Folding mechanism and vehicle

Abstract

The utility model provides a folding mechanism and a vehicle, and relates to the technical field of tools for riding instead of walk. The folding mechanism comprises a first support, a second support, a limiting assembly and a driving piece, and a kidney-shaped hole is formed in the first support; the second support is located on one side of the first support and rotationally connected with the first support. The second support comprises a first end and a second end which are oppositely arranged, the first end is provided with a limiting groove opposite to the kidney-shaped hole, and the limiting groove penetrates through the surface, away from the second end, of the second support. The limiting assembly comprises a kidney-shaped limiting shaft and at least one limiting clamp spring, one end of the limiting shaft is arranged in the kidney-shaped hole, and the other end of the limiting shaft is selectively arranged in the limiting groove; the driving part is arranged on the first support, and the output end of the driving part is connected with the limiting shaft so as to drive the limiting shaft to slide in the kidney-shaped hole, so that the limiting shaft is separated from or contained in the limiting groove. According to the folding mechanism, abrasion to the first support and the second support can be reduced, and the service life of the folding mechanism is prolonged.

Description

[0001] This application is required to be filed with the Chinese Patent Office on May 13, 2024, application number:

[0002] Priority is given to Chinese patent application 202421038105.1 entitled “Folding Mechanism and Vehicle”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to the field of personal transportation technology, and more particularly to a folding mechanism and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0004] Electric scooters are becoming increasingly common in people's daily lives, and their agility and portability have made them popular among young consumers. Currently, they typically use folding stems to reduce overall size, making them easy to store or carry.

[0005] In related technologies, a folding mechanism typically includes a bracket, a first connecting structure, and a second connecting structure. The bracket includes a first bracket and a second bracket, which are detachably connected via the first connecting structure. The first bracket is rotatably connected to the second bracket via the second connecting structure. The first bracket is used to connect to the upright tube, and the second bracket is connected to the vehicle body. When the electric scooter needs to be folded, the first connecting structure is moved and the relative fixation of the first bracket and the second bracket is released, thereby causing the first bracket to rotate around the second bracket, completing the folding process.

[0006] However, moving the first connecting structure will increase the wear on the first and second supports, reducing their service life. Utility Model Content

[0007] In view of the above problems, this application provides a folding mechanism and vehicle that can reduce wear on the first and second supports and improve the service life of the folding mechanism.

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the embodiments of this application provide the following technical solutions:

[0009] A first aspect of this application provides a folding mechanism, which includes:

[0010] A first bracket; one end of the first bracket is used to connect to the front of the vehicle; wherein, the first bracket is provided with an oblong hole;

[0011] The second bracket is located on one side of the first bracket and is rotatably connected to the first bracket; the second bracket includes a first end and a second end disposed opposite to each other, the second end being used to connect to the vehicle body, and the first end having a limiting groove opposite to the waist-shaped hole, the limiting groove penetrating the surface of the second bracket away from the second end;

[0012] A limiting assembly, the limiting assembly including a waist-shaped limiting shaft and at least one limiting snap ring disposed on the limiting shaft, one end of the limiting shaft being disposed in the waist-shaped hole, and the other end of the limiting shaft being selectively disposed in the limiting groove;

[0013] A driving component is disposed on the first bracket, and the output end of the driving component is connected to the limiting shaft to drive the limiting shaft to slide within the waist-shaped hole, thereby causing the limiting shaft to disengage from or be accommodated within the limiting groove.

[0014] In one possible implementation, the driving element includes a first driving element and a second driving element, the output ends of the first driving element and the second driving element being respectively connected to the limiting shaft;

[0015] The first driving member is used to drive the limiting shaft to move in the waist-shaped hole along the direction from the second end to the first end; the second driving member is used to drive the limiting shaft to move in the waist-shaped hole along the direction from the first end to the second end.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the first driving member includes a connector and a force-applying member, the connector being rotatably connected to the first bracket, and one end of the connector being connected to the limiting shaft;

[0017] The other end of the connector is connected to the force-applying member, which is configured to drive the connector to rotate, causing the limiting shaft to slide in the oblong hole in a direction away from the second end, thereby causing the limiting shaft to disengage from the limiting groove.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the connector includes an engaging groove and a connecting protrusion disposed opposite to each other, the engaging groove being engaged on the limiting shaft; one end of the force-applying member is connected to the connecting protrusion via a connecting shaft.

[0019] In one possible implementation, the force-applying element includes a torsion spring and a foot pedal, the foot pedal including a notch and a first mounting hole, the first mounting hole penetrating the foot pedal located on both sides of the notch; the notch is sleeved on the connecting protrusion, and the connecting protrusion includes a second mounting hole opposite to the first mounting hole;

[0020] The connecting shaft connects the first mounting hole and the second mounting hole; the torsion spring is sleeved on the connecting shaft and located in the notch; one end of the torsion spring is connected to the foot pedal, and the other end of the torsion spring is connected to the connecting piece.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the second driving member includes a first fixed shaft and a first elastic member, the first fixed shaft being fixedly connected to the first bracket, and one end of the first elastic member being connected to the first fixed shaft, and the other end of the first elastic member being connected to the limiting shaft.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the folding mechanism further includes a switch assembly disposed on the first bracket, one end of which is selectively connected to the first drive member to unlock or lock the first drive member.

[0023] In one possible implementation, the switch assembly includes a connecting plate, a sliding plate, and a second elastic element;

[0024] The connecting plate is disposed on the first bracket, and the connecting plate is provided with a sliding groove; the second elastic member is located in the sliding groove, and one end of the second elastic member is connected to the connecting plate; the other end of the second elastic member is connected to the sliding plate.

[0025] In one possible implementation, the sliding plate protrudes toward the connecting plate to form a protrusion having a third mounting hole; the other end of the second elastic member is connected to the protrusion; the connecting plate includes a fourth mounting hole communicating with the third mounting hole;

[0026] The switch assembly also includes a screw; one end of the screw passes through the fourth mounting hole and is screwed into the third mounting hole.

[0027] In one possible implementation, the first support includes an inclined tube; the folding mechanism further includes a detection component, the detection component including a first detection element and a second detection element, one of the first detection element and the second detection element being disposed inside the inclined tube, and the other of the first detection element and the second detection element being disposed in the first drive element;

[0028] One of the first detection element and the second detection element is used to detect the position of the other to determine the relative position of the limiting shaft and the limiting groove.

[0029] In one possible implementation, the first detection element is disposed inside the inclined tube, and the first detection element is a Hall device;

[0030] The second detection element is disposed on the first driving element, and the second detection element is a magnet.

[0031] In one possible implementation, the first detection element is disposed in the inner cavity of the inclined tube via a mounting element.

[0032] In one possible implementation, the mechanism further includes a rotating shaft; the second support includes a first support plate and a second support plate, the first support plate and the second support plate being located on both sides of the second support and symmetrically arranged relative to the first support.

[0033] The rotating shaft passes through the first bracket, and its two ends are rotatably connected to the first support plate and the second support plate, respectively. A bushing is provided at the connection between the rotating shaft and the first support plate and at the connection between the rotating shaft and the second support plate.

[0034] In one possible implementation, the mechanism further includes a second fixed shaft and a preload sleeved on the second fixed shaft, with the two ends of the second fixed shaft connected to the first support plate and the second support plate, respectively.

[0035] When the limiting shaft is accommodated in the limiting groove, the preload abuts against the limiting shaft.

[0036] In one possible implementation, the folding mechanism further includes an elastic preload member disposed on the second support and abutting against the first support.

[0037] In one possible implementation, the elastic preload is connected to the second bracket via a connector.

[0038] In one possible implementation, the connector includes a mounting groove, and the elastic preload member is disposed in the mounting groove and protrudes from the mounting groove.

[0039] In one possible implementation, the fastener further includes a first fastener and two second fasteners, with the mounting groove disposed on the first fastener;

[0040] Two second fixing members are disposed at both ends of the first fixing member and have a preset included angle with the first fixing member respectively; and the two second fixing members are respectively connected to the second bracket.

[0041] In one possible implementation, the folding mechanism further includes an adapter, which is disposed at least on at least one side of the inclined tube;

[0042] The adapter has at least one wiring channel for accommodating a wire harness.

[0043] A second aspect of this application provides a vehicle including a front end, a body, and the folding mechanism described in the first aspect, wherein one end of the folding mechanism is connected to the front end and the other end is connected to the body.

[0044] In one possible implementation, the vehicle further includes a controller connected to a first detection element of the folding mechanism.

[0045] In the folding mechanism and vehicle provided in this application embodiment, by setting the limiting shaft into an oblong structure, with both the upper and lower surfaces of the limiting shaft including smooth straight segments, the contact area between the limiting shaft and the oblong hole and limiting groove is increased when the limiting shaft slides in the oblong hole. This reduces the wear depth of the oblong hole and limiting groove, thereby increasing the service life of the first and second supports and reducing the production cost of the folding mechanism. Furthermore, by reducing the wear depth of the oblong hole and limiting groove, the swaying of the folding mechanism during normal riding can be reduced, improving vehicle safety. Additionally, by reducing the wear depth of the oblong hole and limiting groove, the rigidity requirements of the first and second supports can be reduced, allowing for a reduction in the thickness of the first and second supports, thereby reducing the weight of the vehicle and improving its portability.

[0046] In addition, when the limiting shaft is accommodated in the limiting groove, the limiting snap ring is used to contact the second bracket to prevent the limiting shaft from sliding left and right during movement, thereby improving the stability of the limiting assembly.

[0047] In addition to the technical problems solved by the embodiments of this application, the technical features constituting the technical solutions, and the beneficial effects brought about by the technical features of these technical solutions described above, other technical problems that can be solved by the folding mechanism and vehicle provided by the embodiments of this application, other technical features included in the technical solutions, and the beneficial effects brought about by these technical features will be further explained in detail in the specific implementation. Attached Figure Description

[0048] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0049] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a vehicle provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 2 An exploded view of a folding mechanism provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0051] Figure 3 State of the force-applying member provided in an embodiment of this application Figure 1 ;

[0052] Figure 4 State of the force-applying member provided in an embodiment of this application Figure 2 ;

[0053] Figure 5 State of the force-applying member provided in an embodiment of this application Figure 3 ;

[0054] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a switching assembly provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0055] Figure 7 This is an exploded view of a switching assembly provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0056] Figure 8 A perspective view of a folding mechanism provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0057] Figure 9 A front view of a folding mechanism provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0058] Figure 10 A partial exploded view of a folding mechanism provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0059] Figure 11 This is an internal schematic diagram of a folding mechanism provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0060] Figure 12 A schematic diagram of an elastic preload element provided for another embodiment of the application;

[0061] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of a connector provided in another embodiment of this application.

[0062] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0063] 100: Folding mechanism;

[0064] 110: First support; 111: Connecting hole; 112: Riser; 113: Inclined pipe; 1131: First through hole; 1132: Second through hole; 114: Waist-shaped hole;

[0065] 120: Second bracket; 121: First support plate; 122: Second support plate; 123: First end; 124: Second end; 125: Limiting groove; 126: Bushing;

[0066] 130: Rotation axis;

[0067] 140: Limiting component; 141: Limiting shaft; 142: Limiting snap ring; 143: Groove;

[0068] 150: First driving component;

[0069] 151: Connector; 1511: Engaging groove; 1512: Connecting protrusion; 1513: Second mounting hole;

[0070] 152: Force-applying component; 1521: Torsion spring; 1522: Foot pedal; 1523: Notch; 1524: First mounting hole;

[0071] 153: Rotation shaft;

[0072] 154: Connecting shaft;

[0073] 160: Second driving component; 161: First fixed shaft; 162: First elastic component;

[0074] 170: Switch assembly;

[0075] 171: Connecting plate; 1711: First bend; 1712: Second bend; 1713: Sliding groove; 1714: Fourth mounting hole;

[0076] 172: Sliding plate; 1721: Protrusion;

[0077] 173: Second elastic element;

[0078] 180: Second fixed axis;

[0079] 190: Preload;

[0080] 10: Detection component; 11: First detection element; 12: Second detection element; 13: Mounting component;

[0081] 20: Elastic preload component;

[0082] 30: Fastener; 31: First fastener; 32: Second fastener; 33: Mounting slot;

[0083] 40: Adapter;

[0084] 200: Handlebar; 210: Column; 220: Handlebar; 230: Front wheel; 240: Front fork;

[0085] 300: Body; 310: Rear wheel; 320: Rear fork. Detailed Implementation

[0086] As described in the background section, the first and second supports in the related technologies suffer from significant wear. The inventors have discovered that this problem arises because the first connecting structure in the related technologies typically includes a circular retaining shaft. Correspondingly, the first support has a sliding hole, and the second support has a retaining groove. One end of the circular retaining shaft slides within the sliding hole, and the other end slides within the retaining groove. Given the small contact area between the circular retaining shaft and the sliding hole and groove, deep scratches are formed on the inner walls of the sliding hole and groove during movement, increasing the wear on both the first and second supports.

[0087] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this application provides a folding mechanism and vehicle. By configuring the limiting shaft into an oblong structure, with both its upper and lower surfaces including smooth straight segments, the contact area between the limiting shaft and the oblong hole and limiting groove is increased when the limiting shaft slides in the oblong hole. This reduces the wear depth on the oblong hole and limiting groove, thereby increasing the service life of the first and second supports and reducing the production cost of the folding mechanism. Furthermore, reducing the wear depth on the oblong hole and limiting groove reduces the swaying of the folding mechanism during normal riding, improving vehicle safety. Additionally, reducing the wear depth on the oblong hole and limiting groove lowers the rigidity requirements of the first and second supports, allowing for a reduction in their thickness and thus reducing the vehicle's weight and improving its portability.

[0088] In addition, when the limiting shaft is accommodated in the limiting groove, the limiting snap ring is used to contact the second bracket to prevent the limiting shaft from sliding left and right during movement, thereby improving the stability of the limiting assembly.

[0089] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of the embodiments of this application more apparent and understandable, the technical solutions of 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 them. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0090] Please refer to the attached document. Figure 1 This application provides a foldable vehicle for easy carrying. The vehicle can be a foldable scooter, a foldable balance bike, a foldable bicycle, or a foldable electric vehicle.

[0091] The vehicle includes a folding mechanism 100, a front end 200, and a body 300. One end of the folding mechanism 100 is connected to the front end 200, and the other end is connected to the body 300, thus connecting the front end 200 and the body 300. It should be noted that the other end of the folding mechanism can rotate relative to the body 300, so that the vehicle is folded, which is beneficial for carrying or transporting the vehicle.

[0092] The front end 200 may include a column 210, a handlebar 220 and a front wheel 230. The folding mechanism 100 includes a connecting hole 111. The column 210 passes through the connecting hole 111, and one end of the column 210 is connected to the handlebar 220. The other end of the column 210 is connected to the front wheel 230 through the front fork 240.

[0093] The vehicle body 300 also includes a rear wheel 310 and a rear fork 320. The end of the vehicle body 300 facing away from the folding mechanism 100 is connected to the rear wheel 310 via the rear fork 320. The front end 200 can follow the attached... Figure 1 Rotate in the direction of the middle arrow to allow the vehicle to be in a folded or unfolded state.

[0094] Please refer to the attached document. Figure 1 To be continued Figure 7 The folding mechanism 100 provided in this embodiment includes a first bracket 110, one end of which is connected to the upright 210 of the front of the vehicle 200. For example, the first bracket 110 includes a vertical tube 112 and an inclined tube 113 connected to the vertical tube 112, with a preset angle between the vertical tube 112 and the inclined tube 113. The inner cavity of the vertical tube 112 forms a connecting hole 111. The upright 210 passes through the connecting hole 111 of the vertical tube 112, and one end of the upright 210 is connected to the handlebar 220, while the other end is connected to the front wheel 230. It should be noted that the cross-sectional shape of the vertical tube 112 is circular, and the cross-sectional shape of the inclined tube 113 is square.

[0095] The first support 110 is provided with an oblong hole 114, for example, the oblong hole 114 is provided on the inclined tube 113. In other words, the oblong hole 114 can be provided on the side of the inclined tube 113.

[0096] The folding mechanism 100 also includes a second support 120, which is located on one side of the first support 110 and is rotatably connected to the first support 110. It should be noted that the rotatable connection between the second support 120 and the first support 110 can be achieved through a rotating shaft 130, or it can have other structures.

[0097] For example, the folding mechanism 100 further includes a rotating shaft 130, one end of which is rotatably connected to the second support 120, and the other end of which is rotatably connected to the first support 110. It should be noted that the second support 120 can be a single integral component or a separate component. For example, the second support 120 includes a first support plate 121 and a second support plate 122, which are located on opposite sides of the first support 110. The first support plate 121 and the second support plate 122 are symmetrically arranged relative to the first support 110 to improve the stability of the folding mechanism 100.

[0098] The rotating shaft 130 passes through the second bracket 120, and both ends of the rotating shaft 130 are rotatably connected to the first support plate 121 and the second support plate 122, respectively. Bushings 126 are provided at the connection between the rotating shaft 130 and the first support plate 121, and at the connection between the rotating shaft 130 and the second support plate 122. The bushings 126 are copper bushings, which can improve the lubrication between the rotating shaft 130 and the bushings 126 and reduce the wear on the rotating shaft 130.

[0099] Please continue to refer to the appendix. Figure 1 and attached Figure 2 The second bracket 120 includes a first end 123 and a second end 124 disposed opposite to each other. The second end 124 is used to connect to the vehicle body 300. For example, the second end 124 is fixedly connected to the vehicle body 300 by bolts.

[0100] A limiting groove 125 is provided on the first end 123. The limiting groove 125 is positioned opposite to the waist-shaped hole 114, and the limiting groove 125 penetrates the surface of the second bracket 120 away from the second end 124. That is, the limiting groove 125 exposes part of the surface of the first end 123, so that the limiting groove 125 has a notch to facilitate the movement of the limiting shaft 141.

[0101] The folding mechanism 100 also includes a limiting component 140, which includes a waist-shaped limiting shaft 141. One end of the limiting shaft 141 is located in the waist-shaped hole 114, and the other end of the limiting shaft 141 is selectively located within a limiting groove 125. When the vehicle needs to be folded, the limiting shaft 141 disengages from the limiting groove 125, releasing the relative fixed connection between the first bracket 110 and the second bracket 120. When the vehicle is in normal operation, the limiting shaft 141 is located within the limiting groove 125, connecting the first bracket 110 and the second bracket 120.

[0102] The folding mechanism 100 also includes a drive component, which is mounted on the first bracket 110. The output end of the drive component is connected to a limiting shaft 141 to drive the limiting shaft 141 to slide within the oblong hole 114, thereby allowing the limiting shaft 141 to disengage from or be accommodated within the limiting groove 125. When the drive component moves the limiting shaft 141 towards the front of the vehicle 200, the limiting shaft 141 can disengage from the limiting groove 125, releasing the fixed connection between the first bracket 110 and the second bracket 120. At this time, the front of the vehicle 200 can be rotated, causing it to bend towards the vehicle body 300, thus achieving the folding function of the vehicle. When the vehicle needs to be ridden normally, the front of the vehicle 200 bends in a direction away from the vehicle body 300 and moves into place. At this time, when the drive component moves the limiting shaft 141 in a direction away from the front of the vehicle 200, the limiting shaft 141 can be accommodated within the limiting groove 125, achieving a fixed connection between the first bracket 110 and the second bracket 120, so that the vehicle can be ridden normally.

[0103] Since the limiting shaft 141 has an oblong structure, both its upper and lower surfaces include smooth straight sections. When the limiting shaft 141 slides in the oblong hole 114, the contact area between the limiting shaft 141 and the oblong hole 114 and the limiting groove 125 is increased, reducing the wear depth on the oblong hole 114 and the limiting groove 125. This, in turn, increases the service life of the first bracket 110 and the second bracket 120, and reduces the production cost of the folding mechanism 100. Furthermore, reducing the wear depth on the oblong hole 114 and the limiting groove 125 reduces the swaying of the folding mechanism 100 during normal riding, improving vehicle safety. Additionally, reducing the wear depth on the oblong hole 114 and the limiting groove 125 reduces the rigidity requirements on the first bracket 110 and the second bracket 120, allowing for a reduction in the thickness of the first bracket 110 and the second bracket 120, thereby reducing the vehicle's weight and improving its portability.

[0104] In this embodiment, the limiting component 140 further includes at least one limiting spring 142, which is disposed on the limiting shaft 141. For example, the limiting groove 125 is provided with a groove 143, the limiting spring 142 is disposed in the groove 143, and the top surface of the limiting spring 142 protrudes from the groove 143; when the limiting shaft 141 is located in the limiting groove 125, the limiting spring 142 is used to contact the second bracket 120 to prevent left and right sliding during the movement of the limiting shaft 141, thereby improving the stability of the limiting component 140.

[0105] It should be noted that the number of at least one limiting spring clip 142 is one, two, or even more. For example, there are two limiting spring clips 142, which are spaced apart on the limiting shaft 141. One limiting spring clip 142 contacts the first support plate 121, and the other limiting spring clip 142 contacts the second support plate 122, so that the limiting shaft 141 and the second bracket 120 have two limiting points, further preventing the limiting shaft 141 from wobbling left and right.

[0106] Please refer to the attached document. Figure 2 and attached Figure 3 The movement path of the limiting shaft 141 in the waist-shaped hole 114 may include a first movement path and a second movement path, wherein the first movement path may be the direction from the second end 124 to the first end 123; and the second movement path may be the direction from the first end 123 to the second end 124.

[0107] The first and second movement paths of the limiting shaft 141 can be achieved by a single driving component, such as a cylinder, which drives the limiting shaft 141 to reciprocate within the oblong hole 114. Alternatively, the first and second movement paths of the limiting shaft 141 can be achieved by two driving components.

[0108] As one possible implementation of the driver, please refer to the appendix. Figure 2 To be continued Figure 5 The driving components include a first driving component 150 and a second driving component 160, the output ends of which are respectively connected to the limiting shaft 141. Specifically, the first driving component 150 drives the limiting shaft 141 to move within the oblong hole 114 in a direction from the second end 124 to the first end 123, thereby disengaging the limiting shaft 141 from the limiting groove 125; the second driving component 160 drives the limiting shaft 141 to move within the oblong hole 114 in a direction from the first end 123 to the second end 124, thereby allowing the limiting shaft 141 to be accommodated within the limiting groove 125.

[0109] In this embodiment, the first driving member 150 and the second driving member 160 drive the limiting shaft 141 to realize the first moving path and the second moving path, which can make the moving path of the limiting shaft 141 more precise.

[0110] In one possible implementation, please refer to the appendix. Figure 2 The first driving member 150 includes a connector 151 and a force-applying member 152. The connector 151 is rotatably connected to the first bracket 110. For example, the connector 151 is rotatably connected to the first bracket 110 through a rotating shaft 153, that is, the connector 151 is rotatably connected to the inclined tube 113 through a rotating shaft 153.

[0111] One end of the connector 151 is connected to the limiting shaft 141; for example, the connector 151 includes a locking groove 1511, which is engaged on the limiting shaft 141 to realize the connection between the connector 151 and the limiting shaft 141.

[0112] The other end of the connector 151 is connected to the force-applying member 152. The connector 151 also includes a connecting protrusion 1512, which is disposed opposite to the engaging groove 1511. For example, the engaging groove 1511 is disposed on the lower surface of the connector 151, and the connecting protrusion 1512 is disposed on the upper surface of the connector 151. One end of the force-applying member 152 is connected to the connecting protrusion 1512 via a connecting shaft 154.

[0113] The force-applying component 152 is configured to drive the connecting component 151 to rotate, causing the limiting shaft 141 to slide in the oblong hole 114 in a direction away from the second end 124, thereby causing the limiting shaft 141 to disengage from the limiting groove 125.

[0114] Please continue to refer to the appendix. Figure 2 The force-applying component 152 includes a torsion spring 1521 and a foot pedal 1522. The foot pedal 1522 includes a notch 1523 and a first mounting hole 1524. The first mounting hole 1524 penetrates the portion of the foot pedal 1522 located on both sides of the notch 1523, so that the first mounting hole 1524 and the notch 1523 are interconnected.

[0115] The notch 1523 is fitted onto the connecting protrusion 1512, and the connecting protrusion 1512 includes a second mounting hole 1513 opposite to the first mounting hole 1524. The connecting shaft 154 connects the first mounting hole 1524 and the second mounting hole 1513 to realize the connection between the foot pedal 1522 and the connector 151.

[0116] The torsion spring 1521 is sleeved on the connecting shaft 154 and located in the notch 1523; one end of the torsion spring 1521 is connected to the foot pedal 1522, and the other end of the torsion spring 1521 is connected to the connector 151. In this way, the elastic holding force of the torsion spring 1521 is used to ensure that the foot pedal 1522 is kept at a fixed angle, which is convenient for foot operation.

[0117] It should be noted that a portion of the first driving component 150 may be located inside the inclined tube 113 of the first support 110. For example, a second through hole 1132 is provided on the top surface of the inclined tube 113, and the second through hole 1132 communicates with the inner cavity of the inclined tube 113, so as to facilitate the placement of the connector 151 and part of the force-applying component 152 inside the inclined tube 113, thereby improving the protection of the first driving component 150.

[0118] Please refer to the attached document. Figure 3 Appendix Figure 4 and attached Figure 5The second driving component 160 includes a first fixed shaft 161 and a first elastic element 162. The first fixed shaft 161 is fixedly connected to the first bracket 110, for example, the first fixed shaft 161 is fixedly connected to the inclined tube 113 of the first bracket 110. It should be noted that one end of the first fixed shaft 161 can be fixedly connected to the inclined tube 113 by screws or by welding.

[0119] One end of the first elastic element 162 is connected to the first fixed shaft 161, and the other end of the first elastic element 162 is connected to the limiting shaft 141. The connection end between the first elastic element 162 and the limiting shaft 141 is located between two limiting retaining springs 142. The first elastic element 162 is a tension spring.

[0120] During the process where the first driving member 150 drives the limiting shaft 141 to move within the oblong hole 114 in the direction from the second end 124 to the first end 123, thereby disengaging the limiting shaft 141 from the limiting groove 125, the first elastic member 162 is in a stretched state. When the first driving member 150 does not apply force, the limiting shaft 141 moves within the oblong hole 114 in the direction from the first end 123 to the second end 124, relying on the elastic restoring force of the first elastic member 162, so that the limiting shaft 141 is accommodated within the limiting groove 125, thereby facilitating the relative fixation of the first bracket 110 and the second bracket 120.

[0121] In one possible implementation, the folding mechanism 100 further includes a switch assembly 170, which is disposed on the first bracket 110. One end of the switch assembly 170 is selectively connected to the first drive member 150 to unlock or lock the first drive member 150. For example, when one end of the switch assembly 170 is connected to the first drive member 150, the first drive member 150 can be locked to prevent the limiting shaft 141 from sliding within the oblong hole 114. Alternatively, when one end of the switch assembly 170 is not connected to the first drive member, unlocking the first drive member 150 allows the first drive member 150 to drive the limiting shaft 141 to slide within the oblong hole 114.

[0122] Please refer to the appendix. Figure 2 Appendix Figure 6 and attached Figure 7 The switch assembly 170 includes a connecting plate 171, a sliding plate 172, and a second elastic member 173.

[0123] A connecting plate 171 is disposed on the first bracket 110, and a sliding groove 1713 is provided on the connecting plate 171 to form a U-shaped structure. In other words, the connecting plate 171 is disposed on the inclined tube 113. For example, the inclined tube 113 is provided with a first through hole 1131, and the connecting plate 171 includes a first bent portion 1711 and a second bent portion 1712. The first bent portion 1711 and the second bent portion 1712 are disposed at both ends of the connecting plate 171 in the extension direction of the inclined tube 113, and in the direction perpendicular to the extension direction of the inclined tube 113, the first bent portion 1711 and the second bent portion 1712 are respectively located at the top and bottom of the connecting plate 171. With this configuration, the connecting plate 171 can be placed inside the first through hole 1131, and the first bent portion 1711 is fitted to the outer surface of the inclined tube 113, while the second bent portion 1712 is fitted to the inner surface of the inclined tube 113, thereby improving the connection between the connecting plate 171 and the inclined tube 113.

[0124] To improve the connection strength between the connecting plate 171 and the inclined tube 113, screw holes are provided on the opposite areas of the first bend 1711 and the inclined tube 113. Screws are screwed into the screw holes to achieve a fixed connection between the connecting plate 171 and the inclined tube 113.

[0125] The second elastic element 173 is located in the sliding groove 1713, and one end of the second elastic element 173 is connected to the connecting plate 171, and the other end of the second elastic element 173 is connected to the sliding plate 172.

[0126] Please refer to sections 3 to 4. Figure 5 As shown, when the sliding plate 172 slides in the direction toward the riser 112, the locking of the force-applying member 152 of the first drive member 150 is released. At this time, the foot pedal 1522 can be ejected by the torsion spring 1521, so that the foot pedal 1522 maintains a certain angle. Then, the user can easily apply force to the foot pedal 1522 to make the foot pedal 1522 adhere to the ground. Figure 5 Rotating in the direction of the middle arrow causes the limiting shaft 141 to move in the waist-shaped hole 114 along the direction from the second end 124 to the first end 123, so that the limiting shaft 141 disengages from the limiting groove 125; after the limiting shaft 141 disengages from the limiting groove 125, the first bracket 110 can rotate and fold around the rotating shaft 130.

[0127] When the vehicle needs to be ridden normally, the first drive member 150 and the second drive member 160 can drive the limiting shaft 141 to move in the oblong hole 114 in the direction from the first end 123 to the second end 124, so that the limiting shaft 141 is accommodated in the limiting groove 125, so that the first bracket 110 and the second bracket 120 are relatively fixed. At this time, when the sliding plate 172 slides in the direction away from the riser tube 112, the sliding plate 172 presses against the upper surface of the foot pedal 1522, thereby locking the force-applying member 152 of the first drive member 150, thus preventing the first drive member 150 from driving the limiting shaft 141 to move, improving the stability and safety of the vehicle. In this embodiment, the locking and unlocking of the first drive member 150 can be easily achieved through the setting of the switch assembly 170.

[0128] Please continue to refer to the appendix. Figure 6 and attached Figure 7 The sliding plate 172 protrudes toward the connecting plate 171 to form a protrusion 1721, which has a third mounting hole (not shown in the figure); the other end of the second elastic member 173 is connected to the protrusion 1721; the connecting plate 171 includes a fourth mounting hole 1714 communicating with the third mounting hole. That is, the protrusion 1721 slides in the fourth mounting hole 1714 so that the protrusion 1721 slides in the sliding groove 1713.

[0129] The switch assembly also includes a screw 174; one end of the screw 174 passes through the fourth mounting hole 1714 and is screwed into the third mounting hole. In this embodiment, the bottom surface of the screw 174 is higher than the bottom surface of the sliding groove 1713, so that locking the screw 174 can prevent the connecting plate from being clamped.

[0130] Please continue to refer to the appendix. Figure 2 and attached Figure 3 The folding mechanism provided in this application embodiment also includes a second fixed shaft 180 and a pre-tightening member 190. The pre-tightening member 190 is sleeved on the second fixed shaft 180, wherein the pre-tightening member 190 is a rubber sleeve.

[0131] The two ends of the second fixed shaft 180 are connected to the first support plate 121 and the second support plate 122 respectively, so as to realize the fixed connection between the first support plate 121 and the second support plate 122, thereby strengthening the structural strength of the first bracket 110 without having to increase the thickness of the first bracket 110 to improve its structural stability. This configuration can reduce the weight of the vehicle.

[0132] Due to limitations in assembly and machining precision, a minute gap exists between the limiting shaft 141 and the rotating shaft 130, which can cause the folding mechanism to wobble. Therefore, when the limiting shaft 141 is accommodated within the limiting groove 125, i.e., when the limiting shaft 141 locks the first bracket 110 and the second bracket 120 to ensure normal vehicle operation, the preload 190 abuts against the limiting shaft 141. This can counteract the minute gap between the limiting shaft 141 and the rotating shaft 130, reduce the wobble of the folding mechanism, and improve the stability and safety of the vehicle during operation.

[0133] In one possible implementation, the first support 110 includes a riser 112 and an inclined tube 113 connected to the riser 112, and the inclined tube 113 is rotatably connected to the first support 110 via a rotating shaft 130. In other words, the first support plate 121 and the second support plate 122 are located on both sides of the inclined tube 113, and are rotatably connected to the first support 110 via the rotating shaft 130.

[0134] The folding mechanism 100 also includes a detection component 10, wherein the detection component 10 includes a first detection element 11 and a second detection element 12. One of the first detection element 11 and the second detection element 12 is disposed inside the inclined tube 113, and the other of the first detection element 11 and the second detection element 12 is disposed in the first drive member 150. For example, the other of the first detection element 11 and the second detection element 12 is disposed on the side of the foot pedal 1522 facing the inclined tube, and the other of the first detection element 11 and the second detection element 12 can be exposed in the second through hole 1132, so that when the folding mechanism 100 is in the unfolded state, the first detection element 11 and the second detection element 12 can be stored in the inclined tube 113 through the second through hole 1132.

[0135] One of the first detection element 11 and the second detection element 12 is used to detect the position of the other in order to determine the relative position of the limiting shaft 141 and the limiting groove 125.

[0136] For example, the second detection element 12 is disposed on the side of the foot pedal 1522 facing the inclined tube 113, and the first detection element 11 is disposed inside the inclined tube 113. When the vehicle is switched from the folded state to the unfolded state, the foot pedal 1522 rotates around the rotation shaft 153, so that the foot pedal 1522 drives the second detection element 12 to move towards the riser tube 112. When the first detection element 11 detects the second detection element 12, it can be determined that the limiting shaft 141 is engaged in the limiting groove 125, thus proving that the limiting shaft 141 is installed in place.

[0137] The detection signal from the first detection element 11 can be processed by itself or transmitted to the vehicle's controller for processing. Alternatively, the first detection element 11 can be connected to the vehicle's controller via a data cable to transmit the detection signal to the controller.

[0138] The controller can determine whether the limiting shaft 141 is installed correctly based on the detection signal from the first detection component 11. If the limiting shaft 141 is installed correctly, the controller can control the battery to supply power, allowing the vehicle to operate normally. This avoids supplying power directly when the limiting shaft 141 is not installed correctly, thus effectively preventing safety hazards such as folding mechanism failure and vehicle loss of control that may be caused by the missing or improperly installed limiting shaft.

[0139] Furthermore, the first detection element 11 and the second detection element 12 can be in various forms. For example, the first detection element 11 can be a detection protrusion, and the second detection element 12 can be a position sensor. For another example, please refer to the attached document. Figure 11 The first detection element 11 is a Hall effect device, which is disposed inside the inclined tube 113; the second detection element 12 is a magnet, which is disposed on the side of the foot pedal 1522 facing the inclined tube 113.

[0140] When the vehicle transitions from a folded to an unfolded state, the foot pedal 1522 rotates around the rotation shaft 153, causing the magnet to gradually approach the Hall device inside the inclined tube 113. As the distance between the magnet and the Hall device decreases, the influence of the magnetic field on the charge carriers within the Hall device gradually increases, causing a change in the Hall voltage. By detecting this change, the Hall device can determine the position of the magnet (i.e., the foot pedal), and thus determine whether the limit switch is engaged in the limit groove 125, thereby proving that the limit shaft 141 is properly installed.

[0141] In this embodiment, the Hall effect device and the magnet work together, and their application in the folding mechanism has advantages such as high precision, high stability, low power consumption, non-contact detection, and ease of installation and maintenance.

[0142] It should be noted that the first detection element 11 can be directly installed on the inner wall of the inclined tube 113, or it can be installed in the inclined tube 113 through other components. For example, the first detection element 11 is disposed in the inner cavity of the inclined tube 113 via the mounting element 13. This improves the stability of the first detection element 11.

[0143] Please refer to the attached document. Figure 8 To be continued Figure 10 The folding mechanism 100 also includes an elastic preload member 20; the elastic preload member 20 is disposed on the second bracket 120 and abuts against the first bracket 110, thereby forming a preload force between the two. This preload force helps to make the connection between the first bracket 110 and the second bracket 120 tighter when the vehicle is unfolded, reducing swaying caused by external forces. Especially during vehicle operation, uneven road surfaces or wind may cause the vehicle body to sway, and the elastic preload member 20 can effectively absorb these swaying movements, improving overall stability.

[0144] The elastic preload 20 can be directly installed on the second bracket 120, or it can be installed on the second bracket 120 through other components.

[0145] For example, the elastic preload 20 is connected to the second bracket 120 by the fastener 30, which makes the installation process of the elastic preload 20 simpler, ensures that the elastic preload 20 can be firmly connected to the second bracket 120, and improves the installation efficiency of the elastic preload.

[0146] The fastener 30 includes a mounting groove 33, which is recessed in a direction away from the first bracket 110. An elastic preload member 20 is disposed within the mounting groove 33 and protrudes from it. The mounting groove 33 provides a stable support platform for the elastic preload member 20. Because the mounting groove 33 is recessed in a direction away from the first bracket, it ensures that the elastic preload member remains stable under external force, preventing displacement or deformation. This helps reduce swaying at the folding connection, thereby improving the vehicle's driving stability and safety.

[0147] It should be understood that the elastic preload 20 can be directly press-fitted into the mounting groove 33, or the elastic preload 20 can be installed on the fixing member 30 by at least one bolt to improve the connection strength between the elastic preload 20 and the fixing member 30.

[0148] Please refer to the attached document. Figure 12 and attached Figure 13 In one possible implementation of the fastener 30, the fastener 30 includes a first fastener 31 and two second fasteners. The two second fasteners are disposed at both ends of the first fastener 31 and have a preset angle with the first fastener 31 respectively. The mounting groove 33 can be formed on the first fastener 31. Preferably, the preset angle is a right angle, so the fastener 30 can be a U-shaped structure.

[0149] Two second fasteners are connected to the second bracket 120 respectively. The U-shaped fastener 30 is connected to the second bracket 120 through the two second fasteners, forming a stable support structure that can effectively disperse and resist external loads and impacts, thereby enhancing the overall strength and stability of the folding mechanism 100.

[0150] In this example, the first fastener 31 and the two second fasteners 32 can be integrally formed, which can improve the structural strength of the fastener 30. Alternatively, the first fastener 31 and the two second fasteners 32 can be separate parts, allowing for reasonable adjustment of the dimensions of the fastener 30.

[0151] In one possible implementation, please refer to the appendix. Figure 9The folding mechanism 100 also includes an adapter 40, which is provided at least on at least one side of the inclined tube 113; in other words, the adapter 40 can be provided on one side of the inclined tube 113 or on both sides of the inclined tube 113.

[0152] The adapter 40 has at least one wiring channel 41 for accommodating the wire harness. The wiring channel 41 on the adapter 40 provides an orderly and neat path for the wire harness, preventing it from becoming disorganized within the folding mechanism. This not only improves the efficiency of wire harness management but also makes the internal structure of the folding mechanism clearer and easier to maintain and repair.

[0153] It should be understood that the wiring harness in this embodiment can be a wiring harness necessary for the operation of the vehicle.

[0154] The various embodiments or implementation methods described in this specification are presented in a progressive manner. Each embodiment focuses on the differences from other embodiments, and the same or similar parts between the embodiments can be referred to each other.

[0155] It should be noted that the terms "one embodiment," "embodiment," "exemplary embodiment," "some embodiments," etc., mentioned in the specification indicate that the described embodiment may include a specific feature, structure, or characteristic, but not every embodiment necessarily includes that specific feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Moreover, when a specific feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, implementing such a feature, structure, or characteristic in conjunction with other embodiments, whether explicitly described or not, is within the knowledge scope of those skilled in the art.

[0156] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A folding mechanism, characterized in that, include A first bracket; one end of the first bracket is used to connect to the front of the vehicle; wherein, the first bracket is provided with an oblong hole; The second bracket is located on one side of the first bracket and is rotatably connected to the first bracket; the second bracket includes a first end and a second end disposed opposite to each other, the second end being used to connect to the vehicle body, and the first end having a limiting groove opposite to the waist-shaped hole, the limiting groove penetrating the surface of the second bracket away from the second end; A limiting assembly, the limiting assembly including a waist-shaped limiting shaft and at least one limiting snap ring disposed on the limiting shaft, one end of the limiting shaft being disposed in the waist-shaped hole, and the other end of the limiting shaft being selectively disposed in the limiting groove; A driving component is disposed on the first bracket, and the output end of the driving component is connected to the limiting shaft to drive the limiting shaft to slide within the waist-shaped hole, thereby causing the limiting shaft to disengage from or be accommodated within the limiting groove.

2. The folding mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The driving component includes a first driving component and a second driving component, and the output ends of the first driving component and the second driving component are respectively connected to the limiting shaft. The first driving member is used to drive the limiting shaft to move in the waist-shaped hole along the direction from the second end to the first end; the second driving member is used to drive the limiting shaft to move in the waist-shaped hole along the direction from the first end to the second end.

3. The folding mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first driving component includes a connector and a force-applying component. The connector is rotatably connected to the first bracket, and one end of the connector is connected to the limiting shaft. The other end of the connector is connected to the force-applying member, which is configured to drive the connector to rotate, causing the limiting shaft to slide in the oblong hole in a direction away from the second end, thereby causing the limiting shaft to disengage from the limiting groove.

4. The folding mechanism according to claim 3, characterized in that, The connector includes a locking groove and a connecting protrusion disposed opposite to each other, the locking groove being engaged on the limiting shaft; one end of the force-applying member is connected to the connecting protrusion via a connecting shaft.

5. The folding mechanism according to claim 4, characterized in that, The force-applying component includes a torsion spring and a foot pedal. The foot pedal includes a notch and a first mounting hole, the first mounting hole passing through the foot pedal located on both sides of the notch. The notch is sleeved on the connecting protrusion, and the connecting protrusion includes a second mounting hole opposite to the first mounting hole. The connecting shaft connects the first mounting hole and the second mounting hole; the torsion spring is sleeved on the connecting shaft and located in the notch; one end of the torsion spring is connected to the foot pedal, and the other end of the torsion spring is connected to the connecting piece.

6. The folding mechanism according to any one of claims 2-5, characterized in that, The second driving component includes a first fixed shaft and a first elastic element. The first fixed shaft is fixedly connected to the first bracket, and one end of the first elastic element is connected to the first fixed shaft, while the other end of the first elastic element is connected to the limiting shaft.

7. The folding mechanism according to any one of claims 2-5, characterized in that, The folding mechanism further includes a switch assembly, which is disposed on the first bracket, and one end of the switch assembly is selectively connected to the first driving member to unlock or lock the first driving member.

8. The folding mechanism according to claim 7, characterized in that, The switch assembly includes a connecting plate, a sliding plate, and a second elastic element; The connecting plate is disposed on the first bracket, and the connecting plate is provided with a sliding groove; the second elastic member is located in the sliding groove, and one end of the second elastic member is connected to the connecting plate; the other end of the second elastic member is connected to the sliding plate.

9. The folding mechanism according to claim 8, characterized in that, The sliding plate protrudes toward the connecting plate to form a protrusion, the protrusion having a third mounting hole; the other end of the second elastic member is connected to the protrusion; the connecting plate includes a fourth mounting hole communicating with the third mounting hole; The switch assembly also includes a screw; one end of the screw passes through the fourth mounting hole and is screwed into the third mounting hole.

10. The folding mechanism according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The first support includes an inclined tube; the folding mechanism further includes a detection component, the detection component includes a first detection element and a second detection element, one of the first detection element and the second detection element is disposed inside the inclined tube, and the other of the first detection element and the second detection element is disposed in the first driving element; One of the first detection element and the second detection element is used to detect the position of the other to determine the relative position of the limiting shaft and the limiting groove.

11. The folding mechanism according to claim 10, characterized in that, The first detection element is disposed inside the inclined tube, and the first detection element is a Hall effect device; The second detection element is disposed on the first driving element, and the second detection element is a magnet.

12. The folding mechanism according to claim 11, characterized in that, The first detection element is installed in the inner cavity of the inclined tube via an installation component.

13. The folding mechanism according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The mechanism further includes a rotating shaft; the second bracket includes a first support plate and a second support plate, the first support plate and the second support plate are respectively located on both sides of the second bracket and are symmetrically arranged relative to the first bracket; The rotating shaft passes through the first bracket, and its two ends are rotatably connected to the first support plate and the second support plate, respectively. A bushing is provided at the connection between the rotating shaft and the first support plate and at the connection between the rotating shaft and the second support plate.

14. The folding mechanism according to claim 13, characterized in that, The mechanism also includes a second fixed shaft and a preload sleeved on the second fixed shaft, with the two ends of the second fixed shaft connected to the first support plate and the second support plate respectively. When the limiting shaft is accommodated in the limiting groove, the preload abuts against the limiting shaft.

15. The folding mechanism according to claim 14, characterized in that, The folding mechanism further includes an elastic pre-compression member, which is disposed on the second bracket and abuts against the first bracket.

16. The folding mechanism according to claim 15, characterized in that, The elastic preload component is connected to the second bracket via a connector.

17. The folding mechanism according to claim 16, characterized in that, The connector includes a mounting groove, and the elastic preload member is disposed in the mounting groove and protrudes from the mounting groove.

18. The folding mechanism according to claim 17, characterized in that, The folding mechanism further includes a fixing component, which includes a first fixing component and two second fixing components, and the mounting groove is disposed on the first fixing component; Two second fixing members are disposed at both ends of the first fixing member and have a preset included angle with the first fixing member respectively; and the two second fixing members are respectively connected to the second bracket.

19. The folding mechanism according to any one of claims 15-18, characterized in that, The folding mechanism further includes an adapter, which is disposed at least on at least one side of the inclined tube; The adapter has at least one wiring channel for accommodating a wire harness.

20. A vehicle, characterized in that, It includes a front end, a body, and a folding mechanism as described in any one of claims 1-19, wherein one end of the folding mechanism is connected to the front end and the other end is connected to the body.

21. The vehicle according to claim 20, characterized in that, The vehicle also includes a controller connected to a first detection element of the folding mechanism.

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