Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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Z-FOLDABLE STROLLER AND ACCESSORIES
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The
present invention relates to strollers for infants and children. In
particular, the invention relates to strollers with collapsible frames that
fold into a
more compact configuration for ease of storage and portability, as well as
accessories such as bassinets and snack trays for use with strollers of this
type.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The
different aspects addressed by the present invention will be set
out below under separate subheadings to facilitate an understanding of the
various improvements which the invention seeks to provide in relation to
strollers.
Background: Z-folding Frame
[0003]
Strollers, prams and push chairs (as they are sometimes known) are
commonly used by parents to transport infants and children during pedestrian
outings. However, due to their size, strollers can be inconvenient to store or
transport in a vehicle. In light of this, strollers fold or 'collapse' into a
more
compact configuration when not in use.
[0004] To
provide a more compact folded configuration, some collapsible
strollers have particularly complex hinged and telescopic frame structures.
While
this allows the stroller to fold down into a smaller size, the complexity of
the frame
increases the production costs. Similarly, greater complexity of the frame
tends
to require a more complicated folding procedure. For
example, retracting
telescopic sections and locking or unlocking various frame hinges and so on
require the user to follow a relatively protracted protocol of steps when
folding or
unfolding a stroller. However, parents of young children require this
operation to
occur as quickly and simply as possible.
[0005]
Australian Registered Designs 336,075, 336,076 and 336077 show a
collapsible stroller of the type that has a single main hinge that connects a
handle
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frame, a rear wheel frame and a front wheel frame. In the folded
configuration,
the handle, front wheel and rear wheel frames all rotate about in the single
hinge
to overlay each other in the folded configuration. While this form of
collapsible
stroller is adequate for many parents, a more compact folded configuration can
be achieved through the use of a so-called 2-folding' frame assembly.
Australian
patent application AU 2012268804 is an example of a Z-fold collapsible
stroller
which uses at least two hinges, ie. an upper hinge and a lower hinge, so that
the
folded frame assembly is significantly shorter than that possible with a
single
hinged frame assembly.
[0006] As discussed above, the added complexity of a Z-folding frame
assembly increases the production costs. Similarly, the more complex frame has
a more involved folding and unfolding process. For example, the stroller frame
disclosed in the above referenced AU '804 application is devised such that the
stroller will only move to its fully folded position after a specified series
of manual
actions. Firstly, the user presses their palms on side projections extending
from
opposite sides of the stroller. Then a pair of handle triggers are drawn
upwards.
This in turn draws a push rod upwards to simultaneously unlock the lower frame
hinge and the upper frame hinge. The user needs to stoop to reach the handle
triggers, and any weight placed on the handle frame tends to cause the frame
to
collapse more quickly than expected once the upper and lower hinges have been
simultaneously unlocked. Furthermore, the rear wheel frame must then be
separately unlocked via a manual lock release handle to complete the folding
process. The rear wheel frame pivots about an axis which is slightly offset
from
the lower hinge axis which, strictly speaking, gives the stroller three
(rather than
two) hinge axes, to achieve the required 2-fold'. Offsetting these hinge axes
from
each other reduces the compactness of the folded configuration.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION¨ Z-Folding Frame Assembly
[0007] With these issues in mind, the present invention provides a frame
assembly for a collapsible stroller, the frame assembly being selectively
configurable in an unfolded configuration for carrying a child or infant, or a
folded
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configuration for compact storage or transport in a vehicle, the frame
assembly
comprising:
a front wheel frame with a front wheel assembly;
a rear wheel frame with a rear wheel assembly;
a lower hinge for hingedly connecting the front wheel frame to the rear
wheel frame,
a seat frame hingedly connected to the lower hinge;
an upper hinge connected to the seat frame at a position spaced from the
lower hinge;
a handle frame connected to the upper hinge,
a manual release for user actuation; and
a mechanical link between the upper and lower hinges; wherein
the lower hinge is lockable to hold the seat frame, the front wheel frame
and the rear wheel frame in the unfolded configuration, and unlockable to
allow
relative rotation of the seat frame, the front wheel frame and the rear wheel
frame
into the folded configuration; and
the upper hinge is lockable to hold the handle frame and the seat frame in
the unfolded configuration, and unlockable to allow rotation of the handle
frame
relative to the seat frame into the folded configuration; such that,
user actuation of the manual release unlocks the upper hinge for rotation
of the handle frame relative to the seat frame, and the mechanical link
unlocks
the lower hinge in response to a predetermined angular rotation of the handle
frame relative to the seat frame.
[0008] By incorporating a mechanical link between the upper and lower
hinges, the invention allows the frame assembly to collapse with a Z-fold
mechanism without having to actuate multiple release mechanisms in a specified
sequence. A single user actuated release initiates the Z-folding process, and
this
initial step in the folding process is the trigger for unlocking the remaining
steps of
the folding process. This allows the stroller to have a Z-folding mechanism
for a
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particularly compact folded configuration, while avoiding a complicated set of
steps to unlock each of the frame elements. The user need only actuate a
single
release mechanism instead of a series of releases to complete separate stages
of
the folding process. The present Applicants have utilised the early stages of
the
folding process itself to unlock subsequent stages. This multi-stage approach
to
unlocking and collapsing the frame assembly provides the user with a safer and
more controlled process compared to the simultaneous unlocking of the both the
upper and lower hinges offered by some of the prior art strollers.
[0009] Preferably, the handle frame supports the user actuated release for
unlocking the upper hinge.
[0010] Placing the user actuated release on the handle is convenient and
avoids any bending or stooping. Furthermore, the user can continue to hold the
handle as it rotates relative to the seat frame until the lower hinge is
unlocked.
This provides the user with greater control of the first stages of the folding
process.
[0011] In some embodiments, the handle frame has two spaced apart,
generally upright frame members connected at their upper ends via a cross
member forming a handle, and the user actuated release has a pair of
retractable
triggers, one of the retractable triggers being positioned on each of the
spaced
apart frame members respectively, proximate the handle. Preferably, the handle
frame is telescopic such that simultaneous retraction of both the retractable
triggers allows the handle to telescope towards the upper hinge such that a
portion of the user actuated release housed within the handle frame interacts
with
the upper hinge to unlock the upper hinge.
[0012] Preferably, the handle frame is rotatable towards the rear-wheel
frame
in response to unlocking the upper hinge.
[0013] Optionally, the handle frame is approximately parallel to the wheel
base (i.e. approximately horizontal), when at the predetermined angular
rotation
between the handle frame and the seat frame, at which point the mechanical
link
between the upper hinge and the lower hinge unlocks the lower hinge such that
the seat frame is rotatable towards the front wheel frame.
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[0014] Preferably, the frame assembly further comprises a latch for
releasably
securing the front wheel frame, the rear wheel frame, the seat frame and the
handle frame in the folded configuration, wherein during use the latch
automatically secures the frame assembly upon movement to the folded
configuration.
[0015] Preferably, the latch comprises a spigot extending from the seat
frame,
a hook formation extending from the handle frame and a hasp extending from the
rear wheel frame wherein the hook engages the spigot at a mid point, and the
hasp engages with an end of the spigot.
[0016] Preferably, the spigot is mounted for movement between a frame
secured position and a frame released position, wherein the spigot is biased
to
the frame secured position, and manual actuation of the spigot to the release
position allows the frame assembly to move to the unfolded configuration.
Preferably, the hook engages the spigot upon rotation of the handle frame and
the seat frame to overlay the front wheel frame. Preferably, the frame
assembly is
configured such that user lifting of the handle upwards after the hook engages
the
spigot draws the lower hinge upwards to rotate the rear wheel frame towards
the
front wheel frame via gravity. In a further preferred form, suspending the
frame
assembly by the handle above the ground, after the hook has engaged the
spigot,
allows the rear wheel frame to rotate adjacent to the front wheel frame where
the
hasp automatically engages the end of the spigot, such that the frame assembly
is secured in the folded configuration.
[0017] It will be appreciated that folding the collapsible stroller is
comparatively simple for the user. The release triggers are pulled, and
pressing
down on the handle allows it to telescope into the two spaced and generally
upright frame members. This action pushes part of the release actuator into
the
upper hinge to move a biased locking pin to an unlocked position. Then the
handle naturally drops towards the rear wheel frame until the lower hinge
unlocks
and the user continues to allow the handle frame and the seat frame to hinge
downwards and forwards towards the front wheel frame. At the front wheel
frame, the hook on the handle frame automatically engages the spigot extending
from the seat frame at which point the user stops lowering the handle and
starts
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to lift the handle. With the handle frame, and the seat frame now locked in
the
folded configuration, lifting the handle draws the lower hinge upwards so that
the
rear wheel frame naturally falls towards the front wheel frame as the folded
frame
members adopt a more vertical configuration hanging from the handle. As the
frame assembly is lifted from the ground, the rear wheel frame is adjacent the
front wheel frame which, in turn, is adjacent to the seat frame. The hasp on
the
rear wheel frame locks over the spigot to hold the rear wheel frame and the
front
wheel frame from rotating back away from the seat frame and the handle frame.
In essence, the folding process simply involves allowing the frame to collapse
towards the ground in a controlled way using the handle, the lifting back off
the
ground by the handle to complete the folding process.
[0018] The unfolding process is also straight forward. Upon releasing the
latch, the handle is lifted to rotate the seat frame away from the front wheel
frame
and towards the rear wheel frame. The lower hinge locks the front wheel frame
and the seat frame in a predetermined relative position and subsequently the
upper hinge locks at a predetermined angular position of the handle frame
relative to the seat frame. Finally, the handle is used to push downwards so
that
the rear wheel assembly rolls away from the front wheel assembly, until the
lower
hinge locks the rear wheel frame in the unfolded configuration.
[0019] Preferably, the frame assembly further comprises a safety bar for
hinged attachment to the handle frame wherein during use the safety bar
extends
forward to surround and protect a child sitting in the stroller seat.
[0020] Preferably, the safety bar is configured to be folded upwards to lie
flush
against the handle frame such that the frame assembly can be moved to its
folded configuration without first detaching the safety bar.
[0021] Preferably, the frame assembly further comprises a retractable hood
pivotally attached to the handle frame to extend above the seat for weather
and
sun protection. Preferably, the retractable hood can be retracted to lie flat
against
the handle frame such that the frame assembly can be moved towards its folded
configuration.
[0022] The seat base may advantageously include a footrest extending from a
hinge mechanism at a front edge of the seat base. Preferably, the hinged
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mechanism for the foot rest allows the footrest to adopt one of a
predetermined
range of different angles relative to the plane of the seat wherein the
footrest can
remain in any one of the predetermined range of different angles as the frame
assembly is moved to the folded configuration.
[0023] In a preferred embodiment, the handle frame includes telescopic
frame
members to allow the handle to move closer to the upper hinge when the frame
assembly is in the folded configuration.
[0024] In some embodiments, the frame assembly can support a snack tray
having a tray with at least one shallow recess for holding snacks during use
of the
stroller, and a snap locking formation positioned to one side of the tray for
snap
locking engagement with the safety bar. Preferably, the snack tray is
configured
such that the snap locking formation is capable of snap locking the snack tray
to
the safety bar such that the tray selectively extends forward of the safety
bar, or
extends rearward of the safety bar. Preferably, the snack tray is also
configured
for snap locking with the handle. Preferably, the snap locking formation is
configured for selectively snap locking the snack tray to the handle such that
the
snack tray extends forward of the handle or rearward of the handle.
Optionally,
the handle has a mounting sleeve for engagement with the snap locking
formation. Optionally, the safety bar has a mounting sleeve for engagement
with
the snap locking formation.
Background: Folding Bassinet
[0025] A stroller, and in particular the above described z-frame stroller
embodiments, may also be used to transport babies and infants that are not yet
able to sit. These very young infants lie in a bassinet when being carried by
the
stroller.
[0026] Normally, a pair of spaced adaptors snap lock to either side of the
seat
frame for releasably mounting the bassinet to the stroller. Bassinets provide
a
padded cot for the infant with a handle for portability, even while the infant
sleeps.
Usually, the bassinet will also have a retractable hood to shade the infant
when
necessary.
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[0027] Product safety laws place high design standards on bassinets. In
particular, bassinets for transporting babies must be very robust. The
strength
and structural rigidity is provided by the bassinet frame that is mostly
concealed
within the soft outer components.
[0028] While not as large as strollers, bassinets still occupy a
considerable
space, even with the hood in a retracted position. Constructing a bassinet
such
that it folds into a smaller configuration is problematic as the specified
minimum
strength and stiffness require the frame members to be excessively large. The
size and strength of a central folding hinge for the bassinet would require a
construction that is impractically large and/or cost prohibitive.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION - Folding Bassinet
[0029] In view of the above considerations, a bassinet has been developed
which folds to a more compact folded configuration using a folding bassinet
frame
assembly comprising:
a bed board having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion
and the second portion from being hinged together and configured to unfold to
provide a support surface for an infant;
a first rim and a second rim spaced from the bed board when in an
unfolded configuration, the first and second rim configured to support a side
wall
formed by soft components of the bassinet, the side wall extending upwards
from
a peripheral region of the bed board to encircle the infant;
a support strut assembly connecting the first rim and the second rim to the
bed board; and
a pair of central side mounts, each of the central side mounts connecting
to the first rim and the second rim on either side of the bassinet frame
assembly;
wherein
each of the central side mounts has a first hinge spaced from a second
hinge and a locking mechanism to lock the first and second hinges such that
the
first and second rims are fixed relative to the bed board, and simultaneously
unlock both the first and second hinges such that the first rim and the second
rim
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rotate together with the first portion and the second portion of the bed board
into a
folded configuration.
[0030] By designing the bassinet frame assembly such that it does not rely
on
a single, central hinge, the individual structural components can be smaller
and
individually less robust. Notwithstanding this, distributing the loads through
two
hinges on each side of the folding frame assembly still provides an overall
structural strength and rigidity that meets the rigorous design standards set
for
baby bassinets
[0031] In some embodiments, each of the central side mounts has mounting
formations for releasable inter-engagement with complementary mounting
formations attached to or forming part of components of a child stroller, in
particular a child stroller comprising a z-foldable frame as disclosed herein.
[0032] In a preferred form, each of the locking mechanisms is configured
such
that they cannot unlock when the central side mounts are inter-engaged with
the
complementary mounting formations on the stroller.
[0033] Optionally, the first and second hinges in each of the central side
mounts, have a first and second rim mount for rotation about the first and
second
hinge axes respectively, each of the first and second rim mounts configured to
securely attach to the first and second rims respectively, and having first
and
second locking abutments respectively, the first and second locking abutments
configured to abut the locking mechanism such that the first and second rim
mounts are unable to rotate about the first and second hinge axes
respectively. In
some forms, the locking mechanism is a movable member with a pair of opposed
locking surfaces for simultaneous engagement with the first and second locking
abutments.
[0034] In a particularly preferred form, each of the central side mounts
has an
inner plate and an outer plate for mounting the first and second rim mounts
and
the locking plate therebetween. Optionally, each of the central side mounts
has a
slide button for manually moving the movable member to simultaneously
disengage the locking surfaces from the first and second locking abutments.
[0035] Preferably, each of the central side mounts has a release button for
interaction with the slide button such that depressing the release button is
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required before the slide button is able to move the movable member. In a
particularly preferred form, the slide button is configured to abut the
complementary mounting formations on the stroller such that the slide button
is
not able to move the movable member regardless of whether the release button
is depressed, when the bassinet is mounted on the stroller.
[0036] Preferably, the bassinet further includes a retractable canopy
hinged to
the bassinette frame assembly for rotating to an extended position providing
weather and sun protection, and retracting to a retracted position, the canopy
comprising a supporting frame and a covering of flexible material which folds
in a
concertina fashion when moving to the retracted position.
[0037] Preferably, the canopy incorporates a visor proximate a leading edge
wherein the visor moves between a retracted position lying flat against an
underside of the flexible material of the canopy, and an extended position
extending generally downwards to shade an infant lying in the bassinette from
light shining a low incident angle. Preferably, the visor is configured to be
selectively adjustable between a range of incrementally stepped positions
between the retracted position and the extended position.
Background: Retractable Canopy for a Bassinet
[0038] Bassinets will often have a retractable canopy to shield the infant
from
the elements. As bassinets also require a handle for lifting and carrying, it
is
efficient to integrate the canopy together with the handle. Normally, the
retractable canopy will have the ability to partially extend or retract and
stay at
any one of a number of positions between retracted and extended. However, the
handle also needs to safely and securely lock in its extended or 'carrying'
position. This can be achieved by hinging the handle to a pair of lockable
hubs on
each side of the bassinet. Both hubs have a lock for securing the handle in
the
extended position. Between the retracted and extended positions, the handle is
unlocked and therefore the canopy will sit at intermediate positions. During
the
early morning or late afternoon, the low angle of the sun will often shine
under the
canopy onto the baby, even in its extended position. In light of this, it is
known to
add a sun visor which hangs down from the canopy to shield the baby.
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[0039] It would be advantageous if this visor were also conveniently
adjustable like the canopy, but this requires a second set of inter-engaging
formations in each of the hubs, which then become impractically large.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION: Retractable Canopy for a Bassinet
[0040] The retractable canopy described below has been developed with
these concerns in mind.
[0041] Accordingly, there is provided a retractable canopy for a bassinet,
the
retractable canopy comprising:
a first hub for attachment to one side of the bassinet;
a second hub for attachment to an opposite side of bassinet;
a handle hingedly connected to the first and second hubs, the handle
being movable between a retracted position and an extended position;
a visor rib for supporting a sun visor, the visor rib being hingedly connected
to the first hub and the second hub for rotation relative to the handle;
wherein
the first hub has a handle lock assembly to releasably lock the handle in
the extended position; and
the second hub has inter-engaging visor formations defining a plurality of
predetermined positions for the visor rib relative to the handle and, inter-
engaging
handle formations defining a plurality of predetermined positions for the
handle
between the retracted position and the extended position.
[0042] This provides a handle lock that can be incorporated into only one
of
the side hubs, while the other hub incorporates two sets of inter-engaging
formations that define the incrementally stepped positions for the handle, and
the
visor. Thus each side hub is smaller than if both hubs had a lock for the
handle
and the mechanism for defining the incremental step locations for both the
handle
and the visor. By keeping the side hubs small enough, it becomes practical to
provide the visor with the incrementally stepped position function rather than
a
visor that is simply fully deployed from the canopy (and typically held in
place by
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gravity) or otherwise retracted into the canopy, with no intermediate
positioning
possible.
[0043] Preferably, the first hub has a visor hold feature resiliently
biased to
hold the visor rib in any one of the plurality of predetermined positions
while
permitting user adjustment of the visor rib between the predetermined
positions
against the resilient bias.
[0044] Advantageously, the first hub can have a first frame attachment
piece
for connection to the side of a bassinet frame, a first handle mount rotatably
connected to the first frame attachment piece for attachment to a first end of
the
handle, and the handle lock has a movable locking element for locking the
first
handle mount and the first frame attachment piece when in a locked position,
and
allowing rotation of the handle mount and the attachment piece when in an
unlocked position.
[0045] Preferably, the movable locking element is biased to the locked
position. Optionally, the handle lock has a release actuator mounted to the
first
handle mount for rotation therewith, the release actuator being configured for
user
actuation to move the locking element to the unlocked position against the
bias.
[0046] Preferably, the retractable canopy can further comprise at least one
canopy rib for supporting flexible canopy material extending between the
bassinet
and the handle.
[0047] Preferably, the canopy rib is hingedly attached to the first handle
mount.
[0048] Advantageously, the second hub can incorporate a second frame
attachment piece for attachment to the other side of the bassinet, and a
second
handle rotatably connected to the second attachment piece, the second handle
mount being attached to a second end of the handle, and, the inter-engaging
formations in the second hub are a pair of complementary toothed rings with
one
toothed ring of the pair on the second frame attachment piece and the other
toothed ring of the pair on the second handle mount.
[0049] Preferably, the first and second hubs have first and second visor
mounts respectively for rotatable connection to first and seconds ends of the
visor
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rib respectively, the inter-engaging visor formations being a second pair of
complementary toothed rings, one of the second pair being formed on the second
visor mount and the other of the second pair being formed on the frame
attachment piece.
[0050] Advantageously, the second hub has a resilient element to bias the
second handle mount away from the second visor mount, wherein the second
handle mount and the second visor mount are rotatably connected to each other
such that the first and second pair of toothed rings are configured for
relative
rotation of each toothed ring within each of the pairs, where successive
engagement and disengagement of opposing teeth in each of the pairs
correspond to the predetermined positions for the handle or the visor.
[0051] Preferably, the toothed rings on the second frame attachment piece
are arranged coaxially with an aperture for the resilient element extending
between the second handle mount and the second visor mount.
Background: Snack Tray
[0052] It can be convenient to provide a snack tray on the stroller to hold
a
small quantity of snacks for consumption during the journey. However the
position
of the snack tray on the stroller can sometimes be problematic. For example,
if
the child is to serve themselves from the snack tray, the tray will typically
be
attached to the safety bar extending around the seat of the stroller. However
with
the child strapped into the seat by a 5 point safety harness, there is
restricted
ability to lean forward and reach into a snack tray if it is an uncomfortable
distance away. Furthermore, young children typically have less developed fine
motor skills which make an awkwardly positioned snack tray even more
frustrating.
[0053] Children will typically use a stroller for several years during
which time
they grow significantly. Therefore a snack tray position that was once
conveniently positioned may become non-ergonomic as the child grows.
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[0054] In some circumstances, the parent or carer may not wish to allow the
child access to the snack tray but would rather administer any snacks to the
child
themselves.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION: Snack Tray
[0055] With the above issues in mind, a snack tray has been developed for
use with a child's stroller and in particular the collapsible stroller frame
described
herein.
[0056] Accordingly, there is provided a snack tray for selective attachment
to,
and removal from, a child's stroller, the snack tray comprising:
a tray having a least one shallow recess; and
a snap locking formation of resilient material for releasable engagement
with at least one frame section of the child's stroller such that the tray is
held in a
generally horizontal configuration with the shallow recess facing upwards;
wherein,
the snap locking formation is configured to selectively engage the frame
section in a first orientation and a second orientation, such that in the
first
orientation, the position of the tray relative to the frame section differs
from the
position of the tray relative to the frame section in the second orientation.
[0057] Preferably, the snap locking formation is rotated 180 in the second
orientation relative to the first orientation, and the snap locking formation
is
secured to the tray at an offset position.
[0058] The snack tray is designed to employ the convenience of snap locking
attachment to the safety bar of the stroller while off-setting the tray
position so the
snack tray can be detached, rotated 180 and re-attached to be closer or
further
from the child. In this way, the tray can be adjusted to a more ergonomic
position
as the child grows, or an older sibling uses the chair. Furthermore, if the
parent or
carer decides that the child should not be helping themselves from the snack
tray,
it can simply be removed from the bumper, and attached to the handle.
[0059] Optionally, the tray has a plurality of the shallow recesses and
further
comprises hinged lids for closing each of the shallow recesses respectively.
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Preferably, the hinge axis for each lid is configured transverse to the frame
section such that the lids do not obstruct the child's access to the shallow
recess
regardless of whether the snack tray is in the first orientation or the second
orientation.
[0060] Preferably, the hinged lids and the tray have complementary
formations configured to engage for lightly holding each of the lids open for
unobstructed access to the recesses.
[0061] Preferably, the at least one frame section is provided by a mounting
a
sleeve fixed about the frame of the stroller, the mounting sleeve having
external
surface formations for engagement with corresponding formations on the snap
locking formation.
[0062] Preferably, the snap locking formation has a resilient tongue formed
to
define a frame recess for receiving the mounting sleeve, the surface
formations
on the snap locking formation including a rotation anchor extending into the
frame
recess for engagement with an anchor cavity formed in the surface of the
mounting sleeve.
[0063] In a further preferred form, the resilient tongue has internal
barbed
clips for engagement with a surface channel on the mounting sleeve to
positively
locate the snap locking formation relative to the mounting sleeve during
attachment of the snack tray.
[0064] Preferably the snap locking formation is detachable from the tray,
and
may incorporate a tray supporting base, wherein the tray has a mounting spigot
for engaging a mounting cavity in the tray supporting base.
[0065] The snap locking formation may advantageously comprises locating
features for engagement with a side flange extending from one side of the tray
such that engagement between the locating features and locating apertures
formed in the side flange assist insertion of the mounting spigot into the
mounting
cavity.
[0066] In a preferred form, the tray is formed from a dishwasher safe
polymer.
Background: Adjustable Footrest
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[0067] A child will often need to use a stroller for several years and
during this
time, the child will grow significantly. When the child is an infant and
unable to sit,
it can be carried in the bassinet discussed above. When the child first starts
sitting in the stroller, its relatively short legs may barely reach the front
edge of the
seat. As the child grows, their legs extend further over the front edge which
can
press into the ankles or calves. For comfort an adjustable foot rest may be
used
to support their legs more ergonomically at they grow. Initially, the
adjustable foot
rest will be relatively horizontal and extend forward of the seat. This
reduces any
additional pressure on the back of the ankles or calves by the front edge of
the
seat.
[0068] As the child grows, the footrest can be adjusted to rotate downwards
as their legs hang further over the front of the seat. Unfortunately, the
footrest
may be adjusted to positions where it is prone to damage (or cause damage)
when the stroller is collapsed into its folded configuration. Adjusting the
footrest to
a position suitable for folding to stroller adds a further step to the folding
and
unfolding process.
[0069] Older children may not need to the footrest at all, and it in fact
becomes an inconvenience. At this stage, the footrest may be completely
removed. Once removed, the foot rest or its fixing elements risk being lost.
Similarly, if the stroller is shared between siblings, the foot rest must be
reattached for the younger child.
Summary: Adjustable Footrest
[0070] In view of this, a collapsible stroller has been developed with an
adjustable footrest designed with the above problems in mind.
[0071] Accordingly, there is provided a collapsible stroller comprising:
a frame assembly selectively configurable in a folded configuration or an
unfolded
configuration, the frame assembly having
a seat frame with a seat base and
an adjustable footrest hingedly connected to the seat base, the footrest
and the seat base each have mutually inter-engaging formations defining a
range
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of predetermined footrests at which the footrest extends at different angles
relative the seat base;
wherein the predetermined foot rest positions are all positions at which
the foot rest does not impede the foot assembly from moving to the folded
configuration.
[0072] By restricting the positions that the adjustable footrest can adopt
to
positions that do not impede the smooth folding or unfolding action of the
stroller,
there is no risk of damage to the footrest or stroller frame. However the
footrest
remains adjustable between a range of positions for the comfort of the child.
[0073] Preferably the footrest and the seat base together define a
selectively
lockable hinge assembly providing the mutually inter-engaging formations about
a
hinge axle at a front edge of the seat base. Preferably the mutually inter-
engaging
formations are inwardly facing seat splines provided about the hinge axle and
inwardly facing footrest splines, both configured for engagement with a
movable
spline gear for axially displacement about the hinge axle.
[0074] Preferably the spline gear has a complementary splines which engage
both the seat splines and the foot rest splines when the adjustable footrest
is
locked in one of the range of predetermined footrest positions, and the spline
gear is axially displaceable along the hinge axis to disengage the footrest
splines
allowing rotation of the footrest about the hinge axis.
[0075] Preferably, one of the predetermined footrest positions is a fully
retracted position in which the footrest extends beneath the seat base.
[0076] Preferably, the seat base provides a pair of outwardly facing hinge
axles at either side of the front of the seat base to define the hinge axis,
with
inwardly facing seat splines provided about both the hinge axles, and a pair
of
spline gears mounted for axially displacement about both of the hinge axles
respectively, with a pair of the inward facing footrest splines provided for
engagement with each of the spline gears respectively.
[0077] Preferably, the spline gears are each biased into the locked
position,
and the hinge assembly further comprising a lock release actuator for manually
displacing the spline used to the unlocked position against the bias.
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[0078] Advantageously, the hinge assembly further comprises a full
retraction
actuator for user actuation together with the lock release actuators in order
to
move the footrest to the fully retracted position.
Background: Seat Reclining Mechanism
[0079] The seat back on a child's stroller is usually able to recline so
that the
child sits more upright when awake but may recline to a flatter position when
asleep. Often the child will drift off to sleep while sitting upright and the
parent will
endeavour to gently recline the seat into a better sleeping position for the
child.
Reclining the seat back must be done carefully so as not to wake the sleeping
child. However the seat reclining mechanisms will often involve zips or straps
on
both sides of the stroller. Reclining one side of the seat back before the
other can
introduce a twist that is awkward of uncomfortable and risks waking the child.
SUMMARY OPF THE INVENTION: Seat Reclining Mechanism
[0080] The above issues have resulted in the development of a child's
stroller
comprising:
a handle for pushing the stroller;
a seat base and a seat back, the seat back being movable between an
upright position and a reclined position;
a pair of frame elements, one frame element of the pair extending from
each end of the handle respectively along each side of the seat back;
a first seat reclining strap and a second seat reclining strap for
attachment to each of the frame elements respectively to support the seat
back,
and
a seat clamp; wherein,
the seat clamp has a body to receive the first and second reclining
straps from each of the frame elements, the body defining a strap path in
which
each of the first and second seat reclining straps are folded and brought into
an
overlapping relationship with each other, the seat clamp further having a
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moveable clamp element for simultaneously clamping both the first and second
seat reclining straps against movement through the body, and configured for
manual release of both the first and second seat reclining recliner straps for
synchronized movement through the clamp body to adjust the length of each
strap between the clamp body and the side frame, to thereby move the seat back
between the upright and reclined positions.
[0081] the clamp body together with the recliner straps provide an
elegantly
simple seat reclining mechanism allowing the seat back to recline gently and
evenly by manually releasing the seat clamp. Releasing the seat clamp allows
both the straps to feed through the clamp body in a synchronised way so that
there is no twist or uneven motion as the seat back reclines. This helps to
prevent
waking a child that that has fallen asleep in the upright position.
Successfully
transferring the child to a more reclined position without first being roused
prolongs the sleep.
[0082] Preferably, the seat back has a rigid panel for supporting a padded
outer covering and the seat clamp is mounted to the back of the rigid panel.
Preferably the clamp body has a first friction surface for engaging the first
seat
reclining strap and a second friction surface for engaging the second seat
reclining strap such that the movable clamp element simultaneously presses
both
the first and second seat reclining straps onto the first and second friction
surfaces respectively.
[0083] Preferably, the seat clamp has a manual actuator for moving the
movable clamp element away from the first and second friction surfaces to
simultaneously release the first and second seat reclining straps for movement
through the clamp body.
[0084] Advantageously, the movable clamp element and the first and second
friction surfaces can be configured such that tensile force on the overlapping
first
and second seat reclining straps extending from the seat clamp, moves the
movable clamp element away from the first and second friction surfaces such
that
the first and second seat reclining straps are drawn through the seat clamp,
and
the seat back moves toward the upright position, but tensile pulling applied
to the
first and/or second seat reclining straps extending individually from the seat
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clamp remain clamped against movement relative to the body to prevent the seat
back moving the reclining position in the absence of manually releasing the
movable clamp element.
[0085] In this way, the parent is able to lift or recline the seat back
using a
single hand. Lifting the seat back simply requires pulling on the two
overlapping
straps extending from the seat clamp while gently reclining the seat back is a
matter of carefully using the manual release to move the clamp element. With
single handed operation, the parent need not stop pushing the stroller to
raise or
lower the seat back. This is not only more convenient and time efficient but
avoids
interrupting the continuous motion of the stroller which may be enough to
rouse a
child that has just fallen asleep.
[0086] In some embodiments, the movable clamp element has a wedge body
with a first strap wedge surface arranged in angled relation to a second strap
wedge surface and the first and second strap friction surfaces are arranged in
a
corresponding angle such that the first and second strap wedge surfaces
simultaneously urge the first and second seat reclining straps onto the first
and
second strap friction surfaces respectively.
[0087] Preferably, the manual actuator has a retraction slide surface for
engaging the wedge body to move the movable clamp against the resilient bias.
[0088] Preferably, the manual actuator has a lift lever hingedly mounted to
the
clamp body for mechanical advantage when displacing the movable clamp
against the bias.
[0089] Advantageously, the first and second seat reclining straps extend
from
the seat clamp at generally right angles to the overlapping first and second
seat
reclining straps.
[0090] Illustrative embodiments of the present invention will now be
described
by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0091] Figure 1 is a front perspective of the collapsible stroller frame
assembly according to the present invention;
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[0092] Figure 2 is a partially exploded perspective of the collapsible
stroller
frame assembly shown in Figure 1 with a seat safety bar and retractible hood
frame;
[0093] Figure 3 is a partially exploded perspective of the left side (as
viewed
by the person pushing the stroller) of the handle frame;
[0094] Figures 4 to 6 are schematic partial perspectives of the upper hinge
unlocking;
[0095] Figure 7 is a schematic illustration of the lower hinge unlocking;
[0096] Figure 8 is a partial explode perspective of the left side of the
seat
frame;
[0097] Figure 9 is an exploded perspective of the hinge discs from the
upper
hinge shown in isolation;
[0098] Figure 10 is a perspective of the hinge disc for attachment to the
lower
end of the handle frame shown in Figure 3;
[0099] Figure 11 is an exploded perspective of the hinge discs of the lower
hinge shown in isolation such that the interior of the front wheel frame hinge
disc
is revealed;
[00100] Figure 12 is an exploded perspective of the hinge discs of the
lower
hinge shown in isolation such that the interior of the rear wheel frame
assembly is
revealed;
[00101] Figure 13 is a partial perspective showing the seat frame with seat
and
footrest together the folding seat back;
[00102] Figure 14 is an exploded perspective of the safety bar and
retractable
hood frame;
[00103] Figure 15 shows a rear perspective view of the seat back;
[00104] Figures 16A to 16D show side elevations of the stroller frame
assembly as it collapses from an unfolded configuration to a folded
configuration;
[00105] Figure 17 is a perspective view of a pair of bassinet adaptors for
snap
locking to the seat frame for the stroller to carry a bassinet;
[00106] Figure 18 is a plan view of the bassinet adaptors of Figure 17;
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[00107] Figure 19 is the frame assembly for a foldable bassinet;
[00108] Figure 20 is an enlarged perspective of one of the central mounting
joints for the bassinet frame assembly shown in Figure 19;
[00109] Figure 21 is an exploded perspective of the central mounting joint
shown in Figure 20;
[00110] Figure 22 is an exploded perspective of the inner plate and the
latch
assembly of the central mounting joint shown in Figure 21;
[00111] Figure 23 an enlarged perspective of the wedge side button used in
the central mounting joint shown in Figure 21.
[00112] Figure 24 is a perspective view of the bassinet with canopy and sun
visor both in an extended position;
[00113] Figure 25 is a perspective of the bassinet with the canopy in the
extended position and sun visor in the retracted position;
[00114] Figure 26 is a perspective of the retractable bassinet canopy frame
assembly shown in isolation;
[00115] Figure 27 is an exploded perspective of the retractable bassinet
frame
assembly shown in Figure 26;
[00116] Figure 28 is an enlarged exploded perspective showing the inward
slide of the first hub of the retractable canopy frame assembly;
[00117] Figure 29 is an enlarged exploded perspective showing the outward
facing surfaces of the first hub;
[00118] Figure 30 is an enlarged exploded perspective of the outward facing
surfaces of the second hub of the retractable bassinet canopy frame assembly;
[00119] Figure 31 is an enlarged exploded perspective showing the inward
facing surfaces of the second hub;
[00120] Figure 32 is a perspective of the seat and adjustable foot rest in
isolation;
[00121] Figure 33 is a partially exploded perspective of the seat base and
the
adjustable foot rest shown in Figure 32;
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[00122] Figure 34 is an enlarged partial perspective of the seat base
showing
the right hand side tubular foot rest axle housing;
[00123] Figure 35 shows the spline gear hinge axle 3 used in the hinge axle
of
the adjustable foot rest;
[00124] Figure 36 is an exploded partial perspective of one of the foot
rest rim
mounts and its associated lock release button;
[00125] Figure 37 is an enlarged perspective of the retraction lock button
and
slide plate used to move the adjustable foot rest to its fully retracted
position;
[00126] Figure 38 is a perspective of the seat clamp shown in isolation
together
with a schematic representation of the seat reclining straps folded in the
manner
in which they are configured within the strap path through the seat clamp;
[00127] Figure 39 is an exploded perspective of the seat clamp showing its
outward facing surfaces;
[00128] Figure 40 is an exploded perspective of the seat clamp showing its
inward facing surfaces;
[00129] Figure 41 is a perspective of the seat clamp attached to the upper
panel of the seat back with reclining straps being drawn through the clamp by
the
lifting loop to move the seat back to an upright position;
[00130] Figure 42 is a perspective of the upper and lower panels of the
seat
back with the seat clamp mounting plate attached to the inner surface of the
upper panel;
[00131] Figure 43 is a bottom perspective view of a snack tray for use with
a
collapsible child stroller;
[00132] Figure 44 is a top perspective view of the snack tray shown in
Figure
43;
[00133] Figure 45 is an exploded perspective of a snack tray shown in Figure
43;
[00134] Figure 46 is a partial enlarged perspective of a snack tray showing
the
resilient lid hold feature;
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[00135] Figure 47 is a partial enlarged perspective of a hinged lid showing
the
hinge axle and lid hold detents;
[00136] Figure 48 is a top perspective of a snap locking formation to
attach the
snack tray to the stroller;
[00137] Figure 49 is a bottom perspective of the snap locking formation
shown
in Figure 48;
[00138] Figure 50 is a sleeve configured for detachable engagement with the
snap locking formation of Figures 48 and 49.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Z-Folding Frame Assembly
[00139] Referring to Figures 1 to 15, a frame assembly for a collapsible
stroller
according to the invention is shown.
[00140] Figures 1 and 2 show a perspective and exploded perspective of the
stroller frame assembly respectively. The soft components such as the fabric
coverings and padding for the seat and seat back have been removed for
clarity.
Figure 1 has also removed the front safety bar 6 and retractable hood frame
shown in Figure 2 in the interests of clarity.
[00141] The stroller frame assembly 100 has four sub-frames:
= handle frame 1;
= seat frame 2;
= front wheel frame 31; and
= rear wheel frame 32.
[00142] Hinging these sub-frames together is an upper hinge 4 and a lower
hinge 5.
[00143] The front wheel frame 31 extends forward from the lower hinge 5 and
has a front wheel assembly 120 in the form of a pair of spaced castors. These
castors are spring mounted to give some suspension for enhanced ride comfort.
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[00144] Rear wheel frame 32 supports a rear wheel assembly in the form of
two spaced apart wheels 118. Rear wheels 118 can be locked using a foot brake
126 with a pedal actuator of the type known in this field. Extending between
the
front wheel frame 31 and the rear wheel frame 32 is hinged cross-bracing 77,
78
and 79. Straight section 78 is hinged to the front wheel frame 31 and curved
section 79 is hinged to the rear wheel frame 32. Sections 78 and 79 are
connected at hinge 77. The curved section 79 is curved or bent so that the
hinge
77 bends towards the lower hinge 5 (ie. upwards as shown in Figure 2). To
ensure the cross-bracing 78 and 79 hinge upwards, the hinge 77 is spring
biased
and has restricted rotation to prevent folding downwards.
[00145] The seat frame 2 supports the seat 70 together with an adjustable
footrest 73 hinged at the front edge of the seat 70. The seat back is provided
by
an upper panel 74 connected to a lower panel 75 along hinge connection 122.
The hinge connection 122 substantially aligns with the axis of the upper hinge
4
so that the seat back folds together with the rest of the frame assembly.
[00146] The upper hinge 4 and the lower hinge 5 are spaced apart by a pair of
tubular seat frame members 128. Within the tubular frame members 128 is a
mechanical link operatively connecting the upper hinge 4 to the lower hinge 5
(described in more detail below).
[00147] The handle frame 1 includes a handle 102 covered with a grip. The
handle 102 extends between two spaced apart inner handle frame elements 106.
The inner handle frame elements 106 are telescopically received within a
respective pair of outer handle frame elements 108. On the underside of the
handle 102 is a button 104 which allows the handle height to be adjusted for
better ergonomics.
[00148] A snap on cover 102a fits over the central part of the handle 102
above
the button 104. The snap on cover 102a can be detached and replaced with a
snap on snack tray described below with reference to Figures 43 to 50.
[00149] At the upper end of the outer handle frame elements 108 is a curved
cross-bracing 124 to provide structural rigidity and a smoother telescoping
action
for the handle frame 1.
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[00150] The curved cross-bracing 124 is mounted to sleeves 130 and 131 fixed
to the top of the outer handle frame elements 108 respectively. The sleeve 131
differs from the opposing sleeve 130 in that it has an integral hook 110
forming
part of the latch that holds the stroller frame in its folded configuration
(described
in more detail below).
[00151] The sleeves 130 and 131 also hold release actuators in the form of
retractable triggers 19. These triggers initiate the process of unlocking the
upper
hinge 4.
[00152] Referring to Figure 3, the telescoping frame elements 106 and 108
of
the handle frame are shown together with the manually actuated release
assembly 10, 13, 16 and 19.
[00153] As discussed above, the height of the handle 102 is adjustable by
sliding the inner handle frame members 106 relative to the outer handle frame
members 108. User actuation of the button 104 on the underside of the handle
102 allows the handle height to be adjusted between set positions. With the
handle in its lowest adjustable height position, the user can simultaneously
pull
both the triggers 19 upwards. This draws the retractable snib 13 out of the
aperture 136 against the bias of spring 16. The internal hinge actuator 10 is
mounted within the inner handle frame elements 106 and outer handle frame
elements 108. The lower end of the inner handle frame element 106 pushes
against abutment 134 of the hinge actuator 10, while the sliding guide 17
partially
protrudes from the hole 138 to slide within the slot 18 of the outer handle
frame
element 108.
[00154] The actuator rod bracket 46 holds an actuator rod 47s0 that its lower
end extends from the outer handle frame element 108, and into the upper hinge
4. A pin (not shown) extending through the outer handle frame element 108 at
the hole 140 abuts against the lower end of the return spring 15 held within
the
actuator rod bracket 46.
[00155] Unlocking the upper hinge 4 will now be described with particular
reference to the schematic section views shown in Figures 4, 5 and 6. Once the
snib 13 has been retracted by the trigger 19, the user can push the hinge
actuator
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downwards within the outer handle frame elements 108 against the bias of
return spring 15.
[00156] Telescoping the inner handle frame elements 106 into the outer handle
frame elements 108 pushes the hinge actuator 10 downwards against the return
bias of the spring 15 pushing against the pin 151. At the lower end of each of
the
outer handle frame elements 108, is a handle hinge disc 41. The handle hinge
disc 41 fits within a slot defined by the seat hinge disc 42 fixed to the
upper end of
the tubular seat frame members 128.
[00157] As best shown in Figure 9, the handle hinge disc 41 fits into the
slot
421 of the seat hinge disc 42. One side of the seat hinge disc has a guide
slot
422 for engagement with a guide pin 45 (see Figures 4, 5, 6) to stabilise and
assist the hinging action. As shown in Figure 4 the handle hinge disc 41 and
the
seat hinge disc 42 together define a hinge passage 412 when the handle frame 1
and seat frame 2 are in the unfolded configuration. First hinge locking rod 48
extends from the upper end of the tubular seat frame members 128 into the
hinge
passage 412 such that the first hinge 4 remains locked.
[00158] As shown in Figure 5, telescoping the inner handle frame elements into
the outer handle frame elements 108 pushes the hinge actuator 10 and therefore
the hinge actuator rod 47 downwards through the hinge passage 412 against the
bias of the return spring 15.
[00159] In turn, the hinge actuator rod 47 pushes the locking rod 49
towards
the lower end of the hinge passage 412.
[00160] As best shown in Figure 6, the curved profile of the upper end of the
locking rod 49 interacts with a camming surface 43 formed in the handle hinge
disc 41. The angular orientation of the curved end of the locking rod 49 and
the
camming surface 43 allows relative rotation of the handle disc 41 and the seat
hinge disc 42 about the first hinge axle 44. At this point, the first hinge
has been
unlocked but the lower hinge 5 remains locked. However continued rotation of
the
handle hinge disc 41 relative to the seat hinge disc 42 forces the locking rod
48
further downwards through the camming action of the camming surface 43. In the
meantime, the user can allow the hinge actuator rod 47 to retract back into
the
hinge passage 412 under the bias and the return spring 15. As best shown in
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Figure 10, the camming surface 43 continues to cam mechanical link 20
downwards until the upper end of the locking rod 48 reaches the end 431 of the
cam surface 43. At this point, the handle frame is approximately horizontal to
the
ground (the wheel base of the stroller) before initiation of the next stage of
the
folding process by the user (discussed below).
[00161] Unlocking the lower hinge 5 is described with reference to Figures
7, 8,
11 and 12. As best shown in Figure 8, the tubular frame member 128 houses the
mechanical link 20 extending from its upper end to its lower end. At its upper
end,
the first hinge locking rod 48 rigidly connects to a transition bracket with a
guide
slot 205 for receiving a pin 201 to assist movement within the seat frame
member
128.
[00162] The mechanical link is biased upwards relative to the tubular seat
frame member 128 by the return spring 23 which compresses against a pin 203
extending through the hole 207. At the lower end of the mechanical link 20 are
a
pair of spaced apart retaining posts extending from both sides of a bottom
bracket
209. The upper retaining post 24 extends through a post guide slot while a pin
211 slides within the lower bracket guide slot 203 when the lower hinge locks
and
unlocks.
[00163] As schematically shown in Figure 7, when the mechanical link 20 is
pushed downwards, the retaining posts 24 move downwards relative to the
tubular seat frame 128 and central hinge disc 50 fixed to the lower end of the
seat
frame member 128. As best shown in Figures 11 and 12, on either side of the
central hinge disc 50 is the front wheel frame disc 51 and the rear wheel
frame
disc 52. The front frame disc 51 and rear front disc 52 are connected via the
lower hinge axle 46 as well as a stabiliser pin 55 that extends through an
arcuate
slot 53. The central hinge disc 50 houses the lower bracket 209 in central
recess
501 so that the retaining posts 24 extend through post-slide slots 57 formed
in
both the front frame disc and the rear frame disc.
[00164] When the lower hinges is locked, the retaining posts 24 abut
corresponding abutment faces 54 formed in the front and rear frame discs 51
and
52 respectively. Pushing the mechanical link 20 downwards disengages the
retaining posts 24 from their respective abutment surfaces 54 so that the
lower
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hinge 5 unlocks and front and rear frame discs are free to rotate relative to
the
central hinge disc 50.
[00165] When the stroller is moving from its folded to unfolded
configuration,
the front and rear frame discs 51 and 52 respectively have ramped guide
surfaces 58 for sliding engagement with the retaining posts 24. The ramped
guide
surfaces 58 cam the retaining posts downwards until the predetermined unfolded
configuration is reached and the retaining posts 24 snap upwards under the
bias
of the return spring 23 to once again engage the abutment surfaces 54, thereby
locking the lower hinge 5.
[00166] The latch assembly for latching the stroller frame assembly 100 in the
folded configuration will now be described with particular reference to the
main
stages of the folding process shown in Figures 16A to 16D. Figure 16A shows
the
stroller in its unfolded configuration and the separate components the latch
assembly disengage from each other. The latch assembly consists of a hook 110
attached to the handle frame 1, a spigot 112 extending from the side of the
seat
frame 2 and a hasp 114 extending from the rear wheel frame 32.
Latch Assembly
[00167] Figure 16B shows the first stage of the folding process in which
the
handle frame 1 is rotated about the upper hinge 4 by a predetermined angle a
as
described in detail above. As discussed above in relation to Figure 9, the
guide
pin 45 begins moving along the guide slot 422 as the handle frame 1 rotates
about the upper hinge 4. Referring briefly to Figures 1 and 15, a strap (not
shown)
is attached to the outer ends of the guide pin 45 which extends behind the
lower
panel 75 of the seat back. As the guide pins 45 on each of the upper hinges 4
begin to rotate with the handle frame 1, the strap (not shown) pulls the lower
panel 75 of the seat back forwards to begin the relative rotation of the upper
and
lower panels about the hinge connection 122. This ensures that the upper and
lower panels 74 and 75 begin, and therefore continue to fold in the correct
direction.
[00168] At the predetermined angle a between the handle frame 1 and the seat
frame 2, the lower hinge 5 unlocks. This allows the user to continue folding
the
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handle frame 1 towards the seat frame 2 while the seat frame rotates about the
lower hinge 5 towards the front wheel frame 31. The hinged connectors between
the seat 70, the seat frame 2 and the front wheel frame 31, ensure the seat 70
is
generally parallel to the seat frame 2 and front wheel frame 21 in the folded
configuration.
[00169] Figure 16C shows the handle frame 1 and the seat frame 2 both
overlaid on the front wheel frame 31. The hook 110 on the handle frame 1 has a
leading surface that acts as a cam against the spigot 112 which is slidably
mounted on the seat frame 2 and held in a frame secured position by a spring
(not shown). The leading surface of the hook 110 displaces the spigot 112
against the force of the spring. When the spigot reaches the entrance to the
hook,
it is resiliently biased into engagement with the hook. This effectively
secures the
handle frame 1 to the seat frame 2.
[00170] Engaging the hook 110 with the spigot 112 is the cue for the user
to lift
the frame assembly upwards by the handle. This draws the lower hinge 5
upwards so that the front wheel frame 31 and the rear wheel frame 32 are drawn
together by gravity. The hasp 114 extending from the rear wheel frame 32
rotates
into automatic engagement with the top of the spigot 112 via an inwardly
facing
barbed formation. This secures the rear wheel frame 32 to the seat frame 2.
The
front wheel frame 32 is trapped between the rear wheel frame 32 and the seat
frame 2 so that it is also secured in the folded configuration.
[00171] To unfold the stroller fame assembly, the user holds the handle so
that
the frame members are in a generally vertical configuration as shown in Figure
16D. Sliding the spigot 112 to its frame release position and temporarily
holding it
there using the tab 116 simultaneously releases the spigot 112 from the hasp
114
and the hook 110. Lifting the handle 1 rotates the seat frame 2 about the
lower
hinge 4 until the handle frame 1 and seat frame 2 align and automatically lock
the
upper hinge 4. Referring back to Figure 8, the lower bracket 209 in the
mechanical link 20 has a forward angle bias spring 503 that urges the front
wheel
frame 31 to angle itself slightly forward of the seat frame 2 when suspended
beneath the lower hinge 5. This small forward angle on the front wheel frame
allows the user to lower the frame assembly back to the ground so that the
front
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wheel frame naturally rotates forwards until it is locked in position by the
lower
hinge 5. Similarly, the user can continue to lower the handle such that the
rear
wheel frame 32 rotates rear-wardly until locked in position by the lower hinge
5.
Safety Bar and Retractable Hood Frame
[00172] Figure 14 is an exploded perspective of the combined safety bar and
retractable hood frame for the stroller. Hood frame hinge mounts 60 attached
to
each side of the handle frame 1. The hood frame hinge mounts 60 provide a
hinged connection point for the bowed support ribs 63 feeding through the
fabric
of the retractable hood (not shown). The safety bar 62 also hingedly attaches
to
the hood frame hinge mounts 60 via the safety bar connectors 61. The hood
frame hinge mounts 60 provide a common hinge axis for the retractable hood
support ribs 63 and the safety bar connectors 61. However the safety bar
connectors 61 are lockable in an extended position (as shown in Figure 14) or
a
retracted position in which the safety bar is concealed beneath the hood. To
shift
the safety bar 62 between the extended and retracted positions, actuation
buttons
65 on both the hood frame hinge mounts 60 are depressed to allow rotation of
the
safety bar connectors 61.
[00173] Combining the hinge mount for the safety bar 62 and the hood support
ribs 63 allows the safety bar to easily retract beneath the hood thereby
taking the
safety bar out of service without removing it from the stroller. Removing
components from the stroller risks misplacing those components and the
attachment/detachment process can be generally inconvenient and more time
consuming than simply rotating the safety bar 62 such that it is concealed
beneath the hood.
[00174] By retracting the safety bar 62 out of service, it does not form an
obstruction when placing the toddler in the stroller or lifting them out of
the seat.
With the safety bar in the extended position it may be necessary to lift the
toddler
into the stroller seat and thread their legs beneath the safety bar 62.
Similarly,
removing the toddler from the stroller requires their legs to be threaded back
through the gap between the safety bar 62 and the seat base 71 (see Figure
13).
Moving the safety bar 62 to the retracted position takes it out of service
while it
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remains connected to the rest of the stroller and allows unobstructed access
to
the child held in the seat by a seat harness.
[00175] For safety reasons, the hood frame hinge mounts 60 are configured
such that hood support ribs 63 are wider than the safety bar connectors 61
(and
the safety bar 62) to avoid an finger pinch points.
[00176] Despite
having the option of retracting the safety bar 62 out of service
beneath the hood, detachable connectors 64 are provided at either end of the
safety bar the user wish to have it completely detached.
Foldable Bassinet
[00177] Newborns and young babies are not yet able to sit. These infants
require a bassinet in which they lie while travelling the stroller. While
bassinets
are not as large as strollers, they still occupy a substantial amount of space
and
can be inconvenient to store or transport in a vehicle. In light of this, a
folded
bassinet has been developed which now be described with reference to Figures
17 to 23.
[00178] To carry the bassinet on the stroller, a pair of bassinet adaptors 30
are
detachably mounted to the seat frame 2 of the stroller 100 (see Figure 1). As
shown in Figures 17 and 18, the bassinet adaptors 30 each have a snap locking
mount 31 configured to detachably grip the exterior of the seat frame tubing
128
so that the mounting recesses 32 face upwards.
[00179] The folding bassinet frame assembly is shown without any of its soft
components in Figure 19. The folding bassinet frame assembly has a bed board
provided by first and second portions (25 and 26) hinged together to provide a
generally flat supporting surface for the baby when the bassinet is in the
unfolded
configuration. Above the bed board (25 and 26) are first and second rims (20
and
21) which are spaced from the periphery of the bed board to support the top of
a
sidewall provided by the soft components covering the bassinet frame assembly.
Between the first and second rims (20 and 21), and the bed board (25 and 26)
are support strut assemblies (23 and 24). On either side of the bassinet frame
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assembly 34 are central side mounts 1 which connect to the first and second
rims
(20 and 21).
[00180] Above the bassinet is a retractable hood frame 291 together with a
handle frame 2 for attachment to each side of the first rim 20 adjacent the
central
side mounts 1. The retractable hood and handle are described in greater detail
below.
[00181] Figures 20 and 21 show the features of a central side mount 1 in
isolation. Each of the central side mounts has a mounting tongue 36 which is
received in the mounting recess 32 of the corresponding bassinet adaptor. The
mounting tongue has a slot to expose the biased retaining hook 110. The
leading
edge of the retaining hook 110 engages the top of a retaining boss 35 formed
within the mounting recess 32 of the bassinet adaptors 30. The leading edge
moves the retaining hook 190 to one side against the bias of return spring 191
until the spring bias urges the hook 190 around the retaining boss 35 to
securely
hold the bassinet on the stroller. The weight of a baby in the bassinet is
transferred through the flanges 17 of each of the central side mounts 1 onto
the
relatively wide top surfaces 33 of the bassinet adaptors 30.
[00182] An inner plate 10 and an outer plate 11 hingedly mount a first rim
mount 14 and second rim mount 142 for rotation about spaced hinge axes. It
will
be appreciated that the tubular ends of the first rim and the second rim
attach to
the corresponding extensions of the first and second rims mounts respectively.
These extensions protrude from between the inner and outer plates 10 and 11.
The inner and outer plates together form the mounting tongue 36 which, as
discussed above, plugs into the mounting aperture 32 of the bassinet adaptors
30.
[00183] To remove the bassinet from the stroller, the user presses the lock
release button 19 to the right (as shown in Figure 20). This rotates the latch
arm
about the latch pivot 18 such that the hook 193 disengages from the locking
boss
35. With the convenient finger grip provided by the underside of the wedge
slide
button 13, the bassinet is conveniently lifted upwards and out of the mounting
aperture 32 of the bassinet adaptors 30.
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[00184] The process of folding the bassinet frame will now be described with
particular reference to the exploded perspective shown in Figure 21. To fold
the
bassinet frame, the bassinet must first be removed from the stroller, or at
least
the bassinet adaptors 30. As will be discussed in more detail below, the first
and
second rim mounts 14 and 142 remain locked in position whenever the central
side mounts 1 are engaged the bassinet adaptors 30. This prevents the bassinet
from being inadvertently folded whilst mounted to the stroller.
[00185] The first and second rim mounts 14 and 142 are hingedly mounted
between the inner and outer plates 10 and 11. The hinge axis for the first rim
mount is spaced from that of the second rim mount 142. Between these hinge
axes is a locking plate 130 with a pair of mutually opposed locking facets 144
for
contacting respective locking abutments 145 extending from each of the first
and
second rim mounts 14 and 142. The abutment between the locking facets 144
and the locking abutments 145 prevent the first rim mount 14 and the second
rim
mount 142 from rotating such that the first and second rims 20 and 21 can fold
downwards. Furthermore, the first and second rim mounts 14 and 142 are
prevented from rotating upwards (as shown in Figures 20 and 21) because of the
geometry in which they are interconnected with the folding bed board 25 and 26
via the support strut assembly 23. Therefore the rim mounts 14 and 142 are
locked against any rotation when engaged with the locking facets 144.
[00186] To unlock the first and second rim mounts 14 and 142, the user must
first depress the slide release button 12 and then move the wedge slide button
downwards to draw the locking facets 144 of the locking plate 130 out of
engagement with the locking abutments 145. The slide release button 12 and the
wedge slide button 13 are made up of a depressible button barrel 120, a button
housing with retaining flanges 122, a button return spring 121 and a slide
plate
132 with a button aperture 133. Figure 23 best shows the features of the wedge
slide moulding 134 providing the wedge slide button 13. A slide plate 132 has
a
thumb press flange extending from its outer side. A pair of guide lugs 136
extend
from the inside of the slide plate 132. The button aperture 133 is formed
directly
above the thumb press flange 135 and is positioned between the guide lugs 136.
Referring back to Figure 21, the guide lugs 136 slide in the guide slots 16
formed
on either side of the keyhole slot 15 provided by the outer plate 11. The
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depressible button barrel 120 and button retaining flanges 122 are positioned
in
the button aperture 133. The lugs 136 engage with complementary formations on
locking plate 130 such that sliding the guide plate 132 downwards will also
draw
the locking plate 130 downwards.
[00187] The diameter of the depressible button barrel 120 is sized such
that it
will pass through the wide portion of the key hole slot 15 but not the narrow
portion extending downwards from the wide portion. The wide portion of the
keyhole slot 15 corresponds to the locking position of the locking plate 130
where
the locking facets 144 engage the locking abutments 145. Locking plate bias
springs 131 ensure that the locking plate 30 is urged into the locking
position and
therefore the depressible button barrel 120 is resiliently held at the wide
portion of
keyhole slot 15.
[00188] By depressing the button barrel 120 through the wide portion of the
keyhole slot 15, the user can then press the slide plate 132 downwards using
the
thumb press flange 135. This in turn draws the locking plate 130 downwards
against the bias of the locking plate springs 131. Once the locking facets 144
disengage from the locking abutments 145, the first and second rim mounts 14
and 142 are free to rotate downwards (using the orientation shown in Figure
21).
[00189] On opposing sides of the locking plate 130 are curved slide surfaces
143 which ensure a smooth folding and unfolding action. Furthermore, the
skilled
worker in this field will appreciate that folding the first and second rims 20
and 21
downwards also forces the first and second portions (25 and 26) of the bed
board
to fold in a corresponding manner.
[00190] In the folded configuration, the first and second portions (25 and
26) of
the bed board lie flat against each other, and sandwiched between the first
and
second rims (20 and 21). A clasp or simple tether provided on the soft
components of the bassinet (not shown) retains the bassinet in the folded
configuration during storage or transport in a vehicle.
Retractable Canopy for a Bassinet
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[00191] The retractable canopy attached to the bassinet will now be described
with reference to Figures 24 to 31. Bassinets will usually have a retractable
canopy to shield by baby from the sun and wind. Often the bassinet handle 11
is
incorporated into the retractable canopy to simplify the design. However the
handle 11 needs to be rigidly lockable in its extended position so that the
bassinet
can be safely carried. On the other hand, the handle also needs to rotate to a
range of different positions so that the canopy can be raised or lowered to a
desired degree. In light of this, some bassinets have previously used a
retractable
canopy with a handle that attaches to hubs positioned at either side of the
bassinet. These hubs will each incorporate a lock mechanism for maintaining
the
handle at an extended (or carrying) position, as well as inter-engaging
formations
such as pairs of toothed rings for incremental or stepped movement of the
canopy
to intermediate positions between the retracted and extended positions.
[00192] Some known bassinet canopies also have a sun visor for additional
shade protection. These visors extend from the canopy where they are simply
hanged to shade the infant. It would be beneficial if the sun visor could also
be
positioned at a range of different extensions to provide greater flexibility
of use.
However incorporating additional sets of opposed toothed rings within the
existing
canopy hubs would make the hubs impractically large. The retractable bassinet
canopy shown in Figures 24 to 31 addresses this by providing the handle lock
in
one hub and the opposing pairs of toothed rings for the handle and the visor
in
the other hub. This allows both hubs to remain relatively compact.
[00193] Figure 24 is a perspective of the bassinet with the retractable
canopy
in its extended position and the sun visor 55 also in an extended position.
Figure
25 shows the bassinet with the sun visor retracted beneath the extended
canopy.
[00194] In both Figures 24 and 25 the bassinet handle 11 is in the extended
position with the canopy material 54 stretched taut between the rim of the
bassinet, the canopy rib 15 and the handle 11. The retractable canopy frame
attaches to the bassinet via a first frame attachment piece 10 on one side of
the
bassinet and a second frame attachment piece 5 on the other side of the
bassinet. Each end of the handle 11 attaches to a first handle mount 30 and a
second handle mount 35 respectively. First handle mount 30 and second handle
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mount 35 are rotatably connected to the first frame attachment piece 10 and
the
second frame attachment piece 5 respectively. Similarly the visor rib 16 is
hinged
to the first frame attachment piece 10 and second frame attachment piece 5 via
the first visor mount 33 and second visor mount 36 respectively.
[00195]
Referring to Figures 26 to 31, the retractable canopy frame assembly
56 is shown in isolation without the flexible canopy material 54 or the visor
material 55. The canopy frame 56 has a first hub 57 and second hub 58 which
together define the hinge axis for the handle 11 and the visor rib 16. The
first hub
57 has the first handle mount 30, the first frame attachment piece 10 and the
first
visor mount 33. Likewise the second hub 58 has the second handle mount 35, the
second frame attachment piece 5 and the second visor mount 36. However the
first hub 57 also has the user actuated lock release button 4 and the lock
mechanism (described below) for locking the handle 11 in the extended or
retracted positions. The second hub 58 has two pairs of inter-engaging toothed
rings (described below) which define the incrementally stepped positions
between
fully retracted and fully extended, for both the canopy and the visor.
[00196] Figures 27, 28, and 29 show the components of the first hub 58 in an
exploded perspective. The lock release button 4, movable locking element 2,
lock
bias spring 13, lock recess 31, and corresponding lock recess 12 provide a
handle lock assembly that releasably locks the handle in its extended or
retracted
positions. The lock release button 4 has three equally spaced push prongs 40
extending in the button push direction. The push prongs 40 extend through
respective prong apertures 32 within the lock recess 31 formed in the first
handle
mount 30. Retention barbs 41 formed on the distal ends of each push prong 40
retain the lock release button 4 on the first handle mount 30. A lock bias
spring 13
urges the movable locking element 2 into a locked position sitting partially
within
the lock recess 31 and partially within the corresponding lock recess 12 in
the first
frame attachment piece 10. In this locked position, the equi-spaced radial
arms
21 extending from the lock body 20 are keyed into both the lock recess 31 and
the aligned radial arm recess 14 of the corresponding lock recess 12 such that
the first handle mount 30 and first frame attachment piece 10 are locked
together
preventing any relative rotation.
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[00197] Pressing the lock release button 4 pushes the movable locking
element 2 out of the lock recess 31 against the bias of the lock spring 13
such
that it is completely within the corresponding lock recess 12. In this
unlocked
position, relative rotation between the first handle mount 30 and the first
frame
attachment piece 10 is possible. Having pushed the movable locking element to
the unlocking position within the corresponding lock recess 12, and rotated
the
handle out of the extended or retracted position, the user can release the
lock
release button 4 which will automatically return to the locked position when
the
equi-spaced radial arms 21 once more align with the lock recess 31 in the
first
handle mount 30. This is configured to occur in either the extended position
or
retracted position of the handle 11.
[00198] The first hub 57 is also provided with an auxiliary visor hold
mechanism to bolster the operation of the inter-engaging toothed rings in the
second hub 58 primarily responsible for defining the incrementally stepped
visor
positions (described below).
[00199] As best shown in Figure 28, the inward facing side of the first frame
attachment piece 10 has a visor hold recess 17 that accommodates a visor hold
spring 18 acting on a visor hold element 19. Referring to Figure 29, the first
visor
mount 33 has a ring of dimples 34 for engagement with the partially spherical
end
of the visor hold element 19. Biasing the visor hold element 19 into each
dimple in
the ring 35 helps to maintain the first visor mount 33 in each of the
incrementally
stepped locations of the visor, along with the interaction of the visor's pair
of
toothed rings in the second hub 58 (described below).
[00200] Figures 27, 30 and 31 show the features of the second hub 58. Within
the second visor mount 36 is a rotating visor toothed ring 38 for
interengagement
with a fixed visor toothed ring 53 formed on the second frame attachment piece
5.
On the inside of the second handle mount 35 is a rotating handle toothed ring
37
for inter-engagement with a fixed handle toothed ring 52 provided on the
second
frame attachment piece 5. Sequential engagement and disengagement of the
opposing teeth on the pair of toothed rings 37 and 52 defines the
incrementally
stepped positions at which the handle (and therefore the canopy) can sit
between
the retracted and extended positions. Likewise successive engagement and
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disengagement of the visor's pair of toothed gears 38 and 53 set the
incrementally stepped positions at which the user can set the visor 55. The
opposing teeth on each of the toothed rings 38, 53, 52 and 37 have a rounded
or
sinusoidal-like profile to allow opposing teeth to slide over each other when
sufficient torque applied. With any applied torque, the tooth rings are biased
into
engagement with each other.
[00201] The second handle mount 35 has a central boss extending into a
central aperture 50 through the fixed handle toothed ring 52 and the fixed
visor
toothed ring 53. A second hub spring 51 biases the second visor mount 36 away
from the second handle mount 35 which are both connected together to allow a
small degree of relative movement. In this way, the second handle mount 35 and
the second visor mount 36 have some axial displacement to accommodate the
sequential engagement and disengagement of the opposing toothed rings (30
and 52, 53 and 38).
[00202] It will be appreciated that the first and second hubs 57 and 58
further
include a pin (not shown) providing a hinge axle for each of the hubs
respectively.
Furthermore the skilled worker will readily understand that the canopy rib 15
is
freely hinged to the apertured lugs extending from the side of the first
handle
mount 30 and the second handle mount 35.
Adjustable Foot Rest
[00203] The adjustable foot rest will now be described in detail with a
particular
reference to Figures 32 to 37. Figures 32 and 33 show the seat base 1 and the
footrest 2 in isolation from the rest of the stroller in the interests of
clarity. As best
shown in the exploded perspective of Figure 33, the footrest 2 has a footrest
rim
26 for supporting a foot support tray 27. At either end of the u-shaped
footrest rim
26 is a footrest rim mount 25 configured for hinged connection to the front
edge of
the seat base 1.
[00204] The front edge of the seat base 1 has a pair of outwardly facing hinge
axles 11 (only one hinge axle visible) which together define the hinge axis
about
which the footrest 2 rotates. Each hinge axle 11 is fixed in a tubular housing
extending along the front edge of a seat base 1 such that it is tangential
with the
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sitting surface. Within the tubular housing 14 and 15 are inwardly facing
fixed
spline formations 10 as best shown in Figure 34.
[00205] Likewise the footrest rim mount 25 also has fixed footrest spine
formations 20. These fixed spline formations 10 and 20 are configured to mesh
with the splines 31 on the footrest spline gear 3. The spline gear 3 is
mounted for
rotation on the hinge axle 11 and biased into a locking position where the
splines
31 partially engage the seat splines 10 and partially engage the footrest
splines
20 to lock the footrest against rotation.
[00206] To adjust the footrest 2, lock release buttons 20 provided on both the
footrest rim mounts 25 are simultaneously pushed axially inwards. As best
shown
in Figure 36, the barbed push prongs 23 extending from the buttons 22 push the
spline gear 3 into the hinge axle tubular housings 14 and 15 against the bias
of
the hinge spring 30. This disengages the splines 31 of the spline gear from
the
footrest splines 20 within the footrest rim mount 25. This allows the footrest
to
freely rotate on the hinge axles 11. When the position of the footrest 2 has
been
adjusted, the lock release buttons 22 are released and hinge spring 30 urges
the
spline gear 3 back to the locked position. Edge tapers 35 on the outer ends of
the
spline ridges 33 extending from the spline body 32, slidingly engage
corresponding tapered surfaces 29 on the inner ends of the footrest splines
20.
[0145] This sliding engagement between the two tapered sections precisely
positions the footrest 2 at one of the predetermined positions at which the
footrest
will not impede the smooth folding or unfolding of the stroller.
[00207] The angular travel of the footrest 2 is limited by the angular
travel stop
24 sliding within the slot 21 of the footrest rim mounts 25 and within the
asymmetric hinge axle aperture 32 of the spline gear 3 (best shown in Figure
35).
It will be appreciated that the angular travel step 24 slidingly engages the
interior
surface of the hinge axle aperture 34 and helps to support the spline body 32
when urged into the locked position.
[00208] When the child is older and physically big enough to no longer need
the adjustable footrest, the footrest can be moved to a retracted position
extending beneath the seat base 1. In this position it does not contact the
child's
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legs who now place his or her feet on the tread surface above the front wheel
assembly.
[00209] To move the footrest 2 to the fully retracted position, the user
must first
press the retraction lock button 42 best shown in Figure 37. Beneath the
tubular
housing 15 is a slide chute 12 with a slide button aperture 13 for receiving
the
retraction lock button 42 resiliently mounted to the slide plate 41. The full
retraction abutment 4 extends from an outer end of the slide plate 41 when the
footrest is in use (i.e. not moved to the fully retracted position), the
camming
abutment 28 formed on the inner surface of the footrest rim mount 25 engages
the full retraction abutment 4 to prevent rotation of the footrest 2 into the
fully
retracted position. By manually depressing the retraction lock button 42 into
the
slide aperture 13 of the slide chute 12, the slide plate 41 is able to slide
within the
slide chute 12 against the bias of the retraction button spring 40. Sliding
interaction between the full retraction abutment 4 and the camming abutment 28
forces the slide plate to retract into the slide chute 12 and allow the
footrest to fold
under the seat base 1 to the fully retracted position.
[00210] At the fully retracted position, the full retraction abutment 4
once again
slides past the camming abutment 28 as the retraction button spring 40 pushes
the slide plate 41 outwards. This allows the retraction lock button 42 to
resiliently
extend back throughout the slide button aperture 13 so that the footrest 2 is
held
in the fully retracted position, not just by the inter-engaging splines, but
also the
full retraction abutment 4 and the camming abutment 28. In this way the
footrest
does not need to be removed when it is outgrown. This avoids the risk of a
detachable footrest being lost or misplaced.
Seat Reclining Mechanism
[00211] The seat reclining mechanism for the collapsible stroller will now
be
described with particular references to Figures 38 to 42. Figure 38 shows the
seat
clamp 3 and the first and second seat reclining straps 64 and 65 in isolation
in the
interests of clarity. The first and second seat reclining straps 64 and 65 are
shown
folded into the configuration they would generally adopt when fed through the
strap path of the seat clamp 3.
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[00212] Referring briefly back to Figure 1, the first strap is adapted to
attach to
the collar 130 on the frame element 108 extending from one end of the handle
102. The second strap 65 attaches to the collar 131 fixed to the frame element
108 extending from the other end of the handle.
[00213] The first and second straps 64 and 65 enter the seat clamp 3 through
apertures on opposing sides. The seat clamp 3 has a clamp body made up of a
first body portion 10 and second body portion 11. Within the clamp body, the
first
and second straps wrap around respective folding edges (discussed below) to
provide a pair of overlapping straps 63. At the end of the overlapping straps
63 is
a lifting loop 66 for the user to grip. A portion of the lifting loop 66 will
always
protrude from the combined strap aperture 16 of the seat clamp 3. Seat clamp 3
is rigidly attached to the rear of the upper seat back panel 62 by the
mounting
plate 5 (see Figures 41 and 42).
[00214] Referring to Figures 39 and 40, exploded perspectives of the seat
clamp 3 are shown from opposing angles. As discussed above, the clamp body
has a first body portion 10 and second body portion 12 that fit together in a
clam
shell manner such that the wedge clamp 2 sits in between. The first strap
enters
the clamp body 3 and folds around the first strap folding edge 17 formed in
the
first body portion 10. Similarly the second strap enters the other side of the
clamp
body 3 and folds about the second strap folding edge 18 formed in second body
portion 11.
[00215] This brings both straps into overlapping relationship and extending
along feed chute 19 defining a path to the wedge clamp 2. The wedge clamp 2
has a wedge body 22 with a first strap wedge surface 20 positioned at an angle
to
the second strap wedge surface 21. Similarly the first body portion 10 has a
first
strap friction surface 12 and the second body portion 11 has a second strap
friction surface 13 configured at an angle corresponding to that of the first
and
second strap wedge surfaces (20 and 21).
[00216] Clamping bias springs 23 press into respective spring housings 24
formed on either side of the wedge body 22. This urges the wedge body 22, and
in particular the first and second strap wedge surfaces 20 and 21, towards the
first and second strap friction surfaces 12 and 13. It will be appreciated
that the
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wedge surfaces 20 and 21, and the friction surfaces 12 and 13, have surface
formations and/or coatings for enhanced grip on the first and second straps.
The
overlapping first and second straps divide to pass over either side of the
wedge
body 22, then reunite as they exit the combined strap apertures 16.
[00217] Seat clamp 3 has a manual release actuator in the form of a lift lever
30 hinged to the clamp body. Torsion spring 4 places a rotational bias on the
lift
lever 30 to press the support feet 31 into the upper seat back panel 62
through
apertures formed in the first body portion 10. The lift lever 30 also has
retraction
slide surfaces 32 which engage complementary slide surfaces 26 formed on the
spring housings 24 of the wedge clamp 2.
[00218] By lifting the lift lever 30 against the bias of the torsion spring
4, the
retraction slide surfaces 32 slide over the complementary surfaces 26 to push
the
wedge clamp away from the first and second strap friction surfaces 12 and 13
against the bias of clamping springs 23. With the clamping pressure on the
first
and second straps removed, or reduced, the first and second straps can be
drawn in through the aperture 16 and fed out the opposing sides of the seat
clamp 3 to move the seat back to the reclined position.
[00219] As the lift lever 30 is in effect a 'second class' lever (i.e. the
load is
applied between the fulcrum and the lift force), it provides a mechanical
advantage when moving the wedge clamp 2 against the bias of the clamping
springs 23. This mechanical advantage reduces the lift force required and
allows
operation of the seat clamp with a single hand, possibly while continuing to
push
the stroller without interrupting the motion of the stroller. This reduces the
chance
of disturbing a child that has only just fallen asleep.
[00220] Similarly the seat back can be moved to the upright position using a
single hand by pulling on the lifting loop 66 of the overlapping straps 63
extending
from the combined strap aperture 16. The tension applied to the first and
second
straps 64 and 65 extending on each side of the wedge body 22 moves the wedge
clamp to out of clamping engagement against the bias of the clamping springs
23.
The seat back is lifted to its upright position using only one hand pulling on
the
lifting loop 66 while the stroller is pushed with the other hand.
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Snack Tray
[00221] A detachable snack tray 44 is shown in Figures 43 to 50. The snack
tray has a snap locking formation 1 for releasably attaching to the frame
assembly of the stroller 100 (see Figure 1). Typically, the snack tray will
attach to
the safety bar 62 extending in front of the child seated in the stroller (see
Figure
14). However, the snack tray may also be attached to the handle 102 by first
removing the central snap on plastic cover 102a (see Figure 1). The frame
assembly may be provided with the mounting sleeve 3 at the desired mounting
site so that the snack tray 44 has greater positional stability when attached.
[00222] As best shown in Figure 45, the snack tray 44 has a snap locking
formation 1 with a central frame recess 13 to fit over the frame, or as shown
the
mounting sleeve 3. The mounting sleeve 3 has a sleeve first half 30 and a
sleeve
second half 31 which clamp together about the frame. As best shown in Figure
50, the first and second halves 30 and 31 define an anchor cavity 32. The
first
and second halves 30 and 31 also each define a surface channel 33.
[00223] As shown in Figures 48 and 49, the snap locking formation 1 has
internal barbed clips 16 and a rotation anchor 15 extending into the frame
recess
13. When the snack tray 44 is attached to the mounting sleeve 3, the snap
locking formation is pushed over the sleeve such that the rotation anchor 15
engages the anchor cavity 32. Meanwhile, the resilient tongue 11 allows the
internal barbed clips to slide over the exterior of the sleeve until they
click into the
surface channel 33 on either the sleeve first half 30 or the sleeve second
half 31.
The resilient bias provided by the tongue 11 ensures the snap locking
formation
grips the sleeve 3 while the rotation anchor 15 and the internal barbed clips
16
ensure the snack tray remains in a stable position.
[00224] It will appreciated that the curved end of the resilient tongue 11
can be
used to pry the snap locking formation of the sleeve to detach the snack tray
44
so that it can be turned 180 and reattached to the sleeve such that the
internal
barbed clips 16 engage the surface channel 33 on the opposing half of the
sleeve
3. As best shown in Figures 44 and 45 the tray 2 has two shallow recesses 20
each covered by a hinged lid 4. Along one side of the tray recesses 20 is a
curved slide flange 22. Extending beneath the curved side flange 22 is a
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mounting spigot 21 which is received in the mounting cavity 12 of the snap
locking formation 1. The mounting cavity 12 extends upwards from a tray
supporting base 10 on the snap locking formation 1 (see Figure 48) to provide
a
solid support beneath the tray 2.
[00225] The tray 2 is attached to the snap locking formation 1 by inserting
the
mounting spigot 21 into the mounting cavity 12 so that the curved side flange
22
slides over the locating features 14 until they snap into the locating
apertures 23.
It will be appreciated that the tray is offset to one side of the snap locking
formation 1 and generally cantilevered out from the sleeve 3. Accordingly, the
curved side flange 22 and mounting spigot 21 need to be robust enough to
withstand the normal loading that a child might apply to the outer cantilever
side
of the tray 2.
[00226] The hinged lids 4 are configured such their hinge axis extend
generally
towards the child so that the lid does not obstruct access to the tray
recesses 20
regardless of which position the snack tray 44 is attached to the mounting
sleeve
3. Furthermore, as best shown in Figure 46, the tray 2 has a lid hinge cavity
25 to
receive the lid hinge extension 41 shown in Figure 47. Furthermore, the tray 2
has an integrally formed cantilevered arm 26 with a biased lid holder 27
formed at
its end. This bias lid holder 27 is urged into engagement with the raised lid
recess
42 or the closed lid recess 43 to lightly hold the lid for in the raised or
closed
position respectively. Lightly holding the lid in a raised position allows the
child
easier access to the snacks within the shallow recesses 20.
[00227] The hinged lids 4 also have a lid latch 40 for co-operative engagement
with a latch detent 24 formed in the outer rim of the tray 2. The lid latch 40
provides a more secure closure for the lid and may be used to restrict access
to
snacks within the tray particularly if the child is a toddler or very young.
[00228] It will appreciated that the tray 2 can be made of dishwasher safe
plastic and easily removed from the snap locking formation for the purposes of
cleaning. Similarly, the entire snack tray 44 may be detached and turned three
180 , the reattached such that the tray is closer or further from the child.
This
allows the ergonomics of the tray position to be optimised for the age of the
child.
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46
[00229] Similarly, the snack tray 44 can be removed from the safety bar 62
(see Figure 14) and attached to the handle 102 (see Figure 1) to extend
forward
of the handle or rearwards of the handle depending on the users preference.
Furthermore, in the collapsible stroller frame assembly 100 described herein,
the
stroller can be folded without first removing the snack tray from the safety
bar 62
or the handle 102, regardless of the snack tray orientation.
[00230] The inventive aspects of the collapsible stroller and folding
bassinet
have been described herein by way of example only. Skilled workers in this
field
will readily recognise many variations and modifications of the specific
mechanisms disclosed herein, which do not depart from the spirit and scope of
any broad inventive concepts.
