Foldable Stroller with Gravity-Assisted Single-Operation Folding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foldable strollers require multiple operations to transition from an unfolded to a folded state, complicating the process and necessitating separate handling of the bassinet/seat and chassis frame, which can be inconvenient, especially when monitoring a child.
Innovation Solution
A foldable stroller design featuring a foldable chassis and bassinet with integrated locking mechanisms that allow simultaneous folding by tilting the stroller, where the movement of the chassis from its unfolded to folded condition releases the necessary locking mechanisms, enabling both the chassis and bassinet to fold under gravity in a single operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the bassinet is folded first and then the frame is folded, then the bassinet and frame can be folded without removal, but the user still needs to perform two separate operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the folding of the bassinet and the frame into a single integrated operation. The bassinet is pivotally connected to the frame such that when the frame is folded, the bassinet automatically folds along with it. This eliminates the need for two separate folding operations (first folding the bassinet, then folding the frame) and reduces the overall folding time while maintaining ease of operation.
2Ease of operation
If the bassinet is removed before folding, then the bassinet and frame can be folded individually, but the user must transport and stow two separate items
Solution Approach 1:
The patent keeps the bassinet attached to the frame during folding by using pivotal connections and locking mechanisms. The bassinet is pivotally connected to the frame at a joint that allows the bassinet to fold together with the frame. This merging approach eliminates the need to remove the bassinet before folding, reducing handling complexity from managing two separate items to managing one integrated unit.
3Reliability
If multiple locking mechanisms are used to secure the unfolded state, then safety is improved, but the folding process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a integrated locking system where a single locking mechanism secures both the bassinet to the frame and the frame in its unfolded state. The locking mechanism is positioned at the joint between the bassinet and frame, and when engaged, it prevents both the bassinet from detaching and the frame from folding. This merged locking approach maintains safety while reducing the overall complexity compared to having separate locking mechanisms for each component.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design simplifies the folding process, allowing for a single-handed operation that integrates the folding of the chassis and bassinet, reducing the number of steps and ensuring the stroller can be compactly stored without removing the bassinet/seat from the chassis.
Implementation Method 1
movement of the foldable chassis from its unfolded condition towards its folded condition releases the first locking mechanism
Implementation Method 2
tilting the stroller in the predetermined tilting direction also causes the foldable bassinet or seat to move under gravity from its unfolded condition to its folded condition when the first locking mechanism is released
Data Source
AI summary
The present application discloses a foldable bassinet. The foldable bassinet includes a foldable frame which may be moved between an unfolded condition and a folded condition and a support surface on which a passenger may recline or sit when the foldable frame is in its unfolded condition. The foldable frame can include a base frame on which the support surface is provided, an upper frame which is spaced from the base frame when the foldable frame is in its unfolded condition, and at least one connecting arm which is pivotally connected relative to the base frame and to the upper frame to permit the foldable frame to be moved to its folded condition.