Folding trolley

Abstract

The present invention relates to a foldable dolly (1) comprising at least one carrier (2) supported by at least three wheels (4, 5), a foldable operating bracket (6) rotatably attached to the at least one carrier (2) on one side and having a grip handle (7) on the other free end, a lock (9) for fixing the operating bracket (6) in at least a predetermined extended operating position, and a controller (10) for controlling the operating bracket lock (9). The operating bracket (6) also comprises a brake element that contacts at least one of the wheels (4) when the operating bracket (6) is moved from the extended operating position to a further extended position.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a foldable trolley comprising at least one loading platform supported by at least three wheels, a foldable operating bracket rotatably attached to the at least one loading platform at one side and having a grip handle at its free end on the opposite side, a lock for fixing the operating bracket in at least a predetermined deployed operating position (state), and a controller for controlling the operating bracket lock. [Background technology]

[0002] Such folding dollies are known by a variety of alternative names, such as platform hand trucks, flat surfaced transport dollies with a foldable operating bracket, folding handle platform trucks, folding platform trolleys, and folding handle platform carts. These types of transport carts are used in (business) spaces to transport various products (such as boxes, baskets, bags, etc.) from larger vehicles (cars, delivery vans, trucks, etc.) or warehouses to consumption locations and vice versa. The cart according to the invention is also foldable, allowing the cart to be stored in a limited space. It is also suitable for storing and transporting in larger vehicles. Although existing carts work well, they are relatively heavy, have limited adjustment range, and are not always easy to control, limiting their use. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an alternative folding trolley which overcomes the above mentioned drawbacks and / or to provide a suitable alternative which at least has, preferably, better functionality than prior art folding trolleys for the purpose of advancing luggage transport. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] The present invention provides for this purpose a foldable dolly comprising a platform supported by at least three wheels, a foldable operating bracket rotatably attached to the platform at one side and having a grip handle at its opposite free end, an operating bracket lock for fixing the operating bracket to at least a predetermined deployed operating position, and a controller for controlling the operating bracket lock, the operating bracket comprising a braking element which contacts at least one of the wheels when the operating bracket is moved from the deployed operating position to a further deployed position. The platform may be a fully enclosed or partially open platform for carrying the product to be transported. The platform may also be supported by or embedded in a frame. The combination of frame and platform is also referred to herein as platform. (But it may also be, for example, a single plate-like element or a combination of plate-like element and supporting / supporting frame.) The platform includes these two alternatives herein. The operating bracket is movable between at least two positions (or states): a folded state in which the bracket abuts more or less against the platform, limiting the space of the dolly, and an operating position in which the operating bracket is pivoted away from the platform, expanding the angle between the operating bracket and the platform. The operating bracket is normally in the operating position when the grip handle of the operating handle is pushed and / or pulled to move the dolly. In the operating position, the operating bracket is preferably locked in its position so that the force applied to the grip handle is directly transferred to the platform supported by the wheels, providing the operator with good control of the position of the dolly. To lock or unlock the position of the operating handle, the dolly also has a controller, which controls the operation of the bracket lock. However, the present invention provides the opportunity not only to lock the position of the operating handle, but also to block (or lock) the position of at least one wheel that holds the platform. By blocking at least one of the wheels, it is possible to ensure that the trolley comes to a standstill in a specific position, for example if the operator lets go of the grip handle of the operating bracket. The blocking function of at least one of the wheels is particularly useful if the surface on which the trolley stands is not perfectly flat. A braking element, which comes into contact with at least one of the wheels and enables the blocking of said wheel, is combined with the operating bracket. This simple construction allows the activation of the braking element by moving the operating bracket from the deployed operating position to a (even) further deployed position (as viewed towards the rear of the carrier). This is not only an ergonomically useful solution, but also saves weight, reduces the number of required parts and reduces costs.

[0005] In one embodiment, the lock that secures the operating bracket has at least two different predetermined deployed operating positions. The choice of different predetermined deployed operating positions allows the positioning of the operating bracket to suit a particular situation. For example, when the folding dolly according to the present invention is used in a limited space, the operating bracket may be fixed in a substantially vertical position, while in an environment where more space is available, a more deployed and easier operating position is preferred.

[0006] The lock for fixing the operating bracket can also have a locking position in which the operating bracket is pivoted towards the carrier. Such an additional locking position also allows for fixing the operating bracket in the folded state, providing additional safety, for example during transportation of the folded dolly. Enabling a fixed folded state of the dolly according to the invention also reduces the risk of squeezing fingers.

[0007] The construction is further simplified if the locking and braking elements for fixing the operating bracket are integrated.

[0008] In yet another embodiment of the dolly according to the invention, the lock for fixing the operating bracket comprises a rotatable disk with at least one engagement opening for engaging with the operating bracket. The locking function is realized by bringing the engagement opening into contact with the operating bracket (or a dedicated locking part attached to the operating bracket). If multiple engagement openings are provided in the rotatable disk, the operating bracket can be fixed in multiple locking positions. The coupling disk structure has limited dimensions and does not restrict the transport performance of the dolly.

[0009] If the rotatable disc on the lock has a protruding periphery for contacting and blocking the wheel, the rotatable disc can also act as a brake preventing the rotation of at least one wheel. Blocking at least two wheels ensures that the bogie cannot swivel. The positioning and dimensions of the blocked wheel and of the rotatable disc must be such that subsequent (further) rotation of the disc will result in the protruding periphery coming into contact with the wheel and thus blocking (chocking) it.

[0010] The control for the operating bracket lock may be a foot control (such as a foot pedal) and / or a control handle attached to the grip handle of the operating bracket. If the lock control is a foot control, the operating bracket has a very simple structure and may even be coupled to the wheel axle to save material and weight. However, the control handle may also be used if the operator prefers.

[0011] The operating bracket is Open Loop (open loop) The shape is In some cases, it is also possible to transport larger / longer objects on the trolley, since they can protrude partially through the openings in the handling bracket. However, cross bandages may be provided on the handling bracket for stiffening the handling bracket.

[0012] In certain embodiments, the folding dolly may also be equipped with an electric drive. Such an electric drive simplifies the movement of the dolly, especially when it is required to transport it over longer distances, on uneven surfaces, or with heavy loads. Such an electric drive may be embodied as a drive that drives at least two wheels and includes a differential coupling, for example an electric differential coupling. Such a two-wheel drive allows for an even linear movement of the dolly.

[0013] Increased stability of the operating bracket can be realized by using an oval tube to manufacture the operating bracket. It is further preferred to use magnesium reinforced aluminium as a structural material for the operating bracket, since this material combines a relatively low weight with high strength. In particular, it is advantageous to use magnesium reinforced welded aluminium for the oval tube and as a structural material for the manufacture of the operating bracket. It is preferred to manufacture the wheel rim from cast aluminium, which saves weight and prevents stress corrosion. For smooth running of the wheels, the wheels are preferably rubber tyres and, for light running, have a circular contact surface.

[0014] In a further embodiment, the platform may include at least one shock absorber wheel having an axis of rotation perpendicular to the platform and projecting at least partially from a peripheral edge of the platform on a side facing away from the side of the platform on which the foldable handling bracket is rotatably mounted. One or more such shock absorbers are preferred for protection of fixtures, walls, etc., and for facilitating passage of the dolly over obstacles.

[0015] The invention will now be explained in more detail on the basis of exemplary embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0016] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a folding trolley according to the present invention in a first operating position. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is a side view of the folding dolly shown in FIG. 1A. [Figure 2A] FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the folding dolly shown in FIG. 1A in a second operating position--a compact operating position. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B is a side view of the folding dolly in the compact operating position shown in FIG. 2A. [Figure 3A]FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the folding dolly shown in FIGS. 1A and 2A in a third, blocked (non-operating) position. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is a side view of the folding dolly in the blocked (non-operating) position shown in FIG. 3A. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a side view of the folding cart shown in the previous figures in a folded position. [Figure 5A] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating details of an operation bracket lock of the folding cart in FIG. 1A (first operation position). [Figure 5B] FIG. 2B is an explanatory diagram illustrating details of an operation bracket lock of the folding cart in FIG. 2A (second operation position-compact operation position). [Figure 5C] FIG. 3B is an explanatory diagram illustrating details of the operating bracket lock of the folding dolly in FIG. 3A (third position--blocked (non-operating) position). [Figure 5D] FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram illustrating details of an operation bracket lock of the folding cart in FIG. 4 (folded position). DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0017] In Fig. 1A a folding trolley 1 according to the invention is shown in a first operating position. The folding trolley 1 comprises a platform 2 supported by a frame 3. The frame 3 is supported by four wheels 4, 5 (only three wheels are visible in this view), and thus the platform 2 is supported by these four wheels. The platform 2 may be optimised depending on the particular application of the trolley 1. For example, a lightweight honeycomb platform may be advantageous. The platform may be fibre reinforced, have a non-slip floor and / or be highly impact resistant. The front wheels 5 are castors (swivel wheels) 5 and the rear wheels 4 are non-swivel wheels 4. The trolley also has an operating bracket 6. The operating bracket is rotatably attached on one side to the frame 3 which holds the platform 2. The operating bracket 6 has a grip handle 7 on the side opposite the platform 2. Here, the grip handle 7 is arranged inwards of the raised side 8 of the operating bracket 6 in order to protect the operator's hands. Furthermore, the handle 7 may be ergonomic to avoid excessive loads and to optimize the zero position of the operator's arms and wrists. The operating handle 7 is in the form of a knob and is here reinforced by a cross strap 12. The dolly 1 also has a lock 9 for fixing the operating bracket 6 in various positions. Details of this lock will be elucidated in connection with Figs. 5A to 5D. A control 10 for controlling the operating bracket lock 9 is realized as a foot pedal 10. By pressing down the foot pedal 10 the operating bracket lock 9 is released and when the foot pedal 10 is released the operating bracket lock 9 is returned to its locked position by a spring (described below). In the unlocked state the position of the operating bracket 6 relative to the platform 2 (and frame 3) is variable. The dolly 1 also has two (horizontal) shock absorber wheels 11 mounted in front of the platform 2 / frame 3. These shock absorber wheels 11 serve to protect the dolly and prevent it from getting stuck on obstacles.

[0018] In Figure 1B, a side view of the folding dolly 1 shown in Figure 1A is shown. The maneuvering bracket 6 is in a position where an operator can easily push the dolly 1 and load the cargo bed 2 without much interference from the maneuvering bracket 6. With the maneuvering bracket 6 in the position shown in Figures 1A and 1B, the folding dolly 1 can be easily driven.

[0019] In FIG. 2A, the maneuvering bracket 6 of the folding dolly 1 is in an upright position, rotated somewhat towards the loading platform 2 compared to the state shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B. In the upright position of the maneuvering bracket 6, the dolly is in a compact but still maneuverable position. The operator may move the folding dolly 1 in this position, but it is more difficult to move it than in the previous state (shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B). The reason for using the dolly 1 in this compact state is probably limited space. A further advantage of this compact position is that, as is evident in FIG. 2B, the rear of the rear wheels 4 form the rearmost part of the dolly 1, making it relatively easy to drive the dolly 1 over road obstacles such as the edge of a pavement. This is also an option with another position of the maneuvering bracket 6. It is also evident here that the frame 3 has a double structure, which not only increases its strength but also allows the attachment of straps or other fastenings on the frame 3.

[0020] In Fig. 3A, the operating bracket 6 of the folding dolly 1 is in a position in which the rear wheels are blocked (the brake function is activated). If the operating bracket 6 is moved further away from the platform 2 compared to the state shown in Figs. 1A, 1B, 2A and 2B, the operating bracket lock 9 acts as a brake in contact with at least one of the rear wheels 4. This will become clearer with reference to Fig. 5C later. Fig. 3B shows a side view of the dolly 1 with the operating bracket 6 in a position in which the rear wheels 4 are subjected to a blocking action.

[0021] Figure 4 shows a side view of the transport dolly or trolley 1 in the folded (or folded-over) position. The operating bracket 6 (after releasing the operating bracket lock 9) has been moved towards the loading platform 2. This reduces the space required for the dolly 1, which is useful when storing the dolly 1 and / or moving it without load. The design of the dolly 1 also allows the dolly 1 to be supported on one side in a stable orientation, so that the dolly 1 may also be used for transport purposes, for example where only limited height is available.

[0022] FIG. 5A is a detailed view of the operating bracket lock 9 embodied as a rotatable latch disc 20 located adjacent to the rear wheel 4. The disc 20 has a pivot point 21, and the underside 22 of the operating bracket 6 is stationarily connected to the disc 20. A blocking pin 23 is biased against the disc 20 by a tensioning spring 24. When the foot pedal 10 (shown in FIG. 1A) is moved, the blocking pin 23 is moved away from the rotatable latch disc 20 (against the force exerted by the tensioning spring 24), allowing the disc 20 to rotate (moving the operating bracket 6). The position of the disc 20 shown in FIG. 5A corresponds to the operating position shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B. The blocking pin 23 blocks the disc from rotating, so that the operating bracket 6 is in the blocked operating position.

[0023] In Figure 5B, the rotatable latch disc 20 is in a position corresponding to the compact operating position shown in Figures 2A and 2B. Comparing the positions of the rotatable latch disc 20, after the disc is released by the blocking pin 23 (and thus the foot pedal 10 is moved downwards (to the released position)), it rotates in the direction of arrow P1. The operating bracket 6 is more upright and the blocking pin 23 engages with a corresponding opening in the periphery of the disc 20.

[0024] In Fig. 5C, the rotatable latch disc 20 is in a position corresponding to the blocked (non-operating) position, with the rear wheel 4 blocked by a peripheral projection 26 of the rotatable latch disc 20. The disc 20 is in direct contact with the rear wheel 4 and prevents it from rotating freely. In comparison with the position of the rotatable latch disc 20 in the state shown in Figs. 5A and 5B, the disc is now moved in the direction of the arrow P2, which corresponds to a "reverse" movement of the operating bracket 6, and thus further away from the carrier 2. In this figure, also visible is an opening 27 in the periphery of the disc 20, which is connected by a blocking pin 23 in the compact operating position shown in Fig. 5B.

[0025] Finally, Figure 5D shows the rotatable latch disc 20 in a position corresponding to the folded position of the operating bracket 6 shown in Figure 4. The rear wheels 4 are not blocked (prevented from moving) since they are now released from the latch disc 20. However, if the blocking (non-rotating) function of the rear wheels 4 is required in the folded state of the trolley 1, a simple additional protrusion of the latch disc 20 is necessary at the periphery of the disc 20 closest to the rear wheels 4 in Figure 5D.

Claims

1. at least one carrier supported by at least three wheels; a collapsible handling bracket rotatably attached to said at least one carrier at one end and having a grip handle at an opposite free end; an operating bracket lock that fixes the operating bracket at least in a predetermined deployment operating position; A folding dolly comprising: a controller for controlling the operating bracket lock; The operating bracket also includes a braking element that contacts at least one of the wheels when the operating bracket is moved from the extended operating position to a further extended position.

2. 2. The folding dolly according to claim 1, wherein the operating bracket lock for fixing the operating bracket has at least two different predetermined deployment operating positions.

3. 3. The folding dolly according to claim 1, wherein the operating bracket lock for fixing the operating bracket has a lock position in which the operating bracket is rotated toward the platform.

4. 4. The folding trolley according to claim 1, wherein the operating bracket lock for fixing the operating bracket and the brake element are integrated together.

5. 5. The folding trolley according to claim 1, wherein the operating bracket lock for fixing the operating bracket includes a rotatable disk having at least one engagement opening for engaging the operating bracket.

6. 6. The folding dolly of claim 5, wherein the rotatable disk of the operating bracket lock also has a protruding periphery for contacting and blocking a wheel.

7. 7. A folding dolly according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the control for the operating bracket lock is a foot control.

8. A folding trolley according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the control for the operating bracket lock is a control handle attached to the grip handle of the operating bracket.

9. 9. The folding dolly according to claim 1, wherein the operating bracket has an open loop shape.

10. 10. A folding trolley as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising an electric drive for driving the wheels.

11. 11. The folding dolly of claim 10, wherein the motorized drive unit drives at least two wheels and includes a differential joint.

12. 12. The folding trolley according to claim 1, wherein the operating bracket is formed from an elliptical tube.

13. 13. A folding trolley according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the operating bracket is at least partially manufactured from magnesium-doped aluminium.

14. A folding trolley as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the wheel rims are manufactured from cast aluminium.

15. 15. A folding trolley as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the loading platform comprises at least one shock absorber wheel having an axis of rotation perpendicular to the loading platform and protruding at least partially from a peripheral edge of the loading platform on a side facing away from the side of the loading platform to which the foldable operating bracket is rotatably mounted.

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