Width-Adjustable Foldable Stroller Frame with Scissor Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional strollers have a fixed width, making them inflexible for adapting to changes in family size, such as converting from a single stroller to a twin or triplet, and are not easily collapsible for space-saving storage.
Innovation Solution
A foldable stroller with a width-adjustable frame featuring a pivotally coupled stroller frame, a variable-length axle, and a telescopic cross connection with a scissor mechanism, allowing the stroller to be compactly folded and adapted to different widths for accommodating one or multiple children.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the stroller frame is designed with fixed width, then the manufacturing is simple and cost-effective, but the adaptability to different family sizes is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The stroller frame incorporates a telescopic cross-connection mechanism that allows the frame width to be dynamically adjusted between a first width for single-child configuration and a second width for twin-child configuration. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the same frame to adapt to different family sizes without requiring multiple separate strollers.
Solution Approach 2:
The cross-connection is divided into multiple segments that can be independently positioned at different locations along the longitudinal axis. These segmented components allow for discrete width adjustments while maintaining structural integrity, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and structural simplicity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the stroller is designed as twin stroller with fixed width, then it accommodates two children, but it cannot be converted to single stroller configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The telescopic cross-connection enables the frame to dynamically change its width configuration, allowing the same stroller to be converted between single-child and twin-child modes. This eliminates the need to manufacture separate single and twin strollers, simplifying production while enhancing versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable frame structure serves multiple functions: it can be configured for single-child use, twin-child use, and intermediate configurations. This multi-functionality allows one stroller design to replace what would traditionally require multiple specialized strollers.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the frame width is made adjustable, then the versatility increases, but the mechanism becomes mechanically complex requiring multiple movements
Solution Approach 1:
The scissor-like mechanism provides smooth, continuous motion for width adjustment, transforming a potentially complex multi-step process into a single fluid movement. The mechanical design ensures that the frame width can be adjusted effortlessly between configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The scissor mechanism acts as an intermediary that translates a simple user input (activating the mechanism) into the complex task of adjusting the frame width. This intermediary mechanism handles the mechanical complexity internally while presenting a simple interface to the user.
4Area of stationary object
If the stroller is designed to be foldable, then the storage space is reduced, but the structural stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The stroller incorporates a pivotal connection between the stroller frame and base assembly that enables dynamic folding. The frame can be pivoted relative to the base assembly to transition between an extended stable configuration for use and a compact folded configuration for storage, with the stability maintained in the extended position through proper mechanical design.
Data Source
Figure 1a
Figure 1b
Figure 2a~2c
AI summary
A foldable stroller with adjustable width is described, designed to accommodate one or two inserts depending on its width.