U.S. patent application number 14/581583 was filed with the patent office on 2015-04-23 for foldable stroller and frame assembly.
The applicant listed for this patent is Graco Children's Products Inc.. Invention is credited to Alan W. Ball, Louis Doucette, William Forbes, Kelly Hon, Thomas M. Perrin, Thomas J. Pollack.
Application Number | 20150108738 14/581583 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46924347 |
Filed Date | 2015-04-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150108738 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Pollack; Thomas J. ; et
al. |
April 23, 2015 |
Foldable Stroller and Frame Assembly
Abstract
A foldable stroller has a frame reconfigurable between an
unfolded and a folded configuration. The frame has left and right
sides, each having a fold joint, a handle push arm slidably coupled
to the fold joint, a front leg substantially parallel to the push
arm with an upper end connected to the fold joint, a rear leg
pivotably extending down from the fold joint, and a drive link with
a rear end pivotally coupled to the rear leg and a front end
pivotally coupled to a lower end of the push arm. When moved to the
folded configuration, the push arm slides downward relative to the
fold joint and the rear leg and the drive link rear end move toward
the front leg and push arm. In the folded configuration, the rear
leg is substantially parallel with and close to the front leg and
push arm. A slide collar can be fixed to the front leg and define
an opening. The push arm can slide within the opening. A drive
mechanism can be operably coupled to the frame to assist in moving
the frame to the folded configuration.
Inventors: |
Pollack; Thomas J.;
(Atlanta, GA) ; Doucette; Louis; (Acworth, GA)
; Perrin; Thomas M.; (Alpharetta, GA) ; Forbes;
William; (Atlanta, GA) ; Ball; Alan W.;
(Loveland, OH) ; Hon; Kelly; (Johns Creek,
OH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Graco Children's Products Inc. |
Atlanta |
GA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
46924347 |
Appl. No.: |
14/581583 |
Filed: |
December 23, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
13627592 |
Sep 26, 2012 |
8919806 |
|
|
14581583 |
|
|
|
|
61539373 |
Sep 26, 2011 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
280/650 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B62B 7/08 20130101; B62B
2205/26 20130101; B62B 2205/22 20130101; B62B 2205/003 20130101;
B62B 7/066 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
280/650 |
International
Class: |
B62B 7/08 20060101
B62B007/08 |
Claims
1. A foldable stroller with a frame assembly reconfigurable between
an unfolded configuration and a folded configuration and having
left and right frame sides, the left and right frame sides each
comprising: a fold joint; a handle push arm slidably coupled to the
fold joint; a front leg arranged substantially parallel to the
handle push arm and having an upper end connected to the fold
joint; a slide collar fixed to the front leg and defining an
opening, the handle push arm slidably received through the opening;
a rear leg extending down from and pivotally connected to the fold
joint; and a drive link with a rear end pivotally coupled to the
rear leg below the fold joint and a front end pivotally coupled to
a lower end of the push arm, wherein, when reconfigured from the
unfolded configuration to the folded configuration, the handle push
arm slides downward relative to the fold joint and the slide
collar, and the rear end of the drive link and the rear leg move
toward the front leg and the handle push arm, and wherein, in the
folded configuration, the rear leg lies closely adjacent to and
substantially parallel with the front leg and the handle push
arm.
2. A foldable stroller according to claim 1, wherein the left and
right side drive links draw the respective left and right rear legs
and front legs toward and generally parallel to one another when
the stroller frame assembly is moved to the folded
configuration.
3. A foldable stroller according to claim 1, further comprising a
drive mechanism on at least one of the left or right frame sides
and configured to bias the frame assembly toward the folded
configuration.
4. A foldable stroller according to claim 3, wherein the drive
mechanism is connected to a pivot joint between the drive link on
the at least one of the left or right frame sides and the
corresponding rear leg.
5. A foldable stroller according to claim 3, wherein the drive
mechanism has a pre-loaded resilient biasing element.
6. A foldable stroller according to claim 3, wherein the drive
mechanism has a torsion spring.
7. A foldable stroller according to claim 3, wherein the drive
mechanism has a torsion spring acting on a rear end of the drive
link on the at least one of the left or right frame sides and the
corresponding rear leg.
8. A foldable stroller according to claim 1, further comprising a
left drive mechanism on the left frame side and a right drive
mechanism on the right frame side and each of the left and right
drive mechanisms configured to bias the frame assembly toward the
folded configuration.
9. A foldable stroller according to claim 3, further comprising a
fold latch on each the left and right frame sides, each fold latch
being actuable from a latched condition retaining the frame
assembly in the unfolded configuration to a released configuration
whereby the drive mechanism assists in moving the frame assembly to
the folded configuration.
10. A foldable stroller according to claim 1, wherein the rear legs
remain generally upright as the frame assembly is moved from the
unfolded configuration to the folded configuration, and wherein the
foldable stroller stands upright in the folded configuration.
11. A foldable stroller according to claim 1, wherein the handle
push arms slide parallel to the front legs when the frame assembly
is moved between the unfolded and folded configurations.
12. A foldable stroller according to claim 1, wherein lower ends of
the handle push arms extend below lower ends of the front legs when
the frame assembly is in the folded configuration and standing
upright.
13. A foldable stroller according to claim 12, wherein the foldable
stroller stands upright on front wheels positioned at the lower
ends of the front legs and on the lower ends of the push arms.
14. A foldable stroller according to claim 1, wherein the foldable
stroller, in the folded configuration, stands upright on front
wheels positioned at lower ends of the front legs and on either
lower ends of the handle push arms, the front ends of the drive
links, or contact surfaces defined thereat in the folded
configuration.
15. A foldable stroller with a frame assembly reconfigurable
between an unfolded configuration and a folded configuration and
having left and right frame sides, the left and right frame sides
each comprising: a fold joint; a handle push arm slidably coupled
to the fold joint; a front leg arranged substantially parallel to
the handle push arm and having an upper end connected to the fold
joint; a rear leg extending down from and pivotally connected to
the fold joint; a drive link with a rear end pivotally coupled to
the rear leg below the fold joint and a front end pivotally coupled
to a lower end of the push arm; and a drive mechanism operably
coupled to part of the frame assembly and configured to assist in
moving the frame assembly toward the folded configuration, wherein,
when reconfigured from the unfolded configuration to the folded
configuration, the handle push arm slides downward relative to the
fold joint, and the rear end of the drive link and the rear leg
move toward the front leg and the handle push arm, and wherein, in
the folded configuration, the rear leg lies closely adjacent to and
substantially parallel with the front leg and the handle push
arm.
16. A foldable stroller according to claim 15, further comprising:
a left fold latch on the left frame side; a right fold latch on the
right frame side; and an actuator coupled to both the left and
right handle push arms, the actuator actuable to move both the left
and right fold latches from a latched condition retaining the frame
assembly in the unfolded configuration to a released condition
permitting the frame assembly to move to the folded
configuration.
17. A foldable stroller according to claim 16, wherein the drive
mechanism automatically moves the frame assembly toward the folded
configuration when the left and right fold latches are actuated to
the released condition.
18. A foldable stroller according to claim 15, wherein the drive
mechanism includes a torsion spring acting on a rear end of the
drive link on each of the left and right frame sides.
19. A foldable stroller according to claim 15, wherein each of the
left and right frame sides also has a slide collar fixed to the
respective front leg and defining an opening, the corresponding
handle push arm slidably received through the opening.
20. A foldable stroller according to claim 15, wherein each of the
drive links is substantially linear when viewed from either side of
the frame assembly, and wherein the handle push arms and the
respective front legs slide parallel to one another when the frame
assembly is moved between the folded and unfolded configurations.
Description
RELATED APPLICATION DATA
[0001] This patent is related to and claims priority benefit of
U.S. non-provisional application Ser. No. 13/627,592 filed on Sep.
26, 2012 and entitled "Foldable Stroller and Frame Assembly," which
claimed priority to provisional application Ser. No. 61/539,373
filed on Sep. 26, 2011 and entitled "Foldable Stroller." The entire
content of each of these prior filed applications is hereby
incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field of the Disclosure
[0003] The present disclosure is generally directed to strollers,
and more particularly to a foldable stroller and frame assembly for
same that can fold up automatically or unfold automatically, fold
up into a configuration having a thin, upright profile, fold up
while remaining generally upright, stand up after being folded,
and/or fold up and unfold automatically.
[0004] 2. Description of Related Art
[0005] Most strollers and stroller frame assemblies fold up in some
manner from an unfolded or in-use configuration to a more compact
configuration. However, nearly every stroller folds from a standing
configuration resting on its wheels to a folded configuration lying
on the ground. The user must then bend over quite far in order to
pick up the folded stroller from the ground before carrying the
stroller to or placing the stroller in another location for
storage, transport, or the like. This can be quite cumbersome and
difficult, if not nearly impossible, when the caregiver is also
holding a child in their arms. It can be difficult for some
individuals to collect the folded stroller from the ground and then
place it in an elevated storage location such as the trunk of a
car, the back of a minivan, or the backseat of a car. This can be
especially difficult while the person is holding a child in their
arms.
[0006] The reverse is typically true when the caregiver wishes to
erect or unfold a folded stroller frame. The user must first move
the folded stroller and then place it on the ground. They then must
release the storage latch, if any, that holds the frame assembly in
the folded configuration. The user then has to lift or raise and
unfold the stroller from the ground to the in-use or unfolded
configuration. Thus, once the folded stroller frame is placed in a
desired position on the ground, unfolding the frame assembly
typically requires two steps including disengaging the storage
latch and then raising and unfolding the frame assembly. This can
also be extremely cumbersome and difficult for the caregiver, and
even impossible while holding their child.
[0007] Few have attempted to solve these problems, and particularly
in a 2-D stroller frame configuration. In a 2-D stroller, the frame
assembly does not fold or collapse widthwise between the frame
sides, but instead only folds up vertically and fore and aft or
front to back. One particular stroller, the Origami stroller by the
4 Moms Company, attempts to solve or minimize the problems with
folding and unfolding a stroller. The Origami stroller utilizes a
motor to both fold and unfold the stroller. This allows the user to
have their hands free while the frame automatically folds or
unfolds. However, the user still needs to bend over to reach the
stroller or place the stroller on the ground at some point while
folding or unfolding the stroller. Also, the stroller is quite
complex, not particularly lightweight, and relatively expensive
because is requires a motor and battery in order to fold and
unfold.
[0008] In addition, stroller frames that stand up when folded
typically have a relatively large cube size, even after being
folded. This can make carrying the folded stroller frame cumbersome
and more difficult for the caregiver. It can also be more difficult
for the caregiver to find a suitable location large enough to store
the folded stroller. A number of manufacturers have produced
strollers that, once folded downward to the ground, can be lifted
up and then stored standing up. Such strollers are also typically
relatively large, even when folded, in order to produce a stable
foot pattern on which to stand. This is particularly true with 2-D
stroller frames. These types of strollers are folded down to the
ground, requiring the user to still bend down and retrieve the
folded stroller.
[0009] Stroller manufacturers typically strive to produce a compact
folded stroller configuration. This is often counter to also
producing a stroller that can stand while being folded or even
after the stroller frame is folded. The Metrolite stroller produced
by Graco Children's Products Inc. (the assignee of the present
invention) and the Cortina Stroller produced by Chicco are each
configured to remain generally upright or standing during the fold
sequence. The rear wheels on these strollers do not leave the
ground during the fold sequence, and the front wheels rise up off
the ground as the stroller is folded. The basket tube eventually
touches the ground. The basket tube and the rear wheels combine to
create a base to allow the stroller to stand immediately after
being folded.
SUMMARY
[0010] In one example according to the teachings of the present
invention, a foldable stroller has a frame assembly with left and
right frame sides. Each frame side has a fold joint, a handle push
arm slidably coupled to the fold joint, and a front leg arranged
parallel to the handle push arm and having an upper end connected
to the fold joint. Each frame side also has a rear leg extending
down from and pivotally connected to the fold joint and a drive
link with a rear end pivotally coupled to the rear leg below the
fold joint and a front end pivotally coupled to a lower end of the
push arm. The frame assembly is reconfigurable between an unfolded
configuration and a folded configuration. In the folded
configuration, the fold joint is slid upward along the handle push
arm and the rear end of the drive link and the rear leg are moved
toward and lie closely adjacent the front leg and handle push
arm.
[0011] In one example, the handle push arms can slide upward and
rearward relative to the respective front legs and fold joints to
an extended position in the unfolded configuration.
[0012] In one example, the drive links can draw the rear legs and
front legs toward and generally parallel to one another when the
stroller frame assembly is moved to the folded configuration.
[0013] In one example, the foldable stroller can include a drive
mechanism automatically biasing the frame assembly toward the
folded configuration.
[0014] In one example, the foldable stroller can include a fold
latch on each frame side. Each fold latch can be actuable from a
latched condition retaining the frame assembly in the unfolded
configuration to a released configuration whereby the drive
mechanism automatically moves the frame assembly to the folded
configuration.
[0015] In one example, the front ends of the drive links and lower
ends of the handle push arms can move downward toward lower ends of
the front legs when the frame assembly is moved to the folded
configuration.
[0016] In one example, the handle push arms can slide parallel to
the front legs when the frame assembly is moved to the folded
configuration.
[0017] In one example, the rear legs can remain generally upright
as the frame assembly is moved from the unfolded configuration to
the folded configuration and the foldable stroller can stand
upright in the folded configuration.
[0018] In one example, the foldable stroller can stand upright on
front wheels positioned at lower ends of the front legs and on
either the lower ends of the push arms, the front ends of the drive
links, or contact surfaces defined thereat in the folded
configuration.
[0019] In one example according to the teachings of the present
invention, a foldable stroller has a frame assembly that is movable
between a folded configuration and an unfolded configuration. The
frame assembly has a fold joint and a fold latch actuable from a
latched condition retaining the frame assembly in the unfolded
configuration to a released condition. A plurality of frame
components are coupled to the fold joint and include a drive link
connected to at least two other of the plurality of frame
components. A drive mechanism is operably coupled to the frame
assembly and is configured and arranged to automatically fold the
frame assembly from the unfolded configuration to the folded
configuration when the fold latch is actuated to the released
condition.
[0020] In one example, the drive mechanism can be connected to a
pivot joint between the drive link and one of the frame
components.
[0021] In one example, the drive mechanism can be connected to a
pivot joint between a rear end of the drive link and a rear leg of
the plurality of frame components.
[0022] In one example, the drive mechanism can have a pre-loaded
resilient biasing element.
[0023] In one example, the drive mechanism can have a torsion
spring.
[0024] In one example, the drive mechanism can have a torsion
spring acting on a rear end of the drive link and a rear leg of the
frame assembly.
[0025] In one example, the frame assembly can have left and right
frame sides. Each frame side can have one of the fold joints, the
plurality of the frame components including and one of the drive
links, and one of the drive mechanisms.
[0026] In one example, the plurality of frame components can
include a front leg and a handle push arm. A front end of the drive
link can be pivotally connected to a lower end of the handle push
arm. Each can move downward toward a lower end of the front leg
when the frame assembly is moved to the folded configuration.
[0027] In one example, a handle push arm of the plurality of frame
components can slide parallel to a front leg when the frame
assembly is moved to the folded configuration.
[0028] In one example, the plurality of frame components can
include a rear leg that is generally upright and extends down from
the fold joint in the unfolded configuration and can remain
generally upright as the frame assembly is moved to the folded
configuration. The foldable stroller can stand upright in the
folded configuration.
[0029] In one example, the plurality of frame components can
include a handle push arm and a front leg that slide parallel to
one another as the frame assembly is moved between the folded and
unfolded configurations. The foldable stroller can stand upright on
a front wheel assembly positioned at a lower end of the front leg
and on either a lower end of the handle push arm, a front end of
the drive link, or a contact surface defined thereat in the folded
configuration.
[0030] In one example, the fold latch can include a latch pin
extending perpendicular to and through one of the frame components
and can have an exposed latching end. A hole can be formed through
a shaft of the latch pin and a latch cable can extend along an
interior of the one frame component and through the hole. The latch
cable can have a free end fixed to the one frame component adjacent
the latch pin. An adjacent frame component can have a latch opening
therein. The latching end of the latch pin can extend into the
latch opening in the latched position. A latch spring can be
captured between an inner surface of the one frame component and
the latch cable at the hole and can bias the latch pin to the
latched position. Tension applied to the latch cable can compress
the latch spring and move the latch pin to the released position
with the latching end withdrawn fro the latch opening.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0031] Objects, features, and advantages of the present invention
will become apparent upon reading the following description in
conjunction with the drawing figures, in which:
[0032] FIG. 1 shows a perspective front and side view of one
example of a foldable stroller constructed in accordance with the
teachings of the present invention.
[0033] FIG. 2 shows a side view of the frame assembly for the
foldable stroller shown in FIG. 1.
[0034] FIG. 3 shows a close-up inside perspective view of one
example of a drive mechanism or biasing mechanism that can be used
on the foldable stroller and frame assembly shown in FIGS. 1 and
2.
[0035] FIG. 4 shows a cross section taken along line IV-IV in FIG.
1 of a fold latch for the foldable stroller and in a latched or
locked condition.
[0036] FIG. 5 shows the fold latch of FIG. 4 in a released or
unlocked condition.
[0037] FIG. 6 shows a side view of the frame assembly of FIGS. 1
and 2 starting to fold up from the unfolded or in-use configuration
of FIG. 1.
[0038] FIG. 7 shows the frame assembly of FIG. 6 and folded further
from the unfolded or in-use configuration.
[0039] FIG. 8 shows the frame assembly of FIG. 7 in a completely
folded configuration and standing up on end.
[0040] FIG. 9 shows a front perspective view of the completely
folded and standing up frame assembly of FIG. 7.
[0041] FIG. 10 shows a rear perspective view of the frame assembly
in the folded configuration of FIGS. 8 and 9 and with a user ready
to begin unfolding the frame assembly.
[0042] FIG. 11 shows the frame assembly of FIG. 10 but partly
unfolded by the user.
[0043] FIG. 12 shows the frame assembly in FIG. 11 but completely
unfolded by the user.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0044] The disclosed foldable strollers and frame assemblies solve
or improve upon one or more of the above-identified and/or other
problems and disadvantages with prior known foldable strollers. In
one example, the disclosed foldable stroller has a frame assembly
that can fold up into a relatively thin, compact configuration that
is easy to lift, carry, and transport when not in use. In one
example, the disclosed foldable stroller can fold up while
remaining oriented in an upright orientation so that the user does
not need to bend down and retrieve the folded stroller from the
ground. In one example, the disclosed foldable stroller can stand
upright after being folded. In one example, the disclosed foldable
stroller can include a drive mechanism that automatically folds up
the frame assembly upon release of a fold latch. In one example,
the disclosed foldable stroller has a torsion spring on each frame
side that automatically fold up the frame assembly to a folded
configuration from an unfolded configuration upon release of a fold
latch. In one example, the disclosed foldable stroller is
relatively easy to fold up while remaining in an upright
orientation so that the user does not need to bend over and
retrieve the folded frame assembly from the ground after folding
up. These and other objects, features, and advantages of the
present invention will become apparent to those having ordinary
skill in the art upon reading this disclosure.
[0045] Turning now to the drawings, FIG. 1 shows one example of a
foldable stroller 20 constructed in accordance with the teachings
of the present invention. In this example, the foldable stroller 20
generally has a frame assembly 22 and a seat 24 supported by the
frame assembly. The foldable stroller can also have other known
stroller features, such as an under-seat storage basket 26 and/or
other such features including, but not shown, a canopy, a seat
harness system, one or more cup holders, a child's tray, an arm
bar, and the like. In this example, the seat assembly 24 and the
storage basket 26 are shown in very simplified phantom form in
order to better illustrate the construction of the frame assembly
22. As will be evident to those having ordinary skill in the art,
the configuration and construction of the seat 24, storage basket
26, and other features provided on the stroller can vary
considerably and yet fall within the spirit and scope of the
present invention. These aspects of the foldable stroller 20 are
not further described herein.
[0046] In the disclosed example, the foldable stroller 20 is
constructed so that the frame assembly 22 can be reconfigured
between an unfolded or in-use configuration as depicted in FIGS. 1
and 2 and a folded configuration (described in more detail below)
for compact transport and storage when not in use. The frame
assembly 22 has a plurality of frame components that together
define the structure of the foldable stroller 20. The disclosed
frame assembly 22 has left and right frame sides that are spaced
laterally apart from one another across a width of the foldable
stroller 20, as do most strollers of this type. In this example,
the left and right frame sides are generally mirror images of one
another. At times herein, only one of the frame sides, i.e., the
right frame side, is described in detail and the various components
of the right frame side may be referred to in the singular.
However, it is to be understood that, when a right frame side
component is referred to in the singular; the left frame side very
likely includes the same minor image component.
[0047] The disclosed frame assembly 22 has a fold joint 30 and in
this example, each frame side has one of the fold joints. The
plurality of frame components on each frame side are connected,
coupled, or otherwise joined in some manner to the fold joint 30.
The frame assembly 22 generally has a handle assembly 32 extending
upward and rearward relative to the frame assembly structure and to
the seat 24. The handle assembly 32 has a transverse or laterally
extending handle bar 34 connected to upper ends of a pair of spaced
apart, left and right handle push arms 36. Each of the push arms 36
is a tubular element and is generally linear or straight in this
example. The handle bar 34 can be attached to the upper ends of the
push arms 36 or the push arms and handle can be an integral bent or
welded continuous structure. A fold actuator 38 is carried on a
central portion of the handle bar 34 and has an actuator button 40
provided thereon.
[0048] In the disclosed example, the push arm 36 extends through a
bore or opening 40 provided on the fold joint 30. The push arm 36
is thus slidably coupled to the fold joint 30 so that the two
components can move or slide relative to one another. A lower end
44 of the push arm 36 extends downward and forward relative to the
fold joint 30. The plurality of frame components also includes a
front leg 46 that extends downward and forward from the fold joint
30. An upper end 48 of the front leg 46 is connected to the fold
joint 30 in a fixed manner. In one example, the upper end 48 can
seat in a blind bore provided in the fold joint and can be secured
thereto with rivets, fasteners, or the like. A front wheel assembly
50 is attached to a lower end 52 of the front leg 46 and can
include a swivel mechanism 54 and carry two front wheels 56 as is
known in the art. In this example, the front leg 46 is also a
tubular element and at least the majority of the length of the
front leg including the upper and is linear or straight to match
the push arm 36.
[0049] The plurality of frame components also includes a rear leg
60 that has an upper end 62, which is pivotally connected to the
fold joint 30 at a pivot axis or fold pivot P. The rear leg 60
extends generally downward from the fold joint 30. In the disclosed
example, the rear leg 60 is pivotally connected to the fold joint
30, the push arm 36 is slidably coupled to the fold joint, and the
front leg 46 is fixedly connected to the fold joint. Thus, at least
these frame components can be described as being coupled in some
way to the fold joint, though each is coupled to the fold joint in
a different manner.
[0050] A rear wheel assembly 64 is connected to a lower end 66 of
the rear leg 60 and carries a pair of rear wheels 66. One or both
of the front wheel assembly 50 or the rear wheel assembly 64 can
include only one wheel 56 or 66, respectively, have a dual-wheel
construction as shown herein, or other have an alternate
construction. The configuration and construction of both the front
and rear wheel assemblies can vary considerably within the spirit
and scope of the present invention.
[0051] As best illustrated in FIG. 1, the frame assembly 22 has a
front cross-member 70 that extends laterally between and
interconnects the front legs 46 of the left and right frame sides.
The front cross-member 70 is located generally between the upper
end 48 and lower end 52 on the front leg 46. Likewise, the frame
assembly 22 also has a rear cross-member 72 that extends laterally
between and interconnects the rear legs 60. The rear cross-member
72 is also located generally between the upper end 62 and the lower
end 66 on the rear legs 60. The frame assembly 22 can include
additional structural elements, other than the handle bar 34, the
front cross-member 70, and the rear cross-member 72, to help
connect the left and right frame sides and to maintain the
integrity and rigidity of the frame assembly structure during
use.
[0052] In the disclosed example, the push arm 36 and the front leg
46 are arranged generally parallel to one another. In addition, the
push arm 36 is arranged vertically over the front leg 46 in this
example. This configuration can help reduce the overall width of
the frame assembly 22. However, it is possible that the push arm 36
and front leg 46 be placed side to side relative to one another (or
front leg over push arm) while the frame assembly 22 still
functions as intended and is described herein. As shown in FIGS. 1
and 2, a slide collar 74 is connected to both the push arm 36 and
the front leg 46. The slide collar 74 has two openings, one for
receiving the front leg 46 and one for receiving the push arm 36.
In this example, the slide collar 74 is affixed by a fastener,
rivet, pin, or the like to the front leg 46, leaving the push arm
36 free to slide relative to the slide collar 74, similar to the
fold joint 30. The slide collar 74 can help maintain the positional
relationship and proper alignment between the front leg 46 and the
push arm 36.
[0053] The plurality of frame components also includes a drive link
76 that has a front end 78 and the rear end 80. The drive link 76
is connected to at least two other of the plurality of frame
components and helps impart movement of one of the frame components
to other of the frame components when the frame assembly 22 and
foldable stroller 20 are folded or unfolded. In this example, the
rear end 80 of the drive link 76 is pivotally connected to the rear
leg 60 at a pivot axis D below the fold joint 30 and above the rear
cross-member 72. The front end 78 is pivotally connected to the
lower end 44 of the push arm 36 at a pivot axis A. The drive link
76 in this example is a generally flat bar with holes in either end
connected to the pivot axes D and A.
[0054] Each of the frame components described herein can vary in
configuration and construction. The drive link 76 can be a hollow
tubular structure, similar to the other frame components. Likewise,
any one or more of the push arm 36, handle bar 34, front leg 46,
and rear leg 60 can be a solid tube, a flat bar, or the like. The
materials and manufacturing processes utilized to construct the
various frame components can also vary within the spirit and scope
of the present invention. Steel, aluminum, composite materials,
sturdy and durable non-metallic materials, and the like can be used
to form any one or more of the frame assembly components disclosed
and described herein.
[0055] With reference to FIG. 3, the foldable stroller 20 in this
example has a drive mechanism 90. The drive mechanism 90 is a
purely mechanical device utilizing a biasing element to assist in
moving the frame assembly 22 between the folded and unfolded
configurations. In one example, a drive mechanism could be provided
that automatically unfolds the frame assembly 22 from the folded
configuration. Such a stroller might require a storage latch that
would retain the frame assembly in the folded configuration. Once
the storage latch is released, such a drive mechanism could then
automatically bias the frame components from the folded
configuration to the unfolded configuration. In another example, a
drive mechanism or multiple drive mechanisms could be provided that
automatically fold and automatically unfold the frame assembly 22.
Such a mechanism or mechanisms could have a mechanical switch,
clutch, clocking device, or override device that allows the desired
direction of bias to override the undesired direction of bias,
depending on whether the stroller is being folded or unfolded.
[0056] In the disclosed example, the drive mechanism 90 is
configured to bias the frame assembly 22 to the folded
configuration. The biasing element of the drive mechanism 90 can
include any suitable type of mechanical spring, elastic cord, or
the like that applies force to the frame components in the desired
direction. The type of mechanical spring, if utilized, can also
vary and could include a compression spring, a coil spring, a leaf
spring, or the like. The drive mechanism 90 in this example
utilizes a torsion spring 92 coupled to two of the frame components
that are pivotally connected to one another. As shown in FIGS. 1
and 3, the torsion spring 92 has a main coil 94 wrapped around or
concentric with a shaft S of the pivot axis D. The torsion spring
92 has a first leg 96 extending radially outward from the main coil
94 and a second leg 98 and also extending radially outward from the
main coil, but in a different direction than the first leg. The
first leg 96 has a bent end or hook 100 that hooks on or bears
against the drive link 76. The second leg 98 also has a bent and or
hook 102 that hooks on or bears against the rear leg 60.
[0057] The torsion spring structure 92 is shown in this example in
simplified form. In a more complex form, the hook 100 can be
secured through an opening or receptacle provided on the drive link
76 or can be secured to the drive link utilizing a fastener, rivet,
pin, or the like. Likewise, the hook 102 can be secured through an
opening or receptacle provided on the rear leg 60 or can be secured
to the rear leg also utilizing a fastener, rivet, pin, or the like.
Alternatively, the torsion spring 92 and/or one or both of the
first and second legs 96, 98 can be housed either in an interior of
a separate housing, a part of the rear leg, a part of the drive
link, or the like. The legs 96, 98 of the torsion spring 92 could
then act on interior surfaces of these components and yet function
as intended. In these more complex forms, the components of the
spring would not be exposed.
[0058] The hook 100 of the first leg 96 on the torsion spring 92 is
borne against a top edge 104 of the drive link 76 in this example.
The hook 102 of the second leg 98 is borne against a front facing
side of the rear leg 60. The torsion spring 92 is configured so
that the first and second legs 96, 98 are compressed toward one
another when installed, resulting in the first and second legs 96,
98 being circumferentially biased away from one another. Thus, the
torsion spring 92 is biased in a direction that would open up or
increase the angle between the drive link 76 and the rear leg 60 on
the frame assembly 22.
[0059] A bend 106 is formed near the rear end 80 of the drive link
76. This produces an outward stepped segment 108 on the drive link
76 near the rear end, creating clearance for the drive mechanism,
and in this example the torsion spring 92. A relatively simple
cover 110 is configured to snap over the stepped segment 108 and
cover a majority of the torsion spring 92 including the main coil
94 and the first leg 96. The cover 110 could be configured to also
cover the second leg 98 if desired. The cover 110 can be
constructed to snap onto the drive link 76, the rear legs 60, or
both.
[0060] With reference to FIGS. 1, 4, and 5, the button 40 on the
actuator 38 is configured to be depressed inward into the handle
bar 34. When actuated in this manner, the actuator pulls on a cable
120 routed through the handle bar 34 and the push arm 36. The cable
is routed and connected to a fold latch 122. In this example, the
fold latch 122 is provided at the lower end 44 of the push arm 36.
One example of a suitable fold latch 122 is shown in FIGS. 4 and 5.
FIG. 4 shows the fold latch 122 in a latched position and FIG. 5
shows the fold latch in a released position.
[0061] The fold latch 122 has a latch pin 124 that extends across
and perpendicular to the lower end 44 of the push arm 36 through
openings 126 in the push arm. A head 128 on the latch pin 124 acts
as a stop against the push arm 36 for the latch pin 124 in the
latched position. A free end 130 of the cable 120 passes through a
hole 132 across the latch pin 124 from the upper side to the lower
side of the latch pin. A latch spring 134 is positioned on the
latch pin 124 and is captured between an inner surface 136 of the
push arm 36 and the cable 120 passing through the hole 132. The
free end 130 of the cable 120 is threaded through a small opening
138 through the push arm 36 on the same side of the push arm
adjacent the head 128. A slug 140 on the free end 130 fixes the
free end 130 to the push arm.
[0062] In the latched position, a latching end 142 of the latch pin
124 seats in a latch opening 144 in the adjacent front leg 46, as
shown in FIG. 4. The latch spring 134 biases the latch pin 124 to
the latched position in the direction of the arrow L. Slack in the
cable 120 in this latched position allows the cable to extend
laterally or perpendicular across the push arm from the small
opening 138 and then to curve around the spring 134 to a direction
parallel with the push arm. When the button 40 on the actuator 38
is depressed, the cable 120 is pulled upward toward the actuator.
This applies tension to the cable 120, but the free end 130 is
fixed to the push arm 36 and cannot move. Thus, as the cable 120 is
drawn taught, the cable compresses the latch spring 134 as shown in
FIG. 5. Because the cable is routed through the hole 132 in the
latch pin 128, the cable moves the latch pin in the direction of
the arrow R against the spring bias to a released position. The
latching end 142 is freed or disengaged from the latch opening 144
in this position.
[0063] With a foldable stroller 20 in the unfolded or in-use
configuration shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the fold latch 122 is in the
latched position shown in FIG. 4. The latch pin 124 is seated in
the latch opening 144, which locks the push arm 36 in position
relative to the front leg 46. The foldable stroller 20 can be used
in a normal manner in this configuration. In order to unfold the
foldable stroller, the user can actuate the push button 40 on the
actuator 38 as described above. This moves the latch pin 124 to the
released position as shown in FIG. 5 so that the foldable stroller
20 can move from the unfolded configuration to a folded
configuration. With the fold latch 122 in the released position,
the user can raise the rear end and rear wheels 68 of the foldable
stroller 20 off the ground and onto only the front wheels 56. The
first leg 96 of the torsion spring 92 will push downward on the
drive link 76 and the second leg 98 will push upward and rearward
on the rear leg 60. This causes the drive link 76 and rear leg 60
to pivot relative to one another, drawing the pivot axis D and rear
leg forward toward the front leg 46 as depicted in FIG. 6.
[0064] The fold joint 30 and slide collar are both fixed to the
front leg 46. As a result, the front end 78 of the drive link 76
pulls the push arm 36 downward, sliding the push arm parallel
relative to both the fold joint 30 and the slide collar 74. This
moves the pivot axis D closer to the front leg 46, as depicted in
FIG. 7. The foldable stroller 20 reaches the completely folded
configuration, as depicted in FIGS. 8 and 9, when the rear wheels
68, or part of the rear wheel assembly 64 or other frame component,
contacts the front leg 46. In this folded configuration, the rear
leg 60 is oriented generally parallel to the front leg 46. The gap
between the front leg 46 and the rear leg 60 is defined by the
position of the fold or pivot axis P and any radial offset of the
upper ends 48, 62, of the front and rear legs, respectively,
relative to the axis. Likewise, the push arm 36 is and remains
parallel to the front leg 46 as its slides downward relative to the
front leg during folding. In the completely folded configuration,
the drive link 76 lies completely within the depth (front to back
cube space) of the folded structure because it is pivotally
connected to the push arm 36 and the rear leg 60. The disclosed
structure of the frame assembly 22 can thus achieve a very compact
folded configuration. All of the frame components generally lie
parallel to one another when folded or lie within the cube space
defined by the folded frame components when folded.
[0065] The foldable stroller 20 can also remain generally upright
during folding and can stand upright when completely folded. When
the user tilts the foldable stroller 20 onto the front wheels 56
and releases the fold latch 122, the frame assembly 22
automatically folds, driven by the drive mechanism 90. As the frame
folds, the user can continue to tip the frame assembly 22 forward
until it is generally vertical relative to the ground surface. When
the frame assembly 22 is completely folded, as depicted in FIGS. 8
and 9, exposed surfaces 150 on the lower ends 44 of the push arms
36 are arranged to lie generally parallel with the front wheels 56.
The foldable stroller 20 can therefore stand up generally upright,
resting on the front wheels 56 and the exposed surfaces 150.
[0066] The foldable stroller 20 can be conveniently stored or
stowed while standing upright in the folded configuration. The
foldable stroller 20 can also be easily folded and then picked up
and transported without the user having to bend over because the
frame assembly 22 remains generally upright during folding. The
cube space of the foldable stroller 20 in the folded configuration
is also very compact. The folded stroller is thus not very
cumbersome to lift and carry and can be stored in relatively narrow
or small spaces. The foldable stroller 20 also is very easy to fold
because all the user has to do is release the fold latch 122 and
then the drive mechanism 90 does the rest.
[0067] In the disclosed example, the foldable stroller 20 does not
automatically unfold. The biasing force of the torsion springs 92
will retain the foldable stroller 20 in the folded configuration.
When the user wishes to unfold the stroller to the unfolded
configuration of FIGS. 1 and 2, the user can do so relatively
easily. As shown in FIG. 10, the user can grasp the handle bar 34
and tilt the folded stroller 20 rearward and toward them. The rear
cross-member 72 can be provided with an optional footpad or foot
rest 152 to give the user a target for foot placement on the
cross-member.
[0068] To unfold the stroller, the user can grasp and pull up on
the handle bar 34 in the direction of the arrow U and
simultaneously push down on the foot rest 150 on the rear
cross-member 72 in the direction of the arrow F. These opposing
forces will slide or extend the push arm 36 parallel to the front
leg and upward and toward the user relative to the fold joint 30
and the slide collar 74. This motion draws the front end 78 of the
drive link 76 upward toward or in the direction of the fold joint
30, as depicted in FIG. 11. As the frame components move, the angle
between the rear leg 60 and the rear end 80 of the drive link 76
about the pivot axis D begins to close against the bias force of
the drive mechanism 90. This again loads the drive mechanism 90 for
the next time the user wants to fold up the stroller 20. When the
frame assembly 22 reaches the unfolded configuration, the latch pin
124 will align with the latch opening 144 in the front leg 46. The
latch spring 134 will fire the latch pin into the latch opening,
engaging the fold latches 122 in the latched position of FIG. 4 and
securing the frame assembly 22 in the unfolded configuration for
use.
[0069] As discussed above, the configuration and construction of
the drive mechanisms 90, as well as their location on the frame
components, could change from the disclosed example and yet
function as intended. Also, the drive mechanisms can be
reconfigured so that the foldable stroller 20 unfolds automatically
or both folds and unfolds automatically. In one example, the legs
96 and 98 of the torsion spring 92 could be configured to contact
an underside of the drive link and a rear facing side of the rear
leg, respectively. The spring 92 could also be configured so that
the legs apply a biasing force toward one another, opposite from
the disclosed example. This would configure the disclosed frame
assembly 22 so that it unfolds automatically but would require
manually folding up the frame assembly.
[0070] Other modifications to the disclosed foldable stroller 20
are within the spirit and scope of the present invention as well.
The exposed surfaces 150 on the push arms 36 can be provided with
caps that define resting surfaces. This could improve the upright
resting stability of the folded up stroller 20. The front ends 78
of the drive links 76 could be configured to rest on the ground in
the folded configuration, instead of, or in addition to, the
exposed surfaces 150. The frame structure of the frame assembly 22
generally forms an "A" shape when viewed from the side. The angle
between the drive link or fold link and the rear leg is acute or
less then 90 degrees in the unfolded configuration and greater than
90 degrees in the folded configuration. The angular relationships
between these and other frame components could also be varied from
the disclosed example.
[0071] If desired, the length of the drive links can be such that
it adjusts from a longer length in the set-up or in-use
configuration to a shorter length in the folded configuration. This
can allow for the length of the drive links and rear legs (between
the drive link pivot and the fold joint) when unfolded to be
greater than the combined length when folded. This may further
allow a folded height to be defined by the length of either the
push arms or the front legs (i.e., the longer of the front legs or
the push arms, which would define the majority of the height of the
folded stroller frame assembly).
[0072] In one example, the drive mechanism could be removed and the
frame assembly could be completely manually foldable and
unfoldable. Such a foldable stroller would still have the very
compact folded cube size and be capable of standing upright during
and when folded. The stroller frame assembly can be a manually
foldable stroller frame assembly whereby the user can actuate the
release actuator on the handle bar and then manually push the
handle assembly toward the front legs. This would draw the rear
wheels toward the front wheels. This would still retain the
stroller frame assembly in an upright configuration that, when
folding is complete (see FIGS. 8 and 9), will remain in a standing
configuration. The user will then not need to bend over to reach
and pick up the folded stroller frame assembly. Instead, the
stroller frame assembly will already be accessible at about waist
height and the caregiver's hand will have retained a hold on the
handlebar or stroller frame assembly. This configuration will thus
make it easier for a caregiver to fold, access, and manipulate the
stroller frame assembly, even while one of their arms is occupied
holding the child, even without the automatic folding or
unfolding.
[0073] In another example, the disclosed stroller frame assembly
can be configured and arranged in such a manner that it can fold up
automatically, unfold automatically, or both. Each of the drive
links can be associated with a drive or biasing mechanism or
element, such as a spring-type mechanism. Such a biasing or drive
mechanism can be designed to be pre-loaded with the stroller in one
configuration or the other, i.e. folded or unfolded, regardless of
the type of biasing element used.
[0074] In another example, torsion springs or other biasing
elements or drive mechanisms can be utilized and arranged to bias
or drive the rear legs and drive links toward one another in the
unfolded or in-use configuration. In such a configuration, when the
stroller frame assembly is in the folded configuration of FIGS. 8
and 9, the user can release a storage latch, as mentioned above.
The torsion springs or biasing mechanisms can then automatically
unfold the stroller frame assembly to the unfolded or in-use
configuration (see reverse order of FIGS. 6-8). The mechanism would
do so by forcing the push arms upward and away from the front legs
until the fold joints and latch mechanisms engage. In order to fold
such a stroller frame assembly, the user would have to actuate the
release mechanism on the handlebar and then manually push the
handle assembly and push arms downward toward the front leg,
against the spring bias. A storage latch can be actuated manually
or automatically when the stroller frame assembly reaches the
folded configuration to retain the frame in the folded
configuration.
[0075] In any configuration disclosed herein, the drive mechanisms
could be provided directly between the push arms and fold joints or
slide collars to forcibly slide the push arms. As will be evident
to those having ordinary skill in the art, the torsion springs
described herein can be replaced by other biasing or drive
mechanisms, if desired. Conventional tension or compression coil
springs can be utilized to act as the drive or biasing mechanism to
automatically fold or unfold stroller frame assembly.
Alternatively, other types of biasing or drive mechanisms can be
utilized. Bungee cords or other highly elastic and strong cords can
be connected between the handle bar of the handle assembly and the
fold joints. These cords or tension elements can be run through the
tubes of the handle assembly so that they are not seen or
accessible. However, the tension in the cords can be utilized to
fold or unfold the stroller frame assembly as described
previously.
[0076] As will also become apparent to those having ordinary skill
in the art upon reading this disclosure, the biasing or drive
mechanisms can also be provided as a part of the fold joints, the
rear drive link pivots on the rear legs, or the front drive link
pivots at the lower ends of the push arms. Other configurations and
constructions of the stroller frame assembly can also be utilized
along with a biasing or drive mechanism that automatically folds or
unfolds the stroller frame assembly, though the biasing or drive
mechanisms can be connected to different portions of the stroller
frame assembly than those disclosed or described herein.
[0077] Though not described in detail herein, it is also
conceivable that biasing or drive mechanisms and fold joints for a
stroller frame assembly, such as the stroller frame assembly
disclosed and described herein, can be configured to both fold and
unfold the stroller frame assembly automatically. In such an
example, one drive mechanism (or one per frame side) could be
configured to perform both folding and unfolding functions.
Alternatively, two separate drive mechanisms (or two per frame
side) could be utilized, one for each function. In either case, the
spring force direction would have to be reversed when folding or
unfolding is completed or the springs for one function would have
to be deactivated mechanically when the springs for the other
function are working to fold or unfold.
[0078] By integrating a "foot" into the pivot at the lower end of
the telescoping push arm and drive link, the stroller frame
assembly can be configured to have a stable base on which to stand
when folded. These "feet" in combination with the front wheels can
then allow the stroller to compactly fold while standing up and
also to stand up while in the folded configuration. The rear wheels
pivot up off the ground with the movement of the rear legs and
drive links relative to the push arms.
[0079] The disclosed stroller frame assembly employs a specific
fold geometry that allows the frame to be folded more compactly
than other known strollers. This geometry can be utilized with or
without the automatic fold and/or unfold features described
above.
[0080] The use of springs, such as torsion springs, provides one
purely mechanical mechanism to automatically fold and/or unfold the
stroller frame assembly. The springs can be pre-loaded in one
direction or the other and act to either fold or unfold the frame
when released from the relevant configuration. The springs can be
provided at either pivoting end of the drive link or at the fold
joint. The springs or tension elements can also be provided
extending from the handle bar or the push arms to the fold joints.
Electromechanical means could also be used, in conjunction with the
frame geometry disclosed and described herein. However, the purely
mechanical drive mechanism solution is clean, durable, and of low
component complexity.
[0081] Although certain foldable strollers, frame assemblies, and
stroller components have been described herein in accordance with
the teachings of the present disclosure, the scope of coverage of
this patent is not limited thereto. On the contrary, this patent
covers all embodiments of the teachings of the disclosure that
fairly fall within the scope of permissible equivalents.
* * * * *