Locking mechanism, quick-release grip and quick assembly / disassembly method

Abstract

This invention discloses a locking mechanism, a quick-release grip, and a quick assembly / disassembly method. The locking mechanism includes a body, a locking element, an elastic element, and a driving element. The body has an insertion window; the locking element is rotatably disposed within the body, and its interior has a first channel and a second channel that are cross-connected. The inner wall of the first channel has a locking structure, and the diameter of the second channel is larger than that of the rod to be locked; the elastic element aligns the first channel with the insertion window in the initial state; the driving element is used to push the locking element to rotate, so that the second channel is aligned with the insertion window. During installation, after the driving element is unlocked, the rod is inserted directly; after the driving element is released, the locking element automatically rotates to make the first channel coaxial with the rod, and the user only needs to screw it in to complete the threaded locking; during disassembly, after the driving element aligns the second channel, the rod is pulled out directly. This invention simplifies the traditional multi-turn screwing method to a direct insertion and a few-turn screwing method, significantly improving assembly / disassembly efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of photographic equipment technology, and in particular to a locking mechanism, a quick-release grip, and a quick assembly / disassembly method. Background Technology

[0002] In the fields of photography, videography, optical instruments, and various support equipment, the connection and locking between rods and bases is the most common form of mechanical interface. Taking a camera tripod as an example, the bottom of the tripod typically has a downward-extending screw, and the handle or tripod top has an internally threaded hole. By rotating the handle, it engages with the screw, thus fixing the tripod to the support equipment. This threaded connection method has advantages such as simple structure, reliable connection, and strong load-bearing capacity, and is therefore widely used in various tripods, quick-release plates, lighting brackets, and other products.

[0003] However, traditional threaded connection methods present significant operational inconveniences in practical use. Due to the requirements for reliable locking, the thread engagement length is usually quite long, requiring users to rotate the handle multiple times continuously to fully engage or disengage the thread, whether installing or removing it. This operation method is particularly cumbersome and time-consuming when frequently adjusting equipment position, changing the pan-tilt head, or working in confined spaces, severely impacting work efficiency.

[0004] Therefore, how to provide a locking mechanism that enables quick installation and disassembly is a technical problem that urgently needs to be solved by those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application aims to provide a locking mechanism, a quick-release grip, and a quick assembly / disassembly method to solve the problem of cumbersome operation in the threaded connection method between the rod and the base in the prior art.

[0006] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a locking mechanism, comprising: a body having an inner cavity having an insertion window communicating with the inner cavity, the insertion window being used for inserting and removing a locking rod; a locking member rotatably disposed within the inner cavity, the locking member having a released state and a locked state depending on the rotational position; the locking member including a first channel and a second channel, the first channel and the second channel intersecting and communicating within the locking member; a locking structure being provided on the inner wall of the first channel, the locking structure being used to cooperate with the locking rod to position at least a portion of the locking rod within the first channel; the diameter of the second channel being larger than the diameter of the locking rod, and the rotation center of the locking member being located at the insertion point of the locking rod. In the direction of insertion; an elastic element is disposed inside the body, and the elastic element is used to act on the locking member in a first direction to make the locking member in a locked state; a driving member is disposed on the body and abuts against the locking member, and includes a pressing part extending out of the body, the pressing part being used to push the locking member to rotate in a second direction opposite to the first direction under the action of external force to make the locking member in a released state; wherein, when the locking member is in the locked state, the first channel is coaxial and conductive with the insertion window, and the second channel intersects with the insertion window; when the locking member is in the released state, the second channel is coaxial and conductive with the insertion window, and the first channel intersects with the insertion window.

[0007] Furthermore, the locking member is rotatably mounted in the inner cavity of the body via a rotating shaft, the rotating shaft being located in the insertion direction of the insertion window, and the intersection point of the first channel and the second channel being located on the axis of the rotating shaft.

[0008] Furthermore, the elastic element and the driving element are located on the left and right sides of the insertion direction of the insertion window, respectively.

[0009] Furthermore, the locking member has an inclined surface and a vertical surface. In the locked state, the driving member contacts the vertical surface, and there is an included angle α between the inclined surface and the vertical surface. When the locking member is in the locked state, the vertical surface is vertically oriented. When the locking member is in the released state, the inclined surface is vertically oriented. The included angle α is the same as the angle by which the locking member rotates when it changes from the locked state to the released state.

[0010] Furthermore, the locking member has a first surface and a second surface. When the locking member is in the locked state, the first surface is parallel to the upper wall of the inner cavity. When the locking member is in the released state, the second surface abuts against the upper wall of the inner cavity. The first surface and the upper wall of the inner cavity form an angle b, which is the same as the angle a.

[0011] Furthermore, when the locking member is in the locked state, the inclined surface is inclined from the vertical surface toward the first channel direction. There are two vertical surfaces, located on both sides of the locking member respectively; there are two inclined surfaces, located on both sides of the locking member respectively, and the two inclined surfaces are located on the upper and lower sides of the rotating shaft.

[0012] Furthermore, the included angle α is the same as the included angle between the first channel and the second channel.

[0013] Furthermore, the driving member has a pressing part and a supporting part, the pressing part is used for pressing, and the supporting part is arranged relative to the vertical surface of the locking member; after being subjected to force, the driving member moves from the outside of the body to the inner cavity to push the locking member to rotate.

[0014] Furthermore, the locking structure includes an internal thread portion disposed on the inner wall of the first channel, the internal thread portion being adapted to the external thread of the rod to be locked.

[0015] Furthermore, the internal thread portion includes a first internal thread and a second internal thread, with the first internal thread and the second internal thread located on both sides of the first channel, respectively.

[0016] Furthermore, the angle between the axes of the first channel and the second channel is an acute angle, and the angle range is set between 15° and 45°.

[0017] Furthermore, the driving member is a press-type pressing structure, and a sliding groove communicating with the inner cavity is provided on the side wall of the body. The driving member is slidably installed in the sliding groove. The abutting end of the driving member extends into the inner cavity and abuts against one side surface of the locking member. The outer end of the driving member forms the pressing part. When the driving member is pressed inward, the driving member pushes the locking member to rotate, causing the second channel to turn towards the insertion window.

[0018] Furthermore, a limiting pin is provided in the slide groove, and a matching travel limiting groove is provided on the drive component to limit the pressing stroke of the drive component; when the drive component is pressed to the limit position, the axis of the second channel coincides with that of the insertion window, and the locking structure of the first channel disengages from the outer wall of the rod to be locked.

[0019] Furthermore, the abutting end of the driving member and the abutting surface of the locking member are in line contact, and the distance between the abutting surface of the locking member and the rotation center of the locking member is greater than the distance from the center of the first channel or the second channel to the rotation center, so as to form a lever amplification effect and reduce the pressing force required for unlocking.

[0020] Furthermore, the locking member is rotatably mounted in the inner cavity of the main body via a rotating shaft, the axis of the rotating shaft being perpendicular to the axis of the insertion window, and the rotation plane of the locking member intersecting the axis of the insertion window.

[0021] Furthermore, the main body includes an upper cover and a lower housing, the upper cover and the lower housing being detachably connected, and the inner cavity being formed between the two; the insertion window is disposed on the upper cover; the upper cover is provided with a pressing part, and when the upper cover and the lower housing are connected, the pressing part covers the opening of the shaft groove to restrict the rotating shaft from coming out of the shaft groove.

[0022] Furthermore, the locking member has a coaxial first rotating shaft and a second rotating shaft on opposite sides, and the corresponding side wall of the inner cavity of the main body has a shaft groove for the first rotating shaft and the second rotating shaft to be inserted into; the opening direction of the shaft groove is parallel to the axis of the insertion window, so that the locking member can be inserted or removed along the axial direction of the insertion window.

[0023] Furthermore, the bottom of the shaft groove is an arc-shaped concave surface, which is clearance-fitted with the outer cylindrical surface of the first or second rotating shaft.

[0024] Furthermore, the elastic element is a compression helical spring; the compression helical spring is arranged along the axial direction of the insertion window, with one end abutting against the top or bottom wall of the inner cavity of the main body, and the other end abutting against the side surface of the locking member opposite to the insertion window, so as to generate a torque that causes the locking member to rotate toward the position where the first channel is aligned with the insertion window.

[0025] Furthermore, the locking member is provided with a countersunk hole, and the corresponding wall of the inner cavity of the body is provided with a protrusion. The two ends of the compression helical spring are respectively fitted into the countersunk hole and the protrusion to prevent the spring from bending radially or shifting during compression.

[0026] Furthermore, the main body includes an upper cover and a lower shell, the upper cover and the lower shell being detachably fixedly connected, and the inner cavity being formed between the two; the insertion window is disposed on the upper cover; and the bottom of the lower shell is provided with an interface for connecting an external support structure.

[0027] Secondly, based on the same inventive concept, the present invention also provides a quick-release grip including a grip handle and a locking mechanism as described in the first aspect, which is fixedly installed on the top of the grip handle; at least a part of the body of the locking mechanism is formed inside the grip handle, or the locking mechanism is embedded inside the grip handle as a separate component.

[0028] Thirdly, the present invention also provides a quick assembly and disassembly method based on a locking mechanism, comprising the steps of: applying an external force to the driving member to push the locking member to rotate against the elastic force of the elastic element until the second channel of the locking member is aligned with the insertion window; then inserting the rod to be locked along the axial direction of the insertion window of the locking mechanism into a designated position in the second channel; after removing the external force on the driving member, as the locking member rotates, the axial direction of the second channel gradually deviates from the axis of the rod to be locked, and the first channel, which intersects and is connected to the second channel, rotates synchronously, so that the locking structure of the inner wall of the first channel is engaged with the outer wall of the rod to be locked to hold or limit the rod to be locked; during disassembly, applying an external force to the driving member to push the locking member to rotate, so that the second channel is re-aligned with the insertion window, and after the locking rod loses its locking force, it can be directly pulled out along the axial direction to complete the disassembly.

[0029] Compared with the prior art, the locking mechanism provided in this application has the following advantages: This application, by setting a rotatable locking member, simultaneously provides a first channel with a locking structure and a large-diameter second channel. When the locking rod is inserted, the second channel is driven to align with the insertion window, allowing the rod to quickly transition to the insertion position through the second channel. After the drive to the locking member is removed, the locking member rotates under the elastic force of the elastic element, and the first channel rotates with the locking member. The locking structure on its inner wall gradually squeezes and holds the outer wall of the locking rod. Locking can be completed with only a simple screwing and force application operation, making the operation simple and smooth, and the assembly and disassembly efficiency high. Attached Figure Description

[0030] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below.

[0031] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional view of the overall structure of the locking mechanism in this embodiment.

[0032] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A half-section diagram of the locking mechanism in the locked state.

[0033] Figure 3 for Figure 1 A half-section diagram of the locking mechanism in the released state.

[0034] Figure 4 for Figure 1 Explosion-proof structure diagram of the central locking mechanism Figure 1 .

[0035] Figure 5 for Figure 1 Explosion-proof structure diagram of the central locking mechanism Figure 2 .

[0036] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the overall structure of the locking component in this embodiment.

[0037] Figure 7 for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the equiaxed half-section structure of the central locking mechanism Figure 1 .

[0038] Figure 8 for Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the equiaxed half-section structure of the central locking mechanism Figure 2 .

[0039] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of the overall structure of the quick-release grip in this embodiment.

[0040] Figure 10 for Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the equiaxial half-section structure of the quick-release grip.

[0041] Figure 11 This is a three-dimensional view of the overall structure of the gimbal device in this embodiment.

[0042] Figure 12 This is an exploded view of the gimbal device and quick-release grip in the disassembled state in this embodiment.

[0043] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the gimbal device and the quick-release grip in this embodiment.

[0044] Figure 14 for Figure 13 A half-section diagram of the mid-gimbal device connected to the quick-release grip.

[0045] Figure label: 100 - Locking mechanism.

[0046] 200 - Locking lever.

[0047] 300-Quick-release grip, 301-Holding handle, 302-Hook body, 3021-Hook part, 303-Anti-slip sleeve.

[0048] 400-Gimbal device, 401-Gimbal body, 402-Gimbal base, 403-First bowl-shaped arc surface, 404-Bracket body, 4041-Mounting bowl groove, 4042-Folding support leg, 4043-Second bowl-shaped arc surface.

[0049] 1-Main body, 11-Inner cavity, 12-Insertion window, 13-Protruding post, 14-Slide groove, 141-Limiting pin, 15-Shaft groove, 16-Upper cover, 161-Crimping part, 162-Cover body, 163-Abutting ring, 164-Countersunk bolt, 1621-Connecting ring, 1622-Clamp, 17-Lower shell, 18-Arc-shaped abutting ring surface, 19-Grip part, 191-Annular step.

[0050] 2-Locking component, 21-Rotating shaft, 211-First rotating shaft, 212-Second rotating shaft, 213-Bearing, 22-First channel, 221-Internal thread part, 2211-First internal thread, 2212-Second internal thread, 23-Second channel, 24-Counterhole, 26-Connecting part, 201-Ceiling surface, 202-Vertical surface, 2021-First vertical surface, 2022-Second vertical surface, 203-First surface, 204-Second surface.

[0051] 3-Elastic element.

[0052] 4-Driver, 41-Holding end, 42-Pressing part, 43-Stroke limit groove.

[0053] A - Plug-in window axis direction.

[0054] θ - The angle between the axes of the first and second channels.

[0055] a - The angle between the inclined plane and the vertical plane.

[0056] b - The angle between the first surface and the upper wall of the inner cavity in the released state. Detailed Implementation

[0057] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the technical solutions in this application, the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0058] It should be noted that when a component is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another component, it can be directly on or indirectly set on the other component; when a component is referred to as being "connected to" another component, it can be directly connected to or indirectly connected to the other component.

[0059] It should be understood that the terms "length", "width", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", and "outer" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or component referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0060] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" or "several" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0061] It should be noted that the structures, proportions, sizes, etc., shown in the accompanying drawings of this specification are only for the purpose of assisting those skilled in the art in understanding and reading the content disclosed in the specification, and are not intended to limit the conditions under which this application can be implemented. Therefore, they have no substantial technical significance. Any modifications to the structure, changes in the proportions, or adjustments to the size should still fall within the scope of the technical content disclosed in this application, provided that they do not affect the effects and purposes that this application can produce.

[0062] Example like Figures 1 to 5 As shown, this embodiment provides a locking mechanism 100. The locking mechanism 100 includes a body 1, a locking member 2, an elastic element 3, and a driving member 4.

[0063] The main body 1 has an inner cavity 11, which is provided with an insertion window 12 communicating with the inner cavity 11. The insertion window 12 is used for inserting and removing the locking rod 200. The locking member 2 is rotatably disposed in the inner cavity 11. The locking member 2 has a released state and a locked state depending on the rotation position. The locking member 2 includes a first channel 22 and a second channel 23, which intersect and communicate inside the locking member 2. The inner wall of the first channel 22 is provided with a locking structure, which is used to cooperate with the locking rod 200 to position at least a portion of the locking rod 200 within the first channel 22. The diameter of the second channel 23 is larger than the diameter of the locking rod 200, and the rotation center of the locking member 2 is located at the insertion position of the locking rod 200. Upward; an elastic element 3 is disposed inside the body 1, and the elastic element 3 is used to act on the locking member 2 in a first direction so that the locking member 2 is in a locked state; a driving member 4 is disposed on the body 1 and abuts against the locking member 2, and includes a pressing part 42 extending out of the body 1, the pressing part 42 being used to push the locking member 2 to rotate in a second direction opposite to the first direction under the action of external force so that the locking member 2 is in a released state; wherein, when the locking member 2 is in the locked state, the first channel 22 is coaxial with and connected to the insertion window 12, and the second channel 23 intersects with the insertion window 12; when the locking member 2 is in the released state, the second channel 23 is coaxial with and connected to the insertion window 12, and the first channel 22 intersects with the insertion window 12.

[0064] In this embodiment, the body 1 has an inner cavity 11 capable of accommodating the locking member 2 and allowing its movement. A insertion window 12 communicating with the inner cavity 11 is provided at the top of the body 1. The diameter of the insertion window 12 is slightly larger than that of the locking rod 200 (e.g., Figure 11 As shown, the maximum outer diameter of the screw at the bottom of the camera head is determined so that its body can be smoothly inserted or removed. For ease of description, the axial direction of the insertion window 12 is defined as axial direction A.

[0065] The main body 1 preferably adopts a split structure, including an upper cover 16 and a lower shell 17, which are detachably fixed together by at least two screws, and an inner cavity 11 is formed between the two. A plug-in window 12 is provided on the upper cover 16. As a preferred embodiment, both the upper cover 16 and the lower shell 17 are circular, and the plug-in window 12 is located at the axial position of the upper cover 16 and coincides with the axial position of the inner cavity 11.

[0066] The locking member 2 is rotatably mounted in the inner cavity 11 of the body 1 via a rotating shaft 21. The rotating shaft 21 is located in the insertion direction of the insertion window 12, and the intersection point of the first channel 22 and the second channel 23 is located on the axis of the rotating shaft 21. The elastic element 3 and the driving member 4 are respectively located on the left and right sides of the insertion direction of the insertion window 12. Exemplarily, the locking member 2 is a generally block-shaped or columnar rotating body with chamfered edges to avoid interference between the edges and the inner wall of the body 1 when it rotates. The locking member 2 is rotatably mounted in the inner cavity 11 of the body 1 via the rotating shaft 21. The axis of the rotating shaft 21 is perpendicular to the aforementioned axial direction A, and the rotation plane of the locking member 2 intersects with the axial direction A (i.e., the locking member 2 swings or rotates in a plane perpendicular to the axial direction A).

[0067] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, the locking member 2 has an inclined surface 201 and a vertical surface 202. In the initial state, the driving member 4 is in contact with the vertical surface 202, and there is an included angle α between the inclined surface 201 and the vertical surface 202. When the locking member 2 is in the locked state, the vertical surface 202 is vertically positioned. When the locking member 2 is in the released state, the inclined surface 201 is vertically positioned. The included angle α is the same as the rotation angle when the locking member 2 changes from the locked state to the released state. Exemplarily, the locking member 2 in this embodiment is a generally block-shaped or columnar rotating body, and the inner cavity 11 is a circular groove. When the entire locking mechanism 100 needs to be compacted, and the inclined surface 201 can prevent the locking member 2 from rotating, the main body corners of the locking member 2 will interfere with the cavity wall of the inner cavity 11 and the abutment part 41 of the driving member 4. The bottom of the vertical surface 202 is used to contact the abutment part 41 of the driving member 4. The further away the contact position between the vertical surface 202 and the abutment part 41 of the driving member 4 is from the axis of rotation 21 in the direction of axis A, the smaller the external force required for the driving member 4 to push the locking member 2 to rotate, and the less effort is required for the overall operation. Preferably, the vertical surface 202 of the locking member 2 is a plane, and the abutment part 41 of the driving member 4 can be conical. That is, the contact between the abutment part 41 and the plane can be point contact or surface contact. When the driving member 4 translates along its own length direction, it can push the position of the plane through the abutment part 41, driving the whole to rotate around the rotating shaft 21. The overall structure is simple to match, the transmission is smooth, and it is not easy to jam or stick.

[0068] like Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the locking member 2 further comprises a first surface 203 and a second surface 204. When the locking member 2 is in the locked state, the first surface 203 is parallel to the upper wall of the inner cavity 11. When the locking member 2 is in the released state, the second surface 204 abuts against the upper wall of the inner cavity 11. The first surface 203 and the upper wall of the inner cavity 11 form an angle b, which is the same as the included angle a. The second surface 204 abuts against the upper wall of the inner cavity 11. This design can limit the rotational limit position of the locking member 2, preventing excessive rotation of the second channel 23, ensuring that the second channel 23 can be accurately aligned with the insertion window 12, and improving the reliability of the release action.

[0069] Specifically, when the locking member 2 is in the locked state, the inclined surface 201 is inclined from the vertical surface 202 toward the first channel 22. There are two vertical surfaces 202, which are located on both sides of the locking member 2. There are two inclined surfaces 201, which are located on both sides of the locking member 2. The two inclined surfaces 201 are located on the upper and lower sides of the rotating shaft 21. The two vertical surfaces 202 are also located on the upper and lower sides of the rotating shaft 21, as shown in the figure. The two vertical surfaces 202 are the first vertical surface 2021 located on the lower right and the second vertical surface 2022 located on the upper left. The abutting part 41 of the driving member 4 abuts against the bottom of the first vertical surface 2021.

[0070] It is understood that the second surface 204 can be a chamfered surface machined on the first surface 203. For example, the locking member 2 is a generally block-shaped or columnar rotating body, while the inner cavity 11 is a circular groove. When the entire locking mechanism 100 needs to be compacted, the second surface 204 prevents the corners of the locking member 2 from interfering with the upper wall of the inner cavity 11 when the locking member 2 rotates, ensuring smooth rotation. In addition, the second surface 204 can also serve as a positioning surface. When the pressing stroke of the pressing part 42 is sufficient, when the locking member 2 rotates to the release position, the second surface 204 abuts against the upper wall of the inner cavity 11. By restricting the locking member 2 from continuing to rotate through the upper wall of the inner cavity 11, the second channel 23 can be stably restricted to a position aligned with the insertion window 12, eliminating the need for the operator to apply precise pressure to the driving member 4, making assembly and disassembly operations more convenient.

[0071] Furthermore, the included angle α is the same as the included angle θ of the first channel 22 and the second channel 23, ensuring that after the locking member 2 rotates to the corresponding angle, the second channel 23 can be accurately aligned with the insertion window 12, which facilitates the smooth insertion of the rod and prevents misalignment and jamming.

[0072] Furthermore, the driving member 4 has a pressing part 42 and a supporting part 41. The pressing part 42 is used for pressing, and the supporting part 41 is disposed relative to the vertical surface 202 of the locking member 2. After being subjected to force, the driving member 4 moves from the outside of the body 1 to the inner cavity 11 to push the locking member 2 to rotate. In some embodiments, exemplarily, the elastic element 3 is a spring with axial elastic force. When the locking member 2 is in the locked state, the elastic element 3 is in a compressed pushing state to prevent the locking member 2 from rotating in the second direction, thereby preventing the locking rod 200 from being released. When the elastic element 3 is in the pushing state, the driving member 4 also pushes inward, which requires that the elastic element 3 and the driving member 4 are located on the upper and lower sides of the rotating shaft 21, respectively. In another embodiment, for example, the elastic element 3 is a tension spring. When the locking member 2 is in the locked state, the elastic element 3 is in the stretched state to prevent the locking member 2 from rotating in the second direction, thereby preventing the locking rod 200 from being released. When the elastic element 3 is in the stretched state and the driving member 4 is also pushed inward, it is necessary to satisfy that the elastic element 3 and the driving member 4 are located on the same side above or below the rotating shaft 21.

[0073] like Figures 2 to 6 As shown, in this embodiment, the locking member 2 has two through-hole structures that intersect and connect in the middle of its main body, serving as the first channel 22 and the second channel 23.

[0074] The first channel 22 has a locking structure on its inner wall. In this embodiment, the locking structure is preferably an internal thread portion 221 that matches the external thread of the locking rod 200 (screw). The internal thread portion 221 can be provided on the entire inner wall of the first channel 22, or it can be provided only on the upper and / or lower inner walls at the intersection (i.e., the end closer to the insertion window 12 and the end farther from the insertion window 12). The middle intersection is a smooth surface to reduce processing difficulty and ensure connectivity. The axis of the first channel 22 and the axis of the insertion window 12 are initially coaxial to ensure that the screw can smoothly contact the internal thread of the first channel 22 after insertion. For example, the internal thread portion 221 includes a first internal thread 2211 and a second internal thread 2212. The first internal thread 2211 and the second internal thread 2212 are respectively located on both sides of the first channel 22. The first internal thread 2211 is located on the upper inner wall of the intersection position, and is disposed on the side close to the driving member 4. Correspondingly, the second internal thread 2212 is disposed on the lower inner wall of the intersection position, and is disposed on the side away from the driving member 4.

[0075] It is understandable that, since the first channel 22 is connected to the second channel 23, in this embodiment, the side opposite to the inner wall where the first internal thread 2211 is located forms a clearance structure connected to the second channel 23, and there is no inner wall. Therefore, the first internal thread 2211 only retains half a turn or approximately half a turn of the thread structure, and the corresponding second internal thread 2212 also only retains half a turn or approximately half a turn of the thread structure. In the preferred state, when the first channel 22 rotates into position with the locking member 2, it engages with the two half-turn threads respectively, and locks the part to be locked. The external thread on the outer wall of the rod 200 is fully engaged and tightly clamped, which will not affect the locking effect of the thread engagement. At the same time, the insertion window 12 is adapted to the rod 200 to be locked. In the locked state and when it is pre-tightened connected to the gimbal device 400, as mentioned below, the second cup-shaped arc surface 4043 abuts against the arc-shaped abutting ring surface 18 for pre-tightening. The rod 200 to be locked at the bottom of the gimbal device 400 is engaged with the internal thread and is in a taut and centered state. It is not easy to loosen or shake, and it is not easy to disengage from the engagement state, so the positioning stability is strong.

[0076] The inner wall of the second channel 23 is smooth and its diameter is larger than the maximum outer diameter of the locking rod 200 (screw) (for threaded rods, it is larger than its major diameter). When the second channel 23 is coaxially aligned with the insertion window 12, the screw can freely pass through the second channel 23 axially without any thread interference.

[0077] The axis of the first channel 22 and the axis of the second channel 23 intersect at an acute angle in space, and this included angle θ is defined as the angle between the two axes. In this embodiment, the included angle θ is set to a range of 15° to 45°, preferably 25°. Both holes are through holes, penetrating the entire thickness direction of the locking member 2. The first channel 22 and the second channel 23 intersect inside the locking member 2, forming a shared connecting space. This connecting space allows the locking rod 200 to pass completely through the locking member 2 along the axial direction of either hole. The axes of the two holes intersect near the geometric center of the locking member 2, and the inner walls of the two holes smoothly transition at the intersection point to avoid jamming at the end of the rod. It is understood that when the included angle θ is less than 15°, it will cause severe interference between the two holes or insufficient locking stroke; when the included angle is greater than 45°, it will cause the second channel 23 to deviate too much from the insertion window 12 during unlocking, resulting in an excessively long pressing stroke and making it difficult for the user to operate.

[0078] In a preferred embodiment, the elastic element 3 is a compression coil spring. The axis of the spring is parallel to the axis of the insertion window 12, and the spring is located to the side of the rotating shaft 21 (as shown on the left side in the figure). The locking member 2 is provided with a matching connecting part 26, which can accommodate at least a portion of one end of the spring. Exemplarily, one end of the spring is fitted into and abuts against the countersunk hole 24 provided on the connecting part 26, and the other end abuts against the protrusion 13 provided on the top wall of the inner cavity 11 of the body 1, using eccentricity to generate a reset torque. When the locking member 2 rotates, the spring is further compressed, and its restoring force generates a torque that causes the locking member 2 to rotate back to its initial position. Exemplarily, the connecting part is located between the first surface 203 and the second surface 204.

[0079] In its natural state (i.e., when the locking element 2 is not driven by external force), the elastic force of the elastic element 3 pushes the locking element 2 to rotate around the pivot 21, causing the vertical surface 202 of the locking element 2 to contact the driving element 4 at the initial position of the stroke. At this time, the axis of the first channel 22 coincides with the axis of the insertion window 12, that is, the first channel 22 and the insertion window 12 are aligned. This state is defined as the initial state of the locking mechanism 100, that is, the locking state. As a preferred embodiment, in order to avoid radial bending or displacement of the elastic element 3 during compression, the inner diameter of the countersunk hole 24 is clearance-fitted with the outer diameter of the spring, and the outer diameter of the protrusion 13 is clearance-fitted with the inner diameter of the spring. In the released state, the countersunk hole 24 can completely accommodate the protrusion 13 and the aforementioned spring, so that when the second surface abuts against the upper wall of the inner cavity in the released state, the elastic element 3 and the spring will be completely compressed into the countersunk hole 24.

[0080] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, in this embodiment, the driving member 4 is a pressing structure. A groove 14 communicating with the inner cavity 11 is provided on the side wall of the main body 1, and the driving member 4 is slidably installed in the groove 14. The abutting part 41 of the driving member 4 extends into the inner cavity 11 and abuts against the first vertical surface 2021 of the locking member 2, and the outer end of the driving member 4 extends out of the main body 1 to form a pressing part 42. Exemplarily, the abutting part 41 of the driving member 4 and the surface of the locking member 2 can be in line contact or point contact. If line contact is used, the line of the abutting part 41 is parallel to the axis of the rotating shaft 21, avoiding rotational interference and ensuring that the process of the driving member 4 pushing the locking member 2 to rotate is smooth and without jamming.

[0081] When the user removes the pressure on the drive component 4, the elastic element 3 pushes the locking component 2 to rotate. The first vertical surface 2021 of the locking component 2 then pushes the drive component 4 to slide outward along the slide groove 14, automatically resetting. Therefore, the drive component 4 and the locking component 2 always remain in contact, eliminating the need for additional reset components and simplifying the structure.

[0082] To achieve a more comfortable pressing force, the abutment portion 41 of the drive member 4 and the first vertical surface 2021 of the locking member 2 can be designed to make mutual line contact. For example, in the locked state, the intersection of the axes of the first channel 22 and the second channel 23 is located on the axis of the rotating shaft 21, the axis of the rotating shaft 21 is located in the middle of the locking member 2, and the contact position between the drive member 4 and the locking member 2 is located at the bottom of the main body of the locking member 2.

[0083] As a preferred embodiment, the slide 14 is also provided with a limiting pin 141, and the driving member 4 is provided with a matching stroke limiting groove 43. When the screw is locked, when the driving member 4 is pressed to the limit position of the stroke limiting groove 43, the end of the stroke limiting groove 43 contacts the limiting pin 141. At this time, the second channel 23 coincides with the axis of the insertion window 12, and during the process, the internal thread of the first channel 22 gradually disengages from the external thread of the screw.

[0084] The locking mechanism 100 in this embodiment operates smoothly and clearly. When inserting the rod to be locked 200, only the driving member 4 needs to be pressed to align with the insertion port. After releasing the driving member 4, the locking is automatically completed. The thread is further engaged and rotated to tighten (as described below, the second cup-shaped arc surface 4043 abuts against the arc-shaped abutting ring surface 18 to form a pre-tightening). When pulling out, only the driving member 4 needs to be pressed to release the lock and pull out the rod. The operation efficiency is much higher than the traditional threaded locking method.

[0085] In some embodiments, the driving member 4 is a toggle lever. A travel groove communicating with the inner cavity 11 is provided on the side wall of the body 1. If the travel direction of the travel groove is the same as the axial direction of the insertion window 12, the lever can be movably installed within the travel groove. One end of the lever extends into the locking member 2 through the travel groove and is fixedly connected to one side surface of the locking member 2 (such as the first vertical surface 2021) (e.g., through a threaded or interference fit). The outer end of the lever forms a toggle portion. When the user toggles the lever along the travel direction of the travel groove, the lever directly drives the locking member 2 to rotate within the inner cavity 11. When toggled to one end, the second channel 23 aligns with the insertion window 12; after the force on the lever is released, under the reset action of the elastic element 3, the first channel 22 aligns with the insertion window 12.

[0086] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 8As shown, in some embodiments, a first rotating shaft 211 and a second rotating shaft 212 are coaxially arranged on opposite sides of the locking member 2. Corresponding sidewalls of the inner cavity 11 of the body 1 are provided with shaft grooves 15 for the first rotating shaft 211 and the second rotating shaft 212 to be inserted. The opening direction of the shaft grooves 15 is parallel to the axis A of the insertion window 12, so that during assembly, the locking member 2 can be inserted into the inner cavity 11 from top to bottom along the axial direction A, and the two rotating shafts 21 fall into the shaft grooves 15 on both sides respectively. The bottom of the shaft grooves 15 is an arc-shaped concave surface, forming a clearance fit with the outer cylindrical surface of the rotating shaft 21, ensuring smooth rotation. In some embodiments, a bearing 213 is installed on each of the first rotating shaft 211 and the second rotating shaft 212. The first rotating shaft 211 and the second rotating shaft 212 are connected to the arc-shaped concave surface at the bottom of the shaft groove 15 through the bearings 213, which can further reduce the frictional resistance when the locking member 2 rotates, improve the operating feel, reduce wear after long-term use, and extend the service life of the mechanism.

[0087] like Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments, the lower surface of the upper cover 16 is provided with a pressing part 161. When the upper cover 16 and the lower housing 17 are fixed by screws, the pressing part 161 just covers the opening of the shaft groove 15, thereby restricting the rotating shaft 21 from coming out of the shaft groove 15. No additional pads or shims are required, simplifying the assembly process.

[0088] Combination Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, this embodiment provides a quick-release grip 300, including a grip handle 301 and a locking mechanism 100 as described in any of the above embodiments, fixedly installed on the top of the grip handle 301. At least a portion of the body 1 of the locking mechanism 100 can be formed inside the grip handle 301 (e.g., integrally formed with the lower housing 17), or the locking mechanism 100 can be embedded as a separate component inside the grip handle 301 and fixed with screws. Preferably, in this embodiment, the grip handle 301 extends the bottom of the lower housing 17 to form a grip portion 19. An anti-slip sleeve 303 is fixedly provided on the outside of the grip portion 19. Exemplarily, an annular step 191 is radially recessed inward on the outer periphery of the grip portion 19. This annular step 191 accommodates the anti-slip sleeve 303. The anti-slip sleeve 303 can be a rubber sleeve, which, after deforming and fitting into the annular step 191, is axially resistant to movement. Installation is completed after adhesive bonding, making assembly simple and quick. Anti-slip stripes are evenly distributed on the outer periphery of the anti-slip sleeve 303.

[0089] As a further implementation, the quick-release grip 300 also includes a hook body 302. The bottom of the grip handle 301 is provided with an internal thread, the outer ring of the top of the hook body 302 is provided with an external thread that matches the internal thread, and the bottom of the hook body 302 is provided with a hook portion 3021 for hooking external objects.

[0090] Combination Figures 11 to 14 As shown, this embodiment also provides a gimbal device 400, including a gimbal body 401, a screw fixedly connected to the bottom of the gimbal body 401, a bracket body 404, and the aforementioned quick-release grip 300.

[0091] The gimbal body 401 has a gimbal base 402 at its bottom, and a mounting bowl groove 4041 in the middle of the support body 404. Multiple folding feet 4042 are arranged around the circumference of the support body 404. The bottom connecting end of the gimbal base 402 has a downwardly protruding first bowl-shaped arc surface 403, which serves as a quick-release structure adapted to the mounting bowl groove 4041, allowing relative sliding between the first bowl-shaped arc surface 403 and the mounting bowl groove 4041. Correspondingly, the support body 404 has an movable window in the middle of the mounting bowl groove 4041 for a screw extending from the bottom connecting end of the gimbal base 402 to pass through. The bottom of the support body 404 also has a downwardly protruding second bowl-shaped arc surface 4043, and the top of the quick-release grip 300 (e.g., the upper surface of the upper cover 16 of the locking mechanism 100) has an arc-shaped abutment surface 18 that matches the second bowl-shaped arc surface 4043. The quick-release grip 300 and the gimbal body 401 are pre-tightened with screws, securing them to the bracket body 404. Multiple folding feet 4042 provide support, allowing the gimbal body 401 to achieve a shooting angle suitable for the operator. Its fixing principle is as follows: After the locking mechanism 100 on the quick-release handle 300 locks the screw, rotating the quick-release handle 300 will drive the screw to screw in. Through the mutual compression of the first cup-shaped arc surface 403 and the mounting bowl groove 4041, and the second cup-shaped arc surface 4043 and the arc-shaped abutment ring surface 18, the entire gimbal device 400 is gradually clamped and fixed on the bracket body 404. The abutment friction between the arc surfaces restricts the rotation of the gimbal body 401, thus completing the positioning and locking. When disassembly, adjustment or storage is required, simply rotate the quick-release handle 300 in the opposite direction to release the pre-tightening and adjust the swing angle of the gimbal body 401. Alternatively, by pressing the drive component 4 of the locking mechanism 100 to align the second channel 23 with the insertion window 12, the screw can be directly pulled out, and the gimbal body 401 can be removed from the bracket body 404 without having to completely unscrew the screw from the thread, greatly reducing the time of disassembly and assembly.

[0092] It should be noted that, in the locked state, the centers of the first cup-shaped arc surface 403 and the second cup-shaped arc surface 4043 are both located on axis A, which is the axis of the insertion window 12. Therefore, during the pre-tightening process, the resistance of each position on the arc surface is uniform, and there will be no uneven wear caused by excessive local pressure, and the positioning is more stable. The screw always remains centered and taut along axis A, and there is no risk of loosening due to eccentric force, further improving the operational stability of the entire gimbal device 400.

[0093] As a preferred embodiment, the movable window is circular, allowing the screw to swing during adjustment without interference. After the screw is inserted into and locked by the locking mechanism 100, the quick-release handle 300 is further rotated to engage with the screw and is screwed in and pulled downwards by the locking mechanism 100. This causes the first cup-shaped arc surface 403 to press against the mounting groove 4041, and the second cup-shaped arc surface 4043 to press against the arc-shaped abutment surface 18. The friction and positive pressure between these surfaces achieve locking of the gimbal body 401 at any swing angle. Therefore, in the non-pre-tightened state, the movable window allows the gimbal body 401 to swing and adjust within a certain angle range before further locking, realizing the gimbal's horizontal calibration or pitch fine-tuning functions.

[0094] It should be further explained that, in this embodiment, the upper cover 16 includes a cover body 162 and an abutment ring 163. The cover body 162 is fastened to the lower shell 17 at the bottom by countersunk bolts 164. The middle part of the cover body 162 has an insertion window 12. The cover body 162 extends upward from the insertion window 12 to form a connecting ring 1621. The abutment ring 163 is fitted onto the connecting ring 1621. At least a part of the top of the connecting ring 1621 is exposed, and the bottom surface of the abutment ring 163 is in contact with the top surface of the cover body 162. The outer periphery of the exposed part of the connecting ring 1621 is provided with an annular groove. A clamp 1622 is installed in the annular groove to restrict and fix the abutment ring 163 to the cover body 162. The outer periphery of the abutment ring 163 extends upward (the extension height is higher than that of the connecting ring 1621). An arc-shaped abutment ring surface 18 is formed on the top port surface of the abutment ring 163.

[0095] It should be noted that the connection method between the pan-tilt device 400 and the camera in this embodiment can refer to the existing technology, and will not be described again in this embodiment.

[0096] This embodiment also provides a specific quick assembly and disassembly method, including assembly steps and disassembly steps.

[0097] Installation steps: The user presses the pressing part 42 of the drive component 4 by hand to apply external force. This force pushes the locking component 2 through the first vertical surface 2021 to overcome the elastic force of the elastic element 3 and rotate around the rotating shaft 21. When the drive component 4 is pushed to the limit position (for example, the travel limit groove 43 of the drive component 4 abuts against the limit pin 141), the locking component 2 stops rotating. At this time, the axis of the second channel 23 coincides with the axis of the insertion window 12, and the first channel 22 is offset to one side. After the user passes the screw at the bottom of the gimbal body 401 through the bracket body 404, it passes through the insertion window 12 and the second channel 23 along the axial direction A until the end of the screw reaches the preset insertion depth (for example, the first cup-shaped arc surface 403 of the gimbal base 402 initially contacts the arc-shaped abutment ring surface 18 at the top of the handle). Since the inner wall of the second channel 23 is smooth and its diameter is larger than that of the screw, there is no thread resistance during the entire insertion process, and it can be pushed in at once.

[0098] The user removes the external force applied to the drive component 4. At this time, the elastic force of the elastic element 3 pushes the locking component 2 to rotate in the opposite direction to the initial position. As the locking component 2 rotates, the axis of the second channel 23 gradually deviates from the axis of the screw, while the first channel 22 moves towards the insertion window 12 simultaneously until the internal thread of the first channel 22 contacts the external thread of the screw.

[0099] The user holds the main body 1 or the handle 301 and rotates it in the locking direction (such as clockwise). During the rotation, the internal thread 221 smoothly and completely engages with the external thread of the screw, and finally the gimbal body 401, the bracket body 404 and the quick-release grip are pre-tightened and fixed. The first cup-shaped arc surface 403 of the gimbal base 402 and the arc-shaped abutment ring surface 18 at the top of the grip are pre-tightened.

[0100] Disassembly steps: The user presses the drive component 4. If the screw is securely locked, the user can first loosen the main body 1 or the handle 301 slightly in the opposite direction to release the thread pressure. Then, press the drive component 4 to push the locking component 2 to rotate again, so that the second channel 23 is aligned with the insertion window 12 again. At this time, the internal thread of the first channel 22 is completely disengaged from the external thread of the screw. The user can directly pull the screw out of the insertion window 12 along axis A by hand. Since the inner wall of the second channel 23 is smooth and its diameter is larger than that of the screw, there is no thread resistance during the pulling process. There is no need to rotate it in the opposite direction multiple times.

[0101] The structural solutions provided by the embodiments of this application have been described in detail above. Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of this application. The descriptions of the embodiments above are only intended to help understand this application. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that, based on the ideas of this application, there will be changes in the specific implementation methods and application scope. Therefore, the content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

Claims

1. A locking mechanism, characterized in that, include: The body has an inner cavity, which is provided with a plug-in window communicating with the inner cavity. The plug-in window is used for the insertion and removal of the locking rod. A locking element is rotatably disposed within the inner cavity. The locking element has a released state and a locked state depending on its rotation position. The locking element includes a first channel and a second channel, which intersect and communicate within the locking element. The inner wall of the first channel is provided with a locking structure, which is used to cooperate with a rod to be locked to position at least a portion of the rod within the first channel. The diameter of the second channel is larger than the diameter of the rod to be locked, and the rotation center of the locking element is located in the insertion direction of the rod to be locked. An elastic element is disposed inside the body, and the elastic element is used to act on the locking member in a first direction so that the locking member is in a locked state; A driving member, disposed on the body and abutting against the locking member, includes a pressing part extending out of the body, the pressing part being used to push the locking member to rotate in a second direction opposite to the first direction under the action of an external force, so as to put the locking member in a released state; When the locking member is in the locked state, the first channel is coaxial with and connected to the insertion window, and the second channel intersects with the insertion window; when the locking member is in the released state, the second channel is coaxial with and connected to the insertion window, and the first channel intersects with the insertion window.

2. The locking mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The locking member is rotatably mounted in the inner cavity of the body via a pivot located in the insertion direction of the insertion window.

3. The locking mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The elastic element and the driving element are located on the left and right sides of the insertion direction of the insertion window, respectively.

4. The locking mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The locking member has an inclined surface and a vertical surface. In the locked state, the driving member is in contact with the vertical surface, and there is an included angle α between the inclined surface and the vertical surface. When the locking member is in the locked state, the vertical surface is vertically oriented. When the locking member is in the released state, the inclined surface is vertically oriented. The included angle α is the same as the angle by which the locking member rotates when it changes from the locked state to the released state.

5. The locking mechanism according to claim 4, characterized in that, The locking member has a first surface and a second surface. When the locking member is in the locked state, the first surface is parallel to the upper wall of the inner cavity. When the locking member is in the released state, the second surface abuts against the upper wall of the inner cavity. The first surface and the upper wall of the inner cavity form an angle b, which is the same as the angle a.

6. The locking mechanism according to claim 5, characterized in that, When the locking member is in the locked state, the inclined surface is inclined from the vertical surface toward the first channel. There are two vertical surfaces, located on both sides of the locking member. There are two inclined surfaces, located on both sides of the locking member, and the two inclined surfaces are located on the upper and lower sides of the rotating shaft.

7. The locking mechanism according to claim 5, characterized in that, The included angle α is the same as the included angle between the first channel and the second channel.

8. The locking mechanism according to claim 5, characterized in that, The driving member has a pressing part and a supporting part. The pressing part is used for pressing, and the supporting part is arranged relative to the vertical surface of the locking member. After being subjected to force, the driving member moves from the outside of the body to the inner cavity to push the locking member to rotate.

9. The locking mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The locking structure includes an internal thread portion disposed on the inner wall of the first channel, the internal thread portion being adapted to the external thread of the rod to be locked.

10. The locking mechanism according to claim 9, characterized in that, The internal thread portion includes a first internal thread and a second internal thread, which are located on both sides of the first channel, respectively.

11. A quick-release grip, characterized in that, The grip includes a handle and a locking mechanism as described in any one of claims 1 to 10, which is fixedly mounted on the top of the handle; the interior of the handle forms at least a portion of the body of the locking mechanism, or the locking mechanism is embedded as a separate component inside the handle.

12. A quick assembly / disassembly method based on a locking mechanism, characterized in that, The steps include: applying an external force to the driving component to push the locking component to rotate against the elastic force of the elastic element until the second channel of the locking component is aligned with the insertion window; then inserting the rod to be locked axially into the designated position in the second channel along the insertion window of the locking mechanism; after removing the external force on the driving component, as the locking component rotates, the axial direction of the second channel gradually deviates from the axis of the rod to be locked, and the first channel, which intersects and is connected to the second channel, rotates synchronously, so that the locking structure on the inner wall of the first channel engages with the outer wall of the rod to be locked to hold or limit the rod to be locked; during disassembly, applying an external force to the driving component to push the locking component to rotate, so that the second channel is realigned with the insertion window; after the locking rod loses its locking force, it can be directly pulled out axially to complete the disassembly.

Images