FOLDABLE CHILD TRANSPORT

Description

Scope of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of childcare. It specifically concerns a foldable baby lounger or hammock for children. Technical background

[0002] Generally, a baby bouncer or hammock consists of a flexible element, such as a fabric cover, attached to a fixed frame resting on the ground. This type of bouncer is designed for babies aged approximately 0 to 9 months and allows them to be positioned lying down or slightly reclined. These bouncers are quite bulky, especially when it comes to finding a place to store them after use.

[0003] Today, so-called folding deck chairs are available to address this issue of bulkiness. Folding deck chairs include a linking mechanism that allows them to be folded. Such examples are described in documents CN-U-203693087, US-A1-2016 / 157633, and CN-U-213488033. However, the linking mechanisms include several parts that complicate the setup and folding of the deck chairs. Furthermore, these linking mechanisms work with locking devices that are not user-friendly, particularly due to stringent safety standards related to their operation. These standards can compromise the product's ease of use: poor accessibility, which may require the user to bend down to reach the linking mechanism and / or the locking device, complex handling, etc. Summary of the invention

[0004] The aim of the present invention is to provide a simple solution to facilitate the folding of a child's deckchair while being economical in terms of manufacturing cost.

[0005] We achieve this objective in accordance with the invention defined by claim 1.

[0006] Thus, this solution achieves the aforementioned objective. In particular, this drive shaft connects the chassis to the seat structure and the locking mechanism. The latter is also simple in its implementation and the number of parts (there is only one locking device) and allows the sun lounger to be locked in the desired position efficiently and reliably. This configuration also offers a compact design and intuitive operation.

[0007] The deckchair also includes one or more of the following features, taken alone or in combination: The transom comprises a sleeve enveloping the transmission shaft and extending on either side of the central housing along the longitudinal axis. The transom includes a protective sheath installed within the sleeve and around the transmission shaft. The first element is centered on the longitudinal axis and is provided with first teeth at least on a portion of its periphery. The second element is movable about an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis and includes at least one second tooth designed to mesh with one of the first teeth. A return element is arranged within the central housing to exert a return force on the second movable element towards the first element. The sleeve comprises a first part and a second part separated by the central housing along the longitudinal axis. The central housing includes a bore opening into a central bore of the sleeve.The central housing includes a connecting portion, which comprises the bore. This connecting portion has an external surface continuous with an external surface of the sleeve. A connecting element is mounted, on one side, at each free end of a seat structure upright and, on the other side, at each distal end of the first and second sleeve sections. Each connecting element includes a blind hole receiving the first and second ends of the transmission shaft, respectively. The seat includes control elements configured to control the locking or unlocking of the locking device. The control elements are arranged to cause the second element to move between the locked and unlocked positions.One of the first and second elements comprises at least one tooth intended to be housed in a corresponding notch of the other first and second element so as to lock the transmission shaft during movement. The central housing includes a connecting portion surrounding at least part of a mid-section of the transmission shaft. The central housing includes a connecting portion formed in one piece with a sleeve enveloping the transmission shaft. The first element of the locking device is disposed in a mid-section of the central housing. The locking device passes at least partially through both sides of the transmission shaft. The second element is configured to permit or prevent the movement of the first element. The locking device is housed in the central housing and at a mid-section of the transatlantic frame parallel to a direction of extension of the transatlantic frame. Brief description of the figures

[0008] The invention will be better understood, and other objects, details, features and advantages thereof will become more apparent upon reading the detailed explanatory description that follows, of embodiments of the invention given by way of purely illustrative and non-limiting examples, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings in which: There figure 1 is a perspective view of an example of a folding deckchair without a flexible element according to the invention; The figure 2 is a perspective and longitudinal cross-sectional view of a linking mechanism of an example of a folding deckchair according to the invention; The figure 3 is a detailed axial cross-sectional view of a connecting element cooperating with a component of a linking mechanism according to the invention; The figure 4is a cross-sectional view of a central housing containing a component of a linking mechanism and a locking device in a first position according to the invention; The figure 5 represents the linking mechanism organ and the locking device in a second position according to the figure 4 ; There figure 6 illustrates another embodiment of a linking mechanism and locking device in a first position according to the invention; and The figure 7 represents the linking mechanism organ and the locking device in a second position according to the figure 6 . Detailed description of the invention

[0009] There figure 1This illustrates a foldable baby bouncer for infants such as children aged 0 to 9 months (or until the child can at least try to pull themselves up) or weighing up to 15 kg. The bouncer allows the child to lie down or be slightly reclined so they can rest or interact with their surroundings.

[0010] The baby bouncer 1 comprises a frame 2 for supporting a support surface S and a seat structure 3 for supporting a soft element (not shown) that holds the child. The baby bouncer 1 also comprises a linking mechanism 4 between the frame 2 and the seat structure 3. The linking mechanism 4 is configured to allow at least some movement of the seat structure 3 relative to the frame 2.

[0011] In this description, the soft element can be a piece of fabric, a cushion, or a thin foam pad (for example, between 2 and 100 mm thick) covered with fabric. The soft element is flexible enough to securely position the child and, if necessary, conform to the child's shape. Accessories such as a harness, head support, or shoulder protector can be provided for the child's comfort and safety within the soft element. The harness is attached to the soft element and secures the child. The harness can be a three-point or five-point harness. The shoulder protector or head support can be attached to the soft element or used separately. A reducer can also be provided to adapt the soft element to the size of a newborn.

[0012] The seat structure 3 in this example comprises two uprights 5a, 5b that are substantially parallel to each other. Advantageously, but not exclusively, the seat structure 3 has a general U-shape with the two uprights 5a, 5b and a longitudinal bar 5c. The longitudinal bar 5c extends along a longitudinal axis X. This U-shape facilitates the manufacture and assembly of the various parts of the deckchair 1. The uprights 5a, 5b may be inclined with respect to a straight line perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X and contained in the plane of the uprights 5a, 5b. The inclination may be from approximately 5° to 10°. Alternatively, the seat structure 3 comprises the two uprights 5a, 5b, and the longitudinal bar 5c is added to connect the two uprights 5a, 5b.

[0013] The flexible element is generally attached at least to the uprights 5a, 5b and the bar 5c. The attachment may be permanent or removable. Advantageously, the flexible element is attached in a removable manner to facilitate its removal and maintenance. In this case, the attachment may be achieved using snap fasteners, Velcro® strips, etc.

[0014] The linkage mechanism 4 includes a central housing 6. The central housing 6 is advantageously arranged in a median plane PM parallel to the principal direction of extension of the transatlantic carriage. The longitudinal axis X is perpendicular to the principal direction of extension of the transatlantic carriage 1. In other words, the longitudinal axis is perpendicular to the median plane.

[0015] The chassis 2 advantageously comprises two arms 7a, 7b which are fixed to the central housing 6. Each arm 7a, 7b comprises a first end 7aa, 7ba which is fixed to the central housing 6. The first ends 7aa, 7ba are parallel to each other in the example shown in the figure 1 The first extremities 7aa, 7ba also extend advantageously parallel to the median plane PM. In other words, the arms 7a, 7b extend from the central housing 6 along a first transverse axis T.

[0016] The first transverse axis T is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X and to a second transverse axis V.

[0017] Still on the figure 1Advantageously, but not exclusively, the central housing 6 comprises a receiving face 8, defined in a plane perpendicular to the first transverse axis T, and arms 7a, 7b extend from this receiving face. The receiving face 8 comprises two openings (not shown) with axes parallel to the first transverse axis T, which open into the interior of the central housing. The latter comprises two receiving recesses (not shown) intended to receive at least a portion of the first ends 7aa, 7ba. Each opening is positioned opposite and opens into a recess. Each recess extends along the first transverse axis T.

[0018] Advantageously, the central housing 6 is formed from a first housing part 6a and a second housing part 6b. The second housing part 6b includes the two receiving recesses for the first ends 7aa, 7ba for better positioning of these ends. Of course, the central housing 6 could also consist of a single recess. The first housing part 6a covers the second housing part 6b, which includes the first and second ends.

[0019] Following an alternative embodiment illustrated on the figure 2The first ends 7aa, 7ba extend along an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis X, each from the receiving face 8, which is defined in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X. The central housing 6 comprises at least one recess (not shown) in which the first ends 7aa, 7ba are housed. The recess extends along an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis X. Advantageously, but not limitingly, the recess is formed by the first part 6a of the housing and the second part 6b of the casing.

[0020] In this embodiment, the chassis 2 also includes a cross member 7c which is connected to the two arms 7a, 7b. The cross member 7c and the two arms 7a, 7b are intended to rest, for example, stably on the support surface S such as the ground as shown in the figure 1 .

[0021] The arms 7a, 7b and the crossbar 7c have a generally triangular shape on the figure 1The cross member 7c extends here along the longitudinal axis X. Of course, the arms 7a, 7b and the cross member 7c can have a general U-shape. The cross member 7c is molded from the material along with the arms. Alternatively, the cross member 7c can be added and attached to the arms 7a, 7b.

[0022] The arms 7a, 7b and the crossbar 7c can be made of metal and / or wood. The metal can be aluminum or steel. These can be lacquered. The seat structure elements 3 can be made of metal or wood.

[0023] The linkage mechanism 4 is configured so that the deckchair 1 occupies or moves between at least one first and one second position. In the first position, the arms 7a, 7b of the frame 2 and the uprights 5a, 5b of the seat structure 3 extend in planes that are substantially parallel (+ or - 5°). These planes are perpendicular to the median plane PM. In the second position, the uprights 5a, 5b extend in a plane transverse to the plane in which the arms 7a, 7b of the frame are defined. In other words, the seat structure 3 is at a distance from the frame 2 in the second position. The deckchair 1 can occupy one or more intermediate positions between the first and second positions. The opening angle between the first and second positions can be between 20° and 55°.

[0024] Under normal operating conditions, where the baby lounger can accommodate a child, lounger 1 occupies the second position with arms 7a, 7b resting on the support surface S and uprights 5a, 5b positioned away from arms 7a, 7b. In this case, the longitudinal axis X and the first transverse axis T are parallel to the support surface. Arms 7a, 7b are inclined relative to plane XT.

[0025] With reference to the figure 2 The linkage mechanism 4 includes a transmission shaft 9 extending along the longitudinal axis X. The transmission shaft 9 is connected to the uprights 5a, 5b of the seat structure 3. Advantageously, the transmission shaft 9 extends between a first end 9a and a second end 9b along the longitudinal axis X. The first end 9a and the second end 9b of the transmission shaft 9 are connected to the uprights 5a, 5b.

[0026] The movement of the seat structure 3 relative to the chassis 2 is a rotation around the longitudinal axis X. The transmission shaft 9 enables the rotation.

[0027] The central housing 6 includes a bore 10 that passes through it on both sides along the longitudinal axis X. Here, the central housing 6 is positioned in a central area of ​​the transmission shaft 9 relative to the length of the transmission shaft 9. The transmission shaft 9 passes through the bore 10 of the central housing 6. We understand that the median plane PM of the central housing 6 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Thus, the seat structure 3 can pivot relative to the frame 2 thanks to the transmission shaft 9, which rotates inside the bore 10 of the frame 2.

[0028] The drive shaft 9 advantageously, but not exclusively, provides a flexible connection between the chassis 2 and the seat structure 3. This flexibility can be defined by the small cross-section of the drive shaft 9. Rotational forces generate a torque on the drive shaft 9, which in this case acts as a torque damper. The drive shaft 9 can have a cross-section between 25 mm² and 400 mm². This cross-section allows for elastic deformation of the drive shaft 9 when a predetermined weight is applied to the seat.

[0029] The drive shaft 9 shown here has a rectangular cross-section. Of course, the drive shaft 9 could have a circular or other cross-section.

[0030] Alternatively, the drive shaft 9 is rigid. In this case, when a given weight is applied to the deck chair 1, the uprights 5a, 5b of the seat structure 3 will deform rather than the drive shaft 9.

[0031] With reference to the figure 3 A connecting element 11 is mounted towards a free end 5aa, 5ba of each upright 5a, 5b. The connecting element 11 allows the transmission shaft 9 to be connected to the uprights 5a, 5b. The connecting element 11 is configured here as a plug or end cap. To this end, each connecting element 11 advantageously includes a blind hole 12 that opens onto a lateral surface 13 thereof. The lateral surface 13 is defined in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X. The blind hole 12 has an axis coaxial with the longitudinal axis X.

[0032] The blind hole 12 of each connecting element 11 receives respectively one of the first and second ends 9a, 9b of the transmission shaft 9. The blind hole 12 ensures the transmission of torque to the transmission shaft 9 via the interface with the uprights 5a and 5b. Advantageously, each blind hole 12 has a shape corresponding to that of the transmission shaft (or at least to the first and second ends 9a, 9b of the transmission shaft 9).

[0033] Each connecting element 11 can be attached and fixed to each free end 5aa, 5ba of an upright 5a, 5b. Alternatively, each connecting element 11 is made of material (formed in one piece) with an upright 5a, 5b.

[0034] In this example, the connecting element 11 is attached and fixed to a post using threaded fasteners. Other fastening methods, such as welding or other suitable means, are possible.

[0035] According to an example embodiment, each connecting element 11 includes, for example, a first orifice 14 into which the free end 5aa, 5ba of a post 5a, 5b is received. The first orifice 14 opens into the blind hole 12 and also onto an external surface 15 of the connecting element 11. The first orifice 14 extends in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X.

[0036] The free end 5aa, 5ba of each upright 5a, 5b can in this case be connected to the connecting element 11 or to the transmission shaft 9. As can be seen on the figure 3The connecting element 11 further includes a second opening 16 which leads, on the one hand, into the blind hole 12 and, on the other hand, onto its external surface 15. The first opening 14 is advantageously coaxial with the second opening 16. Fasteners 30 are received in each first opening 14 so as to secure a post 5a, 5b to the connecting element 11. The fasteners 30 here include a screw 31. Advantageously, but not exclusively, each free end 5aa, 5ba includes a tapped hole 22 for receiving the threaded portion of the screw 31.

[0037] Advantageously, the transmission shaft 9 includes slots 26 passing transversely through it on both sides. Each slot 26 is located at (towards) one end 9a, 9b of the transmission shaft 9. Each slot 26 is (in the installed position) aligned with the first and second holes 14, 16. Each screw 31 also passes through a corresponding slot 26. In other words, the fastener 30 secures the connecting element 11, the transmission shaft 9, and the corresponding post 5a, 5b.

[0038] In this way, the connecting elements 11 ensure the mechanical link between the seat structure 3 and the transmission shaft 9.

[0039] With reference to figures 2 And 3The transatlantic carriage 1 advantageously, but not exclusively, includes a sleeve 27 enveloping the drive shaft 9. This protects the drive shaft 9 from the external environment. Specifically, the sleeve 27 includes a central bore 28 with an axis coaxial to the longitudinal axis. The bore 10 of the central housing 6 opens into the central bore 28 of the sleeve 27. The drive shaft 9 passes through this central bore 28 as well as the bore 10 of the central housing 6. The central bore 28 opens at each end of the sleeve 27.

[0040] In this embodiment, the sleeve 27 extends on either side of the central housing 6. In other words, the sleeve 27 is formed of a first part 27a and a second part 27b. The first part 27a and the second part 27b are separated by the central housing 6. Thus, the central housing 6 and the sleeve 27 are distinct. This facilitates the manufacture and assembly of the connecting mechanism 4 and the deck chair 1. The two-part design of the sleeve 27 also simplifies its maintenance and repair. Furthermore, the fact that the sleeve 27 is in two parts makes it more economical, lighter, and more aesthetically pleasing.

[0041] Advantageously, the sheath 27 is made of a metallic or wooden material. The metallic material can be steel or aluminum.

[0042] Advantageously, the central housing 6 includes at least one connecting portion 19 having at least one cross-section similar to that of the sleeve 27. Advantageously, the connecting portion surrounds at least one mid-section of the transmission shaft along its longitudinal axis. Here, the sleeve 27 has a cylindrical shape with a circular cross-section. The connecting portion 19 also has a cylindrical shape with a circular cross-section. Of course, the sleeve 27 could have a rectangular shape, and the connecting portion 19 could also have a rectangular shape.

[0043] Advantageously, the sheath 27 has an external surface 20 having a surface continuity with the external surface 21 of the connecting portion 19. This helps to avoid snags with the support surface, a fabric or other.

[0044] Each first part 27a and second part 27b of the sheath 27 comprises a proximal end 32a and a distal end 32b. The proximal and distal ends are opposite 32a, 32b along the longitudinal axis (in the installation position). Each proximal end 32a is coupled with a lateral flank 23 of the connecting portion 19. A connecting element 11 is mounted at each distal end 32b of the first and second parts of the sleeve 27. For this purpose, each connecting element 11 includes a first boss 24 which engages in a first counterbore 18 of the first and second parts of the sleeve 27. Each first counterbore 18 is formed in the sleeve 27 and has a wall abutting a bearing surface formed by the first boss 24. Each first boss 24 extends from the lateral surface 13 of the connecting element 11. Here, the first boss 24 is cylindrical with a circular cross-section and is centered on the longitudinal axis X.The first counterbore opens into the central bore 28. This allows the connecting element 11 to be held and centered in position on the sleeve.

[0045] The first boss 24 defines a recess 25 which opens into the blind hole 12. The recess 25 is here coaxial with the blind hole 12. Advantageously, but not limitingly, the recess 25 has an internal dimension (here an internal diameter) which is greater than the internal dimension (height, width or diameter) of the blind hole 12.

[0046] In the example shown, each connecting element 11 also includes a second boss 64 which engages in a second counterbore 65 formed at each distal end of the sleeve 27 so as to retain and center the connecting element 11 on the sleeve 27. The second boss is arranged around the first boss. The second counterbore 65 advantageously opens into the central bore 28 and is coaxial with the first counterbore 18. The second counterbore 65 has a larger internal diameter than the first counterbore 18. Of course, the connecting element 11 may include only one boss.

[0047] The bore parts (of the central bore 28) of the first and second sleeve parts 27 open at the distal ends 32b.

[0048] Advantageously, the sheath 27 is prevented from rotating about the longitudinal axis X. This rotational restriction of the sheath 27 is achieved by means of an anti-rotation pin 17 extending between the central housing 6 and the first and second parts 27a, 27b of the sheath 27. The anti-rotation pin 17 is visible along a cutaway portion of the figure 2 The anti-rotation pin 17 can be attached or formed as a single piece with the central housing 6 or the sleeve 27. In the case of the attached anti-rotation pin 17, the central housing 6 has notches (not shown) opening onto the lateral sides 23 of the central housing 6 along the longitudinal axis. The proximal ends 32a have notches that complement the notches of the central housing 6. The notches and complementary notches receive the anti-rotation pins 17. Alternatively, and as shown in the figure 2Each lateral side 23 is provided with at least one anti-rotation pin 17 which projects along the longitudinal axis X and is received in a notch arranged at the proximal end 32a. In other words, the anti-rotation pin 17 is integral with the central housing 6. This prevents unwanted movement of the first and second parts 27a, 27b of the sheath 27.

[0049] According to an embodiment not illustrated, the sheath 27 is made from a single piece (from material) with the connecting portion 19 of the central housing 6. In this case, each first part and second part of the sheath 27 extends in projection from a lateral side 23 along the longitudinal axis X.

[0050] According to an advantageous, but not limiting, feature, a protective sleeve 34 is installed in the housing 27 and around the drive shaft 9. More specifically, the protective sleeve 34 extends into the central bore 28 of the housing 27. The protective sleeve 34 guides the drive shaft 9 in rotation and prevents friction between the different parts. In this example, the protective sleeve 34 has a tubular shape coaxial with the longitudinal axis X.

[0051] On the figure 2The protective sleeve 34 extends partly into the recess 25 of the connecting elements 11. The protective sleeve 34 has an external cylindrical surface advantageously bearing against an internal cylindrical surface of the first boss 24. The internal cylindrical surface delimits the recess 25 of the connecting element 11. We understand that the diameter of the protective sleeve 34 is substantially equal to or slightly less (by about 5 mm) than the internal diameter of the bearing surface.

[0052] As can be seen on the figure 3 The protective sleeve 34 is at a distance from the transmission shaft 9 so as not to impede the rotation of the transmission shaft 9. The protective sleeve 34 is also arranged at a distance from an internal surface of the sheath 27.

[0053] Advantageously, the protective sheath 34 is made of a metallic material. This material facilitates guidance. Steel is an example of a metallic material. Other robust yet lightweight materials are also possible.

[0054] With reference to Figures 4 and 5 The deckchair 1 includes a locking device 50 for locking the deckchair 1 in the first or second position. The locking device 50 also allows the deckchair 1 to be locked in the intermediate position(s).

[0055] The locking device 50 is advantageously housed in the central casing 6. This cooperates with the transmission shaft 9.

[0056] For this purpose, the locking device 50 includes a first element 29 which is fixed to the transmission shaft 9 during movement. In particular, the first element 29 is attached to the transmission shaft 9 by means of fasteners 40. The fasteners include at least one screw 41 and a nut 42. In an alternative embodiment illustrated in the figure 2 The fastening elements 40 comprise two screws 41, 41' which are screwed directly into threaded holes in the first element 29. Other fastening elements 40 are of course possible. In other words, the first element 29 is fixed to the transmission shaft 9 regardless of the position of the deckchair.

[0057] As can be seen on the Figures 4 and 5The first element 29 includes a longitudinal slot 33 which opens onto a peripheral external surface 43 of the first element 29. The transmission shaft 9 can be inserted into this slot 33 such that the first element 29 at least partially surrounds the transmission shaft 9. We understand that the first element 29 is traversed from both sides by the transmission shaft and that the first element 29 is located at the level of the median plane Pm as shown in the diagram. figure 2In other words, the first element 29 is located in the middle of the transmission shaft along its length. The first element 29 also includes a cavity 35 that passes through it on both sides along an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The cavity 35 opens into the slot 33 and also onto the peripheral outer surface 43. The screw(s) 41 pass through the cavity 35 and the longitudinal slot 33, as well as through the transmission shaft 9. In other words, the transmission shaft 9 includes a through opening 36 on both sides transversely. In the installation position, the through opening 36 is positioned opposite the cavity 35. In this way, the first element 29 can rotate along with the transmission shaft 9.

[0058] In one embodiment, the cavity 35 is blind and has a thread for screwing in the screw(s) 41. The cavity 35 opens into the slot 33.

[0059] Advantageously, the first element 29 is installed in a recess 44 of the central housing 6, preferably at the connecting portion 19. The recess 44 is traversed by the bore 10 of the central housing 6. Advantageously, but not exclusively, the recess 44 has a shape that fits within a circle coaxial with the bore 10. The recess 44 has a diameter that is greater than the diameter of the bore 10. Furthermore, the first element 29 has a shape conjugate to that of the recess 44.

[0060] The first element 29 has essentially a wheel shape centered on the longitudinal axis.

[0061] The locking device 50 includes a second movable element 38 between a locked position of the first movable element 29 and an unlocked position of the first movable element 29. The second element 38 is rotatable about an axis A parallel to the longitudinal axis X. Advantageously, the second element 38 is mounted on the central housing 6 via a pivot joint.

[0062] One of the first element 29 and the second element 38 includes at least one tooth designed to engage in a corresponding notch in the other of the first and second elements so as to lock the transmission shaft 9 during movement. Advantageously, and according to the illustrated embodiment, the first element 29 is provided with at least some first teeth 37 on a portion of its peripheral outer surface. The space between two adjacent teeth forms a notch. The second element 29 includes at least one second tooth 39 designed to mesh with one of the first teeth 37 of the first element. In particular, the second tooth can engage in a notch. In the example shown, the second element 38 includes several second teeth 39. In other words, the second element 38 is configured to allow or prevent the movement of the first element 29.

[0063] Alternatively, the first element 29 could comprise a single first tooth 37 and the second element 38 could comprise several corresponding second teeth 39.

[0064] The shape of the teeth is designed so that the first element 29 and the second element 38 lock themselves together.

[0065] Advantageously, the second element 38 is installed in a chamber 45 of the central housing 6. The bore 10 (as well as the recess 44) opens into the chamber 45. The latter extends along an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Advantageously, the chamber 45 is arranged in an extension portion 46 of the central housing 6, which extends along the first transverse axis T. The extension portion 46 has a substantially parallelepiped shape. The extension portion 46 is coupled to the connecting portion 19. Advantageously, the central housing 6 is made of a single piece of material.

[0066] In this example, the second element 38 is in the form of a cam. The latter is simple to manufacture and implement.

[0067] The locking device 50 further includes a return element 47 arranged to exert a return force on the second movable element 38 towards the first movable element 29. The return element 47 is installed in the central housing 6. In particular, the return element 47 is arranged in the chamber 45 and advantageously downstream of the second element 38, here the cam, relative to the first transverse axis T. The return element 47 is advantageously a compression spring whose axis is parallel to the first transverse axis T.

[0068] The deckchair 1 advantageously includes 48 control elements configured to control the locking device.

[0069] According to a first embodiment of the control elements 48, these include a handle 49 or control button which is disposed on the seat structure and preferably on the longitudinal bar 5c as shown in the figure 1Alternatively, the handle 49 is located on the frame 2. In this case, the control elements 48 are positioned away from the locking device 50. The control elements 48 also include a cable (not shown) connected on one side to the handle 49 and on the other side to the second element 38 (here, the cam). The cable is advantageously mounted in a sheath 63 to protect it from external elements and extend its service life. When the handle 49 is operated, the cable connecting this handle to the second element 38 retracts the latter, thereby releasing the first element 29 around its longitudinal axis. Upon releasing the handle, the return element (spring) brings the teeth of the second element 38 back into engagement with the teeth of the first element 29. In this way, the drive shaft can no longer rotate.We understand, and as can be seen in the figures, that there is a single locking device housed in the central casing 6 and at the level of the mid-plane of the deckchair. This simplifies the locking mechanism and its implementation in the deckchair, resulting in cost and time savings.

[0070] THE figures 6 and 7illustrate another embodiment of the locking device 50 and the control elements 48. In particular, in this embodiment, the second element comprises a transverse lug 53 extending from a head 38a (carrying the complementary tooth or teeth 32). The control elements 48 include a control button 51 configured to actuate the return element 47 of the second element 38. A first return element 47, such as a compression spring, intended to exert a return force on the second element 38, has an axis defined in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (i.e., parallel to the second transverse axis V, which is vertical here with reference to the figures 6 and 7The control button 51 is in this case provided in an orifice 52 with an axis parallel to the second transverse axis V. The orifice 52 opens into the chamber 45 of the central housing 6. The control button 51 comprises a base 51a and a cylindrical rod 51b which extends along the second transverse axis V from the base 51a. Advantageously, the transverse tab 53 is arranged along the second transverse axis V between a portion of the control button 51 (preferably the base 51a) and the first return element 47.

[0071] The transverse lug 53 advantageously includes a through-hole 53a which passes transversely through it on both sides and through which the cylindrical rod 51b passes. A second return element 54, such as a spring, is arranged inside a cavity 55 of the control button 51. The cylindrical rod 51b includes the cavity 55. This second return element 54 is also received in a recess 56 arranged coaxially with the axis of the hole 52 of the central housing 6. The recess 56 advantageously extends along the second transverse axis V. This allows the second return element 54 to be held in place and the control button 51 to be guided. The recess 56 is delimited by a peripheral wall 57 which extends outward from the bottom of the central housing 6 along the second transverse axis V. The first return element 47 is arranged around this peripheral wall 57.In other words, the first reminder element is arranged around the second reminder element.

[0072] Advantageously, means for limiting the rotational travel of the second element 38 can be provided. One stop can be formed by the bottom 58 of the recess 56 against which a cylindrical wall of the control knob 51 bears. Another stop can be formed by a lip 59 projecting from an external peripheral surface of the second element 38. This lip 59 bears against a surface 60 of the central housing 6. Advantageously, the lip 59 is supported by the head 38a of the second element 38. The surface 60 is defined in a plane perpendicular to the first transverse axis T and is arranged in the chamber 45.

[0073] Advantageously, the central housing 6 includes a resting surface 61 against which a portion of the surface 62 of the second element 38 abuts in the locked position. The portion of the surface 62 has a shape corresponding to that of the resting surface 61. The resting surface 61 is inclined here with respect to the first transverse axis T at a predetermined angle. The predetermined angle can be between 35° and 55°.

[0074] When the control button 51 is pressed, it presses on the first return element 47, which retracts the second element 38 and thus releases the first element 29 around its longitudinal axis. When the control button 51 is released, the first return element 47 (the spring) returns at least one tooth of the second element 38 to mesh with the teeth of the first element 29. In this way, the transmission shaft 9 can no longer rotate. The torque generated on the gear produces a force directed in a plane that forces the cam to brace itself against the gear.

[0075] When the user wishes to fold the deckchair 1, they activate the control elements 48 which unlock the locking device 50. With the second element 38 moved away from the first element 29 attached to the transmission shaft 9, the user can then tilt the uprights 5a, 5b which cause the transmission shaft 9 to rotate. By releasing the control elements 48, the user can lock the deckchair in the desired position.

[0076] The locking device 50 is effective and reliable because it does not allow unlocking as long as a torque is applied to the first element 29.

Claims

1. A foldable deckchair (1) for a child comprising a frame (2) intended to rest on a support surface (S), a seat structure (3) intended to carry a flexible element for receiving a child, and a connecting mechanism (4) for a connection between the frame (2) and the seat structure (3) which is configured to allow at least the movement of the frame (2) relative to the seat structure (3), characterised in that the connecting mechanism (4) comprises a drive shaft (9) which extends along a longitudinal axis (X) between a first end (9a) and a second end (9b), and which is connected to two uprights (5a, 5b) of the seat structure (3) at the level of the first and second ends (9a, 9b), and a central casing (6), attached to the frame (2), which is passed through on either side by the drive shaft (9) along the longitudinal axis, and in that the deckchair (1) comprises a single locking device (50) which is housed in the central casing (6) and at the level of a median plane of the deckchair parallel to a direction of elongation of the deckchair, the locking device (50) comprising a first element (29) secured in movement to the drive shaft (9) and a second element (38) movable between a locking position in which the first element (29) is locked and a unlocking position in which the first element (29) is unlocked.

2. The deckchair (1) as claimed in claim 1, characterised in that it comprises a sleeve (27) enveloping the drive shaft (9) and extending on either side of the central casing (6) along the longitudinal axis.

3. The deckchair (1) according to claim 2, characterised in that it comprises a protective sheath (34) which is installed in the sleeve (27) and around the drive shaft (3).

4. The deckchair (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the first element (29) is centred on the longitudinal axis and is provided with first teeth (37) at least on a segment of its periphery, the second element (38) being movable about an axis (A) parallel to the longitudinal axis and comprising at least one second tooth (39) intended to engage with one of the first teeth (37).

5. The deckchair (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that a return element (47) is arranged in the central casing (6) and so as to exert a return force on the second element (38) movable towards the first element (29).

6. The deckchair (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 5, characterised in that the sleeve (27) comprises a first portion (27a) and a second portion (27b) which are separated by the central casing (6) along the longitudinal axis, the central casing (6) comprising a bore (10) opening into a central bore (28) of the sleeve (27).

7. The deckchair (1) according to the preceding claim, characterised in that the central casing (6) comprises a connecting segment (19) which comprises the bore (10), the connecting segment (19) having an external surface (21) having a surface continuity with an external surface (20) of the sleeve (27).

8. The deckchair (1) according to one of claims 6 and 7, characterised in that a connecting element (11) is mounted, on the one hand, at each free end (5aa, 5ba) of an upright (5a, 5b) of the seat structure and, on the other hand, at each distal end (32b) of the first portion and of the second portion of the sleeve (27), each connecting element (11) comprising a blind hole (12) respectively receiving the first and second ends (9a, 9b) of the drive shaft (9).

9. The deckchair (1) according to the preceding claim, characterised in that it comprises control elements (48) configured so as to control the locking or unlocking of the locking device.

10. The deckchair (1) according to the preceding claim, characterised in that the control elements (48) are arranged so as to cause the second element (38) to move between the locking position and the unlocking position.

11. The deckchair according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the second element (38) is configured so as to allow or prevent the movement of the first element (29).

12. The deckchair according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the first element (29) is passed through on either side by the drive shaft along the longitudinal axis (X).