HK1245737B - Foldable tricycle - Google Patents

Description

Foldable tricycle

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/169,891, filed June 2, 2015, and U.S. Patent Application No. 15/170,413, filed June 1, 2016, which are hereby expressly incorporated by reference and made a part hereof.

Technical Field

The present invention generally relates to foldable tricycles and, more particularly, to tricycles having a quick release mechanism for converting the tricycle into various configurations between a use position and a storage position. For example, the tricycle is provided with a rear frame having a quick release mechanism to allow the rear frame to be folded and converted between a use position and a storage position.

Background Art

Standard tricycles are generally known in the art. Some tricycles include features such as footrests for a seated child while an adult pushes the tricycle. Other tricycles include a substantially rigid restraint collar and a tray that extends around the seated child. Other tricycles also include a canopy to protect the seated child from sunlight. Still other tricycles allow the tricycle to be folded for storage. However, the accessories or integrated features available on these and other known tricycles do not safely and purposefully include quick-release mechanisms that allow the accessories/features to be quickly converted from a use state to a storage state. In addition, the folding mechanisms on these and other known tricycles can make the storage and transportation of the tricycle difficult because they tend to increase the total volume or footprint of the tricycle. The present invention attempts to overcome some of these limitations and other shortcomings of the prior art and provide new features that have not been previously available. A comprehensive discussion of the features and advantages of the present invention is based on the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Summary of the Invention

According to one embodiment, the disclosed subject technology relates to a three-wheeled vehicle having: a front frame assembly; a rear frame assembly pivotally connected to the front frame assembly; and a release assembly connected to both the front frame assembly and the rear frame assembly to secure the rear frame assembly to the front frame assembly in a use state and alternately in a storage state. The release assembly is movable to allow the rear frame assembly to be transitioned from the use state to the storage state.

The disclosed subject technology also relates to a three-wheeled vehicle comprising: a front frame assembly having a main frame tube, a front fork, a front wheel rotatably connected to the front fork, a seat connected to the main frame tube, and a handlebar assembly coupled to the front fork to allow steering of the three-wheeled vehicle, wherein the front fork and the front wheel support a front portion of the front frame assembly; and a rear frame assembly pivotally connected to the main frame tube adjacent a rear portion of the front frame assembly to support a rear portion of the front frame assembly, the rear frame assembly having There are two wheels, a first rear frame support member on one side of the main frame tube, a second rear frame support member on the opposite side of the main frame tube, and a pivot connecting the first and second rear frame support members and extending through the main frame tube; and a release assembly connected to the front frame assembly and the rear frame assembly to secure the rear frame assembly to the front frame assembly in a use state, the release assembly being movable to allow the rear frame assembly to be converted to a storage state and to allow the rear frame assembly to be secured in the storage state.

The disclosed subject technology also relates to: a receiver that is connected to the main frame tube at the rear of the front frame assembly; and a joystick that is removably connected to the receiver. In one embodiment, a joystick mechanism connects the front fork to the joystick so that the front fork rotates with the rotation of the joystick. In another embodiment, the joystick mechanism extends through the main frame tube. In one embodiment, the joystick includes an upper component and a lower component, and the upper component is capable of sliding relative to the lower component to adjust the length of the joystick. Preferably, the joystick is capable of remaining connected to the front frame assembly when the rear frame assembly is converted from the use state to the storage state and maintained in the storage state.

The disclosed subject technology also relates to a release assembly comprising: a plate secured to the pivot shaft, the plate having a deployment recess and a storage recess; and an engagement lever pivotally connected to the main frame tube and releasably positioned so that a portion of the engagement lever alternately engages the deployment recess and the storage recess. In an alternative embodiment, the release assembly further comprises a pivot bracket that retains a pivot pin. The pivot pin passes through a hole in the engagement lever to pivotally secure the engagement lever to the pivot bracket. Additionally, in one embodiment, a biasing member engages the engagement lever to bias the engagement lever toward the plate to retain the engagement lever in one of the deployment recess and the storage recess.

The disclosed subject technology also relates to a restraint collar and a canopy connected to the seat, wherein the tricycle is adapted to transition from the in-use configuration to the storage configuration when the restraint collar and canopy are connected to the seat. In one embodiment, a quick release mechanism connects the canopy to the seat and the restraint collar to the seat.

The disclosed subject technology also relates to a footrest assembly connected to the tricycle. In one embodiment, the footrest assembly includes a footrest support member having a footrest; a mounting member extending from the tricycle, the mounting member having a footrest access receiver and a footrest storage receiver; and a biased footrest button connected to a footrest pin. The footrest pin is adapted to be biased so as to selectively engage one of the footrest access receiver and the footrest storage receiver of the mounting member. The footrest support member is rotatably attached to the mounting member, and a user moves the footrest button, thereby disengaging the footrest pin from the mounting member to allow the footrest support member to rotate relative to the board. In one embodiment, the footrest is connected to the rear frame assembly and rotates therewith.

The disclosed subject technology also relates to a three-wheeled vehicle comprising: a front frame assembly having a main frame tube, a front fork, a front wheel rotatably connected to the front fork, a seat connected to the main frame tube, and a handlebar assembly coupled to the front fork to allow steering of the three-wheeled vehicle, wherein the front fork and the front wheel support a front portion of the front frame assembly; a rear frame assembly pivotally connected to the main frame tube adjacent to the rear portion of the front frame assembly to support the rear portion of the front frame assembly, the rear frame assembly having two wheels, a first rear frame support member on one side of the main frame tube, a second rear frame support member on an opposite side of the main frame tube, and a handlebar assembly connecting the first rear frame tube. and a second rear frame support member and a pivot extending through the main frame tube; and a release assembly connected to both the front frame assembly and the rear frame assembly so as to secure the rear frame assembly to the front frame assembly in a use state, the release assembly being movable to allow the rear frame assembly to be converted to a storage state and to allow the rear frame assembly to be secured in the storage state, wherein the release assembly comprises: a plate secured to the pivot of the rear frame assembly, the plate having a use recess and a storage recess; and an engagement lever pivotally connected to the main frame tube and releasably positioned so that a portion of the engagement lever alternately engages the use recess and the storage recess.

The disclosed subject technology also relates to a three-wheeled vehicle comprising: a front frame assembly having a main frame tube, a front fork, a front wheel rotatably connected to the front fork, a seat connected to the main frame tube, and a handlebar assembly coupled to the front fork to allow steering of the three-wheeled vehicle, wherein the front fork and the front wheel support a front portion of the front frame assembly; and a rear frame assembly connected to the main frame tube adjacent a rear portion of the front frame assembly to support a rear portion of the front frame assembly, the rear frame assembly having two wheels and a restraint collar connected to the seat and extending toward the front fork, the restraint collar having a first collar arm and a second collar arm, the restraint collar further having a tray extending from the first collar arm to the second collar arm, the tray having a first end and a second end, the first end of the tray being removably connected to the first collar arm, the second end of the tray having a pivot member to allow the first end of the tray to pivot away from the first collar arm when the first end is disconnected from the first collar arm to allow a child to be placed on and removed from the seat.

The disclosed subject technology also relates to a three-wheeled vehicle comprising: a front frame assembly having a main frame tube, a front fork, a front wheel rotatably connected to the front fork, a seat connected to the main frame tube, and a handlebar assembly coupled to the front fork to allow steering of the tricycle, wherein the front fork and the front wheel support a front portion of the front frame assembly; a rear frame assembly connected to the main frame tube adjacent a rear portion of the front frame assembly to support a rear portion of the front frame assembly, the rear frame assembly having two wheels; and a restraining ring. The restraining loop is releasably connected to the seat and extends toward the front fork, the restraining loop having a first loop arm and a second loop arm, wherein the seat has a receiver having an interface and a release member opening, wherein the first loop arm has an attachment end, the attachment end having a quick release arm attachment mechanism, the quick release arm attachment mechanism including a release member and an arm spring, wherein the interface is sized to receive the attachment end of the first loop arm, and wherein the release member is retained in the release member opening when the first loop arm is inserted into the interface.

The disclosed subject technology also relates to a restraint collar having a first end connected to the seat and a second end connected to the seat, and wherein the restraint collar further has a connecting member that is removably connected to one of the handlebar assembly and the front frame assembly.

The disclosed subject technology also relates to a containment collar having ribs, and wherein the first end of the tray has a cutout that receives the ribs to removably connect the first end of the tray to the first collar arm of the containment collar.

The disclosed subject technology also relates to a seat having a receiver having an interface and a release member opening, wherein the first loop arm has an attachment end, the attachment end having a quick release arm attachment mechanism, the quick release arm attachment mechanism including a release member and an arm spring, wherein the interface is sized to accommodate the attachment end of the first loop arm, and wherein the release member is retained in the release member opening when the first loop arm is inserted into the interface.

The disclosed subject technology also relates to a seat having a receiver having an interface and a release member opening, wherein the canopy has a canopy arm having an attachment end having a quick release arm attachment mechanism, the quick release arm attachment mechanism including a release member and an arm spring, wherein the interface is sized to receive the attachment end of the canopy arm, and wherein the release member is retained in the release member opening when the canopy arm is inserted into the interface.

It should be understood that other embodiments and configurations of the subject technology will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the detailed description below, wherein various configurations of the subject technology are shown and described by way of illustration. As will be appreciated, the subject technology can have other and different configurations without departing from the scope of the subject technology, and its many details can be modified in many other aspects. Therefore, the drawings and detailed description are to be considered illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For the purpose of understanding the present invention, the present invention will now be described by way of examples with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the embodiments of the present invention set forth below and together with the accompanying drawings serve to explain the principle of the present invention.

1 is a front top perspective view of a foldable tricycle according to one embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a rear bottom perspective view of the foldable tricycle of FIG. 1 .

3 is a front top perspective view of the foldable tricycle of FIG. 1 with certain components removed to show interior details.

4 is a side view of the foldable tricycle of FIG. 1 showing the canopy in the deployed position.

5 is a side view of the foldable tricycle of FIG. 1 showing the canopy of FIG. 4 in a retracted position.

6 is a side view of the foldable tricycle of FIG. 1 showing the rear frame in a stored position.

FIG. 7 is a rear perspective view of the rear frame of FIG. 6 .

8 is a partially cutaway side view showing the rear frame of FIG. 6 in use.

9 is a partially cutaway side view showing the rear frame of FIG. 6 during transition from the in-use state to the storage state.

10 is a partially cutaway side view showing the rear frame of FIG. 6 in a stored state.

11 is a partial rear top perspective view of the foldable tricycle of FIG. 1 showing the tray in use.

12 is a partial rear top perspective view of the foldable tricycle of FIG. 1 showing the tray of FIG. 11 in an open position.

13 is a partial rear perspective view of the foldable tricycle of FIG. 1 showing the seat with the canopy arms and hoop arms releasably connected thereto.

14 is a partial cross-sectional bottom view of the seat of FIG. 13 showing the canopy arms and attachment mechanism.

15 is a partial rear exploded view of the seat of FIG. 13 showing the canopy arm and loop arm separated.

16 is a partial front perspective view of the foldable tricycle of FIG. 1 showing the footrest system in a stored position.

17 is a partial front perspective view of the foldable tricycle of FIG. 1 showing the footrest system of FIG. 16 in use.

18 is a partial lower perspective view of the foot pedal rotation mechanism.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While the tricycle discussed herein is susceptible of many different forms of embodiment, and these embodiments are shown in the drawings and will be described in detail herein, it should be understood that this description should be regarded as an example of the principles of the tricycle described and is not intended to limit the broad aspects of the invention to the illustrated embodiments.

A foldable tricycle is a product that can be used by children from the early childhood stage to the toddler stage and into the adolescent stage and thereafter. For example, a foldable tricycle can be operated as a baby carriage, and the baby carriage has a restraint ring, a tray, a canopy, and a handle that a parent or other person uses to push and manipulate the baby carriage. As the child grows, the restraint ring, tray, and canopy can be independently removed according to the user's requirements, so that the tricycle can be operated as a push-type tricycle. During the push-type tricycle stage, if a child tires of riding and chooses to place his or her feet on the pedals while the parent uses the steering handle to push and manipulate the tricycle, the foldable tricycle can be used by the child as a traditional tricycle, except that the tricycle also includes pedals. Finally, when the child no longer needs the parent's steering handle and/or pedals, they can also be independently removed to use as a traditional tricycle. In any of these stages, the tricycle preferably includes a rear frame that can rotate between a use state and a storage state to reduce the various tricycle sizes used for storage and transportation.

Referring now to the drawings, and initially to Figures 1-3, in one embodiment, a foldable tricycle 10 may include a front frame assembly 14 and a rear frame assembly 34. The front frame assembly 14 may include a main frame tube 15, as well as a front fork 58 and a front wheel 18, which support the front portion 22 of the front frame assembly 14. In one embodiment, a seat 42 is coupled to the main frame tube 15 of the front frame assembly 14. The seat 42 may include an integrally formed seat base 46 and a seat back 50. Alternatively, the seat 42 may be formed from a separate seat base 46 and seat back 50 that are attached to each other or mounted separately. The seat 42 may also be supported by a seat bracket 54 connected to the main frame tube 15. The rear frame assembly 34 supports the rear portion 34 of the front frame assembly 14 and preferably includes the second wheel 26 and the third wheel 30 connected to the rear axle 38. In a preferred embodiment, the rear frame assembly 34 is rotatably connected to the front frame assembly 14. Furthermore, in the preferred embodiment, the second wheel 26 is rotatably supported at a first end of the rear axle 38 , and the third wheel 30 is rotatably supported at a second end of the rear axle 38 .

1 , the front wheel 18 is rotatably supported by a front fork 58, which is in turn rotationally coupled to the front portion 22 of the main frame tube 15 of the front frame assembly 14. The axis of rotation of the front fork 58 is generally perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the front wheel 18. A clutch mechanism (not shown) may be provided in the front wheel 18 so that the tricycle 10 can be propelled and the front wheel 18 can rotate even if a child on the tricycle 10 places their feet on the pedals 62 and 64 and may prevent the pedals 62 and 64 from moving. A handlebar assembly 66 is coupled to the front fork 58 so that rotation of the handlebar assembly 66 rotates the front wheel 18, thereby causing the tricycle 10 to move.

In one embodiment, the foldable tricycle 10 includes a parent control handle 70. The parent control handle 70 is connected to a receiver 69 in the main frame tube 15. The control handle 70 is preferably operably connected to the front fork 58, and the control handle 70 rotates about its longitudinal axis within the receiver 69, thereby rotating the front fork 58 to steer the tricycle 10. This can be achieved using a lever, chain, belt, or other mechanical combination between the control handle 70 and the front fork 58, and preferably using the main frame tube 15. In this way, the control handle 70 can be used by a parent or other person to steer the tricycle 10. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG6 , the control handle 70 is positioned behind the seat 50 and does not need to be removed during the conversion of the foldable tricycle 10 from the use position to the folded position. However, in another embodiment, the control handle 70 is removably connected to the tricycle 10, so that the control handle 70 can be removed from the tricycle 10 for use and/or storage, such as shown in FIG8-10 . The control handle 70 may include a grip portion 74 configured to be operated by a parent or other person. In an embodiment, the longitudinal length of the joystick 70 can be adjustable to provide a comfortable handle position for different users who may operate the three-wheeled vehicle 10, or to reduce the storage space required. For example, when the coupling assembly 76 is unlocked, the upper shaft or member 78 can be slid on the lower shaft or member 80, thereby shortening the overall length of the joystick 70. Alternatively, the upper member 78 can be slidable relative to the lower member 80 to adjust the length of the joystick 70.

4 and 5 , the foldable tricycle 10 may further include a canopy assembly 84, which may include a plurality of canopy arms 88 and a canopy cover 90. The canopy assembly 84 is capable of pivoting and extending to a plurality of positions, including deployed and retracted positions, shown in FIG4 and FIG5 , respectively, to shield a child seated on the foldable tricycle 10 from the sun or other weather conditions. In an embodiment, the canopy arms 88 are removably coupled to the seat back 50, as will be disclosed below in conjunction with the description of FIG13 through FIG15 .

Turning now to FIG. 3 and FIG. 6-9 , in one embodiment, the foldable tricycle 10 can include a rear frame assembly 34. In one embodiment, the rear frame assembly 34 is pivotally connected to the main frame tube 15 and is pivotable between an in-use configuration ( FIG. 1 and FIG. 8 ) and a storage configuration ( FIG. 6 and FIG. 10 ). In one embodiment, the rear frame assembly 34 includes rear frame support members 130 and 132, an axle 108 connecting first ends of the rear frame support members 130 and 132 (see FIG. 3 and FIG. 7 ), and a support member 133 connecting rear ends of the rear frame support members 130 and 132. The support member 133 has an arcuate central portion that supports the bottom of the main frame tube 15 in the in-use configuration. The axle 108 preferably has a plate 100 secured thereto, which is disposed within the main frame tube 15.

The foldable tricycle 10 also has a folding system that preferably includes a release assembly 92. In one embodiment, the release assembly 92 can include at least a portion of the rear frame assembly 34, as well as the engagement lever 96 and the engagement lever pivot bracket 104. The engagement lever 96 can include a handle portion 112, a pin hole 114, a bend 116, and an engagement portion 120. The plate 100 connected to the shaft 108 of the rear frame 34 preferably has a pair of notches, including a use notch 124 and a storage notch 128. The handle portion 112 can include an integrally formed release handle 129, or the release handle 129 can be attached to the engagement lever 96. The plate 100 can include additional notches (not shown) to allow the rear frame 34 to be folded and locked in positions other than the use and storage positions listed above.

Referring again to Figures 3 and 7, the first ends 134 and 136 of each respective rear frame support member 130 and 132 can be attached to opposite ends of shaft 108, respectively. Rear frame support members 130 and 132 can be rigidly attached to shaft 108. Similarly, rear frame support members 130 and 132 can be rigidly attached to support member 133. In this way, rear frame support members 130 and 132, shaft 108, and support member 133 will preferably all rotate together. A frame cutout 140 can be present in frame 14, with a portion of rear frame shaft 108 rotatably disposed within frame cutout 140. Rear frame support members 130 and 132 can be attached to rear frame shaft 108 at positions that allow rear frame shaft 108 to rotate within frame cutout 140. Specifically, rear frame support members 130 and 132 can be attached to rear frame shaft 108 on opposite sides of frame cutout 140. Furthermore, plate 100 may be rigidly attached to rear frame axle 108 so that plate 100 also rotates with rear frame support members 130 and 132. Main frame support plate 135 may cover cutout 140 after rear frame 34 is connected to main frame tubes 15 (see FIG. 8 ).

In operation, the engagement lever 96 can pivot about the longitudinal axis of a pin 141 that passes through both the pin hole 114 and the hole in the engagement lever pivot bracket 104. The engagement lever pivot bracket 104 is fixed to the main frame tube 15. When the user operates the release handle 129, the engagement lever 96 can pivot about the pin 141 and change the position of the engagement portion 120 of the engagement lever 96. The engagement portion 120 can be shaped so that when the engagement lever 96 is released, the engagement portion 120 can interfere with the rotation of the plate 100. More specifically, the engagement portion 120 can engage or snap into one of the notches 124 and 128 in the plate 100, thereby preventing the plate 100 and the rear frame axle 108 from rotating about the longitudinal axis of the rear frame axle 108. Alternatively, when a user applies force to the engagement lever 96 (see FIG9 ), in order to rotate the engagement lever 96, the engagement portion 120 may not engage with either of the notches 124 and 128, thereby not interfering with the rotation of the plate 100. Thus, the user can determine the position of the engagement portion 120 by operating the release handle 129. Furthermore, the engagement lever 96 may be spring-biased in a particular direction. For example, the release handle 129 may be biased by a biasing member, such as a spring, in a direction away from the seat 42 and toward the main frame tube 15. Furthermore, the engagement lever 96 may be biased by the biasing member so that the engagement portion 120 is biased toward the plate 100, thereby retaining the engagement portion 120 of the engagement lever 96 in the notches 124 and 128.

In one embodiment, the engagement portion 120 can engage with the use notch 124 and prevent the plate 100 from rotating. In this configuration, the rear frame 34 can be secured in the use position (see FIG8 ) because the rear frame support members 130 and 132, the plate 100, and the rear frame axle 108 are prevented from rotating in unison about the longitudinal axis of the rear frame axle 108. In another embodiment, the engagement portion 120 can engage with the storage notch 128 to prevent the plate 100 from rotating and maintain the rear frame 34 in the storage position (see FIG10 ). In this configuration, the rear frame 34 can be secured in the storage position. Alternatively, when a user applies force on the release handle 129 toward the seat 42, the engagement portion 120 will rotate away from the plate 100 and thus may not interfere with any of the notches 124 and 128, thereby allowing the rear frame 34 to rotate, such as when the tricycle 10 is transitioning between the use position and the storage position (see FIG9 ). Thus, the position of the engagement portion 120 (which can be influenced by the user's manipulation of the handle portion 112) can determine whether the board 100 (and thus the rear frame 34) is locked in a particular state or can be freely transitioned between multiple states. The ability to allow for both a use state and a storage state, and the ability to transition between these states, allows the foldable tricycle 10 to require a smaller footprint when not in use and in the storage state. Furthermore, the foldable tricycle 10 can stand independently when configured in either the use state or the storage state, thereby increasing convenience and flexibility.

7 , rear frame support members 130 and 132 can support rear axle 38, second and third wheels 26 and 30, and storage box 144. As rear frame support members 130 and 132 are transitioned between and locked in various states, each of these elements (130, 132, 38, 26, 30, and 144) can fold along with rear frame 34. Furthermore, three-wheeled vehicle 10 can fold without interfering with the steering linkage between steering handle 70 and front fork 58.

Turning to Figures 11 and 12, in one embodiment, the foldable tricycle 10 may include a restraint system 148. The restraint system 148 can help secure a child in the seat 42, making it easier to remove the child from the seat 42 or providing storage for items. The restraint system 148 can include a restraint collar 152 and a tray 156. The restraint system can also include a headrest 158. The tray 156 can include a beverage holder 160 and one or more storage compartments 162, the beverage holder being configured to hold beverage containers. The restraint collar 152 and the tray 156 can be integrated into a single component or can exist as separate components. In one embodiment, the tray 156 extends from one side of the restraint collar 152 to the opposite side of the restraint collar 152. Furthermore, in one embodiment, one end of the restraint collar 152 is connected to the seat 42 and the other end of the restraint collar 152 is connected to the seat 42 to secure the restraint collar 152 to the seat 42. Additionally, the restraining collar 152 may have a connecting member 169 that removably connects the restraining collar 152 to one of the handlebar assembly 66 or the front portion 22 of the frame 14 .

In a further embodiment, tray 156 may have a first end and a second end. The first end of tray 156 may be removably connected to the restraining ring 152, and the second end of tray 156 may be connected to the restraining ring 152 so that tray 156 can rotate relative to the restraining ring 152. Alternatively, the second end of tray 156 may be connected to the restraining ring 152 using a connecting member 159, and the second end of tray 156 may have a pivot member 157 adjacent to the connecting member 159. Tray 156 can rotate relative to the restraining ring 152 about an axis of rotation at pivot member 157. In another alternative embodiment, the restraining ring 152 may include a cylindrical portion, and tray 156 can surround and rotate around the cylindrical portion. Furthermore, tray 156 or elements within the restraining ring 152 may allow relative rotation within a specific angular range. For example, the angular range may include approximately 90 degrees, slightly greater than 90 degrees, or greater than 90 degrees. Furthermore, tray 156 can be positioned in a use position (as shown in FIG. 11 ) or in an entry position (as shown in FIG. 12 ).

In another embodiment, a portion (e.g., a first end) of the tray 156 can be releasably attached to the restraint ring 152, thereby preventing relative rotation between the tray 156 and the restraint ring 152. In an embodiment, the ribs 166 on the restraint ring 152 and the tray cutout 168 in the tray 156 can releasably attach the second end of the restraint ring 152 to the tray 156 when the ribs 166 engage and enter the tray cutout 168. A portion of the tray 156 can include a material or design that is sufficiently compliant to allow a user to engage the ribs 166 with the tray cutout 168 and to facilitate the user to disengage the ribs 166 from the tray cutout 168 to allow the tray 156 to rotate.

Turning now to Figures 13-15, in a further embodiment, the foldable tricycle 10 can include an arm attachment system 172. The arm attachment system 172 can include canopy arms 88, and each canopy arm 88 can include a canopy arm attachment end 174. Additionally, the arm attachment system 172 can include loop arms 176, and each loop arm 176 can include a loop arm attachment end 178. In an embodiment, each canopy arm attachment end 174 and loop arm attachment end 178 can include a quick-release arm attachment mechanism 179. Each arm attachment mechanism 179 can include a release member or button 180 and an arm spring 182, and each arm spring 182 can bias each corresponding release member 180 in a particular direction.

The arm attachment system 172 can be used to removably attach the canopy arm 88, the loop arm 176, or both the canopy arm 88 and the loop arm 176 to an arm receiver 184. In one embodiment, the arm receiver 184 can be attached to the seat back 50 or other portion of the foldable tricycle 10. A release member or button hole 188 and an arm interface 192 can be provided in the arm receiver 184 for each arm 88 and 176. Each canopy arm attachment end 174 and loop arm attachment end 178 can be inserted into the arm interface 192. Furthermore, when each respective attachment end 174 and 178 is inserted into the arm interface 192, the button 180 on each attachment end 174 and 178 can be biased by the arm spring 182 and enter the respective button hole 188, thereby preventing the attachment ends 174 and 178 from moving when the button 180 is positioned within or through the respective button hole 188. More specifically, each attachment end 174 and 178 can be prevented from exiting the corresponding arm interface 192 when the button 180 is disposed within or through the corresponding button hole 188 .

When each quick-release button 180 is biased by its corresponding arm spring 182, the button 180 is also slidably disposed within a button track 194 in the arm attachment mechanism 179. Thus, a user can press or otherwise manipulate the button 180, causing it to slide along the button track 194. In an embodiment, the user can press the button 180, causing it to slide along the button track 194 and through the button aperture 188 against the bias of the arm spring 182, thereby causing the button 180 to no longer be disposed within the button aperture 188. Upon such action, the button 180 may no longer be disposed within the corresponding button aperture 188 and may no longer prevent the canopy arm 88 and the loop arm 176 from exiting the corresponding arm interface 192. Consequently, such action may allow the arm 88 and the arm 176 to be removed from their respective arm interfaces 192.

Insertion of the attachment ends 174 and 178 into the arm interfaces 192 can be accomplished by inserting the attachment ends 174 and 178 into the corresponding arm interfaces 192. In embodiments, insertion of the attachment ends 174 and 178 into the arm interfaces 192 also requires the user to operate the corresponding buttons 180 to overcome the bias of the arm springs 182. Thus, the arm attachment system can allow for easy removal and attachment of the arms 88 and 176 from the arm receivers 184. This capability can be useful for storage purposes, transportation purposes, or to remove or add features (e.g., the canopy assembly 84 or the restraining collar 152).

Turning now to Figures 16-18, in an embodiment, the foldable tricycle 10 may also include a footrest system 200. The footrest system 200 may include a mounting member or plate 204, one or more footrest support members 208, a cross member 212 positioned between the plurality of footrest support members 208, a footrest 216 positioned on each footrest support member 208, and a quick-release footrest rotation mechanism 218. The mounting plate 204 may be secured to the frame 14, the rear frame 34, the rear frame axle 108, the rear frame support members 130 and 132, or other portions of the foldable tricycle 10. In a preferred embodiment, the mounting plate 204 is attached to the rear frame support members 130 and 132. The footrest 216 may be a separate component or may be integrally formed with each footrest support member 208. The footrest rotation mechanism 218 may include a footrest button 220, a footrest spring (not shown), a footrest pin 224, and a footrest pin track 226. Additionally, the mounting plate 204 can include a foot pedal access receiver 228 and a foot pedal storage receiver 232. In one embodiment, the foot pedal access receiver is a foot pedal access recess 228, and the foot pedal storage receiver is a foot pedal storage recess 232. The foot pedal support member 208 can be rotatably attached to the mounting plate 204 at a foot pedal rotation point 234.

In operation, the foot pedal pin 224 can be operably associated with the foot pedal button 220 such that movement of the button 220 can cause corresponding movement of the foot pedal pin 224. The foot pedal pin 224 is slidably disposed in a foot pedal pin track 226, and a user operating the foot pedal button 220 can slide the foot pedal pin 224 along the foot pedal pin track 226. Furthermore, the foot pedal button 220 and the foot pedal pin 224 can be biased in a particular direction by a foot pedal spring. Furthermore, the foot pedal pin 224 can be adapted to selectively engage a foot pedal use receiver 228 and a foot pedal storage receiver 232.

The foot pedal rotation mechanism 218 and the corresponding foot pedal support member 208 can be attached together and rotated together. The foot pedal pin 224 can engage with the notches 228 and 232 and prevent the foot pedal rotation mechanism 218 and the attached foot pedal support member 208 from rotating. When the foot pedal pin 224 engages with the foot pedal storage notch 232, the foot pedal system 200 can be positioned in a storage state and locked in the storage state. When the foot pedal pin 224 engages with the foot pedal use notch 228, the foot pedal system 200 can be positioned in a use state and locked in the use state. In an embodiment, a user operating the foot pedal button 220 can cause the foot pedal pin 224 to disengage from the notches 228 and 232, thereby allowing the foot pedal system 200 to rotate and switch between the use configuration and the storage configuration. When engaged, the foot pedal spring can bias the foot pedal pin 224 against the notches 228 and 232 to ensure that the foot pedal system 200 is prevented from rotating. Thus, a user can transition the footrest system 200 between the in-use state (shown in FIG. 17 ) and the storage state (shown in FIG. 16 ) by operating the footrest button 220, rotating the footrest system 200 to the new state, and then refraining from operating the footrest button 220. The footrest system 200 can exist and allow transitions between states independently of the system used to steer, fold, or otherwise operate the tricycle 10. Thus, the present invention allows the user to deploy and use the footrest system 200 when desired, or to stow the footrest system 200 when not needed. Furthermore, the footrest system 200 can be removed from the tricycle 10 if desired by the user.

Several alternative embodiments have been described and illustrated herein. A person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate the features of the various embodiments and the possible combinations and variations of the various components. A person of ordinary skill in the art will further appreciate that any of the described embodiments may be combined with any other embodiment disclosed herein. In addition, the terms "first," "second," "third," and "fourth" as used herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the embodiments in any way. In addition, the term "plurality" as used herein means any number greater than 1, up to infinity, either separately or in combination as needed. In addition, the word "comprising" as used herein is used in an open-ended manner.

Although the foregoing has described what are considered to be the best embodiments and/or other examples, it should be understood that various modifications may be made therein and that the subject matter disclosed herein may be implemented in various forms and instances, and that the teachings may be applied to a variety of applications, only some of which are described herein. Therefore, the above examples and embodiments are to be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive, and the invention is not to be limited to the details given herein. The appended claims are intended to claim any and all applications, modifications, and variations that fall within the true scope of the present teachings. Therefore, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described, various modifications may be envisioned without significantly departing from the spirit of the invention, and the scope of protection is limited only by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims (9)

1. A tricycle, comprising: A front frame assembly having: a main frame tube, a front fork, a front wheel rotatably connected to the front fork, a seat connected to the main frame tube, and a handlebar assembly coupled to the front fork to allow maneuvering of the tricycle, wherein the front fork and the front wheel support the front portion of the front frame assembly; A rear frame assembly, adjacent to the rear of the front frame assembly and connected to the main frame tube to support the rear of the front frame assembly, the rear frame assembly having two wheels; and A restraint ring, connected to the seat and extending toward the fork, has a first ring arm and a second ring arm, and a tray extending from the first ring arm to the second ring arm. The tray has a first end and a second end, the first end of the tray being removably connected to the first ring arm, and the second end of the tray having a pivoting member to allow the first end of the tray to pivot away from the first ring arm when the first end is disconnected from the first ring arm, thereby allowing placement and removal of a child from the seat. The seat has a receiver having an interface and a release member opening, wherein the first coil arm has an attachment end having a quick-release arm attachment mechanism including a release member and an arm spring, wherein the interface is sized to receive the attachment end of the first coil arm, and wherein the release member is held in the release member opening when the first coil arm is inserted into the interface. 2. The tricycle of claim 1, wherein the rear frame assembly is adjacent to the rear of the front frame assembly and pivotally connected to the main frame tube, wherein the rear frame assembly includes: a first rear frame support member on one side of the main frame tube, a second rear frame support member on the opposite side of the main frame tube, and a pivot connecting the first and second rear frame support members and extending through the main frame tube, and further includes: a release assembly connected to both the front frame assembly and the rear frame assembly to secure the rear frame assembly to the front frame assembly in use, the release assembly being movable to allow the rear frame assembly to be transferred to a storage state and to allow the rear frame assembly to be secured in the storage state. 3. The tricycle of claim 1, wherein the constraint ring has a first end connected to the seat and a second end connected to the seat, and wherein the constraint ring further has a connecting member removably connected to one of the handlebar assembly and the front frame assembly. 4. The tricycle of claim 1, wherein the constraint ring has ribs, and wherein a first end of the tray has a cutout that receives the ribs to removably connect the first end of the tray to a first ring arm of the constraint ring. 5. A tricycle, comprising: A front frame assembly having: a main frame tube, a front fork, a front wheel rotatably connected to the front fork, a seat connected to the main frame tube, and a handlebar assembly coupled to the front fork to allow maneuvering of the tricycle, wherein the front fork and the front wheel support the front portion of the front frame assembly; A rear frame assembly, connected to the mainframe tube adjacent to the rear of the front frame assembly to support the rear of the front frame assembly, the rear frame assembly having two wheels; and A constraint ring, releasably connected to the seat and extending toward the fork, the constraint ring having a first ring arm and a second ring arm, wherein the seat has a receiver having an interface and a release member opening, wherein the first ring arm has an attachment end having a quick-release arm attachment mechanism including a release member and an arm spring, wherein the interface is sized to receive the attachment end of the first ring arm, and wherein the release member is held in the release member opening when the first ring arm is inserted into the interface. 6. The tricycle of claim 5, wherein the rear frame assembly is adjacent to the rear of the front frame assembly and pivotally connected to the main frame tube, the rear frame assembly having: a first rear frame support member on one side of the main frame tube; a second rear frame support member on the opposite side of the main frame tube; and a pivot connecting the first rear frame support member and the second rear frame support member and extending through the main frame tube, and wherein the tricycle is adapted to transition from a use state to a storage state when the restraint ring is connected to the seat. 7. The tricycle of claim 5, wherein the constraint ring further comprises a connecting member removably connected to one of the handlebar assembly and the front frame assembly. 8. The tricycle of claim 5, further comprising a canopy releasably connected to the seat. 9. The tricycle according to claim 8, wherein the canopy has a canopy arm, the canopy arm has an attachment end, the attachment end of the canopy arm has a quick-release arm attachment mechanism, the quick-release arm attachment mechanism of the attachment end of the canopy arm includes a release member and an arm spring, wherein the interface is sized to receive the attachment end of the canopy arm, and wherein, when the canopy arm is inserted into the interface, the release member of the quick-release arm attachment mechanism of the attachment end of the canopy arm is held in the opening of the release member.