A locking device and locking method for fixing automotive aluminum trim panels

Abstract

This invention discloses a locking device and method for fixing automotive aluminum trim panels, relating to the field of vehicle mounting fixture technology. It includes a fixing base and a connecting seat. The fixing base is fixed to the vehicle body, and the connecting seat is fixed to the aluminum trim panel body. A hollow cylinder is fixed to the bottom of the fixing base. Multiple straight grooves are equidistantly distributed in a ring around the central axis of the hollow cylinder. An incomplete internally threaded cylindrical plate is slidably disposed on the inner wall of each groove. The incomplete internally threaded cylindrical plate is made by equidistantly cutting a complete internally threaded cylinder. An ejection structure is provided on the outer side of the incomplete internally threaded cylindrical plate to push it out. This invention enables rapid installation and removal of aluminum trim panels. During installation, there is no need for precise alignment and repeated screwing at the starting end of the thread. Only axial sleeve connection and rotation of the limiting circular plate are required to simultaneously complete thread closing and bolted locking, eliminating the multiple turns and alignment adjustments required in traditional bolt connections.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of vehicle mounting hardware technology, and in particular to a locking device and method for fixing automotive aluminum trim panels. Background Technology

[0002] Interior trim panels are part of the vehicle's interior decoration, typically used to cover and decorate the vehicle's interior structure, providing a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing driving space.

[0003] A search revealed Chinese patent document CN221525284U, which discloses a snap-fit ​​connection device for aluminum interior trim panels in a vehicle, relating to the field of interior trim panel technology. This snap-fit ​​connection device for aluminum interior trim panels includes three interior trim panels: panel one, panel two, and panel three. Each of the three interior trim panels has two snap-fit ​​assemblies on both sides. Each snap-fit ​​assembly includes a sliding groove, a pull plate, a locking post, a limiting plate, a spring, a placement groove, and a movable groove. The pull plate is slidably connected to the inside of the sliding groove, the locking post is fixedly connected to one side of the pull plate, and the limiting plate is fixedly connected to the outside of the locking post. With this snap-fit ​​connection device, pulling the pull plate moves the locking post to both sides, inserting a fixing block into the movable groove, and releasing the pull plate allows the locking post to enter the mounting groove, thus completing the assembly of the safety handrail. The assembly process is relatively simple and easy to operate, and parts are less likely to be lost, preventing additional usage costs due to part loss.

[0004] Based on research and existing technology, it was found that most mainstream aluminum interior trim panels in the current market adopt a traditional bolt-fastening assembly structure. During assembly, through-hole bolt positioning holes need to be pre-machined on the outer side of the aluminum interior trim panel. The assembly process requires various miscellaneous standard parts such as bolts, flat washers, and spring washers. Operators must use wrenches, sockets, and other tools to align the fasteners with the holes one by one, relying on the clamping force generated by tightening the bolt heads to press the aluminum interior trim panel firmly against the inner wall of the vehicle body sheet metal. This assembly method has several practical defects; firstly, the entire bolt tightening process relies on manual labor. Manual screwing requires aligning, inserting, and tightening multiple bolts on a single interior panel, making assembly of a single panel time-consuming and lengthening the overall vehicle interior assembly cycle. This makes it impossible to meet the requirements for tool-free, quick locking and instant disassembly / removal of interior panels. Secondly, during later inspections and interior disassembly / maintenance, all bolts still need to be unscrewed one by one in reverse, making the disassembly process cumbersome. Repeated disassembly and reassembly can easily cause enlarged bolt holes and deformation / damage to the edges of aluminum profiles. Furthermore, the large number of bolt parts makes them prone to being scattered and lost during disassembly and reassembly, increasing the cost of parts replacement and repair. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a locking device and locking method for fixing automotive aluminum trim panels, so as to solve the problems mentioned in the background art.

[0006] The technical solution of the present invention is: a locking device for fixing an aluminum trim panel of an automobile, comprising a fixing base and a connecting seat. The fixing base is fixed to the vehicle body, and the connecting seat is fixed to the aluminum trim panel body. A hollow cylinder is fixed to the bottom of the fixing base. Multiple straight grooves are equidistantly distributed in a ring around the central axis of the hollow cylinder. An incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate is slidably arranged on the inner wall of the straight groove. The incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate is made by equidistantly cutting a complete internal threaded cylinder. An ejection structure is provided on the outer side of the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate to eject it. A first countersunk hole is provided on the outer side of the connecting seat. A limiting circular plate is provided in the large hole of the first countersunk hole. An outer cylinder and an external threaded post are fixed coaxially to the outer side of the limiting circular plate. The external threaded post is located inside the outer cylinder. The external thread of the outer cylinder is adapted to the internal thread of the incomplete internal thread cylinder plate. The outer cylinder has multiple fan-shaped blocks fixed inside, which are equidistantly distributed in a ring with their central axis as the center. The fan-shaped blocks are coaxially fixed with the outer cylinder. The inner diameter of the fan-shaped blocks is adapted to the outer diameter of the hollow cylinder. One side of the fan-shaped block is rounded. When the outer cylinder is sleeved on the hollow cylinder, the fan-shaped blocks contact the hollow cylinder. The hollow cylinder drives the fan-shaped blocks to rotate. The fan-shaped blocks use the rounded corners to gradually push the incomplete internal thread cylinder plate into the hollow cylinder until the internal thread of the incomplete internal thread cylinder plate contacts the external thread of the external thread column. The external thread column continues to rotate. At a certain moment, the incomplete internal thread cylinder plate and the external thread column will be screwed together until the fan-shaped blocks push the incomplete internal thread cylinder plate in. The external thread column can rotate to adjust the locking force. The outer cylinder is rotated and installed in the small hole of the first countersunk hole.

[0007] Preferably, the ejection structure includes a straight plate and two hexagonal socket head cap screws. The outer side of the straight plate is an arc surface, and the outer diameter of the arc surface is the same as the outer diameter of the hollow cylinder. The straight plate and the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate are an integral structure. Placement slots are opened at both ends of the straight groove, and the two ends of the straight plate are respectively located in the two placement slots.

[0008] Preferably, the ejection structure further includes two hexagon socket head cap screws. The inner wall of the placement groove has a circular slot, and the inside of the circular slot has an internally threaded hole coaxially arranged therewith. Both ends of the straight plate have second countersunk holes. The hexagon socket head cap screws are slidably inserted into the second countersunk holes and screwed into the internally threaded holes. An ejection spring is sleeved on the outer side of the screwed hexagon socket head cap screws. The ejection spring is located in the circular slot, and both ends of the ejection spring are in contact with the inner wall of the circular slot and the straight plate, respectively.

[0009] Preferably, a rubber ring is fixed to the bottom end of the hollow cylinder, and multiple corrugated rings are provided on both the inner and outer sides of the rubber ring.

[0010] Preferably, a unidirectional structure capable of unidirectional rotation is provided between the limiting circular plate and the first countersunk hole.

[0011] Preferably, the unidirectional structure includes a ratchet, which is coaxially fixed with the limiting circular plate. A sliding groove is provided on the outer side of the connecting seat, and a limiting bar is slidably arranged in the sliding groove. Guide bars integrally formed with the limiting bar are provided on both sides of the limiting bar. Straight grooves are provided on both sides of the sliding groove, and the two guide bars are slidably arranged in the two straight grooves respectively. One end of the limiting bar is in contact with the ratchet.

[0012] Preferably, a first positioning post is fixed to the other end of the limiting rod, and a second positioning post is fixed to the inner wall of one end of the slide groove. The first positioning post and the second positioning post are together fitted with a push-out spring.

[0013] Preferably, the outer side of the connecting seat is provided with an insertion groove, and two grooves are provided on both sides of the insertion groove. The two grooves are slidably inserted into the locking block. The outer side of the limiting rod is provided with a notch that matches the locking block. A third positioning post is fixed on the outer side of the locking block. A fourth positioning post is fixed on the inner wall of the insertion groove. The third positioning post and the fourth positioning post are together fitted with a reset spring.

[0014] Preferably, a coil spring is fixed between the limiting circular plate and the first countersunk hole.

[0015] A locking method for a locking device used to fix automotive aluminum trim panels, comprising the following specific steps:

[0016] Step 1: Component Pre-assembly and Fixing: Fix the fixing base to the preset installation position in the vehicle body, and fix the connecting seat to the automotive aluminum trim panel body. After assembly, the connecting seat should remain fixed and not rotate. Complete the overall pre-assembly of the device. Slide the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate into the straight groove on the outside of the hollow cylinder. Install the straight plate, hexagonal socket bolts, and ejector spring into the placement groove and round hole groove respectively. The ejector spring normally pushes the straight plate, keeping the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate in its initial outward-opening state. Install the limiting bar with guide strip and the ejector spring in the sliding groove of the connecting seat. Install the locking block and the return spring in the insertion groove. At the same time, install the coil spring between the limiting round plate and the first countersunk hole of the connecting seat to ensure that each elastic component can extend, retract, return, and store energy rebound normally. Step 2, Coaxial Alignment and Fitting: Hold the aluminum trim plate to move the fixed connecting seat toward the fixed base and bring it closer together. Align the outer cylinder of the limiting round plate with the outer cylinder of the hollow cylinder to complete the fitting, so that the external threaded column extends into the hollow cylinder. During the fitting process, the fan-shaped block inside the outer cylinder only fits against the outer wall of the hollow cylinder and has no contact or compression with the straight plate or the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate. All threaded components and limiting components remain in their initial state, and only axial alignment and pre-installation positioning are completed. Step 3: Rotate the limiting plate to achieve thread retraction: Keep the connecting seat stationary and manually rotate the limiting plate in the forward direction. The limiting plate synchronously drives the coaxially fixed outer cylinder and external threaded column to rotate as a whole, while twisting the coil spring to store elastic potential energy. During the rotation of the outer cylinder, the fan-shaped blocks with rounded corners distributed in a ring on its inner side rotate around the central axis of the hollow cylinder with the outer cylinder. The fan-shaped blocks gradually squeeze the straight plate and the one-piece incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate through the rounded corners, overcoming the pushing force of the ejection spring, and gradually retracting each set of incomplete internal threaded cylinder plates along the straight groove towards the axis of the hollow cylinder. Step 4, Thread Engagement and Locking Force Adjustment: As the limiting circular plate continues to rotate forward, the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate completely retracts, and its internal thread precisely contacts and gradually engages with the external thread of the external threaded column; continue rotating the limiting circular plate to allow the external threaded column to continue to screw in, bringing the assembly gap between the fixed base and the connecting seat closer, and the locking preload of the device can be precisely adjusted until the aluminum trim panel is tightly fitted to the vehicle body mounting surface; at the same time, the rubber ring with multiple corrugated rings at the bottom of the hollow cylinder is deformed under pressure, filling the assembly gap, buffering vibration stress, and improving the assembly sealing and stability; Step 5: Initial anti-loosening one-way rotation: During the forward locking rotation of the limiting circular plate, the ratchet integrated with it rotates synchronously. The push-out spring in the slide groove continuously pushes the limiting bar, so that the end of the limiting bar is always pressed against the ratchet tooth surface, forming a one-way anti-rotation structure. It only allows the limiting circular plate to lock and rotate in the forward direction, preventing it from loosening in the reverse direction. This effectively prevents the device from loosening due to vehicle vibration. Combined with the elastic pre-tightening effect of the coil spring, it further improves the locking stability. Step 6, Normal One-Way Anti-Loosening Locking: After the locking preload is adjusted to the correct position, the device is in the normal locking state. The spring pushes the limit bar against the ratchet tooth surface, forming a one-way anti-rotation structure. This limits the locking plate to be able to lock and rotate in the forward direction, but prevents it from loosening and rotating in the reverse direction. This effectively prevents loosening caused by vehicle vibration and ensures the stability of the aluminum trim assembly. At this time, the locking block is in the unlocked and relaxed state, which does not restrict the elastic extension and retraction displacement of the limit bar, ensuring the normal operation of the one-way anti-rotation structure. Step 7: Quick Unlocking, Resetting, and Disassembly: When disassembly is required, manually pull the locking block to slide and compress the reset spring, causing the locking block to engage with the notch of the limiting bar, rigidly locking the position of the limiting bar and fixing it away from the ratchet. The limiting bar and ratchet are completely separated and cannot contact each other, releasing the one-way anti-rotation constraint. At this time, the limiting plate can rotate freely in both directions. The coil spring that stored energy during the locking process automatically releases its elastic potential energy, causing the limiting plate, outer cylinder, and external threaded column to automatically rotate in the opposite direction and reset. After the outer cylinder resets, the fan-shaped block completely disengages from the straight plate, releasing the compression limit on the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate. The ejected spring pushes the straight plate to reset, causing the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate to open outward, allowing the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate to quickly disengage from the external threaded column and the thread engagement to be completely unlocked. Finally, the aluminum trim panel can be directly separated from the car body to complete the disassembly. The entire device automatically resets, making the disassembly and assembly process simple and efficient.

[0017] This invention provides an improved locking device and method for fixing automotive aluminum trim panels, which has the following improvements and advantages compared to the prior art: Firstly, this invention enables rapid installation and disassembly of aluminum decorative panels. During installation, there is no need for precise alignment and repeated screwing into the threaded starting end. Simply rotate the limiting disc after axial sleeve connection to simultaneously complete thread closing and bolt locking, eliminating the need for multiple turns of screwing and alignment adjustments required in traditional bolt connections. During disassembly, simply move the locking block to release the unidirectional constraint, and the coil spring will automatically rotate and reset the structure, causing the threads to disengage automatically. Separation can be completed by simply pulling it out. No additional tools are required throughout the process, and a single person can quickly complete the operation, significantly improving the efficiency of aluminum decorative panel installation and disassembly, and also reducing the operational threshold for subsequent maintenance and disassembly.

[0018] Secondly, after the threads are fully engaged, the depth of the external threaded column can be controlled by continuing to rotate the limiting circular plate, thereby adjusting the contact distance between the fixed base and the connecting seat, and precisely controlling the locking preload force to adapt to aluminum trim panels of different thicknesses and installation requirements. At the same time, the elastic deformation of the rubber ring with corrugated ring can achieve flexible buffering of the preload force, which can ensure that the aluminum trim panel fits tightly without shaking, and avoid excessive locking force causing the aluminum trim panel to be crushed and deformed, thus improving adaptability and adjustment accuracy.

[0019] Thirdly, the one-way anti-rotation structure composed of the ratchet and the limiting bar directly locks the reverse rotation tendency of the limiting disc from a mechanical perspective, preventing the threads from loosening due to rotation. Secondly, the compression reaction force of the rubber ring will continuously provide a stable preload for the threaded engagement, offsetting the thread gap caused by vibration and preventing the threads from loosening. The combined effect of multiple structures can maintain the stability of the locked state for a long time. Attached Figure Description

[0020] To more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall installation structure of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the overall and partial perspective three-dimensional structure of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the fixing base of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a perspective structural diagram of the hollow cylinder region of the present invention; Figure 5 for Figure 4 A magnified structural diagram at point A; Figure 6 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the hollow cylinder structure of the present invention; Figure 7 This is a partial cross-sectional view of the incomplete internally threaded cylinder plate of the present invention; Figure 8 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the connector of the present invention; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the bottom structure of the connector of the present invention; Figure 10 for Figure 9 A magnified structural diagram at point B; Figure 11 This is an overall sectional view of the present invention; Figure 12 for Figure 11 A magnified structural diagram at point C.

[0022] Figure label: 1. Fixed base; 2. Connecting seat; 3. Hollow cylinder; 4. Straight groove; 5. Incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate; 6. First countersunk hole; 7. Limiting circular plate; 8. Outer cylinder; 9. External threaded post; 10. Sector block; 11. Straight plate; 12. Hex socket head cap screw; 13. Ejection spring; 14. Coil spring; 15. Rubber ring; 16. Second countersunk hole; 17. Placement groove; 18. Circular hole groove; 19. Ratchet; 20. Limiting bar; 21. Push-out spring; 22. Locking block; 23. Return spring; 24. Guide bar; 25. First positioning post; 26. Second positioning post; 27. Third positioning post; 28. Fourth positioning post; 29. ​​Car body; 30. Aluminum trim panel body. Detailed Implementation

[0023] The present invention will now be described in detail, and the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0024] This invention provides, through improvements, a locking device and method for fixing automotive aluminum trim panels. The technical solution of this invention is as follows: Example 1 like Figures 1 to 12As shown, this embodiment of the invention provides a locking device for fixing an aluminum trim panel in an automobile, including a fixing base 1 and a connecting seat 2. The fixing base 1 is fixed on the vehicle body 29, and the connecting seat 2 is fixed on the aluminum trim panel body 30. A hollow cylinder 3 is fixed to the bottom of the fixing base 1. Multiple straight grooves 4 are equidistantly distributed in a ring around the central axis of the hollow cylinder 3. An incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate 5 is slidably arranged on the inner wall of the straight grooves 4. The incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate 5 is made by equidistantly cutting a complete internal threaded cylinder. An ejection structure is provided on the outer side of the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate 5 to push it out. A first countersunk hole 6 is opened on the outer side of the connecting seat 2. A limiting circular plate 7 is arranged in the large hole of the first countersunk hole 6. An outer cylinder 8 and an external threaded post 9 are fixed on the outer side of the limiting circular plate 7 and are coaxially arranged therewith. The external threaded post 9 is located inside the outer cylinder 8, and the external thread of the external threaded post 9 is connected to the incomplete internal threaded cylinder. The internal threads of the threaded cylinder plate 5 are matched. The outer cylinder 8 has multiple fan-shaped blocks 10 fixed inside, which are equidistantly distributed in a ring with their central axis as the center. The fan-shaped blocks 10 are coaxially fixed with the outer cylinder 8. The inner diameter of the fan-shaped blocks 10 is matched with the outer diameter of the hollow cylinder 3. One side of the fan-shaped blocks 10 is provided with a rounded corner. When the outer cylinder 8 is sleeved on the hollow cylinder 3, the fan-shaped blocks 10 contact the hollow cylinder 3. The hollow cylinder 3 drives the fan-shaped blocks 10 to rotate. The fan-shaped blocks 10 gradually push the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate 5 into the hollow cylinder 3 with the help of the rounded corner, until the internal thread of the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate 5 contacts the external thread of the external threaded column 9. The external threaded column 9 continues to rotate. At a certain moment, the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate 5 and the external threaded column 9 will be screwed together until the fan-shaped blocks 10 push the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate 5 in. The external threaded column 9 rotates to adjust the locking force. The outer cylinder 8 is rotated and installed in the small hole of the first countersunk hole 6. As described above, this retractable threaded locking structure solves the problems of cumbersome alignment and numerous turns required in traditional threaded connections. During the installation and alignment phase, the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate 5 is pushed outward by the ejector structure, leaving sufficient space for the external threaded post 9 to be directly inserted axially without repeated adjustments to align the starting end of the thread. When rotating to lock, the fan-shaped block 10 on the inner side of the outer cylinder 8 rotates along with it, slowly pushing the multiple incomplete internal threaded cylinder plates 5 towards the center using the rounded corners. After retraction, they are perfectly assembled into a complete internal thread, which then engages with the central external threaded post 9. Only one rotation is needed to complete the thread engagement and locking, making the operation simple and reducing the likelihood of thread misalignment or jamming.

[0025] Specifically, in conjunction with the appendix Figure 4-7As shown, the ejection structure includes a straight plate 11 and two hexagon socket head cap screws 12. The outer side of the straight plate 11 is an arc surface, and the outer diameter of the arc surface is the same as the outer diameter of the hollow cylinder 3. The straight plate 11 and the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate 5 are integral structures. Both ends of the straight groove 4 are provided with placement grooves 17. The two ends of the straight plate 11 are respectively located in the two placement grooves 17. The ejection structure also includes two hexagon socket head cap screws 12. The inner wall of the placement groove 17 is provided with a circular hole groove 18. The inside of the circular hole groove 18 is provided with an internal threaded hole coaxially arranged with it. Both ends of the straight plate 11 are provided with a second countersunk hole 16. The hexagon socket head cap screws 12 are slidably inserted into the second countersunk hole 16. The hexagon socket head cap screws 12 are screwed into the internal threaded hole. An ejection spring 13 is sleeved on the outer side of the screwed hexagon socket head cap screw 12. The ejection spring 13 is located in the circular hole groove 18. The two ends of the ejection spring 13 are in contact with the inner wall of the circular hole groove 18 and the straight plate 11, respectively. As can be seen from the above, during operation, the ejector spring 13 always pushes the straight plate 11 outward with force. When there is no squeezing from the fan-shaped block 10, it can stably support the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate 5 in the initial position, ensuring that the external threaded column 9 can be smoothly inserted. The straight plate 11 slides in the placement groove 17, which can limit the movement range of the cylinder plate and prevent it from falling off the hollow cylinder 3. The design of the internal hex bolt 12 can not only block the ejector spring 13 to prevent it from falling off, but also make it easy to disassemble the entire structure by unscrewing the bolt when it is necessary to replace parts or clean it later, which is very convenient for maintenance.

[0026] Specifically, in conjunction with the appendix Figure 3 Appendix Figure 11 and appendix Figure 12 As shown, a rubber ring 15 is fixed to the bottom end of the hollow cylinder 3, and multiple corrugated rings are provided on both the inner and outer sides of the rubber ring 15. As can be seen from the above, the rubber ring 15 with corrugated ring at the bottom of the hollow cylinder 3 can play a role in buffering, shock absorption and sealing protection after locking. During operation, as the locking force increases, the rubber ring 15 is squeezed and deformed. The corrugated ring on the surface can fit into the tiny gaps of the assembly surface, keeping dust and moisture out and preventing the internal threads from rusting and getting stuck. At the same time, the elasticity of the rubber itself can buffer the vibration caused by vehicle driving, reduce the rigid collision between the aluminum trim panel and the car body 29, reduce abnormal noise, and also provide a little reverse elastic force to the threads to help improve the tightness of locking.

[0027] Specifically, in conjunction with the appendix Figure 8 - Appendix Figure 10As shown, a one-way structure capable of unidirectional rotation is provided between the limiting circular plate 7 and the first countersunk hole 6. The one-way structure includes a ratchet 19, which is coaxially fixed with the limiting circular plate 7. A sliding groove is provided on the outer side of the connecting seat 2, and a limiting rod 20 is slidably arranged in the sliding groove. Guide bars 24 with an integral structure are provided on both sides of the limiting rod 20. Straight grooves are provided on both sides of the sliding groove, and the two guide bars 24 are slidably arranged in the two straight grooves respectively. One end of the limiting rod 20 is in contact with the ratchet 19, and the other end of the limiting rod 20 is fixed with a first positioning post 25. A first positioning post 25 is fixed on the inner wall of one end of the sliding groove. The two positioning posts 26, the first positioning post 25 and the second positioning post 26 are together fitted with a push-out spring 21. The outer side of the connecting seat 2 is provided with an insertion groove. Two grooves are provided on both sides of the insertion groove. The two grooves are slidably inserted into the locking block 22. The outer side of the limiting rod 20 is provided with a notch that matches the locking block 22. The outer side of the locking block 22 is fixed with a third positioning post 27. The inner wall of the insertion groove is fixed with a fourth positioning post 28. The third positioning post 27 and the fourth positioning post 28 are together fitted with a return spring 23. A coil spring 14 is fixed between the limiting circular plate 7 and the first countersunk hole 6. As described above, this unidirectional structure of ratchet and limit bar 20, combined with the lockable locking block 22, achieves both automatic anti-loosening and quick unlocking effects. During the locking process, the limit bar 20 is pushed out by the spring 21 and pressed against the ratchet 19. When the limit plate 7 rotates forward, the ratchet teeth can slide along the limit bar 20 without affecting normal locking. Once the limit plate 7 wants to loosen, the limit bar 20 will engage in the ratchet's tooth groove, directly blocking reverse rotation, automatically preventing loosening without additional operation. To disassemble, push the locking block 22 into the notch of the limit bar 20 to release the lock. Fixed at the position away from the ratchet, the anti-loosening constraint is released instantly, making the operation particularly quick; the coil spring 14 set between the limiting round plate 7 and the first countersunk hole 6 provides automatic power for disassembly and reset, simplifying the unlocking steps; during operation, when the limiting round plate 7 is tightened in the forward direction, the coil spring 14 will be twisted synchronously, storing elastic potential energy; after the disassembly and release of the unidirectional constraint, the coil spring 14 will automatically spring back, taking the limiting round plate 7, the outer cylinder 8 and the external threaded column 9 with it to rotate in the opposite direction. It can return to the initial position without manually turning it in the opposite direction for many turns, and at the same time, it can also assist the threads to quickly disengage, making the disassembly process more effortless and faster.

[0028] Example 2 A locking method for a locking device used to fix automotive aluminum trim panels, comprising the following specific steps: Step 1: Component Pre-assembly and Fixing: Fix the fixing base 1 to the preset installation position in the carriage 29, and fix the connecting seat 2 to the automotive aluminum trim panel body 30. After assembly, the connecting seat 2 remains fixed and cannot be rotated. Complete the overall pre-assembly of the device. Slide the incomplete internal threaded cylindrical plate 5 into the straight groove 4 on the outside of the hollow cylinder 3. Install the straight plate 11, hexagon socket bolt 12, and ejector spring 13 into the placement groove 17 and the round hole groove 18 respectively. The ejector spring 13 normally pushes the straight plate 11, keeping the incomplete internal threaded cylindrical plate 5 in the initial state of being outwardly opened. Install the limiting rod 20 with guide strip 24 and the ejector spring 21 in the sliding groove of the connecting seat 2. Install the locking block 22 and the reset spring 23 in the insertion groove. At the same time, install the coil spring 14 between the limiting round plate 7 and the first countersunk hole 6 of the connecting seat 2 to ensure that each elastic component can extend, reset, and store energy rebound normally. Step 2, Coaxial Alignment and Fitting: Hold the aluminum trim plate to move the fixed connecting seat 2 toward the fixed base 1 and bring it closer together. Align the outer cylinder 8 outside the limiting round plate 7 with the outside of the hollow cylinder 3 to complete the fitting, so that the external threaded post 9 extends into the hollow cylinder 3. During the fitting process, the fan-shaped block 10 inside the outer cylinder 8 only fits against the outer wall of the hollow cylinder 3 and has no contact or compression with the straight plate 11 and the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate 5. All threaded components and limiting components remain in their initial state, and only axial alignment and pre-installation positioning are completed. Step 3: Rotate the limiting plate 7 to achieve thread retraction: Keep the connecting seat 2 stationary and manually rotate the limiting plate 7 in the forward direction. The limiting plate 7 synchronously drives the coaxially fixed outer cylinder 8 and the external thread column 9 to rotate as a whole, while twisting the coil spring 14 to store elastic potential energy. During the rotation of the outer cylinder 8, the fan-shaped blocks 10 with rounded corners distributed in a ring on its inner side rotate around the central axis of the hollow cylinder 3 with the outer cylinder 8. The fan-shaped blocks 10 gradually squeeze the straight plate 11 and the integrated incomplete internal thread cylinder plate 5 through the rounded corners, overcoming the pushing force of the ejector spring 13, and gradually retracting each set of incomplete internal thread cylinder plates 5 along the straight groove 4 towards the axis of the hollow cylinder 3. Step 4, Thread engagement and locking force adjustment: As the limiting circular plate 7 continues to rotate in the forward direction, the incomplete internal thread cylinder plate 5 is completely closed, and its internal thread and the external thread of the external thread column 9 make precise contact and gradually engage. Continue to rotate the limiting circular plate 7 so that the external thread column 9 continues to screw in, bringing the assembly gap between the fixed base 1 and the connecting seat 2 closer. The locking preload of the device can be precisely adjusted until the aluminum trim plate is tightly attached to the mounting surface of the car body 29. At the same time, the rubber ring 15 with multiple corrugated rings at the bottom of the hollow cylinder 3 is deformed under pressure, filling the assembly gap, buffering vibration stress, and improving the assembly sealing and stability. Step 5, Initial anti-loosening one-way rotation: During the forward locking rotation of the limiting circular plate 7, the ratchet 19 integrated with it rotates synchronously. The push-out spring 21 in the slide groove continuously pushes the limiting bar 20, so that the end of the limiting bar 20 always presses against the tooth surface of the ratchet 19, forming a one-way anti-rotation structure. It only allows the limiting circular plate 7 to lock and rotate in the forward direction, preventing it from loosening in the reverse direction. This effectively prevents the device from loosening due to vehicle vibration. Combined with the elastic pre-tightening effect of the coil spring 14, it further improves the locking stability. Step 6, Normal One-Way Anti-Loosening Locking: After the locking preload is adjusted to the correct position, the device is in the normal locking state. The spring 21 pushes the limit bar 20 against the tooth surface of the ratchet 19, forming a one-way anti-rotation structure. This limits the locking round plate 7 to be able to lock and rotate in the forward direction, but prevents it from loosening and rotating in the reverse direction. This effectively resists the loosening problem caused by vehicle vibration and ensures the assembly stability of the aluminum trim panel. At this time, the locking block 22 is in the unlocked and relaxed state, and does not restrict the elastic extension and retraction displacement of the limit bar 20, ensuring that the one-way anti-rotation structure works normally. Step 7, Quick Unlocking, Resetting, and Disassembly: When disassembly is required, manually pull the locking block 22 to slide and compress the reset spring 23, causing the locking block 22 to engage with the notch of the limit bar 20, rigidly locking the position of the limit bar 20, fixing the limit bar 20 away from the ratchet 19, completely separating the limit bar 20 from the ratchet 19 and preventing contact, thus releasing the one-way anti-rotation constraint. At this time, the limit plate 7 can rotate freely in both directions; the coil spring 14, which stored energy during the locking process, automatically releases its elastic potential energy, driving the limit plate 7 to rotate freely in both directions. The circular plate 7, outer cylinder 8, and external threaded column 9 automatically reverse and reset; after the outer cylinder 8 resets, the fan-shaped block 10 completely disengages from the straight plate 11, releasing the compression limit on the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate 5, and the ejector spring 13 pushes the straight plate 11 to reset, causing the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate 5 to be pushed outward, so that the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate 5 and the external threaded column 9 quickly disengage and the thread engagement is completely unlocked; finally, the aluminum trim panel and the car body 29 can be directly separated to complete the disassembly. The entire device automatically resets, and the disassembly and assembly process is simple and efficient.

[0029] Working principle: First, fix the two end bases and connecting seat 2 into place respectively, and maintain the initial state of each elastic element. The incomplete internal thread cylinder plate 5 is pushed outward under the action of the ejector spring 13. Hold the aluminum decorative plate and coaxially fit the outer cylinder 8 on the outside of the hollow cylinder 3 to complete the initial alignment without compression. Rotate the limiting circular plate 7 in the forward direction, and the outer cylinder 8 rotates synchronously. The fan-shaped block 10 with rounded corners on the inner side moves circumferentially along the outer wall of the hollow cylinder 3, gradually squeezing the straight plate 11 to overcome the thrust of the ejector spring 13. Multiple incomplete internal thread cylinder plates 5 are gathered towards the axis and enclosed to form a complete internal thread that meshes with the external thread column 9. Continue to rotate the limiting circular plate 7, and the external thread column 9 continues to screw in, bringing the distance between the fixed base 1 and the connecting seat 2 closer. Adjust to a suitable pre-tightening force, and the bottom corrugated rubber ring 15 is compressed to fill the gap and buffer vibration. During rotation, the integrated ratchet 19 rotates synchronously, pushing the spring 21 to continuously push the limit bar 20 to fit the ratchet teeth, allowing only forward locking rotation and locking the reverse loosening trend. The coil spring 14 twists synchronously to store elasticity, completing the locking and fixing.

[0030] During normal use: When the vibration of the vehicle generates a reverse loosening torque, the ratchet 19 is rigidly limited by the limit bar 20 and cannot rotate in the opposite direction, thus maintaining the locking preload; the locking block 22 is kept away from the limit bar 20 under the action of the return spring 23, the one-way anti-rotation mechanism is not disturbed, and the rubber bellows ring continuously buffers vibration and provides sealing protection.

[0031] Disassembly stage: Manually move the locking block 22 to compress the return spring 23. The locking block 22 engages with the notch of the limit bar 20. Pull the limit bar 20 to disengage from the ratchet 19, and the one-way lock is completely released. The coil spring 14 releases its stored elastic potential energy, automatically driving the limit plate 7, outer cylinder 8, and external threaded column 9 to rotate in the opposite direction. The fan-shaped block 10 rotates away from the straight plate 11 with the outer cylinder 8, no longer squeezing the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate 5. The ejector spring 13 immediately pushes the straight plate 11 outward, causing all the internal threaded cylinder plates to disperse, and the threads to completely separate. The aluminum trim panel and the car body 29 can be separated directly to complete the disassembly. After releasing the locking block 22, the return spring 23 pushes the locking block 22 to reset. All springs and limit components return to their initial state, the device automatically restores itself, and can be reinstalled and used.

[0032] The foregoing description enables those skilled in the art to make or use the present invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Therefore, the invention is not to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A locking device for fixing an automotive aluminum trim panel, comprising a fixing base (1) and a connecting seat (2), characterized in that: The fixed base (1) is fixed on the carriage (29), the connecting seat (2) is fixed on the aluminum trim panel body (30), and a hollow cylinder (3) is fixed at the bottom of the fixed base (1). Multiple straight grooves (4) are equidistantly distributed around the outer side of the hollow cylinder (3), with its central axis as the center. An incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate (5) is slidably arranged on the inner wall of the straight groove (4). The incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate (5) is made by equidistantly cutting a complete internal threaded cylinder. The outer side of the complete internal threaded cylindrical plate (5) is provided with an ejection structure to eject it. The outer side of the connecting seat (2) is provided with a first countersunk hole (6). A limiting circular plate (7) is provided in the large hole of the first countersunk hole (6). An outer cylinder (8) and an external threaded column (9) are fixed on the outer side of the limiting circular plate (7) and are coaxially arranged therewith. The external threaded column (9) is located inside the outer cylinder (8). The external thread of the external threaded column (9) is adapted to the internal thread of the incomplete internal threaded cylindrical plate (5). The outer cylinder (8) The hollow cylinder (3) has multiple sector-shaped blocks (10) fixed inside, arranged in an equidistant ring around its central axis. The sector-shaped blocks (10) are coaxially fixed with the outer cylinder (8). The inner diameter of the sector-shaped blocks (10) matches the outer diameter of the hollow cylinder (3). One side of the sector-shaped blocks (10) has a rounded corner. When the outer cylinder (8) is fitted onto the hollow cylinder (3), the sector-shaped blocks (10) contact the hollow cylinder (3). The hollow cylinder (3) drives the sector-shaped blocks (10) to rotate. The sector-shaped blocks (10) use the rounded corner to fix the incomplete internal threads. The threaded cylinder plate (5) is gradually pushed into the hollow cylinder (3) until the internal thread of the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate (5) contacts the external thread of the external threaded column (9). The external threaded column (9) continues to rotate. At some point, the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate (5) and the external threaded column (9) will complete the threaded connection until the sector block (10) pushes the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate (5) in. The external threaded column (9) can rotate to adjust the locking force. The outer cylinder (8) is rotated and installed in the small hole of the first countersunk hole (6).

2. The locking device for fixing automotive aluminum trim panels according to claim 1, characterized in that: The ejection structure includes a straight plate (11) and two internal hex bolts (12). The outer side of the straight plate (11) is an arc surface, and the outer diameter of the arc surface is the same as the outer diameter of the hollow cylinder (3). The straight plate (11) and the incomplete internal thread cylinder plate (5) are an integral structure. Both ends of the straight groove (4) are provided with placement grooves (17), and both ends of the straight plate (11) are located in the two placement grooves (17).

3. A locking device for fixing automotive aluminum trim panels according to claim 2, characterized in that: The ejection structure also includes two hexagon socket head cap screws (12). The inner wall of the placement groove (17) is provided with a circular hole groove (18). The circular hole groove (18) is provided with an internal threaded hole coaxially arranged with it. Both ends of the straight plate (11) are provided with second countersunk holes (16). The hexagon socket head cap screws (12) are slidably inserted into the second countersunk holes (16). The hexagon socket head cap screws (12) are screwed into the internal threaded holes. An ejection spring (13) is sleeved on the outside of the screwed hexagon socket head cap screws (12). The ejection spring (13) is located in the circular hole groove (18). Both ends of the ejection spring (13) are in contact with the inner wall of the circular hole groove (18) and the straight plate (11), respectively.

4. A locking device for fixing automotive aluminum trim panels according to claim 3, characterized in that: A rubber ring (15) is fixed at the bottom of the hollow cylinder (3), and multiple corrugated rings are provided on both the inner and outer sides of the rubber ring (15).

5. A locking device for fixing automotive aluminum trim panels according to claim 4, characterized in that: A unidirectional structure capable of unidirectional rotation is provided between the limiting circular plate (7) and the first countersunk hole (6).

6. A locking device for fixing automotive aluminum trim panels according to claim 5, characterized in that: The unidirectional structure includes a ratchet (19), which is coaxially fixed with the limiting circular plate (7). A sliding groove is provided on the outer side of the connecting seat (2), and a limiting rod (20) is slidably arranged in the sliding groove. Guide strips (24) with an integral structure are provided on both sides of the limiting rod (20). Straight grooves are provided on both sides of the sliding groove, and the two guide strips (24) are slidably arranged in the two straight grooves respectively. One end of the limiting rod (20) is in contact with the ratchet (19).

7. A locking device for fixing automotive aluminum trim panels according to claim 6, characterized in that: The other end of the limiting rod (20) is fixed with a first positioning post (25), and the inner wall of one end of the slide is fixed with a second positioning post (26). The first positioning post (25) and the second positioning post (26) are together fitted with a push-out spring (21).

8. A locking device for fixing automotive aluminum trim panels according to claim 7, characterized in that: The outer side of the connecting seat (2) is provided with an insertion groove, and two grooves are provided on both sides of the insertion groove. The two grooves are slidably inserted into the locking block (22). The outer side of the limiting rod (20) is provided with a notch that matches the locking block (22). The outer side of the locking block (22) is fixed with a third positioning post (27). The inner wall of the insertion groove is fixed with a fourth positioning post (28). The third positioning post (27) and the fourth positioning post (28) are together fitted with a reset spring (23).

9. A locking device for fixing automotive aluminum trim panels according to claim 8, characterized in that: A coil spring (14) is fixed between the limiting circular plate (7) and the first countersunk hole (6).

10. A locking method for a locking device used in claim 9 for fixing an automotive aluminum trim panel, characterized in that, The specific steps are as follows: Step 1, Component Pre-assembly and Fixing: Fix the fixing base (1) to the preset installation position of the car body (29), and fix the connecting seat (2) to the car aluminum trim panel body (30). After assembly, the connecting seat (2) should remain fixed and not rotated throughout the process; complete the overall pre-assembly of the device, slide the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate (5) into the straight groove (4) on the outside of the hollow cylinder (3), and assemble the straight plate (11), hexagonal socket bolt (12), and ejector spring (13) into the placement groove (17) and Inside the circular slot (18), the ejector spring (13) normally pushes the straight plate (11) to keep the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate (5) in its initial state of being spread outward; a limit bar (20) with a guide strip (24) and an ejector spring (21) are installed in the sliding groove of the connecting seat (2), and a locking block (22) and a reset spring (23) are installed in the insertion slot. At the same time, a coil spring (14) is installed between the limit circular plate (7) and the first countersunk hole (6) of the connecting seat (2) to ensure that each elastic component can extend, reset and store energy rebound normally; Step 2, Coaxial alignment and positioning: Hold the aluminum trim plate and move the fixed connecting seat (2) toward the fixed base (1) to fit together. Align the outer cylinder (8) outside the limiting round plate (7) with the hollow cylinder (3) to complete the fitting, so that the external thread column (9) extends into the hollow cylinder (3). During the fitting process, the fan-shaped block (10) inside the outer cylinder (8) only fits against the outer wall of the hollow cylinder (3) and has no contact or compression with the straight plate (11) and the incomplete internal thread cylinder plate (5). All threaded components and limiting components remain in their initial state and only complete the axial alignment and pre-installation positioning. Step 3: Rotate the limiting plate (7) to achieve thread retraction: Keep the connecting seat (2) stationary and manually rotate the limiting plate (7) in the forward direction. The limiting plate (7) drives the coaxially fixed outer cylinder (8) and the external thread column (9) to rotate as a whole. At the same time, the coil spring (14) is twisted to store elastic potential energy. During the rotation of the outer cylinder (8), the fan-shaped blocks (10) with rounded corners distributed in a ring on its inner side rotate around the central axis of the hollow cylinder (3) with the outer cylinder (8). The fan-shaped blocks (10) gradually squeeze the straight plate (11) and the integral incomplete internal thread cylinder plate (5) through the rounded corners, overcome the pushing force of the ejector spring (13), and gradually retract each set of incomplete internal thread cylinder plates (5) along the straight groove (4) towards the axis of the hollow cylinder (3). Step 4, Thread engagement and locking force adjustment: As the limiting round plate (7) continues to rotate in the forward direction, the incomplete internal thread cylinder plate (5) is completely closed, and its internal thread and the external thread of the external thread column (9) make precise contact and gradually engage; continue to rotate the limiting round plate (7) so that the external thread column (9) continues to screw in, bringing the assembly gap between the fixed base (1) and the connecting seat (2) closer, and the locking preload of the device can be precisely adjusted until the aluminum trim plate is tightly attached to the mounting surface of the car body (29); at the same time, the rubber ring (15) with multiple corrugated rings at the bottom of the hollow cylinder (3) is deformed under pressure, filling the assembly gap, buffering vibration stress, and improving the assembly sealing and stability; Step 5, One-way anti-rotation and initial anti-loosening: During the forward locking rotation of the limiting round plate (7), the ratchet (19) integrated with it rotates synchronously. The push-out spring (21) in the slide groove continuously pushes the limiting bar (20), so that the end of the limiting bar (20) always presses against the tooth surface of the ratchet (19), forming a one-way anti-rotation structure. Only the forward locking rotation of the limiting round plate (7) is allowed, and its reverse loosening rotation is prevented. This effectively prevents the device from loosening due to vehicle vibration. Combined with the elastic pre-tightening effect of the coil spring (14), the locking stability is further improved. Step 6, Normal One-Way Anti-Loosening Locking: After the locking preload is adjusted to the correct position, the device is in the normal locking state. The spring (21) pushes the limit bar (20) against the ratchet (19) tooth surface to form a one-way anti-rotation structure. This limits the locking round plate (7) to be locked in the forward direction and prevents it from loosening in the reverse direction. This effectively resists the loosening problem caused by vehicle vibration and ensures the assembly stability of the aluminum trim panel. At this time, the locking block (22) is in the unlocked and relaxed state. It does not restrict the elastic extension and retraction displacement of the limit bar (20) and ensures that the one-way anti-rotation structure works normally. Step 7, Quick Unlocking, Resetting, and Disassembly: When disassembly is required, manually pull the locking block (22) to slide and compress the reset spring (23), so that the locking block (22) is engaged in the notch of the limit bar (20), rigidly locking the position of the limit bar (20), fixing the limit bar (20) away from the ratchet (19), the limit bar (20) and the ratchet (19) are completely separated and cannot contact each other, releasing the one-way anti-rotation constraint, at which time the limit plate (7) can rotate freely in both directions; the coil spring (14) that stored energy during the previous locking process automatically releases its elastic potential energy, driving the limit plate (7) The outer cylinder (8) and the external threaded column (9) automatically reverse and reset; after the outer cylinder (8) is reset, the fan-shaped block (10) completely disengages from the straight plate (11), releases the squeezing limit on the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate (5), and the ejector spring (13) pushes the straight plate (11) to reset, driving the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate (5) to open outward, so that the incomplete internal threaded cylinder plate (5) and the external threaded column (9) quickly disengage and the thread engagement is completely unlocked; finally, the aluminum trim panel and the car body (29) can be directly separated to complete the disassembly. The device is automatically reset as a whole, and the disassembly and assembly process is simple and efficient.

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