Mounting components and components including the mounting components

Abstract

This invention provides a mounting bracket for releasably clamping to a structure. The mounting bracket includes a body having a first jaw and a movable second jaw opposite to the first jaw. The second jaw is biased toward the first jaw and movable to a spaced-out position to accommodate the structure. A pivotable latch is connected to the second jaw and is movable between a closed state, an open state, and a locked state. In the locked state of the latch, the second jaw is further pushed toward the first jaw such that the two jaws are spaced apart by a locking distance less than the clamping distance. A locking mechanism locks the second jaw when the latch is in the locked state. During clamping, the mounting bracket can secure an accessory relative to the structure.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The subject of this utility model relates to a mounting element. Specifically, a mounting element is disclosed that is releasably clamped to a structure to secure an accessory relative to the structure. An assembly is also disclosed herein that includes a mounting element and an accessory secured to the mounting element. Background Technology

[0002] Mounts can be used to interconnect or fix objects or accessories relative to structures. For example, mounts can be used to fix mobile phones relative to motorcycle handlebars, car dashboards, etc. Other types of mounts can be used to fix electronic displays relative to structures such as tables. Accessories such as baby hanging toys can also be mounted relative to cribs and strollers. Utility Model Content

[0003] The subject of this utility model relates to an mounting component configured to releasably clamp to a structure having clamping dimensions in order to secure an accessory relative to the structure.

[0004] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, the aforementioned mounting components may include:

[0005] The body associated with the first gripper;

[0006] A second gripper, which is opposite to the first gripper and is movable relative to the first gripper from a normally closed position to a spaced-apart position, wherein the distance between the grippers is greater than the clamping dimension to allow at least a portion of the structure to be received between the grippers, the second gripper being elastically associated with the body such that the second gripper is biased toward the first gripper to close around the structure in the clamping position of the second gripper, the clamping position defining the clamping distance between the grippers; and a latch, which is pivotally connected relative to the second gripper.

[0007] The latch can typically be located on the second gripper such that it at least partially covers the second gripper. The latch can be movable between multiple states, including but not limited to:

[0008] (i) Closed state: In the closed state, the latch covers at least a portion of the second gripper in the normally closed position of the second gripper to prevent the second gripper from moving away from the first gripper;

[0009] (ii) Open state, in which the latch pivots relative to the second jaw, thereby allowing the second jaw to move from the first jaw to the spaced position; and

[0010] (iii) Locked state, in which the latch covers at least a portion of the second jaw at the clamping position of the second jaw to simultaneously push the second jaw further toward the first jaw and lock the second jaw in the locked position, in which the jaws are spaced apart from each other by a locking distance less than the clamping distance.

[0011] Potential advantages of the mounting element may include: simplifying its use, thereby closing the latch on the second jaw while enhancing its grip on the structure and locking the second jaw in place, the mounting element being self-clamped to the structure and lockable in place by, for example, the latch described herein. Manually manipulating the latch (e.g., pushing or lifting the latch) can be easier and substantially faster compared to, for example, using screw mechanisms typically used for fastening. For example, the manipulation of the latch may require less strength and / or flexibility and / or time compared to a screw mechanism.

[0012] In some embodiments, the mount also includes a locking mechanism configured to lock the second jaw in a locked position when the latch pivots to the locked state. Typically, when the second jaw is locked, the structure clamped between the jaws is firmly held and cannot be easily released. Furthermore, when the second jaw is locked, virtually no movement of any part of the mount relative to each other is permitted (at least until the latch is raised). This allows the mount to function as a fixed "one-piece" connector in the locked state, which is particularly advantageous for transmitting movement between attachments (e.g., rockers) and structures clamped by the mount (e.g., strollers, cribs, etc.). The mount can be adapted to transmit different types of movement (e.g., rocking, vibration).

[0013] In order to simultaneously push the second jaw toward the first jaw and to lock the second jaw, the latch can be envisioned to include:

[0014] An engagement region configured to engage with the second jaw in the clamping position when the latch is pivoted to the locked position, thereby pushing the second jaw to the locked position; and

[0015] An actuation region is configured to at least indirectly actuate the locking mechanism when the latch pivots to the locked position, so as to lock the second gripper in the locked position.

[0016] The latch may also include at least one contact area that, when the latch is in the open state, is configured to engage with the second jaw when the second jaw moves to the spaced position, thereby moving the latch away from the body accordingly.

[0017] In some embodiments, the mounting member further includes an anchor member substantially housed within the body in its normally lowered position, to which a latch is pivotally linked such that movement of the latch away from the body correspondingly moves the anchor member to an elevated position. In some examples, the anchor member is resiliently associated with the body to be biased to return from the elevated position to the lowered position, the return of the anchor member to the lowered position correspondingly causing the latch to return toward the body, wherein at least one of the engagement and contact areas that causes the latch to return engages with a second jaw to bias the second jaw toward the first jaw. The anchor member can be biased back to the lowered position by a variety of biasing mechanisms, including but not limited to mechanical springs (e.g., tension springs), elastomeric elements (e.g., bands or straps), magnetism, or any other biasing mechanism adapted (e.g., by pulling or otherwise applying tension or attraction) to return the anchor member to the lowered position.

[0018] Referring again to the locking mechanism of the second gripper, in some embodiments, the locking mechanism is at least partially housed within the body of the mounting component.

[0019] Locking mechanisms can include various constructions, including but not limited to geometric interlocking elements, friction-based locking systems, magnetic locking devices, cam-based mechanisms, ratchet and pawl systems, or any combination thereof. Typically, the locking mechanism should be able to securely lock the second jaw at a specific clamping distance from the first jaw.

[0020] In some examples, the locking mechanism may include: one or more positioning elements having multiple engagement points along them, such as racks, stepped or serrated tracks, rods with notches or slots at different heights, etc.; and a locker configured to engage the positioning elements(s) at a selected engagement point among the multiple engagement points. The locker may include one or more protrusions, teeth, pins, or other structures adapted to engage with the positioning elements(s). The locker may be resiliently biased, spring-actuated, resiliently deformable, and returnable, or otherwise configured to detachably yet still securely engage the engagement points of the locking elements. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism includes:

[0021] One or more positioning elements (e.g., elongated elements, such as a rack); and

[0022] The locker is configured as follows:

[0023] When the latch pivots from the open state to the locked state, it engages the positioning element or each positioning element to lock the second jaw in the locked position; and

[0024] When the latch pivots from the locked position to the open position, it disengages from the locating element or each locating element to release the second gripper from the locked position.

[0025] In some embodiments, the positioning element is shaped such that when engaged with the lock, movement of the lock relative to the positioning element (e.g., along the positioning element) is restricted.

[0026] In some embodiments, the lock is operable between the following:

[0027] Neutral configuration, in which the lock disengages from the positioning element or each positioning element; and

[0028] An extension configuration in which the lock engages with a positioning element or each positioning element.

[0029] The lock is biased to return to the neutral configuration.

[0030] In some embodiments, the locker includes an elastomer that can be pushed from a neutral configuration to an extended configuration.

[0031] In some examples, the locker includes interlocking parts that are mechanically coupled to each other and movable relative to each other, thereby enabling the locker to move between a locking (extending) configuration and an unlocking (or neutral) configuration.

[0032] In some embodiments, the mounting includes a pair of opposing and spaced-apart positioning elements housed within the body, each positioning element including, for example, a rack; and the locker includes opposing protrusions, for example teeth, which respectively engage the opposing racks to lock the second gripper in a locked position.

[0033] It can be considered that the locking mechanism may also include a mover configured, for example, to be pushed through the actuating region of the latch in the locked state, so as to correspondingly push the locker from the neutral configuration to the extended configuration, so as to lock the second gripper in the locked position. In some examples, the mover is substantially housed within the anchoring member so as to:

[0034] When the latch moves relative to the body, it moves relative to the body together with the anchor; and

[0035] When the latch moves to the locked position, it moves relative to the anchor to push the locker into the extended configuration.

[0036] According to an example of this mounting, the second gripper may include at least one rearwardly positioned leg configured to be at least partially housed within the body, and the at least one leg is configured to move within the body when the second gripper moves relative to the first gripper.

[0037] In some embodiments, the upper end of at least one leg includes or is connected to a platform, which is configured to engage by:

[0038] When the latch is in the locked state, the engagement area of ​​the latch further pushes the second jaw toward the first jaw; and

[0039] When the latch is in the open state, the contact area of ​​the latch causes the second jaw to move away from the first jaw, which in turn raises the latch away from the body.

[0040] In some embodiments, the clamping profile defined between the jaws is at least dimensionally adjustable (i.e., by moving the second jaw away from (e.g., by pulling) the first jaw), and in some embodiments, it is shape-adjustable. For example, a generally circular clamping profile (e.g., for a generally cylindrical element of a joining structure) can be modified to different profiles, such as semi-circular and semi-rectangular profiles, fully rectangular profiles, or other profiles. To adjust the clamping profile, the mount may also include an adapter detachably attached to, for example, the first jaw to provide an alternative clamping profile for the first jaw. Additionally or alternatively, the adapter may be provided with a second jaw for changing its profile. Potential advantages of an adjustable clamping profile may include allowing the mount to engage structures with various profiles, which also facilitates the transfer of the mount between different structures.

[0041] In some embodiments, the closed jaws (in the closed state of the second jaw) define a minimum clamping profile or volume between them. The minimum clamping profile can be customized to fit some structures but not others. For example, only structures with a clamping size equal to or greater than the equivalent size defined by the minimum clamping profile will be properly and securely clamped by the jaws.

[0042] In some embodiments, the mounting includes a connector through which an accessory can be secured to the mounting. By securing the mounting to the structure, the accessory can be securely coupled to the structure via the mounting. In some embodiments, the connector is located on the back of the body, generally opposite the grippers. The connector may include means for engaging the accessory, such as one or more protrusions (e.g., brackets, teeth, arms), magnetic means, adhesive means, pins, screws, or other suitable connecting means for engaging the accessory. In some examples, the mounting is integrally connected to and provides the accessory. In examples, the connector includes a rotatable element, such as a disc, which is rotatable relative to the body of the mounting, such that the angular position of the accessory relative to the body can be set or adjusted.

[0043] In some embodiments, the mounting member relative to its clamping structure includes the legs or handles of a stroller, wherein the clamping dimension includes the thickness of the stroller's legs or handles. In other embodiments, the structure includes a frame portion (e.g., a pole or post) of a baby's bed or crib, wherein the clamping dimension includes the thickness of the frame portion.

[0044] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, a component is disclosed, comprising:

[0045] The installation component according to the first aspect of the subject matter of this disclosure; and

[0046] Includes accessories for the rocker.

[0047] A rocker can be configured to generate motion that is substantially transmitted via a mounting member to the structure to which the mounting member is clamped. In some examples, the motion may include at least one of the following: rocking; and vibration. In some embodiments, the mounting member is capable of transmitting rocking and / or vibrational motion from the rocker to the structure (e.g., a stroller, crib) at least when the latch is in its locked state. By securely and rigidly mounting the mounting member to the structure, the motion generated by the rocker is substantially transmitted to the structure rather than absorbed by the mounting member, thereby moving the structure. In such applications, easy and rapid installation and removal of the rocking device relative to the structure is also preferred, allowing the rocking device to be easily transferred between structures.

[0048] It is conceivable that, in some examples, the installation components and accessories can be formed as a single unit.

[0049] The following is a list of examples from this disclosure:

[0050] Example 1

[0051] 1. A mounting member configured to releasably clamp to a structure having clamping dimensions for securing an accessory relative to said structure, said mounting member comprising:

[0052] The body associated with the first gripper;

[0053] A second gripper, which is opposite to the first gripper and is movable relative to the first gripper from a normally closed position to a spaced-apart position, wherein the distance between the grippers is greater than the clamping dimension to allow at least a portion of the structure to be received between the grippers, the second gripper being elastically associated with the body such that the second gripper is biased toward the first gripper for closing around the structure in a clamping position of the second gripper, the clamping position defining the clamping distance between the grippers;

[0054] A latch, which is pivotally connected relative to the second jaw and movable between the following:

[0055] (i) Closed state, in which the latch covers at least a portion of the second gripper in the normally closed position of the second gripper to prevent the second gripper from moving away from the first gripper;

[0056] (ii) Open state, in which the latch pivots relative to the second jaw, thereby allowing the second jaw to move from the first jaw to the interval position;

[0057] (iii) A locked state, wherein the latch covers at least a portion of the second jaw at the clamping position of the second jaw, wherein, in the locked state of the latch, the second jaw is locked in the locked position and further pushed toward the first jaw such that the jaws are spaced apart from each other by a locking distance less than the clamping distance; and

[0058] A locking mechanism operable to lock the second jaw in the locked position when the latch is pivoted to the locked state.

[0059] Example 2

[0060] According to the mounting component described in Example 1, the latch includes at least:

[0061] An engagement region configured to engage with the second jaw to actuate the second jaw when the latch is pivoted to the locked state; and

[0062] An actuation region is configured to actuate the locking mechanism to lock the second gripper when the latch pivots to the locked state.

[0063] Example 3

[0064] According to the mounting according to Example 2, the latch further includes at least one contact area that, when the latch is in the open state, is configured to engage with the second jaw when the second jaw moves to the interval position, thereby pushing the latch away from the body accordingly.

[0065] Example 4

[0066] The mounting according to Example 3 also includes an anchor member, which is substantially housed within the body in its normally lowered position, and the latch is pivotally linked to the anchor member such that movement of the latch away from the body correspondingly moves the anchor member to an elevated position.

[0067] Example 5

[0068] According to the mounting of Example 4, the anchor is elastically associated with the body so as to be biased to return from the raised position to the lowered position, the return of the anchor to the lowered position correspondingly causing the latch to return toward the body, wherein at least one of the engagement region and the contact region that causes the latch to return engages with the second jaw to bias the second jaw toward the first jaw.

[0069] Example 6

[0070] According to the mounting device described in Example 5, the anchor is biased back to the lowered position by a plurality of tension springs, the tension springs applying a pulling force to bias the anchor to the lowered position.

[0071] Example 7

[0072] According to any one of Examples 1 to 6, the mounting component, wherein the locking mechanism comprises:

[0073] One or more positioning elements; and

[0074] Locker, the locker being configured to:

[0075] When the latch pivots from the open state to the locked state, it engages the positioning element or each positioning element to lock the second jaw in the locked position; and

[0076] When the latch pivots from the locked state to the open state, it disengages from the positioning element or each positioning element to release the second gripper from the locked position.

[0077] Example 8

[0078] According to the mounting hardware described in Example 7, the locker is operable among the following:

[0079] Neutral configuration, wherein the lock disengages from the positioning element or each positioning element; and

[0080] An extension configuration in which the lock engages with the positioning element or each positioning element.

[0081] Example 9

[0082] According to the mounting device described in Example 8, the locking device includes an elastomer or geometric component that is pushable from the neutral configuration to the extended configuration.

[0083] Example 10

[0084] According to any one of Examples 7 to 9, the mounting device further includes a mover configured to push through the actuation region of the latch in the locked state of the latch to correspondingly push the locker from the neutral configuration to the extended configuration, thereby locking the second gripper in the locked position.

[0085] Example 11

[0086] According to the mounting component described in Example 10, which is attached to Example 4 or Example 5, the mover is substantially housed within the anchoring component so that:

[0087] When the latch moves relative to the body, it moves together with the anchor relative to the body; and

[0088] When the latch is moved to the locked state, it moves relative to the anchor to push the locker into the extended configuration.

[0089] Example 12

[0090] The mounting according to any one of Examples 7 to 11 includes a pair of opposing and spaced-apart positioning elements housed in the body, each positioning element including a rack; and wherein the locking device includes corresponding opposing teeth for engaging the rack to lock the second gripper in the locked position.

[0091] Example 13

[0092] According to any one of Examples 1 to 12, the mounting component wherein the locking mechanism is at least partially housed within the body.

[0093] Example 14

[0094] According to any one of the foregoing examples, the mounting member wherein the second gripper includes at least one rearwardly disposed leg configured to be at least partially received within the body, the at least one leg being configured to move within the body when the second gripper moves relative to the first gripper.

[0095] Example 15

[0096] According to the mounting member described in Example 14, which is attached to any one of Examples 3 to 5, the upper end of the at least one leg includes a platform configured to engage by:

[0097] When the latch is in the locked state, the engagement region of the latch further pushes the second jaw toward the first jaw; and

[0098] When the latch is in the open state, the contact area of ​​the latch causes the movement of the second jaw away from the first jaw to correspondingly raise the latch away from the body.

[0099] Example 16

[0100] According to any one of the foregoing examples, the latch includes a lever end that, in the closed and locked states of the latch, protrudes at least partially outward relative to the second jaw to facilitate manual engagement of the latch by a user.

[0101] Example 17

[0102] The mounting device according to any one of the foregoing examples further includes an adapter that is detachably secured to the first gripper to provide an alternative clamping profile for the first gripper.

[0103] Example 18

[0104] The mounting component according to any one of the foregoing examples further includes a connector, through which the accessory can be secured to the mounting component.

[0105] Example 19

[0106] According to the mounting device described in Example 18, the connector is mounted or integrally formed on the back of the body facing away from the first and second grippers.

[0107] Example 20

[0108] According to the mounting according to Example 18 or 19, the connector includes a disc that is rotatable relative to the body, such that the angular position of the accessory relative to the body can be adjusted.

[0109] Example 21

[0110] According to any one of the foregoing examples, the mounting member includes a leg or handle of the stroller relative to its clamping structure, wherein the clamping dimension includes the thickness of the leg or handle of the stroller.

[0111] Example 22

[0112] A component, comprising:

[0113] The mounting component according to any one of the foregoing examples; and

[0114] Includes accessories for the rocker.

[0115] Example 23

[0116] According to the component described in Example 22, the rocker is configured to generate movement at least when the second gripper is in the locked position, the movement being transmitted substantially through the mount to the structure in which the mount is clamped.

[0117] Example 24

[0118] According to the components described in Example 22 or 23, the motion includes at least one of the following: swaying and vibration.

[0119] Example 25

[0120] The component according to any one of Examples 22 to 24, wherein the mounting element and the rocker are integrally formed. Attached Figure Description

[0121] To better understand the subject matter disclosed herein and to illustrate how it can be implemented in practice, embodiments will now be described by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0122] Figure 1 This is a rear perspective view of an installation based on an example of the subject matter of this disclosure;

[0123] Figure 2 This is a rear perspective view of the rocker, which is fixed to... Figure 1 Accessories for the installation parts;

[0124] Figure 3 This is a side perspective view of a component based on an example of the subject matter of this disclosure, the component including... Figure 1 The mounting components and the fasteners attached to the mounting components Figure 2 The rocker;

[0125] Figure 4 This is an in-situ perspective view of an example of a mount and rocker assembly according to the subject matter of this disclosure, the mount being clamped to a stroller leg to secure the rocker relative to the leg;

[0126] Figure 5A yes Figure 1 Rear perspective view of the mounting component body;

[0127] Figure 5B yes Figure 1 The rear perspective view of the mounting component, in which the connector of the mounting component is omitted and the body is substantially transparent;

[0128] Figure 6A yes Figure 1 Rear perspective view of the second gripper of the mounting component;

[0129] Figure 6B yes Figure 5AThe rear perspective view of the mounting component, in which the main body is omitted and the second gripper is substantially transparent;

[0130] Figure 7A yes Figure 1 Rear perspective view of the anchoring element of the mounting component;

[0131] Figure 7B yes Figure 6B The rear perspective view of the mounting component, in which the second gripper is omitted and the anchor is substantially transparent;

[0132] Figure 8 yes Figure 7B Bottom perspective view of the mounting components, where the anchors and the base of the mounting components are omitted;

[0133] Figure 9 yes Figure 7B A side perspective view of the mounting component, in which the anchor is omitted and the mover of the mounting component is substantially transparent;

[0134] Figure 10 yes Figure 1 A top view of the mounting component, in which the connector of the mounting component is omitted;

[0135] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of the mounting component along its plane XX, wherein the second gripper is shown in the normally closed position and the latch of the mounting component is shown in the closed state;

[0136] Figure 12 yes Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of the mounting component along its plane YY, wherein the latch is shown in the open state;

[0137] Figure 13 yes Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of the mounting component along its plane XX, wherein the latch is shown in the open position;

[0138] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of the mounting component, wherein the second gripper is moved to a position spaced apart from the first gripper of the mounting component;

[0139] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the mounting component, showing the second gripper moved to the clamping position;

[0140] Figure 16 yes Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of the mounting component along plane YY, wherein the latch is in the locked state so as to lock the second gripper in the locked position;

[0141] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 A sectional view of the mounting component along plane XX;

[0142] Figure 18 yes Figure 17 A close-up view of the locking mechanism, locking device, and positioning element of the mounting component;

[0143] Figure 19 yes Figure 1 A side perspective view of the mounting component, in which the connector of the mounting component is omitted and the first gripper adapter is removed;

[0144] Figure 20A This is a cross-sectional view of an installation assembly, including another example of a locking mechanism component;

[0145] Figure 20B yes Figure 20A Side perspective view of the lock; and

[0146] Figure 20C This is a side perspective view of the moving part, according to Figure 20A The locking mechanism is at least partially housed in the moving part. Detailed Implementation

[0147] An example mount according to the subject matter of this disclosure is configured to releasably clamp onto a structure to secure an accessory relative to that structure. The mount includes a pair of opposing jaws that are movable relative to each other to enable the mount to clamp onto the structure. Specifically, the mount includes: a body associated with a first jaw; and a second jaw opposite the first jaw, movable relative to the first jaw. Starting from a normally closed position where the second jaw is generally close to the first jaw, the second jaw can move to one or more spaced positions where the second jaw is spaced apart from the first jaw. In these spaced positions, the jaws are spaced apart to allow at least a portion of the structure to be received between the jaws. For example, if the structure is the leg of a baby stroller, the distance between the jaws may be greater than the thickness or width of the leg, such that the leg can be received between the spaced-apart jaws. In other words, the structure may be described as having a clamping dimension (e.g., thickness or width), and when the jaws are in the spaced-apart positions, the distance between the jaws is greater than the clamping dimension, such that at least a portion of the structure can be received between the spaced-apart jaws.

[0148] The second jaw of the mounting member is elastically associated with the body of the mounting member such that it is biased toward the first jaw for closure around the structure. For example, after the second jaw is manually moved away from the first jaw to a spaced-out position and the structure is received between the spaced-out jaws, the second jaw can be released, thereby returning to the first jaw, so that the two jaws clamp tightly around the structure. In this position, the second jaw can be said to be assumed to be in a clamped position, which defines or corresponds to a clamping distance between the two jaws that is less than or shorter than the distance between the jaws when the second jaw is in the spaced-out position.

[0149] Examples of the mounting components disclosed herein also include a latch pivotally connected relative to the second gripper. This latch is movable between different states to allow movement and locking of the second gripper. First, when the second gripper is in the normally closed position, the latch can be assumed to be in a closed state in which the latch covers at least a portion of the second gripper. In this state, the closed latch prevents the second gripper from moving away from the first gripper. Second, the latch can be pivoted relative to the second gripper to an open state, thereby allowing the second gripper to move from the first gripper to the aforementioned spaced-out position. In other words, the latch can be moved to the open state to allow the second gripper to move away from the first gripper, thereby increasing the distance between the first and second grippers, thus enabling the structure to be received between the spaced-out grippers.

[0150] After the jaws have been assumed to be in a clamping position in which the jaws are closed around the structure received between the jaws, the latch can then be moved to a locked state in which the latch covers at least a portion of the second jaw. In the locked state, the latch can be used to further tighten the jaws around the structure and also to lock the second jaw in a locked position such that the second jaw cannot move relative to the first jaw unless the latch is first moved to the open state. Specifically, when the latch is moved to the locked state, the latch further pushes the second jaw toward the first jaw such that the distance between the first and second jaws (referred to herein as the locking distance) is less than or shorter than the clamping distance. In other words, after the two jaws have been assumed to be in a clamping position in which the jaws are clamped closed around the structure and separated from each other by the clamping distance, the movement of the latch to the locked state further reduces the distance between the jaws to the locking distance, thereby further tightening the jaws around the structure. In other words, the movement of the latch to the locked state pushes the second jaw from the clamping position to the locked position, where the locking distance between the two jaws is less than or shorter than the clamping distance. In some examples, the locking distance is shorter than the clamping distance by, for example, 3mm, 1mm, 4mm or an intermediate value, a longer length or a shorter length.

[0151] Therefore, the mounting element according to the examples in this subject matter can be easily and securely installed into a structure to fix accessories relative to that structure. Thus, the mounting element can be securely clamped to a structure such as the handle or legs of a stroller, and accessories such as rockers can be attached to the mounting element to secure them to the stroller. Furthermore, the construction of the mounting element and its clamping connection to the structure ensures that most of the movement generated by the rocker is transmitted to the structure. Therefore, in this mounting application, the rocking or vibratory movement generated by the rocker is effectively transmitted to the structure (e.g., stroller, crib, etc.) rather than absorbed by the mounting element.

[0152] While the following disclosure will primarily describe exemplary mounts related to rocker attachments, this mount can certainly be adapted to secure a variety of different attachments relative to various structures. For example, the mount can be adapted to: secure attachments such as mobile phones to structures such as motorcycle handlebars; secure objects such as electronic displays to tables; and secure suspended toys to children's high chairs, strollers, or cribs. As will be discussed, the mount can be provided with any number of different adapters and / or connectors, allowing it to securely clamp around and relative to various structures, thus securing a variety of attachments. Exemplary mounts and associated components will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0153] Figure 1 An example of a mounting component 2 according to this subject matter is shown. Mounting component 2 includes: a body 4 associated with a first gripper or lower gripper 6; and a second gripper or upper gripper 8 opposite to the lower gripper 6. Figure 1 The upper jaw 8 is shown in its normally closed position, where two of the jaws 6, 8 are generally close to each other. As will be discussed, the upper jaw 8 is movable relative to the lower jaw 6 to a spaced-out position where the jaws 6, 8 are generally spaced apart from each other. In particular, the upper jaw 8 is movable to the spaced-out position where the vertical distance between the two jaws 6, 8 is greater than a specific clamping dimension of the mount relative to the structure it will clamp. For example, if the mount 2 is to be clamped to the leg of a stroller having a certain height (e.g., thickness), the height of the leg can be considered as the clamping dimension of the structure, and the second jaw 8 is therefore movable away from the first jaw 6 to the spaced-out position where the vertical distance between the two jaws 6, 8 is greater than the clamping dimension of the stroller leg. In this way, there is sufficient space between the spaced-out jaws 6, 8 to receive the stroller leg between these jaws.

[0154] The rear of the depicted mounting 2 is provided with a connector 10, which is adapted to connect an accessory (in this example, the accessory includes a rocker) to the mounting. Figure 2The image shows a rocker 12 with a pair of vertically extending and spaced-apart slots 14 configured at its rear. The connector 10 correspondingly includes a pair of vertically extending and spaced-apart arms 18, each arm 18 configured to slidably insert into a corresponding slot 14 of the rocker 12 to secure the rocker 12 relative to the mounting member 2, as shown. Figure 3 The mounting part 2 of component 20 and the rocker 16 are shown. See also... Figure 4 The image shows a mounting 2 and a rocker 16 attached to the leg 22 of a stroller 24. Specifically, the mounting 2 is shown clamped to the leg 22 to secure the rocker 16 relative to the leg 22. The rocker 16 can then be actuated to transmit rocking and / or vibrating movements, which can thus be transmitted via the mounting 2 to the stroller 24, causing it to rock and / or vibrate. The mounting 2 can, of course, be adapted to be mounted to other structures, including the handle of the stroller 24. In another example, a different connector can be attached to the rear of the mounting 2 and provide attachment for different accessories, such as a mobile phone or a beverage holder. In such an example, the user can thus attach their mobile phone and / or beverage to the rear handle of the stroller 24. As will be discussed, the connector can be adjustably attached to the mounting 2 to allow for positional adjustment of the accessories as needed. For example, in the depicted embodiment, the connector 10 is in the form of a disc that can be rotatably adjusted relative to the body 4 of the mounting 2. In this way, the angular position of the rocker 16 connected to the connector 10 can be adjusted relative to the mounting 2 and therefore relative to the stroller 24 to which it is fixed.

[0155] Mounting component 2 also includes a manually operable latch 26, which is pivotally connected relative to the second gripper 8. Figure 1 A latch 26 in a closed state is shown, wherein when the upper jaw 8 is in its normally closed position, the latch 26 covers at least a portion of the upper jaw 8. In this closed state, the latch 26 prevents the upper jaw 8 from moving away from the first jaw 6. In other words, when the latch 26 is closed on the upper jaw 8, the upper jaw 8 cannot be manually pulled or pushed away from the first jaw 6. As will be discussed, the latch 26 can be pivoted to an open state such that the latch 26 substantially does not cover the upper jaw 8, thereby allowing the second jaw 8 to move away from the first jaw 6 to a spaced position, in which the structure can be received between the spaced jaws 6, 8. Once the structure is clamped between the pair of jaws 6 and 8, the latch 26 can be pivoted to the locked state. In the locked state, the latch 26 covers at least a portion of the second jaw 8 and is used to simultaneously push the second jaw 8 further toward the first jaw 6 and lock the second jaw 8 in the locked position, thereby preventing the second jaw 8 from moving away from the first jaw 6 unless the latch 26 is first pivoted to the open state.

[0156] Figure 5A A body 4 of the mounting 2 according to the currently depicted embodiment is shown. The body 4 includes a housing portion 28 having a vertically extending channel or opening 30. The base of the housing portion 28 of the depicted body 4 is closed by a base element 32 that can be inserted into or clamped into the bottom of the housing portion 28. As will be discussed, various components, including the rear portion of the upper clamping jaws 8, are at least partially and movably accommodated in the housing portion 28 of the body 4. The rear portion of the housing portion 28 is configured to receive a connector 10 adapted to secure desired accessories to the mounting 2. In the depicted example, the rear portion of the housing includes components configured to receive… Figure 1 The connector 10 shown has a disc-shaped feature 34. This disc-shaped feature 34 includes a series of teeth 36 arranged in a circular structure; the rear portion of the connector 10 includes complementary teeth arranged in a circular structure, configured to engage with the teeth 36 of the connector 10. In use, the connector 10 can be fixed to and rotated about the disc-shaped feature 34 of the body 4 via pins 38, whereby the engaged teeth mesh with each other to fix the angular position of the connector 10 relative to the body 4. To adjust the angular position of the connector 10 relative to the body 4, the connector 10 can simply rotate about the pins 38, thereby disengaging the teeth of the connector from the teeth 36 of the disc-shaped feature 34, allowing the connector 10 to rotatably travel to a subsequent angular position where the teeth re-engage. In this way, the connector 10 can be "clicked" and locked in many angular positions, allowing the angular position of an accessory connected to the connector 10 to be adjusted relative to the accessory and its fixed structure.

[0157] The front portion of the body 4 includes a first jaw or lower jaw 6 of the mounting member 2, or is associated with a first jaw or lower jaw 6 of the mounting member 2, the lower jaw 6 including a portion extending generally forward and vertically from the housing portion of the body. See also... Figure 19 The lower gripper portion 6 can be integrally formed with the body 4 and defines one of the pair of grippers 6, 8, between which a structure can be clamped. In the depicted example, the gripping pad 40 is shown fixed to the lower gripper 6 and can directly receive the gripper 6, 8 relative to the structure to be clamped. As will be discussed, the lower gripper 6 of the body 4 can be configured to releasably receive an adapter 42, which can be used to change the clamping profile of the lower gripper 6. For example, various different adapters with different shapes and geometries can be fixed to the lower gripper 6 of the housing 4, thereby clamping the mounting 2 to different structures with different physical properties, geometries, and sizes.

[0158] The second or upper gripper is configured to be at least partially housed within the body of the mount and movable relative to the body. For example, when the upper gripper moves between a closed position, a clamped position, and a locked position, the rear portion of the upper gripper can extend into and travel within the housing portion of the body. Furthermore, as will be discussed, the upper gripper is resiliently associated with the body such that it is biased to return toward the first gripper. In other words, if the second gripper is manually raised or moved away from the first gripper, it will return toward the first gripper unless it is held away from the first gripper. Figure 5B and Figure 6A An exemplary second or upper gripper 8 is shown. The second gripper 8 includes a forward-extending gripper portion 44 positioned above and opposite the lower gripper 6 of the mount 2. The rear portion of the second gripper 8 includes a pair of vertically extending and spaced-apart legs 46, each leg configured to be slidably received in an opening or channel 30 of the housing portion 28 of the body 4. In particular, the legs 46 are configured to move vertically upward and downward within the housing portion 28 of the body 4; in this way, the upper gripper 8 can move vertically upward away from the lower gripper 6 to a spaced position and downward toward the lower gripper 6 to be assumed to be in a clamped position, a locked position, or a normally closed position. The upper end of each leg 46 of the second gripper 8 includes a platform region 48, which, as will be discussed, facilitates the movement of the latch 26 away from the body 4 of the mount 2. In the illustrated example, the gripper portion 44 of the upper gripper 8 also includes a pair of openings 50 configured to receive corresponding insertion portions 52 of the upper gripper gripping pad 54 (see [link]). Figure 9 ).

[0159] The latch is configured to engage with the second jaw. Specifically, the latch is movable between different states to selectively prevent, allow, and lock movement of the second jaw. For this purpose, the latch includes an engagement region configured to engage with the second jaw in its clamping position when the latch is pivoted to the locked position, thereby pushing the second jaw to the locked position. In some examples, when the latch is in the open position, the engagement region of the latch is configured to disengage from the second jaw, thereby allowing movement of the second jaw relative to the first jaw. After the jaws have been clamped around the structure, the latch can pivot closed relative to the second jaw, whereby the engagement region of the latch engages with the second jaw to further push the second jaw closer toward the first jaw, thereby clamping the jaws more tightly around the structure.

[0160] Figure 9A latch 26 according to an embodiment of this mounting 2 is shown, with the latch 26 shown in its closed state. The latch 26 includes a generally planar upper portion 56 and a front lever end 48, which can be manually lifted to pivot the latch 26 to the open state and allow movement of the second gripper 8. In the closed state of the latch, the lever end 48 can project at least partially outward relative to the second gripper to facilitate manual engagement by a user (e.g., a user can grasp the lever end to lift the latch when the latch is open).

[0161] In the illustrated example, as will be discussed, latch 26 is pivotally linked to anchor 60 via pivot pin 62. Thus, latch 26 is configured to pivot about pin 62, as... Figure 1 As shown by the dashed line PP in the diagram. The rear end of the latch 26 bends downward to form a pair of transverse arms 64 of the latch 26. Each arm 64 includes a generally planar contact area or surface 66 that extends downward to a bent tip defining a corresponding engagement area 68 of the latch 26. As will be discussed, the transverse arms 64 are configured to engage the second gripper 8. In particular, when the latch 26 is in the open state (e.g., see...), Figure 12 The generally flat contact area 66 can be engaged by the upper platform area 48 of the second jaw 8, such that the upward movement of the second jaw 8 away from the first jaw 6 accordingly lifts the latch 26 away from the body 4. As will also be discussed, when the latch 26 is moved to the locked state, the engagement area 68 is configured to abut against the corresponding platform 48 of the second jaw 8, and thus pushes the second jaw 8 downward, thereby pushing the second jaw 8 closer to the first jaw 6.

[0162] Examples of this mounting also include an anchor for biasing the upper jaw toward the lower jaw. For example, the anchor may be substantially housed within a housing portion of the body in its normally lowered position. As previously described, a latch may be pivotally linked to the anchor such that movement of the latch away from the body (e.g., when the latch is raised upwards by moving the second jaw to a spaced position) correspondingly raises the anchor from the lowered position to a raised position, in which the anchor is at least partially raised outside the housing portion of the body. The anchor is resiliently connected to the body such that when the anchor is raised, it is biased to return to the lowered position within the housing portion of the body. It is conceivable that the anchor is mechanically communicated with the second jaw such that the return of the anchor from the raised position to the lowered position correspondingly moves the second jaw toward the first jaw; in other words, the bias of the anchor toward the lowered position correspondingly biases the upper jaw toward the first jaw.

[0163] Figure 7AAn exemplary anchor 60 of the currently depicted mounting 2 is shown. The anchor 60 includes front and rear walls 70, 72 interconnected by a pair of transverse sidewalls 74 and a base plate 76. The walls 70, 72, 74 and the base plate 76 define an internal groove or space 78 within which a mover component 80 of the mounting 2 is received, as will be discussed. The upper end of each sidewall 74 includes a corresponding opening 82 through which a latch 26 is pivotally linked relative to the anchor 60. The base 84 of the anchor 60 includes a stop 84 configured to abut against the base element 32 of the housing portion 28 of the body 4 to limit downward travel of the anchor 60 within the housing portion 28 of the body 4 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 11 ).

[0164] Also refer to Figure 7B Each sidewall 74 of the anchor 60 includes a corresponding opening 86, which are aligned with each other to receive an elongated yoke 88, as well as... Figure 8 As shown. The opposite ends of the yoke 88 are configured to receive the upper ends of corresponding tension springs 90, wherein the bottom end of each spring 90 is connected to a base element 32, which closes the base of the body 4. Thus, when the anchor 60 is raised upward beyond the housing portion 28 of the body 4, the springs 90 extend and thus apply tension, which biases the anchor 60 back into its normally lowered position within the housing portion 28 of the body 4. Since the anchor 60 (via pivot 62) is connected to the latch 26, the downward movement of the anchor 60 back to the lowered position correspondingly pulls the latch 26 downward toward the body 4. During this downward movement of the latch 26, each of its lateral arms 64 contacts the corresponding platform 48 of the second jaw 8, thereby pulling the second jaw 8 downward toward the first jaw 6. In this way, the anchor 60, elastically connected to the body 4 by the tension springs 90, is used to bias the second jaw 8 toward the first jaw 6 when the first jaw 6 is pulled away from the second jaw 8. Also refer to Figure 6A and Figure 6B Anchors 60 are arranged between opposing rear legs 46 of the second gripper 8, wherein each tension spring 90 is accommodated within an inwardly facing vertical channel 92 of each leg 46 of the second gripper 8.

[0165] Refer again Figure 7A The bottom of the front wall 70 and the rear wall 72 of the anchor 60 are provided with corresponding grooves 94. As will be discussed, the grooves 94 are configured to receive a corresponding portion of the locking component of the mounting 2, which is used to lock the position of the anchor 60 relative to the body 4, thereby locking the position of the latch 26 and thus locking the second jaw 8 relative to the first jaw 6.

[0166] The mounting component according to the examples of the subject matter of this disclosure also includes a locking mechanism for locking the position of the second gripper relative to the first gripper. Specifically, when the second gripper is in the clamped position, whereby the gripper is clamped closed around the structure, the latch can pivot from the open state to the locked state, thereby not only pushing the second gripper further toward the first gripper, but also locking the position of the second gripper, thus securing the second gripper in the locked position. In particular, by pivoting the latch to the locked state, the latch not only reduces the distance between the grippers to a distance less than the clamping distance, but also actuates the locking mechanism to prevent the second gripper from moving away from the first gripper. In other words, pivoting the latch to the locked state has the effect of securing the gripper around the structure and locking the gripper in that secured position, thus firmly clamping the mounting component to the structure. This robust and secure clamping of the mounting component to the structure ensures that when an accessory such as a rocker is attached to the mounting component, most of any movement produced by the rocker is transmitted to the structure, rather than to components that move the mounting component relative to the structure and / or relative to each other. Therefore, examples of this mounting include a locking mechanism actuated by a latch, particularly when the latch pivots to its locked state.

[0167] The locking mechanism of the mounting component may include one or more positioning elements and a locker configured to selectively engage or disengage the positioning element or each positioning element to lock and unlock movement of the second gripper relative to the first gripper, respectively. For example, the locker may be operable between a neutral configuration and an extended configuration, in which the locker is generally disengaged from the positioning element, allowing movement of the second gripper relative to the first gripper; in the extended configuration, the locker is engaged with the positioning element, thereby locking the second gripper in a locked position. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the locker may include a resilient member that can be actuated directly or indirectly by the latch in a locked state, assuming an extended configuration. In such an embodiment, the locker is biased to return to the neutral configuration such that when the latch moves from the locked state to the open state, the locker returns to the neutral configuration, disengaging from the positioning element, so that movement of the second gripper relative to the first gripper is no longer prohibited.

[0168] Figure 9 A portion of the locking mechanism of the exemplary mounting 2 depicted herein is shown. The locking mechanism includes a pair of spaced-apart positioning elements in the form of vertically extending racks 96, which are received within the housing portion 28 of the body 4. Each rack 96 includes a set of elongated teeth 98, each set of 98 extending vertically along the inner surface of the respective rack 96. See also... Figure 6B One rack 96 has a tooth 98 positioned near the front wall 70 of the anchor 60, while the other rack 96 has a tooth 98 positioned near the rear wall 72 of the anchor 60. (See also...) Figure 9The locking device 100 is depicted as a resilient member disposed between positioning racks 96, having a head 102 and two legs 104 extending downward from opposite ends of the head 102. The lower end of each leg 104 terminates in an outwardly extending foot 106, wherein the outer end of each foot 106 includes a tooth 108 configured to engage or mesh with a tooth 98 of an adjacent rack 96. The mounting member 2 is configured such that when the tooth 108 of the locking device 100 engages with the tooth 98 of the positioning rack 96, the second gripper 8 is locked in place relative to the first gripper 6, and when the tooth 108 of the locking device 100 is not engaged with the tooth 98 of the positioning rack 96, the second gripper 8 is movable relative to the first gripper 6 (assuming the latch 26 is in the open state).

[0169] As previously described, the bottoms of the front wall 70 and rear wall 72 of the anchor 60 include corresponding openings 94 for receiving the lock 100 of the mounting member 2. This is in Figure 18 As shown in the figure, Figure 18 Each foot 106 is shown, housed or nested within a corresponding lower opening 94 of the anchor 60. When the lock 100 is in neutral configuration, its feet 106 do not protrude through the lower opening 94 of the anchor 60 and therefore do not engage with the teeth 98 of the positioning rack 96. However, when the latch 26 is moved to the locked state, the latch 100 is configured to be pushed into an extended configuration, in which the legs 104 open outwards, and the corresponding feet 106 protrude at least partially through the lower opening 94 of the anchor 60, such that the teeth 108 of the feet 106 engage with the teeth 98 of the adjacent positioning rack 96, thereby locking the position of the latch 100 relative to the rack 96. Because the feet 106 of the lock 100 are housed in lower openings 94 of corresponding sizes in the anchor 60, when the lock 100 engages the rack 96 to secure it in place, the anchor 60 is correspondingly secured in place and cannot move vertically relative to the body 4. As previously stated, since the movement of the second gripper 8 is linked to the movement of the anchor 60, by locking the anchor 60 in place, the second gripper 8 is correspondingly locked in place relative to the first gripper 6, and therefore cannot be moved from there.

[0170] The mounting component disclosed herein also includes a mover component configured to push the locker from a neutral configuration to an extended configuration when the latch is pivoted to the locked position, thereby locking the second gripper in the locked position. (See reference...) Figure 7B and Figure 8 The mover 80 has a generally rectangular body housed within the anchor 60 of the mounting member 2. An opening 110 is formed at the bottom of the mover, which accommodates the lock 100. Specifically, refer to... Figure 18The top surface 112 of the opening 110 in the mover 80 is positioned above and adjacent to the head 102 of the locker 100. As will be discussed, when the mover 80 is pressed down by the latch 26, the top surface 112 of the opening 110 of the mover 80 presses down on the head 102 of the locker 100, thereby pushing the locker 100 into an extended configuration, whereby the teeth 108 of its foot 106 engage with the teeth 98 of the adjacent rack 96 to lock the position of the second gripper 8.

[0171] like Figure 8 As shown, the mover 80 has a transverse through-hole 114 aligned with the sidewall opening 86 of the anchor 60, through which the yoke 88 extends. In other words, the yoke 88 extends through both the mover 80 and the anchor 60. However, the height of the through-hole 114 in the mover 80 is greater than the height of the sidewall opening 86 of the anchor 60. This allows the mover 80 to move slightly vertically up and down relative to the anchor 60. In other words, because the through-hole 114 of the mover 80 provides additional clearance around the yoke 88, the yoke 88 and the anchor 60 can move slightly up and down relative to the mover 80. Until the yoke 88 and the anchor 60 rise above a certain point, whereby the yoke 88 also contacts the mover 80, the mover 80 rises accordingly by the upward movement of the anchor 60. In other words, there is a certain degree of clearance in the vertical direction between the anchor 60 and the mover 80.

[0172] Reference Figure 8The base of the mover 80 includes a pair of lateral openings 116, each configured to receive a corresponding compression spring 118, the upper end of which engages with the mover 80 and the lower end of which engages with a base element 32, which closes the bottom of the housing portion 28 of the body 4. Thus, if the mover 80 is pushed downward, the compression spring 118 is compressed and thus used to push the mover 80 upward relative to the anchor 60 in which it is housed. The top surface of the mover 80 includes a pressing surface 120 configured to be pushed downward by the latch 26. Specifically, a central arm 122 is formed between the lateral arms 64 of the latch 26, the central arm 122 having an actuation region 124 configured to engage the pressing surface 120 when the latch 26 is pivoted to the locked state, so as to push the mover 80 downward against the compression spring 118. This downward push of the mover 80 is used to pull the mover 80 downward relative to the anchor 60, thereby pressing the top surface 112 of the opening 110 of the mover 80 downward against the head 102 of the locker 100. This, in turn, puts the locker 100 in an extended configuration, thereby locking the rack 96 and thus locking the position of the second gripper 8 relative to the first gripper 6. When the latch 26 pivots to the open state, the compression spring 118 can expand, thereby raising the mover 80 relative to the anchor 60, causing the top surface 112 of the opening 110 of the mover 80 to rise away from the head 102 of the locker 100, thereby allowing the locker 100 to return to its neutral state, so that the locker 100 no longer engages the rack 96, thereby allowing the second gripper 8 to move relative to the first gripper 6.

[0173] Now refer to Figures 11 to 17 Describe the latching state of mounting component 2 and the sequence of corresponding jaw positions. From Figure 11 Initially, the upper jaw 8 of the depicted mounting member 2 is shown in the normally closed position, while the latch 26 is in a closed state to prevent the second jaw 8 from moving away from the first jaw 6. In this configuration, the jaws 6, 8 are close to each other and not sufficiently spaced apart to allow for the reception of a structure between them. In some embodiments, the actuating region 124 of the latch 26 in the closed state can sufficiently depress the actuator 80, such that the latch 100 accordingly locks the position of the second jaw 8 in the normally closed position.

[0174] Continue to Figure 12The latch 26 pivots rearward to the open position, allowing the second jaw 8 to move away from the first jaw 6. It can be seen that the engagement region 68 of the transverse arm 64 of the latch 26 is vertically spaced from the base platform region 48 of the corresponding leg 46 of the upper jaw 8. By raising the upper jaw 8, the platform region 48 abuts and engages the corresponding engagement region 68 of the latch 26, thereby raising the latch 26 and thus lifting the anchor 60 to the raised position. Figure 13 The latch 26 is also shown in the open state, and is obtained at plane XX before the second gripper 8 moves to the spaced position. As shown, the actuation region 124 of the open latch 26 is also cleared from the pressing surface 120 of the mover 80. Thus, the mover 80 moves upward by the expansion of the compression spring 118, so that the mover 80 does not press downward against the locker 100, and therefore the position of the second gripper 8 is not locked in the proper position.

[0175] Figure 14 The upper jaw 8 is shown moved to an interval position associated with a distance DD, which is greater than the clamping dimension of the structure to be received between jaws 6 and 8. As shown, the upward movement of the second jaw 8 correspondingly raises the latch 26 and thus lifts the anchor 60, the mover 80, and the lock 100. After the structure has been received between jaws 6 and 8, the second jaw 8 can be manually released so that it returns toward the first jaw 6 due to the spring bias of the anchor 60. Specifically, when the second jaw 8 is released, the tension spring 90 pulls the yoke 88 and thus pulls the anchor 60 downward into the housing portion 28 of the body 4. This downward movement pulls the pivotally linked latch 26 downward, whereby the lateral arm 64 of the latch 26 engages the lateral platform 48 of the upper jaw 8, thereby correspondingly pushing the upper jaw 8 downward toward the first jaw 6, so that the pair of jaws 6 and 8 are clamped closed around the structure. Figure 15 A mounting member 2 is shown with a second jaw 8 in a clamping position, wherein the two jaws 6, 8 are separated by a clamping distance CD, which is less than the distance DD between the jaws 6, 8 when the second jaw 8 is in the spaced position.

[0176] Continue to refer to Figure 16 The latch 26 of the mounting 2 pivots to the locked state, wherein the latch 26 is used to move the second gripper 8 closer to the first gripper 6 and lock the second gripper 8 in the locked position. Figure 16 A cross-sectional view of the locking mount 2, taken along plane YY, is shown to illustrate how the engagement area 68 of each lateral arm 64 of the latch 26 engages the corresponding upper platform 48 of the second jaw 8 to push the second jaw 8 downward and further toward the first jaw 6, thereby securing the jaws 6, 8 around the structure. Figure 17A cross-sectional view of the locking mount 2, taken along plane XX, is shown to illustrate how the actuating region 124 of the central arm 122 of the latch 26 engages with and presses down on the pressing surface 120 of the mover 80, thereby pushing the mover 80 downward so that the top surface 112 of the opening 110 presses down against the head 102 of the locker 100, causing the teeth 108 of the locker 100 to engage with the teeth 98 of the adjacent rack 96, which in turn locks the position of the locker 100 and thus the position of the anchor 60 and the latch 26, as well as the position of the second jaw 8 relative to the first jaw 6, as previously described.

[0177] Figures 20A-20C Another example of a locking mechanism locking component 200 is shown, which functions similarly to locking device 100. Locking device 200 includes a geometrically lockable structure, which, according to the example shown, includes two locking parts 201 and 202. Each locking part includes: feet 206, 207 terminating at a set of teeth 208, 209 for engaging a positioning element of the locking mechanism (e.g., a positioning element in the form of a vertically extending rack 96); vertically extending bodies 210, 212; and diagonally extending slots formed in the bodies (slot 214 is visible only in the outer portion).

[0178] The body 212 of the second locking portion 202 defines a central recess in which the body 210 of the first locking portion 201 is at least partially received. The diagonally extending slots of the locking portions extend in opposite orientations and overlap at their lowermost sections. As further shown, a common lateral extension pin 220 passes through the two slots and protrudes outward relative to the second (outer) locking portion 202.

[0179] In use, the locker 200 can be configured between two configurations: a locked (extended) configuration and an unlocked (neutral) configuration. In the locked configuration, the pin 220 is in its lowest position within the slot, where it is prevented from moving upward within the slot by the overlapping bodies of the two locker portions. In the locked position, the feet 206 and 207 are furthest apart, allowing the gears 208 and 209 to lockably engage with a positioning element (e.g., a rack). In the unlocked configuration, the pin slides upward within the slot, causing the two locker portions to move closer together and bringing the feet (and gears) closer together, so that the gears no longer engage with the positioning element.

[0180] In some embodiments, as shown, the locker is partially received within a recess 219 of the mover component 222. A pin 220 extends laterally from the locker into an opening 221 of the mover, thereby actuating the up-and-down movement of the mover by means of the pin. For example, an upward movement of the mover pulls the pin upward to release the locker from a locked position to an unlocked position; and a downward movement of the mover pushes the pin downward to move it to its lowest position, in which the locker is locked. The mover 222 is actuated in response to movement of the latch, for example, as described above with respect to the mover 80, when the latch is pivoted to the locked state, the mover is pressed downward, pushing the pin and pushing the locker into its locked (extended) position.

[0181] In this specification and the following claims, unless the context otherwise requires, the words “comprising” and “including” will be understood to imply inclusion of the whole or step or group of steps described herein, but do not exclude any other whole or step or group of steps.

[0182] References to any prior publications (or information derived therefrom) or to any known things in this specification are not and should not be construed as an admission or endorsement or any form of advice that such prior publications (or information derived therefrom) or known things form part of the general knowledge in the field of effort covered by this specification.

[0183] It should be understood that various changes, modifications, and / or additions can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention disclosed herein. For example, most of the figures depict a lower jaw 6 fitted with an adapter 42, which mirrors the clamping profile of the upper jaw 8. Of course, the adapter 42 can be removed from the jaw portion 6 of the body 4 and replaced with an alternative adapter as needed. In the depicted example, the adapter 42 includes a clamping element 126 that engages in a corresponding opening formed through the base of the lower jaw portion 6 of the body 4. The clamping element 126 can be easily manipulated (e.g., squeezed together) to allow the adapter 42 to be removed from the jaw portion 6 of the body 4. Some embodiments may not include an adapter.

[0184] While it is conceivable that accessories such as rockers can be releasably secured to this mounting 2 (e.g., via suitable connectors), the mounting and accessories (e.g., rockers) can be integrally formed, which is of course also within the scope of this specification.

Claims

1. A mount configured to releasably clamp to a structure having a clamping dimension to secure an accessory relative to the structure, characterized by, The mounting component includes: The body associated with the first gripper; A second gripper, which is opposite to the first gripper and is movable relative to the first gripper from a normally closed position to a spaced-apart position, wherein the distance between the second gripper and the first gripper is greater than the clamping dimension to allow at least a portion of the structure to be accommodated between the second gripper and the first gripper, the second gripper being elastically associated with the body such that the second gripper is biased toward the first gripper to surround the structure at a clamping position of the second gripper, the clamping position defining a clamping distance between the second gripper and the first gripper; A latch, pivotally connected relative to the second jaw and movable between the following states: (i) Closed state, wherein the latch covers at least a portion of the second jaw in the normally closed position to prevent the second jaw from moving away from the first jaw; (ii) An open state, wherein the latch pivots relative to the second jaw to allow the second jaw to move from the first jaw to the spaced position; and (iii) Locked state, in which the latch covers at least a portion of the second jaw in the clamping position, wherein, in the locked state of the latch, the second jaw is locked in the locked position and is further pushed toward the first jaw such that the second jaw and the first jaw are spaced apart from each other by a locking distance less than the clamping distance; The latch includes a lever end that, when the latch is in either the closed or locked state, protrudes at least partially outward relative to the second jaw to facilitate manual engagement of the latch by a user; and A locking mechanism, operable to lock the second gripper in the locked position when the latch is pivoted to the locked state.

2. The mount of claim 1, wherein The latch includes at least: An engagement region configured to engage with the second jaw to actuate the second jaw when the latch is pivoted to the locked state; and An actuation region is configured to actuate the locking mechanism to lock the second gripper when the latch pivots to the locked state.

3. The mount of claim 2, wherein The latch also includes at least one contact area that, when the latch is in the open state, is configured to engage with the second jaw as the second jaw moves to the interval position, thereby pushing the latch away from the body accordingly.

4. The mount of claim 3, wherein It also includes an anchor member, which is substantially housed within the body in its normal lowered position, and the latch is pivotally linked to the anchor member such that movement of the latch away from the body correspondingly moves the anchor member to an elevated position.

5. The mount of claim 4, wherein The anchor is elastically associated with the body so as to be biased to return from the raised position to the lowered position, the return of the anchor to the lowered position correspondingly causing the latch to return toward the body, wherein at least one of the engagement region and the contact region of the returned latch engages with the second jaw so as to bias the second jaw toward the first jaw.

6. The mount of claim 5, wherein, The anchor is biased back to the lowered position by a plurality of tension springs, the plurality of tension springs applying a tension force to bias the anchor to the lowered position.

7. The mount of claim 1, wherein The locking mechanism includes: One or more positioning elements; and Locker, the locker being configured to: When the latch pivots from the open state to the locked state, the positioning element or each positioning element engages to lock the second jaw in the locked position; and When the latch pivots from the locked state to the open state, it disengages from the positioning element or each positioning element to release the second gripper from the locked position.

8. The mount of claim 7, wherein, The locker is operable between the following configurations: A neutral configuration in which the lock disengages from the positioning element or each positioning element; as well as An extension configuration in which the lock engages with the positioning element or each positioning element.

9. The mount of claim 8, wherein, The locking device includes an elastomer or geometric component that can be pushed from the neutral configuration to the extended configuration.

10. The mount of claim 8, wherein, The locking mechanism further includes a mover configured to be pushed by an actuating region of the latch in the locked state to correspondingly push the locker from the neutral configuration to the extended configuration to lock the second gripper in the locked position.

11. The mount of claim 10, wherein, It also includes an anchor, which is substantially housed within the body in its normal lowered position, and the latch is pivotally linked to the anchor such that movement of the latch away from the body correspondingly moves the anchor to an elevated position. The mover is substantially housed within the anchor so that: As the latch moves relative to the body, it moves together with the anchor relative to the body; as well as When the latch moves to the locked state, it moves relative to the anchor to push the locker into the extended configuration.

12. The mount of claim 7, wherein, include: A pair of opposing and spaced-apart positioning elements, each positioning element comprising a rack, housed within the body. The locking device includes corresponding opposing teeth for engaging the rack to lock the second gripper in the locked position.

13. The mount of claim 1, wherein The locking mechanism is at least partially housed within the body.

14. The mount of claim 1, wherein The second gripper includes at least one rearwardly positioned leg configured to be at least partially housed within the body, the at least one leg being configured to move within the body as the second gripper moves relative to the first gripper.

15. The mount of claim 14, wherein, The latch includes at least: An engagement region, the engagement region being configured to engage with the second jaw to push the second jaw when the latch is pivoted to the locked state; An actuation region, configured to actuate the locking mechanism to lock the second gripper when the latch pivots to the locked state; and At least one contact area, when the latch is in the open state, is configured to engage with the second jaw as the second jaw moves to the interval position, thereby pushing the latch away from the body accordingly; Wherein, the upper end of at least one leg includes a platform, the platform being configured as follows: When the latch is in the locked state, it engages with the engagement region of the latch to further push the second jaw towards the first jaw; and When the latch is in the open state, it engages with the contact area of ​​the latch, such that the movement of the second jaw away from the first jaw correspondingly raises the latch away from the body.

16. The mount of claim 1, wherein Also includes: An adapter, which is detachably attached to the first gripper, provides an alternative clamping profile for the first gripper.

17. The mount of claim 1, wherein Also includes: A connector, through which the accessory can be secured to the mounting component.

18. The mount of claim 17, wherein, The connector is mounted or integrally formed on the back of the body, facing away from the first and second grippers.

19. The mount of claim 17, wherein, The connector includes a turntable that is rotatable relative to the body, allowing the angular position of the accessory relative to the body to be adjusted.

20. The mount of claim 1, wherein, The mounting member can clamp onto the structure including the legs or handle of the stroller, wherein the clamping dimension includes the thickness of the legs or handle of the stroller.

21. An assembly characterized by, include: The mounting component according to claim 1; as well as Includes accessories for the rocker.

22. The assembly of claim 21, wherein, The rocker is configured to generate motion that is substantially transmitted through the mounting member to the structure to which the mounting member is clamped, at least when the second gripper is in the locked position.

23. The assembly of claim 22, wherein, The motion includes at least one of swaying and vibration.

24. The assembly of claim 21, wherein, The mounting component and the rocker are integrally formed.

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