Magnetic connectors to transform two single strollers into a double stroller

Abstract

These magnetic connectors (5) for connecting two single strollers (Pa, Pb) each comprise at least one cylindrical magnet with a countersunk hole (1), a cylindrical metal piece with a countersunk hole that acts as a counter-magnet (2), fixed to the other stroller, the number of rubber spacers (3a, 3b, 3c) necessary to bring the magnet (1) closer to its counter-magnet (2) while also absorbing vibrations, and countersunk Torx screws (4) for fixing the magnetic connectors to each stroller. The two single strollers (Pa, Pb) thus connected side by side form a new double stroller (PP). Figure for the abbreviation: Figure 6

Description

Title of the invention: Magnetic connectors for transforming two single strollers into a double stroller

[0001] The present invention relates to magnetic connectors for connecting two single strollers. The two single strollers thus connected side by side form a new double stroller. The invention therefore relates to an accessory comprising magnetic connectors that are installed on specific stroller models using screws after prior modification of the strollers, and also to a stand-alone accessory, also comprising magnetic connectors, that can be attached without prior modification of the strollers concerned by means of a clip-on fastener.

[0002] The invention addresses a need for families with twins, or even triplets, as well as siblings close in age who need to transport their children easily while having the option of separating the strollers when necessary. For various uses, including doctor's visits, trips to school or extracurricular activities, it is sometimes necessary to have only a single stroller to transport one sibling. Usually, parents burden themselves with a double stroller that is half full.

[0003] Furthermore, parents often default to a double stroller, also known as a tandem or inline stroller. This design is impractical and prevents any interaction between the two siblings, who are consequently positioned one behind the other. The length of the inline double stroller is also a disadvantage when it comes to storing it in small stairwells or fitting it into small elevators, typical of urban environments in large cities.

[0004] It is these drawbacks that the invention intends to remedy by proposing magnetic connectors allowing two single strollers to be transformed very quickly into a maneuverable double stroller while retaining the compactness, for storage, and the autonomy of each single stroller.

[0005] Thanks to the magnetic connectors, it is just as simple and quick to disconnect the two strollers when an obstacle prevents the connected double stroller from passing due to its width.

[0006] Since the magnetic connectors are positioned on either side of the single strollers, it is theoretically possible to connect an unlimited number of strollers side by side. In practice, this possibility will be limited by the width of the sidewalks and the maneuverability of such an assembly.

[0007] The double stroller formed by the two single strollers is indeed designed to be easily maneuvered by a single person.

[0008] To this end, the invention relates to magnetic connectors for connecting two single strollers. The number of connectors on the strollers is at least two but can be higher to strengthen the connection.

[0009] These connectors were initially developed to attach at three points on each side to compact and foldable strollers of the Yoyo type, but can be adapted to any type of stroller with screw joints. If the strollers do not have screw holes, a plastic clip can be added to attach the magnetic connectors to the strollers.

[0010] These magnetic connectors (5) are characterized in that they comprise at least one cylindrical-shaped magnet with a counter-hole (1), a metal piece with a counter-hole which serves as a counter-magnet (2), fixed on the other pushchair, rubber spacers (3a, 3b, 3c) between the magnets or counter-magnets and the pushchairs to absorb vibrations related to demanding terrains such as paving stones or sidewalks, industrial-type countersunk Torx screws (4) for fixing the magnetic connectors to the pushchairs.

[0011] According to advantageous but not mandatory aspects of the invention, such magnetic connectors may incorporate one or more of the following features, taken in any technically permissible combination:

[0012] - Each connector has a neodymium magnet with a countersunk hole of the shape cylindrical (1), a counter-magnet with a counter-milled hole (2), rubber spacers (3a, 3b, 3c) which absorb vibrations and allow the metal parts to be kept away from the stroller structures, torx screws (4) to fix all the parts to the strollers.

[0013] - The adhesive force, or perpendicular load force, of the magnets must be at minus 30kg.

[0014] - The diameter of the magnet may vary depending on the stroller models and the strength of desired adhesion for the magnet.

[0015] - The diameter of the metal part that acts as a counter-magnet must be greater than minus one to two millimeters compared to the diameter of the magnet to maximize the holding force, or perpendicular load force.

[0016] - The diameter of the spacers must be smaller than the diameter of the magnet in order to maximize friction forces.

[0017] - The Torx screws have countersunk heads to fit into the countersunk holes in the magnets, counter-magnets and spacers.

[0018] - The length and diameter of the Torx screws must be chosen according to the characteristics of magnets, counter-magnets and spacers, including their thickness and the diameter of their milled hole.

[0019] - Alternating magnets and counter-magnets on one side of a stroller allows for the creation of perpendicularly opposed adhesive forces to strengthen the magnetic connection [Fig.5].

[0020] The invention will be better understood and other advantages thereof will become more apparent in the light of the following description of a magnetic connector conforming to its principle, given by way of non-limiting example with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0021] [Fig.1] The [Fig.1] is a view of the constituent elements of the magnetic connector (5).

[0022] [Fig.2] The [Fig.2] is an exploded perspective view of the components of the part with counter-magnet and of the part with magnet (Al, A2) forming the magnetic connector (5).

[0023] [Fig.3] The [Fig.3] is a side view of the part with counter-magnet and the part with magnet (Al, A2) connected to form the magnetic connector (5).

[0024] [Fig.4] The [Fig.4] is a perspective view of the left and right sides of a stroller accommodating at three points (A, B, C) a magnet (1) or a counter-magnet (2).

[0025] [Fig.5] The [Fig.5] is a perspective view of two strollers (Pa, Pb) which connect by perpendicular approach, of the double connected stroller thus formed (PP) and of two strollers disconnected after perpendicular separation (Pa, Pb).

[0026] [Fig.6] The [Fig.6] is a perspective view of two strollers (Pa, Pb) which connect by perpendicular approach, of the double connected stroller thus formed (PP).

[0027] [Fig.7] The [Fig.7] is a side view of the magnetic connector (5) with its part with counter-magnet (Al) connected to its part with magnet (A2).

[0028] [Fig.8] The [Fig.8] is a side view of the magnetic connector (5) with its part with counter-magnet (Al) connected to its part with magnet (A2), and its plastic fasteners (6) for clipping onto strollers.

Claims

Demands

1. Magnetic connector for connecting two single strollers (5), characterized in that it comprises at least one countersunk hole magnet (1), a countersunk hole metal piece that acts as a counter magnet (2), countersunk hole rubber spacers (3a, 3b, 3c), countersunk head torx screws (4) for fixing all the parts to the strollers.

2. A magnetic connector for connecting two single strollers (5) according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a plastic clip for attaching the connector to the stroller when the latter does not already have screw holes for the connectors. This clip thus allows two single strollers to be connected regardless of their model.