Quarter-turn lock clip
The quarter-turn locking system enables a secure connection and easy disassembly between the tow hook cover and the vehicle, solving the problems of inconvenient connection and scratches on the vehicle's exterior surface caused by traditional cover systems, thus improving the user experience.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202480089724.X
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-02-07
- Publication Date
- 2026-11-06
AI Technical Summary
Traditional tow hook covers are difficult to securely lock and easily disassemble during connection and disconnection, and are prone to scratching the vehicle's exterior surface.
The system employs a quarter-turn locking clip system, which uses a 90-degree rotating locking clip in conjunction with a locking structure on the trim panel to achieve a secure connection between the cover and the vehicle, and can be easily removed with a screwdriver.
It provides safety and ease of disassembly, avoids scratching the vehicle's exterior surface, and enhances the user experience.
Smart Images
Figure CN123056972A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Background Technology
[0001] Heavy-duty vehicles carrying goods, such as trucks, are typically equipped with a tow hook at the rear of the chassis. This tow hook enables towing operations by connecting to a trailer or other similar cargo-carrying device. Tow hooks come in various structural forms, such as tow balls with swivel joints, tow pins, tow hooks, and bumper / fixed tow bars. However, even vehicles designed for heavy-duty transport are not always used for this purpose. Therefore, most trucks are equipped with tow hook covers to protect the tow hook from harsh weather and prevent impact damage and corrosion. Over time, exposure to the natural environment can weaken and affect the structural integrity of the tow hook, potentially posing significant safety hazards. Furthermore, tow hook covers enhance the appearance of the truck's rear, and personalized tow hook covers are common among drivers. Summary of the Invention
[0002] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a locking system may include a locking clip, a decorative panel, and a trim panel. The locking clip may include a shaft, an umbrella-shaped portion at the top of the shaft, a plurality of latches extending outwardly from the shaft, and a plurality of locking blocks extending outwardly from the shaft, each locking block including a brake. The decorative panel may include a first opening configured to be inserted into the locking clip. The decorative panel may include a second opening configured to be inserted into the locking clip, and a locking structure. The locking structure may include a plurality of slots. The locking clip is rotatable until each brake is inserted through one of the plurality of slots.
[0003] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of latches may include a protrusion, and the first opening may include a slot configured to engage a corresponding protrusion. In some embodiments, the decorative panel and the trim panel may have a superimposed thickness substantially the same as the distance from the umbrella-shaped portion to the top of each of the locking blocks. In some embodiments, the locking structure may include multiple baffles, each baffle configured to restrict the locking clip from continuing to rotate beyond the slot. In some embodiments, the locking structure may include multiple ramps, each ramp located on the rotation path of the locking clip. In some embodiments, as the locking clip is rotated, each ramp abuts a corresponding locking block until each actuator is engaged through one of the plurality of slots.
[0004] In some embodiments, the locking clip may include slots for embedding a rotatable screwdriver head. In some embodiments, the plurality of slots may be configured such that, after the locking clip rotates 90°, a plurality of brakes are embedded. In some embodiments, the umbrella-shaped portion may be a vibration damping umbrella. In some embodiments, the plurality of slots may be configured such that, after the locking clip rotates 90°, a plurality of brakes are embedded. In some embodiments, the locking clip may include two locking blocks, each extending outward in the opposite direction along the shaft.
[0005] In some embodiments, the locking clip may include two latches, each extending outward in the opposite direction along the axis. In some embodiments, the trim panel is a tow hook cover on a vehicle. In some embodiments, the locking structure may include an annular enclosure.
[0006] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a locking clip may include a shaft, an umbrella-shaped portion disposed at the top of the shaft, a plurality of buckles extending outward from the shaft, and a plurality of locking blocks extending outward from the shaft; each of the locking blocks may include a brake; the locking clip is rotatable until each brake is engaged through one of a plurality of slots on a trim panel.
[0007] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of snaps may include a protrusion, each protrusion being inserted through a slot in an opening in the decorative panel. In some embodiments, the umbrella-shaped portion may be a shock-absorbing umbrella.
[0008] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a locking system may include a traction hook cover and a trim panel. The traction hook cover may include a first opening configured to engage the locking clip. The trim panel may include a second opening configured to engage the locking clip, and a locking structure. The locking structure may include a plurality of slots. The locking clip is rotatable until each actuator is engaged through one of the plurality of slots.
[0009] In some embodiments, the locking structure includes multiple baffles, each configured to prevent the locking clamp from continuing to rotate beyond the slot. In some embodiments, the locking structure may include multiple ramps, each located on the rotation path of the locking clamp. Attached Figure Description
[0010] By reading the detailed embodiments below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, one can fully understand the various purposes, technical features, and beneficial effects of this disclosure. In the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals refer to the same components.
[0011] Figures 1A to 1E Example quarter-turn lock clip according to some embodiments of this disclosure.
[0012] Figures 2A to 2F An example of a quarter-turn lock clip for connecting a traction hook cover plate and a decorative panel according to some embodiments of this disclosure.
[0013] Figures 3A to 3B An inclined plane mechanism according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.
[0014] Figures 4A to 4B A card slot mechanism according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.
[0015] Figure 5A Openings according to some embodiments of this disclosure are shown; Figure 5B A protrusion mechanism according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.
[0016] Figures 6A to 6B An example application of a quarter-turn lock clip according to some embodiments of this disclosure is shown.
[0017] Figures 7A to 7B Another example application of a quarter-turn lock clip according to some embodiments of this disclosure is shown.
[0018] The accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, nor do they necessarily include all components of the system. Instead, the drawings are primarily intended to illustrate the structure, principles, and technical solutions for which protection is sought herein. Detailed Implementation
[0019] The following detailed description is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the claimed invention or its application scenarios.
[0020] Traditional tow hook covers currently do not utilize any type of locking mechanism to facilitate and secure the connection between the cover and the vehicle (i.e., the rear trim panel or bumper). This presents significant inconvenience when people want to perform vehicle maintenance. In particular, screwdrivers or other tools are often used to pry open the tow hook cover during removal. The user must then peel the cover off the trim panel or bumper. This operation is difficult and can easily scratch the vehicle's exterior paint. Therefore, the industry urgently needs a tow hook cover that combines secure locking with easy removal.
[0021] Embodiments of this disclosure relate to a quarter-turn locking clip. In some embodiments, the 90-degree rotating locking clip can be used as a component of a tow hook cover to achieve a secure and easily detachable connection between the cover and the vehicle's rear bumper, rear trim panel, or other body panels. The 90-degree rotating locking clip described in this disclosure passes through an opening created by the overlap between the tow hook cover and the vehicle trim panel, and locks the cover to the trim panel after rotating 90°. The quarter-turn locking clip can be easily tightened and loosened with a screwdriver.
[0022] Figures 1A-1E An exemplary 90-degree rotating locking clip 100 according to a partial embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The locking clip 100 may include a screwdriver slot 101, an umbrella-shaped portion 102, a plurality of brakes 103 (collectively referred to herein as "brakes 103", or individually as a single "brake 103"), a locking block 104, and a latch 105. In some embodiments, the screwdriver slot 101 is accommodating various sizes of screwdriver bits, such as flathead, Phillips, hex, and other types of bits known in the art. In some embodiments, the umbrella-shaped portion 102 is a vibration damping umbrella. The brakes 103 may be configured to engage with a locking structure on a vehicle trim panel (see [link to documentation]). Figures 2A-2FThis holds the locking clip 100 in the locked position. Additionally, the latch 105 may include a small protrusion (not shown) that engages within an opening in the decorative panel to prevent the locking clip from dislodging (see [link]). Figures 5A-5B ).
[0023] Figures 2A-2F A 90-degree rotating locking clip 100 connecting the traction hook cover plate 200 and the decorative plate 201 according to a partial embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 2A The alignment of the locking clip 100 with the opening 210 of the tow hook cover 200 is shown. For example, the tow hook cover 200 can be used to cover a tow hook on a vehicle, such as a truck, where the tow hook is used to carry and transport heavy loads, such as trailers. Furthermore, although... Figure 2A While not visible in the center, the decorative panel 201 also has a slot through which the locking clip 100 can pass, interacting with a locking structure opposite the surface (not shown, see [link]). Figures 2C-2F It should be noted that... Figures 2A-2F For exemplary embodiments only, the trim panel 201 may also be a vehicle trim panel or other body panel, and the tow hook cover 200 may be other types of surfaces that may need to be attached to the vehicle. Figure 2B In the process, after the locking clip 100 has been inserted into the opening 210 of the traction hook cover plate 200 and the slot (not shown) of the decorative plate 201, the screwdriver 300 can be inserted into the screwdriver slot 101 and rotated to lock the locking clip 100.
[0024] Figure 2C The back of the locking system is shown. Specifically, Figure 2C The lower end structure of the locking clip 100 is shown, which always protrudes from the plate, allowing for rotational operation. Furthermore, on its rear side, the decorative panel 201 may include a locking structure 202. The locking structure allows the locking clip 100 to rotate (i.e., by means of a screwdriver 300) until the clip is locked in a stop position. Figure 2D An enlarged view of the locking structure 202 of the decorative panel 201 is shown when the locking clip 100 begins to rotate. In some embodiments, the locking structure 202 may include a peripheral annular wall 203. Furthermore, the locking structure 202 may include multiple baffles 204 configured to abut against the locking blocks 104 of the locking clip 100 to prevent overtravel rotation. In some embodiments, the locking structure 202 includes slots 205, each configured to engage with the locking blocks 104 of the locking clip 100 to lock the locking clip 100 in place. Additionally, the locking structure 202 may include a ramp 206 associated with each slot 205. Figure 2E As shown, when the locking clamp 100 is rotated, the inclined surface 206 pushes the brake 103 (and the locking block 104) upwards until they are raised above the slot 205. Figure 2FAs shown, once the locking clamp 100 has rotated 90 degrees, the stop 204 limits the locking block 104 at position 401. Furthermore, once the locking clamp 100 has fully rotated until the brake 103 aligns with the slot 205, the locking block 104's own elasticity generates a rapid rebound mechanism, causing the brake 103 to fall into the slot 205. The width of the slot 205 is only sufficient to accommodate the brake 103, but does not allow the rest of the locking clamp 100 to rotate.
[0025] Figures 3A-3B A ramp mechanism 206 according to a partial embodiment of this disclosure is shown. It can be seen that when the locking clamp 100 is rotated, the ramp 206 pushes the brake 103 (and the locking block 104) upwards. As the locking clamp 100 continues to rotate until aligned with the slot 205, and because the ramp no longer presses upwards against the brake, the brake 103 (relying on the elasticity of the locking block 104 itself) engages downwards in the slot 205, preventing further rotation and locking the locking clamp 100.
[0026] Figures 4A-4B A card slot mechanism 205 according to a partial embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 4A This is a top view of the card slot mechanism 205. Figure 4B This is a side view of the card slot mechanism 205. As can be seen from the figure, the brake 103 is housed inside the card slot 205. The side walls of the card slot 205 restrict the left and right displacement of the brake 103, thereby preventing the locking clamp 100 from rotating and locking the system in the proper position.
[0027] Figure 5A An opening 210 according to a partial embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 5B A protruding engagement mechanism according to a partial embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. (In conjunction with the foregoing...) Figures 2A-2F As described, opening 210 may be part of tow hook cover 200. In some embodiments, opening 210 may include recess 211 configured to engage a protrusion on latch 105 of lock clip 100, forming an additional structure to prevent lock clip 100 from rotating after being in the locked position.
[0028] Figures 6A-6B An example application of a quarter-turn lock clip according to a partial embodiment of this disclosure is shown. For example... Figure 6A In this configuration, the locking clip 100 connects the trailer tow hook cover 600 (which may have the same or similar structure as the tow hook cover 200) to the rear trim panel 700 (which may have the same or similar structure as the trim panel 201). Here, the locking clip 100 is inserted into the locking structure of the rear trim panel 700 (e.g., locking structure 202), but is in an unlocked state. Once the locking clip 100 is rotated 90 degrees, it switches to the locking position, as... Figure 6B As shown.
[0029] Figures 7A to 7BAnother example application of a quarter-turn lock clip according to a partial embodiment of this disclosure is shown. For example, in Figure 7A In the assembly 700, two locking clips 100 are included for connecting the tow hook cover 200 and the rear trim panel 201. The locking clips 100 insert into the locking structure 202 of the rear trim panel 201 (the locking structure 202 in Figure 2, which...). Figure 7B (The back of component 700 is visible). After the locking clip 100 is rotated to the locking position, the traction hook cover 200 remains connected and fixed to the trim panel 201, but can be removed as described herein.
[0030] This locking mechanism provides users with both security and ease of disassembly, enhancing the user experience and preventing scratches to the vehicle's exterior surface and paint.
[0031] Although various embodiments have been described above, it should be understood that they are presented by way of example and not limitation. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Indeed, after reading the above description, those skilled in the art will understand how to implement alternative embodiments. For example, other steps may be provided, or steps may be removed from the described process, and other components may be added to or removed from the described system. Therefore, other implementations are also within the scope of the following claims.
[0032] Furthermore, it should be understood that any accompanying drawings highlighting features and advantages are merely illustrative for purposes of illustration. Each of the disclosed methods and systems has sufficient flexibility and configurability to be applied to scenarios not shown.
[0033] Although the word “at least one” is frequently used in the specification, claims, and drawings, the article “a” and the definite article “described” also refer to “at least one” in this document.
[0034] Finally, the applicant declares that claims that include only the qualifying terms "for an apparatus for..." or "for a step for..." are subject to interpretation under 35 USC 112(f); claims that do not explicitly include the terms "for an apparatus for..." or "for a step for..." are not subject to the interpretation under 35 USC 112(f).
Claims
1. A locking system, comprising: Locking clips, including: Shaft body; An umbrella-shaped portion is provided at the top of the shaft; Multiple latches, each extending outward from the shaft; and Multiple locking blocks, each extending outward from the shaft, each locking block being equipped with a brake; The decorative panel includes a first opening configured to be embedded in the lock clip; and Decorative panels, including: The second opening configured to be embedded in the locking clip; and A locking structure, wherein the locking structure includes multiple slots; The locking clamp is rotated until each brake is engaged through one of the multiple slots.
2. The locking system according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the plurality of snaps includes a protrusion; and The first opening includes a slot configured to embed the corresponding protrusion.
3. The locking system according to claim 1, wherein, The decorative panel and the trim panel have a superimposed thickness that is substantially the same as the distance from the umbrella-shaped portion to the top of the locking block.
4. The locking system according to claim 1, wherein, The locking structure includes multiple baffles, each configured to restrict the locking clamp from continuing to rotate beyond the multiple slots.
5. The locking system according to claim 1, wherein, The locking structure includes multiple inclined surfaces, each of which is located on the rotation path of the locking clamp.
6. The locking system according to claim 5, wherein, When the locking clamp is rotated, each of the inclined surfaces pushes up the locking block until each brake is engaged through the plurality of slots.
7. The locking system according to claim 1, wherein, The locking clip includes a slot for inserting a rotatable screwdriver head.
8. The locking system according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of slots are configured such that after the locking clamp rotates 90°, it is embedded in the plurality of brakes.
9. The locking system according to claim 1, wherein, The umbrella-shaped part is a shockproof umbrella.
10. The locking system according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of slots are configured such that after the locking clamp rotates 90°, it is embedded in the plurality of brakes.
11. The locking system according to claim 1, wherein, The locking clamp includes two locking blocks, each of which extends outward in the opposite direction along the axis.
12. The locking system according to claim 1, wherein, The locking clip includes two latches, each of which extends outward in the opposite direction along the shaft.
13. The locking system according to claim 1, wherein, The trim panel is the tow hook cover on the vehicle.
14. The locking system according to claim 1, wherein, The locking structure includes an annular enclosure.
15. A locking clip, comprising: Shaft body; An umbrella-shaped portion is provided at the top of the shaft; Multiple buckles, which extend outward from the shaft body; as well as Multiple locking blocks, each extending outward from the shaft, include a brake. The locking clamp is rotated until each brake is engaged through one of the multiple slots on the trim panel.
16. The locking clip according to claim 15, wherein: Each of the plurality of snaps includes a protrusion; and Each protrusion is inserted through a slot in the opening of the decorative panel.
17. The locking clip according to claim 15, wherein, The umbrella-shaped part is a vibration-damping umbrella.
18. A locking system, comprising: A tow hook cover plate includes a first opening configured to embed a locking clip. as well as Decorative panels, including: A second opening, configured to be inserted into the locking clip; and A locking structure, wherein the locking structure includes multiple slots; The locking clamp is rotated until each brake is engaged through one of the multiple slots.
19. The locking system according to claim 18, wherein, The locking structure includes multiple baffles, each configured to prevent the locking clamp from rotating further beyond the multiple slots.
20. The locking system according to claim 18, wherein, The locking structure includes multiple inclined surfaces, each of which is located on the rotation path of the locking clamp.