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Patent 2214396 Summary

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Claims and Abstract availability

Any discrepancies in the text and image of the Claims and Abstract are due to differing posting times. Text of the Claims and Abstract are posted:

  • At the time the application is open to public inspection;
  • At the time of issue of the patent (grant).
(12) Patent: (11) CA 2214396
(54) English Title: COLLAPSIBLE STROLLER
(54) French Title: POUSSETTE REPLIABLE
Status: Deemed expired
Bibliographic Data
(51) International Patent Classification (IPC):
  • B62B 7/08 (2006.01)
(72) Inventors :
  • HAUT, ROBERT E. (United States of America)
  • SACK, JAMES A. (United States of America)
(73) Owners :
  • GRACO CHILDREN'S PRODUCTS INC. (United States of America)
(71) Applicants :
  • GRACO CHILDREN'S PRODUCTS, INC. (United States of America)
(74) Agent: BLAKE, CASSELS & GRAYDON LLP
(74) Associate agent:
(45) Issued: 1999-05-04
(22) Filed Date: 1994-04-19
(41) Open to Public Inspection: 1994-10-27
Examination requested: 1997-10-23
Availability of licence: N/A
(25) Language of filing: English

Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT): No

(30) Application Priority Data:
Application No. Country/Territory Date
049,468 United States of America 1993-04-20

Abstracts

English Abstract






A collapsible stroller for transporting a passenger
includes a frame (12) movable between a collapsed
position and an operating position. The frame (12)
includes rotatably mounted wheels (22) for providing the
stroller with mobility. A passenger seat (54) is
provided for receiving the passenger. At least a portion
of the passenger seat is movably mounted on the frame
between a first position and a second position. A latch
(88) is mounted on the frame (12) and the seat (54). The
latch releasably holds the seat (54) in the first
position. The latch, seat and frame are configured such
that when the seat is in the first position and the frame
is moved from he operating position to the collapsed
position, the latch (88) automatically releases the seat
and the seat moves to the second position.


French Abstract

Poussette repliable pour transporter une personne, comportant un cadre(12) pouvant passer de la position repliée à la position d'utilisation. Le cadre (12) comporte des routes pivotantes (22) permettant de déplacer la poussette. Un siège (54) est prévu pour permettre à un passager de s'asseoir. Au moins une partie du siège du passager est montée sur le cadre de manière à pouvoir bouger d'une première position à une deuxième. Un dispositif de verrouillage (88) est monté sur le cadre (12) et sur le siège (54). Le dispositif de verrouillage, le siège et le cadre sont configurés de manière à ce que lorsque le siège est placé dans la première position et que le cadre est déplacé de la position d'utilisation à la position repliée, le dispositif de verrouillage (88) se déclenche automatiquement, et le siège se met dans la deuxième position.

Claims

Note: Claims are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.



- 18 -
The embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive
property or privilege is claimed are defined as
follows:

1. A lockable hinge for use on a stroller to
pivotally and lockingly interconnect an arm forming a
handle of the stroller and a leg forming a lower frame of
the stroller, comprising:
a upper body member slidably coupled to
the arm to enable the upper body member to move
substantially axially to the arm between a
locked lowered position and an unlocked raised
position, the upper body member having a
forward portion with a finger indent adapted to
receive a finger of a user to allow the user to
slide the upper body member to the unlocked
position, and a lower end of the arm extending
below the upper body member;

a lower body member fixedly attached to
the leg, with an upper end of the leg
protruding beyond the lower body member; and

a spring member disposed within the upper
body member and between the arm and the leg
such that the spring member biases the upper
body member toward the locked position,

wherein the lower end of the arm of
the handle is pivotally connected to the
lower body member to permit the arm to
pivot relative to the lower body member,
and

wherein the upper body member
includes a seat for engaging the upper end
of the leg in the locked position such



- 19 -
that when the upper end of the leg is
engaged by the seat, the lower end of the
arm is prevented from pivoting relative to
the leg.

2. The lockable hinge according to claim 1,
wherein the upper body member further includes a rear
portion having a rearwardly extending protrusion for
engaging a finger of a user thereunder to facilitate
pulling the upper body member to the unlocked position.

3. The lockable hinge according to claim 1,
wherein the arm and the leg are substantially parallel to
each other when the seat is engaged with the upper end of
the lower body member.

4. The lockable hinge according to claim 1,
wherein the upper body member comprises a boss disposed
in slidable engagement with the arm and wherein the arm
comprises an extension for engagement with the boss to
restrict the sliding of the upper body member against the
arm.

5. The lockable hinge according to claim 4,
wherein the extension includes a screw secured to the
arm.

6. The lockable hinge according to claim 1,
wherein the upper body member further comprises a cam
surface adjacent to the seat and adapted to engage the
upper end of the leg.

7. The lockable hinge according to claim 1,
further comprising a pin extending through the arm and
adapted to receive an end of the spring, wherein the
spring is disposed between the pin and a portion of the
upper body member adapted to receive the spring.


.

- 20 -
8. The lockable hinge according to claim 1,
wherein the upper body member and the lower body member
are positioned substantially adjacent to each other in
the locked position, and wherein the upper body member
includes a lower surface which is complementary in shape
to an upper surface of the lower body member.

9. The lockable hinge according to claim 8,
wherein the lower surface of the upper body member
includes a convex shape, and the upper surface of the
lower body member includes a concave shape.

Description

Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.


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COLLAPSIBLE STROLLER
Fiel~ of the Invention
The present invention is directed to a
collapsable stroller and, more particularly, to a
S collapsable stroller which can be readily collapsed and
locked in the collapsed position.

Background of the Iu~e~tiou
Collapsable strollers have been known and sold
throughout the United States. Such collapsable
strollers include a seat for receiving the passenger of
the stroller. Typically, the seat is movably mounted on
the frame of the stroller between a first position
wherein the seat is configured for receiving the
passenger in a sitting position and a second position
lS wherein the seat is configured for receiving the
passenger in a recumbent position. When the user
collapses the stroller it is usually nececs~ry-that the
seat be in one of the first or second positions or the
stroller is not collapsable. That is, the seat must be
in a predetermined position in order for it to be
collapsable. Thus, before collapsing the stroller the
user must first take the time to place the seat in the
position which permits the stroller to be collapsed.
Hence, a need has arisen for a stroller which is
2S collapsable regardless of the position of the seat.
Other known collapsable strollers are
problematic in that once they are in the collapsed
position, they may unfold and become awkward to h~n~e.
That is, there is no means for locking the stroller in
the collapsed position to prevent the stroller from
unfolding during handling. Hence, a need exists for a
stroller which is automatically locked in the collapsed
position upon collapsing the stroller.

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Other known ~trollers have horizontal push or
grip handles which extend from the stroller. It is not
uncommon for the user of the stroller to travel extended
distances over a relatively long period of time. The
use of a horizontal push or grip handle in a stroller is
not ergonomically correct and leads to discomfort for
the user after a short period of time. Therefore, a
need has arisen for a push or grip handle for a stroller
which is ergonomically correct to allow the user to
travel extended distances in as much comfort as
possible.
The present invention overcomes many of the
disadvantages inherent in the above-described strollers.
The collapsable stroller of the present invention is
collapsable regardless of whether the seat is in the
first or second positions. Upon collapsing the stroller
of the present invention, the stroller is locked in the
collapsed position to prevent the stroller from
unfolding and becoming awkward to transport. Further,
the handle of the collapsable stroller of the present
invention is anqled in an ergonomically correct manner
to provide comfort to the user of the stroller.

8u~mary of the Invention
Briefly stated, the present invention is a
collapsable stroller for transporting a passenger. The
stroller includes a frame movable between a collapsed
position and an operating position. A passenger support
receives the passenger. At least a portion of the
support is movably mounted on the frame between a first
position and a second position. A latch is mounted on
the frame and support. The latch releasably holds the
support portion in the first position. The latch,
support and frame are configured such that when the
support portion is in the first position and the frame
is moved from the operating position to the collapsed

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position the latch automatically releases the support
portion and the support portion moves to the ~econd
position.
- In another aspect of the invention, the
stroller includes a frame movable between a collapsed
position and an operating position. The frame includes
a set of wheels rotatably mounted thereon for providing
the ~troller with mobility. A passenger Cupport is
mounted on the frame. A locking device mounted on the
frame releasably locks the frame in the collapsed
position.
In another aspect of the invention, the
stroller is provided with an ergonomically correct grip
handle.

Descript~on of the Drawings
The foregoing summary, as well as the
following detailed description of the preferred
embodiment, will be better understood when read in
conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose
of illustrating the invention, there is shown in the
drawings an embodiment which is presently preferred, it
being understood, however, that the invention is not
limited to the specific methods and instrumentalities
disclosed. In the drawings:
FIG. 1 i~ a right elevational view of a
collapsable stroller in accordance with the present
invention:
FIG. 2 is a right elevational view of the
collapsable stroller shown in FIG. 1 in a partially
collapsed position;
FIG. 3 is a right elevational view of the
collapsable stroller shown in FIG. 1 in a collapsed
position;
FIG. 4 is an enlarged top plan view of the
collapsable stroller shown in FIG. 1.;

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FIG. 5 is a greatly enlarged cross-sectional
view of the collapsable stroller shown in FIG. 4, taken
along lines 5-5 of FIG. 4;
FIG. 6 is a greatly enlarged fragmentary view
of the collapsable stroller shown in FIG. 3; and
FIG. 7 is a greatly enlarged cross-sectional
view of the collapsable stroller shown in FIG. 1 with
the back of the seat in the position shown in phantom,
taken along lines 7-7 of FIG. 1.

Description of the Preferre~ ~mbodiment
Certain terminology is used in the following
description for convenience only and is not limiting.
The words "right," "left," nlower" and "upper" designate
directions in the drawin~s to which reference is made.
The words "inwardly" and "outwardly" refer to directions
toward and away from, respectively, the geometric center
of the collapsable stroller and designated parts
thereof. The terminology includes the words above
specifically mentioned, derivatives thereof and words of
similar import.
Referring to the drawings in detail, wherein
like numerals indicate like elements throughout, there
is shown in FIGS. 1 through 7 a preferred embodiment of
a collapsable stroller, generally designated 10, for
transporting a passenger (not shown). Generally, the
ctroller 10 i~ intended for transporting children, but
the inventive principles are applicable to strollers for
adults as well. FIG. 1 is a right elevational view of
the collapsable stroller 10, hereinafter referred to as
the "stroller" 10. The stroller 10 includes a frame 12
movable between a collapsed position (shown in FIG. 3)
and an operating position (shown in FIG. 1). In the
collapsed position the stroller 10 is not usable and
folded to a generally flat configuration to permit the
stroller 10 to be readily stored. In the operating

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W094/~982 PCT~S94/04305


position the stroller lO is configured to receive and
transport the passenger in a manner well understood by
those skilled in the art.
Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 4, the frame 12
includes a handle 14 having a gripping portion 16. The
handle 14 includes first and second arms 18a, 18b
extending from the gripping portion 16. That is, the
gripping portion 16, first arm 18a, and ~econd arm 18b
are configured to be generally U-shaped in plan view.
The handle 14 is preferably constructed of a metallic
tube, which is generally circular in cross section. A
pad 20 is disposed over the gripping portion 16 to
provide the user with a degree of comfort while pushing
the stroller 10. It is understood by those skilled in
the art that the gripping portion 16 could be formed of
a polymeric material and the first and second arms 18a,
18b could be constructed of a metallic tube.
As best shown in FIGS. 1 and 4, the gripping
portion 16 includes a first area 16a for receiving a
first hand of a user (not shown) and a second area 16b
for receiving a second hand of the user (not shown).
The first and second areas 16a, 16b extend at an angle
of less than one hundred eighty degrees with respect to
each other. This provides the gripping portion 16 with
an ergonomically correct design which enables the user
to push the stroller lO in comfort.
Referring now to FIGS. 1, 2 and 4, the frame
12 further comprises a first sub-frame 12a having first
and second wheels 22a, 22b rotatably mounted thereon.
The first sub-frame 12a includes first and second hinges
24a, 24b interconnected between the handle 14 and the
first sub-frame 12a such that the first sub-frame 12a is
pivotally mounted to the handle 14 for movement between
the collapsed and operating positions, as described in
more detail hereinafter.

CA 02214396 1997-10-23

W094l~982 - PCT~S941~30



Referring now to FIGS. 1, 3 and 5 in the
present embodiment, it is preferred that the first sub-
frame 12a comprise a first leg 26 having a first end 26a
and a ~econd end 26b. The first end 26a of the first
leg 26 includes the first wheel 22a rotatably mounted
thereon in a manner not pertinent to the present
invention and well understood by those skilled in the
art. The first hinge 24a is interconnected between the
first leg 26 and a distal end 18a' of the first arm 18a
such that the first leg 26 pivots with respect to the
first arm 18a.
As shown in FIG. 5, in the present embodiment
it is preferred that the first hinge 24~ be comprised of
a body 28 which includes an aperture 30 and bearing
surface 31 for firmly receiving the second end 26b of
the first leg 26 therein. A portion of the second end
26b of the first leg 26 protrudes outwardly from the
body 28, for reasons described hereinafter. A pin 32
secures the second end 26b of the first leg 26 within
the body 28 to prevent the first leg 26 from moving with
respect to the body 28. The distal end 18a' of the
first arm 18a is secured to the body 28 by a second pin
34 such that the first arm 18a is pivotable with respect
to the body 28. The body 28 is constructed to allow the
first arm 18a to pivot with respect to the body 28 and
first leg 26 between a first position (see FIG. 5)
wherein the first leg 26 and first arm 18a extend
generally parallel with respect to each other and a
second position (see FIG. 3) wherein the first leg 26
and first arm 18a are folded toward each other and form
an acute angle therebetween.
The pin 32, second pin 34 and the remaining
pins described hereinafter are preferably standard
fastening elements, such as rivets. Although other
fastening elements, such as nuts and bolts, could be
used without departing from the spirit and scope of the

CA 02214396 1997-10-23

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invention. The body 28 of the first hinge 24a is
preferably constructed of a polymeric material and
formed by a suitable molding process.
Similarly, the first sub-frame 12a includes a
second leg 36 having a first end 36a and a second end
36b. The first end 36a of the cecond leg 36 includes
the second wheel 22b rotatably mounted thereon in a
manner not pertinent to the present invention and well
understood by those skilled in the art. The first and
second legs 26, 36 are preferably constructed of the
same material as the handle 14. The second hinge 24b is
interconnected between the second leg 36 and a distal
end of the second arm 18b such that the second leg 36
pivots with respect to the second arm 18b. The second
hinge 24b is generally identical to the first hinge 24a
described above except it is a mirror image thereof.
Accordingly, further description is omitted for purposes
of brevity and convenience only, and is not limiting.
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 4, a foot rest 38, in
the form of a metallic tube (not shown) covered by a
plastic shield, is connected between the first and
second legs 26, 36 proximate the first and second wheels
22a, 22b. The metallic tube provides the first sub-
frame 12a with structural integrity. The foot rest 38
is not pertinent to the present invention and can be
constructed in any manner well understood by those
skilled in the art. Therefore, further description of
the foot rest 38 is omitted for purposes of convenience
only, and is not limiting.
Referring now to FIGS. 1, 2 and 4, the frame
12 further includes a second sub-frame 12b having third
and fourth wheels 22c, 22d rotatably mounted thereon.
The second sub-frame 12b includes third and fourth
hinges 24c, 24d interconnected between the first and
second arms 18a, 18b, respectively, of the handle 14 and
the second sub-frame 12b such that when the second sub-

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frame 12b is pivotally mounted to the handle 14 for
movement between the collapsed and operating positions.
It is preferred that the third and fourth hinges 24c,
24d be mounted to the first and second arms 18a, 18d
between the first and second hinges 24a, 24b of the
first ~ub-frame 12a and the gripping portion 16.
In the present embodiment, the second Uub-
frame 12b comprises a third leg 40 having a first end
40a and a second end 40b. The first end 40a of the
third leg 40 has the third wheel 22c rotatably mounted
thereon in a manner not pertinent to the present
invention and well understood by those skilled in the
art. The third hinge 24c is interconnected between th~
third leg 40 and the first arm 18a such that the third
leg 40 pivots with respect to the first arm 18a.
Similarly, the second sub-frame 12b includes a fourth
leg having a first end and a second end. The fourth leg
is not shown in the drawings, but is generally identical
to the third leg 40, except that it is positioned on the
contralateral side of the stroller 10. The first end of
the fourth leg has the fourth wheel 22d rotatably
mounted thereon in a manner not pertinent to the present
invention and well understood by those skilled in the
art. The fourth hinge 24d is interconnected between the
fourth leg and the second arm 18b such that the fourth
leg pivots with respect to the ~econd arm 18b.
As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the third hinge 24c
is comprised of a hinge member 44 which is secured to
the first arm 18a by a pin 46 and canopy ~upport rod 48.
The pin 46 extends through a suitably sized aperture in
the first arm 18a and secures the first arm 18a to the
hinge member 44. The support rod 48 includes an
interlocking member 48a at its distal end which
cooperates with slots 50 in the first arm 18a and hinge
member 44 to interlock the hinqe member 44 and the first
arm 18a together in a manner well understood by those

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_ g _

skilled in the art. The hinge member 44 includes a
bearing surface 45 which receives the first arm 18a.
The bearing surface 45, pin 46 and cupport rod 48
cooperate to fix the hinge member 44 to the first arm
18a.
The support rod 48 is rotatably mounted to the
first and second arms 18a, 18b to permit the canopy 47
to be moved between a position where it extends
outwardly from the handle 14 to shade the stroller lO
and a position where it is pulled against handle 14, as
is well understood by those skilled in the art. As
shown in FIG. 4, the canopy 47 includes a window 47a for
permitting the user to monitor the passenger during use
of the stroller lO. A hinged flap 47b is provided for
selectively covering the window 47a and is securable to
the canopy 47 by hook and loop material 47c. The use
and structure of the canopy 47 do not form a pertinent
part of the present invention and are well understood by
those skilled in the art and, therefore, further
description thereof is omitted for purposes of
convenience only, and is not limiting.
As shown in FIGS. 1, 6 and 7, the second end
4Ob of the third leg 40 is pivotally connected to the
hinge member 44 by a pin 52 such that the third leg 40
pivots with respect to the hinge member 44 between the
operating position shown in FIG. 1 and the collapsed
position shown in FIG. 3. The hinge member 44 is
preferably constructed in a manner generally identical
to the construction of the body 28 of the first hinge
24a. The fourth hinge 24d is similarly constructed to
the third hinge 24c and, therefore, further description
thereof is omitted for purposes of convenience only and
is not limiting.
Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 4, the stroller
lO includes a passenger support, generally designated
s4, for receiving the passenger. At least a portion 54a

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-- 10 --

of the support 54 is movably mounted on the frame 12
between a first position (shown in phantom in FIG. 1)
and a second position (shown in solid lines in FIG. 1).
The support portion 54a is in the second position when
the frame 12 is in the collapsed position and is movable
between the first and second positions when the frame 12
is in the operating position. More particularly, when
the support portion 54a is in the first position, the
support portion 54a is configured for receiving the
passenger in a sitting position and when the support
portion 54a is in the second position the support
portion 54a is configured for receiving the passenger in
a recumbent or lying position.
In the present embodiment, it is preferred
that the passenger support 54 be comprised of a seat
mounted on the frame 12 and the support portion 54a of
the passenger support 54 be comprised of a back of the
seat. The support portion 54a is movably mounted on the
frame 12 between the first and second positions such
that the support portion 54a moves to the second
position when the frame 12 is moved from the operating
position to the collapsed position, as described in more
detail hereinafter.
In the present embodiment, the passenger
support 54 is formed by a generally rectangular base 60
which is positioned between the first, second, third and
fourth legs 26, 36 and 40, respectively. That is, the
base 60 is secured to the first, second, third and
fourth legs 26, 36 and 40 by pins 61 which permit the
base 60 to pivot with respect to the first and ~econd
sub-frames 12a, 12b. A mesh basket 62 hangs from the
base 60 for providing a storage area for miscellaneous
items (not shown). The forward portion of the base 60
extends beyond the first and second legs 26, 36 and
includes a pad 64 to form the seat and provide the
passenger with a degree of comfort. The support portion

CA 02214396 1997-10-23
-



-- 11 --
54a of the passenger support 54 is in the form of an
inverted generally U-shaped tube 66 having its distal
ends pivotally connected to the base 60 by pins 68. The
base 60 and tube 66 are preferably constructed of the
same material as the handle 14. The support portion 54a
of the passenger support 54 further includes a cloth
material (not shown) stretched between the legs of the U-
shaped tube 66 to provide the passenger with a degree of
comfort. A rear canopy 67 extends between the tube
66 and handle 14 for further shading the passenger. The
use and structure of the rear canopy 67 and cloth
material of the tube 66 are well understood by those
skilled in the art, and do not form a part of the present
invention. Therefore, further description thereof is
omitted for the purposes of convenience only, and is not
limiting.
Referring now to FIGS. 1, 2 and 5, the
stroller 10 includes a first locking device 70 for
locking the frame 12 in the operating position. In the
present embodiment, the locking device 70 comprises a
catch 72 slidably disposed on the distal end 18a' of the
first arm 18a. The slidably catch 72 includes an
elongate aperture 74 for receiving the distal end 18a'
of the first arm 18 therethrough. The slidable catch 72
includes a boss 76 depending inwardly into slidable
engagement with the first arm 18a. The catch 72
includes a cam surface 77 for guiding the catch 72 over
the second end 26b of the first leg 26, as described in
more detail hereinafter. The catch 72 is preferably
constructed of the same material as the body 28 of the
first hinge 24a.
A screw 78 is threadably secured to the first
arm 18a for engagement with the boss 76 to prevent the
slidable catch 72 from being removed from the first arm
18a. A pin 80 is fixedly secured to and extends through
the first arm 18a a short distance above the screw 78.

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A spring 82 is disposed between the pin 80 and a portion
of the slidable catch 72 for biasing the slidable catch
72 toward the distal end 18a' of the first arm 18. The
~lidable catch 72 includes a second aperture 84 for
receiving the second end 26b of the first leg 26 in a
releasable manner.
A finger indent 86 is provided in the slidable
catch 72 for allowing the user to position his or her
finger in the indent 86 to lift and slide the slidable
catch 72 along the first arm 18 in the direction of the
arrow 73 until the second end 26b of the first leg 26 is
no longer positioned within the second aperture 84.
Once the second end 26b of the first leg 26 clears the
second aperture 84, the first arm 18a is pivotable with
respect to the first leg 26 in the direction of the
arrow 75 due to the first hinge 24a to allow the frame
12 to assume the collapsed position. When the second
end 26b of the first leg 26 is disposed within the
second aperture 84, the first arm 18a and first leg 26a
are locked with respect to each other to maintain the
frame 12 in the operating position.
A functionally identical mirror image locking
device 70 is positioned on the distal end 18b' of the
second arm 18b for locking the second arm 18b to the
second leg 36 in a manner which is identical to that
described above. Accordingly, further description of
the locking device 70 used in connection with the second
arm 18b and the second leg 36 is omitted for purposes of
convenience only, and is not limiting.
Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 7, the stroller
10 includes a latch 88 mounted on the frame 12 and
passenger support 54. The latch 88 releasably holds the
support portion 54a in the first position. That is, the
latch 88, support 54 and frame 12 are configured such
that when the support portion 54a is in the first
position and the frame 12 is moved from the operating

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- 13 -

position to the collapsed position, the latch 88
automatically releases the support portion 54a and the
support portion 54a moves to the second position.
In the present embodiment, the latch 88 is
comprised of a boss 90 and a slot 92 respectively on the
frame 12 and the support portion 54a. More
particularly, the boss 90 is formed as part of the hinge
member 44 of the third hinge 24c. The slot 92 is formed
in a latch member 94 secured to the tube 66 of the
support portion 54a. The latch member 94 is secured to
the tube 66 by a pin 96. The boss 90 is positioned
within the slot 92 when the support portion 54a is in
the first position and the frame 12 is in the operating
position. When the support portion 54a is in the first
position and the frame 12 is moved from the operating
position to the collapsed position, the boss 90 moves
with respect to the slot 92 such that the boss 90 and
slot 92 disengage to release the support portion 54a
from the first position. That is, as the frame 12 is
collapsed, the hinge 24c rotates, as best shown by
comparing FIGS. 1 and 2, to move the boss 90 out of
engagement with the slot 92. Support portion 54a drops
under the force of gravity to the second position
wherein the stroller may be collapsed.
The latch 88 further includes a flexible
element or finger release 98 for manual release of the
latch 88 to move the support portion 54a from the first
position to the second position when the frame 12 is in
the operating position. To manually release the latch
88, the user moves the flexible element 98 inwardly to
allow the boss 90 to clear the slot 92 to permit the
support portion 54a to fold downwardly to the second
position .
The latch member 94 includes an ear 94a
extending upwardly from the tube 66 for assisting in
preventing the rear canopy 67 from interfering with the

CA 02214396 1997-10-23

W094l~982 - PCT~S94/~05

- 14 -

motion of the support rod 48 when the support portion is
in the first position, as best chown in FIG. 7. The
latch member 94 i5 preferably constructed of generally
flexible elastic polymeric material. The material
preferably has a degree of flexibility which permits the
user to easily move the latch member 94 out of
engagement with the boss 90.
An identical latch (not ~hown) i-c disposed on
the contralateral cide of the stroller 10 for allowing
the member 66 to be coupled to the fourth hinge 24d in a
generally identical manner. Thus, to manually release
the latches 88, it is necessary to move the flexible
elements 98 of both latches 88 inwardly to move the
support portion 54 downwardly to the second position.
The latch 88 facilitates collapsing the
stroller by eliminating the step of manually releasing
two latches. Releasing the latches is necessary, ~ince
the stroller will not fully collapse if the support
portion is in the first position.
While in the present embodiment, it is
preferred that the latch 88 be configured and used as
described above. It is understood by those skilled in
the art that the latch 88 could be configured in other
manners. For instance, the slot 92 could be open at
both ends and the ear 94a could be omitted without
departing from the spirit and scope of the present
invention.
Referring now to FIGS. 1, 3 and 6, the frame
12 further includes a locking device 100 for releasably
and automatically locking the frame 12 in the collapsed
position. In the present embodiment, it is preferred
that the locking device 100 extend between the first and
second sub-frames 12a, 12b. That is, the locking device
extends between the first leg 26a and the third hinge
24c.

CA 02214396 1997-10-23



In the present embodiment, the locking device
100 comprises a generally flexible finger 102 and cam
lock 104 respectively extending between the first leg 26
and the third hinge 24c. The finger 102 is secured to
the first leg 26 by a pin 103. The finger 102 is
flexible such that the cam lock 104 catches the finger
102 when the frame 12 is moved to the collapsed
position. That is, the cam lock 104 is comprised of a
pair of ratchet teeth 106 formed on the hinge member 44
of the third hinge 24c and the finger 102 includes a
pawl-like element 108. To release the locking device
100, the user merely lifts the finger 102 upwardly to
disengage the pawl-like element 108 from the ratchet
teeth 106 to thereby allow the frame 12 to be moved to
the operating position. When the frame 12 is moved to
the collapsed position, the ramps on the ratchet teeth
108 guide the pawl-like element 108 and finger 102
upwardly until the pawl-like element 108 passes over the
top of each tooth 108 and snaps into the locked
position. Thus, the locking device 100 automatically
locks the frame 12 in the collapsed position when the
frame 12 is collapsed.
While in the present embodiment it is
preferred that the locking device 100 includes the pawl-
like element 108 and ratchet teeth 106, it is understood
by those skilled in the art that other structures could
be used to automatically lock the frame 12 in the
collapsed position. For instance, the hinge member 44
could include a suitably sized aperture (not shown)
which could receive pawl-like element 108, without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
In use, assuming the frame 12 is in the
operating position and the support portion 54a of the
passenger support 54 is in the first position and the
user desires to move the frame 12 to the collapsed
position, using both hands, the user grabs the slidable

CA 02214396 1997-10-23

W094/~982 PCT~S94/~305

- 16 -

catch 72 at the finger indent 86 and slides each
slidable catch 72 upwardly along the first and ~econd
arms 18a, 18b until the second end 26b, 36b of the first
and ~econd legs 26, 36 clear the second aperture 84 of
the slidable catch 72. The handle 14 then begins to
fold downwardly and the first sub-frame 12a begins to
move toward the ~econd sub-frame 12b, as shown in FIG.
2. Simultaneously, the boss 90 and slot 92 move in
opposite directions to release the support portion 54a
from the first position. The user then continues to
move the handle 14 toward the second sub-frame 12b,
until the stroller 10 assumes the position shown in FIG.
3.
As the stroller 10 approaches the collapsed
position, the locking device 100 automatically secures
the first and second sub-frames 12a, 12b together to
prevent the stroller 10 from unfolding.
To position the collapsed stroller 10 in the
operating position, the user lifts the finger 102
upwardly such that the pawl-like element 108 becomes
disengaged with the ratchet teeth 106. The user then
lifts upwardly on the handle 14 until the cam surface 77
of the sliding catch 72 of the first locking devices 70
engages the second ends 26b, 36b of the first and second
legs 26, 36. The second ends 26b, 36b of the first and
second legs engage the cam surface 77 to cause the catch
72 to slide up the first and second arms 18a, 18b until
the first and second arms 18a, 18b extend generally
parallel the first and second legs 26, 36, respectively.
The catches 72 then slide downwardly such that the
second apertures 84 slide over the second ends 26b, 36b
of the first and second legs 26, 36. Once the frame 12
is in the operating position, the support portion 54a is
movable between the first and second positions, as
desired by the user.

CA 02214396 1997-10-23

W0941239~ - PCT~S94/04305



From the foregoing description, it can be seen
that the present invention comprises a collapsable
~troller which is collapsable regardless of the position
of the ~troller ceat. It will be appreciated by those
skilled in the art that changes and modifications may be
made to the above-described embodiment without departing
from the inventive concept thereof. It i~ understood,
therefore, that the present invention is not limited to
the particular embodiment disclosed, but is intended to
include all modifications and changes which are within
the scope and spirit of the invention as defined by the
appended claims.

Representative Drawing
A single figure which represents the drawing illustrating the invention.
Administrative Status

For a clearer understanding of the status of the application/patent presented on this page, the site Disclaimer , as well as the definitions for Patent , Administrative Status , Maintenance Fee  and Payment History  should be consulted.

Administrative Status

Title Date
Forecasted Issue Date 1999-05-04
(22) Filed 1994-04-19
(41) Open to Public Inspection 1994-10-27
Examination Requested 1997-10-23
(45) Issued 1999-05-04
Deemed Expired 2007-04-19

Abandonment History

There is no abandonment history.

Payment History

Fee Type Anniversary Year Due Date Amount Paid Paid Date
Advance an application for a patent out of its routine order $100.00 1997-10-23
Request for Examination $400.00 1997-10-23
Registration of a document - section 124 $50.00 1997-10-23
Application Fee $300.00 1997-10-23
Maintenance Fee - Application - New Act 2 1996-04-19 $100.00 1997-10-23
Maintenance Fee - Application - New Act 3 1997-04-21 $100.00 1997-10-23
Maintenance Fee - Application - New Act 4 1998-04-20 $100.00 1997-12-29
Final Fee $300.00 1999-01-18
Maintenance Fee - Application - New Act 5 1999-04-19 $150.00 1999-04-19
Maintenance Fee - Patent - New Act 6 2000-04-19 $350.00 2000-07-06
Maintenance Fee - Patent - New Act 7 2001-04-19 $150.00 2001-03-16
Maintenance Fee - Patent - New Act 8 2002-04-19 $150.00 2002-03-18
Maintenance Fee - Patent - New Act 9 2003-04-21 $150.00 2003-03-17
Registration of a document - section 124 $50.00 2003-12-18
Maintenance Fee - Patent - New Act 10 2004-04-19 $250.00 2004-04-01
Maintenance Fee - Patent - New Act 11 2005-04-19 $250.00 2005-04-01
Owners on Record

Note: Records showing the ownership history in alphabetical order.

Current Owners on Record
GRACO CHILDREN'S PRODUCTS INC.
Past Owners on Record
GRACO CHILDREN'S PRODUCTS, INC.
HAUT, ROBERT E.
SACK, JAMES A.
Past Owners that do not appear in the "Owners on Record" listing will appear in other documentation within the application.
Documents

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Document
Description 
Date
(yyyy-mm-dd) 
Number of pages   Size of Image (KB) 
Cover Page 1999-04-27 2 71
Cover Page 1998-01-23 1 62
Abstract 1997-10-23 1 22
Description 1997-10-23 17 757
Claims 1997-10-23 3 84
Drawings 1997-10-23 7 215
Representative Drawing 1999-04-27 1 19
Representative Drawing 1998-01-23 1 19
Assignment 2003-12-18 5 166
Correspondence 2002-12-06 3 128
Correspondence 2003-01-07 1 13
Correspondence 2003-01-07 1 23
Correspondence 1999-01-18 1 34
Correspondence 1997-11-05 1 20
Assignment 1997-10-23 3 112
Assignment 1998-03-30 1 1
Prosecution-Amendment 1998-07-13 1 2
Fees 1999-04-19 1 31
Fees 1997-12-29 1 38
Fees 2000-07-06 1 32