Locking mechanism and foldable vehicle

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a locking mechanism and a foldable vehicle, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a mounting base, a first matching part and a handle, the first matching part is arranged on the mounting base; the first end of the handle is rotatably connected to the mounting base and can rotate between an open position and a storage position, the first end of the handle is provided with a second matching part and a third matching part, the first matching part and the second matching part cooperate to lock the handle in the open position, the first matching part and the third matching part cooperate to lock the handle in the storage position, in the open position, the second end of the handle is used to detachably connect with a pre-fixed position to keep the mounting base and the pre-fixed position relatively fixed. The locking mechanism of the present disclosure can improve the convenience and efficiency of connecting the handle with the pre-fixed position, and make the storage of the handle simple and convenient, thereby improving the user's experience.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of foldable vehicles, and more particularly to a locking mechanism and a foldable vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] With the continuous advancement of technology, vehicles with folding functions have gradually appeared on the market, such as foldable bicycles and foldable two-wheeled scooters, greatly improving the convenience of users' lives. Foldable vehicles are locked in the folded state by a locking mechanism to achieve stable storage and portability when folded.

[0003] However, current locking mechanisms suffer from problems such as complex locking processes and difficulty in storing the mechanisms. Utility Model Content

[0004] To overcome the problems existing in related technologies, this disclosure provides a locking mechanism and a foldable vehicle.

[0005] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, a locking mechanism is provided, comprising: a mounting base; a first mating part disposed on the mounting base; and a handle, the first end of which is rotatably connected to the mounting base and rotatable between an open position and a retracted position. The first end of the handle is provided with a second mating part and a third mating part. The first mating part and the second mating part cooperate to lock the handle in the open position. In the open position, the second end of the handle is detachably connected to a pre-fixed position to maintain relative fixation between the mounting base and the pre-fixed position. Since the handle is locked in the open position, it does not rotate during connection to the pre-fixed position, reducing the influence of angle and direction on the handle's connection to the pre-fixed position, thereby improving the convenience and efficiency of connecting the handle to the pre-fixed position. The first mating part and the third mating part cooperate to lock the handle in the retracted position without additional operating steps, making the storage of the handle simple and convenient, thus improving the user experience.

[0006] In some possible implementations, the handle includes: a rotating part rotatably connected to the mounting base via a pivot, the second mating part and the third mating part being disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the rotating part; and a handle body, the first end of which is connected to the outer peripheral surface of the rotating part and spaced apart from the second and third mating parts in the circumferential direction of the rotating part, the second end of which is detachably connected to a pre-fixed position. This avoids interference between the handle body, the second mating part, and the third mating part, thereby enabling locking in either the open or retracted position by rotating the handle, effectively improving the ease of use of the locking mechanism.

[0007] In some possible implementations, the first mating part includes a locked state and an unlocked state. In the locked state, the first mating part engages with the second or third mating part; in the unlocked state, the first mating part disengages from the second or third mating part to unlock the handle. This design makes locking and unlocking the handle in the open and retracted positions more convenient, further improving the ease of use of the locking mechanism.

[0008] In some possible implementations, a first limiting groove and a second limiting groove are provided circumferentially at intervals along the rotating part, forming a cam structure between the first limiting groove and the second limiting groove. The first limiting groove constitutes the second mating part, and the second limiting groove constitutes the third mating part. The first mating part includes a spring plunger, which includes an elastic element and a plunger head. The plunger head is attached to the outer circumferential surface of the rotating part. In the locked state, the plunger head is engaged in the first limiting groove or the second limiting groove. In the unlocked state, the plunger head is engaged in the second limiting groove. This arrangement simplifies the structure of the first, second, and third mating parts, facilitating production, processing, and assembly. Furthermore, it allows the first mating part to automatically switch between locked and unlocked states during handle rotation, eliminating the need for manual operation and further improving the ease of use of the locking mechanism. On the other hand, by setting the first mating part and the second mating part into a groove-shaped structure and forming a cam structure between the two groove-shaped structures, when the plunger head is engaged in the first limiting groove or the second limiting groove, it will provide a force-feeding effect to the user's hand, thereby not only improving the user's tactile experience, but also serving as a prompt so that the user can know whether the handle has reached the open position and the storage position.

[0009] In some possible implementations, the handle further includes a limiting portion disposed on the handle body. Both the second mating portion and the third mating portion are located between the limiting portion and a first end of the handle body, with the second mating portion positioned between the limiting portion and the third mating portion. The limiting portion restricts the handle from rotating from the second mating portion in a direction away from the third mating portion along the first mating portion. This design limits the rotation angle of the handle between the open and retracted positions, making it easier for the user to control the rotation angle and further improving the ease of use of the locking mechanism.

[0010] In some possible implementations, the limiting portion is a protruding structure that extends outward from the outer periphery of the rotating portion. This simplifies the structure of the limiting portion and facilitates its production and processing.

[0011] In some possible implementations, the handle body is provided with a clearance groove, and in the retracted position, a portion of the first mating part is located within the clearance groove. This design, on the one hand, prevents the handle body from damaging the first mating part, thereby improving the structural reliability of the locking mechanism. On the other hand, it makes the locking mechanism more compact when the handle is in the retracted position, reducing the space occupied by the locking mechanism in this position and thus improving the handling's storage efficiency.

[0012] In some possible implementations, the outer surface of the mounting base is provided with a receiving groove, the receiving groove including a first groove segment and a second groove segment that are connected to each other, the first mating part being disposed in the first groove segment, the first end of the handle being rotatably disposed in the second groove segment, and the second end of the handle extending from the second groove segment to the outside of the mounting base. This makes the locking mechanism more compact, which is beneficial for achieving a miniaturized design of the locking mechanism.

[0013] In some possible implementations, the second end of the handle is provided with a fourth mating portion for detachably connecting to the pre-fixed position. This improves the ease of connecting the handle to the pre-fixed position.

[0014] In some possible implementations, the fourth mating part is a snap-fit ​​interface structure. This simplifies the structure of the fourth mating part, facilitating production and processing, while also improving the convenience and efficiency of connecting the handle to the pre-fixed position.

[0015] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, a foldable vehicle is provided, comprising: a frame; pedals disposed on the frame; a handlebar stem foldably connected to the frame; and a locking mechanism as described in the first aspect, disposed on the handlebar stem, wherein the handle of the locking mechanism is in an open position, and a second end of the handle is detachably connected to the pedals to lock the handlebar stem in a folded state. The foldable vehicle of this embodiment improves the convenience and efficiency of connecting the handlebar to the pedals and makes the storage of the handlebar simple and convenient, thereby enhancing the user experience.

[0016] In some possible implementations, the stem forms the mounting base for the locking mechanism. This reduces the number of components used, thereby improving the assembly efficiency of the foldable vehicle and reducing its weight.

[0017] In some possible implementations, the pedal surface is provided with a fifth mating portion, which is used to detachably connect with the fourth mating portion of the locking mechanism to lock the handlebar in a folded state. This improves the ease of connecting the handle and the pedal.

[0018] In some possible implementations, the fifth mating part is a hook structure. In the open position with the handlebar stem folded, the handle is hooked to the hook structure via a snap-fit ​​interface. This design simplifies the connection between the handle and the pedal, further improving the convenience and efficiency of this connection. It also facilitates unlocking the handle and pedal; simply rotating the handle disengages the hook from the snap-fit ​​interface, thus enhancing the ease and efficiency of unlocking and improving the user experience.

[0019] The technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this disclosure may include the following beneficial effects: The locking mechanism disclosed herein features a first mating part on the mounting base. The first end of the handle is rotatably connected to the mounting base and can rotate between an open position and a retracted position. By providing a second and third mating part at the first end of the handle, the first mating part can successively engage with the second and third mating parts on the handle during rotation. When the first and second mating parts engage, the handle is locked in the open position, facilitating a detachable connection between the second end of the handle and a pre-fixed position, thus maintaining relative fixation between the mounting base and the pre-fixed position. Since the handle is locked in the open position, it does not rotate during connection to the pre-fixed position, reducing the influence of angle and direction on the connection and improving convenience and efficiency. When the first and third mating parts engage, the handle is locked in the retracted position without additional steps, making handle storage simple and convenient, thereby enhancing the user experience.

[0020] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not intended to limit this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0021] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure.

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a foldable vehicle in an open state and with the handle in the stowed position, according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 2 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a foldable vehicle in an open state and with the handle in the stowed position, according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a foldable vehicle in an open state with the handle in the open position, according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 4 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a foldable vehicle in an open state with the handle in the open position, according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a foldable vehicle in a folded state and with the handle in the open position, according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 6 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a foldable vehicle in a folded state with the handle in the open position, according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 7 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a foldable vehicle in a folded state and with the handle in the open position, according to another exemplary embodiment. Figure 8 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a foldable vehicle locked in a folded state according to an exemplary embodiment; Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a foldable vehicle locked in a folded state according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0023] In the picture: 10-Foldable vehicle; 11-Handlepost; 111-Receiving slot; 12-Frame; 13-Pedal; 131-Fifth mating part; 1311-Hook structure; 20-Locking mechanism; 21-Handle; 211-Rotating part; 212-Handle body; 2121-Avoiding slot; 213-Second mating part; 2131-First limiting slot; 214-Third mating part; 2141-Second limiting slot; 215-Fourth mating part; 2151-Snap-in interface structure; 216-Cam structure; 22-First mating part; 221-Fixed seat; 222-Plug head; 23-Limiting part; 24-Stop part; 25-Mounting base. Detailed Implementation

[0024] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description relates to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numerals in different drawings denote the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this disclosure. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of this disclosure as detailed in the appended claims.

[0025] With the continuous advancement of technology, vehicles with folding functions have gradually appeared on the market, such as foldable bicycles and foldable two-wheeled scooters, greatly improving the convenience of users' lives. Foldable vehicles are locked in their folded state using a locking mechanism to ensure stable storage and portability. However, current locking mechanisms suffer from problems such as a complex locking process and inconvenience in storing the locking mechanism itself.

[0026] For example, the locking mechanism in related technologies includes a handle, which is rotatably connected to a mounting position such as the handlebar stem of a foldable vehicle, and is supported in the open state by a retaining spring. When locking the folded vehicle in the folded state, the handle twists under external force due to the elasticity of the retaining spring. This necessitates controlling the mounting position, such as the handlebar stem, at a specific folding angle and direction to accurately lock the handle to folding positions such as pedals. This operation is complex and the locking process is inefficient. Furthermore, when the locking mechanism does not need to lock the folded state, an additional locking element is required to secure the handle for storage, making the storage process of the locking mechanism extremely complex as well.

[0027] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this disclosure provides a locking mechanism. A first mating part is provided on the mounting base, and the first end of the handle is rotatably connected to the mounting base and can rotate between an open position and a retracted position. By providing a second and third mating part on the first end of the handle, the first mating part can successively engage with the second and third mating parts on the handle during rotation. When the first and second mating parts engage, the handle is locked in the open position, facilitating a detachable connection between the second end of the handle and a pre-fixed position, thus maintaining relative fixation between the mounting base and the pre-fixed position. Since the handle is locked in the open position, it does not rotate during connection to the pre-fixed position, reducing the influence of angle and direction on the handle's connection and improving convenience and efficiency. When the first and third mating parts engage, the handle is locked in the retracted position without additional steps, making handle storage simple and convenient, thereby enhancing the user experience.

[0028] An exemplary embodiment of this disclosure provides a locking mechanism, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the locking mechanism 20 includes a mounting base 25, a first mating part 22, and a handle 21. It should be noted that the mounting base 25 in this embodiment provides an assembly platform for the various components of the locking mechanism 20. Therefore, the mounting base 25 can be a structure on the foldable vehicle 10 where the locking mechanism 20 is applied (e.g., the handlebar stem 11 of the foldable vehicle 10), or it can be independent of the foldable vehicle 10, so that the locking mechanism 20 can be modularly designed and installed as a whole on the structure of the foldable vehicle 10, facilitating the maintenance, repair, and replacement of the locking mechanism 20.

[0029] The first mating part 22 is provided on the mounting base 25, such as Figure 1 and Figure 3As shown, the first end of the handle 21 is rotatably connected to the mounting base 25 and can rotate between the open position and the retracted position. A second mating part 213 and a third mating part 214 are provided at the first end of the handle 21. During the rotation of the handle 21, the first mating part 22 can successively engage with the second mating part 213 and the third mating part 214 on the handle 21.

[0030] Combination Figure 3 and Figure 4 When the first mating part 22 engages with the second mating part 213, the handle 21 can be locked in the open position. When the handle 21 is in the open position, the second end of the handle 21 is detachably connected to the pre-fixed position, so that the mounting base 25 and the pre-fixed position remain relatively fixed. Since the handle 21 is locked in the open position, the handle 21 will not rotate during the connection with the pre-fixed position, reducing the influence of angle and direction on the handle 21 when connected to the pre-fixed position, thereby improving the convenience and efficiency of connecting the handle 21 to the pre-fixed position.

[0031] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 2 When the first mating part 22 and the third mating part 214 are mated, the handle 21 can be locked in the storage position without any additional operation steps, making the storage of the handle 21 simple and convenient, thereby improving the user experience.

[0032] For example, the first mating part 22 and the second mating part 213 cooperate to achieve locking in the open position. The cooperation can be achieved through frictional engagement, where the first mating part 22 is a first frictional position and the second mating part 213 is a second frictional position. When the two frictional positions come into contact, locking in the open position is achieved. Alternatively, it can be achieved through snap-fit ​​engagement, where the first mating part 22 is a movable protrusion and the second mating part 213 is a groove. When the handle 21 is rotated until the protrusion engages with the groove, locking in the open position is achieved. Other cooperation methods between the first mating part 22 and the second mating part 213 can also be used, which will not be listed here. Similarly, the first mating part 22 and the third mating part 214 cooperate to achieve locking in the stored position, which can also be achieved through frictional engagement, snap-fit ​​engagement, etc., which will not be repeated here. In this embodiment, the specific cooperation methods between the first mating part 22 and the second and third mating parts 213 are not specifically limited.

[0033] For example, the second end of the handle 21 is detachably connected to the pre-fixed position, and the detachable connection can be made by means of snap-fit, plug-in, or other detachable connection.

[0034] like Figure 2 and Figure 4As shown, in one embodiment, the handle 21 includes a rotating part 211 and a handle body 212. The rotating part 211 is rotatably connected to the mounting base 25 via a pivot. A second mating part 213 and a third mating part 214 are disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the rotating part 211. The first end of the handle body 212 is connected to the outer peripheral surface of the rotating part 211 and is spaced apart from the second mating part 213 and the third mating part 214 in the circumferential direction of the rotating part 211. The second end of the handle body 212 is used for detachable connection to a pre-fixed position. This arrangement avoids interference between the handle body 212, the second mating part 213, and the third mating part 214, thereby enabling locking in the open or retracted position by rotating the handle 21, effectively improving the ease of use of the locking mechanism 20.

[0035] Continue to refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 In one embodiment, the first mating part 22 includes a locked state and an unlocked state. When the first mating part 22 is in the locked state, it engages with the second mating part 213 or the third mating part 214 to lock the handle 21 in the open or retracted position. When the first mating part 22 is in the unlocked state, it separates from the second mating part 213 to unlock the handle 21 in the open position, or it separates from the third mating part 214 to unlock the handle 21 in the retracted position. This design makes locking and unlocking the handle 21 in the open and retracted positions more convenient, further improving the ease of use of the locking mechanism 20.

[0036] For example, the switching between the locked and unlocked states of the first mating part 22 can be achieved by manually switching the first mating part 22 individually, such as by pushing, sliding, rotating, or engaging to bring the first mating part 22 to the locked or unlocked state. Alternatively, the first mating part 22 can switch between the locked and unlocked states automatically while the handle 21 is rotated; there is no specific limitation on this.

[0037] Continue to refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4In one embodiment, a first limiting groove 2131 and a second limiting groove 2141 are provided circumferentially along the rotating part 211. A cam structure 216 is formed between the first limiting groove 2131 and the second limiting groove 2141. The first limiting groove 2131 constitutes a second mating part 213, and the second limiting groove 2141 constitutes a third mating part 214. The first mating part 22 includes a spring plunger, which can be mounted on the mounting base 25, for example, via a fixing seat 221. The spring plunger includes a sleeve, an elastic element, and a plunger head 222. A first end of the elastic element is connected to the inside of the sleeve, and the other end of the elastic element is connected to the plunger head 222. The plunger head 222 can extend or retract into the sleeve under the action of the elastic element. At the same time, the plunger head 222 is always in contact with the outer peripheral surface of the rotating part 211. During the rotation of the handle 21, the plunger head 222 moves telescoping along the structural curve of the outer peripheral surface of the rotating part 211 to switch the spring plunger between a locked state and an unlocked state.

[0038] When the spring plunger engages in the first limiting groove 2131, the spring plunger is in a locked state. When the handle 21 is rotated in the first direction (e.g., clockwise) to unlock the open position, the cam structure 216 presses against the plunger head 222 until the plunger head 222 retracts into the spring plunger sleeve under the action of the elastic element, at which point the spring plunger is in an unlocked state. Continuing to rotate the handle 21 in the first direction, the cam structure 216 gradually moves away from the plunger head 222 until the plunger head 222 engages in the second limiting groove 2141, and the spring plunger re-enters the locked state, locking the handle 21 in the retracted position. Then, when the handle 21 is rotated in the opposite direction (e.g., counterclockwise) to unlock the retracted position, the cam structure 216 again presses against the plunger head 222 until the plunger head 222 retracts into the spring plunger sleeve under the action of the elastic element, at which point the spring plunger is in an unlocked state again. Continue rotating the handle 21 in the second direction. The cam structure 216 gradually moves away from the plunger head 222 until the plunger head 222 is engaged in the first limiting groove 2131. The spring plunger then enters the locked state again to lock the handle 21 in the open position.

[0039] This configuration simplifies the structure of the first mating part 22, the second mating part 213, and the third mating part 214, facilitating production, processing, and assembly. It also allows the first mating part 22 to automatically switch between locked and unlocked states during handle rotation, eliminating the need for manual operation and further enhancing the ease of use of the locking mechanism 20. Furthermore, by designing the first mating part 22 and the second mating part 213 as groove-like structures and forming a cam structure 216 between them, when the plunger head 222 engages with the first limiting groove 2131 or the second limiting groove 2141, a tactile feedback effect is provided to the user's hand. This not only improves the user's tactile experience but also serves as a prompt, allowing the user to determine whether the handle 21 has reached the open or retracted position.

[0040] Continue to refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 In one embodiment, the handle 21 further includes a limiting portion 23 disposed on the handle body 212. The second mating portion 213 and the third mating portion 214 are both located between the limiting portion 23 and the first end of the handle body 212, with the second mating portion 213 located between the limiting portion 23 and the third mating portion 214. The limiting portion 23 restricts the handle 21 from rotating from the second mating portion 213 in a direction away from the third mating portion 214 along the first mating portion 22. The handle body 212 itself can also restrict the rotation of the handle 21 from the third mating portion 214 in a direction away from the second mating portion 213 along the first mating portion 22. This design limits the rotation angle of the handle 21 between the open and retracted positions, making it easier for the user to control the rotation angle of the handle 21, thereby further improving the ease of use of the locking mechanism 20. For example, the specific structural form of the limiting part 23 is not specifically limited in this embodiment. For example, it can be a limiting structure formed by the outward protrusion of the rotating part 211, or a limiting structure connected to the rotating part 211 by bonding, welding, etc.

[0041] In one embodiment, the limiting part 23 is a protruding structure that protrudes outward from the outer peripheral surface of the rotating part 211. This makes the structure of the limiting part 23 simple and easy to manufacture and process.

[0042] like Figure 2As shown, in one embodiment, the handle body 212 is provided with a clearance groove 2121. When the handle 21 is in the retracted position, part of the first mating part 22 is located within the clearance groove 2121. This design, on the one hand, can prevent the handle body 212 from damaging the first mating part 22, thereby improving the structural reliability of the locking mechanism 20. On the other hand, it makes the structure of the locking mechanism 20 more compact when the handle 21 is in the retracted position, reducing the space occupied by the locking mechanism 20 when the handle 21 is in the retracted position, thereby improving the storage effect of the handle 21.

[0043] Continue to refer to Figure 2 In one embodiment, the outer surface of the mounting base 25 is provided with a receiving groove 111, which includes a first groove segment and a second groove segment that are connected to each other. A first mating part 22 is disposed in the first groove segment, and a first end of a handle 21 is rotatably disposed in the second groove segment. A second end of the handle 21 extends from the second groove segment to the outside of the mounting base 25. This arrangement makes the structure of the locking mechanism 20 more compact, which is beneficial for achieving a miniaturized design of the locking mechanism 20.

[0044] like Figure 4 As shown, in one embodiment, the handle 21 further includes a stop portion 24 disposed on the mounting base 25. When the handle 21 is in the open position, the handle 21 abuts against the stop portion 24, thereby further restricting the rotation of the handle 21.

[0045] In one embodiment, the stop part 24 is a slot structure provided in the second groove section. When the handle 21 is in the open position, the handle 21 is engaged in the slot structure. In this way, the structure of the stop part 24 is simple and easy to produce and process.

[0046] like Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, in one embodiment, the second end of the handle 21 is provided with a fourth mating part 215, which is used to detachably connect with the pre-fixed position. This improves the convenience of connecting the handle 21 to the pre-fixed position. Exemplarily, the fourth mating part 215 can be a snap-fit, plug-in, or other structure that enables a detachable connection; this embodiment does not specifically limit its application.

[0047] Continue to refer to Figure 5 and Figure 8 In one embodiment, the fourth mating part 215 is a card interface structure 2151. This makes the structure of the fourth mating part 215 simple, easy to produce and process, and improves the convenience and efficiency of connecting the handle 21 to the pre-fixed position.

[0048] An exemplary embodiment of this disclosure provides a foldable vehicle, which, exemplarily, is a foldable bicycle, a foldable two-wheeled scooter, or the like.

[0049] like Figure 1 As shown, the foldable vehicle 10 includes a frame 12, pedals 13, handlebar stem 11, and a locking mechanism 20 as described above. The pedals 13 are mounted on the frame 12, the handlebar stem 11 is foldably connected to the frame 12, and the locking mechanism 20 is mounted on the handlebar stem 11. Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the locking mechanism 20 includes a mounting base 25, a first mating part 22, and a handle 21. The first mating part 22 is disposed on the mounting base 25, and the first end of the handle 21 is rotatably connected to the mounting base 25 and can rotate between an open position and a retracted position. A second mating part 213 and a third mating part 214 are provided on the first end of the handle 21. During the rotation of the handle 21, the first mating part 22 can successively engage with the second mating part 213 and the third mating part 214 on the handle 21.

[0050] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, when the first mating part 22 engages with the second mating part 213, the handle 21 can be locked in the open position. When the handle 21 is in the open position, the second end of the handle 21 is detachably connected to the pedal 13 to keep the stem 11 and the pedal 13 relatively fixed, thereby locking the stem 11 in a folded state. Since the handle 21 is locked in the open position, it will not rotate during the connection with the pedal 13, reducing the influence of the folding angle and direction of the stem 11 on the handle 21 when connected to the pedal 13, thus improving the convenience and efficiency of connecting the handle 21 to the pedal 13. Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, when the first mating part 22 and the third mating part 214 are mated, the handle 21 can be locked in the storage position without any additional operation steps, making the storage of the handle 21 simple and convenient, thereby improving the user experience.

[0051] In one embodiment, the riser 11 forms the mounting base 25 of the locking mechanism 20. This reduces the number of parts used, thereby improving the assembly efficiency of the foldable vehicle 10 and reducing its weight.

[0052] In this embodiment, when assembling the locking mechanism 20 with the stem 11, the first mating part 22 and the handle 21 with the second mating part 213 and the third mating part 214 can be directly assembled to the stem 11, or the first mating part 22 and the handle 21 with the second mating part 213 and the third mating part 214 can be assembled and connected first to form a modular design, and then assembled as a whole to the stem 11.

[0053] like Figure 5 and Figure 8 As shown, in one embodiment, the pedal 13 has a fifth mating part 131 on its surface. The fifth mating part 131 is used to detachably connect with the fourth mating part 215 of the locking mechanism 20, so that the handlebar stem 11 and the pedal 13 remain relatively fixed. In this way, the convenience of connecting the handle 21 and the pedal 13 can be improved.

[0054] Continue to refer to Figure 5 and Figure 8 In one embodiment, the fifth mating part 131 is a hook structure 1311. When the handle 21 is in the open position and the riser 11 is in the folded state, the handle 21 is hooked to the hook structure 1311 through the snap-fit ​​interface structure 2151. This arrangement simplifies the connection between the handle 21 and the pedal 13, further improving the convenience and efficiency of connecting them. It also facilitates unlocking the handle 21 and the pedal 13; simply rotating the handle 21 disengages the hook from the snap-fit ​​interface structure 2151, thus improving the convenience and efficiency of unlocking the handle 21 and the pedal 13 and enhancing the user experience.

[0055] This embodiment describes the locking and unlocking process of the stem 11 in the folded state: like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, when the riser 11 is in the non-folded state, the handle 21 can be rotated to the storage position. At this time, the plunger head 222 is engaged in the second limiting groove 2141 to lock the handle 21 in the storage position.

[0056] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, when it is necessary to lock the riser 11 in the folded state, first rotate the handle 21 to the open position in the first direction (e.g., counterclockwise). At this time, the plunger head 222 is engaged in the first limiting groove 2131 to lock the handle 21 in the open position.

[0057] like Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, the riser 11 is folded towards the pedal 13. During the folding process, the locking interface on the handle 21 gradually moves closer to the locking hook structure 1311 on the pedal 13. Figure 7 As shown, continue folding the riser tube 11 toward the pedal 13 until the handle 21 contacts the hook structure 1311. Figure 8 As shown, the handle 21 and the latch structure 1311 move relative to each other until the latch structure 1311 extends into the latch interface structure 2151 of the handle 21. At this time, as... Figure 9 As shown, locking the stem 11 in the folded state is completed.

[0058] When it is necessary to unlock the stem 11 from the folded state, first rotate the handle 21 in a second direction opposite to the first direction (e.g., clockwise) to disengage the hook structure 1311 from the locking interface structure 2151 on the handle 21. At this point, the handle 21 can be directly rotated to the storage position to unlock the stem 11 from the folded state. Alternatively, after the hook structure 1311 disengages from the locking interface structure 2151 on the handle 21, rotate the stem 11 to move the handle 21 away from the pedal 13, thereby unlocking the stem 11 from the folded state. Afterward, the handle 21 can be stored as needed.

[0059] Other embodiments of this disclosure will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. This application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this disclosure that follow the general principles of this disclosure and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The specification and examples are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of this disclosure are indicated by the following claims.

[0060] It should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the precise structures described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from its scope. The scope of this disclosure is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A locking mechanism, characterized in that, The locking mechanism (20) includes: Mounting base (25); The first mating part (22) is disposed on the mounting base (25); The handle (21) has its first end rotatably connected to the mounting base (25) and is rotatable between an open position and a retracted position. The first end of the handle (21) is provided with a second mating part (213) and a third mating part (214). The first mating part (22) and the second mating part (213) cooperate to lock the handle (21) in the open position. The first mating part (22) and the third mating part (214) cooperate to lock the handle (21) in the retracted position. In the open position, the second end of the handle (21) is used to detachably connect to a pre-fixed position so that the mounting base (25) and the pre-fixed position remain relatively fixed.

2. The locking mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The handle (21) includes: A rotating part (211) is rotatably connected to the mounting base (25) via a rotating shaft. The second mating part (213) and the third mating part (214) are disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the rotating part (211). The handle body (212) has a first end connected to the outer peripheral surface of the rotating part (211) and is spaced apart from the second mating part (213) and the third mating part (214) in the circumferential direction of the rotating part (211). The second end of the handle body (212) is used to be detachably connected to the pre-fixed position.

3. The locking mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first mating part (22) includes a locked state and an unlocked state. In the locked state, the first mating part (22) engages with the second mating part (213) or the third mating part (214). In the unlocked state, the first mating part (22) separates from the second mating part (213) or the third mating part (214) to unlock the handle (21).

4. The locking mechanism according to claim 3, characterized in that, A first limiting groove (2131) and a second limiting groove (2141) are provided at circumferential intervals along the rotating part (211). A cam structure (216) is formed between the first limiting groove (2131) and the second limiting groove (2141). The first limiting groove (2131) constitutes the second mating part (213), and the second limiting groove (2141) constitutes the third mating part (214). The first mating part (22) includes a spring plunger, which includes an elastic element and a plunger head (222). The plunger head (222) is attached to the outer peripheral surface of the rotating part (211). In the locked state, the plunger head (222) is engaged in the first limiting groove (2131) or the second limiting groove (2141). In the unlocked state, the plunger head (222) is engaged in the second limiting groove (2141).

5. The locking mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that, The handle (21) further includes a limiting part (23) disposed on the handle body (212). The second mating part (213) and the third mating part (214) are both located between the limiting part (23) and the first end of the handle body (212), and the second mating part (213) is located between the limiting part (23) and the third mating part (214). The limiting part (23) is used to restrict the handle (21) from rotating from the second mating part (213) in a direction away from the third mating part (214) along the first mating part (22).

6. The locking mechanism according to claim 5, characterized in that, The limiting part (23) is a protruding structure that protrudes outward from the outer peripheral surface of the rotating part (211).

7. The locking mechanism according to claim 2, characterized in that, The handle body (212) is provided with a relief groove (2121), and in the storage position, part of the first mating part (22) is located in the relief groove (2121).

8. The locking mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The outer surface of the mounting base (25) is provided with a receiving groove (111). The receiving groove (111) includes a first groove segment and a second groove segment that are connected. The first mating part (22) is disposed in the first groove segment. The first end of the handle (21) is rotatably disposed in the second groove segment. The second end of the handle (21) extends from the second groove segment to the outside of the mounting base (25).

9. The locking mechanism according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The second end of the handle (21) is provided with a fourth mating part (215), which is used to detachably connect with the pre-fixed position.

10. The locking mechanism according to claim 9, characterized in that, The fourth mating part (215) is a card interface structure (2151).

11. A foldable vehicle, characterized in that, The foldable vehicle (10) includes: Frame (12); A pedal (13) is mounted on the frame (12); The riser tube (11) is foldably connected to the frame (12). The locking mechanism (20) as described in any one of claims 1 to 10 is provided on the stem tube (11), wherein the handle (21) of the locking mechanism (20) is in the open position, and the second end of the handle (21) is detachably connected to the pedal (13) to lock the stem tube (11) in a folded state.

12. The foldable vehicle according to claim 11, characterized in that, The stand tube (11) forms the mounting base (25) of the locking mechanism (20).

13. The foldable vehicle according to claim 11, characterized in that, The pedal (13) has a fifth mating part (131) on its surface. The fifth mating part (131) is used to detachably connect with the fourth mating part (215) of the locking mechanism (20) to lock the handlebar tube (11) in a folded state.

14. The foldable vehicle according to claim 13, characterized in that, The fifth mating part (131) is a hook structure (1311). In the open position and when the stem tube (11) is folded, the handle (21) is hooked to the hook structure (1311) through the snap-in interface structure (2151).

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