Folding Perambulator Handle Assembly with Bidirectional Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing handle assemblies for folding perambulators often have separate mechanisms for adjusting handle length and folding the stroller, leading to unintentional activation of one function while performing the other, which can be inconvenient and potentially dangerous.
Innovation Solution
A handle assembly with a rotatable member that allows for adjustable length in one direction and locking mechanism adjustment in the opposite direction, ensuring that handle length adjustment and frame folding are interlocked to prevent unintentional activation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two separate latching mechanisms are used for handle length adjustment and frame folding, then each function can be adjusted independently, but unintentional activation of one function while performing the other can occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate latching mechanisms into a single integrated mechanism. The rotatable member serves dual functions: rotating in one direction adjusts handle length while rotating in the opposite direction adjusts the locking means for frame folding. This merging eliminates the risk of unintentional activation between separate mechanisms while maintaining both adjustment functions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two separate latching mechanisms are used for handle length adjustment and frame folding, then each function can be adjusted independently, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two separate latching mechanisms into one integrated mechanism controlled by a single rotatable member. The rotatable member includes cam means that interact with followers to control both handle length adjustment and frame folding locking through opposite directions of rotation, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining both functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotatable member is designed as a multi-functional component that performs two distinct functions: adjusting handle length in one direction of rotation and adjusting locking means for frame folding in the opposite direction. This universal component eliminates the need for separate mechanisms, reducing overall device complexity.
3Reliability
If a single rotatable member controls both handle length adjustment and locking mechanism, then unintentional activation is prevented, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanism uses dynamic control through the rotatable member's bidirectional rotation. The cam means within the rotatable member are designed to interact with followers in a direction-dependent manner: one direction engages cam means for handle length adjustment while the opposite direction engages cam means for locking mechanism adjustment, providing dynamic function selection based on rotation direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam means act as intermediaries between the rotatable member and the two different functions. The cam means translate the rotational motion in opposite directions into distinct mechanical actions: one set of cam means controls handle length adjustment while another set controls the locking mechanism, mediating the complex interaction between a single actuator and multiple functions.
Data Source
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AI summary
A folding perambulator has a wheeled foldable frame 1 with front frame members 10 which may be folded toward rear frame members 5 when a seating member 2 is removed from the frame 1. A handle 7 is also arranged to be foldable downwardly toward the rear wheels 3. A locking mechanism 6 is provided to permit the frame and handle to be folded. The handle includes a rotatable member 25 which, in one direction of rotation, is arranged to adjust the length of the handle by permitting telescoping of tubular members 26, 27, and in an opposite direction of rotation to cause the locking mechanism, which includes a dog clutch 80, to be disengaged to permit the frame and handle to be folded to a closed position.