Foldable Stroller Hub Coupling and Dynamic Wheel Spacing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foldable strollers for multiple children are either too wide for standard doorways, unstable when used separately, require cumbersome coupling mechanisms, and lack adaptable seating options for newborns and toddlers, leading to increased costs and storage needs for families with varying child ages.
Innovation Solution
A foldable stroller design featuring laterally spaced frame members, rotatable wheels, and a synchronized folding mechanism that allows for side-by-side coupling of two strollers with adjustable rear wheel mounting and a compact interlocking hub system, along with an adaptable seating system that accommodates different child ages and orientations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two strollers are coupled together using elongated releasable clamps or connectors, then multiple children can be transported simultaneously, but the width becomes greater than standard door widths
Solution Approach 1:
The stroller is divided into separable individual units that can be coupled together. Each stroller unit has its own frame, wheels, and seating area, allowing them to be independently manufactured and then joined through interlocking hub structures rather than requiring a single large rigid frame
Solution Approach 2:
One stroller unit can be nested within or alongside another stroller unit when coupled. The design allows the strollers to interlock in a compact manner where components of one stroller fit alongside components of the other, reducing the overall width compared to external coupling mechanisms
2Adaptability or versatility
If elongated clamping devices are used to couple strollers together, then strollers can be joined, but the clamping devices are bulky and not conveniently stored during separate operation
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is merged with the existing hub and wheel structures of the strollers. Rather than adding separate external clamps or connectors, the design integrates coupling features directly into the components that already exist on each stroller unit, eliminating the need for separate bulky coupling devices
Solution Approach 2:
The hub structures serve multiple functions: they support the wheels, enable folding, and provide the coupling interface for joining strollers together. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated coupling devices that would add bulk and require separate storage
3Adaptability or versatility
If rear wheels are spaced relatively closely together for coupled operation, then strollers can be joined side-by-side, but the stroller becomes less stable and subject to tipping when used separately
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel spacing is made dynamic rather than fixed. The stroller frame allows the rear wheels to be positioned at different spacings depending on whether the stroller is being used individually or coupled with another stroller. When coupled, the wheels are spaced closely to avoid interference; when separate, they are spaced widely for stability
4Ease of operation
If front wheels are more widely spaced apart than rear wheels, then steering is improved, but the front wheels do not provide sufficient stabilization when pushed over uneven or soft ground surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel spacing configuration is made dynamic based on operational mode. The stroller can transition between having widely spaced front wheels for steering and closely spaced front wheels for stability on uneven ground, depending on whether it is being used separately or coupled with another stroller
Data Source
AI summary
A stroller includes laterally spaced apart hubs that interconnect upper, middle and front frame member assemblies of a chassis of the stroller. The hubs are disposed one each along opposite sides of the stroller, and include mounting structures for coupling two or more of the strollers together in a side-by-side fashion. The hubs further include other mounting structures for mounting a seat assembly to the stroller chassis and for supporting both rearward facing and frontward facing orientation of the seat assembly as well as selectable inclination positions. Each of the hubs includes a folding mechanism for supporting folding of the stroller, such as for transport in a vehicle or for storage. Other laterally spaced apart hubs are provided along the upper frame members for providing a second point of attachment between two coupled strollers and for mounting of accessories.