Adjustable connecting rod for child safety seat in vehicle and child safety seat

Abstract

The present invention relates to an adjustable connecting rod (100, 100 ') for releasably fastening a child safety seat (400) to a vehicle seat (502) having a fixedly mounted anchoring member (504). The connecting rod (100, 100 ') comprises: a coupling device (104) switchable between a locking configuration and a release configuration; a first elongate rod member (112) extending along a longitudinal axis between a first distal end (108a) provided with the coupling device (104) and a first proximal end (108b); a second elongate rod member (130) extending along a longitudinal axis between a second distal end (132a) and a second proximal end (132b), where the first elongate rod member (112) and the second elongate rod member (130) are telescopically interconnected and arranged to extend between the first distal end (132a) and the second proximal end (132b). The first elongated rod member (112) is relatively displaced between a retracted end position and an extended end position of the connecting rod member (100, 100 ') via one or more intermediate positions, and wherein the first elongated rod member (112) comprises an actuation member (116) movably arranged relative to the first elongated rod member (112) along a longitudinal axis of the first elongated rod member (112), and wherein the connecting rod member (100, 100') is movable relative to the first elongated rod member (112) along the longitudinal axis of the first elongated rod member (112). The connecting rod (100, 100 ') further comprises a latch (124) rotatably connected to the first elongate rod member (112), where the latch (124) in a first state is configured to prevent extension and retraction of the connecting rod (100, 100'), where the latch (124) in a second state is configured to prevent extension of the connecting rod (100, 100 ') to allow retraction thereof, and where the latch (124) in a second state is configured to prevent extension of the connecting rod (100, 100') to allow retraction thereof. The latch (124) is configured in a third state to allow extension and retraction of the connecting rod (100, 100 '). The invention further relates to an adjustable mounting arrangement and a child safety seat.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to an adjustable connecting rod and an adjustable mounting arrangement for releasably securing a child safety seat to a vehicle seat, and a child safety seat arranged to be releasably secured to a vehicle seat. Background Art

[0002] Standard practice is to secure child restraint systems to fixedly mounted generally U-shaped bar-like anchoring members, which are commonly available at the bottom of the seat backs of passenger cars, using releasable "crocodile-jaw" connectors that are rigidly coupled to the vehicle seat. The ISOFIX system is standardized in the international standard ISO 13216, which specifies anchoring systems for child restraint systems of this type. Examples of connectors of this type are given in EP 0619201 and EP 0703113.

[0003] A child safety seat (also called a child restraint system) is connected using the ISOFIX system and comprises a cushioned seat shell having a seat and backrest portion, a booster cushion with or without side bolsters, and an infant carrier. The child safety seat may be integral or may comprise a seat / booster / infant carrier mounted on a chassis (also called a base) which is connected using the ISOFIX system. The connector may be arranged to be retractable between a use position, in which the connector extends from the child safety seat, and a stowed position, in which the connector is retracted and at least partially enclosed in the child safety seat.

[0004] The connection between the child safety seat and the vehicle seat must be as strong and rigid as possible. It is also desirable to provide adjustment for different vehicle seat inclinations, sizes and shapes in order to ensure that the child safety seat is safely and securely installed.

[0005] EP 2551150 relates to a child safety seat assembly comprising a base with two connector arms that are movable forward and backward to extend from and retract into the base. An adjustment mechanism comprises a manually operable release actuation assembly disposed between the two connector arms and two latches arranged to lock or unlock the connector arms from the base. The child safety seat assembly is further described as comprising a drive mechanism operable to actuate a locking hook of a locking fastener disposed on each connector arm to engage or disengage with an anchor bracket of a vehicle. The drive mechanism comprises a manually operable fastener release actuator operatively connected to a link rod that is in turn connected to the locking hook.

[0006] WO 2012 / 172001 relates to a base to which a child safety seat can be releasably connected. The base comprises a floor support device, an Isofix connector, and a support surface for the child safety seat. The base further comprises a fastening and adjustment mechanism for the child safety seat and the Isofix connector. The fastening and adjustment mechanism comprises a first handle connected to and cooperating with at least one hook and an indication device, and a second handle connected to a locking device.

[0007] Typically, for mounting systems for child vehicle seats, the adjustment of the length of the connector protruding from the child safety seat is achieved by a manually operable mechanism. Therefore, there is a need for a more user-friendly and convenient system in order to facilitate and ensure the safe installation of a portable child safety seat in a vehicle. Furthermore, in many mounting systems known to date, the adjustment mechanism is separate from the connector (usually arranged between the connectors) and occupies a large space. Moreover, the mounting system is usually integrated in a chassis on which the child safety seat is placed.

[0008] In view of the foregoing, there is a need for a space efficient operating mechanism by which a user may operate a connector. Summary of the invention

[0009] An object of the present invention is to mitigate, alleviate or eliminate one or more of the above mentioned deficiencies and disadvantages in the art, singly or in any combination, and to solve at least the above mentioned problems.

[0010] These and other objects and / or advantages which will become apparent from the following description of embodiments are fully or at least partially achieved according to a first aspect of the invention by an adjustable connecting rod for releasably fastening a child safety seat to a vehicle seat having a fixedly mounted anchoring member. The connecting rod comprises: a coupling device which can be switched between a locking structure and a release structure; a first slender rod member which extends along a longitudinal axis between a first distal end and a first proximal end provided with the coupling device; a second slender rod member which extends along the longitudinal axis between a second distal end and a second proximal end; wherein the first slender rod member and the second slender rod member are telescopically interconnected and arranged to be relatively displaced between a retracted end position and an extended end position of the connecting rod via one or more intermediate positions, wherein the first slender rod member comprises an actuating member which is movably arranged relative to the first slender rod member along the longitudinal axis of the first slender rod member, wherein the connecting rod further comprises a latch which is rotatably connected to the first slender rod member, wherein the latch is configured in a first state to prevent the connecting rod from extending and retracting, wherein the latch is configured in a second state to prevent the connecting rod from extending and allowing it to retract, and wherein the latch is configured in a third state to allow the connecting rod to extend and retract.

[0011] The wording "adjustable" in "adjustable connecting rod" means in this context that the connecting rod can be adjusted in length.

[0012] The term "retracted end position" herein refers to a configuration in which the connecting rod is in its shortest form (ie fully retracted). In contrast, the term "extended end position" herein refers to a configuration in which the connecting rod is in its most elongated form (ie fully extended).

[0013] The first state may be an unlocked state. In the first state, the length of the connecting rod (i.e., the relative displacement between the first slender rod member and the second slender rod member) is fixed. It may be advantageous to fix the connecting rod in the first state when the connecting rod is to be attached to an anchoring member of a vehicle seat. Preferably, for ease of installation, the connecting rod is in an extended end position. The second state may be a locked state. In the second state, the connecting device may be in a locked structure and attached to the anchoring member of the vehicle seat. Further, the latch may allow the connecting rod to retract in the second state to adjust the length of the connecting rod after the connecting rod has been successfully attached to the vehicle seat. The third state may be a released state. In the third state, the connecting rod is allowed to retract and extend. Further, the connecting device may be converted into a released structure.

[0014] A simplified construction of the connecting rod can be achieved by having a single latch control the three different states of the connecting rod. In other words, the complete manipulation of the connecting rod (i.e., locking / unlocking and / or adjustment of its length) can be managed by a single latch. This further achieves both improved user interaction and a compact and material-efficient construction.

[0015] The second elongated rod member may include an aperture, and the latch may be configured to engage the aperture.

[0016] The connecting rod may include a plurality of apertures distributed along the longitudinal axis of the second elongated rod member, and the latch may be configured to engage with any one of the plurality of apertures. Each intermediate position of the first elongated rod member and the second elongated rod member may be defined by the latch engaging with each of the plurality of apertures. By having a plurality of apertures, more intermediate positions of the connecting rod may be achieved.

[0017] The latch may be spring biased to engage the aperture(s). This may simplify installation and adjustment of the connecting rod.

[0018] The actuation member may further include a pin element arranged at the third proximal end.

[0019] The latch can engage with the aperture in a first state and can be prevented from rotating by a pin element of the actuating member. The latch can engage with the aperture in a second state but is free to rotate in one direction. The latch can engage with a pin element of the actuating member in a third state.

[0020] The coupling device may include a hook member rotatably connected to the first elongated rod member so as to be transitionable between a locked configuration and a released configuration, wherein the hook member may be biased toward the released configuration by a spring.

[0021] The actuation member may further include a locking element arranged at the third distal end and may be configured to lock the coupling device in the locked configuration by engaging with the hook member.

[0022] The latch may include a protruding top portion having a substantially straight side and a sloped side.

[0023] The actuation member may further comprise a first protruding member for manually operating the actuation member.

[0024] The connecting rod may further include a second protruding member fixedly connected to the first elongated rod member, and a distance between the second protruding member and the first distal end of the first elongated member may be shorter than a distance between the first protruding member and the first distal end of the first elongated member.

[0025] The arrangement of the second protruding member relative to the first protruding member may be advantageous in that it prevents unwanted movement of the first protruding member (and thus movement of the actuation member which could thereby release the connecting rod from the vehicle seat) in the event of a collision. For example, in the event that the latch breaks due to forces pulling the first and second elongated rod members apart, the second protruding member may act as a safety stop, preventing the connecting rod from extending further. In addition to preventing the first and second elongated rod members from completely separating, it also prevents the first protruding member from being engaged, as described above.

[0026] The connecting rod may further include an indicator mechanism operatively connected to the coupling device to indicate the transition between the locking structure and the release structure. This may be advantageous because the indicator mechanism gives the user an indication of whether the connecting rod is successfully installed, thereby improving the installation process.

[0027] According to a second aspect of the invention, these and other objects are fully or at least partially achieved by an adjustable mounting arrangement for releasably securing a child safety seat to a vehicle seat having a fixedly mounted anchor member. The adjustable mounting arrangement comprises a pair of adjustable connecting rods, wherein each adjustable connecting rod is an adjustable connecting rod according to the first aspect above.

[0028] According to a third aspect of the invention, these and other objects are fully or at least partly achieved by a child safety seat arranged to be releasably fastened to a vehicle seat, the child safety seat comprising an adjustable mounting arrangement according to the above second aspect.

[0029] The effects and features of the second and third aspects of the present invention are largely similar to those described above in conjunction with the first aspect of the present invention. The embodiments mentioned with respect to the first aspect of the present invention are compatible with other aspects of the present invention to a large extent. In order to avoid excessive repetition, reference is made to the above.

[0030] Other objectives, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed disclosure, from the attached claims as well as from the drawings.It is noted that the present invention relates to all possible combinations of features.

[0031] Generally, unless otherwise explicitly defined herein, all terms used in the claims should be interpreted according to their ordinary meaning in the technical field. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, all references to "a / an / the [element, device, part, means, step, etc.]" are openly interpreted as referring to at least one example of the element, device, part, means, step, etc.

[0032] As used herein, the term "comprise" and variations of this term are not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers or steps. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] The above and further objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be better understood through the following illustrative and non-limiting detailed description of embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals may be used for similar elements, wherein:

[0034] Figure 1A and Figure 1B is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an adjustable connecting rod for releasably fastening a child safety seat to a vehicle seat according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 2A and Figure 2B is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of an adjustable connecting rod for releasably fastening a child safety seat to a vehicle seat according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 3A is a perspective view of the adjustable connecting rod when its latch is in a first state.

[0037] Figure 3B is a perspective view of the adjustable connecting rod when its latch is in the second state.

[0038] Figure 3C is a perspective view of the adjustable connecting rod when its latch is in the third state.

[0039] Figure 4 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an adjustable mounting arrangement for releasably securing a child safety seat to a vehicle seat according to a second aspect of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 5 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a child safety seat arranged to be releasably secured to a vehicle seat according to a third aspect of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] The inventive concept will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which presently preferred variations of the inventive concept are shown. However, the inventive concept may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the variations set forth herein; rather, these variations are provided for thoroughness and completeness and to fully convey the scope of the inventive concept to the skilled person.

[0042] Now refer to Figures 1A to 5 An adjustable connecting rod for releasably securing a child safety seat to a vehicle seat is described.

[0043] Figure 1A An exemplary embodiment of an adjustable connecting rod 100 is shown for releasably securing a child safety seat 400 to a vehicle seat 502. The connecting rod 100 is shown therein in perspective view (in both assembled and exploded views). Figure 1B The same exemplary embodiment of an adjustable connecting rod 100 is shown, but in another perspective view (ie, from the opposite side). It should be noted that the shapes, sizes or relative dimensions of the different parts of the connecting rod 100 are merely illustrative examples and should not be considered to limit the scope of the inventive concept.

[0044] The adjustable connecting rod 100 includes a connecting device 104. The connecting device 104 can be an ISOFIX connector. The connecting device 104 can be converted between a locked structure and a released structure. The connecting device 104 can be configured to be connected to a fixedly mounted anchor member 504 of a vehicle seat 502. In the locked structure, the connecting device 104 can be firmly attached to the anchor member 504 of the vehicle seat 502. In the released structure, the connecting device 104 can be removed from the anchor member 504 or connected to these anchor members. The connecting device 104 can include a hook member 106 as shown herein. The hook member 106 can be hooked to the anchor member 504 of the vehicle seat 502. The hook member 106 can be rotatably connected to the first elongated rod member 112 of the connecting rod 100, so as to be converted between the locked structure and the released structure. The hook member 106 can be biased toward the released structure by a spring. In other words, when the hook member 106 is not engaged by any other part of the connecting rod 100 or any external force, the connecting device 104 can be in the released structure. This can assist in installing the connecting rod 100 because no user movement is required to hold the coupling device 104 in the release configuration. Figure 2A The functionality of the connection device 104 is further discussed in FIG. 2C .

[0045] As described above, the adjustable connecting rod 100 further includes a first slender rod member 112. The first slender rod member 112 extends along a longitudinal axis between a first distal end 108a and a first proximal end 108b. The longitudinal axis of the first slender rod member 112 may be a first longitudinal axis. The coupling device 104 may be disposed at the first distal end 108a. Therefore, the first distal end 108a may be the end of the first slender rod member 112 that is arranged toward the anchoring member 504 of the vehicle seat when mounted on the vehicle seat 502. The first slender rod member 112 may include a first side portion 112a and a second side portion 112b. The first slender rod member 112 may further include a first narrow slot 136, which is arranged at the first distal end 108a and is arranged to receive the anchoring member 504 of the vehicle seat 502. The first elongated rod member 112 may further include a second slot 138 configured to allow the first protruding member 128 (described further below) to move within the second slot 138 along the longitudinal axis.

[0046] The adjustable connecting rod 100 further includes a second elongated rod member 130. The second elongated rod member 130 extends along a longitudinal axis between a second distal end 132a and a second proximal end 132b. The longitudinal axis of the second elongated rod member 130 may be a second longitudinal axis. The first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis may be the same longitudinal axis. The first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis may be parallel to each other. The second proximal end 132b of the second elongated rod member 130 may be an end that is arranged away from the anchor member 504 of the vehicle seat 502 when mounted to the vehicle seat 502. The first elongated rod member 112 and the second elongated rod member 130 are telescopically interconnected. In other words, one of the elongated rod members may be at least partially enclosed by the other elongated rod member and can be pulled out or pushed in so as to thereby adjust the length of the connecting rod 100. In the illustrated example, the first elongated rod member 112 is arranged inside the second elongated rod member 130. The second elongated rod member 130 includes a first side wall 140a and a second side wall 140b and a top wall 140c. However, the bottom of the second elongated rod member 130 is open. Therefore, the second elongated rod member 130 partially surrounds the first elongated rod member 112. The first elongated rod member 112 and the second elongated rod member 130 are arranged to be relatively displaced between the retracted end position and the extended end position of the connecting rod 100 via one or more intermediate positions.

[0047] The second elongated rod member 130 can be formed by a folded sheet metal. The second elongated rod member 130 can include a first side wall 140a, a second side wall 140b and a top wall 140c. Therefore, the second elongated rod member 130 can have an open bottom. Therefore, the metal sheet can be folded along two lines. This can simplify production and reduce the amount of required materials. The second elongated rod member 130 can include a third slot 118a and a fourth slot 118b on the first side wall 140a and the second side wall 140b respectively along the longitudinal direction. The third slot 118a and the fourth slot 118b can allow the protruding member of the actuating member 116 (described further below) to extend through the second elongated rod member 130 and extend in the slot when the connecting rod 100 is operated.

[0048] The second elongated rod member 130 may include at least one aperture 120. In other words, the second elongated rod member 130 may include one aperture 120. Alternatively, the second elongated rod member 130 may include a plurality of apertures 120. In the example shown, the second elongated rod member 130 includes ten apertures 120. However, any number of apertures is possible. The at least one aperture 120 may be disposed on the top wall 140c of the second elongated rod member 130. The at least one aperture 120 may define an intermediate position of the first elongated rod member 112 relative to the second elongated rod member 130. As recognized by the skilled person, the more apertures 120, the more possible intermediate positions of the connecting rod 100 may be achieved. In the case where the second elongated rod member 130 includes a plurality of apertures 120, the plurality of apertures 120 may be evenly distributed along a section of the top wall 140c of the second elongated rod member 130, as shown herein. Alternatively, the apertures 120 of the plurality of apertures 120 may be unevenly distributed along the top wall 140c of the second elongated rod member 130. The at least one aperture 120 may have a rectangular shape as shown herein. However, the at least one aperture 120 may also have other shapes, such as circular, oval, or any polygonal shape.

[0049] The connecting rod 100 may further include a protective housing 102. The protective housing 102 may be disposed on an end portion of the first elongated rod member 112 at the first distal end 108a. Thus, the protective housing 102 may be disposed on the coupling device 104. The protective housing 102 may be made of any suitable material, such as plastic or metal.

[0050] As shown herein, the connecting rod 100 further includes a hook guide 107. The hook guide 107 is fixedly attached to the first elongated rod member 112. The hook guide 107 can guide the hook member 106 to rotate.

[0051] The connecting rod 100 further includes an actuating member 116. The actuating member 116 may be a part of the first slender rod member 112. Therefore, the first slender rod member 112 may include the actuating member 116. More specifically, the actuating member 116 may be arranged inside the first slender rod member 112. The actuating member 116 may be movably arranged relative to the first slender rod member 112 along the longitudinal axis of the first slender rod member 112. In other words, the actuating member 116 may be arranged to slide along the longitudinal axis of the first slender rod member 112. The actuating member 116 may further include a first protruding member 128. The first protruding member 128 may be fixedly connected to the actuating member 116. The first protruding member 128 may be arranged to allow manual operation of the actuating member 116. In other words, the displacement of the actuating member 116 relative to the first slender rod member 112 can be performed by operating the first protruding member 128. As in Figure 2B As more clearly shown in FIG. 1 , the first protruding member 128 may protrude outwardly from one side of the actuating member 116 through the first and second elongated rod members 112, 130 and may be movable along the longitudinal axis of the first elongated rod member 112. The first protruding member 128 may protrude in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first elongated rod member 112.

[0052] The actuation member 116 may further include a locking element 142 disposed at a third distal end 144a of the actuation member 116. The third distal end 144a of the actuation member 116 may be an end of the actuation member 116 disposed toward the coupling device 104. The actuation member 116 may be biased toward the coupling device 104 by a spring. Therefore, the connecting rod 100 may include a second spring 146b having a first end connected to the first elongated rod member 112 and a second end connected to the actuation member 116. More specifically, the first end may be connected to the first elongated rod member 112 through the hook guide 107. In other words, the first end of the second spring 146b may be connected to the hook guide 107. Therefore, the locking element 142 may be configured to lock the coupling device 104 in a locked configuration by engaging with the hook member 106. More specifically, when the hook member 106 is rotated to the locked configuration, the locking element 142 of the actuation member 116 may engage the hook member 106 to lock it in place. The locking element 142 and the actuation member 116 may be formed from a single part. Alternatively, the locking element 142 and the actuation member 116 may be formed from two separate parts that are fixedly attached to each other.

[0053] The actuating member 116 may further include a pin element 126 disposed at a third proximal end 144b of the actuating member 116. The third proximal end 144b may be an end opposite to the third distal end 144a of the actuating member 116. The pin element 126 may be configured to engage with a latch 124 (described further below) of the connecting rod 100. The actuating member 116 may be formed by a first portion 117a and a second portion 117b as shown herein. The first portion 117a and the second portion 117b may be attached together by a fourth spring 146d. Therefore, movement along the longitudinal axis of one of the first portion 117a or the second portion 117b may also result in movement of the other portion. In this example, the pin element 126 is disposed at the second portion 117b. The indicator mechanism 134 may be implemented by forming the actuating member 116 by the first portion 117a and the second portion 117b connected together by the fourth spring 146d, as described further below. The spring connection may allow the first portion 117a of the actuating member 116 to move toward the coupling device 104, thereby locking it in the locked configuration, even if the second portion 117b may be stuck, for example, due to the indicator mechanism 134 or the latch 124. Alternatively, the actuating member may be formed of a single part, such as Figure 2A as shown for a more simplified structure.

[0054] The connecting rod 100 may further include a second protruding member 122. The second protruding member 122 may be fixedly connected to the first elongated rod member 112. The distance between the second protruding member 122 and the first distal end 108a of the first elongated rod member 112 may be shorter than the distance between the first protruding member 128 and the first distal end 108a of the first elongated rod member 112. In other words, the second protruding member 122 may be closer to the coupling device 104 than the first protruding member 128.

[0055] The connecting rod 100 further includes a latch 124, which is rotatably connected to the first slender rod member 112. The latch 124 can be arranged at the first proximal end 108b of the first slender rod member 112. The latch 124 can be configured to engage with at least one aperture 120 of the second slender rod member 130. Further, the latch 124 can be biased by a third spring 146c to engage with the at least one aperture 120. Thereby, the latch 124 can prevent and / or allow the connecting rod 100 to extend and retract by engaging and / or disengaging with the aperture 120. More specifically, in the first state, the latch 124 is configured to prevent the connecting rod 100 from extending and retracting. In the second state, the latch 124 is configured to prevent the connecting rod 100 from extending and allowing it to retract. In the third state, the latch 124 is configured to allow the connecting rod 100 to extend and retract. hereinafter combined FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C The different stages are described further.

[0056] exist Figure 1A and Figure 1B , the connecting rod 100 is shown in one of a plurality of intermediate positions defined by the engagement of the latch 124 with one of the apertures 120. The retracted end position of the connecting rod 100 can be defined by the position where the latch 124 engages with the aperture closest to the second proximal end 132b of the second elongated rod member 130. The extended end position of the connecting rod 100 can be defined by the position where the latch 124 engages with the aperture closest to the second distal end 132a of the second elongated rod member 130.

[0057] Figure 1A and Figure 1B The illustrated connecting rod 100 further includes an indicator mechanism 134 that is operatively connected to the coupling device 104 to indicate the transition between the locked configuration and the released configuration. More specifically, the indicator mechanism 134 can indicate to the user whether the connecting rod 100 is correctly connected to the anchor member 504 based on the position of the actuating member 116 relative to the first elongated rod member 112. The indicator mechanism 134 can provide an indication to an external indicator (i.e., whether the coupling device is in the locked configuration or the released configuration). For example, the indication can be provided to an electronic switch that can trigger the indication.

[0058] The connecting rod 100 may further include seat connection points 110, 111 configured to connect the connecting rod 100 to the child safety seat 400. Here, the connecting rod 100 is provided with a first connection point 110 and a second connection point 111. However, the connecting rod 100 may include any number of connection points.

[0059] The connecting rod 100 may further include an unlocking mechanism 114. The unlocking mechanism 114 may be operatively connected to the first protruding member 128 to allow a user to operate the connecting rod 100 through the unlocking mechanism 114. The unlocking mechanism 114 may be, for example, a button or the like. The unlocking mechanism 114 may include an indicator that may indicate a transition between a locked configuration and a released configuration of the coupling device 104. Therefore, the indicator of the unlocking mechanism 114 may be coupled to the actuating member 116.

[0060] Figure 2A and Figure 2B Another exemplary embodiment of an adjustable connecting rod 100 ′ for releasably fastening a child safety seat 400 to a vehicle seat 502 according to the first aspect of the present invention is shown in two different perspective views. Figure 1A and Figure 1B Any features mentioned in the examples apply to Figure 2A and Figure 2B and vice versa.

[0061] and Figure 1A and Figure 1B Compared to the connecting rod 100 shown in FIG. Figure 2A and Figure 2B The connecting rod 100' is not provided with an indicator mechanism. Figure 1A and Figure 1B Compared to the example, Figure 2A and Figure 2B The example provides a simpler construction.

[0062] Figure 2A and Figure 2B It further shows that the connecting rod 100' is in Figure 1A and Figure 1B Different positions of the connecting rod 100 in the embodiment. Figure 1A and Figure 1B The connecting rod is different from 100. Figure 2A and Figure 2B The connecting rod 100' is shown in an extended end position.

[0063] Figure 2B Further illustrated are a first protruding member 122 and a second protruding member 128. As described above, the first protruding member 128 is connected to the actuation member 116 and can protrude through the fourth slot 118b of the second elongated rod member 130. The first protruding member 128 can be translated by a user along the longitudinal axis of the first elongated rod member 112 to convert the connecting rod 100' into a first state, a second state, and a third state. The second protruding member 122 is fixedly attached to the first elongated rod member 112. The second protruding member 122 can protrude through the fourth slot 118b of the second elongated rod member 130. The second protruding member 122 can act as a safety stop, for example, in the event of a failure of the latch 124 or the aperture 120. For example, this may be the case in a crash event. The fixedly mounted second protruding member 122 can then engage with the end of the fourth slot 118b (towards the second proximal end 132b of the second elongated rod member 130) to prevent the second elongated rod member 130 from separating from the first elongated rod member 112. Further, the position of the second protruding member 122 in front of the first protruding member 128 (i.e., closer to the end of the fourth slot 118b) can prevent the actuation member 116 from being pushed and thus converting the connecting rod 100' into a released state in the event of a failure of the latch 124 or the aperture 120. Figure 2A As seen in FIG. 1 , the second protruding member 122 may also extend through the third slot 118a of the second elongated rod member 130 to engage the third slot 118a in the event that the latch 124 or aperture 120 fails.

[0064] Similar to the second protruding member 122, a stop member 148 (described further below) can extend through the third slot 118a and / or the fourth slot 118b of the second elongated rod member 130 to act as a safety stop in the event that the retraction force pushes the connecting rod 100 together. Thus, the stop member 148 can engage with the opposite end of the third slot 118a and / or the fourth slot 118b compared to the second protruding member 122. Further, the second protruding member 122 and the stop member 148 can be used as a guide for relative displacement between the first and second elongated rod members by engaging with the third slot 118a and / or the fourth slot 118b. This allows the bottom of the second elongated rod member 130 to remain open, unlike having the second elongated rod member 130 completely surround the first elongated rod member 112. Therefore, less material may be required for the second elongated rod member 130.

[0065] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C 1 is a perspective view of the adjustable connecting rod 100 in three different states. In particular, FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C The connecting rod 100 is shown when the latch 124 of the connecting rod is in the first state, the second state and the third state respectively. Figure 1A and Figure 1B The illustrated connecting rod 100 and the following discussion of different states also represent other embodiments of the connecting rod 100, such as Figure 2A and Figure 2B An exemplary embodiment of a connecting rod 100 ′.

[0066] To improve understanding, FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C 1 shows a section of the connecting rod 100 showing the latch 124 in an enlarged side view. Further, for illustration purposes, the hook guide 107 is shown in phantom.

[0067] exist Figure 3AIn the first state, the latch 124 is in the first state. The first state may also be referred to as an unlocked state. The wording "unlocked" in the "unlocked state" means that the connection device 104 is in a released structure. Therefore, the first state may refer to the entire connecting rod 100 rather than just the latch 124. As described above, the latch 124 is configured to prevent the connecting rod 100 from extending and retracting in the first state. In other words, the first slender rod member 112 and the second slender rod member 130 are prevented from moving relative to each other. More specifically, the connecting rod 100 is retained in the current position, whether in the intermediate position, in the retracted end position, or in the extended end position. This state may be advantageous during the process of the user attaching the connecting rod 100 to the anchor member 504 of the vehicle seat 502, because the connecting rod 100 can be manipulated without extending or retracting. In other words, when the user pushes the connecting rod 100 toward the anchor member 504 by applying a force to attach the connection device 104, the connecting rod 100 is prevented from extending or retracting.

[0068] The arrows shown at the hook member 106, the locking element 142, and the latch 124 show the biasing direction. As described above, the hook member of the coupling device can be biased toward the release structure by the first spring 146a. The first spring 146a can be attached to the hook guide 107. The actuation member 116 (and therefore the locking element 142) can be biased toward the coupling device 104 by the second spring 146b. This can allow the locking element 142 to engage the hook member 106 when the hook member 106 is converted into the locked structure. Finally, the latch 124 can be biased by the third spring 146c to engage the at least one aperture 120 of the second elongated rod member 130.

[0069] As shown herein, the latch 124 is rotatably connected to the first elongated rod member 112. In other words, the latch 124 can rotate about the latch attachment point 150. The latch 124 can be further biased by the third spring 146c to engage with the (one or more) apertures 120 of the second elongated rod member 130. In other words, as Figure 3A , the latch 124 is biased in clockwise rotation about the latch attachment point 150. The connecting rod 100 can further include a stop member 148. The stop member 148 can be fixedly attached to the first elongated rod member 112. The stop member 148 can provide a stop point for clockwise rotation of the latch 124. In other words, the stop member 148 defines a top position of the latch 124 when engaged with the latch 124.

[0070] Hereinafter, reference to an "aperture" refers to the aperture 120 with which the latch 124 engages in this illustration. However, it should be noted that the latch 124 may engage with any of the apertures of the second elongated rod member 130. The length of the connecting rod 100 may be adjusted by changing which aperture the latch 124 engages with.

[0071] In the first state, the latch 124 can engage with the aperture 120 of the second slender rod member 130. More specifically, a portion of the latch 124 can be present in the aperture 120 to physically engage with the side wall of the aperture 120. The latch 124 may include a protruding top portion 152. When the latch 124 is engaged with the aperture 120, the protruding top portion 152 can extend through the aperture 120. The protruding top portion 152 may include a first side disposed toward the first distal end 108a of the first slender rod member 112. The protruding top portion 152 may further include a second side disposed toward the first proximal end 108b of the first slender rod member 112. The first side may be a substantially straight side. As in Figure 3A The phrase "substantially straight" may be interpreted as the side being a flat side or a vertical side as seen from a bottom-up direction in a side view of the connecting rod 100. In contrast, the second side may be a sloped side. In other words, the first side may be configured to engage with the aperture 120 of the second elongated rod member 130 in a secure manner so that if a force is applied to try to pull the first elongated rod member 112 and the second elongated rod member 130 apart, the latch 124 is not pushed downward. In contrast, the second side (or sloped side) may be configured to allow the aperture 120 of the second elongated rod member 130 to both hold the second elongated rod member 130 in place (relative to the first elongated rod member 112) and allow the connecting rod 100 to retract (assuming the latch 124 is free to rotate). Thus, the sloped side may allow the aperture 120 to slide past the latch 124.

[0072] In addition to the latch 124 being engaged with the aperture 120, in the first state, the latch 124 can also be prevented from rotating by the pin element 126 of the actuating member 116. More specifically, the latch 124 can be prevented from disengaging from the aperture 120. In the first state, the actuating member 116 can be in an intermediate position. In this position, the pin element 126 of the actuating member 116 can be positioned at a point below the latch 124, thereby preventing the latch 124 from rotating, as shown in FIG. Figure 3A . More specifically, in the first state, the latch 124 can be prevented from rotating in a first direction (here counterclockwise) by the pin element 126. Further, the latch 124 can be prevented from rotating in a second direction (here clockwise) by the stop member 148. Therefore, in the first state, the latch 124 is engaged with the aperture 120 of the second elongated rod member 130 and is prevented from rotating in any direction. Therefore, the connecting rod 100 can be prevented from extending and retracting.

[0073] The latch 124 being prevented from rotating may be interpreted as the latch 124 being prevented from rotating enough to disengage from the aperture 120. Therefore, a smaller rotation of the latch 124 may still be possible, such as may be seen from Figure 3AThe distance between the pin element 126 and the latch 124 in the side view can be understood.

[0074] exist Figure 3B In the embodiment of the present invention, the latch 124 is in the second state. The second state may also be referred to as the locked state. Here, the wording "locked" refers to the connection device 104 being in the locked configuration. In this state, the hook member 106 of the connection device 104 has been rotated counterclockwise to hook onto the anchor member 504 (e.g., the vehicle seat 502). Figure 5 When the hook member 106 is rotated to the locked configuration, the locking element 142 of the actuation member 116 can engage the hook member 106, and thus, the entire actuation member 116 can move toward the first distal end 108a of the first elongated rod member 112. The movement of the actuation member 116 can be caused by the actuation member 116 being spring biased or by manual movement by a user.

[0075] In the second state, the latch 124 can engage with the aperture 120, as described above. Further, the latch 124 can engage with the stop member 148. Thus, the connecting rod 100 can be prevented from extending. However, because the actuating member 116 is now in a forward position (i.e., toward the first distal end 108a of the first elongated rod member 112), the latch 124 is free to rotate in one direction (i.e., the first direction or counterclockwise direction as described above) in the second state. In other words, the pin element 126 of the actuating member 116 is no longer in a position to prevent the latch 124 from rotating counterclockwise. Therefore, the connecting rod 100 can be retracted by pushing the first elongated rod member 112 and the second elongated rod member 130 together.

[0076] When installing the connecting rod 100 in a vehicle, the second state is used to allow the connecting rod 100 to be retracted to a desired length after the coupling device 104 has been successfully connected to the anchor member 504 of the vehicle seat 502. This facilitates a simple installation process because the connecting rod 100 can be at its full length when attempting to connect it to the vehicle seat 502, and then retracted to the desired length after successful installation.

[0077] exist Figure 3C, the latch 124 is in a third state. The third state may also be referred to as a released state. Here, the wording "released" may refer to the connecting rod 100 being released from the anchoring member 504 of the vehicle seat 502 and / or the latch 124 allowing full adjustment of the length of the connecting rod 100. The third state can be achieved by moving the actuating member 116 to a rearward position (i.e., toward the first proximal end 108b of the first elongated rod member 112). The actuating member 116 can be moved by a user engaging the first protruding member 128. In the third state, the latch 124 engages with the pin element 126 of the actuating member 116. More specifically, when the actuating member 116 (and therefore the pin element 126) moves toward the rearward position, the pin element 126 may cause the latch 124 to rotate in a counterclockwise direction, as shown herein. Figure 3C In the example of FIG. 1 , the pin element 126 engages with the fifth slot 154 in the latch 124, thereby causing the latch 124 to rotate. Thus, in the third state, the latch 124 is disengaged from the aperture 120 of the second elongated rod member 130, and thus allows the connecting rod 100 to be extended and retracted. As is apparent from the above, the third state may be advantageous in that it allows the connecting rod 100 to be fully adjusted.

[0078] Figure 4 4 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an adjustable mounting arrangement 402 for releasably securing a child safety seat 400 to a vehicle seat according to a second aspect of the inventive concept. The adjustable mounting arrangement 402 includes a pair of adjustable connecting rods 404. Each of the pair of adjustable connecting rods 404 may be as described above in conjunction with Figures 1A to 3C The pair of connecting rods 404 may be operatively connected to each other via a crossbar or any other similar arrangement. Alternatively, an adjustable mounting arrangement 402 according to the present inventive concept may include a pair of separate, unconnected connecting rods, as shown herein.

[0079] The adjustable mounting arrangement 402 can be mounted to a child safety seat 400 as shown herein to form a child safety seat 400 that is arranged to be releasably fastened to a vehicle seat, including the adjustable mounting arrangement 402. Here, for illustrative purposes, the child safety seat 400 is shown in phantom. The child safety seat 400 can be of different types, such as a seat shell with a seat and backrest portion, a booster cushion with or without side bolsters, and an infant carrier. The child safety seat 400 can be attached to the adjustable mounting arrangement 402 via the seat connection points 110, 111 of the corresponding connecting rods.

[0080] Figure 54 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a child safety seat 400 arranged to be releasably secured to a vehicle seat 502 according to a third aspect of the present inventive concept. The child safety seat 400 (shown in phantom for illustrative purposes) includes an adjustable mounting arrangement 402, such as described above in conjunction with Figure 4 The adjustable mounting arrangement described. Figure 5 In the illustrated example, the child safety seat 400 is mounted to a vehicle seat 502. The child safety seat 400 is mounted to the vehicle seat 502 via an adjustable mounting arrangement 402 connected to a fixedly mounted anchor member 504 of the vehicle seat 502.

[0081] Those skilled in the art realize that the inventive concept is by no means limited to the preferred variants described above. On the contrary, many modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the appended claims.

[0082] Additionally, variations to the disclosed variations can be understood and effected by the skilled artisan in practicing the claimed invention, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims.

Claims

1. An adjustable connecting rod (100, 100') for releasably securing a child safety seat (400) to a vehicle seat (502) having a fixedly mounted anchor member (504), the connecting rod (100, 100') comprising: a coupling device (104) which is switchable between a locked configuration and a released configuration; a first elongated rod member (112) extending along a longitudinal axis between a first distal end (108a) provided with the coupling device (104) and a first proximal end (108b); a second elongated rod member (130) extending along a longitudinal axis between a second distal end (132a) and a second proximal end (132b), wherein the first and second elongated rod members (112, 130) are telescopically interconnected and arranged to be relatively displaced between a retracted end position and an extended end position of the connecting rod (100, 100') via one or more intermediate positions, wherein the first elongated rod member (112) comprises an actuating member (116) movably arranged relative to the first elongated rod member (112) along a longitudinal axis of the first elongated rod member (112), The connecting rod (100, 100') further comprises a latch (124) rotatably connected to the first elongated rod member (112), wherein the latch (124) is configured to prevent the connecting rod (100, 100') from extending and retracting in a first state, wherein the latch (124) is configured in the second state to prevent the connecting rod (100, 100') from extending and to allow the connecting rod to retract, wherein the latch (124) is configured to allow the connecting rod (100, 100') to extend and retract in the third state, wherein the second elongated rod member (130) comprises an aperture (120), wherein the latch (124) is configured to engage with the aperture (120), wherein the actuating member (116) further comprises a pin element (126) disposed at a third proximal end (144b) of the actuating member (116), wherein the latch (124) is engaged with the aperture (120) in the first state and is prevented from rotating by a pin element (126) of the actuating member (116), wherein the latch (124) is engaged with the aperture (120) in the second state but is free to rotate in one direction, and The latch (124) is engaged with a pin element (126) of the actuating member (116) in the third state.

2. The connecting rod (100, 100') according to claim 1, wherein: The connecting rod (100, 100') includes a plurality of apertures (120) distributed along the longitudinal axis of the second elongated rod member (130), and Wherein, the latch (124) is configured to engage with any one of the plurality of apertures (120).

3. The connecting rod (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The latch (124) is spring biased to engage the aperture(s) (120).

4. The connecting rod (100, 100') according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The coupling device (104) includes a hook member (106) rotatably connected to the first elongated rod member (112) so as to be convertible between the locked configuration and the released configuration. Wherein, the hook member (106) is biased toward the release structure by a spring.

5. The connecting rod (100, 100') according to claim 4, wherein: The actuation member (116) further includes a locking element (142) disposed at a third distal end (144a) of the actuation member (116) and configured to lock the coupling device (104) in the locking structure by engaging with the hook member (106).

6. The connecting rod (100, 100') according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The latch (124) includes a protruding top portion (152) having a substantially straight side and a sloped side.

7. The connecting rod (100, 100') according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The actuation member (116) further includes a first protruding member (128) for manually operating the actuation member (116).

8. The connecting rod (100, 100') according to claim 7, wherein: The connecting rod (100, 100') further includes a second protruding member (122) fixedly connected to the first elongated rod member (112), and Wherein, the distance between the second protruding member (122) and the first distal end (108a) of the first slender member (112) is shorter than the distance between the first protruding member (128) and the first distal end (108a) of the first slender member (112).

9. The connecting rod (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising an indicator mechanism (134) operatively connected to the coupling device (104) to indicate the transition between the locking structure and the release structure.

10. An adjustable mounting arrangement (402) for releasably securing a child safety seat (400) to a vehicle seat having a fixedly mounted anchor member, the adjustable mounting arrangement (402) comprising a pair of adjustable connecting rods (404), wherein: Each adjustable connecting rod is an adjustable connecting rod (100, 100') according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. A child safety seat (400) arranged to be releasably secured to a vehicle seat (502), the child safety seat (400) comprising an adjustable mounting arrangement (402) according to claim 10.

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