Folding Stroller Seat Linkage for Stable Single-to-Double Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foldable strollers are limited in their ability to adapt to the changing size and needs of child occupants, particularly when transitioning between single and tandem seating configurations, often compromising performance and stability.
Innovation Solution
A foldable stroller frame with interconnected support frames and articulating seat connectors that allow for easy reconfiguration between single and tandem seating, featuring a folding link member and latching mechanism for stability and compact folding, along with adaptable seat connectors for various seating options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the stroller is designed as a tandem frame to accommodate multiple occupants, then the adaptability for different occupancy configurations is improved, but the ease of folding and compactness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The stroller frame is divided into separate modular components including a front wheel support frame, rear wheel support frame, and handle support frame that can fold independently. Each seat is also a separate module that can be independently attached, removed, or repositioned, allowing the tandem frame to be segmented for easier folding while maintaining adaptability for single or double occupancy configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic folding mechanisms with multiple pivot points and latching systems that allow the frame to transition between deployed and collapsed states. The seat connectors include movable linkages that automatically adjust positions during folding, and the latching mechanism provides dynamic locking during operation but enables easy release for folding, resolving the contradiction between structural stability and ease of folding
2Adaptability or versatility
If the stroller frame is reconfigured for single-occupant use, then the adaptability for different occupancy is improved, but the stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The seat connectors incorporate dynamic adjustment mechanisms with latching systems that automatically engage to maintain stable positions whether one or two seats are installed. The connectors can dynamically adapt their configuration based on occupancy, providing optimal stability for single-occupant use while maintaining the ability to convert to tandem seating when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the seat connector positioning system, allowing the connectors to be relocated between forward and rearward positions on the frame. This enables adjustment of the center of gravity and weight distribution parameters when transitioning between single and tandem occupancy configurations, maintaining stability across different usage scenarios
3Adaptability or versatility
If the seat connectors are made movable to allow repositioning, then the adaptability for different child sizes is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The seat connector system is segmented into standardized modular components including receptacles, connectors, and positioning mechanisms that can be independently manufactured and assembled. This segmentation allows the complex articulating connectors to be broken down into simpler sub-components, making the overall system more manageable while maintaining the ability to accommodate different child sizes through repositioning
Data Source
AI summary
A foldable stroller for transporting up to two child passengers in a tandem arrangement includes seating configurations that may be easily altered dependent upon the age/size of the passengers. The stroller frame includes an upper seat connector for selectively attaching an upper seat. A lower seat connector is positioned forward of and below the upper seat connector and includes a linkage that allows movement of an associated lower seat between opposing forward and rearward positions without altering the inclination of the lower seat. The forward connector position locates the associated lower seat sufficiently forward to provide clearance for the upper seat and its occupant. When the upper seat is removed, the linkage enables the associated seat to be shifted to the rearward position, shifting the center of gravity location rearward for improved stroller stability.