WO2016020713A1

WO2016020713A1 - Modular cart system

Info

Publication number: WO2016020713A1
Application number: PCT/IB2014/001464
Authority: WO
Inventors: Theodoor Meeuwis BAAJEN
Original assignee: Mteebee Inventions S.A.
Priority date: 2014-08-05
Filing date: 2014-08-05
Publication date: 2016-02-11

Abstract

The present invention is a multi-functional cart system with a minimalistic yet flexible design, suited for a wide variety of utility and recreation purposes. The system comprises a core element (a frame to which one or more wheels can be set), auxiliary elements and a standardized connectivity system for both. Certain system accessories may have compatible connectivity.

Description

1. TITLE: MODULAR CART SYSTEM

II. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the invention

[001] The present invention is a multi-functional cart system with a minimalistic yet flexible design, which can be used for a variety of utility and recreation purposes by growing-up, adult and elderly people, and families with kids.

2. Background of the invention

[002] Hundreds, maybe even thousands of patents have been filed for multi- functional, or adaptable, or combination, or transformable, or convertible carts for utility and recreation. However, often only a limited number of functions is combined, e.g. a cart converting to a chair and/or a table, or a stroller or bike converting to a shopping cart. Furthermore, in flexible products, the general design problem is the flexibility-usability trade-off, related to the well-known maxim, jack of all trades, master of none (Universal Principles of Design, Lidwell at all, ISBN-10 1- 59253-587-9). Moreover, flexible designs are more complex, and generally more difficult to use.

[003] Two basic approaches can be distinguished in the design of multi-functional or convertible carts: (1) self-contained solutions without detachable parts, such as in US Patent 20040140638 (Giuliano Celli), and also in many hand trucks or dollies, and (2) solutions where detachable structural elements are connected to a core structure (note: detachable bags, barbecue grills, baskets, bins, boxes, carriers and containers are not of interest here!). Patent DE 202007000884 (Berg Toys B.V.) is probably the only to represent a third solution: a cart construction system based on components which are connectable in different combinations by tool-less standardized coupling means. However, it is a toy kit for children. [004] In the self-contained solutions, use is often made of telescoping, folding, pivoting or locking mechanisms, which reduce the simplicity and robustness of the construction. However, fixable pivoting tow bars are useful as they may add a self- supported cart mode as in US Patent 6935643 (Donald V. Purpuro) or in US Patent 6942228 (Bunce and Jacobson) where a self-supported cart is combined with a seat, or allow conversion between hand cart and trailer mode, as in US Patent 5636852 (Ronald R. Sistrunk), or provide load balancing options as in US Patent 4236723 (John A. Lemmon).

[005] Solutions with detachable elements include US Patent 681 1 180 (Daryl W. Moliere) which uses detachable bars in a hunter^'s cart. These bars can be locked on receivers fixed at several locations of the load frame, e.g. as load retaining bars or ground bars. US Patent 751351 1 (Frehause A. Chaseateau) for a convertible dolly/table has certain removably attached parts, however with specific connectors and at specific locations on the cart frame, which limits the number of options to two dolly and one table mode. Multi-purpose carts such as Monowalker (www.monowalker.com), Hinterher (www.hinterher.com) and Benpacker (www.benpacker.de) also use a non-convertible load frame structure to which attachments can be fixed to add flexibility, e.g. a ground support; supports for side or swivel wheels; a tow bar e.g. for a bike, with an extra-long version for a long load; long or telescopic handle bars for hiking; load retaining bars, etcetera. Often intermediate, specific connectors are used for these attachments, which are generally fixed to the frame with specific bolts . Thus, these designs may result in a rather large number of non-standardized parts and bolts, while tools have often to be used for mode changes. [006] The Monocart concept by Ka Wai Ng (http://www.designbuzz.com/shape- shiftinq-multi-monocart-ka-wai-ng/) differs in two ways from the above described solutions: it uses a transformable base frame with different attachment options; and it targets a wide group of users, including families with children, adults, and elderly people, where almost all other convertible carts are directed to active adults. However, its practicality in rough outdoor conditions and as heavy load carrier, as well as its expandability (e.g. as bicycle trailer) are rather limited. [007] The present invention is a system solution for a practical multifunctional cart, with a minimalistic yet flexible design, which can be used for large variety of utility and recreation purposes by growing-up, adult and elderly people, and families with kids. The system^'s core element is a frame with one or more wheels, to which auxiliary system elements can be set via a standardized connectivity system. The latter comprises compatible detachable and/or fixed connectors. These connectors are preferably quick releasable with multi-directional engagement options, e.g. at four 90° positions through square interfaces. Apart from multiple connection points for wheels, the frame also comprises multiple attachment points for detachable connectors, through which the auxiliary system elements can be connected at alternative positions. The frame may also comprise fixed connectors, including some on a pivoting base. The main auxiliary elements are elongated and include handle bars (preferably curved), plus short and long multi-use bars. Generally, these elements have at least two fixed connectors at both ends, preferably of opposite gender. Some auxiliary elements may have supplementary fixed side connectors, or attachment points for detachable connectors. Some accessories, e.g. swivel wheels, wheel shields or lights, may also be connected via the standardized connector system. [008] This novel solution grants the unique combination of a minimalistic design, simplicity of use, and a wide range of options with fast mode changes, due to:

a) the multiple, quick release and multi-directional connection options between the core element (frame) and the auxiliary system elements (handle bars, multi-use-bars), including connections through a pivoting base;

b) the multiple, quick release and multi-directional connection options between auxiliary system elements, including in-line, perpendicular and three-way connections;

c) shared connectivity for system accessories.

[009] Consequently, auxiliary or accessory system elements may assume different functions according to the relative position to the frame and/or to other auxiliary elements. III. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[010] The present invention is a multi-functional cart system with a minimalistic yet flexible design, suited for a wide variety of utility and recreation purposes. The system comprises a core element (a frame to which one or more wheels can be set), auxiliary elements and a standardized connectivity system for both. Certain system accessories may have compatible connectivity.

[011] The standardized connectivity system is based on compatible connectors, preferably quick releasable and with multi-directional engagement options. These connectors may be of detachable or fixed type. Detachable connectors can be attached to alternative attachments points on the core element and on some of the auxiliary elements. Fixed connectors are generally present at both ends of the main auxiliary elements, preferably of opposite gender, optionally with complementary side connectors. Fixed connectors may be set on a pivoting base.

[012] This design allows both connections between the frame and auxiliary or accessory elements, as well as mutual connections between these elements, thus providing the necessary flexibility to (re-)configure a cart according to the required purpose of use.

IV. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[013] With the above, the invention consists in a cart system, which will be more fully understood from the following description, when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

Fig. 1 is a partially exploded perspective view of a frame and detachable connectors.

Fig. 2 shows some details of the main auxiliary system elements.

Fig. 3 shows side views of some configurations of a basic cart.

Fig. 4 shows some configurations of a basic cart with added long multi-use bars. Fig. 5 shows some configurations of a basic cart with added long multi-use bars, curved bars and swivel wheels.

Fig. 6 shows some system accessories.

V. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[014] The present invention is a cart system suited for a wide variety of utility and recreation purposes. The system comprises a core element, auxiliary elements and a standardized connectivity system for both.

[015] The core element is a frame, which is preferably substantially planar and rectangular. The frame may have an open structure (e.g. a ladder frame) or a closed structure (e.g. a plate or a box). One or more wheels can be set at the long frame sides, or optionally at a frame extension e.g. for a central wheel. The standardized connector system is based on compatible connectors, preferably quick-releasable and with multi-directional engagement options. These connectors may be of detachable or fixed type. The detachable connectors can be attached, e.g. with a bolt, to alternative attachment points on the frame or on some auxiliary elements. Fixed connectors are generally present at both ends of the main auxiliary elements, preferably of opposite gender, optionally with complementary side connectors. Fixed connectors may include connectors on a pivoting base, to connect auxiliary elements such as handle and tow bars to the frame. [016] Thus, an auxiliary element may assume different functions according to its position relative to the frame and/or to other elements. E.g. a long multi-use bar may serve as (part of) a tow bar for a person or a vehicle; ground support for a horizontal or upright load frame; canopy structure; load bar or protective cage. Likewise, a short multi-use bar may serve as foot, load or seat retainer, cage element or extension for a handgrip, tow bar or a hitch. Some accessories (e.g. reflectors, wheel shields, canoe adapters) can also be connected to the frame or auxiliary elements via the standardized connectivity system. [017] Fig. 1 shows a preferred embodiment of the frame 1 having a ladder assembly which facilitates disassembling for transport, changes in frame length or (track) width, the connection of system elements or complementary implements, and the use of load straps. Preferably, the components of the frame and its general structure are symmetric, and one type of bolt is used in all threaded connections.

[018] In this embodiment, the frame consists of two side tubes 2 and three transverse tubes 3. The preferably square side tubes 2 have several alternative through-holes 4 for the quick release or bolted axles of wheels 5. In addition, they have multiple, preferably bilateral, attachment points 6 for detachable connectors 7 (here of male gender, but female gender could also be used), here shown with a spring-loaded push-button locking mechanism 20.

[019] Non-rotation reliefs 8 at the attachments points 6 are compatible with reliefs 9 on the detachable connectors 7, and allow not only for simple one-screw connections between the parts, but also for multiple positions of the button. Preferably, square reliefs are used to allow connections at four 90° orientations. For increased connectivity, the same reliefs 8 can be used at the attachment points 14 on longitudinal frame tubes 2 for reliefs 9 on transverse frame tubes 3.

[020] The frame 1 may also comprise fixed connectors. In this preferred embodiment, fixed connectors 7^' (here of male gender, but female gender can also be used) are set on lockable pivoting joints 11 which are connected via a perforated metal block 12 to the inner ends of side tubes 2. Rosette or dented plates with multiple locking positions (e.g. 32 x 1 1 .25°), or friction plates, can be used in the pivoting joints. This is especially useful to achieve the most ergonomic position for handgrips and to adjust tow bar angles. The pivoting joint is (dis)engaged through a knob 10. By placing a pivoting joint outside the frame, an auxiliary element connected to it may be rotated 360° in relation to the frame.

[021] The frame may include more fixed connectors, e.g. at end blocks 12^', optionally an in-line fixed connector can be integrated, e.g. for a frame extension for an additional wheel. Such a connector could also be bolted to a threaded interface, which also allows for expandability, e.g. a protective rubber end plate 13. The perforated blocks 12, blocks 12^', and other internal blocks not shown here, which are inserted and fixed inside tubes 2, are also reinforcements for attachment points 6 and 14, and for axle holes 4. Preferably, these points include sockets for the heads of the bolts, for increased connectivity options and to prevent bolt heads from protruding from the frame.

[022] Fig. 2 shows a preferred embodiment of main auxiliary elements as handle bars 15, short multi-use bars 16 and long multi-use bars 17. The bars consist basically of tubes with at one end a fixed male standard connector 7^' with a spring- loaded press-button locking mechanism 20, and at the other end a standard connector 18 of female gender (male gender can also be used), consisting of a compatible square hollow tube end 21 with one to four side holes 22 compatible with push button 20. This allows both connections to the frame as well as mutual inline connections. A polygonal (here square) profile 19 of the connectors is preferred, to allow multiple orientations (here four at 90°), and also increases operational security over a cylindrical profile by preventing rotation which could cause button 20 to be depressed and released. Additional axle holes 4 can be provided for use with an axle or to pass a cord. [023] Instead of, or in addition to the push-button 20 at the male connectors 7 and 7', an external bolt and nut, or an external bolt set in a thread in these connectors, or a safety pin, may be used to lock the connection. Also, a second push-button may be installed opposite from the first one in the same cavity of the connector 7 or 7', or a second button may go in a second hole at the same or at another facet of the connector.

[024] Some auxiliary elements may have additional connectivity options, such as the side connector 18' (here of female gender, but male gender can also be used) on short bars 16, or attachment points 6^' for standardized connectors on long bars 17. Thus, perpendicular and three-way connections can be made between certain auxiliary system elements. As the terminal connectors on these auxiliary elements are multi-directional, these side connectors or attachment points can be set in the desired direction. Some accessories such as skids, lights, reflectors or a flag can also be connected via standardized connectors (see Fig. 4C and Fig. 6). Protective end caps 23, preferably in rubber or rubberized, can be placed over any out-of-use male connector 7 or 7^'. End caps for female connectors are optional.

[025] Although the basic system has a minimalistic design, as explained above, its standardized connectivity system provides great versatility and flexibility. Tools are only required when the position of detachable standard connectors needs to be changed (one bolt per connector when non-rotation reliefs are used). The following part of the description provides examples of configurations which can be obtained by varying positions of detachable connectors and auxiliary elements, and by adding of accessory elements.

[026] Fig. 3 shows some configurations of a basic cart with a frame 1 , wheels 5 (front wheel not shown), two handle bars 15 and several short multi-use bars 16:

a) Fig. 3A shows a normal and an exploded lateral view of a self-standing hand cart. At each side, two preferably identical short bars 16 in right-angled connection via side connectors 18^' form a load support which can be grounded with end caps 23. End caps 23 can also be placed on the end connectors of handle bars 15. To further support a load set over the bars, a canvas strip with end sleeves can be slid over the load bars, or a floor panel 24 can be placed as shown. Also serves as dirt bag dolly, with a bag hung from handle bars or short bars which are rotated over the load bars through pivoting joints 11.

b) Fig. 3B shows a cargo dolly mode with two bars 16 set as load bars on the frame end, and two other bars 16 supporting the wheels 5 via axle hole 4 at an opposite and higher position on the frame. Side connectors 18^' on the wheel supporting bars serve as props. Additional short or long multi-use bars can be set in side connectors 18^' of the load bars, parallel to the longitudinal bars 2, to prevent interference of the wheels with a wide load. For storage, the short bars 16 can be set to the frame via their side connectors 18^', which brings them in a parallel position close to the frame.

c) Fig. 3C shows an alternative wide cargo dolly mode with short bars 16 forming a load support above the wheels 5. Side connectors 18^' serve as props underneath these load bars. Also a flower pot mover, by connecting the pot with a strap or rope to the load bar ends. Long bars can also be used as load support, optionally with curved bars as props, as shown in Fig. 5. Fig. 4 shows some configurations of a basic cart with added long bars 17: a) Fig. 4A shows a hiking cart mode with an upright frame 1 , terminally set wheels 5 and tow bars formed by long bars 17 and handle bars 15. With square connector profiles, the latter can be set at four different

orientations. The load pressing on the hands of the user can be calibrated by adjusting the angle between the load frame and tow bars via the pivoting joints 11. For a wheelbarrow mode, the tow bars 17 are simply lined with frame tubes 2, while short bars with end caps can be set to connectors under the frame as feet.

b) Fig. 4B shows an upright bike trailer mode with one long bar 17 and one handle bar 15 as a tow bar with adjustable angle. The hitch bar 25 with a standardized female connector 18 is fixed to the male connector on handle bar 15. At the bike, the hitch may be coupled to a compatible receiver on the frame or saddle pin. Additional safety pins or straps can be used. The superfluous second long bar 17 is stowed unobtrusively on the frame via the female side connector 18^' of short bar 16.

c) Fig. 4C shows a push/pull cart mode with a horizontal frame and centrally set wheels 5. Short bars 16 on the frame comers serve as load retainers and cable guides. Fixed connectors 7^' at the ends of the short bars 16 can be covered with rubber end caps 23, or be used to connect accessories, such as reflectors or lights 26^' or a flag 26". The female side connectors 18' of the short bars 16 can be used to attach accessories such as wheel shields 26 which consist of a curved bar with a male connector. As the connectors are multi-directional, the wheel shields can also be positioned upward e.g. to support a hood on four sticks, or downward as feet. By setting a hitch to one tow bar and removing the other, a horizontal bike trailer results which can be coupled to the bike^'s rear axle or frame. The tow bar can be set at any convenient angle through pivoting joints 11, also for ground support. For extra-long loads, the second long bar can be coupled to the first. Floor panels 24 can be used on the frame, as well as netting or a floor box (see also Fig. 6). d) Fig. 4D shows a log cart mode, where the self-supported vertical load frame 1 has a parallel support structure for fire wood through two long bars 17 set on the female connectors 18 of the vertically set short bars 16, forming a three-way connection.

e) Fig. 4E shows a seat and canopy mode, where the angle of the canopy structure, consisting of handle bars 15 and long bars 17, can be adjusted via pivoting joints 11.

f) Fig.4F shows an adjustable reclined seat mode where serially connected long bars 17 and short bars 16 set on the pivoting joints 11 support the frame. The sea/load bars can be set higher on the frame as shown in Fig. 3C, while using the side connectors as props. Bars set on pivoting joints can have many more uses, e.g. as umbrella support, as tent or tarp pole, or as table structure.

[028] Fig. 5 shows some configurations of a basic cart with long bars 17, swivel wheels 27 (here on short bars having female standard connectors 18), curved bars 28 with standardized female end connectors, and additional transverse tubes 3^': a) Fig. 5A shows a stroller with protective cage frame for child transport. Swivel wheels 27 are set to male connectors 7^'of the pivoting joints 11 of the frame. Two long bars 17, four short bars 16 and two curved bars 28 are integrated in the cage via the connector system. Handle bars 15 can be set at several orientations. For reinforcement, transverse tubes 3^' can be bolted on several positions between the curved or long bars. Quick conversion to a bike trailer is possible by rotating one swivel wheel upward and substituting the other with a tow bar, handle bar and hitch bar as in Fig. 4B.

b) Fig. 5B shows a rollator or walker mode for elderly people. The upright frame is slightly inclined for stability. The curved bars 28, which serve as props for the long bars 17, are connected via detachable connectors 7 on the frame and the long bars 17. A transverse rod 3^' can be added as a collateral support for a seat. To improve stabilization, handle bars 15 on pivoting joints 11 can be set via extension bars 16. Alternatively, the left and right frame halves may be connected by a folding mechanism instead of the transverse frame tubes 3. c) Fig. 5C shows a transport wheelchair mode with the frame 1 set horizontally, its front transverse tube removed to ease access to the seat (not shown). The curved bars 28 are used as props for the long bars, and serve as arm supports and attachment points for a transverse tube 3'. The latter supports the seat, together with the central transverse tube 3 of the frame. The depth or the height of the seat may be enlarged by insertion of horizontally respectively vertically placed short tubes between the curved bars and the frame. Foot rests can be connected to tubes 2 or curved bars 28. Alternatively, the frame can be used vertically (inverted position). Optionally, these push wheelchairs can be combined with large wheels for a manually propelled wheelchair.

[029] Accessories can also be connected via the standardized connectivity system, e.g. wheel shields or reflectors as shown in fig. 4C, or swivel wheels as in Fig. 5A. Floor panels 24, as shown in several figures as load or seat base, also may have a standardized connector underneath so they can be used as small accessory tables when attached directly, or via an extension, to a connector on the frame, an auxiliary element, or a pivoting joint. Similarly, a brake handle with a compatible connector can be set to a handle bar, while many more options exist. Fig. 6 shows more options:

a) Fig. 6A shows canoe or kayak adapters 29, consisting of tubes with a foam cover and system compatible end connectors, which engage simultaneously with the connectors 7^'of corner bars 16 (short multi-use bars) of a cart with a horizontal frame. Skids can be set in a similar way to connectors and/or bars under the frame. Alternatively, kayak or other adapters such as 30 can be set between corner bars, also secured by end caps 23.

b) System accessories can also be attached around auxiliary elements, as shown in Fig. 6B and 6C. The cart in Fig. 6B carries four corner profiles 31 for side panels 32 set around its four corner bars 16. The profiles rest on side connectors 18^' of the corner bars which prevents interference with the locking mechanisms of the connector below. This also allows the panels to have small panel extensions 33, which prevents the panels from ring in the profile grooves. Finally, the profiles can be secured by end caps 23 on connectors 7^'of short bars 16. This profile/panel set-up can also be combined with a cage frame as shown in Fig. 5. Fig. 6C shows two articulated (suit)case halves 34 in an open position. The bottom half is set around four multi-use bars 16 set at the corners of the frame. The lower half of the case can be used as an open box, where it can be secured by end caps 23, or as a bottom for a cage as in Fig. 5.

Claims

Claim 1. A cart system for utility and recreation purposes, comprising · a core element,

• a plurality of auxiliary elements,

• and a standardized connectivity system for said core and auxiliary elements, where said core element comprises a frame to which one or more wheels can be attached, where said auxiliary elements comprise a plurality of substantially elongated elements having two ends, and where said standardized connectivity system comprises

· a plurality of detachable connector means,

• a plurality of attachment points for said detachable connector means, located on said frame,

• a plurality of fixed connector means, each of which is located in-line at no less than one of the two ends of each of said elongated auxiliary elements, thus allowing connection of said auxiliary elements to alternative positions on said frame.

Claim 2. A cart system as mentioned in claim 1 , where the standardized connectivity system further comprises fixed connector means located in-line at the second end of an elongated auxiliary element, thus allowing in-line connections between said auxiliary elements.

Claim 3. A cart system as mentioned in claim 1 , where the standardized connectivity system further comprises fixed connector means located perpendicularly at the sides of auxiliary elements, thus allowing T- or L-connections between auxiliary elements.

Claim 4. A cart system as mentioned in claim 1 , where the standardized connectivity system further comprises fixed connector means located on the frame.

Claim 5. A cart system as mentioned in claim 4, where a fixed connector means located on the frame comprises an intermediate pivoting joint.

Claim 6. A cart system as mentioned in claim 1 , where the standardized connectivity system further comprises attachment points for detachable connector means located on auxiliary elements.

Claim 7. A cart system as mentioned in claim 1 and 6, where the attachment points for detachable connector means, located on the frame or on auxiliary elements, share compatible square reliefs with said detachable connectors, thus preventing rotation of said parts in a one-screw connection.

Claim 8. A cart system as mentioned in claims 1-7, where the locking means of the connector means of the standardized connectivity system comprises a spring- loaded push-button mechanism and a receiving means on the opposite connector.

Claim 9. A cart system as mentioned in claims 1-8, where the connector means of opposite gender of the standardized connectivity system share compatible square profiles at cross section, thus allowing multi-directional connections.

Claim 10. A cart system as mentioned in claim 8 and 9, where more than one side of the opposite connector has a receiving means for a spring-loaded push-button.

Claim 11. A cart system as mentioned in claim 1 , where the frame is substantially planar.

Claim 12. A cart system as mentioned in claims 1-11 , where the attachment points on the frame allow the detachable connector means to be connected in a perpendicular position to the plane of the frame.

Claim 13. A cart system as mentioned in claims 1-12, where the elongated auxiliary elements comprise one or more handle bars.

Claim 14. A cart system as mentioned in claim 13, where the handle bars are curved.

Claim 15. A cart system as mentioned in claims 1-12, where the elongated auxiliary elements comprise one or more short multi-use bars with a length smaller than 40 cm.

Claim 16. A cart system as mentioned in claims 1-12, where the elongated auxiliary elements comprise one or more long multi-use bars with a length greater than 40 cm.

Claim 17. A cart system as mentioned in claims 1 -12, where the elongated auxiliary elements comprise one or more curved multi-use bars.

Claim 18. A cart system as mentioned in claim 1 , where the system further comprises system accessories having one or more connector means compatible with the standardized connectivity system.

Claim 19. A cart system as mentioned in claim 18, where a system accessory comprises a hitch for a towing vehicle.

Claim 20. A cart system as mentioned in claim 18, where a system accessory is a protective end cap for a connector means.

Claim 21 . A cart system as mentioned in claim 20, where end caps are used to secure system accessories attached between or around auxiliary elements.