Scooter Folding Lock Assembly Against Vibration-Induced Unlocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing scooter folding mechanisms are prone to unlocking due to vibration during riding, leading to safety concerns as the vertical tube can suddenly fold.
Innovation Solution
A folding device with a two-stage locking arrangement, comprising a first locking assembly that rotates between locking and releasing positions, and a second locking assembly that clamps or releases the first folding seat and locking assembly, along with a reset member for automatic locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single locking mechanism (four-link mechanism, lock nut, or hook) is used to fold and lock the vertical tube, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of the locking mechanism deteriorates due to loosening from vibration during riding
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is divided into two independent locking assemblies (first and second locking assemblies) that work together. Each assembly provides a separate locking action, so that even if one assembly loosens due to vibration, the other assembly maintains the locked state, thereby improving reliability without significantly increasing overall complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The design incorporates a reset member that automatically resets the locking assemblies to their locked positions after unlocking attempts. This preemptive measure ensures that any temporary disengagement caused by vibration is automatically corrected, cushioning against potential locking failures before they can compromise safety
2Ease of operation
If a simple locking mechanism is used, then the ease of operation is improved, but the safety deteriorates as the vertical tube may suddenly fold during riding
Solution Approach 1:
By implementing two separate locking assemblies instead of one, the system creates redundant safety protection. The first locking assembly provides primary locking, while the second locking assembly provides backup locking. This segmentation ensures that sudden folding is prevented even if one assembly fails, without making the operation significantly more complex
Solution Approach 2:
The reset member acts as a safety cushion by automatically resetting the locking assemblies to their locked positions if they become disengaged during riding. This preemptive reset function eliminates the safety risk of sudden folding while maintaining ease of operation, as the reset occurs automatically without requiring user intervention
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure discloses a folding device and a scooter having the folding device. The folding device includes: a first folding seat and a second folding seat arranged opposite to each other and rotatably coupled to each other, the first folding seat being located above the second folding seat; a first locking assembly rotatably coupled to the second folding seat, the first locking assembly being rotatable between a first position and a second position; a second locking assembly configured to clamp or release the first folding seat and the first locking assembly; and a reset member coupled to at least one of the first locking assembly and the second locking assembly.