Toy ball shell and toy ball

By designing connectors and locking structures within the toy ball shell, combined with limiting and driving devices, the problem of traditional toy balls easily detaching is solved, achieving greater durability and safety.

CN224124941UActive Publication Date: 2026-04-17SHENZHEN JINGANGREN TECH CO LTD
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
SHENZHEN JINGANGREN TECH CO LTD
Filing Date
2025-05-22
Publication Date
2026-04-17

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Traditional ball-shaped pet toys are prone to damage during use when the hemispheres detach.

Method used

The first and second shells are rotatably connected by a connector. The connector is equipped with a locking structure. By moving the connector, it can be locked or disengaged from the shell. Combined with a limiting structure and a driving device, locking or disengaging can be achieved to prevent the toy ball from scattering when vibrating or being torn.

Benefits of technology

This effectively prevents the toy ball from disassembling while the pet is playing, increases the difficulty of locking the shell, reduces friction, protects the drive mechanism, and improves the durability and safety of the toy ball.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The utility model relates to the field of toy balls, in particular to a toy ball shell and a toy ball, the toy ball shell comprises a first shell, a second shell and a connecting piece, when the connecting piece is close to an annular boss and moves to a first clamping structure to be matched with a second clamping structure, the connecting piece is fixedly connected with the first shell, and the second shell is fixedly connected with the second shell. The connecting piece can be driven to rotate synchronously by rotating the first shell, so that the connecting piece is locked with or separated from the second shell; and when the connecting piece moves away from the annular boss until the first clamping structure is separated from the second clamping structure, the connecting piece is rotationally connected with the first shell. The problem that an existing toy ball is prone to loosening in the using process is solved.
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Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of toy ball technology, and in particular to a toy ball shell and a toy ball. [Background Technology]

[0002] With social development and the improvement of people's living standards, pets have become important members of many families. The pet supplies market has also developed rapidly, with ball-shaped pet toys, as important tools for pets' daily entertainment and exercise, experiencing a continuous increase in demand.

[0003] Traditional pet ball toys are typically assembled from two hemispheres using threads, snaps, or other structural elements. During play, the two hemispheres can easily detach, leading to damage to internal parts. [Utility Model Content]

[0004] To address the problem of traditional ball toys easily coming undone during use, this utility model provides a toy ball shell and a toy ball.

[0005] The present invention provides a toy ball shell, comprising a first shell and a second shell. A connector is provided at the opening of the first shell, and the connector is movable relative to the first shell. The first shell and the second shell are rotatably connected via the connector. An annular protrusion is provided on the inner wall of the first shell, and a first engaging structure is provided on the annular protrusion. A second engaging structure, cooperating with the first engaging structure, is provided at the end of the connector corresponding to the annular protrusion. When the connector moves close to the annular protrusion until the first engaging structure and the second engaging structure engage, the connector is fixedly connected to the first shell. Rotating the first shell can drive the connector to rotate synchronously, thereby locking or disengaging the connector from the second shell. When the connector moves away from the annular protrusion until the first engaging structure and the second engaging structure disengage, the connector and the first shell can rotate relative to each other.

[0006] Preferably, one of the first engaging structure and the second engaging structure is a protrusion, and the other is a groove that engages with the protrusion.

[0007] Preferably, the first housing opening is provided with a first limiting structure, and the connector is provided with a second limiting structure that cooperates with the first limiting structure. One of the first limiting structure and the second limiting structure is an annular groove and the other is an annular protrusion. The width of the first limiting structure is greater than the width of the second limiting structure. The connector is limited within the first housing by the cooperation of the first limiting structure and the second limiting structure, and is movable along the axial direction of the first housing.

[0008] Preferably, one of the two opposite sides of the groove is an inclined surface, and the other is a vertical surface perpendicular to the bottom of the groove; the inclined surface is located at the front end of the locking direction between the connector and the second housing, and the vertical surface is located at the rear end of the locking direction between the connector and the second housing.

[0009] Preferably, the second housing has a limiting boss on its outer periphery. When the first housing rotates to the point where its open end abuts against the limiting boss, there is a play gap between the connector and the limiting boss.

[0010] Preferably, the bottom of the connector is provided with a through hole, and the connector is generally annular.

[0011] Preferably, the outer diameter of the connector is smaller than the inner diameter of the corresponding portion of the first housing and the connector. When the connector is confined within the first housing, there is a rotational clearance between the outer peripheral side of the connector and the inner peripheral side of the first housing.

[0012] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, this utility model provides another technical solution as follows: a toy ball, including a driving device and a toy ball shell as described in any of the above claims, wherein the driving device is fixed inside the toy ball shell, and there is an avoidance gap between the driving device and the inner wall of the toy ball shell.

[0013] Preferably, the driving device includes a connecting shaft, one end of which is provided with a first locking structure, and the bottom of the second housing is provided with a second locking structure. The connecting shaft is used to fix the driving device inside the second housing through the cooperation of the first locking structure and the second locking structure.

[0014] Preferably, the bottom of the first housing is provided with a connecting groove, an elastic element is provided in the connecting groove, a spacer is provided at one end of the connecting shaft near the connecting groove, the spacer is rotatably connected to the connecting shaft, and the spacer is partially housed in the connecting groove and abuts against the elastic element.

[0015] Compared with the prior art, the toy ball shell and toy ball of this utility model have the following advantages:

[0016] 1. The toy ball shell provided in the first embodiment of this utility model includes a first shell, a second shell and a connector connected to each other. The connector and the first shell are provided with a first engaging structure and a second engaging structure. The connector is movable along the axial direction of the first shell. Moving the connector along a preset direction can make the first engaging structure and the second engaging structure engage or disengage, thereby allowing the connector and the first shell to switch between two states of mutual fixation or mutual rotation.

[0017] When the first and second housings are locked, the first housing needs to be rotated to a specific position, that is, the first and second locking structures cooperate, so that the connecting parts can be rotated synchronously when the first housing is rotated, and finally locking or disengaging with the second housing; when the first and second locking structures are rotated and engaged, the connecting parts and the first housing rotate relative to each other to prevent the first and second housings from separating when the toy ball vibrates or is torn or slapped by a pet.

[0018] By adding simple components such as connectors and locking mechanisms, the toy ball requires a relatively complex method to lock and release, effectively preventing pets from disassembling the toy ball and causing damage while playing.

[0019] 2. The first embodiment of this utility model provides a toy ball shell in which the connecting member is embedded in the first shell through a limiting structure. Due to the width difference between the first limiting structure and the second limiting structure, the connecting member can move axially relative to the first shell. The connecting member can achieve the engagement and disengagement of the first engaging structure and the second engaging structure through axial movement, thereby allowing the connecting member to switch between two states: engaging with the first shell or rotating freely, according to actual needs.

[0020] 3. In the first embodiment of this utility model, when the first and second shells are locked and rotated, the abutting surfaces of the first and second locking structures are vertical, which can minimize the dispersion of the force applied by the user in the rotation direction, making it easier to lock the first and second shells. When the first and second shells are disengaged and rotated, the abutting surfaces of the first and second locking structures are inclined, and the force applied by the user in the rotation direction is dispersed, requiring the user to use more force to rotate the shell, increasing the difficulty of disassembling the shell.

[0021] 4. The toy ball shell provided in the first embodiment of this utility model, when the first shell and the second shell are locked, that is, when the first locking structure and the second locking structure are engaged, and the first shell is rotated to abut against the second shell, there is a movable gap between the connecting member and the second shell. The first shell moves in the movable gap, thereby releasing the engagement of the first locking structure and the second locking structure, so that the connecting member and the first shell are rotatably connected, preventing the toy ball from being twisted open when vibrating or being torn and shaken by a pet.

[0022] 5. The toy ball shell provided in the first embodiment of this utility model has a through hole in the middle of the connector to connect the internal cavity of the shell with the outside, so that the external driving component can be connected and fixed to the first shell through the through hole.

[0023] 6. The toy ball shell provided in the first embodiment of this utility model has a first gap between the outer peripheral side of the connector and the inner peripheral side of the first shell, which effectively reduces the friction between the connector and the first shell, making the movement or rotation of the connector relative to the first shell smoother.

[0024] 7. The toy ball provided in the second embodiment of this utility model includes a driving device and a toy ball shell as described above. The driving device is fixed inside the toy ball shell so that the toy ball shell can be driven when the driving device rotates. There is a clearance between the driving device and the inner wall of the toy ball shell to avoid damage caused by friction between the driving device and the toy ball shell when the driving device rotates or vibrates.

[0025] Understandably, the toy ball provided in this embodiment has the same beneficial effects as the toy ball shell described in any of the preceding embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0026] 8. In the second embodiment of this utility model, the connecting shaft of the toy ball is fixedly connected to the second housing through a locking structure, so that the driving device drives the second housing to rotate when working.

[0027] 9. In the second embodiment of this utility model, when the user presses the first shell until the first and second locking structures engage, the elastic element is in a compressed state. When the user removes the external force, the elastic element returns to its original shape under the action of elasticity, thereby pushing the connecting shaft and causing the connecting part and the first shell to displace, thus disengaging from the engagement state of the first and second locking structures. That is, through the elastic action of the elastic element itself, when the toy ball is locked, the first shell and the connecting part are in a state of relative rotation, avoiding the toy ball from vibrating or the user and pet from accidentally disengaging the first and second shells. [Attached Image Description]

[0028] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0029] Figure 1 This is a structural schematic diagram of a toy ball provided in the second embodiment of this utility model.

[0030] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second shell in a toy ball shell provided in the first embodiment of this utility model.

[0031] Figure 3This is a schematic diagram of the connector and the first shell in a toy ball shell provided in the first embodiment of this utility model.

[0032] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a connector in a toy ball shell provided in the first embodiment of this utility model.

[0033] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of a toy ball shell provided in the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 .

[0034] Figure 6 This is a partially enlarged view of a toy ball shell provided in the first embodiment of this utility model.

[0035] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of a toy ball shell provided in the first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 .

[0036] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a toy ball provided in the second embodiment of this utility model.

[0037] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached diagram:

[0038] 100. Toy ball;

[0039] 1. Toy ball shell; 2. Drive mechanism; 3. Elastic outer shell;

[0040] 11. First housing; 111. Annular boss; 112. First engaging structure; 113. First limiting structure; 114. Connecting groove; 115. Elastic element;

[0041] 12. Second housing; 121. Second threaded structure; 122. Limiting boss; 123. Movement clearance; 124. Second locking structure;

[0042] 13. Connector; 131. Second engaging structure; 1311. Inclined surface; 1312. Vertical surface; 132. Second limiting structure; 133. Rotation clearance; 134. First threaded structure; 135. Through hole;

[0043] 21. Connecting shaft; 211. First locking structure; 212. Spacer; 22. Clearance gap.

Detailed Implementation Methods

[0044] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the present utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the present utility model and are not intended to limit the scope of the present utility model.

[0045] It should be noted that when a component is said to be "fixed to" another component, it can be directly attached to the other component or there may be an intervening component. When a component is said to be "connected to" another component, it can be directly connected to the other component or there may be an intervening component. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "left," "right," and similar expressions used in this document are for illustrative purposes only.

[0046] In this invention, the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "front," "rear," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "middle," "vertical," "horizontal," "lateral," and "longitudinal" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms are primarily for the purpose of better describing this invention and its embodiments, and are not intended to limit the indicated device, element, or component to having a specific orientation, or to be constructed and operated in a specific orientation.

[0047] Furthermore, in addition to indicating direction or positional relationship, some of the aforementioned terms may also have other meanings. For example, the term "above" may also be used in some cases to indicate a certain dependency or connection relationship. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0048] Furthermore, the terms "installation," "setup," "equipped with," "connection," and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral structure; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or an internal connection between two devices, components, or parts. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in this utility model based on the specific circumstances.

[0049] Please see Figures 1 to 3The first embodiment of this utility model provides a toy ball shell 1, including a first shell 11 and a second shell 12. A connector 13 is provided at the opening of the first shell 11. The connector 13 is movable relative to the first shell 11. The first shell 11 and the second shell 12 are rotatably connected by the connector 13. An annular boss 111 is provided on the inner wall of the first shell 11. A first engaging structure 112 is provided on the annular boss 111. A second engaging structure 131 is provided at the corresponding end of the connector 13 and the annular boss 111, which cooperates with the first engaging structure 112. When the connector 13 moves close to the annular boss 111 and the first engaging structure 112 and the second engaging structure 131 cooperate, the connector 13 is fixedly connected to the first shell 11. By rotating the first shell 11, the connector 13 can be driven to rotate synchronously, so that the connector 13 is locked or disengaged from the second shell 12. When the connector 13 moves away from the annular boss 111 and the first engaging structure 112 and the second engaging structure 131 are disengaged, the connector 13 and the first shell 11 can rotate relative to each other.

[0050] Specifically, when the connector 13 and the first housing 11 are rotated together, rotating the first housing 11 will cause it to slide relative to the connector 13. That is, if the pet dog bites or shakes the housing at this time, the first housing 11 and the connector 13 will rotate relative to each other, thereby preventing the first housing 11 from driving the connector 13 to rotate under external force, which would cause the connection of the second housing 12 to be released.

[0051] Understandably, the first embodiment of the present invention, through the provision of the first engaging structure 112 and the second engaging structure 131, and the movable design of the connector 13, enables the connector 13 to quickly engage with the first housing 11, thereby achieving locking and unlocking with the second housing 12; when the connector 13 and the first housing 11 are in a non-fixed state, that is, when they are rotating and engaged, there is no power transmission between the connector 13 and the first housing 11, effectively preventing the toy ball 100 from loosening the first housing 11 and the second housing 12 when rotating or vibrating, thus preventing damage to the toy ball 100.

[0052] This embodiment adds simple components such as a connector 13 and a locking structure to the first housing 11, making the toy ball 100 require a relatively complex method. Specifically, the first housing 11 is pressed inward until the first locking structure 112 and the second locking structure 131 engage, and then the first housing 11 is rotated to drive the connector 13 to rotate synchronously, thus achieving locking and disengagement. This effectively prevents the toy ball 100 from being disassembled and damaged by the pet while playing.

[0053] It should be further noted that the connector 13 is provided with a first thread structure 134, and the second housing 12 is provided with a second thread structure 121 that mates with the first thread structure 134. The first thread structure 134 and the second thread structure 121 mate to connect the connector 13 and the second housing 12.

[0054] Optionally, the first thread structure 134 is an internal thread, and the second thread structure is an external thread.

[0055] Specifically, the second housing 12 has an external thread at its opening, and the connector 13 has an internal thread at one end near the second housing 12. When the toy ball 100 needs to be locked, first connect the connector 13 and the opening of the second housing 12, then press the first housing 11 to engage the first engaging structure 112 and the second engaging structure 131, and finally rotate the first housing 11 to drive the connector 13 to rotate, so that its internal thread and the external thread on the second housing 12 are tightened, thus locking the first housing 11 and the second housing 12. The threaded connection allows the first housing 11 and the second housing 12 to be quickly installed or removed, making the operation simple.

[0056] Specifically, the first engaging structure 112 and the second engaging structure 131 are, respectively, a protrusion and a groove that engages with the protrusion.

[0057] It should be noted that the first engaging structure 112 is disposed on the side of the annular boss 111 facing the opening of the first housing 11, and the second engaging structure 131 is disposed on the side of the connector 13 near the annular boss 111, that is, opposite to the first engaging structure 112. When the first engaging structure 112 and the second engaging structure 131 are axially aligned, the first engaging structure 112 and the second engaging structure 131 can be quickly engaged or in contact by axially moving the connector 13, thereby making the connector 13 and the second housing 12 in a fixed or rotating state.

[0058] As an optional implementation, the first engaging structure 112 is a protrusion, and the second engaging structure 131 is a groove that mates with the protrusion. Specifically, the upper surface of the annular boss 111 is provided with a plurality of strip-shaped protrusions at intervals, and the side of the connector 13 near the annular boss 111 is provided with a plurality of strip-shaped grooves at intervals. When the connector 13 moves towards the annular boss 111 until the strip-shaped protrusions are embedded in the strip-shaped grooves, the connector 13 and the first housing 11 are in a fixed state. At this time, when the first housing 11 is rotated, due to the cooperation of the first engaging structure 112 and the engaging structure, the connector 13 will also be rotated synchronously, thereby locking or releasing the connector 13 and the second housing 12.

[0059] Conversely, when the connector 13 moves away from the annular boss 111 and the strip protrusion disengages from the strip groove, the connector 13 and the first housing 11 are in a relative sliding state. At this time, when the first housing 11 is rotated, since the first engaging structure 112 and the second engaging structure 131 are not in a engaged state, the connector 13 will not be driven to rotate synchronously, but will rotate relative to the first housing 11; that is, the first housing 11 is in a free-spinning state at this time, and the rotation of the first housing 11 will not cause the connector 13 to be released from the locking state with the second housing 12.

[0060] Optionally, the positions of the protrusions and grooves can be interchanged; that is, the first engaging structure 112 on the annular protrusion 111 is a groove, and the second engaging structure 131 on the connector 13 is a protrusion. Furthermore, the shape and number of the protrusions and grooves can be set according to actual conditions, such as a circular, trapezoidal, or wavy shell. It is understood that the above-mentioned changes in position and shape are equivalent to equivalent substitutions for the first embodiment of the present invention, and any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0061] Furthermore, the first housing 11 has a first limiting structure 113 at its open end, and the connector 13 has a second limiting structure 132 that cooperates with the first limiting structure 113. The first limiting structure 113 and the second limiting structure 132 are respectively an annular groove and an annular protrusion. The width of the first limiting structure 113 is greater than the width of the second limiting structure 132. The connector 13 is limited within the first housing 11 by the cooperation of the first limiting structure 113 and the second limiting structure 132, and is movable along the axial direction of the first housing 11.

[0062] As an optional implementation, the first limiting structure 113 is an annular groove provided on the inner side wall of the first housing 11, and the outer peripheral side of the connector 13 away from the annular boss 111 is provided with an annular protrusion that can be embedded in the annular groove. The first limiting structure 113 and the second limiting structure 132 cooperate to make the connector 13 embedded in the first housing 11, and the first housing 11 can be detachably connected to the second housing 12 through the connector 13.

[0063] It should be noted that the width of the first limiting structure 113 is greater than the width of the second limiting structure 132. Therefore, when the first limiting structure 113 and the second limiting structure 132 are engaged, the second limiting structure 132 can move within the width range of the first limiting structure 113. That is, the connecting member 13 can move along the axial direction of the first housing 11. By moving the connecting member 13, the second engaging structure 131 provided thereon and the first engaging structure 112 on the annular boss 111 can be engaged or disengaged.

[0064] Further, please refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6The outer diameter of the connector 13 is smaller than the inner diameter of the corresponding part of the first housing 11 and the connector 13. When the connector 13 is confined within the first housing 11, there is a rotational clearance 133 between the outer peripheral side of the connector 13 and the inner peripheral side of the first housing 11.

[0065] In one embodiment, the diameter of the first limiting structure 113 is slightly larger than the diameter of the second limiting structure 132, meaning that the first limiting structure 113 and the second limiting structure 132 are in a clearance fit. The connecting member 13 is embedded in the first housing 11 through the fit between the first limiting structure 113 and the second limiting structure 132, and the connecting member 13 and the second housing 12 can rotate relative to each other. In other words, the clearance between the first limiting structure 113 and the second limiting structure 132 makes their rotation or movement smoother.

[0066] Understandably, the diameter difference between the connector 13 and the first housing 11 results in a rotational clearance 133 between them after they are engaged, which makes the relative rotation of the connector 13 and the first housing 11 smoother. Specifically, the existence of the rotational clearance 133 effectively reduces the friction between the connector 13 and the first housing 11, so that when the first engaging structure 112 and the second engaging structure 131 are in a non-engaging state, the connector 13 and the first housing 11 can easily rotate and slide, preventing the connection between the connector 13 and the second housing 12 from loosening when the toy ball 100 vibrates or is shaken.

[0067] In some embodiments, a lubricant is also filled between the connector 13 and the first housing 11 to further reduce the friction between the first limiting structure 113 and the second limiting structure 132, allowing it to rotate more easily.

[0068] Please see Figure 4 It should be further noted that the bottom of the connector 13 is provided with a through hole 135, and the connector 13 is generally annular.

[0069] As a feasible embodiment, the connector 13 is disposed at the opening end of the first housing 11, and the annular boss 111 is located in the middle of the first housing 11. That is, there is still some space between the annular boss 111 and the bottom of the first housing 11. The bottom of the connector 13 is provided with a through hole 135 to allow the bottom space of the first housing 11 to communicate with the outside world, so as to avoid the connector 13 from dividing the storage space of the first housing 11 and reducing the available space. When components need to be installed in the first housing 11, the relevant components can be connected to the first housing 11 through the through hole 135.

[0070] Furthermore, one of the two opposite sides of the groove is an inclined surface 1311, and the other is a vertical surface 1312 perpendicular to the bottom of the groove; the inclined surface 1311 is located at the front end of the locking direction between the connector 13 and the second housing 12, and the vertical surface 1312 is located at the rear end of the locking direction between the connector 13 and the second housing 12.

[0071] Understandably, when the first housing 11 and the second housing 12 need to be locked, the first housing 11 is pressed toward the second housing 12. Since the connector 13 is located at the opening end of the first housing 11, when the first housing 11 is moved toward the second housing 12, the connector 13 at its opening end will first abut against the second housing 12 and push the connector 13 toward the inside of the first housing 11 until the connector 13 abuts against the annular boss 111.

[0072] Specifically, when the connector 13 abuts against the annular boss 111, the first engaging structure 112 and the second engaging structure 131 may not be in a mating state. Therefore, it is necessary to rotate the first housing 11 so that the first engaging structure 112 and the second engaging structure 131 correspond one-to-one and engage. Specifically, after the user presses the first housing 11, the user rotates the first housing 11 in the locking direction. At this time, the first engaging structure 112 on the annular boss 111, i.e., the protrusion, contacts the inclined surface 1311 side of the second engaging structure 131 first, and is embedded in the groove under the guidance of the inclined surface 1311. After the second engaging structure 131 is embedded in the first engaging structure 112, the user continues to rotate the first housing 11. The first engaging structure 112 will abut against the vertical surface 1312 of the second engaging structure 131, thereby driving the connector 13 to rotate synchronously.

[0073] It should be noted that when the connector 13 abuts against the annular boss 111, rotating the first housing 11 in either the locking or unlocking direction will result in the engagement of the first engaging structure 112 and the second engaging structure 131.

[0074] It should be understood that when the first housing 11 rotates in the locking direction, the first engaging structure 112 slides into the groove under the guidance of the inclined surface 1311. When the first housing 11 continues to rotate, the first engaging structure 112 abuts against the vertical surface 1312, thereby restricting the continued rotation of the first housing 11. This provides clear feedback to the user, making it clear that the first engaging structure 112 and the second engaging structure 131 are in a engaged state.

[0075] When the first housing 11 and the second housing 12 need to be loosened, the user first presses the first housing 11 towards the second housing 12 and rotates it until the first engaging structure 112 and the second engaging structure 131 are engaged. Then, the user continues to rotate the first housing 11 in the loosening direction. It should be understood that when the first housing 11 is rotated in the loosening direction, the contact surface between the first engaging structure 112 and the second engaging structure 131 is an inclined surface 1311. Therefore, when rotating the first housing 11, more force is needed to press the first housing 11 to prevent the second engaging structure 131 from sliding out of the groove along the inclined surface 1311, thus causing the first engaging structure 112 and the second engaging structure 131 to disengage. Secondly, since the inclined surface 1311 will disperse some of the force, more force is needed to rotate the first housing 11 while driving the connector 13 to rotate, ultimately loosening the first housing 11 and the second housing 12, preventing pets from tearing or users from accidentally disassembling the toy ball 100.

[0076] Understandably, when locking, the inclined surface 1311 of the second engaging structure 131 can act as a guide, guiding the first engaging structure 112 to smoothly enter the groove and improving assembly efficiency; when unscrewing, the inclined surface 1311 can also disperse the force, increasing the difficulty of unscrewing the shell and achieving a better anti-loosening effect.

[0077] Furthermore, please refer to the following: Figure 7 The second housing 12 has a limiting boss 122 on its outer periphery. When the first housing 11 rotates to the point where its open end abuts against the limiting boss 122, there is an active gap 123 between the connector 13 and the limiting boss 122.

[0078] It should be noted that when the first engaging structure 112 and the second engaging structure 131 are engaged, the second limiting structure 132 is located at the end of the second limiting structure 132 near the annular boss 111.

[0079] Specifically, when it is necessary to lock the spherical body, the opening of the first housing 11 is fitted onto the opening of the second housing 12, that is, the connecting member 13 is engaged with the opening of the second housing 12. The first housing 11 is rotated, causing the connecting member 13 to rotate synchronously, thereby making the connecting member 13 and the second housing 12 threadedly connected. It should be understood that the second threaded structure 121 is arranged along the axial direction of the second housing 12. As the first threaded structure 134 and the second threaded structure 121 are locked and rotated, the connecting member 13 gradually approaches the limiting boss 122 until the outer edge of the opening of the first housing 11 abuts against the limiting boss 122. At this time, the first housing 11 cannot continue to rotate due to the restriction of the limiting boss 122.

[0080] Understandably, when the first housing 11 and the limiting boss 122 abut, the second limiting structure 132 and the end of the first limiting structure 113 near the annular boss 111 have a certain amount of space between them and the opening end of the first housing 11. That is, at this time, there is a movable gap 123 between the connector 13 and the limiting boss 122, and the part of the first limiting structure 113 near the opening end of the first housing 11 is located within the movable gap 123. When the connector 13 and the second housing 12 are locked, the first housing 11 can move axially through the movable gap 123. When the first housing 11 moves away from the second housing 12, the first engaging structure 112 and the second engaging structure 131 come into contact and engage, so that the connector 13 and the first housing 11 are in a free-spinning state. That is, at this time, the rotation of the first housing 11 does not drive the connector 13 to rotate, so that the connector 13 and the second housing 12 remain connected, preventing the toy ball 100 from being twisted open when vibrating or being torn or shaken by a pet.

[0081] Further, please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 8 The second embodiment of this utility model also provides a toy ball 100, including a driving device 2 and a toy ball shell 1 as described in any of the above claims. The driving device 2 is fixed inside the toy ball shell 1, and there is an clearance gap 22 between the driving device 2 and the inner wall of the toy ball shell 1.

[0082] It should be noted that the drive device 2 is fixed inside the toy ball shell 1, so that when the drive device 2 rotates, it can drive the toy ball shell 1 to rotate together. In addition, the toy ball shell 1 can also protect the drive device 2, preventing it from being damaged by direct contact with the external environment.

[0083] In a specific embodiment, there is a clearance 22 between the drive device 2 and the inner wall of the toy ball shell 1, which provides clearance space for the displacement deviation generated by the operation of the drive device 2, and avoids friction and collision between the drive device 2 and the inner wall of the toy ball shell 1 when the drive device 2 rotates or vibrates, thereby preventing damage to the drive device 2.

[0084] Understandably, the toy ball 100 provided in this embodiment has the same beneficial effects as the toy ball shell 1 of the first embodiment, which will not be repeated here.

[0085] Furthermore, the drive device 2 includes a connecting shaft 21, one end of which is provided with a first locking structure 211, and the bottom of the second housing 12 is provided with a second locking structure 124. The connecting shaft 21 is fixed inside the second housing 12 by the cooperation of the first locking structure 211 and the second locking structure 124.

[0086] As a feasible implementation, the second locking structure 124 is a non-circular groove, and the first locking structure 211 is a protrusion that matches the shape of the second locking structure 124. After the first locking structure 211 and the second locking structure 124 are engaged, the connecting shaft 21 and the second housing 12 are fixedly connected, so that the rotation of the connecting shaft 21 can drive the second housing 12 to rotate synchronously.

[0087] Optionally, the shape of the second card slot structure 124 can be polygonal, elliptical, or irregular.

[0088] Furthermore, the bottom of the first housing 11 is provided with a connecting groove 114, and an elastic member 115 is provided in the connecting groove 114. A spacer 212 is provided at one end of the connecting shaft 21 near the connecting groove 114. The spacer 212 is rotatably connected to the connecting shaft 21, and the spacer 212 is partially housed in the connecting groove 114 and abuts against the elastic member 115.

[0089] Optionally, the elastic element 115 can be a spring, a sheet, or the like.

[0090] As an optional implementation, when the first housing 11 and the second housing 12 are in the locked state, if the user presses the first housing 11 inward and rotates the first housing 11 until the first engaging structure 112 and the second engaging structure 131 are engaged, the elastic element 115 in the connecting groove 114 is pressed into a compressed state by the spacer 212; when the user releases the pressing force, the elastic element 115 recovers under the elastic action, thereby pushing the spacer 212 and the connecting shaft 21 to move the first housing 11 away from the connecting member 13, thereby disengaging the first engaging structure 112 and the second engaging structure 131 from the engaged state.

[0091] Understandably, the spacer 212 is rotatably connected to the connecting shaft 21, and the connecting shaft 21 abuts against the elastic member 115 through the spacer 212, so as to avoid direct contact between the connecting shaft 21 and the elastic member 115, thereby affecting the rotation of the connecting shaft 21. That is, when the spacer 212 presses against the elastic member 115, the connecting shaft 21 can also rotate smoothly.

[0092] Specifically, when the first housing 11 and the second housing 12 are locked, the spacer 212 is partially housed in the connecting groove 114, so that when the first housing 11 is pressed, the elastic member 115 can be smoothly pressed by the spacer 212.

[0093] Understandably, by setting the elastic element 115, the first locking structure 112 and the second locking structure 131 are in a non-cooperative state when the toy ball 100 is in normal condition, so as to prevent the first shell 11 and the second shell 12 from separating when the toy ball 100 rotates or vibrates.

[0094] Furthermore, the first housing 11 and the second housing 12 are provided with an elastic outer shell 3 on their outer sides.

[0095] In some embodiments, the elastic outer shell 3 is hemispherical and has a cavity inside that is adapted to the outer contour of the first shell 11 and the second shell 12. The elastic outer shell 3 can be fixed to the outside of the first shell 11 and the second shell 12 by means of adhesive bonding, threaded connection, snap-fit ​​connection, etc.

[0096] Specifically, the elastic shell 3 has grooved patterns on its outer surface, making it easier for pet dogs to bite during the attack. Secondly, the bright colors and patterns are more likely to attract the interest of pets.

[0097] Optionally, the elastic shell 3 can be made of materials that combine elasticity and bite resistance, such as silicone, foamed polyethylene, rubber, thermoplastic polyurethane, or thermoplastic elastic element 115, so as to effectively protect the pet dog's teeth from damage.

[0098] Understandably, the elastic shell 3 can improve the grip of the toy ball 100 during movement and reduce the noise generated during its movement.

[0099] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present utility model and is not intended to limit the present utility model. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions and improvements made within the principles of the present utility model should be included within the protection scope of the present utility model.

Claims

1. A toy ball housing, characterized by: It includes a first housing and a second housing. The first housing has a connecting member at its opening. The connecting member is movable relative to the first housing. The first housing and the second housing are rotatably connected through the connecting member. The inner wall of the first housing is provided with an annular boss, the annular boss is provided with a first engaging structure, and the end of the connector corresponding to the annular boss is provided with a second engaging structure that cooperates with the first engaging structure. When the connector moves close to the annular boss and engages with the first and second engaging structures, the connector is fixedly connected to the first housing. Rotating the first housing can drive the connector to rotate synchronously, so that the connector can be locked or disengaged from the second housing. When the connector moves away from the annular boss until the first engaging structure and the second engaging structure disengage, the connector and the first housing can rotate relative to each other.

2. The toy sphere housing of claim 1, wherein: The first engaging structure and the second engaging structure are respectively a protrusion and a groove that engages with the protrusion.

3. The toy sphere housing of claim 1, wherein: The first housing has a first limiting structure at its opening end, and the connector has a second limiting structure that cooperates with the first limiting structure. One of the first limiting structure and the second limiting structure is an annular groove and the other is an annular protrusion. The width of the first limiting structure is greater than the width of the second limiting structure. The connector is limited within the first housing by the cooperation of the first limiting structure and the second limiting structure, and is movable along the axial direction of the first housing.

4. The toy sphere housing of claim 2, wherein: One of the two opposite sides of the groove is an inclined surface, and the other is a vertical surface perpendicular to the bottom of the groove; the inclined surface is located at the front end of the connector in the locking direction of the second housing, and the vertical surface is located at the rear end of the connector in the locking direction of the second housing.

5. The toy sphere housing of claim 1, wherein: The second housing has a limiting boss on its outer periphery. When the first housing rotates to the point where its open end abuts against the limiting boss, there is a play gap between the connector and the limiting boss.

6. The toy sphere housing of claim 1, wherein: The connector has a through hole at its bottom, and the connector is generally ring-shaped.

7. The toy sphere housing of claim 3, wherein: The outer diameter of the connector is smaller than the inner diameter of the corresponding part of the first housing. When the connector is confined within the first housing, there is a rotational clearance between the outer peripheral side of the connector and the inner peripheral side of the first housing.

8. A toy ball characterized by: It includes a drive device and a toy ball shell as described in any one of claims 1-7, wherein the drive device is fixed inside the toy ball shell and there is a clearance between the drive device and the inner wall of the toy ball shell.

9. The toy ball of claim 8, wherein: The drive device includes a connecting shaft, one end of which is provided with a first locking structure, and the bottom of the second housing is provided with a second locking structure. The connecting shaft is used to fix the drive device inside the second housing through the cooperation of the first locking structure and the second locking structure.

10. The toy ball of claim 9, wherein: The bottom of the first housing is provided with a connecting groove, and an elastic element is provided in the connecting groove. A spacer is provided at one end of the connecting shaft near the connecting groove. The spacer is rotatably connected to the connecting shaft. The spacer is partially housed in the connecting groove and abuts against the elastic element.

Citation Information

Cited By

  • Toy ball

    CN120323350A