Multi-connecting-rod linkage-based one-button type folding scooter for old people and use method of one-button type folding scooter
The one-button folding mobility scooter for the elderly, with its multi-link linkage design, solves the problems of cumbersome operation and unstable structure in existing technologies, achieving simple and compact folding and stable unfolding, meeting the daily use needs of the elderly.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- YONGKANG HAOGE IND & TRADE CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2026-03-18
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-05
AI Technical Summary
Existing folding mobility scooters for the elderly are cumbersome to operate. When folded, they only shrink in height, with no significant reduction in length, taking up a lot of space. Furthermore, their folding linkage is poor, and their structure is unstable when unfolded, making it difficult to meet the daily needs of the elderly.
It adopts a one-click folding design based on multi-link linkage. Six sets of four-bar linkages are symmetrically arranged to form 12 sets of linkages. Combined with the one-click operation of the handle, the length and height of the mobility scooter are reduced simultaneously. The pivot nodes ensure the smoothness and stability of folding and unfolding.
It achieves simple operation, significantly reduced size after folding, compact storage, and stable structure after unfolding, meeting the safe use needs of the elderly for daily mobility and improving convenience and safety.
Smart Images

Figure CN121973879A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of mobility aids technology, and in particular to a one-button folding mobility scooter for the elderly based on multi-link linkage and its usage method. Background Technology
[0002] As an important tool for short-distance travel for the elderly, the portability and storage of mobility scooters are core design requirements. While existing folding mobility scooters can achieve a certain degree of folding and storage, they generally suffer from cumbersome operation steps, requiring multiple actions such as unlocking, folding the frame, and folding the seat. This can easily lead to operational errors by the elderly, resulting in poor adaptability. At the same time, the folding structure design of existing mobility scooters is limited. After folding, only the height dimension can be reduced, while the length dimension is not significantly reduced. The overall volume after folding is still relatively large, taking up a lot of space when stored. It is difficult to put them into areas such as the trunk of a family car or small corners indoors, making them inconvenient to transport and store.
[0003] In addition, most existing folding mobility scooters use a single link or simple hinge structure for their frames, resulting in poor folding linkage. When folding, the various parts are prone to movement interference, leading to unsmooth folding movements. Furthermore, the frame support stability after unfolding is poor. Some models sacrifice structural strength during driving in pursuit of folding effect, failing to meet the safety needs of elderly people for daily mobility.
[0004] The purpose of this application is to provide an elderly mobility scooter that is easy to operate, has its length and height shrink simultaneously when folded, is compact when stored, and has a stable structure when unfolded.
[0005] The above content is only used to help understand the technical solution of this application and does not represent an admission that the above content is the closest prior art to this application. Summary of the Invention
[0006] Based on this, this application provides a one-button folding mobility scooter for the elderly based on multi-link linkage and a method of using it, which solves at least one of the above-mentioned technical problems.
[0007] The technical solution adopted by this application to solve its technical problem is: a one-button folding mobility scooter for the elderly based on multi-link linkage, including a handlebar assembly, a front frame assembly, a bottom tie rod, a rear frame assembly, a rear axle assembly, a shock absorber, multiple support frames, a seat cushion assembly, a backrest assembly, and a carrying handle; the handlebar assembly, the front frame assembly, the bottom tie rod, and the rear frame assembly are pivotally connected to form a four-link ABCD; the front frame assembly, the rear frame assembly, and the two support frames are pivotally connected to form a four-link CELR; the rear frame assembly, the rear axle assembly, the shock absorber, and the support frames are pivotally connected to form a four-link... The rear frame assembly and rear axle assembly are pivotally connected to form a four-bar linkage (GIJF). The seat cushion assembly and two support frames are pivotally connected to form a four-bar linkage (LMON). The seat cushion assembly, backrest assembly, and two support frames are pivotally connected to form a four-bar linkage (NOQP). The six four-bar linkages are pivotally connected through several common points and are symmetrically arranged on the left and right sides of the mobility scooter to form 12 four-bar linkages. Pulling the handle can trigger the linkage of all four-bar linkages, realizing one-click folding and unfolding of the mobility scooter. After folding, the length and height of the mobility scooter are reduced simultaneously.
[0008] In some embodiments, the pivot connection relationship of the four-bar linkage ABCD is as follows: the handlebar base of the handlebar assembly is pivotally connected to the main front frame rod of the front frame assembly through point A; the sub-front frame rod of the front frame assembly is pivotally connected to the main rear frame rod of the rear frame assembly through point C; the handlebar base of the handlebar assembly is pivotally connected to the bottom tie rod through point B; and the bottom tie rod is pivotally connected to the main rear frame rod of the rear frame assembly through point D.
[0009] In some embodiments, the pivotal connection of the four-bar CELR is as follows: the rear frame sub-bar of the rear frame assembly is pivotally connected to the main frame of the first support frame through point R; the second support frame is pivotally connected to the front frame side bar of the front frame assembly through point E; and the second support frame is pivotally connected to the main frame of the first support frame through point L; the first support frame and the second support frame are split support frame structures for folding support of the mobility scooter.
[0010] In some embodiments, the pivot connection of the four-link KHGR is as follows: the rear frame sub-link of the rear frame assembly is pivotally connected to the rear axle main frame of the rear axle assembly through point G; the sub-frame of the first support frame is pivotally connected to the shock absorber through point K; and the shock absorber is pivotally connected to the rear axle sub-frame of the rear axle assembly through point H. The shock absorber is an elastic shock absorber structure and is connected between the support frame and the rear axle assembly.
[0011] In some embodiments, the pivotal connection relationship of the four-bar linkage GIJF is as follows: the rear frame sub-bar of the rear frame assembly is pivotally connected to the rear axle tail frame of the rear axle assembly through point F; the rear axle main frame of the rear axle assembly is pivotally connected to the rear axle center frame through point I; and the rear axle center frame is pivotally connected to the rear axle tail frame through point J; the rear axle main frame, rear axle center frame, and rear axle tail frame are separate connecting components of the rear axle assembly.
[0012] In some embodiments, the pivotal connection of the four-bar LMON is as follows: the lower seat support of the seat cushion assembly is pivotally connected to the main frame of the first support frame through point M; the main seat frame of the seat cushion assembly is pivotally connected to the third support frame through point O; and the third support frame is pivotally connected to the second support frame through point N. The pivotal connection of the four-bar NOQP is as follows: the side seat support of the seat cushion assembly is pivotally connected to the lower back support of the backrest assembly through point Q; the lower back support of the backrest assembly is pivotally connected to the fourth support frame through point P; and the fourth support frame is pivotally connected to the second support frame through point N. The third and fourth support frames are separate support frame structures for the linkage support of the seat cushion and the backrest.
[0013] In some embodiments, the handle is an actively triggered operating component and further includes a locking mechanism for locking the handle.
[0014] In some embodiments, the seat cushion assembly is a flexible seat cushion structure adapted to the elderly, and the backrest assembly is an arc-shaped backrest structure that can be folded in conjunction with the four-linkage linkage. The seat cushion assembly and the backrest assembly are folded in conjunction with each other through the four-linkage linkage NOQP. After folding, the two fit together and are folded together, further reducing the storage volume of the mobility scooter.
[0015] In another aspect, this application provides a method for using a one-button folding mobility scooter for the elderly based on multi-link linkage, applicable to the mobility scooter for the elderly proposed in any of the above embodiments, the method of use including folding operation and unfolding operation; Folding Operation: Pull the handle of the mobility scooter in the preset direction. The handle will cause the 12 sets of four-link linkages arranged symmetrically on the left and right sides to pivot and move in unison. This will cause the handlebar assembly, front frame assembly, and rear frame assembly to fold towards each other. The rear axle assembly will also fold and move towards the frame in unison. The seat and backrest assembly will fold and fold towards the frame in unison, completing the one-click folding of the mobility scooter. After folding, the length and height of the mobility scooter will be reduced in unison. Unfolding Operation: Pull the handle in the opposite direction of folding or directly extend the frame components of the mobility scooter outwards. The 12 sets of four-link linkages pivot and reset synchronously with the frame extension, causing the handlebar assembly, front frame assembly, and rear frame assembly to unfold to the preset support position. The rear axle assembly resets to the driving support state, and the seat and backrest assembly unfold synchronously to the driving and riding position, completing the one-button unfolding of the mobility scooter. After unfolding, each four-link linkage forms a stable support structure to ensure the normal use of the mobility scooter.
[0016] The beneficial effects of this application are as follows: It provides a one-button folding mobility scooter for the elderly based on multi-link linkage. Through a 12-linkage structure formed by six sets of four-linkage symmetrically arranged links, combined with a one-button operation design with a handle, it effectively solves the technical problems of existing folding mobility scooters being cumbersome to operate and only reducing height after folding. Details are as follows.
[0017] Achieve true one-click folding and unfolding: Pulling the handle can trigger all linkages simultaneously, eliminating the need to operate each component step by step. The operation steps are simplified, catering to the operational abilities and usage needs of the elderly, and greatly improving ease of use.
[0018] The folded size is greatly reduced: the linkage structure reduces the length and height of the vehicle at the same time. The frame, rear axle, seat, backrest and other components fit together and fold in close together, with no protruding loose parts. The storage is more compact and can be easily put into the trunk of a car or a small indoor space, reducing the space requirements for storage and transportation.
[0019] Interlocking folding without interference, smooth and reliable operation: 12 sets of four-bar linkages are pivotally connected at a common point to form a coordinated linkage structure. During folding and unfolding, the pivoting movements of each component are orderly and without mutual interference, ensuring the smoothness and stability of folding and unfolding operations and reducing the probability of mechanical failure.
[0020] High structural strength and safe use after unfolding: After unfolding, multiple sets of four-links form a stable frame structure that combines triangular support and link support. The force is evenly distributed at each pivot node, which can ensure the load-bearing capacity and driving stability of the mobility scooter and meet the safe use needs of the elderly for daily mobility.
[0021] The shock absorption structure is compatible with the linkage system: the shock absorption components are integrated into the four-link KHGR. When folded, the rear axle group retracts synchronously, and when unfolded, the shock absorption function is quickly restored. This does not affect the folding effect and ensures the comfort of the scooter while driving, taking into account both folding portability and user experience.
[0022] The seat and frame fold in sync: The seat cushion and backrest are linked to the frame via a dedicated four-link system. When folding, they conform to the frame to avoid the seat components taking up extra space, further improving the compactness after folding. When unfolded, they quickly return to a comfortable riding position. Attached Figure Description
[0023] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.
[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the front unfolded state structure of this application.
[0025] Figure 2 This is a structural diagram of the front folding process of this application.
[0026] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure in the fully folded front state of this application.
[0027] Figure 4 This is an exploded view of the structure of this application.
[0028] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the unfolded facade structure of this application.
[0029] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the facade of this application in its fully folded state.
[0030] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the facade of this application in a fully folded state from another angle. Detailed Implementation
[0031] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application. In addition, the technical solutions of various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those of ordinary skill in the art to implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or cannot be implemented, it should be considered that such combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection of this application.
[0032] Reference Figure 1-7 As shown, this embodiment details the overall structure of the one-button folding mobility scooter based on multi-link linkage, the connection relationship of each component, the linkage principle of the four-bar linkage mechanism, and the complete operation process of folding / unfolding. The core design of this application is a 12-group synchronous linkage system formed by six groups of four-bar linkage mechanisms arranged symmetrically on the left and right. The entire vehicle can be folded and unfolded with a single trigger action of the handle. All components are connected by pivoting to ensure smooth linkage movement. The component numbers of the entire vehicle are uniformly as follows: handle group 1, front frame group 2, bottom tie rod 3, rear frame group 4, rear axle group 5, shock absorber 6, support frame 7, support frame 8, support frame 9, support frame 10, seat group 11, backrest group 12, and handle 13.
[0033] Regarding the structure of the core components of the vehicle, specifically including...
[0034] Handle assembly 1: This is the control and gripping component of the mobility scooter, including part 1-1 (handle base, also known as the front axle assembly, used for the installation of the handle and also serving as the main pivot base at the front of the vehicle). Its lower end is pivotally connected to the front frame assembly 2 and the bottom tie rod 3, and its upper end is equipped with a gripping part. Front frame assembly 2: This is the front support structure of the entire vehicle, including part 2-1 (front frame main rod, pivotally connected to the handle base 1-1 of handle assembly 1), part 2-2 (front frame side rod, extending laterally and pivotally connected to support frame 7), and part 2-3 (front frame sub-rod, diagonally connecting the front frame side rod 2-2 to the rear frame assembly 4, realizing the connection between the front and rear frames). All of them are high-strength alloy parts to ensure support strength. Bottom tie rod 3: It is a horizontal connecting rod, with its two ends pivotally connected to handle group 1 and rear frame group 4 respectively. It is the core transmission component of the four-link ABCD. Rear frame assembly 4: This is the main support structure at the rear of the vehicle, including part 4-1 (rear frame main rod, which is pivotally connected to the front frame assembly 2 and bottom tie rod 3) and part 4-2 (rear frame sub-rod, a multi-segment bent structure, which is the pivotal base for the rear axle assembly 5 and each support frame). It is the intersection and connection component of multiple four-link groups in the vehicle. Rear axle assembly 5: This is the rear wheel mounting and rear load-bearing structure of the mobility scooter, including part 5-1 (rear axle main frame, pivotally connected to rear frame assembly 4 and shock absorber 6, used for mounting the rear wheel), part 5-2 (rear axle sub-frame, pivotally connected to shock absorber 6, for auxiliary load bearing), part 5-3 (rear axle center frame, connecting the rear axle main frame and the rear axle tail frame, and also serving as a support frame for the auxiliary wheel), and part 5-5 (rear axle tail frame, a key connecting component for folding the rear axle assembly). The components are pivotally connected to form a split structure that can be folded and retracted independently. It also includes auxiliary wheel 5-4 and rear wheel 5-6, which are installed at the lower end of the rear axle center frame 5-3. Shock absorber 6: It is an elastic hydraulic shock absorber, which is pivotally connected to the support frame 8 and the rear axle assembly 5 at both ends, and is used to buffer vibrations during driving and improve driving comfort. Support frames 7, 8, 9, and 10: These are all metal connecting rods specifically designed for folding supports. Support frames 7 and 8 are the main support connecting rods between the frame and the seat, support frame 9 is a dedicated support connecting rod for the seat cushion assembly, and support frame 10 is a dedicated support connecting rod for the backrest assembly. These are the key components for achieving synchronous linkage between the seat and the frame. Support frames 7 and 8 form an X structure twice, while support frames 9 and 10 form a Y structure. Seat Cushion Assembly 11: A flexible riding component adapted to the elderly, including part 11-1 (seat cushion main frame, supporting the seat cushion body), part 11-2 (seat cushion lower support, pivotally connected to support frame 8), and part 11-4 (seat cushion side support, pivotally connected to backrest assembly 12). The seat cushion body 11-3 is made of elastic sponge material to ensure comfort. Backrest assembly 12: It is an arc-shaped backrest structure, including part 12-2 (backrest lower support, which is pivotally connected to seat cushion assembly 11 and support frame 10). The backrest body and seat cushion body are flexible structures of the same material, which can be linked with the four-bar linkage and fit together with the seat cushion assembly 11 to fold. Handle 13: This is a one-button trigger lever structure, mechanically connected to the vehicle's linkage system. Pulling it synchronously triggers the pivoting movement of all four-bar linkages, making it the sole operating component for folding / unfolding the vehicle. Optionally, it can be mounted on the bottom lever and / or on the front frame assembly.
[0035] Regarding the specific composition and pivoting relationship of the six sets of four-bar linkages: The six sets of four-bar linkages in this application are ABCD, CELR, KHGR, GIJF, LMON, and NOQP. All pivoting nodes adopt wear-resistant bearings or wear-resistant bushings with hinged structures to ensure smooth pivoting and wear resistance. The six sets of four-bar linkages are interconnected through common pivoting nodes such as N point, L point, and G point to form an organic integrated linkage system. One set of six-bar linkages is symmetrically arranged on each of the left and right sides, for a total of 12 sets of four-bar linkages in the entire vehicle. The four-bar linkages on the left and right sides move synchronously without sequential interference. Specific pivoting details are as follows: The four-link ABCD system consists of part 1-1 of the handlebar assembly 1, parts 2-1 / 2-3 of the front frame assembly 2, the bottom tie rod 3, and part 4-1 of the rear frame assembly 4. It is the core main linkage of the entire vehicle. Its pivot points are: part 1-1 and part 2-1 are pivoted at point A, part 1-1 and bottom tie rod 3 are pivoted at point B, part 2-3 and 4-1 are pivoted at point C, and bottom tie rod 3 and 4-1 are pivoted at point D. This four-link system is a planar linkage mechanism that can realize the synchronous folding and unfolding of the handlebar assembly 1 and the front and rear frames, which is the basis for the shrinking / stretching of the overall vehicle size.
[0036] The four-link CELR consists of part 2-2 of the front frame assembly 2, part 4-2 of the rear frame assembly 4, support frame 7, and part 8-1 of support frame 8. It is a four-link linkage for frame support. Its pivot nodes are: part 2-2 and support frame 7 are pivoted at point E, support frame 7 and part 8-1 are pivoted at point L, and part 4-2 and 8-1 are pivoted at point R. Point C is the common pivot node of this four-link linkage and four-link linkage ABCD. This four-link linkage is used to realize the synchronous folding of the support structure between the front frame assembly 2 and the rear frame assembly 4, and to avoid the support linkage protruding, which would cause the folding volume to be too large.
[0037] The four-link KHGR consists of part 4-2 of the rear frame assembly 4, parts 5-1 / 5-2 of the rear axle assembly 5, shock absorber 6, and part 8-2 of the support frame 8. It is a four-link linkage between the rear axle and the shock absorber. Its pivot points are: part 8-2 and shock absorber 6 are pivoted at point K, shock absorber 6 and part 5-2 are pivoted at point H, and 4-2 and 5-1 are pivoted at point G. Point R is the common pivot point of this four-link linkage and the four-link linkage CELR. This four-link linkage enables the synchronous folding and unfolding of the rear axle assembly 5 and shock absorber 6. When folded, shock absorber 6 is retracted from the rear axle assembly 5, and when unfolded, it quickly returns to the shock absorber working state.
[0038] The four-link GIJF is composed of part 4-2 of the rear frame assembly 4 and parts 5-1 / 5-3 / 5-5 of the rear axle assembly 5. It is a four-link for autonomous retraction of the rear axle. Its pivot nodes are: part 4-2 and part 5-5 are pivoted at point F, part 5-1 and 5-3 are pivoted at point I, and 5-3 and 5-5 are pivoted at point J. Point G is the common pivot node of this four-link and the four-link KHGR. This four-link is the internal linkage structure of the rear axle assembly 5, which can realize the split retraction of the rear axle assembly itself, further reducing the length and height of the rear of the vehicle.
[0039] The four-bar linkage LMON consists of support frame 7, part 8-1 of support frame 8, support frame 9, and parts 11-1 / 11-2 of seat assembly 11. It is a four-bar linkage for seat assembly linkage. Its pivot nodes are: part 11-2 and part 8-1 are pivoted at point M, part 11-1 and support frame 9 are pivoted at point O, support frame 9 and support frame 7 are pivoted at point N, and point L is the common pivot node of this four-bar linkage and the four-bar linkage CELR. This four-bar linkage realizes the synchronous linkage between seat assembly 11 and frame, ensuring that seat assembly moves synchronously with frame folding / unfolding.
[0040] The four-bar NOQP is composed of support frame 7, support frame 10, part 11-4 of seat cushion assembly 11, and part 12-2 of backrest assembly 12. It is a four-bar linkage between backrest and seat cushion. Its pivot nodes are: part 11-4 and part 12-2 are pivotally connected through point Q, part 12-2 and support frame 10 are pivotally connected through point P, and support frame 10 and support frame 7 are pivotally connected through point N. Point N is the common pivot node of the four-bar linkage and the four-bar linkage LMON. The four-bar linkage realizes the synchronous linkage between backrest assembly 12 and seat cushion assembly 11, ensuring that the two fit together when folded and return to the driving position synchronously when unfolded.
[0041] Detailed instructions on how to fold the entire vehicle.
[0042] The folding operation of this application is triggered by a single action. Simply pull the handle 13 towards the inside of the vehicle (in the direction the frame is folded) to trigger the 12 sets of four-link linkages of the entire vehicle to perform a clockwise pivoting motion simultaneously (taking the right side view of the vehicle as an example). The folding actions of all components are performed synchronously, without any sequence or movement interference. During the folding process, the length and height of the entire vehicle decrease linearly and synchronously, while the width remains unchanged. The specific folding steps are as follows (each step is performed simultaneously and is explained separately for ease of description): Folding of the main frame structure: After pulling the handle 13, the handle 13 transmits the pulling force to the four-link ABCD, causing the four-link to pivot clockwise around points A and C. Part 1-1 of the handle assembly 1 pivots downward around point A and towards the inside of the frame, achieving the initial reduction of the overall vehicle height. The bottom pull rod 3 pivots around points B and D, pulling part 4-1 of the rear frame assembly 4 towards the front frame assembly 2. The distance between the front frame assembly 2 and the rear frame assembly 4 gradually decreases, achieving the initial reduction of the overall vehicle length.
[0043] Folding of the frame support structure: The pivoting motion of the four-link ABCD drives the common node C to move, which in turn triggers the synchronous clockwise pivoting of the four-link CELR. The support frame 7 pivots around points E and L towards the inside of the frame, and the component 8-1 of the support frame 8 pivots around points L and R towards the inside of the frame. The lateral support structure between the front frame assembly 2 and the rear frame assembly 4 fits into the main body of the frame, avoiding the support links from protruding, and further optimizing the compactness of the frame after folding.
[0044] Rear axle and shock absorber folding: The pivoting motion of the four-link CELR causes the common node R to move, triggering the four-link KHGR to pivot clockwise synchronously. Part 8-2 of the support frame 8 pivots around point K, pulling the shock absorber 6 towards the vehicle frame, and the shock absorber 6 is in a compressed and ready-to-work state. At the same time, the pivoting motion of the four-link KHGR causes the common node G to move, triggering the four-link GIJF to pivot clockwise synchronously. Part 5-3 of the rear axle assembly 5 pivots around points I and J, pulling part 5-5 towards part 5-1, realizing the split folding of the rear axle assembly itself. The rear axle assembly 5 as a whole fits against the side of the rear frame assembly 4, further reducing the length and height of the rear of the vehicle.
[0045] Seat cushion and backrest folding: The pivoting motion of the four-link CELR causes the common node L to move, triggering the four-link LMON to pivot clockwise in sync. The support frame 9 pivots around points N and O toward the inside of the frame, pulling the parts 11-1 / 11-2 of the seat cushion assembly 11 to pivot downwards and toward the frame around points M and O. The seat cushion assembly 11 folds from the horizontal riding position to a vertical position that fits against the side of the frame. At the same time, the pivoting of the four-link LMON causes the common node N to move, triggering the four-link NOQP to pivot clockwise in sync. The support frame 10 pivots around points N and P toward the inside of the frame, pulling the parts 12-2 of the backrest assembly 12 to pivot forward around points P and Q. The backrest assembly 12 folds from the vertical support position to a state that is completely fitted with the seat cushion assembly 11, with no protruding parts in the riding area.
[0046] After all the above components are folded, the handle 13 is naturally locked by the self-locking characteristic of the linkage system, preventing the whole vehicle from unfolding on its own in the folded state. At this time, the whole vehicle is folded with one click. The length after folding is reduced by 40%-50% and the height is reduced by 50%-60% compared with the unfolded state. All components fit together snugly and are closed, with no loose or protruding parts. The overall structure is compact and can be directly transported and stored. It can be easily placed in the trunk of a family car, in small corners of the room, and other areas.
[0047] Detailed process of unfolding the entire vehicle.
[0048] The unfolding operation of this application can be triggered in two ways: one is to pull the handle 13 in the opposite direction of folding (the direction of frame extension), and the other is to directly extend the handle group 1 or the front frame group 2 outward. Both methods can trigger the 12 four-link linkages of the entire vehicle to perform a counterclockwise pivoting motion simultaneously (taking the right side view of the mobility scooter as an example). The unfolding action of all components is carried out synchronously. After unfolding, each four-link mechanism forms a stable rigid connection structure combining triangular support and linkage support. Each pivot node is naturally locked under the weight of the entire vehicle and the pressure of riding, without any additional locking components. The structural strength of the unfolded vehicle meets the daily mobility needs of the elderly. The specific unfolding steps are as follows (each step is performed synchronously, and is explained separately for ease of description): The main frame structure extends: After the extension action is triggered, the pulling / pushing force is transmitted to the four-link ABCD, causing the four-link to pivot counterclockwise around points A and C. Part 1-1 of the handlebar assembly 1 pivots upward and outward around point A until it returns to the vertical gripping position, achieving full extension of the vehicle height. The bottom tie rod 3 pivots around points B and D, pushing part 4-1 of the rear frame assembly 4 to move backward. The distance between the front frame assembly 2 and the rear frame assembly 4 gradually returns to the preset working distance, achieving full extension of the vehicle length. The main frame structure forms a stable vertical support.
[0049] The frame support structure is extended: the pivoting motion of the four-link ABCD drives the common node C to reset, which in turn triggers the four-link CELR to pivot counterclockwise in sync. The support frame 7 pivots around points E and L to the outside of the frame, and the component 8-1 of the support frame 8 pivots around points L and R to the outside of the frame until the support frames 7 and 8 are reset to the preset lateral support position, providing stable lateral support for the main frame structure and improving the overall rollover resistance of the vehicle.
[0050] Rear axle and shock absorber extension: The pivoting motion of the four-link CELR causes the common node R point to reset, triggering the four-link KHGR to pivot counterclockwise synchronously. The component 8-2 of the support frame 8 pivots around point K, pushing the shock absorber 6 to reset to the horizontal working state. The shock absorber 6 returns from the compressed waiting state to the normal elastic damping state. At the same time, the pivoting of the four-link KHGR causes the common node G point to reset, triggering the four-link GIJF to pivot counterclockwise synchronously. The component 5-3 of the rear axle assembly 5 pivots counterclockwise around points I and J, pushing component 5-5 to extend towards the rear of the frame. The rear axle assembly completes its split-type deployment and resets to the horizontal driving support position. The rear wheel maintains perpendicular contact with the ground, ensuring driving stability.
[0051] Seat and backrest comfort: The pivoting motion of the four-link CELR causes the common node L point to reset, triggering the four-link LMON to pivot counterclockwise. The support frame 9 pivots around the N and O points towards the outside of the frame, pushing the parts 11-1 / 11-2 of the seat cushion assembly 11 to pivot upwards and outwards around the M and O points until the seat cushion assembly 11 is reset to a horizontal riding position, parallel to the ground, ensuring riding comfort. At the same time, the pivoting of the four-link LMON causes the common node N point to reset, triggering the four-link NOQP to pivot counterclockwise. The support frame 10 pivots around the N and P points towards the outside of the frame, pushing the parts 12-2 of the backrest assembly 12 to pivot backwards around the P and Q points until the backrest assembly 12 is reset to a vertical support position at 90°-100° with the seat cushion assembly 11, adapting to the riding posture of the elderly.
[0052] After all the above components are fully deployed, the four-bar linkages of the vehicle form a stable structure with multiple nodes bearing force. There is no loosening or displacement of any pivot nodes. The handle 13 is reset to the initial standby position. The vehicle is fully deployed with one click and can be directly used for daily commuting. After deployment, the vehicle's handling, stability, and shock absorption are restored to normal working conditions, meeting all the usage needs of the elderly for short-distance travel.
[0053] Further supplementary information regarding the implementation method.
[0054] All metal parts in this application are made of lightweight, high-strength aluminum alloy, which effectively reduces the weight of the vehicle while ensuring structural strength, and makes it easy for the elderly to carry after folding. All pivot joints are made of stainless steel wear-resistant bearings or bushings and are filled with long-life grease to ensure the smooth pivoting motion of the four-bar linkage, reduce mechanical wear, and extend the service life of the whole vehicle. The linkage system of this application is a purely mechanical structure, requiring no auxiliary drive such as electricity or hydraulics, resulting in a low failure rate. It can also achieve natural locking without external force, and its folding / unfolding states are stable and reliable. However, to further ensure the safety of unfolding and folding, a locking mechanism can be provided to the handle to maintain its locked position.
[0055] This embodiment is only a preferred embodiment of the invention. Any equivalent changes or modifications made to the material, size, or pivot node position of the components based on the four-bar linkage principle of this application shall be included in the protection scope of this application.
[0056] The various embodiments of this application have now been described in detail. To avoid obscuring the concept of this application, some details known in the art have not been described. Those skilled in the art can fully understand how to implement the technical solutions disclosed herein based on the above description.
[0057] Finally, it should be noted that the above description is only a preferred embodiment of this application. The foregoing embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application and are not intended to limit it. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features. These modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.
Claims
1. A one-button folding mobility scooter for the elderly based on multi-link linkage, characterized in that, The vehicle includes a handlebar assembly, a front frame assembly, a bottom tie rod, a rear frame assembly, a rear axle assembly, a shock absorber, multiple support frames, a seat assembly, a backrest assembly, and a carrying handle. The handlebar assembly, front frame assembly, bottom tie rod, and rear frame assembly are pivotally connected to form a four-link ABCD. The front frame assembly, rear frame assembly, and two support frames are pivotally connected to form a four-link CELR. The rear frame assembly, rear axle assembly, shock absorber, and support frames are pivotally connected to form a four-link KHGR. Multiple components of the rear frame assembly and rear axle assembly are pivotally connected to form a four-link GIJF. The seat assembly and two support frames are pivotally connected to form a four-link LMON. The seat assembly, backrest assembly, and two support frames are pivotally connected to form a four-link NOQP. These six four-links are pivotally connected through several common points and are symmetrically arranged on the left and right sides of the vehicle, forming 12 four-links. Pulling the carrying handle triggers all four-links to work together, enabling the vehicle to be folded and unfolded with a single button. After folding, the length and height of the vehicle are reduced simultaneously.
2. The one-button folding mobility scooter for the elderly based on multi-link linkage according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pivotal connection relationship of the four-bar linkage ABCD is as follows: the handlebar base of the handlebar assembly is pivotally connected to the main rod of the front frame of the front frame assembly through point A; the sub-rod of the front frame of the front frame assembly is pivotally connected to the main rod of the rear frame of the rear frame assembly through point C; the handlebar base of the handlebar assembly is pivotally connected to the bottom tie rod through point B; and the bottom tie rod is pivotally connected to the main rod of the rear frame of the rear frame assembly through point D.
3. The one-button folding mobility scooter for the elderly based on multi-link linkage according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pivotal connection of the four-link CELR is as follows: the rear sub-link of the rear frame assembly is pivotally connected to the main frame of the first support frame through point R; the second support frame is pivotally connected to the front frame side link of the front frame assembly through point E; and the second support frame is pivotally connected to the main frame of the first support frame through point L. The first support frame and the second support frame are split support frame structures for folding support of the mobility scooter.
4. The one-button folding mobility scooter for the elderly based on multi-link linkage according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pivotal connection of the four-link KHGR is as follows: the rear frame sub-link of the rear frame assembly is pivotally connected to the rear axle main frame of the rear axle assembly through point G; the sub-frame of the first support frame is pivotally connected to the shock absorber through point K; and the shock absorber is pivotally connected to the rear axle sub-frame of the rear axle assembly through point H. The shock absorber is an elastic shock absorber structure and is connected between the support frame and the rear axle assembly.
5. The one-button folding mobility scooter for the elderly based on multi-link linkage according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pivotal connection relationship of the four-link GIJF is as follows: the rear frame sub-link of the rear frame group is pivotally connected to the rear axle tail frame of the rear axle group through point F; the rear axle main frame of the rear axle group is pivotally connected to the rear axle middle frame through point I; and the rear axle middle frame is pivotally connected to the rear axle tail frame through point J. The rear axle main frame, rear axle middle frame, and rear axle tail frame are separate connecting components of the rear axle group.
6. The one-button folding mobility scooter for the elderly based on multi-link linkage according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pivotal connection of the four-bar LMON is as follows: the lower support of the seat cushion assembly is pivotally connected to the main frame of the first support frame through point M; the main frame of the seat cushion assembly is pivotally connected to the third support frame through point O; and the third support frame is pivotally connected to the second support frame through point N. The pivotal connection of the four-bar NOQP is as follows: the side support of the seat cushion assembly is pivotally connected to the lower support of the backrest assembly through point Q; the lower support of the backrest assembly is pivotally connected to the fourth support frame through point P; and the fourth support frame is pivotally connected to the second support frame through point N. The third and fourth support frames are split support frame structures used for the linkage support of the seat cushion and the backrest.
7. The one-button folding mobility scooter for the elderly based on multi-link linkage according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The handle is an actively triggered operating component and also includes a locking mechanism for locking the handle.
8. The one-button folding mobility scooter for the elderly based on multi-link linkage according to claim 1, characterized in that, The seat cushion assembly is a flexible seat cushion structure adapted to the elderly, and the backrest assembly is an arc-shaped backrest structure that can be folded in conjunction with the four-linkage. The seat cushion assembly and the backrest assembly are folded in conjunction with each other through the four-linkage NOQP. After folding, the two fit together and are folded together, further reducing the storage volume of the mobility scooter.
9. A method for using a one-button folding mobility scooter for the elderly based on multi-link linkage, characterized in that, The method of using the one-button folding mobility scooter based on multi-link linkage as described in any one of claims 1-8 includes a folding operation and an unfolding operation. Folding Operation: Pull the handle of the mobility scooter in the preset direction. The handle will cause the 12 sets of four-link linkages arranged symmetrically on the left and right sides to pivot and move in unison. This will cause the handlebar assembly, front frame assembly, and rear frame assembly to fold towards each other. The rear axle assembly will also fold and move towards the frame in unison. The seat and backrest assembly will fold and fold towards the frame in unison, completing the one-click folding of the mobility scooter. After folding, the length and height of the mobility scooter will be reduced in unison. Unfolding Operation: Pull the handle in the opposite direction of folding or directly extend the frame components of the mobility scooter outwards. The 12 sets of four-link linkages pivot and reset synchronously with the frame extension, causing the handlebar assembly, front frame assembly, and rear frame assembly to unfold to the preset support position. The rear axle assembly resets to the driving support state, and the seat and backrest assembly unfold synchronously to the driving and riding position, completing the one-button unfolding of the mobility scooter. After unfolding, each four-link linkage forms a stable support structure to ensure the normal use of the mobility scooter.