Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to the field of riding vehicles. More particularly, the invention relates to a foldable tricycle.

Background of the Invention

As of today, many types of tricycles for children exist. In a typical toy shop one can encounter a number of tricycles differing in size, shape and color. However, due to the relative large space these tricycles occupy, transporting and storing these tricycles are becoming problems of a major nuisance. This is especially true for carrying these tricycles, for example, in the trunk of a car.

Therefore, an easy and simple method is desired for folding a 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. As a result, 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. However, 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.

Is would therefore be desired to propose a system void of the problems discussed above. Summary of the Invention

It is an object of the present invention to provide a foldable riding vehicle.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a tricycle folding mechanism for easy and simple folding and unfolding.

It is still another object of the present invention to provide a foldable tricycle that has a foldable parental handle.

It is still another object of the present invention to provide a foldable tricycle, where the tricycle folds up into a small package.

Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent as the description proceeds.

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! (e) 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! (f) a front end, including a rider handle, a front wheel, and a head tube for rotatably supporting said rider handle and said front wheel! (g) a forward support interconnecting said front end and said elongated center support! (h) 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 (i) wherein 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.

Preferably, 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.

Preferably, the lower portion of the handgrip frame has a length that approximates a length of the rear wheel frame.

Preferably, 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.

Preferably, 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.

Preferably, the first closed loop is generally in the shape of a rectangle. Preferably, the second closed loop is generally in the shape of a rectangle with a rounded handgrip end.

Preferably, the forward support is substantially orthogonal to the center support.

Preferably, the present invention further includes a seat mounted atop the center support and the forward support.

Preferably, the seat includes at least one slot through which the strap passes.

Preferably, the handgrip frame and the rear wheel frame are interconnected through the pair of main hinges.

Preferably, 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.

Preferably, the center support simultaneously serves as both a portion of the first closed loop and a portion of the second closed loop.

Preferably, the second end of the rear wheel frame is connected to the elongated center support via the pair of main hinges.

Preferably, the second end of the handgrip frame is connected to the elongated center support via the pair of main hinges. Preferably, 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.

Preferably, 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.

Preferably, the present invention further comprises a foldable canopy for protecting the rider from the sun or rain.

Preferably, 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! (e) a pair of opposing handgrip hinges on opposing sides of the handgrip frame, wherein the handgrip hinges are configured to enable, in the collapsed mode, an upper portion of the handgrip frame to be pivoted to a position toward a lower portion of the handgrip frame, and wherein the lower portion of the handgrip frame has a length that approximates a length of the rear wheel frame! (f) 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; (g) a lock release located within a cavity in the center support! (h) a front end, including a rider handle, a front wheel, and a head tube for rotatably supporting a rider handle and a front wheel! (i) a forward support interconnecting the front end and the center support! j) 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.

Brief Description of the Drawings

In the drawings ^:

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.

Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments

The terms "screw" "rivet" "pin" and "bolt" may be used throughout the description interchangeably and are meant to include 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.

Hereinafter, parts, elements and components that are depicted in more than one figure are referenced by the same numerals.

The terms of "front", "rear", "down", "up", "bottom", "upper", "horizontal", "vertical" or any reference to sides or directions are used throughout the description for the sake of brevity alone and are not meant to be limiting in any way. 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, for example, 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. In one embodiment, 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. In an embodiment, 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.

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.

In one embodiment, the seat 120 is mounted on the forward support 210. In an embodiment, 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. In one embodiment, this closed loop is generally in the shape of a rectangle with a rounded handgrip end. In one embodiment, 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.

An attendant who is pushing the tricycle from behind may use the hand grip 140 for propelling and steering the tricycle in the second mode. In one embodiment, 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. In another embodiment, 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. Thus 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. In this 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. In this state, when the handgrip frame is pivoted down, 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. In one option 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.

In one embodiment 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. 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. In this 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.

In the first mode, the rider may steer the tricycle by using rider handle 150 and may propel the tricycle 100 by pedaling the pedals. In this first mode 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. Thus, as used herein, 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. In addition, 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. In a first mode of operation, 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. 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. Alternatively, the front wheel may have a separate axle to which one or a pair of pedal rods connects. In the second mode of operation, 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. In an embodiment 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. As used herein, the term "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. For example, Fig. 1 illustrates an example of a blade 133 used to rotatably support wheel 130. 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. In this second mode 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. In this 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. In one embodiment 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. In another embodiment the back support 121 may be lowered to form an angle of about 160 degrees between the back support 121 and the seat 120. In another embodiment the back support 121 may be lowered to form an angle of about 180 degrees between the back support 121 and the seat 120. In one embodiment 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. In other words, 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. Thus, 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. As depicted in Fig. 3, the collapsible tricycle 100 may including a seat 120 mounted atop the center support 211 and the forward support 210. In an embodiment, 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. Thus, according to an embodiment, the tricycle 100 may be pulled and folded in one motion. In another embodiment 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. In other embodiments 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. In an embodiment, the tricycle 100 may be folded using one hand.

For the sake of brevity, a description is set forth for enabling a user to simultaneously disengage the lock of each of the pair of main hinges 151- 152 of the collapsing mechanism of the tricycle, by pulling the strap 500. Nevertheless, other mechanisms may be used as well, for disengaging the locks of the main hinges, which are within the capability of those skilled in the art, such as by pulling, pushing, turning, or moving of a strap, belt, lever, knob, handle, switch, grip, button, or any other action using any other control means. Fig. 4a is a diagram depicting the lower rear part of the tricycle, described in relations to Fig. 3, according to an embodiment. As depicted, 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. Thus, the rear wheel frame 170 may be connected to the elongated center support 211 via the pair of main hinges 151 and 152. In one embodiment, 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, depicted in Fig. 4a and also described in relations to Fig. 3, 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. In one embodiment, 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. Thus 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, or any other mechanism, 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. For the sake of brevity, parts of the hinge 151 have been removed and parts of the hinge 152 have been separated depicting an exploded view, in the diagram. 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. Similarly to slide 541, 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. Thus when the front side of slide 542 is inserted inside the hinge parts 552-553, i.e. outwards, 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. 4c, 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. Similarly, lock release 502 may pull pin 532 and slide 542 inwardly. Thus the front ends of the slides, which form a lock for locking the hinge parts together, such as parts 552-553, disengage from the hinge parts effectively allowing the hinge parts to pivot in relations to themselves and in relation to the center support 211, according to an embodiment.

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. When the strap 500 is pulled upwards, 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. When 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. In the collapsed position, i.e. folded configuration, the total measurements of the folded tricycle may be less than 56X45X25cm. In one embodiment, the total measurements of the folded tricycle do not exceed 115cm. In another embodiment, the total measurements of the folded tricycle, without the rear wheels, do not exceed 115cm. In this collapsed position the front end 200 may be in a pivoted position toward the center support 211. As depicted, 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.

In one embodiment the tricycle has a front swivel wheel, i.e. crazy wheel, for easy steerability in the second mode. During the second mode, when an attendant pushes the tricycle from behind, 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. For the sake of brevity a description is set forth for the configuration of the front swivel wheel. 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. As the offset distance decreases with all else equal, so to decreases an ability to turn the tricycle from behind using the hand grip. Thus, in one embodiment, 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.

In one embodiment the stem axis is designed to lead the front wheel axis in the second mode of parental steering control. The leading stem axis, in such instances, 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. However, by employing a minimal angle between the fork and the stem, 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).

In one embodiment, 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. Moreover, 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. In this embodiment 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. As described, in relations to Fig. 1, 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. Thus 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. In this embodiment 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. As described, in relations to Fig. 1, 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. In this 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. In some embodiments 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. In other embodiments 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. In this 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. In some embodiments, the footrest is made of cloth which is part of the seat's cover. In some embodiments the foot rest may be folded and held under the seat when not used as a foot rest. In one embodiment, 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. In this embodiment, the hand grip frame 340 may have a safety mechanism 349 for folding the tricycle. In one embodiment, 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. Thus 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. In this 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. However, in this embodiment, the pulling of strap 501 upwards pulls part 512 upwards. When part 512 is pulled, its diagonal holes 513 pull the pins, 531 and 532 inwards which pull the connected slides inwardly. When 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.

In one embodiment, when the tricycle is in the collapsed mode, the handgrip frame 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. In one embodiment, 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.

In one embodiment 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. Thus 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.

While some embodiments of the invention have been described by way of illustration, the invention can be carried into practice with many modifications, variations and adaptations, and with the use of equivalents or alternatives that are within the capability of those skilled in the art, without departing from the invention or exceeding the scope of claims.