A connector and fence having the same

Abstract

The utility model discloses a kind of connector and fence with it, through the position change control locking structure state core design of operating element, realize the single hand, tool-free quick operation in true sense. User only needs to simply insert joint piece to hear the feedback of locking structure automatic locking, and through single action operation operating element can realize quick unlocking, greatly improve assembly and disassembly efficiency, especially suitable for the application scene such as display, isolation, etc. required to be frequently disassembled. When be applied to fence and other products, the utility model completely solves the many pain points of traditional connection mode. Not only eliminate the dependence on screw, spanner and other special tools, avoid the annoyance of small parts loss, also provide neat and beautiful appearance through built-in locking mechanism, while ensuring the strength and stability of connecting part, perfectly balance convenience, security and aesthetic and other key needs.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of home protection products technology, and in particular to a connector and a fence having the same. Background Technology

[0002] In existing products such as fences, partitions, and display racks, the assembly of multiple sub-components is often involved. Traditional sub-component connection methods mostly rely on individual fasteners, such as screws, bolts, and nuts. This connection method has obvious drawbacks: First, the assembly process requires external tools (such as screwdrivers and wrenches), making the operation cumbersome and inefficient, especially in applications requiring frequent assembly and disassembly; second, screws and other fasteners are small and easily lost, causing management and usage problems; third, exposed screw heads may affect the overall aesthetics of the product and even pose a risk of scratches. In addition, while simple snap-fit ​​connections do not require tools, their connection strength is usually limited and lacks a reliable locking mechanism, making them prone to accidental detachment under external force, resulting in insufficient safety and stability. Therefore, there is an urgent need in this field for a sub-component connection solution that enables quick, tool-free operation, while providing a firm and reliable connection with easy unlocking. Utility Model Content

[0003] The main purpose of this utility model is to propose a connector and a fence having the same, aiming to provide a sub-body connection solution that enables quick, tool-free operation, while ensuring a firm connection, reliable locking, and convenient unlocking.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, this utility model proposes a connector, comprising:

[0005] main body;

[0006] A connector for fixing to the component to be connected, the connector being able to engage with the main body;

[0007] A locking structure is provided on the main body, the locking structure having a locked state for locking the joint and an unlocked state for releasing the lock;

[0008] And an operating element movably disposed on the main body, the operating element being configured to allow or prevent the locking structure from switching between the locked state and the unlocked state by a change in position.

[0009] Preferably, the main body is provided with a connecting part with an open lower end for the insertion of the connecting member.

[0010] Preferably, the connecting member is provided with a step;

[0011] The locking structure includes a resilient locking key disposed within the docking position;

[0012] When the connector is inserted into the docking position, the step contacts the elastic locking key and causes the elastic locking key to undergo elastic deformation until the elastic locking key resets and is sleeved on the connector, thereby achieving locking.

[0013] Preferably, the elastic locking key is U-shaped.

[0014] Preferably, the operating member has a first position that restricts the elastic key from undergoing elastic deformation, and a second position that allows the elastic key to undergo elastic deformation, and the operating member can move back and forth between the first position and the second position.

[0015] Preferably, the operating component is provided with a clearance position;

[0016] When the operating member is in the second position, the clearance position is opposite to the end of the elastic locking key, providing clearance for the movement of the end of the elastic locking key, so that the elastic locking key can deform;

[0017] When in the first position, the physical portion of the operating member is opposite to the end of the resilient locking key, restricting the movement of the end and thus preventing the resilient locking key from deforming.

[0018] Preferably, it also includes a positioning seat, which is fixedly disposed inside the main body;

[0019] The positioning seat is provided with a positioning hole with an open bottom, and the positioning hole is coaxially arranged with and communicates with the connecting position;

[0020] The outer wall of the positioning seat is provided with a mounting groove, the shape of which is adapted to the elastic locking key to accommodate the elastic locking key, and the mounting groove is connected to the positioning hole.

[0021] In its natural state, both ends of the elastic locking key are located within the positioning holes;

[0022] When the elastic locking key is deformed by force, its two ends can move toward the side where the mounting groove is located.

[0023] Preferably, the operating element is movably inserted into the main body;

[0024] The operating component is provided with a limit groove;

[0025] The connector also includes a positioning element;

[0026] The positioning element passes through the main body and simultaneously through the limiting groove of the operating element, thereby restricting the operating element on the main body and enabling the operating element to reciprocate along the extension direction of the limiting groove.

[0027] Preferably, the top of the operating element is exposed on or above the top surface of the main body;

[0028] The connector also includes an elastic element that applies a force to the operating element, causing the operating element to have a tendency to maintain or move toward the first position.

[0029] This utility model also proposes a fence, including at least two fence panels and a connector, each of the two fence panels being provided with the aforementioned connecting member, and the connector being the aforementioned connector.

[0030] Compared with the prior art, the connector and fence provided by this utility model have the following significant advantages:

[0031] This invention utilizes a core design that controls the locking structure's state through changes in the position of the operating component, enabling truly one-handed, tool-free, and rapid operation. Users simply insert the connecting component to hear the automatic locking feedback, and unlocking is achieved with a single action on the operating component, greatly improving assembly and disassembly efficiency. It is particularly suitable for applications requiring frequent assembly and disassembly, such as displays and isolation systems.

[0032] The connection strength of this invention far surpasses that of traditional snap-fit ​​connections. Through the ingenious cooperation between the step on the connecting piece and the U-shaped elastic locking key, combined with the precise control of the elastic locking key's deformation by the operating component, mechanical locking is achieved. In the locked state, the locking structure is firmly fitted onto the connecting piece, capable of withstanding tensile and shear forces from multiple directions, effectively preventing accidental disengagement due to vibration or accidental collisions, thus significantly improving safety and reliability.

[0033] The structural design of this utility model has been carefully optimized, with a small number of parts and a reasonable layout. The cooperation between the positioning seat and the mounting groove ensures precise guidance of the elastic locking key's movement; the operating component achieves reliable motion control through the simple cooperation between the limiting groove and the positioning component; the elastic component ensures that the connector automatically remains locked in the non-operating state, preventing safety hazards caused by forgetting to lock. This simple and efficient design not only reduces manufacturing costs but also improves the product's service life and stability.

[0034] When applied to products such as fences, this invention completely solves many of the pain points of traditional connection methods. It not only eliminates the reliance on special tools such as screws and wrenches, avoiding the trouble of losing small parts, but also provides a neat and beautiful appearance through the built-in locking mechanism, while ensuring the strength and stability of the connection parts, perfectly balancing the three key requirements of convenience, safety and aesthetics. Attached Figure Description

[0035] Figure 1 This is an external view of the connector;

[0036] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the connector;

[0037] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the connector;

[0038] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the connector when the empty position and the end of the elastic locking key are misaligned;

[0039] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the connector when the empty position is opposite to the end of the elastic locking key;

[0040] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a fence. Detailed Implementation

[0041] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this utility model, and not all of them. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of this utility model.

[0042] It should be noted that if any directional indication (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, top, bottom, inside, outside, vertical, horizontal, longitudinal, counterclockwise, clockwise, circumferential, radial, axial, etc.) is involved in the embodiments of this utility model, the directional indication is only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of each component in a certain specific posture (as shown in the figure). If the specific posture changes, the directional indication will also change accordingly.

[0043] Furthermore, if the embodiments of this utility model involve descriptions such as "first" or "second," such descriptions are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, features defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, such a combination of technical solutions should be considered non-existent and not within the scope of protection claimed by this utility model.

[0044] This utility model proposes a connector.

[0045] In this embodiment of the utility model, such as Figures 1 to 6As shown, the connector mainly includes a main body 1, two connecting parts 2, a locking structure, an operating element 3, and related auxiliary structures. The two connecting parts 2 are pre-fixed to the two components to be connected, such as the fence panel 8 of a fence. By connecting and locking the connecting parts 2 to the main body 1, the two components can be quickly connected. The position change of the operating element 3 allows or prevents the locking structure from switching between the locked state and the unlocked state.

[0046] Understandably, in some embodiments, the number of components to be connected is three or more, and correspondingly, the number of connectors 2 needs to be equal to the number of components to be connected.

[0047] Specifically, the main body 1 is typically made of engineering plastic or metal and has an internal cavity. One or more open-ended connection points 11 are provided at the bottom of the main body 1. These connection points 11 are used to guide and accommodate the insertion of the connector 2, and their shape preferably matches the insertion end of the connector 2.

[0048] Specifically, regarding the locking principle of the connecting member 2, step 21, and elastic locking key 4:

[0049] The insertion end of the connector 2 is provided with a stepped ring 21. The locking structure includes a resilient locking key 4 disposed within the connection position 11. In this embodiment, the resilient locking key 4 is preferably U-shaped and made of elastic materials such as spring steel or plastic.

[0050] The locking process is as follows: When the connector 2 is inserted into the docking position 11, its step 21 first contacts the bottom of the U-shaped elastic locking key 4. As insertion continues, the step 21 compresses the elastic locking key 4, causing it to elastically deform, and the two arms of the U-shape expand outward. When the step 21 completely passes the bottom of the elastic locking key 4, the elastic locking key 4 returns to its original position due to its elasticity, fitting precisely onto the connector 2 below the step 21, thereby preventing the connector 2 from dislodging and achieving locking.

[0051] Specifically, regarding the location and control logic of operating component 3:

[0052] The operating element 3 is movably mounted on the main body 1. The operating element 3 has two key positions:

[0053] First position (locked position): In this position, the solid part of the operating member 3 is opposite to the end of the U-shaped elastic locking key 4, restricting the movement space of the end of the elastic locking key 4 and thus preventing it from deforming. At this time, the engaging member 2 is reliably locked and cannot be pulled out.

[0054] Second position (unlocked position): The operating member 3 is provided with a clearance position 31. When the operating member 3 is moved to the second position, the clearance position 31 moves to a position opposite to the end of the elastic locking key 4, providing clearance space for the movement of the end. At this time, if the connecting member 2 is pulled outward, or the connector is pulled out, the step 21 can open the elastic locking key 4, allowing the end to move into the clearance position 31 and deform, thereby achieving unlocking and disengagement.

[0055] Specifically, regarding the installation of the positioning seat 5 and the spring-loaded locking key 4:

[0056] To ensure precise installation and guidance of the elastic locking key 4, a positioning seat 5 is also fixedly installed inside the main body 1. This positioning seat 5 has an open-bottomed positioning hole 51, which is coaxial with and connected to the aforementioned connecting part 11. An installation groove 52 is formed on the outer wall of the positioning seat 5. The shape of the installation groove 52 is adapted to the U-shaped elastic locking key 4, accommodating most of the elastic locking key 4, and the installation groove 52 is connected to the positioning hole 51.

[0057] In its natural state, the two ends of the U-shaped elastic locking key 4 extend into and are located within the positioning hole 51. When unlocking is required, the elastic locking key 4 deforms under force, and its two ends move outward, entering the mounting groove 52 or a space further out. The inner wall of the positioning hole 51 plays a crucial guiding and limiting role for the ends of the elastic locking key 4, ensuring the stability and reliability of the locking and unlocking actions.

[0058] Specifically, regarding the installation and reset of operating component 3:

[0059] The operating component 3 is specifically attached to the main body 1 by insertion. An elongated limiting groove 32 is formed on the operating component 3. A positioning element 6, such as a pin or screw, passes through the wall of the main body 1 and simultaneously passes through the limiting groove 32. This structure restricts the operating component 3 to the main body 1 and allows it to reciprocate along the extension direction of the limiting groove 32.

[0060] Preferably, the top of the operating element 3 protrudes from or above the top surface of the main body 1, facilitating user pressing operation. Furthermore, the connector is equipped with an elastic element 7, such as a compression spring, which continuously applies a force to the operating element 3, ensuring it always tends to maintain or move towards the first position, i.e., the locked position. This means that the connector automatically remains in the locked state when there is no manual operation, providing enhanced security.

[0061] Specifically, regarding the movement relationship between the connecting member 2 and the main body 1:

[0062] Depending on the actual application requirements, the motion relationship between the coupling 2 and the main body 1 in the locked state can be designed in different forms:

[0063] In one embodiment, the mating section of the connector 2 and the connecting position 11 is a smooth cylinder, and the connecting position 11 is a corresponding circular hole. After locking, the connector 2 can rotate freely relative to the main body 1, which is suitable for scenarios that require flexible adjustment of the connection angle.

[0064] In another embodiment, the mating cross-section of the connector 2 and the connecting position 11 is non-circular, such as square or hexagonal. After locking, the connector 2 and the main body 1 cannot rotate relative to each other, providing a completely fixed connection effect.

[0065] In the third embodiment, the advantages of the above two methods are combined, allowing for both angle adjustment and stable positioning at a specific angle. Specifically, multiple first locking teeth arranged in a ring-like interval are provided on the outer wall of the connecting member 2. Simultaneously, second locking teeth adapted to the first locking teeth are provided on the inner wall of the connecting position 11.

[0066] Before the connector 2 is inserted into the docking position 11, the railing 8 can be adjusted to the required angle. In the locked state, the first locking tooth and the second locking tooth interlock with each other, that is, one tooth is embedded in the groove of the other. This embodiment has more angle adjustment effects for the railing 8.

[0067] Specifically, the ends of the elastic locking key 4 are formed with radially protruding limiting portions 41, and in the natural state, at least a portion of the limiting portions 41 is located within the positioning hole 51.

[0068] Specifically, regarding the application of fencing:

[0069] This invention also provides a fence comprising at least two fence panels 8 and the connector described in any of the above embodiments. Each fence panel 8 has one of the aforementioned connecting members 2 fixedly installed, and the connector body 1 has two corresponding connection points 11. By inserting the two connecting members 2 into their respective connection points 11 and locking them in place, the connection of the two fence panels 8 can be quickly completed. This structure makes the assembly and disassembly of the fence extremely simple, requiring no tools.

[0070] Since this fence adopts all the technical solutions of all the above-mentioned connector embodiments, it has at least all the beneficial effects brought about by the technical solutions of the above-mentioned connector embodiments, which will not be elaborated here.

[0071] Specifically, the connecting piece 2 is locked to the rail piece 8 by screws or by a snap-fit ​​structure.

[0072] Specifically, in this embodiment, since two rails need to be connected, two connecting members are correspondingly provided. Each connecting member is equipped with an independent elastic locking key to achieve a locking function. Regarding the configuration of the operating member and the clearance position, this utility model provides, but is not limited to, the following two embodiments:

[0073] 1. Single-operator integrated control solution:

[0074] In this embodiment, the connector is provided with an operating member. This operating member has two integrated clearance positions. The positions of these two clearance positions are respectively adapted to the end movement trajectories of the two elastic locking keys corresponding to the two engaging members.

[0075] When the user moves the single operating component from the first position to the second position, the two clearance positions integrated on the component simultaneously align with the ends of the two elastic locking keys. This action provides the necessary space for the deformation of the two elastic locking keys, allowing both connecting parts to be unlocked and pulled out of the main body simultaneously. The advantage of this solution is that it is extremely simple and efficient to operate, achieving complete disassembly of the entire component with a single action, making it particularly suitable for scenarios requiring rapid overall disassembly.

[0076] 2. Dual-operator independent control scheme:

[0077] In another embodiment, the connector has two independent operating elements. Each operating element has a clearance position and corresponds to a specific resilient locking key.

[0078] Each actuating element can move independently between its respective first and second positions. When an actuating element is operated to its second position, its corresponding clearance position is aligned with the associated resilient locking key, thereby releasing the locking state of only the engagement member on that side, while the engagement member on the other side remains locked.

[0079] This solution offers greater operational flexibility. Its significant advantage lies in allowing users to unlock one section individually while maintaining the connection between the other section and the main body. This is particularly convenient when only a single section needs adjustment, repair, or replacement, eliminating the need for complete disassembly and greatly improving maintenance ease and operational efficiency.

[0080] Specifically, in the single-operator integrated control scheme, the connector is more likely to be unplugged after unlocking to achieve the separation action between the connector and the rail plate; while the dual-operator independent control scheme tends to unplug the connecting piece after unlocking, that is, to pull out the rail plate to achieve the separation action between the connector and the rail plate.

[0081] Both of the above configuration options fall within the protection scope of this utility model. Those skilled in the art can flexibly choose the most suitable configuration method according to the specific usage scenario and functional requirements of the product.

[0082] It should be noted that:

[0083] Some technical features in this application are described using functional terms, such as "allowing or preventing switching" and "providing clearance space." Those skilled in the art should understand that the mechanical structure principles for achieving these functions may have various specific implementations, such as using inclined plane compression, lever principles, or slider guidance, all of which fall within the protection scope defined by the functional language of this utility model.

[0084] For the sake of brevity and clarity, the specification may not exhaustively describe certain structural details, material properties, and manufacturing processes that are common knowledge in the art. For example, the specific type of elastic element 7, such as compression spring, torsion spring, or sheet spring; the specific fixing method of positioning element 6 (pin, shaft, screw, etc.); and commonly used reinforcing ribs and assembly guide structures for related parts. The omission of these conventional designs will not affect the complete understanding and implementation of this utility model by those skilled in the art.

[0085] For details regarding the specific structure of the fence and the 8th panel, please refer directly to existing technologies; their specific structural principles will not be elaborated upon here.

[0086] Compared with the prior art, the connector and fence provided by this utility model have the following significant advantages:

[0087] This invention utilizes a core design that controls the locking structure's state through changes in the position of the operating component, enabling truly one-handed, tool-free, and rapid operation. Users simply insert the connecting component to hear the automatic locking feedback, and unlocking is achieved with a single action on the operating component, greatly improving assembly and disassembly efficiency. It is particularly suitable for applications requiring frequent assembly and disassembly, such as displays and isolation systems.

[0088] The connection strength of this invention far surpasses that of traditional snap-fit ​​connections. Through the ingenious cooperation between the step on the connecting piece and the U-shaped elastic locking key, combined with the precise control of the elastic locking key's deformation by the operating component, mechanical locking is achieved. In the locked state, the locking structure is firmly fitted onto the connecting piece, capable of withstanding tensile and shear forces from multiple directions, effectively preventing accidental disengagement due to vibration or accidental collisions, thus significantly improving safety and reliability.

[0089] The structural design of this utility model has been carefully optimized, with a small number of parts and a reasonable layout. The cooperation between the positioning seat and the mounting groove ensures precise guidance of the elastic locking key's movement; the operating component achieves reliable motion control through the simple cooperation between the limiting groove and the positioning component; the elastic component ensures that the connector automatically remains locked in the non-operating state, preventing safety hazards caused by forgetting to lock. This simple and efficient design not only reduces manufacturing costs but also improves the product's service life and stability.

[0090] When applied to products such as fences, this invention completely solves many of the pain points of traditional connection methods. It not only eliminates the reliance on special tools such as screws and wrenches, avoiding the trouble of losing small parts, but also provides a neat and beautiful appearance through the built-in locking mechanism, while ensuring the strength and stability of the connection parts, perfectly balancing the three key requirements of convenience, safety and aesthetics.

[0091] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present utility model and does not limit the patent scope of the present utility model. All equivalent structural transformations made under the inventive concept of the present utility model using the contents of the present utility model specification and drawings, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of the present utility model.

Claims

1. A connector for connecting at least two components to be connected, characterized in that, include: Main body (1); A connector (2) for fixing to the component to be connected, the connector (2) being able to engage with the body (1); The locking structure provided on the main body (1) has a locked state for locking the joint (2) and an unlocked state for unlocking. And an operating element (3) movably disposed on the main body (1), the operating element (3) being configured to allow or prevent the locking structure from switching between the locked state and the unlocked state by changing its position.

2. The connector as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The main body (1) is provided with a connector (11) with an open lower end for the insertion of the connector (2).

3. The connector as described in claim 2, characterized in that: The connector (2) is provided with a step (21); The locking structure includes a resilient locking key (4) disposed within the connecting position (11). When the connector (2) is inserted into the docking position (11), the step (21) contacts the elastic locking key (4) and causes the elastic locking key (4) to undergo elastic deformation until the elastic locking key (4) is reset and sleeved on the connector (2) to achieve locking.

4. The connector as described in claim 3, characterized in that: The elastic locking key (4) is U-shaped.

5. The connector as described in claim 4, characterized in that: The operating member (3) has a first position that restricts the elastic key (4) from generating elastic deformation, and a second position that allows the elastic key (4) to generate elastic deformation. The operating member (3) can move back and forth between the first position and the second position.

6. The connector as described in claim 5, characterized in that: The operating component (3) is provided with a clearance position (31); When the operating member (3) is in the second position, the clearance position (31) is opposite to the end of the elastic locking key (4), providing clearance for the movement of the end of the elastic locking key (4), so that the elastic locking key (4) can deform; When in the first position, the solid part of the operating member (3) is opposite to the end of the elastic locking key (4), restricting the movement of the end and thus preventing the elastic locking key (4) from deforming.

7. The connector as described in claim 4, characterized in that: It also includes a positioning seat (5), which is fixedly disposed inside the main body (1); The positioning seat (5) is provided with a positioning hole (51) with an open bottom. The positioning hole (51) is coaxially arranged with the connecting position (11) and communicates with each other. The outer wall of the positioning seat (5) is provided with a mounting groove (52), the shape of the mounting groove (52) is adapted to the elastic locking key (4) for the elastic locking key (4) to be accommodated, and the mounting groove (52) is connected to the positioning hole (51). In its natural state, both ends of the elastic locking key (4) are located inside the positioning hole (51); When the elastic locking key (4) is deformed by force, its two ends can move toward the side where the mounting groove (52) is located.

8. The connector as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that: The operating component (3) is movably inserted into the main body (1); The operating component (3) is provided with a limit groove (32); The connector also includes a positioning element (6); The positioning member (6) passes through the main body (1) and simultaneously through the limiting groove (32) of the operating member (3) to restrict the operating member (3) on the main body (1) and enable the operating member (3) to reciprocate along the extension direction of the limiting groove (32).

9. The connector as described in claim 5, characterized in that: The top of the operating component (3) is exposed on or above the top surface of the main body (1); The connector also includes an elastic element (7) that applies a force to the operating element (3) so that the operating element (3) has a tendency to maintain or move toward the first position.

10. A fence, characterized in that: It includes at least two rails (8) and a connector as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, each of the two rails (8) having one of the connecting members (2).

Images