Stroller having compact folding and suspension system

Abstract

To provide a collapsible stroller configured to form at least a compact collapsed configuration.SOLUTION: A collapsible stroller includes a foldable frame assembly including a top frame pivotably coupled to a bottom frame such that the top frame is allowed to pivot along a longitudinal plane of the foldable frame assembly. The foldable frame assembly can include first strut assemblies pivotably coupled to the bottom frame at respective angled joints. The angled joints can each include a first axis of rotation that is angled relative to the longitudinal plane such that the strut assemblies pivot towards the longitudinal plane as the top frame pivots towards the bottom frame for forming the collapsed configuration.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1-3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] cross reference This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(a) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 967,466, filed January 29, 2020, entitled "STROLLER HAVING COMPACT FOLDING AND SUSPENSION SYSTEM," the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] Technical Field The subject matter described herein relates to various aspects of a stroller having a collapsible frame. [Background technology]

[0003] background Strollers offer numerous uses, including carrying children and transporting items. The ability to use a stroller in a variety of conditions allows for improved convenience and practicality. For example, some strollers are configured to allow a user to carry at least one child while running. Such jogging strollers may include a suspension system that contributes to a smoother ride for the child in the stroller. While jogging strollers offer many advantages, one drawback of jogging strollers is their relatively large size, including when in a folded or tucked configuration. The smaller, more compact folded stroller configuration not only allows for improved storage but also allows for easier transport, for example, in a car or on public transportation. Summary of the Invention

[0004] overview Aspects of the present subject matter include various embodiments of a stroller assembly including a collapsible frame and a suspension system. In one aspect, the stroller assembly can include a collapsible frame assembly having a top frame including a handlebar. The collapsible frame assembly can further include a bottom frame pivotally connected to the top frame such that the top frame is allowed to pivot along a longitudinal plane of the collapsible frame assembly. The collapsible frame assembly can form a folded configuration as a result of the top frame pivoting toward the bottom frame and a deployed configuration as a result of the top frame pivoting away from the bottom frame. The collapsible frame assembly can further include a first strut assembly pivotally connected to the bottom frame at a first angled joint. The first strut assembly can include a first rear axle, and the first angled joint can include a first axis of rotation angled with respect to the longitudinal plane such that the first rear axle pivots toward the longitudinal plane when the top frame pivots toward the bottom frame to form the folded configuration.

[0005] In some variations, one or more of the following features may optionally be included in any operable combination. The collapsible frame assembly may further include a second strut assembly pivotally connected to the bottom frame at a second angled joint. The second strut assembly may include a second rear axle, and the second angled joint may include a second rotation axis angled with respect to the longitudinal plane such that the second rear axle pivots toward the longitudinal plane when the top frame pivots toward the bottom frame. The first rotation axis may form a first angle with the longitudinal plane, and the first angle may be between about 70° and about 80°. The second rotation axis may form a second angle with the longitudinal plane, and the second angle may be between about 70° and about 80°. The first rotation axis and the second rotation axis may each extend along a different plane.

[0006] The collapsible frame assembly can further include a first suspension system including a first shock absorber, the first suspension system can extend between the top frame and the first strut assembly. The collapsible frame assembly can further include a second suspension system including a second shock absorber, the first suspension system can extend between the top frame and the second strut assembly. The first suspension system can be coupled to the first strut assembly via a first ball joint enabling three-dimensional pivoting and can be coupled to the top frame via a second ball joint enabling three-dimensional pivoting. The three-dimensional pivoting can allow the first suspension system and the first strut assembly to pivot toward a longitudinal plane when the top frame pivots toward the bottom frame.

[0007] The first rear axle can be configured to couple a first rear wheel, and the second rear axle can be configured to couple a second rear wheel. When the collapsible frame assembly is in the folded configuration, the first rear wheel and the second wheel can form a first wheel spacing therebetween, and when the collapsible frame assembly is in the unfolded configuration, the first rear wheel and the second wheel can form a second wheel spacing therebetween. Additionally, the second wheel spacing can be longer than the first wheel spacing. When the collapsible frame assembly is in the unfolded configuration, the first wheel can be positioned parallel to the second wheel, and when the collapsible frame assembly is in the folded configuration, the first wheel can be positioned at an angle to the second wheel.

[0008] In some embodiments, the stroller assembly may further include a fabric sheet portion coupled to the collapsible frame assembly.

[0009] In another interrelated aspect of the present subject matter, a method includes forming a folded configuration of a collapsible frame assembly of a stroller assembly. For example, the method can include pivoting a top frame of the collapsible frame assembly toward a bottom frame of the collapsible frame assembly along a longitudinal plane of the collapsible frame assembly. The method can further include pivoting a first strut assembly and a first suspension assembly toward the longitudinal plane as a result of the top frame pivoting toward the bottom frame. Additionally, the method can include pivoting a second strut assembly and a second suspension assembly toward the longitudinal plane as a result of the top frame pivoting toward the bottom frame.

[0010] In some variations, one or more of the following features may optionally be included in any operable combination: the first strut assembly may be pivotable independently of the second strut assembly; the first strut assembly may be pivotally connected to the bottom frame at a first angled joint, the first strut assembly may include a first rear axle; and the first angled joint may include a first axis of rotation angled relative to the longitudinal plane for pivoting the first rear axle toward the longitudinal plane as a result of the top frame pivoting toward the bottom frame.

[0011] The first axis of rotation can form a first angle with the longitudinal plane, and the first angle can be between about 70° and about 80°. The first suspension system can include a first shock absorber and extend between the top frame and the first strut assembly. The first suspension system can be coupled to the first strut assembly via a first ball joint that enables three-dimensional pivoting, and can be coupled to the top frame via a second ball joint that enables three-dimensional pivoting. The three-dimensional pivoting can enable the first suspension system and the first strut assembly to pivot toward the longitudinal plane when the top frame pivots toward the bottom frame.

[0012] The first rear wheel axle can be configured to couple the first rear wheel to the first strut assembly. The stroller assembly can further include a fabric seat portion coupled to the top frame and the bottom frame.

[0013] [The present invention 1001] A top frame including handlebars; a bottom frame pivotally connected to the top frame to allow the top frame to pivot along a longitudinal plane of the collapsible frame assembly, the collapsible frame assembly forming a folded configuration as a result of the top frame pivoting toward the bottom frame, and forming an unfolded configuration as a result of the top frame pivoting away from the bottom frame; a first strut assembly pivotally connected to the bottom frame at a first angled joint, the first strut assembly including a first rear axle, the first angled joint including a first axis of rotation angled with respect to the longitudinal plane such that the first rear axle pivots toward the longitudinal plane when the top frame pivots toward the bottom frame to form the folded configuration; a stroller assembly including the collapsible frame assembly including: [The present invention 1002] The stroller assembly of the present invention 1001, wherein the collapsible frame assembly further includes a second strut assembly pivotally connected to the bottom frame at a second angled joint, the second strut assembly including a second rear wheel axle, and the second angled joint including a second axis of rotation angled with respect to the longitudinal plane so that the second rear wheel axle pivots toward the longitudinal plane when the top frame pivots toward the bottom frame. [The present invention 1003] The stroller assembly of claim 1002, wherein the first axis of rotation forms a first angle with the longitudinal plane, the first angle being between about 70° and about 80°. [The present invention 1004] The stroller assembly of claim 1003, wherein the second axis of rotation forms a second angle with the longitudinal plane, the second angle being between about 70° and about 80°. [The present invention 1005] The stroller assembly of the present invention 1004, wherein the first axis of rotation and the second axis of rotation extend along different planes. [The present invention 1006] The stroller assembly of the present invention 1005, wherein the collapsible frame assembly further includes a first suspension system including a first shock absorber, the first suspension system extending between the top frame and the first strut assembly. [The present invention 1007] The collapsible frame assembly a second suspension system including a second shock absorber and extending between the top frame and the second strut assembly; The stroller assembly of the present invention 1006 further comprises: [The present invention 1008] A stroller assembly of the present invention 1007, wherein a first suspension system is connected to a first strut assembly via a first ball joint that allows three-dimensional pivoting, and the first suspension system is connected to a top frame via a second ball joint that allows three-dimensional pivoting, and the three-dimensional pivoting allows the first suspension system and the first strut assembly to pivot toward a vertical plane when the top frame pivots toward the bottom frame. [The present invention 1009] The stroller assembly of the present invention 1008, wherein the first rear wheel axle is configured to couple the first rear wheel and the second rear wheel axle is configured to couple the second rear wheel. [The present invention 1010] The stroller assembly of the present invention 1009, wherein when the foldable frame assembly is in a folded configuration, the first rear wheel and the second wheel form a first wheel spacing therebetween, and when the foldable frame assembly is in an unfolded configuration, the first rear wheel and the second wheel form a second wheel spacing therebetween, the second wheel spacing being longer than the first wheel spacing. [The present invention 1011] The stroller assembly of the present invention 1009, wherein when the foldable frame assembly is in the unfolded configuration, the first wheel is positioned parallel to the second wheel, and when the foldable frame assembly is in the folded configuration, the first wheel is positioned at an angle to the second wheel. [The present invention 1012] The stroller assembly of this invention 1001 further comprising a fabric seat portion connected to the collapsible frame assembly. [The present invention 1013] 1. A method of forming a folded configuration of a collapsible frame assembly of a stroller assembly, comprising the steps of: pivoting a top frame of the collapsible frame assembly toward a bottom frame of the collapsible frame assembly along a longitudinal plane of the collapsible frame assembly; pivoting a first strut assembly and a first suspension assembly toward the longitudinal plane as a result of the top frame pivoting toward the bottom frame; and Pivoting a second strut assembly and a second suspension assembly toward the longitudinal plane as a result of the top frame pivoting toward the bottom frame. [The present invention 1014] The method of claim 1013, wherein the first strut assembly pivots independently from the second strut assembly. [The present invention 1015] The method of the present invention 1014, wherein a first strut assembly is pivotally connected to the bottom frame at a first angled joint, the first strut assembly including a first rear axle, the first angled joint including a first axis of rotation angled relative to the longitudinal plane for pivoting the first rear axle toward the longitudinal plane as a result of the top frame pivoting toward the bottom frame. [The present invention 1016] 1015. The method of claim 10, wherein the first axis of rotation forms a first angle with the longitudinal plane, the first angle being between about 70° and about 80°. [The present invention 1017] The method of claim 1016, wherein the first suspension system includes a first shock absorber, the first suspension system extending between the top frame and the first strut assembly. [The present invention 1018] The method of the present invention 1017, wherein a first suspension system is connected to a first strut assembly via a first ball joint that allows three-dimensional pivoting, and the first suspension system is connected to a top frame via a second ball joint that allows three-dimensional pivoting, and the three-dimensional pivoting allows the first suspension system and the first strut assembly to pivot toward a vertical plane when the top frame pivots toward the bottom frame. [The present invention 1019] The method of claim 1015, wherein the first rear axle is configured to couple the first rear wheel to the first strut assembly. [The present invention 1020] The method of claim 1013, wherein the stroller assembly further comprises a fabric seat portion connected to the top frame and the bottom frame. The details of one or more variations of the subject matter described herein are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the detailed description below. Other features and advantages of the subject matter described herein will become apparent from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings and claims. The appended claims following this disclosure are intended to define the scope of the protected subject matter. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate certain aspects of the subject matter disclosed herein and, together with the detailed description, serve to explain some of the principles associated with the disclosed embodiments.

[0015] [Figure 1-1] FIG. 1A shows a side view of an embodiment of a foldable stroller in an unfolded configuration consistent with an embodiment of the present subject matter. [Figure 1-2] FIG. 1B shows a top perspective view of the foldable stroller of FIG. 1A. [Figure 1-3] Figure 1C shows a front perspective view of the foldable stroller of Figure 1A. Figure 1D shows a rear perspective view of the foldable stroller of Figure 1A. [Figure 1-4] Figure 1E shows a side view of the foldable stroller of Figure 1A, Figure 1F shows a side view of the foldable stroller of Figure 1E as it transitions to a folded configuration, and Figure 1G shows a side view of the foldable stroller of Figure 1E in a folded configuration. [Figure 1-5] Figure IH shows a front view of the foldable stroller of Figure IA, Figure 1I shows a top view of the foldable stroller of Figure IH as it transitions to a folded configuration, and Figure IJ shows a top view of the foldable stroller of Figure IH in a folded configuration. [Figure 1-6] Figure IK shows a side perspective view of the angled hinge assembly of the folding stroller of Figure IA. Figure 1L shows a partial side perspective view of the angled hinge assembly of Figure IK showing the hub bracket. [Figure 1-7] Figure 1M shows a partial side perspective view of the angled hinge assembly of Figure 1K, showing the hub bushing. Figure 1N shows a partial side perspective view of the angled hinge assembly of Figure 1K, showing the pivot bolt assembly. [Figure 1-8] Figure 1O shows a partial side perspective view of the angled hinge assembly of Figure 1K showing the parallel extensions extending from the bottom frame. Figure 1P shows a perspective view of the pivot bolt assembly of Figure 1N. [Figure 1-9] FIG. 1Q shows a partial top perspective view of the bottom frame of the foldable stroller of FIG. 1A, illustrating the axis of rotation of each angled hinge assembly relative to the longitudinal plane of the foldable stroller. [Figure 1-10]FIG. 1R illustrates a side perspective view of the folding stroller embodiment of FIG. 1A, showing the fabric sheet member coupled to the collapsible frame assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] Wherever practical, like reference numerals indicate like structures, features or elements.

[0017] Detailed Description The present subject matter relates to various aspects of a foldable stroller having a collapsible frame that includes a folding feature that allows the foldable stroller to be efficiently and effectively folded and collapsed into a compact configuration. In some aspects, the foldable stroller can include a suspension system that can effectively absorb shocks during use of the foldable stroller. For example, the foldable stroller can be transitioned between an unfolded configuration (e.g., in an unfolded state) and a folded configuration (e.g., in a folded state). Additionally, the unfolded state can allow for carrying a child (e.g., positioned in a fabric seat portion of the foldable stroller), and the folded configuration can allow for storage of the foldable stroller. The foldable strollers described herein can be used in a variety of ways, such as for carrying a child by pushing them while the user is running or walking. Other uses of the stroller are within the scope of this disclosure.

[0018] In some embodiments, the foldable stroller includes a collapsible frame assembly that includes at least one angled joint assembly that helps enable the foldable stroller to form an improved compact configuration, for example, as compared to at least some other currently available strollers, as described in more detail below.

[0019] 1A-1R illustrate an embodiment of a foldable stroller 100 consistent with the present subject matter. As shown in FIGS. 1A-1J, the foldable stroller 100 can include a collapsible frame assembly 110 including a top frame 112 pivotally connected to a bottom frame 114. As shown in FIG. 1C, the bottom frame 114 can include a frame crossbar 109 and a pair of bottom side bars 117. As shown in FIG. 1C, the bottom side bars 117 can each include a first end connected to an opposing end of the frame crossbar 109. As also shown in FIG. 1C, the bottom side bars 117 can also be connected to each other at their second ends. Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 1E-1J, the bottom frame 114 can be connected to front wheels 116. For example, the front wheels 116 can be connected to the second ends of the bottom side bars 117.

[0020] 1C , the top frame 112 can include a pair of top side bars 107, each coupled to opposing ends of a handle bar 111. The handle bars 111 can be configured to allow a user to push and / or steer the foldable stroller 100. In some embodiments, the handle bars 111 can be coupled to the top side bars 107 via handle bar pivot joints 103, which allow the handle bars 111 to form two or more configurations with respect to the top side bars 107, e.g., two or more angles between the handle bars 111 and the top side bars 107. For example, the handle bars 111 can form an angle of about 180° to about 90° with respect to the top side bars 107. A handle bar support structure 105 can extend between the handle bar pivot joints 103 to help provide structural support for the top frame 112 of the foldable frame assembly 110.

[0021] The collapsible frame assembly 110 may include a pair of frame joints 115 that pivotally connect the top frame 112 to the bottom frame 114 and assist in moving the collapsible frame assembly 110 between an unfolded configuration, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 1E and 1H, and a folded configuration, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 1G and 1J. As shown in FIGS. 1F and 1I, the top frame 112 and the bottom frame 114 may pivot toward one another along a longitudinal plane L (the pivot point being the frame joint 115) to form the folded configuration. The frame joint 115 may include and / or be controlled by a releasable locking mechanism that allows a user to selectively pivot the collapsible frame assembly 110 to the folded and / or unfolded configurations. As shown in FIG. 1C, a frame joint support structure 106 may extend between the frame joints 115 to assist in providing structural support to the collapsible frame assembly 110, for example, when in the unfolded configuration.

[0022] 1A-1J, the foldable stroller 100 can include two strut assemblies 120 coupled to a bottom frame 114, with each strut assembly 120 coupled to the bottom frame 114 by an angled joint assembly 122. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1A-1J, each strut assembly 120 can be coupled to the top frame 112 via a suspension assembly 125. As described in further detail below, the coupling of each strut assembly 120 to the top frame 112 and the bottom frame 114 enables the foldable stroller 100 to provide effective steering and a comfortable ride while achieving an improved compact form, e.g., compared to at least some currently available jogging and / or folding strollers.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 1B, the collapsible frame assembly 110 may include a first strut assembly 120a coupled to the bottom frame 114 via a first angled joint assembly 122a and coupled to the top frame 112 via a first suspension assembly 125a. Also shown in FIG. 1B, the collapsible frame assembly 110 may include a second strut assembly 120b coupled to the bottom frame 114 via a second angled joint assembly 122b and coupled to the top frame 112 via a second suspension assembly 125b. The first strut assembly 120a and the second strut assembly 120b may include the same or similar functions and features. Thus, a description of the strut assembly 120 may apply to a description of the first strut assembly 120a and the second strut assembly 120b. Similarly, the first angled joint assembly 122a and the second angled joint assembly 122b may include the same or similar functions and features. Thus, the description of angled strut assembly 122 can be applied to the description of first angled joint assembly 122a and second angled joint assembly 122b. Further, the description of suspension assembly 125 can be applied to the description of first suspension assembly 125a and second suspension assembly 125b.

[0024] As shown in FIG. 1B, strut assembly 120 can include a structural support 130 extending between a first support end 131 and a rear axle 132. First support end 131 can form part of angled joint assembly 122, as shown in FIGS. 1K and 1L. Rear axle 132 can be configured to couple rear wheel 134 thereto, as shown in FIG. 1B. In some embodiments, structural support 130 can have a curved shape along the length of structural support 130, for example, as shown in FIG. 1B.

[0025] As shown in FIGS. 1B and 1Q, the first angled joint assembly 122a can be disposed at an angle relative to the second angled joint assembly 122b. For example, the first angled joint assembly 122a can have a first rotation axis 135a that is not parallel to or coaxial with the second rotation axis 135b of the second angled joint assembly 122b. In some embodiments, the first rotation axis 135a and the second rotation axis 135b can extend along different planes. As shown in FIGS. 1B and 1Q, the first rotation axis 135a and the second rotation axis 135b can intersect at an angle θ that is between about 70° and about 80° along the longitudinal plane L of the foldable stroller 100. As described in more detail below, such angled arrangement of the first angled joint assembly 122a and the second angled joint assembly 122b can allow the first strut assembly 120a and the second strut assembly 120b to pivot toward each other (e.g., toward the longitudinal plane L) and toward the top frame 112, respectively, when the foldable stroller 100 moves to the folded configuration, as shown in Figures 1E-1J. As shown in Figure 1B, the longitudinal plane L can extend along the longitudinal axis of the collapsible frame assembly 110.

[0026] 1G and 1J, as a result of the strut assemblies 120 and the suspension assemblies 125 pivoting inward toward the longitudinal plane L, when the collapsible frame assembly 110 is in the folded configuration, the strut assemblies 120 and the suspension assemblies 125 can be disposed within or at least substantially within the boundary formed by at least the top side bars 107 and the handlebars 111 of the top frame 112. Thus, in the folded configuration, as shown in FIG. 1J, the maximum width of the foldable stroller 100 can be defined by and / or does not exceed the distance between the outer surfaces of the top side bars 107 of the top frame 112. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 1J, when the collapsible frame assembly 110 is in the folded configuration, the rear wheels 134 can be positioned at least substantially adjacent to the front wheels 116. For example, when the collapsible frame assembly 110 is in the unfolded configuration, the rear wheels 134 can be spaced apart by about 22 inches to about 25 inches, e.g., about 23.5 inches. Furthermore, when the collapsible frame assembly 110 is in the folded configuration, the rear wheels 134 can be spaced apart by about 10 inches to about 12 inches, for example, about 11 inches. Such a reduction in overall width between the unfolded and folded configurations of the foldable stroller 100 can enable the foldable stroller 100 to achieve a compact size that is effective for storage and transportation, for example, in a compact configuration.

[0027] In some embodiments, the foldable stroller 100 can have a height of approximately 43 inches in the unfolded configuration (as shown in FIG. 1E) and a height of approximately 29 inches in the folded configuration (as shown in FIG. 1G). Additionally, the foldable stroller 100 can have a length (e.g., front-to-back distance) of approximately 39 inches in the unfolded configuration (as shown in FIG. 1E) and a length of approximately 16 inches in the folded configuration (as shown in FIG. 1G). Furthermore, the foldable stroller 100 can have a width (e.g., side-to-side distance) of approximately 25 inches in the unfolded configuration (as shown in FIG. 1H) and a width of approximately 17 inches in the folded configuration (as shown in FIG. 1J). Other configurations and dimensions of the foldable stroller 100 are within the scope of this disclosure.

[0028] At least some currently available strollers include a crossbar between a pair of wheels, e.g., between a pair of rear wheels, to help secure the position of the rear wheels relative to one another. The foldable stroller 100 of the present disclosure does not include a crossbar or structure extending between the rear axle 132 or the rear wheels 134. Instead, the foldable stroller 100 may include a hub crossbar 113 extending between the angular joint assemblies 122 as shown in FIG. 1B and which may provide structural support and stability to the foldable stroller 100 and enable other benefits associated with the foldable stroller 100. For example, the hub crossbar 113 may allow the strut assemblies 120, e.g., the first strut assembly 120a and the second strut assembly 120b, to move and pivot independently of one another. As described further below, such independent movement and pivoting toward the longitudinal plane L can enable the foldable stroller 100 to form a desired compact configuration (e.g., the rear wheels 134 can be closer together) and achieve smooth and stable steering and movement (e.g., thanks to the suspension system 125). The hub crossbar 113 can also prevent the strut assemblies 120 from pivoting toward each other (e.g., toward the longitudinal plane L) while maintaining the deployed configuration.

[0029] 1K-1P show an embodiment of an angled joint assembly 122 of the foldable stroller 100, with at least a portion of the angled joint assembly 122 hidden in FIGS. 1L-1P. The angled joint assembly 122 can enable each strut assembly 120 to maintain alignment (including a range of alignment) with at least the bottom frame 114, thereby enabling the foldable stroller 100 to achieve smooth and stable steering and movement. As shown in FIGS. 1K-1Q, the angled joint assembly 122 can include a hub bracket 142 extending from the bottom frame 114, for example, extending from the frame crossbar 109. The hub bracket 142 can include a pair of parallel extensions 144 spaced apart to provide a hub bushing 146 with a hub axle 149 disposed therebetween, as shown in FIG. 1M. The first support end 131 of the strut assembly 120 can be coupled to a hub bushing 146 and can be disposed between parallel extensions 144 as shown in FIGS. 1K and 1L, allowing the strut assembly 120 to pivot along a hub axle 149 and maintain alignment with the hub bracket 142. For example, when the hub bushing 146 is coupled to the hub bracket 142, the hub axle 149 is collinear with the axis of rotation 135 of the angular joint assembly 122, and therefore, the hub axle allows the strut assembly 120 to pivot toward the longitudinal plane L of the foldable stroller 100 when the collapsible frame assembly 110 transitions to the folded configuration.

[0030] As shown in FIGS. 1N and 1P , for example, pivot bolt assemblies 150 can extend along hub axles 149 to provide a stable axis of rotation to allow strut assemblies 120 to maintain a position and / or achieve a range of positions relative to the bottom frame 114. Thus, rear wheels 134 coupled to strut assemblies 120 can be maintained in a desired alignment and / or a range of alignments relative to the bottom frame 114 and / or the longitudinal plane. For example, angling of at least angled joint assemblies 122, including hub axles 149 and rotation axes, allows rear wheels 134 to be aligned parallel to one another when foldable stroller 100 is in the unfolded position, as shown in FIG. 1B . Additionally, rear wheels 134 can be angled relative to one another when foldable stroller 100 is in the folded configuration, as shown in FIG. 1J .

[0031] As described above, the rotation axes 135 of the first and second angled joint assemblies 122a, 122b are non-parallel and not coaxial with one another, allowing the strut assemblies to pivot toward the longitudinal plane L of the foldable stroller 100 when transitioning to the folded configuration. Such inward pivoting enables a compact folded configuration. Thus, the angled joint assemblies 122 can assist in achieving a compact folded configuration for the foldable stroller 100, and can also assist in achieving efficient and effective steering and movement of the foldable stroller (e.g., maintaining the rear wheels 134 parallel to one another when the foldable stroller 100 is in the unfolded configuration).

[0032] 1A, the foldable stroller 100 can include a suspension assembly 125, which can be part of and / or integrated with the collapsible frame assembly 110. As shown in FIG. 1A, the suspension assembly 125 can extend between the top frame 112 and the strut assembly 120. For example, when the foldable stroller 100 is transitioned between the folded and unfolded configurations, the suspension assembly 125 can pivot relative to the top frame 112 and the strut assembly 120, respectively, allowing the suspension assembly 125 to pivot toward and away from the longitudinal plane L.

[0033] For example, the suspension assembly 125 may include a shock absorber 155 extending between two ball joints 157. As shown in FIG. 1A , a first ball joint 157a may connect the shock absorber 155 to the top frame 112, and a second ball joint 157b may connect the shock absorber 155 to the strut assembly 120. As shown in FIG. 1B , the foldable stroller 100 may include a first suspension assembly 125a extending between the top frame 112 and the first strut assembly 120a, and a second suspension assembly 125b extending between the top frame 112 and the second strut assembly 120b. The first suspension assembly 125a may be the same as or substantially the same as the second suspension assembly 125b, such that the disclosure of the suspension assembly 125 may apply to the first and second suspension assemblies 125a, 125b. The ball joints 157 connecting the shock absorbers 155 to the top frame 112 and the strut assemblies 120 may allow three-dimensional movement of the shock absorbers 155, and thus may allow the strut assemblies 120 and suspension assemblies 125 to pivot toward the longitudinal plane L of the foldable stroller 100, as shown in Figures 1H-1J. Thus, the suspension assemblies 125 may provide shock absorption (via the shock absorbers 155), such as absorbing shocks resulting from the rear wheels 134 traveling over an uneven surface, and may allow the strut assemblies 120 and suspension assemblies 125 to pivot inward toward the longitudinal plane L of the foldable stroller 100 to assist in forming a compact folded configuration.

[0034] The first and second suspension assemblies 125a, 125b can further enable the first and second strut assemblies 125a, 125b to move independently. For example, movement of the rear wheel 134 associated with the first strut assembly 125a may move over an uneven surface, causing the associated first shock absorber 155a of the first suspension assembly 125a to actuate (e.g., compress) and absorb at least some of the movement of the first strut assembly 120a caused by such movement. Additionally, for example, if the rear wheel 134 associated with the second strut assembly 120b moves over a flat surface, the first strut assembly 120a may move (e.g., relative to the top frame 112) and the associated shock absorber 155 may be actuated, but the second strut assembly 120b may not move (e.g., relative to the top frame 112) and therefore the associated second shock absorber 155 may not be actuated. Thus, the movement and shock absorption of the first strut assembly 120a is independent from the movement and shock absorption of the second strut assembly 120b, thereby providing stable and smooth steering and movement of the foldable stroller 100.

[0035] 1R shows an embodiment of a fabric seat portion 190 coupled to the collapsible frame assembly. The fabric seat portion 190 can provide seating and support for a rider (e.g., a child) of the foldable stroller. The fabric seat portion 190 can be flexible to allow the foldable stroller to form folded and unfolded configurations. Other features with various functions, such as a retractable sunshade 192, can also be coupled to the collapsible frame assembly. Other features and functions related to the foldable stroller 100 are within the scope of this disclosure.

[0036] In the above detailed description and the appended claims, a concatenated list of elements or features may be followed by phrases such as "at least one of" and "one or more of." The phrase "and / or" may also appear within a list of more than one element or feature. Unless implicitly or explicitly contradicted by the context in which it is used, such phrases are intended to refer to any of the listed elements or features individually, or any of the described elements or features in combination with any of the other described elements or features. For example, the phrases "at least one of A and B," "one or more of A and B," and "A and / or B" are intended to mean "A only, B only, or A and B together," respectively. A similar interpretation is intended for lists containing more than two items. For example, the phrases "at least one of A, B, or C," "one or more of A, B, or C," and "A, B, and / or C" are intended to mean "A only, B only, C only, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B, and C together," respectively. Use of the phrase "based on" above and in the appended claims is intended to mean "based at least in part on," and unrecited features or elements may also be allowed for.

[0037] The embodiments described in the foregoing detailed description do not represent all embodiments consistent with the subject matter described herein. Rather, they are merely some examples consistent with aspects related to the described subject matter. While several variations have been described in detail herein, other modifications or additions are possible. In particular, additional features and / or variations may be provided in addition to those described herein. For example, the above embodiments may relate to various combinations and subcombinations of the disclosed features and / or combinations and subcombinations of one or more additional features to those disclosed herein. In addition, the logic flow shown in the accompanying drawings and / or described herein does not necessarily require the particular order shown, i.e., sequence, to achieve desirable results. The appended claims may include other embodiments or aspects.

Claims

1. a top frame including a handlebar; a bottom frame pivotally connected to the top frame to allow the top frame to pivot along a longitudinal plane of the collapsible frame assembly, the collapsible frame assembly forming a folded configuration as a result of the top frame pivoting toward the bottom frame, and forming an unfolded configuration as a result of the top frame pivoting away from the bottom frame; a first strut assembly pivotally connected to the bottom frame at a first angled joint, the first strut assembly including a first rear axle, the first angled joint including a first axis of rotation angled with respect to the longitudinal plane such that the first rear axle pivots toward the longitudinal plane when the top frame pivots toward the bottom frame to form the folded configuration; a second strut assembly pivotally connected to the bottom frame at a second angled joint, the second strut assembly including a second rear axle separate from the first rear axle, the second angled joint including a second axis of rotation angled with respect to the longitudinal plane such that the second rear axle pivots toward the longitudinal plane when the top frame pivots toward the bottom frame; a support coupled to the first angled joint or the second angled joint, the support including a crossbar extending between the first angled joint and the second angled joint; a stroller assembly including the collapsible frame assembly including:

2. 10. The stroller assembly of claim 1, wherein the first axis of rotation forms a first angle with the longitudinal plane, the first angle being between about 70 degrees and about 80 degrees.

3. 3. The stroller assembly of claim 2, wherein the second axis of rotation forms a second angle with the longitudinal plane, the second angle being between about 70 degrees and about 80 degrees.

4. 4. The stroller assembly of claim 3, wherein the first axis of rotation and the second axis of rotation extend along different planes.

5. 5. The stroller assembly of claim 4, wherein the collapsible frame assembly further includes a first suspension system including a first shock absorber, the first suspension system extending between the top frame and the first strut assembly.

6. The collapsible frame assembly a second suspension system including a second shock absorber and extending between the top frame and the second strut assembly; 6. The stroller assembly of claim 5, further comprising:

7. 7. The stroller assembly of claim 6, wherein the first suspension system is connected to the first strut assembly via a first ball joint that allows three-dimensional pivoting, and the first suspension system is connected to the top frame via a second ball joint that allows three-dimensional pivoting, and the three-dimensional pivoting allows the first suspension system and the first strut assembly to pivot toward a vertical plane when the top frame pivots toward the bottom frame.

8. 8. The stroller assembly of claim 7, wherein the first rear axle is configured to couple the first rear wheel and the second rear axle is configured to couple the second rear wheel.

9. 9. The stroller assembly of claim 8, wherein when the collapsible frame assembly is in the folded configuration, the first rear wheel and the second wheel form a first wheel spacing therebetween, and when the collapsible frame assembly is in the unfolded configuration, the first rear wheel and the second wheel form a second wheel spacing therebetween, the second wheel spacing being longer than the first wheel spacing.

10. 9. The stroller assembly of claim 8, wherein the first wheel is positioned parallel to the second wheel when the collapsible frame assembly is in the unfolded configuration, and the first wheel is positioned at an angle to the second wheel when the collapsible frame assembly is in the folded configuration.

11. 10. The stroller assembly of claim 1, further comprising a fabric sheet portion connected to the collapsible frame assembly.

12. 2. The stroller assembly of claim 1, wherein the first angled joint and the second angled joint each include a hub bracket extending from the bottom frame, the hub bracket having an inner extension and an outer extension, the inner extension and the outer extension being parallel to one another, and the inner extension and the outer extension being configured to receive and retain a hub bushing.

13. 13. The stroller assembly of claim 12, wherein the crossbar extends between an inner parallel extension of the first angled joint and an inner parallel extension of the second angled joint.

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