Central lock and tent

Abstract

A central lock and a tent. The central lock comprises a top cap and a bottom cap, wherein the top cap and the bottom cap are arranged vertically and can be locked and unlocked relative to each other; at least one of the top cap and the bottom cap is provided with a first connection portion for connecting a rod member and a second connection portion for connecting a rod member, the first connection portion and the second connection portion being at different heights. A plurality of hinge seats on the top cap and / or the bottom cap are staggered at different heights; the plurality of hinge seats are used to connect a plurality of rod members, thereby preventing the size of the top cap and / or the bottom cap from becoming excessively large while ensuring connection strength and avoiding the rod members interfering with each other.

Description

center lock and tent Related applications

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese patent application No. CN 2025201648250, filed on January 24, 2025, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to the field of outdoor shelter products, and more specifically to a center lock and a tent having the center lock. Background Technology

[0003] Tents are widely used in outdoor activities, such as camping, as they provide wind, rain, and insect protection, as well as warmth. For ease of carrying and storage, tents are typically designed to be foldable, with both unfolded and folded states. One type of foldable tent usually consists of a top frame composed of multiple external telescopic units and multiple internal telescopic units. The external telescopic units are connected between adjacent legs, and the outer ends of the internal telescopic units are connected to each leg. The inner ends of each internal telescopic unit are connected by a center lock, which locks the tent in the unfolded state or allows it to be folded after unlocking.

[0004] The number of internal telescopic units is generally at least four, with at least two top rods hinged to the center lock in each unit. For tents with additional reinforcing rod units, the number of reinforcing rod units is at least two, with at least two reinforcing rods connected to the center lock in each unit. At least six rods are connected to the center lock and the top and bottom caps, respectively. The top and bottom caps must be large enough to accommodate the hinges for so many rods, while also possessing sufficient connection strength, allowing enough installation space for easy assembly, and preventing interference between rods during rotation. All of these factors contribute to the relatively large size of the top and bottom caps, increasing the overall volume and weight of the folded tent, and also negatively impacting its overall aesthetics.

[0005] The information disclosed in the background section is only intended to enhance the understanding of the background of this application, and therefore may include information that does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This disclosure relates to an improved center lock and a tent having the center lock.

[0007] One aspect of this disclosure provides a center lock including a top cap and a bottom cap, the top cap and the bottom cap being arranged vertically and capable of being locked and unlocked relative to each other, at least one of the top cap and the bottom cap having a first connecting portion for connecting a first rod and a second connecting portion for connecting a second rod, the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion having different heights.

[0008] In some embodiments, the first connecting part and the second connecting part connect different rods, that is, the first rod and the second rod are different rods.

[0009] In some embodiments, at least one of the top cap and the bottom cap includes a plurality of hinge seats, the plurality of hinge seats including a first hinge seat and a second hinge seat, the first hinge seat having a first receiving groove for receiving one end of the first rod, and the first connecting portion being disposed on the groove wall of the first receiving groove; the second hinge seat having a second receiving groove for receiving one end of the second rod, and the second connecting portion being disposed on the groove wall of the second receiving groove.

[0010] In some embodiments, the first and second receiving slots are arranged side by side and extend vertically respectively. The top or bottom of the first receiving slot is open to allow the first rod to be inserted into the first receiving slot, and the top or bottom of the second receiving slot is open to allow the second rod to be inserted into the second receiving slot.

[0011] In some embodiments, the walls of the first and second containers are spaced apart or adjacent to each other.

[0012] In some embodiments, the height of the wall of the first receiving groove is less than the height of the second receiving groove, and it is configured to expose the second connecting portion.

[0013] In some embodiments, a window is provided on the wall of the second accommodating groove to expose the first connecting portion, and the window is offset from the second connecting portion.

[0014] In some embodiments, the first connecting portion includes a first shaft hole formed on the first hinge seat for a pivot of the connecting rod to pass through, and the second connecting portion includes a second shaft hole formed on the second hinge seat for a pivot of the connecting rod to pass through. The first shaft hole on the top cap is higher than the second shaft hole, and the first shaft hole on the bottom cap is lower than the second shaft hole.

[0015] In some embodiments, the first connecting portion includes a first connecting shaft disposed on the first hinge seat and capable of pivotally connecting with a rod, and the second connecting portion includes a second connecting shaft disposed on the second hinge seat and capable of pivotally connecting with a rod.

[0016] In some embodiments, the first connecting portion includes a shaft hole through which a pivot for connecting the first rod passes, and the second connecting portion includes a connecting shaft that can be pivotally connected to the second rod; or, the first connecting portion includes a first connecting shaft that can be pivotally connected to the first rod, and the second connecting portion includes a shaft hole through which a pivot for connecting the second rod passes.

[0017] In some embodiments, there are multiple first hinge seats and multiple second hinge seats, and the multiple first hinge seats and multiple second hinge seats are staggered along the circumferential direction of the top cap or the bottom cap.

[0018] In some embodiments, the top cap includes a plurality of first hinge seats and a plurality of second hinge seats, wherein the first connecting portion is higher than the second connecting portion; the bottom cap includes a plurality of first hinge seats and a plurality of second hinge seats, wherein the first connecting portion is lower than the second connecting portion;

[0019] Each of the first hinge seats of the top cap is positioned opposite to one of the first hinge seats of the bottom cap, and each of the second hinge seats of the top cap is positioned opposite to one of the second hinge seats of the bottom cap; or, each of the first hinge seats of the top cap is positioned opposite to one of the second hinge seats of the bottom cap, and each of the second hinge seats of the top cap is positioned opposite to one of the first hinge seats of the bottom cap.

[0020] In some embodiments, the top cap has a central rod or is connected to a central rod at its center, and a plurality of hinge seats of the top cap are arranged around the central rod; the bottom cap has a locking hole at its center for the bottom end of the central rod to be inserted, and a plurality of hinge seats of the bottom cap are arranged around the locking hole; when the central lock is in the locked state, the bottom end of the central rod is inserted into the locking hole.

[0021] In some embodiments, a locking member is movably disposed in the keyhole; when the center lock is in a locked state, the locking member engages with the center rod; when the center lock is in an unlocked state, the locking member disengages from the center rod. The center lock includes an unlocking member for disengaging the locking member from the center rod, and the unlocking member is movably disposed on the bottom cap.

[0022] In some embodiments, the lower part of the center rod is provided with a gripping piece to facilitate a user's grip to unlock the center lock.

[0023] A second aspect of this disclosure provides a center lock comprising a top cap, the top cap including a first connecting portion for connecting a first rod and a second connecting portion for connecting a second rod, the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion having different heights.

[0024] In some embodiments, the top cap includes a plurality of hinge seats, the plurality of hinge seats including a first hinge seat and a second hinge seat, the first hinge seat having a first receiving groove for receiving one end of the first rod, and the first connecting portion being disposed on the groove wall of the first receiving groove; the second hinge seat having a second receiving groove for receiving one end of the second rod, and the second connecting portion being disposed on the groove wall of the second receiving groove.

[0025] In some embodiments, the first and second receiving slots are arranged side by side and extend vertically respectively. The top or bottom of the first receiving slot is open to allow the first rod to be inserted into the first receiving slot, and the top or bottom of the second receiving slot is open to allow the second rod to be inserted into the second receiving slot.

[0026] In some embodiments, the height of the wall of the first receiving groove is less than the height of the second receiving groove, and it is configured to expose the second connecting portion.

[0027] In some embodiments, a window is provided on the wall of the second accommodating groove to expose the first connecting portion, and the window is offset from the second connecting portion.

[0028] In some embodiments, there are multiple first hinge seats and multiple second hinge seats, and the multiple first hinge seats and multiple second hinge seats are staggered along the circumferential direction of the top cap or the bottom cap.

[0029] In some embodiments, the center lock includes a center rod, the center rod and the top cap being integral or the center rod being connected to the top cap, the center rod being configured to connect the top cap and a bottom cap.

[0030] A third aspect of this disclosure provides a center lock including a bottom cap, the bottom cap including a first connecting portion for connecting a first rod and a second connecting portion for connecting a second rod, the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion having different heights.

[0031] In some embodiments, the bottom cap includes a plurality of hinge seats, the plurality of hinge seats including a first hinge seat and a second hinge seat, the first hinge seat having a first receiving groove for receiving one end of the first rod, and the first connecting portion being disposed on the groove wall of the first receiving groove; the second hinge seat having a second receiving groove for receiving one end of the second rod, and the second connecting portion being disposed on the groove wall of the second receiving groove.

[0032] In some embodiments, the first and second receiving slots are arranged side by side and extend vertically respectively. The top or bottom of the first receiving slot is open to allow the first rod to be inserted into the first receiving slot, and the top or bottom of the second receiving slot is open to allow the second rod to be inserted into the second receiving slot.

[0033] In some embodiments, the height of the wall of the first receiving groove is less than the height of the second receiving groove, and it is configured to expose the second connecting portion.

[0034] In some embodiments, a window is provided on the wall of the second accommodating groove to expose the first connecting portion, and the window is offset from the second connecting portion.

[0035] In some embodiments, there are multiple first hinge seats and multiple second hinge seats, and the multiple first hinge seats and multiple second hinge seats are staggered along the circumferential direction of the top cap or the bottom cap.

[0036] In some embodiments, the center lock includes a center rod configured to connect the bottom cap and a top cap.

[0037] A fourth aspect of this disclosure provides a tent that includes the aforementioned center lock.

[0038] In some embodiments, the tent includes a plurality of foldable inner telescopic units, the outer end of each inner telescopic unit being rotatably connected to one of the tent's support legs, and a foldable outer telescopic unit being rotatably connected between two adjacent first support legs.

[0039] Each of the internal telescopic units includes a first top rod and a second top rod that are hinged to each other. The inner end of the first top rod is rotatably connected to the first connecting part of the top cap, and the inner end of the second top rod is rotatably connected to the first connecting part of the bottom cap.

[0040] The tent includes multiple reinforcing rod units, the outer end of each reinforcing rod unit is rotatably connected to one of the external telescopic units, each reinforcing rod includes a first reinforcing rod and a second reinforcing rod that are hinged to each other, the inner end of the first reinforcing rod is rotatably connected to the second connecting part of the top cap, and the inner end of the second reinforcing rod is rotatably connected to the second connecting part of the bottom cap;

[0041] The first connecting portion and the second connecting portion of the top cap are at different heights, and the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion of the bottom cap are at different heights.

[0042] In some embodiments, the tent includes a plurality of foldable inner telescopic units, the outer end of each inner telescopic unit being rotatably connected to one of the tent's support legs, and a foldable outer telescopic unit being rotatably connected between two adjacent first support legs.

[0043] Each of the internal telescopic units includes a first push rod and a second push rod that are hinged to each other. The inner ends of a plurality of first push rods are rotatably connected to a plurality of first connecting parts of the top cap, and the inner ends of a plurality of first push rods are rotatably connected to a plurality of second connecting parts of the top cap. The inner ends of a plurality of second push rods are rotatably connected to a plurality of first connecting parts of the bottom cap, and the inner ends of a plurality of second push rods are rotatably connected to a plurality of second connecting parts of the bottom cap.

[0044] The first connecting portion and the second connecting portion of the top cap are at different heights, and the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion of the bottom cap are at different heights.

[0045] The center lock disclosed herein features a staggered arrangement of first and second connecting portions on multiple hinge seats on its top and / or bottom caps. Multiple poles are connected via these first / second connecting portions, ensuring sufficient connection strength and preventing interference between poles while avoiding excessive bulk in the top and / or bottom caps. This center lock is particularly suitable for tents with many top poles, especially those with additional reinforcing poles, preventing excessive increase in size and weight after folding and maintaining the overall appearance of the tent. Attached Figure Description

[0046] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of this disclosure, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this disclosure. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0047] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a center lock according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] Figure 2 is an exploded view of a center lock and two rods according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a central lock according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a top cap according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a bottom cap according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] Figure 6 is a perspective view of another center lock according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a tent according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] Figure 8 is a magnified view of part A in Figure 7.

[0055] Figure label,

[0056] 100 - Center lock; 200 - Support leg; 300 - Outer telescopic unit; 400 - Inner telescopic unit; 401 - First push rod; 402 - Second push rod; 500 - Reinforcing rod unit; 501 - First reinforcing rod; 502 - Second reinforcing rod;

[0057] 1 - Top cap; 11 - First hinge seat; 111 - First shaft hole; 112 - First receiving groove; 113 - Groove wall; 13 - Second hinge seat; 131 - First shaft hole; 132 - Second receiving groove; 133 - Groove wall; 134 - Window;

[0058] 2 - Bottom cap; 21 - First hinge seat; 211 - First shaft hole; 212 - First receiving groove; 213 - Groove wall; 23 - Second hinge seat; 231 - First shaft hole; 232 - Second receiving groove; 233 - Groove wall; 234 - Window;

[0059] 3 - Center rod;

[0060] 4 - Grip edge; 41 - Notch;

[0061] 5 - Pivot;

[0062] 6 - Rod; 61 - Pipe plug. Detailed Implementation

[0063] The preferred embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, so that the advantages and features of this disclosure can be more readily understood by those skilled in the art. It should be noted that the description of these embodiments is intended to aid in understanding this disclosure, but does not constitute a limitation thereof.

[0064] The diagrams in Figures 1 to 8 are drawn to scale. To maintain the brevity of the instruction manual, the proportions of each component are not listed individually. However, the proportions and positions of each component should be considered part of the content of this instruction manual.

[0065] The directional terms used in this article are defined with reference to the state of the central lock when it is in use. Directional terms such as "up" and "down" can be seen in Figure 8.

[0066] Figures 1 to 5 illustrate a center lock 100 according to an embodiment, specifically a center lock 100 for a foldable tent, capable of locking the tent in its unfolded state. The center lock 100 includes a top cap 1 and a bottom cap 2, which are positioned vertically and can be locked and unlocked relative to each other. In this embodiment, a central rod 3 connects the top cap 1 and the bottom cap 2, and a locking mechanism is provided between the central rod 3 and the top cap 1, or between the central rod 3 and the bottom cap 2. Specifically, the central rod 3 and the top cap 1 are a single, integral part, with the central rod 3 extending downwards from the center of the top cap 1; or the central rod 3 and the top cap 1 are two parts, with the top end of the central rod 3 connected to the center of the top cap 1. The bottom cap 2 has a locking hole in its center for the bottom end of the central rod 3 to be inserted. When the central lock 100 is in the locked state, the bottom end of the central rod 3 is inserted into the lock hole (as shown in Figure 3). When the central lock 100 is in the unlocked state, the bottom end of the central rod 3 can disengage from the lock hole or the central rod 3 can move up and down relative to the bottom cap 2. A locking element is movably disposed in the lock hole. When the central lock 100 is in the locked state, the locking element engages with the central rod 3; when the central lock 100 is in the unlocked state, the locking element disengages from the central rod 3. The central lock 100 includes an unlocking element for disengaging the locking element from the central rod 3, and the unlocking element is movably disposed on the bottom cap 2. The locking mechanism can adopt a known structure, which is not the focus of this invention and will not be described in detail. In some other embodiments, the central rod 3 is disposed on the bottom cap 2, and the lock hole is disposed on the top cap 1. In still other embodiments, no connecting component is provided between the top cap 1 and the bottom cap 2; self-locking is achieved by the gravity of the rods connected to them.

[0067] Referring to Figure 2, the top cap 1 and / or bottom cap 2 include multiple hinge seats for connecting the rod 6. The multiple hinge seats include a first hinge seat and second hinge seats, each first hinge seat and two second hinge seats are arranged adjacent to each other. Each first hinge seat has a first shaft hole for the pivot 5 to pass through, and each second hinge seat has a second shaft hole for the pivot 5 to pass through. The first shaft hole and the second shaft hole are at different heights. In this embodiment, the first shaft hole and the second shaft hole serve as the first connecting part and the second connecting part for connecting different rods. In other embodiments, the first connecting part is a first connecting shaft, and the second connecting part is a second connecting shaft. The first connecting shaft is fixed to the first hinge seat, and the end of the rod has a corresponding groove or hole. The rod is hung on the first connecting shaft through these grooves or holes, thereby achieving the pivot connection between the rod and the first hinge seat. The second connecting shaft is fixed to the second hinge seat, and the end of the rod has a corresponding groove or hole. The rod is hung on the second connecting shaft through these grooves or holes, thereby achieving the pivot connection between the rod and the second hinge seat.

[0068] The specific structure of the top cap 1 in this embodiment is described as follows:

[0069] Referring to Figure 4, the top cap 1 includes multiple hinge seats surrounding the central rod 3. The multiple hinge seats include multiple first hinge seats 11 and multiple second hinge seats 13. The multiple first hinge seats 11 and multiple second hinge seats 13 are staggered along the circumferential direction of the top cap 1, with one second hinge seat 13 interspersed between every two adjacent first hinge seats 11. For example, in the example shown in the figures, there are four first hinge seats 11 and four second hinge seats 13. The first hinge seat 11 has a first receiving groove 112 for accommodating the end of the rod 6, and a first shaft hole 111 has a groove wall 113 of the first receiving groove 112. The second hinge seat 13 has a second receiving groove 132 for accommodating the end of the rod 6, and a second shaft hole 131 has a groove wall 133 of the second receiving groove 132. The first shaft hole 111 is higher than the second shaft hole 131.

[0070] The first receiving groove 112 and the second receiving groove 132 are arranged side by side and extend vertically respectively. The bottom end of the first receiving groove 112 is open to allow the rod 6 to be inserted into it, and the bottom end of the second receiving groove 132 is open to allow the rod 6 to be inserted into it. The groove wall 113 of the first receiving groove 112 and the groove wall 133 of the second receiving groove 132 are spaced apart or adjacent to each other. Specifically, in this embodiment, the groove wall 113 of the first receiving groove 112 and the groove wall 133 of the second receiving groove 132 are spaced apart, that is, there is a gap between the first receiving groove 112 and the second receiving groove 132 to leave operating space for installing the pivot.

[0071] The height of the groove wall 113 of the first groove 112 is less than the height of the second groove 132, and the second shaft hole 131 is exposed to facilitate the assembly of the rod 6 and provide operating space. A window 134 is provided on the groove wall 133 of the second groove 132 to expose the first shaft hole 111. The window 134 is offset from the second shaft hole 131, specifically located above the second shaft hole 131 and aligned with the first shaft hole 111, to facilitate the assembly of the rod 6 and provide operating space.

[0072] The specific structure of the bottom cap 2 in this embodiment is described as follows:

[0073] Referring to Figure 5, the bottom cap 2 includes multiple hinge seats arranged around the central rod 3 / lock hole. The multiple hinge seats include multiple first hinge seats 21 and multiple second hinge seats 23. The multiple first hinge seats 21 and multiple second hinge seats 23 are staggered along the circumferential direction of the bottom cap 2, with one second hinge seat 23 interspersed between every two adjacent first hinge seats 21. For example, in the example shown in the figure, there are four first hinge seats 21 and four second hinge seats 23. The first hinge seat 21 has a first receiving groove 212 for accommodating the end of the rod 6, and the first shaft hole 211 has a groove wall 213 for the first receiving groove 212. The second hinge seat 23 has a second receiving groove 232 for accommodating the end of the rod 6, and the second shaft hole 231 has a groove wall 233 for the second receiving groove 232. The first shaft hole 211 is lower than the second shaft hole 231.

[0074] The first receiving groove 212 and the second receiving groove 232 are arranged side by side and extend vertically respectively. The top of the first receiving groove 212 is open to allow the rod 6 to be inserted into it, and the top of the second receiving groove 232 is open to allow the rod 6 to be inserted into it. The groove wall 213 of the first receiving groove 212 and the groove wall 233 of the second receiving groove 232 are spaced apart or adjacent to each other. Specifically, in this embodiment, the groove wall 213 of the first receiving groove 212 and the groove wall 233 of the second receiving groove 232 are spaced apart, that is, there is a gap between the first receiving groove 212 and the second receiving groove 232 to leave operating space for installing the pivot.

[0075] The height of the groove wall 213 of the first groove 212 is less than the height of the second groove 232, and the second shaft hole 231 is exposed to facilitate the assembly of the rod 6 and provide operating space. A window 234 is provided on the groove wall 233 of the second groove 232 to expose the first shaft hole 211. The window 234 is offset from the second shaft hole 231, specifically located below the second shaft hole 231 and aligned with the first shaft hole 211, to facilitate the assembly of the rod 6 and provide operating space.

[0076] In this embodiment, each first hinge seat 11 of the top cap 1 is directly opposite to a first hinge seat 21 of the bottom cap 2, and each second hinge seat 13 of the top cap 1 is directly opposite to a second hinge seat 23 of the bottom cap 2. In other embodiments, each first hinge seat 11 of the top cap 1 is directly opposite to a second hinge seat 23 of the bottom cap 2, and each second hinge seat 13 of the top cap 1 is directly opposite to a first hinge seat 21 of the bottom cap 2.

[0077] As shown in Figure 2, when assembling the rod 6, the end of the rod 6 is inserted into the corresponding first receiving groove 112 or 212 or second receiving groove 132 or 232, and the shaft hole on the rod 6 is aligned with the first shaft hole 111 or 211 or the second shaft hole 131 or 231. The pivot 5 is then screwed in. At this time, a tube plug 61 is inserted into the end of the rod 6, and the pivot 5 passes through the tube plug 61.

[0078] Figure 6 shows another type of center lock 100, which differs from the center locks shown in Figures 1 to 5 only in that it has a gripping piece 4 on the center rod 3, and is otherwise the same.

[0079] Specifically, as shown in Figure 6, the lower part of the center rod 3 is provided with a gripping piece 4 for easy gripping by the user to unlock the center lock 100. When it is necessary to unlock the center lock 100, the user's hand can grip the gripping piece 4 for leverage to operate the unlocking mechanism on the bottom cap 2, thereby unlocking the center lock 100.

[0080] Furthermore, the gripping plate 4 is fitted onto the lower part of the central pole 3 and fixed to it. The gripping plate 4 has multiple notches 41 for the poles 6 to be inserted into. These notches 41 are spaced apart along the circumference of the gripping plate 4. The notches 41 extend inward from the outer periphery of the gripping plate 4. When the tent is folded, the poles 6 can be inserted into the corresponding notches 41 to enter the notches 41 of the gripping plate 4, making the folded poles 6 more neat and orderly.

[0081] Figures 7 and 8 illustrate an embodiment of a tent that includes the aforementioned center lock 100.

[0082] The tent includes multiple foldable inner telescopic units 400. The outer end of each inner telescopic unit 400 is rotatably connected to one of the tent's support legs 200. A foldable outer telescopic unit 300 is rotatably connected between two adjacent first support legs 200. Each inner telescopic unit 400 includes a first top rod 401 and a second top rod 402. The inner end of the first top rod 401 is rotatably connected to one of the first hinge seats 21 of the top cap 1, and the inner end of the second top rod 402 is rotatably connected to one of the first hinge seats 21 of the bottom cap 2. The tent also includes multiple reinforcing rod units 500. The outer end of each reinforcing rod unit 500 is rotatably connected to one of the outer telescopic units 300. Each reinforcing rod unit 500 includes a first reinforcing rod 501 and a second reinforcing rod 502. The inner end of the first reinforcing rod 501 is rotatably connected to one of the second hinge seats 23 of the top cap 1, and the inner end of the second reinforcing rod 502 is rotatably connected to one of the second hinge seats 23 of the bottom cap 2.

[0083] Specifically, in this embodiment, there are four inner telescopic units 400 and four reinforcing rod units 500. Four first top rods 401 and four first reinforcing rods 501 are connected to the top cap 1, and four second top rods 402 and four second reinforcing rods 502 are connected to the bottom cap 2. When the tent is folded, the first top rods 401 are brought together and housed in their respective first receiving slots 112 of the top cap 1; the first reinforcing rods 501 are brought together and housed in their respective second receiving slots 132 of the top cap 1; the second top rods 402 are brought together and housed in their respective first receiving slots 212 of the bottom cap 2; and the second reinforcing rods 502 are brought together and housed in their respective second receiving slots 232 of the bottom cap 2.

[0084] The center lock 100 in the above embodiment has multiple hinge seats on its top cap 1 and / or bottom cap 2 arranged at different heights. These hinge seats connect multiple rods 6, ensuring sufficient connection strength and preventing interference between the rods 6 while avoiding excessive size of the top cap 1 and / or bottom cap 2. Furthermore, it provides sufficient operating space for easy assembly of the rods 6. This center lock 100 is particularly suitable for tents with many top poles, especially those with additional reinforcing poles, preventing excessive increase in size and weight after folding and maintaining the overall appearance of the tent.

[0085] Features of the embodiments of this disclosure are set forth in the following terms:

[0086] Clause 1. A center lock, comprising a top cap and a bottom cap, the top cap and the bottom cap being disposed vertically and capable of being locked and unlocked relative to each other, wherein at least one of the top cap and the bottom cap is provided with a first connecting portion for connecting a rod and a second connecting portion for connecting a rod, the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion having different heights.

[0087] Clause 2. The center lock according to Clause 1, wherein at least one of the top cap and the bottom cap includes a plurality of hinge seats, the plurality of hinge seats including a first hinge seat and a second hinge seat, the first hinge seat having a first receiving groove for receiving the end of a rod, the first connecting portion being disposed on the groove wall of the first receiving groove; the second hinge seat having a second receiving groove for receiving the end of a rod, the second connecting portion being disposed on the groove wall of the second receiving groove.

[0088] Clause 3. The center lock according to Clause 2, wherein the first and second receiving slots are arranged side by side and extend vertically respectively, and the top or bottom of the first and second receiving slots are open to allow the rod to be engaged in the first and second receiving slots.

[0089] Clause 4. The center lock according to Clause 2, wherein the wall of the first receiving groove and the wall of the second receiving groove are spaced apart or adjacent to each other.

[0090] Clause 5. The center lock according to Clause 4, wherein the height of the wall of the first receiving groove is less than the height of the second receiving groove, and the second connecting portion is exposed; a window is provided on the wall of the second receiving groove to expose the first connecting portion, and the window is offset from the second connecting portion.

[0091] Clause 6. A center lock according to any one of Clauses 1 to 5, wherein the first connecting portion includes a first shaft hole through which a pivot of a connecting rod passes, and the second connecting portion includes a second shaft hole through which a pivot of a connecting rod passes; or, the first connecting portion includes a first connecting shaft pivotally connected to a rod, and the second connecting portion includes a second connecting shaft pivotally connected to a rod.

[0092] Clause 7. The center lock according to any one of Clauses 2 to 5, wherein there are multiple first hinge seats and multiple second hinge seats, and the multiple first hinge seats and multiple second hinge seats are staggered along the circumferential direction of the top cap or the bottom cap.

[0093] Clause 8. A center lock according to any one of Clauses 2 to 5, wherein the top cap includes a plurality of first hinge seats and a plurality of second hinge seats, wherein the first connecting portion is higher than the second connecting portion; the bottom cap includes a plurality of first hinge seats and a plurality of second hinge seats, wherein the first connecting portion is lower than the second connecting portion;

[0094] Each of the first hinge seats of the top cap is positioned opposite to one of the first hinge seats of the bottom cap, and each of the second hinge seats of the top cap is positioned opposite to one of the second hinge seats of the bottom cap; or, each of the first hinge seats of the top cap is positioned opposite to one of the second hinge seats of the bottom cap, and each of the second hinge seats of the top cap is positioned opposite to one of the first hinge seats of the bottom cap.

[0095] Clause 9. A center lock according to any one of Clauses 2 to 5, wherein the top cap has a center rod or is connected to a center rod at its center, and a plurality of the hinge seats of the top cap are arranged around the center rod; the bottom cap has a lock hole at its center for the bottom end of the center rod to be inserted, and a plurality of the hinge seats of the bottom cap are arranged around the lock hole; when the center lock is in the locked state, the bottom end of the center rod is inserted into the lock hole, and when the center lock is in the unlocked state, the bottom end of the center rod is disengaged from the lock hole;

[0096] A locking element is movably disposed in the keyhole. When the central lock is in the locked state, the locking element engages with the central rod. When the central lock is in the unlocked state, the locking element disengages from the central rod. The central lock includes an unlocking element for disengaging the locking element from the central rod. The unlocking element is movably disposed on the bottom cap. The lower part of the central rod is provided with a gripping piece for easy holding by the user to unlock the central lock.

[0097] Clause 10. A tent, wherein a center lock is included as described in any one of Clauses 1 to 9.

[0098] Clause 11. The tent according to Clause 10, wherein the tent includes a plurality of foldable inner telescopic units, the outer end of each inner telescopic unit being rotatably connected to one of the tent's support legs, and a foldable outer telescopic unit being rotatably connected between two adjacent first support legs.

[0099] Each of the aforementioned internal telescopic units includes a first top rod and a second top rod, the inner end of the first top rod being rotatably connected to the first connecting part of the top cap, and the inner end of the second top rod being rotatably connected to the first connecting part of the bottom cap;

[0100] The tent includes multiple reinforcing rod units, the outer end of each reinforcing rod unit is rotatably connected to one of the external telescopic units, each reinforcing rod includes a first reinforcing rod and a second reinforcing rod, the inner end of the first reinforcing rod is rotatably connected to the second connecting part of the top cap, and the inner end of the second reinforcing rod is rotatably connected to the second connecting part of the bottom cap;

[0101] The first connecting portion and the second connecting portion of the top cap are at different heights, and the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion of the bottom cap are at different heights.

[0102] As indicated in this specification and claims, the terms "comprising" and "including" only indicate the inclusion of explicitly identified steps and elements, and these steps and elements do not constitute an exclusive list, and the method or apparatus may also include other steps or elements.

[0103] It can be further understood that in this disclosure, "multiple" refers to two or more, and other quantifiers are similar.

[0104] It is further understood that the terms "first," "second," etc., are used to describe various types of information, but this information should not be limited to these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish information of the same type from one another, and do not indicate a specific order or degree of importance. In fact, the expressions "first," "second," etc., are completely interchangeable. For example, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, first information can also be referred to as second information, and similarly, second information can also be referred to as first information.

[0105] The above embodiments are only for illustrating the technical concept and features of this disclosure, and are preferred embodiments. Their purpose is to enable those skilled in the art to understand the content of this disclosure and implement it accordingly, and they cannot be used to limit the scope of protection of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A center lock, comprising a top cap and a bottom cap, wherein the top cap and the bottom cap are disposed vertically and are capable of locking and unlocking relative to each other, characterized in that, At least one of the top cap and the bottom cap is provided with a first connecting part for connecting the first rod and a second connecting part for connecting the second rod, the first connecting part and the second connecting part having different heights.

2. The central lock according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one of the top cap and the bottom cap includes a plurality of hinge seats, the plurality of hinge seats including a first hinge seat and a second hinge seat, the first hinge seat having a first receiving groove for receiving one end of the first rod, and the first connecting portion being disposed on the groove wall of the first receiving groove; the second hinge seat having a second receiving groove for receiving one end of the second rod, and the second connecting portion being disposed on the groove wall of the second receiving groove.

3. The central lock according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first and second receiving grooves are arranged side by side and extend vertically respectively. The top or bottom of the first receiving groove is open to allow the first rod to be inserted into the first receiving groove, and the top or bottom of the second receiving groove is open to allow the second rod to be inserted into the second receiving groove.

4. The central lock according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The walls of the first container and the walls of the second container are spaced apart or adjacent to each other.

5. The center lock according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, The height of the wall of the first container is less than the height of the second container, and it is configured to expose the second connecting portion.

6. The center lock according to any one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that, A window is provided on the wall of the second container to expose the first connecting part, and the window is offset from the second connecting part.

7. The center lock according to any one of claims 2 to 6, characterized in that, There are multiple first hinge seats and multiple second hinge seats, and the multiple first hinge seats and multiple second hinge seats are staggered along the circumferential direction of the top cap or the bottom cap.

8. The center lock according to any one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that, The top cap includes a plurality of first hinge seats and a plurality of second hinge seats, wherein the first connecting portion is higher than the second connecting portion; the bottom cap includes a plurality of first hinge seats and a plurality of second hinge seats, wherein the first connecting portion is lower than the second connecting portion; Each of the first hinge seats of the top cap is positioned opposite to one of the first hinge seats of the bottom cap, and each of the second hinge seats of the top cap is positioned opposite to one of the second hinge seats of the bottom cap; or, each of the first hinge seats of the top cap is positioned opposite to one of the second hinge seats of the bottom cap, and each of the second hinge seats of the top cap is positioned opposite to one of the first hinge seats of the bottom cap.

9. The central lock according to any one of claims 2 to 8, characterized in that, The top cap has a central rod or is connected to a central rod in the middle, and a plurality of hinge seats of the top cap are arranged around the central rod; the bottom cap has a locking hole in the middle for the bottom end of the central rod to be inserted, and a plurality of hinge seats of the bottom cap are arranged around the locking hole; when the central lock is in the locked state, the bottom end of the central rod is inserted into the locking hole; A locking element is movably disposed in the keyhole. When the central lock is in the locked state, the locking element engages with the central rod. When the central lock is in the unlocked state, the locking element disengages from the central rod. The central lock includes an unlocking element for disengaging the locking element from the central rod, and the unlocking element is movably disposed on the bottom cap.

10. The central lock according to claim 9, characterized in that, The lower part of the center rod is provided with a gripping piece for easy holding by the user to unlock the center lock.

11. The center lock according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first connecting portion includes a first shaft hole through which a pivot for connecting the first rod passes, and the second connecting portion includes a second shaft hole through which a pivot for connecting the second rod passes.

12. The center lock according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first connecting portion includes a first connecting shaft that can be pivotally connected to the first rod, and the second connecting portion includes a second connecting shaft that can be pivotally connected to the second rod.

13. The central lock according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first connecting portion includes a shaft hole through which a pivot for connecting the first rod passes, and the second connecting portion includes a connecting shaft that can be pivotally connected to the second rod; or, the first connecting portion includes a first connecting shaft that can be pivotally connected to the first rod, and the second connecting portion includes a shaft hole through which a pivot for connecting the second rod passes.

14. A center lock, comprising a top cap, the top cap including a first connecting portion for connecting a first rod and a second connecting portion for connecting a second rod, the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion having different heights.

15. The central lock according to claim 14, characterized in that, The top cap includes a plurality of hinge seats, the plurality of hinge seats including a first hinge seat and a second hinge seat. The first hinge seat has a first receiving groove for accommodating one end of the first rod, and the first connecting part is disposed on the groove wall of the first receiving groove. The second hinge seat has a second receiving groove for accommodating one end of the second rod, and the second connecting part is disposed on the groove wall of the second receiving groove.

16. The central lock according to claim 15, characterized in that, The first and second receiving grooves are arranged side by side and extend vertically respectively. The top or bottom of the first receiving groove is open to allow the first rod to be inserted into the first receiving groove, and the top or bottom of the second receiving groove is open to allow the second rod to be inserted into the second receiving groove.

17. The center lock according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that, The height of the wall of the first container is less than the height of the second container, and it is configured to expose the second connecting portion.

18. The center lock according to any one of claims 15 to 17, characterized in that, A window is provided on the wall of the second container to expose the first connecting part, and the window is offset from the second connecting part.

19. The center lock according to any one of claims 15 to 18, characterized in that, There are multiple first hinge seats and multiple second hinge seats, and the multiple first hinge seats and multiple second hinge seats are staggered along the circumferential direction of the top cap or the bottom cap.

20. The central lock according to any one of claims 14 to 19, characterized in that, The center lock includes a center rod, which is integral with the top cap or the center rod is connected to the top cap. The center rod is configured to connect the top cap and a bottom cap.

21. A center lock, comprising a bottom cap, the bottom cap including a first connecting portion for connecting a first rod and a second connecting portion for connecting a second rod, the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion having different heights.

22. The central lock according to claim 21, characterized in that, The bottom cap includes a plurality of hinge seats, the plurality of hinge seats including a first hinge seat and a second hinge seat. The first hinge seat has a first receiving groove for accommodating one end of the first rod, and the first connecting part is disposed on the groove wall of the first receiving groove. The second hinge seat has a second receiving groove for accommodating one end of the second rod, and the second connecting part is disposed on the groove wall of the second receiving groove.

23. The central lock according to claim 22, characterized in that, The first and second receiving grooves are arranged side by side and extend vertically respectively. The top or bottom of the first receiving groove is open to allow the first rod to be inserted into the first receiving groove, and the top or bottom of the second receiving groove is open to allow the second rod to be inserted into the second receiving groove.

24. The central lock according to claim 22 or 23, characterized in that, The height of the wall of the first container is less than the height of the second container, and it is configured to expose the second connecting portion.

25. The central lock according to any one of claims 22 to 24, characterized in that, A window is provided on the wall of the second container to expose the first connecting part, and the window is offset from the second connecting part.

26. The central lock according to any one of claims 22 to 25, characterized in that, There are multiple first hinge seats and multiple second hinge seats, and the multiple first hinge seats and multiple second hinge seats are staggered along the circumferential direction of the top cap or the bottom cap.

27. The central lock according to any one of claims 21 to 26, characterized in that, The center lock includes a center rod configured to connect the bottom cap and a top cap.

28. A tent, characterized in that, Including the center lock as described in any one of claims 1 to 27.

29. The tent according to claim 28, characterized in that, The tent includes multiple foldable inner telescopic units, the outer end of each inner telescopic unit is rotatably connected to one of the tent's support legs, and foldable outer telescopic units are rotatably connected between two adjacent first support legs. Each of the inner telescopic units includes a first top rod and a second top rod that are hinged to each other. The inner end of each first top rod is rotatably connected to a first connecting part of the top cap, and the inner end of each second top rod is rotatably connected to a first connecting part of the bottom cap. The tent includes multiple reinforcing rod units, the outer end of each reinforcing rod unit is rotatably connected to one of the external telescopic units, each reinforcing rod includes a first reinforcing rod and a second reinforcing rod that are hinged to each other, the inner end of each first reinforcing rod is rotatably connected to a second connecting part of the top cap, and the inner end of each second reinforcing rod is rotatably connected to a second connecting part of the bottom cap; The first connecting portion and the second connecting portion of the top cap are at different heights, and the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion of the bottom cap are at different heights.

30. The tent according to claim 28, characterized in that, The tent includes multiple foldable inner telescopic units, the outer end of each inner telescopic unit is rotatably connected to one of the tent's support legs, and foldable outer telescopic units are rotatably connected between two adjacent first support legs. Each of the internal telescopic units includes a first push rod and a second push rod that are hinged to each other. The inner ends of a plurality of first push rods are rotatably connected to a plurality of first connecting parts of the top cap, and the inner ends of a plurality of first push rods are rotatably connected to a plurality of second connecting parts of the top cap. The inner ends of a plurality of second push rods are rotatably connected to a plurality of first connecting parts of the bottom cap, and the inner ends of a plurality of second push rods are rotatably connected to a plurality of second connecting parts of the bottom cap. The first connecting portion and the second connecting portion of the top cap are at different heights, and the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion of the bottom cap are at different heights.

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