Cone coupling device and cone coupling system

Abstract

The present invention provides a cone connecting device and a cone connecting system that can improve the shape stability when multiple cone members are connected. [Solution] A cone connecting device for connecting a first cone member and a second cone member, comprising: a first superimposed cone group consisting of a plurality of first superimposed cones that are placed over and superimposed on the first cone member; a second superimposed cone group consisting of a plurality of second superimposed cones that are placed over and superimposed on the second cone member; and a connecting cone bar that connects a first connecting cone included in the first superimposed cone group and a second connecting cone included in the second superimposed cone group.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a cone connection device and a cone connection system.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a triangular cone installed at a construction site on a road. This triangular cone has a hollow main body, an outlet formed on a side surface of the main body, and an installation portion arranged inside the main body. A cone bar tape is attached to the installation portion, and the tip of the cone bar tape is taken out from the outlet.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, according to earnest studies by the present inventor, the triangular cone of Patent Document 1 has room for improvement from the viewpoint of enhancing shape stability when a plurality of triangular cones are connected.

[0005] The present invention has been completed on the basis of the above awareness of the problem, and an object of the present invention is to provide a cone connection device and a cone connection system capable of improving shape stability when a plurality of cone members are connected.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0006] The cone connecting device of this embodiment is a cone connecting device for connecting a first cone member and a second cone member, comprising: a first superimposed cone group consisting of a plurality of first superimposed cones superimposed on the first cone member; a second superimposed cone group consisting of a plurality of second superimposed cones superimposed on the second cone member; and a connecting cone bar that connects a first connecting cone included in the first superimposed cone group and a second connecting cone included in the second superimposed cone group. The plurality of first superimposed cones constituting the first superimposed cone group have a first open portion with an open upper end and a lower end, a first enlarged diameter portion having the same enlargement ratio as the first cone member and expanding in diameter from the upper end to the lower end, and a first fitting portion formed on the first enlarged diameter portion and fitting the first superimposed cones that are superimposed on each other so as to be unable to rotate relative to each other. The plurality of first superimposed cones constituting the first superimposed cone group have, as a specific shape including the first open portion, the first enlarged diameter portion and the first fitting portion, a 1-1 superimposed cone made from a hollow regular frustum of polygons, a 1-2 superimposed cone made by rounding each side of a hollow regular frustum of polygons in the radial direction, or a 1-3 superimposed cone made from a hollow member with gears formed on its inner and outer circumferences. The plurality of second superimposed cones constituting the second superimposed cone group each have a second open portion with an open upper and lower end, a second enlarged diameter portion having the same enlargement ratio as the second cone member that enlarges from the upper end to the lower end, and a second fitting portion formed on the second enlarged diameter portion and fitting the superimposed second superimposed cones together so that they cannot rotate relative to each other. The plurality of second superimposed cones constituting the second superimposed cone group each have, as a specific shape including the second open portion, the second enlarged diameter portion, and the second fitting portion, a second-first superimposed cone made from a hollow regular frustum, a second-second superimposed cone made by rounding each side of a hollow regular frustum in the radial direction, or a second-third superimposed cone made from a hollow member with gears formed on its inner and outer circumference. It is characterized by the following:

[0007] The cone connecting system of this embodiment comprises a first cone member, a second cone member, and a cone connecting device for connecting the first cone member and the second cone member, wherein the cone connecting device comprises a first superimposed cone group consisting of a plurality of first superimposed cones superimposed on the first cone member, a second superimposed cone group consisting of a plurality of second superimposed cones superimposed on the second cone member, and a connecting cone bar for connecting a first connecting cone included in the first superimposed cone group and a second connecting cone included in the second superimposed cone group. The plurality of first superimposed cones constituting the first superimposed cone group have a first open portion with an open upper end and a lower end, a first enlarged diameter portion having the same enlargement ratio as the first cone member and expanding in diameter from the upper end to the lower end, and a first fitting portion formed on the first enlarged diameter portion and fitting the first superimposed cones that are superimposed on each other so as to be unable to rotate relative to each other. The plurality of first superimposed cones constituting the first superimposed cone group have, as a specific shape including the first open portion, the first enlarged diameter portion and the first fitting portion, a 1-1 superimposed cone made from a hollow regular frustum of polygons, a 1-2 superimposed cone made by rounding each side of a hollow regular frustum of polygons in the radial direction, or a 1-3 superimposed cone made from a hollow member with gears formed on its inner and outer circumferences. The plurality of second superimposed cones constituting the second superimposed cone group each have a second open portion with an open upper and lower end, a second enlarged diameter portion having the same enlargement ratio as the second cone member that enlarges from the upper end to the lower end, and a second fitting portion formed on the second enlarged diameter portion and fitting the superimposed second superimposed cones together so that they cannot rotate relative to each other. The plurality of second superimposed cones constituting the second superimposed cone group each have, as a specific shape including the second open portion, the second enlarged diameter portion, and the second fitting portion, a second-first superimposed cone made from a hollow regular frustum, a second-second superimposed cone made by rounding each side of a hollow regular frustum in the radial direction, or a second-third superimposed cone made from a hollow member with gears formed on its inner and outer circumference. It is characterized by the following: [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a cone connecting device and a cone connecting system that can improve the shape stability when multiple cone members are connected. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] These are perspective views and partial cross-sectional views showing the configuration of the cone coupling device and cone coupling system of the first embodiment. [Figure 2] These are perspective views and partial cross-sectional views showing the configuration of the cone coupling device and cone coupling system of the second embodiment. [Figure 3] These are perspective views and partial cross-sectional views showing the configuration of the cone coupling device and cone coupling system of the third embodiment. [Figure 4]This is a diagram showing an example of connection by the cone coupling device and the cone coupling system of the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a diagram showing an example of connection by the cone coupling device and the cone coupling system of the second embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a diagram showing an example of connection by the cone coupling device and the cone coupling system of the third embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a plan view of the cone coupling device of the first embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a bottom view of the cone coupling device of the first embodiment. [Figure 9] This is a right side view of the cone coupling device of the first embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a left side view of the cone coupling device of the first embodiment. [Figure 11] This is a front view of the cone coupling device of the first embodiment. [Figure 12] This is a rear view of the cone coupling device of the first embodiment. [Figure 13] This is a first perspective view of the cone coupling device of the first embodiment. [Figure 14] This is a second perspective view of the cone coupling device of the first embodiment. [Figure 15] This is a perspective view showing the cone coupling device of the first embodiment in a usage state. [Figure 16] This is a plan view of the cone coupling device of the second embodiment. [Figure 17] This is a bottom view of the cone coupling device of the second embodiment. [Figure 18] This is a right side view of the cone coupling device of the second embodiment. [Figure 19] This is a left side view of the cone coupling device of the second embodiment. [Figure 20] This is a front view of the cone coupling device of the second embodiment. [Figure 21] This is a rear view of the cone coupling device of the second embodiment. [Figure 22] This is a first perspective view of the cone coupling device of the second embodiment. [Figure 23]It is a second perspective view of the cone coupling device of the second embodiment. [Figure 24] It is a perspective view showing the usage state of the cone coupling device of the second embodiment. [Figure 25] It is a plan view of the cone coupling device of the third embodiment. [Figure 26] It is a bottom view of the cone coupling device of the third embodiment. [Figure 27] It is a right side view of the cone coupling device of the third embodiment. [Figure 28] It is a left side view of the cone coupling device of the third embodiment. [Figure 29] It is a front view of the cone coupling device of the third embodiment. [Figure 30] It is a rear view of the cone coupling device of the third embodiment. [Figure 31] It is a first perspective view of the cone coupling device of the third embodiment. [Figure 32] It is a second perspective view of the cone coupling device of the third embodiment. [Figure 33] It is a perspective view showing the usage state of the cone coupling device of the third embodiment. [Modes for Carrying Out the Invention]

[0010] Hereinafter, the cone coupling device and the cone coupling system of the present embodiment will be described. The cone coupling device and the cone coupling system of the present embodiment can improve the shape stability when a plurality of cone members (for example, first and second cone members) are coupled, by devising the shape, structure or combination of the cone coupling device that couples the plurality of cone members (for example, first and second cone members).

[0011] The cone coupling device of the present embodiment is for coupling a plurality of cone members (for example, first and second cone members), and it is assumed that the plurality of cone members (for example, first and second cone members) are not constituent elements. On the other hand, the cone coupling system of the present embodiment is assumed to include a plurality of cone members (for example, first and second cone members) as constituent elements in addition to the above-described cone coupling device.

[0012] Figures 1A and 1B are perspective views and partial cross-sectional views showing the configuration of the cone coupling device and cone coupling system of the first embodiment. Figures 2A and 2B are perspective views and partial cross-sectional views showing the configuration of the cone coupling device and cone coupling system of the second embodiment. Figures 3A and 3B are perspective views and partial cross-sectional views showing the configuration of the cone coupling device and cone coupling system of the third embodiment.

[0013] Figures 1B, 2B, and 3B depict a plurality of cone members, including a first cone member 10 and a second cone member 20. The cone members may be interpreted as traffic cones, safety cones, pylons, etc. The first cone member 10 and the second cone member 20 may, for example, have a hollow cone shape with an open bottom and may be integrated with a base (installation part on the installation surface) which is not shown. Furthermore, the first cone member 10 and the second cone member 20 may be molded from a synthetic resin such as polyethylene and may have a reddish color overall. As an example, the first cone member 10 and the second cone member 20 may have a height of 700 mm and a rectangular base (not shown) with a 385 mm square shape, but their shape and size are not limited to these and should be suitable for the intended use.

[0014] As shown in Figures 1 to 3 (Figures 1B, 2B, and 3B), the first cone member 10 is covered and superimposed with the first superimposed cone group 100. The first superimposed cone group 100 has a plurality of first superimposed cones that are covered and superimposed on the first cone member 10. In the illustrated example, two first superimposed cones 110 and 120 that constitute the first superimposed cone group 100 are depicted. The first superimposed cone 110 may be called the lower (lower layer) superimposed cone, and the first superimposed cone 120 may be called the upper (upper layer) superimposed cone. The plurality of first superimposed cones that constitute the first superimposed cone group 100 (for example, two first superimposed cones 110 and 120) may be molded from a synthetic resin such as polyethylene, or they may be made of the same material as the first cone member 10. The multiple first superimposed cones (for example, two first superimposed cones 110 and 120) that make up the first superimposed cone group 100 may be composed of the same specifications (same standards). Note that only the first superimposed cone 120 is shown in Figures 1A, 2A and 3A.

[0015] As shown in Figures 1 to 3 (Figures 1B, 2B, and 3B), the second cone member 20 is superimposed with the second superimposed cone group 200. The second superimposed cone group 200 has a plurality of second superimposed cones that are superimposed on the second cone member 20. In the illustrated example, two second superimposed cones 210 and 220 that constitute the second superimposed cone group 200 are depicted. The second superimposed cone 210 may be called the lower (lower layer) superimposed cone, and the second superimposed cone 220 may be called the upper (upper layer) superimposed cone. The plurality of second superimposed cones that constitute the second superimposed cone group 200 (for example, two second superimposed cones 210 and 220) may be molded from a synthetic resin such as polyethylene, or they may be made of the same material as the second cone member 20. The multiple second superimposed cones (for example, two second superimposed cones 210 and 220) that make up the second superimposed cone group 200 may be composed of the same specifications (same standards). Note that only the second superimposed cone 220 is shown in Figures 1A, 2A and 3A.

[0016] The first superimposed cone group 100 and its constituent first superimposed cones 110, 120 (each of the multiple first superimposed cones), as well as the second superimposed cone group 200 and its constituent second superimposed cones 210, 220 (each of the multiple second superimposed cones) described above, may be read as cone covers, safety signs, traffic safety equipment, etc.

[0017] The multiple first superimposed cones (for example, two first superimposed cones 110, 120) constituting the first superimposed cone group 100 can be a 1-1 superimposed cone made from a hollow regular frustum of polygons, a 1-2 superimposed cone made by rounding each side of a hollow regular frustum of polygons in the radial direction (inner diameter side or outer diameter side), or a 1-3 superimposed cone made from a hollow member with gears formed on its inner and outer circumferences.

[0018] Regardless of whether it is the 1-1 superimposed cone, 1-2 superimposed cone, or 1-3 superimposed cone described above, the plurality of first superimposed cones (for example, two first superimposed cones 110, 120) constituting the first superimposed cone group 100 have a first open portion with an open upper end and a lower end, a first enlarged diameter portion that expands in diameter from the upper end to the lower end, and a first fitting portion that is formed in the first enlarged diameter portion and superimposed on the first superimposed cones and fits them together so that they cannot rotate relative to each other. The first enlarged diameter portion may have the same diameter expansion ratio (taper ratio) as the first cone member 10.

[0019] In the case of the 1st-1 superimposed cone described above, the outer circumferential surface of the regular polygon of the lower 1st-1 superimposed cone and the inner circumferential surface of the regular polygon of the upper 1st-1 superimposed cone constitute the "first fitting portion". In the case of the 1st-2 superimposed cone described above, the outer circumferential surface of the regular polygon with rounded sides of the lower 1st-2 superimposed cone and the inner circumferential surface of the regular polygon with rounded sides of the upper 1st-2 superimposed cone constitute the "first fitting portion". In the case of the 1st-3 superimposed cone described above, the outer circumferential gear formed on the outer circumference of the lower 1st-3 superimposed cone and the inner circumferential gear formed on the inner circumference of the upper 1st-3 superimposed cone constitute the "first fitting portion".

[0020] The multiple second superimposed cones (for example, two second superimposed cones 210, 220) constituting the second superimposed cone group 200 can be a 2-1 superimposed cone made from a hollow regular frustum of polygons, a 2-2 superimposed cone made by rounding each side of a hollow regular frustum of polygons in the radial direction (inner diameter side or outer diameter side), or a 2-3 superimposed cone made from a hollow member with gears formed on its inner and outer circumferences.

[0021] Regardless of whether it is the 2-1 superimposed cone, 2-2 superimposed cone, or 2-3 superimposed cone described above, the multiple second superimposed cones (for example, two second superimposed cones 210, 220) constituting the second superimposed cone group 200 have a second open portion with an open upper and lower end, a second enlarged diameter portion that expands in diameter from the upper end to the lower end, and a second fitting portion that is formed in the second enlarged diameter portion and superimposed on the second superimposed cones and fits them together so that they cannot rotate relative to each other. The second enlarged diameter portion may have the same diameter expansion ratio (taper ratio) as the second cone member 20.

[0022] In the case of the 2-1 superimposed cone described above, the outer circumferential surface of the regular polygon of the lower 2-1 superimposed cone and the inner circumferential surface of the regular polygon of the upper 2-1 superimposed cone constitute the "second fitting portion". In the case of the 2-2 superimposed cone described above, the outer circumferential surface of the regular polygon with rounded sides of the lower 2-2 superimposed cone and the inner circumferential surface of the regular polygon with rounded sides of the upper 2-2 superimposed cone constitute the "second fitting portion". In the case of the 2-3 superimposed cone described above, the outer circumferential gear formed on the outer circumference of the lower 2-3 superimposed cone and the inner circumferential gear formed on the inner circumference of the upper 2-3 superimposed cone constitute the "second fitting portion".

[0023] The cone coupling device has a coupling cone bar 300 that connects a first coupling cone included in the first coupling cone group 100 and a second coupling cone included in the second coupling cone group 200. In the illustrated example, the coupling cone bar 300 is shown as a coupling cone bar 320 that connects a first coupling cone (first coupling cone) 120 included in the first coupling cone group 100 and a second coupling cone (second coupling cone) 220 included in the second coupling cone group 200. Also shown is a coupling cone bar 310X that connects a first coupling cone 110 included in the first coupling cone group 100 and other coupling cones included in other coupling cone groups not shown. Also shown is a coupling cone bar 310Y that connects a second coupling cone 210 included in the second coupling cone group 200 and other coupling cones included in other coupling cone groups not shown.

[0024] The connecting cone bars 300 (310X, 310Y, 320) may have a length of approximately 5m, about the length of a typical work vehicle, and a width of approximately 5cm. The length and width of the connecting cone bars 300 (310X, 310Y, 320) are not limited to those exemplified here, and any size suitable for the intended use is acceptable (the size may be configured to be variable). The connecting cone bars 300 (310X, 310Y, 320) may have a yellow and black tiger stripe pattern, a white and red stripe pattern, or a fluorescent yellow and black stripe pattern. In addition, letters may be written on the connecting cone bars 300 (310X, 310Y, 320). The connecting cone bars 300 (310X, 310Y, 320) may be formed using synthetic resin such as polyvinyl chloride.

[0025] All of the multiple first superimposed cones constituting the first superimposed cone group 100 may constitute a connecting cone that is connected to other superimposed cones included in other superimposed cone groups (including second superimposed cones included in the second superimposed cone group 200), or some of the multiple first superimposed cones constituting the first superimposed cone group 100 may constitute a connecting cone, while the other parts do not constitute a connecting cone. In the illustrated example, two first superimposed cones 110 and 120 constitute a connecting cone, but there may be additional first superimposed cones that do not function as a connecting cone.

[0026] All of the multiple second superimposed cones constituting the second superimposed cone group 200 may constitute a connecting cone that is connected to other superimposed cones included in other superimposed cone groups (including the first superimposed cones included in the first superimposed cone group 100), or some of the multiple second superimposed cones constituting the second superimposed cone group 200 may constitute a connecting cone, while the other parts do not constitute a connecting cone. In the illustrated example, two second superimposed cones 210 and 220 constitute a connecting cone, but there may be additional second superimposed cones that do not function as a connecting cone.

[0027] The connecting cone bar 320 that connects the first superimposed cone (first connecting cone) 120 and the second superimposed cone (second connecting cone) 220 extends to connect the outer peripheral edge of the lower end of the first superimposed cone (first connecting cone) 120 and the outer peripheral edge of the lower end of the second superimposed cone (second connecting cone) 220. Therefore, when multiple first superimposed cones constituting the first superimposed cone group 100 are superimposed by overlapping them vertically, and when multiple second superimposed cones constituting the second superimposed cone group 200 are superimposed by overlapping them vertically, the connecting cone bar 320 can be prevented from hindering the superimposition.

[0028] The first superimposed cone (first connecting cone) 120 and the second superimposed cone (second connecting cone) 220 are located on the same or common hierarchical level as the first superimposed cone group 100 and the second superimposed cone group 200. More specifically, the first superimposed cone group 100 consists of two first superimposed cones 110 and 120 that are superimposed on top of each other, and the second superimposed cone group 200 consists of two second superimposed cones 210 and 220 that are superimposed on top of each other. The upper (upper layer) first superimposed cone 120 and second superimposed cone 220, which are located on the same or common hierarchical level, are referred to as the first connecting cone and the second connecting cone. By positioning the first superimposed cone (first connecting cone) 120 and the second superimposed cone (second connecting cone) 220, which are connected via the connecting cone bar 320, on the same or common tier, the connecting cone bar 320 can be installed horizontally, improving appearance and shape stability.

[0029] The first embodiment, as shown in Figures 1A and 1B, will be described in detail.

[0030] The first superimposed cones 110 and 120 are composed of hollow regular octagonal truncated pyramids of the same specifications (same standards). Below, the composition of the first superimposed cone 110 will be mainly described, and the designation of the first superimposed cone 120 of the same specifications (same standards) will be shown in parentheses.

[0031] The first superimposed cone 110(120) has a first open portion 111(121) with an open upper and lower end, a first enlarged diameter portion 112(122) that widens from the upper end to the lower end, and a first fitting portion 113(123) formed on the first enlarged diameter portion 112(122) and which fits the superimposed first superimposed cones 110(120) together so that they cannot rotate relative to each other. More specifically, of the two first superimposed cones 110 and 120 that are placed on top of each other, the octagonal outer surface of the lower first superimposed cone 110 and the octagonal inner surface of the upper first superimposed cone 120 constitute the first fitting portion 113(123).

[0032] The second superimposed cones 210 and 220 are constructed from hollow regular octagonal truncated pyramids of the same specifications (same standards). Below, the construction of the second superimposed cone 210 will be mainly described, and the designation of the second superimposed cone 220 of the same specifications (same standards) will be shown in parentheses.

[0033] The second superimposed cone 210(220) has a second open portion 211(221) with an open upper and lower end, a second enlarged diameter portion 212(222) that widens from the upper end to the lower end, and a second fitting portion 213(223) that is formed on the second enlarged diameter portion 212(222) and superimposed on the second superimposed cones 210(220) and fits them together so that they cannot rotate relative to each other. More specifically, of the two second superimposed cones 210 and 220 that are superimposed on top of each other, the regular octagonal outer surface of the lower second superimposed cone 210 and the regular octagonal inner surface of the upper second superimposed cone 220 constitute the second fitting portion 213(223).

[0034] The second embodiment shown in Figures 2A and 2B will be described in detail.

[0035] The first superimposed cones 110 and 120 are constructed from hollow regular dodecagonal frustums of the same specifications (same standards) with each side rounded inward (frustum shapes formed by rounding the sides connecting the vertices of a dodecagram inward). Below, the construction of the first superimposed cone 110 will be mainly explained, and the designation of the first superimposed cone 120 of the same specifications (same standards) will be shown in parentheses.

[0036] The first superimposed cone 110(120) has a first open portion 111(121) with an open upper and lower end, a first enlarged diameter portion 112(122) that widens from the upper end to the lower end, and a first fitting portion 113(123) that is formed on the first enlarged diameter portion 112(122) and superimposed on the first superimposed cones 110(120) and fits them together so that they cannot rotate relative to each other. More specifically, of the two first superimposed cones 110 and 120 that are placed on top of each other, the outer circumferential surface of the lower first superimposed cone 110, which is a regular dodecagon with rounded sides, and the inner circumferential surface of the upper first superimposed cone 120, which is a regular dodecagon with rounded sides, constitute the first fitting portion 113(123).

[0037] The second superimposed cones 210 and 220 are constructed from hollow regular dodecagonal frustums of the same specifications (same standards) with each side rounded inward (frustum shapes formed by rounding the sides connecting the vertices of a dodecagram inward). Below, the construction of the second superimposed cone 210 will be mainly explained, and the designation of the second superimposed cone 220 of the same specifications (same standards) will be shown in parentheses.

[0038] The second superimposed cone 210 (220) has a second open portion 211 (221) with an open upper and lower end, a second enlarged diameter portion 212 (222) that widens from the upper end to the lower end, and a second fitting portion 213 (223) that is formed on the second enlarged diameter portion 212 (222) and superimposed on the second superimposed cones 210 (220) and fits them together so that they cannot rotate relative to each other. More specifically, of the two second superimposed cones 210 and 220 that are superimposed on top of each other, the outer circumferential surface of the lower second superimposed cone 210, which is a regular dodecagon with rounded sides, and the inner circumferential surface of the upper second superimposed cone 220, which is a regular dodecagon with rounded sides, constitute the second fitting portion 213 (223).

[0039] The third embodiment, as shown in Figures 3A and 3B, will be described in detail.

[0040] The first superimposed cones 110 and 120 are composed of hollow members (hollow members with a cylindrical gear frustum shape on the inside and outside) with gears formed on their inner and outer circumferences, of the same specifications (same standards). In the following, the composition of the first superimposed cone 110 will be mainly explained, and the designation of the first superimposed cone 120 of the same specifications (same standards) will be shown in parentheses.

[0041] The first superimposed cone 110(120) has a first open portion 111(121) with an open upper and lower end, a first enlarged diameter portion 112(122) that widens from the upper end to the lower end, and a first fitting portion 113(123) formed on the first enlarged diameter portion 112(122) and which fits the superimposed first superimposed cones 110(120) together so that they cannot rotate relative to each other. More specifically, of the two first superimposed cones 110 and 120 that are placed on top of each other, the outer circumference gear formed on the outer circumference of the lower first superimposed cone 110 and the inner circumference gear formed on the inner circumference of the upper first superimposed cone 120 constitute the first fitting portion 113(123).

[0042] The second superimposed cones 210 and 220 are composed of hollow members (hollow members with a cylindrical gear frustum shape on the inside and outside) with gears formed on their inner and outer circumferences, of the same specifications (same standards). In the following, the composition of the second superimposed cone 210 will be mainly explained, and the designation of the second superimposed cone 220 of the same specifications (same standards) will be shown in parentheses.

[0043] The second superimposed cone 210(220) has a second open portion 211(221) with an open upper and lower end, a second enlarged diameter portion 212(222) that widens from the upper end to the lower end, and a second fitting portion 213(223) that is formed on the second enlarged diameter portion 212(222) and superimposed on the second superimposed cones 210(220) and fits them together so that they cannot rotate relative to each other. More specifically, of the two second superimposed cones 210 and 220 that are superimposed on top of each other, the outer peripheral gear formed on the outer circumference of the lower second superimposed cone 210 and the inner peripheral gear formed on the inner circumference of the upper second superimposed cone 220 constitute the second fitting portion 213(223).

[0044] At least one of the first cone member 10 and the first superimposed cone group 100 may have a relative rotation prevention mechanism to prevent relative rotation between the first cone member 10 and the first superimposed cone group 100. This relative rotation prevention mechanism may be, for example, a joining member (e.g., double-sided tape or adhesive) that joins the outer circumferential surface of the first cone member 10 and the inner circumferential surface of the first superimposed cone group 100, or it may be a fitting part and a fitted part that fit together the outer circumferential surface of the first cone member 10 and the inner circumferential surface of the first superimposed cone group 100.

[0045] At least one of the second cone member 20 and the second superimposed cone group 200 may have a relative rotation prevention mechanism to prevent relative rotation between the second cone member 20 and the second superimposed cone group 200. This relative rotation prevention mechanism may be, for example, a joining member (e.g., double-sided tape or adhesive) that joins the outer circumferential surface of the second cone member 20 and the inner circumferential surface of the second superimposed cone group 200, or it may be a fitting part and a fitted part that fit together the outer circumferential surface of the second cone member 20 and the inner circumferential surface of the second superimposed cone group 200.

[0046] Figure 4 shows an example of connection using the cone coupling device and cone coupling system of the first embodiment.

[0047] In Figure 4, seven cone members 1 are shown as an example of multiple cone members. Each of the seven cone members 1 is superimposed with a superimposed cone group 2, which consists of multiple superimposed cones. Each set of cone member 1 and superimposed cone group 2 is connected as appropriate by connecting cone bars 3 that connect the connected cones included in the superimposed cone group 2. Focusing on each set of cone member 1 and superimposed cone group 2, there are three types: Type A, which is connected to two cone members 1 and superimposed cone group 2; Type B, which is connected to three cone members 1 and superimposed cone group 2; and Type C, which is connected to four cone members 1 and superimposed cone group 2. In Type A, the superimposed cone group 2, which is placed over the cone member 1, consists of two superimposed cones corresponding to the number of connected cones; in Type B, the superimposed cone group 2, which is placed over the cone member 1, consists of three superimposed cones corresponding to the number of connected cones; and in Type C, the superimposed cone group 2, which is placed over the cone member 1, may consist of four superimposed cones corresponding to the number of connected cones. Furthermore, the set of cone member 1 and superimposed cone group 2 connected via the connecting cone bar 3 corresponds to the "first and second cone members" and "first and second superimposed cone groups" described with reference to Figures 1A and 1B.

[0048] In the example shown in Figure 4, since the multiple superimposed cones of the superimposed cone group 2 are composed of hollow regular octagonal truncated pyramids (or their interlocking structures), the angles formed by the connecting cone bar 3 are in 45° increments (0°, 45°, 90°, 135°, 180°, 225°, 270°, 315°).

[0049] Figure 5 shows an example of connection using the cone coupling device and cone coupling system of the second embodiment.

[0050] In Figure 5, seven cone members 1 are shown as an example of multiple cone members. Each of the seven cone members 1 is superimposed with a superimposed cone group 2, which consists of multiple superimposed cones. Each set of cone member 1 and superimposed cone group 2 is connected as appropriate by connecting cone bars 3 that connect the connected cones included in the superimposed cone group 2. Focusing on each set of cone member 1 and superimposed cone group 2, there are two types: Type A, which is connected to two cone members 1 and superimposed cone group 2, and Type B, which is connected to three cone members 1 and superimposed cone group 2. In Type A, the superimposed cone group 2 superimposed on the cone member 1 consists of two superimposed cones corresponding to the number of connected cones, while in Type B, the superimposed cone group 2 superimposed on the cone member 1 may consist of three superimposed cones corresponding to the number of connected cones. Furthermore, the set of cone member 1 and superimposed cone group 2 connected via the connecting cone bar 3 corresponds to the "first and second cone members" and "first and second superimposed cone groups" described with reference to Figures 2A and 2B.

[0051] In the example shown in Figure 5, the multiple superimposed cones of the superimposed cone group 2 are formed by the interlocking of hollow regular dodecagonal frustums, where each side is rounded inward (frustum shape formed by rounding the sides connecting the vertices of a dodecagram inward). As a result, the angles formed by the connecting cone bars 3 are in 30° increments (0°, 30°, 60°, 90°, 120°, 150°, 180°, 210°, 240°, 270°, 300°, 330°).

[0052] Figure 6 shows an example of connection using the cone coupling device and cone coupling system of the third embodiment.

[0053] In Figure 6, seven cone members 1 are shown as an example of multiple cone members. Each of the seven cone members 1 is superimposed with a superimposed cone group 2, which consists of multiple superimposed cones. Each set of cone member 1 and superimposed cone group 2 is connected as appropriate by connecting cone bars 3 that connect the connected cones included in the superimposed cone group 2. Focusing on each set of cone member 1 and superimposed cone group 2, there are three types: Type A, which is connected to two cone members 1 and superimposed cone group 2; Type B, which is connected to three cone members 1 and superimposed cone group 2; and Type C, which is connected to four cone members 1 and superimposed cone group 2. In Type A, the superimposed cone group 2, which is placed over the cone member 1, consists of two superimposed cones corresponding to the number of connected cones; in Type B, the superimposed cone group 2, which is placed over the cone member 1, consists of three superimposed cones corresponding to the number of connected cones; and in Type C, the superimposed cone group 2, which is placed over the cone member 1, may consist of four superimposed cones corresponding to the number of connected cones. Furthermore, the set of cone member 1 and superimposed cone group 2 connected via the connecting cone bar 3 corresponds to the "first and second cone members" and "first and second superimposed cone groups" described with reference to Figures 3A and 3B.

[0054] In the example shown in Figure 6, the multiple superimposed cones of the superimposed cone group 2 are composed of hollow members (hollow members with cylindrical gear frustum shapes on the inside and outside) with gears formed on their inner and outer circumferences (fitted together). Therefore, the angle formed by the connecting cone bar 3 can be adjusted (and fixed) in extremely small angle increments corresponding to the number of gears (tooths). For example, if there are 360 ​​gears (tooths), it can be adjusted (and fixed) in 1° increments.

[0055] Construction work is carried out at numerous construction sites every day. Construction areas marked with safety cones are important tools that must be clearly marked to prevent passersby from entering dangerous construction areas. Cone connecting devices and cone connecting systems are used, for example, to fix safety areas in general during construction. For example, when performing circuit installation work, multiple triangular cones (cone members) are placed along the outline or edges of the construction area and the no-entry area to clearly mark the area, and these multiple triangular cones (cone members) are connected by connecting cone bars.

[0056] However, conventional cone connecting devices and systems have difficulty improving the shape stability when multiple traffic cones (cone components) are connected. Traffic cones (cone components) are lightweight and can move under certain external forces or wind. When traffic cones (cone components) move, the sectioned shape created by the connecting cone bars attached to the traffic cones (cone components) easily collapses, creating a situation where pedestrians can enter what is inherently a dangerous construction area, which is dangerous.

[0057] Incidentally, a known conventional method for connecting safety cones involves passing (hooking) the ring-shaped portion at the end of a connecting cone bar onto the top of the safety cone. However, if the position of any of the safety cones shifts, the ring-shaped portion at the end of the connecting cone bar rotates, disrupting the boundaries of the safety zone and making it difficult to ensure safety in the surrounding area.

[0058] The inventors of the present invention considered the above problems as important technical challenges and conceived of a cone connecting device and cone connecting system that can improve the shape stability when multiple cone members (for example, a first cone member 10 and a second cone member 20) are connected. More specifically, a first superimposed cone group 100, consisting of multiple first superimposed cones (for example, two first superimposed cones 110 and 120), is superimposed on the first cone member 10, and a second superimposed cone group 200, consisting of multiple second superimposed cones (for example, two second superimposed cones 210 and 220), is superimposed on the second cone member 20. Then, a first connecting cone (for example, a first superimposed cone 120) included in the first superimposed cone group 100 and a second connecting cone (for example, a second superimposed cone 220) included in the second superimposed cone group 200 are connected by a connecting cone bar 320.

[0059] As a result, the combined effect of the superposition effect of the first superimposed cone group 100 placed over the first cone member 10, the superimposed effect of the second superimposed cone group 200 placed over the second cone member 20, and the connection effect of the connecting cone bar 320 between the first connecting cone 120 included in the first superimposed cone group 100 and the second connecting cone 220 included in the second superimposed cone group 200 improves the shape stability when the first cone member 10 and the second cone member 20 are connected. Furthermore, by using this connection mechanism to connect multiple (three or more) cone members (safety cones), the connecting cone bars connect to each other, ensuring (guaranteeing) a certain level of rigidity and preventing the shape of the safety zone from collapsing.

[0060] The shape stabilization effect described above can be more pronounced by fitting together multiple first superimposed cones (for example, two first superimposed cones 110, 120) constituting the first superimposed cone group 100 in a manner that prevents relative rotation, and by fitting together multiple second superimposed cones (for example, two second superimposed cones 210, 220) constituting the second superimposed cone group 200 in a manner that prevents relative rotation. In other words, the connection angle of the first cone member 10 and the first superimposed cone group 100, and the second cone member 20 and the second superimposed cone group 200 can be fixed by fitting a hollow regular octagonal truncated pyramid in the first embodiment described above (Figures 1 and 4), fitting a hollow regular dodecagonal truncated pyramid with each side rounded inward (a truncated pyramid shape with the sides connecting each vertex of a dodecagram rounded inward) in the second embodiment described above (Figures 2 and 5), or fitting a hollow member with gears formed on its inner and outer circumference (a hollow member with a cylindrical gear truncated pyramid shape on the inside and outside) in the third embodiment described above (Figures 3 and 6).

[0061] The shape stabilization effect described above can be made more pronounced by providing a relative rotation prevention mechanism to prevent relative rotation between the first cone member 10 and the first superimposed cone group 100, and by providing a relative rotation prevention mechanism to prevent relative rotation between the second cone member 20 and the second superimposed cone group 200. In other words, by providing the above relative rotation prevention mechanisms, the connection angles of the first cone member 10 and the first superimposed cone group 100, and the second cone member 20 and the second superimposed cone group 200 can be fixed.

[0062] As described above, the cone connecting device of this embodiment is a cone connecting device for connecting a first cone member and a second cone member, and comprises: a first superimposed cone group consisting of a plurality of first superimposed cones that are placed over and superimposed on the first cone member; a second superimposed cone group consisting of a plurality of second superimposed cones that are placed over and superimposed on the second cone member; and a connecting cone bar that connects a first connecting cone included in the first superimposed cone group and a second connecting cone included in the second superimposed cone group. Furthermore, the cone connection system of this embodiment is a cone connection system comprising a first cone member, a second cone member, and a cone connection device for connecting the first cone member and the second cone member, wherein the cone connection device comprises a first superimposed cone group consisting of a plurality of first superimposed cones superimposed on the first cone member, a second superimposed cone group consisting of a plurality of second superimposed cones superimposed on the second cone member, and a connecting cone bar for connecting a first connecting cone included in the first superimposed cone group and a second connecting cone included in the second superimposed cone group. This makes it possible to improve the shape stability when multiple cone members (first and second cone members) are connected.

[0063] Although the invention described herein has been explained in detail above, it will be clear to those skilled in the art that the invention described herein is not limited to the embodiments described herein. The invention described herein can be implemented in modified and altered forms without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the claims. Therefore, the descriptions herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not imply any limitation on the invention described herein.

[0064] Although this application is a patent application, it is also possible to consider a change application from a patent application to a design registration application in accordance with Article 13, Paragraph 1 of the Design Act. Figures 7 to 15 are a plan view, bottom view, right side view, left side view, front view, rear view, first perspective view, second perspective view, and perspective view showing the cone coupling device of the first embodiment. Figures 16 to 24 are a plan view, bottom view, right side view, left side view, front view, rear view, first perspective view, second perspective view, and perspective view showing the cone coupling device of the second embodiment. Figures 25 to 33 are a plan view, bottom view, right side view, left side view, front view, rear view, first perspective view, second perspective view, and perspective view showing the cone coupling device of the third embodiment.

[0065] When filing an application to change from a patent application to a design registration application, the design classification may be J6 (safety machinery and equipment, etc.) or J6-400 (traffic safety equipment). Furthermore, when filing an application to change from a patent application to a design registration application, the articles to which the design pertains may be cone covers, safety signs, traffic safety equipment, etc. Cone covers, safety signs, and traffic safety equipment may be the first superimposed cone group 100 and its constituent first superimposed cones 110, 120 (each of the multiple first superimposed cones) as described above, and the second superimposed cone group 200 and its constituent second superimposed cones 210, 220 (each of the multiple second superimposed cones) as described above.

[0066] When filing an application to change from a patent application to a design registration application, the overlapping cone group (or each of the multiple overlapping cones) may be treated as the overall design, or the overlapping cone group (or each of the multiple overlapping cones) and the connecting cone bar may be treated as the overall design, or the overlapping cone group (or each of the multiple overlapping cones) from the connecting cone bar may be treated as a partial design for which design registration is sought. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0067] 1 Cone Member 2 Cone Groups 3 Linked Cone Bars 10 First cone member 20 Second cone member 100. First group of superimposed cones (cone covers, safety signs, traffic safety equipment) 110. First-level superimposed cone (lower superimposed cone, lower layer superimposed cone, cone cover, safety sign, traffic safety equipment) 111 1st open section 112 1st enlarged diameter section 113 First mating section 120. First-layered cone (first-linked cone, upper layered cone, upper-level layered cone, cone cover, safety sign, traffic safety equipment) 121 1st open section 122 1st enlarged diameter section 123 First mating section 200 Second group of superimposed cones (cone covers, safety signs, traffic safety equipment) 210. Second-layered cone (lower layered cone, lower-level layered cone, cone cover, safety sign, traffic safety equipment) 211 2nd open section 212 Second enlarged diameter section 213 Second fitting section 220 Second-layered cone (second-linked cone, upper layered cone, upper-level layered cone, cone cover, safety sign, traffic safety equipment) 221 2nd open section 222 Second enlarged diameter section 223 Second fitting section 300 310X 310Y 320 Connecting Cone Bar

Claims

1. A cone connecting device for connecting a first cone member and a second cone member, A first superimposed cone group consisting of a plurality of first superimposed cones that are placed over and superimposed on the first cone member, A second group of superimposed cones, which consists of a plurality of second superimposed cones that are placed over and superimposed on the second cone member, A connecting cone bar that connects a first connecting cone included in the first superimposed cone group and a second connecting cone included in the second superimposed cone group, It has, The plurality of first superimposed cones constituting the first superimposed cone group each have a first open portion with an open upper end and a lower end, a first enlarged diameter portion having the same enlargement ratio as the first cone member and expanding in diameter from the upper end to the lower end, and a first fitting portion formed in the first enlarged diameter portion and fitting the first superimposed cones that are superimposed on each other so as not to rotate relative to each other. The plurality of first superimposed cones constituting the first superimposed cone group have, as specific shapes including the first open portion, the first enlarged diameter portion, and the first fitting portion, a first-1 superimposed cone made from a hollow regular frustum of polygons, a first-2 superimposed cone made by rounding each side of a hollow regular frustum of polygons in the radial direction, or a first-3 superimposed cone made from a hollow member with gears formed on its inner and outer circumference. The plurality of second superimposed cones constituting the second superimposed cone group each have a second open portion with an open upper end and a lower end, a second enlarged diameter portion having the same enlargement ratio as the second cone member that enlarges from the upper end to the lower end, and a second fitting portion formed in the second enlarged diameter portion and fitting the superimposed second superimposed cones together so that they cannot rotate relative to each other. The plurality of second superimposed cones constituting the second superimposed cone group have, as specific shapes including the second open portion, the second enlarged diameter portion, and the second fitting portion, a second-first superimposed cone made from a hollow regular frustum of polygons, a second-second superimposed cone made by rounding each side of a hollow regular frustum of polygons in the radial direction, or a second-third superimposed cone made from a hollow member with gears formed on its inner and outer circumference. A cone coupling device characterized by the following features.

2. At least one of the first cone member and the first superimposed cone group has a relative rotation prevention mechanism that prevents relative rotation between the first cone member and the first superimposed cone group. At least one of the second cone member and the second superimposed cone group has a relative rotation prevention mechanism that prevents relative rotation between the second cone member and the second superimposed cone group. The cone coupling device according to feature 1.

3. The first connecting cone and the second connecting cone are composed of the first superimposed cone and the second superimposed cone located at the same height position as the first superimposed cone group and the second superimposed cone group. The cone coupling device according to feature 1.

4. The plurality of first superimposed cones constituting the first superimposed cone group are of the same specifications, The plurality of second superimposed cones constituting the second superimposed cone group are of the same specifications. The cone coupling device according to feature 1.

5. The first cone member and The second cone member, A cone connecting device for connecting the first cone member and the second cone member, A cone coupling system having, The aforementioned cone coupling device is A first superimposed cone group consisting of a plurality of first superimposed cones that are placed over and superimposed on the first cone member, A second group of superimposed cones, which consists of a plurality of second superimposed cones that are placed over and superimposed on the second cone member, A connecting cone bar that connects a first connecting cone included in the first superimposed cone group and a second connecting cone included in the second superimposed cone group, It has, The plurality of first superimposed cones constituting the first superimposed cone group each have a first open portion with an open upper end and a lower end, a first enlarged diameter portion having the same enlargement ratio as the first cone member and expanding in diameter from the upper end to the lower end, and a first fitting portion formed in the first enlarged diameter portion and fitting the first superimposed cones that are superimposed on each other so as not to rotate relative to each other. The plurality of first superimposed cones constituting the first superimposed cone group have, as specific shapes including the first open portion, the first enlarged diameter portion, and the first fitting portion, a first-1 superimposed cone made from a hollow regular frustum of polygons, a first-2 superimposed cone made by rounding each side of a hollow regular frustum of polygons in the radial direction, or a first-3 superimposed cone made from a hollow member with gears formed on its inner and outer circumference. The plurality of second superimposed cones constituting the second superimposed cone group each have a second open portion with an open upper end and a lower end, a second enlarged diameter portion having the same enlargement ratio as the second cone member that enlarges from the upper end to the lower end, and a second fitting portion formed in the second enlarged diameter portion and fitting the superimposed second superimposed cones together so that they cannot rotate relative to each other. The plurality of second superimposed cones constituting the second superimposed cone group have, as specific shapes including the second open portion, the second enlarged diameter portion, and the second fitting portion, a second-first superimposed cone made from a hollow regular frustum of polygons, a second-second superimposed cone made by rounding each side of a hollow regular frustum of polygons in the radial direction, or a second-third superimposed cone made from a hollow member with gears formed on its inner and outer circumference. A cone coupling system characterized by the following features.

Images