Folding device

Abstract

The present application provides a folding device. The folding device includes a first frame, a second frame, a third frame, a first locking portion having a first rotating member that switches between an allowable state that allows folding between the first frame and the second frame and a prohibited state that prohibits folding between the first frame and the second frame by rotation of the first rotating member, a second locking portion having a second rotating member that switches between an allowable state that allows folding between the first frame and the third frame and a prohibited state that prohibits folding between the first frame and the third frame by rotation of the second rotating member, and a rotating linkage portion that links the first rotating member and the second rotating member. The rotating linkage portion has a first movable member that changes between the allowable state and the prohibited state by moving in a direction that rotates the first rotating member and the second rotating member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a folding device. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, a folding device was known that was installed on a vehicle or similar device and could be changed between an unfolded state and a folded state. For example, there was a folding device that used three hinges provided on an axis to connect the main frame and the rear fork between the front and rear wheels in a manner that allowed them to be folded and unfolded (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-291488

[0004] The more the number of hinges and other folding parts that form the folding joints of this folding device increases, the smaller it can be folded. However, since each folding part is equipped with a locking part, the number of locking parts also increases with the number of folding parts, which leads to a decrease in the operability of the folding. Summary of the Invention

[0005] One of the technical problems to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to improve the ease of folding operations.

[0006] The folding device according to embodiments of the present invention includes: a first frame; a second frame; a third frame; a first folding part that enables a folding operation between the first frame and the second frame and connects the first frame and the second frame; a second folding part that enables a folding operation between the first frame and the third frame and connects the first frame and the third frame; a first locking part having a first rotating member that switches between a permitted state that allows a folding operation between the first frame and the second frame and a prohibited state that prohibits such a folding operation by rotating the first rotating member; a second locking part having a second rotating member that switches between a permitted state that allows a folding operation between the first frame and the third frame and a prohibited state that prohibits such a folding operation by rotating the second rotating member; and a rotation linkage part that links the first rotating member and the second rotating member, wherein the rotation linkage part has a first movable member that can change between the permitted state and the prohibited state by moving in a direction that causes the first rotating member and the second rotating member to rotate.

[0007] The folding device according to an embodiment of the present invention can improve the ease of folding operation. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1This is an exemplary and schematic side view showing the general configuration of a vehicle equipped with the folding device of the embodiment, and a diagram showing the unfolded state.

[0009] Figure 2 This is an exemplary and schematic diagram illustrating a portion of the folding steps of a vehicle according to an embodiment.

[0010] Figure 3 This is an exemplary and schematic diagram illustrating a portion of the folding steps of a vehicle according to an embodiment, and it illustrates the connection to... Figure 2 The following steps are illustrated in the diagram.

[0011] Figure 4 This is an exemplary and schematic diagram illustrating a portion of the folding steps of a vehicle according to an embodiment, and it illustrates the connection to... Figure 3 The following steps are illustrated in the diagram.

[0012] Figure 5 This is an exemplary and schematic diagram illustrating a portion of the folding steps of a vehicle according to an embodiment, and it illustrates the connection to... Figure 4 The following steps are illustrated in the diagram.

[0013] Figure 6 This is an exemplary and schematic perspective view showing a portion of the folding device according to an embodiment.

[0014] Figure 7 This is an exemplary and schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the folding device according to an embodiment.

[0015] Figure 8 This is an exemplary and schematic exploded perspective view showing a portion of the folding device according to an embodiment.

[0016] Figure 9 This is an exemplary and schematic exploded perspective view showing a vehicle equipped with a folding device according to an embodiment.

[0017] Figure 10 This is an exemplary and schematic perspective view showing a portion of the folding device according to an embodiment.

[0018] Figure 11 This is an exemplary and schematic side view showing a portion of the folding device according to an embodiment.

[0019] Figure 12 This is an exemplary and schematic perspective view showing a portion of the folding device according to an embodiment.

[0020] Figure 13 This is an exemplary and schematic side view showing a portion of the folding device according to an embodiment.

[0021] Figure 14This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the folding device in the embodiment.

[0022] Figure 15 This is an exemplary and schematic perspective view showing a portion of the folding device according to an embodiment.

[0023] Figure 16 This is an exemplary and schematic perspective view showing a portion of the folding device according to an embodiment.

[0024] Figure 17 This is an exemplary and schematic perspective view showing a portion of the folding device according to an embodiment.

[0025] Figure 18 This is an exemplary and schematic perspective view showing a portion of the folding device according to an embodiment.

[0026] Figure 19 This is an exemplary and schematic perspective view showing a portion of the folding device according to an embodiment.

[0027] Figure 20 This is an exemplary and schematic perspective view showing a portion of the folding device according to an embodiment.

[0028] Figure 21 This is a diagram illustrating a portion of the operation of the folding device in an embodiment, and it shows the relationship with... Figure 2 The diagram shows the states corresponding to the steps.

[0029] Figure 22 This is a diagram illustrating a portion of the operation of the folding device in an embodiment, and it shows the relationship with... Figure 3 The diagram shows the states corresponding to the steps.

[0030] Figure 23 This is a diagram illustrating a portion of the operation of the folding device in an embodiment, and it shows the relationship with... Figure 4 The diagram shows the states corresponding to the steps.

[0031] Figure 24 This is a diagram illustrating a portion of the operation of the folding device in an embodiment, and it shows the relationship with... Figure 5 The diagram shows the states corresponding to the steps.

[0032] Figure 25 This is a diagram illustrating a portion of the operation of the folding device in an embodiment.

[0033] Figure 26 This is an exemplary and schematic side view showing the operating components of the folding device according to an embodiment.

[0034] Figure 27 This is an exemplary and schematic side view showing a portion of the operating components of the folding device according to an embodiment.

[0035] Figure 28 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the folding device and the pins in the embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0036] The embodiments of this disclosure are described below based on the accompanying drawings. The configurations of the embodiments described below, as well as the effects and functions resulting from these configurations, are merely examples and are not limited to the contents described below.

[0037] It should be noted that the accompanying drawings are schematic, and the dimensional relationships and scales of the elements may differ from the actual situation. Furthermore, the drawings may also contain parts with different dimensional relationships or scales.

[0038] <Vehicles> Figure 1 This is an exemplary and schematic side view showing the general configuration of a vehicle equipped with the folding device of the embodiment, and a diagram showing the unfolded state.

[0039] like Figure 1 As shown, vehicle 1 includes a folding device 3, a front wheel 5F, a rear wheel 5R, a handlebar 7, and a seat 9. Vehicle 1 is foldable via the folding device 3.

[0040] Figure 2 This is an exemplary and schematic diagram illustrating a portion of the folding steps of a vehicle according to an embodiment. Figure 3 This is an exemplary and schematic diagram illustrating a portion of the folding steps of a vehicle according to an embodiment, and it illustrates the connection to... Figure 2 The following steps are illustrated in the diagram. Figure 4 This is an exemplary and schematic diagram illustrating a portion of the folding steps of a vehicle according to an embodiment, and it illustrates the connection to... Figure 3 The following steps are illustrated in the diagram. Figure 5 This is an exemplary and schematic diagram illustrating a portion of the folding steps of a vehicle according to an embodiment, and it illustrates the connection to... Figure 4 The following steps are illustrated in the diagram.

[0041] Vehicle 1 can pass Figures 2-5 The steps S1 to S8 shown involve folding. Each step is also called a process. Figure 2 In step S1, the unfolded vehicle 1 is erected. In step S2, the lock on the folding action of the unfolded vehicle 1 is released. This makes folding possible. The lock is released by pulling up the operating member 81, which will be described later. The operating member 81 is also called an operating handle. Next, in... Figures 3-4 In steps S3 to S5, the folding action is performed gradually. In S6, the operating component 81 is reset. Next, in... Figure 5In steps S7 and S8, a further folding action is performed. Step S8 shows the vehicle 1 in its folded state. From this point onward, unless otherwise specified, the front-back, left-right, and up-down directions refer to the front-back, left-right, and up-down directions of the unfolded vehicle 1.

[0042] <Folding Device>

[0043] Figure 6 This is an exemplary and schematic perspective view showing a portion of the folding device according to an embodiment. Figure 7 This is an exemplary and schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the folding device according to an embodiment. Figure 8 This is an exemplary and schematic exploded perspective view showing a portion of the folding device according to an embodiment. Figure 9 This is an exemplary and schematic exploded perspective view showing a vehicle equipped with a folding device according to an embodiment. Figure 10 This is an exemplary and schematic perspective view showing a portion of the folding device according to an embodiment. Figure 11 This is an exemplary and schematic side view showing a portion of the folding device according to an embodiment.

[0044] like Figures 1 to 11 As shown, the folding device 3 includes a base frame 11, a front frame 13, a rear frame 15, a front connecting part 17F, a rear connecting part 17R, and an input part 21. The base frame 11, the front frame 13, and the rear frame 15 constitute the frame 10. Furthermore, the base frame 11, the front frame 13, and the rear frame 15 can each be composed of multiple parts, or they can each be composed of a single part.

[0045] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, as an example, the base frame 11 has two base plates 23L and 23R and two cover plates 25L and 25R. The two base plates 23L and 23R are arranged with a spacing in the left-right direction and are joined together. The two cover plates 25L and 25R are located outside the two base plates 23L and 23R respectively, and cover the two base plates 23L and 23R. The two cover plates 25L and 25R are fixed to the two base plates 23L and 23R respectively.

[0046] The front frame 13 extends forward from the base frame 11. The rear end of the front frame 13 is located between the front ends of the two base plates 23L and 23R.

[0047] As an example, the rear frame 15 has a saddle frame 27 and two rocker arms 29L, 29R. The saddle frame 27 extends obliquely upward and rearward from the rear end of the base frame 11. The lower end of the saddle frame 27 is located between the rear ends of the two base plates 23L, 23R. The two rocker arms 29L, 29R extend obliquely downward and rearward from the rear end of the base frame 11. The two rocker arms 29L, 29R are spaced apart in the left-right direction and are connected to each other by a suspension (shock absorber) 31. The front ends of the two rocker arms 29L, 29R are located outside the rear ends of the two cover plates 25L, 25R. Furthermore, the two rocker arms 29L, 29R are connected to the saddle frame 27 via the suspension 31.

[0048] The front connecting part 17F enables the folding action between the base frame 11 and the front frame 13, connects the base frame 11 and the front frame 13, and simultaneously enables and disables the folding action. Specifically, the front connecting part 17F includes a first folding part 33F and a first angle adjuster (locker) 35F.

[0049] The first folding part 33F causes the base frame 11 and the front frame 13 to be connected around the first rotation center axis Ax1 ( Figure 7 The relative rotation formed by the base frame 11 and the front frame 13 makes folding possible and connects the base frame 11 and the front frame 13. The first angle adjuster 35F switches between a permitted state that allows folding between the base frame 11 and the front frame 13 and a prohibited state that prohibits folding by rotating the first rotating component 39F. The permitted state is also called the lock-out state, and the prohibited state is also called the lock state.

[0050] The first folding section 33F has a front axle 37F. The first folding section 33F enables the folding action between the base frame 11 and the front frame 13, which is obtained by the relative rotation between the base frame 11 and the front frame 13 about the first rotation center axis Ax1, by means of the front axle 37F, and connects the base frame 11 and the front frame 13.

[0051] The first adjuster 35F, for example, has the same structure as known adjusters used in automobile seats, etc. Figure 7As shown, for example, the first angle adjuster 35F has a first rotating component 39F, two coupling components 41F and 43F, an engagement structure (locking structure), and a spring component. The coupling component 41F is coupled (fixed) to the base frame 11, and the coupling component 43F is coupled (fixed) to the front frame 13. The first rotating component 39F, by rotating about a first rotation center axis Ax1, can perform actions that allow or prohibit relative rotation between the two coupling components 41F and 43F. That is, the first angle adjuster 35F switches between a permissible state (allowing folding action between the base frame 11 and the front frame 13) and a prohibited state (prohibiting such folding action) by rotating the first rotating component 39F. The permissible state is when the engagement (locking structure) is released and relative rotation between the coupling components 41F and 43F is possible; the prohibited state is when the engagement (locking structure) is formed and relative rotation between the coupling components 41F and 43F is impossible.

[0052] Figure 6 and Figure 7 The rear connecting portion 17R shown enables the folding action between the base frame 11 and the rear frame 15, connects the base frame 11 and the rear frame 15, and simultaneously enables and disables the folding action. Specifically, the rear connecting portion 17R includes a second folding portion 33R and a second angle adjuster 35R.

[0053] The second folding section 33R causes the base frame 11 and the rear frame 15 to rotate around the second rotation center axis Ax2 ( Figure 7 The relative rotation formed by the base frame 11 and the rear frame 15 makes folding possible and connects the base frame 11 and the rear frame 15. The second angle adjuster 35R switches between a permitted state that allows folding between the base frame 11 and the rear frame 15 and a prohibited state that prohibits folding by rotating the second rotating member 39R.

[0054] The second folding section 33R has a rear axle 37R. The second folding section 33R, via the rear axle 37R, allows the space between the base frame 11 and the rear frame 15 to rotate around the second rotation center axis Ax2 (…). Figure 7 The relative rotation formed by the base frame 11 and the rear frame 15 makes it possible to fold the base frame 11 and the rear frame 15 together.

[0055] Similar to the first angle adjuster 35F, the second angle adjuster 35R has the structure of a known angle adjuster. For example... Figure 7As shown, for example, the second angle adjuster 35R has a second rotating component 39R, two coupling components 41R and 43R, an engagement structure (locking structure), and a spring component. The coupling component 41R is coupled (fixed) to the base frame 11, and the coupling component 43R is coupled (fixed) to the saddle frame 27 of the rear frame 15. The second rotating component 39R can allow and prohibit relative rotation between the two coupling components 41R and 43R by rotating about the second rotation center axis Ax2. That is, the second angle adjuster 35R switches between a permitted state that allows folding action between the base frame 11 and the rear frame 15 and a prohibited state that prohibits such folding action by rotating the second rotating component 39R.

[0056] <Folding and Rotation Linkages>

[0057] like Figures 7-11 As shown, the folding device 3 includes a folding action linkage part 45 ( Figures 7-9 ) and rotating linkage 47 ( Figure 10 , Figure 11 The folding linkage 45 links the folding actions between the base frame 11 and the front frame 13, and between the base frame 11 and the rear frame 15. The rotation linkage 47 links the first rotating component 39F of the first angle adjuster 35F with the second rotating component 39R of the second angle adjuster 35R. That is, the rotation linkage 47 synchronizes the state (allowed state, prohibited state) of the first angle adjuster with the state (allowed state, prohibited state) of the second angle adjuster 35R.

[0058] <Folding Action Linkage Unit>

[0059] like Figures 7-9 As shown, the folding action linkage unit 45 has a front rotating component 49F (first linkage rotating component), a rear rotating component 49R (second linkage rotating component), and a chain 51 (linkage component).

[0060] The front rotating component 49F is capable of rotating together with the front frame 13 (integrally) about the first rotation center axis Ax1 relative to the base frame 11. Specifically, the front rotating component 49F is integrally disposed with the front axle 37F and rotates integrally with the front axle 37F. The front rotating component 49F is, for example, a sprocket (gear). Furthermore, the front axle 37F is fixed to the front frame 13 by bolts or the like (not shown) and rotates integrally about the first rotation center axis Ax1.

[0061] The rear rotating component 49R is capable of rotating together with the rear frame 15 about the second rotation center axis Ax2 relative to the base frame 11. Specifically, the rear rotating component 49R is integrally disposed with the rear axle 37R and rotates integrally with the rear axle 37R. The rear rotating component 49R is, for example, a sprocket (gear).

[0062] The chain 51 is wound between the front rotating component 49F and the rear rotating component 49R, so that the front rotating component 49F and the rear rotating component 49R are linked together.

[0063] Figure 12 This is an exemplary and schematic perspective view showing a portion of the folding device according to an embodiment. Figure 13 This is an exemplary and schematic side view showing a portion of the folding device according to an embodiment.

[0064] In addition, such as Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, the folding action linkage 45 has a clearance connection 53. The clearance connection 53 connects the rear frame 15 and the rear rotating component 49R together with a clearance (gap) around the second rotation center axis Ax2.

[0065] The clearance connection part 53 has a linkage component side shaft 55, a frame side shaft 57, a groove 58, and a hook part 59.

[0066] The linkage component side shaft 55 is fixed to the rear rotating component 49R and can rotate integrally with the rear rotating component 49R around the second rotation center axis Ax2.

[0067] The frame side shaft 57 is fixed to the rear frame 15 and can rotate integrally with the rear frame 15 about the second rotation center axis Ax2. Specifically, the frame side shaft 57 is fixed to the rocker arm 29R of the rear frame 15 by bolts or other fasteners 61. In this embodiment, the linkage component side shaft 55 and the frame side shaft 57 are included in the rear axle 37R.

[0068] A groove 58 is provided on the side shaft 55 of the linkage component. A hook 59 is provided on the side shaft 57 of the frame. The hook 59 is formed by a portion protruding from the side shaft 57 of the frame, which is radially penetrating the side shaft 57. The hook 59 is inserted into the groove 58 with clearance. The hook 59 is circumferentially hooked in the groove 58 along the second rotation center axis Ax2. With the hook 59 and the groove 58 hooked together, the side shaft 55 of the linkage component and the side shaft 57 of the frame rotate integrally. Figure 13 The diagram shows the relative rotation angle θ1 of the engagement portion 59 relative to the groove portion 58, representing the clearance. The linkage member side shaft 55 and the frame side shaft 57 can rotate relative to each other by this relative rotation angle θ1. The relative rotation angle θ1 is the swing amount of the rocker arm 29, and the travel amount of the suspension 31 is the amount corresponding to the relative rotation angle θ1. The engagement portion 59 is also referred to as a protrusion or convex portion.

[0069] <Rotary linkage>

[0070] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the folding device in the embodiment. Figure 15 This is an exemplary and schematic perspective view showing a portion of the folding device according to an embodiment. Figure 16 This is an exemplary and schematic perspective view showing a portion of the folding device according to an embodiment. Figure 17 This is an exemplary and schematic perspective view showing a portion of the folding device according to an embodiment. Figure 18 This is an exemplary and schematic perspective view showing a portion of the folding device according to an embodiment. Figure 19 This is an exemplary and schematic perspective view showing a portion of the folding device according to an embodiment. Figure 20 This is an exemplary and schematic perspective view showing a portion of the folding device according to an embodiment. It should be noted that... Figures 15-20 The state of any one of steps S1 to S8 is shown in the figure.

[0071] like Figure 10 , Figure 11 and Figures 14-20 As shown, the rotary linkage 47 includes a parallel linkage mechanism 65 and a drive unit 67.

[0072] The parallel linkage mechanism 65 links the first rotating member 39F and the second rotating member 39R. The parallel linkage mechanism 65 has a front release member 69F, a rear release member 69R, a connecting rod 71, and a crank 73. The connecting rod 71 is an example of the first movable member, and the crank 73 is an example of the second movable member.

[0073] One end of the front release component 69F is fixed to the first rotating component 39F, and the other end is connected to one end (front end) of the connecting rod 71 in a manner that allows relative rotation.

[0074] One end of the rear release component 69R is fixed to the second rotating component 39R, and the other end is connected to the other end (rear end) of the connecting rod 71 in a manner that allows relative rotation.

[0075] The crank 73 has an input arm 73a into which an operating force is input from the input section 21, and a connecting arm 73b that is rotatably connected to the connecting rod 71. A rotating roller 73c is rotatably provided on the input arm 73a. The connecting arm 73b is connected to the connecting rod 71 located between the front release member 69F and the rear release member 69R. The crank 73 is rotatably supported by the base frame 11 so as to be able to rotate about the rotation center axis Ax3.

[0076] In the above configuration, the crank 73 and the parallel linkage mechanism 65 are in a locked position, which prevents the first rotating component 39F and the second rotating component 39R from moving due to the elastic force of the spring components respectively built into the first rotating component 39F and the second rotating component 39R. When the crank 73 rotates in the release direction from this state, the rotation of the crank 73 causes the connecting rod 71 to translate ( Figure 14 The movement of the connecting rod 71 causes the front release member 69F to rotate around the first rotating member 39F, thereby rotating the first rotating member 39F. The rear release member 69R rotates around the second rotating member 39R, thereby rotating the second rotating member 39R. Thus, the first rotating member 39F and the second rotating member 39R change from a prohibited state to a permitted state. The positions of the parts of the first rotating member 39F and the second rotating member 39R when they are in the prohibited state are called the prohibited positions, and the positions of the parts when they are in the permitted state are called the permitted positions. As described above, by translating the connecting rod 71 in the direction that causes the first rotating member 39F and the second rotating member 39R to rotate, the permitted and prohibited states of the first angle adjuster 35F and the second angle adjuster 35R can be changed. More specifically, the connecting rod 71 connects the first rotating component 39F and the second rotating component 39R, and is rotatably connected to both components. By translating in the direction that rotates the first rotating component 39F and the second rotating component 39R, the permitted and prohibited states of the first angle adjuster 35F and the second angle adjuster 35R can be changed. Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the crank 73 moves the connecting rod 71, the rotation amount of the crank 73, the rotation amount of the first rotating component 39F, and the rotation amount of the second rotating component 39R are the same.

[0077] The drive unit 67 has a release lever 75, two claw levers 77F and 77R, and a holding member 79.

[0078] Release lever 75 is able to rotate around the central axis Ax4 ( Figure 11 The rotation is supported by the saddle frame 27 of the rear frame 15. One end (upper end) of the release lever 75 is connected to the operating component 81 of the input section 21.

[0079] Two claw levers 77F and 77R are supported by the saddle frame 27 of the rear frame 15, respectively, in a manner that allows them to rotate about the rotational central axes Ax5 and Ax6. One end of each claw lever 77F and 77R is connected to the other end (lower end) of the release lever 75 in a manner that allows for relative rotation and sliding. The other end (lower end) of the claw lever 77F is located at a position that can press against one end (upper end) of the crank 73. Specifically, the rotating roller 73c contacts the outer surface of the other end (lower end) of the claw lever 77F.

[0080] Two claw levers 77F and 77R are driven by a release lever 75 and rotate (rock) by changing the distance between their other ends (lower ends). When the other ends of the two claw levers 77F and 77R move in a direction of separation, the other end of claw lever 77F causes crank 73 to rotate. This activates the parallel linkage mechanism 65, causing the first rotating component 39F and the second rotating component 39R to rotate, and the first angle adjuster 35F and the second angle adjuster 35R to change from a prohibited state to an allowed state. From this state, when the other ends of the two claw levers 77F and 77R move in a direction of approach, the spring force of the springs built into the first angle adjuster 35F and the second angle adjuster 35R respectively moves crank 73 and parallel linkage mechanism 65 to the locked position.

[0081] Furthermore, the retaining member 79 is fixed to the saddle frame 27 of the rear frame 15 in a position below the two claw bars 77F and 77R. The retaining member 79 is capable of relative rotation with the input arm 73a.

[0082] The holding member 79 has an arc-shaped surface 79a with a constant radius of curvature. This surface 79a is aligned with the outer surface of the other end of the claw bars 77F and 77R when they are in the permitted position. In this state, the rotating roller 73c moves from the outer surface of the claw bar 77F to the surface 77a, and can further move to the outer surface of the claw bar 77R. During the folding process of the vehicle 1 (folding device 3), the rotating roller 73c moves from the outer surface of the claw bar 77F to the surface 77a, and further moves to the outer surface of the claw bar 77R. When the input arm 73a is connected to the surface 77a via the rotating roller 73c, the permitted state of the first angle adjuster 35F and the second angle adjuster 35R is maintained. That is, during the period when the input arm 73a rotates relative to the holding member 79 along the surface 77a, the first angle adjuster 35F and the second angle adjuster 35R remain in the permitted state. It should be noted that when the distance between the claw bars 77F and 77R is narrowed by rotating the roller 73c, the permitted and prohibited states of the first angle adjuster 35F and the second angle adjuster 35R can be changed by operating the operating component 81.

[0083] Figures 21-24 The diagram shows the operation of the rotary linkage 47 configured as described above. Figure 21 This is a diagram illustrating a portion of the operation of the folding device in an embodiment, and it shows the relationship with... Figure 2 The diagram shows the states corresponding to the steps. Figure 22 This is a diagram illustrating a portion of the operation of the folding device in an embodiment, and it shows the relationship with... Figure 3 The diagram shows the states corresponding to the steps. Figure 23 This is a diagram illustrating a portion of the operation of the folding device in an embodiment, and it shows the relationship with... Figure 4 The diagram shows the states corresponding to the steps. Figure 24 This is a diagram illustrating a portion of the operation of the folding device in an embodiment, and it shows the relationship with... Figure 5 The diagram shows the states corresponding to the steps.

[0084] Figure 25 This is a diagram illustrating a portion of the operation of the folding device in an embodiment. Figure 25 The diagram shows the state of the release member 69R after it has moved from the allowed position to the released position. As an example, the states of steps S1 to S3 are shown.

[0085] <Input Section>

[0086] Figure 26 This is an exemplary and schematic side view showing the operating components of the folding device according to an embodiment. Figure 27 This is an exemplary and schematic side view showing a portion of the operating components of the folding device according to an embodiment. Figure 28 This is a diagram illustrating the operation of the folding device and the movement of the pins in the embodiment.

[0087] like Figure 11 and Figure 26 As shown, the input unit 21 includes an operating component 81 and a pin 83. The input unit 21 is connected to the first angle adjuster 35F and the second angle adjuster 35R via a drive unit 67 and a parallel linkage mechanism 65, and rotates the first rotating component 39F and the second rotating component 39R of the first angle adjuster 35F and the second angle adjuster 35R. That is, the input unit 21 operates the first angle adjuster 35F and the second angle adjuster 35R.

[0088] The operating component 81 has a gripping portion 81a, a connecting portion 81g, a groove 81b, and a supported portion 81c disposed between the gripping portion 81a and the groove 81b. The supported portion 81c is supported by the base frame 11 or the rear frame 15 (sub-frame) in a manner that allows it to rotate about the rotational axis Ax7. As an example, the supported portion 81c is supported by the saddle frame 27 of the rear frame 15 in a manner that allows it to rotate about the rotational axis Ax7. Thus, the operating component 81 is supported by the saddle frame 27 of the rear frame 15 in a manner that allows it to rotate about the rotational axis Ax7. The connecting portion 81g is connected to the gripping portion 81a. The connecting portion 81g is connected to a pin 83. Specifically, the connecting portion 81g has a groove 81b, into which the pin 83 is inserted.

[0089] Pin 83 is placed in slot 81b and the operating force from operating member 81 is transmitted to first rotating member 39F and second rotating member 39R via drive member 67 and parallel linkage mechanism 65, thereby causing first rotating member 39F and second rotating member 39R to rotate.

[0090] Next, the shape of the groove 81b will be described in detail. For example... Figure 27 As shown, the groove portion 81b has a cam portion 81d and a constant radius of curvature portion 81e. The cam portion 81d is a portion where the radius of curvature gradually changes, also called a radius-gradient portion. The cam portion 81d moves the pin 83 relative to the rotation center axis Ax7 (the supported portion) in response to the rotation of the operating member, thereby rotating the first rotating member 39F and the second rotating member 39R. The radius of curvature of the end 81da of the cam portion 81d on the side of the constant radius of curvature portion 81e is the same as the radius of curvature of the constant radius of curvature portion 81e. The constant radius of curvature portion 81e is connected to the cam portion 81d and has a constant radius of curvature. The constant radius of curvature portion 81e does not cause the pin 83 to move relative to the rotation center axis Ax7 due to the rotation of the operating member 81, thus maintaining the permissible state of the first adjuster 35F and the second adjuster 35R. In the above description, even if the operating component 81 rotates, the constant radius of curvature part 81e maintains a constant distance between the rotation center axis Ax7 and the pin 83.

[0091] Figure 28 The diagram shows state J1 between the slot 81b and the pin 83 when the operating member 81 is rotated. States J1 to J4 are the intervals in which the cam 81d moves the pin 83. In this interval, the distance L1 between the rotation center axis Ax7 and the pin 83 gradually shortens. States J5 to J6 are the intervals in which the pin 83 is located at the constant radius of curvature portion 81e and the pin 83 does not move. In this interval, the distance L1 between the rotation center axis Ax7 and the pin 83 is constant. According to this configuration, in states J1 to J4, the first angle adjuster 35F and the second angle adjuster 35R change from a prohibited state to a permitted state, and in states J5 to J6, the permitted state is maintained. That is, in the interval of states J5 to J6, even if the operating member 81 is operated, the operating member 81 will continue to rotate while maintaining the permitted state.

[0092] <Module 1 and Module 2>

[0093] In addition, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the folding device 3 includes a first module 91 and a second module 93. The first module 91 has a first folding part 33F, a second folding part 33R, and a folding action linkage part 45. The second module 93 has a first angle adjuster 35F, a second angle adjuster 35R, and a rotation linkage part 47. The first module 91 and the second module 93 are arranged opposite each other across the front frame 13.

[0094] In the above configuration, in the deployed state of vehicle 1, the first angle adjuster 35F and the second angle adjuster 35R are in a prohibited state. Starting from this state, if the operating component 81 is pulled upward, the first angle adjuster 35F and the second angle adjuster 35R change from the prohibited state to the permitted state. Starting from this state, if the operating component 81 is pulled upward further, the base frame 11 and the front frame 13 are folded, and the base frame 11 and the rear frame 15 are folded.

[0095] <Summary>

[0096] As described above, the folding device 3 of this embodiment includes: a base frame 11 (first frame), a front frame 13 (second frame), a rear frame 15 (third frame), a first folding part 33F, a second folding part 33R, a first angle adjuster 35F (first locking part), a second angle adjuster 35R (second locking part), and a rotation linkage part 47. The first folding part 33F enables folding between the base frame 11 and the front frame 13 and connects the base frame 11 and the front frame 13. The second folding part 33R enables folding between the base frame 11 and the rear frame 15 and connects the base frame 11 and the rear frame 15. The first angle adjuster 35F has a first rotating member 39F, which switches between a permitted state that allows folding between the base frame 11 and the front frame 13 and a prohibited state that prohibits folding by rotating the first rotating member 39F. The second angle adjuster 35R has a second rotating member 39R. Rotation of the second rotating member 39R switches between a permitted state (allowing folding between the base frame 11 and the rear frame 15) and a prohibited state (prohibiting folding). A rotation linkage 47 links the first rotating member 39F and the second rotating member 39R. The rotation linkage 47 has a connecting rod 71 (a first movable member). The connecting rod 71 moves in the direction that rotates both the first rotating member 39F and the second rotating member 39R, thereby changing between the permitted and prohibited states.

[0097] According to this configuration, the rotation linkage 47 enables the first rotating component 39F and the second rotating component 39R to be linked, thereby improving the ease of folding operation.

[0098] Furthermore, the connecting rod 71 connects the first rotating member 39F and the second rotating member 39R, and forms a connection with respect to the first rotating member 39F and the second rotating member 39R in a rotatable manner. By translating in the direction that rotates the first rotating member 39F and the second rotating member 39R, a change between the permitted state and the prohibited state can be formed.

[0099] Based on this configuration, the rotary linkage 47 can be constructed in a relatively simple manner.

[0100] Furthermore, the rotary linkage 47 includes a crank 73 (a second movable member). The crank 73 (second movable member) has an input arm 73a into which an operating force is input, and a connecting arm 73b that is rotatably connected to the connecting rod 71 (first movable member). The connecting rod 71 is moved by rotating due to the operating force. When the crank 73 moves the connecting rod 71, the amount of rotation of the crank 73, the amount of rotation of the first rotating member 39F, and the amount of rotation of the second rotating member 39R are the same.

[0101] According to this configuration, the rotation of the first rotating component 39F can be synchronized with the rotation of the second rotating component 39R.

[0102] Furthermore, the rotation linkage 47 has a holding member 79 with an arc-shaped surface 79a, and is rotatable relative to the input arm 73a. During the rotation of the input arm 73a relative to the holding member 79 along the surface 79a, the first angle adjuster 35F and the second angle adjuster 35R remain in an allowed state.

[0103] According to this configuration, the permissible state can be maintained during the period when the input arm 73a rotates relative to the holding member 79 along the surface 79a.

[0104] It should be noted that the above embodiments illustrate an example of applying the folding device 3 to the vehicle 1, but are not limited to this. The folding device 3 can also be applied to various other devices or machines. Furthermore, the first locking part and the second locking part are not limited to the above-described manner. The first locking part and the second locking part can adopt other structures.

[0105] The embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated above, but these embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the invention. The above embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, combinations, and changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. Furthermore, the specifications (structure, type, orientation, shape, size, length, width, thickness, height, quantity, arrangement, position, material, etc.) of each component, shape, display element, etc., can be appropriately changed and implemented.

[0106] [Summary of this implementation method]

[0107] This embodiment has at least the following structure.

[0108] Technical Solution 1:

[0109] A folding device includes: a first frame (11); a second frame (13); a third frame (15); a first folding portion (33F) that enables a folding action between the first frame (11) and the second frame (13) and connects the first frame (11) and the second frame (13); a second folding portion (33R) that enables a folding action between the first frame (11) and the third frame (15) and connects the first frame (11) and the third frame (15); and a first locking portion (35F) having a first rotating member (39F) that switches between a permitted state that allows a folding action between the first frame (11) and the second frame (13) and a prohibited state that prohibits the folding action by rotating the first rotating member (39F). The second locking part (35R) has a second rotating member (39R) that, by rotating the second rotating member (39R), switches between a permitted state that allows folding between the first frame (11) and the third frame (15) and a prohibited state that prohibits such folding; and a rotation linkage part (47) that links the first rotating member (39F) and the second rotating member (39R), wherein the rotation linkage part (47) has a first movable member (71) that, by moving in a direction that causes the first rotating member (39F) and the second rotating member (39R) to rotate, allows the permitted state to change between the prohibited state.

[0110] According to this structure, the rotation linkage (47) enables the first rotating component (39F) and the second rotating component (39R) to be linked, thereby improving the ease of folding operation.

[0111] Based on technical solution 1, in technical solution 2, the first movable member (71) connects the first rotating member (39F) and the second rotating member (39R), and the connection is formed with respect to the first rotating member (39F) and the second rotating member (39R) in a way that allows them to rotate relative to each other. By moving parallel to the direction that causes the first rotating member (39F) and the second rotating member (39R) to rotate, a change can be formed between the permitted state and the prohibited state.

[0112] Based on this structure, the rotation linkage (47) can be made relatively simple.

[0113] Based on technical solution 2, in technical solution 3, the rotating linkage part (47) has a second movable part (73). The second movable part (73) has an input arm (73a) that is input with an operating force and a connecting arm (73b) that is connected to the first movable part (71) in a way that allows relative rotation. The first movable part (71) moves by rotating due to the operating force. When the second movable part (73) moves the first movable part (71), the rotation amount of the second movable part (73), the rotation amount of the first rotating part (39F), and the rotation amount of the second rotating part (39R) are the same.

[0114] According to this structure, the rotation of the first rotating component (39F) can be synchronized with the rotation of the second rotating component (39R).

[0115] Based on technical solution 3, in technical solution 4, the rotation linkage part (47) has a holding member (79) with an arc-shaped surface (79a) and is rotatable relative to the input arm part (73a). During the period when the input arm part (73a) rotates relative to the holding member (79) along the surface (79a), the first locking part (35F) and the second locking part (35R) maintain the allowed state.

[0116] According to this structure, the permissible state can be maintained during the period when the input arm (73a) rotates relative to the holding member (79) along the surface (79a).

[0117] [Explanation of the labels in the attached diagram]

[0118] 1…Vehicle; 3…Folding device; 5R…Rear wheel (wheel); 11…Basic frame (first frame); 13…Front frame (second frame, sub-frame); 15…Rear frame (third frame, sub-frame); 17F…Front connecting part; 17R…Rear connecting part; 21…Input part; 29L…Rocker arm; 29R…Rocker arm; 33F…First folding part; 33R…Second folding part; 35F…First angle adjuster (first locking part); 35R…Second angle adjuster (second locking part); 37F…Front axle; 37R…Rear axle; 39F…First rotating component; 39R…Second rotating component; 45…Folding action linkage part; 47…Rotation linkage part; 49F…Front rotating component (first linkage rotating component); 49R…Rear rotating component (second linkage rotating component); 51…Chain (linkage component); 55…Side shaft of linkage component; 57… Frame side shaft; 58… Groove; 59… Hook; 71… Connecting rod (first movable part); 73… Crank (second movable part); 73a… Input arm 73b;… Connecting arm 79;… Holding part; 79a… Surface; 81… Operating part; 81a… Grip; 81b… Groove; 81c… Supported part; 81d… Cam; 81da… End; 81e… Constant radius of curvature part; 83… Pin; 91… First module 93;… Second module; Ax1… First rotation center axis; Ax2… Second rotation center axis; Ax7… Rotation center axis.

Claims

1. A folding device, wherein, have: First framework; Second framework; The third framework; The first folding part enables the folding action between the first frame and the second frame and connects the first frame and the second frame; The second folding part enables the folding action between the first frame and the third frame, and connects the first frame and the third frame. The first locking part has a first rotating component, which switches between a permitted state that allows folding action between the first frame and the second frame and a prohibited state that prohibits such folding action by rotating the first rotating component. The second locking part has a second rotating component, which switches between a permitted state that allows folding action between the first frame and the third frame and a prohibited state that prohibits such folding action by rotating the second rotating component. as well as A rotating linkage unit that enables the first rotating component and the second rotating component to move in tandem. The rotation linkage has a first movable component, which can change between the permitted state and the prohibited state by moving in a direction that causes the first rotating component and the second rotating component to rotate.

2. The folding device according to claim 1, wherein, The first movable member connects the first rotating member and the second rotating member, and forms a connection with respect to the first rotating member and the second rotating member in a manner that allows them to rotate relative to each other. The first movable member can change between the permitted state and the prohibited state by moving parallel to the direction that causes the first rotating member and the second rotating member to rotate.

3. The folding device according to claim 2, wherein, The rotary linkage has a second movable component. The second movable member has an input arm that receives an operating force and a connecting arm that is rotatably connected to the first movable member. The first movable member moves by rotating due to the operating force. When the second movable member moves the first movable member, the amount of rotation of the second movable member, the amount of rotation of the first rotating member, and the amount of rotation of the second rotating member are the same.

4. The folding device according to claim 3, wherein, The rotary linkage has a holding member with an arc-shaped surface, which can rotate relative to the input arm. During the period when the input arm rotates relative to the holding member along the surface, the first locking part and the second locking part maintain the allowed state.

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