HK1137395B - Device for a pram and use of a push bar - Google Patents

Description

Device for a baby carriage and use of a push rod

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a device for a vehicle, in particular a device for a baby carriage and the use of a push rod.

Background

Strollers with swivel wheels are generally known. By means of these swivel wheels, the buggy can be steered without lifting the buggy off the ground and through a turn. Here a push rod is used. Most strollers also provide for the replacement of various support devices for the child, such as a portable cot or a child seat. The portable cot and the child seat are separate elements that may be placed on the base frame. Most strollers are also collapsible. The space taken up by the pushchair is thus reduced, making it possible to transport it in the trunk of a car, for example.

However, the above-described stroller has some disadvantages. A first disadvantage is that the swivel wheels are placed in front of or behind the pushchair and that the pushers have a fixed orientation relative to these swivel wheels. Both of these configurations have advantages and disadvantages. If the swivel wheel is placed in front, the stroller is easy to turn when turning. One disadvantage is that the user of the stroller must make continuous adjustments while moving in a straight line. Also in the case of a swivel wheel mounted in front of a stroller it is more difficult to negotiate obstacles such as holes, stone or rough terrain such as a path in wood. In addition, the spinning wheels are typically smaller than the non-spinning wheels. When an obstacle is crossed, the stroller starts to rock. This is rarely the case when the front wheels of the stroller are non-rotating wheels. The disadvantage of placing the swivel wheel at the rear of the stroller is that it is less intuitive than placing the swivel wheel at the front. To turn to the left, the pusher must be moved to the right, and vice versa.

Another disadvantage relates to a fixed orientation of the child support device relative to the user of the stroller. So that the child faces the user or faces away from the user. In the former case, the user can better ensure the safety of the child, since the visual contact is simple in the operation of the stroller. In another situation where a child is placed, the child has an opportunity to see the surrounding environment. Thus requiring the latter placement for some large children. It is not possible to adapt the functionality of the above-described pushchair to the requirements of the child or to the wishes of the user.

Another disadvantage relates to the replaceability of the support means. The support devices, such as child seats, car seats or portable hammocks, are separate elements. Although the buggy is foldable, the entire buggy and the supporting device take up a lot of space. This can lead to problems if these are all to be shipped together.

One disadvantage is also that the pushers are mounted on the chassis of the pushchair. For example, if it is desired to transport a baby carriage in a support device, such as a portable cot, without the use of a baby carriage, the support device must be provided with a transport cradle. This is for example the case when walking up stairs. The space occupied by the pushchair and the support device is further increased.

Disclosure of Invention

It is an object of the present invention to provide a multi-function stroller in which the walking performance of the stroller and the position of the child relative to the operator can be changed so that the above-mentioned problems do not occur, or at least are reduced.

According to the invention, the object is achieved by means of a baby carriage arrangement comprising a foldable chassis provided with a walking device. When not in use, the foldable chassis can be stored. In the folded open position, the undercarriage is movable on the bottom surface by means of the running gear.

The foldable chassis may also be releasably connected to a sub-frame provided with means for supporting a child. The sub-frame is removable from the chassis and is interchangeable with respect to the chassis. Thus, for example, the orientation of the sub-frame relative to the chassis may be changed by removing the sub-frame from the chassis, rotating it through 180 ° in a horizontal plane, and then mounting it on the chassis.

According to the invention, the sub-frame is provided with a tiltable push rod. In a state where the underframe is coupled with the sub-frame, the push rod may be coupled to one side so that it may be used as a push rod of a stroller. In the folded-out state, the pusher can be tilted into a position in which the pusher can be used as a lifting bar for the sub-frame. Thus, a device is provided in which the push rod has a dual function due to the tiltability.

Since the push rod is connected to the sub-frame, the sub-frame itself can be used as a frame for supporting a child. Thus, a carrying frame for children is obtained in particular. The sub-frame can thus be lifted, for example by a parent, and moved to a less accessible position, such as a higher floor or the like. The two separate elements are light and can be easily lifted. Also, the separate elements are more compact than when they are interconnected, so that the parts can be more easily stowed away.

In a preferred embodiment, the push rod is steerable. The push rod is thus displaceable and tiltable from a first side of the buggy for pushing in a first direction to a second side of the buggy for pushing in a second direction, wherein the first and second directions are preferably opposite directions. Thus, a multifunctional stroller is obtained. The multiple functions are again implemented using a bar equipped as a push bar and carrier bar for the sub-frame of the stroller.

In combination with the steerable push bar, a device, in particular a baby carriage, is obtained having four positions, a swivel wheel in front and a child in front, a swivel wheel in front and a child in rear, a swivel wheel in rear and a child in front and a child in rear.

The undercarriage is provided with running means, such as wheels, in particular zero, one, two or more rotating wheels and zero, one, two or more fixed wheels, which are mounted on the frame with bearings. In a preferred embodiment, the chassis has four wheels, two of which are bearing-mounted fixed wheels and two of which are rotating wheels. Two swivel wheels are located on a first side of the chassis. This embodiment is particularly useful in combination with means for supporting a child in a seated position, such as on a seat. Here, the child-supporting device is preferably also rotatable, in particular replaceable.

In another preferred embodiment, the sub-frame comprises a frame on which means for supporting a child can be mounted. It would be advantageous if the frame could be reused for different child supporting functions. It is more comfortable for children and users if the frame can be tilted relative to the sub-frame when connected to the chassis. When the child wants to sleep or has fallen asleep, the position of the sub-frame can be adjusted in such a way, for example, to a more horizontal position.

Preferred exemplary embodiments of the child support function are for use as a child seat, a hammock, or a car seat. It is advantageous if the same framework can be used for at least two of these functions. In the child seat embodiment, the fabric structure may be attached, for example, to the frame, for example, with a zipper or a staple, to thereby form a child seat in combination with the frame. In the example of a hammock, a similar approach may be taken. However, for hammock stability, it is recommended to place a separate container, such as a plastic container, in the frame for greater strength.

According to another preferred embodiment the push rod is provided with a step regulator for tilting. The pushrod may therefore be positioned in a fixed position, such as every ten degrees or every fifteen degrees. The push bar is adjustable to the height of the user, particularly the parent pushing the cart.

In another preferred embodiment, the stroller apparatus is provided with at least two operating means for tilting the push rods. Thus, it is difficult for the child to tilt the putter. For tilting purposes, two operating devices have to be operated. The operating device is connected with the unlocking device. When both operating means are operated, the unlocking means are actuated, whereby the push rod can be tilted.

In a preferred embodiment, the operation device is a slidable sleeve. The slidable sleeve preferably slides along or over the push rod. A sleeve is disposed about the push rod. The user preferably pulls the sleeve along a rod of the push rod towards him/her, whereupon the operating means actuates the unlocking means.

It is particularly advantageous when the push rod is embodied as a U-shaped rod and the leg ends of the rod are connected to the sub-frame. The U-shaped leg is here preferably connected to the connecting means, or to at least a part of the connecting means, for connecting the sub-frame to the chassis.

The legs are preferably extendable. Here, a push rod with an adjustable length is obtained. The distance from the base of the pushers to the stroller and/or sub-frame is thus adjustable. It is particularly advantageous when the sub-frame is mounted on a push bar. By shortening the push rod, the child can be lifted higher off the ground, thus reducing the impact of the sub-frame with the ground when erected by the sub-frame.

In a preferred embodiment, the legs have a telescopic form. The legs are therefore extendable. The retractable embodiment can be made so as not to be visible from the outside. Due to the telescopic form the tubes inside one another engage each other and can be conveniently designed to lock the extendable legs in a determined position.

The push rod is preferably provided with an operating element for unlocking the extendable leg. In a standard situation, the extendable legs are always locked in their position, preferably by biasing, preferably with spring means, thereby fixing the length. By operating an operating element, which is preferably placed on the pushing element, the unlocking means can be activated, whereby the leg can be extended. By arranging the operating element on the push rod, in particular on the base rod of the U-shaped push rod, in particular in the center of the base rod, the user can easily touch the operating element and can operate the operating element with a suitable moment in order to extend or shorten the leg.

In a preferred embodiment and according to another aspect of the invention, the stroller device comprises a locking device for locking the connection between the chassis and the sub-frame when the push bar has been tilted. A mechanism may be engaged that unlocks the connection between the sub-frame and the chassis in response to the tilting of the push rod. Hereby is obtained a device in which the unlocking is possible only in one fixed position, preferably in the vertical position of the push bar, and only in this position the sub-frame can be detached from the undercarriage. This ensures that the user can disengage the sub-frame from the undercarriage each time the putter is in a fixed position, preferably in a vertical upright position, thus obtaining a sub-frame with a preferably symmetrical weight distribution and with a centre of gravity preferably located in the line of the vertically placed putter.

By connecting the detached sub-frame and chassis to the push bar in a position in which the push bar is tiltable in the preferred embodiment of the invention, it is clear to the user that in the connected position the push bar is intended to function as a push bar, and in the detached position the push bar functions as a carrier bar. In another embodiment the unlocking means of the connected sub-frame/chassis is connected to another element, preferably a movable and preferably tiltable element (in an embodiment where the chassis for supporting the child is tiltable).

According to another aspect, the invention relates to a device for supporting and displacing a child, comprising a chassis with walking means and a sub-frame connectable to the chassis for supporting the child, wherein the chassis is foldable, wherein the connection means between the chassis and the sub-frame are adapted to lock in the folded-down state when the chassis is connected to the sub-frame. Similarly, the chassis is provided with means to lock it in the folded-out, activated position, in which the sub-frame can be connected to the chassis. According to this aspect, two levels of blockage of the device are in fact obtained. The chassis cannot be folded down due to its own lock in the folded-out position, nor due to the additional locking/blocking function in the connected state. By placing the upper frame/sub-frame on the undercarriage, a second locking function is activated. This placement is the operation of the actuation lock. Here, many operations for actuating the additional locking are simplified.

In a preferred embodiment, the connection means are arranged for connecting the sub-frame to the chassis. It is further recommended that the connecting means is releasable. The connecting device is preferably provided with a vertical guide. The vertical guides must be followed when the sub-frame is detached from or attached to the chassis, so that detachment and attachment is only possible by vertical movement of the sub-frame relative to the chassis. Preferably, the sub-frame is lifted from or placed on an undercarriage, which can be placed on the ground by means of a walking device. Thus also ensuring a more balanced symmetry state of the sub-frame.

The sub-frame preferably comprises a part of the connecting means and the chassis comprises a part of the connecting means. Two interengaging parts can thus together form the coupling means. It is thus possible to incorporate in the connecting device a mechanism which cooperates with the connecting device, for example to lock the folded-down chassis in the connecting position, incorporating the connecting device, depending on the position of a determined element of the sub-frame (for example a push rod), and thus to hide from view and to incorporate increased safety. Since the two parts together form a preferably closed housing in which the various mechanisms can be accommodated, there is no risk of e.g. a child's finger entering the mechanism or the like.

In a preferred embodiment, the vertical guides are arranged on a chassis, and the sub-frame comprises an axle mountable in the vertical guides. The vertical guides ensure that the sub-frame is movable only in the vertical direction relative to the base frame when interacting with the shaft, i.e. the shaft is moved past the guides. The sub-frame can thus be moved from an initial position in which the sub-frame is aligned with the chassis to a position in which the connecting means connecting the sub-frame to the chassis can be actuated, and the connection can thus be locked.

In a preferred embodiment, the shaft of the sub-frame is connected to a push rod mounted obliquely on the sub-frame. Tilting of the push rod causes the shaft to rotate. In particular, the shaft has a rectangular cross section, and the tilting of the push rod causes a rotation of the rectangular cross section of the shaft, which can be used, for example, for a locking function. When the guide is a vertical rail and the shaft has a rectangular cross-section with a similarity to the contour of the rail, the shaft cannot rotate in the vertical guide because of the non-circular cross-section. In a preferred embodiment, at the end of the guide forming a passage, a circular groove is arranged in which the shaft is rotatably mounted. A shaft of rectangular cross section is rotatably received in a circular groove in the end of the guide and is rotatable therein. But when the shaft is rotated it cannot move back through the channel and no disengagement of the sub-frame from the chassis occurs.

It is further preferred that the circular groove is surrounded by at least one lip, preferably two lips, which in the inclined position of the push rod are clamped to the shaft. Thus ensuring further locking and connection of the sub-frame to the chassis. In co-operation with a push rod that is steerable and also acts as a locking mechanism, a large arm (the distance between the top of the arm and the point of rotation of the arm) can be used to remove play from the connection. The connection means on either side of the sub-frame may be considered as a joint. Since the outwardly pressable lip is movably mounted in a part of the joint or in a connecting means arranged on the chassis, play in the sub-frame arranged thereon is reduced.

It is further advantageous that in the folded-out position of the chassis in the connected state and in the connected state of the chassis to the sub-frame, the operation of the folding means of the chassis is blocked. The undercarriage therefore cannot collapse when the sub-frame is installed, particularly when supporting a child. Hereby an additional assurance is obtained that the child is protected from injuries by the chassis being accidentally folded down when the child is on the sub-frame. This is not possible due to clogging.

In a preferred embodiment, the folding device has a trigger, the movement of which is blocked in the connected state of the chassis and the sub-frame. A projection may, for example, lock the trigger when the subframe is placed.

In a preferred embodiment, the trigger is slidably guided in a guide track of a connecting device mounted on the foldable chassis. By arranging the sub-frame in a connecting device connecting the sub-frame to the chassis, the projections of the sub-frame, for example, block the sliding guidance of the trigger in the guide tracks.

It is further advantageous if the sub-frame comprises a locking means for stepwise locking of the tilting frame. The frame can thus always be tilted at an adjustable angle, for example fixed in a horizontal position, in a tilted position or in a vertical position. Step locking may occur, for example, every 10 degrees or 15 degrees.

In addition to being used as a child seat or hammock, it is advantageous if the stroller device includes a mounting device for mounting a car seat. Further measures allow the use of mounting means such as joints to attach other child support means such as a large insulating sleeve to the frame.

The invention also relates to the use of a lever on a stroller device. The use of a bar is characterized in that the bar forms part of a sub-frame which can be connected to the chassis of the buggy, wherein the sub-frame is provided with means for supporting a child, wherein in the connected state of the chassis and the sub-frame the bar serves as a push bar for the buggy, and in the disconnected state of the chassis and the sub-frame the bar serves as a carrier bar for the sub-frame. Thus in use the pole of the stroller serves a dual function. Hereby is obtained a stroller device which is less expensive to manufacture than the prior art and which has multiple functions.

The use of the rod may further have one of the properties relating to a push rod as indicated in the preceding description.

The invention will be further described on the basis of preferred embodiments and specific examples with associated advantages. The invention is not limited in scope to the text written. The invention also relates to advantages not mentioned. Thus, a divisional application of a chassis or sub-frame with one of the elements mentioned or shown may be filed without specific advantages already described.

Drawings

The invention is further described below on the basis of a preferred embodiment shown in the attached drawings, in which:

fig. 1 is a perspective view of a stroller according to a first embodiment;

fig. 2 shows a disassembled state of the stroller according to the first embodiment;

fig. 3 is a side view of the stroller according to the first embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a side view of different positions of a pivotable push rod;

fig. 5 shows a second embodiment of a pushchair according to the invention;

fig. 6 shows a disassembled state of the second embodiment of the stroller of the present invention;

figures 7a-7c show cross-sectional views of a connection device for connecting the sub-frame to the chassis;

FIG. 8 illustrates a view of a detached chassis according to one embodiment;

fig. 9 shows an exploded view according to a detail of section IX in fig. 1;

fig. 10 shows an exploded view according to a detail in region X in fig. 1;

11a-11b illustrate another embodiment of a frame;

12a-12b show detailed views of the connections between the different frame parts of the frame of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 shows a schematic assembly of the connection of FIG. 12;

fig. 14 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the frame of fig. 11 in a connected position.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1 shows a stroller 1. The pushchair has a chassis 2 and a sub-frame 390 arranged thereon. The chassis will be described first.

The chassis comprises a number of tubes 3-6 which are interconnected by means of connecting elements 7, 8 formed by injection moulding, and the activation means 9-12 are connected with the tubes 3-6. The wheels 11 and 12 are connected to the chassis in a bearing-mounted manner via wheel sub-frames 13, 14 and can rotate in the direction of arrows 15, 16. The wheel sub-frames 13, 14 comprise U-shaped arms terminating in axles 17, 18, which are the axles of the bearing-mounted wheels 11, 12.

Wheels 9, 10 are arranged near the outer ends of the tubes 3 and 6, the wheels 9, 10 also being bearing-mounted and rotatable. The cross-connectors 20 and 21 connect the tubes 34 with the tubes 5, 6.

The connecting means 30, 31 are arranged at the outer ends of the tubes 4, 5. The connecting means 30, 31 connect the chassis 2 to the sub-frame 390, which is shown in the connected state in fig. 1. Details of the connecting means 30, 31 are explained later.

The sub-frame 390 comprises a push bar 40 and a frame 41, wherein the frame 41 may be provided with a seat 42, the seat 42 being shown in phantom, on which an infant may sit.

In the embodiment shown, the frame 41 is tilted from a horizontal position according to arrow 45 to a tilted position in which the stroller is formed. The rod 40 forms a push bar of the stroller, which push bar can be pushed along arrow 46. The operator of the stroller 1 can push against the push rod 40 and move the push rod 40 forward along arrow 46. The wheels 11, 12 are rotatable according to arrows 15, 16 and thus can be used for steering. One direction may be determined by the thrust.

In order to lock the frame 41 in the position shown, the connecting means 30, 31 are provided with locking means.

The child's legs project from the seat 42 and bear on the support surface 50. Older children may sit on the seat without a support surface.

The connection between the seat 42 and the frame 41 may be, for example, a plastic tube reinforced interface, for example, by placing a plastic interface in a groove (not shown) of the frame 41 into which a plastic tube is placed.

Frame 41 is pivotable about axis 51 along arrow 45. The push rod 40 is also pivotable about axis 51 along arrow 45. The shafts of the push rod 40 and the frame 41 are the same shaft. The elements 53 and 54 form the hinge of the frame 41, while the hinge of the push rod 40 is formed by the connecting elements 30, 31.

The push rod 40 is provided with a control button 60 arranged on the base rod 61 of the U-shaped push rod 40. The control knob 60 is adapted to operate the degree of extension of the carrier bar/push rod 40. The legs of the push rod have a telescopic form. The telescopic element can be locked in a determined position, preferably in a continuously variable manner, but optionally in a fixed position. This activity can be achieved by operating the button 60.

The push rod 40 further comprises two legs 62, 63, and since the tube is of telescopic form, the push rod 40 can be extended along arrows 64, 65.

The push rod 40 is tiltable as shown in fig. 6. The operating elements 66, 67 can be actuated to tilt/rotate by grasping the lower flanges 68, 69 and sliding on the respective tubes 62, 63 along arrows 70, 71. The operation is performed with both hands. When the sleeves 66, 67 are displaced along arrows 70, 71, the push rod 40 may be pivoted along arrow 45, as shown in FIG. 4.

The frame 41 is an example of a device that can support a child, the frame 41 can be pivoted/tilted along arrow 41, for example after operating the control button 80, the control button 80 can be depressed, after which the locking device is released and pivoting about axis 51 along arrow 45 is possible. The control buttons are further illustrated in fig. 10.

In the embodiment shown, the frame 41 is further locked by a blocking device 90 provided with a hook 91, the hook 91 being rotatable about an axis 92 in the direction of arrow 93. The frame 41 can be blocked by operating the locking element 90. This will be further explained with reference to fig. 9.

The trigger 100 is located on the underside of the attachment means 30. The connection means 31 is provided with a similar trigger 101. The trigger 100 is disposed in a guide track of the coupling device and is slidable in the track along arrow 102. The user may operate the trigger with his fingers, for which purpose the trigger 100 may be embodied as a hook. The trigger may be biased in the locked position, for example, with a spring or rubber seal.

When the trigger is operated, an unlocking mechanism on the chassis 2 is activated, whereby the chassis 2 can be moved from the shown folded-out/activated state to a folded-down, more compact state in which the tubes 4, 5 are moved close to the tubes 3, 6. The folded-down state is shown in fig. 8. The pipes 4, 5 can be pivoted along arrows 108, 109, wherein the hinges 7, 8 serve as joints. An axis of pivotal movement is formed along the foot rest 50.

The solution of the chassis can be seen more clearly in fig. 3. The trigger 100, 101 is connected via a cable fitted in the tube 4, 5 to pivot the hook 111, 112, the hook 111, 112 being pivotable along arrows 113, 114, wherein the axis 115 of the hook 111 is shown in dashed lines.

When the hook is pivoted out of the tube, the outer end 118 of the rod 119 is here released and guided in the track 120 and can be moved along the tube 3 to the end remote from the hinge 7, according to arrow 121. The lever 119 is pivotable about an axis 124 along arrow 123. The outer end of the tube 4, where the connecting means 30 are provided, is here movable towards the tube 3.

At the end of the rail 120, the outer end 118 is hooked by a hook (not shown) of a connecting rod 130, here the connecting rod 130 is a pressure rod. When the end of the rail is reached, the outer end will partially displace the hook from the rail. The pressure bar is biased in the blocking position, i.e. the hook is in the track. Once the outer end moves past the hook, the hook blocks the outer end and the connecting bar 130 acts as a locking means for the folded down position of the chassis 2. The connecting rod 130 is pivotable about an axis 132 along arrow 131. In another embodiment, the connecting rods are fixedly connected to the chassis and are used only for the purpose of increasing the rigidity.

An operating element in the form of a pressure element 134 is connected to the connecting rod 130. When the user operates the pressing element 134, the structure is unlocked and the outer end 118 of the rod 119 can be released and is once again free to move through the track 120.

Fig. 2 shows the device according to the first embodiment of the invention in a disassembled state. The chassis 2 is now disconnected from the sub-frame 390. The pushrods 40 of the pushchair are operated to pivot to a vertical position by sleeves 66, 67. In this embodiment, disengagement of the subframe 390 from the undercarriage is only possible at one predetermined position (here the vertical position) of the push bar 40.

The sub-frame 390 now becomes a baby or child carrying vehicle without a chassis and without a moving device. The frame 41 is still placed obliquely but preferably turned horizontally. The frame 41 may support a hammock 150. This is shown in fig. 5 and 6. The child may be placed in the hammock.

In another embodiment, however, the hammock rests on the frame. In this embodiment, the frame may be placed on a surface with the hammock placed on top of the surface.

In the disassembled state, the push rod 40 becomes a carrier rod 40. The user can lift the carrying bar and lift the sub-frame therein away from the respective attachment means 30, 31.

The disassembled sub-frame may be placed on another chassis, such as a non-moving chassis like a car seat. The same coupling means 30, 31 may be used here, although other coupling means may also be used for coupling with further chassis. The vehicle seat can also be placed on a sub-frame, in particular a frame. The dual child seats may also be supported by the frame. In another embodiment, a container, such as for shopping, may be placed on the frame.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 2, the connecting means 30 comprises two elements. The connecting device 30 has a first portion 200 forming part of the chassis 2 and arranged at the end of the rod 4. The second portion 201 of the connecting device 30 forms part of the sub-frame 390. In assembled form, the connecting means 30 is cylindrical.

The first part 200 comprises vertically upstanding guides 204, 205. These two guides 204, 205 can co-act with the guide 206 of the second part 201, which is directed vertically downwards. These guides can be placed one on top of the other. These guides can be moved from the connecting position along each other, wherein a vertical movement is possible.

A slot is provided between the guides 204, 205. The slot 208 also points upward. A circular hole 209 is provided at the end of the slot. A shaft may be placed in the groove 208 and ultimately in the hole 209, the shaft forming part of the second portion 201 of the connecting device 30. The shaft cannot be seen in fig. 2.

FIG. 4 shows four positions of the push bar 40, the push bar 40 also being a carrier bar 40 of the sub-frame 390. The pivot axis is formed by axis 51.

In the connected state of the device shown in fig. 4, the push rod 40 can be turned along arrows 250, 251. The direction of the pushing means can thus be changed. The child may thus face away from the user or, conversely, face towards the user.

The wheels 11, 12 can be rotated and the pushchair can be steered. In one embodiment, a locking element is provided, preferably under the footrest 50, for locking the wheels 11, 12 in a position parallel to the wheels 9, 10. This is particularly useful when the pushers are turned and the pushchair must travel on a sidewalk or other obstacle. Other details concerning the locking element are known to the person skilled in the art.

Fig. 7a-c show three positions of the connecting means 30. In cross-section, fig. 7a shows the connecting device 30 with the push rod 40 in an inclined position. The sub-frame is further connected to the chassis.

The connecting device 30 comprises two elements 200, 201. The element 201 includes a shaft 270. The shaft 270 has a cross-section with at least two parallel sides 271, 272, which sides 271, 272 are parallel to the legs of the U-shaped pusher 40. Thus, when the sides 271, 272 are perpendicular, the shaft can only fit in the channel 208 between the guides 204, 205. Due to the direct connection to the push rod 40, this will only be the case if the push rod occupies a vertical position. Hereby is obtained a mechanism in which the disconnection or connection of the sub-frame to the chassis is only possible when the push bar is turned from the inclined position to the vertical position, in which position the push bar can be used as a carrier bar.

The trigger 100 is shown in the figures. The body of the trigger 100 includes teeth 280, and in the illustrated embodiment, the teeth 280 project upwardly. The trigger is mounted in the connecting device 30 for movement along arrow 102. The connecting means comprises a guide pin 281. The trigger 100 may be connected to a steel wire 279, the steel wire 279 being connected with an unlocking/locking device for folding down the chassis 2.

In fig. 7a and 7b, the trigger cannot move along arrow 102. This movement is blocked by an end 284 projecting downwards from the second element 201 of the connection device. After removing the end 284, the teeth 280 can move unimpeded in the lateral direction as shown in FIG. 7 c. Thus, a mechanism is obtained in which the undercarriage cannot be folded down when the sub-frame is connected to the undercarriage.

In the cross-section of fig. 7a-7c, three grooves 290, 291, 292 are arranged on the second element 201 of the connecting device 30. A pin 294 connected to the sleeve 66 may protrude into the groove/recess. In the projecting position, biased by a suitable spring means 295 or other biasing means, the pin and slot form a blocking means or stepped adjuster of the position of the tiltable push rod 40. When the user opposes the biasing of the active sleeve, the pin 294 may be pulled out of the corresponding slot and the push rod may be steered/tilted.

The push rod 40 may be inclined relative to a body 299 forming part of the second element 201. The body 299, arranged with the guide 206, will be deactivated upon any rotation of the push rod 40 or the frame 41 and will remain in the original position relative to the first part 200 of the connecting device 30.

The body 299 forms a joint about which the push rod 40 is movable. The body 299 also forms a suspension point for the hinge of the frame 41.

The guide arms 301, 302 are arranged around the shaft 270. When the sub-frame is connected to the chassis, the guide arms 301, 302 press against the corresponding lips 303, 304 of the first element 200 of the connecting device. When the shaft rotates, the lips 303, 304 are pushed onto the shaft 270, thus obtaining a natural resistance when rotating.

Fig. 7b shows the locked state of the push rod 40 in the vertical position.

Fig. 8 shows the chassis 2 folded down. Since the chassis and the sub-frame can be released from each other, two separate elements are obtained, both of which are easy to transport and can for example be stored more easily.

Fig. 8 shows the lever 119 in a different position than in fig. 3. As a result of the fold down, the outer end 118 has slid along the tube 4.

Fig. 9 shows an exploded perspective view of the second part 201 of the connecting device 30 and the part connected thereto for pivoting the frame 41.

Body 299 is housed in a housing 320 shown in phantom, housing 320 acting as a joint for tiltable pushrod 40 and connected to the ends of the legs of pushrod 40. This is an extension of the tilting mechanism of the sleeve 66 including the push rod.

The hole 321 of the housing 322 in which the handle 91/blocking device 90 is mounted is arranged in the housing 320. Similar to the housing 322, the aperture is also partially rectangular. A non-rotatable connection is thus formed between the tiltable push rod and the blocking device 90.

A portion of the housing 320 forms the shaft 270 of the second part 201 of the coupling device. The shaft 270 is disposed through the aperture 321. A pin 330 connected to the handle 91 passes through the shaft 270. Pin 330 protrudes from shaft 270/housing 322 to a greater or lesser extent as handle 91 is pivoted. The outer end 331 of the pin 330 is connected to a preferably plastic member 336, which plastic member 336 is provided with teeth 340 on the side remote from the handle 90. The teeth 340 may cooperate with the teeth 341 of the element 342, which element 342 is likewise an injection-molded element.

The outer end 331 is provided with a nut 338 and a ring 337, with the outer end 331 protruding through the aperture 348 of the member 336.

The member 336 is received in the sleeve 335 with the pin 330 protruding through the sleeve 335. The element 336 is guided in the sleeve and can move therein. The inner side of the sleeve forms a guide for the movable element 336. The sleeve 335 is preferably non-rotatably connected to the housing 299. A spring means, such as a coil spring 339, is preferably arranged between the member 336 and the member 342. The sleeve 335 also forms a spacer between the mobile frame 41 and the body 299, the mobile frame 41 being connectable to the pipes 350, 351 of the injection-moulding element 345. The push rod 40 and the tubes 4, 5 of the chassis are also located in the plane of the body 299. The sleeve 335 determines the distance between the pivot frame and the tubes. The sleeve 335 ensures a sufficient distance so that, for example, a child's finger does not get pinched between the pivoting elements.

The element 342 is fixedly connected to the element 345 and screwed onto the cap 346 such that the element 342 is enclosed between the sleeve 335 and a space 349 of the element 345.

When the outer end 331 projects maximally, i.e. to the right in the shown figure, the tooth 340 will press against the tooth 342. When the handle 91 is moved to the other position, the outer end is slightly retracted and the teeth are released. The frames connected by the element 345 can thus rotate on the teeth.

Fig. 10 shows a similar view of the connection device. Here, the push button 400 is housed in the injection molding member 401. The push button can be pushed against the spring tension of the spring 402 and here move the teeth 404 out of the teeth 405, so that a rotation of these elements relative to each other is possible. The sleeve 406 is provided as a spacer. The tooth element 405 is now fixedly connected by means of the bolt 410, the bolt 410 being non-rotatably mounted in the shaft element 411, the shaft element 411 having a construction similar to the shaft element of the connecting device 30 in fig. 9. The spring biases the two tooth members toward each other. The spring force can be overcome by operation to disengage the elements from their interengagement.

Fig. 11a and 11b show another embodiment of a frame 500. The frame 500 may be disassembled into four separate sections 501, 502, 503, 503'. The space occupied by the sub-frame can be reduced by disassembling these parts. Two co-acting connecting blocks (e.g. connecting blocks 505, 506 in fig. 12) are arranged between two adjacent parts (e.g. parts 502 and 503') in the connecting position as shown in fig. 12a, 12 b. These connection blocks are used on the one hand to connect between different parts of the frame 500 and on the other hand to connect other accessories to the frame 500. An example here is a luggage unit comprising two U-shaped tubes between which a woven braid, for example, is placed. The outer ends of the tubes are provided with connection blocks which can co-act with corresponding connection blocks of the parts 503 and 503'. For example, bags for shopping can be transported in such a tensioned configuration. A second child support device is also obtained by interconnecting the two U-shaped tubes at the free ends and tensioning a piece of fabric in the structure thus formed. This creates a second child support means.

Fig. 13 shows a schematic assembly of the connector of fig. 12a and 12 b. The connector 505 includes a housing 508, a button 507, a spring 510, a shaft 511 and a clamping member 512. The interconnection of these elements is shown in fig. 14. Housing 508 is housed in portion 502. The clamping element 512 is placed such that the clamping element 512 protrudes from the end of the housing 508 under the tension of the spring 510 clamped in the housing 508 by the shaft 511, see fig. 12 a. The protruding member 513 co-acts with a slot 514 in a housing 509, the housing 509 being received in the portion 503'. When the parts 502 and 503' are connected, the protruding member 513 is pressed in until the connecting blocks are displaced on top of each other to such an extent that the protruding member 513 enters the groove 514 and thus locks the connecting member. By pressing in the push button 507, the bevelled edge 515 of the push button 507 presses against the clamping element 512, thereby moving the clamping element 512 out of the slot. Thus, portions 502 and 503' may be separated from each other.

Although the invention has been shown on the basis of some preferred embodiments, it will be obvious to a person skilled in the art that many other embodiments are possible. Although the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments wherein advantages are provided and none are provided, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that divisional applications of specific embodiments may be made wherein advantages of such embodiments are provided or even not provided.

Claims (25)

1. A stroller apparatus comprising a collapsible chassis provided with a movable means and at least one sub-frame, said sub-frame being detachable from said chassis and provided with support means for supporting a child, wherein said sub-frame is provided with a tiltable push bar and said sub-frame is convertible relative to said chassis by removing said sub-frame from said chassis, rotating said sub-frame through 180 ° in a horizontal plane and mounting said sub-frame on the chassis.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said push rod is steerable.

3. Apparatus according to claim 2, wherein said sub-frame comprises a frame on which said support means for supporting a child can be placed.

4. A device according to claim 3, wherein the frame is reusable for different child support functions including use as a child seat, a hammock or a car seat.

5. A device according to claim 3, wherein said frame is tiltable relative to said chassis in a position of connection to said chassis.

6. A device according to claim 4, wherein, in a position for use as a child seat, the frame is a frame of the child seat.

7. An apparatus according to claim 4, wherein in a position for use as a hammock, the frame is a frame of the hammock.

8. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the push rod is provided with a stepped adjustment for the inclination.

9. The device of claim 1, wherein said stroller device has two operating means for tilting the push rod.

10. The apparatus of claim 9 wherein said operation device comprises at least one slidable sleeve.

11. The apparatus of claim 10 wherein said sleeve is slidable on said push rod.

12. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said pushrod is substantially U-shaped and has two legs, the ends of said legs being connected to said subframe, and said legs being extendable.

13. The device of claim 12, wherein said legs have a telescoping form.

14. The device of claim 12 wherein said pushrod includes an operating member for unlocking said extendable leg.

15. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said stroller apparatus includes locking means for locking the connection between said undercarriage and said sub-frame when said push bar has been tilted.

16. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said stroller apparatus comprises connecting means for connecting said sub-frame to said chassis, said connecting means being releasable and provided with a vertical guide.

17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein said vertical guide is included in said chassis and said sub-frame includes a shaft that is received in said vertical guide.

18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein said guide comprises a slot, said slot terminating in a substantially circular recess, said shaft being rotatably mounted in said recess.

19. The apparatus of claim 18 wherein said circular recess is surrounded by a lip, said lip being clamped to said shaft in an inclined position of said pushrod.

20. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein said apparatus comprises folding means for folding said chassis, wherein operation of said folding means of said chassis is prevented in a state where said chassis and said sub-frame are coupled.

21. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein said folding means comprises a trigger, wherein in the connected state, movement of said trigger is prevented.

22. An arrangement according to claim 21, wherein said connecting means comprises a first part forming part of said chassis and a second part forming part of said sub-frame, said trigger being slidably guided in a guide track of said first part of said connecting means.

23. A device according to claim 5, characterised in that said sub-frame comprises locking means for stepwise locking of the tilted frame.

24. The apparatus of claim 4, further comprising mounting means for mounting a vehicle seat to said frame.

25. The device of claim 2, wherein the pusher is used as a means for moving the child.