Wagon assembly
Patent Information
- Application Number
- TW114132370
- Authority / Receiving Office
- TW · TW
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2020-06-19
- Filing Date
- 2021-06-18
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-11
- Estimated Expiration
- 2041-06-17
Smart Images

Figure IMG-2_DRAW_114132370-A0305-14-0001-1 
Figure IMG-2_DRAW_114132370-A0305-14-0002-2 
Figure IMG-2_DRAW_114132370-A0305-14-0003-3
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to a stroller assembly for a foldable baby stroller. Prior Technology
[0002] Several strollers on the market offer both push and pull operation modes for caregivers. Currently, strollers with both operation modes cannot neatly retract the push and pull handles when not in use. Therefore, the handles are often suspended or placed on the ground, increasing the stroller's footprint.
[0003] All existing baby strollers have a seat cover. The seat cover typically needs to be wrapped around the stroller frame and requires some type of fastener or connector to secure it. This can result in a cluttered or bulky appearance, which is unappealing to consumers who prefer a streamlined and modern look. Furthermore, some seat cover accessories require hooks and loop fasteners, which can accumulate dust or debris when exposed to the environment, or deteriorate over time.
[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a foldable baby stroller that not only solves the problem of storing the push-pull handle, but also provides a stylish design that fixes the seat cloth to the stroller frame. Summary of the Invention
[0005] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a trolley assembly comprising a frame defining an internal receiving area. The frame has a first end and a second end, the first end and the second end being spaced apart from each other along a longitudinal direction; a first side and a second side, the first side and the second side being spaced apart from each other along a transverse direction; and an upper end and a lower end, the upper end and the lower end being spaced apart from each other along a vertical direction, the upper end including at least one slot. The trolley assembly further includes a seat fabric assembly including a reinforcing member. When the seat fabric assembly is connected to the frame via engagement of the reinforcing member in the at least one slot, at least one outer surface of the upper end of the frame is exposed, and a seat fabric cover of the seat fabric assembly is suspended in the internal receiving area of the frame.
[0006] In another embodiment, a trolley assembly includes a frame and a seat fabric assembly. The frame includes an upper end defining at least one slot, and the frame defines an internal receiving space. The seat fabric assembly includes a reinforcement member received in the at least one slot, and the seat fabric assembly is attached to the reinforcement member. When the reinforcement member is secured in the at least one slot of the frame, at least a portion of the upper end of the frame is exposed, and the seat fabric assembly is suspended in the internal receiving area of the frame.
[0007] Other embodiments of the invention are described below and in the request item. Simple Explanation of the Diagram
[0008] The above-described invention and the following detailed description will be better understood in conjunction with the accompanying drawings illustrating preferred embodiments of the invention. Figure 1 is a perspective view of the front frame of a baby stroller frame according to one embodiment. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the rear frame of a baby stroller frame according to one embodiment. Figure 3A is a front view of a central pivot assembly for a baby stroller frame according to an embodiment. Figure 3B is an enlarged perspective view of a central pivot assembly according to one embodiment. Figure 3C is a cross-sectional view along the 3C-3C section line in Figure 3B. Figure 3D is an enlarged perspective view of a central pivot assembly according to one embodiment. Figure 4 is a perspective view of the front and rear frames of a baby stroller frame according to an embodiment before assembly. Figure 5A is a perspective view of a baby stroller frame in an assembled state according to an embodiment. Figure 5B is an enlarged perspective view of a central pivot assembly in an assembled state according to an embodiment. Figure 5C is a top view of a baby stroller frame according to one embodiment. Figure 5D is a side view of a baby stroller frame according to one embodiment. Figures 6A and 6B are 3D views showing the push handle of the rear frame in two different positions. Figure 6C is a perspective view of the pusher glove folded in at least one part of the frame. Figures 7A and 7B are 3D views showing the front frame handle in two different positions. Figure 8A is a perspective view of the upper handrail tube according to one embodiment. Figure 8B is a partial enlarged view of the front upper handrail tube in Figure 8A. Figure 8C is a perspective view of the upper handrail tube according to one embodiment. Figure 8D is a magnified view of the rear upper handrail tube in Figure 8C. Figure 9A is a perspective view of a seat fabric assembly connected to a pipe according to an embodiment. Figure 9B is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view of a seat fabric assembly according to one embodiment. Figure 10A is a side view of a baby stroller frame in a folded state according to one embodiment. Figure 10B is a perspective view of a baby stroller frame in a folded state according to one embodiment. Implementation
[0009] Some terms used in the following description are for convenience and should not be considered limiting. The words “front,” “back,” “up,” and “down” indicate reference directions in the illustrations. The words “inward” and “outward” refer to directions toward and away from the referenced portions in the illustrations. An element described as “at least one of a, b, or c” (where a, b, and c represent listed elements) refers to any one of element a, b, or c, or a combination thereof. This terminology includes the words specifically mentioned above, their derivatives, and words with similar meanings. As described herein, longitudinal refers to the X1-X2 direction in Figure 5A, transverse refers to the Z1-Z2 direction in Figure 5A, and vertical refers to the Y1-Y2 direction in Figure 5A.
[0010] The complete assembly diagram of the stroller frame 10, also referred to herein as frame 10, is shown in Figure 5A. The stroller frame 10 may have a first end and a second end, wherein the first end may be a front end or a rear end, and the second end is opposite to the first end and may also be a front end or a rear end, the first end and the second end being spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction. In one embodiment, the first end is a longitudinal rear end and the second end is a longitudinal front end, and vice versa. The first end may be any part of the longitudinal rear end of the frame 10, and the second end may be any part of the longitudinal front end of the frame 10, and vice versa.
[0011] The stroller frame 10 may further include a first side and a second side, wherein the first side and the second side are spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction. In one embodiment, the first side is the right side or the left side, and the second side is the opposite side of the right side or the left side, and vice versa. The first side may be any part of the right side or the left side of the frame 10, and the second side may be any part of the right side or the left side of the frame 10, and vice versa.
[0012] The stroller frame 10 may also include an upper end and a lower end, wherein the upper end and the lower end are spaced apart from each other in a vertical direction. In one embodiment, the upper end may include upper armrest tubes 22, 42, and the lower end may include lower armrest tubes 24, 44.
[0013] The frame defines an internal accommodating area for accommodating at least one child or personal item. A fabric assembly is disposed within the internal accommodating area, which is defined as a support area for supporting the child or personal item; this fabric assembly is described in detail below.
[0014] Certain portions of the stroller frame 10 are defined as including frame elements, tubing, or other structures. To those skilled in the art, any portion of the frame 10, including the base or bottom, sides, etc., may include a rigid plane and may not include tubing with openings therein.
[0015] In another embodiment, the stroller frame 10 may include a front frame 20, a rear frame 40, and at least one central pivot 60. The at least one central pivot 60 may include a pair of central pivots 60a and 60b, which may be mirror images of each other. In some embodiments, the central pivot 60 may be omitted, and the stroller frame 10 may be non-foldable. In another embodiment, the stroller frame 10 may be foldable, which may be achieved by other structures or configurations that do not include the central pivot 60.
[0016] In one embodiment, the front frame 20 includes at least one front wheel assembly 23a, 23b, and the rear frame 40 includes at least one rear wheel assembly 43a, 43b. Each of the front wheel assemblies 23a, 23b and the rear wheel assemblies 43a, 43b may include a pair of wheels. In another embodiment, the stroller frame 10 may have fewer than four wheels. The front wheel assembly described herein may be an entire wheel support element, such as any braking element, bearing, caster, axle, etc.
[0017] As described herein, tubular fittings are used in various embodiments of frames 20 and 40. Those skilled in the art will recognize that any type of support structure, such as rods, columns, links, or other elements, can be used. The tubular fittings can be formed as solid elements or have a hollow interior.
[0018] As shown in Figures 1 and 4, the front frame 20 may include an upper front armrest tube 22, a lower front armrest tube 24, and front leg tubes or supports 26a, 26b. In one embodiment, the upper front armrest tube 22 is U-shaped. In another embodiment, the lower front armrest tube 24 is U-shaped. Those skilled in the art will know that the shape, outline, and construction of the upper front armrest tube 22 and the lower front armrest tube 24 can vary. In other embodiments, the front frame 20 may consist of a plurality of tubes connected at right angles or other angles. The front frame 20 may alternatively include a series of links, plates, rods, tubes, or other structures interconnected in a cross manner, similar to a scissor-type lifting support frame, allowing the front frame 20 to be folded. In one embodiment, the bottom of the front frame 20 may include at least one rigid support surface. The bottom may include a solid support surface. In another embodiment, the bottom may provide a grid or lattice-type support surface. Those skilled in the art will know that any side or bottom of the front frame 20 may contain a rigid surface.
[0019] As shown in Figure 4, the front leg tubes 26a and 26b can be connected to the upper front armrest tube 22 and the lower front armrest tube 24 via pivoting connectors 29a, 29b, 29c, and 29d. The ends of the front leg tubes 26a and 26b can be connected to the front wheel assemblies 23a and 23b. Those skilled in the art will recognize other alternative constructions that can be used to connect the upper and lower ends of the front frame 20, replacing the front leg tubes 26a and 26b. Furthermore, the front wheel assemblies 23a and 23b can be directly connected to another part of the frame 10.
[0020] In one embodiment, a first handle 28 may be provided, as shown in Figures 1, 7A, and 7B. The first handle 28 may be a pull handle or a front handle, and is connected to at least one portion of the frame 10. In one embodiment, the first handle 28 has a single connection point to the frame 10, specifically to the front frame 20. Due to its single connection point to the frame 10, the first handle 28 is primarily configured as a pull handle; however, those skilled in the art will know that the first handle 28 can be used in a pushing state. In another embodiment, the first handle 28 may have more than one connection point to the frame 10. Those skilled in the art will know that, in addition to the front frame 20, the first handle 28 may also be connected to various other portions of the frame 10. A detailed description of the first handle 28 is provided herein.
[0021] As shown in Figures 2 and 4, the rear frame 40 may include an upper rear armrest tube 42, a lower rear armrest tube 44, and rear leg tubes or supports 46a, 46b. In one embodiment, the upper rear armrest tube 42 is U-shaped. In another embodiment, the lower rear armrest tube 44 is U-shaped. Those skilled in the art will know that the actual shapes of the upper rear armrest tube 42 and the lower rear armrest tube 44 are variable. In other embodiments, the rear frame 40 may consist of a plurality of tubes connected at right angles or other angles. The rear frame 40 may be replaced by a series of links, plates, rods, tubes, or other structures interconnected in a crisscross manner, similar to a scissor-type lifting support frame, allowing the rear frame 40 to be folded. In one embodiment, the bottom of the rear frame 40 may include at least one rigid support surface. The bottom may include a solid support surface. In another embodiment, the bottom of the rear frame 40 may provide a grid or lattice-type support surface. Those skilled in the art will know that any side or bottom of the rear frame 40 may contain a rigid surface.
[0022] As shown in Figure 4, the rear leg tubes 46a and 46b can be connected to the upper rear armrest tube 42 and the lower rear armrest tube 44 via pivot connectors 49a, 49b, 49c, and 49d. The ends of the rear leg tubes 46a and 46b can be connected to the rear wheel assemblies 43a and 43b. Those skilled in the art will know that, in addition to the rear leg tubes 46a and 46b, other alternative constructions can be used to connect the upper and lower ends of the rear frame 40. Furthermore, the rear wheel assemblies 43a and 43b can be directly connected to another part of the frame 10.
[0023] The present invention provides a second handle 48 connected to at least one part of the frame 10, as shown in Figures 2, 5C, 5D, 6A, and 6B. In one embodiment, the second handle 48 is a push handle or a rear handle. Those skilled in the art will know that the second handle 48 can be used as a push handle or a pull handle, depending on the user's mode of movement. In one embodiment, the second handle 48 is connected to a part of the rear frame 40, or the second handle 48 may be connected to a part of the front frame 20, to one of the central pivots 60, 60a, 60b, or to any other part of the frame 10. The second handle 48 will be described in detail herein.
[0024] Central pivots 60, 60a, and 60b provide folding functionality for frame 10. Those skilled in the art will recognize that central pivots 60, 60a, and 60b can be implemented in various ways and do not necessarily require the features shown in the figures. In one embodiment, central pivots 60, 60a, and 60b provide a central pivot around which the two halves of frame 10 can be folded. In one embodiment, the two halves of frame 10 are the front frame 20 and the rear frame 40 (i.e., the first and second ends of frame 10). In another embodiment, frame 10 can be folded such that the right and left sides of frame 10 fold towards each other. As shown at least in Figures 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, and 5B, central pivots 60, 60a, and 60b may include a vertical pivot tube 62, a central pivot slider 64, central pivot links 66a and 66b, an upper central pivot plate 68, and a lower central pivot plate 70. The present invention may also provide an outer cover 75 with a central pivot plate 68, as shown in Figures 3A, 3B, and 3C. Figure 3D provides a view with the central pivots 60, 60a, and 60b removed from the outer cover 75. The central pivots 60, 60a, and 60b connect the front frame 20 and the rear frame 40 to each other. More specifically, in one embodiment, the proximal end 25b of the front frame 20 and the proximal end 45b of the rear frame 40 are connected to the central pivots 60, 60a, and 60b. The proximal end refers to the longitudinally inward direction and towards the center or middle region 12 of the stroller frame 10.
[0025] The term "end" as used herein refers to the direction longitudinally away from the center or middle area 12 of the stroller frame 10. Two parts of the frame 10, such as the front upper armrest tube 22 and the rear upper armrest tube 42, can be pivotally connected to the upper central pivot plate 68, and two different parts of the frame 10, such as the front lower armrest tube 24 and the rear lower armrest tube 44, can be pivotally connected to the lower central pivot plate 70.
[0026] The central pivot links 66a and 66b can also be connected to the front frame 20 and the rear frame 40. As shown in Figures 3A and 3B, the present invention provides a first central pivot link 66a and a second central pivot link 66b. One end 67a of the first central pivot link 66a can be pivotally connected to the front lower armrest tube 24, and the other end 67b can be pivotally connected to the central pivot slider 64. Similarly, the second central pivot link 66b can be connected to the rear lower armrest tube 44 and the central pivot slider 64 by a pivoting connector. As shown in Figures 3A and 5B, the first end 67c of the second central pivot link 66b can be connected to the rear lower armrest tube 44, and the second end 67d of the second central pivot link 66b can be connected to the central pivot slider 64. The central pivot slider 64 is slidably connected to the vertical pivot tube 62. Central pivots 60, 60a, and 60b allow the front frame 20 and rear frame 40 to fold or pivot toward each other, making the stroller frame 10 foldable, as shown in Figures 10A and 10B. In one embodiment, folding the stroller frame 10 requires pulling upwards along the central pivots 60, 60a, and 60b. The present invention can also utilize other methods or constructions well known to those skilled in the art to fold the stroller frame 10.
[0027] As shown in Figures 3C and 3D, a latch 69 may be provided between the upper central pivot plate 68 and the central pivot slide 64. The invention may provide a folding button 73, which can be selectively operated by a user to selectively disengage the latch 69, and the central pivot slide 64 may move downward from the upper central pivot plate 68. In one embodiment, when the folding button 73 is operated, pressed, or pulled, the latch 69 may be displaced via an inclined surface 73a. In one embodiment, the latch 69 may have a corresponding inclined surface that mates with the inclined surface 73a. The invention may provide a spring 71 that pushes the latch 69 to an engaged position (i.e., a set position), such that the upper central pivot plate 68 and the central pivot slide 64 are interconnected. The spring 71 may also push the folding button 73 to its disengaged position. In one embodiment, when the folding button 73 is operated vertically or pulled, the latch 69 is horizontally displaced due to the inclined surface, causing the latch 69 to disengage. In another embodiment, the folding button 73 can be pushed horizontally, causing the latch 69 to disengage. Those skilled in the art will recognize from this invention that various types of buttons, actuators, handles, latches, retainers, or other structures can be provided to connect and disconnect the central pivot slide 64 from the upper central pivot plate 68. Once the latch 69 disengages, the frame 10 can be lifted via the upper central pivot plate 68, and the front frame 20 and rear frame 40 will rotate downwards. As the front frame 20 and rear frame 40 rotate downwards, the central pivot slide 64 is driven by links 66a and 66b to move downwards along the vertical pivot tube 62. The folding of the frame 10 can be achieved using any type of folding construction and actuation structure. Different folding mechanisms may include more or fewer features, as shown in the figures and described herein.
[0028] Further details regarding the push handle 48 and the rear frame 40 are shown in Figure 6A (pull handle 48 in a lower, retracted, or stored position) and Figure 6B (pull handle 48 in an angled, upward, extended, or used position). Figure 6A depicts the push handle 48 in a non-extended or compressed state, while Figure 6B depicts the push handle 48 in an extended or protruding state. Although only two states or positions are shown in Figures 6A and 6B, those skilled in the art will recognize that the push handle 48 can be fully adjustable, allowing it to be raised or lowered to multiple positions, and that the telescopic feature allows the push handle 48 to extend or shorten to various lengths.
[0029] The push handle 48 may be pivotally connected to the frame 10 via a pair of pivoting connections 51a, 51b or any other type of connection. In one embodiment, the push handle 48 may be U-shaped. In the retracted position, the push handle 48 may be nested within or around at least one portion of the frame 10. In the context of this invention, nesting means one element surrounding another element within a certain range. In another embodiment, the element may surround the periphery or a large portion of the periphery of another element. Nesting may refer to surrounding the lateral inner or lateral outer side of another element. In the extended position, the handle 48 extends upward from the frame 10 at an angle. As will be known to those skilled in the art, the push handle 48 may or may not have a nesting function.
[0030] In one embodiment, the push handle 48 is connected to the frame 10 via pivoting connectors 51a and 51b located on the upper rear armrest tube 42. In one configuration, the pivoting connectors 51a and 51b are arranged along the upper rear armrest tube 42 such that the push handle 48 can be folded down to be in line with (i.e., parallel to) the upper rear armrest tube 42 when not in use. The pivoting connectors 51a and 51b may be spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction. In one configuration, the first pivoting connector 51a is located on a first lateral side of the stroller frame 10, and the second pivoting connector 51b is located on a second lateral side of the stroller frame 10. In some configurations, the pivoting connectors 51a and 51b are located on the lower rear armrest tube 44. In another configuration, the pivoting connectors 51a and 51b are located at the portion between the upper rear armrest tube 42 and the lower rear armrest tube 44 of the stroller frame 10. In one embodiment, pivoting connections 51a and 51b may be located at central pivots 60, 60a, and 60b. In another embodiment, pivoting connections 51a and 51b may be located at rear leg tubes 46a and 46b. Alternatively, pivoting connections 51a and 51b may be located on any similar area of the front frame 20, such as the upper front armrest tube 22, the lower front armrest tube 24, the front leg tubes 26a and 26b, etc. In some configurations, pivoting connections 51a and 51b may be connected to or configured to at least one of adjacent wheel assemblies 23a, 23b, 43a, and 43b.
[0031] The push handle 48 can overlap with at least one portion of the stroller frame 10 in the folded state. In one embodiment, the push handle 48 can overlap with at least one longitudinal end of the stroller frame 10. For example, the push handle 48 can overlap in or around at least one longitudinal end of the stroller frame 10, such as the rear frame 40.
[0032] In one embodiment, the push handle 48 may overlap with the upper rear armrest tube 42. In another embodiment, the push handle 48 overlaps around the upper rear armrest tube 42. The push handle 48 may pivot to a lower position, wherein the push handle 48 surrounds the periphery or outer periphery of at least one portion of the frame 10, such as the upper rear armrest tube 42 shown in Figure 5C. According to the invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that the push handle 48 may be smaller than the frame of the upper rear armrest tube 42, such that the push handle 48 overlaps inside the upper rear armrest tube 42, or any other portion of the frame 10, as shown in Figure 6C.
[0033] As shown in Figures 4, 5A, 6A, and 6B, pivoting connectors 51a and 51b are longitudinally inwardly positioned from the end 45a of the rear upper armrest tube 42. In one embodiment, pivoting connectors 51a and 51b are longitudinally inwardly positioned relative to pivoting connectors 49a and 49b toward the central region 12 of the stroller frame 10. In one embodiment, pivoting connectors 51a and 51b are located between pivoting connectors 49a and 49b and the proximal end 45b of the upper armrest tube 42 connected to the central pivot 60. In one embodiment, the push handle 48 is parallel or substantially parallel to the rear upper armrest tube 42 in the folded or lowered position. In one embodiment, the folded position corresponds to the lower or lowest position of the push handle 48. The push handle 48 is angled relative to a portion of the stroller frame 10 in the used or unfolded state. In one embodiment, the push handle 48 may be angled relative to the rear upper armrest tube 42 in the unfolded state. In one embodiment, the push handle 48 may protrude upward from a single part of the frame in the unfolded position, and the push handle 48 may overlap with a single part of the frame in the folded state.
[0034] The pivoting connectors 51a and 51b may also be longitudinally inwardly positioned relative to at least one rear wheel assembly 43a and 43b toward the central region 12 of the stroller frame 10, as shown in Figure 5D. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the pivoting connectors 51a and 51b may alternatively be positioned at the central region 12 of the stroller frame 10, at the end 45a of the upper rear armrest tube 42, or at any location therebetween.
[0035] As shown in Figures 6A and 6B, the push handle 48 may include a telescopic feature such that a first portion 48a (i.e., the telescopic portion) of the push handle 48 can extend relative to a second portion or bottom portion 48b of the push handle 48. The extension of the telescopic portion 48a can provide sufficient walking space for a caregiver or user when pushing the trolley. The push handle 48 can be shortened or lengthened depending on the use of the telescopic feature. In one embodiment, the push handle 48 may have a fixed length. In another embodiment, the push handle 48 may be lengthened or shortened based on a feature different from the telescopic construction.
[0036] Because the push handle 48 is pivotally connected to the upper rear armrest tube 42 and can be telescopic, the push handle 48 can be folded in a straight line with a portion of the frame 10 (e.g., the upper rear armrest tube 42) and can be pressed or slid into a non-telescopic position, so that the push handle 48 is configured tightly around a portion of the frame 10 (e.g., the upper rear armrest tube 42). Unnecessary volume can be reduced when the push handle 48 is not in use and the product is folded. In another embodiment, the tight storage of the push handle 48 can also be achieved without the telescopic portion 48a, by using a second pivot on the push handle 48 to fold it onto itself, so as to be in a straight line with a portion of the frame 10 (e.g., the upper rear armrest tube 42). As shown in Figure 5C, the push handle 48 can be wider in the lateral direction than the upper rear armrest tube 42 and any other portion of the frames 20, 40.
[0037] In one embodiment, the invention may provide a locking component including a locking gear or mechanism to lock the handle 48 in a secure position. At least as shown in Figures 2, 5A, and 6A, an actuator 54, such as a button or controller, may be provided to actuate and release the locking gear or mechanism. The actuator 54 may alternatively be located on the handle 48 itself or in any other location.
[0038] In one embodiment, the front upper armrest tube 22 and the rear upper armrest tube 42 are arranged in a single common horizontal plane (P) parallel to the ground. As shown in Figure 5D, when the push handle 48 is positioned in a lower folded position (i.e., the position shown in Figure 6A), the horizontal plane (P) preferably extends through the push handle 48. When the stroller frame 10 is in the use or non-folded position, the horizontal plane (P) preferably extends through the central pivots 60, 60a, and 60b. By having a continuous upper surface that is uninterrupted between the ends (i.e., the longitudinally outward ends) of the front upper armrest tube 22 and the rear upper armrest tube 42, the stroller frame 10 provides more surface area for connecting secondary components (e.g., cup holder trays, seat wiring frames, etc.). Compared to other stroller frames that include vertically extending supports for defining the connection points of the push handle or pull handle, the overall height of the stroller frame 10 of the present invention can be further reduced.
[0039] In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 5C, the perimeter of the front upper armrest tube 22 and the rear upper armrest tube 42 (including the connection provided by the central pivots 60, 60a, 60b) may be greater than the perimeter of the front lower armrest tube 24 and the rear lower armrest tube 44 (including the connection provided by the central pivots 60, 60a, 60b). Therefore, the stroller frame 10 may have a profile that tapers inward from the upper armrest tubes 22, 42 to the lower armrest tubes 24, 44. In another embodiment, the perimeter defined by the front upper armrest tube 22 and the rear upper armrest tube 42 (including the connection provided by the central pivots 60, 60a, 60b) may have the same or smaller dimensions as the perimeter defined by the front lower armrest tube 24 and the rear lower armrest tube 44 (including the connection provided by the central pivots 60, 60a, 60b).
[0040] As shown in Figures 7A and 7B, the handle 28 is preferably pivotally connected to the lower front armrest tube 24. The handle 28 may be formed on any other part of the frame 10. In one embodiment, the handle 28 includes a telescopic portion 28a that allows the handle 28 to extend and provide additional walking space for the user or caregiver. A retaining clip 29 may be provided on the frame 10. In one embodiment, the retaining clip 29 may be provided on the upper front armrest tube 22, which is the uppermost part of the stroller frame 10. This configuration allows the user to more easily clamp the handle 28 onto the retaining clip 29 without bending over or reaching down. More specifically, the retaining clip 29 may be formed on the end 25a of the upper front armrest tube 22.
[0041] The handle 28 can be clamped in the retaining clip 29, allowing the handle 28 to be housed in a generally vertical position. As shown in Figure 5D, the handle 28 can be housed in an inclined position consistent with the taper between the upper armrest tubes 22, 42 and the lower armrest tubes 24, 44. The retaining clip 29 can be made of plastic and can elastically deform when the handle 28 is pushed into engagement with the retaining clip 29. In another embodiment, a connecting strap and a button can be provided to secure the handle 28. Those skilled in the art will know that various types of securing structures can be used to secure the handle 28.
[0042] Referring to the direction from the upper front armrest tube 22 to the lower front armrest tube 24, the front leg tubes 26a and 26b can be inclined, tilting towards the longitudinal direction of the middle region 12 of the stroller frame 10 (i.e., from direction X2 to direction X1 in Figures 5A and 5D). Referring to the direction from the upper rear armrest tube 42 to the lower rear armrest tube 44, the rear leg tubes 46a and 46b can also be inclined, tilting towards the longitudinal direction of the middle region 12 of the stroller frame 10 (i.e., from direction X2 to direction X1 in Figures 5A and 5D). In one embodiment, the front leg tubes 26a and 26b and the rear leg tubes 46a and 46b are inclined longitudinally towards each other in the direction of the ground support surface, as shown in Figure 5D. The above configuration reduces the overall size of the stroller frame 10. In the used or unfolded position, the front wheel assemblies 23a, 23b and the rear wheel assemblies 43a, 43b are each arranged longitudinally inward relative to the periphery defined by the stroller frame 10. As will be known to those skilled in the art, the front leg tubes 26a, 26b and the rear leg tubes 46a, 46b may alternatively extend in a straight line (i.e., perpendicular to the ground) or may tilt in the opposite direction.
[0043] As shown in Figures 8A, 8B, 8C, and 8D, both the front upper armrest tube 22 and the rear upper armrest tube 42 can be formed as hollow tubes 22a and 42a containing channels 22b and 42b. In one embodiment, channels 22b and 42b are formed as part of the extruded profile of the tube. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other methods can be used, such as machining or cutting grooves in the tube, to form channels 22b and 42b. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize that any other portion of the frame 10 can be formed as a hollow tube containing channels.
[0044] As shown in Figures 8B and 8D, slots 22c and 42c are integrally formed with at least one portion of the frame 10. In another embodiment, slots 22c and 42c are not integrally formed with the frame 10. Those skilled in the art will recognize that any type of slot, fastener, receiver, container, or other element can be provided on the frame 10 to secure a portion of the seat fabric assembly 80. In one embodiment, slots 22c and 42c are formed together with tubes 22 and 42. In one embodiment, slots 22c and 42c are sized to accommodate a portion of the seat fabric assembly 80. As shown in Figures 9A and 9B, the seat fabric assembly 80 includes a reinforcing member 82 and a fabric cover 84. The fabric cover 84 is attached to the frame 10 to define a support area for supporting a child and / or personal belongings transported by the stroller frame 10.
[0045] In one embodiment, the reinforcement 82 may be formed as an elongated rod. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other types of reinforcement elements can be used as rigid support elements engaging with slots 22c, 42c. In one embodiment, the reinforcement 82 may slide into the receiver 83 of the seat cover 84. In one embodiment, the receiver 83 is directly sewn into one free end of the seat cover 84 to define a container or channel for receiving the reinforcement 82. Other forms of connectors can also be used to attach the reinforcement 82 to the seat cover 84. Figure 9B illustrates the seat cover 84 and receiver 83 with dashed lines to show engagement with the reinforcement 82. Those skilled in the art will recognize that alternatives including or not including reinforcement elements can be used to secure the seat assembly 80 to the frame 10.
[0046] As shown in Figure 9A, the reinforcement 82, fixed within the receiver 83, can pass through slots 22c, 42c in the upper armrest tubes 22, 42. In one embodiment, the reinforcement 82 is larger than the narrowest part of the slots 22c, 42c, such that the seat cover 84 can be pulled taut without separating from the tubes 22, 42. The slots 22c, 42c may include a first region for accommodating one of the reinforcement 82 and a second region narrower than the first region, the second region being positioned directly above the first region. The first region and the second region of the slots 22c, 42c are interconnected. The narrower second region ensures that the reinforcement 82 is held within the larger first region of the slots 22c, 42c.
[0047] In one embodiment, the upper armrest tubes 22 and 42 each extend continuously around the outer periphery of the stroller frame 10, allowing the slots 22c and 42c to also extend continuously along the outer periphery of the stroller frame 10. In one embodiment, the slots 22c and 42c have a continuous U-shaped profile that matches the U-shaped profile of the upper armrest tubes 22 and 42. Compared to existing stroller frames that do not have continuous slots around the corners of the frame, the above configuration provides an improved connection configuration for the seat fabric assembly 80 relative to the stroller frame 10. In one embodiment, the slots 22c and 42c are continuous and uninterrupted in the region between the central pivots 60, 60a, and 60b of the frame 10. In one embodiment, the slots 22c and 42c extend along the upper end of the frame 10 to the entire periphery.
[0048] As shown at least in Figure 4, pivot connectors 29a, 29b, 49a, and 49b for the vertical supports (i.e., front leg tubes 26a, 26b and rear leg tubes 46a, 46b) can be located on the lower side of the upper end of the frame 10, for example, on the upper armrest tubes 22 and 42. According to this configuration, the pivot connectors 29a, 29b, 49a, and 49b will not interfere with the seat fabric assembly 80 or its connection to the frame 10. The unobstructed internal receiving area for accommodating the seat fabric assembly 80 is defined by the frame 10.
[0049] With the seat cover connected in the above manner, both the front upper armrest tube 22 and the rear upper armrest tube 42 are exposed on the exterior of the stroller, and the seat cover 84 covers the tubes 22 and 42 internally (i.e., the occupied area shown on the right side of Figure 9A). In one embodiment, when the seat cover assembly 80 is connected to the frame 10, the top surface and / or outer surface of the top of the frame 10 (i.e., the tubes 22 and 42) remain exposed externally. In this embodiment, "external" refers to the direction outward from the internal receiving area of the frame 10. Compared to other connecting devices used to secure the seat cover to the stroller frame, the above configuration provides a more streamlined, stylish, and modern appearance. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the seat cover 84 can alternatively cover the outer surface of the stroller. As shown in Figure 9A, when the reinforcement 82 is disposed in the slots 22c, 42c and the seat cover 84 is suspended downward into the internal receiving area of the frame 10, at least one portion of the top surface of the frame 10, which may include the upper armrest tubes 22, 42 or any other area of the upper end of the frame 10, is exposed to the outside.
[0050] After a detailed description of the embodiments of the present invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that various physical variations can be made without altering the inventive concept and principles embodied therein, only a few of which are illustrated by way of example in the detailed embodiments of the present invention.
[0051] Furthermore, it should be understood that other embodiments of the present invention may utilize only a portion of the preferred embodiments, and these embodiments will not alter the inventive concept and principles embodied therein.
[0052] Therefore, the existing embodiments and alternative configurations are exemplary and / or illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims, not by the foregoing description and all alternative embodiments and variations. Therefore, embodiments falling within the equivalent meaning and scope of the claims are also included. The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention. All equivalent changes and modifications made in accordance with the claims of the present invention shall be covered by the present invention.
[0053] 10: Baby stroller frame 12: Middle Area 20: Front Frame 22,42: Upper handrail fittings 22a, 42a: Hollow pipe fittings 22b, 42b: Channel 22c, 42c: slot 23a, 23b: Front wheel assembly 24,44: Lower handrail fittings 25b, 45b: proximal end 25a, 45a: terminal 26a, 26b, 46a, 46b: Leg fittings 28: The top leader 28a: Telescopic part 29: Fixing clip 29a~29d, 49a~49d, 51a, 51b: Pivoting connectors 40: Rear Frame 43a, 43b: Rear wheel assembly 48: Second in command 48a: First part 48b: Second part 54: Actuator 60, 60a, 60b: Central pivot 62: Vertical pivot fitting 64: Central pivot sliding component 66a, 66b: Central pivot connecting rod 67a, 67b: End 67c: First end 67d: Second end 68: Upper center pivot plate 69: Latch 70: Lower center pivot plate 71: Spring 73: Folding button 73a: Inclined surface 75: Outer Cover 80: Seat Fabric Assembly 82: Firmware Enhancement 83: Receiver 84: Seat cover X1, X2, Y1, Y2, Z1, Z2: Direction
Claims
1. A trolley assembly comprising: a frame defining an internal receiving area, the frame having: a first end and a second end spaced apart from each other along a longitudinal direction; a first side and a second side spaced apart from each other along a transverse direction; an upper end and a lower end spaced apart from each other along a vertical direction; and a central pivot disposed between the upper end and the lower end of the frame, the central pivot for switching the trolley assembly between a folded position and an unfolded position, wherein the central pivot includes a central pivot slider and an upper central pivot plate, the central pivot slider being adjacent to the upper central pivot plate when the trolley assembly is in the unfolded position.
2. The trolley assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the trolley assembly further includes a fabric assembly having a fabric cover suspended in the internal receiving area of the frame; wherein the upper end includes at least one slot, and wherein the fabric assembly includes a reinforcement member, wherein when the fabric assembly is secured to the frame by engaging the at least one slot with the reinforcement member, at least one portion of the upper end of the frame is exposed.
3. The trolley assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the central pivot slide is spaced apart from the upper central pivot plate when the trolley assembly is in the folded position.
4. The trolley assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the central pivot further includes a latch operably connected between the upper central pivot plate and the central pivot slide, the latch switching between an engaged position that prevents the central pivot slide from moving relative to the upper central pivot plate and an disengaged position that allows the central pivot slide to move freely relative to the upper central pivot plate.
5. The trolley assembly as described in claim 4, wherein the central pivot further includes a folding button that can actuate to switch the latch between the engaged position and the disengaged position.
6. The trolley assembly as described in claim 1, wherein the central pivot further comprises the upper central pivot plate and the lower central pivot plate.
7. The trolley assembly as described in claim 6, wherein the upper central pivot plate is pivotally connected to the upper end of the frame, and the lower central pivot plate is pivotally connected to the lower end of the frame.
8. A trolley assembly comprising: a frame defining an internal receiving area, the frame having: a first end and a second end spaced apart in a longitudinal direction; a first side and a second side spaced apart in a transverse direction; an upper end and a lower end spaced apart in a vertical direction; and a central pivot disposed between the upper end and the lower end of the frame, the central pivot for switching the trolley assembly between a folded position and an unfolded position, wherein the central pivot includes a first central pivot link pivotally connected to the first end of the frame, a second central pivot link pivotally connected to the second end of the frame, and a central pivot slider pivotally connected to each of the first central pivot link and the second central pivot link.
9. The trolley assembly as claimed in claim 8, wherein the trolley assembly further includes a fabric assembly having a fabric cover suspended in the internal receiving area of the frame; wherein the upper end includes at least one slot, and wherein the fabric assembly includes a reinforcement member, wherein when the fabric assembly is secured to the frame by engaging the at least one slot with the reinforcement member, at least one portion of the upper end of the frame is exposed.
10. The trolley assembly as claimed in claim 8, wherein the central pivot includes an upper central pivot plate, and the central pivot slider is spaced apart from the upper central pivot plate when the trolley assembly is in the folded position.
11. The trolley assembly as claimed in claim 10, wherein the central pivot slide is adjacent to the upper central pivot plate when the trolley assembly is in the unfolded position.
12. The trolley assembly as claimed in claim 10, wherein the central pivot further includes a latch operably connected between the upper central pivot plate and the central pivot slide, the latch switching between an engaged position that prevents the central pivot slide from moving relative to the upper central pivot plate and an disengaged position that allows the central pivot slide to move freely relative to the upper central pivot plate.
13. The trolley assembly as claimed in claim 8, wherein the central pivot further includes a vertical pivot tube; and wherein the central pivot further includes a latch operably connected to the central pivot slide, the latch switching between an engaged position that prevents the central pivot slide from moving relative to the vertical pivot tube, and an disengaged position that allows the central pivot slide to move freely relative to the vertical pivot tube.
14. The trolley assembly as described in claim 13, wherein the central pivot further includes a folding button that can actuate to switch the latch between the engaged position and the disengaged position.
15. The trolley assembly as described in claim 13, wherein the central pivot further comprises an upper central pivot plate and a lower central pivot plate.
16. The trolley assembly as claimed in claim 15, wherein the upper central pivot plate is pivotally connected to the upper end of the frame and the lower central pivot plate is pivotally connected to the lower end of the frame.
17. The trolley assembly as described in claim 8, wherein the central pivot further comprises an upper central pivot plate and a lower central pivot plate.
18. The trolley assembly as claimed in claim 17, wherein the upper central pivot plate is pivotally connected to the upper end of the frame and the lower central pivot plate is pivotally connected to the lower end of the frame.