Folding hinge, folding crossbeam, calibration device, and calibration system

Abstract

A folding hinge (30), comprising a base (31), two hinge units (32), and two workpiece supports (33). The workpiece supports (33) are folded and unfolded by means of the hinge units (32); the folding hinge (30) is folded upwards for storage, so that when the folding hinge is applied to a folding crossbeam, the folding crossbeam (100) is folded for storage without being limited by space; each hinge unit (32) comprises a one-way bearing (321) and a damping assembly (322) which are rotatably connected; the one-way bearings (321) are connected to fixed shafts (311) by means of fixing members (3211), respectively; the damping assemblies (322) are respectively connected to rotating members (3212); when subjected to a driving force in a folding direction, the damping assemblies drive the rotating members (3212) to rotate in the folding direction; when subjected to a driving force in an unfolding direction, the damping assemblies rotate relative to the rotating members (3212) in the unfolding direction; when the damping assemblies are not subjected to a driving force, the one-way bearings (321) are locked, and the damping assemblies (322) limit, by means of a damping effect, the workpiece supports and workpieces to rotate in the unfolding direction, so that the workpiece supports (33) and the workpieces can be suspended at any angle, thereby avoiding safety problems caused by free fall. Further comprised are the folding crossbeam, a calibration device, and a calibration system.

Description

Folding hinges, folding beams, calibration equipment and calibration systems

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 2025101171157, filed on January 24, 2025, entitled "Folding Hinge, Folding Beam, Calibration Device and Calibration System", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of automotive calibration device technology, and more particularly to folding hinges, folding beams, calibration equipment, and calibration systems. Background Technology

[0003] Currently, the most common types of folding beams on the market are upward folding and downward folding. Upward folding allows the beam to extend when in use and fold upward for storage when not in use, but there is a risk of the beam falling due to non-human factors during the folding process, which could cause injury to the user. Downward folding, on the other hand, has space limitations. For example, when the beam is long, it may touch the ground when folded downward, preventing it from being fully retracted. Summary of the Invention

[0004] One objective of this application is to provide a folding hinge, a folding beam, a calibration device, and a calibration system to solve the technical problems of space limitations and falling safety hazards when the beam is folded in the related technical content.

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a folding hinge, including a base, two hinge units, and two workpiece supports. The base includes two fixed shafts, each hinge unit is mounted on a corresponding fixed shaft, and each workpiece support is connected to a corresponding hinge unit. The two hinge units can rotate relative to each other to allow the two workpiece supports to fold upwards and unfold to both sides. Each hinge unit includes:

[0006] A one-way bearing, comprising a fixed member and a rotating member, wherein the fixed member is connected to a fixed shaft, and the rotating member is connected to the fixed member, the rotating member being capable of rotating about a rotation axis relative to the fixed shaft in a retracting direction, but with restricted rotation in an unfolding direction; and

[0007] A damping assembly is provided, wherein the damping assembly is rotatably connected to the rotating member and fixedly connected to the workpiece support. When the damping assembly is driven by a force in the retracting direction, it can drive the rotating member to rotate relative to the fixed member about a rotation axis in the retracting direction. When the damping assembly is driven by a force in the unfolding direction, it can rotate relative to the rotating member about a rotation axis in the unfolding direction. When the damping assembly is not driven by either the retracting or unfolding direction, it can suspend the workpiece support on which the workpiece is mounted.

[0008] Optionally, the rotating component includes a bearing outer ring and a bearing sleeve. The bearing sleeve is fitted onto the bearing outer ring and fixedly connected to it. The bearing sleeve includes a damping mating part, which is a rotating structure arranged circumferentially around the bearing sleeve. The damping mating part is dampingly rotatably connected to the damping assembly.

[0009] Optionally, the damping mating part is a first flange circumferentially disposed on the bearing sleeve, and the damping assembly includes:

[0010] A friction plate, the friction plate being annular and sleeved on the fixed shaft, the friction plate including a first contact surface, the first contact surface dampingly contacting one end face of the first flange; and

[0011] An end cap, the friction plate, and the first flange are stacked together. The first flange is disposed between the friction plate and the end cap. The friction plate, the end cap, and the workpiece support are fixedly connected together. The end cap covers the one-way bearing and the fixed shaft. The end cap includes a second contact surface, which dampens the contact with the other end face of the first flange.

[0012] Optionally, the base further includes a base plate, and each of the fixed shafts is vertically connected to the base plate. The workpiece support includes:

[0013] The connecting part has a clearance hole, and the connecting part is sleeved on the fixed shaft through the clearance hole. The base plate, the connecting part, the friction plate, the first flange, and the end cap are stacked in sequence, and the friction plate, the end cap, and the connecting part are fixedly connected together.

[0014] The workpiece mounting part is connected to the connecting part and is used to mount the workpiece.

[0015] Optionally, the base plate is provided with a recess and a through hole, the through hole connecting the recess and the clearance hole respectively, the recess being located at the bottom of the base plate, and the fixed shaft comprising:

[0016] The lower shaft includes a first shaft body and a second flange. The second flange is circumferentially arranged around the first shaft body and connected to the first shaft body. The second flange is received in the sink and abuts against the bottom surface of the sink. The second flange is fixedly connected to the base plate. The first shaft body passes through the through hole. The connecting part and the friction plate are sequentially sleeved on the first shaft body.

[0017] The upper shaft includes a second shaft body and a third flange. The third flange is circumferentially arranged around the second shaft body and connected to the second shaft body. The first shaft body is coaxially arranged with the second shaft body and fixedly connected to the second shaft body. The one-way bearing is sleeved on the second shaft body and abuts against the third flange.

[0018] Optionally, the connecting part includes a limiting engagement part, which can rotate relative to the fixed axis around the rotation axis following the end cover. The base plate includes a limiting part, which is disposed on the rotation stroke of the limiting part. The limiting part is used to engage with the limiting engagement part when the workpiece support is retracted upward, so as to limit the workpiece support.

[0019] Optionally, the workpiece support further includes a positioning mating part, which is connected to the workpiece mounting part and is capable of rotating relative to the fixed axis around the rotation axis following the workpiece mounting part;

[0020] The base also includes two positioning supports, each of which is fixedly installed on the base plate. Each positioning support is located on the rotational stroke of the positioning mating part of a corresponding workpiece bracket. The positioning support is used to engage with the corresponding positioning mating part when the workpiece bracket is fully extended.

[0021] In a second aspect, embodiments of this application also provide a folding beam, comprising:

[0022] First horizontal beam unit;

[0023] The second crossbeam unit; and

[0024] As described in any of the above, the folding hinge is such that one of the two workpiece supports is equipped with the first crossbeam unit and the other is equipped with the second crossbeam unit. The folding hinge is capable of bringing the first crossbeam unit and the second crossbeam unit closer to each other and aligning them in the longitudinal direction when the two workpiece supports are unfolded to the sides respectively, and of folding the first crossbeam unit and the second crossbeam unit together when the two workpiece supports are retracted upwards together.

[0025] In a third aspect, embodiments of this application provide a calibration device, comprising:

[0026] Base;

[0027] The main frame, which is vertically mounted on the base; and

[0028] The folding beam described above is mounted on the main frame.

[0029] In a fourth aspect, embodiments of this application also provide a calibration system, including:

[0030] The calibration equipment described above; and

[0031] A diagnostic instrument, which is communicatively connected to the calibration device.

[0032] The embodiments of this application can achieve the following technical effects: the folding hinge folds upwards for storage, so that when applied to a folding beam, the folding and storage of the beam is not limited by space. The folding hinge includes a base, two hinge units, and two workpiece supports. Each hinge unit is fixed on a fixed shaft of the base, and the workpiece supports are connected to the hinge units, realizing the folding and unfolding actions through the hinge units.

[0033] The hinge unit includes a one-way bearing and a damping assembly. The one-way bearing is connected to a fixed shaft via a fixed component, while the rotating component is connected to the fixed component, allowing the rotating component to rotate freely in the retracting direction and lock in the unfolding direction. The damping assembly is connected to the rotating component. When driven by a force in the retracting direction, it drives the rotating component to rotate in that direction; when driven by a force in the unfolding direction, it rotates relative to the rotating component in the unfolding direction. When no driving force is applied, the one-way bearing is locked, and the damping assembly restricts the rotation of the workpiece support and workpiece in the unfolding direction through damping, allowing the workpiece support and workpiece to be suspended at any angle, preventing free fall and safety issues. Attached Figure Description

[0034] Figure 1 is a structural schematic diagram of a folding beam provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the unfolded state structure of a folding hinge provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 3 is an enlarged view of part A in Figure 2;

[0037] Figure 4 is an exploded view of a folding hinge structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 5 is a structural schematic diagram of a one-way bearing for a folding hinge provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a base for a folding hinge provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0040] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the folded state structure of a folding hinge provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figure 8 is another structural schematic diagram of the unfolded state of a folding hinge provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0042] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a calibration device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0043] Labeling Explanation: 1000, Calibration Equipment; 100, Folding Crossbeam; 10, First Crossbeam Unit; 20, Second Crossbeam Unit; 30, Folding Hinge; 31, Base; 311, Fixed Shaft; 3111, Lower Shaft; 31111, First Shaft Body; 31112, Second Flange; 3112, Upper Shaft; 31121, Second Shaft Body; 31122, Third Flange; 3113, Pin; 3114, Pin Hole; 3115, Insertion Hole; 312, Base Plate; 3121, Slot; 3122, Through Hole; 3123, Limiting Part; 313, Positioning Support; 3131, Positioning Slot; 32, Hinge Unit; 321, One-Way Bearing; 3 211, Fixing component; 32111, Cage; 32112, Needle roller; 3212, Rotating component; 32121, Bearing outer ring; 32122, Bearing sleeve; 32123, First flange; 3213, Raceway; 32131, Narrow section; 32132, Wide section; 322, Damping assembly; 3221, Friction plate; 32221, First contact surface; 3222, End cap; 32221, Second contact surface; 33, Workpiece support; 331, Connecting part; 3311, Clearance hole; 3312, Limiting fit part; 332, Workpiece mounting part; 333, Positioning fit part; 200, Base; 300, Main frame. Detailed Implementation

[0044] To facilitate understanding of the present invention, a more detailed description is provided below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be noted that when an element is described as "connected" to another element, it can be directly on the other element, or one or more intermediate elements can exist between them. The terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "upper end," "lower end," "top," and "bottom," etc., used in this specification indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the present invention. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0045] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this specification have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. The terminology used in this specification is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the invention.

[0046] The main frame of an automotive calibration device is typically equipped with a crossbeam for mounting calibration lasers, calibration pattern boards, and other related calibration equipment. To facilitate the transport and storage of the crossbeam, related technologies often employ a folding or modular installation and disassembly structure. In the folding type, the crossbeam is connected by a folding hinge, and the crossbeam consists of two individual beams connected together by the hinge, aligning them along their length when unfolded to form a complete crossbeam. However, the folding crossbeam in these technologies occupies a significant amount of space when folded downwards, and poses a safety hazard when folded upwards.

[0047] Please refer to Figure 1. In order to solve the above-mentioned technical problems, in a first aspect, this application provides a folding hinge 30, which is applied to a component or device that needs to fold or unfold two workpieces, for example, specifically applied to a folding crossbeam 100 of an automotive calibration device.

[0048] Please refer to Figures 2 to 4. In some embodiments, the folding hinge 30 includes a base 31, two hinge units 32, and two workpiece supports 33. The base 31 includes two fixed shafts 311. Each hinge unit 32 is mounted on a corresponding fixed shaft 311. Each workpiece support 33 is connected to a corresponding hinge unit 32. The two hinge units 32 can retract upwards and unfold to both sides by relative rotation. Each hinge unit 32 includes a one-way bearing 321 and a damping assembly 322. The one-way bearing 321 includes a fixing member 3211 and a rotating member 3212. The fixing member 3211 is connected to the fixed shaft 311, and the rotating member 3212 is connected to the fixing member 3211. The rotating member 3212 can rotate relative to the fixed shaft 311 about the rotation axis in the retracting direction, but its rotation in the unfolding direction is restricted.

[0049] The damping component 322 is damped and rotatably connected to the rotating component 3212, and the damping component 322 is fixedly connected to the workpiece support 33. When the damping component 322 is driven by the retracting direction, it can drive the rotating component 3212 to rotate relative to the fixed component 3211 around the rotation axis in the retracting direction. When the damping component 322 is driven by the unfolding direction, it can rotate relative to the rotating component 3212 around the rotation axis in the unfolding direction. When the damping component 322 is not driven by either the retracting or unfolding direction, it can suspend the workpiece support 33 on which the workpiece is mounted.

[0050] The working principle of the folding hinge 30 in this embodiment is as follows: The folding hinge 30 mainly includes a base 31, two hinge units 32, and two workpiece supports 33. Each hinge unit 32 is fixed on the fixed shaft 311 of the base 31. The workpiece supports 33 are connected to the hinge units 32 and the folding and unfolding actions are realized through the hinge units 32.

[0051] Specifically, the hinge unit 32 includes a one-way bearing 321 and a damping assembly 322. The one-way bearing 321 is connected to a fixed shaft 311 via a fixing member 3211, which is sleeved on the fixed shaft 311. The rotating member 3212 is connected to the fixing member 3211, allowing the rotating member 3212 to rotate freely in the retracting direction but restricted in the unfolding direction. The damping assembly 322 is connected to the rotating member 3212. When subjected to a driving force in the retracting direction, it can drive the rotating member 3212 to rotate in the retracting direction; when subjected to a driving force in the unfolding direction, it rotates relative to the rotating member 3212 in the unfolding direction. The driving force in the retracting or unfolding direction refers to the force transmitted from the workpiece support 33 or the workpiece to the damping assembly 322 under the force applied by the user. When not under driving force, the one-way bearing 321 is locked, and the damping component 322 restricts the workpiece support 33 and the workpiece from rotating in the unfolding direction through the damping effect, so that the workpiece support 33 and the workpiece can be suspended at any angle to avoid safety problems caused by free fall.

[0052] Understandably, the folding hinge 30 folds upwards for storage, allowing the folding beam 100 to be folded and stored without spatial limitations when applied to it. The one-way bearing 321 ensures smooth operation of the folding beam 100 during unfolding and effectively prevents it from falling uncontrollably during unfolding. The damping assembly 322 prevents the beam from suddenly unfolding by adjusting the rotation speed. In this embodiment, the coordinated work of damping and the one-way bearing 321 ensures that the beam can operate smoothly and safely during folding and unfolding.

[0053] In some embodiments, the rotating member 3212 includes a bearing outer ring 32121 and a bearing sleeve 32122. The bearing sleeve 32122 is sleeved on the bearing outer ring 32121 and fixedly connected to the bearing outer ring 32121. The bearing sleeve 32122 includes a damping mating part, which is a rotary structure arranged circumferentially around the bearing sleeve 32122. The damping mating part is dampingly rotatably connected to the damping assembly 322.

[0054] Understandably, the rotating component 3212 includes a bearing outer ring 32121 and a bearing sleeve 32122, wherein the bearing sleeve 32122 is fixedly connected to the bearing outer ring 32121, and a damping mating part is provided on the outside of the bearing sleeve 32122. This damping mating part is a rotating structure arranged circumferentially around the bearing sleeve 32122 and is connected to the damping assembly 322 for damping rotation. When the workpiece support 33 is subjected to a driving force in the retracting direction, the damping mating part and the damping assembly 322 come into contact with each other. The damping assembly 322 drives the bearing sleeve 32122 to rotate through the damping effect, which in turn drives the bearing outer ring 32121 to rotate, specifically driving the bearing outer ring 32121 to rotate relative to the fixed shaft 311 around the rotation axis. When the workpiece support 33 is subjected to a driving force in the unfolding direction, the outer ring 32121 of the bearing is locked in the unfolding direction by the fixing member 3211 and cannot move with the damping assembly 322. The damping assembly 322 resists frictional damping and rotates relative to the damping mating part in the unfolding direction. In this embodiment, the fixing member 3211 is configured to lock the outer ring 32121 of the bearing in the unfolding direction and is fixed together with the outer ring 32121 of the bearing and the fixed shaft 311, while not restricting relative rotation with the fixed shaft 311 in the retracting direction.

[0055] Please refer to Figures 2 to 5 together. Exemplarily, in one embodiment, the fixing member 3211 includes a cage 32111 and needle rollers 32112. The outer ring 32121 of the bearing is sleeved on the cage 32111, and the needle rollers 32112 are mounted on the cage 32111. The cage 32111 is sleeved on the fixed shaft 311. The needle rollers 32112 can abut against the outer ring 32121 of the bearing and the fixed shaft 311 respectively. The cage 32111 is provided with a raceway 3213, which includes a communicating narrow portion 32131 and a wide portion 32132. The needle rollers 32112 can move in the wide portion 32132 and abut against the outer ring 32121 of the bearing and the fixed shaft 311 respectively in the narrow portion 32131. When the workpiece support 33 retracts upwards, the outer ring 32121 of the bearing pushes the needle rollers 32112 to the wide portion 32132 of the raceway 3213. At this time, the cage 32111 and the needle rollers 32112 rotate relative to the fixed shaft 311 along with the outer ring 32121 of the bearing. When the workpiece support 33 unfolds, the outer ring 32121 of the bearing pushes the needle rollers 32112 to the narrow portion 32131 of the raceway 3213. The needle rollers 32112 abut against the outer ring 32121 of the bearing and the fixed shaft 311 respectively in the narrow portion 32131. Under the abutting force of the needle rollers 32112, the outer ring 32121 of the bearing is locked and fixed together with the cage 32111 and the fixed shaft 311.

[0056] In another embodiment, the fixing member 3211 includes a cage 32111, needle rollers 32112, and an inner bearing ring. The outer bearing ring 32121, the cage 32111, and the inner bearing ring are coaxially arranged and sequentially sleeved. The needle rollers 32112 are mounted on the cage 32111 and can abut against the outer bearing ring 32121 and the inner bearing ring respectively. The inner bearing ring is sleeved on the fixed shaft 311 and is fixed to the fixed shaft 311 by a key connection. The cage 32111 and the outer bearing ring 32121 share a raceway 3213, which includes a communicating narrow portion 32131 and a wide portion 32132. The needle rollers 32112 can roll in the wide portion 32132 and abut against the outer bearing ring 32121 and the inner bearing ring respectively in the narrow portion 32131. When the workpiece support 33 retracts upwards, the outer ring 32121 of the bearing pushes the needle rollers 32112 to the wide portion 32132 of the raceway 3213, at which time the outer ring 32121 of the bearing rotates relative to the inner ring of the bearing. When the workpiece support 33 unfolds, the outer ring 32121 of the bearing pushes the needle rollers 32112 to the narrow portion 32131 of the raceway 3213. The needle rollers 32112 abut against the outer ring 32121 and the inner ring of the bearing respectively in the narrow portion 32131. Under the action of the abutting force of the needle rollers 32112, the outer ring 32121 of the bearing is locked and fixed together with the cage 32111, the inner ring of the bearing, and the fixed shaft 311.

[0057] In other embodiments, the one-way bearing 321 may also be a one-way bearing 321 with a ratchet mechanism, etc., and there is no limitation here.

[0058] In some embodiments, the damping mating part is the outer peripheral surface of the bearing sleeve 32122, and the damping assembly 322 includes an outer sleeve, which is sleeved on the bearing sleeve 32122, and the inner peripheral surface of the outer sleeve makes damping contact with the outer peripheral surface of the bearing sleeve 32122.

[0059] Understandably, the damping mating part is located on the outer circumferential surface of the bearing sleeve 32122. The outer sleeve is fitted onto the bearing sleeve 32122, and the inner circumferential surface of the outer sleeve forms a damping contact with the outer circumferential surface of the bearing sleeve 32122. As the rotating component 3212 rotates, the damping assembly 322 provides a damping effect by contacting the outer circumferential surface of the bearing sleeve 32122. More easily understood, the coaxial arrangement between the inner and outer sleeves and the damping contact effectively reduce the vibration that occurs during rotation, making the folding and unfolding of the crossbeam more stable.

[0060] Specifically, the bearing sleeve 32122 and the outer sleeve are configured with a transition fit or an interference fit to create frictional damping between them. The specific fit between the bearing sleeve 32122 and the outer sleeve can be customized by the designer based on engineering experience.

[0061] Please refer to Figures 2 to 4. In some embodiments, the damping mating part is a first flange 32123 circumferentially disposed on the bearing sleeve 32122. The damping assembly 322 includes a friction plate 3221 and an end cap 3222. The friction plate 3221 is annular and sleeved on the fixed shaft 311. The friction plate 3221 includes a first contact surface 32211, which dampens and contacts one end face of the first flange 32123. Friction plate 3221, end cap 3222 and first flange 32123 are stacked. The first flange 32123 is disposed between friction plate 3221 and end cap 3222. Friction plate 3221, end cap 3222 and workpiece support 33 are fixedly connected together. End cap 3222 covers one-way bearing 321 and fixed shaft 311. End cap 3222 includes second contact surface 32221. Second contact surface 32221 dampens contact with the other end face of first flange 32123.

[0062] Understandably, the damping mating part is the first flange 32123 on the bearing sleeve 32122. The friction plate 3221 is sleeved on the fixed shaft 311. The first contact surface 32211 of the friction plate 3221 contacts one end face of the first flange 32123. The first contact surface 32211 is the end face of the friction plate 3221 that abuts against the first flange 32123. The end cap 3222, as a rotating body, covers the one-way bearing 321 and the fixed shaft 311, providing protection for them. The second contact surface 32221 of the end cap 3222 contacts the other end face of the first flange 32123. The entire structure is stacked, effectively achieving a damping effect.

[0063] Referring to Figures 3 and 4, in some embodiments, the base 31 further includes a base plate 312, and each fixed shaft 311 is vertically connected to the base plate 312. The workpiece support 33 includes a connecting portion 331 and a workpiece mounting portion 332. The connecting portion 331 is provided with a clearance hole 3311, and the connecting portion 331 is sleeved on the fixed shaft 311 through the clearance hole 3311. The base plate 312, the connecting portion 331, the friction plate 3221, the first flange 32123, and the end cap 3222 are sequentially stacked, and the friction plate 3221, the end cap 3222, and the connecting portion 331 are fixedly connected together. The workpiece mounting portion 332 is connected to the connecting portion 331 and is used to mount the workpiece.

[0064] Understandably, two fixed shafts 311 are provided on the base plate 312, which are rotatably connected to the connecting part 331, friction plate 3221, end cap 3222, and one-way bearing 321. Each connecting part 331 is sleeved on the corresponding fixed shaft 311 through a clearance hole 3311. The base plate 312, connecting part 331, friction plate 3221, first flange 32123, and end cap 3222 are connected in a stacked manner. By providing clearance holes 3311, the connecting part 331 is sleeved on the fixed shaft 311, and the end face of the connecting part 331 abuts against the end face of the friction plate 3221, thereby increasing the connection area with the damping assembly 322 and making the two more tightly connected.

[0065] For example, the connecting part 331 is provided with multiple threaded holes, the friction plate 3221 is provided with through holes that align with the threaded holes, and the end cap 3222 can be provided with screw mounting holes that align with the through holes. The damping assembly 322 is fixed to the connecting part 331 by screws. The screws pass through the screw mounting holes of the end cap 3222, the through holes of the friction plate 3221, and the threaded holes of the connecting part 331 in sequence, and are threadedly connected to the threaded holes of the connecting part 331, thereby fixing the connecting part 331, the friction plate 3221, and the end cap 3222 together.

[0066] Please refer to Figures 4 and 6. In some embodiments, the base plate 312 is provided with a recess 3121 and a through hole 3122. The through hole 3122 connects the recess 3121 and the clearance hole 3311 respectively. The recess 3121 is located at the bottom of the base plate 312. The fixed shaft 311 includes a lower shaft 3111 and an upper shaft 3112.

[0067] The lower shaft 3111 includes a first shaft body 31111 and a second flange 31112. The second flange 31112 is arranged circumferentially around the first shaft body 31111 and connected to the first shaft body 31111. The second flange 31112 is received in the recess 3121 and abuts against the bottom surface of the recess 3121. The second flange 31112 is fixedly connected to the base plate 312. The first shaft body 31111 passes through the through hole 3122. The connecting part 331 and the friction plate 3221 are sequentially sleeved on the first shaft body 31111.

[0068] The upper shaft 3112 includes a second shaft body 31121 and a third flange 31122. The third flange 31122 is circumferentially arranged around the second shaft body 31121 and connected to the second shaft body 31121. The first shaft body 31111 is coaxially arranged with the second shaft body 31121 and is fixedly connected to the second shaft body 31121. The one-way bearing 321 is sleeved on the second shaft body 31121 and abuts against the third flange 31122.

[0069] Understandably, the second flange 31112 of the lower shaft 3111 is fixed to each other through a stable connection with the groove 3121, effectively reducing instability when the crossbeam is folded or unfolded. Furthermore, the design of the upper shaft 311 and the lower shaft 3111 in this embodiment of the application facilitates installation and disassembly, simplifies the assembly process of the folding hinge 30, reduces production complexity, and improves assembly efficiency.

[0070] For example, the second shaft 31121 is provided with a socket 3115, which can accommodate a portion of the structure of the first shaft 31111. The fixed shaft 311 also includes a pin 3113. The first shaft 31111 and the second shaft 31121 are respectively provided with pin holes 3114. In actual installation, a portion of the pin 3113 is inserted into the pin hole 3114 of one of the first shaft 31111 and the second shaft 31121, and when the first shaft 31111 and the second shaft 31121 are inserted into each other, the other portion is inserted into the pin hole 3114 of the other. The number and specific arrangement of the pins 3113 and pin holes 3114 can be customized by the designer based on engineering experience.

[0071] For example, the first shaft 31111 is provided with multiple threaded holes, and the second shaft 31121 is provided with screw mounting holes that align with the threads of the first shaft 31111. The first shaft 31111 and the second shaft 31121 are fixed together by screws. The screws pass through the screw mounting holes of the second shaft 31121 and the threaded holes of the first shaft 31111 in sequence, and are threadedly connected to the threaded holes of the first shaft 31111, thereby fixing the first shaft 31111 and the second shaft 31121 together. The damping of the friction plate 3221, the end cap 3222, and the first flange 32123 can be adjusted by adjusting the tightness of the screws.

[0072] Please refer to Figure 7. In some embodiments, the connecting part 331 includes a limiting engagement part 3312, which can rotate relative to the fixed shaft 311 around the rotation axis following the end cover 3222. The base plate 312 includes a limiting part 3123, which is disposed on the rotation stroke of the limiting part 3123. The limiting part 3123 is used to engage with the limiting engagement part 3312 when the workpiece support 33 is retracted upwards, so as to limit the workpiece support 33.

[0073] Understandably, the connecting part 331 is provided with a limiting fitting part 3312, which can rotate along with the end cover 3222 during rotation. When the workpiece support 33 retracts upward, the limiting part 3123 contacts the limiting fitting part 3312, thereby limiting the rotation stroke of the workpiece support 33 and preventing the workpieces on the two workpiece supports 33 from colliding with each other.

[0074] In some embodiments, the limiting engagement part 3312 is a locking block extending radially outward on the connecting part 331. The locking block can rotate with the connecting part 331 around the rotation axis relative to the fixed shaft 311. The limiting part 3123 is a boss provided on the base plate 312. The boss is provided on the rotation stroke of the locking blocks of the two workpiece supports 33 and is used to abut against the corresponding locking block when any workpiece support 33 is retracted upward.

[0075] Understandably, the locking block on the connecting part 331 can rotate with the workpiece support 33 and cooperate with the boss on the base plate 312 to restrict the upward retraction movement of the workpiece support 33. The contact between the locking block and the boss effectively restricts the rotational stroke of the workpiece support 33, ensuring its safe retraction. Furthermore, this embodiment uses only one boss, which is set on the rotational stroke of the two locking blocks, thereby reducing the number of required parts and simplifying the overall structure of the base 31.

[0076] Please refer to Figures 4 to 8. In some embodiments, the workpiece support 33 further includes a positioning and mating part 333, which is connected to the workpiece mounting part 332. The positioning and mating part 333 can rotate relative to the fixed axis 311 around the rotation axis as the workpiece mounting part 332 rotates.

[0077] The base 31 also includes two positioning support members 313. Each positioning support member 313 is fixedly installed on the base plate 312. Each positioning support member 313 is set on the rotation stroke of the positioning mating part 333 of the corresponding workpiece bracket 33. The positioning support member 313 is used to engage with the corresponding positioning mating part 333 when the workpiece bracket 33 is fully extended.

[0078] Understandably, the positioning and mating part 333 is connected to the workpiece mounting part 332 and can rotate with the rotation of the workpiece mounting part 332. The positioning support member 313 on the base 31 cooperates with the positioning and mating part 333 of the workpiece bracket 33. When the workpiece bracket 33 is fully extended, the positioning support member 313 achieves stable support for the workpiece bracket 33 through its cooperation with the positioning and mating part 333. The positioning support member 313 provides effective support when the workpiece bracket 33 is fully extended, preventing the workpiece bracket 33 from falling or tilting.

[0079] In some embodiments, the positioning mating part 333 is a protrusion provided on the edge of the workpiece mounting part 332 and extending outward. The positioning support 313 is installed on the edge of the base plate 312. The positioning support 313 is provided with a positioning groove 3131. When the workpiece bracket 33 is fully extended, the protrusion aligns with the positioning groove 3131 of the positioning support 313 and is received in the positioning groove 3131. At the same time, the positioning support 313 also abuts against the workpiece mounting part 332 to assist in supporting the workpiece mounting part 332.

[0080] In some embodiments, the workpiece support 33 is generally L-shaped, and two workpiece supports 33 are symmetrically arranged. The connecting portion 331 and the workpiece mounting portion 332 are two vertical parts of the L-shaped structure, so that when the two workpiece supports 33 are unfolded, the workpiece mounting portions 332 can be aligned and merged together. The workpiece support 33 is a plate, and the connecting portion 331, the workpiece mounting portion 332, and the positioning mating portion 333 are integrally formed. The workpiece mounting portion 332 is generally rectangular. Exemplarily, the workpiece mounting portion 332 is provided with a mounting groove for mounting the crossbeam unit. When the two workpiece supports 33 are unfolded to both sides, the mounting grooves of the two workpiece supports 33 are aligned with each other in the length direction, so that the crossbeam units on the two workpiece supports 33 are aligned with each other in the length direction when the crossbeam units are installed. The portion of the connecting portion 331 away from the workpiece mounting portion 332 is generally arc-shaped to ensure stability when rotating around the fixed axis 311. In one embodiment, a gasket can also be provided between the connecting portion 331 and the base plate 312 to reduce the friction between the connecting portion 331 and the base plate 312.

[0081] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2. In a second aspect, embodiments of this application also provide a folding crossbeam 100, which is applied to components or devices that require crossbeams, for example, specifically to automotive calibration devices.

[0082] In some embodiments, the folding beam 100 includes a first beam unit 10, a second beam unit 20, and the aforementioned folding hinge 30. The first beam unit 10 is mounted on one of the two workpiece supports 33, and the second beam unit 20 is mounted on the other. The folding hinge 30 enables the first beam unit 10 and the second beam unit 20 to approach each other and align themselves in the longitudinal direction when the two workpiece supports 33 are unfolded to the sides, and to fold and close together when the two workpiece supports 33 are retracted upwards together.

[0083] Understandably, the folding beam 100 consists of a first beam unit 10, a second beam unit 20, and a folding hinge 30. The folding hinge 30 allows the two beam units to approach and align when the workpiece support 33 is unfolded, and folds the beam units together when the workpiece support 33 is retracted, forming a compact structure. The folding hinge 30 enables the beam units to fold tightly, significantly reducing storage and transportation space requirements. When the folding beam 100 is unfolded, the beam units can be stably aligned, ensuring consistent height of the calibration products mounted on the folding beam 100.

[0084] Please refer to Figures 1 and 9 together. In a third aspect, embodiments of this application provide a calibration device, including a base, a main frame, and a folding crossbeam as described in the above embodiments. The main frame is vertically disposed on the base, and the folding crossbeam is mounted on the main frame.

[0085] Understandably, the calibration equipment 1000 is fixed to the ground via the base 200, and the main frame 300 is vertically connected to the base 200, forming a stable support structure. The folding crossbeam 100 is installed on the main frame 300 via bolts or a quick-release mechanism, and the base 31 of its folding hinge 30 mates with the mounting surface of the main frame 300. When the calibration equipment 1000 is in operation, the operator applies an external force in the unfolding direction to the workpiece support 33. The damping component 322 overcomes frictional resistance and drives the rotating component 3212 to rotate. At the same time, the one-way bearing 321 locks in the unfolding direction, so that the first crossbeam unit 10 and the second crossbeam unit 20 are precisely aligned in the length direction, forming a continuous horizontal crossbeam, which can be used to install equipment such as calibration lasers, vision cameras, or calibration pattern boards. When the equipment needs to be stored, the operator pushes the workpiece support 33 upward, and the damping component 322 drives the one-way bearing 321 to rotate freely in the retracting direction, so that the crossbeam units fold upward synchronously to a vertical state.

[0086] In a fourth aspect, this application also provides a calibration system, which includes the calibration device 1000 and a diagnostic instrument as described in the above embodiments, and the diagnostic instrument is communicatively connected to the calibration device 1000.

[0087] The diagnostic tool can be a flat-panel diagnostic tool for easy portability and transport. Optionally, a vision camera is mounted on the crossbeam of the calibration device 1000. The vision camera is communicatively connected to the diagnostic tool, which can be used to receive vehicle image data captured by the vision camera.

[0088] Optionally, the calibration system may also include calibration elements such as targets, mirrors, and lasers, which can be mounted on the crossbeam.

[0089] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; under the concept of the present invention, the technical features of the above embodiments or different embodiments can also be combined, the steps can be implemented in any order, and there are many other variations of different aspects of the present invention as described above, which are not provided in detail for the sake of brevity; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. A folding hinge, characterized in that, The system includes a base, two hinge units, and two workpiece supports. The base includes two fixed shafts, and each hinge unit is mounted on a corresponding fixed shaft. Each workpiece support is connected to a corresponding hinge unit. The two hinge units can rotate relative to each other to allow the two workpiece supports to retract upwards and expand to both sides. Each hinge unit includes: A one-way bearing, comprising a fixed member and a rotating member, wherein the fixed member is connected to a fixed shaft, and the rotating member is connected to the fixed member, the rotating member being capable of rotating about a rotation axis relative to the fixed shaft in a retracting direction, but with restricted rotation in an unfolding direction; and A damping assembly is provided, wherein the damping assembly is rotatably connected to the rotating member and fixedly connected to the workpiece support. When the damping assembly is driven by a force in the retracting direction, it can drive the rotating member to rotate relative to the fixed member about a rotation axis in the retracting direction. When the damping assembly is driven by a force in the unfolding direction, it can rotate relative to the rotating member about a rotation axis in the unfolding direction. When the damping assembly is not driven by either the retracting or unfolding direction, it can suspend the workpiece support on which the workpiece is mounted.

2. The folding hinge according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rotating component includes a bearing outer ring and a bearing sleeve. The bearing sleeve is fitted onto the bearing outer ring and is fixedly connected to it. The bearing sleeve includes a damping mating part, which is a rotating structure arranged circumferentially around the bearing sleeve. The damping mating part is damping-rotatingly connected to the damping assembly.

3. The folding hinge according to claim 2, characterized in that, The damping mating part is a first flange circumferentially disposed on the bearing sleeve, and the damping assembly includes: A friction plate, the friction plate being annular and sleeved on the fixed shaft, the friction plate including a first contact surface, the first contact surface dampingly contacting one end face of the first flange; and An end cap, the friction plate, and the first flange are stacked together. The first flange is disposed between the friction plate and the end cap. The friction plate, the end cap, and the workpiece support are fixedly connected together. The end cap covers the one-way bearing and the fixed shaft. The end cap includes a second contact surface, which dampens the contact with the other end face of the first flange.

4. The folding hinge according to claim 3, characterized in that, The base further includes a base plate, and each of the fixed shafts is perpendicularly connected to the base plate. The workpiece support includes: The connecting part has a clearance hole, and the connecting part is sleeved on the fixed shaft through the clearance hole. The base plate, the connecting part, the friction plate, the first flange, and the end cap are stacked in sequence, and the friction plate, the end cap, and the connecting part are fixedly connected together. The workpiece mounting part is connected to the connecting part and is used to mount the workpiece.

5. The folding hinge according to claim 4, characterized in that, The base plate is provided with a recessed groove and a through hole, the through hole connecting the recessed groove and the clearance hole respectively. The recessed groove is located at the bottom of the base plate, and the fixed shaft includes: The lower shaft includes a first shaft body and a second flange. The second flange is circumferentially arranged around the first shaft body and connected to the first shaft body. The second flange is received in the sink and abuts against the bottom surface of the sink. The second flange is fixedly connected to the base plate. The first shaft body passes through the through hole. The connecting part and the friction plate are sequentially sleeved on the first shaft body. The upper shaft includes a second shaft body and a third flange. The third flange is circumferentially arranged around the second shaft body and connected to the second shaft body. The first shaft body is coaxially arranged with the second shaft body and fixedly connected to the second shaft body. The one-way bearing is sleeved on the second shaft body and abuts against the third flange.

6. The folding hinge according to claim 4, characterized in that, The connecting part includes a limiting engagement part, which can rotate relative to the fixed shaft around the rotation axis following the end cover. The base plate includes a limiting part, which is disposed on the rotation stroke of the limiting part. The limiting part is used to engage with the limiting engagement part when the workpiece support is retracted upwards, so as to limit the workpiece support.

7. The folding hinge according to claim 4, characterized in that, The workpiece support also includes a positioning and mating part, which is connected to the workpiece mounting part and can rotate relative to the fixed axis around the rotation axis following the workpiece mounting part; The base also includes two positioning supports, each of which is fixedly installed on the base plate. Each positioning support is located on the rotational stroke of the positioning mating part of a corresponding workpiece bracket. The positioning support is used to engage with the corresponding positioning mating part when the workpiece bracket is fully extended.

8. A folding crossbeam, characterized in that, include: First horizontal beam unit; Second crossbeam unit; as well as According to any one of claims 1-7, the folding hinge is provided with the first crossbeam unit installed on one of the two workpiece supports and the second crossbeam unit installed on the other. The folding hinge is capable of bringing the first crossbeam unit and the second crossbeam unit closer to each other and aligning them in the longitudinal direction when the two workpiece supports are unfolded to the sides respectively, and of folding the first crossbeam unit and the second crossbeam unit together when the two workpiece supports are folded upwards together.

9. A calibration device, characterized in that, include: Base; The main frame is vertically mounted on the base; as well as The folding beam as described in claim 8 is mounted on the main frame.

10. A calibration system, characterized in that, include: The calibration device as described in claim 9; as well as A diagnostic instrument, which is communicatively connected to the calibration device.

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