US20080185029A1

US20080185029A1 - Fold-up canopy for a people carrier, such as a perambulator or stroller

Info

Publication number: US20080185029A1
Application number: US11/942,679
Authority: US
Inventors: Jon Lake; Diederik Augustijn
Original assignee: iLinko Ltd
Current assignee: iLinko Ltd
Priority date: 2006-11-17
Filing date: 2007-11-19
Publication date: 2008-08-07
Also published as: EP1923293A1; DE202006017674U1; CN101279610A

Abstract

A canopy top for a person carrying device includes first and second canopy top elements that are moveable relative to each other around a shared rotational axis. The first and second canopy top elements may each comprise a front edge border defined by a front canopy top bracket and a rear edge border defined by a rear canopy top bracket, both of which are connected at the rotational axis with a main canopy top surface. The main canopy top surface is present or tensioned between the front and rear edge borders and comprises, at least in sections, a lower radial distance to the rotational axis than the maximum radial distance of the front edge border of the second canopy top element, so that the second canopy top element can be pushed into and overlap the first canopy top element through the rear edge border of the first canopy top element.

Description

BACKGROUND

A number of people carriers are known in the prior art, in particular in the form of perambulators or strollers.
Furthermore, canopy tops for perambulators or strollers are known in the prior art, in particular for protection against sun and rain.
DE 20 2005 010 099 U1, for example, discloses a perambulator which comprises a generic canopy top. The canopy top comprises two canopy top brackets, onto which and between which double-layered canopy top material is arranged. In order to tension the canopy top, the angle between the canopy top brackets is widened so that the material is tensioned, while in order to fold in the canopy top, the angle between the canopy top brackets is reduced and the canopy top material is folded. However, a disadvantage with this canopy top is that the canopy top material can be damaged when the canopy top is damp and folded together. Due to inadequate ventilation, mold or a similar substance can form on the canopy top material, or changes in the color of the canopy top may occur.
Furthermore, US 2004/10119266 A1 discloses a child's sports vehicle. This child's sports vehicle comprises a frame onto which a child carrying device can be affixed. The child carrying device comprises a canopy top. This canopy top takes the form of a hemisphere and is made of essentially inflexible material. The canopy top is affixed to the child carrying device so that it can be pivoted in such a manner that in a first configuration, it essentially covers the child carrying device, and in a second configuration, it is essentially arranged below the child carrying device. However, a disadvantage of this canopy top is that the canopy top cannot be altered in terms of its size, which makes the sports vehicle unwieldy, particularly during transportation.

SUMMARY

For these reasons, an object of the present disclosure is to provide a canopy top, in particular for a people carrier, which overcomes the disadvantages in the prior art, in particular preventing damage to the canopy top material even when the canopy top is folded together, while at the same time enabling greater compacting of the canopy top when folded together. Furthermore, the present disclosure provides a people carrier, in particular in the form of a perambulator, that overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art. The term “people carrier” as used herein should be understood to broadly include any form of vehicle capable of carrying a person of any age. The term “child carrier” is used herein synonymously with “people carrier” because such vehicles are typically used to transport children, though forms of such vehicles may be used to carry other persons of other ages, including those who are unable to transport themselves on foot. In various exemplary styles, a child carrier may be in the form of a perambulator or pram, a baby carriage, a carrycot, a stroller, a push chair, a buggy, etc.
In various embodiments, disclosed herein is a fold-up canopy top which can be folded up within itself, for use in particular with a people carrier, to be at least partially tensioned over at least one opening of at least one person carrying device, wherein the canopy top comprises at least two moveable canopy top elements that can be moved relative to each other around at least one shared rotational axis.
In at least one embodiment, a canopy top for a people carrier, such as a perambulator or a buggy, comprises at least a first canopy top element and a second canopy top element that are moveable, at least partially, in or over each other around a shared rotational axis. In each case, the first and second canopy top elements comprise a front edge border defined by front canopy top brackets, and a rear edge border that is arranged at a distance and defined by rear canopy top brackets, which are both connected or are connectable with the shared rotational axis. A main canopy top surface is present and tensioned between the front and the rear edge border, and if appropriate between first and second side canopy surfaces that lie opposite each other, which extend from the main canopy top surface in the respective direction of and up to the rotational axis.
The main canopy surface of the first canopy top element which is present and tensioned between the front and the rear edge border comprises, at least in sections, a lower radial distance to the rotational axis than the maximum radial distance of the front edge border of the second canopy top element, so that the second canopy top element can be pushed in through the rear edge border of the first canopy top element. Accordingly, in general, the maximum radial distance of the front edge border of the second, subsequent canopy top element is, at least in sections, greater than the maximum radial distance of the section of the main canopy top surface of the first canopy top element, which is at the greatest radial distance from the rotational axis.
According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the front edge border of the second canopy top element can be pushed through the rear edge border of the first canopy top element, against a resistance which results from the interaction of the front edge border of the second canopy top element with the main canopy top surface and/or with the first and/or the second side canopy top surface of the first canopy top element. The material of the canopy top surface, in at least one embodiment, is preferably spring elastic, i.e., it yields when a force is applied, but builds up a resistance and returns to its original state when the application of force is terminated. Suitable materials include textile cloth, films made of spring elastic synthetic materials or the like. In this manner, it is possible to temporarily affix the first canopy top element in an upright position, i.e., in a position which is folded up in relation to the horizontal plane.
In at least one embodiment, the radial distance between the main canopy top surface of the first canopy top element and the rotational axis is less, at least in sections, than the maximum radial distance between the front edge border of the second canopy top element and the shared rotational axis.
Advantageously, with the embodiment of a canopy top described above, the front and/or the rear edge border of the first and/or the second canopy top element in each case represent canopy top brackets. In this context, it can also be provided that the first and the second canopy top brackets are in contact with each other in the region of the rotational axis, and that they can be pivoted against each other against a resistance such as friction, so that canopy top brackets which are pivoted against each other are already in a fixed position due to this resistance.
Particularly preferred in combination with the features of the aforementioned embodiment is a canopy top for a people carrier that is at least partially tensioned over at least one opening of at least one person carrying device, wherein the canopy top comprises at least two canopy top elements that are moveable relative to each other around at least one shared rotational axis. The canopy top elements comprise in a first plane, which contains the rotational axis and/or which runs essentially parallel to said rotational axis at least in sections, a substantially curve-shaped circumference form. In a second plane, which runs essentially vertical to the rotational axis, the canopy top elements comprise at least in sections a circumference form which is substantially the form of a circle segment and/or a wedge form. The dimensions of at least one first canopy top element and at least of one second canopy top element differ from each other in the first plane in such a manner that the first and the second canopy top element can be pushed into and overlap each other, in particular in a telescopic manner, by rotating them around the rotational axis.
The first and/or the second canopy top element in the first plane may comprise at least one circumference form which is, at least in sections, circular, elliptical, parabolic and/or polygonal, e.g., triangular and/or rectangular.
With the aforementioned alternatives, it can be provided that at least one geometric first dimension, which indicates a distance between the rotational axis and the circumference of the first canopy top element in the first plane, is greater than a corresponding second geometric dimension which indicates a distance between the rotational axis and the circumference of the second canopy top element in the first plane. Alternatively, at least one radius of a curve-shaped circumference form of the first canopy top element in the first plane is greater than at least one radius of a curve-shaped circumference form of the second canopy top element in the first plane.
For the various embodiments of the canopy top described herein, it is furthermore suggested that at least one carrier device be provided, wherein the first canopy top element and the second canopy top element are connected or are connectable in such a manner that they are securely carried by the carrier device. In one particular embodiment, the first canopy top element or the second canopy top element follows a rotation of the second canopy top element or the first canopy top element, respectively, from a folded position of the canopy top. The first and the second canopy top element are pushed inside each other, at least in sections, in order to be connected or connectable with the second or the first canopy top element by at least one specified angle and in such a manner that they are securely carried. Furthermore, the first canopy top element or the second canopy top element may also be rotated with an additional rotation of the second canopy top element or the first canopy top element, respectively.
If, for example, the first canopy top element has been pivoted into the final folded out position, the second canopy top element can, in an embodiment, be carried with it on the one hand by means of the resistance which is felt by the front edge border of the second canopy top element in interaction with the canopy top surface of the first canopy top element. Alternatively or additionally, the first and second canopy top elements may individually be pivoted by means of the carrying device.
Furthermore, the carrying device can have the function of limiting the overlap of the second canopy top element with the first canopy top element. With this embodiment, the carrying device thus ensures that the front edge border or frame border of the second canopy top element does not slip through the rear edge border or frame border of the first canopy top element. For example, a first carrying device can be affixed on the one hand to the rear frame border of the first canopy top element, and on the other hand to the rear frame border of the second canopy top element. Alternatively, the first carrying device can on the one hand be affixed to the front frame border of the first canopy top element, and on the other hand to the front frame border of the second canopy top element. In the same manner, two carrying devices can be present and affixed between the edge borders of the second and the third canopy top element.
It is further disclosed herein that the first canopy top element and/or the second canopy top element may comprise at least one canopy top bracket, wherein the canopy top bracket is connected or connectable with the rotational axis of the first and/or the second canopy top element via at least one element base. Preferably, the element base and the canopy top bracket are formed from a single piece and/or are detachably connected or connectable with each other.
With the aforementioned embodiments, at least one shield element, such as a hood, may be arranged on the canopy top bracket. In particular, a multi-layer textile covering and/or lamella may be arranged. The first and/or the second canopy top element preferably comprises or comprise at least two canopy top brackets respectively in order to arrange the shield element, such as the covering.
Furthermore, the carrier device may be at least indirectly connected or connectable with at least one canopy top bracket, at least one element base and/or at least one shield element. The carrier device may also comprise at least a part of at least one inside covering of the canopy top and/or at least one spring device.
In one particularly advantageous embodiment, at least one relative angle between the first canopy top element and/or the second canopy top element is continuously adjustable and/or adjustable in discrete stages. The first canopy top element and/or the second canopy top element is or are respectively affixable in at least one angle position around the rotational axis, wherein preferably a plurality of discrete and/or continuous angle positions is provided.
Finally, it is suggested for the canopy top that the first and/or the second canopy top element, at least one element base, at least one shield element, at least one canopy top bracket and/or at least one carrier device comprises or comprise, at least in sections, at least one synthetic material, at least one compound material, such as glass fibre compound material, and/or at least one metallic material such as aluminium, steel and/or at least one alloy.
Furthermore, disclosed herein is a people carrier comprising at least one canopy top according to the invention, wherein the canopy top is preferably connectable or connected in a reversible and detachable manner to the people carrier.
The people carrier may comprise at least one person carrying device, wherein the person carrying device comprises at least one frame and can be converted from a seat configuration in which the person can be supported in a substantially sitting position into a basket configuration in which the person can be supported in a substantially lying position and/or vice-versa. The angle of inclination of at least one first frame component, which creates at least one backrest in the seat configuration, is adjustable relative to at least one main frame of the people carrier via at least one first turning unit. The frame further comprises at least one second frame component that creates at least one seat surface in the seat configuration, wherein at least one angle between the first and the second frame component is adjustable independently of the first turning unit via a second turning unit that connects the first and the second frame component.
While embodiments are described herein in the context of a child carrier, such as a perambulator, the invention is not limited to the precise forms disclosed. The principles of the invention described herein can be equally applied to a sports vehicle, a buggy, a perambulator for the transportation of at least two children, a disabled person's buggy and/or a disabled person's vehicle, among other forms of vehicles for carrying people of any age.
Naturally, embodiments of the canopy top described herein can also be used for purposes other than a child carrier. For example, applications such as rain or sun protection, e.g., for street cars, if appropriate, coupled with a mast or mast foot, as a marquise, a tent, a shelter, a covering or a garage can be considered. Accordingly, rain and/or sun protection, a marquise, a tent, a shelter, a covering and a garage which comprise at least one canopy top embodying principles of the present invention are also encompassed by the present disclosure.
As shown herein, a canopy top for a people carrier such as a perambulator can be designed in such a manner that the canopy top can be used both for a person carrying device in the form of a seat and in the form of a cot or a basket. Depending on the user's requirements, the canopy top can cover different areas and simultaneously has low space requirements when folded in. Furthermore, over-use of a covering material, such as when the canopy top is folded together when in a damp state, is prevented due to the fact that the canopy top comprises at least two elements that can be pushed inside each other in a manner similar to a telescope or a fan.
This foregoing summary introduces a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This summary is not intended to specify key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to determine the scope of the claimed subject matter.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of this invention will become more readily appreciated as they become better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 shows a perambulator with a main body and a child carrying device;

FIG. 2 shows the perambulator in FIG. 1, wherein the child carrying device is covered with corresponding textile elements and comprises a canopy top according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 3 a shows a side view of a child carrying device in the form of a cot and comprising a canopy top according to an embodiment of the invention in a folded state;

FIG. 3 b shows a perspective view of the child carrying device shown in FIG. 3 a;

FIG. 3 c shows a side view of the child carrying device shown in FIG. 3 a when the canopy top is in an unfolded state;

FIG. 3 d shows a perspective view of the child carrying device shown in FIG. 3 c;

FIG. 4 a shows a perspective view of a perambulator comprising a further embodiment of a canopy top in an unfolded state;

FIG. 4 b shows a cross-sectional view of the canopy top shown in FIG. 4 a;

FIG. 4 c shows a perspective view of the perambulator shown in FIG. 4 a with the canopy top in a semi-folded state;

FIG. 4 d shows a cross-sectional view of the canopy top shown in FIG. 4 c;

FIG. 4 e shows a perspective view of the perambulator shown in FIG. 4 a with the canopy top in a folded-in state;

FIG. 4 f shows a cross-sectional view of the canopy top shown in FIG. 4 e;

FIG. 5 shows a side view of a perambulator comprising a child carrying device in accordance with FIG. 4 a;

FIG. 6 a shows a perambulator comprising a child carrying device in accordance with FIG. 1 with a canopy top in an unfolded state;

FIG. 6 b shows a side view of the perambulator shown in FIG. 6 a with the canopy top in a folded-in state;

FIG. 7 a shows a side view of a perambulator comprising a child carrying device in accordance with FIG. 1 in a basket configuration with a canopy top in an unfolded state;

FIG. 7 b shows a side view of the perambulator shown in FIG. 7 a with the canopy top in a folded state; and

FIG. 8 shows a schematic side view of another embodiment of a canopy top according to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a people carrier or child carrier in the form of a perambulator 1. The perambulator 1 comprises a main body or frame 3 and a person carrying device in the form of a child carrying device 5. Here, it should be noted that in FIG. 1 only a basic form of the child carrying device 5 is shown. The child carrying device 5 is detachably connected to the frame 3 via a connecting device 7.
The frame 3 comprises, for example, a push rod 9 with a handle 11. Via a folding mechanism 13, which can be unlocked via a release lever 15, the push rod 9 is connected with a rear wheel carrier 17 on which rear wheels 19 are attached, and a front wheel carrier 21 to which front wheels 23 are applied. The child carrying device 5 comprises, as will be explained in greater detail below, a frame 25 that comprises a first frame component 27, a second frame component 29, and a third frame component 31.
In FIG. 1, the child carrying device 5 is in a seat configuration, in which the first frame component 27 essentially creates a backrest of a seat, the second frame component 29 essentially creates a seat surface or a side guide element or an armrest for a child which is positioned in the child carrying device 5, and the third frame component 31 creates a footrest. As can be seen from FIG. 1, a bracket 35 can be detachably affixed to the frame 25 by means of a connecting unit 33. This bracket 35 prevents, in particular in the seat configuration of the child carrying device 5 shown in FIG. 1, the child from falling out of the child carrying device 5. In other words, the bracket 35 acts as a safety bracket, while the bracket 35, as will be explained in greater detail below, can be used in a basket configuration of the child carrying device 5 as a carrying bracket.
FIG. 2 shows a side view of the perambulator 1 shown in FIG. 1. In contrast to FIG. 1, the frame 25 of the child carrying device 5 is covered with a fabric cover 37. As a result, a corresponding seat surface and backrest is provided for a child to be positioned in the child carrying device 5. Here, it should be noted that although in FIG. 2, the frame 25 is covered with a textile material, the invention is not restricted to this embodiment. In particular, essentially fixed or inflexible elements, such as hard shell elements, can alternatively be attached to the frame 25, in particular the frame components 27, 29, 31, in order to provide a backrest, a seat surface, and/or a footrest. Furthermore, in FIG. 2, a canopy top 39 in a folded-in state can be arranged on the child carrying device 5.
The structure and functionality of the connecting device 7 will now be explained in detail below. In the embodiment shown, the connecting device 7 is used to connect the child carrying device 5 with the frame 3. Thus, by means of the connecting device 7 shown, different components of a people carrier such as the perambulator 1 can be detachably connected with each other. Thus for example, using a connecting unit 33 that comprises the features of the connecting device 7, the canopy top 39 can be connected by way of a corresponding connecting device to the child carrying device 5, or further components such as an auxiliary seat or a treadboard can be connected to the frame 3 by way of such a connecting device.
The perambulator 1 shown in FIG. 1 comprises two connecting devices 7, with one respectively positioned on each side of the child carrying device 5. In this embodiment, each connecting device 7 comprises a corresponding locking unit 45. In an alternative embodiment, only one of the connecting devices 7 comprises a corresponding locking unit 45.
The child carrying device 5 is designed in such a manner that it is possible to arrange the child carrying device 5 in the direction of travel and/or against the direction of travel of the perambulator 1. Due to the geometry of the frame 3 and the different additional elements that can be attached to the frame 3 and the child carrying device 5, it can be the case that one of the actuation devices or push-buttons 43 is not easily accessible to the user, while the other push-button 43 is easily accessible. The locking unit 45 thus has an advantage that an uncomplicated unlocking of the locking device 7 is possible in every configuration of the perambulator 1. This advantage is achieved by way of the fact that the actuation devices mechanically interact with one of the locking elements, in this case, with the first locking element in the form of the latch hook 47, in such a manner that an actuation of either one of the actuation devices leads to a movement of the locking element in the same direction, regardless of the actuation device in question.
In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the perambulator 1 comprises a canopy top 39. In the following, the structure of such a canopy top will be described in greater detail with reference to FIG. 3 a to FIG. 7 b.
In FIG. 3 a to FIG. 3 d, a further embodiment of a person carrying device is shown in the form of a child carrying device or a cot 67. As can be seen in particular in FIG. 3 a, the cot 67 comprises a connecting device 69 which is compatible with the connecting device 7, so that the cot 67 can be affixed to the frame 3 of the perambulator 1 instead of the child carrying device 5. In particular, the connecting device 69 comprises actuation devices in the form of push-buttons 71, via which a latch hook 73 can be moved.
As can be seen in FIG. 3 a to FIG. 3 d, a canopy top 75 is arranged on the cot . More specifically, the canopy top 75 is affixed in a detachable manner to the cot 67. The canopy top 75 comprises, as can be seen in FIG. 3 b, canopy top elements 77 a, 77 b, 77 c. The canopy top elements 77 a, 77 b, 77 c are supported around a shared axis 79 in such a manner that they can be pivoted. Furthermore, these elements comprise a substantially wedge-shaped circumference form, as can be seen in FIG. 3 a and FIG. 3 c, at a plane which runs essentially vertically to the rotational axis. The canopy top elements 77 a, 77 b, 77 c by contrast comprise, at a plane that contains the rotational axis 79 or that runs in parallel to said axis, a substantially curve-shaped circumference form wherein the radii r_a, r_b, r_cof the individual curves differ in size, as can be seen in FIG. 3 c.
Thus, the canopy top element 77 a comprises the largest curve radius r_a, while the canopy top element 77 b comprises the second-largest curve radius r_band the canopy top element 77 c comprises the smallest curve radius r_c. This makes it possible to move the canopy top elements 77 a, 77 b, 77 c into each other in the manner of a telescope or fan to achieve the folded configuration of the canopy top 75 shown in FIG. 3 a and FIG. 3 b. In other words, the canopy top elements 77 a, 77 b, 77 c in the folded configuration of the canopy top 75 shown in FIG. 3 a and FIG. 3 b essentially cover the same curve segments around the rotational axis 79, but at different distances to the rotational axis 79.
In order to transfer the canopy top 75 from the folded configuration into the unfolded position shown in FIG. 3 c and FIG. 3 d, the first canopy top element 77 a is rotated around the axis 79 from the configuration shown in FIG. 3 a and FIG. 3 b. If the first canopy top element 77 a has been rotated by a specified angle, the first canopy top element 77 a connects mechanically with the second canopy top element 77 b via a carrier device (not shown), so that a further rotation of the first canopy top element 77 a leads to the second canopy top element 77 b also being rotated. If the two canopy top elements 77 a and 77 b have been rotated by a further specified angle around the rotational axis 79, the second canopy top element connects mechanically with the third canopy top element 77 c via a carrier device (also not shown), or the first canopy top element 77 a comes into mechanical contact with the canopy top element 77 c via a carrier device (not shown). The canopy top 75 is then in an unfolded state as shown in FIG. 3 c and FIG. 3 d.
With the canopy top shown in FIG. 3 a to FIG. 3 d, each canopy top element 77 a, 77 b, 77 c comprises two canopy top brackets 81 a ₁, 81 a ₂; or 81 b ₁, 81 b ₂; or 81 c ₁, 81 c ₂. Here, the canopy top brackets 81 a ₁, and 81 a ₂are attached to an element base 83 a of the canopy top element 77 a, or are formed as a single piece with the element base 83 a. Accordingly, the canopy top brackets 81 b ₁, 81 b ₂or 81 c ₁, 81 c ₂are connected with element bases 83 b or 83 c of the canopy top elements 77 b, 77 c, or are formed as a single piece with them. In particular, the aforementioned carrier elements may be arranged in the region of the element bases 83 a, 83 b, 83 c of the canopy top elements 77 a, 77 b, 77 c. The canopy top elements 77 a, 77 b, 77 c are in particular covered with a canopy top material not shown in FIG. 3 a to FIG. 3 d.
The canopy top 75 has the advantage that the canopy top elements are also at a distance from each other in the folded state of the canopy top 75 shown in FIG. 3 a and FIG. 3 b. In particular, when the canopy top 75 is in a damp state and is transferred to the configuration shown in FIG. 3 a and FIG. 3 b, the surface of the individual canopy top elements 77 a, 77 b, 77 c, in particular, the canopy top material, remains sufficiently ventilated. In particular, the canopy top material sections of the individual canopy top elements 77 a, 77 b, 77 c are not in contact with each other so that a rapid drying of the canopy top elements is made possible. Furthermore, the canopy top 75 also comprises a high degree of compactness when in the folded configuration.
In FIG. 4 a to FIG. 4 f, a further embodiment of a canopy top 85 is shown that, in particular, can be attached to the perambulator 1. The canopy top 85 comprises canopy top elements 87 a, 87 b, 87 c according to FIG. 4 a and FIG. 4 b. In contrast to the canopy top 75, the canopy top elements 87 a, 87 b, 87 c do not comprise canopy top brackets that are covered with a canopy top material, but are essentially formed as single-piece elements. In a similar manner to the canopy top elements 77 a, 77 b, 77 c, the canopy top elements 87 a, 87 b, 87 c are arranged in a substantially curved form on an axis 89, around which the canopy top elements 87 a, 87 b, 87 c can be pivoted, wherein the radii r_a′, r_b′, r_c′ differ in size and r_a′>r_b′>r_c′ applies in particular. As a result, the canopy top elements 87 a, 87 b, 87 c, as can particularly be seen in FIG. 4 b, FIG. 4 d, and FIG. 4 f, can be rotated into each other in the manner of a telescope or fan. As can particularly be seen in FIG. 4 f, when the canopy top 85 is folded together, the canopy top elements 87 a, 87 b, 87 c remain at a distance from each other in order to enable sufficient ventilation between the canopy top elements 87 a, 87 b, 87 c. Also in contrast to the canopy top 75, corresponding carrier devices via which the respective canopy top elements are mechanically coupled with each other according to a pre-specified scale of travel when the canopy top 85 is folded out, are not arranged in the region of the rotational axis 89, but are at a distance from the rotational axis 89. The carrier device 91, 93, may be an inner lining of the canopy top 85.
In FIG. 5 to FIG. 7 b, perambulators 100 and 100′ are shown in different configurations with respective child carrying devices 105, 105′. FIG. 5 shows a perambulator 100 which comprises a child carrying device in the form of a cot 105, on which is arranged a canopy top 110 in an unfolded state. In FIG. 6 a to FIG. 7 b, a perambulator 100′ is shown which comprises a transformable child carrying device 105′ that is similar to the child carrying device 5. In FIG. 6 a and FIG. 6 b, the child carrying device 105′ is in a seat configuration, wherein a canopy top 110′ arranged on the child carrying device 105′ is in a partially unfolded state, while the canopy top 110′ in FIG. 6 b is folded together. In contrast to this, the child carrying device 105′ is in a cot or basket configuration in FIG. 7 a and FIG. 7 b, wherein in FIG. 7 a, the canopy top 110′ is unfolded, while in FIG. 7 b it is folded together.
With regard to the configuration of a cover, it should be noted that the canopy tops disclosed herein are not restricted to a single configuration in which individual canopy top elements are supported around a shared rotational axis in such a manner that they can be pivoted. It can also be provided that the canopy top elements are not necessarily designed in the form of spheres, ellipses or disc segments, but can take the form of tube segments which can be moved along a longitudinal axis, wherein the canopy top segments can be pushed into each other in the manner of a telescope.
FIG. 8 shows in a schematic side view another embodiment of a canopy top 95 comprising four canopy top elements 97 a, 97 b, 97 c and 97 d, each with a front and a rear edge or frame border in the form of canopy top brackets 98 a ₁, 98 a ₂, 98 b ₁, 98 b ₂, 98 c ₁, 98 c ₂and 98 d ₁, 98 d ₂. The canopy top brackets represent the front and the rear edge or frame border for each individual canopy top element. The front and the rear frame border of the first canopy top element 97 a have in their maximum expansion approximately the same radial distance r₁to the rotational axis 99. The same applies to the front and rear frame border of the second, third or fourth canopy top element, which comprise radial distances r₂, r₃or r₄. Between these front and rear frame borders of the canopy top elements, canopy top surfaces 96 a, 96 b, 96 c or 96 d are attached or tensioned. The main canopy top surfaces are, in contrast to the side canopy top surfaces, preferably attached in the region which lies opposite the rotational axis 99, and are thus at as great a distance as possible from said axis. Thus, for example, the distance between the main canopy top surface 96 a and the rotational axis 99 is less, at least in sections, than the distance r₁of the front and rear frame border 98 a ₁and 98 a ₂of the first canopy top element 97 a.
In the schematic side view of the embodiment of the canopy top 95 shown in FIG. 8, the canopy top surfaces run essentially in straight lines between the respective front and rear frame borders. Naturally, the canopy top surfaces or also, for example only, the main canopy top surfaces can have a curved progression, preferably curving in the direction of the rotational axis. As can, for example, frequently be found in perambulator canopy tops, this canopy top surface can be made of a spring elastic material such as a woven textile material.
FIG. 8 shows a canopy top 95 consisting of a total of four canopy top elements 97 a-d in an unfolded state. In other words, the first canopy top element 97 a is essentially upright with the generic use of the canopy top 95. When folded in, the individual canopy top elements 97 a-d are inserted into each other, respectively, due to the reduction in the radial distances between the front and the rear frame border to the rotational axis (r₁>r₂>r₃>r₄). If the first canopy top element 97 a is brought into the upright position shown in FIG. 8, the front frame border 98 b ₁of the second canopy top element 97 b experiences a resistance whereby it initially knocks against the underside of the canopy top surface 96 a. If said canopy top surface is spring elastic, for example, it yields when the corresponding force is applied. As a result, the upper border or the upper end of the front frame border 98 b ₁of the second canopy top element is guided in interaction with the canopy top surface 96 a against a resistance along the broken line, which lies in sections above the canopy top surface in the basic state of the first canopy top element 97 a. Without an external application of force, the first canopy top element 97 a can then no longer fall back into the original folded-up position.
As can be seen in the above description and directly in FIG. 8, the canopy top surface 96 a of the first canopy top element 97 a should preferably comprise, at least in sections, a radial distance r₁which is less than the radial distance r₂of the frame borders of the second canopy top element 97 b. The radial dimensions of the second and third and of the third and fourth canopy top element relate to each other in the same manner.
For two adjacent canopy top elements, respectively, for example, the first and second canopy top elements, the maximum radial distances of the rear and front frame border, for example of the second canopy top element, are preferably selected in such a manner that the canopy top elements in the extended position are cooperatively connected solely as a result of the interaction with the spring elastic material of the canopy top surface, for example of the first canopy top element. Thus, for example, the front frame borders of the second, third and/or fourth canopy top element 97 b-d can be pushed up to a position against the resistance of the canopy top surface in the direction of the rear frame border of the first, second or third canopy top element, in which the material of the canopy top surface remains curved outwards due to the rigid front frame borders. The borders are thus jammed in or set in a fixed position. A position of this type which is equally suitable is shown in FIG. 8 with position markings x₁, x₂and x₃for the first, second or third canopy top element.
In addition or as an alternative, the first canopy top element 97 a can, for example, be secured against being folded forwards over the position shown in the folding out direction by way of a connection device (not shown) with the second canopy top element 97 b, for example by way of a carrying device such as described above for FIG. 5. In the same manner, the second and the third, or the third and the fourth canopy top element can naturally be secured by way of suitable connection devices against further folding forward beyond the position shown.
With the embodiment of a canopy top 95 shown in FIG. 8 in particular, it is possible to set a fixed position in an extended or folded out state in a manner that does not require additional auxiliary materials or locking devices. Here, the individual canopy top elements can, in a simple manner, be secured against both falling or folding forwards and over, and against falling back into the interlocked, closed position. Components with complex structures and which are prone to require repairs can thus be avoided, while a visually pleasing design is possible. At the same time, secure protection against sun, rain, and weather is provided.
The features of the invention disclosed in the above description, in the claims and in the drawings can in their different embodiments be present both individually and in any combination required in order to realise the invention.
Moreover, while illustrative embodiments have been illustrated and described, it will be appreciated that various changes can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A canopy top for at least the partial covering of at least one opening of at least one person carrying device, comprising:

at least a first canopy top element and second canopy top element that are moveable relative to each other and at least partially in or over each other around at least one shared rotational axis, said first and second canopy top elements comprising a front edge border defined by a front canopy top bracket and a rear edge border at a distance defined by a rear canopy top bracket, both of which are connected or connectable at the rotational axis with a main canopy top surface, said main canopy top surface being present or tensioned between a front and rear edge border and between first and second side canopy top surfaces that lie opposite each other, which extend from the main canopy top surface in the respective direction of the rotational axis, wherein the main canopy top surface that is present or tensioned between the front and the rear edge border comprises, at least in sections, a lower radial distance to the rotational axis than the maximum radial distance of the front edge border of the second canopy top element, so that the second canopy top element can be pushed into and overlap the first canopy top element through the rear edge border of the first canopy top element.

2. A canopy top according to claim 1, wherein the first and second canopy top elements are moveable around the shared rotational axis, and the canopy top elements comprise at a first plane which contains the rotational axis and/or which runs essentially parallel to said axis, at least in sections, a substantially curve-shaped circumference form, the canopy top elements further comprising in a second plane which runs essentially vertical to the rotational axis, at least in sections, a circumference form that is substantially the form of a circle segment and/or a wedge form, and the dimensions of at least one first canopy top element and at least one second canopy top element differ from each other in the first plane in such a manner that the first and the second canopy top elements can be pushed into and overlap each other by rotating around the rotational axis.

3. A canopy top for at least the partial covering of at least one opening of at least one person carrying device, wherein the canopy top comprises at least two canopy top elements that are moveable around a shared rotational axis, and the canopy top elements comprise at a first plane which contains the rotational axis and/or which runs essentially parallel to said axis, at least in sections, a substantially curve-shaped circumference form, the canopy top elements further comprising in a second plane that runs essentially vertical to the rotational axis, at least in sections, a circumference form that is substantially the form of a circle segment and/or a wedge form, and the dimensions of at least one first canopy top element and at least of one second canopy top element differ from each other in the first plane in such a manner that the first and the second canopy top elements can be pushed into and overlap each other by rotating around the rotational axis.

4. A canopy top according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the first and/or the second canopy top element in the first plane comprises at least one circumference form that is at least in sections circular, elliptical, parabolic and/or polygonal.

5. A canopy top according to claim 2 or 3, wherein at least one first geometric dimension that indicates a distance between the rotational axis and the circumference of the first canopy top element in the first plane is greater than a corresponding second geometric dimension which indicates a distance between the rotational axis and the circumference of the second canopy top element in the first plane, and/or at least one radius of the circumference form of the first canopy top element in the first plane is greater than at least one radius of the circumference form of the second canopy top element in the first plane.

6. A canopy top according to claim 1 or 3, further comprising at least one carrier device wherein the first canopy top element and the second canopy top element are connected in such a manner that they are securely carried by the carrier device, in which the first and the second canopy top element can be pushed inside each other at least in sections so that the are connected in such a manner that they are securely carried through at least one specified angle, and that the first canopy top element or the second canopy top element are also rotatable with an additional rotation of the second canopy top element or the first canopy top element, respectively.

7. A canopy top according to claim 1 or 3, wherein the first canopy top element and/or the second canopy top element comprises at least one canopy top bracket, wherein the canopy top bracket is connected or connectable with the rotational axis of the first and/or the second canopy top element.

8. A canopy top according to claim 7 wherein the canopy top bracket is connected or connectable via at least one element base with the rotational axis of the first and/or the second canopy top element, wherein the element base and the canopy top bracket are formed as a single piece and/or are connectable or connected with each other in a detachable manner.

9. A canopy top according to claim 7, wherein at least one shield element is arranged on the canopy top bracket, and wherein the first and/or the second canopy top element comprises at least two canopy top brackets, respectively, in order to arrange the shield element.

10. A canopy top according to claim 6, wherein the carrier device is at least indirectly connected or connectable with at least one canopy top bracket, at least one element base, and/or at least one shield element.

11. A canopy top according to claim 1 or 3, wherein at least one relative angle between the first canopy top element and the second canopy top element is continuously adjustable and/or adjustable in discrete stages, and wherein the first canopy top element and the second canopy top element are respectively affixable in at least one angle position around the rotational axis.

12. A canopy top according to claim 1 or 3, wherein the first and/or the second canopy top element, at least one element base, at least one shield element, at least one canopy top bracket, and/or at least one carrier device comprises at least in sections at least one synthetic material, at least one compound material or glass fibre compound material and/or at least one metallic material such as aluminium, steel and/or at least one alloy.

13. A canopy top according to claim 1 or 3, wherein a front edge border of the second canopy top element is reversibly pivotable and setable in a fixed position around the rotational axis, against a resistance produced by an interaction of the front edge border of the second canopy top element with a main canopy top surface and/or with a first and/or second side canopy top surface of the first canopy top element.

14. A canopy top according to claim 13, wherein the radial distance between the main canopy top surface of the first canopy top element and the rotational axis is less, at least in sections, than the maximum radial distance between the front edge border of the second canopy top element and the rotational axis.

15. A canopy top according to claim 1 or 3, wherein a front and/or a rear edge border of the first and/or the second canopy top element represent in each case canopy top brackets.

16. A canopy top according to claim 15, wherein the canopy top brackets of the first and second canopy top element are in contact with each other in the region of the rotational axis, and are pivotable against each other against a resistance, so that the canopy top brackets that are pivoted against each other can be set in a fixed position without an external application of force.

17. A people carrier comprising at least one canopy top according to claim 1 or 3, wherein the canopy top is connectable or connected to the people carrier.

18. A people carrier according to claim 17, wherein the people carrier is provided in the form of a perambulator or in the form of at least one sports vehicle, at least one buggy, at least one perambulator for the transportation of at least two children, at least one disabled person's buggy, and/or at least one disabled person's vehicle.

19. A protection against rain or sun, a marquise, a tent, a shelter, a covering or a garage comprising a canopy top according to claim 1 or 3.

20. The use of a canopy top according to claim 1 or 3 for a perambulator.

21. The use of a canopy top according to claim 1 or 3 as protection against rain or sun, as a marquise, a tent, a shelter, a covering or a garage, or a component thereof.