Folding Tent Triangular Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing folding tent mechanisms are complex and require multiple persons for operation, with issues of locking alignment deviations and potential finger pinching hazards during use.
Innovation Solution
A folding tent design featuring a triangular positioning among a supporting rod, connecting rod, and ejector rod unit with a lateral locking mechanism, utilizing a sliding part and locking mechanism with a lock hook component, reset spring, and elastic bean part for smooth and reliable unfolding and folding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a hinged structure with central lock is used to simplify operation, then a single person can operate the tent, but locking alignment deviation occurs due to clearances among components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a guiding structure as an intermediary component between the locking mechanism and the telescopic leg. This guiding structure includes a guiding slot and guiding凸起 that work together to constrain the movement path of the locking block, ensuring accurate locking alignment even when component clearances exist. The intermediary guiding structure mediates the alignment between parts that would otherwise be misaligned due to manufacturing tolerances and wear.
2Reliability
If a complex sliding block locking mechanism is used, then the tent can be locked reliably, but the structure becomes complex and requires multiple persons for operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the locking mechanism into distinct functional modules: a locking block for engagement, a spring-loaded ejector for automatic retraction, and a guiding structure for alignment. Each module performs a specific function, and together they achieve reliable locking with simpler overall structure. The locking block engages with the guiding slot to provide stable locking, while the ejector mechanism separately handles the retraction function.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-operating through spring-loaded ejectors that automatically retract the locking blocks when the telescopic legs are extended or retracted. The spring force automatically pushes the locking blocks out of engagement slots, eliminating the need for manual operation and enabling single-person use while maintaining reliable locking.
3Ease of operation
If a central lock with hinged components is used, then operation is simplified, but finger pinching hazards occur due to clearances during locking
Solution Approach 1:
The guiding structure acts as an intermediary that mediates the interaction between the locking block and the telescopic leg. The guiding slot provides a constrained path that prevents sudden movements, and the guiding凸起 ensures gradual engagement. This intermediary structure eliminates the clearance gaps that cause finger pinching hazards while maintaining the simplicity of single-person operation.
4Manufacturing precision
If manual adjustment of central rod position is required, then locking alignment can be achieved, but the operation becomes tedious and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The guiding structure with its slot and凸起 features provides self-alignment functionality. When the telescopic leg moves, the locking block automatically follows the guiding path, ensuring proper alignment without requiring manual adjustment. The structure serves itself by using the movement of the telescopic leg to automatically position the locking components correctly.
Solution Approach 2:
The guiding structure is pre-configured with the correct geometry and orientation before assembly. The guiding slot and凸起 are positioned to automatically guide the locking block into the correct alignment position as the telescopic leg extends or retracts. This preliminary configuration eliminates the need for real-time manual adjustment during operation.
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
Enables rapid and convenient operation of the folding tent by a single person, ensuring stability and safety through optimized locking mechanisms and reduced risk of finger injuries.
Implementation Method 1
the sliding block locking mechanism comprises a spring and a spherical part
Implementation Method 2
a lock hook component, a lock pin component and a reset spring; the lock pin component is used to drive the lock hook component to achieve position change, the reset spring is used to reset the lock hook component
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a folding tent capable of being unfolded and folded rapidly, comprising leg tubes and an tent ejector rod part, wherein one end of the tent ejector rod part is hinged to an upper connecting disk, the other end of the tent ejector rod part is hinged to an upper portion of the leg tube; the tent ejector rod part comprises at least two ejector rod units hinged to each other, each ejector rod unit hinged to the upper connecting disk is provided with a supporting rod in a fitting manner, and the other end of the supporting rod is hinged to a lower connecting disk; a connecting rod is further arranged between at least one supporting rod and the ejector rod unit installed on the supporting rod in a fitting manner, and one end of the connecting rod is used to be in hinge fit with the ejector rod unit. A hinge joint is located at a position between a hinge joint of the supporting rod and the ejector rod unit and the upper connecting disk, and the other end of the connecting rod is in hinge fit with a sliding part; the sliding part slides along the supporting rod, and the sliding part is locked by a locking mechanism when the folding tent is fully unfolded.