Trolley assembly and accessory tray assembly for trolley

Abstract

A trolley assembly and an accessory tray assembly for a trolley, wherein the trolley assembly may include a trolley frame having front legs and first and second rear legs. The front leg has at least one front wheel connected thereto. The first and second rear legs have rear wheels connected thereto. The rear wheel is rotatable about a horizontal axis of rotation of the rear wheel. The rear wheel is spaced apart from the at least one front wheel in a rearward direction that is perpendicular to the horizontal axis of rotation. A handle assembly is connected to the front leg and the rear leg. The handle assembly includes a handlebar positioned between the first rear wheel and the second rear wheel. The handlebar is aligned with, or offset from, a vertical axis extending through and perpendicular to the horizontal axis of rotation such that the handlebar is positioned closer to the center of the trolley frame than the horizontal axis of rotation.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 813,149, filed May 28, 2025; U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 702,356, filed October 2, 2024; and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 655,300, filed June 3, 2024, which are incorporated herein by reference as if fully set forth herein. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to systems, components, and methods for use in trolley assemblies, and more particularly to trolley handle orientation and trays that can be attached to the trolley assembly. Background Technology

[0004] Caregivers typically rely on stroller units to transport infants and children. Stroller units are typically constructed with a rigid frame that can be folded for storage or transport and unfolded for use. The stroller unit includes a handle that allows caregivers to grip and move the stroller. The position and configuration of the handle play a significant role in the stroller's usability and stability. With traditional strollers, placing the caregiver's weight or even a small bag around the handle area without securing the child in the seat can cause the stroller to tip over.

[0005] Some strollers offer an optional armbar that spans the seat mount for children to grip and helps keep them in the stroller. Traditional strollers may include a tray directly attached to the existing armbar to accommodate children's toys, snacks, and / or drinks. The armbar and / or tray can interfere with the stroller's folding and pose a hazard by reducing the opening size at the front for the passenger.

[0006] The trolley components disclosed in this application largely meet the above-mentioned requirements. Summary of the Invention

[0007] According to one aspect, a stroller assembly includes a stroller frame having a front leg connected with at least one front wheel, a first rear leg and a second rear leg connected with the front leg. The first rear leg and the second rear leg have a rear wheel connected to each of the first and second rear legs. The rear wheels are rotatable about a horizontal axis of rotation of the rear wheels, and the rear wheels are spaced apart from the at least one front wheel in a rearward direction. The rearward direction is perpendicular to the horizontal axis of rotation. A handle assembly is connected to the front leg and the first and second rear legs, the handle assembly including a handle positioned between the rear wheels. The handle is aligned with a vertical axis extending through and perpendicular to the horizontal axis of rotation, or is offset from the vertical axis such that the handle is positioned closer to a center of the stroller frame than the horizontal axis of rotation.

[0008] In one aspect, the first and second rear legs are rotatably connected to the front leg by rotatable hubs.

[0009] In one aspect, the handle assembly is transitionable between a first height above a support surface and a second height above the support surface, wherein the second height is greater than the first height.

[0010] In one aspect, the handle at the second height is vertically above the handle at the first height such that the handle is transitionable in a vertical direction from the first height to the second height.

[0011] In one aspect, the handle at the second height is vertically above the handle at the first height and is offset rearward relative to the handle at the first height.

[0012] In one aspect, the rearward direction extends from the front wheel to the rear wheel.

[0013] In one aspect, a carrier is connectable to the stroller frame and removable from the stroller frame.

[0014] In one aspect, at least one of the front wheel and the rear wheel includes a caster wheel.

[0015] In one aspect, a space defined between the rear wheels enables a foot of a caregiver to pass through the horizontal axis of rotation extending between the rear wheels.

[0016] In one aspect, the rear wheels are connected to each other only by the rear legs of the stroller frame, and the front leg or the handle assembly.

[0017] In one aspect, the hooks are configured to support a weight applied to the stroller frame.

[0018] In one aspect, on a first lateral side of the stroller frame, a first hook is coupled to the stroller frame; and, on a second lateral side of the stroller frame, a second hook is coupled to the stroller frame.

[0019] In one aspect, the hook is coupled to the stroller frame proximate a handle extension of the handle assembly.

[0020] In one aspect, the handle extension is a telescoping handle extension.

[0021] In one aspect, a lock is disposed between the handle assembly and the hook coupled to the stroller frame.

[0022] In one aspect, the lock is coupled to a lower tube of the handle assembly, and the lock is resiliently biased radially outward relative to the lower tube.

[0023] In one aspect, the shaft portion of the lock is configured to translate into a bore in the handle assembly when a force is applied to the head portion of the lock, causing the lock to translate radially inward relative to the lower tube.

[0024] In one aspect, engagement of the shaft portion with the bore causes the lock to be in a locked configuration, preventing translation of the handle relative to the lower tube.

[0025] In one aspect, when the force is removed from the lock, a spring of the lock forces the lock radially outward relative to the lower tube into an unlocked configuration.

[0026] According to another aspect, a stroller assembly includes a stroller frame having a front leg, a rear leg, and a handle assembly. A carrier is connectable to and removable from the stroller frame. An accessory is connectable to and removable from at least one of the stroller frame and the carrier. The accessory includes an accessory tray, a pivot connector, and an arm including a connector. The connector is configured to engage either of a first stroller connector or a second stroller connector, and the accessory tray is pivotably connectable to the arm by the pivot connector.

[0027] In one aspect, the accessory tray includes a tray portion and a cup holder portion.

[0028] In one aspect, the connector includes a connector slot extending through a sidewall of the arm, the connector slot being configured to engage a portion of the first stroller connector or the second stroller connector.

[0029] In one aspect, the connector slot is aligned with a centerline of an outer surface of the arm, and the connector slot intersects a pivot axis of the pivot connector.

[0030] In one aspect, the pivot connector is positioned between the accessory tray and the arm.

[0031] According to yet another aspect, a stroller assembly is disclosed. The stroller assembly includes a stroller frame having a front leg, a rear leg, and a handle assembly. A carrier is connectable to and removable from the stroller frame. An accessory is connectable to and removable from at least one of the stroller frame and the carrier. The accessory includes an accessory tray, a pivot connector, and an arm including a connector. The connector is configured to engage either of a first stroller connector or a second stroller connector, and the accessory tray is pivotably connectable to the arm by the pivot connector.

[0032] In one aspect, the accessory tray includes a tray portion and a cup holder portion.

[0033] In one aspect, the connector slot extends through a sidewall of the arm, the connector slot configured to engage a portion of the first cart connector or the second cart connector.

[0034] In one aspect, the connector slot is aligned with a centerline of an outer surface of the arm, and the connector slot intersects a pivot axis of the pivot connector.

[0035] In one aspect, the pivot connector is positioned between the accessory tray and the arm.

[0036] The summary is provided to introduce some concepts in a simplified form. The summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Also, the claimed subject matter is not limited to solving any or all of the disadvantages with any or all of the parts mentioned in any portion of the disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0037] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of the application, will be best understood when read in conjunction with the drawings. In the drawings:

[0038] Figure 1 is a side view of a cart assembly according to a first embodiment of the disclosure.

[0039] Figure 2 is a perspective view of the cart assembly of Figure 1

[0040] Figure 3 is a side view of a cart assembly according to a second embodiment of the disclosure.

[0041] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a cart assembly according to a third embodiment of the disclosure.

[0042] Figure 5 is a side view of the cart assembly of Figure 4

[0043] Figure 6 is a front view of the cart assembly of Figure 4

[0044] Figure 7 is a first enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a hook of the cart assembly of Figure 4

[0045] Figure 8 is a second enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a hook of the cart assembly of Figure 4 is a second enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a hook of the cart assembly of​​​​

[0046] Figure 9 is Figure 4 a third enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a hook of the stroller assembly.

[0047] Figure 10 is a front view of an accessory that can be connected to the stroller assembly.

[0048] Figure 11 is Figure 10 a rear view of the accessory.

[0049] Figure 12 is Figure 10 a first perspective view of the accessory.

[0050] Figure 13 is Figure 10 a second perspective view of the accessory.

[0051] Figure 14 is Figure 10 another front view of the accessory.

[0052] Figure 15 is Figure 10 a side view of the accessory.

[0053] Figure 16 is an enlarged view of a portion of the stroller that is not attached to the accessory.

[0054] Figure 17 is Figure 16 an enlarged front view of a stroller connector of the stroller.

[0055] Figure 18 is Figure 17 an enlarged perspective view of the stroller connector.

[0056] Figure 19 is Figure 17 an enlarged side view of the stroller connector.

[0057] Figure 20 is a front view of the stroller with the accessory connected to a first stroller connector.

[0058] Figure 21 is Figure 20 a front view of the stroller with the accessory connected to a second stroller connector and in the process of being rotated.

[0059] Figure 22 is Figure 20 a front view of the stroller with the accessory connected to the second stroller connector.

[0060] Figure 23 is Figure 20FIG. 6 is a front view of the stroller with the accessory connected to the first stroller connector and in the process of being rotated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0061] Certain terminology is used in the following description for convenience only and is not intended to limit the application. The words "front," "rear," "upper," and "lower" designate directions in the drawings to which reference is made. The words "inwardly" and "outwardly" refer to directions toward and away from, respectively, the parts referenced in the drawings. "Axially" refers to directions along the axis of the shaft (or shaft-like structure) or along the axis of rotation. Reference to a list of items that "at least one of a, b, or c" (where a, b, and c represent items in the list) means any one of the items a, b, or c individually or any combination thereof. The terms "about" and "approximately" shall be construed as being within 10% of the stated value or ratio. The terminology includes the words above specifically mentioned, derivatives thereof and words of similar import.

[0062] Many currently available child strollers provide storage space in the form of a basket or storage compartment at the base of the stroller beneath the child. However, the location of the basket or storage compartment impedes the caregiver from easily accessing their items (i.e. purse, bag, etc.) placed in the basket or storage compartment. Thus, the caregiver can desire to load their bag or purse in the handle region. With currently available strollers, placing the caregiver's own weight or even a small bag around the handle region on the stroller without securing the child in the seat causes the stroller to tip or roll over in the rearward direction around the rear wheels. The stroller assembly 10 of the present disclosure alleviates this problem by increasing the distance between the rear wheels 24 and the front wheels 22 such that the rear wheels 24 are aligned with or further away from the center of the stroller assembly 10 than the handlebars 32. By aligning the handlebars 32 and the rear wheels 24, there is a reduced moment arm at the handlebars 32, thereby preventing or reducing the chance of the stroller tipping or rolling over when weight is applied to the handlebars 32.

[0063] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a side view of a stroller assembly 10 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 FIG. 1 is a side view of a stroller assembly 10 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2As shown, the carrier 14 can be removed from the stroller frame 12, and then the carrier 14 can be used as a stand-alone child seat. The stroller frame 12 includes front legs 16, rear legs 18, and a handle assembly 20. In some examples, the stroller frame 12 may include two front legs 16 spaced laterally (i.e., in the width direction) and two rear legs 18 spaced laterally. Furthermore, the rear legs 18 may be spaced from the front legs 16 in the fore-and-aft direction of the stroller assembly 10 relative to the direction in which the stroller assembly 10 is pushed during use.

[0064] Front wheels 22 can be attached to the ends of each front leg 16, thus having two front wheels 22 that rotate about a horizontal axis of rotation extending between the front wheels 22. Rear wheels 24 can be attached to the ends of each rear leg 18, thus having two rear wheels 24 that rotate about a horizontal axis of rotation 26 extending between the rear wheels 24. When using the trolley assembly 10, this horizontal axis of rotation can be substantially parallel to the supporting surface (i.e., the ground) supporting the trolley assembly 10. In some examples, the front wheels 22 and rear wheels 24 can be caster-type wheels. In other examples, the front wheels 22 and rear wheels 24 can be other types of wheels. Figure 2 As shown, in some examples, the rear axle does not extend between and connect the two rear wheels 24. Instead, the rear wheels 24 are connected only by the trolley frame 12 and rotate independently of each other. Compared to previous trolleys, removing or omitting the rear axle between the rear wheels 24 provides a larger opening or space between the rear wheels 24, allowing the caregiver's feet and legs to extend into this opening or space when pushing and walking behind the trolley assembly 10. In other words, the space defined between the rear wheels 24 allows the caregiver's feet and legs to pass through the horizontal axis of rotation 26 of the rear wheels 24 when the caregiver moves or pushes the trolley assembly 10.

[0065] As in Figure 1 As shown, a basket 28 can be attached to a trolley frame 12 and positioned between front legs 16 and rear legs 18. The basket 28 can be used to store items to be transported with the trolley assembly 10. In some examples, the trolley assembly 10 may not include the basket 28. Front legs 16 and rear legs 18 can each be attached to a hub 30 positioned between front legs 16 and rear legs 18. The hub 30 can be a folding hub 30 configured to facilitate folding of the trolley assembly 10 for transport and storage. In some examples, the trolley assembly 10 may include a first hub 30A on a first lateral side of the trolley assembly 10 between front legs 16 and rear legs 18, and a second hub 30B on a second lateral side of the trolley assembly 10 between front legs 16 and rear legs 18. In other examples, the trolley assembly 10 may not include any hub 30.

[0066] The handle assembly 20 can be connected to both the front leg 16 and the rear leg 18. In particular, the handle assembly 20 can be connected to the front leg 16 and the rear leg 18 through the hub 30 such that the handle assembly 20 can be folded relative to the hub 30 for storage and transport. The handle assembly 20 extends in an upward direction away from the front leg 16 and the rear leg 18 (i.e., away from a support surface or the ground). More particularly, the handle assembly 20 extends from the hub 30 in an upward and angled direction toward the rear of the stroller assembly 10, which is opposite the direction of the front wheels 22. The handle assembly 20 includes a handlebar 32 and a handlebar extender 34. The lateral sides of the handle assembly 20 are connected to the sides of the stroller frame 12, and the handlebar 32 extends laterally between the two sides of the stroller frame 12 in a direction that is generally perpendicular to the direction in which the stroller assembly 10 is pushed by a user when in use. The handlebar 32 also extends laterally in a horizontal direction between the rear wheels 24. In some examples, the handlebar 32 can be positioned entirely between the rear wheels 24. The handlebar 32 is the uppermost portion of the stroller frame 12 relative to the ground or support surface on which the rear wheels 24 and the front wheels 22 contact and roll. The handlebar 32 is the portion of the stroller assembly 10 that a user grasps when pushing or maneuvering the stroller assembly 10, and the handlebar 32 can be sized and shaped for a caregiver to grasp.

[0067] The handle assembly 20 can be transitioned between different heights to accommodate caregivers of different heights. In particular, the handle assembly 20 includes a handlebar extender 34 that connects the handlebar 32 to a lower portion of the handle assembly 20 that is connected to the hub 30. The handlebar extender 34 can be a telescoping feature that includes concentric tubular portions that are designed to slide into and out of one another. When the handlebar extender 34 is pushed all the way to a retracted position, the handlebar 32 can be at a first height above the support surface (or the lowest point of the wheels 22, 24). When the handlebar extender 34 is pulled outward to an extended position, the handlebar 32 can be at a second height above the support surface (or the lowest point of the wheels 22, 24), where the second height is greater than the first height. The handlebar extender 34 can include a locking feature (not shown) to retain the handlebar 32 at a desired height. As shown in FIG. 4, in some examples, the handlebar extender 34 can transition between the first height and the second height by moving the handlebar 32 in a direction that is angularly offset from both the vertical and horizontal directions. In other words, the handlebar 32 can translate in a rearward and upward angular direction to transition between the first height and the second height. Further, the handlebar 32 can translate in a forward and downward angular direction to transition between the second height and the first height. Figure 1

[0068] Figure 3 is a side view of a stroller assembly 10A in accordance with a second embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 The stroller assembly 10A of FIG. 4 is substantially similar to​Figures 1-2 The trolley assembly 10 is identical, differing only in the direction of translation of the handlebar extender 34. Specifically, in Figure 3 In the trolley assembly 10A, the handlebar extender 34 translates and extends in a vertical direction relative to the ground or supporting surface. Thus, in some examples, by moving the handlebar 32 in a completely vertical direction, the handlebar extender 34 can switch between a first height and a second height. In other words, the handlebar 32 can be translated completely upwards to switch between the first and second heights. Furthermore, the handlebar 32 can be translated completely downwards to switch between the second and first heights. Except for the direction of translation of the handlebar extender 34, all other aspects of the trolley assembly 10A are the same as those of the trolley assembly 10.

[0069] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 3 The handlebar 32 of the trolley assembly 10 is alignable with the axis of rotation 26 of the rear wheel 24 and / or located between the rear wheel 24 and the front wheel 22. Although the following disclosure focuses on the trolley assembly 10, it should be understood that this disclosure also applies to the trolley assembly 10A. In particular, reference is made to... Figure 1 and Figure 3 The vertical axis 36 extending upward from the rotation axis 26 of the rear wheel 24 is aligned with the rear side or rear surface of the handlebar 32. Furthermore, in other examples not shown, the handlebar 32 may be positioned horizontally offset from the vertical axis 36 in a direction toward the center of the trolley assembly 10, such that the handlebar 32 is positioned between the rear wheel 24 and the front wheel 22. By aligning the handlebar 32 with the rear wheel 24, or by positioning the handlebar 32 inside the rotation axis 26 of the rear wheel 24, a reduced moment arm is achieved at the handlebar 32, thereby preventing or reducing the chance of the trolley assembly 10 tipping over or overturning when weight is applied to the handlebar 32.

[0070] Therefore, in either example, the position of the handlebars 32 relative to the rear wheel 24 (i.e., not behind the axis of rotation 26 of the rear wheel 24) improves the stability of the stroller assembly 10, allowing caregivers to place their weight on the handlebars 32 without worrying about tipping the stroller assembly 10. More specifically, when the handlebars 32 are positioned vertically above or horizontally inside the axis of rotation 26 of the rear wheel 24, the downward vertical force applied to the handlebars 32 does not generate a torque about the axis of rotation 26 of the rear wheel 24 that would cause the stroller assembly 10 to tip over. The downward vertical force is defined as the force applied toward the support surface in a downward direction (i.e., approximately parallel to the vertical axis 36) when using the stroller assembly 10.

[0071] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of a handcart assembly 10B according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5 This is a side view of the handcart assembly 10B. Figure 6This is a front view of the handcart assembly 10B. Figures 4-6 The trolley component 10B is basically the same as Figures 1-3 The trolley assembly 10 shown is similar. Thus, it should be understood that, referring to... Figures 1-3 The information disclosed regarding trolley component 10 also applies to... Figures 4-6 The trolley assembly 10B shown is the same as the trolley assembly 10B unless otherwise specified. Therefore, to avoid redundancy, only the differences between trolley assembly 10 and trolley assembly 10B are described below. Trolley assembly 10B includes a trolley frame 12 having front legs 16, rear legs 18, and handle assembly 20. Front wheels 22 are connected to front legs 16, and rear wheels 24 are connected to rear legs 18. Trolley assembly 10B may also include a basket and a carrier, neither of which are included in the design. Figures 4-6 As shown in the image. The trolley assembly 10B also includes at least one carrier receiver 38 and at least one hook 40.

[0072] In particular, Figures 4-6 The trolley assembly 10B includes: a first carrier receiver 38 positioned and coupled to a first lateral side of the trolley frame 12; and a second carrier receiver 38 positioned and coupled to a second lateral side of the trolley frame 12. As shown, in some examples, the carrier receiver 38 may be positioned on the inside or interior of the trolley frame 12. In other examples not shown, the carrier receiver 38 may be positioned on the outside or exterior of the trolley frame 12. The carrier receiver 38 is configured to be coupled to... Figure 1 and Figure 3 The mating connector (not shown) on the carrier 14 shown allows the carrier receiver 38 to support and provide a connection point between the carrier 14 and the trolley frame 12. In some examples, as shown, the carrier receiver 38 can be positioned at approximately the intersection of the front leg 16, the rear leg 18, and the handle assembly 20.

[0073] Figures 4-6The stroller assembly 10B also includes a first hook 40 positioned and coupled to a first lateral side of the stroller frame 12 and a second hook 40 positioned and coupled to a second lateral side of the stroller frame 12. In particular, the first and second hooks 40 are positioned and coupled to first and second lateral sides of the handle assembly 20, respectively. More particularly, the first and second hooks 40 are coupled to first and second lateral sides of the handle assembly 20 adjacent to the handlebar extender 34. In certain examples, as shown, the hooks 40 can be positioned on an upper or top surface of the handle assembly 20 relative to the ground or support surface (i.e., facing away from the ground or support surface). In other, not pictured, examples, the hooks 40 can be positioned on an inner or outer side of the handle assembly 20. In yet further, not pictured, examples, the hooks 40 can be positioned on a bottom side or bottom surface of the handle assembly 20. The hooks 40 are configured to provide a location such that a caregiver can hang items, such as a bag, purse, clothing, basket, etc., while using the stroller assembly 10B.

[0074] Figure 7 is a first enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the hook 40 of the stroller assembly 10B taken along section A-A in Figure 6 Figure 8 is a second enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the hook 40 of the stroller assembly 10B taken along section A-A in Figure 6 Figure 9 is a third enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the hook 40 of the stroller assembly 10B taken along section A-A in Figure 6 As noted, the hook 40 is coupled to the handle assembly 20 at a location adjacent to the handlebar extender 34. The handlebar 32 is telescopically connected to a lower tube 44 of the handle assembly 20 forming the handlebar extender 34. The lock 42 is connected to the lower tube 44 of the handle assembly 20 and the lock 42 is configured to prevent the handlebar 32 from translating relative to the lower tube 44 (i.e., to prevent the handlebar 32 from extending from the first height to the second height).

[0075] ​​In particular, the holes 46A, 46B extend through the end of the handlebar 32 and the lower tube 44 of the handle assembly 20, respectively, and are axially aligned when the lock 42 is in the locked configuration. The holes 46A, 46B can be circular holes 46A, 46B having a mating shape that is complementary to the shaft portion 50 of the lock 42. The lock 42 is connected to the lower tube 44 by a spring 48 that is positioned between the head portion 52 of the lock 42 and the radially outer surface of the lower tube 44 of the handle assembly 20. The spring 48 is configured to urge the lock 42 in a radially outward direction relative to the lower tube 44 such that the lock 42 is released or disengaged in the unlocked position. The shaft portion 50 of the lock 42 remains in the hole 46B of the lower tube 44, but is removed or disengaged from the hole 46A of the handlebar 32 when the lock 42 is released. This allows the handlebar 32 to axially translate relative to the lower tube 44 in order to vary between the first height and the second height as previously described. In certain examples, the lock 42 can be a spring-biased rivet, bolt, fastener, or the like that is configured to remain in the released orientation until an external force causes the lock 42 to change to the locked position.

[0076] Referring to Figure 8 , a weight 54 is schematically shown in order to show how the lock 42 is transformed from the released orientation to the locked orientation. In certain examples, the weight 54 can be a downward force that is created by hanging a purse, bag, clothing, or the like on the hook 40 such that the weight 54 engages the head portion 52 of the lock 42, which compresses the spring 48 and causes the shaft portion 50 of the lock 42 to translate into the holes 46A, 46B until the shaft portion 50 is engaged with both holes 46A, 46B and the head portion 52 contacts or is positioned adjacent to the radially outer surface of the lower tube 44. The foregoing movement of the lock 42 causes the lock 42 to change from the released orientation to the locked orientation and prevents the handlebar 32 from translating relative to the lower tube 44. In particular, as the shaft portion 50 of the lock 42 engages and extends through the holes 46A, 46B, the handlebar 32 cannot axially translate to the extended height or second height because the shaft portion 50 will contact the radially inner surface of the hole 46A of the handlebar 32 when the user attempts to pull the handlebar 32 upward and outward. When the weight 54 (i.e., the downward force) is removed from the head portion 52 of the lock 42, Figure 9 , the spring 48 is configured to force the lock 42 back to the released and unlocked orientation in a direction toward the hook 40 (a radially outward direction relative to the lower tube 44) as shown in Figure 7 . When the lock 42 is again in the released orientation, the shaft portion 50 of the lock 42 is no longer engaged with the hole 46A of the handlebar 32, thereby allowing the handlebar 32 to translate relative to the lower tube 44 of the handle assembly 20.

[0077] Although not specifically illustrated, it should be understood that the hook 40 and / or the lock 42 can be included in the disclosure with reference to Figures 1-6In each of the disclosed embodiments of the different stroller assemblies 10, 10A, 10B. Moreover, it should be appreciated that the weight 54 can be applied to the handlebar 32 only when the handlebar 32 is in the retracted position (e.g., aligned above the rear wheels 24 or between the front wheels 22 and the rear wheels 24). To prevent the weight 54 from being applied to the handlebar 32 in the extended position (e.g., positioned rearward of the rear wheels 24), the lock 42 can prevent the handlebar 32 from translating (e.g., moving rearward of the rear wheels 24) when the weight 54 is applied to the lock 42. In an aspect, the one or more hooks 40 are configured to receive the weight, and the one or more hooks 40 can be configured to receive the weight 54 only when the handlebar 32 is in the retracted position. For example, the one or more hooks 40 can be transitionable between the extended position and the retracted position. When the handlebar 32 is in the retracted position, the one or more hooks 40 can be in the extended position such that the one or more hooks 40 can receive and support the weight 54. When the handlebar 32 is transitioned to the extended position, the one or more hooks 40 can transition to the retracted position in which the one or more hooks 40 cannot receive and support the weight 54.

[0078] Figure 10 is a front view of an accessory 56 that can be connected to the stroller assembly 10. Figure 11 is a rear view of the accessory 56. Figure 12 is a first perspective view of the accessory 56. Figure 13 is a second perspective view of the accessory 56. Figure 14 is another front view of the accessory 56. Figure 15 is a side view of the accessory 56. Figures 10-15 will be discussed together. Although not specifically illustrated, it should be appreciated that the accessory 56 can be included in each of the disclosed embodiments of the different stroller assemblies 10, 10A, 10B.

[0079] The accessory 56 is a component that can be connected to the stroller assembly 10 (as well as the stroller assemblies 10A, 10B, etc.). In certain examples, as shown, the accessory 56 can include an accessory tray 58, which can be a stroller tray and / or a cup holder, that can be used to place food / toys, etc., and / or a drink / cup / liquid for a child seated within the carrier 14. The accessory 56 can be coupled and mounted to the left and right sides of the stroller assembly 10, particularly the left and right sides of the stroller frame 12, such that separate left and right side accessories used in previous stroller assemblies are not needed. As described in detail below, the accessory 56 includes a rotation feature to properly position the accessory tray 58 when switching between the left and right sides of the stroller assembly 10. The accessory 56 can be sized and positioned, and / or the accessory 56 can be rotationally mounted, such that folding of the stroller assembly 10 is still permitted when mounted.

[0080] The accessory 56 includes an accessory tray 58, a pivot connector 60, an arm (arm) 62, and a connector 64. The accessory tray 58 can be a cart tray and / or a cup holder that can be used to place food / toys, etc. and / or a drink / cup / liquid for a child seated in the carrier 14. In particular, the accessory tray 58 can be shaped and sized to hold items / cups for the child to grasp and interact with while in the carrier 14. As such, the accessory tray 58 includes a base having raised sidewalls such that items placed within the accessory tray 58 do not slide or fall out of the accessory tray 58 when the stroller assembly 10 is in use. In certain examples, the accessory tray 58 can include a cup holder portion 66 and a tray portion 68. The cup holder portion 66 can include a generally shape of a standard cup holder configured to secure an infant cup or other drink container. The tray portion 68 can be connected to the cup holder portion 66 and extend outwardly from the cup holder portion 66 in a direction away from the arm 62. The tray portion 68 can generally include an oblong shape, and a divider wall can be positioned between the cup holder portion 66 and the tray portion 68.

[0081] The arm 62 of the accessory 56 is coupled to the accessory tray 58 by the pivot connector 60. The pivot connector 60 is positioned at one distal end of the accessory tray 58, and the pivot connector 60 is configured to allow relative rotation between the arm 62 and the accessory tray 58. In particular, the pivot connector 60 is connected to a distal sidewall of the cup holder portion 66 opposite the tray portion 68. The pivot connector 60 can be any component that allows relative rotation between the accessory tray 58 and the arm 62. In certain examples, the pivot connector 60 can be a rivet, pin, or rod that extends between and connects the arm 62 and the accessory tray 58. In certain examples, the pivot connector 60 can have some resistance or friction that allows the accessory tray 58 to be stopped and held at any desired position relative to the arm 62. The pivot connector 60 includes a pivot axis 70 about which the accessory tray 58 and the arm 62 pivot or rotate relative to each other. The pivot axis 70 extends axially from or through a cylindrical portion of the pivot connector 60. The accessory 56 is symmetrically oriented about the pivot axis 70, allowing the accessory 56 to fit on both the left and right sides of the stroller assembly 10, as will be described further below.

[0082] The arm 62 can be an elongated rod, shaft, or feature connected to the pivot connector 60 that extends generally perpendicular to the pivot axis 70 of the pivot connector 60. The arm 62 can have any desired shape and size to orient the accessory 56 in a desired position in front of the vehicle 14 when the accessory 56 is connected to the cart assembly 10. As described, the arm 62 is pivotable or rotatable about the pivot axis 70 in order to change the orientation of the arm 62 relative to the accessory tray 58. The end of the arm 62 that is not connected to the pivot connector 60 (i.e., the free end of the arm 62) includes a connector 64 that is configured to couple to the cart frame 12 of the cart assembly 10.

[0083] In particular, the connector 64 can be a hollow or open end of the arm 62 that is configured to slide onto the cart connectors 76A, 76B of the cart assembly 10, as described in detail below. As such, the connector 64 includes a shape (i.e., a female mating shape) that mates with the cart connectors 76A, 76B (i.e., a male mating shape). The connector 64 also includes a connector slot 72 that extends from the distal free end of the arm 62 in a direction toward the pivot connector 60, parallel to the direction of extension of the arm 62. The connector slot 72 extends completely through the sidewall of the arm 62 and only a portion of the distance up the arm 62 on the side of the arm 62 that faces away from the accessory tray 58. In certain examples, the connector slot 72 can be a generally rectangular shape. The connector slot 72 is oriented such that a centerline 74 of the connector slot 72 is aligned or intersects with the pivot axis 70 in a direction parallel to the direction of extension of the arm 62. In other words, both the centerline 74 of the connector slot 72 and the pivot axis 70 are positioned on the centerline of the outer lateral surface of the arm 62 that faces away from the accessory tray 58. This configuration ensures that the accessory 56 is compatible with both the left and right sides of the cart assembly 10.

[0084] Figure 16 is a close-up view of a portion of the cart assembly 10 without the attached accessory 56. As shown in Figure 16 the cart assembly 10 includes the vehicle 14 connected to the cart frame 12. Figure 16 the view in FIG. 6 is a close-up view that generally shows the portion of the seat base of the vehicle 14 of the cart assembly 10 connected to the backrest of the vehicle 14 from a front view. In addition, as shown, the first cart connector 76A and the second cart connector 76B can be coupled to or formed integral with the left and right lateral sides of the cart frame 12. In particular, the first cart connector 76A and the second cart connector 76B can be positioned on the inside of the cart frame 12 such that the first cart connector 76A and the second cart connector 76B are positioned near the outer surface of the vehicle 14 when the vehicle 14 is connected to the cart frame 12.

[0085] Figure 17 is a front view of the first cart connector 76A of the cart assembly 10 as shown in Figure 16 Figure 18 is an enlarged perspective view of the first cart connector 76A. Figure 19 is an enlarged side view of the first cart connector 76A. It should be understood that the following disclosure focuses only on the first cart connector 76A, but the disclosure is equally applicable to the second cart connector 76B. To avoid redundancy, only the disclosure regarding the first cart connector 76A will be provided. The first cart connector 76A is positioned on, coupled to, and / or integral with an interior surface of the cart frame 12. The first cart connector 76A includes a generally elongated T-shaped cross-section. A base 78 of the T-shaped first cart connector 76A is connected to the cart frame 12, and a top 80 of the T-shaped first cart connector 76A extends inwardly toward a center of the cart assembly 10. The top 80 of the first cart connector 76A can be described as a wing that extends perpendicularly outward from the base 78 of the first cart connector 76A. The shape and size of the first cart connector 76A are designed to form a mating connection with the connector 64 of the arm 62 of the accessory 56.

[0086] In particular, the connector 64 of the arm 62 of the accessory 56 is able to be slid onto the first cart connector 76A such that the top 80 of the first cart connector 76A is positioned within the hollow opening of the connector 64, and the base 78 of the first cart connector 76A extends through the connector slot 72. The connector 64 is slid onto the first cart connector 76A until an end of the connector slot 72 engages an outwardly facing end of the base 78 of the first cart connector 76A. The connector 64 can include a locking feature (not shown) that secures the connector 64 to the first cart connector 76A. In addition, the accessory 56 can include a button 82 (see Figure 12 ), which is configured to disengage the connector lock, thereby allowing the accessory 56 to be removed from the cart assembly 10.

[0087] Figure 20 is a front view of the cart assembly 10 as described with reference to Figures 17-19 The accessory 56 is connected to the first cart connector 76A as described with reference to FIG. 1. When the accessory 56 is connected to the first cart connector 76A, the accessory tray 58 is able to rotate about the pivot axis 70 to orient the accessory tray 58 as desired, thereby preventing items within the accessory tray 58 from falling out. Figure 21 ​is a front view of the stroller assembly 10 with the accessory 56 connected to the second stroller connector 76B and in the process of being rotated. In particular, after the accessory 56 is removed from the first stroller connector 76A and slid onto the second stroller connector 76B, the accessory tray 58 is in the position shown in Figure 21 , which is an unusable position. As such, the accessory tray 58 must be rotated about the pivot axis 70 toward the backrest of the carrier 14 until the accessory tray 58 is oriented in the position shown in Figure 22 , which is a position that prevents items within the accessory tray 58 from falling out.

[0088] Similarly, Figure 23 is a front view of the stroller assembly 10 with the accessory 56 connected to the first stroller connector 76A and in the process of being rotated. In particular, after the accessory 56 is removed from the second stroller connector 76B and slid onto the first stroller connector 76A, the accessory tray 58 is in the position shown in Figure 23 , which is an unusable position. As such, the accessory tray 58 must be rotated about the pivot axis 70 toward the backrest of the carrier 14 until the accessory tray 58 is oriented in the position shown in Figure 20 , which is a position that prevents items within the accessory tray 58 from falling out. The accessory 56 of the present disclosure can be installed to either the left or right side of the stroller frame 12 of the stroller assembly 10, and the accessory 56 includes features that allow for rotation so as to be easily accessible to a child in the corresponding carrier 14.

[0089] The above exemplary embodiments can be implemented in a variety of configurations and can operate by a variety of methods listed below:

[0090] 1. A stroller assembly comprising:

[0091] a stroller frame comprising:

[0092] a front leg having at least one front wheel connected thereto;

[0093] a first rear leg and a second rear leg connected to the front leg, the first rear leg and the second rear leg having a rear wheel connected to each of the first rear leg and the second rear leg, the rear wheel being rotatable about a horizontal axis of rotation of the rear wheel, and the rear wheel being spaced apart from the at least one front wheel in a rearward direction, the rearward direction being perpendicular to the horizontal axis of rotation; and

[0094] a handle assembly connected to the front leg and the first rear leg and the second rear leg, the handle assembly comprising a handlebar positioned between the rear wheels, and the handlebar:

[0095] aligned with a vertical axis that extends through and is perpendicular to the horizontal axis of rotation; or

[0096] offset from the vertical axis such that the handlebar is positioned closer to a center of the cart frame than the horizontal rotational axis.

[0097] 2. The cart assembly of Solution 1, wherein the first rear leg and the second rear leg are rotatably connected to the front leg by a rotatable hub.

[0098] 3. The cart assembly of Solution 1, wherein the handlebar assembly is transitionable between a first height above a support surface and a second height above the support surface, wherein the second height is greater than the first height.

[0099] 4. The cart assembly of Solution 3, wherein the handlebar at the second height is vertically above the handlebar at the first height such that the handlebar is transitionable in a vertical direction from the first height to the second height.

[0100] 5. The cart assembly of Solution 3, wherein the handlebar at the second height is vertically above the handlebar at the first height and is offset rearward relative to the handlebar at the first height.

[0101] 6. The cart assembly of Solution 1, wherein the rearward direction extends from the front wheel to a rear wheel.

[0102] 7. The cart assembly of Solution 1, wherein a carrier is connectable to the cart frame and removable from the cart frame.

[0103] 8. The cart assembly of Solution 1, wherein at least one of the front wheel and the rear wheel comprises a caster wheel.

[0104] 9. The cart assembly of Solution 1, wherein a space defined between the rear wheels enables a foot of a caregiver to pass through the horizontal rotational axis extending between the rear wheels.

[0105] 10. The cart assembly of Solution 1, wherein the rear wheels are connected to one another only by the rear legs of the cart frame, and the front leg or the handlebar assembly.

[0106] 11. The cart assembly of Solution 1, further comprising hooks configured to support a weight applied to the cart frame.

[0107] 12. The cart assembly of Solution 11, wherein on a first lateral side of the cart frame, a first hook is coupled to the cart frame; and on a second lateral side of the cart frame, a second hook is coupled to the cart frame.

[0108] 13. The cart assembly of paragraph 11, wherein the hook is coupled to the cart frame proximate a handle extension of the handle assembly.

[0109] 14. The cart assembly of paragraph 13, wherein the handle extension is a telescoping handle extension.

[0110] 15. The cart assembly of paragraph 1, further comprising a lock disposed between the handle assembly and a hook coupled to the cart frame.

[0111] 16. The cart assembly of paragraph 15, wherein the lock is coupled to a lower tube of the handle assembly and the lock is resiliently biased radially outward relative to the lower tube.

[0112] 17. The cart assembly of paragraph 16, wherein a shaft portion of the lock is configured to translate into a hole in the handle assembly when a force is applied to a head portion of the lock, causing the lock to translate radially inward relative to the lower tube.

[0113] 18. The cart assembly of paragraph 17, wherein engagement of the shaft portion with the hole causes the lock to be in a locked configuration, thereby preventing translation of the handle relative to the lower tube.

[0114] 19. The cart assembly of paragraph 17, wherein when the force is removed from the lock, a spring of the lock forces the lock radially outward relative to the lower tube into an unlocked configuration.

[0115] 20. A cart assembly, comprising:

[0116] a cart frame having a front leg, a rear leg, and a handle assembly;

[0117] a carrier connectable to and removable from the cart frame; and

[0118] an accessory connectable to and removable from at least one of the cart frame and the carrier, the accessory comprising an accessory tray, a pivot connector, and an arm, the arm comprising a connector configured to engage either of a first cart connector and a second cart connector, wherein the accessory tray is pivotably connectable to the arm by the pivot connector.

[0119] 21. The cart assembly of paragraph 20, wherein the accessory tray comprises a tray portion and a cup holder portion.

[0120] 22. The cart assembly of paragraph 20, wherein the connector includes a connector slot extending through a sidewall of the arm, the connector slot configured to engage a portion of a first cart connector or a second cart connector.

[0121] 23. The cart assembly of paragraph 22, wherein the connector slot is aligned with a centerline of an outer surface of the arm, and the connector slot intersects a pivot axis of the pivot connector.

[0122] 24. The cart assembly of paragraph 20, wherein the pivot connector is positioned between the accessory tray and the arm.

[0123] 25. An accessory tray assembly for a cart, the accessory tray assembly comprising:

[0124] an arm including a connector having a connector slot defining a centerline;

[0125] an accessory tray; and

[0126] a pivot connector positioned between the arm and the accessory tray, the pivot connector disposed along the centerline.

[0127] 26. The accessory tray assembly of paragraph 25, wherein the accessory tray includes a tray portion and a cup holder portion.

[0128] 27. The accessory tray assembly of paragraph 25, wherein the connector slot extends through a sidewall of the arm, the connector slot configured to engage a portion of a first cart connector or a second cart connector.

[0129] 28. The accessory tray assembly of paragraph 25, wherein the connector slot is aligned with a centerline of an outer surface of the arm, and the connector slot intersects a pivot axis of the pivot connector.

[0130] 29. The accessory tray assembly of paragraph 25, wherein the pivot connector is positioned between the accessory tray and the arm.

[0131] Having described in detail the illustrated embodiment, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that numerous modifications can be made without departing from the inventive concepts and principles set forth herein and that many changes in the details and arrangements of parts can be made as set forth in the detailed description of the disclosure which is presented by way of example only. It will also be apparent that many embodiments can be made in connection with only some of the parts shown and described, which are not essential to the invention as claimed. It will further be apparent that many modifications can be made to the details of the illustrated embodiment which do not depart from the inventive concepts and principles set forth in the detailed description of the disclosure.

[0132] Therefore, the present embodiments and alternative configurations are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the disclosure being indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description, all changes which come within the meaning of the claims and equivalents thereof are intended to be embraced herein.

Claims

1. A handcart assembly, comprising: The handcart frame includes: The front leg has at least one front wheel connected to it; A first hind leg and a second hind leg are connected to the front leg, the first hind leg and the second hind leg having a rear wheel connected to each of the first hind leg and the second hind leg, the rear wheel being rotatable about a horizontal axis of rotation of the rear wheel, and the rear wheel being spaced apart from the at least one front wheel in a rearward direction, the rearward direction being perpendicular to the horizontal axis of rotation; and A handlebar assembly, connected to the front leg and the first and second rear legs, the handlebar assembly including a handlebar positioned between the rear wheels, and the handlebar: Aligned with the vertical axis extending through and perpendicular to the horizontal axis of rotation; or The handlebars are positioned closer to the center of the cart frame than the horizontal axis of rotation, offset from the vertical axis.

2. The trolley assembly of claim 1, wherein the first rear leg and the second rear leg are rotatably connected to the front leg via a rotatable hub.

3. The trolley assembly of claim 1, wherein the handle assembly is convertible between a first height above the support surface and a second height above the support surface, wherein the second height is greater than the first height.

4. The handcart assembly of claim 3, wherein the handle at the second height is vertically above the handle at the first height, such that the handle can be vertically switched from the first height to the second height.

5. The trolley assembly of claim 3, wherein the handle at the second height is vertically above the handle at the first height and is offset rearward relative to the handle at the first height.

6. The trolley assembly of claim 1, wherein the rearward direction extends from the front wheel to the rear wheel.

7. The trolley assembly of claim 1, wherein the carrier can be attached to and removed from the trolley frame.

8. The trolley assembly of claim 1, wherein at least one of the front wheel and the rear wheel comprises a caster.

9. The trolley assembly of claim 1, wherein the space defined between the rear wheels allows the caregiver's foot to pass through the horizontal axis of rotation extending between the rear wheels.

10. The trolley assembly of claim 1, wherein the rear wheels are connected to each other only through the rear legs of the trolley frame and the front legs or the handle assembly.

11. The trolley assembly of claim 1, further comprising a hook configured to support the weight applied to the trolley frame.

12. The trolley assembly of claim 11, wherein a first hook is connected to the trolley frame on a first lateral side of the trolley frame; and a second hook is connected to the trolley frame on a second lateral side of the trolley frame.

13. The trolley assembly of claim 11, wherein the hook is coupled to the trolley frame near the handle extension of the handle assembly.

14. The trolley assembly of claim 13, wherein the handlebar extender is a telescopic handlebar extender.

15. The trolley assembly of claim 1, further comprising a lock disposed between the handle assembly and a hook connected to the trolley frame.

16. The trolley assembly of claim 15, wherein the lock is coupled to the lower tube of the handle assembly, and the lock is radially outwardly resiliently biased relative to the lower tube.

17. The trolley assembly of claim 16, wherein the shaft of the lock is configured to translate into a hole in the handle assembly when a force is applied to the head of the lock, causing the lock to translate radially inward relative to the lower tube.

18. The trolley assembly of claim 17, wherein the shaft engages with the hole to lock the lock in a locked configuration, thereby preventing the handle from translating relative to the lower tube.

19. The trolley assembly of claim 17, wherein when force is removed from the lock, the spring of the lock forces the lock to enter an unlocking configuration radially outward relative to the lower tube.

20. A handcart assembly, comprising: A handcart frame with front legs, rear legs, and a handle assembly; A carrier that can be attached to and removed from the trolley frame; as well as An accessory that can be connected to and removed from at least one of the trolley frame and the carrier, the accessory including an accessory tray, a pivot connector, and a support arm, the support arm including a connector configured to engage either a first trolley connector or a second trolley connector, wherein the accessory tray can be pivotally connected to the support arm via the pivot connector.

21. The trolley assembly of claim 20, wherein the accessory tray comprises a tray portion and a cup holder portion.

22. The trolley assembly of claim 20, wherein the connector includes a connector slot extending through a sidewall of the support arm, the connector slot being configured to engage a portion of a first trolley connector or a second trolley connector.

23. The trolley assembly of claim 22, wherein the connector slot is aligned with the centerline of the outer surface of the support arm, and the connector slot intersects with the pivot line of the pivot connector.

24. The trolley assembly of claim 20, wherein the pivot connector is positioned between the accessory tray and the support arm.

25. An accessory tray assembly for a trolley, the accessory tray assembly comprising: The arm includes a connector having a connector groove defining a centerline; Accessory tray; as well as A pivot connector is positioned between the support arm and the accessory tray, the pivot connector being arranged along the centerline.

26. The accessory tray assembly of claim 25, wherein the accessory tray comprises a tray portion and a cup holder portion.

27. The accessory tray assembly of claim 25, wherein the connector slot extends through the sidewall of the support arm, the connector slot being configured to engage a portion of a first trolley connector or a second trolley connector.

28. The accessory tray assembly of claim 25, wherein the connector slot is aligned with the centerline of the outer surface of the support arm, and the connector slot intersects with the pivot line of the pivot connector.

29. The accessory tray assembly of claim 25, wherein the pivot connector is positioned between the accessory tray and the support arm.

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