U.S. patent application number 12/274272 was filed with the patent office on 2009-06-25 for stroller with multiple configurations.
Invention is credited to Daniel Lee BIZZELL, Kevin J. Dahlquist, Ian D. Kovacevich, Karen Jacy Madigan, Lynn Furton McIntyre, Thomas James Philpott.
Application Number | 20090160162 12/274272 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40787688 |
Filed Date | 2009-06-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090160162 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
BIZZELL; Daniel Lee ; et
al. |
June 25, 2009 |
STROLLER WITH MULTIPLE CONFIGURATIONS
Abstract
A stroller for carrying a child in a plurality of configurations
includes a frame having a frame base defining a forward-facing
direction and a rearward-facing direction and at least two side
members attached at opposite sides of the frame base. The stroller
further includes a plurality of wheels connected to the frame and a
seat arranged generally above a platform attached to the frame and
configured for selective rotation, relative to the frame base,
about an axis generally perpendicular to the platform. The seat may
be selectively rotated between a forward-facing position and a
rearward-facing position. The seat may further be adapted to be
selectively reconfigurable between a seated configuration and a
standing configuration.
Inventors: |
BIZZELL; Daniel Lee;
(Davidson, NC) ; Kovacevich; Ian D.; (Charlotte,
NC) ; Philpott; Thomas James; (Charlotte, NC)
; Dahlquist; Kevin J.; (Charlotte, NC) ; McIntyre;
Lynn Furton; (Huntersville, NC) ; Madigan; Karen
Jacy; (Huntersville, NC) |
Correspondence
Address: |
TILLMAN WRIGHT, PLLC
P.O. BOX 473909
CHARLOTTE
NC
28247
US
|
Family ID: |
40787688 |
Appl. No.: |
12/274272 |
Filed: |
November 19, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60989111 |
Nov 19, 2007 |
|
|
|
61025717 |
Feb 1, 2008 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
280/642 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B62B 7/06 20130101; B62B
7/123 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
280/642 |
International
Class: |
B62B 7/00 20060101
B62B007/00 |
Claims
1. A stroller for carrying a child in a plurality of
configurations, comprising: a) a frame including a frame base
defining a forward-facing direction and a rearward-facing direction
and at least two side members attached at opposite sides of the
frame base; b) a plurality of wheels connected to the frame; and c)
a seat, arranged generally above a platform attached to the frame
and configured for selective rotation, relative to the frame base,
about an axis, generally perpendicular to the platform, between a
forward-facing position and a rearward-facing position, wherein the
seat is adapted to be selectively reconfigurable between a seated
configuration and a standing configuration.
2. The stroller of claim 1, wherein the seat is carried by a
central support member at a crossbar and includes a base portion
and a back portion adjustable relative to one another for selective
reconfiguration of the seat, the central support member being
supported at a lower end thereof by the frame base.
3. The stroller of claim 2, wherein, in the seated configuration,
the base portion is arranged in generally parallel relationship
with the platform and the back portion is arranged to be generally
upright.
4. The stroller of claim 2, wherein, in the standing configuration,
the base portion is pivoted downward to permit a child to stand on
an upper surface of the platform.
5. The stroller of claim 2, wherein the seat is further adapted to
be selectively reconfigurable to a reclined position, whereby the
base portion is arranged in a generally parallel relationship with
the platform and the back portion is reclined.
6. The stroller of claim 2, further comprising a tray bar attached
at connection zones located at opposite ends of the crossbar
rotatable with the seat.
7. The stroller of claim 6, wherein the tray bar is configured for
telescoping adjustment outwardly and inwardly, relative to the
seat, to accommodate children of varying sizes.
8. The stroller of claim 6, wherein the tray bar is adapted to
receive a child amusement device by attachment thereto.
9. The stroller of claim 2, wherein the seat further includes a
lower leg portion attachable at an end of the base portion and
outwardly pivotable, relative to the base portion, to provide a
child with lower leg support.
10. The stroller of claim 1, further comprising a shock absorber
for dampening motion of the seat relative to the platform.
11. The stroller of claim 1, wherein an upper surface of the
platform is textured to prevent a child standing thereon from
slipping.
12. A stroller for carrying a child in a plurality of
configurations, comprising: a) a frame including a frame base
defining forward and rearward portions and at least two side
members attached at opposite sides of the frame base; b) a
plurality of wheels connected to the frame; c) a lower support
assembly supported by the frame base, the lower support assembly
including a central support member and a platform; and d) a seat
carried by the central support member generally above the platform
at a crossbar, the seat including a base portion and a back portion
and configured for selective rotation, relative to the frame base,
about an axis of rotation generally perpendicular to an upper
surface of the platform, wherein the seat is adapted to be
selectively reconfigurable between a seated configuration and a
standing configuration.
13. The stroller of claim 12, wherein, in the seated configuration,
the base portion is arranged in generally parallel relationship
with the platform and the back portion is arranged to be generally
upright.
14. The stroller of claim 12, wherein, in the standing
configuration, the base portion is pivoted downward to permit a
child to stand on the upper surface of the platform.
15. The stroller of claim 12, wherein the seat is further adapted
to be selectively reconfigurable to a reclined position, whereby
the base portion is arranged in a generally parallel relationship
with the platform and the back portion is reclined.
16. A stroller for carrying a child in a plurality of
configurations, comprising: a) a frame including a frame base
defining forward and rearward portions and at least two side
members attached at opposite sides of the frame base; b) a
plurality of wheels connected to the frame; c) a seat arranged
generally above a platform attached to the frame and configured for
selective rotation, relative to the frame base, about an axis
generally perpendicular to the platform, wherein the seat is
adapted to be selectively reconfigurable between a seated
configuration and a standing configuration; and d) a shock absorber
for dampening motion of the seat relative to the platform.
17. The stroller of claim 16, wherein the seat is carried by a
central support member at a crossbar and includes a base portion
and a back portion adjustable relative to one another for selective
reconfiguration of the seat, the central support member being
supported at a lower end thereof by the frame base.
18. The stroller of claim 17, wherein, in the seated configuration,
the base portion is arranged in generally parallel relationship
with the platform and the back portion is arranged to be generally
upright.
19. The stroller of claim 17, wherein, in the standing
configuration, the base portion is pivoted downward to permit a
child to stand on an upper surface of the platform.
20. The stroller of claim 17, wherein the seat is further adapted
to be selectively reconfigurable to a reclined position, whereby
the base portion is arranged in a generally parallel relationship
with the platform and the back portion is reclined.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] The present application is a U.S. nonprovisional patent
application of, and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. .sctn. 119(e)
to, U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/989,111, filed
Nov. 19, 2007, and U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No.
61/025,717, filed Feb. 1, 2008, each of which is incorporated by
reference herein. The present application also incorporates herein
by reference U.S. Pat. No. 7,234,722 to Madigan et al., issued Jun.
26, 2007.
COPYRIGHT STATEMENT
[0002] All of the material in this patent document is subject to
copyright protection under the copyright laws of the United States
and other countries. The copyright owner has no objection to the
facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the
patent disclosure, as it appears in official governmental records
but, otherwise, all other copyright rights whatsoever are
reserved.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The present invention generally relates to an improved child
stroller, and particularly to an improved child stroller for
supporting a child in any of a seated, reclined, or standing
position, while simultaneously providing the ability to rotate the
child to face any preferred direction.
[0004] Child strollers have consistently provided valuable
assistance to mobile families with young children. Over the years,
numerous types of strollers have been developed to meet various
needs. Known strollers are collapsible to permit the stroller to be
packed and carried on family trips. Other known strollers provide
amusements for a child to play with while situated in the stroller.
Still other known strollers provide a child with the ability to
stand up or recline within the stroller. Further still, other known
strollers provide a child with the ability to rotate within the
stroller seat to face in any of multiple directions. However,
without these various improvements collected within a single
stroller, a family is left to choose from among one or more of
these various features when selecting a stroller for purchase.
[0005] Accordingly a need exists for improvement in the field of
child strollers, whereby a stroller with multiple configurations is
able to meet the various needs and expectations of a family with
young children. This, and other needs, is addressed by one or more
aspects of the present invention.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The present invention includes many aspects and features.
Moreover, while many aspects and features relate to, and are
described in, the context of child strollers, the present invention
is not limited to use only in child strollers, as will become
apparent from the following summaries and detailed descriptions of
aspects, features, and one or more embodiments of the present
invention.
[0007] Accordingly, one aspect of the present invention relates to
a stroller for carrying a child in a plurality of configurations.
An exemplary such stroller includes a frame having a frame base
defining a forward-facing direction and a rearward-facing direction
and at least two side members attached at opposite sides of the
frame base; a plurality of wheels connected to the frame; and a
seat, arranged generally above a platform attached to the frame and
configured for selective rotation, relative to the frame base,
about an axis, generally perpendicular to the platform, between a
forward-facing position and a rearward-facing position.
Furthermore, in this aspect of the invention, the seat is adapted
to be selectively reconfigurable between a seated configuration and
a standing configuration.
[0008] In variations of this aspect, the seat may be carried by a
central support member at a crossbar and may include a base portion
and a back portion adjustable relative to one another for selective
reconfiguration of the seat, wherein the central support member is
supported at a lower end thereof by the frame base. Furthermore, in
the seated configuration, the base portion may be arranged in
generally parallel relationship with the platform and the back
portion may be arranged to be generally upright; in the standing
configuration, the base portion may be pivoted downward to permit a
child to stand on an upper surface of the platform; and the seat
may be further adapted to be selectively reconfigurable to a
reclined position, whereby the base portion may be arranged in a
generally parallel relationship with the platform and the back
portion may be reclined.
[0009] In additional variations of this aspect, the stroller may
further comprise a tray bar attached at connection zones located at
opposite ends of the crossbar and rotatable with the seat; the tray
bar may be configured for telescoping adjustment outwardly and
inwardly, relative to the seat, to accommodate children of varying
sizes; the tray bar may be adapted to receive a child amusement
device by attachment thereto; the central support member may have a
generally arcuate shape so as to displace at least a portion of the
central support member away from the seat; the seat may further
include a lower leg portion attachable at an end of the base
portion and outwardly pivotable, relative to the base portion, to
provide a child with lower leg support; the stroller may further
comprise a footbar to actuate collapse of the frame; the stroller
may further comprise a shock absorber for dampening motion of the
seat relative to the platform; an upper surface of the platform may
be textured to prevent a child standing thereon from slipping; the
stroller may further comprise wheel brakes at one or more of the
plurality of wheels; each of the at least two side members may
include a hinge in the respective midsection thereof to permit
pivotable movement of upper portions of the side members, wherein
such pivotable movement of the upper portions of the side members
permits selective adjustment of the height of a handle attached at
the upper portions of the side members; the stroller may further
comprise a canopy carried by and rotatable with the seat and
pivotable between extendable and retractable positions; and the
stroller may further comprise a latch mechanism to prevent the seat
from free rotation relative to the frame base.
[0010] Another aspect of the invention relates to a stroller for
carrying a child in a plurality of configurations including a frame
having a frame base defining forward and rearward portions and at
least two side members attached at opposite sides of the frame
base; a plurality of wheels connected to the frame; a lower support
assembly supported by the frame base, the lower support assembly
having a central support member and a platform; and a seat carried
by the central support member generally above the platform at a
crossbar. Furthermore, in this aspect of the invention, the seat
has a base portion and a back portion and is configured for
selective rotation, relative to the frame base, about an axis of
rotation generally perpendicular to an upper surface of the
platform. Still yet in this aspect, the seat is adapted to be
selectively reconfigurable between a seated configuration and a
standing configuration.
[0011] In variations of this aspect, the stroller may further
comprise a footbar to actuate collapse of the frame; the stroller
may further comprise a shock absorber for dampening motion of the
seat relative to the platform; the stroller may further comprise a
tray bar attached at connection zones located at opposite ends of
the crossbar and rotatable with the seat; the tray bar may be
configured for telescoping adjustment outwardly and inwardly,
relative to the seat, to accommodate children of varying sizes; the
tray bar may be adapted to receive a child amusement device by
attachment thereto; the upper surface of the platform may be
textured to prevent a child standing thereon from slipping; the
stroller may further comprise wheel brakes at one or more of the
plurality of wheels; the central support member may have a
generally arcuate shape so as to displace at least a portion of the
central support member away from the seat; each of the at least two
side members may include a hinge in the respective midsection
thereof to permit pivotable movement of upper portions of the side
members, wherein such pivotable movement of the upper portions of
the side members permits selective adjustment of the height of a
handle attached at the upper portions of the side members; the
stroller may further comprise a canopy carried by and rotatable
with the seat and pivotable between extendable and retractable
positions; the seat may further include a lower leg portion
attachable at an end of the base portion and outwardly pivotable
relative to the base portion, to provide a child with lower leg
support; the stroller may further comprise a latch mechanism to
prevent the seat from free rotation relative to the frame base; and
the seat may be configured for selective rotation between a
forward-facing position and a rearward-facing position.
Furthermore, in the seated configuration, the base portion may be
arranged in generally parallel relationship with the platform and
the back portion may be arranged to be generally upright; in the
standing configuration, the base portion may be pivoted downward to
permit a child to stand on the upper surface of the platform; and
the seat may be further adapted to be selectively reconfigurable to
a reclined position, whereby the base portion may be arranged in a
generally parallel relationship with the platform and the back
portion may be reclined.
[0012] Another aspect of the invention relates to a stroller for
carrying a child in a plurality of configurations including a frame
having a frame base defining forward and rearward portions and at
least two side members attached at opposite sides of the frame
base; a plurality of wheels connected to the frame; a seat arranged
generally above a platform attached to the frame and configured for
selective rotation, relative to the frame base, about an axis
generally perpendicular to the platform; and a shock absorber for
dampening motion of the seat relative to the platform. Furthermore,
in this aspect of the invention, the seat is adapted to be
selectively reconfigurable between a seated configuration and a
standing configuration.
[0013] In variations of this aspect, the seat may be carried by a
central support member at a crossbar and may include a base portion
and a back portion adjustable relative to one another for selective
reconfiguration of the seat, the central support member being
supported at a lower end thereof by the frame base. Furthermore, in
the seated configuration, the base portion may be arranged in
generally parallel relationship with the platform and the back
portion may be arranged to be generally upright; in the standing
configuration, the base portion may be pivoted downward to permit a
child to stand on an upper surface of the platform; and the seat
may be further adapted to be selectively reconfigurable to a
reclined position, whereby the base portion may be arranged in a
generally parallel relationship with the platform and the back
portion may be reclined.
[0014] In additional variations of this aspect, the stroller may
further comprise a tray bar attached at connection zones located at
opposite ends of the crossbar and rotatable with the seat; the tray
bar may be configured for telescoping adjustment outwardly and
inwardly, relative to the seat, to accommodate children of varying
sizes; the tray bar may be adapted to receive a child amusement
device by attachment thereto; the central support member may have a
generally arcuate shape so as to displace at least a portion of the
central support member away from the seat; the seat may further
include a lower leg portion attachable at an end of the base
portion and outwardly pivotable relative to the base portion, to
provide a child with lower leg support; the stroller may further
comprise a footbar to actuate collapse of the frame; an upper
surface of the platform may be textured to prevent a child standing
thereon from slipping; the stroller may further comprise wheel
brakes at one or more of the plurality of wheels; each of the at
least two side members may include a hinge in the respective
midsection thereof to permit pivotable movement of upper portions
of the side members, wherein such pivotable movement of the upper
portions of the side members permits selective adjustment of the
height of a handle attached at the upper portions of the side
members; the stroller may further comprise a canopy carried by and
rotatable with the seat and pivotable between extendable and
retractable positions; the stroller may further comprise a latch
mechanism to prevent the seat from free rotation relative to the
frame base; and the seat may be configured for selective rotation
between a forward-facing position and a rearward-facing
position.
[0015] Still yet another aspect of the invention relates to a
stroller including a frame having a frame base and at least two
side members, the side members attached at opposite sides of the
frame base; a plurality of wheels connected to the frame; a
platform, supported by the frame, having a center; a central
support having a lower end, rotatably mounted on the platform at
the center thereof, and an upper end, the upper end being laterally
displaced from the center of the platform; and a seat, having a
seat base portion and a seat back portion, carried by the central
support, the seat back portion being rotatable relative to the seat
base portion.
[0016] In variations of this aspect, the platform may be connected
to the frame at a location substantially at the center of the
platform; the platform may be disc-shaped; the central support may
be arcuate in shape; the central support may be L-shaped such that
a lower end of the "L" is rotatably mounted on the platform and
such that the seat is attached to an upper end of the "L;" and the
seat may be selectively positionable to permit support of a child
in standing, sitting and reclining positions.
[0017] In addition to the aforementioned aspects and features of
the present invention, it should be noted that the present
invention further encompasses the various possible combinations and
subcombinations of such aspects and features.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] One or more preferred embodiments of the present invention
now will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying
drawings, wherein the same elements are referred to with the same
reference numerals (except that in at least some cases, elements
carrying out the same or similar functions but having a different
form factor are identified by the same reference numeral), and
wherein,
[0019] FIGS. 1A and 1B are each a front perspective view of a first
embodiment of a stroller in accordance with one or more aspects of
the present invention;
[0020] FIGS. 2A and 2B are each a rear perspective view of the
stroller depicted in FIGS. 1A and 1B;
[0021] FIGS. 3A and 3B are each a left elevation view of the
stroller depicted in FIGS. 1A and 1B;
[0022] FIGS. 4A and 4B are each a front elevation view of the
stroller depicted in FIGS. 1A and 1B;
[0023] FIG. 5 is a right side elevational view of a second
embodiment of a stroller in accordance with one or more aspects of
the present invention, shown with the seat arranged in a standing
configuration;
[0024] FIG. 6 is a right side elevational view of the stroller
depicted in FIG. 5, shown with the seat arranged in a seated
configuration;
[0025] FIG. 7 is a right side elevational view of the stroller
depicted in FIG. 5, shown with the seat arranged in the standing
configuration and rotated 180 degrees;
[0026] FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of the stroller depicted
in FIG. 5, shown with the seat in the standing configuration and
rotated 180 degrees;
[0027] FIG. 9 is a rear perspective view of the stroller depicted
in FIG. 5, shown with the seat in the standing configuration and
rotated 180 degrees;
[0028] FIG. 10 is a rear perspective partial cutaway view of a
third embodiment of a stroller in accordance with one or more
aspects of the present invention;
[0029] FIG. 11 is a side partial cutaway view of the stroller
depicted in FIG. 10, shown with the seat in the seated
configuration;
[0030] FIG. 12 is a side partial cutaway view of the stroller
depicted in FIG. 10, shown with the seat in a reclined
configuration;
[0031] FIGS. 13A and 13B, FIGS. 14A and 14B, FIGS. 15A and 15B and
FIGS. 16A and 16B are right side elevational views of the stroller
depicted in FIG. 5, illustrating a method of collapsing the
stroller;
[0032] FIGS. 17-19 is are photographic illustrations of a fourth
embodiment of a stroller in accordance with one or more aspects of
the present invention;
[0033] FIG. 20 is a front perspective view of a fifth embodiment of
a stroller in accordance with one or more aspects of the present
invention, shown with the seat in a seated configuration and the
canopy extended;
[0034] FIG. 21 is a side perspective view of the stroller depicted
in FIG. 20, shown with the seat in the seated configuration and the
canopy extended;
[0035] FIG. 22 is a side perspective view of the stroller depicted
in FIG. 20, shown with the seat in the seated configuration and the
canopy partially retracted;
[0036] FIG. 23 is a right side perspective view of the stroller
depicted in FIG. 20, shown with the seat in the seated
configuration, the canopy partially retracted, and the seat rotated
180 degrees;
[0037] FIG. 24 is a right side view of a sixth embodiment of a
stroller in accordance with one or more aspects of the present
invention, shown with the seat in a seated configuration;
[0038] FIG. 25 is a right side view of the stroller depicted in
FIG. 24, shown with the seat in a standing configuration;
[0039] FIG. 26 is a front perspective view of the stroller depicted
in FIG. 25;
[0040] FIG. 27 is a rear perspective view of the stroller depicted
in FIG. 24;
[0041] FIGS. 28A and 28B are each a front elevational view of the
stroller depicted in FIG. 5;
[0042] FIGS. 29A and 29B are each a left side cross-sectional view
of the stroller depicted in FIG. 28A, taken along line 29;
[0043] FIGS. 30A and 30B are each a left side cross-sectional view
of the stroller depicted in FIG. 28A, taken along line 30;
[0044] FIGS. 31A and 31B are each a left side cross-sectional view
of the stroller depicted in FIG. 28A, taken along line 31;
[0045] FIGS. 32A and 32B are each a left side cross-sectional view
of the stroller depicted in FIG. 28A, taken along line 32;
[0046] FIGS. 33A and 33B are each a left side cross-sectional view
of the stroller depicted in FIG. 28A, taken along line 33; and
[0047] FIGS. 34 and 35 are engineering drawings, illustrating
components in the form of a parts call-out listing for a stroller
in accordance with one or more aspects of the present
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0048] As a preliminary matter, it will readily be understood by
one having ordinary skill in the relevant art ("Ordinary Artisan")
that the present invention has broad utility and application.
Furthermore, any embodiment discussed and identified as being
"preferred" is considered to be part of a best mode contemplated
for carrying out the present invention. Other embodiments also may
be discussed for additional illustrative purposes in providing a
full and enabling disclosure of the present invention. Moreover,
many embodiments, such as adaptations, variations, modifications,
and equivalent arrangements, will be implicitly disclosed by the
embodiments described herein and fall within the scope of the
present invention.
[0049] Accordingly, while the present invention is described herein
in detail in relation to one or more embodiments, it is to be
understood that this disclosure is illustrative and exemplary of
the present invention, and is made merely for the purposes of
providing a full and enabling disclosure of the present invention.
The detailed disclosure herein of one or more embodiments is not
intended, nor is to be construed, to limit the scope of patent
protection afforded the present invention, which scope is to be
defined by the claims and the equivalents thereof. It is not
intended that the scope of patent protection afforded the present
invention be defined by reading into any claim a limitation found
herein that does not explicitly appear in the claim itself.
[0050] Thus, for example, any sequence(s) and/or temporal order of
steps of various processes or methods that are described herein are
illustrative and not restrictive. Accordingly, it should be
understood that, although steps of various processes or methods may
be shown and described as being in a sequence or temporal order,
the steps of any such processes or methods are not limited to being
carried out in any particular sequence or order, absent an
indication otherwise. Indeed, the steps in such processes or
methods generally may be carried out in various different sequences
and orders while still falling within the scope of the present
invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of patent
protection afforded the present invention is to be defined by the
appended claims rather than the description set forth herein.
[0051] Additionally, it is important to note that each term used
herein refers to that which the Ordinary Artisan would understand
such term to mean based on the contextual use of such term herein.
To the extent that the meaning of a term used herein--as understood
by the Ordinary Artisan based on the contextual use of such
term--differs in any way from any particular dictionary definition
of such term, it is intended that the meaning of the term as
understood by the Ordinary Artisan should prevail.
[0052] Furthermore, it is important to note that, as used herein,
"a" and "an" each generally denotes "at least one," but does not
exclude a plurality unless the contextual use dictates otherwise.
Thus, reference to "a picnic basket having an apple" describes "a
picnic basket having at least one apple" as well as "a picnic
basket having apples." In contrast, reference to "a picnic basket
having a single apple" describes "a picnic basket having only one
apple."
[0053] When used herein to join a list of items, "or" denotes "at
least one of the items," but does not exclude a plurality of items
of the list. Thus, reference to "a picnic basket having cheese or
crackers" describes "a picnic basket having cheese without
crackers", "a picnic basket having crackers without cheese", and "a
picnic basket having both cheese and crackers." Finally, when used
herein to join a list of items, "and" denotes "all of the items of
the list." Thus, reference to "a picnic basket having cheese and
crackers" describes "a picnic basket having cheese, wherein the
picnic basket further has crackers," as well as describes "a picnic
basket having crackers, wherein the picnic basket further has
cheese."
[0054] Referring now to the drawings, one or more preferred
embodiments of the present invention are next described. The
following description of one or more preferred embodiments is
merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the
invention, its implementations, or uses.
[0055] Turning now to FIGS. 1-4, an embodiment of a stroller 10 in
accordance with one or more aspects of the present invention is
shown. The stroller 10 generally includes a frame 12 with a
plurality of wheels 14,15 attached thereto to support the frame 12
upon a surface. The wheels 14,15 permit the stroller 10 to be
rolled, whether pushed or pulled, with relative ease. The frame 12
is comprised of a frame base 20 and two side members 22 located at
opposing sides of the frame 12. Located at the center of the
stroller 10 is a lower support assembly 38, which is preferably
attached to and supported by the frame base 20. The lower support
assembly 38 includes a central support 16 and a platform 18 that is
arranged to be in generally parallel relationship to the surface on
which the wheels 14,15 of the stroller 10 are supported. The
central support 16 supports a seat 24 whose frame includes a seat
base portion 26 and a seat back portion 28. Each of these
components will be discussed in greater detail below in connection
with the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-4 as well other embodiments
shown in subsequent drawings.
[0056] The components that comprise the frame 12 are preferably
composed of a lightweight yet durable material, such as aluminum.
The arrangement of the frame base 20 and side members 22 of the
frame 12 may vary in accordance with various preferred designs. In
the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1-4, the frame base 20 includes
angled base portions 32 for supporting the lower support assembly
38 of the stroller 10 as well as two upright portions 34 extending
generally upright to interconnect the frame base 20 with the two
side members 22. As can be seen for example in FIGS. 1-4, the
angled base portions 32 are configured to curve underneath the
midsection of the stroller 10, thereby providing a means to support
the central support 16 in a generally central position relative to
the wheels 14,15 of the stroller 10. Rear wheels 14 of the stroller
10 are preferably attached at either end of the base portions 32 at
the points where the base portions 32 meet the two upright portions
34. Preferably, a rear crossbar 36 may be connected between the
rear wheels 14 to provide enhanced structure and greater stability
to the stroller 10.
[0057] As further shown in FIGS. 1-4, the side members 22 extend
from the front wheels 15 of the stroller 10 along opposite sides of
the seat 24, culminating at opposite ends thereof at a handle 30.
The side members 22 interconnect with the upright portions 34 of
the frame base 20 at respective points along the lengths thereof.
Preferably, the side members 22 interconnect with the frame base 20
at frame joints 40 that permit the stroller 10 to be collapsed, as
will be explained in greater detail below. Additionally, the side
members 22 may have hinges 42 in the midsections thereof to permit
the handle 30 to be pivoted back against the respective lengths of
the side members 22. The hinges 42 may also permit the handle 30 to
be pivoted downwardly or upwardly such that its height corresponds
proportionally to the height of the person pushing or pulling the
stroller 10. Further still, it will be appreciated that although
two front wheels 15 are shown, for example, in FIGS. 1-4, it is
also within the scope of the invention for the side members 22 to
culminate at a single front wheel, thereby providing the stroller
10 with an overall tripod form. Further, as shown in FIGS. 17-19,
it is also within the scope of the invention for the two side
members 22 and the handle 30 to be formed of an integral
component.
[0058] The wheels 14,15 of the stroller 10 may be of any type or
variety that might be preferred for use in connection with
conventional strollers. Preferably, the wheels 14,15 are composed
of a durable material capable of withstanding repeated wear and
usage. Additionally, one or more of the wheels 14,15 may be
configured to swivel about a respective swivel axis. In the
embodiment depicted in FIGS. 17-19, the front wheels 15 of the
stroller 10 are configured to swivel while the rear wheels 14 are
fixed. It will be appreciated that the wheels 14,15 may further be
configured to include conventional brakes (not shown in FIGS. 1-4
or FIGS. 17-19). Preferably, brakes are used in connection with at
least the rear wheels 14 of the stroller 10. While various types of
conventional brakes may be used in association with the wheels
14,15 of the stroller 10, the brakes would preferably be actuatable
with a hand or foot lever conveniently arranged in the rear
vicinity of the stroller 10 so as to permit actuation by a person
pushing or pulling the stroller 10.
[0059] As still further shown in FIGS. 1-4, the lower support
assembly 38 is attached to and supported by the angled base
portions 32 of the frame base 20. Like the components of the frame
12, the central support 16 of the lower support assembly 38 is
composed of a lightweight yet durable material, such as aluminum.
Importantly, the central support 16 should be composed of a
material sufficiently strong so as to support the weight of a child
situated in the stroller 10. The central support 16 extends upward
from the frame base 20 to connect to and support the seat 24 of the
stroller 10. The central support 16 preferably has an arcuate
shape, or other shape that displaces a substantial portion of the
support 16 near the rear of the seat 24, thereby allowing the seat
base portion 26 to be lowered as described hereinbelow. One or more
alternative configurations are illustrated herein, including a
central support 16 that is relatively straight.
[0060] As can be seen in FIGS. 1-4, the platform 18 of the lower
support assembly 38 is located at the base thereof at the point of
connection between the lower support assembly 38 and the frame base
20. In at least some embodiments, the platform 18 is disc-shaped
and may be composed of a different material than the central
support 16, as the platform is designed to engage into contact with
the shoes or feet of a child situated in the stroller 10 in a
standing position. Preferably, the platform 18 is composed of a
durable material capable of withstanding consistent wear and tear
on the upper surface thereof. In at least some embodiments it may
also be desirable to provide a textured surface to help prevent a
child's feet from slipping thereon. Additionally, the platform 18
is preferably connected to the frame base 20 in such a way that the
platform 18 is fixed relative to the frame base 20 while, in at
least one configuration, simultaneously permitting the central
support 16 to rotate around an at least generally vertical axis
that is generally perpendicular relative to an upper surface of the
platform 18. As will be explained in greater detail below, the
central support 16 of the lower support assembly 38 is thereby
permitted to rotate relative to the frame 12 of the stroller
10.
[0061] As still further shown in FIGS. 1-4, the seat 24 of the
stroller 10 is supported by the central support 16. In particular,
the central support 16 preferably connects to the frame of the seat
24 in a fixed manner at a seat crossbar 44. The seat base portion
26 and the seat back portion 28 each preferably connect to
connection zones 46 at opposite ends of the seat crossbar 44 in an
adjustable manner so that the seat 24 may be arranged in different
configurations as explained in more detail below. Each of the seat
base portion 26 and the seat back portion 28 preferably has a
separate adjustable connection so that each may be pivoted
independent of the other. Additionally, each of the seat base
portion 26 and the seat back portion 28 is wrapped in fabric
material 80, in generally like manner to that shown in the
strollers 410,510 of FIGS. 20-23 and FIGS. 24-27, to provide
comfort and support to a child situated in the stroller 10. In
particular, plush cushioning may be added to the seat 24 to provide
added comfort. Further, as shown in FIGS. 1-4, the seat base
portion 26 may include a lower leg portion 48 that is hinged at a
seat base joint 74 to selectively provide leg support to a child
situated in the stroller 10. Further still, the seat 24 may include
a harness (not shown) to provide additional support to a child
situated in the stroller 10. The harness, which may be of generally
conventional design and construction, may be arranged to restrain
the shoulders or waist of a child or support the legs of a child as
might be desired.
[0062] As still further shown in FIGS. 1-4, the seat 24 may further
include a tray bar 50 that attaches in a fixed manner to the
connection zones 46 at opposite ends of the seat crossbar 44. The
tray bar 50 may have any shape or configuration as might be
preferred in connection with a stroller. For instance, the tray bar
50 may provide a flat surface to rest a food tray for a child or
the tray bar 50 may provide a structural frame on which to mount an
amusement center for a child. An amusement center may include
various items to amuse the child while situated in the stroller 10,
including rattles, toys, and puzzles. In at least some embodiments,
the tray bar 50 may be adjusted outwardly and inwardly relative to
the seat so as to adjust to the overall size of the child situated
in the stroller 10. Preferably, the tray bar 50 is configured to be
telescoped so that the portion of the tray bar 50 extending in
front of the child can be adjusted outwardly or inwardly as might
be desired.
[0063] Now turning to FIGS. 5-9 and 10-12, the seat base portion 26
and the seat back portion 28 of a stroller 110,210 may each be
adjusted separately to permit the seat 24 to be arranged in
different configurations. For instance, in FIGS. 6, 10 and 11, a
seated configuration is depicted wherein the seat base portion 26
is arranged in a generally parallel relationship with the platform
18 and the seat back portion 28 is arranged in a generally upright
position. In FIGS. 5, 7, 8, and 9, a standing configuration is
depicted, wherein the seat base portion 26 is arranged to be
pivoted downward to permit a child in a standing position to be
supported by the platform 18. In FIG. 12, a reclined position is
depicted, wherein the seat base portion 26 is arranged in a
generally parallel relationship with the platform 18 and the seat
back portion 28 is arranged in a reclined position. The seat base
portion 26 and the seat back portion 28 may be configured to have
adjustment mechanisms, examples of at least some of which are shown
and described herein, that are easily accessible and actuatable by
a person using the stroller 110,210. The adjustment mechanisms for
each of the seat base platform 26 and the seat back portion 28 may
be arranged to have any particular design or construction as might
be desired and preferably permit the seat base portion 26 and the
seat back portion 28 to engage in pivoting movement.
[0064] Each of the seat base portion 26 and the seat back portion
28 may include one or more levers, buttons or the like that, upon
pressing or lifting, permits the respective component of the seat
24 to be pivoted. For instance, as shown in FIG. 27 and FIG. 31A,
the seat base portion 26 may include one or more seat base buttons
84 that, when pressed, actuate the release of lower catches 92 at
either side of the seat 24 to permit the seat base portion to be
pivoted to a different position. Similarly, the seat back portion
28 may include a seat back lever 82 that, when pulled, actuates the
release of upper catches 90 at either side of the seat 24 to permit
the seat back portion 28 to be pivoted to a different position. The
lower catches 92 and the upper catches 90 may each be configured to
be spring-biased such that actuation of the respective seat base
buttons 84 or seat back lever 82 enables the respective seat
component to be pivoted. Subsequent release of the respective seat
base button 84 and seat back lever 82 returns the respective lower
catches 92 and upper catches 90 to at-rest positions, thereby
preventing the respective seat component associated therewith from
further pivoting movement. It is also contemplated that the seat
base button 84 and the seat back lever 82 may be configured to
attach to cables that separately connect each of the seat base
button 84 and the seat back lever 82 with the corresponding lower
and upper catches 92,90. In this regard, actuation of the seat base
button 84 causes cables associated with the seat base portion 26 to
release the lower catches 92 and thereby permit pivoting movement
of the seat base portion 26. Similarly, actuation of the seat back
lever 82 causes cables associated with the seat back portion 28 to
release the upper catches 90 and thereby permit pivoting movement
of the seat back portion 28.
[0065] In addition to the adjustability of the seat base portion 26
and the seat back portion 28 discussed above, the lower leg portion
48 may be pivoted outward to provide additional leg support to a
child situated in a stroller. As shown in FIGS. 20-23, the lower
leg portion 48 is typically angled generally downward from the seat
base portion 26. However, in the event that a particularly young
child is situated in the stroller 410, it may be helpful to pivot
the lower leg portion 48 outward to provide additional leg support
for the child. It is also contemplated that the lower leg portion
48 may be pivoted inward so that it is positioned against the seat
base portion 26. In this position, the lower leg portion 48
provides additional space when the seat base portion 26 is to be
pivoted downward to convert the seat 24 to a standing
configuration. With reference to FIG. 24, an actuation button 86 is
preferably located at each seat base joint 74. Pressing the
actuation buttons 86 enables the lower leg portion 48 to be pivoted
to the desired position. The mechanism permitting the lower leg
portion 48 to be pivoted may have any particular design or
construction as might be desired.
[0066] As shown in FIGS. 7-9 and FIG. 23, the central support 16 is
permitted to rotate relative to the frame 12 of the stroller
110,410 about an axis that is generally perpendicular relative to
the platform 18. Because the seat 24 is supported by the central
support 16, rotation of the central support 16 enables the seat 24
to be rotated as well. Preferably, the lower support assembly 38 is
connected to the frame base 20 in such a way that the central
support 16 is not permitted to rotate freely. In this regard, the
stroller 110,410 may include a latch or lock 94 to prevent the
central support 16 from rotating freely. In order to rotate the
central support 16 to a different position, the latch 94 may be
removed or adjusted to permit rotation. Preferably, the central
support 16 is capable of providing 360 degrees of rotation about
the generally vertical axis, thereby permitting the seat 24 to face
any direction as might be desired. In at least some embodiments, a
plurality of preset rotational orientation settings are provided,
thereby permitting a user to "lock" the central support 16, and
thus the seat 24 and a child carried therein, in a desired
rotational orientation. Moreover, because the tray bar 50 is
carried by the seat 24, the tray bar 50 is positioned in front of a
child regardless of the direction that the seat 24 is facing.
Advantageously, the central support 16 may be rotated while the
seat 24 is in either of the standing configuration or the seated
configuration. Furthermore, in at least some embodiments, it is
also possible to rotate the central support 16 to a different
position while a child is situated in the stroller 110,410. While
not depicted in the drawings, in at least some embodiments it is
also contemplated that the seat 24 may be configured to rotate
about an axis defined by the central support 16. In this regard,
the central support 16 and the platform 18 may remain stationary
while the seat 24 is permitted to be rotated to face different
directions.
[0067] As shown in FIG. 5, the stroller 110 may include a canopy
support 76 that is pivotable away from the seat back portion 28. In
this regard, the canopy support 76 may be pivoted away from the
seat back portion 28 to a fully extended position, whereby the
canopy support 76 may support a canopy, one or more examples of
which may be illustrated herein, that fully covers a child situated
in the stroller 110. Additionally, the canopy support 76 may be
pivoted toward the seat back portion 28 to a fully retracted
position, whereby a canopy supported by the canopy support 76 does
not cover a child situated in the stroller 110. Advantageously, the
canopy support 76 may also be pivoted to other positions between
the fully extended position and the fully retracted position so
that a canopy supported by the canopy support 76 partially covers a
child situated in the stroller 110. Furthermore, the canopy 76 is
preferably supported by the seat 24 such that rotation of the seat
24 results in the canopy support 76, and the canopy carried
thereon, being rotated as well.
[0068] Now turning to FIGS. 20-23 and FIGS. 24-27, other features
of the present invention are shown. In particular, a canopy 60 may
be configured to wrap around the canopy support 76 to extend over
the area where the child is situated in the stroller 410,510. In
this regard, the canopy 60 can provide additional shelter to a
child situated in the stroller 410,510 by shielding the child from
wind, rain or sun when the stroller is in use. Advantageously, as
the canopy support 76 is configured to be pivotable as discussed
above, the canopy 60 may be extended or retracted so that a child
situated in the stroller 410,510 may be covered or uncovered as
might be desired. FIG. 21 depicts a stroller 410 with the canopy 60
extended, and FIG. 22 depicts a stroller 410 with the canopy 60
partially retracted. As shown in FIGS. 13-16, if the stroller 110
is to be collapsed for storage or travel, the canopy support 76 may
be pivoted toward the seat back portion 28 so that a canopy
supported thereby may be fully retracted. It will be appreciated
that a canopy may likewise be utilized with one or more of the
other embodiments shown and described herein.
[0069] In another feature shown in FIGS. 20-23 and FIGS. 24-27, the
stroller 410,510 may include a front crossbar 62 connected between
the side members 22 above the front wheels 15. As with the rear
crossbar 36, the front crossbar 62 may provide enhanced structure
and greater stability to the stroller 410,510. It will be
appreciated that a front crossbar may likewise be provided in one
or more of the other embodiments shown and described herein.
[0070] In still another feature shown in FIGS. 20-23 and FIGS.
24-27, the stroller may be configured to include a shock absorber
or dampener to absorb bumps that may be transmitted through the
wheels 14,15 when the stroller 410,510 is in use. The shock
absorber 64 may have any particular structure or design as might be
desired. As shown in FIGS. 20-23, the shock absorber 64 is
configured to be a spring that is integral with the central support
16. As shown in FIGS. 24-27, the shock absorber 64 is a dampening
piston that interconnects between the seat 24 and the central
support 16. While the shock absorber 64 may be helpful in absorbing
shocks and bumps transmitted through the wheels 14,15 when the
stroller 410,510 is in use, the shock absorber 64 may
simultaneously provide amusement to a child situated in the
stroller. In particular, the shock absorber 64 may provide the
child with the ability to bounce while restrained in the seat when
the stroller 410,510 is in active use.
[0071] In another feature, various portions of the stroller 410,510
that are designed for user contact, such as the tray bar 50 and the
handle 30, may be composed of a durable plastic material, such as
polypropylene.
[0072] Now turning to FIGS. 13A-16B, a method of collapsing the
stroller 110 for storage and portability is shown. In a first step,
shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B, the canopy support 76 of the stroller
110 is retracted to lie in a relatively flush position against the
seat back portion 28 of the seat 24. In a second step, shown in
FIGS. 14A and 14B, the frame 12 is collapsed inward such that the
frame base 20, central support 16, rear wheels 14, and seat 24 fold
toward the side members 22. The frame 12 folds about the frame
joint 40 at each of the two side members 22. Preferably, the frame
12 is configured so that a foot bar 68 is positioned at the rear of
the stroller 110 to permit a person to actuate the collapse of the
frame 12. As shown in FIG. 27 and FIGS. 28A-33B, the foot bar 68
may be attached to cables 70 extending within the interior of the
respective side members 22 on either side of the stroller 110,510
and ending at the frame joints 40. In this regard, pressing the
foot bar 68 downward actuates the collapse of the stroller 110,510
by causing the cables 70 to release a frame latch 72 at each of the
respective frame joints 40, thereby permitting the frame 12 to be
collapsed inward. The frame latches 72 may be spring-biased such
that, upon actuation by pressing the foot bar 68, the frame latches
72 permit the frame 12 to collapse and, upon release of the foot
bar 68, the frame latches 72 return to an operational position.
Turning back to FIGS. 13A-16B, as the frame 12 is collapsed, brakes
for the rear wheels 14 may be actuated to prevent the stroller 110
from rolling. In a third step, shown in FIGS. 15A-15B, the stroller
110 is pivoted about the rear wheels 14 and laid down. In a fourth
step, shown in FIGS. 16A-16B, the handle 30 is pivoted back against
the respective lengths of the side members 22. Optionally, the
platform 18 may also include a hinge or joint in the midsection
thereof so that the platform 18 may be folded or pivoted to occupy
less space. As shown in FIGS. 16A-16B, the stroller 110 is more
ably suited to storage or traveling when collapsed.
[0073] FIGS. 17-19 are photographic illustrations of an embodiment
of a stroller in accordance with one or more aspects of the present
invention.
FIGS. 34-35 are engineering drawings, illustrating components in
the form of a parts call-out listing for a stroller in accordance
with one or more aspects of the present invention. Reference
numerals or callouts identified on FIGS. 34-35 do not correspond
with those identified in this description or with those provided in
connection with FIGS. 1-33B. Rather, the callouts appearing on
FIGS. 34-35 solely identify the various parts and components listed
therein. In particular, FIGS. 34-35 depict various components
discussed in greater detail above, including the platform 18, the
central support 16, the tray bar 50, the seat base portion 26, the
seat back portion 28, the lower leg portion 48, and the seat
crossbar 44.
[0074] Based on the foregoing description, it will be readily
understood by those persons skilled in the art that the present
invention is susceptible of broad utility and application. Many
embodiments and adaptations of the present invention other than
those specifically described herein, as well as many variations,
modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be apparent from
or reasonably suggested by the present invention and the foregoing
descriptions thereof, without departing from the substance or scope
of the present invention. Accordingly, while the present invention
has been described herein in detail in relation to one or more
preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure
is only illustrative and exemplary of the present invention and is
made merely for the purpose of providing a full and enabling
disclosure of the invention. The foregoing disclosure is not
intended to be construed to limit the present invention or
otherwise exclude any such other embodiments, adaptations,
variations, modifications or equivalent arrangements, the present
invention being limited only by the claims appended hereto and the
equivalents thereof.
* * * * *