Maneuverable Stroller Intermediate Wheel Pivot Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional strollers lack stability, maneuverability, and steering control, particularly when navigating tight spaces or obstacles, due to their design which often results in difficulty turning and maintaining balance when the front end is lifted.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of intermediate wheels positioned between the front and rear wheels, a pivot axle, and a suspension apparatus to enhance stability and maneuverability, allowing the stroller to pivot and maintain balance while turning, and facilitating easier navigation over obstacles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional stroller design is used, then the structure is simple, but the maneuverability and steering control are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The stroller is divided into multiple functional modules: front wheel assembly with steering mechanism, intermediate wheel assembly with pivot mechanism, rear wheel assembly, and frame structure. Each module can independently perform specific functions (steering, pivoting, support), which collectively achieve superior maneuverability while keeping each component relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate wheel assembly acts as a mediator between the front and rear wheel assemblies. It provides a pivot point that enables the stroller to rotate smoothly, improving steering control without requiring complex mechanical systems in the front or rear assemblies.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the front end is lifted to navigate obstacles, then the ability to overcome obstacles is improved, but the stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate wheel assembly serves as a stable pivot point that remains in contact with the ground during obstacle navigation. When the front end is lifted, the intermediate wheels provide a rotational fulcrum that maintains balance, preventing the stroller from tipping over while enabling it to clear obstacles.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the stroller have different functional qualities during obstacle navigation: the front wheel assembly is designed to be liftable and adaptable for clearing obstacles, while the intermediate wheel assembly is designed to remain stable and provide pivoting support. This local differentiation of qualities allows obstacle navigation without sacrificing overall stability.
3Ease of operation
If tight turning is achieved, then the maneuverability is improved, but the risk of wheel disengagement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate wheel assembly acts as a guided pivot that constrains the rotation path of the stroller. During tight turns, the intermediate wheels remain in contact with the ground and guide the rotation, preventing the front or rear wheels from disengaging from the surface even during aggressive maneuvering.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate wheel assembly provides a buffer or cushioning effect during turning operations. By providing a stable pivot point that absorbs rotational forces, it prevents excessive stress on the front and rear wheel assemblies, thereby maintaining reliable wheel engagement throughout the turning motion.
Data Source
AI summary
Maneuverable strollers are disclosed herein. An example stroller disclosed herein includes a frame having a front wheel and rear wheel to support the frame. An intermediate wheel is positioned between the front wheel and the rear wheel. The example stroller includes a support having a first end and a second end, where the first end supports the intermediate wheel and the second end supports the rear wheel. The support to pivotally couple the intermediate wheel and the rear wheel to the frame, the support defining a pivot axis positioned between the intermediate wheel and the rear wheel when the support is pivotally coupled to the frame.