CN111263717A - Foldable trolley - Google Patents

Abstract

A foldable cart (10) comprising: a main frame (12) for supporting a child receiving device; a rear wheel assembly coupled to the main frame (12) and including at a first end carrying the rear wheel (32) and an elongated support leg (20) pivotally coupled to the first end of the main frame (12) at the second end; a front wheel assembly including a front wheel (28); a linear drive A mechanism (25) for effecting folding and unfolding of the cart (10) when actuated, the linear drive mechanism (25) comprising a linear drive coupled to a motor and selectively linearly movable by an actuating device (24) an actuator (24); and a linkage assembly coupled between the rear wheel assembly and the main frame (12), the linkage assembly including pivotally coupled to the support leg at a location along the length of the support leg A first link arm (16) of (20) and a second link arm (13) pivotally coupled to the main frame (12) at a location along the length of the main frame, the first link arm (16) and the second link arm (16) The two link arms (13) are connected together by a pivot joint (18); wherein a linear actuator (24) extends from the front wheel assembly to the first link arm (16) and the second link arm (13) said pivot point (18) in between and is configured to move in a direction away from the front wheel assembly to fold the cart (10) and in a direction towards the front wheel assembly to deploy the cart (10) upon actuation to use.

Description

foldable trolley

technical field

The present invention relates to a foldable trolley. Although not necessarily exclusive, the present invention particularly relates to a collapsible cart having an automatic folding mechanism. The present invention also relates to a collapsible bassinet for use in a collapsible cart.

Background technique

Collapsible carts are well known in the art, particularly when the user may be traveling, or when the cart is not in use and is therefore stored. Such carts typically include a manual mechanism that requires the user to manually complete several steps to transition the cart between a fully folded configuration and a fully open configuration. Typically, such steps will require both hands of the user in order to complete successfully. This is inconvenient and frustrating for the user, especially if they also have small children or babies who need to be held during the process. There is also a risk that the steps may not have been successfully completed, and thus the cart may undesirably collapse or open, potentially posing a hazard to the user or their children. Even in the fully folded configuration, the wheels and handlebars of a folded cart are prone to undesirably protrude and move, meaning there is a risk of damage to the cart when attempting to transport or store the cart.

Several attempts are known to improve foldable trolleys, in particular the mechanism by which they are folded. US2008/0211206 discloses a trolley having one or more components that can be moved by a drive mechanism between two or more desired positions, such as having a operative position (for use of the trolley) and a foldable by a drive mechanism A stroller of one or more components that automatically moves between locations (for compact storage and transport of the stroller). Accordingly, it is known to provide a drive mechanism that will actuate the cart between two configurations without undue input from the user. However, the drive mechanism required to implement this particular method of folding the trolley must be quite high powered, since the drive mechanism pulls against a number of different forces. In particular, since the drive mechanism pulls the frame assembly, the leg supports, the link arms and drags the feet towards itself during the folding movement, the motor requires a lot of power to overcome all the conflicting forces. Therefore, the required motor is rather large and therefore rather heavy. This makes the cart unwieldy and difficult to manage, so it does not overcome the problem of allowing the user to easily handle the cart.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of aspects of the present invention to address at least some of these problems and, according to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a foldable trolley comprising:

- the main frame, which is used to support the child receiving device;

- a rear wheel assembly coupled to the main frame, said rear wheel assembly comprising elongated support legs carrying wheels at a first end and pivotally coupled to said at a second end the first end of the main frame;

- a front wheel assembly, which includes the front wheel;

- a linear drive mechanism for effecting folding and unfolding of the trolley when actuated, the linear drive mechanism comprising a linear actuator coupled to a motor and selectively linearly movable by an actuating device; and

- a linkage assembly coupled between the rear wheel assembly and the main frame, the linkage assembly comprising a first link arm pivotally coupled to the support leg at a position along the length of the support leg and at a position along the main frame a second link arm pivotally coupled to the main frame at a location of the length, the first link arm and the second link arm being connected together by a pivot joint;

wherein a linear actuator extends from the front wheel assembly to the pivot point between the first link arm and the second link arm and is configured to be in a direction away from the front wheel assembly when actuated Move to fold the cart and move in the direction toward the front wheel assembly to unfold the cart for use.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the cart may further include a disengagement mechanism between the motor and the linear actuator, the disengagement mechanism may be configured to selectively disengage the linear actuator for use in use The trolley frame is selectively folded and unfolded manually.

Optionally, the front wheel may be pivotally connected to the front wheel assembly by a pivot hinge, which may be configured to allow the front wheel to pivot towards and away from the rear wheel assembly in use. The pivot hinge can be engaged by a connector with a linear drive mechanism that can cause pivotal movement of the front wheel toward the rear wheel assembly when the cart frame is folded, and can cause the front wheel to move away from the rear wheel when the cart frame is unfolded Pivot movement of the assembly.

In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the motor may be electrically powered by a power source. Alternatively, the power source may be a rechargeable power source.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the rear wheel assembly may further include a generator, wherein the rechargeable power source is electrically coupled to the generator.

Optionally, the main frame may include handlebars. The actuation means for the motor of the linear drive mechanism may be located in the handlebar. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the actuating device may be a button. Alternatively, the actuating device may be a switch.

In an exemplary embodiment, the front wheel assembly may further include a footrest.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the main frame may include a pair of sockets for receiving a child receiving device. Optionally, the stroller may further include a child receiving device including attachment means configured to removably attach the child receiving device to the main frame of the stroller.

Furthermore, foldable strollers generally tend to be strollers with a seat type of stroller (as opposed to a bassinet type of stroller), so it only considers those users who have children big enough to sit in such a stroller, which means Collapsible strollers are not suitable for users with young infants. Some bassinets-type strollers, such as the one disclosed in US 2007/0075525, have some foldable capabilities, but cannot be folded into a fully collapsed configuration simply due to the fact that bassinets tend to be carried to provide improved comfort and safety for infants to provide a more rigid structure, while sacrificing the portability of the cart itself. While this document discloses that the bassinet can be removed in order to replace it with a different seat and/or to collapse the cart's frame, the bassinet itself still occupies a considerable amount of space. Therefore, this does not really solve the problem of saving storage space when the trolley is not in use and making it easier for the user to take public transport (eg, a bus).

It is an object of various aspects of the present invention to address at least some of these problems, and according to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a foldable trolley comprising:

- a main frame for supporting an interchangeable child receiving device, the main frame including a releasable socket;

- a rear wheel assembly coupled to the main frame, said rear wheel assembly comprising elongated support legs carrying wheels at a first end and pivotally coupled to said at a second end the first end of the main frame;

- Front wheel assembly;

- a linear drive mechanism for effecting the folding and unfolding of the trolley when actuated, the linear drive mechanism comprising a linear actuator coupled to a motor and selectively linearly movable by an actuating device;

- a linkage assembly coupled between the rear wheel assembly and the main frame, the linkage assembly comprising a first link arm pivotally coupled to the support leg at a position along the length of the support leg and at a position along the main frame a second link arm pivotally coupled to the main frame at a location of the length, the first link arm and the second link arm being connected together by a pivot joint; and

- a child receiving device comprising a foldable bassinet having releasable attachment means for removably inserting into said socket of said main frame;

The bassinet includes a base panel, a rim frame, collapsible side walls, and pull tabs for enabling folding and unfolding of the collapsible side walls upon actuation.

In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the pull tab includes fastening means at two different locations along the length of the pull tab.

Optionally, the collapsible wall of the bassinet may further include fastening points on the outer surface of the bassinet near the base.

The fastening means may comprise male snap fastener halves and the fastening points may comprise female snap fastener halves. Alternatively, the fastening means and said fastening points may comprise hook and loop fasteners.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the bassinet may further include an extendable canopy having a pocket fitted on its inner surface. Optionally, the bag may have a viewing window therein and a closable opening along one side for receiving the mobile device.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a collapsible bassinet for use with a collapsible trolley comprising a removable cradle for removably attaching the bassinet to the trolley in use In addition to the attachment means, the bassinet further includes a base plate, a rim frame, collapsible side walls, and pull tabs for enabling folding and unfolding of the collapsible side walls upon actuation.

Alternatively, the base plate may be constructed of a rigid material.

In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the pull tab may include fastening means at two different locations along the length of the pull tab.

Optionally, the collapsible wall of the bassinet may further include fastening points on the outer surface of the bassinet near the base.

The fastening means may comprise male snap fastener halves and the fastening points comprise female snap fastener halves. Alternatively, the fastening means and said fastening points may comprise hook and loop fasteners.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the bassinet may further include an extendable canopy having pockets in its inner surface. Optionally, the bag may have a viewing window therein and a closable opening along one side for receiving the mobile device.

Description of drawings

Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a schematic side view of a cart frame according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 2 is a schematic front perspective view of the cart frame of Figure 1;

2A is a schematic top perspective view of a caster on the cart frame of FIG. 1;

Figure 3 is a schematic side view of a linear drive mechanism for the cart frame and cart of Figures 1 and 2;

Figure 4 is a schematic side view of the linear drive mechanism of the cart frame of Figure 1, shown in a folded configuration;

5 is a schematic close-up view of the linear drive mechanism of the cart frame of FIG. 1, shown in a folded configuration;

FIG. 6 is a schematic front perspective view of a disengagement system for a cart according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

7 is a schematic front perspective view of the disengagement system of FIG. 6, shown in an unlocked configuration;

8 is a schematic side view of a seat lift system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

9A and 9B are schematic cross-sectional views of the seat lift system of FIG. 8;

10 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of a seat recliner system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

11A and 11B are schematic cross-sectional rear and side views of the seat recliner system of FIG. 10;

12A and 12B are schematic side views of a canopy for use with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 13 is a schematic side view of a canopy frame for use in the canopy of Figures 12A and 12B;

Figure 14 is a schematic rear view of the canopy of Figures 12A and 12B;

Figure 15 is a schematic side view of a canopy for use with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

16 is a schematic side view of a canopy including a bag for use with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 17 is a schematic front view of the bag of Figure 16;

Figure 18 is a schematic rear view of the bag of Figure 16;

Figure 19 is a schematic top perspective view of a bassinet for use in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 20 is a schematic side perspective view of the bassinet frame of the bassinet of Figure 19;

Figure 21 is a schematic bottom perspective view of the bassinet frame of Figure 20;

22A-22D are schematic top perspective views of the bassinet frame of FIG. 20 showing successive steps in a series of operations of folding and unfolding.

Detailed ways

Referring to Figures 1 and 2 of the drawings, there is provided a cart frame for a cart, generally indicated at 10, which is constructed from a plurality of hollow tubular frame members. Each frame member is pivotally connected to the other and is made of a lightweight but strong material. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, when the cart is in the open configuration, two parallel outermost frame members (hereinafter referred to as main frame members 12) extend in a first diagonal direction. The main frame members 12 are spaced apart from each other so as to define a space therebetween in which a child receiving device such as a seat or bassinet may fit. The mechanism for assembling the child receiving device will be described in more detail below. The main frame member 12 may include two tubular sections 12a, 12b telescopically engaged such that the first section 12a is slidably received within the second section 12b. In this way, the main frame member 12 is adjustable in length.

At the first end of the main frame members 12 , the main frame members 12 are connected together by means of handlebars 14 . The handlebar 14 may be made of the same material as the frame members, or may be plastic, or covered in foam, fabric, leather or rubber material, and the invention is not intended to be limited in this respect.

The main frame members 12 are joined together at a second point along about two thirds of the length of the main frame members 12 from the handlebars 14 . A generally "U" shaped rod providing a first link arm 16 is pivotally connected between the main frame members 12 . The first link arm 16 is also pivotally connected to the second link arm 13 .

Referring additionally to FIG. 2A of the drawings, casters 11 may be provided along the length of main frame 12 . The casters 11 protrude beyond the circumference of the main frame member 12 so that when the trolley frame is folded, the casters 11 abut against other frame members of the trolley frame and allow smooth movement between the two frame members. This is described in more detail below with respect to Figures 4 and 5 of the accompanying drawings.

Referring additionally to FIG. 3 of the drawings, a pivot hinge 18 is provided at the second end of the main frame member 12 . Pivoting hinges 18 pivotally couple each main frame member 12 with a corresponding elongated support leg 20 . When the cart is oriented for use, the support legs 20 extend diagonally away from the pivot hinge 18 parallel to each other and are joined together by a central rod 22 extending generally horizontally between the two leg members 20 . Support legs 20 extend beyond the central rod and terminate at the distal ends. The support leg 20 is also pivotally connected to the second link arm 13 at a point near the pivot hinge 18 . The central rod 22 and the first link arm are connected by a linear actuator 24 .

The linear actuator includes a fixed outer tube 24a linearly connected to an inner tube 24b (shown in Figures 4 and 5). The inner tube 24b and the outer tube 24a are slidably movable relative to each other. The inner tube 24b and the outer tube 24a are communicatively coupled by a linear drive mechanism 25 . The central rod 22 is fixedly coupled to the outer tube 24a, and the first link arm 16 is fixedly coupled to the inner tube 24b.

The main frame member 12, the support legs 20, and the first and second link arms 13, 16 form a linkage assembly that, during use, allows the collapsible trolley to be moved from the first open configuration (as shown in the figures of the accompanying drawings). 1 to 3) smoothly transition to a folded configuration (as shown in Figures 4 and 5 of the accompanying drawings). The linkage assembly is specifically designed to reduce the force on the linear actuator 24, which will now be described in more detail.

The linear actuator 24 , and in particular the outer tube 24a , extends beyond the central rod 22 away from the first link arm 16 . At the distal end of the linear actuator 24 , the footrest 26 incorporates two front wheels 28 . These wheels 27 may be of any suitable type known in the art, and the present invention is not intended to be limited in this regard. Preferably, however, the wheel may comprise a rubber tire and a plurality of spokes. There may be a hydraulic system in the connection between the wheels 28 and the footrests 26 to increase the comfort of the child or infant in the stroller, and also to increase the maneuverability of the stroller. The wheel 28 is fitted to the footrest 26 by a pivot 30 so that the wheel can be folded rearward (ie, towards the rear wheel 32, which will be described in more detail later) in use.

The pivot point 30 is communicatively coupled to the linear drive mechanism 25 by an elongated connector 34 . Connector 34 may include a Bowden cable or similar mechanism to transmit linear motion from linear drive mechanism 25 to pivot point 30 . Those skilled in the art will know suitable mechanisms for this purpose, and the invention is not intended to be limited in this regard. There is also a mechanism within the footrest that connects the two pivot points 30, which translates the linear actuation motion of the linear drive mechanism 25 into a rearward and forward pivoting motion of the front wheels 28 when the cart is oriented for use . In use, when the linear drive mechanism 25 which causes the frame 10 to fold or unfold is activated, the front wheels 28 are simultaneously folded or unfolded accordingly. This means that the trolley according to the invention requires only a single linear drive mechanism 25, which performs a single step in order to completely complete the series of operations of folding and/or opening.

Due to the linkage assembly, the linear drive mechanism 25 can be low power because the force on the linear actuator 24 is greatly reduced. As a result, the linear drive mechanism 25 can be smaller and lighter, thereby providing more portability to the cart.

The support leg 20 has a distal end. Each distal end is connected to a rear wheel 32 . The diameter of the rear wheel 32 is much larger than that of the front wheel 28 . Like the front wheels 28, the rear wheels 32 may include rubber tires, and may preferably include hydraulics for improved maneuverability and comfort. The front wheel 28 and the rear wheel 32 define the base of the cart frame 10 . A bag (not shown) may optionally fit between the wheels, linear actuator 24 and support legs 20 to provide storage for essentials and shopping. The distance between the rear wheels 30 must be greater than the distance between the main frame bars 12 so that when the cart is in the folded configuration, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, the rear wheels 32 are the outermost parts of the cart.

Referring additionally to Figures 4 and 5 of the drawings, the linear actuator 25 includes a cam mechanism driven by a motor (not shown). The cam mechanism pushes and pulls the inner tube 24b relative to the outer tube 24a. When the inner tube 24b and the outer tube 24a are pushed away from each other, the linear actuator 24 extends. This pushes the first link arm 16 away from the center rod in the linear direction indicated by arrow A in FIG. 1 . In this way, the main frame members 12 are forced to pivot towards their respective support legs 20 and the first link arms 16 are forced to pivot towards the second link arms 13 . This causes the cart frame 10 to fold down on itself until it reaches the configuration shown in Figures 4 and 5 of the drawings. Due to the specific linkage assembly formed by the link arms 13 and 16, the main frame members 12 and the support legs 20, as described above, this movement is particularly smooth and requires very little power from the linear drive mechanism 25 to operate. The casters 11 roll against the support legs 20 and prevent the support legs 20 and the main frame member 12 from sliding frictionally against each other. This means that it is almost impossible for the system to jam and thus overwork the linear drive mechanism 25 . Connector 34 pulls on a cam mechanism inside foot pedal 26 , causing pivot point 30 to rotate rearwardly toward rear wheel 32 .

Similarly, the linear drive mechanism 25 may pull the inner tube 24b towards the outer tube 24a, thus pulling the first link arm towards the central rod 22. This will cause the frame members of the cart frame 10 to unfold, and thus the cart frame 10 may return to the open configuration as shown in Figures 1, 2 and 3 of the accompanying drawings.

The motor used to drive the cam mechanism of the linear drive mechanism 25 may be electronically actuated by a switch 38 built into the handlebar 14 of the cart frame 10 . In use, the user may simply press a button and wait for the frame 10 to fold into its collapsed configuration, or open into its open configuration. This requires little input from the user and allows them to focus their attention on their child or baby. The linear drive mechanism 25 itself holds the cart frame 10 in whatever configuration is desired. When in the open configuration, and with particular reference to Figures 1 , 2 and 3 of the drawings, a generator mechanism 40 fitted to the rear wheel 32 of the cart converts rotational energy into electrical energy and conducts electrical energy on the capacitors while the cart is moving. Charge. Because only a single motor is required, and because the electronics required are simple, the motor uses very little power, which means that the chance of failure is very low. This also allows the entire system to be recharged by the generator mechanism 40 on the rear wheels. If more power is required, the generator mechanism will not be able to fully charge the system between the folded and unfolded cart frame 10 conditions. Thus, over time, the capacitor will run out of power, and thus, the mechanism will fail quickly. Thus, the present invention provides advantages over the prior art in that battery replacement is not required. However, occasionally a motor may fail, and the present invention may provide a failsafe option in the event of a motor failure.

A disengagement mechanism may be provided for the generator on each rear wheel, which may be actuated by pressing a button or switch on the handlebar 14 or by pressing a foot switch near the generator itself. During use, the user may find that the back EMF generated by the generator may become annoying as the user moves the cart. In this case, they can disengage the generator from the rear wheels so that the counter-EMF no longer opposes the cart's motion.

Referring now to Figures 6 and 7 of the drawings, the disengagement system is provided to enable the user to manually disengage the linear drive mechanism 25 in the event of a motor failure or unsuccessful recharging of the capacitor. A twist lock 42 is provided that connects the linear drive mechanism 25 with the linear actuator 24 . On one side (eg, linear drive mechanism 25 ), there may be a collar 45 with rods 43 extending through the diameter of the collar 45 . The collar 45 is rotatable relative to the linear drive mechanism 25 . On the opposite side (eg, linear actuator 24 ), there may be an extension 47 that includes a portion of a hollow conduit and has diametrically opposed "L" shaped orifices 49 extending from the extension 47 The edge extends a short distance and then partially follows the circumference of the extension. In use, if the motor fails to engage the linear actuator 24 or the generator does not properly charge the linear actuation mechanism 25, the user can twist the collar 45 to move the rod 43 along the aperture 49 until the rod 43 can is released, allowing the linear actuator 24 to disengage from the linear drive mechanism 25 .

Once disengaged, the user may manually fold the cart frame 10 as shown in Figure 7 of the accompanying drawings. This adds an additional level of safety and control to the user, so the user does not need to rely solely on electronic components to work in order to use the cart frame 10 as desired. Note that the connector 34 is still connected to the front wheel 28 and thus, when the drive mechanism 25 is disengaged, the front wheel 28 is still folded in/out and the user performs the manual fold/open series.

The stroller frame 10 may be fitted with a child receiving device, such as a seat 44 or a bassinet 126 , which is attached to the main frame member 12 through receptacles 46 adapted to receive frame attachments 48 . Seats 44 suitable for holding children are known in the art, and the present invention is not intended to be limited to any seat 44 in particular.

Referring to Figures 8, 9A and 9B of the drawings, the frame attachment 48 is shown having a generally rectangular body 84 with a circular movable handle 86 fitted at one end thereof. In use, the frame attachment will be fixedly attached to the seat and/or bassinet desired for use with the cart frame 10 . The handle 86 is movable in a linear direction relative to the body 84 along its longitudinal axis. Near opposite ends of the body 84 are two protruding teeth 88 . The teeth are connected by a spring bias 89 . Referring specifically to FIGS. 9A and 9B , there is an elongated post 90 extending along the longitudinal axis of the body 84 and fixedly attached at the first end of the handle 86 . The post is movably attached to the teeth 88 at its opposite second end. The first end of the post 90 includes a spring biasing member 92 that biases the post 90 downward (when the device is oriented for use). The second end of the post 90 includes a guide plate 94 having a pair of guide slots 96 . The guide grooves 96 extend diagonally towards each other in a direction pointing away from the handle. Two pins 98 are fixedly attached to the teeth 88 and extend through the guide slots 96 . The pin 98 is movable in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the body 84 . In use, the user can lift the handle 86, which pulls the post 90 upward. When the handle 86 is raised, the guide slots 96 pull the pins towards each other. This drags the teeth inward, allowing the user to lift the seat and/or bassinet out of the frame socket 46 .

Referring to Figure 10, where seat 44 is used with cart frame 10, seat attachment 48 will be attached to seat frame 100 and have seat reclining mechanism 102 mounted thereon. The seat frame 100 forming the back of the seat is rotatable relative to the seat frame 100 forming the seat arm (not shown). On the rear of the circular lift handle 86 is a stationary disc 104 having a plurality of rectangular notches 106 formed on its perimeter. The seat frame 100, which forms the back of the seat, is hollow and houses spring-loaded plungers therein. The spring-loaded plunger includes a plunger 110 having a protrusion 112 configured to be received in one of the plurality of notches 106 . The plunger 110 is spring biased toward the disc 104 by a spring 114 connected to a housing 116 that provides resistance against one end of the spring 114 to urge the plunger 110 toward the disc. This causes the protrusions 112 to push into the corresponding notches 106 . A foam bumper 115 is fitted between the plunger 110 and the disc 104 . A cable 118 connects the housing to a handle 120 located in the upper rear surface of the back of the seat 44 .

Referring to FIGS. 11A and 11B , cables 118 extend along seat frame 100 to handles 120 positioned in the rear of seat 44 . The cable is anchored to handle 120 by means of push-fit cable anchors 122 . An opening in the fabric of the rear of seat 44 exposes a portion of handle 120 to the user. The handle is pivotally movable about the pivot point 119 in the direction of arrow C away from the rear of the seat 44 . The spring 114 biases the handle 120 toward the back of the seat 44 . In use, the user may pull the handle 120 outward, causing the cable 118 to drag the plunger 110 and, in particular, the tab 112 out of the notch 106 in the disc 104 . This would enable the user to then rotate the back of the seat 44 to recline the seat more or less.

Referring now to Figures 12A, 12B and 13 of the drawings, the seat 44 may already have a canopy 50 attached. The canopy may be removably attached to the seat 44 by any suitable means (eg, snaps, hook and loop fasteners, zippers, or other means known in the art). The present invention is not intended to be limited in this regard. The canopy 50 includes a canopy frame 52 having three support rods: a front rod 54, a middle rod 56, and a lower rod 58, which are generally arcuate in shape and which are pivoted by Hinges 59 are pivotally joined together at each end to define the canopy shape. A fabric 60 is fitted between each successive rod. The length of fabric 60 fitted between each rod defines the maximum extension of that rod from its adjacent rods. The flexible eave 61 made of stiffened fabric can provide further shade to the child or infant during use. The brim 61 can be manually folded outward from the interior of the canopy when desired, or folded back into the canopy when not needed. The canopy 50 may further include a viewing window at the rear of the canopy that includes an openable flip 68 that, when raised, exposes a clear PVC window (not shown). This may allow the user of the cart to observe the child or infant during use.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that any suitable amount of mid-rod 56 may be used as desired by the user, and the present invention is not intended to be limited in this regard. Thus, the canopy 50 may include three or four foldable panels between the frame bars, or possibly more if desired.

A pivot hinge may connect the canopy 50 to the attachment device 62 . Any suitable attachment means will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The attachment means may connect the canopy 50 to the seat 44 or the cart frame 10 itself.

Referring to Figure 14 of the drawings, at the base of the canopy 50, an excess of fabric 64 is provided that is designed to wrap around the back of a seat or around the top end of a bassinet, for example, to secure the canopy during use in the proper position. The excess fabric 64 may have snaps 66 or other suitable fastening means therein to securely fasten the canopy 50 to the seat or bassinet in use.

Referring to FIG. 15 of the drawings, in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the canopy 50 may further include a layered plate 70 between the first middle rod 56a and the lower rod 58 . The layered panel 70 may include an outer layer 72 that may be temporarily removed or moved to reveal a breathable mesh layer 74 that allows fresh air to circulate to the interior of the canopy, for example, on a hot day.

Referring now to FIGS. 16-18 , the bag 76 may be configured to fit to the interior surface of the canopy 50 . The bag 76 is generally rectangular in shape and can be joined to the hood 50 along one edge so that it can be angled downwardly from the hood. As seen from the inside, the bag 76 is fitted to the uppermost point of the hood, about a quarter of the length of the fabric 60 from the edge of the hood 50. A flexible link 78 may connect the opposite edge of the bag 76 to the brim 61 of the canopy. Alternatively, the coupling may join the bag to a portion of the hood that is closer to the edge of the hood 50 . In use, when the canopy 50 is open, the couplings 78 pull the opposite edges of the bag 76 so that they are generally angled toward where a child or infant may be when the cart is in use. Optionally, the coupling may have fasteners 79 at the ends not attached to the bag 76, and multiple fastening points may be provided on the inner surface of the canopy 50, thus allowing the user to select the appropriate bag for the bag angle.

When the canopy 50 is assembled to the seat/cradle, the viewing window 80 in the pocket faces the seat/cradle. An opening 82 along one edge of the bag 76 allows a user to access the interior of the bag 76 . The closable flip 84 allows the user to seal the opening 82 . In use, the user may place a mobile device such as a cell phone or tablet or any other item in the bag to entertain a child or baby.

In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, referring to FIG. 19 , a collapsible bassinet 126 for use with the collapsible cart frame 10 is provided. The bassinet 126 includes a bassinet frame 128 encased in a fabric cover 130 . The frame defines a standard bassinet shape with a generally rounded rectangular base 132 and a continuous wall 134 extending from the base to define a partially enclosed space therein for an infant or very young child. The bassinet frame 128 has been attached with a pair of seat attachments 48 , as described with reference to FIGS. 8 , 9A and 9B , so that the bassinet can be assembled to the cart frame 10 . The exposed portion of the bassinet frame 136 provides the user with the option of assembling the canopy 50, as described with reference to Figures 12A-18 of the drawings. Alternatively, the canopy 50 may be integrally formed with the seat attachment 48 . Pull tabs 138 are also provided which include a length of durable flexible fabric 140 and a pull handle 142.

Referring additionally to FIG. 20 , the bassinet frame 128 is shown without the fabric cover 130 . A single metal ring forms the rim 144 of the bassinet 126 . Rim 144 is generally rectangular in shape with two opposing longer sides connected by two opposing short sides. The rim 144 has been fitted with the seat attachment 48 of Figures 8, 9A and 9B of the drawings. The metal rim 144 is pivotally attached to four thick wire support legs 146, with two support legs 146 on each longer side. When the bassinet 126 is in the open configuration, the support legs 146 extend diagonally between the base plate 148 and the rim 144 and are slidably connected to the base plate 148 . The base plate is rigid. Support legs 146 cross to provide support and stiffness. The base plate 148 may be formed of any suitable material, the preferred choice would be to use plywood due to its high strength and low weight properties. Other suitable materials are known in the art, such as durable plastics formed in a single molding, and the invention is not intended to be limited in this regard.

Referring to Figure 21 of the drawings, the underside of base plate 148 is shown. The support legs 146 are connected to corresponding opposing support legs by rigid connecting rods 150 . Alternatively, there may be only two generally "U" shaped support legs 146 , with the bottom of the "U" shaped fitting below the base plate 148 . The runners 152 on the base plate 148 attach the support legs 146 and rigid connecting rods 150 (or in the case of the "U" shaped support legs 146 , only the support legs 146 ) to the rigid base plate 148 . The chute 152 includes a wide configuration defining an elongated slot 154 that is placed approximately at each corner below the base plate 148 . The slot 154 extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base plate 148 (and thus the bassinet 126). The support legs 146 are free to slide longitudinally within the slots 154 . Because the support legs 146 are connected by the rim 144 and the connecting rod 150, and because the connecting rod is held against the underside of the base plate 148 by the chute 152, the support legs can only move in unison. Furthermore, they can only be moved to push the connecting rods 150 towards or away from each other. The crossed support legs 146 push the rim 144 away from the base plate 148 as they move toward each other. The crossed support legs pull the rim 144 toward the base plate 148 as they move away from each other. Accordingly, the overall structure of the bassinet 126 is movable between a collapsed configuration and an open configuration.

The fabric 140 of the pulling tabs 138 is wrapped around each connecting rod 150 such that pulling the pulling tabs 138 causes the connecting rods 150 to be pulled toward each other. By releasing the pull handle 142, gravity will cause the rim 144 to drop toward the base plate 138, thus pushing the connecting rods 150 away from each other. Thus, a user can use the pull tabs 138 to move the bassinet between the folded configuration and the open configuration.

In an exemplary embodiment, the bassinet may further include a pulley system (not shown) to assist in the pulling of the pulling tabs 138 . Since the user has to pull the support legs 146 into place against the weight of the support legs 146 and also the rim 144, the pulley system will enable the user to exert less force on the system and end up with the same result. The pulley system will loop the fabric of the pulling tabs 138 through slots near the rim 144 of the bassinet. When the pull tab 138 is pulled downward, the support legs 146 are pulled together and the rim 144 is pushed upward. Snaps 156 on the outer surface of the bassinet near the base plate 148 provide a fastening means that allows the user to secure the pull tabs 138 in place when the bassinet is in the open configuration.

To lock the bassinet 126 into the open configuration, snaps 156 are provided on a locking plate 158 formed integrally with the base plate 148 . Corresponding snaps 158 on the fabric of the pulling tabs 138 are provided at points along the fabric that correspond to when the connecting rods 150 are in their closest states. A second set of snaps 156 may optionally be provided near the pull handle 142 to lock the bassinet in the folded configuration for transportation purposes. Other securing means suitable for locking the bassinet 126 in one of its two configurations will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the invention is not intended to be necessarily limited in this respect.

FIGS. 22A-22D illustrate successive stages of the series of operations of the folding of the bassinet 126 . From Figures 22A to 22D, the bassinet transitions to a folded configuration. From Figures 22D to 22A, the bassinet transitions to the open configuration.

The invention described above provides the user with increased flexibility in all aspects of handling the cart. With a single push of a button, the cart frame 10 can be collapsed into its collapsed configuration and lifted into its open configuration. Similarly, the bassinet can be assembled to its open configuration with one hand and collapsed simply by releasing the pull tab. The lift mechanism for removing the seat/cradle from the trolley frame provides a simple and quick way to remove the seat without manually pulling out parts in sequence or separating a large number of objects. The seat reclining mechanism allows the user to easily recline the seat from a single point of contact.

Variations and modifications to the embodiments described above will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of protection as defined by the appended claims.

Claims (29)

1. A foldable cart, comprising:

-a main frame for supporting a child receiving device;

-a rear wheel assembly coupled to the main frame, the rear wheel assembly comprising an elongate support leg carrying a rear wheel at a first end and pivotally coupled to the first end of the main frame at a second end;

-a front wheel assembly comprising front wheels;

-a linear drive mechanism for effecting folding and unfolding of the trolley when actuated, the linear drive mechanism comprising a linear actuator coupled to a motor and selectively linearly movable by an actuating device; and

-a linkage assembly coupled between the rear wheel assembly and the main frame, the linkage assembly including a first link arm pivotally coupled to a support leg at a location along the length of the support leg and a second link arm pivotally coupled to the main frame at a location along the length of the main frame, the first and second link arms being connected together by a pivot joint;

wherein a linear actuator extends from the front wheel assembly to the pivot point between the first link arm and the second link arm and is configured to move in a direction away from the front wheel assembly to fold the stroller and in a direction toward the front wheel assembly to unfold the stroller for use when actuated.

2. The cart according to claim 1, further including a disengagement mechanism between said motor and said linear actuator, said disengagement mechanism configured to selectively disengage said linear actuator for selective manual folding and unfolding of said cart frame in use.

3. A wheelbarrow according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the front wheel is pivotally connected to the front wheel assembly by a pivot hinge configured to allow the front wheel to pivot towards and away from the rear wheel assembly in use.

4. The cart of claim 3, wherein the pivot hinge is coupled to the linear drive mechanism by a connector, the drive mechanism causing pivotal movement of the front wheel toward the rear wheel assembly when the cart frame is folded, and causing pivotal movement of the front wheel away from the rear wheel assembly when the cart frame is unfolded.

5. The trolley of any preceding claim, wherein the motor is electrically powered by a power source.

6. The cart of claim 5, wherein the power source is a rechargeable power source.

7. The cart of claim 6, wherein the rear wheel assembly further includes a generator, wherein the rechargeable power source is electrically coupled to the generator.

8. The trolley of any preceding claim, wherein the main frame includes a handlebar.

9. The cart according to claim 8, wherein said actuating device for said motor of said linear drive mechanism is located in said handlebar.

10. The cart of claim 9, wherein the actuation device is a button.

11. The cart of claim 9, wherein the actuation device is a switch.

12. The cart of any preceding claim, wherein the front wheel assembly further comprises a foot pedal.

13. The stroller of any preceding claim, wherein the main frame comprises a pair of sockets for receiving child receiving devices.

14. The stroller of claim 6, wherein the stroller further comprises a child receiving device comprising an attachment device configured to removably attach the child receiving device to the main frame of the stroller.

15. A foldable cart, comprising:

-a main frame for supporting an interchangeable child receiving device, the main frame comprising a releasable socket;

-a rear wheel assembly coupled to the main frame, the rear wheel assembly comprising an elongate support leg carrying wheels at a first end and pivotably coupled to the first end of the main frame at a second end;

-a front wheel assembly;

-a linear drive mechanism for effecting folding and unfolding of the trolley when actuated, the linear drive mechanism comprising a linear actuator coupled to a motor and selectively linearly movable by an actuating device;

-a linkage assembly coupled between the rear wheel assembly and the main frame, the linkage assembly including a first link arm pivotally coupled to a support leg at a location along the length of the support leg and a second link arm pivotally coupled to the main frame at a location along the length of the main frame, the first and second link arms being connected together by a pivot joint; and

-a child receiving device comprising a collapsible bassinet having releasable attachment means for removable insertion into the socket of the main frame;

the bassinet includes a base panel, an edge frame, collapsible side walls, and a pull tab for enabling folding and unfolding of the collapsible side walls upon actuation.

16. The foldable wagon of claim 15, wherein the pull tab comprises fastening means at two different locations along the length of the pull tab.

17. The foldable wagon of claim 16, wherein the collapsible wall of the bassinet further comprises fastening points on an outer surface of the bassinet near the base.

18. The foldable wagon of claim 17, wherein the fastening device comprises a male snap fastener half and the fastening point comprises a female snap fastener half.

19. The foldable wagon of claim 17, wherein the fastening device and the fastening point comprise hook and loop fasteners.

20. The foldable wagon of any one of claims 15-19, wherein the bassinet further comprises an extendable canopy having a pocket in an interior surface thereof.

21. The foldable wagon of claim 20, wherein the bag has a viewing window therein and a closable opening along one side for receiving a mobile device.

22. A collapsible bassinet for use with the foldable wagon of claim 1 or 2, comprising removable attachment means for removably attaching the bassinet to a wagon in use, the bassinet further comprising a base panel, a rim frame, collapsible side walls, and pull tabs for enabling folding and unfolding of the collapsible side walls upon actuation.

23. The bassinet of claim 22, wherein the base plate is constructed of a rigid material.

24. The bassinet of claim 22, wherein the pull tab includes fastening means at two different locations along the length of the pull tab.

25. The bassinet of claim 24, wherein the collapsible wall of the bassinet further comprises fastening points on an outer surface of the bassinet near the base.

26. The bassinet of claim 25, wherein the fastening means comprises a male snap fastener half and the fastening point comprises a female snap fastener half.

27. The bassinet of claim 26, wherein the fastening means and the fastening points comprise hook and loop fasteners.

28. The bassinet of any of claims 23 to 27, wherein the bassinet further comprises an extendable hood having a pocket in an inner surface thereof.

29. The bassinet of claim 28, wherein the pocket has a viewing window therein and a closable opening along one side for receiving a moving device.

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