Multi-ball-joint joint, support arm and fixing device

Abstract

The utility model discloses a multi-ball-joint joint, a supporting arm and a fixing device. The multi-ball-joint joint comprises a joint frame capable of adjusting clamping force, a first ball and a second ball, the first ball and the second ball are rotationally arranged in the joint frame, and the first ball and the second ball are fixedly connected with a connecting shaft and a connecting sleeve respectively. The single multi-ball-joint joint provided by the utility model has adjustable static supporting force and six degrees of freedom including axial rotation and radial deflection, and can meet the requirements of multi-angle and multi-direction adjustment. Meanwhile, the double-ball-joint structure is adopted, various deflection schemes can be allowed to be achieved at the same deflection angle, and the diversity of angle-adjustable implementation schemes is further improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of mechanical device technology, and in particular to the field of mechanical structure technology with multi-degree-of-freedom deflection, rotation, and multi-angle adjustment, specifically to a multi-ball joint, a support arm, and a fixing device. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, mechanical joints have permeated multiple fields such as industrial manufacturing, transportation, and robotics, exhibiting both specialization and intelligence in their technological development. For example, universal joints and differential bevel gear sets, primarily used in the automotive industry, are core joint components of a vehicle's transmission system, supporting compensation for speed differences in the drive wheels during steering. In automotive manufacturing workshops, robots are widely used for intelligent manufacturing. Six-degree-of-freedom robotic arms commonly employed in industrial robots typically utilize a composite joint structure of harmonic reducers and crossed roller bearings, ensuring a repeatability accuracy of 0.05mm while also allowing for significant torque output per joint. This demonstrates the crucial role of mechanical joints in the integration of mechanical and intelligent technologies.

[0003] The most prominent example of an existing mechanical joint, or structure that allows non-linear power transmission, is the universal joint: consisting of two fork-shaped joints and a cross shaft, it allows the transmission of rotational motion and torque between two shafts at an angle (typically ≤45°), and is widely used in automotive transmission systems, machine tool spindles, and industrial robots. Its improved ball-cage universal joint, through the mating of ball tracks and steel balls, further enhances transmission efficiency and angular adaptability.

[0004] Another type is the linkage-hinge combination structure: this connects rigid rods through hinge points, converting reciprocating motion into rotational motion. Typical applications include the crank-connecting rod mechanism of internal combustion engines and multi-degree-of-freedom robotic arm joints. This type of structure can achieve precise motion trajectory control, but the lifespan issue caused by wear at the hinge points needs to be addressed.

[0005] Although the two typical structures mentioned above are widely used due to their ability to transmit power at multiple angles, they have limitations in adjustable angles for non-power transmission applications requiring multi-angle adjustment. For example, the two ends of a universal coupling cannot undergo relative axial angular deflection, meaning it cannot solve the technical problem of allowing one end to rotate while the other does not, while still satisfying multi-angle deflection requirements. Utility Model Content

[0006] To address the technical challenges of multi-angle and multi-directional adjustment of mechanical joints, this application provides a multi-ball joint, a support arm, and a fixing device. The aim is to provide a novel mechanical joint that can replace existing mechanical joints or broaden the application scenarios and scope of use of existing mechanical joints.

[0007] This invention primarily addresses static or non-power transmission applications by providing a multi-directional, multi-angle adjustable mechanical joint structure. It utilizes multiple ball joints to solve the complex spatial angle adjustment problem involving radial plane deflection and axial angle adjustment. It is mainly applicable to flexible and varied temporary fixing scenarios, such as serving as a temporary fixing bracket for mobile phones or any other device requiring angle adjustment; or as a position holding device during the assembly of multiple parts / components that need temporary fixing. In these situations, the angle of the bracket or holding device needs to be adjusted frequently, and the multi-angle adjustable mechanical joint effectively solves this problem.

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted in this application is as follows:

[0009] A multi-ball joint includes a joint frame with adjustable clamping force, a first ball and a second ball rotatably disposed within the joint frame, and the first ball and the second ball are respectively fixedly connected to a connecting shaft and a connecting sleeve.

[0010] As an optional and preferred structural configuration, the joint frame adopted by this utility model includes a second plate with limiting grooves near both ends, a first plate symmetrically arranged with the second plate, and a connector that penetrates and connects the first plate and the second plate, wherein the first ball and the second ball are restricted at the limiting grooves.

[0011] To facilitate the installation and adjustment of the preload of the first and second spheres, preferably, the connector has a screw section, one end of which is integrally connected to an enlarged portion, and the other end of which is threadedly connected to a locking element for adjusting the clamping force of the joint frame.

[0012] To facilitate better installation, avoid the possibility of parts scattering during the first assembly, thus reducing assembly efficiency, and improve the overall stability of the structure, preferably, a connecting plate is also included for movably connecting the first plate and the second plate. A snap-fit ​​strip is fixedly provided on the connecting plate, and snap-fit ​​grooves for rotatably snapping the snap-fit ​​strip are provided on the side walls of both the first plate and the second plate.

[0013] This utility model also provides a multi-joint outrigger, including at least two outrigger bodies and a spherical joint disposed between adjacent outrigger bodies. The spherical joint is composed of two first spherical joints and a second spherical joint connected axially at a certain angle. The first spherical joint and the second spherical joint adopt the multi-joint structure described above.

[0014] To further enhance structural stability and enable the outrigger to maintain its position at a certain angle, the system preferably includes a flexible shaft for connecting the first and second ball joints. The flexible shaft's characteristic is that it can achieve bending deformation at any angle and maintain its current state after bending deformation, thus further improving the structural stability of the entire outrigger under its support.

[0015] More preferably, the number of flexible shafts is two, and the plane in which any of the flexible shafts bends is parallel to the horizontal and vertical planes of the ball joint, respectively. Installing two flexible shafts on mutually perpendicular planes can maximize support and minimize support blind spots or weak points.

[0016] This utility model also provides a fixing device, including at least one multi-ball joint arm as described above.

[0017] Beneficial effects:

[0018] 1. The single multi-spherical joint provided by this utility model has adjustable static support force and six degrees of freedom, including axial rotation and radial deflection, which can meet the needs of multi-angle and multi-directional adjustment. At the same time, the use of a double-spherical joint structure allows for multiple deflection schemes to be implemented at the same deflection angle, further improving the diversity of adjustable angle implementation schemes.

[0019] 2. This utility model also provides a ball joint formed by two ball joints connected in series at 90° axial direction, which makes the adjustable angle range larger and provides more options for specific deflection orientation and angle requirements, thus achieving diversified satisfaction of static angle adjustment problems.

[0020] 3. This utility model achieves both the flexibility of adjustable angle and the stability of the adjusted structure through the dual action of adjustable preload and flexible shaft support. Attached Figure Description

[0021] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0022] Figure 1 This is an axonometric view of the spherical joint in a bent state provided by this utility model.

[0023] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Axonometric drawing of a structure in a straight position.

[0024] Figure 3 This is an exploded view of a multi-ball joint structure provided in an embodiment of this utility model.

[0025] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 Rear view.

[0026] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 Full sectional view with the central section symbol AA.

[0027] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the rotational degrees of freedom of a multi-ball joint according to an embodiment.

[0028] In the figure: 1-First ball joint; 2-Second ball joint; 3-Flexible shaft; 11-Connector; 12-First plate; 13-First ball; 131-Connecting shaft; 14-Second ball; 141-Connecting sleeve; 15-Second plate; 151-Limiting groove; 152-Snap-fit ​​groove; 16-Connecting plate; 161-Snap-fit ​​strip; 17-Locking element. Detailed Implementation

[0029] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. The components of the embodiments of this application described and shown in the accompanying drawings can generally be arranged and designed in various different configurations.

[0030] Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of this application provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed application, but merely to illustrate selected embodiments of the application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0031] 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.

[0032] In the description of this application, it should be noted that the use of terms such as "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer" to indicate orientation or positional relationships is based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, or the orientation or positional relationships commonly used when the product is in use. These terms are used solely for the convenience of describing this application and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application. Furthermore, the use of terms such as "first" and "second" in the description of this application is only used to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0033] Furthermore, the use of terms such as "horizontal" and "vertical" in the description of this application does not imply that the component is required to be absolutely horizontal or suspended, but rather that it may be slightly tilted. For example, "horizontal" simply means that its direction is more horizontal relative to "vertical," and does not mean that the structure must be completely horizontal, but rather that it may be slightly tilted.

[0034] In the description of this application, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "set up," "install," "connect," and "link" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; 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; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0035] Example 1:

[0036] This embodiment provides a multi-ball joint, including a joint frame with adjustable clamping force, a first ball 13 and a second ball 14 rotatably disposed within the joint frame, and the first ball 13 and the second ball 14 are respectively fixedly connected to a connecting shaft 131 and a connecting sleeve 141.

[0037] See the instruction manual appendix Figures 1-3As shown, the joint frame, as the main structural component of the multi-ball joint, provides overall support. The first ball 13 and the second ball 14 are confined within the joint frame and can only rotate, not move relative to each other. The rotation of the first ball 13 / second ball 14 only requires overcoming the frictional force between them and the joint frame. The greater the clamping force of the joint frame on the first ball 13 and the second ball 14, the greater the frictional force between them and the joint frame, thus increasing the external force required for the multi-ball joint to rotate or deflect. The greater the stability of the joint at any angle, the stronger the stability of the multi-ball joint. Conversely, the smaller the clamping force of the joint frame on the first ball 13 and the second ball 14, the smaller the friction between the first ball 13 / second ball 14 and the joint frame. This reduces the external force required for the multi-ball joint to rotate or deflect, making rotation easier, but also weakening the stability of the entire multi-ball joint at any angle. Therefore, the adjustable clamping force joint frame provided in this embodiment can be flexibly adjusted according to different application scenarios to meet various needs. The adjustable range for a single multi-ball joint is shown in [reference needed]. Figure 6 As shown, the multi-spherical joint is placed in a spatial coordinate system consisting of XYZ. The first sphere 13 can rotate relative to the joint frame around the Z-axis and Y-axis, respectively, as shown in the rotational degrees of freedom R2 and R3. Since there is no rotational restriction between the first sphere 13 and the joint frame, it can also deflect and rotate at any angle within the spatial range between the XYZ axes, with its center as the center, without structural interference. Similarly, the second sphere 14 performs the same adjustable movements as the first sphere 13, including rotational degrees of freedom R1 around the X-axis and R3 around the Z-axis. It is worth noting that when the connecting sleeve 141 connected to the second sphere 14 is in a direction parallel to the Y-axis, the second sphere 14 can also perform rotational degree of freedom R2 around the Y-axis. In other words, the rotation / deflection of the first sphere 13 and the second sphere 14 is unrestricted without structural interference, thus achieving a wide range of angle adjustments.

[0038] Example 2:

[0039] This embodiment is a further refinement of the structure based on Embodiment 1, and is also a preferred structural configuration of this utility model. The joint frame used in this embodiment includes a second plate 15 with limiting grooves 151 near both ends, a first plate 12 symmetrically arranged with respect to the second plate 15, and a connector 11 that penetrates and connects the first plate 12 and the second plate 15. The first ball 13 and the second ball 14 are constrained at the limiting grooves 151. See the appendix to the specification. Figure 3As shown, the limiting groove 151 has a chamfered structure adapted to the balls 13 and 14, so that the balls 13 and 14 can have sufficient contact area. This can effectively and directly increase the frictional resistance of the balls 13 and 14 when increasing the clamping preload. Of course, in order to further improve the effect, a wear-resistant material with a high friction factor, such as rubber, can also be provided on the surface of the balls 13 and 14 or the surface of the limiting groove 151.

[0040] To facilitate the installation and adjustment of the preload force of the first ball 13 and the second ball 14, in this embodiment, please refer to the appendix to the instruction manual. Figures 3-5 As shown, the connector 11 has a screw section, one end of which is integrally connected to an enlarged portion, and the other end of which is threadedly connected to a locking member 17 for adjusting the clamping force of the joint frame.

[0041] To facilitate installation and prevent parts from scattering during the initial assembly, thus reducing assembly efficiency and improving overall structural stability, this embodiment also includes a connecting plate 16 for movably connecting the first plate 12 and the second plate 15. A snap-fit ​​strip 161 is fixedly mounted on the connecting plate 16, and snap-fit ​​grooves 152 for rotatably engaging the snap-fit ​​strip 161 are provided on the side walls of both the first plate 12 and the second plate 15. Under the action of the connecting plate 16, even if the connecting member 11 is completely removed, the first plate 12 and the second plate 15 will not separate but will maintain a hinge-like structure, allowing for free opening and closing. This facilitates assembly, prevents parts from scattering, and improves the overall integrity of the multi-ball joint.

[0042] Example 3:

[0043] This embodiment provides a multi-joint outrigger, including at least two outrigger bodies and a ball joint disposed between adjacent end outrigger bodies. The ball joint consists of two first ball joints 1 and second ball joints 2 connected axially at 90° to each other. The first ball joints 1 and second ball joints 2 adopt the multi-joint structure as described in embodiments 1-2 above.

[0044] To further enhance structural stability and enable the outrigger to maintain its position at a certain angle, the outrigger preferably includes a flexible shaft 3 for connecting the first ball joint 1 and the second ball joint 2. The flexible shaft 3 is characterized by its ability to bend and deform at any angle and maintain its current state after bending and deformation, thus further improving the structural stability of the entire outrigger under the support of the flexible shaft 3.

[0045] More preferably, the number of flexible shafts 3 is two, and the plane in which any of the flexible shafts 3 bends is parallel to the horizontal and vertical planes of the ball joint, respectively. Installing two flexible shafts 3 on mutually perpendicular planes maximizes support and minimizes support blind spots or weak points. In this embodiment, the flexible shaft 3 preferably adopts a flexible shaft structure with a protective sheath and built-in steel cables, providing strong support and maintaining inertia.

[0046] Example 4:

[0047] This invention also provides a fixing device, including at least one multi-joint support arm as described above. It is used to temporarily provide fixed support for objects requiring support, such as mobile phones.

[0048] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A multi-ball joint, characterized in that: It includes an adjustable clamping force joint frame, a first ball (13) and a second ball (14) rotatably disposed within the joint frame, and the first ball (13) and the second ball (14) are respectively fixedly connected to a connecting shaft (131) and a connecting sleeve (141).

2. A multi-ball joint according to claim 1, characterized in that: The joint frame includes a second plate (15) with limiting grooves (151) near both ends, a first plate (12) symmetrically arranged with the second plate (15), and a connector (11) that passes through and connects the first plate (12) and the second plate (15). The first ball (13) and the second ball (14) are restricted at the limiting grooves (151).

3. A multi-ball joint according to claim 2, characterized in that: The connector (11) has a screw section, one end of which is integrally connected to an enlarged portion, and the other end of which is threadedly connected to a locking member (17) for adjusting the clamping force of the joint frame.

4. A multi-ball joint according to claim 2, characterized in that: It also includes a connecting plate (16) for movably connecting the first plate (12) and the second plate (15), and a snap-fit ​​strip (161) is fixedly provided on the connecting plate (16). The side walls of the first plate (12) and the second plate (15) are each provided with a snap-fit ​​groove (152) for rotatably snapping the snap-fit ​​strip (161).

5. A multi-joint outrigger, comprising at least two outrigger bodies and a spherical joint disposed between adjacent end outrigger bodies, characterized in that: The ball joint consists of a first ball joint (1) and a second ball joint (2) connected at 90° to each other axially, wherein the first ball joint (1) and the second ball joint (2) adopt the multi-spherical joint structure as described in any one of claims 1-4.

6. A multi-joint outrigger according to claim 5, characterized in that: It also includes a flexible shaft (3) for connecting the first ball joint (1) and the second ball joint (2).

7. A multi-ball joint arm according to claim 6, characterized in that: The number of flexible shafts (3) is two, and the plane in which any of the flexible shafts (3) bends is parallel to the horizontal and vertical planes of the ball joint, respectively.

8. A fixing device, characterized in that: It includes at least one multi-ball joint arm as described in any one of claims 5-7.

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