US20250120501A1

US20250120501A1 - Pivoting/locking mechanisms, multi-fold foldable frames and frame assemblies

Info

Publication number: US20250120501A1
Application number: US18/733,462
Authority: US
Inventors: Kwan Jun Choi
Original assignee: Inno Sports Co Ltd
Current assignee: Inno Sports Co Ltd
Priority date: 2023-10-17
Filing date: 2024-06-04
Publication date: 2025-04-17

Abstract

A foldable frame includes a front section, a rear section, a front support, a rear support, and a middle support. The front section includes a first front subsection and a second front subsection foldable relative to each other, and the rear section includes a first rear subsection and a second rear subsection foldable relative to each other. The front support is pivotally connected to the first front subsection, and the rear support is pivotally connected to the first rear subsection. The second front subsection and second rear subsection are pivotally connected to the middle support. When folded, the first front and rear subsections are disposed between the second front and rear subsections, with the front support disposed between the first and second front subsections and the rear support disposed between the first and second rear subsections.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to Chinese Applications CN 202322786142.2 filed Oct. 17, 2023, CN 202323661074.3 filed Dec. 29, 2023, and CN 202420255058.X filed Feb. 1, 2024. The disclosure of each application is incorporated herein for all purposes by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to pivoting/locking mechanism, multi-fold foldable frames and frame assemblies.

BACKGROUND

Foldable structures (e.g., beds, tables) are more and more popular these days. A typical structure usually includes a foldable frame to support a mattress or a panel. However, many existing foldable frames can only be folded in half. As such, these frames are often bulky when folded, requiring large storage and transport spaces. Moreover, many existing foldable frames are fixed in size when unfolded. As such, they are unable to provide different sizes to meet different needs or preferences of different users, and often take up a lot of available space unnecessarily.
Given the current state of the art, there remains a need for frames that address the abovementioned issues.
The information disclosed in this Background section is provided for an understanding of the general background of the invention and is not an acknowledgement or suggestion that this information forms part of the prior art already known to a person skilled in the art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure provides pivoting/locking mechanisms, foldable frames, and frame assemblies that are easy and convenient to use. The foldable frames can be folded multiple times and have relatively smaller sizes when folded. A foldable frame can be used alone, or detachably connected to one or more other foldable frames to make a frame assembly to meet different needs or preferences of different users.
In various exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides a foldable frame including a front section, a rear section, a front support, a rear support and a middle support. The front section is pivotally connected to the middle support at a front side of the middle support, and includes a first front subsection, a second front subsection, and a front pivoting/locking mechanism. The front pivoting/locking mechanism pivotally connects the first and second front subsections to allow folding and unfolding of the first and second front subsections relative to each other and selectively locks the first and second front subsections to prevent accidental folding of the first and second front subsections relative to each other. The front support is pivotally connected to the first front subsection of the front section. The rear section is pivotally connected to the middle support at a rear side of the middle support, and includes a first rear subsection, a second rear subsection and a rear pivoting/locking mechanism. The rear pivoting/locking mechanism pivotally connects the first and second rear subsections to allow folding and unfolding of the first and second rear subsections relative to each other and selectively locks the first and second rear subsections to prevent accidental folding of the first and second rear subsections relative to each other. The rear support is pivotally connected to the first rear subsection of the rear section. When the foldable frame is in a folded state, the first front subsection and the first rear subsection are disposed between the second front subsection and the second rear subsection, with the front support disposed between the first and second front subsections, and the rear support disposed between the first and second rear subsections. When the foldable frame is in an unfolded state, the second front subsection and the second rear subsection are disposed between the first front subsection and the first rear subsection, and the front section and the rear section are supported by the front, middle and rear supports.
In some exemplary embodiments, the middle support includes a left middle coupling piece at a left side of the middle support and a right middle coupling piece at a right side of the middle support. Each of the left and right middle coupling pieces includes a first segment and a second segment. Each of the second front subsection and the second rear subsection includes a left peripheral bar pivotally connected to the first segment of the left middle coupling piece and a right peripheral bar pivotally connected to the first segment of the right middle coupling piece. When the foldable frame is unfolded and in an upright position, the second segment of the left middle coupling piece abuts upwardly the left peripheral bars of the second front subsection and the second rear subsection, and the second segment of the right middle coupling piece abuts upwardly the right peripheral bars of the second front subsection and the second rear subsection.
In an exemplary embodiment, the middle support further includes a first middle lateral bar, a left middle leg, a right middle leg, and optionally, a second middle lateral bar. The first middle lateral bar is connected to the left and right middle coupling pieces. The left middle leg is connected to the left middle coupling piece, the first middle lateral bar, or both. The right middle leg is connected to the right middle coupling piece, the first middle lateral bar, or both. The optional second middle lateral bar is connected to the left middle leg and the right middle leg.
In some exemplary embodiments, the front support is pivotally connected to the first front subsection of the front section through a lateral bar disposed at the first front subsection of the front section. The rear support is pivotally connected to the first rear subsection of the rear section through a lateral bar disposed at the first rear subsection of the rear section.
In some exemplary embodiments, the foldable frame further includes one or more front adjustable bars and one or more rear adjustable bars. Each of the one or more front adjustable bars has an end pivotally connected to the front support and another end pivotally connected to the first front subsection of the front section to control rotation of the front support with respect to the first front subsection of the front section. Each of the one or more rear adjustable bars has an end pivotally connected to the rear support and another end pivotally connected to the first rear subsection of the rear section to control rotation of the rear support with respect to the first rear subsection of the rear section.
In an exemplary embodiment, the front support includes a pair of front legs and a front leg bar connected to the pair of front legs. Each of the one or more front adjustable bars is pivotally connected to the front leg bar of the front support and pivotally connected to a peripheral bar of the first front subsection of the front section. Similarly, the rear support includes a pair of rear legs and a rear leg bar connected to the pair of rear legs. Each of the one or more rear adjustable bars is pivotally connected to the rear leg bar of the rear support and pivotally connected to a peripheral bar of the first rear subsection of the rear section.
In some exemplary embodiments, the front section and the rear section are substantially the same as each other and disposed substantially symmetrical to each other.
In some exemplary embodiments, a respective pivoting/locking mechanism in the front and rear pivoting/locking mechanisms includes a first coupling piece, a second coupling piece and a control unit. The first coupling piece is fixed at a proximal end of a first bar, which is a peripheral bar of one of the first front subsection, second front subsection, first rear subsection and second rear subsection. The second coupling piece is fixed at a proximal end of a second bar, which is a peripheral bar of another of the first front subsection, second front subsection, first rear subsection and second rear subsection and adjacent to the first bar. The first and second coupling pieces are pivotally coupled to each other and capable of rotating with respect to each other. The control unit is operable to selectively restrict the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other.
In some exemplary embodiments, the first coupling piece includes a first slot elongated in a first direction. The second coupling piece includes a second slot with a closed bottom and an open top. The second slot is shorter than the first slot of the first coupling piece in the first direction. The control unit includes a third coupling piece, a first rod and a second rod. The third coupling piece includes a third slot with a closed bottom and a closed top. The third slot is elongated in the first direction. The first rod is disposed, cross-sectional-wise, in the third slot of the third coupling piece and movable along the third slot of the third coupling piece. The first and second coupling pieces are pivotally coupled to each other by the first rod. The second rod is integrally formed or coupled with a top portion of the third coupling piece, the second rod disposed, cross-sectional-wise, in the first slot of the first coupling piece and movable along the first slot of the first coupling piece. When the first and second coupling pieces are aligned with each other and the open top of the second slot of the second coupling piece faces downwardly, the third coupling piece together with the second rod moves by gravity to a first position where the second rod is disposed outside of the second slot of the second coupling piece, thereby allowing the first and second coupling pieces to rotate with respect to each other around the first rod. When the first and second coupling pieces are aligned with each other and the open top of the second slot of the second coupling piece faces upwardly, the third coupling piece together with the second rod moves by gravity to a second position where the second rod is disposed in the second slot of the second coupling piece, thereby restricting the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other around the first rod.
In an exemplary embodiment, the first rod is disposed adjacent to the bottom of the third slot of the third coupling piece at the first position, and adjacent to the top of the third slot of the third coupling piece at the second position.
In some exemplary embodiments, each of the first and second coupling pieces includes a horizontal piece, a first lug at a first side of the horizontal piece and a second lug at a second side of the horizontal piece. The first and second lugs are substantially parallel to each other, and each of the first and second lugs is formed with a corresponding first or second slot.
In an exemplary embodiment, at least a portion of the third coupling piece is disposed between the first and second lugs of the first coupling piece, and at least a portion of the first and second lugs of the first coupling piece is disposed between the first and second lugs of the second coupling piece.
In an exemplary embodiment, the first and second coupling pieces are pivotally coupled with each other by the first rod through a first hole formed at the first coupling piece and a second hole formed at the second coupling piece, and the second rod is coupled with the third coupling piece by passing through a third hole formed at the third coupling piece.
In some exemplary embodiments, when the first and second coupling pieces are aligned with each other, the first slot of the first coupling piece and the third slot of the third coupling piece are aligned with each other in the first direction.
In some exemplary embodiments, the first and second coupling pieces are pivotally coupled with each other by a first rod through a first hole formed at the first coupling piece and a second hole formed at the second coupling piece.
In some exemplary embodiments, the first coupling piece includes a hole. The second coupling piece includes a slot with an opening, a receiving portion, and a contraction at or adjacent to the opening. The control unit includes a bolt, a button and an elastic member. The bolt is disposed, cross-sectional-wise, in the hole of the first coupling piece, and movable along an axis of the hole of the first coupling piece. The bolt includes a first bolt segment larger than the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece, and a second bolt segment smaller than the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece. The button is connected to an end of the bolt. The elastic member is sleeved on the bolt (e.g., the stem of the bolt) and has an end abutting the first or second coupling piece and another end abutting the button such that when the first and second coupling pieces are aligned with each other, the first bolt segment is retained in the receiving portion of the slot by the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece, thereby restricting the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other.
In some exemplary embodiments, pushing the button toward the first coupling piece moves the bolt along the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece, thereby pushing the first bolt segment of the bolt out of the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling member and allowing the first and second coupling pieces to rotate with respect to each other.
In an exemplary embodiment, the button includes an internal thread that mates with an external thread of the bolt.
In some exemplary embodiments, the first coupling piece includes a hole. The second coupling piece includes a slot with an opening, a receiving portion, and a contraction at or adjacent to the opening. The control unit includes a bolt, a first button piece and a second button piece. The bolt is disposed, cross-sectional-wise, in the hole of the first coupling piece, and movable along an axis of the hole of the first coupling piece. The bolt includes a first bolt segment, and a second bolt segment. The first bolt segment is larger than the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece, and the second bolt segment smaller than the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece. The first button piece is disposed at the first coupling piece and includes a first surface. The second button piece is connected to the bolt and includes a second surface facing the first button piece. The second button piece is rotatable relative to the first button piece. The first surface of the first button piece and the second surface of the second button piece are configured such that rotation of the second button piece relative to the first button piece moves the bolt along the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece, thereby selectively moving the first bolt segment of the bolt into the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling piece to restrict the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other or moving the first bolt segment of the bolt out of the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling piece to allow the first and second coupling pieces to rotate with respect to each other.
In some exemplary embodiments, the control unit further includes an elastic member sleeved on the bolt. The elastic member has an end abutting a ridge on the bolt and another end abutting the first coupling piece, the second coupling piece or the first button piece to facilitate smooth rotation of the second button piece relative to the first button piece around the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece.
In an exemplary embodiment, the second button piece is connected to an end of the bolt by a pin through a hole formed at the second button piece and a hole formed at the end of the bolt.
In some exemplary embodiments, each of the first and second button pieces includes a hole or a slot to receive, cross-sectional-wise, the bolt.
In an exemplary embodiment, the second button piece is rotatable relative to the first button piece around the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece.
In another exemplary embodiment, the second button piece is rotatable relative to the first button piece around an axis substantially perpendicular to the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece.
In some exemplary embodiments, the foldable frame further includes an additional front support and/or an additional rear support. The additional front support is connected to the first section at or adjacent to the front pivoting/locking mechanism to support the front section when the foldable frame is unfolded and in use. The additional rear support is connected to the first section at or adjacent to the rear pivoting/locking mechanism to support the rear section when the foldable frame is unfolded and in use.
In some exemplary embodiments, the foldable frame further includes one or more connection sections. A first side of a respective connection section in the one or more connection sections is pivotally connected to a peripheral bar of a corresponding subsection in the first front subsection, second front subsection, first rear subsection and second rear subsection, thereby allowing the respective connection section to fold and unfold with respect to the corresponding subsection. A second side of the respective connection section is configured to be detachably coupled with a structure when the respective connection section is unfolded with respect to the corresponding subsection. The respective connection section is disposed substantially within an interior defined by the corresponding subsection when the respective connection section is folded with respect to the corresponding subsection.
In an exemplary embodiment, the one or more connection sections include a first connection section connected to the first front subsection and a second connection section connected to the second front subsection.
In another exemplary embodiment, the one or more connection sections include a first connection section connected to the first rear subsection and a second connection section connected to the second rear subsection.
In some exemplary embodiments, the respective connection section includes one or more first connectors and one or more second connectors. The one or more first connectors are disposed at the first side of the respective connection section to pivotally couple the respective connection section with the peripheral bar of the corresponding subsection. The one or more second connectors are disposed at the second side of the respective connection section to detachably couple the respective connection section with the structure.
In some exemplary embodiments, each of the one or more first connectors is disposed at an interior side of the peripheral bar of the corresponding subsection when the foldable frame is folded.
In some exemplary embodiments, a respective first connector in the one or more first connectors includes a first portion pivotally connected to the peripheral bar of the corresponding subsection at an interior side of the peripheral bar of the corresponding subsection and a second portion abutting a top surface of the peripheral bar of the corresponding subsection when the respective connection section is unfolded with respect to the corresponding subsection.
In an exemplary embodiment, the first portion of the respective first connector is pivotally connected to a pivoting piece that is fixedly disposed or integrally formed at an interior surface of the peripheral bar of the corresponding subsection.
In an exemplary embodiment, the first and second portions of the respective first connector are substantially perpendicular to each other.
In some exemplary embodiments, the one or more second connectors are configured to detachably couple the respective connection section with a peripheral bar of the structure.
In some exemplary embodiments, a respective second connector in the one or more second connectors includes a slot to receive at least a portion of the peripheral bar of the structure.
In an exemplary embodiment, the slot includes a portion abutting a top surface of the peripheral bar of the structure when the respective connection section is coupled with the structure.
In some exemplary embodiments, a respective second connector in the one or more second connectors is secured on the peripheral bar of the structure by a fastener.
In some exemplary embodiments, the respective connection section includes one or more lateral connection bars, wherein each of the one or more first connectors is disposed at a first end and each of the one or more second connectors is disposed at a second end of a corresponding lateral connection bar.
In an exemplary embodiment, the respective connection section includes a pair of first connectors, a pair of second connectors, and a pair of lateral connection bars, and further includes one or more longitudinal connection bars each disposed between and connected to the pair of lateral connection bars.
In various exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides a foldable frame assembly including two or more foldable frames disclosed herein to be disposed side by side and removably connected to each other by one or more couplers.
In some exemplary embodiments, a coupler in the one or more couplers includes a coupling piece having a pair of slots to receive adjacent peripheral bars of adjacent foldable frames in the two or more foldable frames.
In various exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides a foldable frame assembly including two or more foldable frames disclosed herein to be disposed side by side and removably connected to each other by the one or more connection sections of the two or more foldable frames.
In various exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides a pivoting/locking mechanism including a first coupling piece, a second coupling piece and a control unit. The first coupling piece is to be fixed at a proximal end of a first bar and includes a hole. The second coupling piece is to be fixed at a proximal end of a second bar and includes a slot with an opening, a receiving portion, and a contraction at or adjacent to the opening. The second coupling piece is pivotally coupled with the first coupling piece. The control unit is operable to selectively restrict the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other. The control unit includes a bolt, a button and an elastic member. The bolt is disposed, cross-sectional-wise, in the hole of the first coupling piece, and movable along an axis of the hole of the first coupling piece. The bolt includes a first bolt segment larger than the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece, and a second bolt segment smaller than the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece. The button is connected to an end of the bolt. The elastic member is sleeved on the bolt, and has an end abutting the first or second coupling piece and another end abutting the button such that when the first and second coupling pieces are aligned with each other, the first bolt segment is retained in the receiving portion of the slot by the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece, thereby restricting the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other.
In some exemplary embodiments, pushing the button toward the first coupling piece moves the bolt along the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece, thereby pushing the first bolt segment of the bolt out of the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling member and allowing the first and second coupling pieces to rotate with respect to each other.
In various exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides a pivoting/locking mechanism including a first coupling piece, a second coupling piece and a control unit. The first coupling piece is to be fixed at a proximal end of a first bar and includes a hole. The second coupling piece is to be fixed at a proximal end of a second bar and includes a slot with an opening, a receiving portion, and a contraction at or adjacent to the opening. The second coupling piece is pivotally coupled with the first coupling piece. The control unit is operable to selectively restrict the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other. The control unit includes a bolt, a first button piece and a second button piece. The bolt is disposed, cross-sectional-wise, in the hole of the first coupling piece, and movable along an axis of the hole of the first coupling piece. The bolt includes a first bolt segment larger than the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece and a second bolt segment smaller than the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece. The first button piece is disposed at the first coupling piece and includes a first surface. The second button piece is connected to the bolt and includes a second surface facing the first button piece. The second button piece is rotatable relative to the first button piece. The first surface of the first button piece and the second surface of the second button piece are configured such that rotation of the second button piece relative to the first button piece moves the bolt along the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece, thereby selectively moving the first bolt segment of the bolt into the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling piece to restrict the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other or moving the first bolt segment of the bolt out of the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling piece to allow the first and second coupling pieces to rotate with respect to each other.
In some exemplary embodiments, the control unit further includes an elastic member sleeved on the bolt and having an end abutting a ridge on the bolt and another end abutting the first coupling piece, the second coupling piece or the first button piece to facilitate smooth rotation of the second button piece relative to the first button piece around the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece.
In an exemplary embodiment, the second button piece is connected to an end of the bolt by a pin through a hole formed at the second button piece and a hole formed at the end of the bolt.
In some exemplary embodiments, each of the first and second button pieces includes a hole or a slot to receive, cross-sectional-wise, the bolt.
In an exemplary embodiment, the second button piece is rotatable relative to the first button piece around the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece.
In another exemplary embodiment, the second button piece is rotatable relative to the first button piece around an axis substantially perpendicular to the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece.
The pivoting/locking mechanisms, foldable frames, and frame assemblies of the present disclosure have other features and advantages that will be apparent from, or are set forth in more detail in, the accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein, and the following Detailed Description, which together serve to explain certain principles of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the Detailed Description, serve to explain the principles and implementations of exemplary embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 1A is a bottom perspective view schematically illustrating an exemplary foldable frame in an unfolded state in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, and 1F are perspective view schematically illustrating the exemplary foldable frame of FIG. 1A in some intermediate states in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1G is a perspective view schematically illustrating the exemplary foldable frame of FIG. 1A in a folded state in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a partially disassembled view schematically illustrating an exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3A is a partially disassembled view schematically illustrating an exemplary foldable frame in an unfolded state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3B is an enlarged view taken along circle A of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 3C is a partially cutout side view schematically illustrating the exemplary foldable frame of FIG. 3A in the unfolded state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3D is an enlarged view taken along circle B of FIG. 3C.

FIG. 3E is another partially cutout side view schematically illustrating the exemplary foldable frame of FIG. 3A in the unfolded state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3F is an enlarged view taken along circle C of FIG. 3E.

FIG. 3G is a side view schematically illustrating the exemplary foldable frame of FIG. 3A in the unfolded state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3H is an enlarged view taken along circle D of FIG. 3G.

FIG. 3I is a side view schematically illustrating the exemplary foldable frame of FIG. 3A in a first intermediate state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3J is an enlarged view taken along circle E of FIG. 3I.

FIG. 3K is a side view schematically illustrating the exemplary foldable frame of FIG. 3A in a second intermediate state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3L is an enlarged view taken along circle F of FIG. 3K.

FIG. 4A is a disassembled view schematically illustrating an exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4B is a perspective view schematically illustrating the exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism of FIG. 4A in a locked state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 4C and 4D are perspective views schematically illustrating the exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism of FIG. 4A in an unlocked state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5A is a disassembled view schematically illustrating an exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5B is a perspective view schematically illustrating the exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism of FIG. 5A in a locked state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 5C and 5D are perspective views schematically illustrating the exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism of FIG. 5A in an unlocked state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6A is a disassembled view schematically illustrating an exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6B is a perspective view schematically illustrating the exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism of FIG. 6A in a locked state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6C is a perspective view schematically illustrating the exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism of FIG. 6A in an unlocked state in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7A is a perspective view schematically illustrating an exemplary foldable frame in an unfolded state in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7B, 7C, 7D, and 7E are perspective views schematically illustrating the exemplary foldable frame of FIG. 7A in some intermediate states in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7F is an enlarged view taken along circle G of FIG. 7B.

FIGS. 7G, 7H, 7I 7J, 7K, and 7L are perspective views schematically illustrating the exemplary foldable frame of FIG. 7A in some intermediate states in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7M is a perspective view schematically illustrating the exemplary foldable frame of FIG. 7A in a folded state in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8A is a perspective view schematically illustrating an exemplary foldable frame in an unfolded state in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 8B, 8C, 8D, 8E, 8F, 8G, and 8H are perspective views schematically illustrating the exemplary foldable frame of FIG. 8A in some intermediate states in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8I is a perspective view schematically illustrating the exemplary foldable frame of FIG. 8A in a folded state in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9A is a perspective view schematically illustrating an exemplary foldable frame in an unfolded state at a first width in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 9B, 9C, and 9D are perspective views schematically illustrating the exemplary foldable frame of FIG. 9A in some intermediate states in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9E is an enlarged view taken along circle H of FIG. 9D.

FIG. 9F is a perspective view schematically illustrating the exemplary foldable frame of FIG. 9A in an unfolded state at a second width in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10A is a perspective view schematically illustrating an exemplary foldable frame in an unfolded state at a first width in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10B is a perspective view schematically illustrating the exemplary foldable frame of FIG. 10A in an intermediate state in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10C is a perspective view schematically illustrating the exemplary foldable frame of FIG. 10A in an unfolded state at a second width in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a partially disassembled view schematically illustrating an exemplary foldable frame in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

As will be apparent to those of skill in the art, the components illustrated in the figures described above are combinable in any useful number and combination. The figures are intended to be illustrative in nature and are not limiting.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to implementation of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The same reference indicators will be used throughout the drawings and the following detailed description to refer to the same or like parts. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the following detailed description is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. Other embodiments of the present disclosure will readily suggest themselves to such skilled persons having benefit of this disclosure.
In the interest of clarity, not all of the routine features of the implementations described herein are shown and described. It will be appreciated that, in the development of any such actual implementation, numerous implementation-specific decisions are made in order to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as compliance with application-and business-related constraints, and that these specific goals will vary from one implementation to another and from one developer to another. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of engineering for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.
Many modifications and variations of the exemplary embodiments set forth in this disclosure can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the exemplary embodiments, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The specific exemplary embodiments described herein are offered by way of example only, and the disclosure is to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.
Embodiments of the present invention are described in the context of pivoting/locking mechanisms, foldable frames and frame assemblies. The frames and frame assemblies can be used to make beds, tables or the like. In addition, the frames can be made of various materials including but not limited to metals (e.g., iron, steel, and aluminum), plastics and woods. In some exemplary embodiments, some components of a frame are made of metals or the like while some other components are made of plastics, rubbers or the like.
Referring to FIGS. 1A-1G, there is depicted an exemplary foldable frame, generally designated 100, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Foldable frame 100 includes a front section, such as front section 110, and a rear section, such as rear section 120. The front and rear sections can be but do not have to be identical or symmetric to each other. The front and rear sections are foldable relative to each other, and each of the front and rear sections include two or more subsections foldable relative to each other. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, front section 110 includes a first front subsection, such as first front subsection 111, and a second front subsection, such as second front subsection 112. The first and second front subsections are foldable relative to each other. Similarly, rear section 120 includes a first rear subsection, such as first rear subsection 121, and a second front subsection, such as second rear subsection 122. The first and second rear subsections are foldable relative to each other. As such, the foldable frame can be folded at least four-folds. This significantly reduces the size of the folded frame. As such, when folded, the frame requires less storage space and is very convenient to carry around.
In some exemplary embodiments, the front section includes a front pivoting/locking mechanism that pivotally connects the first and second front subsections to allow folding and unfolding of the first and second front subsections relative to each other and selectively locks the first and second front subsections to prevent accidental folding of the first and second front subsections relative to each other. Similarly, in some exemplary embodiments, the rear section includes a rear pivoting/locking mechanism that pivotally connects the first and second rear subsections to allow folding and unfolding of the first and second rear subsections relative to each other and selectively locks the first and second rear subsections to prevent accidental folding of the first and second rear subsections relative to each other. The front and rear pivoting/locking mechanisms can be but do not have to be identical to each other, and can by any of pivoting/locking mechanisms 200-1, 200-2, 200-3, 200-4, which will be described in more detail later, or other suitable pivoting/locking mechanisms. As a non-limiting example, the front and rear pivoting/locking mechanisms are illustrated to be substantially the same, and are generally designated 200.
In some exemplary embodiments, foldable frame 100 includes a plurality of supports coupled to the front and/or rear sections and configured to support the front and/or rear sections when the foldable frame is unfolded and in use. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, foldable frame 100 includes a front support, such as front support 130, a rear support, such as rear support 140, and a middle support, such as middle support 150. It should be noted that the term “middle” as used herein does not necessarily mean the center of the frame.
The front support is pivotally connected to the first front subsection of the front section such that the front support is foldable relative to the first front subsection of the first section. The rear support is pivotally connected to the first rear subsection of the rear section such that the rear support is foldable relative to the first rear subsection of the rear section. The front and rear sections are pivotally connected to the middle support such that the front and rear sections are foldable relative to each other. In some exemplary embodiments, the front section is pivotally connected to the middle support at a front side of the middle support, and the rear section is pivotally connected to the middle support at a rear side of the middle support. For instance, in an exemplary embodiment, the second front subsection of the front section and the second rear subsection are pivotally connected to the middle support, with the first front subsection pivotally connected to the second front subsection and the first rear subsection pivotally connected to the second rear subsection.
As such, when the foldable frame is in a folded state (e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 1G), the first front and rear subsections are disposed between the second front and rear subsections, with the front support disposed between the first and second front subsections, and the rear support disposed between the first and second rear subsections. Folded frame 100 is compact and has a relatively smaller size. As such, it requires less storage space and it very convenient to carry around. In addition, multiple folded frames can be stacked together. When the foldable frame is in an unfolded state (e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 1A), the second front and rear subsections are disposed between the first front and rear subsections, and the front and rear sections are supported by the front, middle and rear supports.
In some exemplary embodiments, foldable frame 100 includes means to control rotation of the front and/or rear supports. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, the foldable frame includes one or more front adjustable bars, each having an end pivotally connected to the front support and another end pivotally connected to the first front subsection of the front section to control rotation of the front support with respect to the first front subsection of the front section. The foldable frame also includes one or more rear adjustable bars, each having an end pivotally connected to the rear support and another end pivotally connected to the first rear subsection of the rear section to control rotation of the rear support with respect to the first rear subsection of the rear section. Front and rear adjustable bars can be but do not have to be identical to each other. As a non-limiting example, the front and rear adjustable bars are illustrated to be substantially the same, and generally designated 160. In some exemplary embodiments, an adjustable bar includes two or more bar segments slidably connected to each other and selectively movable relative to each other to adjust its length. Examples of such an adjustable bar are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 11,357,334 and 11,103,077, the content of each application are incorporated herein for all purposes by reference in its entirety.
In some exemplary embodiments, a subsection (e.g., the first front subsection, the second front subsection, the first rear subsection, or the second rear subsection) includes one or more bars. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, first front subsection 111 includes left peripheral bar 113 and right peripheral bar 114, and second front subsection 112 includes left peripheral bar 115 and right peripheral bar 116. In some such embodiments, first section 110 includes a pair of front pivoting/locking mechanisms, one connecting left peripheral bar 113 with left peripheral bar 115 and the other connecting right peripheral bar 114 and right peripheral bar 116. In some exemplary embodiments, first front subsection 111 includes lateral peripheral bar 117 connected to or formed with left peripheral bar 113 and right peripheral bar 114.
Similarly, in some exemplary embodiments, first rear subsection 121 includes left peripheral bar 123 and right peripheral bar 124, and second rear subsection 122 includes left peripheral bar 125 and right peripheral bar 126. In some such embodiments, first section 120 includes a pair of rear pivoting/locking mechanisms, one connecting left peripheral bar 123 with left peripheral bar 125 and the other connecting right peripheral bar 124 and right peripheral bar 126. In some exemplary embodiments, first rear subsection 121 includes lateral peripheral bar 127 connected to or formed with left peripheral bar 123 and right peripheral bar 124.
In some exemplary embodiments, the front support is pivotally connected to the first front subsection of the front section through a lateral bar, such as lateral interior bar 118, disposed at the first front subsection of the front section. In an exemplary embodiment, lateral interior bar 118 has an end fixedly connected to left peripheral bar 113 and another end fixedly connected to right peripheral bar 114, and the front support is pivotally connected to lateral interior bar 118. In another exemplary embodiment, lateral interior bar 118 has an end pivotally connected to left peripheral bar 113 and another end pivotally connected to right peripheral bar 114, and the front support is fixedly connected to lateral interior bar 118.
In some exemplary embodiments, the front support includes a pair of front legs, such as leg 131, each connected to lateral interior bar 118. In some exemplary embodiments, the front support also includes a front leg bar, such front leg bar 132, connected to the pair of front legs. In some such embodiments, each of the one or more front adjustable bars is pivotally connected to the front leg bar of the front support and pivotally connected to a peripheral bar (e.g., lateral peripheral bar 117) of the first front subsection of the front section.
Similarly, in some exemplary embodiments, the rear support is pivotally connected to the first rear subsection of the rear section through a lateral bar, such as lateral interior bar 128, disposed at the first rear subsection of the rear section. In an exemplary embodiment, lateral interior bar 128 has an end fixedly connected to left peripheral bar 123 and another end fixedly connected to right peripheral bar 124, and the rear support is pivotally connected to lateral interior bar 128. In another exemplary embodiment, lateral interior bar 128 has an end pivotally connected to left peripheral bar 123 and another end pivotally connected to right peripheral bar 124, and the rear support is fixedly connected to lateral interior bar 128.
In some exemplary embodiments, the rear support includes a pair of rear legs, such as leg 141, each connected to lateral interior bar 128. In some exemplary embodiments, the rear support also includes a rear leg bar, such rear leg bar 142, connected to the pair of rear legs. In some such embodiments, each of the one or more rear adjustable bars is pivotally connected to the rear leg bar of the rear support and pivotally connected to a peripheral bar (e.g., lateral peripheral bar 127) of the first rear subsection of the rear section.
In some exemplary embodiments, the middle support includes a left middle coupling piece at a left side of the middle support and a right middle coupling piece at a right side of the middle support. The left and right middle coupling pieces can be but do not have to be identical to each other. As a non-limiting example, the left and right middle coupling pieces are illustrated to be substantially the same, and generally designated 151. In some exemplary embodiments, each of the left and right middle coupling pieces includes a first segment, such as first segment 152, and a second segment, such as second segment 153. In some such embodiments, left peripheral bar 123 of the second front subsection and left peripheral bar 125 of the second rear subsection are pivotally connected to the first segment of the left middle coupling piece. Right peripheral bar 124 of the second front subsection and right peripheral bar 126 of the second rear subsection are pivotally connected to the first segment of the right middle coupling piece. When the foldable frame is unfolded and in an upright position (e.g., in use), the second segment of the left middle coupling piece abuts upwardly left peripheral bar 123 of the second front subsection and left peripheral bar 125 of the second rear subsection, and the second segment of the right middle coupling piece abuts upwardly the right peripheral bars of the second front and rear subsections. As such, the left and right middle coupling pieces not only pivotally connect the second front and rear subsections, but also enhance the stability of the foldable frame when in use and restrict the foldable frame from unfolding beyond its unfolded state.
In some exemplary embodiments, the middle support includes a pair of middle legs, such as leg 154, and a first middle lateral bar, such as first middle lateral bar 155. The first middle lateral bar is connected to the left and right middle coupling pieces. One middle leg is connected to the left middle coupling piece, the first middle lateral bar, or both. Another middle leg is connected to the right middle coupling piece, the first middle lateral bar, or both. In some exemplary embodiments, additionally or optionally, the middle support includes a second middle lateral bar, such as second middle lateral 156, connected to the left and right middle legs.
Referring to FIG. 2 , there is depicted an exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism 200-1 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. The pivoting/locking mechanism generally includes a first coupling piece, a second coupling piece, and a control unit. The first coupling piece is fixed or to be fixed on a first bar (e.g., a peripheral bar of the first front or rear subsection) and the second coupling piece is fixed or to be fixed on a second bar (e.g., a peripheral bar of the second front or rear subsection). The control unit is operable to selectively restrict the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other.
For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, pivoting/locking mechanism 200-1 includes first coupling piece 210 and second coupling piece 220. The first and second coupling pieces are configured to be fixed respectively at proximal ends of two bars (e.g., left peripheral bar 113 and left peripheral bar 115 of the first section, right peripheral bar 114 and right peripheral bar 116 of the first section, left peripheral bar 123 and left peripheral bar 125 of the rear section, or right peripheral bar 124 and right peripheral bar 126 of the rear section), for instance, by welding, bolting or the like. Pivoting/locking mechanism 200-1 also includes a control unit, such as control unit 250, operable to selectively restrict the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other, and consequently selectively lock the first and second front subsections or the first and second rear subsections.
The first and second coupling pieces are pivotally connected to each other. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, first coupling piece 210 is formed with a hole such as hole 211 and second coupling piece 220 is formed with a hole such as hole 221. The first and second coupling pieces are pivotally connected to each other by a first rod (e.g., a bolt), such as first rod 241, passing through hole 211 and hole 221. In some exemplary embodiments, first rod 241 is retained on the first and second coupling pieces by nut 243.
In some exemplary embodiments, first coupling piece 210 is formed with a slot such as slot 212 above hole 211 (not necessarily directly above; it can have an offset in the vertical or horizontal direction or in both directions). Slot 212 is elongated in a first direction, e.g., the z-direction in FIG. 2 . Second coupling piece 220 is formed with a slot such as slot 222 above hole 221 (not necessarily directly above; it can have an offset in the vertical or horizontal direction or in both directions). Slot 222 has a closed bottom and an open top. Slot 222 of the second coupling piece is shorter than slot 212 of the first coupling piece, e.g., the slot of the second coupling piece has a length in the first direction that is shorter than the slot of the first coupling piece in the first direction. When the first and second coupling pieces are aligned with each other, slot 212 of the first coupling piece and slot 222 of the third coupling piece are substantially aligned with each other in the first direction.
In some exemplary embodiments, the control unit includes a third coupling piece, such as third coupling piece 230. The third coupling piece is formed with a slot such as slot 231. Slot 231 has a closed bottom and a closed top, and is elongated in the first direction. In some exemplary embodiments, the first, second and third coupling pieces are coupled with each other by first rod 241 passing through the hole formed at the first coupling piece, the hole formed at the second coupling piece, and the slot of the third coupling piece (e.g., the first rod is disposed, cross-sectional-wise, in the slot of the third coupling piece). Such a connection allows the first and second coupling pieces to rotate with respect to each other around the first rod. Such a connection also allows relative movement between the first rod and the third coupling piece, e.g., allowing the first rod to move along the elongated slot of the third coupling piece.
In some exemplary embodiments, a second rod, such as second rod 242, is integrally formed or coupled with a top portion of third coupling piece 230, and movable together with the third coupling piece. For instance, in an exemplary embodiment, third coupling piece 230 is formed with a hole such as hole 232, and rod 242 is coupled with the third coupling piece by passing through the hole of the third coupling piece. In addition, the second rod is disposed, cross-sectional-wise, in the elongated slot of the first coupling piece, and thus is movable along the elongated slot of the first coupling piece.
In some exemplary embodiments, each of the first and second coupling pieces includes a horizontal piece, a first lug at a first side of the horizontal piece and a second lug at a second side of the horizontal piece. The first and second lugs are substantially parallel to each other. In such exemplary embodiments, each of the first and second lugs is formed with a corresponding slot. For instance, first coupling piece 210 includes horizontal piece 213, first lug 214 and second lug 215. First lug 214 is disposed at a first side of horizontal piece 213 and second lug 215 is disposed at a second side of horizontal piece 213. First lug 214 and second lug 215 are substantially parallel to each other. Each of first lug 214 and second lug 215 is formed with slot 212. Similarly, second coupling piece 220 includes horizontal piece 223, first lug 224 and second lug 225. First lug 224 is disposed at a first side of horizontal piece 223 and second lug 225 is disposed at a second side of horizontal piece 223. First lug 224 and second lug 225 are substantially parallel to each other. Each of first lug 224 and second lug 225 is formed with slot 222.
In some exemplary embodiments, at least a portion of the third coupling piece is disposed between the first and second lugs of the first coupling piece, and at least a portion of the first and second lugs of the first coupling piece is disposed between the first and second lugs of the second coupling piece. Alternatively, in some exemplary embodiments, at least a portion of the third coupling piece is disposed between the first and second lugs of the second coupling piece, and at least a portion of the first and second lugs of the second coupling piece is disposed between the first and second lugs of the first coupling piece.
Referring to FIGS. 3A-3L, there is depicted the use of pivoting/locking mechanism 200-1 in foldable frame 100 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. While foldable frame 100 is illustrated, it should be noted that the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Pivoting/locking mechanism 200-1 can be used in other foldable structures as long as the structure includes two bars that can be used to fix the first and second coupling pieces of pivoting/locking mechanism 200-1.
In some exemplary embodiments, pivoting/locking mechanism 200-1 selectively allows the first and second coupling pieces to rotate with respect to each other. Accordingly, pivoting/locking mechanism 200-1 selectively allows the first and second front subsections or the first and second rear subsections to fold and unfold.
For instance, when first coupling piece 210 and second coupling piece 220 are aligned with each other and the open top of the slot of the second coupling piece faces downwardly as illustrated in FIGS. 3E-3H (e.g., when the frame is placed upside-down), the gravity pulls down third coupling piece 230 together with second rod 242 to a first position. At the first position, second rod 242 is disposed outside of the slot of the second coupling piece. That is, the second rod is disposed only in the slot of the first coupling piece. As such, at this first position, the first and second coupling pieces are allowed to rotate with respect to each other around the first rod. Consequently, the two bars (e.g., right peripheral bar 114 and right peripheral bar 116) are allowed to rotate with respect to each other, thereby allowing the corresponding subsections (e.g., the first and second front sections) to fold relative to each other as illustrated in FIGS. 3I-3L. In some exemplary embodiments, at the first position, first rod 241 is disposed adjacent to the bottom of the slot of the third coupling piece.
When the first and second coupling pieces are aligned with each other and the open top of the second slot of the second coupling piece faces upwardly as illustrated in FIGS. 3C and 3D (e.g., when the frame is placed upright), the gravity pulls down third coupling piece 230 together with second rod 242, moving them to a second position. At the second position, second rod 242 is disposed in the slot (e.g., adjacent to the bottom of the slot) of second coupling piece 220. That is, the second rod is disposed not only in the slot of first coupling piece 210 but also in the slot of second coupling piece 220. As such, at this second position, the first and second coupling pieces are restricted from rotating with respect to each other around first rod 241. Consequently, the two bars (e.g., right peripheral bar 114 and right peripheral bar 116) are restricted from rotating with respect to each other, thereby preventing accidental folding of the corresponding section (e.g., the front section) of the frame. In some exemplary embodiments, at the second position, first rod 241 is disposed adjacent to the top of the slot of the third coupling piece.
Referring to FIGS. 4A-4C, there is depicted an exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism 200-2 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Like pivoting/locking mechanism 200-1, pivoting/locking mechanism 200-2 includes two coupling pieces, such as first coupling piece 410 and second coupling piece 420. The two coupling pieces are configured to be fixed respectively at proximal ends of two bars (e.g., left peripheral bar 113 and left peripheral bar 115 of the first section, right peripheral bar 114 and right peripheral bar 116 of the first section, left peripheral bar 123 and left peripheral bar 125 of the rear section, or right peripheral bar 124 and right peripheral bar 126 of the rear section), for instance, by welding, bolting or the like. Pivoting/locking mechanism 200-2 also includes a control unit, such as control unit 460, operable to selectively restrict the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other. In embodiments where pivoting/locking mechanism 200-2 is used in foldable frame 100, the control unit is operable to selectively lock the first and second front subsections or the first and second rear subsections.
The first and second coupling pieces are pivotally connected to each other. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, first coupling piece 410 is formed with a hole such as hole 411 and second coupling piece 420 is formed with a hole such as hole 421. The first and second coupling pieces are pivotally connected to each other by a first rod (e.g., a bolt), such as first rod 241, passing through hole 411 of the first coupling piece and hole 421 of the second coupling piece. In some exemplary embodiments, first rod 241 is retained on the first and second coupling pieces by nut 243.
In some exemplary embodiments, first coupling piece 410 is formed with another hole such as hole 412 above hole 411 (not necessarily directly above; it can have an offset in the vertical or horizontal direction or in both directions). Second coupling piece 420 is formed with a slot such as slot 422 above hole 421 (not necessarily directly above; it can have an offset in the vertical or horizontal direction or in both directions). Slot 422 includes opening 423, receiving portion 424, and contraction 424 formed at or adjacent to opening 423. When the first and second coupling pieces are aligned with each other, hole 412 of the first coupling piece and receiving portion 424 of slot 422 of the second coupling piece are substantially aligned with each other in the y-and z-directions in FIG. 4 . In some exemplary embodiments, similar to first coupling piece 210 or second coupling piece 220, first coupling piece 410 or second coupling piece 420 includes a horizontal piece, a first lug and a second lug.
In some exemplary embodiments, control unit 460 includes a bolt, a button, and an elastic member, such as bolt 430, button 440 and elastic member 450. The bolt is disposed, cross-sectional-wise, in hole 412 of the first coupling piece, and movable along an axis of the hole of the first coupling piece (e.g., along the x-direction in FIG. 4A). The bolt includes a first bolt segment, such as first bolt segment 431, and a second bolt segment, such as second bolt segment 432. The first bolt segment is larger than the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece, e.g., the diameter of the first bolt segment is greater than the dimension of the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece in the z-direction in FIG. 4A. The second bolt segment is smaller than the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece, e.g., the diameter of the second bolt segment is smaller than the dimension of the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece in the z-direction in FIG. 4A.
In some exemplary embodiments, the button is disposed outside of the first and second coupling pieces. In some exemplary embodiments, the button is connected to an end, such as end 433, of the bolt, for instance, by an internal thread formed on the button that mates with an external thread of the bolt. The elastic member is sleeved on the bolt and has an end abutting the first or second coupling piece and another end abutting the button. This holds the first bolt segment of the bolt in a position that aligns with the slot of the second coupling piece in the x-direction in FIG. 4A. As such, when the first and second coupling pieces are aligned with each other, the first bolt segment is retained in the receiving portion of the slot by the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece (e.g., the first bolt segment cannot pass through the contraction of the slot because it is larger than the contraction of the slot), thereby restricting the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other as illustrated in FIG. 4B.
To unlock the first and second coupling pieces, a user can push the button toward the first coupling piece to move the bolt along the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece (e.g., along the x-direction in FIG. 4A). This causes the first bolt segment of the bolt to move out of the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling member, and the second bolt segment of the bolt to move into the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling member. Because the second bolt segment of the bolt is smaller than the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece, the second bolt segment of the bolt can be removed from the slot of the second coupling piece through the opening of the slot of the second coupling piece. This allows the first and second coupling pieces to rotate with respect to each other as illustrated in FIG. 4C.
Referring to FIGS. 5A-5D, there is depicted an exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism 200-3 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Like pivoting/locking mechanism 200-2, pivoting/locking mechanism 200-3 includes two coupling pieces, such as first coupling piece 410 and second coupling piece 420. Pivoting/locking mechanism 200-3 also includes a control unit, such as control unit 510, operable to selectively restrict the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other. In embodiments where pivoting/locking mechanism 200-3 is used in foldable frame 100, control unit 510 is operable to selectively lock the first and second front subsections or the first and second rear subsections.
In some exemplary embodiments, control unit 510 includes a bolt, a first button piece, and a second button piece, such as bolt 520, first button piece 530 and second button piece 540. The bolt is disposed, cross-sectional-wise, in hole 412 of the first coupling piece, and movable along an axis of the hole of the first coupling piece (e.g., along the x-direction in FIG. 5A). The bolt includes a first bolt segment and a second bolt segment such as first bolt segment 521 and second bolt segment 522. The first bolt segment is larger than the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece, e.g., the diameter of the first bolt segment is greater than the dimension of the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece in the z-direction in FIG. 5A. The second bolt segment is smaller than the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece, e.g., the diameter of the second bolt segment is smaller than the dimension of the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece in the z-direction in FIG. 5A.
The first button piece is disposed at (e.g., coupled with) the first coupling piece. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, the first button piece is coupled to the first coupling piece by first rod 241 that passes through hole 411 of the first coupling piece and hole 531 of the first button piece and by bolt 520 that passes through hole 412 of the first coupling piece and hole 532 of the first button piece. The first button piece includes a first surface, such as first surface 533.
The second button piece is connected to the bolt. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, the second button piece includes hole 541 to receive an end of the bolt, and connected to the bolt by pin 511 through hole 524 formed at the end of the bolt and hole 542 formed on the second button piece. The second button piece includes a second surface, such as second surface 543, facing the first surface of the first button piece.
The second button piece is rotatable relative to the first button piece around the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece (e.g., around an axis parallel to the x-direction in FIG. 5A). In some exemplary embodiments, the first surface of the first button piece and the second surface of the second button piece are configured such that rotation of the second button piece relative to the first button piece moves the bolt along the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, the first surface of the first button piece or the second surface of the second button piece or both are non-planar, e.g., including one or more ups and/or downs in the x-direction in FIG. 5A. As the second button piece rotates relative to the first button piece, the engagement region between the first surface of the first button piece and the second surface of the second button piece varies, pulling or pushing the bolt along the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece. This in turn causes the first bolt segment of the bolt to move into or out of the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling piece along the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece. When the first bolt segment of the bolt is in the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling piece, the first bolt segment of the bolt cannot be moved out of the slot through the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece, thereby restricting the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other. When the first bolt segment of the bolt is out of the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling piece, the second bolt segment of the bolt is in the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling piece and can be moved out of the slot through the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece, thereby allowing the first and second coupling pieces to rotate with respect to each other.
In some exemplary embodiments, control unit 510 includes an elastic member, such as elastic member 512, sleeved on the bolt (e.g., the stem of the bolt). The elastic member has an end abutting a ridge, such as ridge 523, on the bolt and another end abutting the first coupling piece, the second coupling piece or the first button piece. The elastic member facilitates smooth rotation of the second button piece relative to the first button piece around the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece.
Referring to FIGS. 6A-6C, there is depicted an exemplary pivoting/locking mechanism 200-4 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Like pivoting/locking mechanisms 200-2 and 2003, pivoting/locking mechanism 200-4 includes two coupling pieces, such as first coupling piece 410 and second coupling piece 420. Pivoting/locking mechanism 200-4 also includes a control unit, such as control unit 610, operable to selectively restrict the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other. In embodiments where pivoting/locking mechanism 200-4 is used in foldable frame 100, control unit 610 is operable to selectively lock the first and second front subsections or the first and second rear subsections.
In some exemplary embodiments, like control unit 510, control unit 610 includes a bolt, such as bolt 520. That is, the bolt is disposed, cross-sectional-wise, in hole 412 of the first coupling piece, and movable along an axis of the hole of the first coupling piece (e.g., along the x-direction in FIG. 6A). The bolt includes first bolt segment 521 larger than the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece and second bolt segment 522 smaller than the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece.
Control unit 610 also includes a first button piece and a second button piece, such as first button piece 620 and second button piece 630. The first button piece is disposed at (e.g., coupled with) the first coupling piece. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, the first button piece is coupled with the first coupling piece by first rod 241 that passes through hole 411 of the first coupling piece and hole 621 of the first button piece and bolt 520 that passes through hole 412 of the first coupling piece and hole 622 of the first button piece. The first button piece includes a first surface, such as first surface 623.
The second button piece is connected to the bolt. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, the second button piece includes slot 631 to receive an end of the bolt, and connected to the bolt by pin 511 through hole 524 formed at the end of the bolt and hole 632 formed on the second button piece. The second button piece includes a second surface, such as second surface 633, facing the first surface of the first button piece.
The second button piece is rotatable relative to the first button piece around an axis substantially perpendicular to the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece (e.g., around an axis substantially perpendicular to the x-direction in FIG. 6A). In some exemplary embodiments, the first surface of the first button piece and the second surface of the second button piece are configured such that rotation of the second button piece relative to the first button piece moves the bolt along the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, the first surface of the first button piece or the second surface of the second button piece or both are non-planar, e.g., including one or more ups and/or downs in the x-direction in FIG. 6A. As the second button piece rotates relative to the first button piece, the contact region between the first surface of the first button piece and the second surface of the second button piece changes, causing the bolt to move along the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece. This in turn causes the first bolt segment of the bolt to move into or out of the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling piece along the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece. When the first bolt segment of the bolt is in the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling piece, the first bolt segment of the bolt cannot be moved out of the slot through the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece, thereby restricting the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other. When the first bolt segment of the bolt is out of the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling piece, the second bolt segment of the bolt is in the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling piece and can be moved out of the slot through the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece, thereby allowing the first and second coupling pieces to rotate with respect to each other.
In some exemplary embodiments, control unit 610 includes an elastic member, such as elastic member 512, sleeved on the bolt (e.g., the stem of the bolt). The elastic member has an end abutting a ridge, such as ridge 523, on the bolt and another end abutting the first coupling piece, the second coupling piece or the first button piece. The elastic member facilitates smooth rotation of the second button piece relative to the first button piece around the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece.
Like pivoting/locking mechanism 200-1, pivoting/locking mechanisms 200-2, 200-3, 200-4 can be used in a foldable structure such as foldable frame 100. Description of the use of pivoting/locking mechanisms 200-2, 200-3, 200-4 in a foldable structure is omitted to avoid redundance.
Referring to FIGS. 7A-7E, there is depicted an exemplary foldable frame, generally designated 700, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Frame 700 includes a front section, such as front section 710, and a rear section, such as rear section 720. The front and rear sections are pivotally coupled with each other at proximal sides thereof, thereby allowing the first and rear sections to fold and unfold with respect to each other. In some exemplary embodiments, front section 710 includes multiple front subsections pivotally connected to each other at their proximal sides such that front subsections can be folded and unfolded relative to each other, and/or rear section 720 includes multiple rear subsections pivotally connected to each other at their proximal sides such that front subsections can be folded and unfolded relative to each other. As a non-limiting example, it is illustrated that front section 710 includes first front subsection 711, second front subsection 712, and rear section 720 includes first rear subsection 721 and second rear subsection 722, similar to first front subsection 111, second front subsection 112, first rear subsection 121 and second rear subsection 122 disclosed herein.
Frame 700 includes a plurality of supports connected to the front and/or rear sections. For instance, as a non-limiting example, it is illustrated that frame 700 includes support 731, support 732, support 741, support 742 and support 750. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For instance, frame 700 can but do not have to include support 732 and/or support 742. In some exemplary embodiments, support 731 is the same as or similar to front support 130 disclosed herein, support 741 is the same as or similar to rear support 140 disclosed herein, and/or support 750 is the same as or similar to middle support 150 disclosed herein.
Frame 700 also includes one or more connection sections configured to detachably connecting frame 700 to a structure (e.g., another frame). As a non-limiting example, it is illustrated that frame 700 includes two connection sections 760-1, 760-2. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For instance, frame 700 can include a single connection or more than two (e.g., three or four) connection sections.
A respective connection section (e.g., connection section 760-1 or connection section 760-2) has a first side, generally designated 761. The first side of the respective connection section is pivotally coupled with a corresponding peripheral bar of a corresponding subsection to allow the connection section to fold and unfold with respect to the corresponding subsection. For instance, as a non-limiting example, FIGS. 7A-7E illustrates that connection section 760-1 is pivotally coupled with a corresponding peripheral bar of first rear subsection 721 of the rear section such that it can be folded and unfolded relative to first rear subsection 721 of the rear section, and connection section 760-2 is pivotally coupled with a corresponding peripheral bar of second rear subsection 722 of the rear section such that it can be folded and unfolded relative to second rear subsection 722 of the rear section. In some exemplary embodiments, the respective connection section (e.g., connection section 760-1) is disposed substantially within an interior defined by the corresponding subsection (e.g., first rear subsection 721) when the respective connection section is folded with respect to the corresponding subsection.
The respective connection section also includes a second side, generally designated 762. The second side is configured to detachably couple the respective connection section with a structure (e.g., a frame) when the respective connection section is unfolded with respect to the corresponding subsection. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, the second side is configured to detachably couple the respective connection section with a peripheral bar of another foldable frame, as illustrated in FIGS. 9A-9F and 10A-10C, which will be described in more detail later.
In some exemplary embodiments, the respective connection section includes one or more first connectors, such as connector 770, at the first side of the respective connection section to pivotally couple the respective connection section with the corresponding peripheral bar of the corresponding subsection. In some exemplary embodiments, connector 770 is configured such that it is disposed at an interior side of the corresponding peripheral bar when the foldable frame is folded. For instance, referring in particular to FIG. 7F, in some exemplary embodiments, connector 770 includes a first portion, such as first portion 771, and a second portion, such as second portion 772. In some exemplary embodiments, the first and second portions of connector 770 are substantially perpendicular to each other. In some exemplary embodiments, the first and second portions of connector 770 are configured to collectively form a cut in between. In some exemplary embodiments, connector 770 also includes a third portion, such as third portion 773. In some exemplary embodiments, the first, second and third portions of connector 770 collectively form a slot to receive at least a portion of the corresponding peripheral bar of the corresponding subsection (e.g., peripheral bar 725 of second rear subsection) when the respective connection section is unfolded with respect to the corresponding subsection (e.g., when the respective connection section is to be coupled with the structure).
The first portion of connector 770 is pivotally connected to the corresponding peripheral bar at an interior side of the corresponding peripheral bar. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, the first portion of connector 770 is pivotally connected to a pivoting piece, such as pivoting piece 726, that is fixedly disposed (e.g., welded) or integrally formed at an interior surface of the corresponding peripheral bar. This allows the first and second portions of connector 770 to rotate relative to the corresponding peripheral bar. When the respective connection section is unfolded (e.g., is coupled with the structure), the second portion abuts a top surface of the corresponding peripheral bar as illustrated in FIGS. 7A, 7B and 7F. This ensures that the respective connection section is supported by the corresponding peripheral bar of the corresponding subsection. When the foldable frame is folded, the first and second portions of connector 770 are disposed at the interior side of the corresponding peripheral bar as illustrated in FIG. 7E.
In some exemplary embodiments, the respective connection section has a lateral dimension (e.g., a dimension in the x-direction in FIG. 7A) generally smaller than a width of the corresponding subsection and a longitudinal dimension (e.g., a dimension in the y-direction in FIG. 7A) generally smaller than the corresponding subsection. This allows the respective connection section to be disposed within the interior defined by the corresponding subsection, which in turn allows folding of the first and second front subsections, folding of the first and second rear subsections, and folding of front and rear sections of a single foldable frame as illustrated in FIGS. 7G-7M. In some exemplary embodiments, the folding and unfolding of frame 700 is similar to those of frame 100 as illustrated in FIGS. 1B-1G, and the resultant folded frame 700 illustrated in FIG. 7M is similar to folded frame 100 illustrated in FIG. 1G. Like frame 100, folded frame 700 is compact and has a relatively smaller size. As such, it requires less storage space and it very convenient to carry around. In addition, multiple folded frames can be stacked together.
In some exemplary embodiments, the respective connection section includes one or more second connectors, such as connector 780, at the second side of the respective connection section to detachably couple the respective connection section with the structure (e.g., a peripheral bar of another foldable frame). In some exemplary embodiments, connector 780 is configured to receive at least a portion of the peripheral bar of the structure. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, connector 780 includes a slot configured to receive at least a portion of the peripheral bar of the structure. In some exemplary embodiments, the slot includes a portion abutting a top surface of the peripheral bar of the structure when the respective connection section is coupled with the structure. This ensures that the respective connection section is supported at the second side by the structure. In some exemplary embodiments, connector 780 is further secured on the peripheral bar of the structure by a fastener or the like.
Referring in particular to FIG. 7A, in some exemplary embodiments, the respective connection section includes one or more lateral connection bars, such as connection bar 763. The respective connection section can have any suitable number of lateral connection bars, including but not limited to 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or more than 5 bars. In some exemplary embodiments, connector 770 is disposed at a first end of a lateral connection bar and connector 780 is disposed at a second end of the lateral connection bar. For instance, in some exemplary embodiments, third portion 773 of connector 770 is fixedly coupled or formed with the first end of connection bar 763. In some exemplary embodiments, the respective connection section includes a pair of first connectors, a pair of second connectors, and a pair of lateral connection bars. In some exemplary embodiments, the respective connection section further includes one or more longitudinal connection bars, such as connection bar 764. In some exemplary embodiments, connection bar 764 is disposed between and connected to the pair of lateral connection bars.
Referring to FIGS. 8A and 8B, there is depicted an exemplary foldable frame, generally designated 800, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Frame 800 is similar to frame 700, e.g., including a front section, a rear section, one or more connection sections, a front support, a rear support, and a middle support. In some exemplary embodiments, frame 800 is similar to frame 700, except frame 800 does not include support 732 and support 742. In some exemplary embodiments, frame 800 includes frame 100 and one or more connection sections connected to frame 100 and configured for coupling with a structure (e.g., another frame). For instance, as a non-limiting example, frame 800 is illustrated with front section 110, rear section 120, front support 130, rear support 140, middle support 150, connection section 760-1 and connection section 760-2. Connection section 760-1 is connected to the first rear subsection of the rear section and connection section 760-2 is connected to the second rear subsection of the rear section.
When folded, the respective connection section (e.g., connection section 760-1 or 760-2) is disposed within the interior defined by the corresponding subsection (e.g., first or second rear subsection) as illustrated in FIG. 8B. This allows folding of the first and second front subsections, folding of the first and second rear subsections, and folding of front and rear sections of a single foldable frame as illustrated in FIGS. 8C-8I. In some exemplary embodiments, the folding and unfolding of frame 800 is similar to those of frame 100 as illustrated in FIGS. 1B-1G, and the resultant folded frame 800 illustrated in FIG. 8I is similar to folded frame 100 illustrated in FIG. 1G. When folded, frame 800 is compact and has a relatively smaller size. As such, it requires less storage space and it very convenient to carry around. In addition, multiple folded frames can be stacked together.
Frame 100, frame 700 and frame 800 can be used alone or in combination to meet different needs and preferences of different users. For instance, as a non-limiting example, FIGS. 9A-9F illustrate a foldable frame assembly, generally designated 900, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Frame assembly 900 includes two frames 700 (e.g., frame 700-1 and frame 700-2). Frame assembly 900 can be arranged to provide a frame at a first width as illustrated in FIG. 9A and a frame at a second width as illustrated in FIG. 9F.
To arrive at the first width, each connection section of each frame 700 is unfolded. The second side of each connection section of frame 700-1 is detachably coupled with a peripheral bar of frame 700-2 (e.g., a peripheral bar of front or rear subsection), and the second side of each connection section of 700-2 is detachably coupled with a peripheral bar of frame 700-1. In some exemplary embodiments, frame assembly 900 at the first width is a frame for a queen size bed, a king size bed or the like. In some exemplary embodiments, each connection section of each frame 700 has a lateral dimension generally equal to or greater than 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8 or 0.9 of a width of the front or rear section of frame 700. Together, the connection sections of frame 700-1 and frame 700-2 serve as an extension, significantly enlarging the supporting area and size of frame assembly 900.
To arrive at the second width from a frame at the first width, each connection section of frame 700-2 is decoupled from frame 700-1 and folded onto frame 700-2, and each connection section of frame 700-1 is decoupled from frame 700-2 and folded onto frame 700-1 as illustrated in FIGS. 9B-9D. Frame 700-1 and frame 700-2 are then moved relatively to each other and disposed side by side as illustrated in FIG. 9F. In some exemplary embodiments, frame assembly 900 at the second width is a frame for a full size bed, a queen size bed or the like.
Referring in particular to FIGS. 9D and 9E, in some exemplary embodiments, frame assembly 900 includes one or more couplers, such as coupler 910, to detachably connect adjacent peripheral bars of frame 700-1 and frame 700-2 when frame assembly 900 is at the second width. In some exemplary embodiments, coupler 910 includes a coupling piece, such as coupling piece 911. The coupling piece includes a pair of slots, such as slot 912, to receive adjacent peripheral bars of frame 700-1 and frame 700-2. In an exemplary embodiment, the coupling piece is a unitary piece made of a plastic. In some exemplary embodiments, coupler 910 also includes a bolt, such as bolt 913, to secure the coupling piece on the adjacent peripheral bars of frame 700-1 and frame 700-2. In an exemplary embodiment, the bolt passes through holes formed at the coupling piece and at the adjacent peripheral bars of frame 700-1 and frame 700-2, and connected to a nut disposed inside of the coupling piece.
As another non-limiting example, FIGS. 10A-10C illustrate a foldable frame assembly, generally designated 1000, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Frame assembly 1000 includes two frames 800 (e.g., frame 800-1 and frame 800-2). Frame assembly 1000 can be arranged to provide a frame at a first width as illustrated in FIG. 10A and a frame at a second width as illustrated in FIG. 10C.
To arrive at the first width, each connection section of each frame 800 is unfolded. The second side of each connection section of frame 800-1 is detachably coupled with a peripheral bar of frame 800-2 (e.g., a peripheral bar of front or rear subsection), and the second side of each connection section of 800-2 is detachably coupled with a peripheral bar of frame 800-1. In some exemplary embodiments, frame assembly 1000 at the first width is a frame for a queen size bed, a king size bed or the like. In some exemplary embodiments, each connection section of each frame 800 has a lateral dimension generally equal to or greater than 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8 or 0.9 of a width of the front or rear section of frame 800. Together, the connection sections of frame 800-1 and frame 800-2 serve as an extension, significantly enlarging the supporting area and size of frame assembly 1000.
To arrive at the second width from a frame at the first width, each connection section of frame 800-2 is decoupled from frame 800-1 and folded onto frame 800-2, and each connection section of frame 800-1 is decoupled from frame 800-2 and folded onto frame 800-1 as illustrated in FIGS. 10B and 10C. Frame 800-1 and frame 800-2 are then moved relatively to each other and disposed side by side as illustrated in FIG. 10C. In some exemplary embodiments, frame assembly 1000 at the second width is a frame for a full size bed, a queen size bed or the like. In some exemplary embodiments, frame assembly 1000 includes one or more couplers, such as coupler 910, to detachably connect adjacent peripheral bars of frame 800-1 and frame 800-2 when frame assembly 1000 is at the second width.
As a further non-limiting example, FIG. 11 illustrates a foldable frame assembly, generally designated 1100, in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Frame assembly 1100 includes two frames 100 (e.g., frame 100-1 and frame 100-2). The two frames are disposed side by side, with their adjacent peripheral bars detachably coupled to each other by one or more couplers, such as coupler 910. In some exemplary embodiments, frame assembly 1100 is a frame for a full size bed, a queen size bed, a king size bed, or the like.
While FIGS. 9A-11 illustrate a pair of identical or similar frames connected to each other, it should be noted that different frames can be connected to each other as well. For instance, frame 100 can be connected to frame 700 or frame 800 using one or more couplers 910. Frame 700 and frame 800 can be connected to each other using connection sections 760 and/or one or more couplers 910. Moreover, it should be noted that frame 100, frame 700 and frame 800 can be used alone to make a frame for a bed. In some exemplary embodiments, frame 100, frame 700 or frame 800 is a frame for a twin size bed, a full size bed or the like. Further, it should be noted that three, four or more frames 100, 700 and 800 can be connected in a similar fashion disclosed herein to make a frame for larger size beds if desired.
The pivoting mechanisms, foldable frames, and foldable frame assemblies of the present disclosure are advantageous. For instance, the pivoting mechanisms not only allow each section of a foldable frame to fold and unfold but also prevent accidental folding of each section and enhance stability of the foldable frame. The foldable frames can be folded multiple times (e.g., four times), and are compact with relatively smaller sizes when folded. As such, they require less storage space and are very convenient to carry around. Moreover, a foldable frame can be used alone, or detachably connected to one or more foldable frames to make a frame assembly to meet different needs or preferences of various users. Further, in some cases, two or more foldable frames can be connected in different ways to make frame assemblies at different sizes (e.g., at different widths). In addition, multiple folded frames can be stacked together.
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular implementations only and is not intended to be limiting of the claims. As used in the description of the implementations and the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be understood that the terms “front” or “rear”, “left” or “right”, “top” or “bottom”, “lower” or “upper”, and etc. are used to describe features of the exemplary embodiments with reference to the positions of such features as displayed in the figures. It will be understood that, although the terms “first,” “second,” etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first bar could be termed a second bar, and, similarly, a second bar could be termed a first bar, without changing the meaning of the description, so long as all occurrences of the “first bar” are renamed consistently and all occurrences of the “second bar” are renamed consistently.

Claims

1. A foldable frame comprising:

a middle support;

a front section pivotally connected to the middle support at a front side of the middle support, where the front section comprises a first front subsection, a second front subsection, and a front pivoting/locking mechanism that pivotally connects the first and second front subsections to allow folding and unfolding of the first and second front subsections relative to each other and selectively locks the first and second front subsections to prevent accidental folding of the first and second front subsections relative to each other;

a front support pivotally connected to the first front subsection of the front section;

a rear section pivotally connected to the middle support at a rear side of the middle support, wherein the rear section comprises a first rear subsection, a second rear subsection and a rear pivoting/locking mechanism that pivotally connects the first and second rear subsections to allow folding and unfolding of the first and second rear subsections relative to each other and selectively locks the first and second rear subsections to prevent accidental folding of the first and second rear subsections relative to each other; and

a rear support pivotally connected to the first rear subsection of the rear section;

wherein when the foldable frame is in a folded state, the first front subsection and the first rear subsection are disposed between the second front subsection and the second rear subsection, with the front support disposed between the first and second front subsections, and the rear support disposed between the first and second rear subsections; and

wherein when the foldable frame is in an unfolded state, the second front subsection and the second rear subsection are disposed between the first front subsection and the first rear subsection, and the front section and the rear section are supported by the front, middle and rear supports.

2. The foldable frame of claim 1, wherein:

the middle support comprises a left middle coupling piece at a left side of the middle support and a right middle coupling piece at a right side of the middle support;

each of the left and right middle coupling pieces comprises a first segment and a second segment;

each of the second front subsection and the second rear subsection comprises a left peripheral bar pivotally connected to the first segment of the left middle coupling piece and a right peripheral bar pivotally connected to the first segment of the right middle coupling piece; and

when the foldable frame is unfolded and in an upright position, the second segment of the left middle coupling piece abuts upwardly the left peripheral bars of the second front subsection and the second rear subsection, and the second segment of the right middle coupling piece abuts upwardly the right peripheral bars of the second front subsection and the second rear subsection.

3. (canceled)

4. The foldable frame of claim 1, wherein:

the front support is pivotally connected to the first front subsection of the front section through a lateral bar disposed at the first front subsection of the front section; or

the rear support is pivotally connected to the first rear subsection of the rear section through a lateral bar disposed at the first rear subsection of the rear section.

5. The foldable frame of claim 4, further comprising:

one or more front adjustable bars, each having an end pivotally connected to the front support and another end pivotally connected to the first front subsection of the front section to control rotation of the front support with respect to the first front subsection of the front section; and

one or more rear adjustable bars, each having an end pivotally connected to the rear support and another end pivotally connected to the first rear subsection of the rear section to control rotation of the rear support with respect to the first rear subsection of the rear section.

6-7. (canceled)

8. The foldable frame of claim 1, wherein a respective pivoting/locking mechanism in the front and rear pivoting/locking mechanisms comprises:

a first coupling piece fixed at a proximal end of a first bar, wherein the first bar is a peripheral bar of one of the first front subsection, second front subsection, first rear subsection and second rear subsection;

a second coupling piece fixed at a proximal end of a second bar and pivotally coupled with the first coupling piece, wherein the second bar is a peripheral bar of another of the first front subsection, second front subsection, first rear subsection and second rear subsection and adjacent to the first bar; and

a control unit operable to selectively restrict the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other.

9. The foldable frame of claim 8, wherein:

the first coupling piece comprises a first slot elongated in a first direction;

the second coupling piece comprises a second slot with a closed bottom and an open top, wherein the second slot is shorter than the first slot of the first coupling piece in the first direction; and

the control unit comprises:

a third coupling piece comprising a third slot with a closed bottom and a closed top, wherein the third slot is elongated in the first direction;

a first rod disposed, cross-sectional-wise, in the third slot of the third coupling piece and movable along the third slot of the third coupling piece, wherein the first and second coupling pieces are pivotally coupled with each other by the first rod; and

a second rod integrally formed or coupled with a top portion of the third coupling piece, the second rod disposed, cross-sectional-wise, in the first slot of the first coupling piece and movable along the first slot of the first coupling piece;

wherein when the first and second coupling pieces are aligned with each other and the open top of the second slot of the second coupling piece faces downwardly, the third coupling piece together with the second rod moves by gravity to a first position where the second rod is disposed outside of the second slot of the second coupling piece, thereby allowing the first and second coupling pieces to rotate with respect to each other around the first rod; and

wherein when the first and second coupling pieces are aligned with each other and the open top of the second slot of the second coupling piece faces upwardly, the third coupling piece together with the second rod moves by gravity to a second position where the second rod is disposed in the second slot of the second coupling piece, thereby restricting the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other around the first rod.

10. The foldable frame of claim 9, wherein the first rod is disposed adjacent to the bottom of the third slot of the third coupling piece at the first position, and adjacent to the top of the third slot of the third coupling piece at the second position.

11-14. (canceled)

15. The foldable frame of claim 8, wherein the first and second coupling pieces are pivotally coupled with each other by a first rod through a first hole formed at the first coupling piece and a second hole formed at the second coupling piece.

16. The foldable frame of claim 8, wherein:

the first coupling piece comprises a hole;

the second coupling piece comprises a slot with an opening, a receiving portion, and a contraction at or adjacent to the opening; and

the control unit comprises:

a bolt disposed, cross-sectional-wise, in the hole of the first coupling piece, and movable along an axis of the hole of the first coupling piece, wherein the bolt comprises a first bolt segment larger than the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece, and a second bolt segment smaller than the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece;

a button connected to an end of the bolt; and

an elastic member sleeved on the bolt and having an end abutting the first or second coupling piece and another end abutting the button such that when the first and second coupling pieces are aligned with each other, the first bolt segment is retained in the receiving portion of the slot by the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece, thereby restricting the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other.

17. The foldable frame of claim 16, wherein pushing the button toward the first coupling piece moves the bolt along the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece, thereby pushing the first bolt segment of the bolt out of the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling member and allowing the first and second coupling pieces to rotate with respect to each other.

18. (canceled)

19. The foldable frame of claim 8, wherein:

the first coupling piece comprises a hole;

the control unit comprises:

a bolt disposed, cross-sectional-wise, in the hole of the first coupling piece, and movable along an axis of the hole of the first coupling piece, wherein the bolt comprises a first bolt segment, and a second bolt segment, wherein the first bolt segment is larger than the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece, and the second bolt segment smaller than the contraction of the slot of the second coupling piece;

a first button piece disposed at the first coupling piece and comprising a first surface; and

a second button piece connected to the bolt and comprising a second surface facing the first button piece, wherein the second button piece is rotatable relative to the first button piece,

wherein the first surface of the first button piece and the second surface of the second button piece are configured such that rotation of the second button piece relative to the first button piece moves the bolt along the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece, thereby selectively moving the first bolt segment of the bolt into the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling piece to restrict the first and second coupling pieces from rotating with respect to each other or moving the first bolt segment of the bolt out of the receiving portion of the slot of the second coupling piece to allow the first and second coupling pieces to rotate with respect to each other.

20. The foldable frame of claim 19, wherein the control unit further comprises:

an elastic member sleeved on the bolt and having an end abutting a ridge on the bolt and another end abutting the first coupling piece, the second coupling piece or the first button piece to facilitate smooth rotation of the second button piece relative to the first button piece around the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece.

21. The foldable frame of claim 19, wherein the second button piece is connected to an end of the bolt by a pin through a hole formed at the second button piece and a hole formed at the end of the bolt.

22. The foldable frame of claim 19, wherein each of the first and second button pieces includes a hole or a slot to receive, cross-sectional-wise, the bolt.

23. The foldable frame of claim 19, wherein the second button piece is rotatable relative to the first button piece around the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece.

24. The foldable frame of claim 19, wherein the second button piece is rotatable relative to the first button piece around an axis substantially perpendicular to the axis of the hole of the first coupling piece.

25. (canceled)

26. The foldable frame of claim 1, further comprising:

one or more connection sections, wherein:

a first side of a respective connection section in the one or more connection sections is pivotally connected to a peripheral bar of a corresponding subsection in the first front subsection, second front subsection, first rear subsection and second rear subsection, thereby allowing the respective connection section to fold and unfold with respect to the corresponding subsection;

a second side of the respective connection section is configured to be detachably coupled with a structure when the respective connection section is unfolded with respect to the corresponding subsection; and

the respective connection section is disposed substantially within an interior defined by the corresponding subsection when the respective connection section is folded with respect to the corresponding subsection.

27. The foldable frame of claim 26, wherein the one or more connection sections comprise a first connection section connected to the first front or rear subsection and a second connection section connected to the second front or rear subsection.

28. (canceled)

29. The foldable frame of claim 26, wherein the respective connection section comprises:

one or more first connectors at the first side of the respective connection section to pivotally couple the respective connection section with the peripheral bar of the corresponding subsection; and

one or more second connectors at the second side of the respective connection section to detachably couple the respective connection section with the structure.

30. The foldable frame of claim 29, wherein each of the one or more first connectors is disposed at an interior side of the peripheral bar of the corresponding subsection when the foldable frame is folded.

31-39. (canceled)

40. A foldable structure comprising:

two or more foldable frames of claim 1 to be disposed side by side and removably connected to each other.

41-50. (canceled)