Stroller Chassis Hub Single-Hand Release Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing strollers are cumbersome to handle, especially for users with one hand, and have complex locking arrangements that can be unsafe, particularly when carrying structures are not securely attached to the hub.
Innovation Solution
A stroller chassis with a hub comprising two portions that support a carrying structure, featuring a pivotable and lockable design with a release mechanism accessible via a handle, allowing for single-handed operation and enhanced safety through simultaneous unlocking of both hub portions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking arrangement with multiple engaging mechanisms is used to secure the carrying structure to the hub, then the safety and reliability of attachment is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple engaging mechanisms (first and second engaging mechanisms) into a unified locking arrangement that is simultaneously controlled by a single release member. This merging approach maintains high reliability through multiple engagement points while reducing operational complexity by centralizing the control function.
Solution Approach 2:
The release member is designed to perform multiple functions: it simultaneously controls both the first and second engaging mechanisms, and also operates the locking mechanism for the frame assemblies. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate controls needed while maintaining comprehensive security.
2Ease of operation
If a single release member controls multiple engaging mechanisms, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability may worsen due to potential simultaneous unlocking
Solution Approach 1:
The release member is designed to first disengage the engaging mechanisms from their locked positions before allowing the carrying structure to detach. This preliminary action ensures that unlocking is initiated in a controlled manner, preventing accidental detachment while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking arrangement includes feedback mechanisms that indicate whether the carrying structure is properly secured. This feedback ensures that the system only allows detachment when intentionally unlocked, maintaining reliability while preserving single-handed operability.
3Ease of operation
If the stroller chassis is designed to be foldable with a locking mechanism, then the ease of operation for folding and storage is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism for the foldable chassis is integrated with the existing locking arrangement for the carrying structure. Both functions share common components such as the release member and force transfer mechanism, reducing overall complexity while maintaining ease of operation for both folding and attachment/detachment operations.
4Ease of operation
If the release mechanism is provided in the handle portion for remote operation, then the ease of operation with one hand is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The force transfer mechanism acts as an intermediary that transmits the user's input force from the handle portion to the locking mechanism. This intermediary system enables remote operation while keeping the overall structure relatively simple by using straightforward mechanical force transmission through linkages and springs.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a stroller chassis with a hub. The stroller chassis comprises a first frame assembly and a second frame assembly. The hub is configured to couple the first frame assembly to the second frame assembly pivotably about a pivot axis and releasably lockably with respect to each other. The hub is configured to detachably and lockably support a carrying structure on the chassis. The hub is configured to support the carrying structure relative to the chassis pivotably about the pivot axis and lockably in a rotational position. Also disclosed is a stroller chassis with a hub. The hub is configured to detachably and lockably support a carrying structure on the chassis. The hub is configured such that fully unlocking the carrying structure from said hub to allow detachment may be caused by operation of only one release member.