Folding Tent Central Locking Structure with Drive Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing central locking structures in folding tents are time-consuming and labor-intensive to assemble and disassemble, with complex structures and a high risk of losing separable parts.
Innovation Solution
A central locking structure comprising a first pole hub, a second pole hub, a connecting rod, a locking assembly, and a drive assembly, where the connecting rod is inserted into a locking chamber with rollers and locking teeth, and a drive assembly drives the locking assembly to lock or unlock the rod, simplifying assembly and disassembly and preventing part loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If bolts are used to lock and fixedly connect the first pole hub and the second pole hub, then the connection strength is improved, but the assembly and disassembly time increases and the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into a locking assembly with multiple locking teeth that can independently engage with corresponding features on the pole hubs. This segmentation allows for a more compact design that maintains connection strength while reducing the time required for assembly and disassembly, as the segmented locking teeth can engage simultaneously rather than requiring sequential bolt tightening
Solution Approach 2:
The locking assembly is designed to be dynamically operable, transitioning between locked and unlocked states through a single rotational motion of the locking component. This dynamic mechanism replaces the static bolt system, enabling rapid assembly and disassembly while maintaining secure connection through the engaged locking teeth that provide substantial connection strength
2Strength
If bolts are used to lock and fixedly connect the first pole hub and the second pole hub, then the connection strength is improved, but the device complexity increases and parts are prone to loss
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple locking functions are merged into a single integrated locking assembly that contains multiple locking teeth. This merging eliminates the need for separate bolts and washers for each connection point, reducing the total number of separable parts while maintaining strong connections through the multi-tooth engagement system. The integrated design prevents part loss by combining all essential locking elements into one component
Solution Approach 2:
The locking assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides connection strength through engaged locking teeth, enables rapid assembly and disassembly through rotational operation, and prevents part loss through integration. This multi-functional design replaces the bolt system which required separate components for each function, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining connection integrity
3Reliability
If a locking assembly with multiple locking teeth is used, then the connection reliability is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking teeth are nested within the locking assembly in a compact arrangement, with each locking tooth integrated into the rotational body of the assembly. This nesting allows for reliable multi-point engagement while simplifying manufacturing, as the nested structure can be produced as a single molded or machined component rather than requiring separate fabrication and assembly of multiple independent locking elements
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution results in a simpler, faster, and more efficient assembly and disassembly process with improved structural integrity and reduced risk of part loss, as the locking mechanism securely fixes the connecting rod without the need for multiple separable parts.
Implementation Method 1
The sliding sleeve is elastically connected to the lower limiting piece through the spring member
Data Source
AI summary
A central locking structure of a folding tent includes a first pole hub, a second pole hub, a connecting rod, a locking assembly, and a drive assembly. The bottom of the first pole hub is provided with the connecting rod, and the top of the second pole hub is provided with an insertion port into which a lower end of the connecting rod is inserted. The second pole hub is provided with a locking chamber communicating with the insertion port. The locking assembly is provided in the locking chamber and is configured to fix the lower end of the connecting rod. The drive assembly is configured to drive the locking assembly to lock or unlock the lower end of the connecting rod. The bottom of the first pole hub is provided with the connecting rod.