Pushchair Seat Strut Layout to Prevent Seat Inversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Collapsible child support apparatuses, such as pushchairs, are susceptible to seat inversion due to the suspended seat arrangement, which can cause a child to slide out when pressure is applied, especially when a child arches their back or external forces are exerted.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating fixed-length struts connected between the seat pivot and the handle member in each frame assembly to resist movement and prevent seat inversion, while maintaining a compact fold in the collapsed condition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If the seat is suspended to allow lightweight construction and compact fold, then the apparatus weight and storage size are reduced, but the seat becomes susceptible to inversion when force is applied
Solution Approach 1:
The seat support system is segmented into multiple functional components: the suspended seat assembly for weight reduction and compact folding, and the separate strut mechanism for structural stability. This segmentation allows each component to optimize its specific function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the suspended seat arrangement with a rigid strut support structure. The struts are integrated into the frame assembly and work in conjunction with the suspended seat to prevent inversion while maintaining the benefits of suspension. This combination resolves the contradiction by integrating both lightweight suspension and structural rigidity.
2Reliability
If struts are added to prevent seat inversion, then seat stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The struts serve multiple functions: they prevent seat inversion, provide structural support during folding operations, and maintain proper seat positioning. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving improved stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The strut mechanism is designed to be dynamic rather than static - the struts can pivot and adjust their position during folding and unfolding operations. This dynamic design allows the structure to adapt to different configurations without requiring complex locking mechanisms or additional fasteners.
3Volume of moving object
If the seat base pivots relative to the frame to allow folding, then compact storage is achieved, but the seat becomes vulnerable to inversion forces
Solution Approach 1:
The struts are pre-positioned and pre-loaded to provide resistance against inversion forces before they occur. The struts are configured to engage and provide support during normal use, preventing the seat from pivoting involuntarily during folding operations or under external forces.
Data Source
AI summary
A collapsible child support apparatus includes a frame supporting a seat for the child, the frame and the seat having an open condition for seating a child in the seat and a collapsed condition. The frame includes left and right frame assemblies, each frame assembly comprising a front member, a rear member and a handle member pivotally mounted together by a hinge member to allow pivotal movement of the frame members between open and collapsed conditions. The seat includes a seat base supported by the front frame members, a seat back suspended to the handle members and a seat pivot to allow the seat back and seat base to pivot between open and closed conditions, wherein the seat back is suspended to the handle members to allow the seat back to pivot to any one of a plurality of reclined positions relative to the seat base in the open condition. Each frame assembly comprises a strut of fixed length which is connected between the seat pivot and the handle member for resisting movement of the seat pivot relative to the frame in the open condition.