Pivoting Carrier Mounting for Single-to-Double Pushchair Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pushchairs require additional connectors and spacers to convert from a single to a double infant carrier configuration, increasing complexity and necessitating extra spacer pieces for height adjustment, which is not efficient for in-line arrangements.
Innovation Solution
A carrier mounting system that can pivot between two positions to adjust the vertical elevation of sockets on a pushchair chassis, allowing for the addition of an extra infant carrier without needing additional spacer pieces, by altering the configuration to accommodate both single and double modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional connectors and spacers are attached to convert from single to double carrier configuration, then the pushchair can transport two infants, but the device complexity increases and requires extra spacer pieces
Solution Approach 1:
The socket member is made pivotable relative to the chassis, allowing it to dynamically change position between a first position (for single carrier configuration) and a second position (for double carrier configuration). This dynamic adjustment eliminates the need for additional spacers by repositioning the existing socket member to create the necessary vertical spacing for in-line carrier arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The single socket member serves multiple functions by being pivotable between two positions: in the first position it supports single carrier configuration, and in the second position it enables double carrier configuration. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate connectors or spacers for different configurations, as one component performs both roles.
2Adaptability or versatility
If spacers are used to raise the height of the existing carrier, then room is made for an additional carrier, but the quantity of additional parts increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using static spacers to raise carrier height, the socket member itself is made dynamic and pivotable. When pivoted to the second position, the vertical elevation of the socket changes, effectively creating the necessary space for an additional carrier without requiring any spacer pieces. The elevation adjustment is achieved through the pivotable mechanism rather than through additional components.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the height adjustment function from separate spacer components and integrates it into the pivotable socket member itself. By removing the need for spacers and incorporating the elevation adjustment directly into the socket's pivotable mechanism, the solution eliminates unnecessary parts while maintaining the ability to create vertical spacing for in-line carrier arrangements.
Data Source
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AI summary
A carrier mounting (3a, 3b) for supporting an infant carrier on a pushchair chassis, the mounting comprising a socket member having a first socket (17) and a second socket (19) therein, both sockets being configured to receive a correspondingly shaped mounting strut of an infant carrier. The socket member is pivotable between first and second positions such that when the carrier mounting is connected to a pushchair chassis, the first or second socket (17, 19) respectively is locatable in a receiving position in which a longitudinal axis of the respective socket bore is oriented with respect to the pushchair chassis at an angle suitable for receiving a mounting strut of an infant carrier. When the second socket (19) is in its receiving position, said second socket (19) supports the infant carrier at a higher point on the pushchair chassis than the first socket (17). The carrier mounting further comprises a locking mechanism (23) configured to releasably hold the socket member in each of the first and second positions, and to allow pivoting therebetween.