Child transport system for convertible cart, car seat, baby carriage, and basket carrier

Abstract

A child transport system (100) may include a seat system (102) including a first seat housing, a second seat housing, and an extendable frame (170), the first seat housing and the second seat housing each attached to the extendable frame (170), a set of front wheel assemblies (106a, 106b), and a set of rear wheel assemblies (104a, 104b). The first seat housing is slidable along a linear axis (E) relative to the second seat housing between a first position and a second position, the set of front wheel assemblies (106a, 106b) being rotatably attached to the seat system (102), and the set of rear wheel assemblies (104a, 104b) being rotatably attached to the seat system (102). A child transport system (100) can be configured between a plurality of configurations including a basket carrier, a car seat, a stroller, and a stroller.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 527,718, filed on July 19, 2023, and Chinese Application No. 202322976254.4, filed on October 16, 2023, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes. Background Art

[0003] Carrier products can be used to transport children (e.g., infants, toddlers) and can include car seats, strollers, carriers, strollers, etc. These carrier products collectively provide a transportation solution for children and can be collectively referred to as a child travel system. However, each carrier product performs a specific function. As a result, parents may need a separate carrier product for each function, which results in bulky and cumbersome transportation. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to carrier products. More specifically, embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a child transport system that is configurable between multiple configurations, including a carrier, a car seat, a stroller, and a cart.

[0005] In some embodiments, a child transport system includes a seat system, a front wheel assembly, and a rear wheel assembly. The seat system includes a first seat shell, a second seat shell, and an extendable frame, the first seat shell and the second seat shell are each attached to the extendable frame, the first seat shell is slidable along a linear axis relative to the second seat shell between a first position and a second position, the front wheel assembly is rotatably attached to the seat system, and the rear wheel assembly is rotatably attached to the seat system.

[0006] These and other embodiments can each optionally include one or more of the following features: the child transport system is configurable between a plurality of configurations, the plurality of configurations including a stroller configuration and a buggy configuration, wherein in the stroller configuration, the seat system is in a first position and each of the front wheel assembly set and the rear wheel assembly set is in a deployed position, the buggy configuration and the seat system is in a second position and each of the front wheel assembly set and the rear wheel assembly set is in a deployed position; the plurality of configurations further including a carrier configuration and wherein in the carrier configuration, the seat system is in a second position and each of the front wheel assembly set and the rear wheel assembly set is in a deployed position The child transport system further comprises a car seat base, the seat system being configured to be releasably attached to the car seat base, the child transport system being configurable into a car seat configuration, in which the seat system is in a second position and each of the front wheel assembly group and the rear wheel assembly group is in a stowed position, and the seat system is attached to the car seat base; the extendable frame comprises a frame rail group, each frame rail group comprising a first frame rail and a second frame rail, the first seat shell being attached to each first frame rail and the second seat shell being attached to each second frame rail, the first frame rail being slidable within the second frame rail; the child transport system further comprises a headrest being adjustable along a linear axis parallel to the angle of inclination of the seat back of the seat system; the child transport system further comprises one or more of: a suspension system group integrated into the wheel hub of the rear wheel assembly group and the wheel hub of the front wheel assembly group, and a suspension system group integrated into the leg of the rear wheel assembly group. The child transport system further includes a push rod rotatable about an axis, wherein rotation of the push rod drives the rear wheel assembly to rotate about at least a portion of the axis; and the seat system includes a substantially flat base parallel to a horizontal plane.

[0007] In some embodiments, a child transport system includes a seat system, a front wheel assembly, and a rear wheel assembly, the seat system including a first seat shell, a second seat shell, and an extendable frame, the first seat shell and the second seat shell each being attached to the extendable frame, the first seat shell being slidable along a linear axis within the second seat shell between a first position and a second position to adjust the length of the seat system along the linear axis, the front wheel assembly being rotatably attached to the first seat shell, and the rear wheel assembly being rotatably attached to the second seat shell. The child transport system is configurable between a plurality of configurations, including a stroller configuration in which the seat system is locked in a first position and a cart configuration in which the seat system is locked in a second position.

[0008] These and other embodiments can each optionally include one or more of the following features: in the stroller configuration, each of the front wheel assembly group and the rear wheel assembly group is in the deployed position, and in the stroller configuration, each of the front wheel assembly group and the rear wheel assembly group is in the deployed position; the multiple configurations further include a carrier configuration, in which the seat system is in the second position and each of the front wheel assembly group and the rear wheel assembly group is in the stowed position; the child transport system further includes a car seat base, the seat system is configured for releasable attachment to the car seat base, the child transport system being configurable into a car seat configuration, in which the seat system is in the second position and the front wheel assembly group is in the stowed position Each of the wheel assembly group and the rear wheel assembly group is in a stowed position, and the seat system is attached to the car seat base; the extendable frame includes a frame rail group, each frame rail group includes a first frame rail and a second frame rail, a first seat shell is attached to each first frame rail, and a second seat shell is attached to each second frame rail; the first frame rail is capable of sliding within the second frame rail; the child transport system further includes a headrest that is adjustable along a linear axis parallel to the angle of inclination of the seat back of the seat system; the child transport system further includes one or more of the following: a suspension system group integrated into the wheel hub of the rear wheel assembly group and the wheel hub of the front wheel assembly group, and a suspension system group integrated into the leg of the rear wheel assembly group. The child transport system further includes a push rod that is capable of rotating about an axis, and rotation of the push rod drives the rear wheel assembly group to rotate about at least a portion of the axis; the seat system includes a substantially flat base parallel to a horizontal plane.

[0009] The details of one or more embodiments of the disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages of the disclosure will be apparent from the description, drawings, and claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 Depicted is an isometric view of a child transport system in a carrier configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 2 A side view of the child transport system of the present disclosure in a carrier configuration is depicted.

[0012] Figure 3 A front view of the child transport system of the present disclosure is depicted in a carrier configuration.

[0013] Figure 4 A rear view of the child transport system of the present disclosure is depicted in a carrier configuration.

[0014] Figure 5Depicted is a top view of the child transport system of the present disclosure in a carrier configuration.

[0015] Figure 6 A bottom view of the child transport system of the present disclosure in a carrier configuration is depicted.

[0016] Figure 7 Depicted is an isometric view of the child transport system of the present disclosure in a stroller configuration.

[0017] Figure 8 Depicted is a side view of the child transport system of the present disclosure in a stroller configuration.

[0018] Figure 9 Depicted is an isometric view of a car seat base for use with the child transportation system of the present disclosure in a car seat configuration.

[0019] Figure 10 The child transport system of the present disclosure is depicted mounted to a Figure 9 Isometric view of a car seat base.

[0020] Figure 11 Depicted is a side view of the child transport system of the present disclosure in a stroller configuration.

[0021] Figure 12 Depicted is an isometric view of the child transport system of the present disclosure in a stroller configuration.

[0022] Figure 13 Depicted is a top view of the child transport system of the present disclosure in a stroller configuration.

[0023] Figure 14 Depicted is a bottom view of the child transport system of the present disclosure in a stroller configuration.

[0024] Figure 15 Depicted is a side view of a seat system of a child transport system of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 16 A rear view of the seat system of the child transport system of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0026] Figure 17 Depicted is an isometric view of a seat system of a child transport system of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 18 Depicted is an exploded view of a seat system of the child transport system of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 19 Depicted is a bottom view of a portion of a seat system of a child transportation system of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 20A partial cross-sectional view of a child transport system including an extendable member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0030] Figure 21 A cross-sectional view of a rear suspension system of a child transport system of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0031] Figure 22 A cross-sectional view of a front suspension system of a child transport system of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0032] Figure 23 A cross-sectional view of a leg assembly suspension system of a child transport system of the present disclosure is depicted.

[0033] Like reference numerals and designations in the various drawings indicate like elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to carrier products, such as carriers for infants, toddlers, etc. More specifically, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a carrier product (i.e., a child transport system) that is configurable between multiple configurations, including a carrier, a car seat, a stroller, and a cart.

[0035] In some embodiments, a child transport system includes a seat system, a front wheel assembly group, and a rear wheel assembly group, the seat system including a first seat shell, a second seat shell, and an extendable frame, the first seat shell and the second seat shell are each attached to the extendable frame, the first seat shell is capable of sliding along a linear axis relative to the second seat shell between a first position and a second position, the front wheel assembly group is rotatably attached to the seat system, and the rear wheel assembly group is rotatably attached to the seat system. In some embodiments, a child transport system includes a seat system, a front wheel assembly group, and a rear wheel assembly group, the seat system including a first seat shell, a second seat shell, and an extendable frame, the first seat shell and the second seat shell are each attached to the extendable frame, the first seat shell is capable of sliding along a linear axis within the second seat shell between a first position and a second position to adjust the length of the seat system along the linear axis, the front wheel assembly group is rotatably attached to the first seat shell, and the rear wheel assembly group is rotatably attached to the second seat shell. The child transport system is configurable between a plurality of configurations including a stroller configuration in which the seat system is locked in a first position and a cart configuration in which the seat system is locked in a second position.

[0036] To provide further context for embodiments of the present disclosure, as described above, carrier products can be used to transport children (e.g., infants, toddlers) and can include car seats, strollers, carriers, strollers, etc. Such carrier products collectively provide a transportation solution for children. Each carrier product performs a corresponding function, and as such, parents may need a separate carrier product for each function, which results in bulky and cumbersome transportation. Some carrier products include various combinations, such as a stroller and stroller combination, a carrier and stroller combination, and a carrier and car seat combination. Alternatively, a traditional child travel system can include a main stroller, stroller, car seat, or car seat base with the addition of accessories that allow convertibility. However, there is a lack of a comprehensive child transportation solution that combines all functions.

[0037] In view of the foregoing background, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a carrier product (i.e., a child transport system) that is configurable between multiple configurations, including a carrier, a car seat, a stroller, and a trolley. As further described herein, the child transport system of the present disclosure can be described as a four-in-one (4-in-1) carrier product, wherein a single carrier can be configured into four configurations. More specifically, the child transport system of the present disclosure performs four functions within a single carrier product.

[0038] Figures 1 to 6 An isometric view of a child transport system 100 in a carrier configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted. Figures 1 to 6 , the child transport system 100 includes a seat system 102, a rear wheel set 104, a front wheel set 106, a push rod 110, and a lid support 112. The seat system 102 includes a rear seat shell 102a, a front seat shell 102b, and a headrest 102c. As described in further detail herein, the rear wheel set 104 and the front wheel set 106 are each rotatable relative to the seat system 102 to enable the child transport system 100 to change between configurations. Also described in further detail herein, the rear seat shell 102a and the front seat shell 102b are movable relative to each other to enable the child transport system 100 to change between configurations.

[0039] In more detail, rear wheel assembly 104 includes rear wheel assembly 104a and rear wheel assembly 104b. Front wheel assembly 106 includes front wheel assembly 106a and front wheel assembly 106b. Rear wheel assemblies 104a and 104b are connected by crossbar 120, and each rear wheel assembly includes leg assembly 122 and wheel assembly 124. Front wheel assemblies 106a and 106b are connected by crossbar 130, and each front wheel assembly includes leg assembly 132 and wheel assembly 134. Rear wheel assembly 104 is connected to seat system 102 at wheel hub 104c, and front wheel assembly 106 is connected to seat system 102 at wheel hub 106c.

[0040] Specific reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the child transport system 100 includes a substantially flat base that is parallel to the horizontal plane H. In this manner, the child transport system 100 is stable when it is on a flat surface. That is, the substantially flat base prevents the child transport system 100 from tipping over.

[0041] Continue to refer Figure 2 , the rear wheel set 104 can rotate about axis A, and the front wheel set 106 can rotate about axis B. In some examples, the wheel hub 104c includes a hub lock that can selectively prevent the rear wheel set 104 from rotating about axis A. In some examples, the wheel hub 106c includes a hub lock that can selectively prevent the front wheel set 106 from rotating about axis B. The rear wheel set 104 can be in the stowed position (e.g., Figures 1 to 6 as shown) and the expanded position (as shown Figure 7 、 Figure 8 and Figures 11 to 14 The front wheel set 106 can selectively rotate between the stowed position (as shown). Figures 1 to 6 as shown) and the expanded position (as shown Figure 7 、 Figure 8 and Figures 11 to 14 In the stowed position, the child transport system 100 is in a carrier configuration or a car seat configuration. In the deployed position, the child transport system 100 is in a stroller configuration or a buggy configuration.

[0042] In some embodiments, push rod 110 includes a lower push rod rail 110a, an upper push rod rail 110b, and a gripping portion 110c. In some examples, upper push rod rail 110b can slide relative to lower push rod rail 110a. For example, upper push rod rail 110b can slide within lower push rod rail 110a. In this manner, gripping portion 110c can be positioned at a selected distance from axis A. For example, in the fully deployed position, gripping portion 110c is at a maximum distance from axis A (see, e.g., FIG. 1 ). Figure 7 and Figure 8), and in the fully retracted position, the distance between the grip portion 110c and the axis A is minimal (see e.g. Figures 1 to 4 ). In some examples, the amount of extension of the upper push rod rail 110b relative to the lower push rod rail 110a can be selected by the user. For example, the push rod 110 can include an extension lock mechanism that enables the push rod 110 to switch between a locked mode and an unlocked mode. In some examples, the extension lock mechanism can include a button 110d that can be pressed by the user to enter the unlocked mode (see, e.g., Figure 1 、 Figure 3 and Figure 4 ), wherein the upper push rod guide 110b is able to slide relative to the lower push rod guide 110a. The user releases the pressure on the button 110d (e.g., a spring biases the button 110d against the user pressure) to enter the locked mode, in which the upper push rod guide 110b is locked to prevent sliding relative to the lower push rod guide 110a.

[0043] In some embodiments, the push rod 110 can be positioned about the axis A in a support position (see, for example, Figures 1 to 5 ) and push position (see e.g. Figure 7 、 Figure 8 、 Figure 11 、 Figure 12 ). In some embodiments, push rod 110 includes a rotation locking mechanism that enables push rod 110 to switch between a rotationally locked mode and a rotationally unlocked mode. In the rotationally locked mode, push rod 110 is locked from rotating about axis A. In the rotationally unlocked mode, push rod 110 is free to rotate about at least a portion of axis A.

[0044] In more detail, and with specific reference to Figure 4 and Figure 7 The rotation lock mechanism includes a button 110e that is biased in a first direction (e.g., by a spring) to maintain the rotation lock mode. The button 110e can be pushed (e.g., by a user) in a second direction (against the bias) to enter a rotation unlock mode, in which at least a portion 110f of the grip portion 110c can be rotated about an axis C (see FIG. Figure 1 and Figure 3 ) is rotated from the first rotational position to the second rotational position. In the second rotational position, the push rod 110 is in a rotational unlocking mode. In some examples, the portion 110f is biased toward the first position by a spring of the rotation locking mechanism (e.g., a torsion spring around the axis C).

[0045] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when the rotation locking mechanism is in the rotation unlocking mode, the push rod 110 can be rotated about the axis A and the rear wheel assembly 104 can be rotated about the axis A. For example, in the rotation unlocking mode, the hub lock of the rear wheel assembly 104 is released to enable rotation, as described in further detail herein. In some examples, the rotation of the push rod 110 about the axis A causes the rear wheel assembly 104 to rotate about the axis A. In this way, when the push rod 110 is moved from the stand position (see, for example, Figure 2 ) is rotated to the push position (see e.g. Figure 8 ), causing the rear wheel group 104 to be moved from the stowed position (see, for example Figure 2 ) at least partially toward the deployed position (see e.g. Figure 8 ) rotation. In this way, the child transport system 100 can be (at least partially) converted into one of a stroller configuration and a trolley configuration. In either the stowed position or the deployed position, the hub lock of the rear wheel set 104 is locked to prevent the push rod 110 and the rear wheel set 104 from rotating about the axis A.

[0046] Specific reference Figure 2 and Figure 4 , a locking mechanism is provided on the seat system 102 to selectively lock the front wheel set 106 in the stowed position (see, for example Figure 2 ) or expanded position (see e.g. Figure 8 ). More specifically, the handle 140 of the locking mechanism is slidable along axis D and is biased in a first direction (e.g., +D) (e.g., by one or more springs). A button 142 is provided that can be pressed perpendicular to axis D to release the handle 140 for movement. More specifically, with button 142 pressed, the user can push the handle 140 in a second direction (e.g., -D) about axis D, which causes the locking mechanism to unlock the hub lock of the front wheel set 106 and enable the front wheel set 106 to rotate about axis B. In this way, the child transport system 100 can be (at least partially) converted into one of a stroller configuration and a trolley configuration. In either the stowed position or the deployed position, the hub lock of the front wheel set 106 is locked to prevent the front wheel set 106 from rotating about axis B.

[0047] Thus, to convert the child transport system 100 from a carrier configuration to one of a stroller configuration and a handcart configuration (i.e., to move both the rear wheel set 104 and the front wheel set 106 to the deployed position), a two-step process can be performed. In the first step, the button 142 is pressed and the handle 140 is simultaneously pushed in the second direction along axis D to unlock the hub of the front wheel set 106, thereby allowing the front wheel set 106 to rotate about axis B under the action of gravity and descend to the deployed position. Once in the deployed position, the hub 106c of the front wheel set 106 is automatically locked (e.g., by spring bias) to prevent the front wheel set 106 from rotating out of the deployed position. In the second step, the button 110d can be pressed and the portion 110e of the grip 110c can be simultaneously rotated about axis C to unlock the hub 104c of the rear wheel set 104. This allows the push rod 110 to rotate toward the pushed position and causes the rear wheel set 104 to rotate toward the deployed position. After the push rod 110 is in the pushed position, the rear wheel assembly 104 can rotate about the axis A under the action of gravity and descend to the deployed position. Once in the deployed position, the hub 104c of the rear wheel assembly 104 is automatically locked (e.g., by spring bias) to prevent the rear wheel assembly 104 from rotating out of the deployed position. It is contemplated that the first and second steps can be interchanged (e.g., the rear wheel assembly 104 can be moved to the deployed position, and then the front wheel assembly 106 can be moved to the deployed position).

[0048] Similarly, to convert the child transport system 100 from one of the stroller and buggy configurations to a carrier-type carrier (i.e., to move both the rear wheel set 104 and the front wheel set 106 to the stowed position), a two-step process can be performed. In the first step, the button 142 is pressed and the handle 140 is simultaneously pushed in the second direction along axis D to unlock the hub 106c of the front wheel set 106, allowing the front wheel set 106 to rotate about axis B to the stowed position. Once in the stowed position, the hub 106c of the front wheel set 106 automatically locks (e.g., by spring bias) to prevent the front wheel set 106 from rotating out of the stowed position. In the second step, the button 110d can be pressed and the portion 110e of the grip 110c can be simultaneously rotated about axis C to unlock the hub 104c of the rear wheel set 104. This allows the push rod 110 to rotate toward the stand position and causes the rear wheel set 104 to rotate toward the stowed position. After the push rod 110 is in the stand position and the rear wheel set 104 is in the stowed position, the hub 104c of the rear wheel set 104 is automatically locked (e.g., by spring bias) to prevent the rear wheel set 104 from rotating out of the stowed position. It is contemplated that the first and second steps can be interchanged (e.g., the rear wheel set 104 can be moved to the stowed position and then the front wheel set 106 can be moved to the stowed position).

[0049] In the carrier configuration, the rear wheel set 104 is in a stowed position along the rear seat shell 102a at the foot end of the seat assembly 102 (e.g., the end where a child's feet are placed), and the front wheel set 106 is in a stowed position along the front seat shell 102b at the head end of the seat assembly 102 (e.g., the end where a child's feet are placed).

[0050] Figure 7 and Figure 8 Depicted are corresponding views of the child transport system 100 of the present disclosure in a stroller configuration.

[0051] Figure 9 Depicted is an isometric view of a car seat base 150 for use with the child transportation system 100 of the present disclosure in a car seat configuration. Figure 10 The child transport system 100 of the present disclosure is depicted mounted to a vehicle in a car seat configuration. Figure 9 An isometric view of a car seat base 150. Figure 9 In the example of FIG, the car seat base 150 includes a latch 152, an anchor system 154, and a stabilizer 156. In some examples, the latch 152 releasably secures the child transport system 100 to the car seat base 150. For example, the latch 152 can latch to a latch anchor 158 (see FIG. Figure 6 ) to secure the child transport system 100 to the car seat base 150. The latch 152 can be released to allow the child transport system 100 to be removed from the car seat base 150. The anchor system 154 can receive an anchor strap 160 (e.g., a seat belt) of the vehicle for securing the car seat base 150 within the vehicle.

[0052] The stabilizer 156 can be used to provide stability to the car seat base 150 (and the child transport system 100 when attached to the car seat base 150) within a vehicle. For example, the stabilizer 156 can be placed on the floor of the vehicle to provide another point of contact with the vehicle. In some examples, the length of the stabilizer 156 is adjustable to accommodate different vehicle seat heights from the floor. In some examples, the stabilizer 156 is not required for stability. In this case, the stabilizer 156 can be folded underneath the car seat base 150.

[0053] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the child transport system 100 of the present disclosure may be configured in a stroller configuration. Figures 11 to 14 1 and 2 depict corresponding views of the child transport system 100 of the present disclosure in a stroller configuration. In the stroller configuration, the seat system 102 is in the deployed position. More specifically, and for example, as Figure 2 and Figure 8As shown, the seat system 102 is in the stowed position in the carrier configuration (and car seat configuration) and the stroller configuration. In order to move to the stroller configuration, the rear seat shell 102a and the front seat shell 102b can be moved relative to each other.

[0054] Figures 15 to 20 Depicts corresponding views of portions of the seat system 202 of the child transport system 100 of the present disclosure. Figure 6 、 Figure 14 、 Figure 16 、 Figure 19 ,as well as Figure 20 The seating system 102 includes an extendable frame 170 that enables the rear seat shell 102a and the front seat shell 102b to slide relative to each other along a linear axis E. The linear axis E is a horizontal axis that is substantially parallel to a surface, such as a floor. More specifically, the linear axis E is linear and lacks any curvature. In some examples, the extendable frame 170 includes an outer frame rail 170a and an inner frame rail 170b. The inner frame rail 170b is slidably received within the outer frame rail 170 so as to be slidable along the linear axis E. In some examples, the rear seat shell 102a is fixed to the outer frame rail 170a, and the front seat shell 102b is fixed to the inner frame rail 170b. In this manner, the front seat shell 102b can slide along the axis E relative to the rear seat shell 102a and the outer frame rail 170a together with the inner frame rail 170b.

[0055] In some embodiments, a locking mechanism is provided to lock inner frame rail 170b within outer frame rail 170a to prevent sliding along axis E. In some examples, the locking mechanism includes a handle 180 that enables extendable frame 170 to be switched between a locked mode and an unlocked mode. For example, the locking mechanism can bias handle 180 in the -E direction along axis E, wherein extendable frame 170 is in the locked mode. In some examples, the locking mechanism includes one or more pins that are received through openings in inner frame rail 170b and outer frame rail 170a to prevent sliding in the locked mode. Handle 180 can be depressed against the bias in the +E direction about axis E (e.g., by a user) to enter an unlocked mode, in which inner frame rail 170b is able to slide within outer frame rail 170a. In some examples, in the unlocked mode, one or more pins are withdrawn from the openings in inner frame rail 170b and / or outer frame rail 170a to enable sliding.

[0056] In some embodiments, the seating system 102 includes a storage space 190 accessible through a door 192 (see, e.g., Figure 4 、 Figure 7 、 Figure 14 、 Figure 17 、 Figure 18 ,as well as Figure 20 In some examples, a storage space 190 may be defined between the front seat shell 102b, the door 192, and the seat back 194 (see, e.g., FIG. Figure 1 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 13 ,as well as Figure 20 ). The door 192 can be opened to enable access to the storage space 190.

[0057] In some embodiments, the seat back 194 (or at least one or more components thereof) can have an adjustable tilt angle. For example, the seat back 194 (or at least one or more components thereof) can be at an angle α relative to a horizontal plane H while the child transport system 100 is in a carrier configuration, a car seat configuration, or a stroller configuration (see, e.g., FIG. 1 ). Figure 2 As another example, the seat back 194 (at least one or more components thereof) can be at an angle β relative to the horizontal plane H while the child transport system 100 is in the stroller configuration (see, e.g., FIG. Figure 20 In some examples, angle α is greater than angle β. Thus, when the child transport system 100 is in the carrier configuration, the car seat configuration, or the stroller configuration, a child occupying the child transport system 100 is in a seated position, and when the child transport system 100 is in the stroller configuration, the child is in a relatively supine position. That is, the seated position is more inclined relative to the supine position, and the supine position is less inclined relative to the seated position.

[0058] In some embodiments, the headrest 102c can be adjusted along a linear axis parallel to the tilt angle of the seat back 194. For example, a headrest locking mechanism 102c is provided that locks the headrest 102c in place along a linear axis parallel to the tilt angle. In some examples, the button 196 (see, e.g., Figure 1 and Figure 3 ) is provided and can be actuated (e.g., by a user) to release the headrest locking mechanism and adjust the position of the headrest 102c along the linear axis. In some examples, other components (such as padding covering the seat back 194) can be attached to the headrest 102c and slide with the headrest 102c as the headrest 102c is adjusted.

[0059] In some embodiments, the child transport system 100 includes a suspension system that absorbs energy from various bumps and other kinetic impacts when operating in a stroller configuration or a cart configuration. Figure 8 and Figure 11The child transport system 100 includes a rear suspension system 200 and a front suspension system 202

[0060] Figure 21 A cross-sectional view of the rear suspension system 200 is depicted. Figure 21 In the illustrated example, rear suspension system 200 is integrated into wheel hub 104c and includes an outer bracket 210 and an inner bracket 212. Outer bracket 210 is secured to rear seat shell 102a for movement therewith. For example, outer bracket 210 may be integrally formed as part of rear seat shell 102a or may be secured using fasteners. Inner bracket 212 is disposed within outer bracket 210 and is capable of sliding along linear axis F. In the depicted example, springs 214 are disposed between inner bracket 212 and outer bracket 210. Each spring 214 biases inner bracket 212 in the -F direction of linear axis F. Rear wheel assembly 104a is secured for linear travel with inner bracket 212 while being selectively rotatable about axis A, as described herein. In response to a force acting on rear wheel assembly 104a (e.g., rolling over a bump), inner bracket 212 may move in the +F direction of axis F against the bias of springs 214.

[0061] Figure 22 A cross-sectional view of the front suspension system 202 is depicted. Figure 22 In the example of FIG, the front suspension system 202 is integrated into the wheel assembly 134. For example, the wheel assembly 134 includes an upper hub 220 and a lower hub 222. The lower hub 220 is pivotally connected to the upper hub 220 so that the lower hub 220 can pivot about an axis G. A pin 224 is fixed to the upper hub 220 and extends from the upper hub 220 to enable the wheel assembly 134 to be releasably secured to the leg assembly 132. A wheel 226 is rotatably coupled to the lower hub 220. A spring 228 is disposed between the upper hub 220 and the lower hub 222 so that the lower hub 222 is biased away from the upper hub 220 about the axis G. In response to a force acting on the wheel 226 (e.g., rolling over a bump), the lower hub 222 can rotate about the axis G against the bias of the spring 228.

[0062] Figure 23 A cross-sectional view of the leg assembly suspension system 240 of the child transport system 100 of the present disclosure is depicted. The leg assembly suspension system 240 is provided in each leg assembly 122 of the rear wheel assemblies 104a, 104b. Figure 23In an example of a leg assembly suspension system 240, the leg assembly suspension system 240 includes a first leg member 242 that is rotatably coupled to a second leg member 244 to rotate at least partially about an axis J. A compressible member 246 (e.g., a spring, an elastomeric bushing) spans each of the first leg member 242 and the second leg member 244 and is located therein. In some examples, when the first leg member 242 and the second leg member 244 are caused to rotate relative to each other about the axis J (e.g., in response to rolling over a bump), the compressible member 246 is compressed and pushes against the rotation. Figure 23 In some examples, the first leg member 242 and the second leg member 244 meet at an arcuate interface 248. In some examples, the first leg member 242 and the second leg member 244 include respective stop surfaces 250a, 250b that limit the extent of rotation about the axis J.

[0063] Although this specification contains many details, these should not be interpreted as limitations on the scope of this disclosure or what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features specific to a particular embodiment. Certain features described in this specification in the context of separate implementations may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. On the contrary, the various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented in multiple embodiments individually or in any suitable sub-combination. In addition, although features may be described above as working in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from the claimed combination may be removed from the combination in some cases, and the claimed combination may be directed to a sub-combination or a variation of the sub-combination.

[0064] Similarly, although operations are depicted in a particular order in the accompanying drawings, this should not be understood as requiring that such operations be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, or that all illustrated operations be performed to achieve a desired result. In certain circumstances, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Furthermore, the separation of various system components in the above-described embodiments should not be understood as requiring such separation in all embodiments, and it should be understood that the described program components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single software product or packaged into multiple software products.

[0065] A number of embodiments have been described. However, it should be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. For example, various forms of the processes shown above may be used, with steps reordered, added, or removed. Accordingly, other embodiments are within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A child transport system comprising: a seating system comprising a first seat shell, a second seat shell, and an extendable frame, the first seat shell and the second seat shell each being attached to the extendable frame, the first seat shell being slidable along a linear axis relative to the second seat shell between a first position and a second position; a front wheel assembly rotatably attached to the seat system; as well as A rear wheel assembly is rotatably attached to the seat system.

2. The child transport system according to claim 1, wherein: The child transport system is configurable between a plurality of configurations, the plurality of configurations comprising: a stroller configuration in which the seat system is in the first position and each of the front wheel assembly set and the rear wheel assembly set is in a deployed position; and A stroller configuration in which the seat system is in the second position and each of the front wheel assembly set and the rear wheel assembly set is in the deployed position.

3. The child transport system according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of configurations further includes a carrier configuration in which the seat system is in the second position and each of the front wheel assembly set and the rear wheel assembly set is in a stowed position.

4. The child transportation system of claim 1 , further comprising a car seat base, the seat system being configured for releasable attachment to the car seat base, the child transportation system being configurable into a car seat configuration in which the seat system is in the second position and each of the front wheel assembly set and the rear wheel assembly set is in a stowed position, and the seat system is attached to the car seat base.

5. The child transport system according to claim 1, wherein: The extendable frame includes frame rail sets, each frame rail set including a first frame rail and a second frame rail, the first seat shell being attached to each of the first frame rails and the second seat shell being attached to each of the second frame rails.

6. The child transport system according to claim 5, wherein: The first frame rail is slidable within the second frame rail.

7. The child transport system of claim 1 , further comprising a headrest adjustable along a linear axis parallel to the angle of inclination of the seat back of the seating system.

8. The child transport system of claim 1 , further comprising one or more of: a suspension system group integrated into the hub of the rear wheel assembly group and the hub of the front wheel assembly group, and a suspension system group integrated into the legs of the rear wheel assembly group.

9. The child transport system of claim 1, further comprising a push rod rotatable about an axis, wherein rotation of the push rod drives the rear wheel assembly to rotate about at least a portion of the axis.

10. The child transport system of claim 1, wherein: The seating system includes a substantially flat base parallel to a horizontal plane.

11. A child transport system comprising: a seating system comprising a first seat shell, a second seat shell, and an extendable frame, the first seat shell and the second seat shell each being attached to the extendable frame, the first seat shell being slidable along a linear axis within the second seat shell between a first position and a second position to adjust a length of the seating system along the linear axis; a front wheel assembly rotatably attached to said first seat shell; as well as a rear wheel assembly rotatably attached to the second seat shell; The child transport system is configurable between a plurality of configurations, including a stroller configuration in which the seat system is locked in the first position and a cart configuration in which the seat system is locked in the second position.

12. The child transport system of claim 11, wherein: In the stroller configuration, each of the front wheel assembly set and the rear wheel assembly set is in a deployed position, and in the hand truck configuration, each of the front wheel assembly set and the rear wheel assembly set is in the deployed position.

13. The child transport system of claim 11, wherein: The plurality of configurations further includes a carrier configuration in which the seat system is in the second position and each of the front wheel assembly set and the rear wheel assembly set is in a stowed position.

14. The child transportation system of claim 11 , further comprising a car seat base, the seat system being configured for releasable attachment to the car seat base, the child transportation system being configurable into a car seat configuration in which the seat system is in the second position and each of the front wheel assembly set and the rear wheel assembly set is in a stowed position, and the seat system is attached to the car seat base.

15. The child transport system of claim 11, wherein: The extendable frame includes frame rail sets, each frame rail set including a first frame rail and a second frame rail, the first seat shell being attached to each of the first frame rails and the second seat shell being attached to each of the second frame rails.

16. The child transport system of claim 15, wherein: The first frame rail is slidable within the second frame rail.

17. The child transport system of claim 11, further comprising a headrest adjustable along a linear axis parallel to the angle of inclination of the seat back of the seating system.

18. The child transport system of claim 11, further comprising one or more of: a suspension system group integrated into the hub of the rear wheel assembly group and the hub of the front wheel assembly group, and a suspension system group integrated into the legs of the rear wheel assembly group.

19. The child transport system of claim 11, further comprising a push rod rotatable about an axis, wherein rotation of the push rod drives the rear wheel assembly to rotate about at least a portion of the axis.

20. The child transport system of claim 11, wherein: The seating system includes a substantially flat base parallel to a horizontal plane.

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