CN112969625B

CN112969625B - Baby carriage

Info

Publication number: CN112969625B
Application number: CN202080005998.8A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 清水直; 三井阳子
Original assignee: Combi Corp
Current assignee: Combi Corp
Priority date: 2019-04-26
Filing date: 2020-04-21
Publication date: 2022-05-10
Anticipated expiration: 2040-04-21
Also published as: JPWO2020218304A1; CN113501044B; JP2021165134A; CN112969625A; CN113501044A; JP6915935B2; TW202042716A; TWI754265B; WO2020218304A1; JP6938071B1

Abstract

A stroller (10) comprises: a main body frame (12) having front legs (14) and rear legs (16); a handle (40) connected to the main body frame so as to be swingable between a first position and a second position; a first caster (50) fixed to the front leg and having a single front wheel; and a second caster fixed to the rear leg and having a pair of rear wheels. With the handle in the second position, caster rotation of the first caster (50) is restricted. With the handle in the first position, caster rotation of the second caster (60) is restricted.

Description

Baby carriage

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a stroller having a handle that is swingable between a first position and a second position.

Background

A stroller capable of swinging a handle is known, for example, as disclosed in patent document 1(JP2017-81252 a). In the stroller disclosed in patent document 1, the handle is swingable between a back-face pushing position and a facing pushing position. In the back pushing position, the handle is positioned on the back side of the infant, and the guardian pushes the stroller from the back side of the infant to advance the stroller. In the push-facing position, the handle is positioned on a side facing the infant, and the parent pushes the stroller from the side facing the infant to advance the stroller.

With the handle in the back-pushing position, the infant can be oriented forward in the direction of travel. When the handle is in the facing push position, the guardian can move the stroller while confirming the infant. Therefore, when a baby of a low age of the month is placed on the stroller, the handle is often placed in the facing push position, and when a baby whose waist can be seated is placed on the stroller, for example, the handle tends to be placed in the rear push position.

As described above, the position of the handle tends to be changed according to the age of the infant. On the other hand, in the conventional stroller, no study has been made for changing the characteristics thereof in accordance with the position of the handle. For example, it is preferable that: when the handle is disposed at a facing push position which is suitable for a small-aged infant, the stability of the stroller can be improved, and when the handle is disposed at a rear push position which is more suitable for a large-aged infant than the facing push position, the maneuverability of the stroller can be improved.

Disclosure of Invention

The present invention has been made in view of the above, and an object thereof is to change the characteristics of a stroller according to the arrangement of a handle that can swing.

The baby carriage of the invention comprises:

a main body frame having front and rear legs;

a handle connected to the main body frame so as to be swingable between a first position and a second position;

a first caster including a first fixed body fixed to the front leg, a first rotating body supported by the first fixed body so as to be rotatable about a first caster axis, and a single front wheel supported by the first rotating body so as to be rotatable; and

a second caster including a second fixed body fixed to the rear leg, a second rotating body supported by the second fixed body so as to be rotatable about a second caster axis, and a pair of rear wheels supported by the second rotating body so as to be rotatable,

the rotation of the first rotating body with respect to the first fixed body is restricted when the handle is in the second position, and the rotation of the second rotating body with respect to the second fixed body is restricted when the handle is in the first position.

In the stroller of the present invention, it is also possible,

the main body frame has:

a first link rotatably connected with the front leg and the rear leg;

a second link rotatably connected to the first link;

a third link rotatably connected to the front leg; and

a fourth link rotatably connected to the rear leg,

the second link is rotatably connected to at least one of the third link and the fourth link,

the third link is rotatably connected to at least one of the fourth link and the second link,

the fourth link is rotatably connected to at least one of the second link and the third link.

In the stroller of the present invention, a connection position at which the third link and the fourth link are connected may be located rearward of the front leg in a side view.

In the stroller of the present invention, a connection position at which the third link and the second link are connected may be located rearward of the front leg in a side view.

In the stroller of the present invention, a connection position at which the frame member and the base frame are connected may be located rearward of the front leg in a side view.

In the stroller of the present invention, it is also possible,

the main body frame has a pair of front legs provided separately in a width direction and a pair of rear legs provided separately in the width direction,

the pair of front legs are respectively provided with the first caster,

the pair of rear legs are respectively provided with the second caster,

the rear wheel located on the outer side in the width direction of the pair of rear wheels of each second caster is located on the outer side in the width direction than the front wheel of the first caster located on the same side as the second caster in the width direction.

In the stroller of the present invention, it is also possible,

the pair of front legs are respectively provided with the first caster,

the pair of rear legs are respectively provided with the second caster,

the front wheel of each first caster is located between the pair of rear wheels of the second caster on the same side as the first caster in the width direction.

In the stroller of the present invention, the front wheel of each first caster may be positioned at the center of the pair of rear wheels of the second caster on the same side as the first caster in the width direction.

In the stroller of the present invention, the distance between the pair of rear wheels may be larger than the width of the front wheel in the width direction.

In the stroller of the present invention, the distance between the pair of rear wheels may be larger than the width of the first fixed body in the width direction.

In the stroller of the present invention, it is also possible,

the first rotating body includes: a first rotating body base connected to the first fixed body so as to be rotatable about the first caster axis; and a first rotating body holder connected to the first rotating body base and rotatably supporting the front wheel via an axle,

the interval between the pair of rear wheels is larger than the width of the first rotating body base and larger than the width of the first rotating body holder in the width direction.

In the stroller of the present invention, the handle may be foldable in a state where the handle is disposed at the first position.

In the stroller of the present invention, the diameter of the front wheel may be smaller than the diameter of the rear wheel.

In the stroller of the present invention, the width of the rear wheel may be narrower than the width of the front wheel.

In the stroller of the present invention, it is also possible,

the pair of front legs are respectively provided with the first caster,

the pair of rear legs are respectively provided with the second caster,

in the width direction, the first caster axis of each first caster is located at the same position as the second caster axis of a second caster on the same side as the first caster in the width direction.

In the stroller of the present invention, it is also possible,

the first rotating body includes: a first rotating body base connected to the first fixed body so as to be rotatable about the first caster axis; a first rotor holder connected to the first rotor base and rotatably supporting the front wheel via an axle,

the first rotating body base includes a first opposing surface facing the first fixed body from below,

the first opposing surface has a width smaller than a width of the first rotating body holder in a width direction, and is located within a range in which the first rotating body holder is located.

In the stroller of the present invention, it is also possible,

the first rotating body has a first opposing surface that faces the first fixed body from below,

the second rotating body has a second opposing surface facing the second fixed body from below,

the height of the first opposing surface is higher than the height of the second opposing surface.

In the stroller of the present invention, it is also possible,

the height of the first opposing surface is equal to or greater than the diameter of the front wheel.

In the stroller of the present invention, it is also possible,

the height of the first opposite surface is larger than the diameter of the rear wheel.

In the stroller of the present invention, it is also possible,

the height of the second opposite surface is smaller than the diameter of the front wheel.

In the stroller of the present invention, it is also possible,

the height of the second opposite surface is smaller than the diameter of the rear wheel.

According to the present invention, the characteristics of the stroller can be changed according to the configuration of the handle that can swing.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a view for explaining an embodiment of the present invention, and is a perspective view for explaining an overall structure of a stroller.

Fig. 2 is a side view showing the stroller of fig. 1 in a state where the handle is disposed at the first position (back pushing position).

Fig. 3 is a side view showing the stroller of fig. 1 in a state where the handle is disposed at a second position (facing the pushing position).

Fig. 4 is a side view showing the stroller of fig. 1 in a folded state.

Fig. 5 is a perspective view showing a part of the stroller of fig. 1.

Fig. 6 is a front view showing a part of the stroller of fig. 1.

Fig. 7A is a side view of the stroller of fig. 1 schematically illustrating the handle in a first position.

Fig. 7B is a side view of the stroller of fig. 1 schematically illustrating the handle in a second position.

Fig. 8A is a rear view schematically showing the stroller of fig. 1.

Fig. 8B is a front view schematically showing the stroller of fig. 1.

Detailed Description

An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to a specific example shown in the drawings.

Fig. 1 to 8B are views for explaining an embodiment of a stroller of the present invention. Fig. 1 to 4 show an overall structure of a specific example of the stroller. Also, fig. 5 and 6 are perspective or front views partially showing the stroller. As shown in fig. 1 to 4, the stroller 10 of the present embodiment includes: a main body frame 12 having front legs 14 and rear legs 16; a handle 40 connected to the main body frame 12 so as to be swingable with respect to the main body frame 12; a first caster 50 mounted to the front leg 14; and a second caster 60 mounted to the rear leg 16. The body frame 12 and the handle 40 constitute a stroller body 11. As shown only by the two-dot chain line in fig. 2, the seat member 13 having cushioning properties is detachably attached to the stroller body 11. The infant sits or lies on the seat part 13.

In the present embodiment, the handle 40 is swingable between the first position and the second position with respect to the main body frame 12. In the illustrated example, the first position of the handle 40 is a back-side pushing position (refer to fig. 1 and 2), and the second position of the handle 40 is a facing pushing position (refer to fig. 3). As shown in fig. 2, the handle 40 is inclined with respect to the vertical direction and extends in the rearward direction at the first position as the back surface pushing position. When the handle 40 is disposed at the first position, which is the back pushing position, the operator (guardian) grips the handle 40 from the back side of the infant and manipulates the stroller 10. In this case, the infant can enjoy the scenery facing forward in the traveling direction while the stroller 10 is traveling. As shown in fig. 3, the handle 40 extends in the forward direction while being inclined with respect to the vertical direction at the second position facing the pushing position. When the handle 40 is disposed at the second position facing the pushing position, the operator grips the handle 40 from a position facing the front leg side of the infant and manipulates the stroller 10. In this case, the stroller 10 can be made to travel so that the rear leg side of the stroller 10 is forward in the traveling direction.

The illustrated stroller 10 (stroller main body 11) is configured to be foldable from an unfolded state shown in fig. 1 and 2 to a folded state shown in fig. 4, as is widely used. The stroller 10 (stroller main body 11) can also be unfolded from the folded state to the unfolded state. When the stroller 10 is in the deployed state, the handle 40 can be swung with respect to the main body frame 12.

In the present specification, the terms "front", "rear", "up", "down", "front-back direction" and "up-down direction" with respect to the stroller and its components refer to "front", "rear", "up", "down", "front-back direction" and "up-down direction" with reference to an infant seated in the stroller in an unfolded state and its components, unless otherwise specified. More specifically, the "front-rear direction" is a direction connecting the lower left and upper right of the paper surface of fig. 1, and corresponds to the left-right direction of the paper surface of fig. 2 and 3. Unless otherwise specified, "front" is a side facing the infant sitting in the vehicle, and the lower left side of the sheet of fig. 1 and the left side of the sheet of fig. 2 are front sides. On the other hand, the "vertical direction" is a direction perpendicular to the running surface of the stroller. Therefore, when the traveling surface is a horizontal surface, "vertical direction" means a vertical direction. The "lateral direction" is a width direction and is a direction perpendicular to both the "front-back direction" and the "up-down direction". As shown in fig. 1, the illustrated stroller 10 has a substantially symmetrical structure with a plane located at the lateral center and along the front-rear direction and the up-down direction as a center.

First, the stroller body 11 will be described as an overall structure of the stroller. As described above, the stroller body 11 has the body frame 12 and the handle 40. As shown in fig. 1, the main body frame 12 includes a pair of front legs 14 disposed on the left and right sides, respectively, and a pair of rear legs 16 disposed on the left and right sides, respectively. The main body frame 12 further includes a first link L1, a second link L2, a third link L3, and a fourth link L4, which are disposed on the left and right sides, respectively. The front legs 14, the rear legs 16, and the first to fourth links L1 to L4 function as links that configure the stroller body 11 to be foldable and expandable. In the illustrated example, the first link L1 also functions as the armrest 21. That is, the first link L1 is constituted by the armrest 21.

As shown in fig. 1 to 3, the upper end portion of the front leg 14 is connected to the front portion of the first link L1 disposed on the corresponding side (left or right side) in a rotatable manner (swingable manner). Similarly, the upper end portion of the rear leg 16 is rotatably (swingably) connected to the front portion of the first link L1 disposed on the corresponding side (left or right side). The upper portion of the second link L2 is rotatably (swingably) connected to the rear portion of the first link L1 disposed on the corresponding side (left or right side). As shown in fig. 3, in the illustrated example, the second link L2 includes a main link member 22 and an upper link member 23 fixed to an upper end of the main link member 22. The main link member 22 is formed of, for example, a metal pipe. The upper connecting member 23 is made of, for example, a resin molded product. The second link L2 is rotatably (swingably) connected to the rear end portion of the armrest 21 at the upper connecting member 23.

As shown in fig. 1 to 3, the third link L3 is connected to the front leg 14 so as to be rotatable (swingable). The fourth link L4 is connected to the rear leg 16 so as to be rotatable (swingable). The third link L3 is rotatably (swingably) connected to at least one of the second link L2 and the fourth link L4. The fourth link L4 is rotatably (swingably) connected to at least one of the second link L2 and the third link L3. The second link L2 is rotatably (swingably) connected to at least one of the third link L3 and the fourth link L4.

As shown in fig. 1 and 5, in the illustrated example, a frame member 24, and a front link member 25 and a rear link member 26 fixed to the frame member 24 are provided as members constituting the third link L3. The frame member 24 is formed of, for example, a bent metal pipe. The front connection member 25 and the rear connection member 26 are formed of, for example, a resin molded product. The frame member 24 has a U-shape having a pair of side portions 24a extending in the front-rear direction and a coupling portion 24b coupling the pair of side portions 24a to each other in the front direction. Front link member 25 has one end portion rotatably connected to front leg 14 and the other end portion fixed to a front portion of side portion 24 a. The rear connecting member 26 is fixed to the rear end portion of the side portion 24 a. In this example, the right third link L3 is formed by the side portion 24a of the right frame member 24 and the right front and rear connecting

members

25 and 26 fixed to the right side portion 24 a. Similarly, the left third link L3 is formed by the side portion 24a of the left frame member 24, and the left front link member 25 and the left rear link member 26 fixed to the left side portion 24 a.

As shown in fig. 5, in the illustrated example, the fourth link L4 includes a spindle member 28 rotatably connected to the rear leg 16 and an end member 29 fixed to an upper end portion of the spindle member 28. The spindle unit 28 is formed of, for example, a metal pipe. The end member 29 is made of, for example, a resin molded product. The spindle unit 28 is rotatably connected at a lower end portion to an intermediate portion of the rear leg 16. The end member 29 is rotatably connected to the second link L2 and the third link L3. In the illustrated example, the second link L2, the third link L3, and the fourth link L4 are rotatably connected to each other using the same shaft member 30. The shaft member 30 penetrates the main link member 22 of the second link L2, the end member 29 of the fourth link L4, and the rear link member 26 constituting the third link L3. According to this configuration, the second link L2, the third link L3, and the fourth link L4 are configured to be rotatable with respect to each other about an axis line that coincides with the central axis line of the shaft member 30.

As shown in fig. 1 to 3, the main body frame 12 of the illustrated stroller 10 further includes a base frame 31, an upper frame 32, and a coupling frame 33 that couples the base frame 31 and the upper frame 32. The base frame 31 and the upper frame 32 are each formed in a U shape. In the illustrated stroller 10, a base cloth 34 (shown only in fig. 2) is stretched over the frame member 24 and the base frame 31. The base cloth 34 supports the cushioning seat member 13 (shown by a two-dot chain line only in fig. 2) together with the frame member 24, the base frame 31, the upper frame 32, and the connecting frame 33. In fig. 4, the base frame 31, the upper frame 32, and the coupling frame 33 are not shown.

In the illustrated example, the frame member 24, the base frame 31, the upper frame 32, the connecting frame 33, and the base cloth 34 constitute a seat support body, and support the seat member 13. Here, a part of the base cloth 34 and the frame member 24 constitute a seat support body for supporting the buttocks of the infant. Further, a part of the base cloth 34 and the base frame 31 constitute a back support body for supporting the back of the infant.

The base frame 31 is penetrated at both ends thereof by the shaft member 30 (see fig. 5). The base frame 31 is rotatable (swingable) with respect to the frame member 24 and other components. By swinging the base frame 31 relative to the frame member 24, the seat member 13 can be laid down. The upper frame 32 is rotatably (swingably) connected at both end portions thereof to rear end portions of the first links L1. The rotation axis of the upper frame 32 with respect to the first link L1 is located on the same line as the rotation axis of the second link L2 with respect to the first link L1. A pair of linking frames 33 are provided laterally apart between the base frame 31 and the upper frame 32. The coupling frame 33 is rotatably connected at both ends thereof to the base frame 31 and the upper frame 32.

As shown in fig. 1, the main body frame 12 includes, as components extending in the lateral direction: a front connecting member 15 connecting the pair of front legs 14; and a rear connecting member 17 connecting the pair of rear legs 16. In the illustrated example, the front coupling member 15 extends between the pair of first casters 50, and the rear coupling member 17 extends between the pair of second casters 60. The front connecting member 15 functions as a foot pedal. Further, a center connecting member 27 is provided between the pair of rear connecting members 26. The front connecting member 15, the rear connecting member 17, and the center connecting member 27 can suppress the lateral deformation of the stroller 10. The flexible protective member 38 is detachably disposed between the pair of first links L1.

The handle 40 is connected to the main body frame 12 described above so as to be swingable. In the illustrated example, the handle 40 includes a handle body 41 swingably attached to the body frame 12, and a holding body 42 provided on the handle body 41. In the illustrated stroller body 11, the handle 40 is swingable between a first position (back-pushing position) inclined rearward with respect to the vertical axis and a second position (facing-pushing position) inclined forward with respect to the vertical axis in a side view.

As shown in fig. 1, the handle body 41 includes a pair of shaft portions 41a extending substantially parallel to each other and an intermediate portion 41b connecting the pair of shaft portions 41 a. The handle body 41 has a substantially U-shape as a whole. The handle 40 is connected to the main body frame 12 at both ends of the U-shape in a rotatable manner (swingable manner). In the illustrated example, the handle body 41 is rotatably connected to the body frame 12 using the shaft member 30. Therefore, the second link L2, the third link L3, the fourth link L4, the base frame 31, and the handle 40 can be rotated relative to each other about the same axis defined by the shaft member 30.

The holding body 42 is provided on the shaft portion 41a of the handle body 41. The holding body 42 is movable on the shaft portion 41a in the longitudinal direction of the shaft portion 41 a. The handle 40 has an unillustrated biasing member (e.g., a spring) that presses the holding body 42 downward. The holding body 42 can be engaged with the first position holding member 36 and the second position holding member 37 provided on the main body frame 12. As shown in fig. 3, the first position holding member 36 is provided to the second link L2. By engaging the holding body 42 with the first position holding member 36, the swing of the handle 40 with respect to the main body frame 12 is restricted, and the handle 40 can be maintained at the first position as shown in fig. 2. As shown in fig. 2, the second position holding member 37 is provided to the first link L1. By engaging the holding body 42 with the second position holding member 37, the swing of the handle 40 with respect to the main body frame 12 is restricted, and the handle 40 can be maintained at the second position as shown in fig. 3. For example, the holding body 42 moved upward against the urging force of the urging member is moved downward so as to cover the first position holding member 36 or the second position holding member 37, whereby the holding body 42 can be engaged with the first position holding member 36 or the second position holding member 37.

The stroller body 11 having the above-described structure can be folded by relatively rotating the respective components. Specifically, the handle 40 disposed at the first position is pulled up to the rear and then pushed down, whereby the fourth link L4 is rotated clockwise in fig. 2 with respect to the rear leg 16. With this operation, the first link L1 and the third link L3 rotate clockwise in fig. 2 with respect to the second link L2. By such an operation, the handle 40 and the front leg 14 approach each other while maintaining the substantially parallel arrangement in the side view, and the position of the handle 40 is lowered. As described above, the stroller body 11 can be folded as shown in fig. 4. In the folded state of fig. 4, the stroller 10 can be downsized in the front-rear direction and the up-down direction. On the other hand, in order to unfold the stroller body 11 from the folded state, the procedure opposite to the folding operation described above may be performed.

The stroller body 11 also includes a state maintaining mechanism (not shown) for restricting relative rotation of the two components. By operating this state maintaining mechanism, the folding operation of the stroller body 11 can be performed. In the illustrated example, the handle 40 has a remote operation device 43 connected to the state maintaining mechanism. As shown in fig. 1, the remote operation device 43 is provided at the intermediate portion 41b of the handle main body 41. By operating the remote operation device 43, the state maintaining mechanism operates, and the folding operation of the stroller body 11 can be performed.

Next, the first caster 50 and the second caster 60 will be described. In the illustrated example, the stroller body 11 has a pair of front legs 14, and each front leg 14 holds a first caster 50. The pair of first casters 50 have the same configuration or a configuration substantially symmetrical about a plane located at the lateral center and extending in the front-rear direction and the up-down direction. Similarly, the stroller main body 11 has a pair of rear legs 16, and each rear leg 16 holds a second caster 60. The pair of second casters 60 have the same configuration or a configuration substantially symmetrical about a plane located at the lateral center and extending in the front-rear direction and the up-down direction. Hereinafter, the first caster 50 and the second caster 60 positioned on the left side in the lateral direction shown in fig. 1 to 6 will be described.

As shown in fig. 5, the first caster 50 has: a first fixed body 51 attached to a lower end portion of the front leg 14, and a first rotating body 52 rotatably supported by the first fixed body 51; and a front wheel 56 rotatably supported by the first rotating body 52. The first rotating body 52 is connected to the first fixed body 51. The first rotating body 52 is rotatable about a first caster axis C1 (see fig. 2) extending in the vertical direction with respect to the first fixed body 51. The first rotating body 52 has a first facing surface SS1 facing the first fixed body 51 from below. In particular, in the illustrated example, the first rotating body 52 is in contact with the first fixed body 51 from below on the first opposing surface SS 1. During the relative rotation of the first rotating body 52 and the first fixed body 51 about the first caster axis C1, the first fixed body 51 slides relative to the first opposing surface SS1 of the first rotating body 52.

As shown in fig. 5, the first rotating body 52 includes a first rotating body base 53 connected to the first fixed body 51, a first rotating body holder 54 connected to the first rotating body base 53, and a first axle 55 supported by the first rotating body holder 54. In this example, the first rotating body base 53 includes a first facing surface SS 1. The first rotating body base 53 is rotatable about a first caster axis C1 with respect to the first fixed body 51. The first rotating body holder 54 is connected to the first rotating body base 53 via a shock absorbing buffer member, for example.

The illustrated first rotating body holder 54 includes a connecting portion 54a connected to the first rotating body base 53 and a pair of arm portions 54b extending from the connecting portion 54 a. For example, the connection portion 54a is provided with a hole into which a shaft portion extending downward from the first fixed body 51 is inserted, and the shaft portion of the first fixed body 51 is restricted from being pulled out of the hole of the connection portion 54 a. With such a configuration, the first fixed body 51 and the first rotating body 52 are connected to be relatively rotatable. The arm portion 54b has a longitudinal direction. The pair of arm portions 54b extend from the connecting portion 54a so as to be parallel to each other in the longitudinal direction and to be apart from each other in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The first axle 55 is supported at the end portions of the pair of arm portions 54b on the side away from the connecting portion 54 a. The first axle 55 extends parallel to the running surface. The front wheel 56 is supported by the first axle 55. Therefore, the front wheel 56 is rotatably disposed between the pair of arm portions 54 b. That is, each first caster 50 has only one front wheel 56.

As shown in fig. 6, in the width direction of the stroller 10 in the straight state, the width of the first opposing surface SS1 is smaller than the width W54 of the rotor holder 54, and the first opposing surface SS1 is located within the range of the rotor holder 54. According to such an example, the first opposite surface SS1 is positioned on the rotor holder 54 holding the front wheel 56 in the vertical projection. Further, in the width direction of the stroller 10 in the straight state, the front wheel 56 is located on the first caster axis C1 of the first caster 50. Therefore, the first rotating body 52 can stably support the first fixed body 51 via the first opposing surface SS1, and the baby carriage can stably travel. In the illustrated example, the width of the first opposing surface SS1 matches the maximum width W53 of the first rotating body base.

As shown in fig. 5, the first caster 50 further includes a brake member 57 provided to be movable on the first rotating body holder 54 that supports the front wheel 56. The brake member 57 is capable of contacting the front wheel 56 and restricting the rotation of the front wheel 56 by relative movement with respect to the first rotor holder 54. The illustrated brake member 57 is swingably supported by the arm portion 54b located on the inner side in the width direction of the first rotating body holder 54.

The inner side (inner side) in the width direction refers to a side close to the center of the stroller 10 in the width direction. The outer side in the width direction (outer side) refers to a side in the width direction away from the center of the stroller 10.

As shown in fig. 5, the second caster 60 includes a second fixed body 61 attached to the lower end portion of the rear leg 16, a second rotating body 62 rotatably supported by the second fixed body 61, and a rear wheel 66 rotatably supported by the second rotating body 62. The second rotating body 62 is connected to the second fixed body 61. The second rotating body 62 is rotatable about a second caster axis C2 (see fig. 2) extending in the vertical direction with respect to the second fixed body 61. The second rotating body 62 has a second opposite surface SS2 facing the second fixed body 61 from below. In particular, in the illustrated example, the second rotating body 62 is in contact with the second fixed body 61 from below at the second opposite surface SS 2. During the relative rotation of the second rotating body 62 and the second fixed body 61 about the second caster axis C2, the second fixed body 61 slides relative to the second opposing surface SS2 of the second rotating body 62.

As shown in fig. 5, the second rotating body 62 includes a second rotating body base 63 connected to the second fixed body 61, and a second axle 65 supported by the second rotating body base 63. In this example, the second rotating body base 63 includes a second opposite surface SS 2. The second axle 65 penetrates the second rotor base 63 and extends to both sides of the second rotor base 63. The second axle 65 extends parallel to the running surface. The rear wheels 66 are rotatably supported by portions of the second axle 65 extending from the second swivel base 63 to both sides. That is, each first caster 50 has a pair of rear wheels 66. The second rotator base 63 is located between a pair of rear wheels 66.

As shown in fig. 1, the second caster 60 further includes a brake member 67 provided to be movable on the second rotating body base 63 supporting the rear wheel 66. The brake member 67 is capable of contacting the rear wheel 66 and restricting the rotation of the rear wheel 66 by relative movement with respect to the second rotating body base 63. The brake member 67 is shown supported by the second rotating body base 63 in a swingable manner.

As shown in fig. 2, the first caster 50 includes a lock member 58 that regulates rotation of the first rotating body 52 relative to the first fixed body 51. The locking member 58 is movable between a restricting position and a non-restricting position. For example, the lock member 58 in the restricting position protrudes from the first fixed body 51 and contacts the first rotating body 52, thereby restricting the first rotating body 52 from rotating about the first caster axis C1 with respect to the first fixed body 51. On the other hand, the lock member 58 in the non-restricting position is separated from the first rotating body 52, and does not interfere with the rotating operation of the first rotating body 52 with respect to the first fixed body 51.

Similarly, as shown in fig. 2, the second caster 60 has a lock member 68 that regulates the rotation of the second rotating body 62 with respect to the second fixed body 61. The locking member 68 is movable between a restricting position and a non-restricting position. For example, the lock member 68 in the restricting position protrudes from the second fixed body 61 and contacts the second rotating body 62, whereby the second rotating body 62 can be restricted from rotating about the second caster axis C2 with respect to the second fixed body 61. On the other hand, the lock member 68 in the non-restricting position is separated from the second rotating body 62, and does not interfere with the rotating operation of the second rotating body 62 with respect to the second fixed body 61.

As shown in fig. 2, the stroller body 11 further includes a switching mechanism 45 for moving the

lock members

58 and 68 between the restricting position and the non-restricting position in accordance with the position of the handle 40. In the illustrated example, the switching mechanism 45 includes a switching member 46 movably supported by the rear leg 16, and a transmission member 47 connecting the switching member 46 and the

lock members

58 and 68. In the illustrated example, the switching member 46 comes into contact with the handle 40 as the handle 40 swings. The contact with the handle 40 can cause a relative motion such as a linear motion or a rotational motion of the switching member 46 with respect to the rear leg 16, and as a specific example, a relative swinging motion. By the operation of the switching member 46, the

lock members

58 and 68 can be operated via the transmission member 47.

In the present embodiment, when the handle 40 is located at the second position, the rotation of the first rotating body 52 relative to the first fixed body 51 in the first caster 50 is restricted. When the handle 40 is located at the first position, the rotation of the second rotating body 62 of the second caster 60 with respect to the second fixed body 61 is restricted. In the illustrated example, in a case where the handle 40 is in the first position (the position of the handle 40 shown in fig. 2) as the back-pushing position, the rotation of the first rotating body 52 of the first caster 50 is allowed, and the rotation of the second rotating body 62 of the second caster 60 is restricted. On the other hand, in the case where the handle 40 is in the second position (the position of the handle 40 shown in fig. 3) as the facing pushing position, the rotation of the first rotating body 52 of the first caster 50 is restricted, and the rotation of the second rotating body 62 of the second caster 60 is allowed.

The switching mechanism 45 and the

lock members

58 and 68 can be configured by various known structures, for example, the structures disclosed in japanese patent application laid-open nos. 2008-254688, 2008-254693, 2010-234988, and the like.

Next, the operation of the stroller 10 configured as described above will be described. As described above, the handle 40 is swingable between the first position and the second position with respect to the main body frame 12.

As shown in fig. 2, when the handle 40 is disposed at the first position, which is the back pushing position, the operator (guardian) can hold the handle 40 from the back side of the infant and manipulate the stroller 10, and can walk the stroller 10 so that the infant faces forward in the traveling direction. At this time, the front legs 14 are positioned forward in the traveling direction of the stroller 10, and the rear legs 16 are positioned rearward in the traveling direction of the stroller 10. In the first caster 50 attached to the front leg 14, the first rotating body 52 is rotatable about the first caster axis C1 with respect to the first fixed body 51. On the other hand, in the second caster 60 attached to the rear leg 16, the second rotating body 62 cannot rotate about the second caster axis C2 with respect to the second fixed body 61.

As shown in fig. 3, when the handle 40 is disposed at the second position facing the pushing position, the operator can hold the handle 40 from the position facing the front legs 14 of the infant and manipulate the stroller 10, and can walk the stroller 10 such that the rear legs of the stroller 10 are positioned forward in the traveling direction. At this time, the rear legs 16 are positioned forward in the traveling direction of the stroller 10, and the front legs 14 are positioned rearward in the traveling direction of the stroller 10. In the first caster 50 attached to the front leg 14, the first rotating body 52 cannot rotate about the first caster axis C1 with respect to the first fixed body 51. On the other hand, in the second caster 60 attached to the rear leg 16, the second rotating body 62 is rotatable about the second caster axis C2 with respect to the second fixed body 61.

That is, as the holding position of the handle 40 is switched between the first position and the second position, the possibility of rotation of the

rotary bodies

52, 62 supporting the

wheels

56, 66 centered on the caster axes C1, C2 is switched. Specifically, the

casters

50 and 60 positioned forward in the moving direction of the stroller 10 function as casters, and the

rotary bodies

52 and 62 that support the

wheels

56 and 66 rotate about the caster axes C1 and C2. On the other hand, the

casters

50 and 60 located rearward in the moving direction of the stroller 10 do not function as casters, and the rotation of the

rotating bodies

52 and 62 supporting the

wheels

56 and 66 about the caster axes C1 and C2 is restricted. By switching the caster mechanisms in accordance with the swing positions of the handles 40, the operability of the stroller 10 by the operator (guardian) can be improved.

In addition, when the handle 40 is in the first position, which is the back-pushing position, the infant can be directed forward in the traveling direction. Therefore, the infant can observe the scenery and enjoy the scenery during the traveling of the stroller 10. When the handle 40 is in the second position facing the pushing position, the parent can walk the stroller 10 while confirming the state of the infant. Therefore, the handle 40 is often disposed at the second position, which is the facing push position, when a small child of a low-age is placed on the stroller 10, and the handle 40 tends to be disposed at the first position, which is the back push position, when a seated child is placed on the stroller 10, for example.

When a baby of a low age is placed on the stroller 10, the stroller 10 requires walking stability. According to the illustrated stroller 10, the rear legs 16 are positioned forward in the moving direction in the stroller 10 in the facing-pushing state in which the stroller 10 is intended to be used for a young infant, that is, in the stroller 10 in which the handle 40 is disposed at the second position as the facing-pushing position. The second caster 60 attached to the rear leg 16 has a two-wheel structure and includes a pair of rear wheels 66. The second caster 60 has a large footprint, high strength, and excellent load resistance. Therefore, when the second caster 60 is positioned forward in the moving direction and functions as a caster, excellent walking stability is achieved because the second caster 60 has a two-wheel structure.

In addition, the second caster 60 of the two-wheel structure has a pair of rear wheels 66 separated in a direction perpendicular to the traveling direction. Therefore, it is possible to effectively avoid the situation where the entire second caster 60, that is, both of the pair of rear wheels 66 are fitted into a recess such as a groove formed in the traveling surface. That is, even if one rear wheel 66 of one second caster 60 is positioned on the concave portion, since the other rear wheel 66 is maintained on the traveling surface, the second caster 60 can be effectively prevented from being fitted into the concave portion. This can effectively suppress the occurrence of an undesirable shock, and also can improve the running stability in this regard.

That is, in the stroller 10 in which the handle 40 is disposed at the second position facing the pushed position, the second caster 60 functions as a caster positioned forward in the moving direction, and thus the walking stability required for a small-aged infant who tends to be placed on the stroller 10 can be appropriately obtained.

On the other hand, as they grow, the weight of infants increases. With the increase in body weight, the stroller 10 requires maneuverability (steering, walking operability). As described above, the stroller 10 is used in a state in which the handle 40 is disposed at the first position, which is the rear pushing position, as the infant grows, so that the infant can enjoy going out using the stroller 10. In the stroller 10 of the present embodiment, the front legs 14 are positioned forward in the moving direction in a state where the handle 40 is disposed at the first position, which is the back pushing position. Also, the first caster 50 mounted to the front leg 14 has a single wheel structure including only one front wheel 56. In the first caster 50, since the frictional resistance between the running surface and the front wheel 56 is reduced, the first rotating body 52 can be easily rotated about the first caster axis C1 with respect to the first fixed body 51. Therefore, the front wheel 56 can be easily rotated together with the first rotating body 52 with respect to the first fixed body 51 by the force applied to the handle 40, and excellent maneuverability can be exhibited.

As described above, by positioning the handle 40 at the second position facing the pushing position, the second caster 60 functions as a caster positioned forward in the moving direction, and as a result, the baby carriage 10 is provided with walking stability required for a small-aged baby that tends to be placed on the baby carriage 10. On the other hand, when the handle 40 is positioned at the first position, which is the back-pushing position, the first caster 50 functions as a caster positioned at the front in the moving direction, and thus, the maneuverability required for a growing infant who tends to be placed on the stroller 10 is imparted to the stroller 10. That is, depending on the arrangement of the swingable handle 40, the characteristics of the stroller 10 can be changed, and particularly, the characteristics required depending on the position of the handle 40 can be given to the stroller 10.

Further, the main body frame 12 of the illustrated stroller 10 includes: a first link L1 rotatably connected with the front leg 14 and the rear leg 16; a second link L2 rotatably connected to a rear end portion of the first link L1; a third link L3 rotatably connected to the front leg 14; and a fourth link L4 rotatably connected to an intermediate portion of the rear leg 16. The second link L2 is rotatably connected to at least one of the third link L3 and the fourth link L4. The third link L3 is rotatably connected to at least one of the fourth link L4 and the second link L2. Further, the fourth link L4 is rotatably connected to at least one of the second link L2 and the third link L3.

In the stroller 10, the center of gravity of the infant placed on the stroller 10 is closer to the rear legs 16 than the front legs 14 in the front-rear direction. In particular, in the illustrated stroller 10, the connecting position (the position of the shaft member 30) at which the third link L3 is connected to the fourth link L4 and the second link L2 is located rearward of the rear legs 16 in the side view shown in fig. 2 and 3, and in particular, in such a stroller 10, the center of gravity of the infant is likely to be closer to the rear legs 16 than the front legs 14 in the front-rear direction. Therefore, in the illustrated stroller 10, the weight of the infant is mainly supported by the rear legs 16 and the second caster 60 fixed to the lower ends of the rear legs 16. As described above, the second caster 60 has the pair of rear wheels 66 that are separated in the width direction. Therefore, the second caster 60 has a large footprint, high strength, and excellent load resistance. Thus, the illustrated stroller 10 can stably support the weight of an infant.

In general, the position of the center of gravity of an infant placed on the stroller is also determined by the reclining angle, but is located substantially at the rear portion of the seat support body that supports the hip of the infant. In particular, the position of the center of gravity of the infant on the stroller tends to be located in the vicinity of the connection position where the seat support body is connected to the back support body that supports the back of the infant. In the illustrated stroller 10, the base cloth 34 and the frame member 24 for adjusting the base cloth 34 constitute a seat support body for supporting the hip of an infant via the seat member 13. The base cloth 34 and the base frame 31 of the adjustment base cloth 34 constitute a back support body that supports the back of the infant via the seat member 13. Therefore, the center of gravity CG of the infant placed on the illustrated stroller 10 is located at a rear portion of the frame member 24 in the front-rear direction, more precisely, at a rotatable connection position of the base frame 31 and the frame member 24, that is, at the periphery of the shaft member 30, regardless of the position at which the swingable handle 40 is held as shown in fig. 7A and 7B. Therefore, the center of gravity CG of the infant placed on the stroller 10 is closer to the rear legs 16 than the front legs 14 in the front-rear direction. Therefore, the weight of the infant is stably supported via the second caster 60 attached to the rear leg 16 and including the pair of rear wheels 66.

Further, as shown in fig. 7A and 7B, the distance LY in the front-rear direction from the center of gravity CG of the infant to the ground contact position of the rear wheels 66 is shorter than the distance LX in the front-rear direction from the center of gravity CG of the infant to the ground contact position of the front wheels 56. The stability of the stroller 10 against shaking, warping, deformation, tilting (leaning) or the like in the width direction tends to depend on the width direction position of the rear wheel 66.

On the other hand, as shown in fig. 6, of the pair of rear wheels 66 of each second caster 60, the rear wheel 66 located on the outer side in the width direction is located on the outer side in the width direction than the front wheel 56 of the first caster 50 located on the same side (left or right side) in the width direction as the second caster 60. Therefore, the tilt angle θ 2 (see fig. 8A) of the stroller 10 in which the center of gravity CG of the infant is located outward of the rear wheels 66 in the width direction is larger than the tilt angle θ 1 (see fig. 8B) of the stroller 10 in which the center of gravity CG of the infant is located outward of the front wheels 56 in the width direction. Therefore, in the illustrated stroller 10, the second caster 60 including the pair of rear wheels 66 exhibits excellent stability against rolling, warping, deformation, tilting (inclination) or the like in the lateral direction.

In particular, in the illustrated stroller 10, the front legs 14 and the rear legs 16 are located in an area overlapping each other in the width direction, and the front legs 14 and the front wheels 56 of the first caster 50 are also located in an area overlapping each other in the width direction. Further, the front wheel 56 of each first caster 50 is located between the pair of rear wheels 66 of the second caster 60 located on the same side in the width direction as the first caster 50 in the width direction. Therefore, while excellent stability can be ensured against deformation or inclination in the width direction, an excellent appearance can be provided while suppressing an increase in size of the stroller 10.

In particular, in the illustrated stroller 10, as shown in fig. 6, the front wheel 56 of each first caster 50 is positioned at the center of the pair of rear wheels 66 of the second caster 60 on the same side in the width direction as the first caster 50 in the width direction of the straight traveling state. Therefore, the running stability can be further improved, and excellent rectilinear performance can be exhibited.

In the illustrated stroller 10, the first caster axis C1 of each first caster 50 is located at the same position in the width direction as the second caster axis C2 of the second caster 60 located on the same side as the first caster 50 in the width direction. Therefore, the walking stability can be improved, and the steering and walking operability can be improved.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 2, the diameter D1 of the front wheel 56 of the first caster 50 is smaller than the diameter D2 of the rear wheel 66 of the second caster 60. According to the first caster 50, the first rotating body 52 can be more easily rotated about the first caster axis C1 with respect to the first fixed body 51. This can further improve the operability of the stroller 10 when the handle 40 is located at the first position, which is the back-pushing position.

The illustrated stroller 10 can start the folding operation from the unfolded state only in a state where the handle 40 is disposed at the first position. Also, in the folded stroller 10, the first rotating body 52 and the front wheel 56 of the first caster 50 are allowed to rotate relative to the first fixed body 51, and the second rotating body 62 and the rear wheel 66 of the second caster 60 are restricted from rotating relative to the second fixed body 61, as in the stroller 10 in which the handle 40 is in the first position. That is, in the folded state, the front wheel 56 that can rotate about the first caster axis C1 with respect to the first fixed body 51 has a small diameter. According to the stroller 10, as shown in fig. 4, the standing posture of the stroller 10 in the folded state can be effectively stabilized.

As shown in fig. 6, in the stroller 10 in the straight traveling state, that is, in the stroller 10 advancing in the direction parallel to the front-rear direction, the front wheel 56 of each first caster 50 is positioned between the pair of rear wheels 66 of the second caster 60 on the same side in the width direction as the first caster 50. In particular, the widthwise outer end of the front wheel 56 is located further inward in the width direction than the widthwise inner end of the rear wheel 66 located on the widthwise outer side, and the widthwise inner end of the front wheel 56 is located further outward in the width direction than the widthwise outer end of the rear wheel 66 located on the widthwise inner side. In other words, in the stroller 10 in the straight traveling state, the width-directional interval S2 of the pair of rear wheels 66 is larger than the width W1 of the front wheel 56. According to such a stroller 10, the inclination of the stroller 10 in the width direction can be effectively suppressed, and the straight traveling state of the stroller 10 can be effectively stabilized.

In the example shown in fig. 6, the distance S2 between the pair of rear wheels 66 is greater than the width W51 of the first fixed body 51 in the width direction of the stroller 10 in the straight traveling state. Further, in the stroller 10 in the straight traveling state, the interval S2 in the width direction of the pair of rear wheels 66 is larger than the width W53 in the width direction of the first rotor base 53 of the first rotor 52 and larger than the width W54 in the width direction of the first rotor holder 54 of the first rotor 52. According to such an example, the maneuverability when the handle 40 is in the first position (the position of the handle 40 shown in fig. 2) as the back pushing position can be made excellent, and the walking stability when the handle 40 is in the second position (the position of the handle 40 shown in fig. 3) as the facing pushing position can be made more excellent.

In one embodiment described above, the stroller 10 includes: a main body frame 12 having front legs 14 and rear legs 16; a handle 40 connected to the main body frame 12 so as to be swingable between a first position and a second position; a first caster 50 mounted to the front leg 14; and a second caster 60 mounted to the rear leg 16. The first caster 50 has: a first fixed body 51 fixed to the front leg 14; a first rotating body 52 supported by the first fixed body 51 so as to be rotatable about a first caster axis C1; and a single front wheel 56 rotatably supported by the first rotating body 52. The second caster 60 has: a second fixed body 61 fixed to the rear leg 16; a second rotating body 62 supported by the second stationary body 61 so as to be rotatable about a second caster axis C2; and a pair of rear wheels 66 rotatably supported by the second rotating body 62. When the handle 40 is in the second position, the rotation of the first rotating body 52 with respect to the first fixed body 51 is restricted, and when the handle 40 is in the first position, the rotation of the second rotating body 62 with respect to the second fixed body 61 is restricted.

According to this embodiment, by setting the handle 40 to the second position, the second caster 60 functions as a caster positioned forward in the moving direction, and the walking stability of the stroller 10 can be improved. On the other hand, by setting the handle 40 to the first position, the first caster 50 functions as a caster positioned forward in the moving direction, and the maneuverability of the stroller 10 can be improved. That is, the characteristics of the stroller 10 can be changed according to the arrangement of the swingable handle 40.

In the example shown in fig. 6, the width W2 of the rear wheel 66 is narrower than the width W1 of the front wheel 56 in the width direction of the stroller 10 in the straight traveling state. According to such an example, it is possible to maintain the walking stability in the state where the handle 40 is disposed at the second position, maintain the operability in the state where the handle 40 is disposed at the first position, improve the operability in the state where the handle 40 is disposed at the second position, and improve the walking stability in the state where the handle 40 is disposed at the first position.

In the illustrated stroller 10, the front wheel 56 of the first caster 50 overlaps the first fixed body 51 in the width direction. Also, the front wheel 56 of the first caster 50 overlaps the first caster axis C1 in the width direction. As shown in fig. 2, in such a stroller 10, it is confirmed that: by increasing the height H1 of the first opposing surface SS1 of the first rotating body 52 of the first caster 50, the first rotating body 52 can be more easily rotated about the caster axis C1 with respect to the first fixed body 51 in the state where the handle 40 is disposed at the first position. That is, by increasing the height H1 of the first opposing surface SS1, the operability in the state where the handle 40 is disposed at the first position can be further improved.

On the other hand, in the illustrated stroller 10, the rear wheel 66 of the second caster 60 is positioned at a position shifted in the width direction from the second fixed body 61. Therefore, the rear wheel 66 of the second caster 60 is offset in the width direction from the second caster axis C2. As shown in fig. 2, in such a stroller 10, it is confirmed that: by making the height H2 of the second opposing surface SS2 of the second rotating body 62 of the second caster 60 low, it is possible to effectively suppress unwanted rotation of the second fixed body 61 about the caster axis C1 with respect to the second rotating body 62 in the state where the handle 40 is disposed at the second position. That is, by making the height H2 of the second opposing surface SS2 low, the walking stability in the state where the handle 40 is disposed at the second position can be further improved.

In the illustrated example, the height H1 of the first opposing surface SS1 is higher than the height H2 of the second opposing surface S2. The height H1 of the first opposing surface SS1 is equal to or greater than the diameter D1 of the front wheel 56. The height H1 of the first opposing surface SS1 is equal to or greater than the diameter D2 of the rear wheel 66. With this configuration, the operability in the state where the handle 40 is disposed at the first position can be further improved.

Similarly, in the illustrated example, the height H1 of the first opposing surface SS1 is higher than the height H2 of the second opposing surface S2. The height H2 of the second opposing surface SS2 is less than the diameter D1 of the front wheel 56. The height H2 of the second opposing surface SS1 is less than the diameter D2 of the rear wheel 66. With this configuration, the walking stability in the state where the handle 40 is disposed at the second position can be further improved.

The embodiment is described with reference to the specific examples shown in the drawings, but the specific examples shown in the drawings are not intended to limit the embodiment. The above-described embodiment can be implemented in various other specific examples, and various omissions, substitutions, changes, additions, and the like can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, in the above-described specific example, the stroller 10 can start the folding operation from the unfolded state to the folded state only when the handle 40 is disposed at the first position, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the stroller 10 may be able to start the folding operation only when the handle 40 is disposed in the second position, or the stroller 10 may be able to start the folding operation regardless of whether the handle 40 is disposed in the first position or the second position.

Claims

1. A stroller includes:

a main body frame having front and rear legs;

rotation of the first rotating body with respect to the first fixed body is restricted and rotation of the second rotating body with respect to the second fixed body is permitted with the handle in the second position, rotation of the second rotating body with respect to the second fixed body is restricted and rotation of the first rotating body with respect to the first fixed body is permitted with the handle in the first position,

the diameter of the front wheel is smaller than the diameter of the rear wheel.

2. A stroller includes:

a main body frame having front and rear legs;

the width of the rear wheel is narrower than the width of the front wheel.

3. The stroller of claim 1 or 2,

4. The stroller of claim 1 or 2,

5. The stroller of claim 1 or 2,

6. The stroller of claim 1 or 2,

7. The stroller of claim 1 or 2,

8. The stroller of claim 1 or 2,

9. The stroller of claim 1 or 2,

when the handle is in the first position, the first rotating body is rotatable about the first caster axis with respect to the first fixed body, and the second rotating body is not rotatable about the second caster axis with respect to the second fixed body.

10. The stroller of claim 1 or 2,

when the handle is in the second position, the first rotating body cannot rotate about the first caster axis with respect to the first fixed body, and the second rotating body can rotate about the second caster axis with respect to the second fixed body.