Bin door assembly and feeder
By forming a self-locking transmission pair through a multi-stage helical gear transmission unit, the driving and locking functions are integrated into the transmission chain, which solves the problem of insufficient self-locking reliability of pet feeder compartment doors, and realizes reliable locking without additional power, reducing the failure rate and improving the user experience.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- UBTECH ROBOTICS CORP LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-05-28
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-24
AI Technical Summary
The existing rotating insulated compartment door of pet feeders has insufficient self-locking reliability, relies on additional power to maintain the locking state and is prone to failure, and the mechanical latch is inconvenient to operate and has a complex structure with a high failure rate.
A multi-stage helical gear transmission unit is used to form a unidirectional self-locking transmission pair. The drive module realizes the opening and closing of the compartment door through the forward rotation of the transmission unit. The self-locking module is integrated into the transmission chain, eliminating the need for an additional locking device. The self-locking characteristics of the helical gear ensure the reliability of the locking.
It enables reliable locking of the compartment door without additional power or manual intervention, reducing the failure rate, improving user experience, meeting energy-saving requirements, and extending equipment battery life.
Smart Images

Figure CN224154891U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of pet supplies technology, and in particular to a hatch assembly and a feeder. Background Technology
[0002] The reliability of the self-locking mechanism of the rotating insulated compartment door of a pet feeder directly affects the equipment's safety and operational efficiency. Traditional door locking mechanisms mainly use independent locking devices such as electromagnetic locks and mechanical bolts, which have the following drawbacks:
[0003] Electromagnetic locks rely on external power to maintain the locking state (e.g., they fail when power is cut off). Mechanical latches, on the other hand, require manual operation, which is inconvenient. Furthermore, the locking mechanism is separate from the drive system, resulting in a complex structure and a high failure rate. Utility Model Content
[0004] In view of this, the purpose of this utility model is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a bin door assembly and feeder that can improve the reliability of bin door locking, is easy to operate, and has a low failure rate.
[0005] This utility model provides the following technical solution:
[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a door assembly, the door assembly comprising:
[0007] Storage door, the storage door having a hinge;
[0008] The self-locking module includes at least one stage of transmission unit; each stage of the transmission unit includes a driving transmission component and a driven transmission component, the driving transmission component having a helical tooth portion, and the driven transmission component having a driven tooth portion, the helical teeth and the driven teeth meshing; when the transmission unit is a single stage, the driven transmission component is drivenly connected to the door shaft of the storage door; when the transmission unit has at least two stages, in adjacent transmission units, the driving transmission component of the previous stage transmission unit and the driven transmission component of the next stage transmission unit are drivenly connected, and the driven transmission component of the last stage transmission unit is drivenly connected to the door shaft of the storage door; wherein, the lead angle of the helical teeth is less than the equivalent friction angle, forming a unidirectional self-locking transmission pair.
[0009] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the driving transmission element is a worm gear, the driven transmission element is a worm wheel, and the worm gear and the worm wheel mesh.
[0010] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the door assembly further includes a drive module connected to the active transmission element of the first-stage transmission unit, the drive module being used to drive the active transmission element to rotate.
[0011] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the door assembly further includes:
[0012] A position detection module is used to detect the position of the compartment door and generate a position signal;
[0013] A control module is electrically connected to both the position detection module and the drive module. The control module is configured to output a running signal to the drive module in response to the position signal.
[0014] In some embodiments of the first aspect, when the transmission unit has at least two stages, in adjacent transmission units, the driven transmission member of the transmission unit of the upper stage is connected to the driving transmission member of the transmission unit of the lower stage through a first transmission mechanism, wherein the transmission ratio of the first transmission mechanism is i1, and satisfies that i1 is less than 1.
[0015] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the driven transmission member of the final stage transmission unit is connected to the door via a second transmission mechanism, the transmission ratio of the second transmission mechanism being i2, and satisfying that i2 is less than 1.
[0016] In some embodiments of the first aspect, in adjacent transmission units, the first transmission mechanism includes a first driving gear and a first driven gear, the first driving gear and the first driven gear meshing, the first driving gear being coaxially and fixedly connected to the driven transmission member in the previous stage transmission unit, and the first driven gear being coaxially and fixedly connected to the driving transmission member in the next stage transmission unit.
[0017] And / or, the second transmission mechanism includes a second driving gear and a second driven gear, the second driving gear and the second driven gear meshing, the second driving gear and the driven transmission element in the final stage of the transmission unit being coaxially and fixedly connected, and the second driven gear and the door shaft of the compartment door being coaxially and fixedly connected.
[0018] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the door has a sandwich layer, within which a heat insulation layer is provided.
[0019] In some embodiments of the first aspect, a sealing gasket layer is provided on the inner side of the compartment door, the sealing gasket layer being an elastic sealing gasket layer or a flexible sealing gasket layer.
[0020] Secondly, this application also provides a feeder, which includes a door assembly as described in any of the above embodiments.
[0021] The embodiments of this utility model have the following advantages:
[0022] The door assembly provided by this invention achieves power transmission and self-locking through at least one transmission unit. Each transmission unit consists of a driving transmission component (helical teeth) and a driven transmission component (driven teeth), wherein the lead angle of the helical teeth is designed to be smaller than the equivalent friction angle, forming a unidirectional self-locking transmission pair. This prevents external force from driving the transmission chain in the reverse direction (i.e., the driven end cannot drive the driving end), thereby achieving self-locking of the door. The driven transmission component of a single-stage transmission unit is linked to the door shaft, or adjacent transmission units are connected to the next-stage driven transmission component through the driving transmission component, and the final-stage driven transmission component is linked to the door shaft of the door. Power is input from the first stage, and after multiple stages of reduction and torque amplification, it drives the door shaft to rotate. At the same time, each stage maintains its self-locking characteristics to ensure locking reliability. The drive module (such as a motor) opens or closes the door by rotating the transmission unit in the forward direction; when the drive stops, the transmission unit automatically maintains its position due to its self-locking characteristics, without the need for additional locking devices (such as electromagnetic locks or bolts).
[0023] Therefore, utilizing the self-locking characteristic of helical teeth (lead angle < friction angle), the door can reliably lock even during power outages or shutdowns without relying on external power or manual intervention, avoiding the risk of power failure associated with traditional electromagnetic locks. Simultaneously, integrating the drive and locking functions into the transmission chain eliminates the need for independent locking mechanisms (such as electromagnets or pins), reducing the number of parts and lowering mechanical complexity and potential failure points. Furthermore, only the drive module (e.g., motor forward and reverse rotation) needs to be controlled to achieve door opening, closing, and self-locking, eliminating the need for manual operation of mechanical pins and improving the user experience. Additionally, the self-locking state requires no continuous energy consumption (compared to electromagnetic locks), meeting energy-saving requirements and extending equipment battery life (suitable for battery-powered scenarios).
[0024] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features and advantages of this utility model more apparent and understandable, preferred embodiments are described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description
[0025] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this utility model and should not be regarded as a limitation on the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.
[0026] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a compartment door assembly provided by an embodiment of the present invention is shown from one perspective.
[0027] Figure 2 This diagram illustrates a structural schematic from another perspective of a door assembly provided by an embodiment of the present invention;
[0028] Figure 3The diagram shows a structural schematic of a storage door provided by an embodiment of the present invention from one perspective;
[0029] Figure 4 The diagram shows a structural schematic of a feeder provided by an embodiment of the present invention from one perspective.
[0030] Explanation of key component symbols:
[0031] 10-Door assembly; 20-Feeder;
[0032] 100 - Storage door; 110 - Door hinge; 120 - Thermal insulation layer; 130 - Sealing gasket layer;
[0033] 200 - Position Detection Module;
[0034] 300-Driver Module;
[0035] 400 - Transmission unit; 410 - Driven transmission component; 420 - Driven transmission component;
[0036] 500 - First transmission mechanism; 510 - First driven gear; 520 - First driving gear;
[0037] 600 - Second transmission mechanism; 610 - Second driven gear; 620 - Second driving gear. Detailed Implementation
[0038] The embodiments of this utility model are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain this utility model, and should not be construed as limiting this utility model.
[0039] It should be noted that when an element is said to be "fixed" to another element, it can be directly on the other element or there may be an intervening element. When an element is said to be "connected" to another element, it can be directly connected to the other element or there may be an intervening element. Conversely, when an element is said to be "directly" on another element, there is no intervening element. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "left," "right," and similar expressions used in this document are for illustrative purposes only.
[0040] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; 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; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.
[0041] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this utility model, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.
[0042] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein in the template description is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.
[0043] In related technologies, the self-locking reliability of the rotating insulated compartment door of a pet feeder directly affects the equipment's safety and operational efficiency. Traditional compartment door locking mechanisms mainly use independent locking devices such as electromagnetic locks and mechanical pins, which have the following drawbacks: they rely on additional power to maintain the locking state (e.g., electromagnetic locks fail when power is lost). Mechanical pins require manual operation, which is inconvenient. Furthermore, the locking mechanism is separated from the drive system, resulting in a complex structure and a high failure rate.
[0044] like Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, to solve the above-mentioned technical problems, this application provides a door assembly 10, which includes a door 100 and a self-locking module. The door 100 has a door hinge 110; the self-locking module includes at least one stage transmission unit 400; each stage transmission unit 400 includes a driving transmission member 420 and a driven transmission member 410. The driving transmission member 420 has a helical tooth portion, and the driven transmission member 410 has a driven tooth portion. The helical teeth and the driven teeth mesh; when the transmission unit 400 is a single stage... When the driven transmission component 410 is connected to the door hinge 110 of the storage door, the driven transmission component 420 of the upper-level transmission unit 400 and the driven transmission component 410 of the lower-level transmission unit 400 are connected in a driving manner, and the driven transmission component 410 of the final-level transmission unit 400 is connected to the door hinge 110 of the storage door 100. The lead angle of the helical teeth is smaller than the equivalent friction angle, forming a one-way self-locking transmission pair.
[0045] In these embodiments, this application proposes a multi-stage self-locking module based on a helical transmission pair for use in the door assembly 10. It has the following technical features and advantages:
[0046] In this self-locking module, at least one level of transmission unit 400 comprises a driving transmission component 420 with helical teeth and a driven transmission component 410 with driven teeth. The helical teeth and driven teeth mesh to form a transmission relationship. Each level of transmission unit 400 is connected in series, with the final driven transmission component 410 connected to the door hinge 110 of the compartment door 100. In other words, the drive module 300 receives rotational power from the driving transmission component 420 of the first-level transmission unit 400 to drive the compartment door 100 to rotate around the door hinge 110, thereby opening or closing the feeder 20.
[0047] It is important to note that the lead angle of the helical teeth is less than the equivalent friction angle, which is a key condition for achieving self-locking. This ensures that the transmission unit 400 will not move in the opposite direction when there is no external driving force. Even in the event of a power outage or drive failure, the door 100 will not open due to gravity or external interference. This achieves the goal of maintaining the locked state without additional power, significantly improving safety.
[0048] Clearly, integrating the drive module 300 and the locking function into the transmission unit 400 eliminates the need for traditional electromagnetic locks or latch devices. This simplifies the structure, reduces the failure rate, and improves operational efficiency.
[0049] Furthermore, the number of stages in the transmission unit 400 can be set according to actual needs, meaning that multiple stages of speed reduction / torque increase can be set to adapt to different sizes or loads of the door 100. For example, in this embodiment, the transmission unit is set to 2 stages. Of course, in other embodiments, it can also be 1 stage, 3 stages, 4 stages, 5 stages, or 6 stages, etc. Moreover, multi-stage transmission helps to adjust torque transmission efficiency and enhance the self-locking effect.
[0050] For ease of understanding, in other words, the door assembly 10 achieves power transmission and self-locking through N-stage transmission units 400. Each stage of the transmission unit 400 consists of a driving transmission element 420 (helical teeth) and a driven transmission element 410 (driven teeth), where the lead angle of the helical teeth is designed to be smaller than the equivalent friction angle, forming a unidirectional self-locking transmission pair. This prevents external forces from driving the transmission chain in the reverse direction (i.e., the driven end cannot drive the driving end), thereby achieving self-locking of the door 100. Adjacent transmission units 400 are connected to the next stage driven element through the driving element, and the last stage driven element is linked to the door shaft 110 of the door 100. Power is input from the first stage, and after multiple stages of reduction and torque amplification, it drives the door shaft 110 to rotate. At the same time, each stage maintains self-locking characteristics to ensure locking reliability. The drive module 300 (such as a motor) opens or closes the compartment door 100 by rotating forward through the transmission unit 400; when the drive stops, the transmission unit 400 automatically maintains its position due to its self-locking characteristics, without the need for additional locking devices (such as electromagnetic locks or bolts).
[0051] Therefore, utilizing the self-locking characteristic of helical teeth (lead angle < friction angle), the door 100 can be reliably locked even during power outages or shutdowns without relying on external power or manual intervention, avoiding the risk of power failure associated with traditional electromagnetic locks. Simultaneously, integrating the drive and locking functions into the transmission chain eliminates the need for independent locking mechanisms (such as electromagnets, pins, etc.), reducing the number of parts and lowering mechanical complexity and potential failure points. Furthermore, controlling the drive module 300 (e.g., motor forward and reverse rotation) is sufficient to open, close, and self-lock the door 100, eliminating the need for manual operation of the mechanical pin and improving the user experience. Additionally, the self-locking state requires no continuous energy consumption (compared to electromagnetic locks), meeting energy-saving requirements and extending equipment battery life (suitable for battery-powered scenarios).
[0052] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the active transmission component 420 is a worm gear, the driven transmission component 410 is a worm wheel, and the worm gear and the worm wheel mesh.
[0053] In these embodiments, the driving transmission element 420 is a worm gear, while the driven transmission element 410 is a worm wheel; the two form a transmission relationship through meshing. The unique advantages of worm and worm wheel drives are utilized, as detailed below:
[0054] The transmission between the worm and the worm wheel can achieve a high reduction ratio, which means that a large torque change can be achieved in a small space, making it ideal for the opening and closing system of the 100-type door that requires precise control.
[0055] When the lead angle of the worm is less than the friction angle, the transmission pair has a self-locking function. That is, the worm can only drive the worm wheel to rotate, and cannot drive it in the opposite direction. This provides an additional safety guarantee for the door assembly 10, preventing the door 100 from opening on its own due to accidental external forces.
[0056] Because the contact between the worm and the worm wheel is a continuous sliding contact, it provides a smoother and quieter operating experience compared to other forms such as gear transmission. This is especially important for products like the Pet Feeder 20, which require consideration of user experience.
[0057] Furthermore, the worm gear mechanism can be designed to be relatively compact, saving space and helping to reduce the overall size of the feeder 20, making it easier to install and use.
[0058] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the door assembly 10 further includes a drive module 300, which is connected to the active transmission component of the first-stage transmission unit. The drive module 300 is used to drive the active transmission component of the first-stage transmission unit to rotate.
[0059] In these embodiments, taking a worm gear as the active transmission component as an example, the door assembly 10 is equipped with a drive module 300, which is directly connected to the worm gear and used to drive the worm gear to rotate. By tightly integrating the drive source and the transmission system, an efficient and reliable door 100 opening and closing mechanism is formed.
[0060] The drive module 300 provides power; that is, the main responsibility of the drive module 300 is to provide the necessary rotational power to the entire transmission unit 400 so that the worm can rotate in a predetermined direction and speed.
[0061] Of course, precise control of the opening and closing process of the compartment door 100 can also be achieved through an integrated control system (including motor controllers, position sensors, etc.).
[0062] For example, the drive module 300 may be a stepper motor or a servo motor, which can provide precise position control, crucial for ensuring the accurate opening and closing of the compartment door 100. Of course, in other embodiments, the drive module 300 may also be an electric actuator, a pneumatic cylinder, or a servo motor, etc.
[0063] For example, in order to adapt to different load requirements, the drive module 300 includes a reducer to adjust the output torque and speed so that the worm can rotate at an appropriate speed and force.
[0064] In addition, couplings or other connecting devices can be used to safely and effectively connect the motor's output shaft to the worm gear, ensuring the stability and reliability of power transmission.
[0065] Clearly, integrating the drive module 300 with the self-locking module (composed of a worm and a worm wheel) simplifies the overall structure, reduces the number of parts, and thus lowers the system's complexity and failure rate.
[0066] Furthermore, since the worm gear is directly driven by the drive module 300, it has high energy conversion efficiency and fast response speed, which helps to improve the overall working efficiency of the feeder 20.
[0067] like Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments, the door assembly 10 further includes a position detection module 200 and a control module. The position detection module 200 is used to detect the position of the door 100 and generate a position signal. The control module is electrically connected to the position detection module 200 and the drive module 300, respectively, and is configured to output a running signal to the drive module 300 in response to the position signal.
[0068] In these embodiments, to further enhance the functionality and intelligence of the door assembly 10, the door assembly 10 also includes a position detection module 200 and a control module. The addition of the position detection module 200 and the control module makes the operation of the door 100 more precise and automated, while also improving the system's reliability and user experience.
[0069] The position detection module 200 is used to monitor the specific position of the door 100 in real time. For example, the position detection module 200 may be a photoelectric switch, a Hall effect sensor, or an encoder, etc.
[0070] Based on the detected position information of the door 100, the position detection module 200 generates corresponding position signals, which are then sent to the control module for processing.
[0071] The control module is electrically connected to the position detection module 200 and can receive position signals from the position detection module 200 in real time.
[0072] Based on the received position signal, the control module analyzes the current state of the door 100 (e.g., whether it is fully open, closed, or in the middle position).
[0073] Based on the above analysis results, the control module sends corresponding operating signals to the drive module 300 to control the working state of the drive module 300 (start, stop, speed / direction adjustment, etc.), thereby precisely controlling the opening and closing action of the compartment door 100.
[0074] For example, the control module can be an MCU chip, a PLC programmable controller, etc.
[0075] Therefore, based on the feedback information provided by the position detection module 200, the control module can achieve precise control over the opening and closing process of the feeder door 100, ensuring accuracy in every operation. Especially when it is necessary to keep the food inside the feeder 20 warm, ensuring the closed state of the feeder door 100 is crucial.
[0076] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the transmission unit 400 has N stages, satisfying: N≥2.
[0077] In these embodiments, the self-locking module consists of at least two-stage transmission units 400. This multi-stage transmission structure has significant advantages in improving the performance of the door assembly 10, especially in enhancing self-locking reliability, improving transmission efficiency, and adapting to complex operating conditions.
[0078] Each stage of the transmission unit 400 (such as worm gear and worm wheel) possesses a certain self-locking characteristic. When multi-stage series transmission is used, the self-locking effect of each stage can be superimposed, thereby significantly improving the mechanical self-locking strength of the entire system. Even if the self-locking performance of a certain stage decreases due to manufacturing errors or wear, other stages can still provide sufficient locking force to ensure that the door 100 will not be opened accidentally.
[0079] The multi-stage transmission system can convert the small torque high-speed rotation output of the drive module 300 into a large torque low-speed output through progressive speed reduction. This is especially important for the opening and closing mechanism of the door 100, which requires a large starting torque, such as when the insulated door 100 is heavy or has high sealing requirements.
[0080] After multi-stage deceleration, the final stage output speed is more stable, which helps to reduce the impact and vibration when the door 100 starts and stops. Combined with the position detection module 200 and the control module, fine-tuning control of the opening and closing angle of the door 100 can be achieved, improving operational accuracy.
[0081] In a multi-stage transmission structure, if a component experiences a minor fault, the remaining stages can still maintain basic functions, preventing the system from completely failing.
[0082] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, when the transmission unit 400 has at least two stages, in adjacent transmission units 400, the driven transmission member 410 of the upper-level transmission unit 400 is connected to the driving transmission member 420 of the lower-level transmission unit 400 through the first transmission mechanism 500. The transmission ratio of the first transmission mechanism 500 is i1, and satisfies: i1 < 1.
[0083] In these embodiments, an optimized linkage structure between multi-stage transmission units 400 is proposed: that is, between two adjacent transmission units 400, the driven transmission member 410 of the upper stage is connected to the active transmission member 420 of the lower stage through a first transmission mechanism 500, and the first transmission mechanism 500 has a transmission ratio of less than 1 (i 1<1).
[0084] i 1<1: This indicates that the first transmission mechanism 500 is a speed reduction mechanism (output speed > input speed), that is, the input end is decelerated and the torque is increased before it is transmitted to the next stage active transmission component 420.
[0085] Each stage of the worm gear structure already has a certain reduction capability; introducing an intermediate transmission mechanism with i 1<1 is equivalent to adding an additional reduction link between each stage; after the multi-stage reduction is superimposed, the final stage output shaft can obtain a larger output torque, which is suitable for driving the heavier or more airtight compartment door 100.
[0086] For example, if the reduction ratio of each worm gear is 30:1, the ratio of two stages in series is 900:1; with the addition of a first transmission mechanism 500 with i1 = 0.2 (5:1), the total reduction ratio can reach 4500:1, which greatly improves the locking torque.
[0087] The self-locking performance depends not only on the lead angle of a single worm gear pair, but also on the overall transmission efficiency of the system. Introducing a reduction mechanism (i 1 < 1) can reduce the efficiency of reverse driving torque transmission, making the entire transmission unit 400 more difficult to be reverse driven by external forces, thereby enhancing the overall mechanical self-locking effect.
[0088] When the drive module 300 drives the first stage active transmission component 420, the final stage output angle change will be more precise after multiple deceleration stages. Combined with the position detection module 200 and the control module, high-precision angle control can be achieved, which is suitable for application scenarios that require precise positioning of the opening and closing angle of the compartment door 100.
[0089] For example, the first transmission mechanism 500 may be a gear set, a synchronous belt pulley, a sprocket, or other form of speed reduction device.
[0090] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the driven transmission member 410 of the final stage transmission unit 400 is connected to the door shaft 110 of the door 100 via a second transmission mechanism 600. The transmission ratio of the second transmission mechanism 600 is i2, and satisfies: i2 < 1.
[0091] In these embodiments, the driven transmission element 410 of the final stage transmission unit 400 is typically the last stage worm gear (or other type of driven gear). The second transmission mechanism 600 is an intermediate transmission device connecting the final stage driven transmission element 410 and the door shaft 110 of the compartment door 100.
[0092] i2<1: This indicates that the second transmission mechanism 600 is a speed reduction mechanism, and its output speed is higher than its input speed, thus achieving the effect of increasing torque and reducing speed.
[0093] Even if the multi-stage drive in the front stage already provides a large reduction ratio, the introduction of the second drive mechanism 600 with i2<1 can further increase the output torque transmitted to the door shaft 110; this is especially important for driving heavier or more airtight doors 100, such as doors 100 with insulation, airtight structures, or pet-proof designs.
[0094] For example, if the output torque of the final driven transmission component 410 is 10 N·m and the transmission ratio of the second transmission mechanism 600 is 0.5, then the torque acting on the door hinge 110 will be amplified to 20 N·m.
[0095] In a multi-stage reduction system, each stage has a certain reverse transmission resistance; the second transmission mechanism 600, as the last stage of reduction, can effectively suppress the reverse transmission of external disturbances to the preceding transmission system, thereby improving the anti-interference capability and mechanical self-locking stability of the entire system.
[0096] When the drive module 300 drives the first active component to rotate, the angle of the door hinge 110 changes very little after multiple deceleration stages; the presence of the second transmission mechanism 600 makes this fine-tuning control more precise; it is particularly suitable for intelligent feeders 20 or automatic storage devices that require precise positioning of opening and closing angles.
[0097] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, in adjacent transmission units 400, the first transmission mechanism 500 includes a first driving gear 520 and a first driven gear 510, the first driving gear 520 and the first driven gear 510 mesh, the first driving gear 520 is coaxially and fixedly connected to the driven transmission member 410 in the previous stage transmission unit 400, and the first driven gear 510 is coaxially and fixedly connected to the driving transmission member 420 in the next stage transmission unit 400.
[0098] In these embodiments, in order to achieve power transmission between adjacent transmission units 400 and ensure that the entire system can operate efficiently and reliably, the first transmission mechanism 500 adopts gear transmission. Specifically, the first transmission mechanism 500 includes a first driving gear 520 and a first driven gear 510, which mesh with each other to achieve power transmission between different transmission units 400.
[0099] The first driving gear 520 is coaxially and fixedly connected to the driven transmission component 410 (e.g., a worm gear) of the previous stage transmission unit 400. This means that when the driven transmission component 410 of the previous stage transmission unit 400 rotates, it will directly drive the first driving gear 520.
[0100] The second driven gear 610 is coaxially and fixedly connected to the driving transmission element 420 (e.g., a worm gear) of the next-level transmission unit 400. In this way, through the meshing between the first driving gear 520 and the first driven gear 510, power can be transmitted from the previous-level transmission unit 400 to the next-level transmission unit 400.
[0101] The mention of the transmission ratio of the first transmission mechanism 500 indicates that it is a speed reduction device, meaning the output speed is higher than the input speed, but the output torque is increased. By selecting an appropriate tooth ratio between the first driving gear 520 and the second driven gear 610, the transmission ratio of this stage can be precisely controlled, thereby meeting the torque and speed requirements of specific applications.
[0102] The multi-stage gear drive combined with a worm gear increases the overall self-locking capability of the system, ensuring that the door 100 remains stably closed even without an additional locking mechanism. The gear drive enables efficient torque conversion within a limited space, helping to reduce the overall size of the equipment.
[0103] For example, in this structure, the first-stage worm gear serves as the driven transmission element 410 of the previous stage and is coaxially and fixedly connected to the first driving gear 520; the first driving gear 520 meshes with the first driven gear 510, and the first driven gear 510 is then coaxially and fixedly connected to the next-stage driving transmission element 420 (such as the second-stage worm); this configuration allows power to be smoothly and efficiently transmitted from one transmission unit 400 to the next transmission unit 400, which reduces energy loss and makes the overall structure more compact.
[0104] For example, the driven transmission component 410 of the previous stage is coaxially and fixedly connected to the first driving gear 520 and is integrated into the structure. The first driven gear 510 is then integrated with the driving transmission component 420 of the next stage.
[0105] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the second transmission mechanism 600 includes a second driving gear 620 and a second driven gear 610. The second driving gear 620 and the second driven gear 610 mesh with each other. The second driving gear 620 and the driven transmission member 410 in the final stage transmission unit 400 are coaxially and fixedly connected. The second driven gear 610 and the door hinge 110 of the door 100 are coaxially and fixedly connected.
[0106] In these embodiments, the second transmission mechanism 600 is used to connect the driven transmission member 410 of the final stage transmission unit 400 to the door hinge 110 of the compartment door 100, and the mechanism includes a gear set:
[0107] The second driving gear 620 is coaxially and fixedly connected to the driven transmission component 410 (e.g., a worm gear) of the final stage transmission unit 400. The second driven gear 610 is coaxially and fixedly connected to the door hinge 110 of the compartment door 100. The second driving gear 620 and the second driven gear 610 mesh with each other, thereby realizing the transmission of power from the final stage transmission unit 400 to the door hinge 110 of the compartment door 100. By using gear transmission, the closing accuracy of the compartment door 100 can be precisely controlled.
[0108] like Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, the door 100 has a sandwich layer, and a heat insulation layer 120 is provided inside the sandwich layer.
[0109] In these embodiments, the door 100 has been specially optimized to further improve the heat retention performance of the pet feeder 20. The door 100 has an internal space, namely a mezzanine. This not only increases the structural strength of the door 100, but also allows it to accommodate additional functional layers.
[0110] Thermal insulation material is installed within the interlayer. The main function of this material is to reduce the impact of external temperature changes on the food inside, maintaining its freshness and taste. Common thermal insulation materials include polyurethane foam (PU) and polystyrene (EPS), which have excellent insulation properties and are lightweight. This ensures that food remains in a suitable storage environment regardless of whether it's a cold winter or a hot summer.
[0111] like Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments, a sealing gasket 130 is provided on the inner side of the door 100. The sealing gasket 130 is an elastic sealing gasket 130 or a flexible sealing gasket 130.
[0112] In these embodiments, an elastic sealing gasket 130 or a flexible sealing gasket 130 is provided on the inner side of the door 100. Such sealing materials are typically made of materials with good elasticity and weather resistance, such as silicone or rubber.
[0113] The main function of the sealing gasket 130 is to ensure that the door 100 fits tightly against the compartment when closed, preventing air, moisture, or other impurities from entering, thereby protecting the food inside from contamination and maintaining a stable internal environment. Furthermore, enhancing the airtightness of the door 100 when closed helps maintain a constant temperature inside the compartment, which is especially important when insulation is provided.
[0114] Furthermore, the soft sealing material can also act as a buffer, reducing the noise generated when the compartment door is closed, and providing a quieter operating experience.
[0115] like Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, this application also provides a feeder 20, which includes a door assembly 10 as described in any of the above embodiments.
[0116] Since the aforementioned door assembly 10 has the above-mentioned technical effects, the feeder 20 including the door assembly 10 should have the same technical effects, which will not be described in detail here.
[0117] In all examples shown and described herein, any specific values should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limitations; therefore, other examples of exemplary embodiments may have different values.
[0118] It should be noted that similar labels and letters in the following figures indicate similar items. Therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures.
[0119] The embodiments described above are merely examples of several implementations of this utility model, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of this utility model. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this utility model, and these modifications and improvements all fall within the protection scope of this utility model.
Claims
1. A door assembly, characterized in that, The door assembly includes: Storage door, the storage door having a hinge; The self-locking module includes at least one stage of transmission unit; each stage of the transmission unit includes a driving transmission component and a driven transmission component, the driving transmission component has a helical tooth portion, the driven transmission component has a driven tooth portion, and the helical tooth portion and the driven tooth portion mesh; When the transmission unit is a single stage, the driven transmission component and the door shaft of the compartment door are connected in a transmission connection; When the transmission unit has at least two stages, in adjacent transmission units, the driving transmission component of the transmission unit at the upper stage and the driven transmission component of the transmission unit at the lower stage are connected in a transmission connection, and the driven transmission component of the transmission unit at the final stage is connected in a transmission connection with the door shaft of the storage door; wherein, the lead angle of the helical teeth is less than the equivalent friction angle, forming a one-way self-locking transmission pair.
2. The door assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The active transmission component is a worm gear, and the driven transmission component is a worm wheel; the worm gear and the worm wheel mesh together.
3. The door assembly according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The door assembly also includes a drive module, which is connected to the active transmission component of the first-stage transmission unit. The drive module is used to drive the active transmission component to rotate.
4. The door assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that, The door assembly also includes: A position detection module is used to detect the position of the compartment door and generate a position signal; A control module is electrically connected to both the position detection module and the drive module. The control module is configured to output a running signal to the drive module in response to the position signal.
5. The door assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that, When the transmission unit has at least two stages, in adjacent transmission units, the driven transmission component of the transmission unit of the upper stage is connected to the driving transmission component of the transmission unit of the lower stage through a first transmission mechanism. The transmission ratio of the first transmission mechanism is i1, and satisfies: i1 < 1.
6. The door assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that, The driven transmission component of the final stage transmission unit is connected to the compartment door via a second transmission mechanism. The transmission ratio of the second transmission mechanism is i2, and i2 < 1.
7. The door assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that, In the adjacent transmission units, the first transmission mechanism includes a first driving gear and a first driven gear, the first driving gear and the first driven gear mesh, the first driving gear is coaxially and fixedly connected to the driven transmission component in the previous stage transmission unit, and the first driven gear is coaxially and fixedly connected to the driving transmission component in the next stage transmission unit. And / or, the second transmission mechanism includes a second driving gear and a second driven gear, the second driving gear and the second driven gear meshing, the second driving gear and the driven transmission element in the final stage of the transmission unit being coaxially and fixedly connected, and the second driven gear and the door shaft of the compartment door being coaxially and fixedly connected.
8. The door assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The door has a double layer, and a heat insulation layer is provided inside the double layer.
9. The door assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner side of the compartment door is provided with a sealing gasket layer, which is an elastic sealing gasket layer or a flexible sealing gasket layer.
10. A feeder, characterized in that, The feeder includes a door assembly as described in any one of claims 1 to 9.