A folding mechanism for a brush cutter

Abstract

The application discloses a folding mechanism for a branch crusher, and belongs to the technical field of the branch crusher, and overcomes the defect that the branch crusher is complicated to disassemble when being folded and unfolded, and mainly provides a folding mechanism for a branch crusher, which comprises a machine base for mounting a branch crusher main machine and a support for supporting the machine base, the support is provided with a containing portion for containing the branch crusher main machine, the machine base has an unfolded position where the branch crusher main machine is away from the containing portion and a folded position where the branch crusher main machine enters the containing portion, at least one main shaft of the machine base is axially and slidingly connected and extends to the outside of the support, one end of the main shaft extending to the outside of the support is fixed with a locking block, the locking block has a first position where the locking block is inserted into and locked with the machine base and the support, and a second position where the locking block is separated from the support and the machine base and the support are unlocked. The application is mainly used for realizing the quick folding and unfolding of the branch crusher.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of wood chipper technology, and in particular to a folding mechanism for wood chippers. Background Technology

[0002] A wood chipper is a specialized device for processing garden waste, primarily handling branches, leaves, and other plant debris. In garden management, discarded branches and leaves often accumulate, affecting the cleanliness and aesthetics of the landscape. Wood chippers can efficiently process large quantities of branches and leaves, reducing the labor intensity of manual processing and improving work efficiency. Furthermore, the use of wood chippers helps improve environmental sanitation, maintaining the cleanliness and beauty of the garden. The emergence of wood chippers provides an efficient and convenient solution for garden waste disposal. In use, to facilitate handling, carrying, and storage, DC electric wood chippers require quick folding and unfolding to meet the need for easy movement to different locations. Existing quick-folding mechanisms effectively meet these user requirements.

[0003] In existing technology, the entire wood chipper is bolted to a welded steel pipe frame. When needed, all bolts between the folded chipper and the steel pipe must be unscrewed, the machine placed in the unfolded working position, and then all bolts tightened. This installation process is time-consuming and labor-intensive, resulting in a poor user experience. Furthermore, the bolt-fixed design leads to numerous disassembled parts, and given the large size of the wood chipper, repeated disassembly and reassembly cause wear and tear on the parts, resulting in many easily damaged components. Utility Model Content

[0004] In order to overcome the shortcomings of the cumbersome disassembly and unfolding of the existing wood chipper, this application provides a folding mechanism for the wood chipper, which can realize the rapid folding and unfolding of the wood chipper.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, this application adopts the following technical solution: a folding mechanism for a wood chipper, comprising a base for mounting the main body of the wood chipper and a bracket for supporting the base. The bracket is provided with a receiving portion for accommodating the main body of the wood chipper. The base has an unfolded position where the main body of the wood chipper is out of the receiving portion and a folded position where the main body of the wood chipper is in the receiving portion. The base is axially slidably connected to at least one end of a main shaft extending to the outside of the bracket. A locking block is fixed to one end of the main shaft extending to the outside of the bracket. The locking block has a first position for inserting into and locking the base and the bracket, and a locking position. The locking block disengages from the bracket and unlocks the base and bracket to a second position. The locking block switches between the first and second positions via the axial displacement of the main shaft. The bracket is provided with a first limiting part and a second limiting part at circumferential intervals along the main shaft. When the base is in the folded position, the locking block can switch between the first and second positions. When the locking block is in the first position, the first limiting part circumferentially limits the locking block. When the base is in the unfolded position, the locking block can switch between the first and second positions. When the locking block is in the first position, the second limiting part circumferentially limits the locking block.

[0006] This solution replaces the traditional bolt disassembly and assembly method with an axial sliding design of the spindle. The specific operation process is as follows: Locking process: The spindle is kept in the first position, the locking block is inserted and locks the first support and bracket, and the machine base is firmly fixed in the unfolded position.

[0007] Unlocking process: The main shaft moves to the second position, the locking block disengages from the bracket, and the base can then rotate and fold (or unfold) around the bracket.

[0008] By adopting the above technical solution, this application has the following advantages: The main shaft achieves a linkage structure for unlocking or locking the machine base and bracket through a locking block. The user only needs to operate the main shaft to perform axial displacement to complete the folding / unfolding of the entire machine, avoiding the cumbersome process of repeated alignment and disassembly required by traditional multi-bolt fixing. Furthermore, this folding mechanism design is modular, not dependent on a specific shredder main unit structure, and can be flexibly adapted to various models and specifications of shredders. It can even be extended to other garden machinery or industrial equipment requiring rapid folding, possessing good technical versatility and application expandability. Compared to the cumbersome process of traditionally requiring the unscrewing of each bolt, the axial displacement of the main shaft for locking or unlocking takes extremely short time (only a specific distance displacement of the main shaft is needed to switch the locking state), significantly improving efficiency.

[0009] Furthermore, both ends of the spindle extend outward from the bracket, with a locking block fixed at one end and a knob fitted at the other end. The knob is rotatably connected to the bracket, and a drive seat fixed to the spindle is provided between the knob and the bracket. The side of the knob facing the drive seat has a first annular inclined surface that gradually moves towards the machine base, and the drive seat has a second annular inclined surface that gradually moves away from the machine base, corresponding to the first annular inclined surface. This is so that when the knob is rotated, the annular inclined surface drives the drive seat with protrusions to move towards the bracket, thereby driving the spindle to move to a second position.

[0010] Using the aforementioned technical solution, the spindle can be driven to move axially simply by rotating the knob, transforming the laborious operation of "linear push and pull" into the effortless action of "rotating the knob," which conforms to ergonomic design. During knob rotation, the contact between the first and second annular inclined surfaces automatically pushes the drive seat, causing the spindle to move. Users only need to continuously rotate the knob to quickly switch the locking block from the "first position" to the "second position" (or vice versa), without the need for additional alignment or forceful pressing of the spindle, significantly reducing operation time. The knob is directly fitted onto the end of the spindle, resulting in a high degree of structural integration. It eliminates the need for additional complex transmission components (such as gears, connecting rods, etc.), compressing the volume of the folding mechanism and making the shredder more compact in the folded state, facilitating handling and storage.

[0011] Furthermore, the bracket is equipped with an elastic element for holding the spindle in a first position. The first and second annular inclined surfaces are each provided with a retaining surface perpendicular to the axis of rotation at the top of the inclined surfaces. When the two rotate to fit together at the retaining surface, the spindle is located in the second position, and the two remain circumferentially stationary when only subjected to axial force.

[0012] Using the aforementioned technical solution, the elastic element (such as a spring) always applies a spring force to the main shaft toward the first position (locked state), ensuring that the shredder automatically remains locked when not in operation, preventing unlocking due to accidental contact or accidental movement of the main shaft during handling, thus improving operational safety. When the first and second annular inclined planes rotate to the retaining surface, since both retaining surfaces are perpendicular to the rotation axis, the knob and drive seat will not rotate even under the axial force of the elastic element, unless subjected to circumferential force. This allows the operator to rotate the shredder main unit relative to the support on the machine base, enabling the shredder main unit to unfold or fold. When the shredder main unit rotates, the machine base drives the main shaft to rotate together. At this time, the drive seat will rotate circumferentially relative to the knob. When it rotates away from the retaining surface, the main shaft will cause the knob and drive seat to quickly approach each other due to the axial force of the spring, accompanied by a "click" sound, indicating to the operator that the shredder main unit has completed the switching state.

[0013] Furthermore, both the bracket and the base are provided with friction surfaces that abut against each other, so that the bracket and the base are subjected to corresponding rotational resistance when they rotate relative to each other.

[0014] By employing the aforementioned technical solution, a friction surface is provided between the bracket and the base. When the base is in an unlocked state (e.g., after unlocking and folding), if the operator releases their grip or the force is uneven, the base will not suddenly accelerate and flip due to its own weight or external forces (e.g., shaking during transport). Instead, it will maintain its current position or rotate slowly due to frictional resistance, reducing the risk of equipment collisions and tipping due to loss of control. The frictional resistance also allows the base to automatically "decelerate" when approaching the locked position (e.g., before fully unfolding), preventing it from overshooting the locking point due to inertia. This ensures that the locking block (e.g., the locking block on the spindle) can accurately insert into the locking hole or slot of the bracket, improving locking reliability.

[0015] Furthermore, the friction surface is an axial surface perpendicular to the main shaft axis, and the part where the two friction surfaces abut is a deformable area. An elastic element is installed on the bracket, with one end abutting against the drive seat away from the second annular inclined surface. The other end of the elastic element is located on the side of the friction surface away from the contact surface, so that the elastic element squeezes the friction surface of the bracket when compressed, causing the friction surface of the bracket to deform and press against the friction surface of the machine base.

[0016] Using the aforementioned technical solution, when the elastic element is compressed due to the axial movement of the spindle, it applies a compressive force to the friction surface of the bracket, causing deformation in its easily deformable areas (such as slight indentation or elastic protrusion), tightly fitting the friction surface of the base. During the rotation of the base (such as from unfolding to folding or vice versa), the deformation of the friction surface generates continuous and stable rotational resistance, preventing the base from suddenly accelerating and flipping due to its own weight or external forces. This ensures that the operator can accurately control the rotation speed and position, especially effectively preventing accidental loss of control when operating the knob with one hand. Even if the easily deformable areas of the friction surface (such as those using elastic materials or special structural designs) experience slight wear during long-term use, the elastic deformation of the elastic element can automatically compensate for the gap, maintaining stable frictional resistance and avoiding the problem of decreased resistance or loosening due to wear in traditional rigid contact structures.

[0017] Furthermore, both the bracket and the base are provided with axially contacting surfaces, and on the side where the axial surfaces of the two contacts each other, there are mutually compatible circumferentially spaced protrusions.

[0018] Using the aforementioned technical solution, the circumferentially spaced protrusions (such as serrated or rectangular teeth) restrict the relative circumferential rotation of the bracket and the base when they contact each other on the axial surface. This ensures that the base can only rotate around the main shaft axis (one-dimensional rotation), avoiding locking position deviations or accidental flipping caused by circumferential sliding. The engagement between the protrusions can also have additional features, including: the "click" resistance feedback generated when the protrusions engage (similar to a ratchet mechanism) can provide the operator with a tactile or audible indication that the base has reached the preset position (such as fully unfolded or folded in place), preventing overload of the elastic element or damage to the protrusions due to over-rotation, while also preventing the safety hazard of starting the equipment when it is not fully locked.

[0019] Furthermore, the friction surfaces of the bracket and the base that come into contact are provided with mounting grooves and mounting protrusions for facilitating the rotational connection between the two.

[0020] By employing the aforementioned technical solution, the annular nested structure of the mounting groove (concave surface) and the mounting protrusion (convex surface) can strictly limit the rotation of the machine base to a one-dimensional rotational direction around the spindle axis, eliminating radial offset or circumferential wobbling. The fit between the mounting protrusion and the groove has a self-positioning function; during assembly, simply aligning the protrusion with the groove opening is sufficient to quickly complete the pre-installation of the machine base and bracket, eliminating the need for hole-by-hole alignment as required by traditional bolt fixing, significantly shortening assembly time and reducing labor costs.

[0021] Furthermore, the bracket is provided with a first limiting part and a second limiting part that adapt to the locking block, and the base is provided with a locking groove that adapts to the locking block. The first limiting part is aligned with the locking groove when the base is in the unfolded position, and the second limiting part is aligned with the locking groove when the base is in the folded position. When the through hole and the locking groove are aligned, the locking block extends into the through hole and the locking groove to lock the base and the bracket.

[0022] By adopting the aforementioned technical solution and employing a dual-hole design, the shortcomings of traditional single-locking-point systems in simultaneously achieving "operational stability" and "folding compactness" are avoided, thus realizing precise control of "one mechanism, two states." After the locking block is inserted through the hole and locking slot, a through-type mechanical connection (similar to pin fixing) is formed, which can directly withstand the vertical load and horizontal impact force of the base.

[0023] The specific operation method is as follows: turn the knob to unlock, and then the machine base will start to rotate. At the same time, the locking block on the main shaft and the drive seat will rotate together. At this time, there is no need to hold the knob angle by hand. Since the locking block is outside the through hole at this time, the main shaft will always remain in the second position, and the elastic element on the drive seat will also remain in a compressed state. At this time, the friction surface will also be in a tight state, showing a large rotational resistance. After the machine base rotates to the predetermined position, the locking block, the through hole and the locking groove are aligned. The main shaft will switch to the first position under the elastic force of the elastic element. The locking block extends into the through hole and the locking groove to lock the machine base and the bracket, thereby completing the state switching of the shredder main unit.

[0024] Furthermore, the included angle between the first limiting part and the second limiting part with the main shaft axis as the center is 90°~180°.

[0025] Using the aforementioned technical solution, 90° folding is suitable for scenarios where the main body of the wood chipper is long in the horizontal direction. After folding, the base is vertically stored in the bracket, which greatly reduces the horizontal footprint of the equipment and makes it easy to pass through narrow passages (such as garden paths) or be loaded into compact transport vehicles.

[0026] 180° folding: The base can be completely flipped to the other side of the support, so that the main body of the wood chipper is in an inverted storage state. It is especially suitable for tall wood chippers. After folding, the overall height of the machine is significantly reduced, making it easy to stack and store or embed into a fixed working platform.

[0027] Preferably, the angle between the first limiting part and the second limiting part with the main shaft axis as the center is 90°.

[0028] Furthermore, one side of the base is provided with a push rod that extends and abuts against the bracket. The bracket is provided with a third annular inclined surface adapted to the push rod. When the base rotates to the point where the end of the push rod is at the bottom of the third annular inclined surface, the push rod stops generating thrust on the bracket and the base. When the base rotates to the point where the end of the push rod is at the top of the third annular inclined surface, the push rod generates thrust on the bracket and the base.

[0029] Using the aforementioned technical solution, when the base needs to be held at a certain intermediate angle (non-expanded / non-folded position), the push rod's thrust on the bracket and base will generate a certain amount of additional friction to prevent accidental rotation. Since the rotational damping between the bracket and base has already been increased on the side where the bracket and base are connected through a friction surface, the push rod can be set on the other side of the relative friction surface, so that the connection between the bracket and the two ends of the base forms a relatively balanced frictional force. The third annular inclined surface can be set in the folded position, so that the base is in a state of rotational damping when it is not folded. On the one hand, the compressive stress of the push rod can be released during non-use periods, increasing the life of the push rod. On the other hand, it is more convenient to install, and the equipment is in a folded state when assembled, so that the equipment does not need to be switched during subsequent storage and transportation, increasing production efficiency.

[0030] Furthermore, the end of the push rod near the bracket is provided with a roller for the push rod to move relative to the bracket surface.

[0031] By employing the aforementioned technical solution, the roller converts sliding friction into rolling friction, and the coefficient of rolling friction is much smaller than the coefficient of sliding friction (typically 1-2 orders of magnitude lower). This means that the resistance is significantly reduced when the push rod moves, minimizing component wear and extending the service life of the mechanism. It is particularly suitable for scenarios requiring frequent angle adjustments (such as equipment folding / unfolding), preventing damping failure or loosening of the locking mechanism due to wear.

[0032] Furthermore, the push rod is electrically connected to the limit switch of the main unit of the wood chipper. When the push rod generates a thrust on the machine base, the limit switch closes, exiting the power failure protection mode. When the push rod stops generating a thrust on the machine base, the limit switch opens, entering the power failure protection mode.

[0033] Using the aforementioned technical solution, when the push rod generates thrust (base in non-folded state): the base is in the unfolded working state, the limit switch is closed, the equipment exits the power-off protection mode, and the operator is allowed to start the wood chipper (requires other starting conditions, such as a power switch); when the push rod stops generating thrust (base in folded state): the base reaches the target position (folded in place), the limit switch is open, the equipment enters the power-off protection mode, cutting off the motor power circuit, and even if the start button is accidentally pressed, it cannot run, complying with relevant safety regulations. This solution indirectly determines whether the base is in the working state through the push rod position, avoiding starting the equipment when folded and eliminating mechanical failures or safety accidents caused by accidental touches. This solution not only meets the industry demand of "high safety and low maintenance cost" for garden machinery, but also demonstrates the innovative potential of "mechatronics" design in the traditional machinery field, and can be extended to scenarios requiring dynamic safety control, such as aerial work platforms and agricultural machinery. Attached Figure Description

[0034] The following description, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, further illustrates this application:

[0035] Figure 1 This is a first exploded schematic diagram of a folding mechanism for a wood chipper according to this application;

[0036] Figure 2 This is a second exploded schematic diagram of a folding mechanism for a wood chipper;

[0037] Figure 3 Exploded view of the first pipe rack and locking block;

[0038] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the locking block in the second position;

[0039] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the locking block in the first position.

[0040] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the knob and drive base.

[0041] Figure Descriptions: 1. Base; 11. Receiving part; 12. Mounting groove; 13. Mounting protrusion; 14. Locking groove; 2. Bracket; 21. Friction surface; 22. Easily deformable area; 23. Protruding buckle; 24. First limiting part; 25. Second limiting part; 26. Third annular inclined surface; 27. C-shaped support tube; 28. Connecting tube; 3. Main shaft; 4. Locking block; 41. Locking post; 5. Knob; 51. First annular inclined surface; 6. Drive seat; 61. Elastic element; 62. Second annular inclined surface; 621. Holding surface; 63. Rotating seat; 64. Short rod; 65. Snap ring; 66. Spring plate; 7. Push rod; 71. Roller; 8. First tube frame; 81. First decorative plate; 9. Second tube frame; 91. Second decorative plate. Detailed Implementation

[0042] 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.

[0043] The terms "first," "second," etc. (if present) in the specification and claims of this application are used to distinguish similar objects, not to describe a specific order or sequence. Even if "second" is used before a technical feature for distinction, it does not necessarily imply the presence of "first." It should be understood that in this application, "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. It should be understood that in this application, "multiple" refers to two or more. "And / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, X and / or Y can represent: X alone, X and Y simultaneously, and Y alone. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship. "Containing X, Y, and Z," "Containing X, Y, and Z" means that all three X, Y, and Z are included; "Containing X, Y, or Z" means that one of X, Y, and Z is included; "Containing X, Y, and / or Z" means that any one, two, or three of X, Y, and Z are included.

[0044] The technical solutions of this application will be described in detail below with specific embodiments. The following specific embodiments can be combined or substituted with each other according to the actual situation, and the same or similar concepts or processes may not be described again in some embodiments.

[0045] like Figures 1 to 6As shown, this application provides a folding mechanism for a wood chipper, including a base 1 for mounting the main body of the wood chipper and a bracket 2 for supporting the base 1. The bracket 2 has a receiving portion 11 for accommodating the main body of the wood chipper. The base 1 has an unfolded position where the main body of the wood chipper is out of the receiving portion 11 and a folded position where the main body of the wood chipper is in the receiving portion 11. The base 1 is axially slidably connected to a main shaft 3, at least one end of which extends to the outside of the bracket 2. A locking block 4 is fixed to one end of the main shaft 3 extending to the outside of the bracket 2. The locking block 4 has a first position for inserting into and locking the base 1 and the bracket 2, and a second position for disengaging from the bracket 2. The second position of the unlocked base 1 and bracket 2 is achieved. The locking block 4 switches between the first and second positions by the axial displacement of the main shaft 3. The bracket 2 is provided with a first limiting part 24 and a second limiting part 25 at circumferential intervals along the main shaft 3. When the base 1 is in the folded position, the locking block 4 can switch between the first and second positions. When the locking block 4 is in the first position, the first limiting part 24 circumferentially limits the locking block 4. When the base 1 is in the unfolded position, the locking block 4 can switch between the first and second positions. When the locking block 4 is in the first position, the second limiting part 25 circumferentially limits the locking block 4.

[0046] This solution replaces the traditional bolt disassembly and assembly method with the axial sliding design of the spindle 3. The specific operation process is as follows: Locking process: The spindle 3 is kept in the first position, the locking block 4 is inserted and locked to the first support and bracket 2, and the base 1 is firmly fixed in the unfolded position.

[0047] Unlocking process: The spindle 3 moves to the second position, the locking block 4 disengages from the bracket 2, and the base 1 can then rotate and fold (or unfold) around the bracket 2.

[0048] By adopting the above technical solution, this application has the following advantages: The main shaft 3 achieves a linkage structure for unlocking or locking the base 1 and the bracket 2 through the locking block 4. The user only needs to operate the main shaft 3 to perform axial displacement to complete the folding / unfolding of the entire machine, avoiding the cumbersome process of repeated alignment and disassembly required by traditional multi-bolt fixing. Furthermore, the folding mechanism design has modular characteristics, does not depend on a specific shredder main body structure, and can be flexibly adapted to various models and specifications of shredders. It can even be extended to other garden machinery or industrial equipment that require rapid folding, possessing good technical versatility and application scalability. Compared with the cumbersome process of traditional bolts needing to be unscrewed one by one, the operation of locking or unlocking by axial displacement of the main shaft 3 takes a very short time (only a specific distance displacement of the main shaft 3 is needed to switch the locked state), greatly improving efficiency.

[0049] Specifically, the bracket 2 consists of two vertically arranged C-shaped support tubes 27 and a connecting tube 28 for connecting the bottom ends of the two C-shaped support tubes 27, and the top ends of the two C-shaped support tubes 27 are respectively provided with a first tube frame 8 and a second tube frame 9. The receiving part 11 is located between the semi-openings of the two C-shaped support tubes 27. The base 1 is rotatably connected between the first tube frame 8 and the second tube frame 9. The base 1 enters the receiving part 11 by rotating. The bracket 2 further includes a first decorative plate 81 sleeved on the outside of the first tube frame 8, a second decorative plate 91 sleeved on the outside of the second tube frame 9, and a connecting sleeve rotatably connected to both ends of the base 1. The connecting sleeve is sleeved between the first tube frame 8 and the second tube frame 9 and is detachably connected to the outer first decorative plate 81 and the second decorative plate 91. The first decorative plate 81 is used to sleeve the locking block 4 inside, and the second decorative plate 91 is used to rotatably connect to the end of the knob 5, so that the knob 5 can be mounted on the bracket 2 through the second decorative plate 91. The drive seat 6 is divided into a spring plate 66 that directly abuts against one end of the elastic element 61 and a rotating seat 63 that is circumferentially fixed to the main shaft 3. A short rod 64 is provided that radially penetrates the main shaft 3. The rotating seat 63 has a groove that fits the short rod 64, so that the rotating seat 63 can be circumferentially fixed with the main shaft. A retaining ring 65 is provided on the main shaft 3 between the rotating seat 63 and the spring plate 66. The retaining ring 65 is used to restrict the spring plate 66 from moving towards the rotating seat 63. Therefore, the installation sequence of the main shaft is as follows: first, install the retaining ring 65 on the main shaft 3, then put the spring plate 66 through the main shaft 3, then pass the main shaft 3 through the bracket 2 and the machine base 1, then insert the short rod 64 into the main shaft 3, then install the rotating seat 63 on the main shaft 3, and finally install the knob 5 on the bracket 2. The retaining ring 65 is a nut.

[0050] Furthermore, both ends of the spindle 3 extend outward from the bracket 2. One end is fixed with a locking block 4, and the other end is fitted with a knob 5. The knob 5 is rotatably connected to the bracket 2. A drive seat 6 fixed to the spindle 3 is provided between the knob 5 and the bracket 2. The side of the knob 5 facing the drive seat 6 has a first annular inclined surface 51 that gradually moves closer to the machine base 1. The drive seat 6 has a second annular inclined surface 62 that corresponds to the first annular inclined surface 51 and gradually moves away from the machine base 1, so that when the knob 5 is rotated, the annular inclined surface drives the drive seat 6 with protrusions to move towards the bracket 2, thereby driving the spindle 3 to move to the second position.

[0051] Using the aforementioned technical solution, the main shaft 3 can be driven to move axially by rotating the knob 5, transforming the laborious operation of "linear push and pull" into the labor-saving action of "rotating the knob 5," which conforms to ergonomic design. During the rotation of the knob 5, the contact action of the first annular inclined surface 51 and the second annular inclined surface 62 will automatically push the drive seat 6 to move the main shaft 3. The user only needs to continuously rotate the knob 5 to quickly complete the switching of the locking block 4 from the "first position" to the "second position" (or the reverse switching), without the need for additional alignment or forceful pressing of the main shaft 3, greatly shortening the operation time. The knob 5 is directly fitted onto the end of the main shaft 3, with a high degree of structural integration, eliminating the need for additional complex transmission components (such as gears, connecting rods, etc.), which can compress the volume of the folding mechanism, making the shredder more compact in the folded state, and facilitating transportation and storage.

[0052] In other embodiments, the knob 5 can also be installed at one end of the spindle 3 near the locking block 4. By cooperating with the screw and nut of the spindle 3, the spindle 3 can be pulled out toward the locking block 4, so that the axial displacement of the spindle 3 can switch between the first position and the second position.

[0053] In another embodiment, the rotation axis of the knob 5 is perpendicular to the rotation axis of the main shaft 3 in a projection plane. The knob 5 is provided with a gear at the end near the main shaft 3. The main shaft 3 is provided with a rack that matches the gear. The gear can drive the rack to move linearly, so that the main shaft 3 is linearly driven to switch between a first position and a second position.

[0054] Furthermore, the bracket 2 is equipped with an elastic element 61 for holding the main shaft 3 in a first position. The first annular inclined surface 51 and the second annular inclined surface 62 are both provided with a retaining surface 621 perpendicular to the axis of rotation at the top of the inclined surface. When the two rotate to fit together at the retaining surface 621, the main shaft 3 is located in the second position, and the two remain circumferentially stationary when only subjected to axial force.

[0055] Using the aforementioned technical solution, the elastic element 61 (such as a spring) always applies a spring force to the main shaft 3 toward the first position (locked state), ensuring that the shredder automatically remains locked when not in operation, preventing unlocking due to accidental contact or accidental movement of the main shaft 3 during handling, thus improving safety. When the first annular inclined surface 51 and the second annular inclined surface 62 rotate to the holding surface 621, since both holding surfaces 621 are perpendicular to the rotation axis, the knob 5 and the drive seat 6 will not rotate even if they receive the axial force of the elastic element 61 without being subjected to circumferential force. This allows the operator to rotate the shredder main unit on the base 1 relative to the support 2, enabling the shredder main unit to be unfolded or folded. When the main body of the shredder rotates, the base 1 will drive the main shaft 3 to rotate together. At this time, the drive seat 6 will rotate circumferentially relative to the knob 5. When it rotates away from the holding surface 621, the main shaft 3 will cause the knob 5 and the drive seat 6 to quickly approach each other due to the axial force of the spring, and then make a "click" collision sound, so that the operator knows that the main body of the shredder has completed the switching state.

[0056] Specifically, the elastic element 61 is located between the drive seat 6 and the bracket 2.

[0057] Understandably, the circumferential extension angle of the retaining surface 621 is less than or equal to the angle of rotation of the base 1 between the unfolded and folded positions. That is, after the knob 5 is rotated to the retaining surface 621, the main shaft 3 is in the second position, separated from one of the limiting parts, and the base 1 and the bracket 2 are unlocked. Then the base 1 can switch positions by rotation. At the same time as rotation, the main shaft 3 and the drive seat 6 will rotate together until the locking block 4 aligns with the other limiting part and is inserted into the limiting part. During this process, the retaining surfaces 621 can be in a state of being disengaged from each other or the two retaining surfaces 621 can be disengaged at the same time as the locking block 4 aligns with the other limiting part.

[0058] Furthermore, both the bracket 2 and the base 1 are provided with friction surfaces 21 that abut against each other, so that the bracket 2 and the base 1 are subjected to corresponding rotational resistance when they rotate relative to each other.

[0059] By employing the aforementioned technical solution, a friction surface 21 is provided between the bracket 2 and the base 1. When the base 1 is in an unlocked state (such as after unlocking and rotating), if the operator releases their grip or the force is uneven, the base 1 will not suddenly accelerate and flip due to its own weight or external force (such as shaking during handling). Instead, it will maintain its current position or rotate slowly due to frictional resistance, reducing the risk of equipment collision and tipping caused by loss of control. The frictional resistance allows the base 1 to automatically "decelerate" when approaching the locked position (such as before unfolding to the full extent), preventing it from rushing past the locking point due to inertia. This ensures that the locking block 4 (such as the locking block 4 on the spindle 3) can be accurately inserted into the locking hole or slot of the bracket 2, improving locking reliability.

[0060] Furthermore, the friction surface 21 is an axial surface perpendicular to the axis of the main shaft 3, and the part where the two friction surfaces 21 abut against each other is a deformable area 22. An elastic element 61 is installed on the bracket 2, with one end abutting against the drive seat 6 away from the second annular inclined surface 62. The other end of the elastic element 61 is located on the side of the friction surface 21 away from the contact surface, so that when the elastic element 61 is compressed, it squeezes the friction surface 21 of the bracket 2, causing the friction surface 21 of the bracket 2 to deform and press against the friction surface 21 of the base 1.

[0061] Using the aforementioned technical solution, when the elastic element 61 is compressed due to the axial movement of the main shaft 3, it applies a compressive force to the friction surface 21 of the bracket 2, causing its easily deformable area 22 to deform (such as slight indentation or elastic protrusion), tightly fitting the friction surface 21 of the base 1. During the rotation of the base 1 (such as from unfolding to folding or vice versa), the deformation of the friction surface 21 generates continuous and stable rotational resistance, preventing the base 1 from suddenly accelerating and flipping due to its own weight or external force, ensuring that the operator can accurately control the rotation speed and position, especially when operating the knob 5 with one hand, effectively preventing accidental loss of control. Even if the easily deformable area 22 of the friction surface 21 (if made of elastic material or with a special structural design) experiences slight wear during long-term use, the elastic deformation of the elastic element 61 can automatically compensate for the gap, maintaining stable frictional resistance and avoiding the problem of reduced resistance or loosening due to wear in traditional rigid contact structures.

[0062] Furthermore, both the bracket 2 and the base 1 are provided with axially contacting surfaces, and each of the two axially contacting surfaces is provided with mutually matching circumferentially spaced protrusions 23.

[0063] Using the aforementioned technical solution, the circumferentially spaced protrusions 23 (such as serrated or rectangular teeth) restrict the relative circumferential rotation of the bracket 2 and the base 1 through toothed engagement when they contact each other on the axial surface. This ensures that the base 1 can only rotate around the axis of the main shaft 3 (one-dimensional rotation), avoiding locking position deviation or accidental overturning caused by circumferential sliding. The engagement between the protrusions 23 can also have additional features, including: the "click" resistance feedback (similar to a ratchet mechanism) generated when the protrusions 23 engage can provide the operator with a tactile or audible indication that the base 1 has reached the preset position (such as fully unfolded or folded in place), preventing overload of the elastic element 61 or damage to the protrusions 23 due to over-rotation, while also preventing the safety hazard of starting the equipment when it is not fully locked.

[0064] Understandably, the aforementioned friction surface 21 can also utilize the form of the protruding buckle 23 to increase rotational resistance. The protruding buckle 23, made of easily deformable material, achieves the same effect in the aforementioned environment. When the elastic element 61 applies pressure to the back of the protruding buckle 23, the friction between the two protruding buckles 23 increases, further increasing rotational resistance. The protruding buckle 23 is directly machined or assembled onto the axial surfaces of the bracket 2 and the base 1, eliminating the need for additional positioning pins, limit plates, or other components. This significantly reduces the radial dimension of the folding mechanism, adapting to the "compact structure + high reliability" requirements of miniaturized equipment such as DC electric shredders.

[0065] Furthermore, the friction surfaces 21 on the bracket 2 and the base 1 that come into contact are provided with mounting grooves 12 and mounting protrusions 13 for facilitating the rotational connection between the two.

[0066] By adopting the aforementioned technical solution, the annular nested structure of the mounting groove 12 (concave surface) and the mounting protrusion 13 (convex surface) can strictly limit the rotation of the base 1 to a one-dimensional rotational direction around the axis of the main shaft 3, eliminating radial offset or circumferential wobbling. The fit between the mounting protrusion 13 and the groove has a self-positioning function. During assembly, it is only necessary to align the protrusion with the groove to quickly complete the pre-installation of the base 1 and the bracket 2, without the need for hole-by-hole alignment as in traditional bolt fixing, which greatly shortens the assembly time and reduces labor costs.

[0067] Furthermore, the bracket 2 is provided with a first limiting part 24 and a second limiting part 25 that are adapted to the locking block 4, and the base 1 is provided with a locking groove 14 that is adapted to the locking block 4. The first limiting part 24 is aligned with the locking groove 14 when the base 1 is in the unfolded position, and the second limiting part 25 is aligned with the locking groove 14 when the base 1 is in the folded position. When the through hole and the locking groove 14 are aligned, the locking block 4 extends into the through hole and the locking groove 14 to lock the base 1 and the bracket 2.

[0068] By adopting the aforementioned technical solution and employing a dual-hole design, the shortcomings of traditional single-locking-point systems in balancing "operational stability" and "folding compactness" are avoided, achieving precise control of "one mechanism, two states." After the locking block 4 is inserted through the hole and locking groove 14, a through-type mechanical connection (similar to pin fixing) is formed, which can directly withstand the vertical load and horizontal impact force of the base 1.

[0069] The specific operation method is as follows: turn knob 5 to unlock, then the base 1 starts to rotate, and at the same time the locking block 4 on the main shaft 3 and the drive seat 6 rotate together. At this time, there is no need to hold the angle of knob 5 by hand. Since the locking block 4 is outside the through hole at this time, the main shaft 3 will always maintain the second position, and the elastic element 61 on the drive seat 6 will also remain in a compressed state. At this time, the friction surface 21 will also be in a tight state, showing a large rotational resistance. After the base 1 rotates to the predetermined position, the locking block 4, the through hole and the locking groove 14 are aligned. The main shaft 3 will switch to the first position under the elastic force of the elastic element 61. The locking block 4 extends into the through hole and the locking groove 14 to lock the base 1 and the bracket 2, thereby completing the state switching of the main body of the shredder.

[0070] Understandably, in order to increase the load-bearing capacity of the locking block 4, the locking block 4 can be set as two locking posts 41 at 90° with the axis of the main shaft 3 as the center, and the locking posts 41 extend along the direction of the main shaft 3. The ends of the two locking posts 41 away from the bracket 2 are connected by a connecting part extending towards the center, so that a fan-shaped gap is formed between the two locking posts 41. The corresponding first limiting part 24, second limiting part 25 and locking groove 14 are all provided with matching shapes, so that the locking block 4 can withstand greater circumferential shear force.

[0071] Specifically, there can be multiple through holes, and the main shaft 3 and the locking block 4 are circumferentially fixed. That is, the locking groove 14 on the base 1 and the locking block 4 are circumferentially fixed, with only axial relative displacement. Thus, when the base 1 rotates, it will drive the locking block 4 on the main shaft 3 to rotate together. When the locking block 4 rotates to the predetermined position, the locking block 4 can extend into the through hole and the locking groove 14 and lock the base 1 and the bracket 2. The axial cross section of the main shaft 3 is hexagonal or similar, so that the main shaft 3 and the base 1 form an axial sliding connection and a circumferentially fixed connection relationship. When the base 1 rotates, the main shaft 3 and the bracket 2 are in a relative rotational relationship.

[0072] Furthermore, the included angle between the first limiting part 24 and the second limiting part 25 with the axis of the main shaft 3 as the center is 90°~180°.

[0073] Using the aforementioned technical solution, 90° folding is suitable for scenarios where the main body of the wood chipper is long in the horizontal direction. After folding, the base 1 is vertically stored in the bracket 2, which greatly reduces the horizontal footprint of the equipment and makes it easy to pass through narrow passages (such as garden paths) or be loaded into compact transport vehicles.

[0074] 180° folding: The base 1 can be completely flipped to the other side of the bracket 2, so that the main body of the wood chipper is in an inverted storage state. It is especially suitable for tall wood chippers. After folding, the overall height of the machine is significantly reduced, making it easy to stack and store or embed into a fixed working platform.

[0075] Preferably, the angle between the first limiting part 24 and the second limiting part 25 with the axis of the main shaft 3 as the center is 90°.

[0076] Furthermore, one side of the base 1 is provided with a push rod 7 that extends and abuts against the bracket 2. The bracket 2 is provided with a third annular inclined surface 26 adapted to the push rod 7. When the base 1 rotates to the point where the end of the push rod 7 is at the bottom of the third annular inclined surface 26, the push rod 7 stops generating thrust on the bracket 2 and the base 1. When the base 1 rotates to the point where the end of the push rod 7 leaves the bottom of the third annular inclined surface 26, the push rod 7 generates thrust on the bracket 2 and the base 1.

[0077] Using the aforementioned technical solution, when the base 1 needs to be held at a certain intermediate angle (non-expanded position / non-folded position), the additional friction force generated by the push rod 7 on the support 2 and the base 1 can prevent accidental rotation. Since the rotational damping between the support 2 and the base 1 has been increased by the friction surface 21 on the side where the support 2 and the base 1 are connected, the push rod 7 can be set on the other side relative to the friction surface 21, so that the connection between the two ends of the support 2 and the base 1 forms a relatively balanced friction force. The third annular inclined surface 26 can be set in the folded position, so that the base 1 is in a state of rotational damping when it is not folded. On the one hand, it can avoid accidental rotation during use, and on the other hand, it can be more convenient to install. When assembling the equipment, it is in a folded state, so that the equipment does not need to be switched during subsequent storage and transportation, thus increasing production efficiency.

[0078] Furthermore, the push rod 7 is provided with a roller 71 at one end near the bracket 2 for relative movement of the push rod 7 on the surface of the bracket 2.

[0079] Using the aforementioned technical solution, roller 71 converts sliding friction into rolling friction, and the coefficient of rolling friction is much smaller than the coefficient of sliding friction (typically 1 to 2 orders of magnitude lower). This means that the resistance is significantly reduced when push rod 7 moves, reducing component wear and extending the service life of the mechanism. It is especially suitable for scenarios that require frequent angle adjustments (such as equipment folding / unfolding), avoiding damping failure or loosening of the locking mechanism due to wear.

[0080] Furthermore, the push rod 7 is electrically connected to the limit switch of the main body of the wood chipper. When the push rod 7 generates a thrust on the machine base 1, the limit switch closes and exits the power failure protection mode. When the push rod 7 stops generating a thrust on the machine base 1, the limit switch opens and enters the power failure protection mode.

[0081] Using the aforementioned technical solution, when push rod 7 generates thrust (in the unlocked state): the base 1 is in the rotation adjustment stage (such as during folding or unfolding), the limit switch is closed, the equipment exits the power-off protection mode, and the operator is allowed to start the shredder (requires other starting conditions, such as a power switch). When push rod 7 stops generating thrust (in the locked state): the base 1 reaches the target position (unfolded / folded in place), the limit switch is open, the equipment enters the power-off protection mode, forcibly cutting off the motor power circuit, and even if the start button is accidentally pressed, it cannot run. The position of push rod 7 indirectly determines whether the base 1 is in a stable working state, avoiding starting the equipment when it is not folded in place or not locked when unfolded, and preventing mechanical failures or safety accidents caused by structural instability (such as personnel injury caused by the base 1 flipping and causing the blades to rotate). This solution not only meets the industry demand of "high safety and low maintenance cost" for garden machinery, but also demonstrates the innovative potential of "mechatronics" design in the traditional machinery field, and can be extended to scenarios requiring dynamic safety control, such as aerial work platforms and agricultural machinery.

[0082] Specifically, the third annular inclined plane 26, as shown Figure 3 The protrusion shown is only provided at the folding position near the base 1, so that the push rod 7 can be subjected to pressure when the base 1 is close to the folding position, thereby entering the power-off protection mode, avoiding accidental entry into the power-off protection mode caused by the vibration of the equipment during operation.

[0083] In addition to the preferred embodiments described above, this application has other implementation methods. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments in this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection claimed in this application.

Claims

1. A folding mechanism for a wood chipper, characterized in that, The device includes a base (1) for mounting the main body of a wood chipper and a bracket (2) for supporting the base (1). The bracket (2) has a receiving portion (11) for accommodating the main body of the wood chipper. The base (1) has an unfolded position where the main body of the wood chipper is out of the receiving portion (11) and a folded position where the main body of the wood chipper is in the receiving portion (11). The base (1) is axially slidably connected to a main shaft (3) with at least one end extending to the outside of the bracket (2). A locking block (4) is fixed to one end of the main shaft (3) extending to the outside of the bracket (2). The locking block (4) has a first position for inserting and locking the base (1) and the bracket (2), and a second position for disengaging from the bracket (2) and unlocking the base (1) and the bracket (2). In the second position of the bracket (2), the locking block (4) switches between the first and second positions by the axial displacement of the main shaft (3). The bracket (2) is provided with a first limiting part (24) and a second limiting part (25) at circumferential intervals along the main shaft (3). When the base (1) is in the folded position, the locking block (4) can switch between the first and second positions. When the locking block (4) is in the first position, the first limiting part (24) circumferentially limits the locking block (4). When the base (1) is in the unfolded position, the locking block (4) can switch between the first and second positions. When the locking block (4) is in the first position, the second limiting part (25) circumferentially limits the locking block (4).

2. The folding mechanism for a wood chipper according to claim 1, characterized in that, Both ends of the main shaft (3) extend out of the bracket (2). One end is fixed with a locking block (4), and the other end is fitted with a knob (5). The knob (5) is rotatably connected to the bracket (2). A drive seat (6) fixed to the main shaft (3) is provided between the knob (5) and the bracket (2). The knob (5) has a first annular inclined surface (51) that gradually moves closer to the machine base (1) on the side facing the drive seat (6). The drive seat (6) has a second annular inclined surface (62) that gradually moves away from the machine base (1) corresponding to the first annular inclined surface (51), so that when the knob (5) rotates, the annular inclined surface drives the drive seat (6) with protrusions to move towards the bracket (2), thereby driving the main shaft (3) to move to the second position.

3. A folding mechanism for a wood chipper according to claim 2, characterized in that, The bracket (2) is equipped with an elastic element (61) for holding the spindle (3) in a first position. The first annular inclined surface (51) and the second annular inclined surface (62) are both provided with a retaining surface (621) perpendicular to the axis of rotation at the top of the inclined surface. When the two rotate to fit together at the retaining surface (621), the spindle (3) is in a second position, and the two remain circumferentially stationary when only subjected to axial force.

4. A folding mechanism for a wood chipper according to claim 1, characterized in that, Both the bracket (2) and the base (1) are provided with friction surfaces (21) that abut against each other, so that the bracket (2) and the base (1) are subjected to corresponding rotational resistance when they rotate relative to each other.

5. A folding mechanism for a wood chipper according to claim 4, characterized in that, The friction surface (21) is an axial surface perpendicular to the axis of the main shaft (3). The part where the two friction surfaces (21) abut against each other is a deformable area (22). An elastic element (61) is installed on the bracket (2), with one end abutting against the drive seat (6) away from the second annular inclined surface (62). The other end of the elastic element (61) is located on the side of the friction surface (21) away from the contact surface, so that the elastic element (61) squeezes the friction surface (21) of the bracket (2) when compressed, causing the friction surface (21) of the bracket (2) to deform and press against the friction surface (21) of the base (1).

6. A folding mechanism for a wood chipper according to claim 1, characterized in that, Both the bracket (2) and the base (1) are provided with axial surfaces that are in contact with each other, and both sides of the axial surfaces that are in contact with each other are provided with circumferentially spaced protrusions (23) that are adapted to each other.

7. A folding mechanism for a wood chipper according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bracket (2) is provided with a first limiting part (24) and a second limiting part (25) adapted to the locking block (4). The base (1) is provided with a locking groove (14) adapted to the locking block (4). The first limiting part (24) is aligned with the locking groove (14) when the base (1) is in the unfolded position. The second limiting part (25) is aligned with the locking groove (14) when the base (1) is in the folded position. When the through hole and the locking groove (14) are aligned, the locking block (4) extends into the through hole and the locking groove (14) to lock the base (1) and the bracket (2). The included angle between the first limiting part (24) and the second limiting part (25) with the axis of the main shaft (3) as the center is 90°~180°.

8. A folding mechanism for a wood chipper according to claim 1, characterized in that, The base (1) has a push rod (7) extending and abutting against the bracket (2) on one side. The bracket (2) has a third annular inclined surface (26) adapted to the push rod (7). When the base (1) rotates to the point where the end of the push rod (7) is at the bottom of the third annular inclined surface (26), the push rod (7) stops generating thrust on the bracket (2) and the base (1). When the base (1) rotates to the point where the end of the push rod (7) leaves the bottom of the third annular inclined surface (26), the push rod (7) generates thrust on the bracket (2) and the base (1).

9. A folding mechanism for a wood chipper according to claim 8, characterized in that, The push rod (7) is provided with a roller (71) at one end near the bracket (2) for the push rod (7) to move relative to the surface of the bracket (2).

10. A folding mechanism for a wood chipper according to claim 8, characterized in that, The push rod (7) is electrically connected to the limit switch of the main body of the shredder. When the push rod (7) generates a thrust on the machine base (1), the limit switch closes and exits the power failure protection mode. When the push rod (7) stops generating a thrust on the machine base (1), the limit switch opens and enters the power failure protection mode.

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