Foldable Stroller Frame Single-Actuation Locking Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing stroller frames require multiple operations to transition between use and storage states, often leading to unintentional frame opening during transport and lack of one-handed operation for folding and unfolding.

Innovation Solution

A foldable stroller frame with a manual actuation device that allows simultaneous or sequential locking and unlocking processes through a single operation, utilizing a pivotable slide section and Bowden cable mechanism for secure and easy conversion between use and storage states.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a separate locking mechanism is provided for storage position, then the stroller can be secured in storage position, but multiple separate operations are required to transfer between use and storage positions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecuring in storage positionVSAvoidnumber of operations required
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the locking mechanism for storage position with the folding mechanism into a single integrated system. The actuating device simultaneously controls both the folding action and the locking/unlocking processes, eliminating the need for separate locking mechanisms and multiple operations. This merging allows the stroller to transition from use to storage position and vice versa through a single unified operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If multiple separate operations are required for folding and locking, then secure locking can be achieved, but the folding mechanism cannot be operated with one hand

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure lockingVSAvoidone-handed operation capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The actuating device integrates multiple functions including unlocking the use position lock, initiating the folding process, and engaging the storage position lock into a single operational unit. This consolidation enables the entire transition sequence to be controlled with one hand, as the actuating device is designed to be manually operable in a single location without requiring simultaneous two-handed coordination.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Device complexity

If no locking mechanism is provided for storage position, then the structure can be simpler, but the frame can unfold unintentionally during transport

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure simplicityVSAvoidprevention of unintentional unfolding
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism for storage position is merged with the folding mechanism itself, rather than being a separate independent system. The actuating device controls both the folding motion and the engagement/disengagement of locking elements integrated into the folding joints. This approach maintains structural simplicity while ensuring that the storage position is securely locked against unintentional unfolding during transport.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Reliability

If separate locking and folding mechanisms are used, then each function can be optimized, but the overall device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocking functionVSAvoidnumber of separate mechanisms
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The actuating device is designed as a multi-functional universal mechanism that performs multiple roles: it unlocks the use position lock, controls the folding motion, and engages the storage position lock. This single universal actuating device replaces what would otherwise require separate specialized mechanisms for each function, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reliable locking and folding capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3512752B1Perambulator frame and perambulator
Publication Date: 2024.12.25 CYBEX GMBH
  • EP3512752B1 patent drawingFigure 1a~1d
  • EP3512752B1 patent drawingFigure 1e~1h
  • EP3512752B1 patent drawingFigure 1i~2

AI summary

The invention relates to a foldable pushchair chassis, particularly a sport-model pushchair chassis, buggy chassis or similar vehicle chassis for children, comprising wheels and a push element (11) for pushing the pushchair chassis, wherein said pushchair chassis can be brought at least into a lockable usage state and into a folded, lockable storage state and a, particularly manual, actuation device (16) is provided and configured such that during transfer from the locked usage state into the locked storage state, at least two locking procedures can occur, in particular both release of the locking in the usage state and adjustment of locking in the storage state, by means of a single first actuation of said actuation device (16).