Stroller Chassis Kinematic Linkage for Ergonomic Folding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing collapsible stroller and baby carriage chassis designs are impractical, difficult to operate, and have criticalities in managing rotation angles, often requiring direct manipulation of posts which can be cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible chassis with a simplified structure featuring a base frame, movable front and rear posts, and a handle tube, supported by kinematic connection means that allow for easy rotation and folding, facilitated by an actuation element connected to both the posts and handle tube, enabling smooth transition between extended and collapsed conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If kinematic connection means (gears, interconnection linkages, cables) are used to directly connect the front post and handle tube for simultaneous movement, then the chassis can be collapsed, but the structure becomes complex and the operation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the complex kinematic connection means (gears, linkages, cables) from the system. Instead of directly connecting the front post and handle tube, the invention uses an intermediary mechanism (the actuation element with articulation means) that simplifies the connection, extracting the unnecessary complexity while retaining the collapse functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuation element serves as an intermediary between the user's collapsing action and the movement of the front post and handle tube. This intermediary mechanism translates a simple pushing/pulling motion into the coordinated rotation of multiple components, eliminating the need for direct complex kinematic connections.
2Adaptability or versatility
If direct manipulation of posts is required for actuation, then the chassis can be collapsed, but the operation becomes cumbersome and less ergonomic
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation element acts as a mediator between the user and the chassis components. Instead of directly manipulating the front post or handle tube, the user interacts with the actuation element (located on the base frame), which then translates this simple action into the required rotations of the posts and handle tube through the articulation means.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulation means automatically coordinates the rotation of the front post and handle tube based on the actuation element's movement. The system self-regulates the complex movements without requiring direct user control over each component, making the operation simpler and more ergonomic.
3Adaptability or versatility
If rotation angles of different breadth are required for handle tube and front post, then the chassis can be collapsed, but it becomes difficult to manage and control
Solution Approach 1:
The articulation means provides mechanical feedback that automatically adjusts the rotation angles of the front post and handle tube. As the actuation element moves, the articulation mechanism inherently controls the rotation angles to achieve proper coordination, eliminating the need for manual angle management.
Solution Approach 2:
The system self-regulates the rotation angles through the articulation means, which automatically coordinates the movements of the front post and handle tube. The different rotation angle requirements are managed internally by the mechanism without requiring user intervention or control.
Data Source
AI summary
A collapsible chassis for strollers includes a base frame supporting at least one front post and at least one rear post with wheel assemblies. The base frame further supports at least one handle tube. An actuation element is supported by the base frame and is actuated by the user to move the chassis from the open condition to the closed condition. The actuation element is movable with respect to both the handle tube and the movable post and is connected by way of a first kinematic connection element to the movable post and by way of a second kinematic connection element to the handle tube. Actuating the actuation element causes the rotation of the movable post and handle tube. A third kinematic connection element is provided which includes an articulation element adapted to cause a motion of mutual approach in a transverse direction of the two rear posts.