Foldable stroller frame
The stroller frame design addresses the complexity and safety issues of existing foldable strollers by using a traction element and rotatable joints for easy, single-step unfolding, ensuring safety and cost-effectiveness.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-03-13
- Publication Date
- 2026-03-11
AI Technical Summary
Existing foldable strollers are cumbersome and complex to unfold, requiring multiple steps and posing a risk of injury due to pinching, with synchronized linkage systems increasing manufacturing costs and wear.
A stroller frame design using a traction element connecting first and second frame elements, allowing a single continuous movement from a storage to a use position, with a rotatable joint system and adjustable idling angle for easy, safe, and cost-effective deployment.
The design enables easy, safe, and cost-effective unfolding with a single simple movement, reducing the risk of injury and manufacturing complexity while maintaining structural integrity and compact storage.
Smart Images
Figure 2026508685000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
Detailed Description of the Invention
[0001] [explanation] A number of stroller frames are known that can be connected to a child car seat, either permanently or removably when required.
[0002] However, stroller frames are not always in use and must be temporarily stored when not in use. When not in use, the stroller frame, and if possible also the associated seat, should occupy as little space as possible so that they can be stored in a space-saving manner. For this purpose, stroller frames or strollers are often foldable.
[0003] A disadvantage of previously known foldable strollers is that folding and unfolding are very cumbersome and technically complex. In particular, unfolding the stroller requires multiple steps to move the child car seat from a folded (storage position) to an unfolded (use position). The multiple steps for unfolding are often difficult to remember, unintuitive, and mechanically cumbersome to perform. Previously known foldable strollers also present a significant risk of injury, particularly from fingers and / or hands being pinched when unfolding (or even folding) the stroller. Previously known foldable strollers also have a technically complex design.
[0004] Therefore, a fundamental need exists, particularly for a stroller that can be easily transitioned from a storage position to a use position without the need for multiple steps or tools.
[0005] Although systems are currently known that would make deployment easier, they require difficult to construct end stops and synchronized linkage systems within one or more joints formed by the frame elements of the stroller frame.
[0006] For example, CN 103523068 B discloses a stroller frame in which the pushing section and the front wheel support each have gear components in their joints, and these gear components interact to synchronize the movement of the pushing section with the front wheel support. However, this frame has the disadvantage that many components are required, and the gears are subject to high stress and must be manufactured at high cost, which increases the overall manufacturing cost. In addition, the gears are subject to wear, which causes disruptions to smooth synchronization.
[0007] It is therefore an object of the present invention to reduce or eliminate at least one of the aforementioned disadvantages and to provide a simple, robust, safe and cost-effective solution, in particular a solution that allows the stroller frame to be unfolded or swung out with a single simple, continuous movement by the user.
[0008] This problem is solved by a stroller frame according to claim 1 and a method according to claim 14.
[0009] In particular, this object is to provide a traction device comprising a first frame element, a second frame element, a third frame element and a traction element, the first frame element, the second frame element and the third frame element being rotatably connected to one another and being capable of being rotated to transition between a use position and a storage position, wherein during the transition from the storage position to the use position the first frame element is moved in a first direction relative to the third frame element and travels through a first angular range, and the second frame element is also moved in a second direction relative to the third frame element and travels through a first angular range. The problem is solved by a stroller frame that is moved in one direction and travels through a second angular range, the second angular range being preferably smaller than the first angular range, characterized in that the first frame element and the second frame element are connected to each other by a traction element, and when the first frame element reaches or exceeds an idling angle relative to the second frame element, the first frame element drives the second frame element via the traction element to move it in the first direction.
[0010] In particular, the object according to the invention is solved by a stroller frame comprising a first frame element, a second frame element, a third frame element and a towing element, the first frame element, the second frame element and the third frame element being rotatably connected to one another and being movable by rotation from a use position to a storage position, wherein during the transition from the storage position to the use position the first frame element is moved in a first direction relative to the third frame element and travels through a first angular range, and the second frame element is also moved in the first direction relative to the third frame element and travels through a second angular range, the second angular range being smaller than the first angular range, the first angular range being defined in particular as a range in which the first angle can be located during the transition between the storage position and the use position, and the second angular range being defined in particular as a range in which the second angle can be located during the transition between the storage position and the use position. The first angle particularly denotes an angle in a first direction between the third extension direction of the third frame element and the first extension direction of the first frame element and about an intersection point of the first extension direction and the third extension direction in a plane perpendicular to one or more axes along which the third frame element is rotatably connected to another frame element, and the second angle particularly denotes an angle in a first direction between the third extension direction of the third frame element and the second extension direction of the second frame element and about an intersection point of the second extension direction and the third extension direction in a plane perpendicular to one or more axes along which the third frame element is rotatably connected to another frame element. Furthermore, the first frame element and the second frame element are connected to each other by a traction element, and when the first frame element reaches or exceeds an idling angle relative to the second frame element, the first frame element drives the second frame element to move in the first direction via the traction element.
[0011] In this regard, the first direction describes a direction that at least substantially indicates the direction of movement of the first frame element when the first frame element is moved out of the storage position or deployed.
[0012] The first and second angles are defined by the angles specified by the first and second stretch directions in conjunction with the third stretch direction, in such a way that the angle between a line parallel to the third stretch direction and a line parallel to the first or second stretch direction is defined in the first direction, starting from the third stretch direction, around the intersection of these two lines.
[0013] The extension direction of the frame elements is preferably the direction in which each frame element substantially extends. The extension direction can be defined by the two most distant points of the frame element. Alternatively or additionally, each extension direction can be defined by the longest possible distance within the frame element.
[0014] Reaching (or exceeding) the idle angle may be understood to mean that during the transition from the storage position to the use position, the angle between the first and second frame elements is initially less than the idle angle (so that the first frame element cannot drive the second frame element via the traction element), and then reaches or exceeds the idle angle (so that the first frame element can drive the second frame element via the traction element).
[0015] Exceeding the idle angle may be possible especially if the traction element has a certain elasticity, whereby its length can change (reversibly) under tensile load.
[0016] The second frame element is arranged between the first and third frame elements (meaning in a view in the direction of at least one of the axes, i.e., typically in a side view) for transition to the use position immediately after exiting the storage position (and preferably also while in the storage position itself). Immediately after exiting can mean, for example, that each of the elements has traveled a maximum of 10° or a maximum of 5° since leaving the storage position. For example, at least two of the frame elements can be located directly above each other in the storage position itself.
[0017] When the stroller frame transitions from the storage position to the use position, the first frame element is moved or rotated in a first direction relative to the third frame element, in particular away from the second frame element, and travels through a first angular range.
[0018] When the first frame element reaches (or, in some cases, exceeds) a predetermined angle relative to the second frame element, i.e., the above-mentioned idling angle, the first frame element drives the second frame element via the traction element to move it in a first direction, or the first frame element traction the second frame element in the first direction, thereby causing the second frame element to travel (or be assisted to do so) through a second angular range.
[0019] In this regard, the stroller frame has at least one (first) rotation axis between at least two of the first frame element, the second frame element, and the third frame element.
[0020] The storage position is understood in particular to be a position in which the stroller frame is at least substantially fully folded, and the use position is understood in particular to be a position in which the stroller frame is at least substantially unfolded.
[0021] The second frame element may have already moved away from the third frame element due to the action of gravity or the pressure of a compressed flexible object or the like, but may not necessarily have reached the position of the second frame element corresponding to the use position.
[0022] It is possible that the first frame element does not drive the second frame element until it has completely reached the use position, but only to a certain position, from which point the weight of the stroller frame (for example, when the stroller frame is supported by wheels) or a force applied from the outside to push it forward acts on the frame element in such a way that the frame element is further driven and moved into the use position.
[0023] The invention is based on the idea of using a joint mounting of frame elements, connecting a first frame element to a second frame element in such a way that only the first frame element needs to be moved (in particular relative to the third frame element) to unfold the stroller frame. At the same time, the above-described effect can be achieved with a delay due to the idling angle, which allows for a less effortful and more continuous movement when unfolding the stroller frame.
[0024] The first frame element may preferably be a pushing section, the second frame element may preferably be a rear wheel strut, and the third frame element may preferably be a front wheel strut.
[0025] In a preferred embodiment, the traction element is connected at a first end to a first frame element at a first connection point and at a second end to a second frame element at a second connection point.
[0026] In this regard, it is advantageous to attach the traction elements at each end, since this allows the idling angle to be determined in an easy manner from the length of the traction elements (and the position of the connection points and possibly other geometric features of the stroller frame). In particular, attachment at only two contact points is simpler and more cost-effective than more cumbersome attachments.
[0027] In this respect, it is further preferred that the traction element is designed to be dimensionally unstable, preferably as a strap, belt, chain or cord. Dimensionally unstable means, in particular, that the traction element is reversibly bendable and / or foldable and / or retractable. The thickness of the traction element (in particular, the minimum extension length perpendicular to the extension direction) is preferably at most 5 mm, more preferably at most 2 mm or at most 1 mm.
[0028] The traction element, due to its dimensionally unstable design, allows for easy folding or transition to the storage position because it does not offer any resistance (at least not significantly) when the first and second frame elements are brought close to one another. Instead, the use of such a traction element allows the traction element to be automatically folded all the way and / or retracted. In addition, the specified means are both easy to install and inexpensive to manufacture, which means that the means can be easily replaced should signs of wear and tear require replacement.
[0029] According to a further preferred embodiment, the idling angle can be adjusted or changed, in particular during the transition between the storage position and the use position, by adjusting and / or changing the length of the traction element and / or the first and / or second connection points, preferably by means of a sliding attachment at the first and / or second connection points.
[0030] The connection of the traction elements to the respective frame elements can be a fixed connection and / or a movable connection, in particular a sliding connection, i.e. preferably, each of the ends of the traction elements is either fixed or (slidably) movable, more preferably, one end is fixed and the other end is (slidably) connected to the respective frame element.
[0031] A fixed connection is intended to be defined by an unchanging connection point of the traction element to the associated frame element, in particular a connection point that is stationary with respect to the frame element, although rotation around that connection point may still be possible.
[0032] A fixed connection may include, for example, a removable, in particular tool-free and / or non-destructively removable and / or non-removable, connection, in particular riveting, between the traction element and the associated frame element.
[0033] A movable connection, in particular a slidingly movable connection, is defined by a connection point of the traction element that can move within a certain area of the associated frame element, i.e. preferably the connection point can be positioned relatively close to the first or second rotation axis (e.g., at a distance of at least 1 cm, preferably at least 4 cm and / or at most 14 cm, preferably at most 10 cm) and can slide between a position that is relatively close to the first or second rotation axis (e.g., at a distance of at least 1 cm, preferably at least 4 cm and / or at most 14 cm, preferably at most 10 cm) and a more distant position (e.g., at a distance of at least 2 cm, preferably at least 6 cm and / or at most 18 cm, preferably at most 12 cm) in the storage position (thereby further reducing the possibility of sliding during the transition from the storage position to the use position).
[0034] A (slidably) movable connection, as well as a fixed connection, may include a detachable and / or a non-detachable connection between the traction element and the associated frame element.
[0035] The detachable connection can be designed, for example, as a buckle connection.
[0036] The non-detachable connection can be designed, for example, as a rivet connection or a screw connection, but also as a webbing loop.
[0037] The (slidably) movable connection can be designed, for example, as a loop (e.g. formed by the traction strap itself, in particular by sewing the traction strap to itself), or as a ring, or by means of a sliding member (for sliding in a guide formed in the corresponding frame element), etc.
[0038] The connection point of the traction element may preferably be positioned at a distance of at least 1 cm or at least 3 cm from the first axis of rotation and / or the second axis of rotation (so that the connection point may abut, for example, against the housing of the joint) and / or may be positioned at a distance of up to 30 cm, preferably up to 15 cm.
[0039] The minimum and / or maximum distance from the connection point to the first axis or the second axis of the frame element can also be set by means of stop elements, for example, in the case of a slidingly movable connection.
[0040] The length of the traction element can be between 5 cm and 35 cm, preferably between 10 cm and 25 cm, more preferably between 15 cm and 20 cm.
[0041] A slidably movable attachment is to be understood as an attachment that allows the connection point to be moved along the extension direction of the frame element. For this purpose, rails that fix the connection point by snapping into place are suitable, for example. However, simple loops that are arranged around the respective frame element and can therefore move along the extension direction are also slidably movable within the meaning of this application. In this case, the fixing (for example by means of at least one snap-fitting device and / or at least one cam and / or at least one hook) can prevent the frame element from sliding down along the extension direction.
[0042] In a further preferred embodiment, the stroller frame has a first joint at one end of the third frame element, whereby the first frame element and / or the second frame element are connected to the third frame element so as to be rotatable around the first joint.
[0043] By connecting the frame elements by means of at least one joint, a rotatable connection between the frame elements can be achieved. An embodiment with a joint is also particularly simple and requires a minimum number of components. The resulting geometry is also particularly simple, which facilitates the transition of the stroller frame from the storage position to the use position. "At one end" should be understood in particular to mean that the joint closest to the distal end of the third frame element should always be understood as the first joint.
[0044] A joint is to be understood as any mounting / bearing that allows rotation of frame elements relative to each other about an axis.
[0045] According to a further preferred embodiment, the frame has a second joint attached to the first frame element, the second frame element or the third frame element for connecting the first frame element and the second frame element or the second frame element and the third frame element or the first frame element and the third frame element to each other in a rotatable manner, whereby the axis of rotation is parallel to the axis of rotation of the first joint.
[0046] The use of the second joint ensures that not all frame elements rotate about the same axis. The resulting offset between the first and second joints allows for a gap in the stowed position, which allows the frame to be stored in a more compact manner. Particularly when additional elements (such as a bag or child containment unit) are attached to the frame elements, as is often the case, this arrangement allows the stroller frame to be folded all the way to a more compact shape, because the additional elements do not obstruct each other or the frame elements.
[0047] The first, second and third frame elements are always connected to one another so as to be rotatable about at least one axis. In embodiments with two joints, one of the frame elements can be rotatably connected to one of the other two frame elements via a first axis and to the other of the other two frame elements via a second axis parallel to the first axis, while the other two frame elements do not have to be directly connected to one another.
[0048] According to a further aspect, the frame can be locked in the use position and / or the storage position, preferably by means of at least one first locking element in the first joint and / or the second joint, which may be spring-loaded and is preferably in direct or indirect operative connection with an unlocking device.
[0049] Typically, stroller frames are either in use, kept ready for use, or in a storage position. In the use position, unintentional twisting of the frame elements relative to one another should be avoided to increase safety and comfort. In this regard, it would be advantageous if the stroller frame could be locked in the use position to prevent unintentional twisting or folding of the frame elements.
[0050] It is preferred that the stroller frame is locked even in the storage position. This prevents the stroller frame from unfolding unintentionally and in particular ensures that the stroller frame remains in the storage position. This avoids unnecessary space consumption due to an incompletely folded stroller frame. In addition, handling of the stroller frame in the storage position is simplified, since undesired folding movements are prevented.
[0051] For example, the storage position can be locked by a first locking element or by a second (additional) locking element, such as a hook on one of the frame elements preloaded into a locked position and possibly a protrusion on another one of the frame elements with which the hook can engage. The frame can comprise a first unlocking device for unlocking the use position and / or the storage position, which first unlocking device can preferably be arranged on the first frame element, in particular on the pusher section.
[0052] In particular, an additional second unlocking device independent of the first unlocking device may be provided for unlocking the second locking element, i.e., for example, the hook can be temporarily moved into the unlocked position by actuating the second unlocking device.
[0053] In particular, the second locking element may act like a leaf spring and have at its distal end a ramp and an engagement section, in particular a hook. Upon reaching the retracted position, the other frame element may bend its engagement section along the ramp against the force of the leaf spring until the force of the leaf spring allows it to engage with the frame element (or a protrusion located thereon, as the case may be). Unlocking can then be performed by manually bending the second locking element.
[0054] The first frame element, in particular the pusher section, may preferably comprise a proximal section and a distal section, and the proximal section of the first frame element, in particular the pusher section, may be connected at one end to the distal section in a rotatable and / or displaceable manner (for length or height adjustment) and at the other end may be rotatably connected to the second frame element and / or the third frame element.
[0055] In one embodiment, the second frame element may be arranged in the storage position (or at least shortly after leaving the storage position) between the third frame element and the first frame element, in particular the proximal section of the first frame element.
[0056] In a further embodiment, the lock is automatically activated upon reaching the use and / or storage position.
[0057] Automatic activation, in turn, simplifies use because fewer steps are required to place the stroller frame in the storage and / or use positions, which allows for easier and safer handling.
[0058] In a further preferred embodiment, at least the first frame element, and / or the second frame element, and / or the third frame element are selected from front wheel struts, rear wheel struts, and pusher sections, which are preferably selected in different pairs.
[0059] The selection of frame elements from the list of elements described above simplifies the overall construction of the stroller frame, as unnecessary intervening elements can be omitted.
[0060] In a further embodiment, the stroller frame comprises a child accommodation unit comprising a back section and a hip section, the back section preferably being rotatably connected to and / or rotatably arranged relative to the hip section, and the surfaces of the back section and the hip section intended to come into contact with the child preferably abut each other in the stowed position or face each other, in particular at an angle of at least 2° but at most 50° between the surfaces.
[0061] In one embodiment, the child containment unit may be integrally formed with the stroller frame.
[0062] In one embodiment, the child accommodation unit can be removably connected to the stroller frame, in particular without tools and / or without causing damage, e.g., via at least one adapter, and the child accommodation unit can assume storage and use positions that are not necessarily identical to the storage / use positions of the stroller frame.
[0063] By connecting the child containment unit to the stroller frame, assembly and disassembly is then simplified. Because the surfaces face each other, the storage position is more compact overall. In particular, this ensures that the stroller frame is compact enough for easy transport, storage or handling, even in the storage position.
[0064] In a further embodiment, the child containment unit is connected to the stroller frame in a manner that allows the child containment unit to transition from the use position to the stowed position simultaneously with the stroller frame.
[0065] Thus, a stroller that is ready for use when moved into the use position can be provided in a simple manner and without the need for a separate adjustment of the child accommodation unit, where it may also be advantageous to removably attach the child accommodation unit to the stroller frame so that it can be removed if necessary.
[0066] In a further embodiment, the surfaces of the back section and the buttocks section that are not in contact with the child may preferably lie against each other or face each other, in particular at an angle of at least 2°, but at most 50°, between said surfaces.
[0067] In one embodiment, the child accommodation units can be transitioned from the storage position to the use position (and vice versa) individually, in particular independently from the stroller frame, i.e. preferably, the transition of the child accommodation units can possibly be before and / or after the transition of the stroller frame, more preferably the child accommodation units must already be in the storage position before the stroller frame can be transitioned from the use position to the storage position.
[0068] In a further embodiment, the child containment unit may be connected to the stroller frame in such a way that the child containment unit can be transitioned from the use position to the stowed position (and vice versa) simultaneously with the stroller frame.
[0069] In some embodiments, the second angle during the transition from the storage position to the use position by rotating and / or pivoting the first frame element may be at least 0.2 times and / or at most 0.8 times, preferably at least 0.3 times and / or at most 0.7 times, more preferably at least 0.4 times and / or at most 0.6 times the first angle.
[0070] This ensures that sufficient compactness is provided whilst at the same time there is sufficient range of movement of the frame elements relative to each other.
[0071] More preferably, the first angle of the stroller frame can be preferably 140° to 220°, preferably 160° to 200°, more preferably 110° to 240°, and particularly preferably 170° to 190°.
[0072] The corresponding angles allow for ergonomic geometry in the use position through suitable alignment of the frame elements relative to one another.
[0073] A further aspect of the present invention comprises a method for transitioning a stroller frame as described in claim 1 from a storage position to a use position, wherein a first frame element is rotated and / or tilted relative to a third frame element, and after an idle angle between the first and second frame elements (in particular by the first angle) has been reached (or, as the case may be, exceeded), the second frame element is pulled in a first direction via a pulling element.
[0074] The method according to the invention allows achieving the same advantages as those already described in connection with the stroller frame according to the invention. It should be noted that the features described in connection with the stroller frame according to the invention preferably also apply to the method according to the invention for unfolding the stroller frame. Likewise, the features of the method according to the invention can be transferred to the stroller frame according to the invention by configuring the stroller frame in such a way that it is suitable for carrying out the corresponding method features.
[0075] The invention is explained below with respect to further details, features and advantages, which are explained in more detail with reference to the figures. The features and combinations of features described, as shown in and explained with reference to the following drawing figures, are in each case applicable not only in the combination specified, but also in other combinations or by themselves, without departing from the scope of the invention.
[0076] Here is the diagram below: [Brief explanation of the drawings]
[0077] [Figure 1] 1 shows a stroller frame. [Figure 2] 1 shows the components of a stroller frame. [Figure 3] 1 shows a first embodiment with a joint. [Figure 4] 1 shows a first embodiment with a joint. [Figure 5] 1 shows a first embodiment with a joint. [Figure 6] 10 shows a further embodiment with a joint. [Figure 7] 10 shows a further embodiment with a joint. [Figure 8] 10 shows a further embodiment with a joint. [Figure 9] 1 shows an embodiment with two joints. [Figure 10] 1 shows an embodiment with two joints. [Figure 11] 1 shows an embodiment with two joints. [Figure 12] A diagram of angle calculation is shown. [Figure 13] 1 shows a stroller frame with a child accommodation unit. [Figure 14] 10 shows a further view of the stroller frame with a child accommodation unit. [Figure 15] A diagram of the first joint is shown. [Figure 16] 10 shows a further view of the stroller frame with a child accommodation unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0078] FIG. 1 shows a stroller frame 10. In the embodiment shown, the stroller frame 10 has a first joint 5 through which a third frame element 3, a first frame element 1, and a second frame element 2 are rotatably connected to one another. All frame elements can rotate about an axis defined by the first joint 5. The first frame element 1 and the second frame element 2 are connected to one another via a traction element 4. In the example shown, the stroller frame 10 is in an in-use position, which means that the stroller frame 10 is fully unfolded. As shown, wheels can be attached to the ends of the third frame element 3 and the second frame element 2 that are not connected to one another via the first joint 5.
[0079] Figure 2 shows the components of a stroller frame, in particular the first frame element 1, the second frame element 2, the third frame element 3 and the traction element 4.
[0080] 3 also shows an embodiment with only one first joint 5 in the retracted position, which is characterized in particular by the fact that all frame elements are folded all the way in relatively close proximity to one another. In this case, the dimensionally unstable traction element 4 can assume a deflected shape, which allows the first frame element 1 to move closer to the second frame element 2.
[0081] 4 shows the embodiment from FIG. 3 in a partially deployed position, i.e., a position reached before the use position is reached by moving the first frame element 1 in a first direction. As shown, the traction element 4 is in a fully extended position, specifically between a first connection point AP1 at which the traction element 4 is connected to the first frame element 1 and a second connection point AP2 at which the traction element 4 is connected to the second frame element 2. Through this connection, the first frame element 1 exerts a force on the second frame element 2 in a first direction when it is moved in this direction. The length of the traction element 4 can result in an idling angle LW, which is the angle between the extension direction of the second frame element 2 and the extension direction of the first frame element 1.
[0082] 5 shows a further stage of unfolding of the stroller frame 10 having the first joint 5. Once the idle angle LW is reached (or, as the case may be, exceeded), the first frame element 1 exerts a force on the second frame element 2 in the first direction, thereby moving the second frame element 2 further. This causes the second frame element 2 to rotate about the axis defined by the first joint 5. This causes an expansion through a second angle W2, which is given by the angle measured in the first direction about the intersection between the extension directions of the third frame element 3 and the second frame element 2. In an embodiment having only one first joint 5, this intersection is typically the axis of the aforementioned joint 5. In this regard, the first angle W1 is given by the angle in a first direction, also around the axis of the first joint 5, between the extension direction of the third frame element 3 and the extension direction of the first frame element 1. In this figure, the first direction points to the right (counterclockwise) away from the third frame element 3. In a single-axis embodiment such as the one shown here, the first angle W1 necessarily follows from the sum of the second angle W2 and the idling angle (not shown here).
[0083] Figure 6 shows an example of another embodiment of the invention having only one first joint 5. Again, the stroller frame 10 is shown in the stowed position.
[0084] Figure 7 shows the embodiment from Figure 6 when the idle angle LW is reached. One difference from Figures 3 to 5 is that the traction element 4 does not define the idle angle LW when straightened out, but rather wraps at least partially around the first joint 5. In addition, the first direction in the shown example now points to the left (clockwise) away from the third frame element 3.
[0085] Figure 8 again shows another stage of deployment, which follows on from the state shown in Figure 7. Again, due to the forced continued movement of the second frame element 2, a second angle W2 results as a result of the movement of the first frame element 1. The traction element 4 can wrap around the first joint 5 and can pull the second frame element 2 upward and to the left when the first frame element 1 is turned to the right. Once again, it can be seen that in the single-axis arrangement, the first angle W1 is the sum of the idle angle (not shown here) and the second angle W2.
[0086] In Figures 2-5, the first frame element can be considered a pusher, the second frame element can be considered a rear wheel strut, and the third frame element can be considered a front wheel strut. In Figures 6-8, the first frame element can also be considered a pusher, the second frame element can be considered a front wheel strut, and the third frame element can be considered a rear wheel strut.
[0087] Although the frame elements can generally be designed as struts (as shown in Figures 2-8), the discs shown at their respective proximal ends are merely exemplary and not absolutely necessary for the joint design.
[0088] 9 shows a further exemplary embodiment of a stroller frame 10 having a first joint 5 and a second joint 6. In the embodiment shown, the second joint 6 is attached as a connection between the first frame element 1 and the second frame element 2.
[0089] FIG. 10 shows a further exemplary embodiment having a first joint 5 and a second joint 6, the second joint 6 forming the connection between the third frame element 3 and the second frame element 2.
[0090] FIG. 11 shows a further two-joint embodiment in which a second joint 6 connects a first frame element 1 and a second frame element 2 to one another.
[0091] FIG. 12 serves to illustrate the calculation of the first angle W1 and the second angle W2 in the more complex situation of a two-joint stroller frame. In such an embodiment, the frame elements do not all rotate about the axis defined by the first joint 5; rather, there is an overlap between rotation about the axis of the first joint 5 and rotation about the axis of the second joint 6. For better illustration, the first extension direction ER1, the second extension direction ER2, and the third extension direction ER3 of the first frame element 1, the second frame element 2, and the third frame element 3 are explicitly depicted herein. The first angle W1 is determined from the angle from the first extension direction ER1 to the third extension direction ER3 about the intersection of the first extension direction ER1 and the third extension direction ER3. Since the first angle W1 belongs to a rotation intended to describe the movement of the first frame element 1 in the first direction, a first angle W1 greater than 180° results, as shown in the illustrated position. The second angle W2 results from the angle between the second extension direction ER2 and the third extension direction ER3 around their intersection point and is less than 90° in the illustrated position. In the case of a two-joint arrangement, the idle angle LW (not shown here) between the first frame element 1 and the second frame element 2 does not necessarily result from the addition of the first angle W1 and the second angle W2.
[0092] Figure 13 shows a stroller frame 10 having a child accommodation unit 20 with a hip section designed as a seat surface 21 and a back section designed as a backrest 22. The child accommodation unit 20 is hereby attached to the stroller frame 10 and, together with the stroller frame 10, is in the use position.
[0093] Figure 14 shows from a side view the stroller frame 10 with the child accommodation unit 20 as shown in Figure 13. It can be seen how the traction element 4 is attached in the use position with maximum tension between the first frame element 1 and the second frame element 2.
[0094] FIG. 15 shows an enlarged view of the first joint 5 according to one embodiment. The second frame element 2 here comprises two parallel bars. The first frame element 1, the second frame element 2, and the third frame element 3 are again rotatable relative to one another around the axis of the first joint 5. The traction element 4 connects the first frame element 1 to the second frame element 2 and is attached to the first frame element 1 at the first connection point AP1. An arrangement is shown in which the first connection point AP1 is fixedly attached to the first frame element 1 by a rivet 7. The second connection point AP2 here is slidably attached to the second frame element 2. In the embodiment shown here, the slidably attached position results from the use of a loop, which allows the second connection point AP2 to be displaceable along the extension direction of the second frame element. In the embodiment shown, the rear wheel strut forms the second frame element 2 , the pusher forms the first frame element 1 and the front wheel strut forms the third frame element 3 .
[0095] Figure 16 shows the stroller frame 10 in the retracted position. The traction element 4 is connected to the first frame element 1 at a first connection point by a rivet 7 and to the second frame element by a loop.
[0096] It should be noted in this respect that all the above-mentioned parts, seen individually and in any combination, and in particular the details shown in the drawings, are claimed as essential to the invention, modifications of which are also familiar to those skilled in the art.
[0097] Furthermore, it is pointed out that the widest possible scope of protection is sought. In this respect, the disclosure contained in the claims may also be specified by features being recited together with further features (even if these further features are not necessarily included). It is expressly pointed out that parentheses and the term "in particular" are intended to emphasize the optional nature of features in the respective context (this does not mean, on the contrary, that a feature should be considered as mandatory in the respective context in the absence of such indication). The term "element" should preferably denote an integrated structure (or assembly) which can in turn be connected to at least one other structure (and form a unitary structure and / or form an immovable whole itself) or which can be delimited from all other structures.
[0098] At least Figures 13-16 also have an inherently aesthetic aspect. [Explanation of symbols]
[0099] [List of references] 1...first frame element, 2...second frame element, 3...third frame element, 4...traction element, W1...first angle, W2...second angle, ER1...first extension direction, ER2...second extension direction, ER3...third extension direction, AP1...first connection point, AP2...second connection point, 5...first joint, 6...second joint, 10...stroller frame, 20...child accommodation unit, 21...seat surface, 22...backrest, LW...idling angle, 7...rivet.
Claims
1. The vehicle comprises a first frame element (1), a second frame element (2), a third frame element (3), and a traction element (4), the first frame element (1), the second frame element (2), and the third frame element (3) are rotatably connected to one another and can be rotated to transition between a use position and a storage position; During the transition from the storage position to the use position, the first frame element (1) is moved in a first direction relative to the third frame element (3) and travels through a first angular range, and the second frame element (2) is also moved in the first direction relative to the third frame element (3) and travels through a second angular range, the second angular range being preferably smaller than the first angular range. A stroller frame (10), The stroller frame (10) is characterized in that the first frame element (1) and the second frame element (2) are connected to each other by the traction element (4), and when the first frame element (1) reaches or exceeds an idle angle (LW) with respect to the second frame element (2), the first frame element (1) drives the second frame element (2) via the traction element (4) to move it in the first direction.
2. The vehicle comprises a first frame element (1), a second frame element (2), a third frame element (3), and a traction element (4), the first frame element (1), the second frame element (2), and the third frame element (3) are rotatably connected to one another and can be rotated to transition between a use position and a storage position; During the transition from the storage position to the use position, the first frame element (1) is moved in a first direction relative to the third frame element (3) and travels through a first angular range, and the second frame element (2) is also moved in the first direction relative to the third frame element (3) and travels through a second angular range, the second angular range being preferably smaller than the first angular range, the first angle range is specifically defined as the area in which a first angle (W1) can be located during the transition between the storage position and the use position, and the second angle range is specifically defined as the area in which a second angle (W2) can be located during the transition between the storage position and the use position, the first angle (W1) denotes the angle in the first direction between the third extension direction (ER3) of the third frame element (3) and the first extension direction (ER1) of the first frame element (1) and about the intersection of the first extension direction (ER1) and the third extension direction (ER3) in a plane perpendicular to one or more axes along which the third frame element (3) is rotatably connected to another frame element, the second angle (W2) denotes the angle in the first direction between the third extension direction (ER3) of the third frame element (3) and the second extension direction (ER2) of the second frame element (2) and about the intersection of the second extension direction (ER2) and the third extension direction (ER3) in a plane perpendicular to one or more axes along which the third frame element (3) is rotatably connected to another frame element, A stroller frame (10), A stroller frame (10), in particular as described in claim 1, characterized in that the first frame element (1) and the second frame element (2) are connected to each other by the traction element (4), and that when the first frame element (1) reaches or exceeds an idle angle (LW) relative to the second frame element (2), the first frame element (1) drives the second frame element (2) via the traction element (4) to move it in the first direction.
3. 3. A stroller frame (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the traction element (4) is connected at a first end to the first frame element (1) at a first connection point (AP1) and at a second end to the second frame element (2) at a second connection point (AP2).
4. 10. Stroller frame (10) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the traction element (4) is designed to be dimensionally unstable, preferably as a strap, belt, chain or cord.
5. 10. The stroller frame (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a first joint (5) at one end of the third frame element (3), and the first frame element (1) and / or the second frame element (2) are connected to the third frame element (3) in a manner that allows them to rotate about the first joint (5).
6. 1. A stroller frame (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, in particular claim 5, comprising a second joint (6) attached to the first frame element (1), the second frame element (2) or the third frame element (3) for rotatably connecting the first frame element (1) and the second frame element (2), or the second frame element (2) and the third frame element (3), or the first frame element (1) and the third frame element (3) to one another, the axis of rotation being parallel to the axis of rotation of the first joint (5).
7. A stroller frame (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, in particular according to any one of claims 5 and 6, wherein the frame can be locked in the use position and / or the storage position by means of first locking elements, preferably in the first joint (5) and / or the second joint (6), which locking elements are preferably in direct or indirect operative connection with an unlocking device.
8. 10. A stroller frame according to any one of the preceding claims, in particular claim 7, wherein the lock is automatically activated when the use position and / or the stowed position is reached.
9. 10. The stroller frame (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least the first frame element (1), and / or the second frame element (2), and / or the third frame element (3) can be selected from front wheel posts, rear wheel posts, and pusher sections, preferably selected in different pairs from each other.
10. 10. A stroller frame (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a child accommodation unit (20) comprising a back section (22) and a hip section (21), the back section (22) preferably being rotatably connected to the hip section (21) and / or being rotatably arranged relative to the hip section (21) so as to be in contact with a child accommodated in the child accommodation unit (20), the surfaces of the back section (22) and the hip section (21) preferably abutting each other in the stored position or facing each other, in particular at an angle of at least 2° and / or at most 50° between the surfaces.
11. 10. The stroller frame (10) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the child accommodation unit (20) is connected to the stroller frame (10) in such a way that the child accommodation unit (20) is moved from the use position to the storage position simultaneously with the stroller frame (10).
12. 10. The stroller frame (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second angular range during the transition from the storage position to the use position by rotating and / or pivoting the first frame element (1) is at least 0.2 times and / or at most 0.8 times, preferably at least 0.3 times and / or at most 0.7 times, more preferably at least 0.4 times and / or at most 0.6 times the first angular range.
13. 10. The stroller frame (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first angular range can be between 140° and 220°, preferably between 160° and 200°, more preferably between 110° and 240°, in particular between 170° and 190°.
14. 2. A method for transferring a stroller frame (10) according to claim 1 from a storage position to a use position, wherein the first frame element (1) is rotated and / or tilted relative to the third frame element (3) and the second frame element (2) is pulled in the first direction via the pulling element (4) after the first frame element (1) has reached or exceeded the idle angle (LW).