The present invention relates to a wheelchair-stroller adapter particularly, but not necessarily exclusively for use with a stroller. The invention further relates to a method of adapting a stroller for a wheelchair using said wheelchair-stroller adapter. Additionally, there is provided a stroller adapted for a wheelchair, and a wheelchair-stroller assembly using said stroller.

The daily routine of disabled people is hindered by a lack of disability-inclusive devices facilities and equipment. In particular, being a disabled parent and partaking in parental activities such taking a child or baby for a walk in a stroller is made difficult or impossible by a lack of disability- inclusive child transportation devices such as prams, pushchairs, buggies, and strollers. Prams, pushchairs, strollers and other infant/child transportation devices are commonly designed with non-disabled people in mind. For example, the handle of a stroller is inaccessible to many manual wheelchair users due to the user requiring use of both hands to control their own wheelchair, and the braking system of a pushchair is commonly foot-operated, which may also not be a possibility for some wheelchair users. Furthermore, child transportation devices generally have pivot-locked back wheels to aid the manoeuvrability, steering and stability for use by non-disabled people who are walking. However, as a wheelchair also has pivot locked back wheels, and at least one front pivotable wheel, even if the handle could be made accessible, a wheelchair user is unable to maneuverer a stroller.

In order to address inaccessibility of daily activities, products have been designed specifically for disabled people, such as bassinets that can be attached directly to the frame of a wheelchair. However, many disabled people parent alongside a non-disabled parent and/or family members and would like to have access to widely available parenting equipment. Purchase of multiple different travel system products would be prohibitively expensive and so the provision of a singular product that can be used by all members of a family would be beneficial.

At present there are no accessible solution that allows a disabled parent and a non-disabled parent to utilise the same child transportation device with ease.

The present invention seeks to provide a wheelchair-stroller adapter which obviates or overcomes the above-mentioned deficiencies.

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a wheelchair-stroller adapter comprising: a wheelchair-frame connector for engagement with a wheelchair frame; a strollerframe engagement portion comprising a stroller-frame receiver engagable with a rear portion of a frame of a stroller having a pivot-locked rear wheel thereof removed; a connector body interconnecting the wheelchair-frame connector and stroller-frame engagement portion; and a castor wheel pivotably engaged with the connector body.

As mentioned briefly above, to increase the ease of manoeuvrability and directionality, strollers have fixed back wheels. The front wheels of a stroller may be fixed or pivotable. Wheelchairs commonly have fixed back wheels and pivotable front wheels to allow the wheelchair user to steer their wheelchair comfortably and with ease. If a wheelchair is affixed directly to a stroller, due to the stroller’s fixed back wheels, the wheelchair user is unable to steer both the wheelchair and stroller simultaneously. As such, simply attaching a wheelchair to a stroller to allow a wheelchair use to push a stroller is an inaccessible solution. Removal of the pivot-locked rear wheels of a stroller and replacing them with a wheelchair-stroller adapter having castor wheels pivotably engaged with a connector which has connection points to connect to a wheelchair and stroller independently, allows the wheelchair user to steer the pushchair and wheelchair in tandem.

Preferably the wheelchair-stroller adapter may further comprise a lock interengagable with the castor wheel to lock the castor wheel in a locked mono-directional condition.

It is beneficial to be able to lock the castor wheels in a mono-directional condition so that a stroller with a wheelchair-stroller adapter attached can be used by a non-disabled person. The nonwheelchair user is not required to remove the wheelchair-stroller adapter in order to use the stroller to which it is attached, as the manoeuvrability and directionality of stroller is not compromised. Providing the option of having pivotable wheels for a wheelchair user and mono-directional wheels for a non-wheelchair user allows the stroller to be used by both non-wheelchair users and wheelchair users. As such, the flexibility and adaptability of the combined wheelchair-stroller system is increased.

Optionally, the wheelchair-frame connector may further comprise a displaceable member coupled to the lock, wherein the displaceable member is displaced upon engagement with a wheelchair to release the castor wheel from the locked mono-directional condition.

Having a displaceable member displaced by wheelchair attachment to release the castor wheel from the locked mono-directional condition automates the castor wheel locking and unlocking process. The system is therefore easy to use, and the wheels are automatically placed in the correct condition for each user. When a wheelchair is attached, the displacement of the displaceable member allows the wheelchair-stroller adapter to unlock the castor wheels from the locked mono-directional condition so as to pivot and be suitable by a wheelchair use. Conversely, the wheelchair-stroller adapter is able to recognise when a wheelchair is not attached, as the displaceable member is biased to the locked mono-directional condition of the castor wheels. As such, when the displaceable member is not displaced, due to the absence of a wheelchair frame, the castor wheel is by default in the locked mono-directional condition. The user does not have to manually lock and/or unlock the castor wheels, which may be difficult and time consuming.

In a preferred embodiment, the displaceable member is connected to the wheelchair-frame connector.

Having the displaceable member connected to the wheelchair-frame connector ensures that as soon as the wheelchair is attached to the wheelchair-stroller adapter the castor wheels are unlocked from the locked mono-directional condition to a pivotable condition.

The displaceable member may be biased towards the locked mono-directional condition.

The displaceable member being biased towards the locked mono-directional condition means the default condition of the castor wheel whilst a wheelchair is not connected is the same as if there were conventional rear wheels of a stroller. Therefore, a stroller with a wheelchair-stroller adapter attached is easily used by both wheelchair user and non- wheelchair user parents.

In one preferable embodiment, the displaceable member may comprise a cam mechanism.

The presence of a cam mechanism provides an easy modification between the wheel-locked and wheel-unlocked conditions which can be readily linked to the position of the connector body.

Optionally, there may be a manual wheel lock to lock the castor wheel in a locked mono-directional condition. This allows for locking of the system when attached to a wheelchair where the locked condition may be required, for instance, where there is a severe camber.

The connector body preferably has a first portion and second portion connected together, the wheelchair-frame connector being connected to the first portion and the stroller-frame engagement portion being connected to the second portion. Optionally, the connector body may further comprise a pivot element to allow the first portion to pivot relative to the second portion.

A pivot element allows the first portion and second portion of the connector body to move relative to one another. For instance, the first portion of the connector body may be moved whilst the second portion remains stationary. This may be useful when changing the user of a stroller with a wheelchair-stroller adapter attached from a wheelchair user to a non-wheelchair user, as the first portion of the connector body may be moved out the way of the non-wheelchair user, for instance, assuming a position under the bassinet or chair of the stroller. Therefore, the wheelchair-stroller adapter would not need to be removed or reattached every time the user changed. Additionally, as wheelchair dimensions vary, it may be useful to be able to adjust the first portion and second portion relative to one another to ensure the wheelchair-stroller adapter is suitably connected to both the wheelchair frame and stroller frame. The connector body may also comprise a laterally extending coupling member connecting the first and second portions, at least one of the first and second portions being relatively movable to the other of the first and second portions along the laterally extending coupling member to alter an offset between the wheelchair connector and the stroller-frame engagement portion.

Wheelchair and stroller dimensions vary. As such the width of a stroller may not be complementary to the width of a wheelchair. The first and second portions being movable relative to one another along a laterally extending coupling member allows the wheelchair-stroller adapter to be utilised with a variety of stroller systems and wheelchairs. The first portion can be easily moved such that the width between the first and second portions is equal to the difference in width between the wheelchair and stroller. The distance between the first and second portion can be adapted to the specific wheelchair and stroller dimensions, such that both the wheelchair-frame connector and stroller-frame receiver are appropriately connected. Therefore, increasing the universal and adaptable nature of the wheelchair-stroller adapter.

Optionally, the laterally extending coupling member may have positionally indexed locators thereon.

Positionally indexed locators may be useful to indicate set positions along the laterally extending coupling member. Having set position may make it easier for the user to know where to place the first portion relative to the second portion. For example, the positionally indexed locators may be set at common wheelchair widths so that a user can quickly and easily ascertain the correction position to place the first portions so that the wheelchair-frame connector aligns with the wheelchair frame.

The first portion may comprise a releasable lock to secure a position of the wheelchair-frame connector relative to the stroller-frame engagement portion.

Having a releasable lock allows the position of the first and second portions relative to one another to be secured with ease. Having a releasable lock ensures the position can be easily changed in use, should a user need to quickly adjust the location of the first portion or second portion. It may also ensure the position of the first and second portions relative to one another will not change independently and/or in an unwanted manner. As such a releasable lock will reduce the likelihood of the first and second portions being misaligned. The releasable fastener may also have a biasing member to bias the fastener into engagement so as to further reduce the likelihood of the first and second portions moving independently.

The first portion may have an articulation element to act as suspension. The provision of an articulation element to act as suspension may increase the manoeuvrability and directionality of a strollerwith a wheelchair-stroller adapter attached. The suspension will allow an associated stroller and wheelchair to pass over rough terrain, transverse down steps or curbs and account for other changes in vertical direction. The suspension may allow for a smoother, more comfortable journey for both the wheelchair user and the stroller occupant.

In a preferred embodiment, the stroller-frame receiver is provided as a socket for shape-mating engagement with the rear portion of the frame of the stroller.

A socket provides an easy way of attaching the rear portion of a frame of a stroller and the wheelchair-stroller adapter. The socket allows for the frame of a stroller to be easily and quickly slotted in and out of the stroller-frame receiver. Due to the shape of the socket, and the downward pressure of the frame of a stroller, the socket can provide a secure way of connecting the rear portion of a frame of a stroller and the wheelchair-stroller adapter. A securing mechanism may be used in conjunction with the socket for additional securement.

The wheelchair-stroller adapter may further comprise a braking system connected to the castor wheel and connectable to the frame of a stroller.

Braking systems are required to comply with product safety standards, therefore it may be useful to have a braking system connected to the castor wheel to ensure that when attached, the associated stroller complies with regulatory standards. Having a braking system connectable to the frame of the stroller, may be useful as the braking system may be attached at numerous points of the stroller depending on what is desired by the user. For example, a user may prefer for the braking system to be located on the side of the stroller frame rather than the crossbar of the stroller frame.

The braking system may comprise a brake mechanism housing coupled to the castor wheel, at least one brake associated with the castor wheel, and a sprung braking mechanism within the brake mechanism housing communicable with the at least one brake, and furthermore the castor wheel and brake mechanism housing may be together releasably engageable from the braking system.

A sprung braking mechanism allows for simple construction of the brake within the strollerengagement portion. More crucially though, it allows for the castor wheel unit to be removed without needing to disassemble the braking system fully.

A sprung suspension member may be associated with the castor wheel.

A secondary suspension means for the castor wheel may help to improve the manoeuvrability of a strollerwith a wheelchair-frame connector attached. The secondary suspension member may be particularly useful over uneven terrain. The secondary suspension may also improve the user experience and provide a smoother, more comfortable journey for the wheelchair and stroller occupant.

Preferably, the wheelchair-frame connector comprises a clamping element. Additionally, or alternatively, the wheelchair-frame connector may comprise an angularly-adjustable member.

A clamping element is an easy, reversible and simple means by which to securely and safely connect the wheelchair-stroller adapter to the frame of a wheelchair. Angular adjustability allows for the position of the connector to be easily altered on a wheelchair frame, or adapted for different wheelchair dimensions.

Optionally, the clamping element may comprise a toggle clamp or an over-centre clamp or a fastening clamp.

Toggle clamps, over-centre clamps and fastening clamps are all safe, secure and easy to use clamping systems. The provision of a levered handle as part of the clamping element may increase the ease of use, which may be beneficial for a wheelchair user as the levered handle may be hand operated whilst sat in a wheelchair. The use of such clamping systems may allow the user to be more independent whilst using the wheelchair-stroller adapter.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of adapting a stroller for use with a wheelchair, the method comprising the steps of: a] removing any pivot-locked rear wheels of the stroller from a stroller frame of the stroller; b] providing at least one wheelchairstroller adapter in accordance with the first aspect of the invention; and c] engaging the strollerframe receiver with the stroller frame.

The provision of a method to adapt a stroller allows existing strollers to be adapted and retrofitted with the wheelchair-stroller adapter with ease. Additionally, a singular wheelchair-stroller adapter may be used upon many different strollers within one household. Conversion of strollers with ease allows parents to select a stroller based on its other characteristics and advantages, such as the adaptability of the travel system. Having a simplistic method of retrofitting a wheelchair-stroller adapter to any stroller increases the universal and versatile nature of the wheelchair-stroller adapter.

The method may further comprise a step d] subsequent to step c], wherein step d] comprises engaging a brake handle connected to a braking system of a castor wheel with the stroller frame of the stroller.

Braking systems are required to comply with product safety standards, therefore having a braking system connected to the castor wheel may be useful. The user can position the braking system on the frame in a position that they find easiest and most comfortable to access. The position of the brake handle can be moved, and the brake handle can be connected to any point of the stroller frame. Therefore, a range of different strollers can be accommodated.

According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided a stroller adapted for use with a wheelchair, the stroller comprising: a stroller frame; at least one pivotable front wheel; a wheelchair-frame connector for engagement with a wheelchair frame; a stroller-frame engagement portion engaged with the rear portion of the stroller frame; a connector body interconnecting the wheelchair-frame connector and stroller-frame engagement portion; and a castor wheel pivotably engaged with the connector body, the castor wheel in use forming a pivotable rear wheel of the stroller.

A stroller having a wheelchair-frame connector and a castor wheel that in use forms a pivotable rear wheel allows the stroller to be used by both wheelchair users and non-wheelchair users. The stroller can be easily altered between an in-use wheelchair condition, where a wheelchair frame is connected and the rear wheel is pivotable, and a non-use wheelchair condition where a wheelchair frame is not connected, and the rear wheel is non-pivotable. The stroller is easy to use for both wheelchair users and non-wheelchair users as there is no need for a user to dismantle an existing stroller and replace the rear wheels with an adapter.

Optionally, the stroller may comprise a braking system coupled to the castor wheel.

Braking systems are required to comply with product safety standards, therefore the provision of braking systems ensures the stroller complies with product safety standards. The braking system ensures the stroller will not roll away when unattended. This may be useful for instance when connecting a wheelchair to the wheelchair-frame connector, as it ensures the stroller will not move in an undesired direction.

Preferably, the wheelchair-frame connector, the stroller-frame engagement portion, the connector body, and the castor wheel may be provided as a wheelchair-stroller adapter.

Providing the wheelchair-frame connector, stroller-frame engagement portion, connector body, and castor wheel all together as an adapter may increase the ease of use, as the user does not need to assemble multiple different parts. A unitary wheelchair-stroller adapter may be also easier to manufacture.

The stroller-frame engagement portion may be integrally formed as part of the stroller frame.

Advantageously, having the wheelchair-frame connector, stroller-frame engagement portion, connector body, and the castor wheel integrally formed may the increase ease of manufacture. Additionally, the assembly required by a user will be reduced. This in turn may increase the accessibility of such a stroller, as the stroller would not require any retrofitting.

Two stroller-frame engagement portions, two wheelchair-frame connectors, two connector bodies, and two castor wheels may preferably be provided.

Strollers commonly have two pivot-locked rear wheels, thus providing two castor wheels and accompanying structure allows forboth pivot-locked rear wheels of the stroller frame to be replaced

The two connector bodies may be connected via a bridging member.

The provision of a bridging member may be beneficial to provide additional structural support. Providing two connector bodies connected together may also be easier to manufacture. Additionally, the provision of a bridging member to form a unitary unit with the two connector bodies may result in the wheelchair-stroller adapter being easier to retrofit to strollers.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention there is provided a wheelchair stroller assembly comprising: a wheelchair having a wheelchair frame; and a stroller in accordance with the third aspect of the invention, the stroller being connected to the wheelchair frame using the wheelchairframe connector clamp.

Providing a whole assembly comprising all of the necessary components may increase the ease of use for the user, as no additional assembly is required to be able to operate the stroller.

Advantageously, the present invention provides a wheelchair-stroller adapter suitable for retrofitting to an existing stroller, or for being fitted as an intentional part of the stroller at the manufacturing stage. The wheelchair-stroller adapter is fitted to the stroller in place of the pivot- locked back wheels. The wheelchair-stroller adapter has a castor wheel, so the back wheels are in essence replaced by pivotable wheels. As such, when attached, a wheelchair user is able to direct and control the movement of both the stroller and wheelchair in tandem through the user of the wheelchairs pivot-locked back wheels. The castor wheel of the wheelchair-stroller adapter can also be locked into a mono-directional condition, which may be useful to allow a non-wheelchair user to use the stroller whilst a wheelchair is not engaged, without having to remove the wheelchair-stroller adapter. Additionally, the wheelchair-frame connector may be moved to extended in under the stroller frame to allow a non-wheelchair user to use the stroller.

The invention will now be more particularly described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a side view of a first embodiment of a wheelchair-stroller adapter assembly in accordance with the first aspect of the invention, in use with an associated stroller and an associated wheelchair, in accordance with the fourth aspect of the invention;

Figure 2 shows a rear perspective view of the wheelchair-stroller adapter assembly of Figure 1 ;

Figure 3 shows a rear perspective view of a wheelchair-stroller adapter of the wheelchairstroller adapter assembly of Figure 1 ;

Figure 3a shows a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a wheelchairstroller adapter of the wheelchair-stroller adapter assembly of Figure 1 ;

Figure 4 shows a rear perspective view exploded view a braking system for the castor wheel of the wheelchair-stroller adapter of Figure 3;

Figure 4a shows a rear perspective view of the caster wheel and braking system of Figure 4, with the stroller-frame engagement portion removed;

Figure 4b shows a rear perspective exploded view of alternative embodiment of a braking system for the castor wheel of an alternative embodiment of a wheelchair-stroller adapter in accordance with the first aspect of the invention;

Figure 5 shows a rear perspective view of the wheelchair-stroller adapter of Figure 3 showing a displaceable element in a non-displaced condition;

Figure 6 shows a rear perspective view of the wheelchair-stroller adapter of Figure 5 showing the displaceable element in a displaced condition;

Figure 7 shows a side view of a stroller with its pivot-locked rear wheels removed, and the wheelchair-stroller adapter assembly of Figure 2;

Figure 8 shows a side view a modified in accordance with the third aspect of the invention, created following attachment of the stroller and wheelchair-stroller adapter of Figure 7;

Figure 9 shows a rear perspective view of the modified stroller of Figure 8;

Figure 10 shows a rear perspective view of a second embodiment of a wheelchair-stroller adapter, in accordance with the first aspect of the invention;

Figure 11 shows a front perspective view of a wheelchair-frame connector of the wheelchair-stroller adapter of Figure 10; Figure 12 shows an enlarged perspective view of the connector body of the wheelchairstroller adapter of Figure 10 showing a pivot element located between a wheelchair-frame connector and a stroller-frame engagement portion;

Figure 13 shows a side view of a stroller-frame engagement portion of the wheelchairstroller adapter of Figure 10, a stroller-frame receiver being engaged with a rear portion of a frame of a stroller having a pivot-locked rear wheel thereof removed;

Figure 14 shows a side view of a third embodiment of a wheelchair-stroller adapter assembly in accordance with the first aspect of the invention, in use with an associated stroller and an associated wheelchair, in accordance with the fourth aspect of the invention;

Figure 15 shows a front perspective view of the wheelchair connector of the wheelchairstroller adapter assembly of Figure 14;

Figure 16 shows a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a wheelchair connector that could be compatible with the wheelchair-stroller adapter assembly of Figure 14;

Figures 17a and 17b respectively show a cross-section through, and an external side view of the wheelchair-stroller adapter assembly of Figure 14, in a wheel-unlocked condition;

Figures 18a and 18b respectively show a cross-section through, and an external side view of the wheelchair-stroller adapter assembly of Figure 14, in an intermediate wheel-unlocked condition;

Figures 19a and 19b respectively show a cross-section through, and an external side view of the wheelchair-stroller adapter assembly of Figure 14, in a wheel-locked condition; and

Figures 20a and 20b respectively show cross-sections through the wheelchair-stroller adapter assembly of Figure 14 in wheel-unlocked and wheel-locked conditions, with the positions of a control mechanism shown.

The term stroller as used herein will be understood to refer to strollers, buggies, push chairs, prams and alike travel systems suitable for transporting an infant or child.

Referring to Figure 1 , there is indicated a wheelchair-stroller assembly referenced globally at 10. The wheelchair-stroller assembly 10 comprises a stroller 12, a wheelchair 14 and a wheelchairstroller adapter assembly 16.

The stroller 12 has a frame 18 with a handle 20, and a seat support portion 22. The frame 18 of the stroller 12 is supported by a set of wheels 24. The depicted stroller 12 has had its rear pivot- locked wheels removed from the frame of the stroller 18. Alternatively, the stroller 12 has been manufactured without any rear pivot-locked wheels in anticipation of being used alongside a wheelchair-stroller adapter assembly 16. The frame 18 of the stroller 12 has two front wheels 24a. The front wheels 24a are pivotable or may be mono-directional. Alternatively, the front wheels 24a may be interchangeable between the mono-directional and pivotable. Although a stroller has been described any wheeled travel system for transporting a child or infant may be envisaged. Additionally, strollers with only one front wheel are envisaged to work with the present invention.

The wheelchair 14 depicted has a frame 26, mono-directional back wheels 28, a seat portion 30 and pivotable front castor wheels 32.

The wheelchair-stroller adapter assembly 16 connects to the frame 26 of the wheelchair 14 and to the frame 18 of the stroller 12.

As best depicted in Figure 2, the wheelchair-stroller adapter assembly 16 comprises two wheelchair-stroller adapters A1 , A2, a bridging member 34 which interconnects the two wheelchairstroller adapters A1 , A2, and a braking system 36 configured to apply a braking force to each wheelchair-stroller adapter A1 , A2 simultaneously.

Each wheelchair-stroller adapter A1 , A2 comprises a wheelchair-frame connector 38, a strollerframe engagement portion 40, a connector body 42 and a castor wheel 44. The wheelchair-frame connector 38 is for connecting to the frame 26 of an associated wheelchair 14. The stroller-frame engagement portion 40 is for connecting to the frame 18 of a stroller 12. The connector body 42 interconnects the wheelchair-frame connector 38 and stroller-frame engagement portion 40. An individual wheelchair-stroller adapter A1 , A2 will be described in more detail in relation Figure 3 in due course.

The two wheelchair-stroller adapters A1 , A2 are connected via the bridging member 34. The bridging member 34 in this embodiment is depicted as an elongate rod. Alternative bridging members 34 can be envisaged, such as a bar, supporting beam or strut. The bridging member 34 extends from the connector body 42 of one of the wheelchair-stroller adapters A1 , A2 to the connector body 42 of the other respective wheelchair-stroller adapter A1 , A2.

The braking system 36 is connected to each castorwheel 44. The braking system 36 comprises a braking mechanism 46 and a braking wire 48 to control the braking mechanism 46. The braking wire 48 splits into two separate connection wires 48a, 48b at a connection point 50, with each connection wire 48a, 48b in contact with the braking mechanism 46 of the castor wheel 44. The connection wires exit each wheelchair-stroller adapter A1 , A2 through the connector body 42.

The braking wire 48 has a braking attachment 52 located at the opposite end of the braking wire to the brake connection point 50. The braking attachment 52 may have a trigger 54 to operate the braking mechanism 46. The trigger 54 may be provided as a push switch, a button, a lever, a thumb-shifter, or the like. The braking attachment 52 has a connection piece 56 for connecting the braking mechanism 46 to a frame 18 of a stroller 12. The connection piece 56 is preferably provided on an opposite face of the braking attachment 52 to the trigger 54.

The connection piece 56 preferably has a frame receiver that extends along its longitudinal extent. The frame receiver defines a passage within the connection piece 56 for receiving a frame section 18 of a stroller 12. The frame receiver is of a complementary dimension and shape in order to fit a frame 18 of a stroller 12. Preferably the frame receiver is a similar or substantially similar width to the width of a frame section 18 of a stroller 12. The length of the access slot is equal to the length of the connection piece 56.

The connection piece 56 clips onto the frame of a stroller 12 via a push fit mechanism. The connection piece 56 is preferably formed from a resilient material, to allow the connection piece 56 to slightly deform and return to its pre-deformed state to enhance the push fit mechanism and allow for stroller 12 frames of slightly varying sizes to be utilised. A plastics material, rubber material or foam material may be suitable, although other materials may be envisaged.

The connection piece 56 may be provided with an additional securement means to ensure the braking attachment 52 does not move in an unwanted manner.

Figure 3 shows a singular wheelchair-stroller adapter in more detail.

The connector body 42 has a first portion 58 and a second portion 60. The wheelchair-frame connector 38 is connected to the first portion 58, and the stroller-frame engagement portion 40 is connected to the second portion 60. The connector body 42 preferably comprises a plastics material. However, other materials may be considered such as composites or metals, for example aluminium or steel.

The first and second portions 58, 60 may be pivotably attached to allow the first and second portions 58, 60 to move relative to one another. A stop element may be provided so as to limit overextension of a pivot angle between the first and second portions 58, 60.

The first portion 58 may be hollow to permit receipt of a telescopic portion. The telescopic portion may extend from within the hollow of the first portion 58 to form an extended first portion 58. The telescopic portion is telescopically receivable within the first portion 58. Thus, the telescopic portion has a smaller diameter than that of the internal diameter of the first portion 58 so that the telescopic portion can be received therein. The telescopic portion can therefore be extended from the first portion 58 and received in the first portion 58. Preferably there is a stop or connection between the first portion 58 and the telescopic portion to stop the telescopic portion from becoming disconnected from the first portion 58 when extended.

Preferably, the entirety or substantially the entirety of the telescopic portion is receivable within in the first portion 58. However, it will be appreciated that it may in fact be that only at least part of the telescopic portion is receivable.

The wheelchair-frame connector 38 is provided at one end of the connector body 42. An articulation element 62 may be located between the wheelchair-frame connector 38 and the first portion 58 to allow the wheelchair-frame connector 38 and first portion 58 to move relative to one another to act as suspension.

The wheelchair-frame connector 38 and first portion 58 may be integrally formed with one another. Alternatively, in order to increase the versatility of the wheelchair-stroller adapter A1 , A2, and allow for wheelchair frames 26 of different thickness, the wheelchair-frame connector 38 may be removably connected to the first portion 58. Multiple wheelchair-frame connectors 38 may be provided and interchanged for one another.

The wheelchair-frame connector 38 in the depicted embodiment is shown as a clamping element. The clamping element has a base portion 64 and two arms that are movable relative to one another. In the depicted embodiment, one of the arms is a stationary arm 66, whilst the other arm is a moveable arm 68 pivotable relative to the base portion 64 and the stationary arm 66. A handle 70 to control the movement of the moveable arm 68 is provided adjacent to the stationary arm 66. A clamping rod 72 extends from the handle 70 through the stationary arm 66 and through the moveable arm 68 to connect both arms 66, 68 together.

The base of the handle 70 has an indented channel 72 that runs parallel to the stationary arm 66 when the handle 70 is in an open condition. The two arms 66, 68 being apart from one another defining the open condition. The base portion of the handle 70 protrudes either side of the indented channel 72. Such that when the handle 70 is turned, the protruding portion of the handle base abuts the stationary arm 66, placing the clamping rod 72 under tension and thus moving the moveable arm 68 towards the stationary arm 66. The extent to which the protruding portion protrudes over the indented channel 72 is the same extent to which the moveable arm 68 is moved towards the stationary arm 66.

Each arm has a head portion 74. Each head portion 74 has a preferably half-cylindrical indent, for engagement with the frame 26 of a wheelchair 14. The head portions 74 are preferably made from a flexible, deformable material, such as a rubber so as to form a snug friction fit with the frame of a wheelchair 14 without causing damage to the frame 26 of a wheelchair 14. The head portions 74 are connected to the arms 66, 68 via a pivot point. The pivot point allows the head portions 74 to move relative to the arms 66, 68 to allow for differences in the dimension of the frames 26 of wheelchairs 14. Although a half-cylindrical indent has been described, other shaped indents are envisaged to be applicable. For example, a triangular or half-hexagonal indent may be utilised. The two indents when pulled together preferably form the shape of the frame portion 26 of the wheelchair 14 to be connected to the wheelchair-frame connector 38. Additionally, although a deformable material has been described, the head portions 74 may be made from a plastics, a wood, a composite, a metal or any other suitable material.

Although a specific clamping element is described, it is envisaged that any clamp suitable for attaching to a frame 26 of a wheelchair 14 could be utilised.

The second portion 60 of the connector body 42 is provided having a rectangular, or substantially rectangular cross section. The second portion 60 of the connector body 42 has four major 76a, 76b, 76c, 76d and two minor faces 78a, 78b. The first portion 58 of the connector body 42 is connected to the second portion 60 of the connector body 42 at one of the major faces 76c. The stroller-frame engagement portion 40 is connected to the second portion 60 of the connector body 42 at an adjacent major face 76d. The stroller-frame receiver 80 extends at an angle from the second portion 60. The angle is preferably an angle less than 90 degrees from the major face 76d, most preferably an angle less than 60 degrees from the major face 76d, even more preferably an angle less than 50 degrees from the major face 76d. The stroller-frame engagement portion 40 extends in the opposite lateral direction to the wheelchair-frame connector 38 in use. Although a second portion 60 having a rectangular, or substantially rectangular cross section has been described, it is envisaged that the second portion 60 may have any suitably shaped cross-section. For example, the cross section may be hexagonal, cylindrical or octagonal in shape.

The stroller-frame engagement portion 40 is preferably formed from a resilient, durable material. For example, the stroller-frame engagement portion 40 could be formed from a suitable material such as plastics, composites, metals or wood.

The stroller-frame engagement portion 40 has a stroller-frame receiver 80, provided as a socket with a void of a complementary shape and dimension to a frame of a stroller 12 to allow for shape mating engagement. The void of the stroller-frame receiver 80 is provided at an angle preferably more than 5 degrees but less than 90 degrees relative to the second portion 60. The stroller-frame engagement portion 40 has two apertures 82, one located on either side of the socket. The apertures 82 may be used as part of a securement mechanism to ensure the stroller-frame engagement portion 40 and frame 18 of a stroller 12 do not become unintentionally disengaged. For example, a locking pin may be provided to extend through the two sides of the socket, and through the frame 18 of the stroller 12, to lock the frame of the stroller 12 in place and prevent unwanted displacement of the frame 18 of the stroller 12. The stroller-frame engagement portion 40 and the second portion 60 may be integrally formed. Alternatively, in order to allow for stroller frames 18 of differing widths, the stroller-frame engagement portion 40 may be removable and exchangeable for a stroller-frame engagement portion 40 with a more complementary sized and shaped stroller-frame receiver 80 to that of the stroller-frame 18. The provision of interchangeable stroller-frame engagement portion 40 may allow for a singular wheelchair-stroller adapter A1 , A2 to be easily used with multiple strollers 12.

The braking mechanism 46 extends out of the opposite minor face of the second portion 60 of the connector body 42 to the location of the castor wheel 44.

The castor wheel 44 has a central axle aperture. An axle bolt 84 extends through the central axle aperture. The castor wheel 44 is connected to one end of the second portion 60 of the connector body 42 at a minor face. Specifically, the castor wheel 44 is pivotally engaged to the second portion 60 via a fork 86. The fork 86 has a base plate 88 that connects directly to the second portion 60. Two wheel supports 90a, 90b extend from the base plate 88 and connect to the castor wheel 44 via the axle bolt 84.

A castor wheel 44 securing means comprising a lock, discussed in detail in respect of Figure 4b, is provided to alter the castor wheel 44 from being a pivotable castor wheel 44 to a mono-directional wheel. The lock is interengagable with the castor wheel 44. The lock may be biased such that the mono-directional condition of the castor wheel 44 is the default position. The lock locks the fork 86 of the castor wheel 44 into position so that the fork 86 cannot pivot relative to the second portion 60. When the securing means is disengaged, the fork 86 is pivotable relative to the second portion 60.

The caster wheel 44 and braking system 36 will be described in more detail in relation to Figure 4, Figure 4a, and Figure 4c.

The wheelchair-stroller adapter comprises a displaceable member 92 coupled to the lock, to control the directional lock of the castor wheels 44. A trigger wire 132 extends from the wheelchairframe connector 38 to the castor wheel 44 via the second portion 60. There is an inlet for the trigger wire 132 on a major face 76a, 76b, 76c, 76d of the second portion 60. Preferably, the inlet is position on the same major face 76c as the first portion 58. The displaceable member 92 is located on the head of the wheelchair-frame connector 38. The displaceable member 92 will be detailed further in relation to Figure 5 and Figure 6.

Figure 3a shows an alternative embodiment of the wheelchair-stroller adapter A1 , A2 for comparison. The wheelchair-stroller adapter A1 , A2 is similar to that shown in Figure 3, with a few notable differences described hereafter. Firstly, the first portion 58 and second portion 60 are connected together by a laterally extending coupling member 94. The laterally extending coupling member 94 in the illustrated embodiment is provided as a rod. This rod may also act as the bridging member 34 to bridge the connection between more than one wheelchair-stroller adapter A1 , A2.

The laterally extending coupling member 94 preferably has a smooth surface to prevent injuries should body parts come into contact with it.

The first portion 58 has a mounting aperture 96 at an end of the first portion 58 distal to the wheelchair-frame connector 38. The laterally extending coupling member 94 passes through the mounting aperture 96 in the first portion 58. The perimeter of the mounting aperture 96 is bound by the first portion 58. The illustrated mounting aperture 96 has a circular cross-section complementary to the rod-shape of the laterally extending coupling member 94. However, a substantially circular, hexagonal, substantially hexagonal, oval, or substantially oval cross-section can be envisaged. The shape of the mounting aperture 96 is preferably complementary to the cross-sectional shape of the laterally extending coupling member 94 to allow for slidable movement of the first portion 58 along a longitudinal extent of the laterally extending coupling member 94. The laterally extending coupling member 94 does not need to be rod-shaped, other shaped laterally extending coupling member 94 are envisaged as being compatible with the present invention.

The mounting aperture 96 has a minimum diameter which is preferably greater than or equal to the diameter of the laterally extending coupling member 94. Even more preferably, the minimum diameter is not much greater than the diameter of the laterally extending coupling member 94, to allow for a close fit. It is foreseeable that the minimum diameter of the mounting aperture 96 could be much larger than the diameter of the laterally extending coupling member 94, this may be advantageous in circumstances where the user wants to able to change the angle of the first portion 58 relative to the second portion 60, however, unwanted movement may also result.

Although described as connected through a mounting aperture 96, it is envisaged the laterally extending coupling member 94 and first portion 58 may be connected in an alternative way such as the first portion 58 being clamped to the laterally extending coupling member 94, this is thought to be disadvantageous as the first portion 58 may become accidentally detached from the laterally extending coupling member 94.

The laterally extending coupling member 94 preferably has positionally indexed locators 98. The positionally indexed locators 98 are equidistantly arranged in predetermined positions along the longitudinal extent of the laterally extending coupling member 94. The positionally indexed locators 98 are designed to indicate to a user a set distance from the second portion 60.

In the depicted embodiment, the positionally indexed locators 98 are formed as recessed notches. The recessed notch is preferably formed as a recessed band that extends around an outer surface of the laterally extending coupling member 94. Preferably, the depth of each recessed notch is not substantial so as to maintain the structural integrity of the laterally extending coupling member 94. It is envisaged however that the recessed notches may only partially extend across the outer surface of the laterally extending coupling member 94.

The dimensions and shapes of the depicted recessed notch forming the positionally indexed locators 98 are depicted as identical. This is beneficial as it increases the versatility and universal nature of the positionally indexed locators 98.

Although the positionally indexed locators 98 are described herein as being equidistant, it is envisaged that the positionally indexed locators 98 may be at different distances away from the second portion 60. For example, the positionally indexed locators 98 may be located such that the distance between the positionally indexed locators 98 of one wheelchair-stroller adapter A1 , A2 and another wheelchair-stroller adapter A1 , A2 may represent common widths of wheelchair frames 26. This may be beneficial for users to easily identify which positionally indexed locator 98 is appropriate for the width of a particular wheelchair frame 26.

The first portion 58 engages with the laterally extending coupling member 94 is a partially releasable manner, to allow the first portion 58 to be slidably moved. A releasable lock is preferably provided to secure a position of the first portion 58 along a longitudinal extent of the laterally extending coupling member 94. Thus, securing a position of the first portion 58 relative to the second portion 60. A locking bolt of the releasable lock abuts the laterally extending coupling member 94 to prevent the first portion 58 moving, defining a locked condition. The locking bolt extends into the positionally indexed locators 98. The locking bolt abuts the walls of the recessed notch to ensure the first portion 58 cannot be moved. The releasable lock is preferably biased to a locked condition. The releasable lock may be released under force to a locked condition, wherein the locking bolt is not in contact with the laterally extending coupling member 94.

The inside of the mounting aperture 96 is preferably made and/or coated with a material with a coefficient of friction low enough to allow the first portion 58 to be slidably engaged with the laterally extending coupling member 94 when under force, but a coefficient of friction large enough to provide enough friction between the first portion 58 and laterally extending coupling member 94 such that the first portion 58 remains in place when not under force. This may be useful in addition to a releasable lock. The first portion 58 includes a sprung suspension mechanism 100. The sprung suspension mechanism 100 comprises two spring members 102a, 102b. One sprung member 120a is positioned on a top surface of the laterally extending coupling member 94, whilst the other sprung member 102b is positioned on an opposing bottom surface of the laterally extending coupling member 94. The positioning allows the laterally extending coupling member 94, and the first portion 58 to move vertically relative to the second portion 60 to act as suspension.

As with the previous embodiment, the wheelchair-stroller adapter A1 , A2 comprises a displaceable member 92 coupled to the lock of the castor wheel 44 securing means, to control the lock of the castor wheels 44. In this alternative embodiment, although the trigger wire to activate the lock extends from the wheelchair-frame connector 38 to the second portion 60, the inlet for the trigger wire is located on a minor face 78a of the second portion 60 distal to the castor wheel 44. As with the previous embodiment, the displaceable member 92 is located on the head 74 of an arm 66, 68 of the wheelchair-frame connector 38. The displaceable member 92 will be detailed further in relation to Figure 5 and Figure 6.

Figure 4 shows an exploded view of the braking system 36 of the first and alternative embodiments of Figure 3 and Figure 3a. Figure 4a shows the interaction between the castor wheel 44 and the sprung braking mechanism 46 in more detail. Figure 4b shows a sprung braking mechanism 46 of the braking system 36 in more detail.

The braking system 36 comprises a sprung braking mechanism 46 including braking rods and brake wheels 104a, 104b. A brake wheel 104a, 104b is attached on each side of the wheel axle of the castor wheels 44. The brake wheels 104a, 104b are also attached to the internal surface of the fork 86. Preferably, each brake wheel 104a, 104b is attached to the axle bolt 84 of the castor wheel 44, through a central aperture in the brake wheel 104a, 104b. Teeth 106 are provided along the perimeter of each brake wheel 104a, 104b. The teeth 106 are spaced equidistant from one another.

The base plate 88 of the fork 86 has a central bore 108 through it. Each wheel support 90a, 90b has a set of two elongate apertures 110a, 110b. One elongate aperture 110a is located at the end of the wheel support 90a, 90b distal to the castor wheel 44, and one elongate aperture 110b is located at an end proximal to the castor wheel 44. The distal elongate apertures 110a are arranged parallel to one another, and the proximal elongate apertures 110b are arranged parallel to one another. Preferably, the elongate apertures 110a, 110b are of the same shape and dimension. In the depicted case, the elongate apertures 110a, 110b are substantially rectangular in shape. The perimeter of each elongate aperture 110a, 110b is bound by the body of the wheel support 90a, 90b. The orientation of the longitudinal extent of each elongate aperture 110a, 110b is parallel to the longitudinal extent of the wheel support 90a, 90b. At an end of the wheel support 110a, 110b proximal to the castor wheel 44, there is provided an axle aperture 112 to allow the wheel supports 110a, 110b to connect to the axle bolt 84 of the castor wheel 44. The axle aperture 102 is located below the proximal elongate aperture 110b.

The braking system 36 includes three brake rods and a moveable member 114. The two vertical brake rods 116a, 116b and one horizontal brake rod 118 form a rod system. The length of the horizontal brake rod 118 is less than the width of the base plate 88. The vertical brake rods 116a, 116b have two major faces, an internal major face, and an external major face. Each respective end of the horizontal brake rod 118 is connected to an internal major face of each of the two vertical brake rods 116a, 116b. The connection is preferably near the top of the vertical brake rods 116a, 116b. The width of the horizontal brake rod 118 when joined to the vertical brake rods 116a, 116b is less than the width of the base plate 88.

The vertical brake rods 116a, 116b are preferably a similar or substantially similar length than the distance between the proximal and distal elongate apertures 110a, 110b. More preferably, the vertical brake rods 116a, 116b are slightly longer than the distance between the proximal and distal elongate apertures 110a, 110b.

The two vertical brake rods 116a, 116b run down the internal walls of the wheel supports 90a, 90b. The external face of each vertical brake rod 116a, 116b faces the internal wall of each wheel support 90a, 90b. Each vertical brake rod 116a, 116b preferably has two rod stops that extend from the external face. The rods stops are the same distance apart from one another as the proximal and distal elongate apertures 110a, 110b. The rod stops rest in respective elongate apertures 110a, 110b. A portion of the rod stop extends through the respective elongate apertures 110a, 110b and beyond the external wall of the wheel supports 90a, 90b. The portion of the rod stop resting in the elongate apertures 110a, 110b has a width less than the longitudinal extent of the elongate aperture 110a, 110b, such that the rod system can move along the longitudinal extent of the elongate aperture 110a, 110b with ease. The portion of the rod stop that extends beyond of the rod stop preferably has a width wider than the elongate aperture 110a, 110b to ensure the rod stops do not move out of the elongate apertures 110a, 110b. Although two rod stops are discussed, it is envisaged that more rod stops could be provided, alternatively only one rod stop may be provided and would not detract from the use of the invention.

In a non-braking condition, each vertical brake rod 116a, 116b is in the same plane but not engaged with a brake wheel 104a, 104b. In a braking condition, each vertical brake rod 116a, 116b is engaged with a space between the teeth 106 of the brake wheel 104a, 104b. The width of the vertical brake rods 116a, 116bis less than the width of the space between the brake wheel 104a, 104b teeth 106. The length of the vertical brake rods 116a, 116bis more than the height of the brake wheel 104a, 104b teeth 106 but less than the length of the wheel supports 90a, 90b. A brake mechanism housing 120 is attached to a top surface of the base plate 88 of the fork 86 by attachment means, typically screw-threaded fasteners. The brake mechanism housing 120 has a channel therethrough which houses a spring element 122. The moveable member 114 is arranged inside the centre aperture of the spring element 122. The moveable member 114 has a larger longitudinal extent than the spring element 122. The brake mechanism housing 120 and spring element 122 are positioned such that the moveable member 114 aligns with the central bore 108 through the base plate 88. The central bore 108 of the base plate 88 is preferably of a similar shape and dimension to the moveable member 114. The moveable member 114 extends through the central bore 108 and is attached to a central position of the horizontal brake rod 118. The moveable member 114 preferably has an abutment element 124 at the end distal to the end passing through the central bore 108. The abutment element 124 is wider than the width of the brake mechanism housing 120 channel. As such, over insertion of the moveable member 114 into the brake mechanism housing 120 is prevented. The moveable member 114, brake mechanism housing 120 and brake rods 116a, 116b, 118 are vertically dimensioned to allow for the moveable member 114 to be pushed through the central bore 108 to an axial extent that allows for engagement of the vertical braking rods 116a, 116b with the brake wheel 104a, 104b.

The interaction between the castor wheel 44 and the braking system 46 is shown in particular in Figure 4a.

A locking sleeve 126 is provided as part of the brake mechanism housing 120 around the moveable member 114 and spring element 122, having an elongate slot 128 extending along one side. A counterpart locking member 130 is receivably engagable into the elongate slot 128 of the locking sleeve 126, and the locking member 130 is operable via a wire 132 to move in the in-use vertical direction, taking it in or out of engagement with the elongate slot 128. The wire 132 controls the rotatability of the castor wheel 44; when the locking member 130 is engaged with the elongate slot 128, then rotation is prohibited, since the brake mechanism housing 120 is coupled to the base plate 88. Of course, the locking member 130 could additionally or alternatively be manually and directly operated.

The brake mechanism housing 120 includes a recessed portion 134 proximate the base plate 88, which co-operably engages with a locking pin 136. Said locking pin 136 can be manually removed to permit removal of the castor wheel 44 from the braking system 46 without otherwise requiring disassembly of the braking system 46.

To ensure alignment of the brake mechanism housing 120 and any counterpart aperture in the stroller-frame engagement portion 40, the braking system 46 further comprises a strong spring element 138, that is, outputting a greater force than that of spring element 122, to push the movable member 114 downwards into an aligned condition, whilst also ensuring that the braking system 46 is maintained in a default non-braking condition, requiring activation of the braking wire 48 to trigger a braking action by pulling the moveable member 114 in opposition to the strong spring element 138.

The second portion 60 houses the brake mechanism housing 120, spring element 122 and moveable member 114. The brake wiring 48 extends from the minor face 78a of the second portion 60 opposite the castor wheel 44.

Figure 5 shows a detailed view of the displaceable member 92 in use. The displaceable member 92 is located at the entrance of the wheelchair-stroller adapter A1 , A2. Specifically, in the depicted embodiment, the displaceable member 92 is located on one of the head portions 74. As best shown in Figure 5, in a non-displaced condition, the displaceable member 92 protrudes into the space between the two head portions 74 of the wheelchair-frame connector 38. A best shown in Figure 6, in a displaced condition, the displaceable member 92 is displaced out of the space between the two head portions 74. The displaceable member 92 is connected to a wire 126 than runs external to the first portion 58, enters either a side or top surface of the second portion 60 and connects to the castor wheel 44 securing means. When the displaceable member 92 is in a non-displaced condition, the wire 126 is slack, the lock is engaged, and the castor wheel 44 is mono-directional. When the displaceable member 92 is displaced, the wire 126 is placed under tension, which in turn disengages the lock such that the castor wheel 44 is pivotable.

Figures 7 and 8 show the method of fitting a wheelchair-stroller adapter A1 , A2 and/or wheelchairstroller adapter assembly 16 to an existing stroller 12.

To use a wheelchair-stroller adapter A1 , A2, a user first removes the pivot-locked rear wheels of an associated stroller 12. The user may choose to individually attach wheelchair-stroller adapters A1 , A2 or to attach a wheelchair-stroller adapter assembly 16 which has two wheelchair-stroller adapters A1 , A2 joined together by a bridging element 34. The wheelchair-stroller adapter assembly 16 may be more appealing to users whose strollers 12 lack a crossbar between the back legs of the stroller frame 18, as they may wish for additional structural support. To attach the wheelchair-stroller adapters A1 , A2, the user simply slots the back legs of the stroller frame 18 into the stroller-frame receiver 80. The user then repeats said action to attach a second wheelchairstroller adapter A1 , A2.

The braking attachment 52 can then be attached to the stroller frame 18 via the connection piece 56 at the user’s desired position. To do so, a user simply aligns the connection piece 56 with a frame 18 portion of the stroller 12. The user then clips the connection piece 56 onto the frame 18 portion. The user may alternatively decide to not attach the braking attachment 52 to the stroller 12. The user may instead attach the braking attachment 52 to an associated wheelchair 14, or the use may choose to hold the braking attachment 52, depending on the level of ease.

Once the wheelchair-stroller adapters A1 , A2 have been fitted to the stroller 12, the user may alter the position of the first portion 58, relative to the second portion 60. The width of a wheelchair 14 may be significantly less than the width of a stroller 12, as such the user may slidably move the first portion 58 down the longitudinal extent of the laterally extending coupling member 94 by releasing the releasable lock. To release the releasable lock, a user pulls back the locking bolt so that the locking bolt is not abutting the laterally extending coupling member 94. To secure the first portion 58 in place, the user simply releases the releasable lock, and the locking bolt with abut the laterally extending coupling member 94 to keep the first portion 58 in position, as the releasable lock is biased to a locked condition.

The user can choose positionally indexed locators 98 suitable for the width of their wheelchair 14 and choose to engage the stop element with the positionally indexed locators 98 of their choice. Additionally, although the articulation element 62 between the first portion 58 and the wheelchairframe connector 38 may be used to act as suspension, the user may also use the articulation element 62 to position the wheelchair-frame connector 38 in a suitable vertical position for attaching the wheelchair-frame connector 38 to a wheelchair frame.

If a wheelchair 14 is not going to be attached, and the adapted stroller is going to be used by a non-wheelchair user, the user can use either the pivot element or articulation element 62 to move the wheelchair-frame connector 38 out of their way, so the wheelchair-frame connector 38 does not knock against their legs whilst using the stroller. The pivot element or articulation element 62 help to increase not only the manoeuvrability and control over the stroller, but also the adaptability so it can be shared between people that do and do not use wheelchairs 14.

Once the wheelchair-stroller adapter A1 , A2 has been attached and configured, a wheelchair 14 may be attached via the wheelchair-frame connector 38, as shown in Figure 1. To attach a wheelchair 14, a user aligns the frame of the wheelchair 14 with the arms of the wheelchair-frame connector 38. Once aligned, the user can use the handle to activate the clamping element of the wheelchair-frame connector 38 and bring the moveable arm towards the stationary arm to clamp around the frame of the wheelchair 14. Upon insertion of the wheelchair frame into the wheelchairframe connector 38, the displaceable member 92 will be displaced out of the void between the two head portions 74 of the arms. The displacement of the displaceable member 92 places the wire under tension. The tensioned wire disengages the lock and converts the castor wheel 44 from mono-directional to pivotable. To use the braking mechanism 46 of the castor wheels 44, the user activates the trigger. The trigger results in the moveable member 114 descending through the brake mechanism housing 120 and in turn through the central bore 108 of the fork 86 base plate 88, against the bias of the spring element 122. As the moveable member 114 is attached to the brake rod system, the vertical brake rods 116a, 116b are moved to engage with the spaces between the teeth of brake wheels 104a, 104b. The teeth of the brake wheels 104a, 104b abut the vertical brake rods. Due to the spring element 122, once a user releases the trigger, the vertical brake rods 116a, 116b are disengaged from the brake wheel 104a, 104b.

Figure 9 shows a stroller with a wheelchair-stroller adapter A1 , A2 fitted. Alternatively, the stroller may be purposely built to have the wheelchair-stroller fitted instead of pivot-locked back wheels. In the latter case, the wheelchair-stroller adapter A1 , A2 may not be removable from the frame of the stroller.

Figure 10 shows a second embodiment of a wheelchair-stroller adapter A1 , A2. Identical or similar features of the later embodiment described hereafter will be referenced using identical or similar reference numerals to the first embodiment, and further detailed description is omitted for brevity.

In the second embodiment the first portion 1058 and second portion 1060 of the connector body 1042 are pivotally connected at a pivot point 1128. The first portion 1058 is connected at the end distal to the wheelchair-frame connector 1038 to the end of the second portion 1060 distal to the castor wheel 1044. In addition to the articulation element 1062 previously described for the first portion 1058, a secondary articulation element 1130 is provided on the first portion 1058 adjacent to the connection point of the first and second portions 1058, 1060. The secondary articulation element 1130 acts in the same plane as the first articulation element 1062 to allow for vertical changes. As with the first embodiment, the first portion 1058 may be telescopic to allow for an extension of the first portion 58.

As best shown in Figure 10, the wheelchair-frame connector 1038 in the second embodiment comprises a different clamping element to that illustrated for the first embodiment. The wheelchairframe connector 1038 still comprises a handle 1070 for operating the clamping element, the handle 1070 being moveable laterally. The clamping element has two arms that are movable relative to one another. In the depicted embodiment, one of the arms is a stationary arm 1132a, whilst the other arm is a moveable arm 1132b that is moveable relative to the stationary arm 1132a. Each arm has a head portion 1134 and a base portion 1136. As with the first embodiment, the head portions 1134 have indents dimensioned and sized to be suitable for engagement with the frame of a wheelchair 1014. The handle 1070 is connected to the base portion 1136 of the moveable arm 1132b. The base portion 1136 of the moveable arm 1132b comprises a biasing member and a locking member. The handle 1070 is connected to the biasing member such that when the handle 1070 is moved to place the biasing member under pressure the moveable arm 1132b moves towards the stationary arm 1132a. A locking member may engage with the biasing member to allow the force against the biasing member to be retained so that the handle 1070 and as such, the moveable arm 1132b, are locked in place.

As with the first embodiment, a displaceable member 1092 is located on one of the head portions 1074 of the arms. In the illustrated embodiment, the displaceable member 1092 is part of the stationary arm 1132a. A displacement slot 1138 is provided in the head portion 1134 of the stationary arm 1132a for the displaceable member 1092 to protrude through. The displaceable member 1092 is attached to the stationary arm 1132a via a pivot point 1140.

In a non-displaced condition, the displaceable member 1092 at least in part occupies the indent in the head portion 1134 designed to house a part of the wheelchair frame 26. In a displaced condition, the displaceable member 1092 is pivoted out of the indent of the head portion 1134 , such that an edge of the displaceable member 1092 is at least flush with the edge of the displacement slot 1138. The displaceable member 1092 has an aperture for connection to a wired activation system to connect the displaceable member 1092 to the castor wheel 1044.

As briefly discussed above, in the second embodiment the first and second arm portions 1058, 1060 are connected via a pivot point 1128. The pivot point 1128 allows the first portion 1058 to rotate relative to the second portion 1060. The angle between the wheelchair-frame connector 1038 and stroller-frame engagement portion 1040 can therefore be adjusted. A pivot lock may be provided so as to lock the pivot angle of the first arm portion and second arm portions 1058, 1060.

Figure 13 shows the stroller-frame receiver 1080 of the stroller-frame engagement portion 1040 in use with an associated stroller. As with the first embodiment, the frame 1018 of the stroller 1012 is slotted into the stroller-frame receiver 1080. A locking pin may be provided, which may be engaged with the frame 1018 of the stroller 1012 and the stroller-frame receiver 1080 to prevent unwanted displacement of the frame 1018 of the stroller 1012. As depicted, the first portion 1058 may be pivoted, via the pivot point 1128 so as to be in the same plane as the stroller-frame receiver 1080. This may be beneficial as the adapter A1 , A2 will not be projecting out of the back of the stroller, and so a non-wheelchair user may use the stroller without hinderance.

Figure 14 shows a wheelchair-stroller assembly 2010 comprises a stroller 2012, a wheelchair2014 and a wheelchair-stroller adapter assembly 2016.

The wheelchair-frame connector 2038 is shown in detail in Figure 15. There is a releasable connector 2142 formed as a clamp which engages with the wheelchair frame 2026. The connector body 2042 is then receivably engagable with the wheelchair-frame connector 2038, for example, via an insertion member 2144 received within an angularly-adjustable member 2146 of the wheelchair-frame connector 2038. One or more locking handles 2148 may be provided which lock the relative positions and/or orientations of the connector body 2042 and wheelchair-frame connector 2038. This is merely one of many possible connection methods which might allow for quick-release and connection of the wheelchair 2014 and stroller 2012.

An alternative wheelchair-frame connector 3038 is shown in detail in Figure 16. There is a two- part connector having a first connector part 3038a connected to the wheelchair frame 3026, and a second part 3038b connected to the connector body 3042. The first and second connector parts 3038a, 3038b are interconnected via sprung pins 3144, which can be locked into place by rotation of a hand wheel 3148 positioned on the second part 3038b. Rotating the hand wheel 3148 to unlock the sprung pins 3144 will allow the first and second parts 3038a, 3038b to be separated, for example, by lifting the second part 3038b off of the first part 3038a.

Figures 17a and 17b show the castor wheel 2044 engaged with the second portion 2060 of the connector body 2042, which supports the stroller-frame engagement portion 2040.

In the standard, wheel-unlocked condition, the castor wheel 2044 is capable of full rotation, since a locking member 2146 is pushed out of a locked condition with a counterpart component 2148 connected to the castor wheel 2044. The position is controlled by a displaceable member 2092, which here is formed as a cam 2150 on the outside of the second portion 2060. The cam 2150 is shaped to have a body which preferably pushes a contact element 2152 associated with the locking member 2146 into a raised position, when the wheelchair-frame connector 2038 is in a position which is suitable for connecting with a wheelchair 14, such as that shown in Figure 14.

The movement of the cam 2150 can be seen in Figures 18a and 18b, which shows how turning the cam 2150 lowers the contact element 2152 as it rotates, allowing the locking member 2146 to move towards the counterpart component 2148. It is preferred that this motion is spring-biased to ensure a good contact between the locking member 2146 and the counterpart component 2148.

As the cam 2150 is completely rotated, as shown in Figures 19a and 19b, as would be the case when the wheelchair-frame connector 2038 is in a stowed condition, not in contact with a wheelchair 2014 and out of the way of a user, the contact element 2152 can move to the lowest point in its guide, and the locking member 2146 engages with the counterpart component 2148 to pivot-lock the castor wheel 2044.

This is an alternative example of how automatic wheel locking can be produced when the stroller 2012 is not connected to a wheelchair 2014: when the connector body 2042 in in a wheelchairengaging state, the locking member 2146 becomes retracted, and the castor wheel is in a wheel- unlocked condition; whereas, when the connector body is in a non-wheelchair-engaging state, the locking member 2146 is urged into contact with the counterpart component 2148, creating the wheel-locked condition.

It will be appreciated that, whilst automatic locking may be preferred by linking this to the position of the connector body 2042, that the control of locking of the castor wheel 2044 may be controlled by an independent control mechanism such as a handle or lever. Such an example of this behaviour is shown in Figures 20a and 20b. Here, there is a handle 2154 positioned on the stroller frame 2018, which a user can activate to control a locking rod 2156 extending through the stroller frame 2018. The locking rod 2156 can therefore be manually engaged or disengaged with the counterpart component 2148 when the locking member 2146 is otherwise disengaged. It will be apparent, of course, that the locking rod 2156 could engage with a different receiver associated with the castor wheel 2044; however, this arrangement prevents any sort of dual-locking situation where one wheel lock is released without unlocking the wheel configuration.

Although not discussed in detail, the braking system of the first embodiment would be applicable to the second embodiment. As would any features that have not being overtly discussed as being different.

Although not shown, an axle bolt is preferably inserted through the axle aperture, through the central aperture of the brake wheel, through a castor wheel aperture, through a separate central aperture of a subsequent brake wheel and through an axle aperture of the alternate wheel support. The axle bolt is secured in place by an axle nut. Top hats may be provided either side of the castor wheel aperture.

Although the bore of the base plate is described as preferably a similar or substantially similar width to the width of a frame section of a stroller, it is envisaged the bore may be a substantially wider than the width of a frame section of a stroller, as long as the width of the access slot is less than the width of the frame of a stroller. As in that case, the frame of the stroller would be retained in the bore by abutting against the walls of the access slot.

Although screw-threaded fasteners are described as attaching the brake mechanism housing to the top surface of the base plate, alternative fastenings may be suitable.

The present invention increases the inclusivity of strollers, by provided a way for wheelchair users to use standard marketplace strollers. Having a system that automatically changes the back wheel/s of a stroller from monodirectional to pivotable allows a wheelchair user to have increased manoeuvrability and handling of the stroller. The provision of the revertible castor wheel, and the easy to clip on and off system allows the present invention to both used by both wheelchair users and non-wheelchair users. The words ‘comprises/comprising’ and the words ‘having/including’ when used herein with reference to the present invention are used to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components, or groups thereof. It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination.

The embodiments described above are provided by way of examples only, and various other modifications will be apparent to persons skilled in the field without departing from the scope of the invention as defined herein.