WO2017182947A1 - Mécanisme de pliage verrouillable - Google Patents

Mécanisme de pliage verrouillable Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2017182947A1
WO2017182947A1 PCT/IB2017/052211 IB2017052211W WO2017182947A1 WO 2017182947 A1 WO2017182947 A1 WO 2017182947A1 IB 2017052211 W IB2017052211 W IB 2017052211W WO 2017182947 A1 WO2017182947 A1 WO 2017182947A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
frame
center support
support
tricycle
handgrip
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IB2017/052211
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Yoram Baron
Original Assignee
Smart Trike MNF. Pte. Ltd.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Smart Trike MNF. Pte. Ltd. filed Critical Smart Trike MNF. Pte. Ltd.
Publication of WO2017182947A1 publication Critical patent/WO2017182947A1/fr

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62K—CYCLES; CYCLE FRAMES; CYCLE STEERING DEVICES; RIDER-OPERATED TERMINAL CONTROLS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CYCLES; CYCLE AXLE SUSPENSIONS; CYCLE SIDE-CARS, FORECARS, OR THE LIKE
    • B62K15/00—Collapsible or foldable cycles
    • B62K15/006—Collapsible or foldable cycles the frame being foldable
    • B62K15/008—Collapsible or foldable cycles the frame being foldable foldable about 2 or more axes
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B62—LAND VEHICLES FOR TRAVELLING OTHERWISE THAN ON RAILS
    • B62K—CYCLES; CYCLE FRAMES; CYCLE STEERING DEVICES; RIDER-OPERATED TERMINAL CONTROLS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CYCLES; CYCLE AXLE SUSPENSIONS; CYCLE SIDE-CARS, FORECARS, OR THE LIKE
    • B62K9/00—Children's cycles
    • B62K9/02—Tricycles

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the field of riding vehicles. More particularly, the invention relates to a foldable tricycle.
  • US 6,966,572 discloses a folding tricycle, which features a front frame element to which a front wheel and handlebars are mounted.
  • a front bracket is attached to the front frame element and a seat bracket, to which a seat is mounted, is pivotally attached to the front bracket.
  • a rear frame element has a pair of rear wheels mounted thereto and is attached to a rear bracket.
  • the rear bracket is also pivotally mounted to the front bracket.
  • the rear seat bracket features a pin that engages slots in the seat bracket.
  • the seat bracket pivots with respect to the front bracket as the rear frame element is pivoted relative to the front bracket as the riding vehicle is moved between folded and unfolded configurations.
  • the described folding technique is complex.
  • US 7,300,066 discloses a folding frame for a tricycle which has a front frame part on which the front wheels can be mounted and a rear frame part on which the rear wheels can be mounted.
  • a rotating joint with a front articulated part is mounted on the front frame part and a rear articulated part is mounted on the rear frame part.
  • the first of the two articulated parts has a first recess and the second of the two articulated parts has a second and third recess.
  • the first recess and the second recess are in alignment in the use position and the first recess and the third recess are aligned in the folded position.
  • the first articulated part and the second articulated part are locked against one another in the use position and in the folded position via a pin which can be moved in the recesses. Nevertheless, the described folding system is inconvenient.
  • US 9,227,686 discloses a foldable tricycle, having a front wheel assembly, and a mainframe, latched to the front wheel assembly via a front mount.
  • the disclosed tricycle also has a pair of rear wheel assemblies, and a pair of folding ring assemblies coupling the rear wheel assemblies to the mainframe.
  • the described tricycle also features a mechanism for simultaneously unlocking the pair of ring assemblies and unlatching the mainframe from the front wheel assembly so that a single pulling motion on the mechanism unlocks and unlatches the foldable tricycle from an assembled state thereof to a folded state thereof. Nevertheless, the described foldable tricycle is costly to manufacture.
  • the present invention relates to a collapsible tricycle, comprising: (a) an elongated center support having opposing ends! (b) a pair of rear wheels! (c) a rear wheel support frame having a first end configured to rotabably support said rear wheels and a second end connected to said elongated center support, wherein said elongated center support and said rear wheel support frame cooperate to form a first closed loop! (d) a handgrip frame having a first end configured for grasping by an attendant and a second end connected to said elongated center support, wherein said elongated center support and said handlegrip frame cooperate to form a second closed loop!
  • a pair of main hinges each located on an opposing end of said elongated center support, said main hinges being configured to permit relative pivotal movement between said handgrip frame and said rear wheel support frame!
  • a front end including a rider handle, a front wheel, and a head tube for rotatably supporting said rider handle and said front wheel!
  • a forward support interconnecting said front end and said elongated center support!
  • a front end hinge connected to said forward support at a location between said head tube and said elongated center support, and being configured to permit said front end to pivot relative to said elongated center support! and
  • said front end hinge and said pair of main hinges are configured such that in a collapsed mode said handgrip frame lies adjacent said rear wheel support frame, and said front end is in a pivoted position toward said elongated center support.
  • the present invention further includes a pair of opposing handgrip hinges on opposing sides of the handgrip frame, wherein said handgrip hinges are configured to enable, in the collapsed mode, an upper portion of said handgrip frame to be pivoted to a position toward a lower portion of said handgrip frame.
  • the lower portion of the handgrip frame has a length that approximates a length of the rear wheel frame.
  • the pair of main hinges each includes a lock for selectively preventing and enabling main hinge pivot, and wherein the collapsible tricycle further comprises a lock release connected to the center support.
  • the present invention further comprises a strap, external to the center support and connected to the lock release, for enabling a user to simultaneously disengage the lock of each of the pair of main hinges.
  • the first closed loop is generally in the shape of a rectangle.
  • the second closed loop is generally in the shape of a rectangle with a rounded handgrip end.
  • the forward support is substantially orthogonal to the center support.
  • the present invention further includes a seat mounted atop the center support and the forward support.
  • the seat includes at least one slot through which the strap passes.
  • the handgrip frame and the rear wheel frame are interconnected through the pair of main hinges.
  • the rear wheel frame includes an axle extending between opposing rear wheels and a pair of arms extending between the axle and the center support.
  • the center support simultaneously serves as both a portion of the first closed loop and a portion of the second closed loop.
  • the second end of the rear wheel frame is connected to the elongated center support via the pair of main hinges.
  • the second end of the handgrip frame is connected to the elongated center support via the pair of main hinges.
  • both the second end of the rear wheel frame and the second end of the handgrip frame are connected to the elongated center support via the pair of main hinges.
  • the present invention further comprises a seat mounted on the forward support, and wherein the front end hinge is located between the head tube and the seat.
  • the present invention further comprises a foldable canopy for protecting the rider from the sun or rain.
  • the present invention further comprises a rear brake which can lock at least one rear wheel.
  • the present invention also relates to a collapsible tricycle, comprising: (a) an elongated center support having opposing ends! (b) a pair of rear wheels! (c) a rear wheel support frame having a first end configured to rotabably support the rear wheels and a second end connected to the elongated center support, wherein the elongated center support and the rear wheel support frame cooperate to form a first closed loop! (d) a handgrip frame having a first end configured for grasping by an attendant and a second end connected to the elongated center support, wherein the elongated center support and the handle frame cooperate to form a second closed loop!
  • a pair of main hinges each located on an opposing end of the elongated center support, the main hinges being configured to permit relative pivotal movement between the handgrip frame and the rear wheel support frame, wherein the pair of main hinges each include a lock for selectively preventing and enabling main hinge pivot;
  • a lock release located within a cavity in the center support!
  • a front end including a rider handle, a front wheel, and a head tube for rotatably supporting a rider handle and a front wheel!
  • a front end hinge connected to the forward support at a location between the head tube and the center support, and being configured to permit the front end to pivot relative to the center support! and (k) wherein the front end hinge and the pair of hinges are configured such that in a collapsed mode the handgrip frame lies adjacent the rear wheel support frame, and the front end is in a pivoted position toward the center support.
  • Fig. 1 is a diagram depicting a collapsible tricycle, in its open position, according to an embodiment of the invention.
  • Fig. 2a is a diagram depicting the tricycle, in a possible first mode, where the tricycle may be propelled and steered by a rider, according to an embodiment.
  • Fig. 2b is a diagram depicting the tricycle, in a possible first mode, where the handgrip frame is pivoted down while the tricycle is propelled and steered by a rider, according to an embodiment.
  • Fig 2c depicts an isometric view of the collapsible tricycle in the second mode, according to an embodiment.
  • Fig 2d depicts an isometric view of the collapsible tricycle, where the tricycle may be used for accommodating a sleeping child, according to an embodiment.
  • Fig. 3 is a diagram depicting part of the collapsible tricycle, according to an embodiment.
  • Fig. 4a is a diagram depicting the lower rear part of the tricycle, according to an embodiment.
  • Fig. 4b is a diagram depicting the elongated center support and some of its related parts, according to an embodiment.
  • Fig. 4c is a diagram depicting the elongated center support and some of its related parts, where parts of the hinges have been removed, according to an embodiment.
  • Fig. 4d is a diagram depicting the elongated center support and some of its related parts, in the folded state, according to an embodiment.
  • Fig. 5 is a diagram depicting a tricycle in a collapsed mode, from a front view, according to an embodiment.
  • Fig. 6 is a diagram depicting the tricycle in a collapsed mode, from a rear isometric view, according to an embodiment.
  • Fig. 7a is a diagram depicting a front end hinge when the collapsible tricycle is in an open position, according to an embodiment of the invention.
  • Fig. 7b is a diagram depicting a front end hinge when its safety top is opened, according to an embodiment of the invention.
  • Fig. 7c is a diagram depicting a front end hinge when the collapsible tricycle is in a collapsed mode, according to an embodiment of the invention.
  • Fig. 7d is a diagram depicting an exploded view of a front end hinge, according to an embodiment of the invention.
  • Fig. 8 is a diagram depicting a front end hinge when the collapsible tricycle is in an unfolded configuration, according to another embodiment of the invention.
  • Fig 9a depicts an isometric view of part of the collapsible tricycle, according to an embodiment.
  • Fig 9b depicts an isometric view of the collapsible tricycle in the second mode, according to an embodiment.
  • Fig 10 depicts an isometric view of the hand grip frame, according to an embodiment.
  • Fig 11a depicts the lower rear part of the tricycle, according to an embodiment.
  • Fig 1 lb depicts parts of the lower rear part of the tricycle, according to an embodiment.
  • screw screw
  • pin pin
  • bolt any element that can be used for connecting more than one component, where in some of the cases may allow at least one of the components to rotate, e.g. axis like, in respect to at least one of the other components.
  • Fig. 1 is a diagram depicting a collapsible tricycle, in its open position, i.e. unfolded configuration, according to an embodiment of the invention.
  • a tricycle as used herein, includes any vehicle with at least one wheel in the front and at least two wheels in the rear.
  • the collapsible tricycle 100 as depicted for example in its open position in Fig. 1, may be collapsed and folded into a small package as depicted, for example, in Fig. 5.
  • Fig. 1 depicts an isometric view of a collapsible tricycle, which may be propelled by a pedaling rider, in a first mode, or may be propelled by an attendant, who pushes the tricycle, in a second mode.
  • the tricycle 100 may have a seat 120 for the rider of the tricycle 100.
  • the tricycle 100 may also have a back support 121 for supporting the back of the rider.
  • the back support 121 may be made of plastic, cloth, or any other rigid or soft material or any combination thereof, where the back support 121 may have a plastic part covered by a fabric for example.
  • the tricycle 100 may also have a strap 500, which may be located on the seat 120, and may be used for folding and collapsing the tricycle 100, described in greater detail in relations to FIG. 4a- 4d.
  • the tricycle 100 may have a foldable canopy 160 which can be opened, as depicted in Fig. 1, for protecting the rider from the sun or rain.
  • the tricycle 100 may have 2 rear wheels 172 and 173 which may by rotatably supported by a support frame 170, for example.
  • Tricycle 100 may also have a rear brake 174 which can lock one rear wheel or both rear wheels 172- 173.
  • Tricycle 100 may have at least one front wheel 130 which may be pedaled by the left pedal 131 and a right pedal (not shown) by the rider in the first mode.
  • the seat 120 may be made of plastic, cloth, or any other rigid or soft material or any combination thereof, where the seat 120 may have a plastic part covered by a fabric for example.
  • the back support 121 may be connected to the hand grip frame 140, by straps, fabric sleeves, loops, Velcro, Tic-tac or by any other connecting means.
  • a forward support 210 may be interconnected to the center support 211, wielded to the center support 211, or connected to the center support 211 by any other means such as bonding, screws, threading, or any other mechanism permitting connection of the forward support 210 to the center support 211.
  • the forward support 210 is interconnected to the center of the center support 211 and is substantially orthogonal to the center support 211.
  • Embodiments of the invention may include a front end 200, where the front end 200 may comprise a rider handle 150, a front wheel 130, a fork for rotatably holding the front wheel 130, a fork's stem (not shown), and a head tube 180 for rotatably supporting a rider handle 150 and for rotatably supporting the fork's stem.
  • the front end 200 may comprise a rider handle 150, a front wheel 130, a fork for rotatably holding the front wheel 130, a fork's stem (not shown), and a head tube 180 for rotatably supporting a rider handle 150 and for rotatably supporting the fork's stem.
  • Embodiments may also include a front end hinge 212, connected to the forward support 210 at a location between the head tube 180 and the center support 211, and being configured to permit the front end 200 to pivot relative to the center support 211.
  • the hinge 212 may have a release button, or any other mechanism such as mechanism 222 depicted in Fig. 7a _ 7d, or mechanism 322 depicted in Fig. 9, for holding the hinge in a fixed state, when the tricycle is in an unfolded configuration for riding, and for releasing the hinge 212, for permitting the front end 200 to pivot relative to the center support 211 when folding the tricycle.
  • Embodiments may also include a snap in place release button, or any other mechanism, where the button may snap in place automatically, when the tricycle is unfolded, for holding the hinge 212 in a fixed state.
  • the seat 120 is mounted on the forward support 210.
  • the front end hinge 212 may be located between the head tube 180 and the seat 120.
  • Embodiments may also include a handgrip 140 and a handgrip frame having a first end 146, configured for grasping by an attendant, and a second end 147- 148, connected to the elongated center support 211, wherein the elongated center support 211 and the handgrip frame (146- 148) cooperate to form a closed loop.
  • this closed loop is generally in the shape of a rectangle with a rounded handgrip end.
  • the lower portion of the handgrip frame e.g. the second end 147, has a length that approximates a length of the rear wheel frame 170, e.g. arm 176 depicted in Fig. 4a.
  • the hand grip 140 may be telescopically extendable (not shown), for adjusting the height of the hand grip 140 to the comfortable height of the attendant, or for folding the tricycle 100, or for folding the hand grip 140 when it is not in use.
  • the hand grip 140 may further include a pair of opposing handgrip hinges, such as hinge 141 on opposing sides of the first end 146 of the handgrip frame, wherein the handgrip hinges are configured to enable, the upper portion 146 of the handgrip frame to be pivoted to a position toward a lower portion 147 of the handgrip frame, as depicted in Fig. 2a.
  • the handgrip hinges may be used for adjusting the height of the hand grip 140 to the comfortable height of the attendant, or for folding the tricycle 100, or for folding the hand grip frame when it is not in use, such as in the first mode.
  • Fig. 2a is a diagram depicting the tricycle 100, in a possible first mode, where the tricycle may be propelled and steered by a rider, according to an embodiment.
  • the first end 146 of the handgrip frame is pivoted to a position toward a lower portion 147 of the handgrip frame by pivoting the pair of hinges 141 and 142 located on the opposing sides of the handgrip frame.
  • the tricycle may be used for the first mode where the tricycle may be propelled and steered by a rider sitting on the seat 120.
  • the canopy 160 may be pivoted down as well by pivoting the pair of hinges 141 and 142 located on the opposing sides of the handgrip frame.
  • each of the hinges 141 and/or 142 may also have a release button, or any other mechanism for holding the hinge in a fixed state, when the tricycle is in the second mode, and for releasing the hinge, for permitting the first end 146 of the handgrip frame to pivot to a position toward a lower portion 147 of the handgrip frame.
  • a release button or any other mechanism for holding the hinge in a fixed state, when the tricycle is in the second mode, and for releasing the hinge, for permitting the first end 146 of the handgrip frame to pivot to a position toward a lower portion 147 of the handgrip frame.
  • Embodiments may also include a snap in place release button, or any other mechanism, where the button may be pressed, for pivoting, or may snap in place automatically, for holding the hinge in a fixed state.
  • Fig. 2b is a diagram depicting the tricycle 100, in a possible first mode, where the handgrip frame is pivoted down while the tricycle is propelled and steered by a rider, according to an embodiment.
  • the first end 146 of the handgrip frame is pivoted to a position toward a lower portion on the opposing sides of the handgrip frame, while the canopy 160 is opened above the rider.
  • the rider may steer the tricycle by using rider handle 150 and may propel the tricycle 100 by pedaling the pedals.
  • the rider handle 150 may be rotatably connected with the front wheel 130 such that when the rider turns the rider handle 150 left or right, the front wheel 130 turns accordingly.
  • Embodiments of the invention may include a pair of pedals, each pedal configured to rotate the front wheel 130.
  • Numerous types of pedals may be employed constant with embodiments of the invention.
  • Such pedals may include fixed pedals, removable pedals, foldable pedals, or pedals that flip up, retract, or have an otherwise alterable configuration.
  • the term pedal refers to any structure that permits a rider to propel a tricycle using foot power.
  • An example of pedals, consistent with embodiments of the invention includes pedal 131, such as shown in Fig 2b.
  • a pedal may be configured to rotate the front wheel 130 a portion of the time, (e.g., during the first mode) when the rider propels the tricycle 100, and may be removable from, disengagable from, folded onto, or otherwise deactivatable during a second portion of the time, (e.g., during the second mode when an attendant pushes the tricycle from behind).
  • Each of pedals may be connected to the center of the front wheel 130, via pedal rod 132, as depicted in Fig. 1 for example.
  • the pedal rod may be continuous and connected to both pedals, or the pedal rod 132 may be configured of two independent sections, each connected to a separate one of the pedals.
  • the propelling factor of pedal rod 132 may be connected, by any mechanical interconnection means, to a rotating factor of the front wheel 130, thereby allowing rotation of the front wheel 130 using pedal rod 132.
  • the front wheel 130 By rotating the pedal rod 132, the front wheel 130 may be rotated about its center axis, i.e. about the middle part of pedal rod 132 which may act as the front wheel 130 axle.
  • the front wheel may have a separate axle to which one or a pair of pedal rods connects.
  • the propelling factor of pedal rod 132 may be disconnected, by any mechanical interconnection means, from the rotating factor of the front wheel 130, thereby allowing the front wheel 130 to rotate independently from pedal rod 132.
  • Pedal rod 132 may include three parts: a middle part located at a center of the wheel 130 and used, among others, as an axle of wheel 130, a right side for connection to a right pedal, and a left side for connection to a left pedal such as pedal 131.
  • the right and left side may be removable from, disengagable from, folded onto, or otherwise deactivatable from the center of the wheel 130, during the second mode.
  • Embodiments of the invention may include at least one blade configured to support the front wheel in a manner permitting the front wheel to rotate about the front wheel axis.
  • blade includes any structure capable of supporting the front wheel in a rotatable manner.
  • a wheel may be supported, for example, on a single blade or on a pair of blades.
  • Fig. 1 illustrates an example of a blade 133 used to rotatably support wheel 130.
  • a pair of blades When a pair of blades are employed, they are typically interconnected at upper ends opposite points at which they interconnect to the wheel axis and are collectively referred to as a fork (although, as used herein, the term fork may also include structures that have just one blade.)
  • the fork may be formed of individual blades that curve toward each other, or, interconnecting structure may join two individual fork blades.
  • the middle part of pedal rod 132 may be pivotally held by the opposing distal ends of fork blades in a manner such that the front wheel 130 is capable of rotating about its center axis.
  • a mud guard 134 may be disposed near a top of the fork, opposite distal ends supporting the wheel.
  • the rider may use the rider handle 150, which may be rotatably held by the head tube 180, for turning the front wheel 130 left or right for steering the tricycle.
  • Fig 2c depicts an isometric view of the collapsible tricycle in the second mode, according to an embodiment.
  • the tricycle 100 may be propelled by an attendant, who pushes the tricycle 100, and steers the tricycle right or left.
  • Embodiments of the invention may also include a stem (not shown) configured to extend from the head tube 180 in a manner permitting the stem to rotate, i.e. rotatably connectable to the frame.
  • a stem may be any structure connectable to the fork and that is capable of conveying a turning force to the fork and/or that supports the fork in a rotatable manner.
  • the stem may be rotatably connected to the frame's head tube 180.
  • Fig 2d depicts an isometric view of the collapsible tricycle, where the tricycle may be used for accommodating a sleeping child, according to an embodiment.
  • the back support 121 which may be connected to the hand grip frame, may be lowered, fully or partially, for allowing the rider to rest or sleep.
  • the back support 121 may be lowered to form an angle of at least 150 degrees between the back support 121 and the seat 120.
  • the back support 121 may be lowered to form an angle of about 160 degrees between the back support 121 and the seat 120.
  • the back support 121 may be lowered to form an angle of about 180 degrees between the back support 121 and the seat 120.
  • the back support 121 may be raised to form an angle of at least 95 degrees between the back support 121 and the seat 120. In another embodiment the back support 121 may be raised to form an angle of about 100 degrees between the back support 121 and the seat 120. In one embodiment the back support 121 may be lowered by up to 60 degrees from its sitting position to its sleeping position. In one embodiment the back support 121 may be lowered by up to 80 degrees from its sitting position to its sleeping position.
  • Fig. 3 is a diagram depicting part of the tricycle 100, described in relations to Figs. l-2d, according to an embodiment.
  • the tricycle 100 may have a pair of main hinges 151 and 152 each located on an opposing end of the elongated center support 211.
  • the elongated center support 211 may be made of metal or any other rigid material.
  • the lower portion handgrip frame 147- 148 and the rear wheel frame 170 may be interconnected through the pair of main hinges 151 and 152 respectively.
  • both the rear wheel frame 170 and the second end of the handgrip frame 147- 148 may be connected to the elongated center support 211 via the pair of main hinges 151- 152, thus, the center support 211 simultaneously serves as both a portion of the first closed loop (with the rear wheel frame), and a portion of the second closed loop (with the handgrip frame).
  • the main hinges 151 and 152 may be configured to permit relative pivotal movement between the lower portion handgrip frame 147- 148 and the rear wheel support frame 170, and the elongated center support 211, such as depicted in Fig. 4a _ 4d.
  • main hinges 151 and 152 are in fact hinges that may rotatably connect three parts of the tricycle 100, where each of the three parts may pivot in relations to the other two ⁇ ( a ) the handgrip frame (b) the rear wheel support frame! and (c) the elongated center support.
  • the collapsible tricycle 100 may including a seat 120 mounted atop the center support 211 and the forward support 210.
  • the seat 120 may include a slot, or two slots, through which the strap 500 may pass.
  • the top part of strap 500 may be conveniently located on the seat 120, for pulling and folding the tricycle 100, as also described in relations to Fig. 4a _ 4d.
  • the tricycle 100 may be pulled and folded in one motion.
  • the tricycle 100 may be collapsed and folded in five motions including: (a) folding of the canopy 160 (b) folding the hand grip frame 140 (c) releasing the hinge 212, for permitting the front end 200 to pivot relative to the center support 211 (d) unlocking a second lock mechanism, such as described in relations to Fig. 4b (e) pulling the strap 500.
  • any combination of some or more of the motions described above may be used for collapsing the tricycle 100 such as : (a) releasing the hinge, for permitting the front end 200 to pivot relative to the center support 211, (b) unlocking a lock mechanism, and (c) pulling the strap 500.
  • the tricycle 100 may be folded using one hand.
  • Fig. 4a is a diagram depicting the lower rear part of the tricycle, described in relations to Fig. 3, according to an embodiment.
  • the rear wheel frame 170 may include an axle 175 extending between opposing rear wheels 172 and 173, and a pair of arms 176 and 177 extending between the axle 175 and the center support 211.
  • the pair of arms, 176 and 177 may each be connected at its first end to the axle 175 and at its second end to one of the main hinges 151 and 152 respectively.
  • the rear wheel frame 170 may be connected to the elongated center support 211 via the pair of main hinges 151 and 152.
  • the elongated center support 211 and the rear wheel support frame 170 cooperate to form a closed rear loop which is generally in the shape of a rectangle.
  • the pair of main hinges, 151 and 152 may each include a lock (not shown) for selectively preventing and enabling main hinge pivot.
  • the collapsible tricycle may further comprise a lock release, such as lock releases 501 and 502, connected to the center support 211, and capable of releasing a main hinge lock.
  • Fig. 4a also depicts the strap 500 which is external to the center support 211 and may be connected to the two lock releases 501 and 502, for enabling a user to simultaneously disengage the locks of each of the pair of main hinge 151- 152.
  • the lock releases, 501 and 502 may be rectangular hooks where their stationary lower sides are held by the parts 511 and 512, respectively, and their movable upper side is held by the strap 500.
  • the stationary parts 511 and 512 may be attached to the center support 211, using screws or any other means such as bonding, wielding, threading, or any other mechanism of attachment.
  • the lock releases upper sides may sway left or right in relations to the pulling of the strap 500, while their lower sides are held fixed to the center support 211, according to an embodiment.
  • Fig. 4b is a diagram depicting the elongated center support 211 and some of its related parts, described in relations to Fig. 4a, according to an embodiment.
  • Button 520 may act as a second lock mechanism for preventing the accidental pivot of the main hinges, thus preventing the accidental folding of the tricycle.
  • the button 520 may be held with a spring or any other returning mechanism which may hold the hinge 151 in a fixed and locked position, without allowing any of the parts to pivot one in relations to the other even when the strap 500 is pulled. Thus it may be required to push the button 520 before or during the pulling of the strap 500 in order to fold the tricycle.
  • Fig. 4c is a diagram depicting the elongated center support 211 and some of its related parts, described in relations to Fig. 4b, where parts of the hinges have been removed, according to an embodiment.
  • parts of the hinge 151 have been removed and parts of the hinge 152 have been separated depicting an exploded view, in the diagram.
  • slide 541 On its rear side, slide 541 may be connected to a pin such as pin 531 which may be controlled by lock releases 501.
  • the rear side of slide 541 may also be held by a spring or any other contracting element which can push the slide 541 outwards.
  • slide 542 may also have a non-circular shape at its front end, for holding the parts of the hinge in a fixed state for preventing their relative rotation.
  • the parts 552 and 553, of the hinge may each have a cavity which is a mirror image, or a partial mirror image, of the non- circular shape of the front end of the slide 542.
  • its non-circular shape holds the hinge parts 552-553 and prevents the hinge parts 552-553 from pivoting in relations to themselves or in relation to the center support 211.
  • Other non-circular shapes and other embodiments are possible for locking the hinges 151- 152. As depicted, in Fig.
  • the lock release 501 may be located on the outer side of the pin 531 such that when the lock release 501 is pulled inward by the strap 500, such as depicted in Fig. 4d, the lock release 501 pulls the pin 531 and the connected slide 541 inwardly.
  • lock release 502 may pull pin 532 and slide 542 inwardly.
  • Fig. 4d is a diagram depicting the elongated center support 211 and some of its related parts, described in relations to Fig. 4c, in the folded state, according to an embodiment.
  • lock releases 501 and 502 are pulled inwardly effectively pulling the pins, 531 and 532 inwards which pull the connected slides, such as slide 541 inwardly.
  • the slides are pulled inwardly their non-circular front end is pulled inwardly into the elongated center support 211 and they disengage from the hinge parts, such as hinge parts 552 and 553. Therefore, an upper pull of the strap 500 may allow the folding of the tricycle as gravity may pull the parts closer to one another, such as parts 552-553.
  • the hinge parts 552 and 553 are depicted in Fig. 4d in a folded configuration and their relative position may be compared to their former position as depicted in Fig. 4b.
  • Fig. 5 is a diagram depicting the tricycle 100 in a collapsed position, according to an embodiment.
  • the total measurements of the folded tricycle may be less than 56X45X25cm.
  • the total measurements of the folded tricycle do not exceed 115cm.
  • the total measurements of the folded tricycle, without the rear wheels do not exceed 115cm.
  • the front end 200 may be in a pivoted position toward the center support 211.
  • the front end hinge 212 and the pair of hinges 151- 152 may be configured such that the lower portion 147- 148 of the handgrip frame lies adjacent the rear wheel support frame 170, as also depicted in Fig. 6.
  • the tricycle has a front swivel wheel, i.e. crazy wheel, for easy steerability in the second mode.
  • the tricycle may be steered by the attendant from behind by pushing the tricycle left and right and where the front swivel wheel aligns itself left or right accordingly.
  • the central axis of the stem of the fork of the front wheel extends in an offset from rotational axis of front wheel by a distance. In one embodiment, the offset distance is in a range of about 15mm and 40mm.
  • the angle between the stem and the fork is between about 165 and 179 degrees, and the minimum diameter of the stem is at least three times less than the width of the front wheel.
  • This combination of geometries is exemplary of a configuration that may permit an attendant to steer, in the second mode, when the stem axis a leads the wheel axis, or may permit the tricycle rider to steer, in the first mode, when the wheel axis leads the stem axis, as will be discussed later in greater detail.
  • the stem axis is designed to lead the front wheel axis in the second mode of parental steering control.
  • the leading stem axis positions the pedals further rearward than they would ordinarily be if the stem axis trailed the wheel axis, e.g. as in the first mode, potentially giving rise to a concern that the pedals may be too close to the rider for comfort.
  • the peddles may be maintained at a sufficient and comfortable distance from the rider without necessarily having to adjust the rider's position rearward, such as might occur with an adjustable frame (although adjustable frames may be used together with all embodiments of the invention).
  • the shortest distance between the front wheel center and the imaginary line of the stem axis is between 10mm- 30mm. In another embodiment, the shortest distance between the front wheel center and the imaginary line of the stem axis is between 15mm-40mm. In yet another embodiment, the shortest distance between the front wheel center and the imaginary line of the stem axis is between 15mm- 50mm. In yet another embodiment, the front wheel axis is designed to trail the stem axis in the second mode of operation. The figure though is non-limiting and alternatives may be employed, consistent with principles of the invention described herein.
  • the rider handle in a first mode, may be configured to be rotationally coupled with the stem in a manner permitting a tricycle rider to exert forces on the rider handle and thereby turn the fork, and the rider handle in the second mode, may be configured to be rotationally uncoupled from the stem, preventing forces on the rider handle from turning the fork.
  • Rotational coupling and decoupling of the rider handle from the fork may be accomplished in numerous mechanical ways, and the invention, in its broadest sense, is not limited to any particular mechanical interconnection. Rather, any manner in which the rider handle may be coupled and uncoupled to the fork is considered to fall within the scope and spirit of the invention.
  • the location of a coupling decoupling mechanism is not necessarily critical to embodiments of the invention. It may be located between a rider handle assembly and a stem, or it may be located between a stem and a fork.
  • the described folding mechanism may be used for folding and unfolding other vehicles as well.
  • Fig. 7a is a diagram depicting a front end hinge when the collapsible tricycle is in an unfolded configuration, according to an embodiment of the invention.
  • another front end hinge is introduced such as front end hinge 222.
  • Front end hinge 222 is depicted in its closed position while the tricycle is in its unfolded configuration, e.g. in the first or second mode.
  • the front end hinge 222 may be connected to the forward support 210 at a location between the head tube 180 and the forward support 210, and may be configured to permit the head tube 180 to pivot relative to the forward support 210.
  • the front end hinge 222 may have a safety top 232 for covering the release mechanism of the front end hinge 222.
  • Fig. 7b is a diagram depicting a front end hinge 222 when its safety top 232, as depicted in Fig. 7a, is opened, according to an embodiment of the invention.
  • the hinge 222 may have a release pin 223, or any other mechanism, which may be forced with a spring into the holes of the front end hinge 222 for holding the front end hinge 222 in a fixed state, when the tricycle is in an unfolded configuration for riding.
  • the pin 223 may be pushed from the holes of front end hinge 222, for permitting the front end 200 to pivot relative to the center support 211 when folding the tricycle, as depicted in Fig. 7c.
  • FIG. 7c depicts a front end hinge 222 when the collapsible tricycle is in a collapsed mode, according to an embodiment of the invention.
  • Fig. 7d is a diagram depicting an exploded view of the inner parts of the front end hinge 222, depicted in Fig 7a- 7c, according to an embodiment of the invention.
  • Fig. 8 is a diagram depicting a front end hinge when the collapsible tricycle is in an unfolded configuration, according to another embodiment of the invention.
  • another front end hinge is introduced such as front end hinge 322.
  • Front end hinge 322 is depicted in its closed position while the tricycle is in its unfolded configuration, e.g. in the first or second mode.
  • the front end hinge 322 may be connected to the forward support 210 at a location between the head tube 180 and the forward support 210, and may be configured to permit the head tube 180 to pivot relative to the forward support 210.
  • the front end hinge 322 may have a safety lever 332 for locking the release mechanism of the front end hinge 322.
  • Fig 9a depicts an isometric view of part of the collapsible tricycle, according to an embodiment.
  • the rider handle 350 may be U shaped.
  • the U shaped rider handle 350 may be folded by pressing button 351, or by any other means.
  • the rider handle 350 may be folded for folding and collapsing the tricycle, for using as a footrest for the rider, or for any other usage.
  • the rider handle 350 may be rotated between only 2 positions : first, upwards, for using as a rider handle in the second mode and second, downwards, for folding the tricycle.
  • the rider handle 350 may be rotated between more than 2 positions such as another position for rotating the rider handle closer to the rider.
  • Fig 9b depicts an isometric view of the collapsible tricycle in the second mode, according to an embodiment.
  • the tricycle may be propelled by an attendant, who pushes the tricycle, while the rider may sit on the seat 120 and rest his feet on the footrest 352.
  • the footrest 352 may be rigid or soft, or a combination thereof.
  • the footrest 352 may be extended from the seat 120 to the rider handle.
  • the footrest is made of cloth which is part of the seat's cover.
  • the foot rest may be folded and held under the seat when not used as a foot rest.
  • the footrest has 2 loops for inserting the 2 handles of the rider handle into.
  • Fig 10 depicts an isometric view of the hand grip frame 340, according to an embodiment.
  • the hand grip frame 340 may have a safety mechanism 349 for folding the tricycle.
  • the hand grip 340 may further include a pair of opposing handgrip hinges, such as hinge 341 on opposing sides of the first end 346 of the handgrip frame, wherein the handgrip hinges are configured to enable, the upper portion 346 of the handgrip frame to be pivoted to a position toward a lower portion of the handgrip frame, as depicted in Fig. 2a.
  • the handgrip hinges may be used for adjusting the height of the hand grip 340 to the comfortable height of the attendant, or for folding the tricycle, or for folding the hand grip frame when it is not in use, such as in the first mode.
  • Figs. 1 la and 1 lb are diagrams depicting the lower rear part of the tricycle, according to an embodiment.
  • the seat 120 may include a slot, or two slots 410, through which the strap 501 may pass.
  • the top part of strap 501 may be conveniently located on the seat 120, for pulling and folding the tricycle, as also described in relations to Fig. 4a _ 4d.
  • the pulling of strap 501 upwards pulls part 512 upwards.
  • part 512 When part 512 is pulled, its diagonal holes 513 pull the pins, 531 and 532 inwards which pull the connected slides inwardly.
  • the slides are pulled inwardly they disengage from the hinge 152 parts. Therefore, an upper pull of the strap 501 may allow the folding of the tricycle as gravity may pull the parts closer to one another.
  • the handgrip frame when the tricycle is in the collapsed mode, may lie closer and adjacent to the rear wheel support frame, meaning that the handgrip is moved and folded closer to the rear wheel support frame when it collapsed than when it is in the open position.
  • the tricycle when the tricycle is in the collapsed mode, its front end is in a pivoted position where the head tube is folded toward the elongated center support.
  • the strap may be located behind the seat, and may be used for folding and collapsing the tricycle.
  • the strap which may be connected to the two lock releases of the center support, for enabling a user to simultaneously disengage the locks of each of the pair of main hinge, may be located under the seat at the rear side of the center support.
  • the user may pull the strap frim behind, disengage the locks of the main hinges simultaneously with puling the tricycle upwards. Therefore, a pull of the strap from the rear side of the tricycle upwards may allow the folding of the tricycle as gravity may pull the parts closer to one another.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Automatic Cycles, And Cycles In General (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un tricycle repliable qui comprend : (a) un support central allongé ayant des extrémités opposées ; (b) une paire de roues arrière ; (c) un cadre de support de roue arrière ayant une première extrémité configurée de façon à soutenir lesdites roues arrière de manière rotative et une seconde extrémité reliée audit support central allongé, ledit support central allongé et ledit cadre de support de roue arrière coopérant pour former une première boucle fermée ; (d) un cadre de poignée ayant une première extrémité configurée de façon à être saisie par un utilisateur et une seconde extrémité reliée audit support central allongé, ledit support central allongé et ledit cadre de poignée coopérant pour former une seconde boucle fermée.
PCT/IB2017/052211 2016-04-21 2017-04-18 Mécanisme de pliage verrouillable WO2017182947A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US201662325591P 2016-04-21 2016-04-21
US62/325,591 2016-04-21

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2017182947A1 true WO2017182947A1 (fr) 2017-10-26

Family

ID=58633064

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/IB2017/052211 WO2017182947A1 (fr) 2016-04-21 2017-04-18 Mécanisme de pliage verrouillable

Country Status (1)

Country Link
WO (1) WO2017182947A1 (fr)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2020058864A1 (fr) 2018-09-20 2020-03-26 Smart Trike MNF. Pte. Ltd. Mécanisme de pliage pour un tricycle

Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6966572B2 (en) 2003-11-25 2005-11-22 Radio Flyer Inc. Folding riding vehicle
US7300066B2 (en) 2004-04-29 2007-11-27 Heinz Kettler Gmbh & Co. Kg Folding frame for a tricycle, scooter or child's bicycle
CN201472549U (zh) * 2009-08-24 2010-05-19 好孩子儿童用品有限公司 一种可折叠的儿童三轮车
EP2402231A2 (fr) * 2010-04-07 2012-01-04 Jané S.A. Châssis pliable pour poussettes de bébé
WO2014033503A1 (fr) * 2012-09-03 2014-03-06 Enigma Pop Products & Gifts Ltd. Tricycle à étages multiples pliable à direction libre à roue libre avec un mécanisme de relâchement à mouvement unique

Patent Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6966572B2 (en) 2003-11-25 2005-11-22 Radio Flyer Inc. Folding riding vehicle
US7300066B2 (en) 2004-04-29 2007-11-27 Heinz Kettler Gmbh & Co. Kg Folding frame for a tricycle, scooter or child's bicycle
CN201472549U (zh) * 2009-08-24 2010-05-19 好孩子儿童用品有限公司 一种可折叠的儿童三轮车
EP2402231A2 (fr) * 2010-04-07 2012-01-04 Jané S.A. Châssis pliable pour poussettes de bébé
WO2014033503A1 (fr) * 2012-09-03 2014-03-06 Enigma Pop Products & Gifts Ltd. Tricycle à étages multiples pliable à direction libre à roue libre avec un mécanisme de relâchement à mouvement unique
US9227686B2 (en) 2012-09-03 2016-01-05 Galileo Trikes Ltd. Free-wheeling, free-steering, foldable multi-stage tricycle with a single-motion release mechanism

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2020058864A1 (fr) 2018-09-20 2020-03-26 Smart Trike MNF. Pte. Ltd. Mécanisme de pliage pour un tricycle

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US9862447B2 (en) Vehicle having a swivel wheel
US5863061A (en) Collapsible three wheeled stroller
US10442490B2 (en) Full folding tricycle
US9981679B2 (en) Full folding tricycle
US10683026B2 (en) Tricycle tow platform
CN111406016A (zh) 可折叠三轮车
US20170158217A1 (en) Bike Stroller
WO2017182947A1 (fr) Mécanisme de pliage verrouillable
WO2020058864A1 (fr) Mécanisme de pliage pour un tricycle
CA2329801A1 (fr) Poussette

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 17719722

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

32PN Ep: public notification in the ep bulletin as address of the adressee cannot be established

Free format text: NOTING OF LOSS OF RIGHTS PURSUANT TO RULE 112(1) EPC (EPO FORM 1205A DATED 21/02/2019)

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase

Ref document number: 17719722

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1