A trolley with an adjustable platform support

Abstract

A trolley 1 comprising: a base portion 2 attached to wheels 3 and support column 7, column 7 has a handle 11, extends upwards from, and is rotatable about, base 2; and a platform 13 which is displacea

Description

Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a trolley adapted to transport items, and in particular pets. In particular embodiment the trolley includes a platform to which a basket such as an animal basket can be attached. Background Trolleys and prams are generally known for transporting children and goods. Some trolleys are designed for transport of pets such as dogs which may be injured or sick. Summary of the Invention According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a trolley comprising a base portion, a plurality of wheels attached to the base portion, and a support column extending upwards from the base portion, the support column including a handle located distally thereto, and further including a platform, the platform being displaceable with respect to the support column and the support column is rotatable about the base portion. In some embodiments of the trolley the base portion includes a level base platform and a back plate that extends substantially at an angle to the level base platform. In some embodiments of the trolley the back plate extends in a generally vertical direction. In some embodiments of the trolley the back plate extends at an angle to a level base platform of between 90 degrees and 130 degrees. In some embodiments of the trolley the support column is centrally located with respect to the central longitudinal axis of the trolley or trolley base portion. In some embodiments of the trolley the back plate includes an axle lug to which one or more rear wheels are rotatable fixed. In some embodiments of the trolley the support column is attached to the back plate or to the axle lug and / or has an axis substantially parallel with the axis of the back plate. In some embodiments of the trolley a central spine, the spine slidably located with the support column and preferably adapted to slide in a direction parallel to the axis of the support column, and wherein the handle means is located distally on the spine. In some embodiments of the trolley the support column is hollow, and the central spine is slidably or telescopically located within the support column. In some embodiments of the trolley the spine is slidably located with respect to the support column via a tongue and groove arrangement. In some embodiments of the trolley a means to lock and or unlock is provided which allows or prevents movement of the spine relative to the support column. The means to lock and unlock may include a spring biased button mechanism. In some embodiments of the trolley the means to lock and or unlock to allow or prevent movement of the platform relative to the support column. In some embodiments of the trolley the support column includes a rack comprising a row of teeth on the outside thereof, adapted to cooperate with a distal portion of the platform. In some embodiments of the trolley the rack is located at the front of the support column. In some embodiments of the trolley the platform includes mean to attach or connect a basket. In some embodiments of the trolley the platform includes handle means so as to provide a user means to slidably translate the platform relative to the support column. In some embodiments of the trolley the handle means includes means to selectively engage with slots, hole or teeth on the support column to lock or unlock the platform relative to the support column. Optionally the handle means includes an arm including one or more teeth, lugs or pins located on the distal end of the arm adapted to co-operate with teeth slots or hole on the support column to lock the platform relative to the support columns. In some embodiments of the trolley the arm is biased to a locked position. In some embodiments of the trolley a distal portion of the arm is actuatable to move away from the locked position to an unlocked position. Optionally the distal portion of the arm is located on or within a handle or grip or the arm is part of the handle portion. In some embodiments of the trolley the support column is rotatable abouts the base portion to a folded position wherein the support column and or platform are substantially parallel to the level base platform. Preferably the platform is substantially planar. Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of examples only, and with reference to the Figures in which: Brief Description of Figures Figure 1 and 2 shows schematic representations (front and back respectively) of a trolley according to one example in an unfolded state; Figures 3, 4, 5 and 6 shows front rear side and plan views of the trolley of Figures 1 and 2; Figure 7 shows a schematic view of the trolly of Figures 1 to 6 in a folded position; Figures 8, 9 , 10 and 11 shown plan side rear and underside views of the trolley in a folded position and Figure 12 shows a cross sectional view; Figure 13 shows views of the trolley with basket; Figures 14a and 14b shows a button mechanism allowing selective locking unlocking of the support column with spine to allow relative sliding movement; Figure 15a shows a view of the platform and central support, the platform having a platform handle; Figure 15b shows a front view of Figure 15a; Figure 15c shows a front exposed view of the support column with rack; Figure 15d shows a cross sectional view of the support column with rack insert; Figure 16a and 16b show the platform handle with locking unlocking mechanism to allow the platform to selectively slide relative to the support column; Figures 17 show various views of the netting frame; Figures 18 show various views of the netting frame attachments sheet; Figures 19 shows views of the padding attachment; and Figures 20 show views of the retractor. Detailed Description of Figures The invention has been described by way of examples only and it will be appreciated that variation may be made to the above-mentioned embodiments without departing from the scope of invention as defined by the claims. Figures 1 and 2 show schematic representations of an example according to the invention. Figures 3 to 12 shows views as described above. Reference numerals in the Figures relate to the same components, A trolley 1 is shown which includes a base (portion) 2 to which are attached wheels 3. In the example, two wheels are attached to the front of the base and two wheels disposed laterally at the rear of the base. The base includes a substantially level platform 4, which is generally provided horizontally when the wheels are located on the ground i.e. the trolley is placed on a surface. The base includes an upturn lip, or flange portion 5 at the rear, which can be regarded as a base plate, and may be provided as a separate component fixed to the platform 4. The lip portion or base plate is at an angle a to the base and may extend vertically or preferably at a small angle p to the vertical, sloping backwards. The lip or back plate provides a secure robust attachment for the rear wheels which are preferably larger than the front wheel via an axle unit 6. A central support column 7 is attached to the base, preferably adjacent the lip portion or axle portion 6 . A central spine 8 is slidably located with respect to the support column, the distal end of the central spine having handle means generally designated with reference numeral 12 which provides a grip portion 10 for the user to push the trolley or otherwise actuate the spine and or the central support column. The central support column comprises a hollow tube and the spine is slidably fixed within the tube in the direction of arrow B (see Figure 3) so as to be telescopic in nature such that the height of the handle can be adjusted. It should be noted that alternatively the spine may be outside support column or partially outside the support columns and the sliding mechanism may be tongue groove, slotted arrangement. In examples the spine is generally rectangular with the corresponding rectangular cross section of the hollow central support. These two components may include a ratchet mechanism 17 as shown in Figure 14a and 14b. A button 16 (preferably spring biased in a locking direction) may be provided such that if slid in one direction, against the biasing of a spring, the spine can be slid relative to the central support, otherwise in the biased position the spine is locked relative to the support column; the skilled person would be aware or such mechanism or alternative mechanisms. Further the central support column is centrally located generally in the centre of the longitudinal axis. The support column is pivotable about the base, around a pivoting means (not shown) such that the support column along with spine and handle may be rotated about arrow A so as to be folded downwards to provide a compact unit for storage when not in use, as shown in Figures 7 to 12. The handle 11 may also be rotatable as shown by arrows B with respect to the distal end of the spine by means of e.g. a lug 9 at the distal end of the spine with a central bore 10 to receive a portion of the handle 11. The central bore is thus the pivot point. Additionally, a generally planar platform 13 is provided which is slidably located on, or relative to the central spine. The platform may have a central bore or slot 14, through which the support column is located. The platform can thus be moved along i.e. up and down along the support columns as shown by same arrows B. Thus, the central support is located with the bore or slot of the platform and the spline located within the central support. The platform is adapted to support a basket 15 such as a dog basket and has bracket, hook or other means to attach the basket. The skilled person would be aware of appropriate mechanisms which could be used to provide this. Figure 13 shows representation of the trolley with basket 15. The basket is thus supported by base of the trolley and the platform. Details of the platform and how it co-operates with the central spine are now described, with reference to Figures. The central spine includes a geared level track or T track, i.e. a rack, located on the exterior of the central spine and preferably located front facing, this is shown in Figure 15a-d. A platform handle 18 handle is provided on the base which allows the platform to be moved relative to the central support column. Figure 14a shows a view of the platform and central support, the platform having a platform handle; Figure 14b shows a front view of Figure 14a; Figure 14c shows a front exposed view of the support column with rack; Figure 14d shows a cross sectional view of the support column with rack insert 17 . So again, a mechanism is provided such that on actuation of a platform handle, member or arm which may be spring biased in a locked position, movement of the member away from the locked position retracts a lug which engages on the teeth of the T track. Examples are shown in Figures 20. Preferably the member is a handle 18 on the platform or a lever on the handle, which can be retracted e.g. in the direction of arrow C to the unlocked position. This is shown in Figure 20 where once the handle or a lever is actuated, the user can grab the handle and slide the platform upwards after gripping a lever which moves against biasing to free the mechanism in the direction of arrow D consequentially moving a ratchet mechanism or lug away from the teeth to allows free slidable movement of the platform relative to the central support column. Figures 16a and 16b show the platform handle with locking unlocking mechanism to allow the platform to selectively slide relative to the support column. This may use a ratchet mechanism in one example is shown with reference to Figures 16a and 16b where an engagement lug portion 20 of an arm 19 is provided which may be T or L shaped and is located within the body portion of the handle 18. The arm may be part of and so fixed to the handle of the platform, though preferably translationally moveable thereto as is described below by being connected to having an additional lever of the handle; this prevent inadvertent unlocking of the platform if the handle is accidentally moved. A distal end of the arm is exposed exterior to the handle and preferably in the distal portion of a closed loop handle. The proximal portion of the arm that is the lug is generally perpendicular to the main portion of the arm, the latter which extends generally parallel to a main hollow portion of the handle and within it. The proximal surface of the proximal portion of the arm (lug) includes a number of teeth (ratchet teeth) 21 which can engage with teeth on the T track / rack of the central support column. The arm can move in the direction shown by the arrows E / rack to selectively engage the teeth of the lug with the teeth of the T track of the central support. The arm may be biased towards the central support column by spring means, i.e. to a locked position. The teeth of the lug and / or rack are preferably triangular. The distal end of the arm may have lever means located within a preferably looped handle 18 can be squeezed inwards into the distal bar portion of the handle to release the lug from the rack, from a spring biased position to unlock the lug from the rack. Alternatively, the arm may be fixed relationship e.g. part of the handle. So as the user pulls a distal grip portion of the arm or the handle itself, the ratchet teeth of the lud are retracted to allow sliding of the platform, Rather than a rack, alternatively the support column may have slots or holes located on the exterior e.g. at the front, and the handle means includes a spring biased i.e. retractable bolt or pin means to selectively lock or unlock the platform to the support column to selectively allow slidable relative movement, As mentioned above, the platform can be folded downwards by rotating the support column downwards as explained above. In order to accommodate the handle a slot is provided in the base of the trolley that the platform can be folded flat and neatly with respect to the base. As seen in Figures 7 to 12 the handle 11 can also be folded to lie horizontally as a space saver. Referring to Figures 17 and 18 there are shown various views of the netting frame attachment means which connects netting or other protective material around the frame of the trolley by way of appropriate connectors which enable the protective sheet to be removed for washing or replacement when damaged or worn. There is shown a view of how one embodiment with a rigid synthetic plastics clip slots into a channel by way of a captive pin and hooks back on itself in order to retain it within the slot. Figures 19 show various views of padding attachment means, such as how a hook-and-eye attachment strip is disclosed on an inner surface of a rear wall of the trolley and the netting frame attachments sheet. Detailed inserts show views of popper type connectors which are for attaching fabric and / or rigid plastics items to the body of the trolley. Padding is provided ideally as a single insert to fit into a spacing in the base of the trolley as defined by side walls. The padding may comprise several pieces which are sewn or zipped or connected together in some other way to enable parts to be removed for washing or replaced when worn. In one embedment the padding is dimensioned and arranged to enable the trolley to fold and so not impinge its stowage. Padding may be free standing within a space defined in the base or clipped or connected thereto by way of connectors. On a rear portion, which rests against a rear insider surface of the trolley the padding includes a fabric bridge portion which connects together its two sides and provides a cushion against a rigid frame upright or steering column. Figures 20 show views of the frame with a base supported by wheel and a rear generally planar platform which is slidably located on a central spine which is connected to a steering handle. Optionally a brake (not shown) either passes through or is operated via the central spine. The platform has a bore, recess or slot through which the support column is located. The platform can thus be moved along (that is up and down the support column), for example by a ratchet mechanism with a retractable pawl or a rack and pinion mechanism, in to extend or retract the handle to a user defined height. In some embodiments a retractor lead may be supplied and anchored to a housing wall, such as rear wall of the housing, in order to tether an animal, such as a dog and to ensure it is secured safely within the basket. The invention has been described by way of examples only and it will be appreciated that variation may be made to the aforementioned embodiments without departing form the scope of protection as defined by the claims appended hereto.

Claims

1. A trolley comprising a base portion, a plurality of wheels attached to the base portion, and a support column extending upwards from the base portion, the support column including a handle located distally thereto, and further including a platform, the platform being displaceable with respect to the support column and the support column is rotatable about the base portion.

2. A trolley as claimed in claim 1 wherein the base portion includes a level base platform and a back plate that extends substantially at an angle to the level base platform.

3. A trolley as claimed in claim 2 wherein the back plate extends in a generally vertical direction.

4. A trolley as claimed in claim 3 wherein the back plate extends at an angle to a level base platform of between 90 degrees and 130 degrees.

5. A trolley as claimed in claims 1 to 4 wherein the support column is centrally located with respect to the central longitudinal axis of the trolley or trolley base portion.

6. A trolley as claimed in any of claims 2 to 5 wherein the back plate includes or includes an axle lug to which one or more rear wheels are rotatable fixed.

7. A trolley as claimed in any of claims 2 to 5 wherein the support column is attached to the back plate or to the axle lug and / or has an axis substantially parallel with the axis of the back plate.

8. A trolley as claimed in any of claims 1 to 7 including a central spine, the spine slidably located with the support column and preferably adapted to slide in a direction parallel to the axis of the support column, and wherein the handle means is located distally on the spine.

9. A trolley as claimed in any of claims 1 to 8 wherein the support column is hollow, and the central spine is slidably or telescopically located within the support column.

10. A trolley as claimed in any of claims 1 to 9 wherein the spine is slidably located with respect to the support column via a tongue and groove arrangement.

11. A trolley as claimed in any of claims 1 to 10 including means to lock and or unlock to allow or prevent movement of the spine relative to the support column.

12. A trolley as claimed in claim 11 wherein the means to lock and unlock includes a spring biased button mechanism.

13. A trolley as claimed in any of claims 1 to 12 including means to lock and or unlock to allow or prevent movement of the platform relative to the support column.

14. A trolley as claimed in any of claims 1 to 13 wherein the support column includes a rack comprising a row of teeth on the outside thereof, adapted to cooperate with a distal portion of the platform.

15. A trolley as claimed in claim 14 wherein the rack is located at the front of the support column.

16. A trolley as claimed in any of claims 1 to 15 wherein the platform includes means to attach or connect a basket thereto.

17. A trolley as claimed in any of claims 1 to 16 wherein the platform includes handles means so as to provide a user means to slidably translate the platform relative to the support column.

18. A trolley as claimed in claim 17 wherein the handle means includes means to selectively engage with slots, hole or teeth on the support column to lock or unlock the platform relative to the support column.

19. A trolley as claimed in any of claims 17 or 18 wherein the handle means includes an arm including one or more teeth, lugs or pins located on the distal end of the arm adapted to co-operate with teeth slots or hole on the support column to lock the platform relative to the support columns.

20. A trolley as claimed in claim 19 wherein the arm is biased to a locked position21. A trolley as claimed in any of claims 19 to 20 a distal portion of the arm isactuatable to move away from the locked position to an unlocked position22. A trolley as claimed in claim 21 wherein the distal portion of the arm is located on or within a handle or grip or the arm is part of the handle portion.

22. A trolley as claimed in any of claims 2 to 22 wherein the support column is rotatable abouts the base portion to a folded position wherein the support column and or platform are substantially parallel to the level base platform.

23. A trolley as claimed in any of claims 1 to 22 wherein the platform is substantially planar.Application No: GB2412163.4Examiner:Liz Paramo-BritlandClaims searched: 1-23Date of search: 6 February 2025Patents Act 1977: Search Report under Section 17Documents considered to be relevant:Category Relevant to claims Identity of document and passage or figure of particular relevance X 1-5, 7-11, 13-15,22, 23 US 2013 / 0181418 Al (BURTON et al.) See figures 1-19, noting a trolley having base 20, support column 2, 4, 6 having handle 22 and displaceable platform 18 X 1-4, 7-9, H,12, 16, 22, 23 US 2020 / 0369308 Al (MUDRICK et al.) See figures 10-23, noting a trolley having base 32, support column 49 having handle 25 and displaceable platform 34 X 1, 5, 13, 16, 17, 23 CN 205273535 U (XI'AN ZHENMIN AVIATION TECH CO LTD) See figures 1-7, noting a trolley having base 2, support column and handle 7 and displaceable platform 10 X 1, 13, 17, 22, 23 ES 2545735 T3 (PEUGEOT CITROEN AUTOMOBILES SA) See figures 1-12, noting trolley CT having base PI, support column BA and handle PR and displaceable platform BSCategories:v Au Document indicating lack of novelty or inventive step A Document indicating technological background and / or state of the art. Y Document indicating lack of inventive step if combined with one or more other documents of same category. p Document published on or after the declared priority date but before the filing date of this invention. & Member of the same patent family E Patent document published on or after, but with priority date earlier than, the filing date of this application.Field of Search:International Classification:Subclass Subgroup Valid From B62B 0005 / 06 01 / 01 / 2006 B62B 0003 / 04 01 / 01 / 2006 B62B 0007 / 06 01 / 01 / 2006 B62B 0011 / 00 01 / 01 / 2006

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