or the second direction; Specifically, when the active unit moves along the first direction, the transmission unit drives the braking mechanism to the locking position; when the active unit moves along the second direction, the transmission unit drives the braking mechanism to the unlocking position. The transmission unit includes a power conversion unit and a transmission assembly; The power conversion unit is connected between the active unit and the transmission assembly. The power conversion unit responds to the movement of the active unit. When the active unit moves along a first direction, the power conversion unit outputs rotational power along a third direction. When the active unit moves along a second direction, the power conversion unit outputs rotational power along a fourth direction. The transmission assembly is configured to receive the rotational power from the power conversion unit and transmit it to the braking mechanism; when the transmission assembly rotates in the third direction, the braking mechanism moves to the locking position, and when the transmission assembly rotates in the fourth direction, the braking mechanism moves to the unlocking position. The transmission assembly includes a front rotating shaft that extends to the braking mechanism for transmitting the rotational power to the braking mechanism. The front rotating shaft includes a drive shaft and a driven shaft arranged along the axial direction. One of the adjacent ends of the drive shaft and the driven shaft is provided with a slot, and the other is configured as a plug-in part that can be inserted into the slot. The plug-in part can rotate within the slot. When the drive shaft rotates in a third direction, it will drive the driven shaft to rotate in the same third direction. When the drive shaft stops rotating, the cam in the caster assembly will continue to rotate under inertia until the cam's protrusion abuts against the brake pad. The driven shaft will ensure that the cam can smoothly complete its rotation under inertia through the cooperation between the slot and the insertion part.

2. The caster linkage locking device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The active unit is located in the middle of the chassis, and the first direction is opposite to the second direction.

3. The caster linkage locking device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The operation unit includes: An operating unit is disposed on one side of the chassis and has a drive end, the operating unit being configured to be operablely rotatable about the drive end; The operation connection part has one end configured as a fixed end fixedly connected to the drive end of the operation part, and the other end configured as a movable end rotatably connected to the active unit; the operation connection part rotates around the fixed end as the operation part rotates and drives the active unit to move.

4. The caster linkage locking device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The rotation axis of the operating part is parallel to the upper surface of the chassis.

5. The caster linkage locking device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The active unit includes a first active rod and a second active rod that are parallel to each other, and an active rod connecting part is provided between the first active rod and the second active rod; the active rod connecting part is fixedly connected to one of the first active rod and the second active rod, and rotatably connected to the other one. The operating part includes a locking operating part and an unlocking operating part; the operating connection part includes a first connecting rod and a second connecting rod; the first connecting rod is connected between the locking operating part and the first driving rod, and the second connecting rod is connected between the unlocking operating part and the second driving rod.

6. The caster linkage locking device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The operation unit further includes: An unlocking pedal is positioned above the unlocking operation unit, and the unlocking pedal coincides with the rotation axis of the unlocking operation unit; An unlocking reset component is disposed on the unlocking pedal. The unlocking reset component is configured to deform when the unlocking pedal is rotated operably, and to drive the unlocking pedal to reset after the operation is completed. A locking pedal is fixed to the upper surface of the locking operation part.

7. The caster linkage locking device according to claim 1, characterized in that, One end of the power conversion unit is configured as a power input end, and the other end is configured as a power output end. The power input end is rotatably connected to the active unit, and the power conversion unit is configured to rotate around the power output end under the action of the movement of the active unit. The transmission assembly also includes: a universal coupling and a rear rotating shaft; The rear rotating shaft is fixed relative to the power output end of the power conversion unit to receive the rotational power; One end of the universal joint is fixedly connected to one end of the rear rotating shaft, and the other end of the universal joint is fixedly connected to one end of the front rotating shaft to transmit the rotational power.

8. The caster linkage locking device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The transmission unit further includes a first bearing and a second bearing. The first bearing is rotatably connected to the rear rotating shaft and fixedly connected to the chassis. The second bearing is rotatably connected to the front rotating shaft and fixedly connected to the chassis. The two ends of the universal coupling abut against the first bearing and the second bearing, respectively.

9. The caster linkage locking device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The maximum rotation angle that the plug can rotate within the slot is set to 5°-10°.

10. A medical device comprising the caster linkage locking device according to any one of claims 1-9.

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