Connecting assembly

Abstract

The invention provides a connecting assembly. The connecting assembly comprises a first connecting piece and a second connecting piece, wherein the first connecting piece comprises a base wall suitable for being connected to a first component and a first side wall and a second side wall which extend from the base wall; the second connecting piece comprises a base plate which is opposite to the base wall and is suitable for being connected to a second component, and a first side plate and a second side plate which extend from the base plate; and a shaft assembly including a shaft. The first side wall and the second side wall respectively comprise a first open hole and a second open hole, and the first side plate and the second side plate respectively comprise a first open groove and a second open groove. The shaft extends to penetrate through the first open hole, the second open hole, the first open groove and the second open groove, the shaft is in clearance fit with the first open hole and the second open hole, and the shaft can move in the extending direction of the first open groove and / or the second open groove. The first connecting piece can move relative to the second connecting piece in the axial direction of the shaft and can move relative to the second connecting piece along with the shaft in the extending direction. The connecting assembly achieves floating connection of the first component and the second component.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates generally to the field of connector technology, and more specifically to a connector assembly for implementing a floating connection. Background Technology

[0002] The subframe of a vehicle typically serves to connect the body and suspension system. Currently, some vehicles rigidly connect their subframes to the underbody protection plates using bolts. When a vehicle travels on rough roads, the front and rear suspensions experience movement and vibration. These movements and vibrations are transmitted to the underbody protection plates through the rigid connection between the subframe and the plates, subjecting the plates to significant dynamic loads and making them prone to fatigue damage. This is particularly detrimental to underbody protection plates made of materials such as plastic. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to solve the problems existing in the prior art and to propose an improved connection component.

[0004] To this end, the present invention provides a connecting assembly adapted to connect a first component to a second component, wherein the connecting assembly comprises: a first connector, the first connector including a base wall adapted to be connected to the first component and a first side wall and a second side wall extending from the base wall and opposite to each other; a second connector, the second connector including a base plate opposite to the base wall and adapted to be connected to the second component and a first side plate and a second side plate extending from the base plate and opposite to each other; and a shaft assembly, the first connector being connected to the second connector via the shaft assembly, the shaft assembly including a shaft; wherein the first side wall and the second side wall respectively include a first opening and a second opening, and the first side plate and the second side plate respectively include a first slot and a second slot; wherein the shaft extends through the first opening, the second opening, the first slot and the second slot, and the shaft is clearance-fitted with the first opening and the second opening and the shaft is movable within the first slot and the second slot along the extension direction of the first slot and / or the second slot, such that: the first connector is movable relative to the second connector in the axial direction of the shaft, and the first connector is movable together with the shaft in the extension direction relative to the second connector.

[0005] Based on the above-described technical concept, the present invention may further include any one or more of the following optional forms.

[0006] In some alternative forms, the axial direction is substantially perpendicular to the extension direction.

[0007] In some alternative forms, the connecting assembly includes a first limiting structure and a second limiting structure, the first limiting structure being configured to limit the range of motion of the first connector relative to the second connector in the axial direction, and the second limiting structure being configured to limit the range of motion of the first connector relative to the second connector in the extension direction.

[0008] In some alternative forms, the first limiting structure includes a protrusion extending from the substrate between the first sidewall and the second sidewall and capable of selectively abutting against either the first sidewall or the second sidewall, or extending from the base wall between the first sideplate and the second sideplate and capable of selectively abutting against either the first sideplate or the second sideplate, to restrict movement of the first connector relative to the second connector in the axial direction.

[0009] In some alternative forms, the first sidewall and the second sidewall are disposed between the first side plate and the second side plate, and the protrusion extends from the substrate between the first sidewall and the second sidewall.

[0010] In some alternative forms, the protrusion includes a fastening hole through which a fastener passes to connect the substrate to the second member or the base wall to the first member.

[0011] In some alternative forms, the second limiting structure includes a limiting groove disposed on one of the first connector and the second connector, and a limiting tab disposed on the other of the first connector and the second connector, wherein the limiting groove extends substantially parallel to the extending direction and has two opposing ends, and the limiting tab extends through the limiting groove and is capable of selectively abutting either end of the limiting groove to limit the movement of the first connector relative to the second connector along the extending direction.

[0012] In some alternative forms, the second limiting structure includes a first limiting groove and a second limiting groove, as well as a first limiting protrusion and a second limiting protrusion. The first limiting groove and the second limiting groove are respectively disposed on the first side wall and the second side wall, or respectively disposed at the junction of the first side wall and the base wall and the junction of the second side wall and the base wall. The first limiting protrusion and the second limiting protrusion extend from the first side plate and the second side plate, respectively, and extend through the first limiting groove and the second limiting groove.

[0013] In some alternative forms, the first sidewall and the second sidewall are disposed between the first side plate and the second side plate, the first limiting tab and the second limiting tab extend toward each other, and each of the first limiting tab and the second limiting tab is spaced apart from the base wall.

[0014] In some alternative configurations, the substrate is generally parallel to the base wall and generally perpendicular to the first side plate and the second side plate, the first limiting tab forms an acute angle with the first side plate, and the second limiting tab forms an acute angle with the second side plate.

[0015] In some alternative forms, the shaft assembly further includes a first bushing and a second bushing sleeved outside the shaft, the first bushing and the second bushing sleeve being respectively installed in the first slot and the second slot and respectively being movable along the first slot and the second slot.

[0016] In some alternative forms, the first bushing includes a first annular groove disposed on its outer periphery, and the second bushing includes a second annular groove disposed on its outer periphery, wherein the first annular groove and the second annular groove respectively engage the inner edge of the first slot and the inner edge of the second slot.

[0017] In some alternative embodiments, the first side plate further includes a third slot adjacent to and communicating with the first slot, and the second side plate further includes a fourth slot adjacent to and communicating with the second slot; wherein the third slot is configured to allow the first bushing to be installed into the third slot in its axial direction, and the first slot is configured to prevent the first bushing from disengaging from the first slot in its axial direction; wherein the fourth slot is configured to allow the second bushing to be installed into the fourth slot in its axial direction, and the second slot is configured to prevent the second bushing from disengaging from the second slot in its axial direction.

[0018] In some alternative forms, the first sidewall and the second sidewall each include two first openings and two second openings, wherein the first sideplate and the second sideplate each include a first slot and a second slot, wherein the connecting assembly includes two shaft assemblies, the shaft of each shaft assembly extending through a corresponding first opening, a corresponding second opening, the first slot and the second slot.

[0019] In some alternative configurations, the first sidewall can abut against the first side plate, and the second sidewall can abut against the second side plate to limit the range of motion of the first connector relative to the second connector in the axial direction.

[0020] The connecting assembly according to the invention allows a first member connected to a first connector to move relative to a second member connected to a second connector along the aforementioned axial and extensional directions. This enables a floating connection between the first and second members, which is particularly advantageous in situations where the first member itself may move relative to the second member. Compared to a rigid connection, the first and second connectors of this connecting assembly move relative to each other when the first and second members move relative to each other, thereby preventing stress concentration at the connection point between the first and second members that could lead to damage. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Other features and advantages of the invention will be better understood through the following detailed description of optional embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals identify the same or similar parts, wherein:

[0022] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a connection assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention for connecting a vehicle subframe and a chassis guard plate is shown.

[0023] Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of a connection component according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0024] Figure 3 A schematic exploded view of a connection component according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0025] Figures 4A to 4C Schematic diagrams showing a first connector and a second connector of a connection assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention at different relative positions in one direction; and

[0026] Figures 5A to 5C The diagrams show the first connector and the second connector of the connection assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention in different relative positions in another direction. Detailed Implementation

[0027] The implementation and use of the embodiments are discussed in detail below. However, it should be understood that the specific embodiments discussed are merely illustrative of particular ways of implementing and using the invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. In the description, the structural positions of the various components, such as upper, lower, top, bottom, left, and right, are not absolute but relative. These orientations are appropriate when the various components are arranged as shown in the figures, but they change accordingly when the positions of the components in the figures change.

[0028] The terms "first," "second," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. In this invention, unless otherwise expressly specified, the terms "installed," "connected," "linked," "fixed," etc., 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. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0029] Figures 1 to 5C A connection assembly 10 and its components according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention are shown. The connection assembly 10 can connect a first component 20 to a second component 30 and allows a certain relative movement between the first component 20 and the second component 30 to achieve a floating connection between the first component 20 and the second component 30.

[0030] Reference Figures 1 to 3 The connecting assembly 10 includes a first connector 100, a second connector 200, and a shaft assembly 300. The first connector 100 includes a base wall 102 adapted for connection to a first member 20 and a first side wall 104 and a second side wall 106 extending from the base wall 102 and opposing each other. The second connector 200 includes a base plate 202 opposite to the base wall 102 and adapted for connection to the second member 30, and a first side plate 204 and a second side plate 206 extending from the base plate 202 and opposing each other. The first connector 100 is connected to the second connector 200 via the shaft assembly 300, which includes a shaft 302. The first side wall 104 and the second side wall 106 each include a first opening 108 and a second opening 110, and the first side plate 204 and the second side plate 206 each include a first slot 208 and a second slot 210. The shaft 302 extends through the first opening 108, the second opening 110, the first slot 208, and the second slot 210. The shaft 302 is clearance-fitted with the first opening 108 and the second opening 110, and the shaft 302 is movable within the first slot 208 and the second slot 210 along the extending direction E of the first slot 208 and / or the second slot 210, such that the first connector 100 is movable relative to the second connector 200 along the axial direction A of the shaft 302, and the first connector 100 is movable together with the shaft 302 along the extending direction E relative to the second connector 200.

[0031] Thus, the connecting assembly 10 allows the first member 20, connected to the first connector 100, to move relative to the second member 30, connected to the second connector 200, along the aforementioned axial direction A and extension direction E. This enables a floating connection between the first member 20 and the second member 30, which is particularly advantageous in situations where the first member 20 itself may move relative to the second member 30. Compared to a rigid connection, the first connector 100 and the second connector 200 of the connecting assembly 10 will move relative to each other when the first member 20 and the second member 30 move relative to each other, thereby preventing stress concentration or damage caused by dynamic loads at the connection point of the first member 20 and the second member 30.

[0032] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The first component 20 can be a vehicle subframe, and the second component 30 can be a vehicle chassis skid plate. The vehicle subframe connects the vehicle body and the suspension system. When the vehicle travels on rough roads, the front and rear suspensions will move and vibrate, causing the vehicle subframe to shift relative to the vehicle chassis skid plate. Connecting the vehicle subframe and the vehicle chassis skid plate with the connecting assembly 10 allows for the aforementioned relative movement between the vehicle subframe and the vehicle chassis skid plate, thereby preventing stress concentration or damage due to dynamic loads at the connection point. It is understood that the application of the connecting assembly 10 according to the present invention is not limited to this, but can be applied to various scenarios where the connected first component 20 and second component 30 need to be able to move relative to each other within a certain range.

[0033] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting assembly 10 includes two shaft assemblies 300. The two shaft assemblies 300 may have identical construction. Accordingly, the first sidewall 104 and the second sidewall 106 of the first connector 100 each include two first openings 108 and two second openings 110. The first sideplate 204 and the second sideplate 206 of the second connector 200 each include a first slot 208 and a second slot 210. The shaft 302 of each shaft assembly 300 extends through a corresponding first opening 108, a corresponding second opening 110, a first slot 208, and a second slot 210. The first connector 100 is coupled to the second connector 200 via the two shaft assemblies 300 (this will be more readily understood in conjunction with the description below). In the illustrated embodiment, the first connector 100 may be supported on the shaft assembly 300. The shaft assembly 300 may be made of metal to provide a secure connection between the first connector 100 and the second connector 200 and to provide good support for the first connector 100.

[0034] It is understood that in other embodiments not shown, the connecting components may also include other suitable numbers of shaft components, such as one shaft component or more than two shaft components. Accordingly, the first connector may include other suitable numbers of first openings and second openings, and the second connector may include other suitable numbers of first slots and second slots.

[0035] Reference Figures 1 to 4A The first connector 100 may be made of metal. Optionally, the first connector 100 may be formed by stamping a sheet metal. The base wall 102 of the first connector 100 may be generally rectangular in shape and include two first protrusions 112 projecting toward the interior of the first connector 100, each first protrusion 112 having a first fastening hole 114. The two first fastening holes 114 can be passed through by two externally threaded fasteners to connect the base wall 102 of the first connector 100 to the first member 20. It is understood that in other embodiments not shown, the base wall may also have other suitable shapes; the base wall may also include other suitable numbers of first protrusions with first fastening holes, for example, one first protrusion or more than two first protrusions.

[0036] The first sidewall 104 and the second sidewall 106 of the first connector 100 may be symmetrically arranged with respect to each other, for example, symmetrically arranged with respect to the axis of the first fastening hole 114. In the illustrated embodiment, the first sidewall 104 and the second sidewall 106 of the first connector 100 stand upright relative to the base wall 102 and form an angle of approximately 90° with the base wall 102. The first sidewall 104 and the second sidewall 106 of the first connector 100 are disposed between the first side plate 204 and the second side plate 206 of the second connector 200, and the base wall 102 of the first connector 100 and the base plate 202 of the second connector 200 are approximately parallel to each other. It is understood that in some other embodiments not shown, the first side plate and the second side plate of the second connector may be disposed between the first sidewall and the second sidewall of the first connector.

[0037] Reference Figures 2 to 4A In the illustrated embodiment, the first sidewall 104 has a first stepped portion 116 (see...) Figure 4A The portion of the first sidewall 104 including the first opening 108 is recessed toward the interior of the first connector 100 relative to the portion of the first sidewall 104 located between the first step portion 116 and the base wall 102. The second sidewall 106 has a second step portion 118 (see...). Figure 4AThis design ensures that the portion of the second sidewall 106 including the second opening 110 is recessed towards the interior of the first connector 100 relative to the portion of the second sidewall 106 located between the second step portion 118 and the base wall 102. This prevents mechanical interference between the first connector 100 and the first bushing 304 and the second bushing 306 of the shaft assembly 300 (which will be described in detail below) when the first connector 100 moves relative to the second connector 200 along the shaft 302 of the shaft assembly 300. In the illustrated embodiment, reinforcing ribs 117 and 119 may also be provided at the first step portion 116 and the second step portion 118, respectively, to increase the rigidity of the first sidewall 104 and the second sidewall 106. It is understood that the construction of the first and second sidewalls is not limited to this and may have other suitable constructions.

[0038] In the illustrated embodiment, each first opening 108 of the first sidewall 104 and a corresponding second opening 110 of the second sidewall 106 are substantially aligned in the axial direction A of the shaft 302 of the respective shaft assembly 300. Each first opening 108 of the first sidewall 104 and a corresponding second opening 110 of the second sidewall 106 are clearance-fitted with the shaft 302 of the respective shaft assembly 300 to allow the first connector 100 to move along the shaft 302 relative to the second connector 200, thereby moving relative to the second connector 200 in the axial direction A. In other embodiments not shown, the shaft of the shaft assembly may further include a sheath made of a polymer material to reduce frictional noise when the first connector moves relative to the second connector in the axial direction A.

[0039] Reference Figures 1 to 3 The second connector 200 may be made of metal. Optionally, the second connector 200 may be formed by stamping a sheet metal. The base plate 202 of the second connector 200 may also be generally rectangular in shape and include two second protrusions 212 projecting toward the interior of the second connector 200, each second protrusion 212 having a second fastening hole 214. The two second fastening holes 214 can be passed through by two externally threaded fasteners to connect the base plate 202 of the second connector 200 to the second member 30. It is understood that in other embodiments not shown, the base plate may also have other suitable shapes; the base plate may also include other suitable numbers of second protrusions with second fastening holes, for example, one second protrusion or more than two second protrusions.

[0040] In the illustrated embodiment, the first side plate 204 and the second side plate 206 are symmetrically arranged, for example, symmetrically arranged with respect to the axis of the second fastening hole 214. The first side plate 204 and the second side plate 206 of the second connector 200 can stand upright relative to the substrate 202 and form an angle of approximately 90° with the substrate 202. In the illustrated embodiment, reinforcing ribs 203 and 205 can also be provided at the junction of the first side plate 204 and the substrate 202, and at the junction of the second side plate 206 and the substrate 202, respectively, to increase the rigidity of the second connector 200. It is understood that the construction of the first side plate and the second side plate is not limited to this, and other suitable constructions are also possible.

[0041] In the illustrated embodiment, the axial direction A of the shaft 302 is generally perpendicular to the first sidewall 104, the second sidewall 106, the first side plate 204, and the second side plate 206, and generally parallel to the base wall 102 and the substrate 202. The first slot 208 of the first side plate 204 and the second slot 210 of the second side plate 206 are generally aligned in the axial direction A of the shaft 302 of the shaft assembly 300. The first slot 208 and the second slot 210 have the same shape and direction of extension.

[0042] Reference Figure 2As shown in Figure 4, each of the two shaft assemblies 300 is mounted and held on the second connector 200, and the shaft 302 of each shaft assembly 300 passes through the first opening 108 and the second opening 110 of the first connector 100, thereby connecting the first connector 100 to the second connector 200 through the two shaft assemblies 300. Each shaft assembly 300 also includes a first bushing 304 and a second bushing 306 sleeved on the shaft 302. The first bushing 304 and the second bushing 306 are respectively installed in the first slot 208 and the second slot 210, and are movable along the first slot 208 and the second slot 210, respectively. Because the shaft 302 of each shaft assembly 300 is clearance-fitted with the first opening 108 and the second opening 110 of the first connector 100, and the bushings 304 and 306 of each shaft assembly 300 can move along the corresponding slots 208 and 210, this allows the first connector 100 to drive the shaft 302 and the bushings 304 and 306 sleeved outside the shaft 302 to move relative to the second connector 200 along the extension direction E of the slots 208 and 210. In the illustrated embodiment, the axial direction A is substantially perpendicular to the extension direction E. In the illustrated embodiment, the first bushing 304 includes a first annular groove 308 disposed on its outer periphery, and the second bushing 306 includes a second annular groove 310 disposed on its outer periphery. The first annular groove 308 and the second annular groove 310 respectively engage with the inner edge of the first slot 208 and the inner edge of the second slot 210, thereby guiding the first bushing 304 and the second bushing 306 to move along the first slot 208 and the second slot 210 respectively, and further guiding the shaft 302 to move along the first slot 208 and the second slot 210.

[0043] The first side plate 204 also includes a third slot 216 adjacent to and communicating with the first slot 208, and the second side plate 206 also includes a fourth slot 218 adjacent to and communicating with the second slot 210. The third slot 216 and the fourth slot 218 are configured to install the first bushing 304 and the second bushing 306 into the first slot 208 and the second slot 210, respectively, during the assembly of the connecting assembly 10.

[0044] The third slot 216 is sized to allow the first bushing 304 to be installed into the third slot 216 in its axial direction, and the first slot 208 is sized to prevent the first bushing 304 from disengaging from the first slot 208 in its axial direction. The fourth slot 218 is sized to allow the second bushing 306 to be installed into the fourth slot 218 in its axial direction, and the second slot 210 is sized to prevent the second bushing 306 from disengaging from the second slot 210 in its axial direction.

[0045] The maximum width of the third slot 216 (i.e., the maximum dimension of the third slot 216 in the direction perpendicular to its extension direction) can be greater than the maximum outer diameter of the first bushing 304, and the maximum width of the first slot 208 (i.e., the maximum dimension of the first slot 216 in the direction perpendicular to the extension direction E) can be less than the maximum outer diameter of the first bushing 304 and greater than the outer diameter of the first bushing 304 at the first annular groove 308, so that the first bushing 304 can be first installed in the third slot 216 and engaged with the inner edge of the third slot 216, and then moved along the inner edge of the third slot 216 into the first slot 208 and held in the first slot 208. The maximum width of the fourth slot 218 (i.e., the maximum dimension of the fourth slot 218 in the direction perpendicular to its extension direction) can be greater than the maximum outer diameter of the second bushing 306. The maximum width of the second slot 210 (i.e., the maximum dimension of the second slot 210 in the direction perpendicular to the extension direction E) can be less than the maximum outer diameter of the second bushing 306 and greater than the outer diameter of the second bushing 306 at the second annular groove 310, so that the second bushing 306 can be first installed in the fourth slot 218 and engaged with the inner edge of the fourth slot 218, and then moved along the inner edge of the fourth slot 218 into the second slot 210 and held in the second slot 210.

[0046] After the connecting assembly 10 is assembled, during the movement of the first connecting member 100 relative to the second connecting member 200 along the extending direction E, the first bushing 304 is always located within the first slot 208 and the second bushing 306 is always located within the second slot 210. This is achieved by the second limiting structure described below. Thus, during the movement of the first connecting member 100 relative to the second connecting member 200 along the extending direction E, the first bushing 304 will not enter the third slot 216 and the second bushing 306 will not enter the fourth slot 218 and accidentally detach from the second connecting member 200.

[0047] In the illustrated embodiment, the first slot 208 forms an obtuse angle with the third slot 216, and the second slot 210 forms an obtuse angle with the fourth slot 218. Compared to arrangements where the first and third slots are on the same straight line and the second and fourth slots are on the same straight line, the arrangement shown in the figure allows the first side plate 204 and the second side plate 206 to have smaller dimensions, thereby reducing the volume of the second connector 200.

[0048] In the illustrated embodiment, each shaft assembly 300 has a shaft body 312 and a cover 314 disposed at one end of the shaft body 312, the cover 314 being able to at least partially accommodate a first bushing 304 or a second bushing 306. Each shaft assembly 300 also includes a retaining ring 316 mounted at the other end of the shaft body 312. The cover 314 and the retaining ring 316 cooperate to restrict axial movement of the shaft 302 relative to the first bushing 304 and the second bushing 306, thereby preventing the shaft 302 from disengaging from the second connector 200.

[0049] By holding the first bushing 304 and the second bushing 306 in the first slot 208 and the second slot 210 respectively, as described above, and restricting the axial movement of the shaft 302 relative to the first bushing 304 and the second bushing 306, the shaft assembly 300 can be securely held on the second connector 200.

[0050] In the illustrated embodiment, the shafts 302 of the two shaft assemblies 300 are arranged with different orientations, such that the covers 314 of the two shafts 302 are located on opposite sides of the second connector 200, to avoid mechanical interference between the covers 314 of the two shafts 302. It is understood that in other embodiments not shown, the shaft may not include covers, and instead, axial movement of the shaft relative to the first and second bushings may be restricted by providing two retaining rings at both ends of the shaft.

[0051] Reference Figures 2 to 5C The connecting assembly 10 includes a first limiting structure and a second limiting structure. The first limiting structure is configured to restrict the range of movement of the first connecting member 100 relative to the second connecting member 200 in the axial direction A, such that the first connecting member 100 is at a first extreme position relative to the second connecting member 200 in the axial direction A (e.g., ...). Figure 4B (as shown) and second extreme positions (as shown) Figure 4C The first connecting member 100 moves between the second connecting member 200 and the first connecting member 200 in the extension direction E. The second limiting structure is configured to restrict the range of movement of the first connecting member 100 relative to the second connecting member 200 in the extension direction E, such that the first connecting member 100 is at a third extreme position relative to the second connecting member 200 in the extension direction E (e.g., as shown). Figure 5B (as shown) and the fourth limit position (as shown) Figure 5C (as shown) move between.

[0052] In the illustrated embodiment, the first limiting structure includes a second protrusion 212 that extends from the substrate 202 between the first sidewall 104 and the second sidewall 106 and is capable of selectively abutting against either the first sidewall 104 or the second sidewall 106 to restrict movement of the first connector 100 relative to the second connector 200 in the axial direction A. Figure 4BAs shown, the second protrusion 212 can abut against the second sidewall 106, and the first sidewall 104 can abut against the first side plate 204 to limit the first connector 100 from moving further to the left relative to the second connector 200 along the axial direction A. At this time, the first connector 100 is in the first limit position relative to the second connector 200; as Figure 4C As shown, the second protrusion 212 can abut against the first sidewall 104, and the second sidewall 106 can abut against the second side plate 206 to restrict the first connector 100 from moving further to the right relative to the second connector 200 in the axial direction A. At this time, the first connector 100 is in the second limit position relative to the second connector 200.

[0053] It is understood that the first limiting structure can also have many variations. For example, in some other embodiments not shown, where the first side plate and the second side plate of the second connector are disposed between the first side wall and the second side wall of the first connector, the first limiting structure may include a first protrusion extending from the base wall between the first side plate and the second side plate and capable of selectively abutting against either the first side plate or the second side plate to restrict the movement of the first connector relative to the second connector in the axial direction A.

[0054] Continue to refer to Figures 2 to 5C The second limiting structure includes a first limiting groove 120 and a second limiting groove 122 disposed on the first connecting member 100, and a first limiting protrusion 220 and a second limiting protrusion 222 disposed on the second connecting member 200. The first limiting groove 120 and the second limiting groove 122 are symmetrically arranged, for example, symmetrically arranged with respect to the axis of the first fastening hole 114. The first limiting groove 120 and the second limiting groove 122 can extend substantially parallel to the extending direction E of the first slot 208 and the second slot 210. The first limiting protrusion 220 and the second limiting protrusion 222 are symmetrically arranged, for example, symmetrically arranged with respect to the axis of the second fastening hole 214.

[0055] In the illustrated embodiment, the first limiting groove 120 and the second limiting groove 122 are respectively disposed at the junction of the first side wall 104 and the base wall 102 and the junction of the second side wall 106 and the base wall 102. The first limiting protrusion 220 and the second limiting protrusion 222 extend from the first side plate 204 and the second side plate 206 toward each other, and extend through the first limiting groove 120 and the second limiting groove 122, respectively.

[0056] The first limiting groove 120 has two opposing ends. The first limiting tab 220 can selectively abut against either of the two ends of the first limiting groove 120 to restrict the movement of the first connector 100 relative to the second connector 200 in the extending direction E. The second limiting groove 122 has two opposing ends. The second limiting tab 222 can selectively abut against either of the two ends of the second limiting groove 122 to restrict the movement of the first connector 100 relative to the second connector 200 in the extending direction E.

[0057] Reference Figure 3 as well as Figures 5A to 5C The first limiting protrusion 220 and the second limiting protrusion 222 can respectively abut against the right end of the first limiting groove 120 and the right end of the second limiting groove 122 to restrict the first connector 100 from moving further to the left relative to the second connector 200 along the extending direction E. At this time, as Figure 5B As shown, the first connector 100 is in the third extreme position relative to the second connector 200; the first limiting protrusion 220 and the second limiting protrusion 222 can respectively abut against the left end of the first limiting groove 120 and the left end of the second limiting groove 122 to restrict the first connector 100 from moving further to the right relative to the second connector 200 along the extending direction E. At this time, as Figure 5C As shown, the first connector 100 is in the fourth extreme position relative to the second connector 200. Furthermore, due to the provision of the second limiting structure, the range of movement of the first connector 100 relative to the second connector 200 along the extension direction E is restricted, so that, as described above, the first bushing 304 is always located within the first slot 208 and the second bushing 306 is always located within the second slot 210.

[0058] Optionally, the second limiting structure is configured such that during the relative movement of the first connector 100 and the second connector 200, the first limiting protrusion 220 does not contact the upper and lower edges of the first limiting groove 120, and the second limiting protrusion 222 does not contact the upper and lower edges of the second limiting groove 122, so as to avoid noise caused by friction between the first limiting protrusion 220 and the first limiting groove 120 and between the second limiting protrusion 222 and the second limiting groove 122.

[0059] Optionally, the second limiting structure is configured such that during relative movement between the first connector 100 and the second connector 200, each of the first limiting tab 220 and the second limiting tab 222 is spaced apart from the base wall 102 to avoid noise caused by friction between the first limiting tab 220 and the second limiting tab 222 and the base wall 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the first limiting tab 220 forms an acute angle with the first side plate 204, and the second limiting tab 222 forms an acute angle with the second side plate 206, to ensure that each of the first limiting tab 220 and the second limiting tab 222 is spaced apart from the base wall 102 during relative movement between the first connector 100 and the second connector 200, thereby reducing friction and noise.

[0060] In the illustrated embodiment, reinforcing ribs 221 and 223 are provided at the junction of the first limiting protrusion 220 and the first side plate 204, and at the junction of the second limiting protrusion 222 and the second side plate 206, to further enhance the rigidity of the second connector 200.

[0061] It is understood that the second limiting structure can also have many variations. For example, in some embodiments not shown, the first limiting groove and the second limiting groove may not be respectively provided at the junction of the first sidewall and the base wall and the junction of the second sidewall and the base wall, but may be respectively provided at the first sidewall and the second sidewall; for another example, in some embodiments not shown, when the first side plate and the second side plate are provided between the first sidewall and the second sidewall, the first limiting protrusion and the second limiting protrusion may extend from the first side plate and the second side plate in a way that is opposite to each other (i.e., extending away from each other); for yet another example, in some embodiments not shown, other suitable numbers of limiting protrusions and limiting grooves may be provided, for example, one or more limiting grooves may be provided on the first connector, and one or more limiting protrusions may be provided on the second connector accordingly; for yet another example, in some embodiments not shown, limiting protrusions may be provided on the first connector, and limiting grooves may be provided on the second connector.

[0062] It should also be understood that the various components and features described herein may be made of a variety of materials, including but not limited to polymers, rubber, metals, and other suitable materials or combinations thereof known to those skilled in the art. Figures 1 to 5C The embodiments shown only illustrate the shape, size, number, and arrangement of the various optional components of the connecting assembly according to the present invention; however, they are merely illustrative and not limiting. Other shapes, sizes, numbers, and arrangements may be adopted without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0063] The technical content and features of the present invention have been disclosed above. However, it is understood that, under the inventive concept of the present invention, those skilled in the art can easily make modifications, variations, and equivalents of these embodiments based on the disclosed content. For example, features shown or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to produce yet another embodiment. This disclosure is intended to cover these modifications, variations, and equivalents. The description of the above embodiments is exemplary and not restrictive, and the scope of protection of the present invention is determined by the claims.

Claims

1. A connecting assembly (10) adapted to connect a first member (20) to a second member (30), characterized in that, The connection component (10) includes: A first connector (100) includes a base wall (102) adapted to be connected to the first member (20) and a first side wall (104) and a second side wall (106) extending from the base wall (102) and opposite to each other; A second connector (200) comprising a base plate (202) opposite to the base wall (102) and adapted to be connected to the second member (30), and a first side plate (204) and a second side plate (206) extending from the base plate (202) and opposite to each other; and A shaft assembly (300), wherein the first connector (100) is connected to the second connector (200) via the shaft assembly (300), and the shaft assembly (300) includes a shaft (302); The first sidewall (104) and the second sidewall (106) respectively include a first opening (108) and a second opening (110), and the first side plate (204) and the second side plate (206) respectively include a first slot (208) and a second slot (210); The shaft (302) extends through the first opening (108), the second opening (110), the first slot (208), and the second slot (210), and the shaft (302) is clearance-fitted with the first opening (108) and the second opening (110), and the shaft (302) is movable within the first slot (208) and the second slot (210) along the extending direction (E) of the first slot (208) and / or the second slot (210), such that: the first connector (100) is movable relative to the second connector (200) along the axial direction (A) of the shaft (302), and the first connector (100) is movable together with the shaft (302) along the extending direction (E) relative to the second connector (200).

2. The connection component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The axial direction (A) is substantially perpendicular to the extension direction (E).

3. The connection component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connecting assembly (10) includes a first limiting structure and a second limiting structure, the first limiting structure being configured to limit the range of movement of the first connector (100) relative to the second connector (200) along the axial direction (A), and the second limiting structure being configured to limit the range of movement of the first connector (100) relative to the second connector (200) along the extension direction (E).

4. The connecting component according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first limiting structure includes a protrusion extending from the substrate (202) between the first sidewall (104) and the second sidewall (106) and selectively abutting against either the first sidewall (104) or the second sidewall (106), or extending from the base wall (102) between the first sideplate (204) and the second sideplate (206) and selectively abutting against either the first sideplate (204) or the second sideplate (206) to restrict the movement of the first connector (100) relative to the second connector (200) in the axial direction (A).

5. The connecting component according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first sidewall (104) and the second sidewall (106) are disposed between the first side plate (204) and the second side plate (206), and the protrusion (212) extends from the substrate (202) to the space between the first sidewall (104) and the second sidewall (106).

6. The connecting component according to claim 4, characterized in that, The protrusion includes a fastening hole through which a fastener passes to connect the substrate (202) to the second member (30) or to connect the base wall (102) to the first member (20).

7. The connecting component according to claim 3, characterized in that, The second limiting structure includes a limiting groove disposed on one of the first connector (100) and the second connector (200) and a limiting tab disposed on the other of the first connector (100) and the second connector (200), wherein the limiting groove extends substantially parallel to the extending direction (E) and has two opposite ends, the limiting tab extends through the limiting groove and is capable of selectively abutting either end of the two ends of the limiting groove to restrict the movement of the first connector (100) relative to the second connector (200) along the extending direction (E).

8. The connection component according to claim 7, characterized in that, The second limiting structure includes a first limiting groove (120) and a second limiting groove (122), as well as a first limiting tab (220) and a second limiting tab (222). The first limiting groove (120) and the second limiting groove (122) are respectively disposed on the first side wall (104) and the second side wall (106) or respectively disposed at the junction of the first side wall (104) and the base wall (102) and the junction of the second side wall (106) and the base wall (102). The first limiting tab (220) and the second limiting tab (222) extend from the first side plate (204) and the second side plate (206) and respectively extend through the first limiting groove (120) and the second limiting groove (122).

9. The connection component according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first sidewall (104) and the second sidewall (106) are disposed between the first side plate (204) and the second side plate (206), the first limiting protrusion (220) and the second limiting protrusion (222) extend toward each other, and each of the first limiting protrusion (220) and the second limiting protrusion (222) is spaced apart from the base wall (102).

10. The connection component according to claim 9, characterized in that, The substrate (202) is generally parallel to the base wall (102) and generally perpendicular to the first side plate (204) and the second side plate (206), the first limiting tab (220) forms an acute angle with the first side plate (204), and the second limiting tab (222) forms an acute angle with the second side plate (206).

11. The connecting component according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The shaft assembly (300) further includes a first bushing (304) and a second bushing (306) sleeved outside the shaft (302). The first bushing (304) and the second bushing (306) are respectively installed in the first slot (208) and the second slot (210) and can move along the first slot (208) and the second slot (210) respectively.

12. The connection component according to claim 11, characterized in that, The first bushing (304) includes a first annular groove (308) disposed on its outer periphery, and the second bushing (306) includes a second annular groove (310) disposed on its outer periphery. The first annular groove (308) and the second annular groove (310) respectively engage the inner edge of the first slot (208) and the inner edge of the second slot (210).

13. The connection component according to claim 12, characterized in that, The first side plate (204) further includes a third slot (216) adjacent to and communicating with the first slot (208), and the second side plate (206) further includes a fourth slot (218) adjacent to and communicating with the second slot (210); wherein the third slot (216) is configured to allow the first bushing (304) to be installed in the third slot (216) in its axial direction, and the first slot (208) is configured to prevent the first bushing (304) from disengaging from the first slot (208) in its axial direction; wherein the fourth slot (218) is configured to allow the second bushing (306) to be installed in the fourth slot (218) in its axial direction, and the second slot (210) is configured to prevent the second bushing (306) from disengaging from the second slot (210) in its axial direction.

14. The connecting component according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The first sidewall (104) and the second sidewall (106) each include two first openings (108) and two second openings (110), wherein the first side plate (204) and the second side plate (206) each include a first slot (208) and a second slot (210), wherein the connecting assembly (10) includes two shaft assemblies (300), and the shaft (302) of each shaft assembly (300) extends through a corresponding first opening (108), a corresponding second opening (110), the first slot (208) and the second slot (210).

15. The connecting component according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The first sidewall (104) abuts against the first side plate (204), and the second sidewall (106) abuts against the second side plate (206) to limit the range of movement of the first connector (100) relative to the second connector (200) in the axial direction (A).

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