Folding Patents (Class 280/639)
  • Patent number: 7097182
    Abstract: A collapsible utility cart that is composed of a pair of a plurality of interconnected frames that when in the usage state assumes a box-like configuration mounted on a plurality of wheels. There is a handle assembly that is mounted to the frames with this handle assembly being movable between an extended position and a retracted position. The frames that make up the utility cart body are to be collapsed in juxtaposition when in a collapsed position and said handle assembly is to be positioned against the frames when in the retracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Inventor: Zhi jun Liu
  • Patent number: 7083182
    Abstract: A trailer (10) for the recovery of vehicles has a drawbar (12) having first and second sections (14,16) hinged together at adjacent ends, about a horizontal transverse axis; the first section (14) of the drawbar (12) has a ball cup (24) by which it may be secured to a towing hitch (100) of a recovery vehicle, the second section (16) of the drawbar (12) has a pair of arms (30) pivotally mounted adjacent the end thereof remote from the end hinged to the first section (14), the arms (30) are pivotal between a stowed position in which they are disposed parallel to the drawbar (12) and a deployed position in which they are disposed coaxially of one another on an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis of the drawbar (12); a pair of wheel pans (50) are mounted and able to slide, one on each of the arms (30), the wheel pans (50) are interconnected to the second section (16) of the drawbar (12) by a linkage mechanism (60, 62), so that when the arms (30) are in the stowed position, the wheel pans (50) are slid inward
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Assignees: RAC Motoring Services, LPD Limited
    Inventors: John Clayton, Roger Walford, Sean O'Connell, Charles Murray
  • Patent number: 7080844
    Abstract: A transportable cart having a basket with a lift mechanism that raises the unit to the cargo floor height of the vehicle, and also used to lower the basket to a comfortable working height for the user while shopping. A slide mechanism includes a frame member, a set of guide rails, a plurality of wheels and rollers to guide the basket and frame assemblies into and out of the vehicle. A plurality of legs and base frame members connected by a plurality of cross members and hinges that are foldable to a compact arrangement and fits in place alongside the basket inside the vehicle. Wheels or casters attached to the base frame that contacts the ground when the cart is unloaded from the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Inventor: Gilbert Bobby Espejo
  • Patent number: 7077420
    Abstract: A three-wheeled jogging stroller is movable between a deployed condition and a folded condition. Among other features, the stroller includes a forward member, a rear member, and a handle member that is rotatable to move the stroller from the deployed condition to the folded condition and back again. A locking side brace extends between the respective legs of the rear member and the forward member. Pulleys are attached to certain of the forward member, rear member and handle member. The stroller also includes first and second cables, and each cable is wrapped partially around and attached to at least one of the pulleys.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: American Recreation Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul Santoski
  • Patent number: 7073815
    Abstract: A foldable stroller with a basket, the basket having a frame with left and right side legs pivotally mounted to the stroller frame for movement between an upper position and a lower position. The legs of the basket frame are supported on side members of the stroller frame that pivot as the stroller frame moves between its folded and open positions, so that folding or unfolding of the stroller frame effects pivotal movement of the basket frame between its lower and upper positions. In another form, a stroller with a basket has handle-operated support members for the side legs of the basket frame that selectively support the basket frame in an upper position, and allow the basket frame to drop to a lower position for easier access to basket interior through the upper opening of the basket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: Graco Children's Products Inc.
    Inventors: Gregg R. Espenshade, Gregory S. Sellers, Curtis M. Hartenstine
  • Patent number: 7059441
    Abstract: A mount frame includes a first frame unit having a first rear frame portion which is provided with an anchoring member and a gripped member. A second frame unit has a second front frame portion provided with a seat post, an anchored member which is disposed to be journalled on the anchoring member about a rotational axis. Thus, the second frame unit is rotatable relative to the axis to facilitate assembly of the first rear frame portion and the second front frame portion. A gripping member is disposed on the second front frame portion to confront the gripped member. A tightening unit is disposed to push the gripping member to abut tightly against the gripped member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Kwang Yang Motor Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Jui-Tien Chen
  • Patent number: 7052033
    Abstract: A trailer assembly is provided that includes a bed subassembly having a plurality of sections movably coupled to one another for permitting movement between an extended configuration and a folded configuration. In an embodiment, in the folded configuration the plurality of sections collectively form a bottom surface, an upper surface, and surrounding side walls of an enclosable compartment, at least one of the sections having an access member movable between an open position for permitting access to the compartment and a closed position for enclosing the compartment as the sections are maintained in the folded configuration. The trailer assembly optionally may include a wheel subassembly and drawbar, which may be freely and independently rotatable relative to one another and the bed subassembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Inventor: Lindsay McDonell
  • Patent number: 7044496
    Abstract: A stretcher carrier is provided for transporting and stabilizing sick and injured patients. The carrier can be quickly converted between a folded, storage configuration and operational configurations. The carrier includes a folding foot prop and a foot prop locking and release mechanism for changing the position of the foot prop. The carrier may also include conventional bicycle-type wheels or special all-terrain wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Inventor: David A. Holmes
  • Patent number: 7017937
    Abstract: A double occupancy baby stroller having a guiding handle and a generally stork shaped body having head and tail sections. The body is separable into an upper portion and a lower portion. A child's seat is removably mounted on the upper portion and wheeled legs are attached to the lower portion. An infant carrier is detachably mounted inside the head of the body. Both child's seat and infant carrier can be effectively used in a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Inventor: Michael D. Williams
  • Patent number: 6979019
    Abstract: Disclosed is a combined golf bag and golf cart. A support mechanism thereof comprises a lower support tube, an abutment tube, two link arms, a lower coupling tube, an upper support tube, a sliding tube, an upper coupling tube, and a retractable handle assembly. A pressing of a push button by a finger of one hand grasping a handle will unlock a wheel assembly for extending wheels outwardly prior to transporting along a playing field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: Ramiko Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kwei-Pao Chen
  • Patent number: 6966564
    Abstract: A foldable creeper has a rolling mechanism coupled to connectors that couple a seat support and back support. A locking mechanism may be provided that retains the creeper in an open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Assignee: Alltrade Tools LLC
    Inventor: Hector Ray Hernandez, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6902179
    Abstract: A trailer has parallel rearward rails and a pair of angled forward rails and a pair of angled intermediate rails. A pair of similarly configured hinge assemblies couple the forward rails and the intermediate rails. Each hinge assembly includes upwardly extending wings on each intermediate rail with a bolt there between and with a hall positioned on the bolt between the wings. The hinge has a cylinder with a cylindrical opening secured to each forward rail. Each hinge assembly has a connecting element with an annular collar pivotably received on the ball of the adjacent rearward rail. A pin extends into the cylindrical opening whereby the forward rails may pivot with respect to the intermediate rails of the forward section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Inventor: Charles Richard Jolly
  • Patent number: 6883267
    Abstract: A fishing caddy comprises a support frame having an upper end and a lower end and comprising a plurality of support members pivotably connected at the upper end to form an A-frame; at least one hinge member spaced apart from the upper end and hingedly connecting support members of the A-frame so as to allow closing the A-frame; at least one fishing rod holder disposed on the support frame for holding a fishing rod; at least one beverage holder positioned on the support frame for holding a beverage container; at least one equipment support shelf pivotably connected to the support frame for holding equipment thereon; at least one umbrella holder disposed on the support frame for holding an umbrella; and at least one wheel connected to the support frame adjacent the lower end so as to make the fishing caddy rollingly movable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Inventor: Ronald Wayne Pruitt
  • Patent number: 6871861
    Abstract: A foldable creeper is disclosed that has a rolling mechanism coupled to connectors that couple a seat support and back support. A locking mechanism may be provided that retains the creeper in an open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Assignee: AllTrade Tools LLC
    Inventor: Hector R. Hernandez, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6854551
    Abstract: A collapsible vehicle having a frame, a non-steerable wheel assembly and a steerable wheel assembly. The frame includes a longitudinal member, a transverse member, an upright member proximal to one end of the longitudinal member, and a steering member proximal to another end of the longitudinal member. The longitudinal member and the transverse member define a base plane. The non-steerable wheel assembly which preferably includes two non-steerable wheels pivotable about an inclined axes between a storage position within the periphery of the frame to a deployed position outside the periphery of the frame and extending below the base plane. The steerable wheel assembly includes a steerable wheel pivotable about an inclined steering axis between a storage position within the periphery of the frame to a deployed position outside the periphery of the frame and extending below the base plane. A method of collapsing and extending the collapsible vehicle is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Inventor: Warren R. Wisecarver
  • Patent number: 6854696
    Abstract: A portable, foldable display apparatus that can be folded into a structure that is approximately one foot wide so that it can be easily stored. The apparatus is fitted with wheels so that the apparatus can be easily moved once it has been set up. An optional telescoping advertisement sign is provided. Multiple levels of display surfaces are provided. The apparatus can be used to display floral arrangements or other articles. The apparatus can be easily manufactured with display surfaces having different shapes to accommodate different merchandize.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Inventor: Marcy Britigan
  • Patent number: 6851498
    Abstract: A four-wheel scooter having a collapsible shell and a seat mounted on a shaft disposed at the rear end of the scooter, such shaft movable approximately 90 degrees forward from an upright position to a storage position into a receipt slot defined in the top portion of the shell and a steering column disposed at the front end of the scooter in an upright position for use and rotatable approximately 275 degrees to a storage position against the bottom of the unit when such shell is in its collapsed storage mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Inventor: Dennis N. Sauve
  • Patent number: 6846003
    Abstract: A folding trailer has pivotally connected front, main and rear sections movable from an unfolded condition to a folded condition, in which the rear section pivots 270° to lie atop the main section, and the front section pivots 90° to nest within the main section. This provides a folded compact arrangement approximately 48?×80?. When unfolded, the trailer produces an inside dimension of approximately 60?×96?, enabled by the front section thin walls that are interiorly nearly as wide as the main and rear sections. An extensible handle facilitates folding and unfolding the rear section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Inventor: Donald Austin Thompson
  • Patent number: 6827366
    Abstract: An adjustment mechanism is provided to a handle of a foldable golf cart; the adjustment mechanism includes a movable member secured to two lateral rod parts of the handle, and a stationary member secured to main support rods of the golf cart; the movable member will be secured to the stationary member for holding the handle in an in-use position when the golf cart is stretched; the movable member can be adjusted in orientation relative to the stationary member to change position of the handle to suit different users.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: Sports World Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Fang-Li Wu
  • Publication number: 20040201204
    Abstract: There is provided a cart for transporting inflatable or foldable mattresses and a vehicle with a storage compartment for storing the cart. The cart includes a top tray, a bottom tray, wheels, and a support frame. The top tray includes extendable portions mounted to a stationary portion so that the top tray can be converted from a contracted configuration to an extended configuration having a length longer than the length of the contracted configuration. The cart provides transport for folded mattresses in the contracted configuration and provides support for unfolded mattresses in the extended configuration. The support frame connects the top tray to the bottom tray and wheels and allows the top tray to be lowered from an operable position substantially above the bottom tray and wheels to a storage position where the top tray is proximate the bottom tray and wheels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2003
    Publication date: October 14, 2004
    Inventor: A. Ralph Haire
  • Publication number: 20040130126
    Abstract: A foldable frame for a tricycle powered by physical force and/or a motor; the frame having a number of subframes interconnected to fold the component members of the frame; and the folding of a central subframe of the frame causes two lateral subframes supporting the rear lateral wheels to fold from a first fully unfolded position to a second fully folded position, and vice versa.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2003
    Publication date: July 8, 2004
    Inventors: Carmelo Di Blasi, Carlo Maria Di Blasi
  • Patent number: 6729647
    Abstract: An arrangement is provided for folding and stowing of a steering assembly in combination with virtually any nature of wheeled devices which include at least one “steerable” wheel, so that a more thin, stowed profile is achieved. All components of the steering assembly/dashboard are integrated into a generally parallel plane and profile without use of a separate “steering column,” so that the assembly, when folded, is conveniently stowed within the side elevational profile of the wheeled device. The folding steering assembly embodiments may be adapted to any steerable wheeled devices, with fixed or stowable wheels, whether user occupied, or remote controlled, and including wheeled devices specially equipped with implements (e.g., material handling, imaging, scientific or measurement, agricultural, landscaping, lawn-mowing as but a few examples).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventors: Richard N. Shapiro, Philip A. Gurecki
  • Publication number: 20040066020
    Abstract: A foldable creeper is disclosed that has a rolling mechanism coupled to connectors that couple a seat support and back support. A locking mechanism may be provided that retains the creeper in an open position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2002
    Publication date: April 8, 2004
    Inventor: Hector R. Hernandez
  • Patent number: 6712382
    Abstract: A baby pushchair according to the present invention comprises a left handle bar and right handle bar; a left side bracket and right side bracket arranged symmetrically, each of which includes a front leg with a front wheel mounted at the lower end thereof and a rear leg with a rear wheel at the lower end thereof; a seat arranged between the left and right side bracket; a left armrest and right armrest, each front end of which is connected pivotally to the upper part of the left rear leg and the right rear leg respectively and each rear end of which is connected to the left handle bar and the right handle bar respectively; wherein the left/right front leg and the left/right rear leg crosses and connects pivotally to each other at the crossing part, and the left/right handle bars is connected pivotally with the upper part of the left/right front legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Assignee: Goodbaby Group Corp
    Inventor: Zhenghuan Song
  • Patent number: 6688634
    Abstract: Foldable tool cart (10) including a base (15) supporting a vertical post (71) of adjustable height, lower tool tray (100) supported by base (15), an upper tool tray (110) supported by post (71), and pivots (60, 120) for folding cart (10) such that trays (100, 110) are substantially vertical. A tool caddy (150), attached to post (71), remains upright when cart (10) is folded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Inventor: Alfred Ace Noffsinger
  • Patent number: 6598898
    Abstract: A foldable cart apparatus includes a first, second and third U-shaped frames pivotally joined and functionally movable between a folded attitude and an unfolded attitude. Its primary function is for carrying articles such a beach related items. In the folded attitude the frames are positioned adjacently. In the unfolded attitude the first and second frames diverge upwardly and the second and third frames diverge downwardly as viewed from the side. The first frame is engaged with a bottom strut supported on spaced apart wheels for moving the apparatus on a surface. A flexible sling is engaged with the first and the third of the frames, so that in the unfolded attitude, a vertical rear containment wall and a horizontal bottom shelf are formed. A flexible fabric bag is fastened between the first and second of the frames and forms an open topped container for receiving the items for transport. The bottom shelf can be used to support an ice chest or other bulky article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Assignee: Aports Training Devices, LLC
    Inventor: Yong S. Chu
  • Publication number: 20030132613
    Abstract: A folding element for a golf cart front wheel includes a pair of parallel connecting parts, a positioning member and a pulled button. The connecting parts stick out from a supporting base at a lower end of the cart frame. One of the connecting parts has a pivotal hole and several holes spaced out around the pivotal hole in a circular pattern. The positioning member is connected to a support fork of the front wheel and has a through hole lengthwise formed therein and holes spaced out around the through hole to correspond to the circularly-arranged holes. The positioning member is turnably positioned between the connecting parts with a pivotal rod being connected to the connecting parts and passing through the trough hole of the positioning member. The pulled button has fixing poles and a spring biasing the same toward the positioning member for the fixing poles to engage the circularly-arranged holes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2002
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Inventor: Liz Lin
  • Patent number: 6578858
    Abstract: A floor surface treatment apparatus includes a wheeled vehicle having wheels and floor surface treating unit, and a dolly pivotally connected to the vehicle for pivoting movement between a lowered, support position in which the vehicle is supported by the dolly with the floor surface treating unit raised off the floor and a non-support position in which the vehicle is unsupported by the dolly. The dolly has at least three wheels for conjoint pivoting movement therewith relative to the floor surface treatment apparatus. The at least three wheels are arranged relative to each other such that in the support position of the dolly the at least three wheels stably support the apparatus with the floor surface treating unit raised off the floor. In its non-support position the dolly may be stowed onboard the apparatus during operation thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Assignee: Alto U.S. Inc.
    Inventor: John W. Haddock
  • Patent number: 6578857
    Abstract: A creeper (10) includes a main frame (11) which is rendered mobile by caster assemblies (14, 15, 16). A pivot frame (22) is pivotally attached to the main frame (11) and carries a pad section (19). Another pivot frame (28) is pivotally attached to the main frame (11) and carries another pad section (20). A floating frame holding mechanism (50) is provided to maintain a selected pivotal position of the pivot frame (22) relative to the main frame (11), and a frame holding mechanism (34) is provided to maintain a selected pivotal position of the other pivot frame (28) relative to the main frame (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Assignee: Whiteside Mfg. Co.
    Inventors: Kirt E. Whiteside, Terry L. Whiteside, Kristin C. Mays
  • Publication number: 20030085539
    Abstract: The present invention involves the rotational principle of rotatable arms, and the restoring force available from biasing elements, by way of intelligent construction of these components together with a structure body and the various standard components of a scooter, provides a simple yet very effective space saving method for a multiple wheeled scooter, or a sporting device. Accordingly, a multiple wheeled scooter, or a sporting device constructed according to the present invention will be more cost effective and more compact and portable for use as a carry-on transportation device. A space saving wheel mechanism according to the present invention includes a structure body, a wheel support, a wheel, a first rotatable arm and a second rotatable arm pivotably engaging the wheel support. At least one of the rotatable arms includes a pair of pivots adapted to rotate about a fixed pivot attached to the structure body. Rotation of the rotatable arms changing the distance between the wheel and the structure body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventor: Jimmy Cochimin
  • Patent number: 6547263
    Abstract: A convertible cart and container may be assembled by folding a blank of paperboard and attaching a wheeled carriage thereto. The blank includes a floor panel connected to front and back panels along fold lines, the back panel having side panels connected thereto along fold lines. The blank includes a plurality of lines of weakness which facilitate separation of the assembled cart into an upper handle portion which may be discarded and a container portion. The assembled cart conveniently includes an opening in a front panel and a pair of doors which are hinged to the front panel along fold lines to permit access to the chamber within the cart while obscuring the contents from view. The cart includes a top flap portion which may be separated from the upper handle portion and folded over a substantially rectangular box-type container for enclosing items received in the container and permitting shipping of the reduced size container without the need for emptying the contents for conversion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Pitsco, Inc.
    Inventors: Todd McGeorge, Bill Holden
  • Publication number: 20030025302
    Abstract: A collapsible display cart for storing, transporting and displaying merchandise which has a base with shelves for holding merchandise, which can be raised and extended, at least one pair of wheels for moving the cart and a canopy for covering the base in closed condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2001
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventors: Russel Urffer, Richard N. Gallagher
  • Publication number: 20030020259
    Abstract: A jogging stroller has a collapsible frame comprising two side rails having rear ends pivotably coupled to handle, two front wheel sub-frames having rear ends pivotably coupled to front ends of side rails and front ends rotatably coupled to a front wheel, two rear wheel sub-frames having front ends pivotably coupled to front ends of side rails and rear ends rotatably coupled to rear wheels, two base rails having front ends pivotably coupled to front wheel sub-frames and rear ends pivotably coupled to handle, and a seat assembly extended upwardly from base rails and including a front seat and a rear seat in a longitudinally aligned relationship to the front seat. In collapsing, front wheel sub-frames and rear wheel sub-frames are pivoted toward side rails, handle is pivoted toward side rails, and base rails are moved to abut on side rails as the pivoting of front wheel sub-frames and handle, resulting in a reduction of storage space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2001
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Inventors: Chuan-Tso Tai, Cheng-Wel Lu
  • Patent number: 6511082
    Abstract: A stock cart including a dolly frame configured to be nested with each other and including a connecting member and two end members, the connecting member connecting the two end members to form an H configuration, a plurality of free casters provided on the two end members, at least one stationary caster provided on a bottom surface of a substantially intermediate portion of the connecting member of the dolly frame, the at least one stationary caster being configured to form an imaginary plane in contact with ground with ones of the free casters on each one of the two end members pivotally, wherein one of the two end members is configured to extend respective ones of the free casters thereon downwardly such that the respective ones of the free casters form the imaginary plane with ones of the free casters on the other one of the two members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Assignee: Kawajun Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Takanao Shirai
  • Publication number: 20030011173
    Abstract: A folding fishing cart including a collapsible box-like structure mounted on a pair of ground engaging wheels with a handle having telescoping portions being receivable in the rear wall of the box-like structure, and a plurality of fishing pole carrying tubular members carried by the front wall of the box-like structure with the axis of the tubular members being slanted relative to the front wall so that the tops of the tubular members are farther from the wall than the bottom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2001
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Inventor: Harold D. Shall
  • Patent number: 6478326
    Abstract: A pushcart includes two front braces and a rear support having a cross bar and two legs. Two ends of the cross bar are movably received in a locating brace and a locking part of a leg position control gear fixedly mounted to rear sides of the two front braces. A push part of the gear is movably connected to a rear side of the locking part. When the cross bar is moved to a lower end of the locking part to move the two legs to an extended position, a lever mounted in the locking part is pushed by an elastic element mounted on the push part to press against the cross bar and thereby prevent the extended legs from moving. When the push part is pushed upward, the lever is moved away from the cross bar, allowing the legs to move toward the front braces into a collapsed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Assignee: Shanghai Apex HME Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Daniel Lee
  • Publication number: 20020163164
    Abstract: Wheeled personal mobility vehicles with extremely thin stowed profiles are provided, which in one embodiment, include a plurality of movable, collapsible wheel axle assemblies which are supported on a support frame and movable between an operative state where the wheels provide rolling support, and a collapsed state where the wheels are moved into the side elevational profile of the device. The embodiment provides for both integrated propulsion and steering linkage to the wheels when they are manually moved into their operative position, along with a collapsible steering mechanism, a support base and at least one collapsible seat. This embodiment may also provide for pedal power, battery, fuel cell or motive power as well as remote control operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2001
    Publication date: November 7, 2002
    Inventors: Richard N. Shapiro, Philip A. Gurecki
  • Patent number: 6474677
    Abstract: The object of the present invention is to provide a utility space without decreasing the space for passenger seats, by providing a utility function to a meal service cart and using the meal service cart after finishing the meal service as a bar counter. An in-flight meal service cart 1 includes a box-shaped main body 10 forming a storage space therein, and a utility mechanism (a counter board) 20 equipped so as to be rotatable to the box-shaped main body. The counter board 20 is provided movably between a position of being stored on top of the ceiling board 13 of the main body, and a rotated position of being vertical to the side wall board 12, and when the counter board 20 is in the position of being vertical to the side wall board, it is supported by the opened front and rear doors 17 and 19 in a horizontal condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Assignee: Jamco Corporation
    Inventor: Toshihisa Kasuya
  • Publication number: 20020149163
    Abstract: A foldable utility cart (10) is provided having a main basket (15), an auxiliary basket (34), a pair of front wheels (12), a pair of rear wheels (14) and a pair of auxiliary wheels (46). The primary basket (15) is formed from a plurality of links pivotally connecting a front mesh panel (16) with a rear mesh panel (18). Thus, the primary basket (15) may be folded for storage. Further, auxiliary basket (34) is similarly foldable, having a plurality of side links (41) pivotally connected to a pair of vertical rods (39, 43). Additionally, the foldable, auxiliary basket (34) has a pair of auxiliary leg members (42) pivotally extending from a lower link (40) thereof. Auxiliary wheels (46) are affixed to the lowermost ends of the auxiliary leg members (42) and allow the auxiliary wheels (46) to be folded against the rear mesh panel (18) when not required.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2001
    Publication date: October 17, 2002
    Inventor: Edward W. Lee
  • Publication number: 20020149176
    Abstract: Described is a collapsible cart for transporting items from a first surface to a raised surface. The collapsible cart comprises a platform, for carrying items thereon, wherein the platform comprises a front edge and a back edge. A collapsible front leg is attached to the platform. The collapsible front leg comprises an front upper leg and a front lower leg. Connected to the front upper leg and to the front lower leg is a spring biased to rotate the front lower leg towards an extended position relative to the front upper leg. A front release mechanism persuades the collapsible front legs to be withdrawn towards the platform. A collapsible rear leg is also attached to the platform. The collapsible rear leg comprises a rear upper leg, a rear lower leg and a spring connected there between biased to rotate the rear lower leg towards an extended position relative to the rear upper leg. A rear release mechanism allows the collapsible rear leg to be withdrawn towards the platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2001
    Publication date: October 17, 2002
    Inventor: Timothy J. Miller
  • Publication number: 20020140193
    Abstract: A folding and locking arrangement for a collapsible scooter mainly includes a folding bend, a bend holder fixedly mounted on a deck of the scooter, two stop pins having an expanded head, and a quick-release screw having a cam lever connected to a head thereof. The folding bend is fixedly connected to a handlebar of the scooter and has an arm portion pivotally connected to the bend holder. The bend holder includes two upright plates on which two arcuate guiding slots are provided. The two stop pins are extended through the guiding slots and the arm portion, so that the folding bend pivotally turns when the two stop pins move in the guiding slots. The quick-release screw is extended through the two stop pins and a spring disposed between the stop pins, such that when the cam lever is pulled outward, the two stop pins is pushed outward by the spring to freely move to either end of the guiding slots and bring the folding bend to a folded or an extended position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2001
    Publication date: October 3, 2002
    Inventor: Kao Teh Chai
  • Patent number: 6439596
    Abstract: A collapsible handcart includes a main member equipped with a handgrip; a carrier member pivoted to the main member and turned between an extended position for supporting articles and a collapsed position attached to the main member; two wheeled assembles respectively pivoted two the main member at two sides and turned upwards and downwards between a collapsed position and an operative position, the wheeled assembles each comprising a leg with the proximal end pivoted at the main member, a wheeled carriage pivoted to the distal end of the leg, and a wheel pivoted to the wheeled carriage; and two gear sets respectively coupled between the main member and the legs of the wheeled assembles and adapted to drive the wheeled assembles to turn between the operative position and the collapsed position when turning the carrier member between the extended position and the collapsed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Inventor: James Tsai
  • Publication number: 20020096861
    Abstract: A collapsible handcart includes a main member equipped with a handgrip; a carrier member pivoted to the main member and turned between an extended position for supporting articles and a collapsed position attached to the main member; two wheeled assembles respectively pivoted two the main member at two sides and turned upwards and downwards between a collapsed position and an operative position, the wheeled assembles each comprising a leg with the proximal end pivoted at the main member, a wheeled carriage pivoted to the distal end of the leg, and a wheel pivoted to the wheeled carriage; and two gear sets respectively coupled between the main member and the legs of the wheeled assembles and adapted to drive the wheeled assembles to turn between the operative position and the collapsed position when turning the carrier member between the extended position and the collapsed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2001
    Publication date: July 25, 2002
    Inventor: James Tsai
  • Publication number: 20020096862
    Abstract: A folding collapsible luggage cart includes a horizontal area-adjustable base frame, two foot members respectively fastened to the base frame and set between a vertical operative position and a horizontal non-operative position, two castors respectively pivoted to the base frame and set between an operative position and a non-operative position, a retractable handle pivoted to the base frame and set between a horizontal position closely attached to the base frame and a vertical position perpendicular to the base frame, and two back support arms bilaterally pivoted to a bracket at the retractable handle and alternatively set between a received position and an extended position. When collapsed, the luggage cart is held in a compact and flat manner conveniently for storage or carrying.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2001
    Publication date: July 25, 2002
    Inventor: Chih Chung Fang
  • Publication number: 20020093161
    Abstract: A rider propelled lightweight collapsible scooter includes a collapsible mechanism with a front vertical assembly including a vertical riser tube, handle and front wheel pivotable from a vertical operational position to a horizontal storage/transport position. The vertical riser tube and handle are adjustable to the height of the user and can be telescoped to a smaller size. A spring biased collar on a pivot tube coacts with a positioning post on a rider platform to provide positively locked vertical and horizontal positions when moving from the operating to the collapsed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2001
    Publication date: July 18, 2002
    Applicant: ENOR CORPORATION
    Inventors: Steven C. Udwin, David Tarica, Marshall L. Weingarden
  • Publication number: 20020093179
    Abstract: An add-on section for use with a shopping cart has a convertible seat which provides seating for passengers, or alternately provides a support surface for holding an infant carrier. The convertible seat includes a pivoting panel that can be pivoted between a raised position in which the panel functions as the seat's back rest and a lowered position in which the panel serves as a holder for an infant carrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2001
    Publication date: July 18, 2002
    Inventor: Richard L. McKelvey
  • Publication number: 20020089137
    Abstract: A folding structure of scooter mainly comprises of a front and a rear footboards and a hollow sleeve panel engaged with the front and the rear footboards, wherein the sliding grooves in the shapes of long holes are situated respectively on the side edges of the front and the rear footboards; the through holes disposed respectively on the four corners of the sleeve panel at responding positions to the sliding grooves of the front and the rear footboards for sleeving the front and the rear footboards into the sleeve panel and then insert the bolts to screw the through holes on the sleeve panel and the sliding grooves on the front and the rear footboards to make the front and the rear footboards expandable to be pulled outwards for the user to step on to slide and contractable inside the sleeve panel to reduce the volume for facilitating carriage, shipping and storage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2001
    Publication date: July 11, 2002
    Inventors: Yun-Chuan Chang, Chuan-Fu Kao
  • Patent number: 6416076
    Abstract: A collapsible stroller is movable between a collapsed position for storage and an operating position for transporting the passenger. The frame of the stroller comprises armrests, front leg tubes, rear leg tubes, and handles. In comparison with prior art there is no additional linkage provided by the invention. Also, latch as well as associated linkages and hinges are eliminated. In addition, the collapsing force is suitably transmitted to each component of the frame. Moreover, the handle is remained on top of the frame after collapsed, thus facilitating the future unfolding operation of the stroller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Assignee: Link Treasure Limited
    Inventors: Hung-Chung Hou, Er-Jui Chen
  • Publication number: 20020070532
    Abstract: The present invention relates to collapsible self-supported structures. All of these structures have one or more of the following characteristics: adjustable length and/or, width and/or height, lightweight, easily collapsed, very compact when collapsed and easily carried, stored and transported.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2002
    Publication date: June 13, 2002
    Inventors: Richard J. Harrison, William F. Mann
  • Patent number: 6375055
    Abstract: A cargo management and restraining apparatus for use in a cargo area of a vehicle, which is also removable from the vehicle and useable as a free standing support surface such as a table. The apparatus includes a base and a pair of pivotably mounted end walls. The base fits within a recess formed within a floor of a cargo area of a vehicle. Cargo may be placed on the base and the end walls help to keep the cargo from moving or shifting during use of the vehicle. The end walls may be folded down against the base when the apparatus is not needed so as not to interfere with the placement of large cargo items in the cargo area. The apparatus can be completely removed from the vehicle and used as a free standing support surface such as a table. A plurality of wheels are included in one preferred embodiment to enable the apparatus to be used as a cart to move cumbersome or heavy items such as a thermal cooler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology Company
    Inventors: David J. Spykerman, Shelle Dawn Tilstra