Folding mechanism and electric scooter

Abstract

The embodiment of the utility model relates to a scooter, and discloses a folding mechanism, which comprises a U-shaped connecting plate, the first end of the supporting frame is arranged in the U-shaped connecting plate and is rotationally connected with the U-shaped connecting plate; the first end of the wrench is rotationally connected with the first end of the supporting frame; wherein a limiting groove is formed in the side wall, deviating from an opening of the U-shaped connecting plate, of the supporting frame, the wrench is inserted into the limiting groove, and a locking part is arranged on the inner side wall of the wrench; under the condition that the locking part and the limiting groove are clamped and fixed, the supporting frame and the U-shaped connecting plate are relatively fixed and are in an open state; under the condition that the locking part is separated from the limiting groove, the supporting frame rotates in the direction away from the opening of the U-shaped connecting plate and abuts against the U-shaped connecting plate, and the supporting frame and the U-shaped connecting plate are in a folded state. Relative movement of components is directly restrained through mechanical limiting, a manual triggering mode is adopted, reliable connection during opening and smooth action during folding are guaranteed, the basic function requirements of the folding mechanism are met, and meanwhile the structure is simple, safe and reliable. The utility model further provides an electric scooter.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of scooter technology, and more particularly to a folding mechanism and an electric scooter. Background Technology

[0002] To meet the portability needs of electric scooter commuting, the folding mechanism has become a key design component. Currently, folding solutions on the market are mainly divided into two categories: one is the stem folding solution, which is limited by the space of the stem, requires miniaturization of the folding mechanism, has high precision requirements for parts, and requires the use of high-strength materials to ensure strength, resulting in higher overall costs; the other is the frame folding solution, which has fewer structural size restrictions and can achieve higher strength and reliability, but existing frame folding solutions mostly use foot-triggered mechanisms, which pose a risk of accidental activation during riding and may cause safety hazards to riders.

[0003] However, the inventors have discovered at least the following technical problems in the relevant technologies: In existing bicycle frame folding solutions, the foot-triggered mechanism is prone to accidental opening due to accidental activation, affecting riding safety; at the same time, some folding solutions have problems such as complex structure, inconvenient operation, high cost, or insufficient strength. Utility Model Content

[0004] One object of this application is to provide a folding mechanism and an electric scooter, at least to solve the above-mentioned problems.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, some embodiments of this application provide a folding mechanism, including:

[0006] U-shaped connecting plate;

[0007] The support frame has its first end placed inside the U-shaped connecting plate and rotatably connected to the U-shaped connecting plate;

[0008] The first end of the wrench is rotatably connected to the first end of the support frame;

[0009] The support frame has a limiting groove on the side wall away from the opening of the U-shaped connecting plate. The wrench is inserted into the limiting groove, and the inner side wall of the wrench is provided with a locking part. When the locking part is engaged and fixed with the limiting groove, the support frame is relatively fixed with the U-shaped connecting plate and is in an open state. When the locking part is disengaged from the limiting groove, the support frame rotates in the direction away from the opening of the U-shaped connecting plate and abuts against the U-shaped connecting plate, and is in a folded state with the U-shaped connecting plate.

[0010] Some embodiments of this application also provide an electric scooter, including a chassis and the folding mechanism provided in the foregoing embodiments;

[0011] The chassis is fixedly connected to the U-shaped connecting plate.

[0012] Compared with related technologies, the solution provided in this application, through the rotational connection design of the U-shaped connecting plate, support frame, and wrench, utilizes the engagement / disengagement state of the locking part and the limiting groove to achieve stable switching between the open state (support frame and U-shaped connecting plate are relatively fixed) and the folded state (support frame rotates and abuts against the U-shaped connecting plate). Mechanical limiting directly constrains the relative movement of components, and the use of a hand-triggered wrench operation ensures reliable connection when open and smooth movement when folding, meeting the basic functional requirements of the folding mechanism. Simultaneously, the structure is simple and safe. Attached Figure Description

[0013] One or more embodiments are illustrated by way of example with reference numerals in the accompanying drawings. These illustrations do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments. Elements with the same reference numerals in the drawings are denoted as similar elements. Unless otherwise stated, the figures in the drawings are not to be limited by scale.

[0014] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the folding mechanism provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the folding mechanism provided in another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the folding mechanism provided in another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the folding mechanism provided in another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 5 This is an exploded view of the folding mechanism provided in the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0019] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the folding mechanism provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0020] Figure 7 This is an assembly diagram of the wrench and related assembly components provided in the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0021] Figure 8 This is an assembly schematic diagram of the wrench and related assembly components provided in an embodiment of this disclosure from another perspective;

[0022] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the wrench and related assembly components provided in the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0023] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the U-shaped connecting plate provided in the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0024] Figure 11This is a schematic diagram of the support frame provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0025] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the locking part provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0026] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the housing provided in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0027] Figure label:

[0028] 10: U-shaped connecting plate; 101: U-shaped connecting plate opening; 102: Stop block; 103: Limiting notch; 104: First bending section; 105: Second bending section;

[0029] 20: Support frame; 201: Limiting groove; 202: Inclined guide structure; 203: Arc-shaped guide groove; 204: First rotating shaft;

[0030] 30: Wrench; 301: Grip; 302: Mounting platform; 303: Through-hole; 304: Hollow cavity; 305: Hollow part; 306: Stop boss; 307: Limiting shaft; 308: Second rotating shaft;

[0031] 40: Locking part; 401: Connecting plate; 402: Groove; 403: Pressing part; 404: Stop part; 405: Guide mating structure;

[0032] 50: tension spring; 60: spring; 70: housing; 701: receiving cavity; 702: limiting post. Detailed Implementation

[0033] 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, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0034] The terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this disclosure are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate for the embodiments of this disclosure described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion.

[0035] In this disclosure, the terms "upper," "lower," "inner," "middle," "outer," "front," and "rear," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. These terms are primarily for better describing the embodiments of this disclosure and their implementations, and are not intended to limit the indicated devices, elements, or components to having a specific orientation, or to require them to be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Furthermore, some of the aforementioned terms may be used to indicate other meanings besides orientation or positional relationship; for example, the term "upper" may in some cases indicate a dependency or connection relationship. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of these terms in this disclosure according to the specific circumstances.

[0036] Furthermore, the terms "set up," "connect," and "fix" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral structure; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium, or it can be an internal connection between two devices, components, or parts. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this disclosure according to the specific circumstances.

[0037] Unless otherwise stated, the term "multiple" means two or more.

[0038] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the character " / " indicates that the objects before and after it are in an "or" relationship. For example, A / B means: A or B.

[0039] The term "and / or" describes an association between objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B means: A or B, or A and B.

[0040] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in the present disclosure can be combined with each other.

[0041] Combination Figures 1 to 13As shown in the embodiment of this disclosure, a folding mechanism includes: a U-shaped connecting plate 10, a support frame 20, and a wrench 30. The support frame 20 has its first end placed inside the U-shaped connecting plate 10 and rotatably connected to it; the wrench 30 has its first end rotatably connected to the first end of the support frame 20. The support frame 20 has a limiting groove 201 on its side wall away from the opening 101 of the U-shaped connecting plate. The wrench 30 is inserted into the limiting groove 201, and a locking part 40 is provided on the inner side wall of the wrench 30. When the locking part 40 is engaged and fixed with the limiting groove 201, the support frame 20 is relatively fixed to the U-shaped connecting plate 10 and is in an open state. When the locking part 40 disengages from the limiting groove 201, the support frame 20 rotates in the direction away from the opening 101 of the U-shaped connecting plate and abuts against the U-shaped connecting plate 10, thus folding with the U-shaped connecting plate 10.

[0042] The folding mechanism provided in this embodiment utilizes the rotational connection design of the U-shaped connecting plate 10, the support frame 20, and the wrench 30. By engaging / disengaging the locking part 40 with the limiting groove 201, the folding mechanism achieves stable switching between the open state (support frame 20 and U-shaped connecting plate 10 are relatively fixed) and the folded state (support frame 20 rotates and contacts U-shaped connecting plate 10). This structure directly constrains the relative movement of components through mechanical limiting, ensuring reliable connection when open and smooth operation when folding, meeting the basic functional requirements of the folding mechanism. Simultaneously, the structure is simple, safe, and reliable.

[0043] When in the open state, the locking part 40 engages with the limiting groove 201 to ensure that the support frame 20 and the U-shaped connecting plate 10 are relatively fixed, providing a stable structural support for applications such as electric scooters; when in the folded state, the locking part 40 disengages from the limiting groove 201, and the support frame 20 can rotate in a direction away from the opening 101 of the U-shaped connecting plate and abut against the U-shaped connecting plate 10, achieving effective folding and storage.

[0044] The manual lever 30 operation method reduces the possibility of accidental activation during riding compared to the foot-triggered mechanism in some existing frame folding solutions on the market, thus reducing the risk of danger to riders and meeting the requirements for structural safety and reliability.

[0045] The state switching is achieved through the direct cooperation between the locking part 40 and the limiting groove 201. The operation logic is clear, and the folding and unfolding process is simple and convenient, without complicated operation steps, thus improving the user experience.

[0046] Compared to the riser folding device solution, this structural design does not require excessive pursuit of miniaturization and high-precision components. While ensuring strength and reliability, it is conducive to controlling the overall cost and has a significant cost advantage.

[0047] Optionally, the top edge of the U-shaped connecting plate 10 is provided with a limiting notch 103, and the first end of the wrench 30 is provided with a limiting shaft 307 perpendicular to the plane of rotation of the wrench 30. The limiting shaft 307 can be embedded in the limiting notch 103. When the locking part 40 is engaged and fixed with the limiting groove 201, the limiting shaft 307 is embedded in the limiting notch 103 to fix the support frame 20 and the U-shaped connecting plate 10 with double limiting.

[0048] Based on the engagement of the locking part 40 and the limiting groove 201, the limiting shaft 307 and the limiting notch 103 are further engaged, forming a double limiting mechanism consisting of "locking part 40 - limiting groove 201" and "limiting shaft 307 - limiting notch 103". This double fixing structure further improves the connection stability between the support frame 20 and the U-shaped connecting plate 10 in the open state, reduces the risk of single limiting failure, and enhances the overall safety of the mechanism, making it particularly suitable for scenarios requiring load-bearing and vibration resistance, such as electric scooters.

[0049] During the folding process, the limiting shaft 307 disengages from the limiting notch 103 along the preset path, and cooperates with the locking part 40 to disengage from the limiting groove 201. This ensures that the support frame 20 rotates in an orderly manner in the direction away from the opening 101 of the U-shaped connecting plate, avoiding jamming or misalignment between parts, and making the folding operation smooth and effortless.

[0050] Optionally, an arc-shaped guide groove 203 is constructed on the side wall of the support frame 20 that intersects with the side wall where the limiting groove 201 is located, and the center of the arc-shaped guide groove 203 faces the side where the limiting groove 201 is located; the limiting shaft 307 passes through the arc-shaped guide groove 203. When the locking part 40 disengages from the limiting groove 201, the wrench 30 rotates relative to the support frame 20 and drives the limiting shaft 307 to slide along the arc-shaped guide groove 203. When the limiting shaft 307 slides to the end of the arc-shaped guide groove 203, the limiting shaft 307 disengages from the limiting notch 103 so that the support frame 20 can rotate and fold relative to the U-shaped connecting plate 10.

[0051] The arc-shaped guide groove 203 provides a sliding path for the limiting shaft 307, ensuring that the limiting shaft 307 moves along a preset trajectory when the wrench 30 rotates, preventing parts from jamming. When the locking part 40 disengages from the limiting groove 201, the limiting shaft 307 slides along the arc-shaped guide groove 203 to the end and then disengages from the limiting notch 103, allowing the rotation and folding action of the support frame 20 to proceed in an orderly manner, reducing operating resistance, improving the smoothness of the folding process, and at the same time preventing unexpected collisions or wear between parts through guiding constraints.

[0052] Optionally, the wrench 30 and the support frame 20 are rotatably connected via the second rotating shaft 308. The center of the arc-shaped guide groove 203 is set on the same side as the second rotating shaft 308 so that when the wrench 30 rotates relative to the support frame 20 and the second rotating shaft 308 as the connection point, the limiting shaft 307 slides along the arc-shaped guide groove 203.

[0053] The center of the arc-shaped guide groove 203 is located on the same side as the second rotating shaft 308, ensuring that when the wrench 30 rotates around the second rotating shaft 308, the sliding trajectory of the limiting shaft 307 perfectly matches the arc-shaped guide groove 203, avoiding jamming or structural stress concentration caused by trajectory deviation. This design ensures more coordinated relative movement between the wrench 30 and the support frame 20, reduces mechanical wear, and extends the service life of the mechanism.

[0054] For example, the wrench 30 extends into the support frame 20 from the limiting groove 201, and a portion of the structure (the first end of the wrench 30) is located within the support frame 20, while the limiting shaft 307 and the second rotating shaft 308 extend out from the support frame 20.

[0055] For example, the wrench 30 can be covered outside the support frame 20. That is, it can be understood that the first end of the wrench 30 has a U-shaped structure and is covered outside the support frame 20. The limiting shaft 307 and the second rotating shaft 308 are set through the wrench 30 and the support frame 20.

[0056] Optionally, the support frame 20 is a frame structure, and arc-shaped guide grooves 203 are provided on both opposite sides of the support frame 20. The two ends of the limiting shaft 307 pass through the arc-shaped guide grooves 203 on both sides of the support frame 20 to improve stability.

[0057] Both sides of the support frame 20 are provided with arc-shaped guide grooves 203, through which the two ends of the limiting shaft 307 pass, so that the limiting shaft 307 is subjected to force evenly and avoids tilting or deformation caused by force on one side. This structure improves the stability of the connection between the wrench 30 and the support frame 20, especially during folding or opening, it can effectively resist lateral forces, ensure the precise movement trajectory of the components, and enhance the overall rigidity.

[0058] Optionally, the U-shaped connecting plate 10 and the support frame 20 are rotatably connected via the first rotating shaft 204; it also includes a tension spring 50, one end of which is connected to the limiting shaft 307 and the other end of which is connected to the first rotating shaft 204.

[0059] The tension spring 50 connects the limiting shaft 307 and the first rotating shaft 204, providing continuous tension when the mechanism is in the folded or open state. In the open state, the tension spring 50 helps the locking part 40 and the limiting groove 201 to remain engaged, reducing the risk of accidental disengagement; in the folded state, the tension spring 50 constrains the relative position of the components, reducing vibration and noise during handling or transportation, and improving the user experience.

[0060] Optionally, the U-shaped connecting plate 10 is provided with a stop block 102 at the opening. When the support frame 20 and the U-shaped connecting plate 10 are fixed relative to each other and in an open state, the stop block 102 abuts against the support frame 20 to provide support force.

[0061] When the U-shaped connecting plate opening 101 is open, the stop block 102 abuts against the support frame 20, providing additional support to the support frame 20 and sharing the force on the locking part 40 and the limiting shaft 307. This design can reduce the load on the core limiting components, avoid deformation or failure caused by long-term use, and enhance the structural strength and reliability of the mechanism in load-bearing scenarios (such as riding).

[0062] Optionally, the top edge of the U-shaped connecting plate 10 includes a first curved section 104 and a second curved section 105 connected together, and the centers of the first curved section 104 and the second curved section 105 are set opposite to each other; wherein, the first curved section 104 is connected to the opening edge of the limiting notch 103, and the center of the first curved section 104 is set opposite to the opening direction of the limiting notch 103.

[0063] The first curved section 104 and the second curved section 105 at the top edge of the U-shaped connecting plate 10 are designed with their centers facing away from each other, making the transition between the limiting notch 103 and the edge smooth. The first curved section 104 is connected to the opening edge of the limiting notch 103 and its center is away from the notch direction, which can guide the limiting shaft 307 to smoothly insert into or disengage from the notch, reducing the feeling of jamming during operation, while enhancing the strength of the edge structure and avoiding breakage caused by stress concentration.

[0064] Optionally, the wrench 30 includes: a gripping part 301, which is the second end of the wrench 30; a mounting platform 302, which extends outward from the inner sidewall of the gripping part 301, and the mounting platform 302 has a through-hole 303 perpendicular to the platform surface; wherein, a locking part 40 partially passes through the through-hole 303, and the locking part 40 can move up and down along the axial direction of the through-hole 303, so that when the locking part 40 moves downward, it releases its limiting stop with the limiting groove 201.

[0065] The structure of the grip 301 and mounting platform 302 of the wrench 30 allows the locking part 40 to move axially along the through-hole 303. The user can release the locking part 40 from the locking groove 201 by pressing. This design simplifies the folding operation process, allowing folding to be triggered without complicated actions, thus improving ease of operation. At the same time, the movement path of the locking part 40 is constrained by the through-hole 303, ensuring precise action and reducing the risk of misoperation.

[0066] Optionally, when the locking part 40 is engaged and fixed with the limiting groove 201, the inner wall of the grip part 301 and the outer wall of the support frame 20 are spaced at a preset distance so that the user can turn the wrench 30.

[0067] In the open state, the inner wall of the grip 301 is spaced at a preset distance from the outer wall of the support frame 20, providing ample operating space for the user to operate the wrench 30 and preventing hand injuries or operational difficulties due to insufficient space. This design enhances the human-computer interaction experience, making folding operations more effortless and safer.

[0068] Optionally, when the locking part 40 is engaged and fixed with the limiting groove 201, a portion of the mounting platform 302 is embedded in the limiting groove 201 and is configured to avoid contact with the side wall of the limiting groove 201.

[0069] Part of the mounting platform 302 is embedded in the limiting groove 201 and avoids the side wall. Without affecting the function of the locking part 40, it increases the contact area between the wrench 30 and the support frame 20, improving connection stability. The avoidance design can avoid rigid collisions or friction between components, reduce wear, and make the structure more compact and space-saving.

[0070] Optionally, the locking part 40 includes: a connecting plate 401, which is arranged parallel to the bottom of the mounting platform 302; a pressing part 403, which is located at one end of the connecting plate 401 and passes through the through opening 303; and a stop part 404, which is located at the other end of the connecting plate 401 and is located outside the mounting platform 302, for extending into the limiting groove 201 and forming a limiting stop with the limiting groove 201.

[0071] The locking part 40 integrates the connecting plate 401, the pressing part 403, and the stop part 404. The pressing part 403 drives the stop part 404 to move up and down, achieving engagement or disengagement with the limiting groove 201. This structure has a clear division of labor, with the pressing operation directly transmitted to the stop part 404 for rapid response. The stop part 404 is located outside the mounting platform 302, ensuring effective contact with the limiting groove 201 and improving locking reliability.

[0072] Optionally, the edge of the limiting groove 201 is provided with a beveled guide structure 202, and the top edge of the stop part 404 is provided with a guide engagement structure 405 adapted to the beveled structure, so that the stop part 404 enters the support frame 20 through the limiting groove 201.

[0073] The inclined guide structure 202 of the limiting groove 201 is adapted to the guide mating structure 405 of the stop part 404, so that the stop part 404 is automatically aligned by the inclined guide when entering the limiting groove 201, reducing jamming. This design reduces the requirements for the machining accuracy of the parts, while ensuring that the locking part 40 locks smoothly, improving the smoothness of the mechanism operation.

[0074] Optionally, the wrench 30 has a hollow cavity 304 constructed below the mounting platform 302, and one side wall of the hollow cavity 304 is inclined from the grip part 301 toward the support frame 20; it also includes: a spring 60, located inside the hollow cavity 304, with one end abutting against the connecting plate 401 and the other end abutting against the side wall of the hollow cavity 304, for driving the connecting plate 401 to move upward and reset.

[0075] The spring 60 inside the hollow chamber 304 provides a restoring force to the locking part 40. After pressing the locking part 40, the spring 60 can drive it to automatically spring back to the locked position without manual reset. This design simplifies the operation steps and ensures that the locking part 40 always remains engaged with the limiting groove 201 when not pressed, preventing accidental unlocking and enhancing safety.

[0076] Optionally, the bottom surface of the connecting plate 401 is provided with a groove 402, and the end of the spring 60 is embedded in the groove 402 to limit the spring 60.

[0077] The groove 402 on the bottom surface of the connecting plate 401 limits the end of the spring 60, preventing the spring 60 from shifting or falling off during extension and retraction, and ensuring that the force of the spring 60 acts stably on the locking part 40. This design improves the reliability of the spring 60's operation, avoids locking failure caused by spring 60 misalignment, and extends the service life of the mechanism.

[0078] Optionally, it further includes: a housing 70, placed inside the hollow cavity 304 and detachably connected to the side wall of the hollow cavity 304; wherein the housing 70 is configured with a receiving cavity 701 and has an opening at the top, and a spring 60 is inserted into the receiving cavity 701 from the top, and the end of the spring 60 abuts against the bottom wall of the receiving cavity 701.

[0079] The receiving cavity 701 within the housing 70 provides installation space for the spring 60, and the housing 70 is detachably connected to the side wall of the hollow chamber 304, facilitating the installation, maintenance, and replacement of the spring 60. This design reduces subsequent maintenance costs, while the housing 70 protects the spring 60, minimizing the impact of external dust or foreign objects on the spring 60.

[0080] Optionally, the housing 70 and the side wall of the hollow chamber 304 are detachably connected by screws, wherein the connection point is located inside the wrench 30.

[0081] The housing 70 is connected to the side wall of the hollow chamber 304 by screws inside the wrench 30, avoiding the exposed connection structure from affecting the appearance or operation. The internal connection method protects the screw from loosening caused by external impact, improves connection stability, and simplifies the external structure, making the wrench 30 easier to grip.

[0082] Optionally, the housing 70 has a limiting post 702 on the bottom wall of the receiving cavity 701, and the spring 60 is sleeved on the limiting post 702 to limit the displacement of the spring 60.

[0083] The limiting post 702 on the bottom wall of the housing 70 receiving cavity 701 is fitted with the spring 60 to further constrain the extension and contraction trajectory of the spring 60 and prevent the spring 60 from shifting laterally or twisting. This design ensures that the force of the spring 60 is stably transmitted axially to the locking part 40, improving the accuracy and reliability of the locking part 40's reset.

[0084] Optionally, the housing 70 has an opening in the side wall of the receiving cavity 701 to allow observation of the spring 60 inside the receiving cavity 701; wherein the opening faces the inside of the wrench 30, so that when the locking part 40 is engaged and fixed with the limiting groove 201, the inside of the wrench 30 is sealed by the limiting groove 201 or the support frame 20 to prevent foreign objects from entering the receiving cavity 701 and affecting the deformation of the spring 60.

[0085] The opening on the side wall of the housing 70 faces inward towards the wrench 30 and is closed by the limiting groove 201 or the support frame 20 in the locked state. This facilitates observation of the spring 60's status while preventing foreign objects from entering the receiving cavity 701. This design balances maintainability and protection, avoiding locking malfunctions caused by foreign objects affecting the deformation of the spring 60.

[0086] Optionally, the limiting post 702, the spring 60, and the groove 402 are arranged coaxially.

[0087] The limit post 702, spring 60 and groove 402 are coaxially arranged to ensure that the force of spring 60 is accurately transmitted to the locking part 40 along the axial direction, avoiding the locking part 40 from being skewed or stuck due to eccentric force, improving the stability of the locking part 40's operation, reducing mechanical wear and extending the service life of the mechanism.

[0088] Optionally, the wrench 30 may also have multiple hollow portions 305 to reduce the weight of the wrench 30 while ensuring the structural strength of the wrench 30.

[0089] The multiple hollow sections 305 of the wrench 30 reduce weight while maintaining structural strength, making folding easier and reducing the overall weight of the electric scooter, thus improving portability. The hollow structure also saves materials, reduces production costs, and conforms to the trend of lightweight design.

[0090] Optionally, the first end of the wrench 30 has a stop protrusion 306 on its edge. When the locking part 40 is engaged and fixed with the limiting groove 201, the stop protrusion 306 abuts against the inner side wall of the support frame 20 to cooperate with the locking part 40 to limit the rotation angle of the wrench 30 and the position fixed relative to the support frame 20.

[0091] When the wrench 30 is in the open state, the stop boss 306 at the first end abuts against the inner wall of the support frame 20, cooperating with the locking part 40 to limit the rotation angle and position of the wrench 30. This helps to prevent structural damage caused by excessive rotation of the wrench 30, while ensuring that the locking part 40 and the limiting groove 201 are accurately engaged, thus improving the overall stability of the mechanism.

[0092] For example, the folding action flow of the folding mechanism is as follows:

[0093] Initial state: The folding mechanism is in the open state, the support frame 20 is fixed relative to the U-shaped connecting plate 10, the locking part 40 of the wrench 30 is engaged and fixed with the limiting groove 201 of the support frame 20, the limiting shaft 307 at the first end of the wrench 30 is embedded in the limiting notch 103 at the top of the U-shaped connecting plate 10 (double limiting), and the tension spring 50 is in the natural or pre-tightened state.

[0094] Triggering the unlocking action: The user holds the grip part 301 of the wrench 30 and presses the locking part 40 (pressing part 403) on the inside of the wrench 30, so that the locking part 40 overcomes the restoring force of the spring 60 and moves downward along the through opening 303, thereby releasing the locking part 40 from the engagement with the limiting groove 201.

[0095] Limiting shaft 307 disengages from limiting notch 103: As locking part 40 disengages from limiting groove 201, user turns wrench 30 (rotating with wrench 30 and second rotating shaft 308 of support frame 20 as fulcrum), causing limiting shaft 307 to slide along arc-shaped guide groove 203 on side wall of support frame 20 (center of arc-shaped guide groove 203 is on the same side as second rotating shaft 308 to ensure matching sliding trajectory); when limiting shaft 307 slides to end of arc-shaped guide groove 203, it completely disengages from limiting notch 103 of U-shaped connecting plate 10, releasing double limiting.

[0096] Support frame 20 rotates and folds: After the limit constraint is released, the support frame 20 rotates about the first pivot 204 of the U-shaped connecting plate 10 and moves away from the opening 101 of the U-shaped connecting plate. During this process, the tension spring 50 (one end is connected to the limit shaft 307 and the other end is connected to the first pivot 204) is gradually stretched, generating a constraint force.

[0097] Folding state locking: The support frame 20 rotates to the position where it abuts against the U-shaped connecting plate 10, completing the folding; at this time, the restraining force of the tension spring 50 keeps the wrench 30 and related components stable, preventing harsh noises caused by vibration during handling, moving or transportation.

[0098] For example, the opening process of the folding mechanism is as follows:

[0099] Initial state: The folding mechanism is in the folded state, the support frame 20 rotates in the direction away from the opening 101 of the U-shaped connecting plate and abuts against the U-shaped connecting plate 10, the locking part 40 of the wrench 30 disengages from the limiting groove 201 of the support frame 20, the limiting shaft 307 disengages from the limiting notch 103 of the U-shaped connecting plate 10, and the tension spring 50 is in a stretched or pre-tightened state to constrain the position of the components.

[0100] Triggering the unfolding action: During operation, simply hold the support frame 20 (or the handlebar connected to the support frame) and push it in the direction of the U-shaped connecting plate opening 101 (the support frame 20 is rotated around the point of connection with the U-shaped connecting plate 10), so that the support frame 20 gradually moves from the folded state to the open state.

[0101] Initial alignment of the limiting shaft: As the support frame 20 rotates, under the tension of the tension spring 50, the limiting shaft 307 moves along the top edge of the U-shaped connecting plate until it is locked into the limiting notch 103 of the U-shaped connecting plate 10.

[0102] Initial alignment of the locking part 40: As the support frame 20 rotates, under the tension of the tension spring 50, the limiting groove 201 on its side wall away from the opening 101 of the U-shaped connecting plate gradually aligns with the locking part 40 inside the wrench 30. Guided by the inclined guide structure 202 at the edge of the limiting groove 201, the locking part 40 moves downward along the through-hole of the wrench 30, gradually approaching the locking position. Under the restoring force of the spring 60, the locking part 40 locks the support frame 20 and the wrench 30.

[0103] Double-limit automatic locking: When the support frame 20 rotates to the open position where it is fixed relative to the U-shaped connecting plate 10, the locking part 40 is fully embedded in the limiting groove 201, realizing the snap-fit ​​fixation of "locking part 40 - limiting groove 201"; at the same time, the limiting shaft 307 (perpendicular to the rotation plane of the wrench 30) at the first end of the wrench 30 slides along the arc-shaped guide groove 203 of the support frame 20, and is just embedded in the limiting notch 103 at the top edge of the U-shaped connecting plate 10, forming a double fixation with the locking part 40, and realizing one-step unfolding.

[0104] Stable Open State: After the locking part 40 engages with the limiting groove 201 and the limiting shaft 307 fits into the limiting notch 103, the support frame 20 and the U-shaped connecting plate 10 are relatively fixed and in the open state. At this time, the stop block 102 at the opening 101 of the U-shaped connecting plate abuts against the support frame 20, providing additional support force to ensure the structural stability of the mechanism under load (such as when riding), thus completing the opening process.

[0105] This application also provides an electric scooter, including: a chassis and the aforementioned folding mechanism, wherein the chassis is fixedly connected to a U-shaped connecting plate 401.

[0106] The electric scooter is fixedly connected to the U-shaped connecting plate 10 via its chassis, integrating the aforementioned folding mechanism. It boasts advantages such as reliable structural safety, prevention of accidental activation while riding, convenient operation, one-step folding / unfolding, and automatic locking of the safety latch. Compared to existing solutions, its frame folding design offers higher strength, hand-triggered operation avoids the risk of accidental foot activation, and it offers significant cost advantages, improving the scooter's portability and safety for commuting.

[0107] The foregoing description and accompanying drawings fully illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure to enable those skilled in the art to practice them. Other embodiments may include structural and other changes. The embodiments represent only possible variations. Individual components and functions are optional unless explicitly required, and the order of operation may vary. Parts and features of some embodiments may be included or substituted for parts and features of other embodiments. Embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the structures described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes may be made without departing from its scope. The scope of the present disclosure is limited only by the appended claims, and the foregoing embodiments should be considered exemplary and non-limiting.

Claims

1. A folding mechanism, characterized in that, include: U-shaped connecting plate; The support frame has its first end placed inside the U-shaped connecting plate and rotatably connected to the U-shaped connecting plate; The first end of the wrench is rotatably connected to the first end of the support frame; Among them, the support frame has a limiting groove on the side wall away from the opening of the U-shaped connecting plate, the wrench is inserted into the limiting groove, and the inner side wall of the wrench is provided with a locking part. When the locking part is engaged and fixed with the limiting groove, the support frame and the U-shaped connecting plate are fixed relative to each other and are in an open state; when the locking part is disengaged from the limiting groove, the support frame rotates in a direction away from the opening of the U-shaped connecting plate and abuts against the U-shaped connecting plate, and the support frame and the U-shaped connecting plate are in a folded state.

2. The folding mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The top edge of the U-shaped connecting plate is constructed with a limiting notch, and the first end of the wrench is located on a limiting shaft perpendicular to the plane of wrench rotation. The limiting shaft can be fitted into the limiting notch. With the locking part and the limiting groove locked together, the limiting shaft is fitted into the limiting notch to fix the support frame and the U-shaped connecting plate with double limiting.

3. The folding mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that, An arc-shaped guide groove is constructed on the side wall of the support frame that intersects with the side wall where the limiting groove is located, and the center of the arc-shaped guide groove faces the side where the limiting groove is located; the limiting shaft passes through the arc-shaped guide groove. When the locking part disengages from the limiting groove, the wrench rotates relative to the support frame and drives the limiting shaft to slide along the arc-shaped guide groove; when the limiting shaft slides to the end of the arc-shaped guide groove, the limiting shaft disengages from the limiting notch so that the support frame can rotate and fold relative to the U-shaped connecting plate.

4. The folding mechanism according to claim 3, characterized in that, The wrench and the support frame are rotatably connected by a second rotating shaft. The center of the arc-shaped guide groove is set on the same side as the second rotating shaft so that when the wrench rotates relative to the support frame and the second rotating shaft as the connection point, the limiting shaft slides along the arc-shaped guide groove.

5. The folding mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that, The U-shaped connecting plate and the support frame are rotatably connected via a first rotating shaft; it also includes: The tension spring is connected at one end to the limiting shaft and at the other end to the first rotating shaft.

6. The folding mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, Wrenches include: The grip section is the second end of the wrench; The mounting platform is formed by extending outward from the inner wall of the grip, and the mounting platform has a through-hole perpendicular to the platform surface. The locking part is inserted through the through opening, and the locking part can move up and down along the axial direction of the through opening so that when the locking part moves down, it releases the limiting stop with the limiting groove.

7. The folding mechanism according to claim 6, characterized in that, The locking part includes: The connecting plate is positioned parallel to the bottom of the mounting platform; The pressing part is located at one end of the connecting plate and passes through the through opening; The stop is located at the other end of the connecting plate and on the outside of the mounting platform. It extends into the limiting groove and forms a limiting stop with the limiting groove.

8. The folding mechanism according to claim 7, characterized in that, The wrench has a hollow cavity constructed below the mounting platform, and one side wall enclosing the hollow cavity is inclined from the grip towards the support frame; it also includes: A spring, located inside the hollow cavity, with one end abutting against the connecting plate and the other end abutting against the side wall of the hollow cavity, is used to drive the connecting plate to move upward and reset.

9. The folding mechanism according to claim 8, characterized in that, Also includes: The shell is placed inside the hollow cavity and is detachably connected to the side wall of the hollow cavity; The housing has a receiving cavity with an opening at the top. A spring is inserted into the receiving cavity from the top, and the end of the spring abuts against the bottom wall of the receiving cavity.

10. An electric scooter, characterized in that, Includes a chassis and a folding mechanism as described in any one of claims 1 to 9; The chassis is fixedly connected to the U-shaped connecting plate.

Images