Child transportation apparatus

Abstract

A modular child stroller comprises a frame and a child carrier assembly, such as a seat or a bassinet, selectively couplable to the frame. The modular child stroller comprises one or more pairs of connection devices configured to couple a child carrier assembly to a handle assembly. The connection devices have a first connector half coupled to the handle assembly and second connector half coupled to the child carrier assembly and engageable to the first connector half. The handle includes a sound conduction system to conduct sound from an audio device to the carrier assembly. The chassis comprise modular, interchangeable wheel assemblies for conversion from a stroller to a jogger. The stroller may comprise a modular wagon conversion assembly.

Description

[0001] TITLE OF INVENTION

[0002] CHILD TRANSPORTATION APPARATUS

[0003] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0004] This invention relates to child transportation. In particular, this invention relates to modular and convertible strollers, wagons and carriages.

[0005] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0006] Conventional child transportation apparatus, for example strollers, typically carry out a single function, which may require parents to purchase different apparatus to carry out other functions. It is an object of the present invention to provide a stroller or carriage platform which can be reconfigured to perform different functions and to provide other features.

[0007] United States Patent No. 9,200,746 to Xiao discloses an infant supporting mechanism detachably disposed on an infant carriage device and for detachably supporting an infant carrier. The supporting mechanism includes a main body, a first connecting component fixed on the main body, a second connecting component and a third connecting component. A part of the second connecting component is disposed in the main body in a retractable manner, and the first connecting component and the second connecting component are for detachably supporting the infant carrier cooperatively. The first connecting component and the second connecting component are respectively disposed on the opposite sides of the main body. A part of the third connecting component is movably disposed in the main body and detachably installed on the infant carriage device, and the third connecting component is disposed between the first connecting component and the second connecting component. United States Patent No. 8,851 ,505 to Van Gelderen et al. discloses a stroller. The stroller includes a stroller frame having two opposite side frames, two first connecting devices disposed respectively on the two side frames of the stroller frame, a first removable seat including a seat body and two second connecting devices disposed respectively on two sides of the seat body of the first removable seat, a second removable seat including a seat body, and two third connecting devices disposed respectively on two sides of the seat body of the second removable seat. The first connecting devices are selectively and respectively connected with the second connecting devices or the third connecting devices so as to selectively mount the first removable seat or the second removable seat to the stroller frame.

[0008] United States Patent No. 10,888,175 to Zhong discloses a child seat. The child seat includes a seat portion, a backrest frame and a front guard respectively connected pivotally with the seat portion, a latch connected with the seat portion, and a linking part respectively coupled to the latch and the backrest frame. The latch is operable to lock the front guard in position, the latch being engaged with the front guard for locking the front guard and disengaged from the front guard for unlocking the front guard, and the backrest frame being rotatable to cause the latch to unlock for rotation of the front guard.

[0009] United States Patent No. 10,945,534 to Zhong discloses a child seat. The child seat includes a seat portion fixedly connected with a first coupling part, a connector that is pivotally connected with the first coupling part of the seat portion and is operable to detachably engage with a corresponding structure provided on a child supporting apparatus, a locking mechanism operable to lock and unlock the connector with respect to the seat portion, and a backrest frame fixedly connected with a second coupling part and operatively connected with the locking mechanism. The second coupling part is pivotally connected with the first coupling part. The backrest frame is rotatable in a folding direction to cause the locking mechanism to unlock the connector with respect to the seat portion and in an unfolding direction to cause the locking mechanism to lock the connector with respect to the seat portion.

[0010] Many parents enjoy listening to music or other audio while pushing a stroller. It may be difficult however to allow the child to partake in the audio experience.

[0011] United States Application Publication No. 2008 / 0037818 to lerfone et al. discloses a sound emitting assembly inserted into a body or frame or handgrip of a personal transport means. The sound emitting assembly comprises: (i) a package comprising an electronically actuated sound generator, an electronic circuit to feed a signal to the sound generator and a source of stored electric power, and (ii) an actuating switch separated from the package and linked to the package by an electric pathway such that when the switch is activated by the user, a sound is emitted from said body or frame or handgrip distant from the switch.

[0012] It is therefore an object of this invention to provide a reconfigurable stroller or carriage.

[0013] It is a further object of the invention to provide means for delivering audio content to the child passenger of a stroller or carriage.

[0014] These and other objects will be better understood by reference to this application as a whole. Not all of the objects are necessarily met by all embodiments of the invention described below or by the invention defined by each of the claims.

[0015] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0016] In one aspect, the invention comprises a child transportation apparatus which comprises a frame and a child carrier assembly selectively couplable to the frame via a pair of connection devices. The frame comprises a wheeled chassis and a handle assembly coupled to the wheeled chassis. Each connection device comprises a first connector half coupled to the handle assembly and a second connector half coupled to the child carrier assembly. The first connector half may be a female connector and the second connector half may be a male connector. The connection devices may comprise a detent mechanism configured to lock the male connector to the female connector.

[0017] The child carrier assembly may comprise a seat or a bassinet, the child transportation apparatus may comprise a first child carrier assembly coupled to the frame via a first pair of the connection devices and a second child carrier assembly coupled to the frame at a location spaced apart from the first child carrier assembly via a second pair of the connection devices.

[0018] The child transportation apparatus may include a wagon assembly coupleable to the chassis of the frame. The handle assembly may be pivotably coupled to the chassis and pivotable from a first angular position permitting the child transportation apparatus to be pushed as a stroller to a second angular position permitting the child transportation apparatus to be towed as a wagon. The first angular position may be defined by a first angle between the chassis and the handle assembly in the range of 40 to 70 degrees. The second angular position may be defined by a second angle between the chassis and the handle assembly in the range of 120 to 180 degrees.

[0019] The child transportation apparatus may include a basket removably coupleable to the frame via a pair of the connection devices. The child transportation apparatus may include a bag coupleable to the chassis of the frame.

[0020] In another aspect, the invention comprises a sound conduction system mounted within a handlebar of the frame. The sound conduction system comprises a hollow interior space within the handlebar, one or more input apertures into the hollow interior space, and one or more arrays of output apertures spaced apart from the one or more input apertures. The hollow interior space is shaped to conduct sound from the one or more input apertures to the one or more arrays of output apertures. The sound conduction system may comprise a bracket coupled to the handlebar and configured to couple to a personal audio device. The bracket may comprise one or more passages shaped and located to conduct sound from speakers of the personal audio device to the one or more input apertures.

[0021] In another aspect, the invention comprises a bassinet having a stand assembly coupled to a base thereof and configured to support the bassinet in an elevated position above a surface. The stand assembly comprises a pair of pivot joints coupled to the base, a first leg pivotably coupled to the pair of pivot joints and a second leg pivotably coupled to the pair of pivot joints. The first and second legs are pivotable from a first position wherein the first and second legs are generally parallel to the base to a second position wherein an angle between the first and second legs is in the range of 80 to 100 degrees.

[0022] Another aspect of the invention provides a modular child transportation apparatus. The modular child transportation apparatus comprises a frame. The frame comprises a chassis, a plurality of wheels coupled to the chassis, and a handle assembly coupled to the chassis. The handle assembly comprises a left support arm pivotably coupled to a left front portion of the chassis, a right support arm pivotably coupled to a right front portion of the chassis, and a handlebar extending between and coupled to the left and right support arms. The modular child transportation apparatus comprises a child carrier assembly selectively couplable to the frame via a pair of connection devices. Each connection device comprises a first connector half mounted to one of the left and right support arms, and a second connector half mounted to one of the left and right sides of each of the one or more child carrier assemblies.

[0023] In a further aspect, the child carrier assembly may be a seat.

[0024] In a further aspect, the child carrier assembly may be a bassinet. In a further aspect, each connection device includes a detent mechanism coupled to the second connector half and configured to selectively engage with the first connector half to selectively inhibit relative motion between the first and second connector halves.

[0025] In a still further aspect, the detent mechanism comprises a pawl slidably mounted on the second connector half, the pawl configured to selectively insert in a depression provided on the first connector half.

[0026] In a further aspect, the first connector half includes a receptacle configured to receive a portion of the second connector half.

[0027] In a further aspect, the frame comprises a proximal pair of said first connector halves coupled to the handle assembly and a distal pair of said first connector halves coupled to the handle assembly at a distally spaced-apart position from the proximal pair of said first connector halves.

[0028] In a still further aspect, the modular child transportation apparatus comprises a first said child carrier assembly coupled to the proximal pair of said first connector halves and a second said child carrier assembly coupled to the distal pair of said first connector halves.

[0029] In a still further aspect, the modular child transportation apparatus comprises a basket assembly removably couplable to the proximal pair of said first connector halves and the child carrier assembly coupled to the distal pair of said first connector halves.

[0030] Another aspect of the invention provides a child transportation apparatus. The child transportation apparatus comprises a chassis, a plurality of wheels coupled to the chassis, and a handle assembly coupled to the chassis. The handle assembly comprises a left support arm pivotably coupled to a left front portion of the chassis, a right support arm pivotably coupled to a right front portion of the chassis, and a handlebar extending between and coupled to the left and right support arms. The handlebar comprises a hollow interior space, one or more inlet apertures extending into the interior space, a bracket coupled to the handlebar and configured to attach to a personal audio device, the bracket including one or more channels configured to conduct sound from the personal audio device to the one or more inlet apertures, and one or more outlet apertures spaced apart from the one or more inlet apertures and extending into the interior space. The interior space is shaped to conduct sound from the one or more inlet apertures to the one or more outlet apertures.

[0031] In a further aspect, the one or more arrays of the outlet apertures are arranged in one or more rectangular arrays.

[0032] In a further aspect, the one or more arrays of the outlet apertures are arranged in one or more circular arrays.

[0033] In a further aspect, a spacing of the outlet apertures in the one or more arrays is selected to produce a directional sound field around a child carrier coupled to the chassis.

[0034] Another aspect of the invention provides a convertible child transportation apparatus. The convertible child transportation apparatus comprises a frame. The frame comprises a chassis, a plurality of wheels mounted to said chassis, a handle assembly pivotably coupled to said chassis at an end thereof; the handle assembly pivotable from a first angular position defined by a first angle between the chassis and the handle assembly in the range of 45 degrees to 70 degrees to a second angular position defined by a second angle between the chassis and the handle assembly in the range of 120 degrees to 180 degrees, and a brace assembly extending from the chassis, the brace assembly comprising two brace extensions configured to couple to the handle assembly when the handle assembly is in the first angular position. The convertible child transportation apparatus comprises a seat selectively couplable to the handle assembly, and a wagon body selectively couplable to the brace extensions. In a further aspect, the brace extensions each include a brace locking pin, each brace locking pin includes one or more bayonet tabs, and the wagon body includes a pair of bayonet receptacles configured to receive the brace locking pins so as to couple the wagon body to the frame.

[0035] In a further aspect, the handle assembly comprises left and right support tubes pivotably coupled to said chassis, and a handlebar having left and right stanchions telescopically received by said left and right support tubes, respectively.

[0036] In a still further aspect, the handle assembly comprises a cradle member coupled to one of said brace extensions, the cradle member supporting one of the left support tube and the right support tube when the handle assembly is in the first angular position, and a hook-and-latch mechanism coupling the cradle member to said one of the left and right support tubes. The hook-and latch mechanism comprises a latch collar slidably mounted in an internal bore of said one of the left and right support tubes, a hook member mounted to the cradle member and extending into the internal bore, and a latch member mounted to the latch collar and configured to selectively engage the hook member, whereby telescopically retracting the left and right stanchions into the left and right support tubes causes one of said left and right stanchions to slide the latch collar along the internal bore, thereby disengaging the latch member from the hook member and decoupling the one of the left support tube and the right support tube from the cradle member.

[0037] In a still further aspect, the handle assembly comprises a left cradle member supporting the left support tube and a right cradle member supporting the right support tube, a left one of the hook-and-latch mechanism coupling the left cradle member to the left support tube, and a right one of the hook-and-latch mechanism coupling the right cradle member to the right support tube. Another aspect of the invention provides a child transportation apparatus kit. The child transportation apparatus kit comprises a frame comprising a chassis and a handle assembly coupled to the chassis. The chassis comprises two wheel ports being spaced laterally from one another by a spacing distance, two stroller wheel assemblies removably engageable in respective ones of said wheel ports, and a jogger wheel assembly comprising an attachment portion, said attachment portion comprising two engagement members spaced from one another by said spacing distance, said at least two engagement members engageable in respective ones of said wheel ports, and a single jogger wheel centrally disposed in relation to said attachment portion.

[0038] In a further aspect, each stroller wheel assembly comprises a mounting pin engageable in either of said wheel ports, a stroller wheel fork coupled to the mounting pin, and a stroller wheel rotatably supported on the stroller wheel fork.

[0039] In a still further aspect, the stroller wheel fork is configured to swivel or rotate relative to the mounting pin.

[0040] In a still further aspect, the mounting pin is configured to rotate or swivel in the respective front wheel ports.

[0041] In a further aspect, the stroller wheel fork is pivotably coupled to the mounting pin, and the stroller wheel assembly comprises a shock absorber coupled between the mounting pin and the stroller wheel fork, the shock absorber configured to control pivoting motion of the stroller wheel fork relative to the mounting pin.

[0042] In a further aspect, the jogger wheel assembly comprises an arm extending from a central location on said attachment portion, and a jogger wheel fork coupled to an end of the arm. The jogger wheel is rotatably supported on the jogger wheel fork. In a still further aspect, the jogger wheel fork is configured to swivel or rotate relative to the end of the arm.

[0043] In a still further aspect, the end of the arm comprises a locking pin configured to selectively engage with the jogger wheel fork so as to inhibit rotation of the jogger wheel fork relative to the wheel attachment end.

[0044] In a further aspect, the two wheel ports are positioned on a front end of the chassis.

[0045] In a still further aspect, the jogger wheel assembly comprises a latch mechanism attached to the central part of attachment portion, the latch mechanism configured to couple to the front end of the chassis.

[0046] In a still further aspect, the latch mechanism comprises a tongue located to extend behind the front end of the chassis, a flap pivotably coupled the attachment portion and shaped and configured to wrap over the front end of the chassis, and a toggle latch coupled to the tongue and configured to selectively engage with a catch on the flap.

[0047] In a further aspect, a rear end of the chassis includes two rear wheel ports arranged respectively on a left side and a right side of the rear end. Each rear wheel assembly is configured to attach to either of the rear wheel ports.

[0048] In a still further aspect, each rear wheel assembly comprises an attachment shaft configured to be received in either of the rear wheel ports and a rear wheel coupled to the engagement member.

[0049] In a still further aspect, the rear wheel is rotatably coupled to the attachment shaft.

[0050] In a still further aspect, he attachment shaft is configured to rotate relative to the rear wheel port. In a still further aspect, a diameter of the rear wheel is greater than the diameter of the stroller wheel.

[0051] In a still further aspect, the diameter of the rear wheel is greater than the diameter of the jogger wheel.

[0052] The foregoing may cover only some of the aspects of the invention. Other and sometimes more particular aspects of the invention will be appreciated by reference to the following description of at least one preferred mode for carrying out the invention in terms of one or more examples. The following mode(s) for carrying out the invention are not a definition of the invention itself, but are only example(s) that embody the inventive features of the invention.

[0053] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0054] At least one mode for carrying out the invention in terms of one or more examples will be described by reference to the drawings thereof in which:

[0055] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a child transportation frame according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0056] Fig. 2 is a right elevation view of the Fig. 1 child transportation frame;

[0057] Fig. 3 is a front elevation view of the Fig. 1 child transportation frame;

[0058] Fig 4 is a top plan view of the Fig. 1 child transportation frame;

[0059] Fig. 5 is a bottom plan view of the Fig. 1 child transportation frame;

[0060] Fig. 6 is a detail perspective view of a front portion of the Fig. 1 child transportation frame denoted by box 6 of Fig. 1 ;

[0061] Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a brace assembly according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 8 is a detail perspective view of a brace locking pin of the Fig. 7 brace assembly;

[0062] Fig. 9 is a detail perspective view of a right support tube of a handle assembly according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0063] Fig. 10 is a bottom plan view of a chassis of the Fig. 1 child transportation frame;

[0064] Fig. 11 is a right elevation view of the Fig. 10 chassis;

[0065] Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a rear wheel assembly according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0066] Fig. 13 is a front perspective view of a stroller wheel assembly according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0067] Fig. 14 is a rear perspective view of the Fig. 10 stroller wheel assembly;

[0068] Fig. 15 is a detail section view of the Fig. 10 chassis, taken along line 15- 15 of Fig. 10;

[0069] Fig. 16 is a detail section view of the Fig. 10 chassis with the Fig. 12 stroller assembly attached;

[0070] Fig 17 is a perspective view of a jogger wheel assembly according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0071] Fig. 18 is a right elevation view of the Fig. 17 jogger wheel assembly;

[0072] Fig. 19 is a top plan view of the Fig. 17 jogger wheel assembly;

[0073] Fig 20 is a right section view of the Fig. 17 jogger wheel assembly taken along line 20-20 of Fig. 19;

[0074] Fig. 21 is a front detail perspective view of a latch assembly of the Fig. 17 jogger wheel assembly denoted by circle 21 of Fig. 17;

[0075] Fig. 22 is a rear detail perspective view of the Fig. 21 latch assembly; Fig. 23 is a detail perspective view of a front portion of the Fig. 7 chassis with the Fig. 14 jogger wheel assembly attached;

[0076] Fig. 24 is a perspective view of a frame according to an embodiment of the invention with connection devices attached;

[0077] Fig. 24A is a detail perspective view of a connection device according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0078] Fig. 25 is a front perspective view of a male connector of the Fig. 24 connection device;

[0079] Fig. 26 is a rear perspective view of the Fig. 25 male connector;

[0080] Fig. 27 is an end plan view of the Fig. 25 male connector;

[0081] Fig. 28 is a rear perspective view of an embodiment of a female connector of the Fig. 24 connection device;

[0082] Fig. 29 is an end plan view of the Fig. 28 female connector;

[0083] Fig. 30 is a detail section view of the Fig. 1 child transportation frame taken along line 30-30 of Fig. 3;

[0084] Fig. 31 is a rear perspective of another embodiment of a female connector of the Fig. 24 connection device;

[0085] Fig. 32 is a perspective view of a child transportation apparatus with an attached seat according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0086] Fig. 33 is a perspective view of a seat according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0087] Fig. 34 is a right elevation view of the Fig. 33 seat;

[0088] Fig. 35 is a front elevation view of the Fig. 33 seat;

[0089] Fig. 36 is a top plan view of the Fig. 33 seat; Fig. 37 is a detail perspective view of the Fig. 33 seat showing an angular adjustment mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0090] Fig. 38 is a perspective view of a seat frame of the Fig. 33 seat;

[0091] Fig. 39 is a perspective view of a child transportation apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention comprising a bassinet;

[0092] Fig. 39A is a perspective view of a bassinet according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0093] Fig. 40 is a perspective view of a bassinet frame of the Fig. 39 bassinet;

[0094] Fig. 41 is a top plan view of the Fig. 40 bassinet frame;

[0095] Fig. 42 is a detail perspective view of a base of the Fig. 40 bassinet frame;

[0096] Fig. 43 is a bottom view of the Fig. 42 base;

[0097] Fig. 44 is a perspective view of a leg assembly of the Fig. 39 bassinet;

[0098] Fig. 45 is a right elevation view of another embodiment of a child transportation apparatus according to the invention with a pair of seats in a forward facing configuration;

[0099] Fig. 46 is a right elevation view of the Fig. 44 child transportation apparatus with the seats in an opposing facing configuration;

[0100] Fig. 47 is a right elevation view of the Fig. 44 child transportation apparatus with the seats in a rear-facing bassinet configuration;

[0101] Fig. 48 is a right elevation view of another embodiment of a child transportation apparatus according to the invention with a seat and a bassinet in a rear-facing configuration;

[0102] Fig. 49 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a child transportation apparatus according to the invention with a wagon assembly attached; Fig. 50 is a perspective view of a wagon assembly according to an embodiment;

[0103] Fig. 51 is a detail perspective view of a bayonet receptacle of the Fig. 49 wagon assembly;

[0104] Fig. 52 is a rear perspective view of the Fig. 50 bayonet receptacle with a brace locking pin inserted;

[0105] Fig. 53 is a perspective view of the Fig. 48 child transportation apparatus in a towing configuration;

[0106] Fig. 54 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a child transportation apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention with a basket attached;

[0107] Fig. 55 is a perspective view of a basket according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0108] Fig. 56 is a perspective view of a handle according to an embodiment of the invention including a sound conduction system;

[0109] Fig. 57 is a top plan view of a bracket of the Fig. 56 sound conduction system;

[0110] Fig. 58 is a perspective view of the Fig. 57 bracket;

[0111] Fig. 59 is a bottom plan view of the Fig. 56 handle with the Fig. 56 bracket removed;

[0112] Fig. 60 is section view of the Fig. 56 handle taken along line 60-60 of Fig. 4;

[0113] Fig. 61 is a perspective view of a child transportation apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention with a bag attached;

[0114] Fig. 62 is a perspective view of a bag according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 63 is a perspective view of a child transportation frame according to another embodiment of the invention with rails for attaching a bag;

[0115] Fig. 64 is a rear perspective view of a bag according to another embodiment of the invention; and

[0116] Fig. 65 is a front perspective view of the Fig. 64 bag.

[0117] Fig. 66 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a child transportation apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention with a wagon assembly attached.

[0118] Fig. 67 is a bottom view of a handle assembly of the Fig. 66 child transportation apparatus.

[0119] Fig. 68 is a section view of the Fig. 67 handle assembly taken along line 68-68 of Fig. 67.

[0120] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AT LEAST ONE MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION IN TERMS OF EXAMPLE(S)

[0121] Referring to Figs. 1 to 5, there is provided a modular child transportation apparatus 10, namely a stroller in the illustrated embodiment. Stroller 10 comprises a frame 100. Frame 100 comprises a chassis 102. Chassis 102 may be tubular and generally u-shaped as shown. Chassis 102 includes a front end 104 (i.e. the “base” of the u-shape), a rear end 106 (i.e. the “opening” of the u- shape), a left side 108 and a right side 110. A hollow rear shaft 112 extends between left side 108 and right side 110 proximate rear end 106. Rear shaft 112 may provide additional stiffness to chassis 102.

[0122] Frame 100 includes a handle assembly 124 coupled to front end 104 of chassis 102. In some embodiments, handle assembly 124 comprises a left support tube 126 pivotably coupled to front end 104 adjacent left side 108, a right support tube 128 pivotably coupled to front end 104 adjacent right side 110, and a handlebar 130 attached to and extending between left support tube 126 and right support tube 128. In some embodiments, handlebar 130 is received in left support tube 126 and right support tube 128 so as to be telescopically extendable relative to left and right support tubes 126, 128.

[0123] Referring to Figs. 6 to 9, frame 100 includes a brace assembly 132 attached between left and right support tubes 126, 128 and chassis 102 rearwardly of front end 104. Brace assembly 132 comprises a brace axle 134 rotatably coupled to and extending between left side 108 and right side 110. Brace assembly 132 comprises a left brace 136 extending from brace axle 134 and pivotably coupled to left support tube 126, and a right brace 138 extending from brace axle 134 and pivotably coupled to right support tube 128. In the embodiment shown, brace axle 134 is slidably mounted to chassis 102 so as to be movable towards and away from rear shaft 112. Sliding motion of brace axle 134 permits handle assembly 124 to move from a folded position where handle assembly 124 lies flat against chassis 102 to an upright position for operation of child transportation frame 100 by a user.

[0124] In some embodiments, left and right braces 136, 138 terminate in coupling ribs 140, which mesh with a brace attachment bracket 142 disposed on left and right support tubes 126, 128. Coupling ribs 140 and brace attachment bracket 142 include a through hole 144 disposed therein. Through hole 144 receives a brace locking pin 146. Brace locking pin 146 may be removable to allow decoupling of brace assembly 132 from handle assembly 124. In some embodiments, brace locking pin 146 includes bayonet tabs 148 extending inwards from handle assembly 124.

[0125] Referring to Figs. 10 and 11 , left side 108 includes a left rear wheel port 114, which may be generally concentric with rear shaft 112. Right side 110 includes a right rear wheel port 116, which may be generally concentric with rear shaft 112. Referring to Figs. 1 and 12, Frame 100 includes two rear wheel assemblies 118. Each rear wheel assembly 118 comprises an attachment shaft 120 configured to be received in either of left or right rear wheel ports 114, 116, and a rear wheel 122. In some embodiments, attachment shaft 120 is immovably mounted to rear wheel 122 and shaft 120 is configured to be rotatable in left or right rear wheel ports 114, 116. In some embodiments, rear wheel 122 is rotatably coupled to shaft 120, and shaft 120 is configured to be immovable relative to left or right rear wheel ports 114, 116. Referring back to Fig. 7, in some embodiments, a friction brake 123 is housed in rear shaft 112 and is actuatable to inhibit rotation of rear wheel assemblies 118.

[0126] Referring back to Fig. 10, frame 100 includes a left front wheel port 150 disposed on front end 104 proximate left side 108, and a right front wheel port 152 disposed on front end 104 proximate right side 110. Front wheel ports 150, 152 are configured to receive different replaceable front wheel assemblies, embodiments of which are discussed in further detail below.

[0127] Referring to Figs. 1 and 13 to 16, in some embodiments front wheel ports 150, 152 each receive one of a pair of stroller wheel assemblies 154. Stroller wheel assembly 154 includes a mounting pin 156 configured to be received in either of left front wheel port 150 and right front wheel port 152. Mounting pin 156 is rotatable in front wheel ports 150, 152 so as to permit stroller wheel assembly 154 to swivel or pivot relative to chassis 102. Stroller wheel assembly 154 includes a stroller fork 158 coupled to mounting pin 156 and extending downwardly therefrom. Stroller fork 158 rotatably supports a stroller wheel 160. Stroller fork 158 is pivotably coupled to mounting pin 156, and a shock absorber 162 (depicted as a coil spring in the example embodiment) is coupled between fork 158 and mounting pin 156.

[0128] Referring to Figs. 17 to 23, in some embodiments front wheel ports 150, 152 are configured to receive a jogger wheel assembly 164. Jogger wheel assembly 164 comprises an attachment portion comprising bar 166. A left mounting pin 168 and a spaced apart right mounting pin 170 extend upwardly from attachment portion 166 and are shaped and located such that left mounting pin 168 and right mounting pin 170 act as engagement members to be received in left front wheel port 150 and right front wheel port 152, respectively. Jogger wheel assembly 164 includes a wheel arm 172 extending forwardly from a central part of attachment portion 166. Wheel arm 172 terminates in a wheel attachment end 174. A jogger wheel fork 176 depends downwardly from wheel attachment end 174. Jogger wheel fork 176 rotatably supports a single jogger wheel 178. Jogger wheel fork 176 is rotatable relative to wheel attachment end 174, which permits jogger wheel 178 to pivot or swivel relative to wheel arm 172 and chassis 102. Wheel attachment end 174 includes a locking pin 180 that is selectively engageable with jogger wheel fork 176, so as to temporarily and reversibly prevent swiveling or pivoting of jogger wheel 178 relative to wheel arm 172.

[0129] Referring in particular to Figs. 21 to 23, attachment bar 166 includes an upwardly extending latch mechanism 182 located and configured to wrap around front end 104 and further secure jogger wheel assembly 164 to chassis 102. In some embodiments, latch mechanism 182 comprises an upwardly extending tongue 184 shaped and located to extend up behind front end 104. Latch mechanism 182 includes a flap 186 pivotably connected to wheel arm 172 forwardly of attachment bar 166. Flap 186 includes a curved end 188 shaped and located to snugly extend over the top of front end 102. Latch mechanism 182 includes a toggle latch 190 with mating components thereof disposed on one of tongue 184 and flap 186. For example, curved end 188 may be shaped to form a catch 192 of toggle latch 190 and a loop and lever arm 194 of toggle latch 190 are mounted to tongue 184 as shown. A diameter of jogger wheel 178 may be greater than a diameter of stroller wheel 160. A diameter of rear wheel 122 may be greater than the diameter of stroller wheel 160 and / or greater than the diameter of jogger wheel 178.

[0130] Referring to Figs. 24 to 30, modular child transportation apparatus 10 comprises two or more connection devices 200. Each connection device 200 comprises a first connector half and a second connector half, which in the embodiments shown comprise a female connector 202 and a male connector 204. In the embodiments shown, a pair of female connectors 202 are supported on handle assembly 124 of child transportation frame 100, that is, a first female connector 202A is attached to left support tube 126, and a second female connector 202B is attached to right support tube 128 (as shown in Fig. 1 , for example). Male connectors 204 will typically be disposed on other components of modular child transportation apparatus 10, such as a seat or bassinet, described in further detail below. Of course, the skilled person will recognize that the positions of female connectors 202 and male connectors 204 with respect to child transportation frame 100 and the modular components supported thereon can be reversed without departing from the scope of the present technology.

[0131] Referring in particular to Figs. 28 and 29, female connector 202 comprises a housing 206. Housing 206 includes a through bore 208 configured to receive left support tube 126 therethrough. Housing 206 includes a channel 210 comprising an open end 212 and a semicircular closed end 214. Sidewalls 216 of channel 210 include inwardly projecting flanges 218. Channel 210 includes a locating rib 220 projecting outwardly from housing 206. Rib 220 may be offset towards one of sidewalls 216 as shown. Housing 206 includes a depression 222 formed in channel 210 near open end 212.

[0132] Referring in particular to Figs. 25 to 27, male connector 204 comprises an elongate body 224 having a semicircular end 226. Each side 228 of elongate body 224 includes a channel 230 extending from semicircular end 226. Channels 230 and semicircular end 226 are shaped and located so that male connector 204 is received in female connector 202 with flanges 218 of female connector 202 inserted in channels 230 of male connector 204 and semicircular end 226 of male connector 204 abutting semicircular end closed end 214 of channel 210 of female connector 202. Male connector 204 includes one or more locating channels 232 formed therein from semicircular end 226. Locating channels 232 include a flared opening 234 at semicircular end 226. Locating channels 232 are configured to receive rib 220 of female connector 202. A plurality of channels 232 may be provided so that, if rib 220 is offset as described above, male connector 204 may be received regardless of relative orientation between female connector 202 and male connector 204.

[0133] Connection device 200 includes a detent mechanism 236 which is selectively engageable to lock female connector 202 and male connector 204 together. In the embodiments shown detent mechanism 236 is attached to male connector 204. Detent mechanism 236 includes a pawl body 238 received in elongate body 224, a push button 240 extending from pawl body 236 and a pawl 242 disposed on pawl body 236 and spaced apart from push button 238. Pawl body 238 may be slidably received in elongate body 224 and coupled to body 224 with springs (not shown). Pawl 242 is configured to insert into depression 222 of female connector 202 to provide locking engagement between female connector 202 and male connector 204. Male connector 204 may include a gear ring 245 that interfaces with an angular adjustment mechanism (described in further detail below) mounted to a seat to allow the male connector 204 to be selectively oriented relative to the seat.

[0134] Referring in particular to Fig. 30, right support tube 128 includes a plurality of indentations 244 spaced apart along a length thereof. Housing 206 of female connector 202 includes an adjustment mechanism 246 configured to engage with indentations 244 to lock female connector 202 along left support tube 126 or right support tube 128. Adjustment mechanism 246 comprises a button body 248 slidably retained in housing 206. Button body 248 includes a camming surface 250 divided into a plateau section 252 and a ramp section 254. Adjustment mechanism 246 includes a dowel 256 that is retained in housing 206 to ride camming surface 250. Button body 248 is slidably movable from a first position, where dowel 256 is pushed upwards into one of said indentations 244 by plateau section 252 of camming surface 250, to a second position, where dowel 256 moves away and out of said indentation 244 on ramp section 254. In the first position, female connector 202 is held in position on left or right support tube 126, 128 by engagement between indentation 242 and dowel 256. In the second position, dowel 256 is not engaged with indentation 244 and housing 206 of female connector 202 may be moved along left or right support tube 126, 128.

[0135] Fig. 31 shows a second example embodiment of a female connector 202.1. Identical parts have the same numbering as that of female connector 202 but with 0.1 incrementation. Female connector 202.1 is configured to attach to left or right support tube 126, 128 between pivoting couplings of left or right support tube 126, 128 to chassis 102 and brace assembly 132 (as shown for example in Fig. 45). Female connector 202.1 comprises a housing 206.1. Housing 206.1 comprises a curved bracket 258 shaped to wrap over left or right support tube 126, 128. Housing 206.1 includes a closing flap 260 hingedly connected to curved bracket 258 and configured to wrap under left or right support tube 126,128. Closing flap 260 locks to housing 206.1 via a latch 262. Curved bracket 258 and closing flap 260 together define a through bore 208.1 that receives therethrough left or right support tube 126, 128. Housing 206.1 includes an angled arm 264 that extends from curved bracket 258. A channel 210.1 for receiving male connector 204 is formed in angled arm 264.

[0136] Referring to Figs. 32 to 38, stroller 10 may include a seat 300 coupled to frame 100 via a pair of connection devices 200 (only one of which is visible in Figs. 32 and 33). Seat 300 comprises a seat frame 302 and a seat body 304 suspended from seat frame 302. seat body 304 comprises a seat back portion 306, a leg portion 308, and a canopy portion 310. Leg portion 308 is coupled to a lower portion 312 of seat frame 302. Lower portion 312 may be pivotably coupled to seat frame 302 to permit folding of seat 300. Seat 300 may include a transverse canopy frame 314 that is pivotably coupled to seat frame 302. Canopy portion 310 is coupled to canopy frame 314. Pivoting of canopy frame 314 allows canopy portion 310 to be folded into and out of deployment to provide cover over seat back portion 306.

[0137] Seat frame 302 includes a pair of mounting brackets 316. A transverse guard 318 extends between mounting brackets 316. Male connectors 204 are coupled to mounting brackets 316. In some embodiments, male connectors 204 are coupled to mounting brackets 316 via an angular adjustment mechanism 320. Angular adjustment mechanism 320 permits selective setting of an angle between seat frame 302 and male connector 204, which in turn adjusts the angle of seat 300 relative to handlebar assembly 124. For example, angular adjustment mechanism 320 may be set so that the angle between male connectors 204 and seat frame is approximately 90 degrees, so that seat back portion 306 faces upward and a child in seat 300 is lying on their back (i.e. seat 300 acts as a bassinet).

[0138] Because male connectors 204 may be interchangeably inserted into any female connector 202, seat 300 may be attached to child transportation frame 100 in either a forward-facing direction, where transverse guard 318 points towards front end 104 as shown, or a rear-facing direction, where transverse guard 318 points toward handlebar 130 (see for example Fig. 46).

[0139] Referring to Figs. 39 to 44, stroller 10 may include a bassinet 400 coupled to frame 100 via a pair of connection devices 200. Bassinet 400 comprises a bassinet frame 402. Bassinet frame 402 may be generally rectangular as shown and includes a head end 404 and a foot end 406. Bassinet frame 402 includes a pair of mounting brackets 408. Each mounting bracket 408 includes a male connector 204. A bassinet handle 410 extends transversely between mounting brackets 410. Bassinet frame 402 includes a first hanger bar 412 pivotably coupled to bassinet frame 402 between mounting brackets 408 and head end 404 and a second hanger bar 414 pivotably coupled to bassinet frame 402 between mounting brackets 408 and foot end 406.

[0140] Bassinet 400 includes a bassinet base 416 coupled to bassinet frame 402 via hanger bars 412, 414. Bassinet base 416 includes an upper surface 418 and a lower surface 420. A plurality of hooks 422 are disposed on upper surface 418. Hooks 422 are each positioned and configured to receive one of first hanger bar 412 and second hanger bar 414, so that bassinet base 416 is suspended from bassinet frame 402.

[0141] Bassinet 400 includes a bassinet sidewall 424 extending around bassinet frame 402 and between bassinet frame 402 and bassinet base 416. Bassinet sidewall 424 is made from a soft flexible material (for example, fabrics). By detaching hanger bars 412, 414 from hooks 422 and pivoting hanger bars 412, 414 towards bassinet frame 402, bassinet base 416 may be moved towards bassinet frame 402 so as to collapse bassinet sidewall 424 and flatten bassinet 400, for example for storage.

[0142] Because male connectors 204 may be interchangeably inserted into any female connector 202, bassinet 400 may be attached to child transportation frame 100 in either a forward-facing direction, where foot end 406 points towards front end 104, or a rear-facing direction, where foot end 406 points toward handlebar 130.

[0143] Referring in particular to Figs. 43 to 44, in some embodiments bassinet 400 includes a stand assembly 426 coupled to bassinet base 418. Stand assembly 426 comprises left and right pivot joints 428, 430 mounted to left and right sides of bassinet base 418, respectively. Stand assembly 426 includes a first leg 432 coupled to pivot joints 428, 430. First leg 432 extends in horizontal directions from pivot joints 428, 430 towards head end 404 of bassinet 400. Stand assembly 428 includes a second leg 434 coupled to pivot joints 428, 430. Second leg 434 extends in horizontal directions from pivot joints 428, 430 towards foot end 406 of bassinet 400. Legs 432, 434 may be generally u-shaped as shown. Legs 432, 434 are able to pivot on pivot joints 428, 430 from a first position wherein legs 432, 434 are generally horizontal and parallel to bassinet base 416 to a second position wherein legs 432, 434 are angled relative to bassinet base 416 and extend both horizontally and vertically from pivot joints 428, 430. For example, each of first and second legs 432, 434 may be pivoted to a 45 degree angle relative to bassinet base 416. In the second position, legs 432, 434 support bassinet 400 in an elevated position above a surface (e.g. the ground).

[0144] In some embodiments, legs 432, 434 each include a curved surface 435. When legs 432, 434 are in the first position, bassinet 400 is supported on a surface on curved surfaces 435. Accordingly, bassinet 400 is rockable on the surface.

[0145] Stand assembly 426 includes a first brace member 436 coupled to bassinet base 416 and to first leg 432. First brace member 436 comprises a transverse portion 438 and spaced apart extension portions 440 extending generally perpendicularly to transverse portion 440. Base 418 includes a transversely- opening first retaining slot 442, and transverse portion 438 extends through and is retained in first retaining slot 442. Extension portions 440 are pivotably coupled to first leg 432. Similarly, stand assembly 428 includes a second brace member 444 coupled to bassinet base 416 and to second leg 432. Second brace member 444 comprises a transverse portion 446 and spaced apart extension portions 448 extending generally perpendicularly to transverse portion 448. Base 418 includes a transversely-opening second retaining slot 450 spaced apart from first retaining slot 442 towards foot end 406 of bassinet 400, and transverse portion 446 extends through and is retained in second retaining slot 450. Extension portions 448 are pivotably coupled to second leg 436. Additionally, ends of extension portions 440, 448 are pivotably coupled together. When legs 432, 434 are pivoted to the second, angled position, brace members 436, 444 pivot and slide relative to base 416 to provide a sub-linkage that braces and supports legs 432, 434 in the second, angled position as shown.

[0146] Bassinet frame 402 includes a canopy frame member 452 extending transversely across bassinet frame 402 and pivotably coupled thereto. Bassinet 400 includes a bassinet canopy 454 attached to and extending between canopy frame member 452 and head end 404 of bassinet frame 402 (best shown in Fig. 48). Canopy frame member 452 may be pivoted from a position generally parallel to bassinet frame 402 where bassinet canopy 454 is collapsed to a position generally perpendicular to bassinet frame 402 where bassinet canopy 454 is deployed to provide cover and shade for head end 404. In some embodiments, canopy portion 310 of seat 300 may be detached from seat 300 and attached to bassinet frame 402 to be used as bassinet canopy 454.

[0147] Referring to Figs. 56 to 60, in some embodiments handlebar 130 includes a sound conduction system 500. Sound system 500 comprises a hollow interior space 502 of handlebar 130, an audio device mounting bracket 504 coupled to handle bar 130 and one or more input apertures 506 extending from audio bracket 504 through handlebar 130 to interior space 502. Audio bracket 504 is configured to selectively attach to a personal audio device 50, for example a smartphone, an MP3 player, and the like. Personal audio device 50 comprises one or more speakers 52 disposed on or proximate to a bottom edge 54 of personal audio device 50. In some embodiments, personal audio device 50 includes a rear-facing camera 56 spaced apart from bottom edge 54.

[0148] Audio bracket 504 includes a slot 508 that receives bottom edge 54 of personal audio device 50. Bracket 504 includes one or more passages 510 that conduct sound from speakers 52 to apertures 506. Sound system 500 includes one or more output apertures 512 spaced apart from mount bracket and generally positioned to transmit sound to a passenger in transportation apparatus 100. In some embodiments, the one or more output apertures comprises a left plurality of output apertures 512A and a right plurality of output apertures 512B. Output apertures 512A, 512B may be arranged in an array as shown. Interior space 502 is shaped to conduct sound received from speakers 52 through input apertures 506 to output apertures 512. Surprisingly, it has been found that output aperture arrays 512A, 512B direct the sound to the passenger of transportation apparatus 100 such that the sound is significantly less audible in the surroundings of transportation apparatus 100 as compared to between left and right support tubes 126, 128. The inventors speculate that a spacing of output apertures 512 in output aperture arrays 512A, 512B causes constructive and destructive interference between wavefronts of sound leaving output apertures 512 according to the Huygens-Fresnel principle as applied to diffraction. Accordingly, the overall sound field produced at output apertures 512 tends to spread less than for a single aperture.

[0149] In some embodiments, bracket 504 and slot 508 are shaped and positioned relative to handlebar 130 so as to direct rear-facing camera 56 towards seat 300 and / or bassinet 400. If seat 300 or bassinet 400 are attached in the rear-facing direction, rear-facing camera 56 is aimed to capture photographs or video of a passenger in the seat 300 or bassinet 400.

[0150] Referring to Figs. 49 to 53, stroller 10 may include a wagon assembly 600 coupled to frame 100 via brace assembly 132. Wagon assembly 600 comprises a wagon rim frame 602 and a wagon body 604 depending downwardly from wagon rim frame 602. Wagon body 604 comprises a wagon sidewall 606 coupled to wagon rim frame 602 and a wagon base 608 coupled to wagon sidewall 606 and spaced apart from wagon rim frame 602. Wagon sidewall 606 and wagon body base 608 together define a cargo space 610.

[0151] Wagon assembly 600 includes a left bayonet receptacle 612 coupled to wagon rim frame 602 and a right bayonet receptacle 614 coupled to wagon rim frame 602 and spaced apart from left bayonet receptacle 612. Left and right bayonet receptacles 612, 614 each receive bayonet tabs 148 such that wagon assembly 600 is coupled to brace assembly 132 via brace locking pins 146. Brace axle 134 may also supports wagon body base 608.

[0152] Referring in particular to Figs. 49 and 53, child transportation apparatus 10 is convertible from a stroller configuration, where a user may push child transportation apparatus 10, to a wagon or towing configuration by decoupling handle assembly 124 from brace assembly 132 and pivoting handle assembly 124 forward and away from chassis 102 (shown in Fig. 53). Wagon assembly 600 is then coupled to brace assembly 132. In the stroller configuration, seat 300 and / or bassinet 400 can be coupled to handlebar assembly 124, and items may be stored in cargo space 610 below seat 300 and / or bassinet 400. In the wagon configuration, more and larger items can be stored in cargo space 610 and child transportation apparatus 10 may be pulled behind a user.

[0153] Referring to Figs. 54 and 55, stroller 10 may include a basket 700 coupled to frame 100 via a pair of connection devices 200. Basket 700 comprises a basket rim frame 702 and a basket body 704 depending from basket rim frame 702. In some embodiments, basket rim frame 702 includes male connectors 204 on opposing sides thereof. In some embodiments, basket rim frame 702 includes a basket handle 706 pivotably coupled to and extending transversely across basket rim frame 702. In some embodiments, basket 700 includes a basket canopy 708 coupled to and extending between basket handle 706 and basket rim frame 702. Basket 700 may be used to transport items or small pets. Referring to Figs. 61 to 63, Child transportation apparatus / stroller 10 may include a bag 800. Bag 800 comprises a bag body 802. In some embodiments, bag 800 includes a pair of eyelets 804 attached to bag body 802. Eyelets 804 are configured to receive brace locking pins 146 so that bag 800 is suspended from brace assembly 132. In some embodiments bag 800 includes cantilever rails 806 attached to handle assembly 124 and sleeves 812 disposed on bag body 802. Rails 806 insert into sleeves 812 so that bag 800 is suspended from rails 806. In some embodiments, bag 800 includes handle straps 808 attached to bag body 802. In some embodiments, bag 800 includes backpack straps 810 attached to bag body 802.

[0154] Referring to Figs. 45 to 48, child transportation apparatus / stroller 10 may be supplied as a kit comprising child transportation frame 100, a pair of stroller wheel assemblies 148 and / or jogger wheel assembly 158, and one or more of seat 300, bassinet 400, wagon assembly 600, basket assembly 700, and bag 800. Each component may be selectively coupled to child transportation frame 100 to accomplish a different task.

[0155] For example, child transportation apparatus / stroller 10 may initially be provided in a first configuration comprising child transportation frame 100, and stroller wheel assemblies 148 and bassinet 400 coupled thereto. The first configuration of child transportation apparatus may be suitable for transporting a newborn or infant. As the child ages and grows, child transportation apparatus 10 may then be provided in a second configuration wherein bassinet 400 is uncoupled from child transportation frame 100 and seat 300 is coupled to child transportation frame 100. As the child grows further and is able to walk further on their own and / or utilize other transportation (e.g. bicycles), child transportation apparatus 10 may be provided with wagon assembly 600 coupled to child transportation frame 100, and used in either the stroller configuration (as shown in Fig. 49), or converted to the wagon configuration by uncoupling seat 300 from child transportation frame 100, and pivoting handle assembly 124 forward and away from chassis 102 (as shown in Fig. 53).

[0156] Child transportation apparatus / stroller 10 may be provided with multiple pairs of connection devices 200. For example, a first pair of female connectors 202B (which may be female connectors 202.1 as shown) may be attached to handle assembly 124 near chassis 102, and a second pair of female connectors 202A may be attached to handle assembly 124 at a position spaced apart from first pair of female connectors 202A towards handlebar 130. In some embodiments, child transportation apparatus 10 may be provided with a first seat 300B coupled to first pair of female connectors 202A and a second seat 300A coupled to second pair of female connectors 202B. seats 300A, 300B may be attached in the rear-facing direction as shown. In some embodiments, child transportation apparatus 10 may be provided with basket assembly 700 coupled to first pair of female connectors 202A and bassinet 400 coupled to second pair of female connectors 202B. Child transportation apparatus 10 may be provided in a combination where wagon assembly 600 is coupled thereto with seat 300 or bassinet 400. The skilled person will recognize that other combinations and permutations of seat 300, bassinet 400, wagon assembly 600, and basket assembly 700 are possible without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0157] Figs. 65 to 68 show another embodiment of child transportation apparatus / stroller 10 comprising frame 100 and wagon assembly 600. Wagon assembly 600 in this embodiment comprises a rear support arm 616 pivotably coupled to wagon rim frame 602. Rear support arm 616 includes at an end thereof a c-clip 618 configured to couple to, and wrap partially around, rear shaft 112. Rear support arm 616 may assist in providing additional rigidity to wagon assembly 600.

[0158] Frame 100 includes a fabric base 196 coupled to and extending between rear shaft 112 and front end 104 of chassis 102. Fabric base 196 may provide additional support for wagon assembly 600 and / or bag 800 (not shown in Figures 65 to 68), if bag 800 is included with child transportation apparatus / stroller 10. Fabric base 196 may also assist in keeping wagon assembly 600 clean by blocking dirt and liquid from spraying up from underneath frame 100.

[0159] Frame 100 comprises a handle assembly 900 according to another embodiment of the invention. Handle assembly 900 comprises a left support tube 926 and a right support tube 928 pivotably coupled to front end 104 of chassis 102. Handle assembly 900 includes a handlebar 930 coupled to left support tube 926 and right support tube 928. Handlebar 930 includes a left stanchion 932 telescopically received in left support tube 926, a right stanchion 934 telescopically received in right support tube 928, and a handle cross member 936 extending between and connecting left stanchion 932 and right stanchion 934.

[0160] Handle assembly 900 includes a left cradle member 938 pivotably coupled to left support tube 926 and pivotably coupled to front end 104 of chassis 102. Left cradle member 938 includes locking bracket 142 which interfaces with coupling ribs 140 on left brace 136. When handle assembly 900 is in the stroller configuration (shown in Fig. 65), left support tube 926 rests against left cradle member 938. Similarly, handle assembly 900 includes a right cradle member 940 pivotably coupled to right support tube 928 and pivotably coupled to front end 104 of chassis 102. Right cradle member 940 includes locking bracket 142 which interfaces with coupling ribs 140 on right brace 138. When handle assembly 900 is in the stroller configuration (shown in Fig. 65), right support tube 928 rests against right cradle member 940.

[0161] Referring in particular to Figs. 67 and 68, left support tube 926 may be selectively attachable to left cradle member 938 with an internal hook-and-latch mechanism 942. Left support tube 928 comprises an internal bore 944 in which left support tube 926 is received. Hook-and-latch mechanism 942 comprises a latch collar 946 slidably mounted in internal bore 944. Hook-and-latch mechanism 942 includes a hook member 948 mounted on left cradle member 938 that extends into internal bore 944 when left support tube 928 is resting against left cradle member 938 (i.e. when handle assembly 900 is in the stroller configuration). Latch collar 946 includes a latch member 950 which engages with hook member 948.

[0162] To convert handle assembly 900 from the stroller configuration to a wagon configuration (wherein handle assembly 900 is pivotable away from cradle members 940), handlebar 930 is pushed in a direction 952 aligned with left support tube 926 so that left and right stanchions 932, 934 telescopically retract into left and right support tubes 926, 928, respectively. Further pushing of handlebar 930 in direction 952 engages left stanchion 932 with latch collar 946 in internal bore 944, thereby causing latch collar 946 to slide in direction 952 and disengaging latch member 950 from hook member 948. Left support tube 926 can then be pivoted away from left cradle member 938 (which remains in place due to engagement with left brace 136) to move handle assembly 900 to the wagon configuration.

[0163] In some embodiments, hook-and-latch mechanism 142 instead couples right support tube 928 to right cradle member 940. That is, hook member 948 is mounted on right cradle member 940 and latch collar 946 and latch member 950 are slidingly mounted in an internal bore of right support tube 928.

[0164] In some embodiments right support tube 928 is likewise selectively attachable to right cradle member 940 with a second internal hook-and-latch mechanism (not shown), which is substantially identical to hook-and-latch mechanism 942. pushing handlebar 930 in direction 952 will thereby disengage both hook-and- latch mechanisms.

[0165] Handle assembly 900 may include sound system 500.

[0166] In the foregoing description, exemplary modes for carrying out the invention in terms of examples have been described. However, the scope of the claims should not be limited by those examples, but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole. The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.

Claims

CLAIMSWHAT IS CLAIMED IS:1 . A modular child transportation apparatus comprising: a frame comprising: a chassis; a plurality of wheels coupled to the chassis; a handle assembly coupled to the chassis, the handle assembly comprising: a left support arm pivotably coupled to a left front portion of the chassis; a right support arm pivotably coupled to a right front portion of the chassis; and a handlebar extending between and coupled to the left and right support arms; and a child carrier assembly selectively couplable to the frame via a pair of connection devices, each connection device comprising: a first connector half mounted to one of the left and right support arms; and a second connector half mounted to one of the left and right sides of each of the one or more child carrier assemblies.

2. A modular child transportation apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the child carrier assembly is a seat.

3. A modular child transportation apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the child carrier assembly is a bassinet.

4. A modular child transportation apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein each connection device includes a detent mechanism coupled to the second connector half and configured to selectively engage with the first connector half to selectively inhibit relative motion between the first and second connector halves.

5. A modular child transportation apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the detent mechanism comprises a pawl slidably mounted on the second connector half, the pawl configured to selectively insert in a depression provided on the first connector half.

6. A modular child transportation apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first connector half includes a receptacle configured to receive a portion of the second connector half.

7. A modular child transportation apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the frame comprises a proximal pair of said first connector halves coupled to the handle assembly and a distal pair of said first connector halves coupled to the handle assembly at a distally spacedapart position from the proximal pair of said first connector halves.

8. A modular child transportation apparatus according to claim 7, comprising a first said child carrier assembly coupled to the proximal pair of said first connector halves and a second said child carrier assembly coupled to the distal pair of said first connector halves.

9. A modular child transportation apparatus according to claim 7, comprising a basket assembly removably couplable to the proximal pair of said first connector halves and the child carrier assembly coupled to the distal pair of said first connector halves.

10. A child transportation apparatus comprising: a chassis; a plurality of wheels coupled to the chassis;a handle assembly coupled to the chassis, the handle assembly comprising: a left support arm pivotably coupled to a left front portion of the chassis; a right support arm pivotably coupled to a right front portion of the chassis; and a handlebar extending between and coupled to the left and right support arms, the handlebar comprising: a hollow interior space; one or more inlet apertures extending into the interior space; a bracket coupled to the handlebar and configured to attach to a personal audio device, the bracket including one or more channels configured to conduct sound from the personal audio device to the one or more inlet apertures; and one or more outlet apertures spaced apart from the one or more inlet apertures and extending into the interior space; wherein the interior space is shaped to conduct sound from the one or more inlet apertures to the one or more outlet apertures.

11. A child transportation apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the one or more arrays of the outlet apertures are arranged in one or more rectangular arrays.

12. A child transportation apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the one or more arrays of the outlet apertures are arranged in one or more circular arrays.

13. A child transportation apparatus according to any one claims 10 to 12, wherein a spacing of the outlet apertures in the one or more arrays is selected to produce a directional sound field around a child carrier coupled to the chassis.

14. A convertible child transportation apparatus comprising: a frame comprising: a chassis; a plurality of wheels mounted to said chassis; a handle assembly pivotably coupled to said chassis at an end thereof, the handle assembly pivotable from a first angular position defined by a first angle between the chassis and the handle assembly in the range of 45 degrees to 70 degrees to a second angular position defined by a second angle between the chassis and the handle assembly in the range of 120 degrees to 180 degrees; and a brace assembly extending from the chassis, the brace assembly comprising two brace extensions configured to couple to the handle assembly when the handle assembly is in the first angular position; a seat selectively couplable to the handle assembly; and a wagon body selectively couplable to the brace extensions.

15. A convertible child transportation apparatus according to claim 14, wherein: the brace extensions each includes a brace locking pin, each brace locking pin including one or more bayonet tabs; and the wagon body includes a pair of bayonet receptacles configured to receive the brace locking pins so as to couple the wagon body to the frame.

16. A convertible child transportation apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the handle assembly comprises:Left and right support tubes pivotably coupled to said chassis;a handlebar having left and right stanchions telescopically received by said left and right support tubes, respectively.

17. A convertible child transportation apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the handle assembly comprises a cradle member coupled to one of said brace extensions, the cradle member supporting one of the left support tube and the right support tube when the handle assembly is in the first angular position; and a hook-and-latch mechanism coupling the cradle member to said one of the left and right support tubes, the hook-and latch mechanism comprising: a latch collar slidably mounted in an internal bore of said one of the left and right support tubes; a hook member mounted to the cradle member and extending into the internal bore; and a latch member mounted to the latch collar and configured to selectively engage the hook member, whereby telescopically retracting the left and right stanchions into the left and right support tubes causes one of said left and right stanchions to slide the latch collar along the internal bore, thereby disengaging the latch member from the hook member and decoupling the one of the left support tube and the right support tube from the cradle member.

18. A convertible child transportation apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the handle assembly comprises a left cradle member supporting the left support tube and a right cradle member supporting the right support tube, a left one of the hook-and-latch mechanism coupling the left cradle member to the left support tube, and a right one of the hook-and-latch mechanism coupling the right cradle member to the right support tube.

19. A child transportation apparatus kit comprising: a frame comprising a chassis and a handle assembly coupled to the chassis, the chassis comprising: two wheel ports being spaced laterally from one another by a spacing distance;two stroller wheel assemblies removably engageable in respective ones of said wheel ports; and a jogger wheel assembly comprising: an attachment portion; said attachment portion comprising two engagement members spaced from one another by said spacing distance, said at least two engagement members engageable in respective ones of said wheel ports; and a single jogger wheel centrally disposed in relation to said attachment portion.

20. A kit according to claim 19, wherein each stroller wheel assembly comprises: a mounting pin engageable in either of said wheel ports; a stroller wheel fork coupled to the mounting pin; and a stroller wheel rotatably supported on the stroller wheel fork.21 . A kit according to claim 20, wherein the stroller wheel fork is configured to swivel or rotate relative to the mounting pin.

22. A kit according to claim 20, wherein the mounting pin is configured to rotate or swivel in the respective front wheel ports.

23. A kit according to any one of claims 20 to 22, wherein: the stroller wheel fork is pivotably coupled to the mounting pin; and the stroller wheel assembly comprises a shock absorber coupled between the mounting pin and the stroller wheel fork, the shock absorber configured to control pivoting motion of the stroller wheel fork relative to the mounting pin;24. A kit according to any one of claims 19 to 23, wherein the jogger wheel assembly comprises:an arm extending from a central location on said attachment portion; a jogger wheel fork coupled to an end of the arm; and wherein the jogger wheel is rotatably supported on the jogger wheel fork.

25. A kit according to claim 24, wherein the jogger wheel fork is configured to swivel or rotate relative to the end of the arm.

26. A kit according to claim 25, wherein the end of the arm comprises a locking pin configured to selectively engage with the jogger wheel fork so as to inhibit rotation of the jogger wheel fork relative to the wheel attachment end.

27. A kit according to any one of claims 19 to 26, wherein the two wheel ports are positioned on a front end of the chassis.

28. A kit according to claim 27, wherein the jogger wheel assembly comprises a latch mechanism attached to the central part of attachment portion, the latch mechanism configured to couple to the front end of the chassis.

29. A kit according to claim 28, wherein the latch mechanism comprises: a tongue located to extend behind the front end of the chassis; a flap pivotably coupled the attachment portion and shaped and configured to wrap over the front end of the chassis; and a toggle latch coupled to the tongue and configured to selectively engage with a catch on the flap.

30. A kit according to any one of claims 19 to 29, wherein: a rear end of the chassis includes two rear wheel ports arranged respectively on a left side and a right side of the rear end; and each rear wheel assembly is configured to attach to either of the rear wheel ports.31 . A kit according to claim 30, wherein each rear wheel assembly comprises an attachment shaft configured to be received in either of the rear wheel ports and a rear wheel coupled to the engagement member.

32. A kit according to claim 31 , wherein the rear wheel is rotatably coupled to the attachment shaft.

33. A kit according to claim 32, wherein the attachment shaft is configured to rotate relative to the rear wheel port.

34. A kit according to any one of claims 31 to 33, wherein a diameter of the rear wheel is greater than the diameter of the stroller wheel.

35. A kit according to claim 34 wherein the diameter of the rear wheel is greater than the diameter of the jogger wheel.

Images