A folding lock
By designing a closed-loop structure and elastic components, the problems of inconvenient operation and exposed locking pins in folding locks are solved, resulting in a folding lock that is both easy to operate and highly secure.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- WENZHOU JINFU LOCK LTD
- Filing Date
- 2026-05-06
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-02
AI Technical Summary
Existing folding locks are inconvenient to operate and have exposed locking pins, resulting in insufficient security.
The lock hole, which features a closed-loop structure, a movable connection design, and the coordinated operation of the spring-loaded and transmission components, ensures easy insertion and unlocking of the locking head, while the locking pin is hidden inside.
It improves the ease of operation and security of folding locks, avoids security risks caused by exposed lock pins, and ensures a smooth and reliable unlocking process.
Smart Images
Figure CN122129171A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to locks, and more particularly to a folding lock. Background Technology
[0002] Most existing folding locks lock by folding the lock bar, adjusting the angle, and inserting it into the keyhole after aligning the free locking end with the keyhole. When locking a vehicle to a fixed object such as a car lock bracket or lamppost, the folding lock bar's length, rigidity, and inflexibility, as well as structural limitations and operating space constraints, mean that the lock bar can only rotate around the rivet. Inserting the locking end of the lock bar into the keyhole is cumbersome and requires careful alignment, making the operation inconvenient. The same applies to unlocking; due to these limitations, the locking end of the lock bar may become stuck in the keyhole and difficult to remove. Therefore, existing technology requires a folding lock that is easy to lock and unlock to solve these problems. Alternatively, the keyhole can be designed with a side-open structure, allowing the locking end of the folding lock bar to be inserted into the keyhole by rotating it horizontally from the side. This would expose the locking pin inside the lock body, affecting the security and reliability of the lock. For example, a folding lock disclosed in prior art CN109854100A mentions that the lock body 100 includes a shell 110, which has an opening 111 for inserting a connecting end 210. The connecting end 210 has a pin hole 211 and also includes a protective sleeve 120. The protective sleeve 120 has an open port 121 for inserting the connecting part of the lock body 100; and a stop part 122 communicating with the open port 121 for engaging a pin 123 to pass through the pin hole 211 and lock the connecting end 210. The connecting end 210 passes through the opening 111 of the outer shell 110 and is inserted into the open port 121. Then, the pin 123 is inserted into the pin hole 211. The protective sleeve 120 is rotated until the pin 123 engages with the retaining part 122. The protective sleeve 120 is then fixed to the outer shell 110 by the pin 130. The connecting end 210 of the connecting band 200 passes through the opening 111 of the outer shell 110 and is inserted into the open port 121 of the protective sleeve 120. The pin 123 passes through the pin hole 211. The protective sleeve 120 is then rotated so that the retaining part 122 of the protective sleeve 120 engages with the pin 123, forming a tension. The protective sleeve 120 is then fixed to the outer shell 110 by the pin 130, thus achieving the fixed assembly of the connecting end 210. (Refer to the attached instruction manual.) Figure 2 As you can see, pins 1, 2, and 3 are exposed, making them easy to pick using technical means or force. Summary of the Invention
[0003] The purpose of this invention is to provide a folding lock that solves the problems of difficult operation and security issues caused by exposed locking pins, improves the convenience of operation, avoids exposed locking pins, and enhances the safety and reliability of use.
[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: a folding lock, comprising a lock body and a folding lock bar, the folding lock bar comprising a connecting bar and a locking bar, one end of the connecting bar being hinged to the lock body, the locking bar comprising a lock bar body and a locking head, the locking head being movably connected to the lock bar body, the lock bar body being hinged to the connecting bar, a lock hole being provided on one side of the lock body, the opening of the lock hole being a closed-loop structure, the locking head being inserted into the lock hole, the locking head having a locking hole, a lock cylinder, a transmission component and a movable locking pin being provided inside the lock body, the movable locking pin being inserted into the locking hole to lock the locking head, the lock cylinder driving the movable locking pin to disengage from the locking hole through the transmission component to unlock the locking head, a spring component being provided inside the lock body, the spring component being held in place after the locking head is inserted into the lock hole, so that the locking head is ejected from the lock body by the spring force of the spring component after unlocking.
[0005] After adopting the above technical solution, the present invention has the following advantages: the closed-loop lock hole prevents the internal components from being exposed, thus improving safety; the movable connection design facilitates the adjustment of the locking head angle and simplifies the insertion operation; the elastic component automatically pops out the locking head to avoid jamming during unlocking, thereby solving the problems of inconvenient operation, difficult unlocking, and safety hazards as a whole. Specifically, the lock body and folding lock bar provide a basic framework, while the connecting bar is hinged to the lock body, allowing for folding and rotation, facilitating alignment in confined spaces. The locking bar consists of a lock bar body and a locking head, with the locking head movably connected to the lock bar body to achieve relative movement. This eliminates the need for precise alignment of the lock bar body and connecting bar when inserting the locking head into the keyhole; simply adjust the locking head directly for easy and convenient operation. The keyhole opening features a closed-loop structure, preventing external intrusion and ensuring the locking pin is concealed after the locking head is inserted. The locking head inserts into the keyhole and has a locking hole, forming a locking interface. The lock cylinder, transmission assembly, and movable locking pin work together. The movable locking pin inserts into the locking hole to secure the locking head, while the lock cylinder, through the transmission assembly, drives the movable locking pin out to unlock, providing a reliable locking and unlocking mechanism. A spring-loaded component continuously acts on the locking head, automatically ejecting it during unlocking to eliminate the risk of jamming. These features work synergistically: the movable connection and closed-loop structure address operational and safety issues, while the spring-loaded component addresses the unlocking ejection issue, collectively enhancing convenience and reliability.
[0006] Furthermore, the elastic component includes an elastic element and a push block. The elastic element is disposed between the lock body and the push block, and the push block faces the opening of the lock hole and maintains a tendency to spring towards the opening of the lock hole under the elastic force of the elastic element.
[0007] By employing the aforementioned technical solution and specifying the structure of the elastic component, the problem of unreliable ejection of the locking head is solved. The elastic component includes an elastic element and a push block, which define the core components of the elastic component. The elastic element provides the function of storing and releasing energy, while the push block acts as an intermediary to ensure that the elastic force is effectively transmitted to the locking head. The elastic element is located between the lock body and the push block, so that the elastic element is stably positioned between the fixed lock body and the movable push block. When the locking head is inserted, the push block is compressed, and the elastic element compresses and stores the elastic force, providing an energy source for ejection during unlocking. The push block faces the opening of the keyhole, ensuring that the push block directly faces the keyhole entrance, allowing it to make close contact with the locking head when it is inserted, and applying the elastic force directly to the locking head at the moment of unlocking, avoiding force transmission deviation. Under the action of the elastic force of the elastic element, the push block maintains a tendency to spring towards the keyhole opening, ensuring that the elastic force is applied immediately during unlocking, pushing the locking head to quickly eject from the lock body and preventing jamming.
[0008] Furthermore, the push block has a positioning hole on the side facing the elastic element for mounting and positioning the elastic element.
[0009] By employing the aforementioned technical solution, positioning holes are provided on the side of the push block facing the elastic element, ensuring that the elastic element is precisely installed and positioned. This prevents the elastic element from shifting during operation and improves the stability and accuracy of the push block's movement. Specifically, the installation position of the positioning holes is specified on the side of the push block facing the elastic element. This directly targets the contact surface between the elastic element and the push block, ensuring accurate installation points. The positioning holes for installing and positioning the elastic element provide a fixing structure, allowing the elastic element to be firmly embedded and kept in place, preventing it from loosening or shifting. This ensures that the elastic component can reliably transmit elastic force, enabling the push block to accurately push the locking head out and maintain alignment after unlocking.
[0010] Furthermore, the push block has a first alignment surface on the side of the locking head, and the front end of the locking head has a second alignment surface that matches and fits with the first alignment surface. The second alignment surface matches and fits with the first alignment surface, so that the locking hole of the locking head is aligned with the movable locking pin.
[0011] By adopting the aforementioned technical solution, the problem of inaccurate alignment between the locking hole and the movable locking pin during the insertion of the locking head is solved by introducing a first alignment surface on the push block and a second alignment surface on the locking head. Specifically, the push block has a first alignment surface on the side facing the locking head, which serves as a positioning reference and contacts the locking head during insertion. The front end of the locking head has a second alignment surface that matches and fits the first alignment surface, achieving a tight fit through complementary shapes. The matching fit of the first and second alignment surfaces guides the locking head to automatically adjust its position, ensuring that the locking hole is precisely aligned with the movable locking pin, thereby eliminating the need for manual alignment and improving locking reliability and ease of operation.
[0012] Furthermore, the first calibration surface is concave, and the second calibration surface is convex.
[0013] By employing the aforementioned technical solution, the problem of inaccurate alignment is solved by defining the specific shapes of the first and second alignment surfaces. Specifically, the first alignment surface is concave, and the second alignment surface is convex. This concave-convex fit structure utilizes its geometric characteristics to achieve automatic centering during the fitting process, ensuring precise alignment between the locking hole and the movable locking pin. A curved surface contact is formed between the push block and the locking head, providing a stable fitting effect and further enhancing the reliability of alignment. These designs avoid fitting problems caused by improper shapes, improving the operational convenience and security of the folding lock. Since the locking head is a moving active component and the push block is a passive component, choosing a concave first alignment surface and a convex second alignment surface facilitates the mutual misalignment of the push block and the locking head at the moment of contact. The convex surface is less likely to jam when entering the concave surface, and the locking head can more easily move relative to the push block to achieve centering.
[0014] Furthermore, the lock body is provided with a sliding groove, and the push block is provided with a protruding rib that cooperates with the sliding groove. The protruding rib slides along the sliding groove to guide the push block to reciprocate linear motion.
[0015] By employing the aforementioned technical solution, the problem of unstable push block movement is solved through the cooperative structure of the sliding groove and the raised rib, ensuring smooth and accurate reciprocating linear motion of the push block. Specifically, the lock body is provided with a sliding groove, which provides a fixed guide track to prevent the push block from deviating during movement; the push block is provided with a raised rib that cooperates with the sliding groove, and the raised rib is embedded in the sliding groove to form a tight fit, preventing the push block from tilting or getting stuck; the raised rib slides along the sliding groove to guide the reciprocating linear motion of the push block, so that the push block maintains a straight trajectory under the action of elastic force, thereby helping the locking head to accurately align with the movable locking pin and reliably pop out, improving the ease of operation and reliability of the lock.
[0016] Furthermore, the lock body is provided with a movable cavity, and the transmission assembly includes a slider located in the movable cavity. The slider is connected to a movable locking pin. The slider is provided with a transmission groove, and the lock cylinder is provided with a transmission pin inserted into the transmission groove. The transmission pin is eccentric relative to the rotation axis of the lock cylinder.
[0017] By adopting the aforementioned technical solution and optimizing the structural design of the transmission components, the rotational motion of the lock cylinder can be efficiently converted into the linear motion of the movable locking pin, thereby solving the jamming problem during the unlocking process. Specifically, the lock body has a movable cavity to provide a stable space for the transmission components and avoid external interference. The transmission components include a slider located in the movable cavity. The slider, as the core transmission component, is directly connected to the movable locking pin, reducing intermediate links and improving transmission efficiency. The slider has a transmission groove that allows the transmission pin to be inserted into it, forming a sliding fit mechanism that converts rotational motion into linear displacement. The lock cylinder has a transmission pin that is inserted into the transmission groove. The transmission pin extends from the lock cylinder and is embedded in the transmission groove to achieve direct power transmission. The transmission pin is eccentric relative to the rotation axis of the lock cylinder. This eccentric design is key. When the lock cylinder rotates, the eccentric trajectory of the transmission pin pushes the slider to move in a linear direction, thereby precisely controlling the insertion and disengagement of the movable locking pin and ensuring a smooth and reliable unlocking process.
[0018] Furthermore, an elastic reset element is provided between the slider and the lock body. The elastic force of the elastic reset element keeps the slider inclined to push the movable locking pin to lock the locking head.
[0019] By adopting the aforementioned technical solution and introducing an elastic reset component, the problem of slider reset is solved, ensuring a stable and reliable locking state. Specifically, an elastic reset component is provided between the slider and the lock body. This design allows the elastic reset component to act directly between the slider and the lock body, providing a continuous source of elastic force. This ensures that the slider is always subjected to elastic force after transmission or unlocking. The elastic force of the elastic reset component keeps the slider inclined to push the movable locking pin to lock the locking head. Utilizing this elastic force tendency, the slider can automatically reset to its initial position after the lock cylinder operation is completed, pushing the movable locking pin to reliably lock the locking head, thereby improving the automatic reset capability and operational stability of the lock and avoiding slider jamming or the need for manual reset.
[0020] Furthermore, the inner end of the lock cylinder is provided with a torsion spring, the elastic force of the torsion spring keeps the lock cylinder in a reset position, and keeps the lock cylinder and the transmission assembly in a separation position.
[0021] By employing the aforementioned technical solution, a torsion spring is installed at the inner end of the lock cylinder. Its elasticity enables the lock cylinder to automatically reset and separate from the transmission components, thus solving the lock cylinder reset problem after unlocking. Specifically, the torsion spring at the inner end of the lock cylinder provides a direct source of reset force, ensuring that the elastic force acts on the core position of the lock cylinder. The elasticity of the torsion spring maintains the lock cylinder's reset tendency, ensuring that the lock cylinder automatically returns to its initial position after the unlocking action is completed, avoiding jamming due to lack of external force. Maintaining the lock cylinder's separation tendency from the transmission components reduces connection interference of the transmission components in non-operating states, ensuring a smooth unlocking process and facilitating subsequent operations, thereby improving overall reliability.
[0022] Furthermore, one end of the lock bar body is provided with a rivet pin, and the locking head is provided with a strip hole. The rivet pin passes through the strip hole, and the locking head moves along the rivet pin.
[0023] By employing the aforementioned technical solution, the movable connection between the locking head and the lock bar body is achieved through the cooperative design of the riveting pin and the slotted hole, thus solving the problem of inconvenient operation. Specifically, one end of the lock bar body is provided with a riveting pin, which provides a fixed pivot point to ensure that the locking head can move around with this point as a reference; the locking head is provided with a slotted hole, which allows the riveting pin to move relative to each other within the hole, increasing the degree of freedom of movement of the locking head; the riveting pin passes through the slotted hole, forming a reliable mechanical connection to prevent the locking head from disengaging; the locking head moves along the riveting pin, allowing the locking head to freely adjust its position when folded or inserted into the lock hole, improving the flexibility of alignment and insertion. Attached Figure Description
[0024] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a folding lock according to the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a folding lock (with hidden lock body) according to the present invention. Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a folding lock according to the present invention; Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the positional relationship between the locking bar, transmission assembly, movable locking pin, and spring assembly in a folding lock according to the present invention. Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a slider in a folding lock according to the present invention; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the lock cylinder in a folding lock according to the present invention; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a folding lock (another protective cover) according to the present invention. Figure label: Lock body 100, lock hole 101, insertion hole 102, slide groove 104, movable cavity 105, guide plate 106, guide rib 1061; Folding lock bar 200, connecting bar 201, locking bar 202, lock bar body 221, locking head 222, locking hole 2221, strip hole 2222, second calibration surface 2223, riveting pin 223, protective cover 224, exposed opening 2241; Lock cylinder 300, transmission pin 301, torsion spring 302, positioning platform 303, positioning groove 304; Transmission assembly 400, slider 401, transmission groove 411, elastic reset component 402; Activity lock 500; Elastic component 600, elastic element 601, push block 602, positioning hole 621, first calibration surface 622, convex rib 623. Detailed Implementation
[0025] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments.
[0026] The terms "first," "second," etc. (if present) in the specification and claims of this invention are used to distinguish similar objects, not to describe a specific order or quantity. Even if "second" is used before a technical feature for distinction, it does not necessarily imply the presence of "first." It should be understood that in this invention, "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. It should be understood that in this invention, "a plurality of" refers to two or more. "And / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, X and / or Y can represent: X alone, X and Y simultaneously, and Y alone. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship. "Containing X, Y, and Z," "Containing X, Y, and Z" means that all three X, Y, and Z are included; "Containing X, Y, or Z" means that one of X, Y, and Z is included; "Containing X, Y, and / or Z" means that any one, two, or three of X, Y, and Z are included.
[0027] The following specific embodiments can be combined or substituted with each other according to the actual situation. For the same or similar concepts or processes, they may not be described again in some embodiments.
[0028] like Figures 1 to 6As shown, the present invention provides a folding lock, including a lock body 100 and a folding lock bar 200. The folding lock bar 200 includes a connecting bar 201 and a locking bar 202. One end of the connecting bar 201 is hinged to the lock body 100. The locking bar 202 includes a lock bar body 221 and a locking head 222. The locking head 222 is movably connected to the lock bar body 221. The lock bar body 221 is hinged to the connecting bar 201. A lock hole 101 is provided on one side of the lock body 100. The opening of the lock hole 101 has a closed-loop structure. The locking head 222 is inserted into the lock hole 101 and has a locking hole 22. 21. The lock body 100 is provided with a lock cylinder 300, a transmission component 400 and a movable locking pin 500. The movable locking pin 500 is inserted into the locking hole 2221 to lock the locking head 222. The lock cylinder 300 drives the movable locking pin 500 to disengage from the locking hole 2221 through the transmission component 400 to unlock the locking head 222. The lock body 100 is provided with a spring component 600. After the locking head 222 is inserted into the lock hole 101, the spring component 600 continues to act on the locking head 222, so that the locking head 222 is ejected from the lock body 100 by the spring force of the spring component 600 after unlocking.
[0029] This invention improves security by preventing the exposure of internal components through a closed-loop keyhole 101; the movable connection design facilitates angle adjustment of the locking head 222, simplifying the insertion operation; and the elastic component 600 automatically ejects the locking head 222, preventing jamming during unlocking, thus comprehensively solving the problems of inconvenient operation, difficult unlocking, and security risks. Specifically, the lock body 100 and the folding lock bar 200 provide a basic framework, and the connecting bar 201 is hinged to the lock body 100, allowing folding and rotation for easy alignment in narrow spaces; the locking bar 202 consists of a lock bar body 221 and a locking head 222, with the locking head 222 movably connected to the lock bar body 221 to achieve relative movement. This allows the locking head 222 to be inserted into the keyhole 101 without needing to precisely align the lock bar body 221 and the connecting bar 201, making it convenient and easy to use; the opening of the keyhole 101 has a closed-loop structure, and after the locking head 222 is inserted into the keyhole 101... Internal components are no longer exposed, preventing external intrusion and ensuring the locking pin is concealed. The locking head 222 is inserted into the lock hole 101 and has a locking hole 2221, forming a locking interface. The lock cylinder 300, transmission assembly 400, and movable locking pin 500 work together. The movable locking pin 500 is inserted into the locking hole 2221 to fix the locking head 222. The lock cylinder 300 drives the movable locking pin 500 out through the transmission assembly 400 to achieve unlocking, providing a reliable locking and unlocking mechanism. The spring assembly 600 continuously acts on the locking head 222. When unlocking, the spring force automatically ejects the locking head 222, eliminating the risk of jamming. The synergistic effect of these features—the movable connection and closed-loop structure address operational and safety issues, while the spring assembly 600 addresses the unlocking ejection issue—jointly improves convenience and reliability.
[0030] For ease of understanding, the following explains some of the above technical features: Lock body 100: A housing structure used to form the internal space for installing the lock cylinder 300, transmission assembly 400 and movable locking pin 500, and to protect the internal components, preventing violent disassembly tools from bypassing the lock body 100 and directly facing the internal components. It is also an external component that forms the shape. Folding lock bar 200: Generally composed of four to six metal bars, adjacent metal bars are hinged together and can rotate relative to each other. In use, it can be unfolded to form a large ring structure to lock the item to be locked, such as passing through a bicycle tire or surrounding a tree trunk or lamppost to lock a bicycle for theft prevention. According to the functional definition, it can be distinguished as connecting bar 201 and locking bar 202. Connecting bar 201 is a metal bar that is led out from the lock body 100 and hinged in sequence. Both ends of connecting bar 201 are hinged, while locking bar 202 is hinged at one end and plugged into the lock body 100 at the other end for locking.
[0031] Connecting bar 201: A metal bar that constitutes the folding lock bar 200. It can be flat or cylindrical, straight or curved. Generally, three to five bars are provided. One end of one connecting bar 201 is hinged to the lock body 100. The remaining connecting bars 201 are hinged to each other in sequence to form a long bar structure that can rotate with each other. The last connecting bar 201 is hinged to the locking bar 202.
[0032] Locking bar 202: One end of which is hinged to the connecting bar 201, and the other end is inserted into the lock body 100 for locking. After unlocking, it can be pulled out from the lock body 100. In order to facilitate the user's insertion and removal operation, it is divided into two parts in this application: the locking bar body 221 and the locking head 222.
[0033] Lock bar body 221: The basic structure of the locking bar 202, providing basic strength. It is generally a bar-shaped structure, with one end hinged to the connecting bar 201 and the other end movably connected to the locking head 222. Locking head 222: used to be inserted into the lock hole 101 for locking. It is connected to the lock bar body 221 by riveting pin 223 and is provided with a strip hole 2222 to allow sliding relative to the lock bar body 221. The locking head 222 is provided with a locking hole 2221 for the movable locking pin 500 to be inserted. Since the locking head 222 can rotate and slide relative to the lock bar body 221, it has a high degree of freedom and can be easily inserted into the lock hole 101 and ejected from the lock hole 101. Lock hole 101: for the locking head 222 to be inserted and removed. The opening of the lock hole 101 is a closed-loop structure, which means that the side wall of the lock hole 101 has no opening or open, and it is impossible to enter the lock body 100 through the side of the lock hole 101. After the locking head 222 is inserted into the lock hole 101, it will close the opening of the lock hole 101, making it difficult for external tools to enter the lock body 100 through the opening of the lock hole 101, thereby improving security and reliability.
[0034] Lock cylinder 300: A common mechanical lock cylinder 300 or an electronic lock cylinder 300 can be used. It is feasible to unlock by key, password or Bluetooth. The rotation of the lock cylinder 300 provides power to move the transmission component 400. The transmission component 400 then indirectly drives the movable lock pin 500 to exit from the locking hole 2221 to unlock. When using a key to unlock, a jacking hole 102 for inserting the key into the lock cylinder 300 needs to be provided on the side of the lock body 100. Transmission component 400: mainly used to convert the power generated by the rotation of the lock cylinder 300 into the power to drive the linear motion of the movable locking pin 500. Common transmission structures that can convert rotational motion into linear motion can be used. Movable locking pin 500: Generally, it can adopt a shaft structure and achieve locking and unlocking through linear movement. When the movable locking pin 500 is inserted into the locking hole 2221, it locks the locking head 222 and the locking head 222 cannot be pulled out of the lock body 100. When the movable locking pin 500 is removed from the locking hole 2221, it unlocks the locking head 222 and the locking head 222 will be ejected from the lock body 100. The elastic component 600 provides reliable elastic force to the locking head 222. When the locking head 222 is unlocked, it can be ejected from the lock body 100, making it easier for the user to operate. Since the connection between the locking head 222 and the lock bar body 221 is highly flexible, and the lock bar body 221 itself is hinged to the connecting bar 201, the elastic component 600 needs to overcome less resistance when the locking head 222 is ejected. Therefore, it has high reliability and a long service life.
[0035] In one embodiment, to better transmit the elastic force to the locking head 222, the elastic component 600 can be designed to include an elastic element 601 and a pusher block 602. The elastic element 601 is located between the lock body 100 and the pusher block 602, and the pusher block 602 faces the opening of the keyhole 101 and maintains its tendency to spring towards the opening of the keyhole 101 under the elastic force of the elastic element 601. By specifying the structure of the elastic component 600, the problem of unreliable ejection of the locking head 222 is solved. The elastic component 600 includes the elastic element 601 and the pusher block 602, which defines the core components of the elastic component 600. The elastic element 601 provides the function of storing and releasing energy, and the pusher block 602 acts as an intermediary to ensure that the elastic force is effectively transmitted to the locking head 222. The elastic element 601 is located between the lock body 100 and the push block 602, ensuring its stable positioning between the fixed lock body 100 and the movable push block 602. When the locking head 222 is inserted, the push block 602 is compressed, and the elastic element 601 compresses and stores elastic force, providing energy for the release during unlocking. The push block 602 faces the opening of the keyhole 101, ensuring it directly faces the entrance of the keyhole 101. This allows for close contact with the locking head 222 when it is fully inserted, and the elastic force is directly applied to the locking head 222 upon unlocking, preventing force transmission deviation. The elastic element 601 maintains a tendency to spring towards the opening of the keyhole 101, ensuring the push block 602 remains in a ready-to-move state towards the opening of the keyhole 101. This guarantees immediate action of the elastic force during unlocking, pushing the locking head 222 out of the lock body 100 quickly and preventing jamming. The push block 602 can be a block structure or a sheet structure with sufficient strength, as long as it can evenly apply the elastic force of the elastic element 601 to the locking head 222.
[0036] To improve the stability of the elastic element 601 after assembly and prevent abnormal displacement during long-term use, a positioning hole 621 for mounting and positioning the elastic element 601 can be provided on the side of the push block 602 facing the elastic element 601. By setting the positioning hole 621 on the side of the push block 602 facing the elastic element 601, the elastic element 601 is ensured to be accurately installed and positioned, thereby preventing displacement of the elastic element 601 during operation and improving the stability and accuracy of the push block 602's movement. Specifically, the mounting position of the positioning hole 621 is specified on the side of the push block 602 facing the elastic element 601, which directly targets the contact surface between the elastic element 601 and the push block 602, ensuring accurate installation. The positioning hole 621 for mounting and positioning the elastic element 601 provides a fixing structure, allowing the elastic element 601 to be firmly embedded and kept in place, preventing it from loosening or shifting, ensuring that the elastic component 600 can reliably transmit elastic force, and enabling the push block 602 to accurately push the locking head 222 out and maintain alignment after unlocking.
[0037] Since the locking hole 2221 on the locking head 222 needs to be aligned with the movable locking pin 500 to achieve locking, it is necessary to ensure that the locking hole 2221 is accurately located on the movement path of the movable locking pin 500 each time the user inserts the locking head 222 into the lock hole 101. Therefore, a first alignment surface 622 can be provided on the side of the push block 602 facing the locking head 222, and a second alignment surface 2223 is provided at the front end of the locking head 222 to match and fit with the first alignment surface 622. The second alignment surface 2223 matches and fits with the first alignment surface 622, so that the locking hole 2221 of the locking head 222 is aligned with the movable locking pin 500. By introducing the first alignment surface 622 on the push block 602 and the second alignment surface 2223 on the locking head 222, the problem of inaccurate alignment between the locking hole 2221 and the movable locking pin 500 when the locking head 222 is inserted is solved. Specifically, the push block 602 has a first alignment surface 622 on its side facing the locking head 222. This surface serves as a positioning reference and contacts the locking head 222 during insertion. The front end of the locking head 222 has a second alignment surface 2223, which matches and fits the first alignment surface 622, achieving a tight fit through complementary shapes. The matching fit of the first alignment surface 622 and the second alignment surface 2223 guides the locking head 222 to automatically adjust its position, ensuring that the locking hole 2221 is precisely aligned with the movable locking pin 500, thereby eliminating the need for manual alignment and improving locking reliability and ease of operation. In this way, the user only needs to insert the locking head 222 into the lock hole 101 until it is in place, without worrying about the locking head 222 shifting to the left or right sides in the insertion direction.
[0038] To ensure that the locking head 222 can automatically align smoothly after contacting the push block 602, the first alignment surface 622 can be further selected as concave, and the second alignment surface 2223 as convex. For example, the first alignment surface 622 can be V-shaped, and the second alignment surface 2223 can be Λ-shaped; or the first alignment surface 622 can be concave, and the second alignment surface 2223 can be convex, and so on. By defining the specific shapes of the first alignment surface 622 and the second alignment surface 2223, the problem of inaccurate alignment is solved. Specifically, the first alignment surface 622 is concave, and the second alignment surface 2223 is convex. The concave-convex fit structure can achieve automatic alignment during the fitting process using its geometric characteristics, ensuring that the locking hole 2221 and the movable locking pin 500 are precisely aligned. The push block 602 and the locking head 222 form a curved surface contact, providing a stable fitting effect and further enhancing the reliability of alignment. These designs avoid fitting problems caused by improper shapes, improving the ease of operation and security of the folding lock. Since the locking head 222 is the active moving component and the push block 602 is the passive component, choosing a concave first alignment surface 622 and a convex second alignment surface 2223 facilitates the mutual misalignment of the push block 602 and the locking head 222 at the moment of contact. The convex surface is less likely to jam when entering the concave surface, and the locking head 222 can more easily move relative to the push block 602 to achieve centering. Conversely, if the first alignment surface 622 is convex and the second alignment surface 2223 is concave, the locking head 222 can still obtain a certain guiding effect to achieve centering.
[0039] Since the push block 602 frequently reciprocates during locking and unlocking, a groove 104 is provided inside the lock body 100 to improve the long-term stability of its reciprocating motion. A rib 623, which mates with the groove 104, is provided on the push block 602. The rib 623 slides along the groove 104 to guide the push block 602's reciprocating linear motion. This cooperative structure of the groove 104 and the rib 623 solves the problem of unstable movement of the push block 602, ensuring smooth and accurate reciprocating linear motion. Specifically, the lock body 100 has a groove 104 inside, providing a fixed guide track to prevent the push block 602 from deviating during movement. The push block 602 has a rib 623 that mates with the groove 104. The rib 623 is embedded in the groove 104 to form a tight fit, preventing the push block 602 from tilting or getting stuck. The rib 623 slides along the groove 104 to guide the push block 602 in reciprocating linear motion, so that the push block 602 maintains a straight trajectory under the action of elasticity. This helps the locking head 222 to accurately align with the movable locking pin 500 and reliably eject, improving the ease of operation and reliability of the lock. The groove 104 can have a dovetail shape, and the cross-section of the rib 623 is adapted to it to prevent the push block 602 from falling off the groove 104. To improve the stability of the movement and further prevent the push block 602 from jamming, ribs 623 can be provided on both sides of the push block 602, and corresponding grooves 104 can be provided in the lock body 100 to form a more balanced frictional resistance, making the reciprocating movement of the push block 602 more stable and smooth.
[0040] To accommodate and facilitate the movement of the transmission assembly 400, a movable cavity 105 can be provided within the lock body 100. The transmission assembly 400 includes a slider 401 located within the movable cavity 105. The slider 401 is connected to a movable locking pin 500. The slider 401 has a transmission groove 411, and the lock cylinder 300 has a transmission pin 301 inserted into the transmission groove 411. The transmission pin 301 is eccentric to the rotation axis of the lock cylinder 300. By optimizing the structural design of the transmission assembly 400, the rotational motion of the lock cylinder 300 can be efficiently converted into the linear motion of the movable locking pin 500, thereby solving the jamming problem during the unlocking process. Specifically, the lock body 100 has a movable cavity 105, which provides a stable space for the transmission assembly 400 and avoids external interference. The transmission assembly 400 includes a slider 401 located in the movable cavity 105. The slider 401, as the core transmission component, is directly connected to the movable locking pin 500, reducing intermediate links and improving transmission efficiency. The slider 401 has a transmission groove 411, which allows the transmission pin 301 to be inserted into it, forming a sliding fit mechanism to convert rotational motion into linear displacement. The lock cylinder 300 has a transmission pin 301 inserted into the transmission groove 411. The transmission pin 301 extends from the lock cylinder 300 and is embedded in the transmission groove 411 to realize direct power transmission. The transmission pin 301 is eccentric relative to the rotation axis of the lock cylinder 300. The eccentric design is key. When the lock cylinder 300 rotates, the eccentric trajectory of the transmission pin 301 pushes the slider 401 to move in a straight line, thereby precisely controlling the insertion and disengagement of the movable locking pin 500 and ensuring a smooth and reliable unlocking process. To make the reciprocating motion of slider 401 more stable, a guide plate 106 can be provided in the movable cavity 105. The side of guide plate 106 facing slider 401 is flat and smooth, and slider 401 slides along the side of guide plate 106 to obtain reliable guidance.
[0041] To ensure that the movable locking pin 500 can stably lock the locking head 222, an elastic reset member 402 can be provided between the slider 401 and the lock body 100. The elastic force of the elastic reset member 402 keeps the slider 401 pushing the movable locking pin 500 to lock the locking head 222. By introducing the elastic reset member 402, the reset problem of the slider 401 is solved, ensuring a stable and reliable locking state. Specifically, an elastic reset element 402 is provided between the slider 401 and the lock body 100. This arrangement allows the elastic reset element 402 to act directly between the slider 401 and the lock body 100, providing a continuous source of elastic force to ensure that the slider 401 is always subjected to elastic force after transmission or unlocking. The elastic force of the elastic reset element 402 keeps the slider 401 inclined to push the movable locking pin 500 to lock the locking head 222. Utilizing this elastic force tendency, the slider 401 can automatically reset to its initial position after the lock cylinder 300 operation is completed, pushing the movable locking pin 500 to reliably lock the locking head 222, thereby improving the automatic reset capability and operational stability of the lock and avoiding the need for manual reset of the slider 401. The elastic reset element 402 can be a common spring, sheet metal, etc. The guide rib 1061 for auxiliary positioning of the elastic reset element 402 can also be provided on the guide plate 106 mentioned above.
[0042] To enable the lock cylinder 300 to automatically reset after unlocking, a torsion spring 302 can be installed at the inner end of the lock cylinder 300. The elasticity of the torsion spring 302 keeps the lock cylinder 300 in a reset tendency, keeping the lock cylinder 300 in a disengaged tendency from the transmission assembly 400. Reset refers to the state where the lock cylinder 300 is in the keyless or keyless unlocking state. By setting the torsion spring 302 at the inner end of the lock cylinder 300, its elasticity achieves the automatic reset of the lock cylinder 300 and the disengagement tendency from the transmission assembly 400, thereby solving the problem of the lock cylinder 300 resetting after unlocking. Specifically, a torsion spring 302 at the inner end of the lock cylinder 300 provides a direct source of restoring force, ensuring that the elastic force acts on the core position of the lock cylinder 300. The elastic force of the torsion spring 302 keeps the lock cylinder 300 in a restoring tendency, ensuring that the lock cylinder 300 can automatically return to its initial position after the unlocking action is completed, avoiding jamming caused by lack of external force. Keeping the lock cylinder 300 and the transmission component 400 in a disengaged state reduces connection interference of the transmission component 400 in non-operating states, ensuring a smooth unlocking process and facilitating subsequent operations, thus improving overall reliability. To position the torsion spring 302, a positioning platform 303 can be set at the inner end of the lock cylinder 300. The positioning platform 303 has a positioning groove 304, and one end of the torsion spring 302 can be inserted into the positioning groove 304, thereby preventing the torsion spring 302 from falling off the lock cylinder 300 during long-term use. Keeping the disengaged tendency means that the lock cylinder 300 does not generate a force sufficient to cause the transmission component 400 to move, not that there is no physical contact.
[0043] In one embodiment, to achieve the degree of freedom of the locking head 222, a riveting pin 223 can be provided at one end of the lock bar body 221. The locking head 222 has a slotted hole 2222, through which the riveting pin 223 passes, and the locking head 222 moves along the riveting pin 223. The cooperative design of the riveting pin 223 and the slotted hole 2222 achieves the movable connection between the locking head 222 and the lock bar body 221, solving the problem of inconvenient operation. Specifically, one end of the lock bar body 221 is provided with a rivet pin 223, which provides a fixed pivot point to ensure that the locking head 222 can move around with reference to this point; the locking head 222 is provided with a strip hole 2222, which allows the rivet pin 223 to move relative to each other in the hole, increasing the degree of freedom of movement of the locking head 222; the rivet pin 223 passes through the strip hole 2222 to form a reliable mechanical connection to prevent the locking head 222 from disengaging; the locking head 222 moves along the rivet pin 223, which allows the locking head 222 to adjust its position freely when folding or inserting into the lock hole 101, improving the flexibility of alignment and insertion.
[0044] In another embodiment, to prevent the rivet pin 223 and the slot 2222 from being exposed, a protective cover 224 can be added to the locking head 222 to prevent the slot 2222 from being filled with debris, which would affect the pop-out effect of the locking head 222.
[0045] In some cases, users may wish to see the specific location of the rivet pin 223 within the slot 2222. Therefore, an exposure opening 2241 can be provided on the protective cover 224 to expose the rivet pin 223 and the slot 2222. (See reference...) Figure 7 As shown, the exposed opening 2241 is only slightly larger than the strip hole 2222, and still covers most of the locking head 222. The stepped structure formed between the exposed opening 2241 and the locking head 222 can also form a force application part for the user to operate, making it easy to insert the locking head 222 into the lock body 100.
[0046] In addition to the preferred embodiments described above, the present invention has other embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other solutions obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should fall within the scope of protection claimed by the present invention.
Claims
1. A folding lock, comprising a lock body and a folding lock bar, the folding lock bar including a connecting bar and a locking bar, one end of the connecting bar being hinged to the lock body, characterized in that, The locking bar includes a locking bar body and a locking head. The locking head is movably connected to the locking bar body, and the locking bar body is hinged to the connecting bar. A lock hole is provided on one side of the lock body. The opening of the lock hole has a closed-loop structure. The locking head is inserted into the lock hole and has a locking hole. The lock body is provided with a lock cylinder, a transmission component, and a movable locking pin. The movable locking pin is inserted into the locking hole to lock the locking head. The lock cylinder drives the movable locking pin to disengage from the locking hole through the transmission component to unlock the locking head. The lock body is provided with a spring component. After the locking head is inserted into the lock hole, the spring component continues to act on the locking head, so that the locking head is ejected from the lock body by the spring force of the spring component after unlocking.
2. The folding lock according to claim 1, characterized in that, The elastic component includes an elastic element and a push block. The elastic element is located between the lock body and the push block. The push block faces the opening of the lock hole and maintains its tendency to spring towards the opening of the lock hole under the elastic force of the elastic element.
3. The folding lock according to claim 2, characterized in that, The push block has a positioning hole on the side facing the elastic element for installing and positioning the elastic element.
4. The folding lock according to claim 2, characterized in that, The push block has a first alignment surface on the side of the locking head, and the front end of the locking head has a second alignment surface that matches and fits with the first alignment surface. The second alignment surface matches and fits with the first alignment surface, so that the locking hole of the locking head is aligned with the movable locking pin.
5. The folding lock according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first calibration surface is concave, and the second calibration surface is convex.
6. The folding lock according to claim 2, characterized in that, The lock body is provided with a sliding groove, and the push block is provided with a rib that cooperates with the sliding groove. The rib slides along the sliding groove to guide the push block to reciprocate linear motion.
7. The folding lock according to claim 1, characterized in that, The lock body has a movable cavity, and the transmission assembly includes a slider located in the movable cavity. The slider is connected to a movable locking pin. The slider has a transmission groove, and the lock cylinder has a transmission pin inserted into the transmission groove. The transmission pin is eccentric relative to the rotation axis of the lock cylinder.
8. The folding lock according to claim 7, characterized in that, An elastic reset element is provided between the slider and the lock body. The elastic force of the elastic reset element keeps the slider inclined to push the movable locking pin to lock the locking head.
9. The folding lock according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner end of the lock cylinder is provided with a torsion spring. The elastic force of the torsion spring keeps the lock cylinder in a reset position, keeping the lock cylinder and the transmission assembly in a separation position.
10. The folding lock according to claim 1, characterized in that, One end of the lock bar body is provided with a rivet pin, and the locking head is provided with a strip hole. The rivet pin passes through the strip hole, and the locking head moves along the rivet pin.