Foldable Stroller One-Hand Folding Mechanism and Memory Recline

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing foldable strollers often have complex and difficult-to-use folding mechanisms that cannot be operated with one hand, and reclinable seatback supports do not retain their adjustment positions when the stroller is folded or unfolded, while also lacking a user-friendly child tray system for easy placement, removal, and cleaning.

Innovation Solution

A foldable stroller design featuring a one-handed folding mechanism with a locking assembly and actuator control, a reclinable back support that retains its last adjustment position, and a removable child tray system for easy operation and cleaning, incorporating a pivotable and adjustable frame with a locking mechanism that allows for secure engagement and disengagement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a traditional folding mechanism is used, then the stroller can be folded and unfolded, but the mechanism is difficult to operate and cannot be operated using one hand

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefolding operationVSAvoidfolding mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the locking function from the folding mechanism by introducing a separate locking assembly with a locking member that can be independently actuated. This allows the folding operation to be simplified while maintaining security, as the locking member can be engaged or disengaged separately from the folding motion itself.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a locking member as an intermediary element between the folding mechanism and the frame. This locking member acts as a mediator that secures the folded position without interfering with the folding motion, allowing one-handed operation by providing a separate control point for securing the stroller.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Stability of the object's composition

If the stroller is folded or unfolded, then the frame moves between configurations, but the reclinable seatback support does not retain its adjustment position

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseatback positionVSAvoidframe movement
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by having the locking member engage with the groove in the reclinable seatback support before the frame movement completes. This pre-engagement ensures that the seatback position is secured in advance, preventing any unintended movement or loss of adjustment position during the folding or unfolding process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The locking member is designed to automatically engage with the groove on the reclinable seatback support when the frame is moved between folded and unfolded configurations. This self-servicing mechanism maintains the seatback position without requiring additional user intervention or complex control systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If a fixed child tray is used, then the tray is securely attached, but it is difficult to remove for cleaning or to assist child placement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetray removalVSAvoidtray attachment
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the child tray removable rather than fixed. The tray can be easily detached from the frame when needed for cleaning or to assist with child placement, and securely reattached when not in use. This dynamic configuration allows the tray to transition between fixed and removable states based on operational needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS7686322B2Foldable stroller with memory recline
Publication Date: 2010.03.30 ARTSANA USA INC
  • US7686322B2 patent drawing
  • US7686322B2 patent drawing
  • US7686322B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A foldable stroller which includes a frame having a front leg and right and left rear legs, right and left support rails movably coupled to a respective one of the right and left rear legs, an operator handle extending between the support rails. A locking assembly is secured to at least one of the support rails and biased toward a locking position that fixes the engagement between the support rails and the rear legs. The stroller includes a one hand folding mechanism that can be movably secured to an operator tray. The foldable stroller also includes a reclinable back having a plurality of recline positions that retains the last adjustment position when the stroller is moved between a folded and unfolded condition.