Infant Stroller Latch Mechanism for One-Handed Folding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing infant stroller designs are not user-friendly for folding and unfolding, requiring multiple operating steps and separate mechanisms for collapsing and expanding, which complicates handling and storage.
Innovation Solution
The infant stroller apparatus features a pivotally connected frame structure with a latch mechanism that allows for easy conversion between unfolded and collapsed states, using a single locking system to engage or disengage the support frame, enabling convenient folding and unfolding with a single-handed operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a webbing strap with separate storage lock is used, then the stroller frame can be locked in collapsed state, but the operation becomes complex requiring multiple steps for folding and unfolding
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the folding mechanism and locking mechanism into a single integrated system. The latch mechanism is directly coupled with the pivot connections, so that operating the latch simultaneously performs both the locking function and the folding/unfolding function. This eliminates the need for separate webbing straps and storage locks, reducing the operation to a single simple action while maintaining reliable locking.
2Reliability
If separate locking mechanisms are used for folding and unfolding, then the stroller can be securely locked, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism serves multiple functions: it acts as both a locking device and a folding/unfolding actuator. When engaged, it simultaneously secures the frame in the desired configuration and maintains the locked state. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate locking mechanisms, reducing overall device complexity while ensuring secure locking through the single latch system.
3Reliability
If multiple operating steps are required for folding and unfolding, then the locking can be reliable, but the time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the locking action with the folding/unfolding action into a single simultaneous operation. When the latch is engaged or disengaged, it performs both the configuration change and the locking/unlocking function at the same time. This eliminates sequential operations and reduces the time required to transition between folded and unfolded states while maintaining reliable locking through the integrated latch mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
An infant stroller apparatus includes a front leg frame having a first side segment, a handle frame having a second side segment pivotally coupled with the first side segment via a first pivot connection, a rear leg frame having a third and a fourth side segment pivotally coupled with each other via a second pivot connection, the third side segment being further pivotally coupled with the first side segment via a third pivot connection, and the fourth side segment being further pivotally coupled with the second side segment via a fourth pivot connection, a seat portion pivotally coupled with the first side segment via a fifth pivot connection, and a support frame portion respectively coupled with the seat portion and the fourth side segment.