Elliptical Stroller Assembly with Retractable Propulsion
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a lack of stroller designs that incorporate an elliptical propulsion assembly for efficient and economical transportation, with existing solutions either being overly complex or failing to provide a versatile and efficient means of propulsion.
Innovation Solution
An elliptical stroller assembly featuring a stroller frame with a propulsion assembly that includes left and right pedal assemblies connected to a crank assembly and gear system, allowing for both extended and retracted configurations, enabling elliptical propulsion and traditional stroller use, while being volumetrically efficient and easy to convert between configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If an elliptical propulsion assembly is incorporated into the stroller, then propulsion efficiency and exercise functionality are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The propulsion assembly is designed to serve dual purposes: it functions as an exercise machine for the user while simultaneously providing efficient propulsion for the stroller. The pedal cranks, crankshaft, and drive wheels form a mechanism that converts user leg movements into forward motion, combining health exercise benefits with transportation functionality in a single integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the exercise machine functionality with the stroller propulsion system by integrating the pedal assemblies, crankshaft, and drive wheels directly into the stroller frame. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate exercise equipment while providing efficient mechanical propulsion through the combined motion of multiple drive wheels.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the propulsion assembly is made extendable and retractable, then adaptability and storage efficiency are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The propulsion assembly incorporates telescoping tubes with pin-based locking mechanisms that allow the structure to dynamically change between extended and retracted configurations. This dynamic adaptability enables the stroller to switch between different operational modes (exercise propulsion vs. traditional pushing) and optimizes storage volume when the propulsion assembly is not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The propulsion assembly is divided into modular segments including telescoping tubes, pin connectors, and separable mounting components. This segmentation allows for easy assembly, disassembly, and configuration changes, enabling the system to adapt between different operational states while maintaining structural integrity through standardized connection points.
3Reliability
If multiple wheel assemblies are used for elliptical propulsion, then propulsion reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drive system employs an asymmetric configuration with two drive wheels of different diameters (first drive wheel and second drive wheel) positioned at different locations on the stroller. This asymmetric arrangement provides stable and reliable propulsion by distributing the driving force across multiple contact points with the ground, improving traction and preventing slippage during elliptical motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The wheel assembly serves dual functions: it acts as a drive wheel for propulsion during exercise mode and as a support wheel for stable navigation during traditional stroller pushing. The universal design of the wheel assembly allows it to effectively perform both propulsion and support roles, enhancing overall system reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
An elliptical stroller assembly (10) including a stroller frame assembly (20) with a stroller assembly (50) mounted thereto, first and second wheel assemblies (60 and 200), a propulsion frame assembly (80) and propulsion assembly (110). The propulsion frame assembly (80) and the propulsion assembly (110) may be in an extended or in a retracted configuration with respect to the stroller frame assembly (20) and the stroller assembly (50). In the extended configuration, the propulsion assembly (110) propels the stroller frame assembly (20) and the propulsion frame assembly (80) is removably secured to a first fixed mount (88). In the retracted configuration, the propulsion assembly (110) does not propel the stroller frame assembly (20). At this position, the propulsion frame assembly (80) is removably secured to a second fixed mount (89).