GB2532785A

GB2532785A - Pushchair

Info

Publication number: GB2532785A
Application number: GB1421178.3A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Swift Mark; Barry Howarth Stephen; Stuart Kluge Andrew
Original assignee: COSATTO Ltd
Current assignee: COSATTO Ltd
Priority date: 2014-11-28
Filing date: 2014-11-28
Publication date: 2016-06-01
Also published as: GB201421178D0

Abstract

A Pushchair 1 comprising a reversible backrest 11 movable between forward and backward facing configurations and a calf support 9 operable to support the backrest in backward facing configuration. Further independent claim to a pushchair comprising a reversible backrest having a harness (Fig.6) and slits for receiving a removable shoulder strap, where the removable shoulder strap is provided with at least two stops arranged on the strap to stop accidental pull through where at least one stop is foldable to allow removal. Independent claim to a pushchair having a forward and backward facing configuration, the pushchair comprising a frame having a first and second frame member and a canopy (Fig. 9) supported by the frame, where the canopy comprises a first fabric portion, forming a hood, extending between first and second frame members having an upper and lower surface, where the first fabric portion os joined to a second fabric portion having a back cover with a fixed end attached to the upper surface of the first fabric portion by the join and a free end pivotable about the join to fold over hood between forward and rearward facing configurations.

Description

Pushchair

Technical Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to pushchairs, which are also known as strollers, buggies and the like.

Background to the Invention

Pushchairs are available in which the chair can be rearranged such that the occupant (normally a baby or child) can face either forwards (i.e. in the direction of travel), or backwards (i.e. towards the operator (usually a parent or carer) who is pushing the pushchair). The entire chair may be removed and reversed, as shown in GB2389082, or, a pushchair may be provided with a movable backrest, which pivots about its base and is provided with locking means operated by a handle at the top of the backrest, to lock it in different positions, either angled towards the operator, to support an occupier facing forwards, or angled away from the operator to support an occupier facing backwards. It is easier to change the orientation of a backrest alone than to change the orientation of an entire chair, especially whilst holding a baby/child.

Such pushchairs may comprise reversible hoods, arranged to sit above and behind the user in each configuration. One known hood comprises two U-shaped supports, both hingedly attached to the frame of the stroller, such that one smaller U-shaped support which carries a fabric rear-cover may be pulled through the other U-shaped support to rearrange the fabric of the hood which is attached thereto, turning it inside-out in the process.

Summary of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a pushchair comprising a reversible backrest, movable between a forward-facing configuration, and a backward-facing configuration, the pushchair comprising a calf support; wherein, in the backward-facing configuration, the calf support is operable to support the reversible backrest.

Supporting the reversible backrest on a calf support obviates the need for bulky and complicated locking means in the reversible backrest, to hold the reversible backrest in position in the backward facing configuration, reducing the number of parts required and hence cost and weight.

In the forward facing configuration, the reversible backrest may be supported by a main backrest, which may be provided with means for adjusting its angle. The main backrest may operate as a leg-support in the backward facing configuration.

Preferably the calf support is movable between a plurality ofpositions including a first reversible backrest supporting position. Movement of the calf support between different positions can allow for positions suited for supporting the reversible backrest and positions more suitable for supporting the calves of an occupant.

Preferably the plurality of positions include a second reversible backrest supporting position. Having more than one reversible backrest supporting position allows different amounts of incline of the reversible backrest in the backward facing configuration which is desirable to suit different ages/sizes of occupant for different purposes.

Preferably the pushchair includes a seat, from which the calf support extends, the seat and the calf support each having an occupant supporting surface, wherein, in the first reversible backrest supporting position, the occupant supporting surface of the calf support is at an angle in the order of about 90 degrees to the occupant supporting surface of the seat. The angle may be from 45 degrees to 135 degrees, more preferably 75 degrees to 115 degrees, most preferably 85 degrees to 95 degrees. This can provide a fairly steep angle of inclination of the reversible backrest supported by the calf support.

Preferably in the second reversible backrest supporting position, the occupant supporting surface of the calf support is at an angle in the order of about 135 degrees to the occupant supporting surface of the seat. The angle may be from 105 degrees to 165 degrees, preferably 120 degrees to 150 degrees and more preferably from 130 degrees to 140 degrees. This can provide a more laid back angle of inclination of the reversible backrest supported by the calf support.

Preferably the plurality of positions further comprise a first calf supporting position, in which the calf support extends substantially in-line with the plane of the seat. The calf support may be within 20 degrees of being exactly in line with the plane of the seat, more preferably within 10 degrees of being exactly in line with the plane of the seat and most preferably within 5 degrees of exactly in line with the plane of the seat. This first calf supporting position may also be a third backrest supporting position and may support either the calves in the forward-facing configuration, or the backrest in the backward-facing configuration. In either case, the calves/backrest will be substantially in line with the plane of the seat.

Preferably the plurality of positions include a second calf supporting position, in which the occupant supporting surface of the calf support is at an angle in the order of about 225 degrees to the occupant supporting surface of the seat. The angle may be from degrees to 255 degrees, preferably 210 to 240 degrees and most preferably from 220 degrees to 230 degrees. This second calf-supporting position is more suitable for occupants sized such that their knees bend at the same point as the seat meets the calf support.

Preferably the plurality of positions include a third calf supporting position, in which the occupant supporting surface of the calf support is at an angle in the order of about 270 degrees to the occupant supporting surface of the seat. The angle may be from 225 to 315 degrees, preferably from 245 to 295 degrees and most preferably from 260 to 280 degrees, this provides a calf support which is substantially angled downward, more suited to a larger occupant, such that the occupant's legs may dangle, or the feet may rest on a foot rest beneath.

Preferably the calf support is mounted to the seat by means of a push-button hinge, lockable in a plurality of positions. A push button hinge, such as a mulitpositional, e.g. 4-positional, 5 positional, or 6-positional push button knuckle hinge is particularly suitable for achieving the plurality of positions mentioned above and easily locking and unlocking the calf support (with the push button) to move between positions.

Preferably the reversible backrest is pivotally attached to the seat so as to pivot freely. As discussed above, a freely pivoting backrest is less bulky and lighter than one with a mechanism for locking therein, and a locking mechanism is not required when support is provided by the calf-support.

Preferably a plurality of pivot points are provided.

Preferably the reversible backrest is pivotally attached to the seat by means of a fabric hinge. This means of providing a freely pivoting structure can be achieved simply by sewing the reversible backrest to the seat/main backrest so it adds very little weight or complexity. Preferably the fabric hinge comprises a plurality of pivot points provided by a plurality of seams.

Preferably an occupant supporting surface of the seat and one side of the reversible backrest are formed from a first fabric portion and preferably an occupant supporting surface of the main backrest and the other side of the reversible backrest are formed from a second fabric portion. Preferably the two fabric portions are sewn together to form the fabric hinge. Preferably the first fabric portion and the second fabric portion have different patterns to each other. This construction allows for a different appearance of the pushchair n the different configurations.

Preferably the pushchair comprises fastening means for fastening the reversible backrest to the calf support in the backward facing configuration. Fastening means are useful for keeping the reversible backrest in position and fastening means comprising hook and loop fasteners, and/or clips are particularly suitable.

Preferably the reversible backrest is formed of a fabric surrounding an internal stiffener. Preferably the internal stiffener is a lightweight board.

Preferably the pushchair comprises a harness and the reversible backrest comprises slits for receiving a removable shoulder strap wherein the shoulder strap is provided with a plurality of stops, arranged on the strap to stop it from being pulled through the slit accidentally, at least one of which is foldable, to allow the shoulder strap to be removed.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a pushchair having a reversible backrest comprising a harness; the reversible backrest comprising slits for receiving a removable shoulder strap wherein the shoulder strap is provided with at least two stops, arranged on the strap to stop it from being pulled through the slit accidentally, wherein at least one of the stops is foldable, to allow the shoulder strap to be removed.

The provision of a single shoulder strap which extends through a slit to co-operate with harnesses on both sides of a reversible backrest and is removable therefrom, allows for the strap to be easily removed for washing, or moving to a different slit in the backrest (preferably the backrest has a plurality of slits at different heights in the reversible backrest), whilst the provision of stops prevents such a shoulder strap (which is not permanently attached to the reversible backrest) from becoming detached accidentally. The foldable nature of the stops allows for simple removal and replacement.

Preferably the at least two stops are both foldable. This allows the reversible shoulder strap to be pulled out of the reversible backrest from either side.

Preferably the foldable stops are formed from loops of the material of the strap.

This novel construction is simple, lightweight and cheap.

Preferably each foldable stop is formed of three loops of the material of the strap, one loop on one side of the plane of the strap and two loops on the opposite side. This means that the portion of the stop to one side of the plane of the strap (having two loops) is thicker than the portion of the stop on the other side of the plane of the strap.

Accordingly, whilst the side with one stop can fit through the slit more easily, accidental removal is reduced because the other side is more difficult to pull through the slit initially.

Preferably a stiffener is provided in the loops. This helps the loops keep their shape and provide stop surfaces at right angles to the plane of the strap.

Preferably the removable shoulder strap comprises a clip at each end and a pair of adjustable buckles inwardly of the clips, and the stops are provided inwardly of the

adjustable buckles.

Preferably the pushchair comprises a fabric canopy supported by a frame; the frame having a first frame member and a second frame member, the fabric canopy having a first fabric portion extending between the first frame member and the second frame member forming a hood having an upper surface and a lower surface, the fabric canopy further comprising a second fabric portion comprising a back cover, the second fabric portion having a fixed end attached to the upper surface of the first fabric portion by a join, and a free end; wherein the second fabric portion is pivotable about the join, such that it can be folded over the hood, between a forward facing configuration and a backward facing configuration.

According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a pushchair having a forward-facing configuration and a backward-facing configuration, the pushchair comprising a fabric canopy supported by a frame; the frame having a first frame member and a second frame member, the fabric canopy having a first fabric portion extending between the first frame member and the second frame member forming a hood having an upper surface and a lower surface, the fabric canopy further comprising a second fabric portion comprising a back cover, the second fabric portion having a fixed end attached to the upper surface of the first fabric portion by a join, and a free end; wherein the second fabric portion is pivotable about the join, such that it can be folded over the hood, between a forward facing configuration and a backward facing configuration.

This configuration of reversible canopy, in which the position of the frame members relative to one another does not change, and in which it is not necessary for one frame member to be smaller than the other to be pulled through it, allows for a stronger more stable frame and greater scope for forming the frame members to the most desirable shapes from the point of view of function without the constraint of reversibility. The folding over of the second canopy is a more natural technique for reversing the configuration of the hood and the fact that the inside, lower surface, of the fixed hood remains facing inside and the outside remains facing outside reduces the chances of dirt, rain or other detritus on the outside of the canopy in one configuration from falling into the pushchair in the reversing process.

Preferably the second fabric portion is fixed to the first fabric portion midway between the first frame member and the second frame member. A position midway between the two frame members, i.e. in the region roughly half way between the two frame members when extended, allows for the reversible hood portion of the second fabric portion which sits on the fixed hood, to conform to the shape of the part of the fixed hood regardless of whether it is in one position or the other.

Preferably the first fabric portion comprises two fabric panels joined to each other 20 midway between the first frame member and the second frame member. And preferably the two fabric panels have different patterns thereon. This can allow for a different visual appearance of surface of the canopy of the pushchair depending on the configuration.

Preferably a flip-out visor is provided on one or both sides of the first fabric portion forming the hood, arranged to fold out from the lower surface of the hood.

Particularly where the first fabric portion is symmetrical with the second fabric positioned midway between the frame members, and especially when the first fabric portion comprises two fabric panels which preferably have the same shape, a flip-out visor is very useful in providing a suitable shape for the hood in either configuration, without impacting on the symmetry about the midway point of the hood which is preferred in order for the second fabric portion to fit snugly and neatly in both configurations.

More preferably still, the pattern on a first fabric panel matches a pattern on a first surface of the reversible cover, and the pattern on the second fabric panel matches the pattern on a second, opposite, surface of the reversible cover, whereby in the forward facing configuration, the pattern on the outer surface of the canopy is formed by the first fabric panel and the first surface of the reversible cover, and in the backward facing configuration, the pattern on the outer surface of the canopy is formed by the second surface of the reversible cover and the second fabric panel.

Preferably the two frame members supporting the fabric canopy are mounted for simultaneous rotation between a first orientation in the forward configuration and a second orientation in the backward configuration. The two frame members may be 20 mounted to rotate by about 20 degrees, for example, between 10 and 30 degrees.

Detailed Description of the Invention

In order that the invention may be more clearly understood an embodiment/embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which: Figure 1 shows a simplified schemat c side view of a pushchair according to the invention, without the canopy or a side wall, and in a forward facing configuration; Figure 2 shows an isometric exploded view of a push-button knuckle hinge which connects the seat to the calf rest in the pushchair of figure 1; Figure 3 shows a schematic side view of the pushchair of figure 1 in a backward facing configuration; Figure 4 shows a schematic side view of the pushchair of figure 1 in another backward facing configuration; Figure 5 shows a schematic side view of the pushchair of figure 1 in yet another backward facing configuration; Figure 6a shows a view from the front of a harness attached to the seat and reversible backrest of the pushchair of figure 1; Figure 6b shows a plan view of the shoulder strap of the harness of figure 6a; Figure 6c shows a side view of the shoulder strap of figure 6b; Figure 7 shows a cross section through the reversible backrest of figure 6a showing the shoulder strap; Figure 8 shows a perspective view of the pushchair of figure 1 including the fabric side wall and canopy in a forward facing configuration; Figure 9 shows a perspective view of the pushchair of figure 8 in the forward facing configuration, with the canopy partially undone; Figure 10 shows a perspective view of the pushchair of figure 9 with the canopy moving between the forward facing and the backward facing configurations; Figure 11 shows a perspective view of the pushchair of figure 10 further towards the backward facing configuration; Figure 12 shows a perspective view of the pushchair of figure 11 further towards the backward facing configuration; Figure 13 shows a perspective view of the pushchair of figure 12 in the backward facing configuration; Figure 14 shows a perspective view of the pushchair of figures 8-13 with the fabric canopy removed, exposing the canopy-frame; Figure 15 shows a perspective view of the pushchair of figure 14 with a first portion of the fabric canopy fixed to the canopy frame; Figure 16 shows a perspective view of the pushchair of figure 15 with a second portion of the fabric canopy about to be fixed to the first portion of the fabric canopy; Figure 17 shows an isometric view of the sliding mount which slidably mounts the canopy for rotation with respect to the side frame of the pushchair of figures 8 to 16; and Figure 18 shows schematically a cross section through the main backrest, reversible backrest and seat of figure 1.

With reference to figure 1, a pushchair 1 (in this case an "umbrella fold pushchair") comprises wheels 2; height adjustable handles 3; and a collapsible frame formed from generally triangular opposite side frames 4 connected by "breakable" cross members 5 to allow the pushchair 1 to collapse.

The pushchair 1 is shown in figurel in the forward-facing configuration, in which an occupant 6 is facing forwards (i.e. in the same direction as the direction of travel when the pushchair is pushed from behind). The pushchair 1 is provided with a chair, which i s made up of a seat 7, on which, in the forward facing configuration, an occupant sits, manufactured for example from polyester attached to two lateral support tupes of e.g. aluminium and a main backrest 8, against which, in the forward facing configuration, an occupant rests his/her back, formed for example from polyester, held between aluminium support tubes and with known stiffeners and cushioning therein, and which is movable by conventional means, such as a cable operated ratchet mechanism (not shown) between different positions to provide different degrees of incline, from a position indicated A at which it is generally upright and almost perpendicular to the seat 7, to a position indicated D, at which it is generally flat and almost in line with the seat 7, via positions B and C in between.

The pushchair 1 is also provided with an adjustable calf support 9, which supports the calves of an occupant in the forward facing sitting position and once again may be formed of a fabric, e.g. polyester attached to lateral metal tubes of e.g. aluminium, which is also operable to move between different positions as set out below. In figure 1, the occupant supporting (upper) surface of the calf support 9 is at an angle in the order of about 225 degrees to the occupant supporting (upper) surface of the seat 7, to support the calves of a relatively young occupant who is only just big enough to sit upright. For a larger child, the calf support 9 may adopt a position in which the occupant supporting surface of the calf support 9 is at an angle in the order of about 270 degrees to the occupant supporting surface of the seat 7, allowing the lower half of the legs to dangle, or the feet to be placed on the footrest 10. When the fully reclined position D of the main backrest 8 is adopted, the calf support 9 may be raised to a position in which it is in line with the plane of the seat 7, to form a substantially planar occupant supporting surface.

In addition to the main backrest 8, a reversible backrest 11 is also provided. The reversible backrest 11 is formed similarly to the main backrest 8, from fabric (e.g. polyester) surrounding an inner stiffener (not shown), but whereas the position of the main backrest is only movable between the positions defined by the cable operated ratchet mechanism (not shown), the reversible backrest 11 is not attached to any such mechanism. The reversible backrest 11 is instead joined to the chair in the region where the main backrest 8 and the seat 7 meet, by sewing along that seam. The reversible backrest is hence freely pivotable about a fabric hinge 12 formed by the sewing operation. As shown in figure 1, in the forward facing configuration, regardless of the angle of inclination, the reversible backrest 11 sits in front of the main backrest 8. The reversible backrest is provided with a flap 13 at the opposite end to the fabric hinge 12, which folds over the top of the main backrest 8 and is fastened to its rear side by means of hook and loop fasteners and clips (not shown), to keep it in the forward facing configuration.

Figure 18 shows the construction of the reversible backrest 11 in more detail. As can be seen, a first fabric portion 59 forms the occupant supporting surface of the seat 7 and the reversible backrest 11 in the forward facing configuration and a second fabric portion 60 forms the occupant supporting surface of the main backrest 8 and the reversible backrest 11 in the backward facing configuration. The first fabric portion and the second fabric portion have different patterns on their respective occupant supporting surfaces, such that one pattern is visible on the surface in one configuration and a different pattern is visible in the other configuration. The inner stiffener 61 referred to above is sandwiched between the two fabric portions 59, 60 which form the two opposite sides of the reversible backrest 11. The two fabric portions 59, 60 are sewn together at the top by a top seam 62, and the flap 13 (also formed from the two fabric portions 59, 60) extends therefrom. Beneath the inner stiffener 61 another join 62 is provided by sewing the first fabric portion 59 to the second fabric portion 60, such that the reversible backrest can pivot about the join. Additionally, the first fabric portion 59 extends downward from the join 62 between it and the second fabric portion to a further join 63 where it is sewn to a lower fabric surface 64 of the main backrest. In that way, the fabric hinge 12 of this embodiment has two offset pivot points, the joins 62, 63, which can affect the angle of the reversible backrest 11 with respect to the seat 7 and main backrest As mentioned above, the calf support 9 may adopt several different positions, including a first calf supporting position, in which the calf support 9 extends substantially in-line with the plane of the seat 7, a second calf supporting position, in which the occupant supporting surface of the calf support 9 is at an angle in the order of about 225 degrees to the occupant supporting surface of the seat 7 and a third calf supporting position, in which the occupant supporting surface of the calf support 9 is at an angle in the order of about 270 degrees to the occupant supporting surface of the seat 7.

The calf support 9 of this embodiment of the invention is provided by a plurality of metal tubes (not shown) with fabric stretched between them to support the calves. The metal tubes forming the calf support 9 extend away from metal tubes forming the frame of the seat 7 (which also have fabric stretched between them to provide the supporting surface of the seat 7) and are connected thereto by a push button knuckle hinge 23. The knuckle hinge is shown in more detail in figure 2, and each metal tube forming the seat frame (not shown) is inserted into a seat frame moulding 14 of the knuckle hinge 23, which may be die-cast from aluminium and comprises a seat tube receiving portion 15 and a cog receiving portion 16. The cog receiving portion 16 is shaped to receive a cog 17, which has teeth 18 which fit into corresponding grooves 19 in the cog receiving portion 16. The cog 17 is resiliently biased away from the cog receiving portion 16 by a helical spring (not shown), such that in the rest position, a portion of each tooth 18 is within the groves 19 in the cog receiving portion (fixing its relative rotational position in relation to the cog receiving portion) and a portion of each tooth 18 extends out of the cog receiving portion 16 of the seat frame moulding 14. Each metal tube forming the calf support 9 is inserted into a calf support moulding 20, which again may (for example) be die cast from aluminium and has a calf support tube receiving portion 21 and a cog receiving portion 22. The cog receiving portion 22 of the calf support moulding 20 also has grooves 24 therein, which mate with the teeth 18 of the cog 17 to hold it in position relative to the seat tube receiving portion. However, the depth of the grooves 24 into the moulding 20 are less than the depth of the grooves 19 in the seat frame moulding 14 and therefore, the cog 17 when pushed inwardly by a push button 25 (formed e.g. of Polyamide) against the resilient bias can fit entirely into the calf support moulding 20 to rotate relative to the seat frame moulding 14, to adjust the relative position of the calf support 9 and the seat 7. The resilient bias returns the teeth 18 of the cog 17 into engagement with the grooves 24 in the calf support tube receiving portion 21 when the push button 2 is released, to hold the relative positions of the calf support 9 and the seat 7. The number of available positions may be determined by the number of teeth 19 on the cog 18 and corresponding grooves 19, 24.

Figure 3 shows the pushchair 1 in a backward-facing configuration, in which the calf support 9 is supporting the reversible backrest 11 in an inclined position. In this configuration, the calf support 9 is in a first reversible backrest supporting position, and the occupant supporting surface of the calf support 9 is at an angle in the order of about 90 degrees to the occupant supporting surface of the seat 7 and the reversible backrest 11 has been rotated forward about the fabric hinge 12, such that the surface which previously supported the occupant now rests on the tip of the calf support 9 and the opposite surface now supports the occupant who faces backward, towards an operator. In this configuration, the reversible backrest 11 acts as a backrest, whereas the main backrest 8 supports the legs of the user. In this configuration, the main backrest 8 is in the almost fully reclined position C, such that the occupant is cradled by the incline of the main backrest and the reversible backrest 11. The flap 13 of the reversible backrest 11 is folded round the calf support 9 to attach to a hook and loop fastener and a clip (not shown) on the underside of the calf support 9 and hold the reversible backrest 11 in position relative to it.

As shown in figure 4, by manipulating the knuckle hinge 23, a second reversible backrest 11 supporting position may be adopted, in which, the occupant supporting surface of the calf support 9 is at an angle in the order of about 135 degrees to the occupant supporting surface of the seat 7 and hence the tip of the calf support 9 is positioned lower and the reversible backrest II which rests thereon adopts a more acute angle with respect to the seat 7 and forms a flatter surface. As shown in figure 5, with the calf support 9 extending generally in line with the seat 7, the reversible backrest 11 may be laid flat on the seat 7 to provide a flat surface for supporting the occupant 6. The main backrest in figure 5 is shown in the almost flat position C, so the occupant's legs are raised, but in the fully reclined positon D, a virtually flat backward facing configuration can be obtained.

In use, the incline of the main backrest 8 is selected by conventional means (e a cable operated ratchet mechanism and similarly the calf support position may be selected by use of a push button mechanism, which is not unlike known mechanisms for adjusting the calf support position. However, unlike in the prior art where a separate mechanism is required to control the incline of the reversible backrest adding to the weight and complexity of this moving part, the position of the reversible backrest is freely movable, once the flap 13 is detached from the main backrest 8 or calf support 9. The additional positions to which the calf support 9 may be moved are easily incorporated into the knuckle hinge 23 allowing for an intuitive movement of the calf support into the positions set out above to provide different inclined positions in the backward facing configuration.

Referring to figures 6a to 6c, in order that the occupant 6 may be strapped into the pushchair 1 in both the forward and the backward facing configurations, a harness 26 is provided. The harness comprises two identical conventional waistband straps 27 and crutch straps 28, one for each configuration, such that one crutch strap 28 is attached to the seat 7, and the other is attached to the main backrest 8 and one waistband strap 27 is attached to one side of the reversible backrest 11, and the other waistband strap 27 is attached to the other side of the reversible backrest 11 The straps may all be of polyethylene. The crutch straps 28 are each connected to a respective buckle 29 via a lug 30. The buckle 29 has a push button 31 to release waist band clips 32, which clip into the buckle 29 to close the waistband strap 27. Each waistband clip 32 is provided with a waistband lug 33 to which the waistband 27 is attached and a further aperture 34 for engagement with a clip 35 of a shoulder strap 36.

On the other hand, the shoulder straps 36 are common to both sides of the reversible backrest 11 and are removable therefrom. As shown in figure 7, each shoulder strap 36 extends through a slit 37 in the reversible backrest 11 and is provided with a clip 35 at each end, to clip in to the waistband clip 32 on a respective side of the reversible backrest 11. Each shoulder strap 36 is provided with means for tightening/loosening each side of the shoulder strap 36, in the form of adjustable buckles 38 located between the two ends of the shoulder strap 36. Located centrally along the shoulder straps (inwardly of the adjustable buckles), and either side of the slit 37 in use, are a pair of foldable stops 39. The slits 37 have width which is substantially larger than their height (e.g. they may be 40mm wide but only 1mm high -although since they are made in the fabric of the reversible backrest, they may be pulled open beyond 1mm, hence the shoulder straps may be about 30mm wide and about 2mm wide, but in view of the flexibility of the fabric, they can fit through the slits easily.

The foldable stops 39 are formed from the fabric of the shoulder strap 36, by gathering the fabric of the strap 39 so as to form a pair of loops 40 extending to either side of the plane of the strap 39 and fixing the loops (e.g. by sewing). In this embodiment, each stop 39 comprises two loops 40 provided to one side of the plane of the strap 36 and one loop 40 is provided on the other side ofthe plane of the strap 36. In this way, the stop 39 is thicker on one side of the plane of the strap 40 (where there are two loops 40) than on the other side, where there is one loop 40. The two opposing sides of each loop 40 may be sewn together to flatten the loops 40 and stiffeners (not shown) may be sewn into the loops 40 to help them hold their shape. Again, owing to the flexibility of the fabric of the straps 36, the foldable nature of the foldable stops 39 is achieved, as each loop 40 may be folded flat against the plane of the strap 36 in order to thread the loops 40 through the slits 37 in the reversible backrest to insert and remove the straps 36.

In use, each strap 36 is inserted into a respective slit 37 in the reversible backrest 11, by pulling one clip through the slit 37 and pulling the strap, including one of the adjustable buckles 38 through the slit. Once one foldable stop 39 is reached, it is folded down against the plane of the strap, such that the (thinner) side having one loop 40 thereon faces in the direction of pulling and the strap 36 is pulled through the slit 37 until the motion is stopped by the stop 39 on the other side (which has not been folded down). The foldable stop 39 that has been pulled through the slit 37 is then released and takes up its natural shape, in which the loops 40 extend outward away from the plane of the strap 36. Accordingly, a stop 39 is provided on each side of the reversible backrest 11, so the shoulder strap 36 is prevented from being pulled out of the reversible backrest 11 in either orientation, but is not permanently attached to the reversible backrest 11 and can be removed entirely for cleaning, or where a plurality of slits 37 are provided at different heights in the reversible backrest (to accommodate different sizes of occupant), the shoulder strap can be removed (by folding down the foldable stop 39 and pulling it out) and re-inserted through a different slit 37.

Figures 8 to 13 show the pushchair 1 in more detail, but notably show fabric side walls 41 omitted from figures 1-5 which obscures the view of the reversible backrest 11. As can be seen in figures 8-13, in order to provide shelter/shade in both the forward facing and the backward facing configurations, the pushchair 1 is provided with a reversible canopy 42, which may be formed, like the other fabric surfaces from polyester. The reversible canopy 42 s carr ed by a canopy-frame 43 comprising a first U-shaped frame member 44 and a second U-shaped frame member 45 shown in figure 14, each of which may be made, for example, from polyvinylchloride. The canopy-frame 43 is removably attached between the side frames 4, by means of a sliding mount 46 shown in greater detail in figure 17. The sliding mount 46 allows for rotation of the U-shaped frame members and comprises a knuckle joint 47 similar to that used to adjust the position of the calf support 9 relative to the seat 7, which will not be described in greater detail, but may be made, for example from polyamide, with an internal ratchet of polyoxymethylene, and allows for rotational movement of the second frame member 45 away from the first member 44, to deploy the canopy 42 and towards the first frame member 44 to retract the canopy 42. Additionally, the knuckle joint 47 allows for both frame members 44, 45 to be rotated simultaneously to adjust their position relative to the side frame 4.

Returning to the construction of the canopy 42, as shown in figure 15, a first, fixed fabric portion 48 extends between the first frame member 44 and the second frame member 45 forming a hood having an upper surface and a lower surface. The first fixed fabric portion is formed of two panels, a front hood panel 49 and a rear hood panel 50, joined together by a seam 51 midway between the first frame member 44 and the second frame member 45. The fixed fabric portion 48 may be joined to the frame 43 by sewing it into channels at the front of the front panel 49 and the rear of the rear panel 50. The two panels 49, 50 are the same shape, such that the fixed fabric portion is symmetrical about the seam 51.

In order to provide different visual patterns (including different colours) on the canopy depending on whether it is in the forward facing configuration or the backward facing configuration, a first pattern is provided on the upper surface of the front panel 49 and a second, different, pattern is provided on the rear panel 50.

Shown only in figure 15 and omitted from the other figures is a flip-out hood 65. The flip out hood 65 is sewn into the front of the front hood panel 49, so as to be able to fold out from (the position it is show in) under the front hood panel 49 to provide additional shade A similar flip-out hood (not shown) is provided on the lower surface of the rear hood panel 50. Both may be provided by suitably shaped (e.g. crescent shaped or semicircular) fabric portions with a resilient (e.g. spring-steel) stiffener to hold them in either the flipped-out or folded away position.

As shown separately in figure 16, the fabric canopy 42 further comprises a second, reversible, fabric portion 52 forming a back cover, the second fabric portion 52 has a fixed end 53, which is attached to the upper surface of the first fabric portion 48 by a join. The join is formed by sewing the fixed end 53 of the second, reversible, fabric portion 52 to the seam 51. The other end of the reversible fabric portion is free, so that the second fabric portion 52 is pivotable about the join, and can be folded over the hood 48, between a forward facing configuration and a rearward facing configuration.

The second fabric portion 52 is also formed of a plurality of fabric panels and comprises a first reversible hood-panel 54, which is the same shape as the two fixed hood panels 49, 50 and lies on top of them in use, and a second, back cover portion 55 which provides cover behind the occupant of the pushchair 1, whether it is in the forward facing configuration as illustrated in figure 8, or the backward facing configuration as illustrated in figure 13.

The back cover portion 55 is fixed to the reversible hood panel 54 in the region around the top of the reversible hood panel, but separate from the back cover portion 55 towards its edges.

The reversible hood panel 54 has two opposing surfaces; a first surface 56, which is the outside surface in the forward facing configuration shown in figure 8 and a second surface 57 which is the outside surface in the backward facing configuration shown in figure 13. The pattern on the first surface 56, which is the outside surface in the forward facing configuration matches the pattern on the upper surface of the front hood panel 49, whereas the pattern on the second surface 57 matches the pattern on the upper surface of the rear hood panel 50.

The process of moving between the forward facing configuration and the backward facing configuration can be seen from figures 8-13. In figure 8, the forward facing configuration is shown, in which the first surface 56 of the reversible hood panel 54 and the outer surface of the front hood panel 49 form the outer surface of the canopy 42. The back cover portion 55 is attached to the main backrest 8 e.g. by a hook and loop fastener (not shown) and the edges of the back cover portion 55, are fastened to the edges of the reversible hood panel 54 in the region of the leg tubes of the triangular side frame 4, which extend between the handles 3 and the front wheels 2, so as to provide shelter behind the main backrest 8, to the side of the backrest, above the side walls 41 as well as beneath the hood.

To change to a backward facing configuration, the fastener attaching the back cover portion to the main backrest is unfastened, as is the hook and loop fastener 58 connecting the edges of the back cover portion 55, are to the edges of the reversible hood panel 54 in the region of the leg tubes of the triangular side frame 4, as shown in figure 9. The back cover portion 55 is then lifted backwards and upwards, from its free end.

This upward lifting motion is continued as shown in figure 10 until the upward motion is restrained by the lifting of the reversible hood panel 54. Then, as shown in figure 11, the back cover portion 55 is pulled forward, so as to reveal the second surface 57 of the back cover 55 and to cover the fixed front hood panel 49 with the reversible hood panel 54, revealing the upper surface of the fixed rear hood panel 50.

As shown in figure 11, the back cover 55 is pulled further forward still, to completely cover the front fixed hood panel 49, unveil the rear fixed hood panel 50 and completely expose the second surface 57 of the reversible hood panel 54, which matches the pattern of the rear fixed hood panel 50.

Finally, as shown in figure 13, the back cover 55 is pulled down completely, so that the reversible hood panel 54 fits snugly over the fixed front hood panel 50, with the back cover 55 extending downward from the front end of the fixed front hood panel 50. It can also be seen from figure 13 that in this backward facing configuration, the canopy frame 43 has been rotated slightly forward about the knuckle joint 47, such that the rear, first frame member 44 has moved away from the handles, behind which an operator will walk, in order to provide a better view of the occupant.

The above embodiment is described by way of example only. Many variations are possible without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A pushchair comprising a reversible backrest, movable between a forward-facing configuration, and a backward-facing configuration, the pushchair comprising a calf support; wherein, in the backward-facing configuration, the calf support is operable to support the reversible backrest.
A pushchair according to claim 1 wherein the calf support is movable between a plurality of positions including a first reversible backrest supporting position.
3. A pushchair according to claim 2 wherein the plurality of positions include a second reversible backrest supporting position.
4. A pushchair according to claim 2 or 3 comprising a seat, from which the calf support extends, the seat and the calf support each having an occupant supporting surface, wherein, in the first reversible backrest supporting position, the occupant supporting surface of the calf support is at an angle in the order of about 90 degrees to the occupant supporting surface of the seat.
5. A pushchair according to claim 3 or 4 comprising a seat from which the calf support extends, the seat and the calf support each having an occupant supporting surface, wherein in the second reversible backrest supporting position, the occupant supporting surface of the calf support is at an angle in the order of about 135 degrees to the occupant supporting surface of the seat.
A pushchair according to any of claims 2 to 5 comprising a seat from which the calf support extends, wherein the plurality of positions include a first calf supporting position, in which the calf support extends substantially in-line with the plane of the seat.
A pushchair according to claim 6, in which the seat and the calf support each have an occupant supporting surface, wherein the plurality of positions include a second calf supporting position, in which the occupant supporting surface of the calf support is at an angle in the order of about 225 degrees to the occupant supporting surface of the seat.
8. A pushchair according to claim 7 wherein the plurality of positions include a third calf supporting position, in which the occupant supporting surface of the calf support is at an angle in the order of about 270 degrees to the occupant supporting surface of the seat.
A pushchair according to any of claims 2 to 8 comprising a seat, wherein the calf support is mounted to the seat by means of a push-button hinge, lockable in a plurality of positions.
10. A pushchair according to any of the preceding claims comprising a seat, wherein the reversible backrest is pivotally attached to the seat so as to to pivot freely.
H. A pushchair according to claim 10 wherein the reversible backrest is pivotally attached to the seat by means of a fabric hinge.
12. A pushchair according to any of the preceding claims further comprising fastening means for fastening the reversible backrest to the calf support in the backward facing configuration.
13. A pushchair according to claim 12 wherein the fastening means comprise hook and loop fasteners, and/or clips.
14. A pushchair according to any of the preceding claims wherein the reversible backrest is formed of a fabric surrounding an internal stiffener.
15. A pushchair according to any of claims 1 to 14 comprising a harness and in which the reversible backrest comprises slits for receiving a removable shoulder strap wherein the shoulder strap is provided with a plurality of stops, arranged on the strap to stop it from being pulled through the slit accidentally, wherein at least one of the stops is foldable, to allow the shoulder strap to be removed.
16. A pushchair having a reversible backrest comprising a harness; the reversible backrest comprising slits for receiving a removable shoulder strap wherein the shoulder strap is provided with at least two stops, arranged on the strap to stop it from being pulled through the slit accidentally, wherein at least one of the stops is foldable, to allow the shoulder strap to be removed.
17. A pushchair according to either claim 15 or 16 wherein the at least two stops are both foldable.
18. A pushchair according to any of claims 15 to 17 wherein the foldable stops are formed from loops of the material of the strap.
19. A pushchair according to claim 18 wherein each foldable stop is formed of three loops of the material of the strap, one loop on one side of the plane of the strap and two loops on the opposite side.
20. A pushchair according to claim 18 or 19 wherein a stiffener s provided in the loops.
21. A pushchair according to any of claims 15 to 20 wherein the removable shoulder strap comprises a clip at each end, a pair of adjustable buckles inwardly of the clips and wherein the stops are provided inwardly of theadjustable buckles.
22. A pushchair according to any of the preceding claims comprising a fabric canopy supported by a frame; the frame having a first frame member and a second frame member, the fabric canopy having a first fabric portion extending between the first frame member and the second frame member forming a hood having an upper surface and a lower surface, the fabric canopy further comprising a second fabric portion comprising a back cover, the second fabric portion having a fixed end attached to the upper surface of the first fabric portion by a join, and a free end; wherein the second fabric portion is pivotable about the join, such that it can be folded over the hood, between a forward facing configuration and a backward facing configuration.
23. A pushchair having a forward-facing configuration and a backward-facing configuration, the pushchair comprising a fabric canopy supported by a frame; the frame having a first frame member and a second frame member, the fabric canopy having a first fabric portion extending between the first frame member and the second frame member forming a hood having an upper surface and a lower surface, the fabric canopy further comprising a second fabric portion comprising a back cover, the second fabric portion having a fixed end attached to the upper surface of the first fabric portion by a join, and a free end; wherein the second fabric portion is pivotable about the join, such that it can be folded over the hood, between a forward facing configuration and a backward facing configuration.
24. A pushchair according to claim 22 or 23 wherein the second fabric portion is fixed to the first fabric portion midway between the first frame member and the second frame member.
25. A pushchair according to any of claims 22 to 24 wherein the first fabric portion comprises two fabric panels having joined to each other midway between the first frame member and the second frame member.
26. A pushchair according to claim 25 wherein the two fabric panels have different patterns thereon.
27. A pushchair according to claim 26 wherein the pattern on a first fabric panel matches a pattern on a first surface of the reversible cover, and the pattern on the second fabric panel matches the pattern on a second, opposite, surface of the reversible cover, whereby in the forward facing configuration, the pattern on the outer surface of the canopy is formed by the first fabric panel and the first surface of the reversible cover, and in the backward facing configuration, the pattern on the outer surface of the canopy is formed by the second surface of the reversible cover and the second fabric panel.
28. A pushchair according to any of claims 22 to 27 wherein the two frame members supporting the fabric canopy are mounted for simultaneous rotation between a first orientation in the forward configuration and a second orientation in the backward configuration.
29. A pushchair substantially as described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings