Connecting assembly
By designing a floating connection component, the relative movement between the subframe and the chassis guard plate is allowed, and the dynamic load problem caused by rigid connection is solved, achieving improved durability and stability of the component.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202422739844.X
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-11-11
- Publication Date
- 2025-08-26
- Estimated Expiration
- 2034-11-11
AI Technical Summary
When the vehicle's subframe is rigidly connected to the chassis guard, dynamic load causes fatigue damage to the chassis guard, especially on rugged road surfaces and severe vibration.
A connecting assembly is designed, including the first connector and the second connector being coupled by a shaft assembly, allowing the first connector to move relative to the second connector in the axial direction and extension direction, limiting the range of motion through the limiting structure, and achieving a floating connection.
It avoids stress concentration, reduces damage at the connection, and improves the durability and stability of the components.
Smart Images

Figure CN223266873U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The utility model generally relates to the technical field of connectors, and more particularly to a connection assembly for realizing floating connection. Background Art
[0002] A vehicle's subframe typically connects the vehicle body and suspension system. Currently, some vehicles have subframes rigidly bolted to the vehicle's underbody panels. When a vehicle travels over rough roads, the front and rear suspension systems experience movement and vibration. This movement and vibration is transmitted to the underbody panels through the rigid connection between the subframe and the underbody panels, subjecting them to significant dynamic loads and potentially causing fatigue damage. This is particularly detrimental for underbody panels made of, for example, plastic. Utility Model Content
[0003] The purpose of the present invention is to solve the problems existing in the above-mentioned prior art and to provide an improved connection assembly.
[0004] To this end, the utility model provides a connecting assembly, which is suitable for connecting a first component to a second component, wherein the connecting assembly includes: a first connecting member, the first connecting member including a base wall suitable for connecting to the first component and a first side wall and a second side wall extending from the base wall and opposite to each other; a second connecting member, the second connecting member including a base plate opposite to the base wall and suitable for connecting to the second component and a first side plate and a second side plate extending from the base plate and opposite to each other; and a shaft assembly, the first connecting member is coupled to the second connecting member via the shaft assembly, the shaft assembly including a shaft; wherein the first side wall and the The second side wall includes a first opening and a second opening respectively, and the first side plate and the second side plate include a first slot and a second slot respectively; wherein, the shaft extends through the first opening, the second opening, the first slot and the second slot, and the shaft is clearance-fitted with the first opening and the second opening and the shaft can move in the first slot and the second slot along the extension direction of the first slot and / or the second slot, so that: the first connecting member can move relative to the second connecting member along the axial direction of the shaft, and the first connecting member can move relative to the second connecting member along the extension direction together with the shaft.
[0005] According to the above technical concept, the present invention may further include any one or more of the following optional forms.
[0006] In some optional forms, the axial direction is substantially perpendicular to the extension direction.
[0007] In some optional forms, the connecting assembly includes a first limiting structure and a second limiting structure, wherein the first limiting structure is configured to limit the range of movement of the first connecting member relative to the second connecting member along the axial direction, and the second limiting structure is configured to limit the range of movement of the first connecting member relative to the second connecting member along the extension direction.
[0008] In some optional forms, the first limiting structure includes a protrusion that extends from the base plate to between the first side wall and the second side wall and is capable of selectively abutting either the first side wall and the second side wall, or extends from the base wall to between the first side plate and the second side plate and is capable of selectively abutting either the first side plate and the second side plate to limit the movement of the first connecting member relative to the second connecting member along the axial direction.
[0009] In some optional forms, the first side wall and the second side wall are arranged between the first side plate and the second side plate, and the protrusion extends from the base plate to between the first side wall and the second side wall.
[0010] In some optional forms, the protrusion includes a fastening hole for a fastener to pass through to connect the base plate to the second member or to connect the base wall to the first member.
[0011] In some optional forms, the second limiting structure includes a limiting groove provided on one of the first connecting member and the second connecting member and a limiting protrusion provided on the other of the first connecting member and the second connecting member, wherein the limiting groove extends substantially parallel to the extension direction and has two ends opposite to each other, and the limiting protrusion extends through the limiting groove and is capable of selectively abutting against either end of the limiting groove to limit the movement of the first connecting member relative to the second connecting member along the extension direction.
[0012] In some optional forms, the second limiting structure includes a first limiting groove and a second limiting groove and a first limiting protrusion and a second limiting protrusion, wherein the first limiting groove and the second limiting groove are respectively arranged on the first side wall and the second side wall or are respectively arranged at the junction of the first side wall and the base wall and at the junction of the second side wall and the base wall, wherein the first limiting protrusion and the second limiting protrusion extend from the first side panel and the second side panel respectively and extend through the first limiting groove and the second limiting groove respectively.
[0013] In some optional forms, the first side wall and the second side wall are arranged between the first side panel and the second side panel, the first limiting tab and the second limiting tab extend toward each other, and each of the first limiting tab and the second limiting tab is spaced apart from the base wall.
[0014] In some optional forms, the base plate is substantially parallel to the base wall and substantially perpendicular to the first side panel and the second side panel, the first limiting tab forms an acute angle with the first side panel, and the second limiting tab forms an acute angle with the second side panel.
[0015] In some optional forms, the shaft assembly further includes a first sleeve and a second sleeve sleeved outside the shaft, the first sleeve and the second sleeve being respectively installed in the first slot and the second slot and respectively capable of moving along the first slot and the second slot.
[0016] In some optional forms, the first sleeve includes a first annular groove provided on its outer circumference, and the second sleeve includes a second annular groove provided on its outer circumference, and the first annular groove and the second annular groove respectively engage the inner edge of the first slot and the inner edge of the second slot.
[0017] In some optional forms, the first side plate also includes a third slot adjacent to and connected to the first slot, and the second side plate also includes a fourth slot adjacent to and connected to the second slot; wherein the third slot is configured to allow the first sleeve to be installed into the third slot along its axial direction, and the first slot is configured to prevent the first sleeve from disengaging from the first slot along its axial direction; wherein the fourth slot is configured to allow the second sleeve to be installed into the fourth slot along its axial direction, and the second slot is configured to prevent the second sleeve from disengaging from the second slot along its axial direction.
[0018] In some optional forms, the first side wall and the second side wall respectively include two first openings and two second openings, wherein the first side panel and the second side panel respectively include a first slot and a second slot, wherein the connecting assembly includes two shaft assemblies, and the shaft of each shaft assembly extends through a corresponding first opening, a corresponding second opening, the first slot and the second slot.
[0019] In some optional forms, the first side wall can abut against the first side plate, and the second side wall can abut against the second side plate, so as to limit the range of movement of the first connecting member relative to the second connecting member along the axial direction.
[0020] The connection assembly according to the present invention allows a first component connected to a first connector to move relative to a second component connected to a second connector along the aforementioned axial and extensional directions. This enables a floating connection between the first and second components, which is particularly advantageous in situations where the first component itself may move relative to the second component. Compared to a rigid connection, the first and second connectors of this connection assembly will move relative to each other when the first and second components move relative to each other, thereby preventing stress concentration at the connection between the first and second components, which could lead to damage. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] Other features and advantages of the present invention will be better understood through the following detailed description of the optional embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals identify the same or similar components, wherein:
[0022] Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing a connection assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention for connecting a subframe and a chassis guard plate of a vehicle is shown;
[0023] Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of a connection assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown;
[0024] Figure 3 shows a schematic exploded view of a connection assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
[0025] Figures 4A to 4C schematic diagrams showing the first connector and the second connector of the connection assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention in different relative positions in one direction; and
[0026] Figures 5A to 5C Schematic diagrams respectively show the first connecting member and the second connecting member of the connecting assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present utility model being in different relative positions in another direction. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0027] The following describes the implementation and use of the embodiments in detail. However, it should be understood that the specific embodiments discussed are merely illustrative of specific ways to implement and use the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. When describing the structural positions of components, such as up, down, top, bottom, left, and right, the references to these positions are not absolute but relative. These references are appropriate when the components are arranged as shown in the figures, but they will change accordingly if the positions of the components in the figures are changed.
[0028] The terms "first," "second," and the like are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the quantity of the technical features indicated. In this utility model, unless expressly provided otherwise, the terms "installed," "connected," "connected," and "fixed" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they may refer to fixed connections, removable connections, or integral connections; and they may be directly connected or indirectly connected through an intermediary. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of these terms in this utility model based on the specific circumstances.
[0029] Figures 1 to 5C The connecting assembly 10 and its components according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention are shown. The connecting assembly 10 can connect a first member 20 to a second member 30 and allow a certain relative movement between the first member 20 and the second member 30 to achieve a floating connection between the first member 20 and the second member 30.
[0030] Reference Figures 1 to 3 The connection assembly 10 includes a first connection member 100, a second connection member 200, and a shaft assembly 300. The first connection member 100 includes a base wall 102 adapted to be connected to the first member 20, and a first side wall 104 and a second side wall 106 extending from the base wall 102 and opposing each other. The second connection member 200 includes a base plate 202 opposing the base wall 102 and adapted to be connected to the second member 30, and a first side plate 204 and a second side plate 206 extending from the base plate 202 and opposing each other. The first connection member 100 is connected to the second connection member 200 via the shaft assembly 300, which includes a shaft 302. The first side wall 104 and the second side wall 106 include a first opening 108 and a second opening 110, respectively, and the first side plate 204 and the second side plate 206 include a first slot 208 and a second slot 210, respectively. The shaft 302 extends through the first opening 108, the second opening 110, the first slot 208, and the second slot 210. The shaft 302 is loosely fitted with the first opening 108 and the second opening 110 and the shaft 302 can move within the first slot 208 and the second slot 210 along the extension direction E of the first slot 208 and / or the second slot 210, so that the first connecting member 100 can move relative to the second connecting member 200 along the axial direction A of the shaft 302, and the first connecting member 100 can move relative to the second connecting member 200 along the extension direction E together with the shaft 302.
[0031] In this way, the connection assembly 10 can allow the first component 20 connected to the first connector 100 to move relative to the second component 30 connected to the second connector 200 along the aforementioned axial direction A and extension direction E. This can achieve a floating connection between the first component 20 and the second component 30, which is particularly advantageous in situations where the first component 20 itself may move relative to the second component 30. Compared to a rigid connection, the first connector 100 and the second connector 200 of the connection assembly 10 will move relative to each other when the first component 20 and the second component 30 move relative to each other, thereby preventing stress concentration or dynamic loads at the connection between the first component 20 and the second component 30 from causing damage.
[0032] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the first component 20 can be a vehicle subframe, and the second component 30 can be a vehicle chassis guard plate. The vehicle subframe connects the vehicle body and the suspension system. When the vehicle is traveling on a rough road, the front and rear suspensions will move and vibrate, causing the vehicle subframe to be displaced relative to the vehicle chassis guard plate. Connecting the vehicle subframe and the vehicle chassis guard plate through the connecting assembly 10 can allow the above-mentioned relative movement of the vehicle subframe and the vehicle chassis guard plate, thereby avoiding stress concentration or damage due to dynamic load at the connection between the vehicle subframe and the vehicle chassis guard plate. It can be understood that the application of the connecting assembly 10 according to the utility model is not limited to this, but can be applied to various scenarios where it is necessary to enable the connected first component 20 and the second component 30 to move relative to each other within a certain range.
[0033] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting assembly 10 includes two shaft assemblies 300. The two shaft assemblies 300 can have the same structure. Accordingly, the first side wall 104 and the second side wall 106 of the first connecting member 100 respectively include two first openings 108 and two second openings 110. The first side plate 204 and the second side plate 206 of the second connecting member 200 respectively include a first slot 208 and a second slot 210. The shaft 302 of each shaft assembly 300 extends through a corresponding first opening 108, a corresponding second opening 110, the first slot 208, and the second slot 210. The first connecting member 100 is coupled to the second connecting member 200 via the two shaft assemblies 300 (this will be more easily understood in conjunction with the following description). In the illustrated embodiment, the first connecting member 100 can be supported on the shaft assemblies 300. The shaft assemblies 300 can be made of metal to provide a stable connection between the first connecting member 100 and the second connecting member 200 and provide better support for the first connecting member 100.
[0034] It is understandable that in other embodiments not shown, the connecting assembly may also include other suitable numbers of shaft assemblies, such as one shaft assembly or more than two shaft assemblies. Accordingly, the first connecting member may include other suitable numbers of first openings and second openings, and the second connecting member may include other suitable numbers of first slots and second slots.
[0035] Reference Figures 1 to 4A , the first connector 100 can be made of metal. Alternatively, the first connector 100 can be formed by stamping a metal plate. The base wall 102 of the first connector 100 can be roughly rectangular in shape and include two first protrusions 112 protruding toward the interior of the first connector 100, each first protrusion 112 having a first fastening hole 114. The two first fastening holes 114 can be passed through by two externally threaded fasteners to connect the base wall 102 of the first connector 100 to the first member 20. It will be understood that in other embodiments not shown, the base wall can also have other suitable shapes; the base wall can also include other suitable numbers of first protrusions with first fastening holes, for example, one first protrusion or more than two first protrusions.
[0036] The first side wall 104 and the second side wall 106 of the first connector 100 can be symmetrically arranged with respect to each other, for example, symmetrically arranged with respect to the axis of the first fastening hole 114. In the illustrated embodiment, the first side wall 104 and the second side wall 106 of the first connector 100 stand upright relative to the base wall 102 and form a substantially 90° angle with the base wall 102. The first side wall 104 and the second side wall 106 of the first connector 100 are disposed between the first side plate 204 and the second side plate 206 of the second connector 200, and the base wall 102 of the first connector 100 and the base plate 202 of the second connector 200 are substantially parallel to each other. It is understood that in other embodiments not shown, the first side plate and the second side plate of the second connector can be disposed between the first side wall and the second side wall of the first connector.
[0037] Reference Figures 2 to 4A In the illustrated embodiment, the first side wall 104 has a first step portion 116 (see Figure 4A ), so that: the portion of the first side wall 104 including the first opening 108 is recessed toward the interior of the first connector 100 relative to the portion of the first side wall 104 located between the first step portion 116 and the base wall 102. The second side wall 106 has a second step portion 118 (see Figure 4A), such that the portion of the second side wall 106 including the second opening 110 is recessed toward the interior of the first connector 100 relative to the portion of the second side wall 106 located between the second step 118 and the base wall 102. This prevents mechanical interference between the first connector 100 and the first and second sleeves 304, 306 of the shaft assembly 300 (the first and second sleeves 304, 306 will be described in detail below) when the first connector 100 moves relative to the second connector 200 along the shaft 302 of the shaft assembly 300. In the illustrated embodiment, reinforcing ribs 117 and 119 may also be provided at the first and second step 116, 118, respectively, to increase the rigidity of the first and second side walls 104, 106. It will be appreciated that the configurations of the first and second side walls are not limited thereto and may also have other suitable configurations.
[0038] In the illustrated embodiment, each first opening 108 in the first sidewall 104 and the corresponding second opening 110 in the second sidewall 106 are substantially aligned in the axial direction A of the shaft 302 of the corresponding shaft assembly 300. Each first opening 108 in the first sidewall 104 and the corresponding second opening 110 in the second sidewall 106 are clearance-fitted with the shaft 302 of the corresponding shaft assembly 300 to allow the first connector 100 to move relative to the second connector 200 along the shaft 302 and thereby move relative to the second connector 200 in the axial direction A. In other embodiments not shown, the shaft of the shaft assembly may further include a sheath made of a polymer material to reduce friction noise when the first connector moves relative to the second connector in the axial direction A.
[0039] Reference Figures 1 to 3 , the second connecting member 200 can be made of metal. Alternatively, the second connecting member 200 can be formed by stamping a metal plate. The base plate 202 of the second connecting member 200 can also be roughly rectangular in shape and include two second protrusions 212 protruding toward the interior of the second connecting member 200, each second protrusion 212 having a second fastening hole 214. The two second fastening holes 214 can be passed through by two externally threaded fasteners to connect the base plate 202 of the second connecting member 200 to the second component 30. It will be understood that in other embodiments not shown, the base plate may also have other suitable shapes; the base plate may also include other suitable numbers of second protrusions with second fastening holes, for example, one second protrusion or more than two second protrusions.
[0040] In the illustrated embodiment, the first side plate 204 and the second side plate 206 are symmetrically arranged relative to each other, for example, symmetrically arranged relative to the axis of the second fastening hole 214. The first side plate 204 and the second side plate 206 of the second connecting member 200 can be erected relative to the base plate 202 and form a substantially 90° angle with the base plate 202. In the illustrated embodiment, reinforcing ribs 203 and 205 can also be provided at the junction of the first side plate 204 and the base plate 202, and at the junction of the second side plate 206 and the base plate 202, respectively, to increase the rigidity of the second connecting member 200. It will be understood that the configuration of the first side plate and the second side plate is not limited to this, and other suitable configurations can also be provided.
[0041] In the illustrated embodiment, the axial direction A of the shaft 302 is substantially perpendicular to the first side wall 104, the second side wall 106, the first side plate 204, and the second side plate 206, and is substantially parallel to the base wall 102 and the base plate 202. The first slot 208 of the first side plate 204 and the second slot 210 of the second side plate 206 are substantially aligned in the axial direction A of the shaft 302 of the shaft assembly 300. The first slot 208 and the second slot 210 have the same shape and extending direction.
[0042] Reference Figure 24 , each of the two shaft assemblies 300 is mounted on and retained in the second connector 200, and the shaft 302 of each shaft assembly 300 passes through the first opening 108 and the second opening 110 of the first connector 100, thereby coupling the first connector 100 to the second connector 200 via the two shaft assemblies 300. Each shaft assembly 300 further includes a first shaft sleeve 304 and a second shaft sleeve 306 sleeved over the shaft 302. The first shaft sleeve 304 and the second shaft sleeve 306 are mounted in the first slot 208 and the second slot 210, respectively, and are movable along the first slot 208 and the second slot 210, respectively. Because the shaft 302 of each shaft assembly 300 is loosely fitted with the first opening 108 and the second opening 110 of the first connecting member 100, and the sleeves 304 and 306 of each shaft assembly 300 can move along the corresponding slots 208 and 210, the first connecting member 100 allows the shaft 302 and the sleeves 304 and 306 sleeved outside the shaft 302 to move relative to the second connecting member 200 along the extension direction E of the slots 208 and 210. In the illustrated embodiment, the axial direction A is substantially perpendicular to the extension direction E. In the illustrated embodiment, the first sleeve 304 includes a first annular groove 308 arranged on its outer circumference, and the second sleeve 306 includes a second annular groove 310 arranged on its outer circumference. The first annular groove 308 and the second annular groove 310 respectively engage the inner edge of the first slot 208 and the inner edge of the second slot 210, thereby guiding the first sleeve 304 and the second sleeve 306 to move along the first slot 208 and the second slot 210, respectively, and then guiding the shaft 302 to move along the first slot 208 and the second slot 210.
[0043] The first side plate 204 further includes a third slot 216 adjacent to and in communication with the first slot 208, and the second side plate 206 further includes a fourth slot 218 adjacent to and in communication with the second slot 210. The third slot 216 and the fourth slot 218 are configured to install the first and second sleeves 304, 306 into the first and second slots 208, 210, respectively, during assembly of the connection assembly 10.
[0044] The third slot 216 is sized to allow the first sleeve 304 to be installed in the third slot 216 along its axial direction, and the first slot 208 is sized to prevent the first sleeve 304 from being separated from the first slot 208 along its axial direction. The fourth slot 218 is sized to allow the second sleeve 306 to be installed in the fourth slot 218 along its axial direction, and the second slot 210 is sized to prevent the second sleeve 306 from being separated from the second slot 210 along its axial direction.
[0045] The maximum width of the third slot 216 (i.e., the maximum dimension of the third slot 216 in a direction perpendicular to its extension direction) can be greater than the maximum outer diameter of the first sleeve 304, and the maximum width of the first slot 208 (i.e., the maximum dimension of the first slot 216 in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction E) can be smaller than the maximum outer diameter of the first sleeve 304 and greater than the outer diameter of the first sleeve 304 at the first annular groove 308, so that the first sleeve 304 can first be installed in the third slot 216 and engage with the inner edge of the third slot 216, and then move along the inner edge of the third slot 216 into the first slot 208 and remain in the first slot 208. The maximum width of the fourth slot 218 (i.e., the maximum dimension of the fourth slot 218 in a direction perpendicular to its extension direction) can be greater than the maximum outer diameter of the second sleeve 306, and the maximum width of the second slot 210 (i.e., the maximum dimension of the second slot 210 in a direction perpendicular to the extension direction E) can be less than the maximum outer diameter of the second sleeve 306 and greater than the outer diameter of the second sleeve 306 at the second annular groove 310, so that the second sleeve 306 can first be installed in the fourth slot 218 and engage with the inner edge of the fourth slot 218, and then move along the inner edge of the fourth slot 218 into the second slot 210 and remain in the second slot 210.
[0046] After the connection assembly 10 is assembled, during the movement of the first connector 100 relative to the second connector 200 along the extension direction E, the first sleeve 304 remains located within the first slot 208 and the second sleeve 306 remains located within the second slot 210. This is achieved by the second retaining structure described below. Thus, during the movement of the first connector 100 relative to the second connector 200 along the extension direction E, the first sleeve 304 will not enter the third slot 216 and the second sleeve 306 will not enter the fourth slot 218, thereby accidentally falling off the second connector 200.
[0047] In the illustrated embodiment, the first slot 208 forms an obtuse angle with the third slot 216, and the second slot 210 forms an obtuse angle with the fourth slot 218. Compared to an arrangement in which the first slot and the third slot are collinear, and the second slot and the fourth slot are collinear, this arrangement allows the first side plate 204 and the second side plate 206 to have smaller dimensions, thereby reducing the volume of the second connector 200.
[0048] In the illustrated embodiment, the shaft 302 of each shaft assembly 300 includes a shaft body 312 and a cover portion 314 disposed at one end of the shaft body 312. The cover portion 314 can at least partially accommodate the first shaft sleeve 304 or the second shaft sleeve 306. Each shaft assembly 300 also includes a retaining ring 316 mounted at the other end of the shaft body 312. The cover portion 314 and the retaining ring 316 cooperate to limit axial movement of the shaft 302 relative to the first shaft sleeve 304 and the second shaft sleeve 306, thereby preventing the shaft 302 from being separated from the second connector 200.
[0049] By retaining the first and second sleeves 304 and 306 in the first and second slots 208 and 210 , respectively, and limiting axial movement of the shaft 302 relative to the first and second sleeves 304 and 306 , the shaft assembly 300 can be securely retained on the second connector 200 .
[0050] In the illustrated embodiment, the shafts 302 of the two shaft assemblies 300 are arranged in different orientations such that the cover portions 314 of the two shafts 302 are located on either side of the second connector 200, thereby preventing mechanical interference between the cover portions 314 of the two shafts 302. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments not shown, the shafts may not include cover portions, and instead two retaining rings may be provided at both ends of the shafts to limit axial movement of the shafts relative to the first and second sleeves.
[0051] Reference Figures 2 to 5C The connection assembly 10 includes a first limiting structure and a second limiting structure. The first limiting structure is configured to limit the range of motion of the first connection member 100 relative to the second connection member 200 in the axial direction A, so that the first connection member 100 is in a first limit position (such as Figure 4B As shown) and the second extreme position (as Figure 4C The second limiting structure is configured to limit the range of motion of the first connecting member 100 relative to the second connecting member 200 along the extension direction E, so that the first connecting member 100 is in the third limit position (as shown) relative to the second connecting member 200 in the extension direction E. Figure 5B As shown) and the fourth extreme position (as Figure 5C shown).
[0052] In the illustrated embodiment, the first limiting structure includes a second protrusion 212, which extends from the base plate 202 between the first side wall 104 and the second side wall 106 and can selectively abut against either the first side wall 104 or the second side wall 106 to limit the movement of the first connector 100 relative to the second connector 200 along the axial direction A. Figure 4BAs shown, the second protrusion 212 can abut against the second side wall 106, and the first side wall 104 can abut against the first side plate 204 to limit the first connecting member 100 from further moving leftward relative to the second connecting member 200 along the axial direction A. At this time, the first connecting member 100 is in a first limit position relative to the second connecting member 200; Figure 4C As shown, the second protrusion 212 can abut against the first side wall 104, and the second side wall 106 can abut against the second side plate 206 to limit the first connecting member 100 from further moving to the right along the axial direction A relative to the second connecting member 200. At this time, the first connecting member 100 is in the second extreme position relative to the second connecting member 200.
[0053] It is understood that the first limiting structure may have many variations. For example, in other embodiments not shown, where the first side plate and the second side plate of the second connector are disposed between the first side wall and the second side wall of the first connector, the first limiting structure may include a first protrusion extending from the base wall between the first side plate and the second side plate and capable of selectively abutting against either the first side plate or the second side plate to limit movement of the first connector relative to the second connector along the axial direction A.
[0054] Continue to refer to Figures 2 to 5C The second retaining structure includes a first retaining groove 120 and a second retaining groove 122 provided on the first connector 100, and a first retaining tab 220 and a second retaining tab 222 provided on the second connector 200. The first retaining groove 120 and the second retaining groove 122 are symmetrically arranged, for example, symmetrically arranged with respect to the axis of the first fastening hole 114. The first retaining groove 120 and the second retaining groove 122 may extend substantially parallel to the extension direction E of the first slot 208 and the second slot 210. The first retaining tab 220 and the second retaining tab 222 are symmetrically arranged, for example, symmetrically arranged with respect to the axis of the second fastening hole 214.
[0055] In the illustrated embodiment, the first limiting groove 120 and the second limiting groove 122 are respectively disposed at the junction of the first side wall 104 and the base wall 102, and at the junction of the second side wall 106 and the base wall 102. The first limiting tab 220 and the second limiting tab 222 extend toward each other from the first side panel 204 and the second side panel 206, respectively, and extend through the first limiting groove 120 and the second limiting groove 122, respectively.
[0056] The first limiting groove 120 has two opposing ends. The first limiting tab 220 can selectively abut against either end of the first limiting groove 120 to limit movement of the first connector 100 relative to the second connector 200 along the extension direction E. The second limiting groove 122 has two opposing ends. The second limiting tab 222 can selectively abut against either end of the second limiting groove 122 to limit movement of the first connector 100 relative to the second connector 200 along the extension direction E.
[0057] Reference Figure 3 as well as Figures 5A to 5C The first limiting protrusion 220 and the second limiting protrusion 222 can respectively abut the right end of the first limiting groove 120 and the right end of the second limiting groove 122 to limit the first connecting member 100 from moving further leftward relative to the second connecting member 200 along the extension direction E. At this time, Figure 5B As shown, the first connecting member 100 is in the third limit position relative to the second connecting member 200; the first limiting protrusion 220 and the second limiting protrusion 222 can respectively abut the left end of the first limiting groove 120 and the left end of the second limiting groove 122 to limit the first connecting member 100 from further moving rightward along the extension direction E relative to the second connecting member 200. At this time, as shown in FIG. Figure 5C As shown, the first connecting member 100 is in the fourth extreme position relative to the second connecting member 200. In addition, due to the provision of the second limiting structure, the range of motion of the first connecting member 100 relative to the second connecting member 200 along the extension direction E is limited, so that the first sleeve 304 is always located in the first slot 208 and the second sleeve 306 is always located in the second slot 210 as described above.
[0058] Optionally, the second limiting structure is configured such that: during the relative movement of the first connecting member 100 and the second connecting member 200, the first limiting protrusion 220 does not contact the upper and lower edges of the first limiting groove 120, and the second limiting protrusion 222 does not contact the upper and lower edges of the second limiting groove 122, so as to avoid noise caused by friction between the first limiting protrusion 220 and the first limiting groove 120 and friction between the second limiting protrusion 222 and the second limiting groove 122.
[0059] Optionally, the second retaining structure is configured such that: during relative movement between the first connector 100 and the second connector 200, each of the first retaining tab 220 and the second retaining tab 222 is spaced apart from the base wall 102 to prevent the first retaining tab 220 and the second retaining tab 222 from rubbing against the base wall 102 and generating noise. In the illustrated embodiment, the first retaining tab 220 forms an acute angle with the first side plate 204, and the second retaining tab 222 forms an acute angle with the second side plate 206 to ensure that each of the first retaining tab 220 and the second retaining tab 222 is spaced apart from the base wall 102 during relative movement between the first connector 100 and the second connector 200, thereby reducing friction and noise.
[0060] In the illustrated embodiment, reinforcing ribs 221 , 223 are further provided at the junction of the first limiting protrusion 220 and the first side plate 204 and at the junction of the second limiting protrusion 222 and the second side plate 206 to further enhance the rigidity of the second connecting member 200 .
[0061] It is understood that the second limiting structure can also have many variations. For example, in other embodiments not shown, the first limiting groove and the second limiting groove can also be respectively provided at the first side wall and the second side wall instead of being provided at the junction of the first side wall and the base wall and the junction of the second side wall and the base wall; for another example, in other embodiments not shown, when the first side plate and the second side plate are provided between the first side wall and the second side wall, the first limiting tab and the second limiting tab can respectively extend from the first side plate and the second side plate in a manner away from each other (i.e., extending away from each other); for another example, in other embodiments not shown, other suitable numbers of limiting tabs and limiting grooves can be provided, for example, one or more limiting grooves can be provided on the first connecting member, and one or more limiting tabs can be provided on the second connecting member accordingly; for another example, in other embodiments not shown, a limiting tab can be provided on the first connecting member, and a limiting groove can be provided on the second connecting member.
[0062] It should also be understood that the various components and features described herein may be made of a variety of materials, including but not limited to polymers, rubber, metal, and other suitable materials or combinations of materials known to those skilled in the art. Figures 1 to 5C The illustrated embodiments merely illustrate the shapes, sizes, quantities, and arrangements of the various optional components of the connection assembly according to the present invention. However, these are merely illustrative and non-limiting. Other shapes, sizes, quantities, and arrangements may be employed without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
[0063] The technical content and technical features of the present invention have been disclosed above. However, it is understandable that, based on the creative ideas of the present invention, those skilled in the art can easily make modifications, variations and equivalents of these embodiments according to the disclosed content. For example, a feature shown or described as part of one embodiment can be used together with another embodiment to produce yet another embodiment. The present disclosure is intended to cover these modifications, variations and equivalents. The description of the above embodiments is illustrative rather than restrictive, and the scope of protection of the present invention is determined by the claims.
Claims
1. A connection assembly, the connection assembly (10) being suitable for connecting a first component (20) to a second component (30), characterized in that The connecting assembly (10) comprises: a first connecting member (100) comprising a base wall (102) adapted to be connected to the first member (20) and a first side wall (104) and a second side wall (106) extending from the base wall (102) and opposite to each other; a second connecting member (200) comprising a base plate (202) opposite to the base wall (102) and adapted to be connected to the second member (30), and a first side plate (204) and a second side plate (206) extending from the base plate (202) and opposite to each other; and a shaft assembly (300), wherein the first connecting member (100) is coupled to the second connecting member (200) via the shaft assembly (300), and the shaft assembly (300) includes a shaft (302); wherein the first side wall (104) and the second side wall (106) respectively include a first opening (108) and a second opening (110), and the first side plate (204) and the second side plate (206) respectively include a first slot (208) and a second slot (210); The shaft (302) extends through the first opening (108), the second opening (110), the first slot (208) and the second slot (210), and the shaft (302) is clearance-fitted with the first opening (108) and the second opening (110), and the shaft (302) is capable of moving within the first slot (208) and the second slot (210) along an extension direction (E) of the first slot (208) and / or the second slot (210), so that: the first connecting member (100) is capable of moving relative to the second connecting member (200) along an axial direction (A) of the shaft (302), and the first connecting member (100) is capable of moving relative to the second connecting member (200) along the extension direction (E) together with the shaft (302).
2. The connection assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that The axial direction (A) is substantially perpendicular to the extension direction (E).
3. The connection assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that The connecting assembly (10) includes a first limiting structure and a second limiting structure, wherein the first limiting structure is configured to limit the range of movement of the first connecting member (100) relative to the second connecting member (200) along the axial direction (A), and the second limiting structure is configured to limit the range of movement of the first connecting member (100) relative to the second connecting member (200) along the extension direction (E).
4. The connection assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that The first limiting structure includes a protrusion, which extends from the base plate (202) to between the first side wall (104) and the second side wall (106) and is capable of selectively abutting either the first side wall (104) and the second side wall (106) or extends from the base wall (102) to between the first side plate (204) and the second side plate (206) and is capable of selectively abutting either the first side plate (204) and the second side plate (206) to limit the movement of the first connecting member (100) relative to the second connecting member (200) along the axial direction (A).
5. The connection assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that The first side wall (104) and the second side wall (106) are arranged between the first side plate (204) and the second side plate (206), and the protrusion (212) extends from the base plate (202) to between the first side wall (104) and the second side wall (106).
6. The connection assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that The protrusion includes a fastening hole for a fastener to pass through to connect the base plate (202) to the second member (30) or to connect the base wall (102) to the first member (20).
7. The connection assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that The second limiting structure includes a limiting groove provided on one of the first connecting member (100) and the second connecting member (200) and a limiting protrusion provided on the other of the first connecting member (100) and the second connecting member (200), wherein the limiting groove extends substantially parallel to the extension direction (E) and has two ends opposite to each other, and the limiting protrusion extends through the limiting groove and is capable of selectively abutting against either end of the limiting groove to limit the movement of the first connecting member (100) relative to the second connecting member (200) along the extension direction (E).
8. The connection assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that The second limiting structure includes a first limiting groove (120) and a second limiting groove (122) and a first limiting protrusion (220) and a second limiting protrusion (222), wherein the first limiting groove (120) and the second limiting groove (122) are respectively arranged on the first side wall (104) and the second side wall (106) or respectively arranged at the junction of the first side wall (104) and the base wall (102) and the junction of the second side wall (106) and the base wall (102), wherein the first limiting protrusion (220) and the second limiting protrusion (222) extend from the first side plate (204) and the second side plate (206) respectively and extend through the first limiting groove (120) and the second limiting groove (122) respectively.
9. The connection assembly according to claim 8, characterized in that The first side wall (104) and the second side wall (106) are disposed between the first side panel (204) and the second side panel (206), the first limiting tab (220) and the second limiting tab (222) extend toward each other, and each of the first limiting tab (220) and the second limiting tab (222) is spaced apart from the base wall (102).
10. The connection assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that The base plate (202) is substantially parallel to the base wall (102) and substantially perpendicular to the first side plate (204) and the second side plate (206); the first limiting protrusion (220) forms an acute angle with the first side plate (204); and the second limiting protrusion (222) forms an acute angle with the second side plate (206).
11. The connection assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that The shaft assembly (300) further includes a first shaft sleeve (304) and a second shaft sleeve (306) sleeved outside the shaft (302); the first shaft sleeve (304) and the second shaft sleeve (306) are respectively installed in the first slot (208) and the second slot (210) and are respectively capable of moving along the first slot (208) and the second slot (210).
12. The connection assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that The first sleeve (304) includes a first annular groove (308) arranged on its outer circumference, and the second sleeve (306) includes a second annular groove (310) arranged on its outer circumference, and the first annular groove (308) and the second annular groove (310) respectively engage the inner edge of the first slot (208) and the inner edge of the second slot (210).
13. The connection assembly according to claim 12, characterized in that The first side plate (204) further includes a third slot (216) adjacent to and connected to the first slot (208), and the second side plate (206) further includes a fourth slot (218) adjacent to and connected to the second slot (210); wherein the third slot (216) is configured to allow the first sleeve (304) to be installed into the third slot (216) along its axial direction, and the first slot (208) is configured to prevent the first sleeve (304) from being disengaged from the first slot (208) along its axial direction; wherein the fourth slot (218) is configured to allow the second sleeve (306) to be installed into the fourth slot (218) along its axial direction, and the second slot (210) is configured to prevent the second sleeve (306) from being disengaged from the second slot (210) along its axial direction.
14. The connection assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that The first side wall (104) and the second side wall (106) respectively include two first openings (108) and two second openings (110), wherein the first side plate (204) and the second side plate (206) respectively include a first slot (208) and a second slot (210), wherein the connecting assembly (10) includes two shaft assemblies (300), and the shaft (302) of each shaft assembly (300) extends through a corresponding first opening (108), a corresponding second opening (110), the first slot (208) and the second slot (210).
15. The connection assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that The first side wall (104) can abut against the first side plate (204), and the second side wall (106) can abut against the second side plate (206) to limit the range of movement of the first connecting member (100) relative to the second connecting member (200) along the axial direction (A).