Stroller Frame Sliding Mechanism and Visual Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing strollers lack efficient mechanisms for folding, leading to user confusion about the fully expanded state, which can result in accidental collapse when a child is placed in the device.
Innovation Solution
A foldable stroller frame with a sliding mechanism and a retractable pin system, including a foot pedal and spring-biased tongues, that facilitates easy folding and provides visual indication of the stroller's expanded state, ensuring secure locking and safe use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional stroller frame without a sliding mechanism is used, then the structure is simpler, but the folding operation is difficult and users cannot easily determine if the stroller is fully expanded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by introducing a sliding mechanism that transforms the static frame structure into a dynamic system. The sliding mechanism includes movable components that slide along guide rails, enabling the frame to transition smoothly between folded and expanded states. This dynamic structure allows users to easily operate the folding mechanism while maintaining structural integrity during transformation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through visual indicators that show users whether the stroller is fully expanded or folded. The indicator mechanism provides real-time information about the frame's state, eliminating user confusion about the expansion status. This feedback system ensures safe operation by making the mechanical state visible and unambiguous to the user.
2Reliability
If the stroller frame lacks a visual indication mechanism, then the structure is simpler, but users may not know when the stroller is fully expanded leading to accidental collapse
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses color changes as a visual indication mechanism. Different colors indicate different states of the stroller frame (e.g., green for fully expanded, red for folded or partially expanded). This color-coded system provides immediate, intuitive feedback to users about the safety status of the stroller, preventing accidental collapse while adding minimal complexity to the overall structure.
3Volume of moving object
If cross frame members are straight, then manufacturing is simpler, but the folding mechanism cannot achieve compact folded position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature to the cross frame members, transforming them from straight linear elements into curved or angled segments. This curvature enables the frame to fold into a compact configuration by allowing the members to pivot and align more closely during the folding process. The curved design achieves space-efficient folded positioning while remaining manufacturable using standard metal forming techniques.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables easy and secure folding of the stroller, preventing accidental collapse and ensuring the stroller is properly expanded before use, enhancing user safety and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
spring-biased tongues
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure, there is provided a foldable stroller frame comprising a first side frame member, a second side frame member, a middle frame member, and a sliding mechanism configured to slide along the middle frame member. First and second cross frame members may connect the sliding mechanism to the first and second side frame members. In some examples, the first and second cross frame members may comprise a curved portion proximate the connection with the side frame members. The sliding member may comprise an upper portion and a lower portion. In some examples, spring-biased tongues disposed in the lower portion may bias the upper portion. In some examples third and fourth cross frame members may connect the first side frame member and the second side frame member to a foot pedal that may be disposed on the middle frame member.