Collapsible wagon with swivel wheels

Abstract

The present disclosure is directed towards a collapsible wagon with wheel configurations that can swivel and be fixed to control operation and movement of the wagon.

Description

Attorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000 (04840079.00026)COLLAPSIBLE WAGON WITH SWIVEL WHEELSTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a wagon for a child, pet or objects, such as gear and the like.BACKGROUND

[0002] A typical wagon for children (and / or pets, gear, etc.) may be difficult to turn and navigate, particularly in tight areas. A wagon may also be cumbersome to fold and transport. A wagon may only have one mode of use, for example with built-in seats or a flat bottom surface. Some wagons have a dedicated pull or push handle. Some have a handle that rotates to create push and pull modes. Others have multiple models which designate a pull or push primary use. Wagons, however, typically only have two wheels that can turn. Given the large size, these wagons have a large turn radius that renders them difficult to use in some settings (indoors, shopping, crowded areas). Wagons are most easily maneuverable when the swiveling wheels are on the leading (forward) end of the wagon when in motion, which changes depending on whether a side is being pushed or pulled.SUMMARY

[0003] An embodiment of the present disclosure is a wagon. The wagon includes a frame having a front end and rear end opposite the front end along a longitudinal axis. The wagon also includes a front wheel configured to switch between a front fixed mode where the front wheel is fixed in a front vertical axis that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and aligned to roll in a horizontal direction substantially along the longitudinal axis, and a front swivel mode where the front wheel being at least partially rotatable about the front vertical axis. The wagon has a rear wheel configured to switch between a rear fixed mode where the rear wheel is fixed in a rear vertical axis that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and aligned to roll in the horizontal direction substantially along the longitudinal axis, and a rear swivel mode where the rear wheel is at least partially rotatable about the rear vertical axis.

[0004] In the embodiment above, the wagon may include an actuator configured to transition the rear wheel between the rear fixed mode and the rear swivel mode.Attorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000 (04840079.00026)

[0005] In the embodiment above, the actuator is a slidable switch.

[0006] In any of the embodiments above, the rear wheel in the rear swivel mode is rotatable about the rear vertical axis in a range of one of: a) 60 degrees, b) 90 degrees, and c) 120 degrees.

[0007] In any embodiment above, the front wheel in the front swivel mode is rotatable about the front vertical axis in a range of one of: a) 60 degrees, b) 90 degrees, and c) 120 degrees.

[0008] Another embodiment of the present disclosure is a wagon. The wagon also includes a frame having a front end and rear end opposite the front end. The wagon also includes a front wheel configured to switch between a front fixed mode where the front wheel is fixed in a front vertical axis and aligned to roll in a horizontal direction substantially along a longitudinal axis, and a front swivel mode where the front wheel being at least partially rotatable about the front vertical axis. The wagon includes a rear wheel configured to switch between a rear fixed mode where the rear wheel is fixed in a rear vertical axis and aligned to roll in the horizontal direction substantially along the longitudinal axis, and a rear swivel mode where the rear wheel is at least partially rotatable about the rear vertical axis. The wagon is configured to provide: a push mode in which the front wheel is in the front swivel mode and the rear wheel is in the rear fixed mode, a pull mode in which the front wheel is in the front fixed mode and the rear wheel is in the rear swivel mode, and a free mode in which both the front wheel and the rear wheel are in the front swivel mode and rear swivel mode, respectively.

[0009] In the embodiment above, the rear wheel in the rear swivel mode is rotatable about the rear vertical axis in a range of one of: a) 60 degrees, b) 90 degrees, and c) 120 degrees. In the embodiment above, the front wheel in the front swivel mode is rotatable about the front vertical axis in a range of one of: a) 60 degrees, b) 90 degrees, and c) 120 degrees.

[0010] Another embodiment includes a wagon. The wagon also includes a frame having a front end and rear end opposite the front end. The wagon also includes a handle for a user to push or pull the wagon. The wagon also includes a front wheel configured to switch between a front fixed mode where the front wheel is fixed in a front vertical axis and aligned to roll in a horizontal direction substantially along a longitudinal axis, and a frontAttorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000 (04840079.00026) swivel mode where the front wheel being at least partially rotatable about the front vertical axis. The wagon includes a rear wheel configured to switch between a rear fixed mode where the rear wheel is fixed in a rear vertical axis and aligned to roll in the horizontal direction substantially along the longitudinal axis, and a rear swivel mode where the rear wheel is at least partially rotatable about the rear vertical axis. The wagon includes an actuation assembly coupled to the front wheel and the rear wheel and configured to selectively provide: a push mode in which the front wheel is in the front swivel mode and the rear wheel is in the rear fixed mode, a pull mode in which the front wheel is in the front fixed mode and the rear wheel is in the rear swivel mode, and a free mode in which both the front wheel and the rear wheel are in the front swivel mode and rear swivel mode, respectively.

[0011] In the embodiment above, the actuation assembly is mounted on the handle. The actuation assembly is a slidable switch.

[0012] In the embodiments above, the rear wheel in the rear swivel mode is rotatable about the rear vertical axis in a range of one of: a) 60 degrees, b) 90 degrees, and c) 120 degrees.

[0013] In the embodiment above, the front wheel in the front swivel mode is rotatable about the front vertical axis in a range of one of: a) 60 degrees, b) 90 degrees, and c) 120 degrees.

[0014] In any embodiment above, each wheel assembly has a top cap coupled to a lower end of a lower shaft, a top receptacle, a movable locking member partially in the top receptacle, a wheel hub, a hub receptacle in the wheel hub and aligned with the top receptacle and receiving the locking member, a rotation pin extending from the wheel hub into a receptacle in the top cap, and a cable coupled an upper end of the locking member and routed through the top cap and the lower shaft, and where actuation of the actuator causes the locking member to translate out of the hub receptable, permitting rotation of the wheel.

[0015] In the embodiment above, the actuation assembly includes a housing with a slot, an actuator in the slot, a lock fixed to the actuator, two movable shuttles each having a shuttle slot and the lock extends through each shuttle slot, where one end of a front cable and one end of a rear cable is attached to the two movable shuttles, respectively.Attorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000 (04840079.00026)

[0016] In the embodiment above, there is a first actuation assembly configured to transition the a front wheel and rear wheel of a front and rear wheel assemblies between the fixed mode and the swivel mode, respectively, and a second actuation assembly, where the second actuation assembly is configured to transition one or more of a front wheel assembly and a rear wheel assembly from a use configuration into a collapsed configuration.

[0017] In the embodiment above, the front wheel assembly and the rear wheel assembly each have an upper shaft, a lower shaft movably coupled to the upper shaft, a locking member movably engaged with the upper shaft to the lower shaft, and a wheel coupled to the lower shaft, where actuation of the actuation assembly disengages the locking member from the lower shaft to permit the lower shaft to fold relative to the upper shaft.In another embodiment, the wagon also includes a frame assembly, a front wheel assembly coupled to the frame assembly, where the front wheel assembly is collapsible. The wagon also includes a rear wheel assembly coupled to the frame assembly, where the rear wheel assembly is collapsible, and an actuation assembly configured to transition one or more of the front wheel assembly and the rear wheel assembly from a use configuration into a collapsed configuration.

[0018] In the embodiment above, the front wheel assembly and the rear wheel assembly each have an upper shaft, a lower shaft movably coupled to the upper shaft, a locking member movably engaged with the upper shaft to the lower shaft, and a wheel coupled to the lower shaft, where actuation of the actuation assembly disengages the locking member from the lower shaft to permit the lower shaft to fold relative to the upper shaft.

[0019] In the embodiment above, the actuation assembly includes a rotatable actuator, a cable coupled to the rotatable actuator and the locking member, where rotation of the rotatable actuator causes the locking member to move out of engagement with the lower shaft to permit the lower shaft to fold relative to the upper shaft.

[0020] In the embodiment above, the actuation assembly includes a forward cable assembly coupled the actuator, and a forward locking member coupled to the forward cable assembly and carried by the front wheel assembly, where actuation of the actuation assembly applies tension to the forward cable assembly, disengaging the forward locking member from the front wheel assembly, permitting front wheel assembly to collapse.Attorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000 (04840079.00026)

[0021] In the embodiment above, the actuation assembly includes a rear cable assembly coupled to the actuation assembly, and a rear locking member coupled to the rear cable assembly and carried by the rear wheel assembly, where actuation of the actuation assembly applies tension to the rear cable assembly, disengaging the rear locking member from the rear wheel assembly, permitting the rear wheel assembly to collapse.

[0022] In any of the embodiments above, the actuation assembly is coupled to the upper shaft or the lower shaft.

[0023] In the embodiments above, the front wheel assembly includes a front wheel configured to switch between a front fixed mode where the front wheel is fixed in a front vertical axis that is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis and aligned to roll in a horizontal direction substantially along the longitudinal axis, and a front swivel mode where the front wheel being at least partially rotatable about the front vertical axis.

[0024] In the embodiments above, the rear wheel assembly includes a rear wheel configured to switch between a rear fixed mode where the rear wheel is fixed in a rear vertical axis that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and aligned to roll in the horizontal direction substantially along the longitudinal axis, and a rear swivel mode where the rear wheel is at least partially rotatable about the rear vertical axis.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments of the present application, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purposes of illustrating the present application, there is shown in the drawings illustrative embodiments of the disclosure. It should be understood, however, that the application is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown. In the drawings:

[0026] Figure l is a perspective view of a wagon in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 2 is a front view of the wagon shown in Figure 1;

[0028] Figure 3 is a side view of the wagon shown in Figure 1;Attorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000 (04840079.00026)

[0029] Figure 4 is a partial side view of a wheel assembly of the wagon shown in Figure 3;

[0030] Figure 5 A is a cross-section of the wagon shown in Figure 1, taken along line i-i;

[0031] Figure 5B is a detailed view of the cross-section of the wagon shown in Figure 1;

[0032] Figure 6 is a portion of the of the cross-section shown in Figure 5A, illustrating the wagon in a use / use configuration;

[0033] Figure 7 is the cross-section shown in Figure 5A, illustrating the wagon in a collapsed / folded configuration;

[0034] Figure 8 is a perspective view of the wagon shown in Figure 1, illustrating the wagon in the collapsed configuration with a handle folded, and the wheels moving into their collapsed positions;

[0035] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the wagon shown in Figure 1, illustrating the wagon in the collapsed configuration with the handle folded, and the wheels in their collapsed positions;

[0036] Figure 10 is a perspective view of a wagon in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0037] Figure 11 is a side view of the wagon shown in Figure 10;

[0038] Figure 12 is a side view of the wagon shown in Figure 10, showing the frame assembly in the collapsed configuration;

[0039] Figure 13 is a perspective view of the wagon shown in Figure 10, illustrating the wagon in the use configuration;

[0040] Figure 14 is a perspective view of the wagon shown in Figure 10, illustrating the frame assembly in the collapsed configuration;Attorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000 (04840079.00026)

[0041] Figure 15 is a detailed perspective view of a portion of the wagon shown in Figure 12;

[0042] Figure 16 is a top perspective view of the wagon in Figure 10, illustrating the wagon in a collapsed configuration with the handle in the use position;

[0043] Figure 17 is a top perspective view of the wagon in Figure 10, illustrating the wagon in the collapsed configuration with the handle in the collapsed position;

[0044] Figure 18 is a bottom view of the wagon shown in Figure 17;

[0045] Figure 19 is a perspective view of a wagon according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, illustrating a seat configured to provide a flat surface;

[0046] Figure 20 is a perspective view of a wagon according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, including a canopy and softgoods;

[0047] Figure 21 is side view of the wagon shown in Figure 20;

[0048] Figure 22 is bottom perspective view of the wagon shown in Figures 20 and21 in a collapsed configuration;

[0049] Figure 23 is a perspective view of a wagon according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0050] Figure 24 is a perspective view of an actuation assembly used on a wagon shown in Figure 23 to transition the wagon between push, pull and free modes of operation;

[0051] Figure 25 illustrates a wagon used in a push mode of operation;

[0052] Figure 26 illustrates a wagon used in a pull mode of operation;

[0053] Figure 27 illustrates a wagon used in a free mode of operation;

[0054] Figure 28 is a top view of a lower portion of a wheel assembly of the wagon shown in Figure 23;Attorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000 (04840079.00026)

[0055] Figure 29 is an exploded perspective view of the wheel assembly shown in Figure 28;

[0056] Figure 30 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 1-1 in the wheel assembly shown in Figure 28;

[0057] Figure 31 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the portion of the wheel assembly shown in Figure 30;

[0058] Figure 32 is a perspective view of the actuation assembly shown in the wagon in Figure 23 and 24;

[0059] Figure 33 is an exploded perspective view of the actuation assembly shown in Figure 32;

[0060] Figure 34 is a top view of the actuation assembly with the slide actuator in the push position;

[0061] Figure 35 is a top view of the actuation assembly with the slide actuator depressed and in between operational positions;

[0062] Figure 36 is a top view of the actuation assembly with the slide actuator in the free position;

[0063] Figure 37 is a top view of the actuation assembly with the slide actuator in the pull position;

[0064] Figure 38 is a top cross-sectional view of the actuation assembly in the free position shown in Figure 36;

[0065] Figure 39 is a top cross-sectional view of the actuation assembly in the push position shown in Figure 34;

[0066] Figure 40 is a top cross-sectional view of the actuation assembly in the pull position shown in Figure 37;Attorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000 (04840079.00026)

[0067] Figure 41 is a side cross-sectional view of the actuation assembly in the free position shown in Figures 36 and 38;

[0068] Figure 42 is a side view of a wagon shown in wheel assembly in a locked configuration so they cannot fold;

[0069] Figure 43 is a side view of a wheel assembly in a locked configuration so they cannot fold;

[0070] Figure 44 is a side view of the wheel assembly in an unlocked configuration so they cannot fold;

[0071] Figure 45 is a perspective view of a second actuator on a handle that controls a locking member in a wheel assembly of wagon;

[0072] Figure 46 is a perspective view of the second actuator shown in Figure 46 in a different operational position; and

[0073] Figure 47 is a perspective view of a wagon according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0074] Embodiments of the disclosure include a wagon with a collapsible frame assembly, seats, and wheels that allow for a compact fold for transport and storage. The wagon may also include features that permit wheels to selectively swivel to allow for different operational modes. For example, wagons (and strollers) are most easily maneuverable when the swiveling wheels are on the leading (forward) end of the wagon when in motion. Additionally, having four swivel wheels makes maneuverability even better when navigating tight spaces. The present disclosure includes embodiments that attempts to solve the “push vs. pull” dilemma of other stroller wagons while providing an easier to maneuver product and a compact fold.

[0075] A wagon may be a child wagon, child carriage, pet wagon or the like. Referring to Figure 1, a wagon 10 may include a frame assembly 12, one or more seats 40, 42, wheel assemblies 16 with wheels 18, and a handle 20 coupled to the frame assembly 12.Attorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000 (04840079.00026)As shown in the drawings, the wagon 10 has four wheel assemblies 16 and four wheels 18. The wheel assemblies are sometimes identified in the drawings and referred to in this disclosure with part numbers 16 and 16A-16D. Therefore, part numbers 16A, 16B, 16C, and 16D may be used interchangeably with part number 16 unless described otherwise. Likewise, the wheels are sometimes identified in the drawings and referred to in this disclosure with part numbers 18 and 18A-18D. Therefore, part numbers 18A, 18B, 18C, and 18D may be used interchangeably with part number 18 unless described otherwise.

[0076] Continuing with Figures 1-3, the wagon 10 generally has a front end, a rear end opposite the front end along a longitudinal direction A, a first side, a second side opposite the first side in a lateral direction B (perpendicular to the longitudinal direction), a bottom portion, and a top portion spaced from the bottom portion along a vertical direction C (perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and lateral direction). A wagon is typically longer in the longitudinal direction A than the lateral direction B and has a size large enough to fit three or four children in an open seating area. The wagon 10, and all embodiments of a wagon disclosed herein, includes several functions to permit ease of use and storage. The wagons 10 may include various folding mechanisms for the frame and seats, wheels that pivot or fold inwards such that they lay flat beneath the wagon 10 when in the storage mode, and a handle that folds, either on top, or that folds under the wagon that is used to prevent movement of the wheels in the stowage mode. The wagon 10 has improved control by selectively controlling the configuration of wheels in use.

[0077] Referring to Figures 1-3, the frame assembly 12 defines an interior receiving area configured to receive a child, children, a pet, gear, or personal items therein. A softgoods assembly, though, not shown in Figures 1-3, may be carried by the frame assembly 12 and can define the interior receiving area. The frame assembly 12 of the wagon 10 is configured to support the seats, wheel assemblies, and softgoods assembly. The frame assembly 12 includes a top rail 22 with a front, a rear opposite the front along the longitudinal direction A, a first side, and a second side opposite the first side along the lateral direction B. Each wheel assembly 16A-16D is coupled to the top rail 22 via a shaft assembly as further described below.

[0078] Referring to Figure 19, the frame assembly 12 may also support canopy 27 for shielding and / or concealing user and a softgoods assembly 229. The canopy 27 and / orAttorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000 (04840079.00026) the softgoods assembly 229 may be used on any embodiment described in the present application.

[0079] As shown in Figures 1-3, the wagon 10 includes a pair of seats for a child or user. One or both of the seats can have a sufficient width to fit two children. In the example shown, the wagon 10 includes a first seat 40 and a second seat 42 connected to sidewalls 32, 34 and movable relative to the sidewalls 32, 34. Each seat 40, 42 has a seat bottom 44, a seat back 46 coupled to the seat bottom 44, a first tracking rod 47 where the seat bottom 44 and seat back 46 are connected to each other and a second tracking rod 48 at or near an edge of the seat back 46. The seats 42, 44 include two opposed side panels 50, 52. Top ends of the side panels 50, 52 are pivotably coupled to the top rail 22. Thus, the seat 40 can pivot to transition in the collapsed configuration. In alternative embodiments, a single seat can be provided for the wagon 10 proximate to the front end or the rear end.

[0080] As shown in Figures 1-4, the wagon 10 as shown includes four wheel assemblies 16 coupled to the frame assembly 12. In the example shown, the wagon 10 has a left set of wheel assemblies 16A and 16B coupled to the first side of the frame assembly 12, and a right set of wheel assemblies 16C and 16D coupled to the second side member of the frame assembly 12. The left set includes a front wheel assembly 16A and rear wheel assembly 16B and the right set has a front wheel assembly 16C and rear wheel assembly 16D. Thus, the wagons 10 can have front wheels and rear wheels. In alternative embodiments, the wagon 10 may include a different number of wheel assemblies 16, for example three, five, or six wheel assemblies.

[0081] Referring to Figure 4, each wheel assembly 16 (or 16A-16D) is configured to permit folding of the wheels 18 and may be used to support, at least indirectly, the seats 40, 42. Each wheel assembly 16 has an upper shaft 24, a lower shaft 26 movably coupled to the upper shaft 24, a caster assembly 28 that carries the wheel 18. Atop end of the upper shaft 24 is fixed to the top rail 22 and the bottom end of the lower shaft 26 is coupled to the caster assembly 28. The caster assembly 28 includes a brake to control rotational movement of the wheel 18. The lower shaft 26 is configured to fold relative to the upper shaft 24 for stowage as explained further below. The upper shaft 24 and the lower shaft 26 may collectively be called a shaft assembly and includes a projection 30 (see Figure 2) that extends inwardly along a lateral direction B. While the shaft assembly, and therefore theAttorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000(04840079.00026) upper shaft 24 and the lower shaft 26, are described as part of the wheel assembly 16, the shaft assembly, and therefore the upper shaft 24 and the lower shaft 26, may also be considered a leg or shaft assembly that forms part of the frame assembly 12.

[0082] The wheel assemblies 16Amay be configured to permit the wheels 18A-18B to selectively swivel. The wheel assembly 16 may include an actuator (not shown) coupled to the upper shaft 24 and the lower shaft 26, a locking member (not shown) configured to lock the upper and lower shafts 24, 26 in a first aligned configuration and unlock the lower shaft 26 to fold the shafts 24, 26 into a collapsed or folded position (Figs. 8 and 9). Each wheel assembly 16 (either in front or rear of the wagon 10) has similar construction. In some embodiments, the wheel assembly 16 includes the caster assembly 28 and the wheel 18 that is configured to switch between a fixed mode and a swivel mode. In a fixed mode, the wheel 18 is not rotatable about an axis to guide the wagon 10 in a straight line. In the fixed mode, the at least one wheel 18 is fixed in a vertical axis to be aligned to roll in a direction substantially along a longitudinal axis or direction of the wagon 10. In the swivel mode, the caster assembly 28 and the wheel 18 is rotatable about the axis (axis not shown). The swivel mode may be referred to as a caster mode. Each wheel assembly 16 may be independently controlled or configured to have a fixed mode or a swivel mode. This, in turn, provides for more control in a push-pull mode of operating the wagon 10. Accordingly, the wagon 10 may have three modes, a push mode, where two wheels 18 can swivel, a float mode, where all wheels 18 can swivel or caster, and a pull mode, where two wheels 18, on either the right side or the left side can swivel. Various mechanisms and features may be used to permit selective swivel modes, as further described below.

[0083] As shown in Figure 1, the wagon 10 includes a first sidewall 32 and a second sidewall 34 opposite the first sidewall 32. Each sidewall includes at least one track used to aid in control of the seat transition. In one example, the track is formed directly into the sidewall. As shown in Figure 5A, the first sidewall 32 includes a forward lower track 54, a forward upper track 56, a rear lower track 58, and a rear upper track 60. Four tracks are shown, two used to guide a first seat and two used to guide a second seat. However, the sidewalls 32, 34 could include a single track for each seat. The track rods 47, 48 are coupled to the seats 40, 42 to rest in the tracks. For example, the first tracking rod 47 rides in the lower track 54 and the second tracking rod 48 rides in the upper track 56, both of which are curved to optimize seat travel during collapse. In one example, the lower track 54 and theAttorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000(04840079.00026) upper track 56 have different radii of curvature. In another example, the lower track 54 and the upper track 56 have different radii of curvature and lengths. In another example, the upper track 56 and the lower track 54 have similar radii of curvature and different lengths. Here, the sidewalls 32, 34 may define at least one track (or all four). In another embodiment, the tracks are defined by a track body (or multiple track bodies) mounted to the sidewalls 32, 34.

[0084] Referring to Figures 1-5B, each sidewall 32, 34 has a front end with a front engagement member and a rear end with a rear engagement member. A generally horizontally arranged forward support bar 62 (Figs. 1, 2) is fixed to the first sidewall 32 and the second sidewall 34 via front engagement members. In addition, a generally horizontally arranged rear support bar 64 (Fig. 1) is fixed to the first sidewall 32 and the second sidewall 34 via rear engagement members.

[0085] Referring to Figures 5A-7, the wagon 10 includes a release actuator or assembly 66 to aid in transitioning the seat between a use configuration, as shown in Figure 6, and a collapsed configuration, as shown in Figure 7. The release actuator 66 includes a pull member 68, cable 70, and hook members 74, 76 (76 not shown). The cable 70 is coupled to the forward and rearward hook members 74, 76 and the pull member 68. The pull member 68 is located centrally near a foot support panel 78. The pull member 68 may be a shaft, tube, cable, or other device. The hook members 74, 76 are normally engaged around the projections 30 (Fig. 2) that extend inwardly from the legs or shaft assembly. Actuation of the pull member 68 causes the wagon 10 to initiate its collapse. More specifically, when the user pulls the pull member 68, tension applied to the cable 70 causes the hook members 74, 76 to rotate upwardly, disengaging from the projection 30 of the shaft assembly. This, in turn, allows the seat to pivot (at connection to the top rail 22) and the first tracking rod 47 to ride in the lower track 54 and the second tracking rod 48 to ride in the upper track 56 to transition the seat from the use configuration, as shown in Figure 6, into the collapsed configuration, as shown in Figure 7. While the seats transition from the use configuration into its collapsed configuration, the foot support panel 78 coupled to the sidewall 32, 34, the foot support panel 78 moves in an upward direction toward the top rail 22. Actuation of the release actuation assembly 66 cause the hook members 74, 76 to disengage from the projections 30, allowing the seats 40, 42 to guide along the tracks and transition from the use configuration into the collapsed configuration, which can also causeAttorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000 (04840079.00026) the foot support panel 78 to travel upwards. Thus, movement of the top rail 22 in a downward direction causes the foot support panel 78 to rise in an upward direction opposite the downward direction. The handle 20 can be rotated over the top of the seats 40, 42 when in the collapsed configuration (Figures 8 and 9).

[0086] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, once the seats 40, 42 are in the collapsed configuration, the wheel assemblies 16A-16B can be folded inwardly so the wheels 18A- 18B are in their respective collapsed positions. In this case, the wheel assemblies 16A-16B and the wheels 18A-18B can overlap in their collapsed positions, thereby creating a compact stowage or collapsed configuration as shown in Figure 9.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 19, in some embodiments, a wagon 210 having a flatbottom mode is provided with the seats 40, 42 collapsed. The wagon 210 may include the same components of the wagon 10 shown in Figures 1-9 and described above. However, in the embodiment shown, the seats 40, 42 may include an additional panel 246 pivotably coupled to the seat bottom 44. Moving the panel 246 of each seat 40, 42 can form a flat surface 248 allowing the child to lay in the wagon 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the footwell of the seat 40, 42 is hidden beneath the panels 246 and may be usable as a storage compartment (e.g., accessible below the flat surface 248 through an opening on at least one side, such opening may have a closeable door).

[0088] Referring to Figures 20-22, a wagon 310 according to another embodiment is shown that includes collapsable sidewalls. As shown in Figures 20-22, the wagon 310 may include a frame assembly 312, one or more seats (not shown), wheel assemblies 316 and wheels 318, and a rotatable handle 20. The wagon 310 may include softgoods 328 as shown, and a movable foot support panel 378. The frame assembly 312 includes a top rail 322, a lower rail 327, and collapsible sidewalls 325. In these embodiments, the sidewalls 325 may be collapsible, for example being formed of softgoods 328 surrounding a collapsible frame assembly 312. The wheels 318 may pivot inward into a collapsed configuration. One or more collapsible canopies 326 may be provided. The wagon 310 may include one or more actuators to control transition from a use configuration, as shown in Figure 21, into a collapsed configuration, as shown in Figure 22. Upon actuation, the frame assembly 312 collapses whereby the top rail 322 moves toward the lower rail 327 in a downward direction and the foot support panel 378 moves toward the lower rail 327 in anAttorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000 (04840079.00026) upward direction, with the sidewalls 325 collapsing. Actuation may also permit the wheel assemblies 316 to pivot or fold the wheels 318 inwardly into a collapsed position.

[0089] Figures 10-18 illustrate another embodiment of a wagon 410 that includes several modes to collapse and / or control movement of the wagon 410 in use. The wagon 410 may therefore include a fold mechanism for the inside seats, wheels fold inwards such that they lay flat beneath the wagon 410 when in storage mode, and handle folds under the wagon and may be used to prevent movement of the wheels. Additional features to control the swivel of the wheels may be used to control operation of the wagon 410.

[0090] Referring to Figures 10 and 11, a wagon 410 may include a frame 412, one or more seats 440, 442, wheel assemblies 416 with wheels 418, and a handle 420. The frame 412 is configured to transition from a use configuration, into a collapsed configuration, as explained further below. As shown in the drawings, the wagon 410 has four wheel assemblies 416 and four wheels 418. The wheel assemblies 416 are sometimes identified in the drawings and referred to in this disclosure with part numbers 416 and 416A-16D. Therefore, part numbers 416A, 416B, 416C, and 416D may be used interchangeably with part number 416 unless described otherwise. Likewise, the wheels 418 are sometimes identified in the drawings and referred to in this disclosure with part numbers 418 and 418 A- 18D. Therefore, part numbers 418A, 418B, 418C and 418D may be used interchangeably with part number 418 unless described otherwise.

[0091] Continuing with Figures 10-11, the wagon 410 generally has a front end, a rear end opposite the front end along a longitudinal direction A, a first side, a second side opposite the first side in a lateral direction B (perpendicular to the longitudinal direction), a bottom portion, and a top portion spaced from the bottom portion along a vertical direction C (perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and lateral direction).

[0092] Referring to Figures 10-11, the frame assembly 412 defines an interior receiving area configured to receive a child, children, a pet, gear, or personal items therein. A softgoods assembly, though not shown in Figures 10-11, may be carried by the frame assembly 412 and can define an interior receiving area. The frame assembly 412 may also support a canopy (not shown) for shielding and / or concealing a user and softgoods assembly.Attorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000 (04840079.00026)Each wheel assembly 416A-416D is coupled to the frame assembly 412 by a wheel chassis 414.

[0093] The frame assembly 412 includes a top rail 422, a bottom rail 424 and one or more sets of linkages 426 (four linkages 426 are shown) coupled to the top rail 422 and the bottom rail 424, and one more tracks 428L, 428R (428R not shown) carried by the frame assembly 412. The top rail 422 and bottom rail 424 each include a front, a rear opposite the front along the longitudinal direction A, a first side, and a second side opposite the first side along the lateral direction B. The wagon 410 is shown with two tracks, a left track 428L carried by the bottom rail 424 and generally aligned with the bottom rail 424 in a horizontal direction (A and B) and a right track 428L carried by the opposite side of the bottom rail 424. The tracks 428L, 428R may be formed or defined by the bottom rail 424 or may be formed in a track body mounted to the bottom rail 424. While two tracks 428L,428R are shown, there may be four tracks, one on each side of each seat 440 and 442.

[0094] As shown in Figures 13-15, the linkages 426 may be used to facilitate transition of the wagon 10 into a collapsed configuration. The wagon 410 includes a forward set of linkages 426A, 426B coupled to a first or forward seat 440 and a rear set of linkages 426C, 426D coupled to a second or rear seat 442. Each linkage 426 (426 and 426A-426D may be used interchangeably), has a first end pivotably coupled to the top rail 422 at a pivot axis P or pivot point (Fig. 15), and a second end 429 (or coupling end) that is movably coupled to pins engaged opposed tracks 428 (428, 428L, and 428R may be used interchangeably) that extend along the bottom rail 424 of the frame. The coupling end 429 is fixed to a seat bottom 444 so that the coupling end 429 and the seat bottom 444 move together. Each linkage 426 is a generally rigid elongated member, such as s shaft, rod, tub, thin plate, or like. Each linkage 426A-426D may be similar, though in some cases, the front linkages 426A, 426B may differ from the rear linkages 426C, 426D. The linkages 426A- 426D may be formed from a polymeric material or a metallic material, such as stainless steel, aluminum, or other metal.

[0095] The wagon 410 includes a first seat 440 and a second seat 442 coupled to the frame 412. The seats 440 and 442 are shown as substantially similar to each other but only one seat is described below. Accordingly, each seat has a seat bottom 444, a seat back 446 pivotably coupled to both the seat bottom 444 and the top rail 422, a seat foot back 448Attorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000 (04840079.00026) pivotably coupled to the seat bottom 444, and a foot support panel 478 pivotably coupled to an edge of the seat foot back 448 for each seat 440, 442. When the seats 440, 442 are in the use configuration, as shown in Figures 11 and 13, the seat foot back 448 and the foot support panel 478 create foot space for the child that extends downwardly relative to the bottom rail 424.

[0096] The wagon 410 has one or more wheels 418 coupled to the frame 412 via the chassis 414. The wheels 418 can be collapsed inwardly beneath the seat and foot support panel 478 when in the collapsed configuration. In the example shown, the wagon 410 includes four wheel assemblies 418A-418D coupled to the frame assembly 412 via the chassis 414. For instance, the wagon 410 has a left set of wheel assemblies 416A and 416B coupled to the first side of the frame assembly 412, and a right set of wheel assemblies 416C and 416D coupled to the second side member of the top rail 422. The left set includes a front wheel assembly 416A and rear wheel assembly 416B and the right set has a front wheel assembly 416C and rear wheel assembly 416D.

[0097] Each wheel assembly 416 (or 416A-416D) is configured to permit folding of the wheels 418 and may be used to support, at least indirectly, the seats. Each wheel assembly 416 has an upper shaft, a lower shaft movably coupled to the upper shaft, and a caster assembly 28 that carries the wheel 418. A top end of the upper shaft is fixed to the chassis 414 and the bottom end of the lower shaft is coupled to the caster assembly. The caster assembly 28 includes a brake to control rotational movement of the wheel 418. The lower shaft is configured to fold relative to the upper shaft for storage. The upper shaft and the lower shaft may collectively be called a shaft assembly.

[0098] The wheel assemblies 416A may be configured to permit the wheels 41 SA- 418B to selectively swivel. The wheel assembly 416 may include an actuator (not shown) coupled to the upper shaft and lower shaft, a locking member (not shown) configured to lock the upper and lower shaft in a first aligned configuration and unlock the lower shaft to fold the shafts into a collapsed or folded position (Figs. 18). Each wheel assembly 416 (either in front or rear of the wagon 410) has similar construction. In some embodiments, the wheel assembly 416 includes the caster assembly 28 and the wheel 418 that is configured to switch between a fixed mode and a swivel mode. In a fixed mode, the wheel 418 is not rotatable about an axis to guide the wagon 410 in a straight line. In the fixed mode, the atAttorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000(04840079.00026) least one wheel 418 is fixed in a vertical axis to be aligned to roll in a direction substantially along a longitudinal axis or direction of the wagon 410. In a swivel mode, the caster assembly 28 and the wheel 418 is rotatable about the axis (axis not shown). The swivel mode may be referred to as a caster mode. Each wheel assembly 416 may be independently controlled or configured to have a fixed mode or swivel mode. This, in turn, provides for more control in push-pull mode of operating the wagon 410. Accordingly, the wagon 410 may have three modes, a push mode, where two wheels 418 can swivel, a float mode where all the wheels 418 can swivel or caster, and a pull mode, where two wheels 418, on either the right side or the left side can swivel. Various mechanisms and features may be used to permit selective swivel modes.

[0099] In use, the wagon 410 is configured to transition from a use configuration, as shown in Figure 13, into a collapsed configuration, as shown in Figures 14, 17, and 18. The wagon 410 may have one or more actuators (no part number shown) configured to release the linkages 426, allowing the linkages 426 to pivot so that the top rail 422 collapses toward the bottom rail 424 from the use configuration into the collapsed configuration. More specifically, as shown in Figures 13-15, for the seat 442, once the linkage 426C is unlocked, the linkage 426C pivots about the point axis P (Fig. 15) on the top rail 422. The coupling end 429C of the linkage 426C slides along the track 428L on the bottom rail 424. The movement of the linkage 426C causes the coupling end 429C to slide along the track 428L and pulls the seat bottom 444 toward the center of the wagon 410 (Fig. 14), which in turn, causes the seat foot back 448 to pull the foot support panel 478 upward toward the bottom rail 424. Movement of the coupling end 429C also causes the seat back 446 to pivot relative to the top rail 422 and flatten out during the transition. When the seat transitions from its use configuration into its collapsed configuration, the top rail 422 moves in downward direction toward the bottom rail 424 and cause the foot support panel 478 to rise in an upward direction toward the bottom rail 424, as shown in Figures 14. Thus, to collapse or fold the wagon 410, a fold actuator is actuated (via push button or pull mechanism). The actuator may unlock the linkages 426 to allow the top rail 422 and the seats 440, 442 to collapse. From this it can be understood that the transition of the top rail 422 into the collapsed configuration causes the top rail 422 to move downward adjacent to an upper side of the bottom rail 424, the foot support panel 478 to move upward adjacent to a lower side of the bottom rail 424, and the at least one wheel 418 to fold beneath the bottom rail 424.Attorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000 (04840079.00026)

[0100] The user may also cause the wheels 418A-418D to fold or pivot inwardly into their collapsed positions, as shown in Figure 18. In addition, the handle 420 may be rotated to a collapsed position under the bottom rail 424, which locks wheels 418 in their collapsed positions.

[0101] The wagon 410 may have one or more actuators to control operation of the wagon 410. For example, the wagon 410 may have 1) a release actuator (first actuator) to cause the frame to collapse and the seats to fold, 2) a separate wheel actuator to permit the wheels to fold, 3) a separate handle actuator may allow the handle to rotate into its collapsed position, and 4) swivel actuator (or more) to selectively permit the wheels to rotate about a vertical axis or be fixed. Still alternative embodiments, one or more of the functions described above can be an actuator with one or two actuators, e.g. a single actuator can cause the wagon to collapse and the handle to rotate, or single actuator can cause the wagon to collapse the wheels to pivot. Any particular combination of actuation functions can be combined into one or two distinct actuators.

[0102] Figures 23-41 illustrates another embodiment of a wagon 510 in accordance with the present disclosure. The wagon 510 shown in Figures 23-41 has similar components and features the wagon 10, 310, and 410 shown in Figures 1-22 and described above. Thus, the same reference numbers are used to identify components of the wagon 10 and wagon 510 that are common in each design.

[0103] Referring to Figure 23, a wagon 510 may include a frame assembly 512, one or more seats 40, 42, wheel assemblies 516 with wheels 518, and a handle 520 coupled to the frame assembly 12. The handle 520 is configured to allow a user to push or pull the wagon 510. The frame 512 also includes an actuator 562 forming part of the actuation assembly 560 that controls the mode of operations of the wheels and therefore movement and control of the wagon 510. The wheel assemblies 516 are sometimes identified in the drawings and referred to in this disclosure with part numbers 516 and 516A-516D. Likewise, the wheels are sometimes identified in the drawings and referred to in this disclosure with part numbers 518 and 518A-18D. Therefore, part numbers 518A, 518B, 518C, and 518D may be used interchangeably with part number 518 unless described otherwise.Attorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000 (04840079.00026)

[0104] Continuing with Figures 23, the wagon 510 generally has a front end, a rear end opposite the front end along a longitudinal direction A, a first side, a second side opposite the first side in a lateral direction B (perpendicular to the longitudinal direction), a bottom portion, and a top portion spaced from the bottom portion along a vertical direction C (perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and lateral direction). The wagon 510, in addition, to the swivel modes for wheels described below, may include various folding mechanisms for the frame and seats, wheels that pivot or fold inwards such that they lay flat beneath the wagon 510 when in the storage mode, and a handle that folds, either on top, or that folds under the wagon that is used to prevent movement of the wheels in the stowage mode.

[0105] Referring to Figure 23, the frame assembly 512 defines an interior receiving area configured to receive a child. A softgoods assembly, though not shown in Figure 23 may be carried by the frame assembly 12 and can define the interior receiving area. The frame assembly 512 of the wagon 510 is configured to support the seats, wheel assemblies, and softgoods assembly. The frame assembly 512 includes a top rail 22 with a front, a rear opposite the front along the longitudinal direction A, a first side, and a second side opposite the first side along the lateral direction B. Each wheel assembly 516A-16D is coupled to the top rail 22 via a shaft assembly as further described below. The frame assembly 512 may also support canopy for shielding and / or concealing user and a softgoods assembly. The canopy and / or the softgoods assembly may be used on any embodiment described in the present application. In the embodiment shown, the handle 520 is coupled to the frame assembly 512. More specifically, the handle 520 is coupled to a rear end of the frame assembly 512. It could be coupled to the front end of the frame assembly 512.

[0106] As shown in Figure 23, the wagon 510 includes a pair of seats for a child or user. One or both of the seats can have a sufficient width to fit two children. In the example shown, the wagon 510 includes a first seat 40 and a second seat 42 connected to sidewalls 32, 34 and movable relative to the sidewalls 32, 34. Each seat 40, 42 has the same features as the seats in wagon 10 disclosed above. Accordingly, the seats 40, 42 can pivot to transition in the collapsed configuration. In alternative embodiments, a single seat can be provided for the wagon 510 proximate to the front end or the rear end.Attorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000(04840079.00026)

[0107] As shown in Figure 23, the wagon 510 as shown includes four wheel assemblies 516 coupled to the frame assembly 12. In the example shown, the wagon 510 has a left set of wheel assemblies 516A and 516B coupled to the first side of the frame assembly 512, and a right set of wheel assemblies 516C and 516D coupled to the second side member of the frame assembly 12. The left set includes a front wheel assembly 516A and rear wheel assembly 516B and the right set has a front wheel assembly 516C and rear wheel assembly 516D. Thus, the wagons 510 can have front wheels and rear wheels. In alternative embodiments, the wagon 510 may include a different number of wheel assemblies 516, for example three, five, or six wheel assemblies.

[0108] Referring to Figures 23-27, the wagon 510 includes an actuation assembly 560 (or two or more actuation assemblies) that controls operation of the wagon 510 and specifically the ability of the wheels 518 (front and rear) to travel in either fixed or swivel modes. More specifically, the actuation assembly 560 provides a wagon 510 that can operate in A) a push mode, as shown in Figure 25, where the front wheels (opposite the handle) may freely rotate so that wagon 510 can be easily and simply be pushed along a horizontal surface, B) a pull mode, as shown in Figure 26, where the rear wheels (near the handle) may freely rotate but the other wheels are fixed and the wagon can pulled along a horizontal surface, or C) a free mode, as shown in Figure 27, where the front and rear wheels can freely rotate and travel in forward-backward direction but also in a lateral direction (e.g. side rolling or float mode). These different operational modes are based on the fixed or swivel states of the front wheels and rear wheels. In particular, each front wheel 518A, 518C can operate in a front swivel mode or a front fixed mode and each rear wheel 518B, 518D can operate in a rear swivel mode and a rear fixed mode is in the rear fixed mode, as further discussed below. In the embodiment shown, the actuation assembly 560 is configured to transition the wheels between fixed and swivel modes, and therefore to transition the wagon between the push mode, the pull mode and the free mode.

[0109] Referring to Figures 23 and 32-41, the actuation assembly 560 includes a cable assembly that has one or more cables that are routed from the actuator 562 to the different wheel assemblies 516A-51D. The actuator 562 may be button or slidable switch, or other device to control functions of the actuation assembly 560. For example, the wagon 510 may include a rear cable assembly that couples the actuator to the rear wheels 516A, 516C and a forward cable assembly that couples the actuator 562 to the front wheels 516D,Attorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000 (04840079.00026)516D. The cable assemblies as described herein may include one, two, three or more separate cables. A set of rear cables 564 extends from the rear wheels 518B, 518D (wheels opposite the handle 522), through the shafts of rear wheel assemblies 516B, 516D, the top rail of the frame 512 and are coupled to a single rear cable 566 that is routed through the side of the top rail toward the handle junction 523. The set of front cables 570 extends from the front wheels 518A, 518C, through the shafts of the front wheel assemblies 516A, 516C and toward front cable 572 at or near the handle junction 523. The rear cable 564 and front cable 572 extends up the handle shaft 526 from the junction 523 and terminates or is coupled to the shuttles 574, 576 as described below. The ends of the cables proximate or near the wheel assemblies 516A-516D engage with a lock member in the wheel assembly to control or permit transitioning the wheel assembly between swivel mode and fixed modes.

[0110] Referring to Figures 23 and 28-31, each wheel assembly 516 (or 516A-516D) has an upper shaft 24, a lower shaft 26 movably coupled to the upper shaft 24, a caster assembly 528 that carries the wheel 518. Atop end of the upper shaft 24 is fixed to the top rail 22 and the bottom end of the lower shaft 26 is coupled to the caster assembly 528. The caster assembly 528 includes a brake to control rotational movement of the wheel 518. The lower shaft 26 is configured to fold relative to the upper shaft 24 for storage as described above and further below. The upper shaft 24 and the lower shaft 26 may collectively be called a shaft assembly and includes a projection that extends inwardly along a lateral direction B. While the shaft assembly, and therefore the upper shaft 24 and the lower shaft 26, are described as part of the wheel assembly 16, the shaft assembly, and therefore the upper shaft 24 and the lower shaft 26, may also be considered a leg or shaft assembly that forms part of the frame assembly 12.

[0111] The wheel assemblies 16A may be configured to permit the wheels 18A-18B to selectively swivel. In some embodiments, the wheel assembly 516 includes the caster assembly 528 and the wheel 518 that is configured to switch between a fixed mode and a swivel mode. In a fixed mode, the wheel 518 is not rotatable about a vertical axis V to guide the wagon 510 in a generally straight line along a longitudinal direction A. In the fixed mode, the wheel 518 is fixed in a vertical axis V to be aligned to roll in a direction substantially along a longitudinal axis or direction A of the wagon 510. In the swivel mode, the caster assembly 528 and the wheel 518 is rotatable about the vertical axis V. 1Attorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000(04840079.00026)

[0112] Each wheel assembly 516 has a top cap 530 coupled to a lower end of a lower shaft 526, a top receptacle 532, a locking member 534 (which could be a movable locking pin) partially in the top receptacle 532, a wheel hub 536, a hub receptacle 538 in the wheel hub 536 and aligned with the top receptacle 532 and receiving the locking pin 534, a rotation pin 540 extending from the wheel hub 536 into the top receptacle 532 in the top cap 530 and cable 564 coupled an upper end of the locking pin 534 and routed through the top cap 530 and the lower shaft 526. The wheel hub 536 further includes two support legs 542 extending downwardly and including an axle of the wheel 518. When the locking pin 534 is in its lower position and fully engaged in the hub receptacle 538, the wheel 518 and wheel hub 536 cannot rotate relative to the top cap 532 (and thus the lower shaft). In this configuration, e.g. the fixed mode, the wheel 518 is effectively locked in the vertical axis V and to permit forward and backward movement of the wagon 510. When a user actuates the actuator 562, the cable 564 applies a tension to the locking pin 534, causing the locking pin 534 to translate out of the hub receptacle 538, which permits the wheel 516 and wheel hub 536 to rotate relative to the top cap 530. The rotation pin 540 and the locking pin 534 are offset from center of the top cap 530 and wheel hub 536 so that when the locking pin 534 is disengaged from the wheel hub 536, the wheel hub 536 and wheel 518 is rotatable.

[0113] The wheel assembly 516 may include rotational stops that limit the rotational movement of the wheel and wheel hub 536 when the locking pin 534 is disengaged. When any wheel 518 is in swivel mode, the wheel 518 is rotatable about the vertical axis V in an angle a of a) plus or minus 30 degrees (from a zero position where the wheel is generally straight), b) plus or minus 45 degrees, and c) plus or minus 60 degrees. In other words, in a swivel mode, the wheel 518 may rotate a limited range about the vertical axis V in a total range of 60 degrees, 90 degrees, or 120 degrees. In other embodiments, in a swivel mode, the wheel 518 may rotate a limited range about the vertical axis V in a total range of 60 degrees, 90 degrees, or 120 degrees, 180 degrees, 210 degrees, 240 degrees, 270 degrees, 300 degrees, 330 degrees, or full rotatability of 360 degrees.

[0114] Referring to Figures 23 and 32, the actuation assembly 560 includes a housing 568 positioned along the handle 520 though the housing 568 could be located elsewhere on the wagon 510. The housing 568 has a side slot 578 on a sidewall, a top lid with a top slot 563, an actuator 562 in the side slot 578, and a lock 580 fixed to the actuator 562. The lock 580 has a shaft 581 and a tab 583 that extends outward from the shaft 581.Attorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000 (04840079.00026)The tab 583 extends into the top slot 563. The lock 580 includes a spring and bushing. The housing 568 has two internal chambers arranged side by side with a first chamber holding the lock 580 and a second chamber holding two movable shuttles 574, 576. Each shuttle has a shuttle slot 575, 577. The shuttles 574,576 may be a planar structure arranged to slide relative to each other in the chamber. The lock 580 extends through each shuttle slot 575, 577. End of cables 564, 572 are attached to the two movable shuttles 574, 576, respectively, as shown in Figure 38. The assembly 560 includes a first shuttle spring 582 that rest against an inner wall of the housing 568 with the other end of the spring coupled to the first shuttle 574, and a second shuttle spring 584 that rest against an opposite inner wall of the housing 568 with the other end of the spring 584 coupled to the second shuttle 576.

[0115] In use, the user can control the wagon 510 in the push, float, or pull modes by depressing and sliding the actuator 562 to the left or right based on the desired mode. In Figure 34, the actuator 562 and therefore lock and tab 583 is in the “push” mode. The user can depress actuator 562 the lock and slide it the left, as shown in Figure 35 until the actuator 562 and lock rest in the “free” mode positions shown in Figure 36. The user can then depress the actuator 562 and slide into the pull mode position shown in Figure 37.

[0116] In the embodiment shown in the first shuttle 574 is biased in the opposite direction from the second shuttle 576 via the respective springs. As shown, the first shuttle 574 is connected to the rear wheel cable 566. The second shuttle 576 is connected to the front wheel cable 572 (and the related cable assembly described above). When the actuator 562 and lock is slid to the “PUSH” position, it will translate shuttle 574, locking the rear wheels 518A, 518C while the front wheels 518B, 518D retain castor functionality and are rotatable. The opposite occurs when the lock is slid to the “PULL” position as shown in Figure 39. Here, the shuttle 576 will lock the front wheels 518A, 518C while the back wheels 518B, 518D retain castor functionality and are rotatable about the vertical axis V. It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, for any of the selected modes of the actuator 562 with wheels having the castor functionality, the wheels will not self-lock or automatically return to a locked position unless the user further activates the actuator.

[0117] In the “FLOAT” position shown Figure 38 and 41, all wheels are unlocked and are rotatable; the biased preferred position of the shuttles is this position. More specifically, the slots on shuttle 574 and shuttle 576 overlap only in the “FLOAT” positionAttorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000(04840079.00026) when the lock is in the central location shown Figure 38 and 41. When the lock is placed in the “PULL” as shown in Figure 40 (rightmost position), only shuttle 576 will translate, compressing the spring and locking the rear wheels as it releases tension on the cable and therefore the locking pin will lock back into position. When the lock is placed in the “PUSH” (leftmost position), as shown in Figure 39, only shuttle 574 will translate, compressing the spring and locking the front wheels as it releases tension on the cable and therefor the pin will lock back into position. Accordingly, the front wheel 518 A, 518C may be configured to switch between a front fixed mode where the front wheel 518A, 518C is fixed in a front vertical axis and aligned to roll in a horizontal direction substantially along a longitudinal axis, and a front swivel mode where the front wheel 518 A 518C being at least partially rotatable about the front vertical axis V. The rear wheel 518B, 518B is also configured to switch between a rear fixed mode where the rear wheel 518B, 518D is fixed in a rear vertical axis and aligned to roll in the horizontal direction substantially along the longitudinal axis, and a rear swivel mode where the rear wheel 518B ,518D is at least partially rotatable about the rear vertical axis. The actuation assembly is configured to provide A) a push mode in which the front wheel 518A, 518B is in the front swivel mode and the rear wheel 518B, 518D is in the rear fixed mode, B) a pull mode in which the front wheel 518A, 518C is in the front fixed mode and the rear wheel 518B, 518D is in the rear swivel mode, and C) a free mode in which both the front wheel 518A, 518C and the rear wheel 518C, 518D are in the front swivel mode and rear swivel mode, respectively.

[0118] Figures 42-46 illustrate another embodiment of the present disclosure of a wagon 610. The wagon 610 shown in Figures 42-47 has similar components and features to the wagon 10 and wagon 410 described above. Thus, the same reference numbers are used to identify components of the wagon 10, 510 and wagon 610 that are common in each design. However, in the embodiment shown in Figures 45 and 46, the wagon 610 may include a first actuation assembly 560 that is configured to transition the wagon between the pull mode, the push mode, and the free mode as described above with respect to wagon 510. The wagon 610 may also include a second actuation assembly 660 is configured to transition one or more of the front wheel assembly and the rear wheel assembly from a use configuration into a collapsed configuration, e.g. where it is folded.

[0119] Referring to Figures 42-44, each wheel assembly 616 has an upper shaft 24, a lower shaft 26 movably coupled to the upper shaft 24, a caster assembly 28 that carriesAttorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000(04840079.00026) the wheel 618. Atop end of the upper shaft 24 is fixed to the top rail 22 and the bottom end of the lower shaft 26 is coupled to the caster assembly 28. The caster assembly 28 includes a brake to control rotational movement of the wheel 18. The lower shaft 26 is configured to fold relative to the upper shaft 24 for stowage as explained further below. The upper shaft 24 and the lower shaft 26 may collectively be called a shaft assembly. While the shaft assembly, and therefore the upper shaft 24 and the lower shaft 26, are described as part of the wheel assembly 616, the shaft assembly, and therefore the upper shaft 24 and the lower shaft 26, may also be considered a leg or shaft assembly that forms part of the frame assembly 612.

[0120] Continuing with Figures 42-45, the wheel assembly 616 includes a locking member 640 movably engaged with the upper shaft 24 to the lower shaft 26, and a wheel 618 coupled to the lower shaft 26. Here, second actuation assembly 660 disengages the locking member 640 from the lower shaft 24 to permit the lower shaft 24 to fold relative to the upper shaft 26. The actuation assembly 660 includes a rotatable actuator 662, a cable 664 coupled to the rotatable actuator 662 and the locking member 640. Rotation of the rotatable actuator 662 causes the locking member 640 to move out of engagement with the lower shaft 24 to permit the lower shaft 24 to fold relative to the upper shaft 26. In use, rotation of the actuator 662 causes tension to be applied to the cable 664, pulling the locking pin 640 out of engagement with the lower shaft 24. With the locking member 640 out of engagement of the lower shaft 24, the lower shaft 24 folds relative to the upper shaft. In the embodiment shown, activating the actuator on the handle causes all four wheels to fold inwardly into collapsed configuration. However, the wagon 610 could have a front actuation assembly configured to cause the front wheels to fold and rear actuation assembly configured to cause the rear wheels to fold, including forward or front locking members, and front cable assembly and rear or rearward locking member and a rear cables or cable assemblies. Likewise, the wagon could have a first side actuation assembly configured to allow the side wheels to collapsed inwardly, and a second side actuation assembly configured to allow the other side wheel to collapse. In addition, each shaft assembly could have an actuation assembly that allows the lower shaft to fold in order to collapse the wheel assembly.

[0121] Figure 47 illustrates another embodiment of the wagon 710. The wagon 710 shown in Figure 47 has similar components and features to the wagon 10, 310, 410, 510 andAttorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000 (04840079.00026) wagon 610 described above. Thus, the same reference numbers are used to identify components of the wagon 10, 310, 410, 510, 610, and wagon 710 that are common in each design. The wagon 710 includes frame assembly a frame assembly 512, one or more seats 40,42 to hold up to four passengers, wheel assemblies 716 with wheels 718, and a handle 722 coupled to the frame assembly 712. The wagon 710 includes a soft goods assembly 725 and canopy 728. The wagon 710 may have a first actuation assembly 560 to cause the wheels to transition between the fixed and swivel modes, and therefore the push, pull and free modes as described above with wagon 510. The wagon 710 may have a second actuation assembly 790 configured to cause the wagon 710 to transition the seats and sidewalls from a use configuration into a collapsed configuration for storage, such as in any one the wagons 10, 210, 310, 410, and 510 described above. The wagon 710 may also have a third actuation assembly that is configured to cause the wheels to collapse inwardly into a collapsed or folded configuration.

[0122] Certain terminology is used in the following description for convenience only and is not limiting. As used herein, the terms “forward”, “rear”, “upper”, and “lower” designate directions in the drawings to which reference is made. The terms “inwardly” and “outwardly” refer to directions towards and away from parts referenced in the drawings. “Axially” refers to a direction along the axis of a shaft (or centerline of an object). “Laterally” refers to a direction perpendicular to the axis of the shaft (or centerline of the object) from one side to another opposite side. A reference to a list of items that are cited as “at least one of a, b, or c” (where a, b, and c represent the items being listed) means any single one of the items a, b, or c, or combinations thereof. The term “substantially” when used in connection with, for example, a geometric relationship, a numerical value, and / or a range is intended to convey that the geometric relationship (or the structures described thereby), the number, and / or the range so defined is nominally the recited geometric relationship, number, and / or range. For example, two structures described herein as being “substantially parallel” is intended to convey that, although a parallel geometric relationship is desirable, some non-parallelism can occur in a “substantially parallel” arrangement. The terms “about” and “approximately” are to be construed to be plus or minus up to 10% of a stated value or ratio. The terminology includes the words specifically noted above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import.Attorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000 (04840079.00026)

[0123] While the disclosure is described herein, using a limited number of embodiments, these specific embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure as otherwise described and claimed herein. The precise arrangement of various elements and order of the steps of articles and methods described herein are not to be considered limiting. For instance, although the steps of the methods are described with reference to sequential series of reference signs and progression of the blocks in the figures, the method can be implemented in an order as desired. Additionally, features identified or discussed with respect to one set of figures may be additionally or alternatively applied to any other set of figures or embodiments disclosed herein.

Claims

Attorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000 (04840079.00026)CLAIMSWe claim:

1. A wagon, compri sing : a frame having a front end and rear end opposite the front end along a longitudinal axis; a front wheel configured to switch between a front fixed mode where the front wheel is fixed in a front vertical axis that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and aligned to roll in a horizontal direction substantially along the longitudinal axis, and a front swivel mode where the front wheel being at least partially rotatable about the front vertical axis; and a rear wheel configured to switch between a rear fixed mode where the rear wheel is fixed in a rear vertical axis that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and aligned to roll in the horizontal direction substantially along the longitudinal axis, and a rear swivel mode where the rear wheel is at least partially rotatable about the rear vertical axis.

2. The wagon according to claim 1, further comprising an actuator configured to transition the rear wheel between the rear fixed mode and the rear swivel mode.

3. The wagon according to claim 2, wherein the actuator is a slidable switch.

4. The wagon according to any one of the claims 1 to 3, wherein the rear wheel in the rear swivel mode is rotatable about the rear vertical axis in a range of one of: a) 60 degrees, b) 90 degrees, and c) 120 degrees.

5. The wagon according to any one of the claims 1 to 3, wherein the front wheel in the front swivel mode is rotatable about the front vertical axis in a range of one of: a) 60 degrees, b) 90 degrees, and c) 120 degrees.

6. The wagon according to claim 1, wherein the front wheel is a pair of front wheels and the rear wheel is a pair of rear wheels.

7. A wagon, compri sing : a frame having a front end and rear end opposite the front end; a front wheel configured to switch between a front fixed mode where the front wheel is fixed in a front vertical axis and aligned to roll in a horizontal direction substantially alongAttorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000 (04840079.00026) a longitudinal axis, and a front swivel mode where the front wheel being at least partially rotatable about the front vertical axis; and a rear wheel configured to switch between a rear fixed mode where the rear wheel is fixed in a rear vertical axis and aligned to roll in the horizontal direction substantially along the longitudinal axis, and a rear swivel mode where the rear wheel is at least partially rotatable about the rear vertical axis, wherein the wagon is configured to provide: a push mode in which the front wheel is in the front swivel mode and the rear wheel is in the rear fixed mode, a pull mode in which the front wheel is in the front fixed mode and the rear wheel is in the rear swivel mode, and a free mode in which both the front wheel and the rear wheel are in the front swivel mode and rear swivel mode, respectively.

8. The wagon according to claim 7, wherein the rear wheel in the rear swivel mode is rotatable about the rear vertical axis in a range of one of: a) 60 degrees, b) 90 degrees, and c) 120 degrees.

9. The wagon according to claim 7 or claim 8, wherein the front wheel in the front swivel mode is rotatable about the front vertical axis in a range of one of: a) 60 degrees, b) 90 degrees, and c) 120 degrees.

10. The wagon according to claim 7, claim 8, or claim 9, wherein the front wheel is a pair of front wheels and the rear wheel is a pair of rear wheels.

11. A wagon, compri sing : a frame having a front end and rear end opposite the front end; a handle for a user to push or pull the wagon; a front wheel configured to switch between a front fixed mode where the front wheel is fixed in a front vertical axis and aligned to roll in a horizontal direction substantially along a longitudinal axis, and a front swivel mode where the front wheel being at least partially rotatable about the front vertical axis; and a rear wheel configured to switch between a rear fixed mode where the rear wheel is fixed in a rear vertical axis and aligned to roll in the horizontal direction substantially along the longitudinal axis, and a rear swivel mode where the rear wheel is at least partially rotatable about the rear vertical axis; andAttorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000 (04840079.00026) an actuation assembly coupled to the front wheel and the rear wheel and configured to selectively provide: a push mode in which the front wheel is in the front swivel mode and the rear wheel is in the rear fixed mode, a pull mode in which the front wheel is in the front fixed mode and the rear wheel is in the rear swivel mode, and a free mode in which both the front wheel and the rear wheel are in the front swivel mode and rear swivel mode, respectively.

12. The wagon according to claim 11, wherein the actuation assembly is mounted on the handle.

13. The wagon according to claim 11, wherein the actuation assembly is a slidable switch.

14. The wagon according to any one of the claims 11-13, wherein the rear wheel in the rear swivel mode is rotatable about the rear vertical axis in a range of one of: a) 60 degrees, b) 90 degrees, and c) 120 degrees.

15. The wagon according to any one of the claims 11-13, wherein the front wheel in the front swivel mode is rotatable about the front vertical axis in a range of one of: a) 60 degrees, b) 90 degrees, and c) 120 degrees.

16. The wagon according to any one of the claims 11-15, wherein the front wheel is a pair of front wheels.

17. The wagon according to any one of the claims 11-16, wherein the rear wheel is a pair of rear wheels.

18. The wagon according to any one of the claims 11-17, further comprising a wheel assembly that carries a wheel, wherein each wheel assembly has a top cap coupled to a lower end of a lower shaft, a top receptacle, a movable locking member partially in the top receptacle, a wheel hub, a hub receptacle in the wheel hub and aligned with the top receptacle and receiving the locking member, a rotation pin extending from the wheel hub into a receptacle in the top cap, and a cable coupled an upper end of the locking member and routed through the top cap and the lower shaft, wherein actuation of the actuator causes the locking member to translate out of the hub receptable, permitting rotation of the wheel.Attorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000 (04840079.00026)19. The wagon according to any one of the claims 11-18, wherein the actuation assembly includes a housing with a slot, an actuator in the slot, a lock fixed to the actuator, two movable shuttles each having a shuttle slot and the lock extends through each shuttle slot, wherein one end of a front cable and one end of a rear cable is attached to the two movable shuttles, respectively.

20. The wagon according to any one of the claims 11-19, wherein the actuation assembly is: a first actuation assembly configured to transition the front wheel and rear wheel of a front and rear wheel assemblies between the fixed mode and the swivel mode, respectively, and a second actuation assembly, wherein the second actuation assembly is configured to transition one or more of a front wheel assembly and a rear wheel assembly from a use configuration into a collapsed configuration.

21. The wagon according to any one of the claims 11-20, wherein each the front wheel assembly and the rear wheel assembly each have an upper shaft, a lower shaft movably coupled to the upper shaft, a locking member movably engaged with the upper shaft to the lower shaft, and a wheel coupled to the lower shaft, wherein actuation of the actuation assembly disengages the locking member from the lower shaft to permit the lower shaft to fold relative to the upper shaft.

22. The wagon according to claim 21, wherein the actuation assembly includes a rotatable actuator, a cable coupled to the rotatable actuator and the locking member, wherein rotation of the rotatable actuator causes the locking member to move out of engagement with the lower shaft to permit the lower shaft to fold relative to the upper shaft.

23. The wagon according to claim 21 or 22, wherein the actuation assembly is coupled to the handle.

24. The wagon according to claim 21 or 22, wherein the actuation assembly is coupled to the upper shaft or the lower shaft.

25. A wagon, comprising: a frame assembly; a front wheel assembly coupled to the frame assembly, wherein the front wheel assembly is collapsible;Attorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000 (04840079.00026) a rear wheel assembly coupled to the frame assembly, wherein the rear wheel assembly is collapsible; and an actuation assembly configured to transition one or more of the front wheel assembly and the rear wheel assembly from a use configuration into a collapsed configuration.

26. The wagon according to claim 25, wherein each the front wheel assembly and the rear wheel assembly each have an upper shaft, a lower shaft movably coupled to the upper shaft, a locking member movably engaged with the upper shaft to the lower shaft, and a wheel coupled to the lower shaft, wherein actuation of the actuation assembly disengages the locking member from the lower shaft to permit the lower shaft to fold relative to the upper shaft.

27. The wagon according to claim 26, wherein the actuation assembly includes a rotatable actuator, a cable coupled to the rotatable actuator and the locking member, wherein rotation of the rotatable actuator causes the locking member to move out of engagement with the lower shaft to permit the lower shaft to fold relative to the upper shaft.

28. The wagon according to any one of the claims to 25-27, wherein the actuation assembly is coupled to a handle.

29. The wagon according to claim 26, wherein the actuation assembly is coupled to the upper shaft or the lower shaft.

30. The wagon according to claim 27, wherein the actuation assembly includes a forward cable assembly coupled the actuator, and a forward locking member coupled to the forward cable assembly and carried by the front wheel assembly, wherein actuation of the actuation assembly applies tension to the forward cable assembly, disengaging the forward locking member from the front wheel assembly, permitting front wheel assembly to collapse.

31. The wagon according to claim 30, wherein the actuation assembly includes a rear cable assembly coupled the actuation assembly, and a rear locking member coupled to the rear cable assembly and carried by the rear wheel assembly, wherein actuation of the actuation assembly applies tension to the rear cable assembly, disengaging the rear locking member from the rear wheel assembly, permitting the rear wheel assembly to collapse.Attorney Docket No. AP-25107-3520-WG000 (04840079.00026)32. The wagon according to any one of the claims 25-31, wherein: the front wheel assembly includes a front wheel configured to switch between a front fixed mode where the front wheel is fixed in a front vertical axis that is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis and aligned to roll in a horizontal direction substantially along the longitudinal axis, and a front swivel mode where the front wheel being at least partially rotatable about the front vertical axis; and the rear wheel assembly includes a rear wheel configured to switch between a rear fixed mode where the rear wheel is fixed in a rear vertical axis that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and aligned to roll in the horizontal direction substantially along the longitudinal axis, and a rear swivel mode where the rear wheel is at least partially rotatable about the rear vertical axis.

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