Tightening device and automobile antiskid chain

Abstract

The application provides a tightening device and an automobile antiskid chain. The tightening device comprises a device housing, a winding wheel rotatably arranged in the device housing, a flexible connecting member arranged around the winding wheel to be wound or released following rotation of the winding wheel in different directions, an end of the flexible connecting member extending out of the device housing, a recovery driving member acting on the winding wheel to rotate the winding wheel in a first direction to wind the flexible connecting member, a self-locking mechanism arranged between the winding wheel and the device housing to form rotation limitation of the winding wheel in a second direction to release the flexible connecting member, and an operation part at least partially exposed outside the device housing and matched with the self-locking mechanism, wherein the operation part removes the rotation limitation formed by the self-locking mechanism in response to a situation that a user operates to apply to the operation part.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of fastening equipment technology, and in particular to tightening devices and automotive snow chains. Background Technology

[0002] Automotive snow chains are anti-skid tools installed on the surface of tires, commonly used on low-traction road conditions such as icy and snowy surfaces to improve vehicle traction and driving safety. Currently, automotive snow chains are all integrally installed components, meaning the snow chain itself, which acts on the tire, and the tightening device that keeps the snow chain in contact with the tire are non-detachable combinations. Therefore, the lifespan of automotive snow chains largely depends on the wear and tear of the chain in contact with the ground. When the chain is severely worn and unusable, even if the tightening device is still in excellent condition, the entire system is unusable, making it very wasteful and economical. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides a tightening device that at least partially solves the problems existing in existing automotive anti-skid chain tighteners.

[0004] In a first aspect, this application provides a tightening device. It includes: a device housing; a take-up reel rotatably disposed within the device housing; a flexible connector wound around the take-up reel to wind or unwind following rotation of the take-up reel in different directions, the end of the flexible connector extending beyond the device housing; a retraction drive acting on the take-up reel to rotate the take-up reel in a first direction for winding the flexible connector; a self-locking mechanism disposed between the take-up reel and the device housing, forming a rotation restriction on rotation of the take-up reel in a second direction for releasing the flexible connector; and an operating part at least partially exposed outside the device housing, cooperating with the self-locking mechanism; wherein, in response to a user operation applied to the operating part, the operating part releases the rotation restriction formed by the self-locking mechanism.

[0005] Optionally, the device housing further includes a first connecting portion, and the flexible connector has a second connecting portion at its end; wherein, the device housing has a first notch, and the flexible connector extends outside the device housing through the first notch; the first connecting portion and the first notch are respectively located on opposite sides of the device housing, and the second connecting portion is located outside the device housing.

[0006] Optionally, the device housing includes: a housing body, the housing body having an internal receiving space for accommodating the take-up reel, and having an extension extending outward from the receiving space; a rotating shaft disposed within the receiving space along the thickness direction of the housing body; a locking member sleeved on the extension; wherein the take-up reel is disposed on the rotating shaft and is rotatable about the rotating shaft; the first notch is located at the extended end of the extension, and the flexible connector extends through the extension and through the first notch to the outside of the device housing.

[0007] Optionally, the housing body is formed by covering a first housing and a second housing together along the thickness direction; wherein, the first housing is provided with a first insertion part at a position close to the first connecting part, and the second housing is provided with a second insertion part adapted to the first insertion part at a position close to the first connecting part.

[0008] Optionally, while the first connector and the second connector cooperate to fix the first housing and the second housing, the connection point of the first housing and the second housing is tightly fitted to lock the first connector and the second connector, and the device housing is locked and fixed by a metal connector; wherein, the mating surfaces of the first housing and the second housing are respectively provided with mutually matching raised lines and concave lines, the raised lines and the concave lines are inserted and fitted, and the raised lines and the concave lines are fused and fixed by welding process to achieve the sealing of the device housing.

[0009] Optionally, the locking member includes: a locking body having a through hole adapted to the extension portion; a pair of snap-fit ​​arms extending from the locking body toward the receiving space; wherein the first housing has a third insertion portion at a position close to the first notch, and the second housing has a fourth insertion portion at a position close to the first notch; the snap-fit ​​arms have snap-fit ​​mating portions that engage with the third insertion portion and the fourth insertion portion respectively.

[0010] Optionally, the take-up reel has a first end face and a second end face that are opposite to each other in the thickness direction; wherein the self-locking mechanism includes: a first planar ratchet disposed on the first end face; a second planar ratchet disposed on the inner wall surface of the housing body opposite to the first end face; and an elastic element disposed between the second end face and the inner wall surface of the housing body, so that the first planar ratchet and the second planar ratchet remain engaged to form the rotation restriction.

[0011] Optionally, the operating unit includes: a pressing body located outside the device housing; a plurality of abutment portions circumferentially spaced along the axis of rotation, the abutment portions extending from the pressing body in the thickness direction to guide the pressing body to move in the thickness direction; wherein the abutment portions pass through the device housing, and the ends of the abutment portions abut against the take-up wheel; in response to a pressing operation applied to the pressing body, the operating unit drives the take-up wheel to overcome the elastic force applied by the elastic member, so as to disengage the first planar ratchet from the second planar ratchet.

[0012] Optionally, the operating part includes: a push button body located outside the device housing, which can slide between a first target position and a second target position along a preset sliding direction; a first engaging portion extending from the push button body through the device housing along the thickness direction, the first engaging portion having a first guiding slope and a first abutting surface connected to the first guiding slope; wherein, the first end face of the take-up wheel is further provided with a first protrusion cooperating with the first engaging portion; in response to the push operation applied to the push button body as it slides from the second target position to the first target position, the first guiding slope and the first protrusion slide into cooperation, forming an engaging slope inclined relative to the thickness direction, driving the take-up wheel to overcome the elastic force applied by the elastic member, causing the first planar ratchet to disengage from the second planar ratchet; when the push button body reaches the first target position, the first abutting surface and the first protrusion abut into cooperation, forming an engaging plane perpendicular to the thickness direction, restricting the take-up wheel from resetting along the thickness direction under the action of the elastic member.

[0013] Optionally, the operating part includes: a knob body located outside the device housing, rotatable about the pivot between a third target position and a fourth target position; a second engagement portion extending from the knob body through the device housing along the thickness direction, the second engagement portion having a second guide slope and a second abutment surface connected to the second guide slope; wherein, the first end face of the take-up wheel is further provided with a second protrusion cooperating with the second engagement portion; in response to the rotation operation applied to the knob body as it rotates from the fourth target position to the third target position, the second guide slope and the second protrusion slide into contact, forming an engagement slope inclined relative to the thickness direction, driving the take-up wheel to overcome the elastic force applied by the elastic member, causing the first planar ratchet to disengage from the second planar ratchet; when the knob body reaches the third target position, the second abutment surface abuts against the second protrusion, forming an engagement plane perpendicular to the thickness direction, restricting the take-up wheel from resetting along the thickness direction under the action of the elastic member.

[0014] Secondly, embodiments of this application also provide a car snow chain. The car snow chain includes: the locking device as described above, and the snow chain itself.

[0015] At least one beneficial effect of the tightening device in this application embodiment is that by integrating the winding wheel, the recovery drive, the self-locking mechanism, and the operating part into the device housing, the winding and locking functions of the flexible connector are realized simply and reliably. The overall structure is simple, which helps to reduce manufacturing costs, while the overall size of the device is small, making it easy to carry and install. Moreover, this tightening device can be further applied to various scenarios that require tightening or locking of flexible connectors, such as rope and strap storage and item bundling, thus enriching its application range. Attached Figure Description

[0016] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the specific embodiments of this application or the prior art, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. In all the drawings, similar elements or parts are generally identified by similar reference numerals. In the drawings, the elements or parts are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the tightening device according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 2 This is an exploded structural diagram of the tightening device according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a tightening device according to an embodiment of this application, showing the case where part of the device housing has been removed; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the second housing of the tightening device according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the first housing of the tightening device according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the locking member of the tightening device according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a tightening device according to another embodiment of this application, showing the case where part of the device housing has been removed; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a tightening device according to another embodiment of the present application, showing the situation after part of the device housing has been removed; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly process of the housing of the tightening device according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 10 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows the state changes of the winding wheel of the tightening device. Figure 11This is a schematic diagram of a tightening device according to another embodiment of this application; Figure 12 yes Figure 11 The diagram shows the state changes of the winding wheel of the tightening device. Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of a tightening device according to another embodiment of this application; Figure 14 yes Figure 13 The diagram shows the state changes of the winding wheel of the tightening device. Figure 15 A schematic diagram of the assembly relationship between the winding wheel and the flexible connector of the tightening device in this application embodiment; Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the flexible connector of the tightening device according to an embodiment of this application winding around the outer periphery of the winding wheel; Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of a car snow chain according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of a car snow chain according to another embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0018] To facilitate understanding of this application, a more detailed description is provided below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be noted that when an element is described as being "fixed to" another element, it can be directly on the other element, or one or more intermediate elements may exist between them. When an element is described as being "connected" to another element, it can be directly connected to the other element, or one or more intermediate elements may exist between them. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "left," "right," and similar expressions used in this specification are for illustrative purposes only.

[0019] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this specification have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used in this specification is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of this application. The term "and / or" as used in this specification includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0020] Furthermore, the technical features involved in the different embodiments of this application described below can be combined with each other as long as they do not conflict with each other.

[0021] This application provides an anti-slip chain structure with a separate chain and tightening mechanism. The anti-slip chain and locking device are detachably connected. Therefore, the wear-resistant anti-slip chain can be replaced, while the locking device can be reused.

[0022] This simplifies the manufacturing process of anti-skid chains, significantly reduces production costs, and minimizes the disposal of waste rubber and plastic parts from locking devices, making it more environmentally friendly and safer. Here, a reusable, safe, and convenient locking mechanism becomes extremely important. It needs to be extremely small and lightweight, prevent shifting due to centrifugal force when the anti-skid chain is in use at a speed of 45 km / h, have the ability to automatically adjust tightness, and provide sufficient locking force.

[0023] The locking device provided in this application embodiment is lightweight, thus it can be well matched with the above-mentioned application scenarios of detachable automotive anti-skid chains.

[0024] Detachable snow chains, due to their simplified chain structure, are easier to install onto tires. As intelligent and comfortable driving experiences become the trend in automotive development, the gap between tires and shock absorbers is being reduced, and more sensors are being placed in braking systems, placing higher demands on automotive snow chains.

[0025] The requirements for snow chains are lightweight, compact, highly durable, easy to install, and able to grip the tire tightly at all times.

[0026] To achieve the functions of current anti-skid chains, higher requirements are placed on the locking device connecting the chain. Small size, lightweight, sufficient locking force, and the ability to adjust the chain tension at any time are problems that need to be solved.

[0027] In implementing this application, the applicant has simplified the independent opening and closing operation of traditional locking devices, optimized the size, reduced the use of metal connectors in terms of functionality and strength, and achieved lightweighting of the product to meet the lightweight requirements of the locking device in the separate anti-skid chain structure.

[0028] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the tightening device provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 2 This is an exploded structural diagram of the tightening device provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the tightening device includes: a device housing 10, a winding wheel 20, a flexible connector 30, a recovery drive 40, a self-locking mechanism 50, and an operating part 60.

[0029] The housing 10 is the main structural frame of the tightening device, used to support and house the various structural components of the device. It constitutes the basic outline and frame of the tightening device.

[0030] The take-up reel 20 is rotatably disposed inside the device housing 10. Preferably, the outer peripheral surface of the take-up reel 20 may be provided with a recess or similar receiving space to help accommodate the wound flexible connector 30.

[0031] The flexible connector 30 is a long, flexible component such as a rope or webbing. One end is fixed to the winding reel 20, the middle part is wound around the outer circumference of the winding reel 20, and the other end extends out of the device housing 10 through an opening, serving as the connection end for connecting to external objects (e.g., connecting rings on anti-skid chains, cargo strapping points, luggage fasteners, or other objects that need to be tightened and secured).

[0032] For ease of description, the two opposite rotation directions of the take-up reel 20 are defined as the first direction and the second direction, respectively. The "first direction" is the direction in which the number of turns of the flexible connector 30 is increased, causing the connecting end to retract towards the device housing 10. The "second direction" is the direction in which the number of turns of the flexible connector 30 is decreased, causing the connecting end to move away from the device housing 10.

[0033] In other words, when the take-up reel 20 rotates in the first direction, the flexible connector 30 gradually wraps around the outer circumferential surface of the take-up reel 20, so that the flexible connector 30 located outside the device housing 10 is gradually retracted. When the take-up reel 20 rotates in the second direction, the flexible connector 30 wrapped around the outer circumferential surface of the take-up reel 20 gradually unwinds, allowing the flexible connector 30 to extend outward from the opening of the device housing 10.

[0034] Specifically, such as Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, the winding reel 20 has a through hole 201. One end of the flexible connector 30 has an enlarged portion 31. The outer diameter of the enlarged portion 31 is larger than the diameter of the through hole 201.

[0035] Since the outer diameter of the enlarged portion 31 is larger than the diameter of the through hole 201, the enlarged portion 31 cannot pass through the through hole 201. Therefore, the enlarged portion 31 stops at the outside of the through hole 201 of the take-up reel 20, so that the flexible connector 30 is reliably fixed on the take-up reel 20, preventing the flexible connector 30 from detaching from the take-up reel 20 when subjected to tension.

[0036] During assembly, the end of the flexible connector 30 without the enlarged portion 31 is first passed through the through hole 201. After the flexible connector 30 has passed through, the enlarged portion 31 is then placed at the end of the flexible connector 30, thereby completing the fixed connection between the flexible connector 30 and the winding wheel 20.

[0037] Please continue reading. Figure 16 When the take-up reel 20 rotates in the first direction, the flexible connector 30 is wound and tightened layer by layer along the outer circumferential surface of the take-up reel 20. As the take-up reel 20 continues to rotate, the number of turns of the flexible connector 30 on the outer circumferential surface of the take-up reel 20 gradually increases, thereby causing the flexible connector 30 located outside the device housing 10 to be gradually retracted into the device housing 10.

[0038] The recovery drive 40 is disposed inside the device housing 10 and acts on the elastic mechanism of the take-up reel 20. It can apply an elastic force that rotates in a first direction to the take-up reel 20, so that the take-up reel 20 has a tendency to rotate automatically in the first direction.

[0039] Thus, without external force, the winding wheel 20 can automatically rotate in the first direction under the drive of the recovery drive 40, and gradually wind up the flexible connector 30 that has been pulled out of the device housing 10.

[0040] Based on the needs of actual use, the recovery drive 40 can use any suitable type of structural component. For example, a coil spring connected to the take-up reel 20. When the take-up reel 20 rotates in the second direction to release the flexible connector 30, the coil spring is gradually unfolded, generating elastic deformation and accumulating elastic potential energy.

[0041] When the external force is removed, the coil spring will tend to return to its natural coiled state, thereby releasing the stored elastic potential energy and applying a restoring torque along the first direction to the winding wheel 20, driving the winding wheel 20 to rotate automatically along the first direction, thereby realizing the automatic winding of the flexible connector 30.

[0042] The self-locking mechanism 50 is a structural component that can switch between different states. It is disposed between the winding reel 20 and the device housing 10, and can restrict the rotation of the winding reel 20 in the second direction when locked.

[0043] Therefore, when the user connects the end of the flexible connector 30 to an external object, the take-up wheel 20, under the action of the take-up drive 40, takes up the flexible connector 30, while the self-locking mechanism 50 ensures that the take-up wheel 20 does not rotate in the opposite direction, keeping the flexible connector 30 in a taut state.

[0044] The operating section 60 is a component for allowing the user to apply an operation to release the rotational restriction formed by the self-locking mechanism 50. At least a portion of the operating section 60 is exposed outside the device housing 10, allowing the user to apply a user operation.

[0045] The operating section 60 also extends into the interior of the device housing 10 and cooperates with the self-locking mechanism 50. When the user applies a user operation to the operating section 60 to switch the self-locking mechanism 50 to the released state, the self-locking mechanism 50 releases the rotation restriction on the winding wheel 20, thereby allowing the user to pull the flexible connector 30 out of the device housing 10 to the desired length.

[0046] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 As shown, the device housing 10 also includes a first connecting portion 71. A first notch H1 is provided on the other side of the device housing 10 opposite to the first connecting portion 71.

[0047] The flexible connector 30 extends from the location of the winding wheel 20 inside the device housing 10 to the outside of the device housing via the first notch H1.

[0048] The flexible connector 30 is provided with a second connecting portion 72 at its end located outside the device housing 10. This second connecting portion 72 can be pulled out together with the flexible connector 30 when it is released, so as to connect with an external object.

[0049] In other words, please continue reading Figure 1 The first connecting part 71 and the second connecting part 72 are located on opposite sides of the device housing 10.

[0050] In actual use, the user can first attach the first connecting part 71 to one of the connection points of the external object, then pull out the second connecting part 72 along with the flexible connector 30 and connect it to another connection point of the external object, and then tighten the two connection points by winding up the flexible connector 30.

[0051] Specifically, the first connecting part 71 and the second connecting part 72 can be any suitable type of connecting structure. This application does not make any specific limitation on this, as long as it can achieve a reliable connection between the tightening device and the external object.

[0052] For example, please continue reading Figure 2 The first connecting part 71 can be an open hook, and the second connecting part 72 can also be provided with a similar open hook 73. Thus, the user can hook the two open hooks 71 and 73 onto the chain links, rope loops or other ring-shaped connection points of external objects to achieve quick connection and disassembly, which is easy to operate and has a wide range of applications.

[0053] Alternatively, the first connecting part 71 and the second connecting part 72 can also adopt spring lock, rotary lock, snap-fit ​​or ring connecting buckle, etc. The user can choose the appropriate type of connection structure according to the specific use scenario and the connection point form of the external object.

[0054] It is understandable that the first connecting part 71 and the second connecting part 72 may be of the same or different types. For example, the first connecting part 71 may use a fixed annular connecting buckle to ensure a secure connection with the device housing 10, while the second connecting part 72 may use an open hook to allow the user to quickly hook it onto the connection point of an external object after pulling out the flexible connector 30.

[0055] In some embodiments, please continue reading Figure 2 The device housing 10 includes: housing body 11, rotating shaft 12 and locking element 13.

[0056] The main body 11 of the shell is the structural frame of the device shell. For example... Figure 3 As shown, it may include a main body 11a and an extension 11b. The main body 11a has a receiving space inside that can accommodate a winding reel, and the extension 11b extends a certain distance outward from the receiving space.

[0057] The aforementioned first notch H1 can be provided at the extended end of the extension 11b so that the flexible connector 30 extends through the first notch H1 to the outside of the device housing 10 under the guidance of the extension 11b.

[0058] The rotating shaft 12 is a columnar structure disposed within the receiving space along the thickness direction of the housing body. The winding reel 20 can be rotatably connected to the rotating shaft 12 and rotate around the rotating shaft 12 in a first direction or a second direction.

[0059] The locking member 13 is sleeved on the outer periphery of the extension 11b and can apply a clamping force to the shell body 11 formed by assembling multiple shell components, thereby helping to achieve a fixed connection between the shell components and maintaining the structural integrity of the shell body 11.

[0060] Specifically, the main body 11 of the housing can be composed of two housing components that are fitted together along the thickness direction. For ease of description, the two housing components are referred to as the first housing 111 and the second housing 112, respectively.

[0061] Among them, such as Figure 5 As shown, the first housing 111 has a first insertion portion 111a located near the first connecting portion 71. Correspondingly, as... Figure 4 As shown, the second housing 112 is provided with a second insertion part 112a at a position close to the first connecting part 71.

[0062] like Figure 7 As shown, the first plug-in portion 111a and the second plug-in portion 112a are a pair of mating plug-in structures. Their specific structures are not limited here. For example, the second plug-in portion 112a can be recessed, and the first plug-in portion 111a can be a protruding part.

[0063] Thus, when the first housing 111 and the second housing 112 are closed along the thickness direction, the first housing 111 and the second housing 112 are reliably constrained on opposite sides by the plug-in structure formed by the first plug-in part 111a and the second plug-in part 112a and the locking member 13, thereby forming a stable overall structure for the housing body 11.

[0064] In some embodiments, such as Figure 6 As shown, the locking member 13 includes a locking body 131 and a pair of locking arms 132.

[0065] The locking body 131 has a through hole that matches the extension 11b. It can be fitted onto the outer periphery of the extension 11b to ensure the structural stability of the extension 11b.

[0066] The locking arm 132 extends towards the direction of the containment space, locking itself to the main body 131. For example... Figure 8 As shown, the snap-fit ​​arm 132 can engage with the third insertion portion 111b provided in the first housing 111 and the fourth insertion portion 112b provided in the second housing 112, thereby reliably constraining the first housing 111 and the second housing 112 on the side close to the first notch H1.

[0067] In the actual assembly process, such as Figure 9 As shown, the locking member 13 can first be engaged with the third insertion part 111b of the first housing 111 to fix it to a part of the structure of the extension formed by the first housing 111.

[0068] Then, the extension portion of the second housing 112 is inserted at an angle into the through hole of the locking body 131. Correspondingly, the fourth insertion portion 112b of the second housing 112 can also engage with the locking member 13 at this time.

[0069] Finally, the second housing 112 is pressed against the first housing 111, so that the first insertion part 111a of the first housing 111 and the second insertion part 112a of the second housing 112 are engaged to form a complete device housing 11.

[0070] The device housing provided in this application embodiment utilizes the interlocking and snap-fit ​​constraints between various structures such as the locking member 13, the first insertion part 111a, the second insertion part 112a, the third insertion part 111b, and the fourth insertion part 112b to achieve reliable fixation between the first housing 111 and the second housing 112, so that the housing body 11 forms a structurally stable whole.

[0071] This fixed connection method eliminates the need for additional fasteners such as screws, effectively simplifying the assembly process, reducing the number of parts and manufacturing costs, and also helping to reduce the overall size of the device housing 10, making the tightening device more compact, lightweight, easy to use and carry.

[0072] For details, please continue reading. Figure 2 After the first housing 111 and the second housing 112 are reliably fixed together to form an integral unit, they are further locked and fixed by a metal connector 80 (e.g., a pin) to achieve overall fixation of the device housing.

[0073] Preferably, the mating surfaces of the first housing 111 and the second housing 112 are respectively provided with matching raised lines and recessed lines. The raised lines and recessed lines are inserted and fitted together, and then fused and fixed by a welding process (e.g., ultrasonic welding) to achieve a seal of the device housing and ensure that the mating surfaces have sufficient sealing performance.

[0074] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 , Figure 3 as well as Figure 5 As shown, the self-locking mechanism 50 includes: a first planar ratchet 51, a second planar ratchet 52, and an elastic element 53.

[0075] The first planar ratchet 51 is provided on the first end face of the take-up reel 20. The second planar ratchet 52 is provided on the inner wall surface of the housing body 11 opposite to the first end face (for example, the inner wall surface of the second housing 111 that constitutes the receiving space).

[0076] In this embodiment, the two end faces of the take-up reel 20 that are opposite to each other in the thickness direction are referred to as the first end face and the second end face, respectively. The take-up reel 20 can move along the thickness direction within a set stroke range.

[0077] The elastic element 53 is disposed between the second end face of the take-up reel 20 and the inner wall surface of the housing body 11, and is used to drive the take-up reel 20 to move toward the second planar ratchet 52 so that the first planar ratchet 51 and the second planar ratchet 52 remain engaged.

[0078] In other words, under the action of the elastic element 53, the take-up reel 20 has a tendency to automatically return to the end of the travel range closer to the second plane ratchet 52, and the first plane ratchet 51 and the second plane ratchet 52 will remain engaged.

[0079] Specifically, both the first planar ratchet 51 and the second planar ratchet 52 have multiple tooth profiles arranged circumferentially. Each tooth profile has a guide surface inclined circumferentially and a stop surface extending axially.

[0080] In the locked state (i.e., when the first planar ratchet 51 and the second planar ratchet 52 are engaged), if the take-up reel 20 rotates in the first direction, the guide surface of the first planar ratchet 51 slides along the guide surface of the second planar ratchet 52, so that the first planar ratchet 51 can periodically pass over the tooth tip of the second planar ratchet 52, allowing the take-up reel 20 to rotate continuously in the first direction.

[0081] Conversely, if the take-up reel 20 is subjected to an external force along the second direction and has a tendency to rotate in the opposite direction, the stop surface of the first plane ratchet 51 and the stop surface of the second plane ratchet 52 abut against each other, preventing the take-up reel 20 from rotating along the second direction, thus restricting the rotation of the take-up reel 20.

[0082] When the take-up reel 20 is subjected to an external force, it moves away from the second plane ratchet 52 along the thickness direction, so that a gap is formed between the first plane ratchet 51 and the second plane ratchet 52. When the two disengage, the self-locking mechanism switches to the unlocked state.

[0083] At this point, the first planar ratchet 51 is no longer restricted by the stop of the second planar ratchet 52, and the take-up reel 20 can rotate freely in the second direction. Therefore, the user can apply an outward pulling force to the flexible connector 30, causing the take-up reel 20 to rotate in the second direction to release the flexible connector 30.

[0084] When the external force on the take-up reel 20 is removed, the elastic element 53 drives the take-up reel 20 to automatically return to the position close to the second plane ratchet 52. The first plane ratchet 51 and the second plane ratchet 52 re-engage, and the self-locking mechanism 50 returns to the locked state, locking the flexible connector 30 in the current tightened position.

[0085] Based on the structural features and working principle of the tightening device described above, the application scenarios of the tightening device provided in this application embodiment are not limited to the field of automotive anti-skid chains, but can also be extended to other scenarios that require tightening and fixing of flexible connectors.

[0086] For example, in luggage strapping scenarios, users can connect the tightening device to the strapping straps or strapping chains, and use the retractor 20 to retract the flexible connector 30 to tighten the strapping straps, so that the luggage is securely bound. The self-locking mechanism 50 can automatically lock after tightening, preventing the straps from loosening due to vibration or bumps during transportation, and ensuring the safety of luggage transportation.

[0087] In outdoor tent setup scenarios, tent ropes or anchor ropes often need to be adjusted to the appropriate tension to maintain the stability of the tent structure. Users can connect a tensioning device to the appropriate position on the ropes and apply and maintain the required tension by winding them up. When encountering external environmental disturbances such as changes in wind force, the self-locking mechanism 50 can effectively maintain the tension of the ropes, ensuring the tent structure is stable and reliable.

[0088] Based on the needs of actual application or design purpose (e.g., usage scenario, operating habits, and device space layout), the operation unit 60 can adopt various implementation forms with different operating methods and force transmission paths according to actual needs, as long as it can convert the user's operation action into the displacement of the winding wheel 20 along the thickness direction, so as to realize the switching interface of the self-locking mechanism 50 between the locked state and the unlocked state.

[0089] To fully illustrate the inventive concept of this application, the following describes in detail various implementations of the operating unit.

[0090] In some embodiments, the operation unit 60 may take the form of a button. For example... Figure 10 As shown, the operating unit 60 includes a pressing body 61 and a plurality of abutting parts 62.

[0091] At least a portion of the pressing body 61 is located outside the device housing 10. The abutment portion 62 extends from the pressing body 61 in the thickness direction and can pass through the device housing 10 through an opening provided on the device housing 10, thereby abutting against the winding wheel 20.

[0092] Multiple abutment portions 62 can be spaced circumferentially along the axis of rotation to serve as guides, directing the pressing body 61 to move along the thickness direction.

[0093] In actual use, when the user applies pressure to the pressing body 61 along the thickness direction, the pressing body 61 moves into the device housing 10 along the thickness direction and transmits the pressing force to the end face of the take-up roller 20 through multiple abutment parts 62. Under the action of the pressing force, the take-up roller 20 overcomes the elastic force applied by the elastic member 53 and moves away from the second plane ratchet 52 along the thickness direction, causing the first plane ratchet 51 to disengage from the second plane ratchet 52, and the self-locking mechanism 50 switches from the locked state to the unlocked state. At this time, the take-up roller 20 can rotate freely in the second direction, and the flexible connector 30 can be pulled outward to adjust its length.

[0094] When the user removes the pressing force applied to the pressing body 61, the elastic element 53 releases its elastic potential energy, driving the take-up wheel 20 to automatically reset along the thickness direction towards the second planar ratchet 52. The first planar ratchet 51 and the second planar ratchet 52 re-engage, and the self-locking mechanism 50 returns to the locked state, locking the flexible connector 30 in its current position. Correspondingly, driven by the reset of the take-up wheel 20, the pressing body 61 springs back along the thickness direction towards the outside of the device housing 10, returning to its initial position.

[0095] In other embodiments, the operating part 60 may be in the form of a push button. For example... Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, the operation unit 60 includes a push button body 63 and a first engagement part 64.

[0096] The push button body 63 is located outside the device housing 10 and can slide between the first target position and the second target position along a preset sliding direction.

[0097] The first engagement portion 64 extends from the push button body 63 and passes through the device housing 10 along the thickness direction. The first end face of the take-up reel 20 is also provided with a first protrusion 24 that mates with the first engagement portion 64.

[0098] Specifically, the first joint 64 has a first guide slope and a first abutting surface connected to the first guide slope, which cooperates with the first protrusion 24 to realize the conversion between the user's operation and the movement of the winding wheel 20 along the thickness direction.

[0099] In actual use, when the user applies a pushing operation to the push button body 63 along a preset sliding direction, causing it to slide from the second target position to the first target position, the first engaging part 64 moves synchronously with the push button body 63. During this process, the first guide slope of the first engaging part 64 slides in engagement with the first protrusion 24 on the first end face of the take-up roller 20.

[0100] Since the first guide slope is inclined relative to the thickness direction, the displacement of the push button body 63 along the sliding direction is converted into the component force of the first protrusion 24 along the thickness direction, which drives the winding wheel 20 to overcome the elastic force applied by the elastic member 53 and move away from the second plane ratchet 52 along the thickness direction, so that the first plane ratchet 51 and the second plane ratchet 52 disengage, and the self-locking mechanism 50 switches from the locked state to the unlocked state.

[0101] When the push button body 63 reaches the first target position, the first abutting surface of the first joint 64 abuts against the first protrusion 24. Since the first abutting surface is perpendicular to the thickness direction, when the elastic restoring force of the elastic member 53 applied to the winding wheel 20 acts on the first abutting surface, its direction is perpendicular to the first abutting surface, and it cannot generate a component force that drives the push button body 63 back along the sliding direction.

[0102] Therefore, the push button body 63 can hold itself after reaching the first target position, and the self-locking mechanism 50 can be kept in the unlocked state without the user continuously applying pushing force. Compared with the button type operation part, the push button type operation part does not require continuous user operation, making it convenient for the user to adjust the flexible connector 30.

[0103] In some other embodiments, the operating unit 60 may be in the form of a knob. For example... Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, the operation unit 60 includes a knob body 65 and a second engagement part 66.

[0104] The knob body 65 is located outside the device housing and can rotate around the pivot between the third target position and the fourth target position.

[0105] The second engagement portion 66 extends from the knob body 65 through the device housing 10 along the thickness direction. The first end face of the winding wheel 20 is also provided with a second protrusion 26 that mates with the second engagement portion 66.

[0106] Specifically, the second joint 66 has a second guide ramp and a second abutment surface that connects to the second guide ramp. It cooperates with the second protrusion 26 to realize the conversion between the user's operation and the movement of the winding wheel 20 in the thickness direction.

[0107] In actual use, when the user rotates the knob body 65 from the fourth target position to the third target position around the axis of rotation, the second engagement portion 66 rotates synchronously with the knob body 65. During this process, the second guide slope of the second engagement portion 66 slides in engagement with the second protrusion 26 on the first end face of the take-up roller 20.

[0108] Since the second guide slope is inclined relative to the thickness direction, the rotational motion of the knob body 65 is converted into the component force of the second protrusion 26 along the thickness direction, which drives the winding wheel 20 to overcome the elastic force applied by the elastic member 53 and move away from the second plane ratchet 52 along the thickness direction, so that the first plane ratchet 51 and the second plane ratchet 52 disengage, and the self-locking mechanism 50 switches from the locked state to the unlocked state.

[0109] When the knob body 65 reaches the third target position, the second abutting surface of the second joint 66 abuts against the second protrusion 26. Since the second abutting surface is perpendicular to the thickness direction, when the elastic restoring force of the elastic member 53 applied to the take-up roller 20 acts on the second abutting surface, its direction is perpendicular to the second abutting surface, and it cannot generate a component force that drives the knob body 65 back in the circumferential direction.

[0110] Therefore, the knob body 65 can hold itself after reaching the third target position, and the self-locking mechanism 50 can be kept in the unlocked state without the user continuously applying rotational force.

[0111] Similar to the push-button control, the rotary control also frees the user's hands after unlocking, allowing the user to easily use both hands to perform other operations such as adjusting the flexible connector 30, which helps to improve the user experience.

[0112] Based on the tightening device provided in one or more of the above embodiments, this application further provides an automotive anti-skid chain. The automotive anti-skid chain includes: a locking device 1 as described above and an anti-skid chain 2.

[0113] In some embodiments, such as Figure 17 As shown, the anti-skid chain 2 includes an inner ring chain 21 extending along the tire circumference and multiple radial chain segments 22. The multiple radial chain segments 22 are arranged at intervals along the circumference and together with the inner ring chain 21 form a mesh structure covering the tire tread.

[0114] The second connecting portion 72, located at the connecting end of the flexible connector 30, is connected to the inner ring chain 21. The first connecting portion 71 of the device housing 10 crosses the inner ring chain 21 of the tire inner bezel, making the tightening device 1 part of the inner ring chain 21.

[0115] Specifically, the first connecting part 71 and the second connecting part 72 can be hook parts, each hook part can hook onto the chain link of the inner chain 21, so that the tightening device 1 can be flexibly connected into the inner chain 21. When disassembly is required, the user only needs to detach the hook part from the chain link to remove the tightening device 1 from the inner chain 21.

[0116] In actual installation and use, the anti-skid chain 2 can first be laid on the tire tread, and the inner ring chain 21 can be wrapped around the inside of the tire, so that the anti-skid chain 2 is initially fitted on the tire.

[0117] Subsequently, the user switches the self-locking mechanism 50 to the unlocked state through the operation unit 60, pulls out the flexible connector 30 to increase the span between the first connector 71 and the second connector 72, hooks the hooks at both ends onto the inner ring chain 21 respectively, and connects the tightening device 1 into the inner ring chain 21.

[0118] After the connection is completed, the user can use the operation unit 60 to restore the self-locking mechanism 50 to the locked state. At this time, the winding wheel 20 automatically winds up the flexible connector 30, gradually shortening the effective span between the two hooks, so that the effective circumference of the inner ring chain 21 is shortened accordingly, and the anti-skid chain 2 gradually tightens and fits against the tire surface.

[0119] Once the anti-skid chain 2 reaches the desired tightness, the self-locking mechanism 50 automatically locks the winding wheel 20 in the current position, and the anti-skid chain 2 is then securely fixed to the tire.

[0120] When it is necessary to disassemble or readjust the tension, the user can switch the self-locking mechanism 50 to the unlocked state again through the operation unit 60, pull out the flexible connector 30 to release the length of the inner ring chain 21, and then easily loosen the anti-slip chain 2, or disengage the hook from the chain link to remove the tightening device 1.

[0121] In other embodiments, such as Figure 18 As shown, the tightening device 1 is connected in series within the inner ring chain 21 and can be considered as part of the inner ring chain 21. The first connecting part 71 and the second connecting part 72 are respectively connected to both ends of the inner ring chain 21. Thus, by winding up the flexible connecting piece 30, the effective circumference of the inner ring chain 21 is adjusted, thereby changing the overall tension of the anti-slip chain 2.

[0122] It is worth noting that since the tightening device 1 is detachably connected to the chain through the first connecting part 71 and the second connecting part 72, it has good versatility and adaptability. It is not only suitable for the above-mentioned anti-slip chain 2, but can also be used as an independent auxiliary tightening component. It can be flexibly added to other ordinary chains that do not have a tightening function, thereby giving chains that originally did not have a tightening function the ability to tighten quickly and self-lock, significantly improving their installation efficiency and reliability.

[0123] The above description is merely an embodiment of this application and does not limit the patent scope of this application. Any equivalent structural or procedural transformations made using the content of this application's specification and drawings, or direct or indirect applications in other related technical fields, are similarly included within the patent protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A tightening device, characterized in that, include: Device housing; A winding reel is rotatably mounted inside the housing of the device; A flexible connector is wound around the take-up reel to wind up or unwind as the take-up reel rotates in different directions, and the end of the flexible connector extends outside the housing of the device. A recovery drive unit acts on the winding wheel to cause the winding wheel to rotate in a first direction for winding the flexible connector; A self-locking mechanism is provided between the winding wheel and the device housing to restrict the rotation of the winding wheel in the second direction of releasing the flexible connector; The operating part, at least partially exposed outside the device housing, cooperates with the self-locking mechanism; In response to a user operation applied to the operating unit, the operating unit releases the rotation restriction formed by the self-locking mechanism.

2. The tightening device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The device housing further includes a first connecting portion, and the end of the flexible connector is provided with a second connecting portion; The device housing has a first notch, and the flexible connector extends out of the device housing through the first notch; The first connecting portion and the first notch are located on opposite sides of the device housing, and the second connecting portion is located outside the device housing.

3. The tightening device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The device housing includes: The housing body has an interior space for accommodating the winding reel and has an extension extending outward from the interior space; The pivot is disposed within the receiving space along the thickness direction of the main body of the housing; A locking element, which is sleeved on the extension; The winding wheel is mounted on the rotating shaft and can rotate around the rotating shaft; The first notch is located at the extended end of the extension, and the flexible connector extends through the extension and through the first notch to the outside of the device housing.

4. The tightening device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The main body of the shell is formed by covering a first shell and a second shell together along the thickness direction; The first housing has a first plug-in portion located near the first connecting portion, and the second housing has a second plug-in portion located near the first connecting portion that is adapted to the first plug-in portion.

5. The tightening device according to claim 4, characterized in that, While the first connector and the second connector cooperate to fix the first housing and the second housing, the connection point of the first housing and the second housing is tightly fitted to lock the first connector and the second connector, and the device housing is locked and fixed by a metal connector; The first housing and the second housing are respectively provided with matching convex lines and concave lines on their mating surfaces. The convex lines and the concave lines are inserted and fitted together, and the convex lines and the concave lines are fused and fixed by welding process to achieve the sealing of the device housing.

6. The tightening device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The locking element includes: The locking body has a through hole adapted to the extension; A pair of latching arms extend from the locking body toward the receiving space; The first housing has a third insertion part at a position close to the first notch, and the second housing has a fourth insertion part at a position close to the first notch. The snap-fit ​​arm is provided with snap-fit ​​mating parts, which snap-fit ​​mating with the third plug-in part and the fourth plug-in part respectively.

7. The locking device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The winding reel has a first end face and a second end face that are opposite to each other in the thickness direction; The self-locking mechanism includes: A first planar ratchet is disposed on the first end face; The second planar ratchet is disposed on the inner wall surface of the housing body opposite to the first end face; An elastic element is disposed between the second end face and the inner wall surface of the housing body to keep the first planar ratchet and the second planar ratchet engaged, thereby forming the rotation restriction.

8. The locking device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The operating unit includes: The pressing body is located outside the device housing; A plurality of abutting portions are circumferentially spaced along the axis of rotation, the abutting portions extending from the pressing body toward the thickness direction, guiding the pressing body to move along the thickness direction; The abutting portion passes through the device housing, and the end of the abutting portion abuts against the winding wheel; In response to a pressing operation applied to the pressing body, the operating part drives the take-up wheel to overcome the elastic force applied by the elastic member, so as to disengage the first planar ratchet from the second planar ratchet.

9. The locking device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The operating unit includes: A push button body, located outside the device housing, is slidable between a first target position and a second target position along a preset sliding direction; A first joint portion extends from the push button body through the device housing along the thickness direction. The first joint portion has a first guide slope and a first abutting surface that connects with the first guide slope. The first end face of the winding reel is also provided with a first protrusion that cooperates with the first joint portion; In response to the push operation applied to the push button body as it slides from the second target position to the first target position, the first guide slope and the first protrusion slide into contact to form a joint slope inclined relative to the thickness direction, driving the take-up wheel to overcome the elastic force applied by the elastic member, causing the first planar ratchet to disengage from the second planar ratchet. When the push button body reaches the first target position, the first abutting surface abuts and engages with the first protrusion to form a joint plane perpendicular to the thickness direction, thereby restricting the winding wheel from resetting along the thickness direction under the action of the elastic member.

10. The locking device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The operating unit includes: A knob body, located outside the device housing, is rotatable about the pivot between a third target position and a fourth target position; The second joint extends from the knob body through the device housing along the thickness direction, and the second joint has a second guide slope and a second abutment surface that is connected to the second guide slope. The first end face of the winding reel is further provided with a second protrusion that mates with the second engaging portion; In response to the rotation operation applied to the knob body as it rotates from the fourth target position to the third target position, the second guide slope and the second protrusion slide into each other to form a joint slope inclined relative to the thickness direction, driving the take-up wheel to overcome the elastic force applied by the elastic member, causing the first planar ratchet to disengage from the second planar ratchet. When the knob body reaches the third target position, the second abutting surface abuts and engages with the second protrusion to form a joint plane perpendicular to the thickness direction, thereby restricting the winding wheel from resetting along the thickness direction under the action of the elastic member.

11. A type of automotive anti-skid chain, characterized in that, include: The locking device as described in any one of claims 1-10, and the anti-slip chain; The anti-slip chain is detachably connected to the locking device.

Images