US20110148155A1 - Collapsible Infant Support - Google Patents
Collapsible Infant Support Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20110148155A1 US20110148155A1 US12/644,311 US64431109A US2011148155A1 US 20110148155 A1 US20110148155 A1 US 20110148155A1 US 64431109 A US64431109 A US 64431109A US 2011148155 A1 US2011148155 A1 US 2011148155A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- infant
- frame
- support
- hub
- coupled
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- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Images
Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47D—FURNITURE SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CHILDREN
- A47D9/00—Cradles ; Bassinets
- A47D9/005—Cradles ; Bassinets foldable
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47D—FURNITURE SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CHILDREN
- A47D13/00—Other nursery furniture
- A47D13/10—Rocking-chairs; Indoor Swings ; Baby bouncers
- A47D13/101—Foldable rocking chairs
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47D—FURNITURE SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CHILDREN
- A47D13/00—Other nursery furniture
- A47D13/10—Rocking-chairs; Indoor Swings ; Baby bouncers
- A47D13/102—Rocking-chairs; Indoor Swings ; Baby bouncers with curved rocking members resting on the ground
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47D—FURNITURE SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR CHILDREN
- A47D9/00—Cradles ; Bassinets
- A47D9/02—Cradles ; Bassinets with rocking mechanisms
- A47D9/053—Cradles ; Bassinets with rocking mechanisms with curved rocking member
Definitions
- the present invention relates to an infant support and, in particular, to a rocking infant support that folds from a deployed configuration to a collapsed configuration.
- infant support devices For example, infant mats or gyms are easily portable, and provide an infant with a comfortable, sanitary place to rest. While infant mats can be easily packed away into a car or a diaper bag, such supports cannot be rocked or otherwise manipulated to soothe and pacify the infant. Bassinets and cradles, furthermore, are typically not easy to collapse for storage or transport. Conventional bassinets are not capable of being rocked and, while sturdy, are often expensive, especially when considering that they are generally only used during the infant's first months. As a result, strollers are often used as makeshift cribs when traveling. While many strollers can be quickly collapsed and stored into a trunk or back seat, they are generally not recommended for use with very small infants as a portable crib or cradle because the seat portion does not offer adequate support for the infant's back and neck.
- an infant support that is easily portable, securely supports and infant, and takes advantage of the relaxing and sleep inducing effects produced by gentle rocking motion.
- the present invention is directed toward an infant support device including a frame and an infant seat.
- the frame includes a first frame member pivotally coupled to a second frame member via a hub assembly.
- the frame includes two hub assemblies.
- the footers of the frame members are curved to permit the rocking of the frame along a supporting surface.
- the seat includes angled wall portions that form an offset support. With this configuration, a child placed within the seat is safely supported on the seat and is oriented at a predetermined support angle.
- the infant support device may be selectively reconfigured from a deployed configuration to a folded/stowed configuration, and vice versa.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a front perspective view of a rockable infant support in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 2 illustrates a front perspective view of the infant support shown in FIG. 1 , with the seat removed for clarity.
- FIG. 3 illustrates a close-up view of stop members in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate views of a hub in accordance with and embodiment of the invention. Specifically, FIG. 4A illustrates a close-up perspective view of the forward hub, and FIG. 4B illustrates an exploded view of the forward hub.
- FIG. 5 illustrates a front view in plan of the frame shown in FIG. 2 .
- FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate the infant support oriented in its stowed configuration. Specifically, FIG. 6A illustrates the frame of FIG. 5 oriented in its stowed configuration, and FIG. 6B illustrates a side view in plan of the frame shown in FIG. 6A .
- FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate the seat in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Specifically, FIG. 7A illustrates a top view in plan, and FIG. 7B illustrates a side view in plan.
- FIG. 8A illustrates a top view of a seat brace in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 8B illustrates a top view of a seat brace in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 8C illustrates the seat brace of FIG. 8B secured within the seat of FIG. 7A .
- FIG. 9 illustrates a front perspective view of the device shown in FIG. 1 oriented in its stowed configuration.
- FIG. 10 illustrates a side perspective view of the infant support shown in FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 11 illustrates a close-up perspective view of a mounting component of the infant support shown in FIG. 10 .
- FIG. 12 illustrates another close-up perspective view of the mounting component shown in FIG. 11 .
- FIG. 13 illustrates an end view of the mounting component shown in FIG. 11 .
- FIG. 14 illustrates a side view of the mounting component shown in FIG. 11 and a portion of the seat of the infant support.
- FIG. 15 illustrates a close-up view of the mounting component and seat portion shown in FIG. 14 assembled.
- FIG. 16 illustrates a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a rockable infant support.
- FIG. 17 illustrates a side view of the infant support shown in FIG. 16 .
- FIG. 18 illustrates a bottom perspective view of components of the infant support shown in FIG. 16 and viewed from one side.
- FIG. 19 illustrates another bottom perspective view of the components of the infant support shown in FIG. 18 and viewed from another side.
- support is used to refer to any frame or support that is configured to provide support for an object.
- infant support is used to refer to any frame or support that can be used to support an infant in a stationary manner or in a moving manner.
- Some exemplary infant support structures are swings, bassinets, playards, cribs, jumping devices, bouncers, high chairs, rockers, hammocks, etc.
- child and “infant” may be used interchangeably herein.
- the terms “trunk” and “torso” may be used interchangeably herein.
- the infant support 100 includes a frame assembly 110 that supports an infant seat assembly or receptacle 120 (also called an infant support portion) above a supporting surface.
- the frame assembly 110 includes mounting components to couple softgoods to the frame assembly 110 , as described in greater detail below. In FIG. 1 , only mounting components 1010 and 1020 are shown.
- the frame assembly 110 includes a first frame member 210 and a second frame member 215 .
- the first frame member 210 defines a generally rectangular structure including a rear lateral bar 220 A oriented in spaced, generally parallel relation from a forward lateral bar 225 A.
- an upper crossbar or header 230 A is oriented in spaced, generally parallel relation from a lower crossbar or footer 235 A.
- the header 230 A extends between the lateral bars 220 A, 225 A proximate their upper terminal ends, while the footer 235 A extends between the lateral bars 220 A, 225 A proximate their lower terminal ends.
- the header 230 A has opposite ends or end portions 230 C and 230 D that have the same length and extend the same distance from the main portion of the header 230 A.
- the second frame member 215 possesses a similar structure, having a rear lateral bar 220 B oriented in spaced, generally parallel relation from a forward lateral bar 225 B, as well as an upper crossbar or header 230 B, is oriented in spaced, generally parallel relation from a lower crossbar or footer 235 B.
- the header 230 B extends between the lateral bars 220 B, 225 B proximate their upper terminal ends, while the footer 235 B extends between the lateral bars proximate their lower terminal ends.
- the header 230 B has opposite ends or end portions 230 E and 230 F that have the same length and extend the same distance from the main portion of the header 230 B.
- the lengths of the end portions of the headers can vary.
- the headers 230 A, 230 B support the infant seat 120 (discussed in greater detail below).
- the footers 235 A, 235 B contact a supporting surface, such as the floor.
- the headers 230 A, 230 B and/or the footers 235 A, 235 B may possess a generally arcuate shape having a predetermined radius of curvature.
- the footers 235 A, 235 B possess an arcuate shape that defines a curved surface along which the frame assembly 110 may be rocked. With this configuration, the frame assembly 110 rocks longitudinally (front to back along an axis defined by the hubs, also discussed in greater detail below), providing a soothing effect to an infant supported by the seat.
- the shape and dimensions of the frame members 210 , 215 of the frame assembly 110 may be any suitable for their described purpose.
- the first frame member 210 possesses a height (measured between the header and footer) and width (measured between lateral bars) substantially equal to that of the second frame member 215 .
- the components of frame member 210 are coupled together using swaged or tapered ends and spring-loaded buttons, such as valco buttons.
- the ends or end portions 230 C and 230 D of header 230 A are swaged so that they are insertable into the upper ends of lateral bars 220 A and 225 A.
- the ends of footer 235 A are swaged so that they are insertable into the lower ends of lateral bars 220 A and 225 A.
- Valco buttons or tabs are inserted into the ends of the lateral bars 220 A and 225 A and include projections (such as projections 231 and 233 in FIG. 2 ) that extend through openings in the lateral bars 220 A and 225 A and the corresponding header 230 A or footer 235 A to couple the particular components together.
- the components of frame member 215 are configured and assembled in the same manner.
- the frame assembly 110 may further include one or more stop members 240 placed at predetermined locations along the frame members 210 , 215 .
- the first frame member 210 includes two stop members 240 , each being positioned proximate the longitudinal ends of its associated footer 235 A and generally aligned with a corresponding lateral bar 220 A or 225 A.
- the second frame member 215 includes two stop members 240 , each being positioned proximate the longitudinal ends of its footer 235 B and generally aligned with a corresponding lateral bar 220 B or 225 B.
- FIG. 3 is close-up view of a stop member 240 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- the stop member 240 includes a top surface 310 and a bottom surface 320 .
- the top surface 310 is generally contoured to the corner curvature of its associated frame member 210 , 215 .
- the bottom surface 320 may be generally planar; consequently, the stop member 240 possesses a generally inclined structure having an interior end 330 with a height that is less than the height of an exterior end 340 .
- the bottom surface 320 contacts the supporting surface as the infant support 100 is rocked/rotated thereon, preventing over rotation of the frame assembly 110 in the forward or rearward direction.
- the frame members 210 , 215 are coupled to each other via a hub assembly.
- the infant support device 100 includes a first or forward hub assembly 250 and a second or rearward hub assembly 255 .
- the forward hub 250 may be generally coaxial with the rearward hub 255 along a substantially horizontal axis.
- the forward hub 250 may be vertically offset from the rearward hub 255 .
- the hub assemblies 250 , 255 secure the frame members 210 , 215 such that the frame members intersect.
- the hub assemblies 250 , 255 are coupled to the frame members 210 , 215 in such a way that the substantially similarly configured frame members 210 , 215 can collapse proximate to each other.
- hub assembly 250 retains lateral bar 225 A outside of lateral bar 225 B and hub assembly 255 retains lateral bar 220 A outside of lateral bar 220 B.
- This offset configuration allows the frame members 210 , 215 to be collapsed in a reduced profile and provides overlapping frame portions for the support structure for the device 100 .
- FIGS. 4A and 4B show the structure of the forward hub 250 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- the forward hub 250 includes a first or exterior subassembly 405 and a second or interior subassembly 410 .
- the exterior subassembly 405 includes an exterior or annular cap 415 that cooperates with a first or outer housing 420 to capture the forward lateral bar 225 A of the first frame member 210 .
- the second subassembly 410 further includes a second or inner housing 425 that cooperates with an interior or closed cap 430 to capture the forward lateral bar 225 B of the second frame member 215 .
- the forward lateral bars 225 A, 225 B are disposed in spaced relation along substantially parallel planes. These substantially parallel planes are vertically oriented.
- the rearward hub 255 includes a structure similar to that of the forward hub 250 , orienting the rearward lateral bars 220 A, 220 B in parallel, spaced relation.
- the hubs 250 , 255 may position the frame members 210 , 215 such that the frame members are longitudinally offset (seen in FIG. 6B ) with respect to each other. That is, the rearward lateral bar 220 A of the first frame member 210 is captured within the interior subassembly 410 of the rearward hub 255 , while the forward lateral bar 225 A of the first frame member 210 is captured within the exterior subassembly 405 of the forward hub 250 .
- the rearward lateral bar 220 B of the second frame member 215 is captured within the exterior subassembly 405 of the rearward hub 255
- the forward lateral bar 225 B of the second frame member 215 is captured within the interior subassembly 410 of the forward hub 250 .
- the first subassembly 405 may be rotatably coupled to the second subassembly 410 (or vice versa) to permit the rotation of each frame member 210 , 215 with respect to each other. Specifically, the first subassembly 405 rotates about the hub axis such that it can be rotationally displaced with respect to the second subassembly 410 (or vice versa). As a result, the frame members 210 , 215 may be pivoted to reorient the infant support 100 from a deployed or expanded configuration to a collapsed or stowed configuration.
- one or both of the hubs 250 , 255 may further include a lock mechanism that selectively secures the subassemblies 405 , 410 with respect to each other, preventing their rotation and securing the frame members 210 , 215 in a predetermined orientation.
- a lock mechanism that selectively secures the subassemblies 405 , 410 with respect to each other, preventing their rotation and securing the frame members 210 , 215 in a predetermined orientation.
- FIG. 4B the components of an embodiment of the hub assembly 250 is illustrated.
- Hub assembly 255 has similar components to hub assembly 250 .
- the hub assembly 250 includes an axially displaceable gear 440 and a biasing member 445 (e.g., a spring) captured between the exterior housing 420 and the interior housing 425 .
- the exterior housing 420 is internally keyed such that it accepts the gear in predetermined rotational positions.
- the gear 440 (which is generally coaxial with the hub 250 ) may include a plurality of slots angularly spaced along the gear.
- the exterior housing 420 moreover, may include a plurality of angularly spaced teeth or ribs extending from the interior surface of the housing.
- the slots of the gear 440 are configured to receive the ribs of the exterior housing 420 when aligned therewith. With this configuration, when the gear 440 is oriented in a predetermined rotational position, the slots and ribs align, resulting in the meshed engagement of the gear 440 and the exterior housing 420 .
- the interior space of the interior housing 425 permits the rotation of the gear 440 when the gear 440 is positioned therein.
- rotation between the subassemblies 405 , 410 is permitted.
- the biasing member 445 biases the gear 440 into engagement with the exterior housing 420 .
- the annular cap 415 includes a depressible actuator 435 operable to axially displace the gear from its normal, engaged position (meshed with exterior housing 420 ), to its disengaged position (i.e., positioned within interior housing 425 ).
- engaging the actuator 435 displaces the gear 440 from the exterior housing 420 and into the interior housing 425 .
- This releases the first subassembly 405 , permitting its rotation about the hub axis with respect to the second subassembly 410 .
- the biasing member 445 drives the gear back into engagement with the exterior housing, rotationally locking the subassemblies 405 , 410 .
- the interior cap 430 includes an edge 431 that defines a notch 433 that receives forward lateral bar 225 B.
- the interior housing 425 includes an edge 427 that defines a notch 429 that receives forward lateral bar 225 B.
- the forward lateral bar 225 B is captured between the interior cap 430 and the interior housing 425 .
- the annular cap 415 has an edge 417 that defines a notch 419 that receives forward lateral bar 225 A
- the exterior housing 420 has an edge 421 that defines a notch 423 that receives forward lateral bar 225 A.
- the forward lateral bar 225 A is captured between the annular cap 415 and the exterior housing 420 .
- the frame assembly 110 may be selectively rotated between a deployed configuration to a stowed configuration.
- the subassemblies 405 , 410 position the upper portions of the frame members 210 , 215 (i.e., the portions above the hub assemblies 250 and 255 ) at a predetermined deployment angle A with respect to each other (e.g., 45°).
- Engaging or depressing the actuator 435 disengages the lock to release the subassemblies 405 , 410 of the hubs assemblies 250 , 255 , permitting the rotation of the first frame member 210 and/or the second frame member 215 .
- FIGS. 6A and 6B which are end and side views, the frame members 210 , 215 are placed proximate to each other in this collapsed or stowed configuration.
- the seat or seat assembly 120 receives and supports an infant therein.
- the seat 120 may possess a generally elongated shape formed to hold an infant when the infant support 100 is in its deployed configuration.
- the seat 120 is suspended from the frame assembly 110 .
- the seat 120 is supported by the headers 230 A, 230 B of the frame members 210 and 215 , respectively, such that the longitudinal axis of the seat 120 is oriented substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the frame assembly 110 . That is, the longitudinal axis of seat 120 is oriented generally parallel to the rocking axis so that a child positioned in the receptacle and facing forward will rock from front-to-back in the manner of a rocking chair.
- the seat 120 includes a first longitudinal or side wall 710 and a second longitudinal or side wall 715 opposite to the first side wall 710 .
- the first side wall 710 is coupled to the header 230 A of first frame member 210 and the second side wall 715 is coupled to the header 230 B of the second frame member 215 .
- the side walls 710 , 715 are coupled to a bottom wall or body 720 .
- the first side wall 710 extends distally (downward) from the header 230 A of the first frame member 210 and connects to the first longitudinal edge 725 of the bottom wall 720 (e.g., via stitching).
- the second side wall 715 extends distally from the header 230 B of the second frame member 215 and connects to second longitudinal edge 730 of the bottom wall 720 .
- Each of the side walls 710 and 715 may include some mesh material.
- the bottom wall 720 is defined by a first or forward transverse end 735 and an opposed second or rearward transverse end 740 , each extending between longitudinal edges 725 , 730 .
- the bottom wall 720 is formed by a first or trunk portion or torso portion 745 operable to support the trunk or torso of an infant and a second or foot portion 750 operable to support the legs and/or feet of the infant.
- the seat 120 is contoured to suspend an infant in a predetermined orientation.
- the seat 120 possesses an L-shaped sling structure (when viewed from the side), with the trunk or torso portion 745 being oriented at an acute angle with respect to the foot portion 750 .
- the angle between the trunk or torso portion 745 and the foot portion 750 can vary.
- the bottom wall 720 of the seat 120 slopes downward (away from the headers 230 A, 230 B) as it extends longitudinally along the frame assembly 110 (from back to front).
- the trunk portion 745 of the bottom wall 720 slopes downward a predetermined distance h 1 to a lowermost point 755 .
- the trunk portion 745 may possess an incline of approximately 25°-35° (e.g., about 30°).
- the foot portion 750 of the bottom wall 720 slopes upward (toward the headers 230 A, 230 B) a predetermined distance h 2 from point 755 such that the first/forward transverse end 735 of the bottom wall 720 is located at approximately the same height as the second/rearward transverse end 740 of the bottom wall.
- This trunk portion 745 possesses a length (longitudinal dimension) that is greater than the length (longitudinal dimension) of the foot portion 750 .
- the bottom wall 720 possesses a lowermost point 755 that is longitudinally offset along the seat. That is, the lowermost point 755 is located closer to the first/forward transverse end 735 (and, as such, the forward hub 250 ) than to the second/rearward transverse end 740 .
- This difference in length provides greater support area for the trunk or torso of an infant and less for the legs of the infant, which often may be folded while resting or sleeping.
- the device 100 includes fabric portions 960 and 970 that are coupled to the frame members 210 and 215 .
- Fabric portion 960 has two sleeve portions that are configured to receive lateral bars 225 A and 225 B. The fabric portion 960 covers the area between lateral bars 225 A and 225 B when the frame assembly 110 is in its deployed configuration, thereby preventing the insertion of any object or body part in the area and reducing the likelihood of an pinching or capturing of such an object or body part.
- fabric portion 970 has two sleeve portions that are configured to receive lateral bars 220 A and 220 B. The fabric portion 970 covers the area between lateral bars 220 A and 220 B when the frame assembly 110 is in its deployed configuration.
- the seat 120 may be configured to collapse or fold when the frame assembly is reconfigured from its deployed/open configuration ( FIG. 1 ) to its collapsed/stowed configuration. In a preferred embodiment, this is accomplished by forming the walls 710 , 715 , 720 of the seat 120 individually or collectively out of flexible/pliable softgoods material (e.g., natural or synthetic fabrics).
- the seat 120 may be formed of fabric and/or mesh sheets, with the side walls 710 , 715 folded around the headers 230 A, 230 B and secured releasably thereto by releasable fasteners (e.g., snap fasteners) or secured permanently thereto (e.g., via sewing). With this configuration, the seat 120 is suspended from the headers 230 A, 230 B, providing a hammock or sling effect.
- the seat 120 may further include a substantially rigid or resilient support brace or insert member configured to provide support for an infant and/or to maintain the side walls 710 , 715 in spaced relation when an infant is positioned on the seat 120 .
- the support brace 800 may possess any shape and dimensions suitable for its described purpose (e.g., to maintain the orientation and position of an infant placed in the seat 120 ).
- the support brace 800 may possess a generally oval or elliptical shape, and may be generally contoured to the slope of the back wall portion 745 of the bottom wall 720 .
- the brace 800 may possess a width substantially equal to that of the back wall portion 745 .
- the transverse dimension of the support brace may be substantially equal to the transverse dimension of the trunk portion 745 of the bottom wall 720 (measured between longitudinal edges 725 , 730 ).
- the longitudinal dimension of the brace 800 may be substantially equal to the longitudinal dimension of the back wall 745 , extending from second/rearward transverse edge 740 to the lowermost point 755 .
- the brace 800 may be in the form of a band having an exterior edge 810 and an interior edge 820 that defines a central opening 830 .
- the band functions as a frame for the trunk portion 745 of the bottom wall 720 , with the infant being positioned within the opening 830 .
- the brace 800 may have a curved configuration when viewed from the side. In another embodiment, the brace 800 may be substantially planar.
- the brace 800 may be in the form of a generally continuous, contoured planar member including a central panel 850 in communication with upward-sloping (curved) side walls 860 A, 860 B running longitudinally along the panel, and an upward-sloping transverse bottom wall 870 running along the forward transverse end of the panel.
- the central panel 850 may include one or more apertures 880 configured to provide airflow with the apertures 880 being located beneath the trunk or torso of the infant. With this configuration, the brace 800 provides a contoured, rigid support for an infant placed within the seat 120 .
- the support brace 800 may be affixed to the seat 120 via an internal receptacle formed into the bottom wall 720 by multiple pieces of fabric.
- the trunk portion 745 of the bottom wall 720 may define a pocket or sleeve that receives the support brace 800 . That is, the trunk portion 745 may include a first fabric member and a second fabric member connected to the first fabric member so as to define a cavity therebetween.
- the cavity possesses dimensions sufficient to receive the support brace 800 (e.g., the cavity may possess dimensions slightly larger than the dimensions of the support brace). Referring to FIG. 8C , the support brace 800 is illustrated in position within the seat 120 .
- the support brace 800 may be permanently secured within the receptacle.
- the receptacle may be sewn closed to retain the support brace 800 therein.
- the support brace 800 may be coupled directly to the fabric by stitching or some other mechanism or technique.
- the support brace 800 may releasably secured within the receptacle to permit its selective insertion into and removal from the seat 120 .
- the trunk portion 745 of the bottom wall 720 may include an opening selectively secured by snaps, buttons, and/or a zipper.
- the foot portion 750 of the bottom wall 720 preferably does not include a support brace 800 . It should be understood, however, that the foot portion 750 may be provided with a brace having a structure similar to the support brace described above.
- an infant is placed within the seat such that the back of the infant rests against (is supported by) the trunk portion 745 of the bottom wall 720 and the feet are oriented within foot portion 750 of the bottom wall. In this orientation, the infant is in a seated, but reclined position, facing the forward hub 250 . Placing the infant face down, or placing the trunk of the infant within the foot portion of the bottom wall is not preferred, since injury to the infant may result.
- the infant support 100 begins in its deployed configuration ( FIG. 1 ).
- the actuator 435 of each hub assembly 250 , 255 is engaged, releasing the subassemblies 405 , 410 of the hub assemblies 250 , 255 and permitting relative rotation of the frame members 210 , 215 as described above.
- the headers 230 A, 230 B are rotated inward until the frame members 210 , 215 are oriented in their stowed configuration (e.g., when the headers 230 A, 230 B are oriented generally parallel to each other).
- the lock mechanism is engaged, securing the frame members 210 , 215 in their stowed position as described above.
- the brace 800 may be formed from resilient or substantially rigid materials.
- the brace may be formed from plastic.
- the brace 800 moreover, may possess a unitary (continuous/one-piece) structure or may be formed from multiple pieces connected together.
- the seat 120 may include a strap assembly (as illustrated) and other restraint mechanisms to secure the infant within the seat.
- the strap assembly 1100 may include strap portions 1110 , 1112 , 1114 , and 1116 that are coupled together using buckles 1120 and 1122 and a main strap portion 1130 with a coupling portion 1132 .
- the strap portions 1110 , 1112 , 1114 , 1116 and 1130 may be inserted through openings in the softgoods or coupled to the upper surface of the softgoods such as by sewing or stitching or other coupling method or technique. In an alternative embodiment, only two strap portions are used with the seat 120 .
- the mounting or coupling of a softgoods portion to the frame assembly 110 of device 100 is illustrated.
- the softgoods may be used to provide an additional layer of support for the infant.
- a softgoods or padded portion 900 is removably coupled to the frame assembly 110 .
- the softgoods 900 can be easily removed from the frame assembly 110 and washed and cleaned.
- the softgoods 900 has several coupling portions 910 , 920 , 930 , and 940 that are located at spaced apart positions around the softgoods 900 .
- Each of the coupling portions 910 , 920 , 930 , and 940 is similarly configured and therefore the following description relating to coupling portion 910 applies to the other coupling portions 920 , 930 , and 940 .
- Coupling portion 910 includes an edge 912 formed in the body 902 of the softgoods 900 .
- the edge 912 defines and opening 914 that extends through the body 902 .
- a binding or layer of fabric 916 (see FIG. 15 ) is sewn around the edge 912 to prevent the edge 912 from unraveling.
- the softgoods 900 includes coupling portions 920 , 930 , and 940 that are similarly configured with openings 924 , 934 , and 944 , respectively.
- the frame assembly 110 includes a mounting assembly 1000 that includes several mounting components 1010 , 1020 , 1030 , and 1040 (shown throughout FIGS. 10-15 ).
- the mounting components 1010 , 1020 , 1030 , and 1040 are located on the headers 230 A, 230 B in locations that correspond to the coupling portions 910 , 920 , 930 , and 940 of the softgoods 900 .
- mounting components 1010 , 1020 , 1030 , and 1040 are aligned with coupling portions 910 , 920 , 930 , and 940 , respectively.
- the seat 120 includes a fabric portion 948 that is coupled to the headers 230 A, 230 B.
- a sleeve 950 that defines a channel 952 and is coupled to the fabric portion 948 at end 954 .
- the sleeve 950 is configured to be slid onto one of the headers 230 A, 230 B.
- the mounting component 1010 is positioned proximate to the sleeve 950 and then coupled to the header 230 A using a connector.
- the other mounting components 1020 , 1030 , and 1040 are similarly coupled to the corresponding headers 230 A, 230 B via connectors.
- mounting component 1010 is molded plastic and has a body portion 1050 with ends 1052 and 1054 and sides 1053 and 1055 .
- the body portion 1050 has a curved configuration that matches the configuration of the portion of the frame to which the mounting portion 1010 is coupled.
- integralally formed with the body portion 1050 are projections 1060 and 1062 .
- the projections 1060 and 1062 have ends 1064 and 1066 , respectively, and extend in opposite directions from each other.
- the projections 1060 and 1062 can extend from the sides 1053 and 1055 of the body portion 1050 instead of the ends 1052 and 1054 .
- the body portion 1050 includes a boss 1056 defining an opening 1058 through which a connector 1059 (such as a screw) is inserted to couple the mounting component 1050 to the frame assembly 110 .
- the body portion 1050 has an inner surface 1070 that defines a receptacle 1072 and is placed in contact with the header 230 A or fabric (such as sleeve 950 ) mounted on the header 230 A.
- the body portion 1050 also has an outer surface 1074 that can be engaged by a portion of the softgoods 900 .
- the projections 1060 and 1062 define areas or regions 1067 and 1068 , respectively.
- the length of the opening 914 (distance “d 2 ”) is less than the length of the mounting component 1010 as measured from the ends 1064 and 1066 of the projections 1060 and 1062 (distance “d 1 ”).
- the opening 914 is manipulated so that the projections 1060 and 1062 extend therethrough and the edge 912 is located beneath the projections 1060 and 1062 and in areas 1067 and 1068 .
- the projections 1082 and 1084 extending from a body portion 1080 of mounting component 1020 extend over the binding 916 , thereby coupling the softgoods 900 to the mounting component 1020 and the frame assembly 110 .
- the mounting assembly 1000 facilitates the coupling and decoupling of the softgoods 900 from the frame assembly 110 .
- the quantity of mounting components used with a particular frame can vary. For example, in one embodiment, only one mounting component may be included on each side of a frame. In another embodiment, the mounting components may be spaced relatively equally about a substantially circular frame. In another embodiment, each mounting component may include three or four projections extending from a body portion.
- the mounting assembly including mounting components can be used to couple or mount a softgoods or fabric portion to a frame having any shape or configuration and used for any type of infant support structure.
- the device or structure 1200 includes a frame assembly 1210 that includes an infant seat assembly or receptacle 1220 with a head stop or padded portion 1222 that can provide additional support and/or cushioning for an infant.
- the frame assembly 1210 includes a first frame member 1230 and a second frame member 1235 .
- the frame members 1230 , 1235 are coupled together via hubs or hub assemblies 1260 and 1270 which facilitate the movement or pivoting of the frame members 1230 , 1235 relative to each other, thereby allowing the frame assembly 1210 to be deployed or collapsed.
- the frame members 1230 , 1235 are substantially similar to frame members 210 , 215 described above with the exception of the upper crossbars or headers 1240 and 1250 .
- headers 230 A and 230 B of frame assembly 110 have end portions 230 C, 230 D and 230 E, 230 F, respectively, that have the same length.
- the header 1240 has end portions 1242 and 1244 that have different lengths.
- header 1250 has end portions 1252 and 1254 that have different lengths.
- the lengths of end portions 1242 and 1252 are the same or substantially the same and the lengths of end portions 1244 and 1254 are the same or substantially the same.
- the longer end portions 1244 and 1254 result in the upper rear corners 1243 and 1253 of the headers 1240 and 1250 being a greater distance from the hub assembly 1270 than the upper front corners 1241 and 1251 of the headers 1240 and 1250 are spaced from the hub assembly 1260 .
- the upper front corners 1241 and 1251 are spaced at a distance “d 5 ” from hub assembly 1260 and upper rear corners 1243 and 1253 are spaced at a distance “d 6 ” from hub assembly 1270 .
- Distance “d 6 ” is greater than distance “d 5 ” and the frame assembly 1210 has a tapered or sloped configuration from the rear 1211 of the frame assembly 1210 to the front 1213 of the frame assembly 1210 .
- This sloped configuration results in the rear 1211 being higher than the front 1213 relative to a support surface, and the seat portion 1220 having a higher upper end which provides additional support length for an infant and increases the angle of inclination of the trunk or torso portion of the seat portion 1220 to position an infant in a more upright orientation.
- the seat portion 1220 may be substantially similar to the infant seat 120 as described above, and with the addition of the padded portion 1222 . Accordingly, receptacle 1220 is suspended from the headers 1240 and 1250 , providing a hammock or sling effect.
- the mounting or coupling of a softgoods portion to the frame assembly 1210 may be similar to that described above and shown in FIG. 15 . The softgoods may be used to provide an additional layer of support for the infant.
- a softgoods or padded portion 1900 is removably coupled to the frame assembly 1210 .
- the softgoods 1900 can be easily removed from the frame assembly 1210 and washed and cleaned.
- the softgoods 1900 includes several coupling portions 1910 , 1920 , 1930 , and 1940 that are located at spaced apart positions around the softgoods 1900 .
- the coupling portions 1920 and 1930 may be substantially the same as coupling portions 920 and 930
- the coupling portions 1910 and 1940 may be configured as another type of fastener member.
- coupling portions 1910 and 1940 may be configured as side release buckle components, cam or spring buckles, snaps, hook and loop fastener material, or some other fastening mechanism.
- the frame assembly 1210 includes a mounting assembly that includes mounting components located on headers 1240 and 1250 in locations that correspond to the coupling portions 1920 and 1930 .
- headers 1240 and 1250 may include mounting components 1280 , 1285 , respectively, as shown in FIGS. 16 , 18 and 19 .
- Each of mounting components 1280 , 1285 has a configuration substantially similar to the mounting component 1010 , as described above. Accordingly, coupling portions 1930 , 1920 may be aligned with and releasably attached to mounting components 1280 , 1285 , respectively.
- the seat portion 1220 may include mounting components that align with the coupling portions 1910 and 1940 .
- mounting components 1290 , 1295 may extend outwardly from an underside 1220 a and are aligned with coupling portions 1910 , 1940 when softgoods 1900 is disposed on the seat portion 1220 , as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19 .
- the mounting components 1290 , 1295 may be configured as corresponding side release buckle components connected to the seat portion 1220 via webbing, or webbing releasably securable to cam or spring buckles, or associated hook and loop fastener material, or the like.
- the mounting assembly facilitates the coupling and decoupling of the softgoods 1900 from the frame assembly 1210 .
- the quantity of coupling portions and associated mounting components used with a particular frame can vary.
- all mounting components may be identically configured, or have different configurations.
- the mounting assembly including mounting components can be used to couple or mount a softgoods or fabric portion to a frame having any shape or configuration and used for any type of infant support structure.
- the lengths of the lateral bars at one end of the frame assembly can be longer than the lateral bars at the other end of the frame assembly (such as the front end). This difference in length would enable the end portions of the headers to have the same length, but the upper corners of the headers at the rear of the frame assembly can be spaced further from the rear hub assembly than the front hub assembly, thereby giving the headers and the frame assembly a sloped or tapered configuration from rear to front.
- each hub 250 , 255 may include a locking mechanism configured to selectively lock the subassemblies. Alternatively, only one hub 250 , 255 may include the locking mechanism.
- the locking mechanism may be keyed to lock the hubs 250 , 255 in only the deployed and stowed configurations. Alternatively, the locking mechanism may be keyed to permit locking of the hubs at orientations falling in between the deployed and stowed configurations. Other mechanisms providing for the rotation and locking of the frames may be utilized.
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- Seats For Vehicles (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates to an infant support and, in particular, to a rocking infant support that folds from a deployed configuration to a collapsed configuration.
- Parents have available to them a myriad of infant support devices. For example, infant mats or gyms are easily portable, and provide an infant with a comfortable, sanitary place to rest. While infant mats can be easily packed away into a car or a diaper bag, such supports cannot be rocked or otherwise manipulated to soothe and pacify the infant. Bassinets and cradles, furthermore, are typically not easy to collapse for storage or transport. Conventional bassinets are not capable of being rocked and, while sturdy, are often expensive, especially when considering that they are generally only used during the infant's first months. As a result, strollers are often used as makeshift cribs when traveling. While many strollers can be quickly collapsed and stored into a trunk or back seat, they are generally not recommended for use with very small infants as a portable crib or cradle because the seat portion does not offer adequate support for the infant's back and neck.
- Thus, it would be desirable to provide an infant support that is easily portable, securely supports and infant, and takes advantage of the relaxing and sleep inducing effects produced by gentle rocking motion.
- The present invention is directed toward an infant support device including a frame and an infant seat. The frame includes a first frame member pivotally coupled to a second frame member via a hub assembly. In one embodiment, the frame includes two hub assemblies. The footers of the frame members are curved to permit the rocking of the frame along a supporting surface. The seat includes angled wall portions that form an offset support. With this configuration, a child placed within the seat is safely supported on the seat and is oriented at a predetermined support angle. The infant support device may be selectively reconfigured from a deployed configuration to a folded/stowed configuration, and vice versa.
-
FIG. 1 illustrates a front perspective view of a rockable infant support in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 2 illustrates a front perspective view of the infant support shown inFIG. 1 , with the seat removed for clarity. -
FIG. 3 illustrates a close-up view of stop members in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate views of a hub in accordance with and embodiment of the invention. Specifically,FIG. 4A illustrates a close-up perspective view of the forward hub, andFIG. 4B illustrates an exploded view of the forward hub. -
FIG. 5 illustrates a front view in plan of the frame shown inFIG. 2 . -
FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate the infant support oriented in its stowed configuration. Specifically,FIG. 6A illustrates the frame ofFIG. 5 oriented in its stowed configuration, andFIG. 6B illustrates a side view in plan of the frame shown inFIG. 6A . -
FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate the seat in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Specifically,FIG. 7A illustrates a top view in plan, andFIG. 7B illustrates a side view in plan. -
FIG. 8A illustrates a top view of a seat brace in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 8B illustrates a top view of a seat brace in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. -
FIG. 8C illustrates the seat brace ofFIG. 8B secured within the seat ofFIG. 7A . -
FIG. 9 illustrates a front perspective view of the device shown inFIG. 1 oriented in its stowed configuration. -
FIG. 10 illustrates a side perspective view of the infant support shown inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 11 illustrates a close-up perspective view of a mounting component of the infant support shown inFIG. 10 . -
FIG. 12 illustrates another close-up perspective view of the mounting component shown inFIG. 11 . -
FIG. 13 illustrates an end view of the mounting component shown inFIG. 11 . -
FIG. 14 illustrates a side view of the mounting component shown inFIG. 11 and a portion of the seat of the infant support. -
FIG. 15 illustrates a close-up view of the mounting component and seat portion shown inFIG. 14 assembled. -
FIG. 16 illustrates a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a rockable infant support. -
FIG. 17 illustrates a side view of the infant support shown inFIG. 16 . -
FIG. 18 illustrates a bottom perspective view of components of the infant support shown inFIG. 16 and viewed from one side. -
FIG. 19 illustrates another bottom perspective view of the components of the infant support shown inFIG. 18 and viewed from another side. - Like reference numerals have been used to identify like elements throughout this disclosure.
- The terms “support,” “support device,” and “support structure” are used to refer to any frame or support that is configured to provide support for an object. The terms “infant support,” “infant support device,” and “infant support structure” are used to refer to any frame or support that can be used to support an infant in a stationary manner or in a moving manner. Some exemplary infant support structures are swings, bassinets, playards, cribs, jumping devices, bouncers, high chairs, rockers, hammocks, etc. The terms “child” and “infant” may be used interchangeably herein. The terms “trunk” and “torso” may be used interchangeably herein.
- Referring to
FIG. 1 , theinfant support 100 according to the present invention includes aframe assembly 110 that supports an infant seat assembly or receptacle 120 (also called an infant support portion) above a supporting surface. Theframe assembly 110 includes mounting components to couple softgoods to theframe assembly 110, as described in greater detail below. InFIG. 1 , only mountingcomponents - As shown in
FIG. 2 , theframe assembly 110 includes afirst frame member 210 and asecond frame member 215. Thefirst frame member 210 defines a generally rectangular structure including a rearlateral bar 220A oriented in spaced, generally parallel relation from a forwardlateral bar 225A. Similarly, an upper crossbar orheader 230A is oriented in spaced, generally parallel relation from a lower crossbar orfooter 235A. Specifically, theheader 230A extends between thelateral bars footer 235A extends between thelateral bars header 230A has opposite ends or endportions header 230A. - The
second frame member 215 possesses a similar structure, having a rearlateral bar 220B oriented in spaced, generally parallel relation from a forwardlateral bar 225B, as well as an upper crossbar orheader 230B, is oriented in spaced, generally parallel relation from a lower crossbar orfooter 235B. Specifically, theheader 230B extends between thelateral bars footer 235B extends between the lateral bars proximate their lower terminal ends. In this embodiment, theheader 230B has opposite ends orend portions header 230B. As described below, in different embodiments, the lengths of the end portions of the headers can vary. - The
headers footers headers footers footers frame assembly 110 may be rocked. With this configuration, theframe assembly 110 rocks longitudinally (front to back along an axis defined by the hubs, also discussed in greater detail below), providing a soothing effect to an infant supported by the seat. - The shape and dimensions of the
frame members frame assembly 110 may be any suitable for their described purpose. In the embodiment ofFIG. 2 , thefirst frame member 210 possesses a height (measured between the header and footer) and width (measured between lateral bars) substantially equal to that of thesecond frame member 215. - Referring to
FIG. 2 , the components offrame member 210 are coupled together using swaged or tapered ends and spring-loaded buttons, such as valco buttons. In particular, the ends or endportions header 230A are swaged so that they are insertable into the upper ends oflateral bars footer 235A are swaged so that they are insertable into the lower ends oflateral bars lateral bars projections FIG. 2 ) that extend through openings in thelateral bars corresponding header 230A orfooter 235A to couple the particular components together. Similarly, the components offrame member 215 are configured and assembled in the same manner. - The
frame assembly 110 may further include one ormore stop members 240 placed at predetermined locations along theframe members first frame member 210 includes twostop members 240, each being positioned proximate the longitudinal ends of its associatedfooter 235A and generally aligned with a correspondinglateral bar second frame member 215 includes twostop members 240, each being positioned proximate the longitudinal ends of itsfooter 235B and generally aligned with a correspondinglateral bar - The
stop members 240 are configured to selectively engage the supporting surface to prevent over rotation of theinfant support 100 while rocking longitudinally along the supporting surface.FIG. 3 is close-up view of astop member 240 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. As illustrated, thestop member 240 includes atop surface 310 and abottom surface 320. Thetop surface 310 is generally contoured to the corner curvature of its associatedframe member bottom surface 320, in contrast, may be generally planar; consequently, thestop member 240 possesses a generally inclined structure having aninterior end 330 with a height that is less than the height of anexterior end 340. In operation, thebottom surface 320 contacts the supporting surface as theinfant support 100 is rocked/rotated thereon, preventing over rotation of theframe assembly 110 in the forward or rearward direction. - The
frame members FIG. 2 , theinfant support device 100 includes a first orforward hub assembly 250 and a second orrearward hub assembly 255. In one embodiment, theforward hub 250 may be generally coaxial with therearward hub 255 along a substantially horizontal axis. In an alternative embodiment, theforward hub 250 may be vertically offset from therearward hub 255. Thehub assemblies frame members FIG. 2 , thehub assemblies frame members frame members hub assembly 250 retainslateral bar 225A outside oflateral bar 225B andhub assembly 255 retainslateral bar 220A outside oflateral bar 220B. This offset configuration allows theframe members device 100. -
FIGS. 4A and 4B show the structure of theforward hub 250 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Theforward hub 250 includes a first orexterior subassembly 405 and a second orinterior subassembly 410. Theexterior subassembly 405 includes an exterior orannular cap 415 that cooperates with a first orouter housing 420 to capture the forwardlateral bar 225A of thefirst frame member 210. Thesecond subassembly 410 further includes a second orinner housing 425 that cooperates with an interior orclosed cap 430 to capture the forwardlateral bar 225B of thesecond frame member 215. Thus, the forward lateral bars 225A, 225B are disposed in spaced relation along substantially parallel planes. These substantially parallel planes are vertically oriented. Therearward hub 255 includes a structure similar to that of theforward hub 250, orienting the rearwardlateral bars - As mentioned above, the
hubs frame members FIG. 6B ) with respect to each other. That is, the rearwardlateral bar 220A of thefirst frame member 210 is captured within theinterior subassembly 410 of therearward hub 255, while the forwardlateral bar 225A of thefirst frame member 210 is captured within theexterior subassembly 405 of theforward hub 250. Conversely, the rearwardlateral bar 220B of thesecond frame member 215 is captured within theexterior subassembly 405 of therearward hub 255, while the forwardlateral bar 225B of thesecond frame member 215 is captured within theinterior subassembly 410 of theforward hub 250. - The
first subassembly 405 may be rotatably coupled to the second subassembly 410 (or vice versa) to permit the rotation of eachframe member first subassembly 405 rotates about the hub axis such that it can be rotationally displaced with respect to the second subassembly 410 (or vice versa). As a result, theframe members infant support 100 from a deployed or expanded configuration to a collapsed or stowed configuration. - In addition, one or both of the
hubs subassemblies frame members FIG. 4B , the components of an embodiment of thehub assembly 250 is illustrated.Hub assembly 255 has similar components tohub assembly 250. - Referring to
FIG. 4B , thehub assembly 250 includes an axiallydisplaceable gear 440 and a biasing member 445 (e.g., a spring) captured between theexterior housing 420 and theinterior housing 425. Theexterior housing 420 is internally keyed such that it accepts the gear in predetermined rotational positions. By way of specific example, the gear 440 (which is generally coaxial with the hub 250) may include a plurality of slots angularly spaced along the gear. Theexterior housing 420, moreover, may include a plurality of angularly spaced teeth or ribs extending from the interior surface of the housing. The slots of thegear 440 are configured to receive the ribs of theexterior housing 420 when aligned therewith. With this configuration, when thegear 440 is oriented in a predetermined rotational position, the slots and ribs align, resulting in the meshed engagement of thegear 440 and theexterior housing 420. - The interior space of the
interior housing 425, in contrast, permits the rotation of thegear 440 when thegear 440 is positioned therein. Thus, when thegear 440 is oriented within theinterior housing 425, rotation between thesubassemblies - The biasing
member 445 biases thegear 440 into engagement with theexterior housing 420. Theannular cap 415 includes adepressible actuator 435 operable to axially displace the gear from its normal, engaged position (meshed with exterior housing 420), to its disengaged position (i.e., positioned within interior housing 425). In operation, engaging theactuator 435 displaces thegear 440 from theexterior housing 420 and into theinterior housing 425. This, in turn, releases thefirst subassembly 405, permitting its rotation about the hub axis with respect to thesecond subassembly 410. Once the ribs and slots align, the biasingmember 445 drives the gear back into engagement with the exterior housing, rotationally locking thesubassemblies - Referring to
FIG. 4B , theinterior cap 430 includes anedge 431 that defines anotch 433 that receives forwardlateral bar 225B. Theinterior housing 425 includes anedge 427 that defines anotch 429 that receives forwardlateral bar 225B. Thus, the forwardlateral bar 225B is captured between theinterior cap 430 and theinterior housing 425. Similarly, theannular cap 415 has anedge 417 that defines anotch 419 that receives forwardlateral bar 225A and theexterior housing 420 has anedge 421 that defines anotch 423 that receives forwardlateral bar 225A. Thus, the forwardlateral bar 225A is captured between theannular cap 415 and theexterior housing 420. - With the above-described configuration, the
frame assembly 110 may be selectively rotated between a deployed configuration to a stowed configuration. As illustrated inFIG. 5 , in the deployed configuration, thesubassemblies frame members 210, 215 (i.e., the portions above thehub assemblies 250 and 255) at a predetermined deployment angle A with respect to each other (e.g., 45°). Engaging or depressing theactuator 435 disengages the lock to release thesubassemblies hubs assemblies first frame member 210 and/or thesecond frame member 215. - Specifically, applying a force to the
headers first frame member 210 toward thesecond frame member 215. Theframe members FIGS. 6A and 6B . Referring toFIGS. 6A and 6B , which are end and side views, theframe members - The seat or
seat assembly 120 receives and supports an infant therein. Theseat 120 may possess a generally elongated shape formed to hold an infant when theinfant support 100 is in its deployed configuration. Theseat 120 is suspended from theframe assembly 110. Specifically, theseat 120 is supported by theheaders frame members seat 120 is oriented substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of theframe assembly 110. That is, the longitudinal axis ofseat 120 is oriented generally parallel to the rocking axis so that a child positioned in the receptacle and facing forward will rock from front-to-back in the manner of a rocking chair. - Referring to
FIG. 7A , theseat 120 includes a first longitudinal orside wall 710 and a second longitudinal orside wall 715 opposite to thefirst side wall 710. As illustrated, thefirst side wall 710 is coupled to theheader 230A offirst frame member 210 and thesecond side wall 715 is coupled to theheader 230B of thesecond frame member 215. Theside walls body 720. Specifically, thefirst side wall 710 extends distally (downward) from theheader 230A of thefirst frame member 210 and connects to the firstlongitudinal edge 725 of the bottom wall 720 (e.g., via stitching). Similarly thesecond side wall 715 extends distally from theheader 230B of thesecond frame member 215 and connects to secondlongitudinal edge 730 of thebottom wall 720. Each of theside walls - The
bottom wall 720 is defined by a first or forwardtransverse end 735 and an opposed second or rearwardtransverse end 740, each extending betweenlongitudinal edges bottom wall 720 is formed by a first or trunk portion ortorso portion 745 operable to support the trunk or torso of an infant and a second orfoot portion 750 operable to support the legs and/or feet of the infant. - The
seat 120 is contoured to suspend an infant in a predetermined orientation. In one embodiment, theseat 120 possesses an L-shaped sling structure (when viewed from the side), with the trunk ortorso portion 745 being oriented at an acute angle with respect to thefoot portion 750. In other embodiments, the angle between the trunk ortorso portion 745 and thefoot portion 750 can vary. - As shown in
FIG. 7B , thebottom wall 720 of theseat 120 slopes downward (away from theheaders trunk portion 745 of thebottom wall 720 slopes downward a predetermined distance h1 to alowermost point 755. By way of example, thetrunk portion 745 may possess an incline of approximately 25°-35° (e.g., about 30°). Thefoot portion 750 of thebottom wall 720 slopes upward (toward theheaders point 755 such that the first/forwardtransverse end 735 of thebottom wall 720 is located at approximately the same height as the second/rearwardtransverse end 740 of the bottom wall. - This
trunk portion 745 possesses a length (longitudinal dimension) that is greater than the length (longitudinal dimension) of thefoot portion 750. With this described configuration, thebottom wall 720 possesses alowermost point 755 that is longitudinally offset along the seat. That is, thelowermost point 755 is located closer to the first/forward transverse end 735 (and, as such, the forward hub 250) than to the second/rearwardtransverse end 740. This difference in length provides greater support area for the trunk or torso of an infant and less for the legs of the infant, which often may be folded while resting or sleeping. - Referring to
FIG. 7B , thedevice 100 includesfabric portions frame members Fabric portion 960 has two sleeve portions that are configured to receivelateral bars fabric portion 960 covers the area betweenlateral bars frame assembly 110 is in its deployed configuration, thereby preventing the insertion of any object or body part in the area and reducing the likelihood of an pinching or capturing of such an object or body part. Similarly,fabric portion 970 has two sleeve portions that are configured to receivelateral bars fabric portion 970 covers the area betweenlateral bars frame assembly 110 is in its deployed configuration. - The
seat 120 may be configured to collapse or fold when the frame assembly is reconfigured from its deployed/open configuration (FIG. 1 ) to its collapsed/stowed configuration. In a preferred embodiment, this is accomplished by forming thewalls seat 120 individually or collectively out of flexible/pliable softgoods material (e.g., natural or synthetic fabrics). By way of specific example, theseat 120 may be formed of fabric and/or mesh sheets, with theside walls headers seat 120 is suspended from theheaders - The
seat 120 may further include a substantially rigid or resilient support brace or insert member configured to provide support for an infant and/or to maintain theside walls seat 120. Thesupport brace 800 may possess any shape and dimensions suitable for its described purpose (e.g., to maintain the orientation and position of an infant placed in the seat 120). By way of example, thesupport brace 800 may possess a generally oval or elliptical shape, and may be generally contoured to the slope of theback wall portion 745 of thebottom wall 720. Thebrace 800 may possess a width substantially equal to that of theback wall portion 745. Stated another way, the transverse dimension of the support brace may be substantially equal to the transverse dimension of thetrunk portion 745 of the bottom wall 720 (measured betweenlongitudinal edges 725, 730). Similarly, the longitudinal dimension of thebrace 800 may be substantially equal to the longitudinal dimension of theback wall 745, extending from second/rearwardtransverse edge 740 to thelowermost point 755. - Referring to
FIG. 8A , thebrace 800 may be in the form of a band having anexterior edge 810 and aninterior edge 820 that defines acentral opening 830. The band functions as a frame for thetrunk portion 745 of thebottom wall 720, with the infant being positioned within theopening 830. In one embodiment, thebrace 800 may have a curved configuration when viewed from the side. In another embodiment, thebrace 800 may be substantially planar. - Referring to
FIG. 8B , thebrace 800 may be in the form of a generally continuous, contoured planar member including acentral panel 850 in communication with upward-sloping (curved)side walls bottom wall 870 running along the forward transverse end of the panel. Thecentral panel 850 may include one ormore apertures 880 configured to provide airflow with theapertures 880 being located beneath the trunk or torso of the infant. With this configuration, thebrace 800 provides a contoured, rigid support for an infant placed within theseat 120. - The
support brace 800 may be affixed to theseat 120 via an internal receptacle formed into thebottom wall 720 by multiple pieces of fabric. By way of example, thetrunk portion 745 of thebottom wall 720 may define a pocket or sleeve that receives thesupport brace 800. That is, thetrunk portion 745 may include a first fabric member and a second fabric member connected to the first fabric member so as to define a cavity therebetween. The cavity possesses dimensions sufficient to receive the support brace 800 (e.g., the cavity may possess dimensions slightly larger than the dimensions of the support brace). Referring toFIG. 8C , thesupport brace 800 is illustrated in position within theseat 120. - The
support brace 800 may be permanently secured within the receptacle. In one embodiment, the receptacle may be sewn closed to retain thesupport brace 800 therein. In another embodiment, thesupport brace 800 may be coupled directly to the fabric by stitching or some other mechanism or technique. Alternatively, thesupport brace 800 may releasably secured within the receptacle to permit its selective insertion into and removal from theseat 120. For example, thetrunk portion 745 of thebottom wall 720 may include an opening selectively secured by snaps, buttons, and/or a zipper. - The
foot portion 750 of thebottom wall 720 preferably does not include asupport brace 800. It should be understood, however, that thefoot portion 750 may be provided with a brace having a structure similar to the support brace described above. - In operation, an infant is placed within the seat such that the back of the infant rests against (is supported by) the
trunk portion 745 of thebottom wall 720 and the feet are oriented withinfoot portion 750 of the bottom wall. In this orientation, the infant is in a seated, but reclined position, facing theforward hub 250. Placing the infant face down, or placing the trunk of the infant within the foot portion of the bottom wall is not preferred, since injury to the infant may result. - The folding of the device is explained with reference to
FIGS. 1 and 9 . Initially, theinfant support 100 begins in its deployed configuration (FIG. 1 ). Theactuator 435 of eachhub assembly subassemblies hub assemblies frame members headers frame members headers frame members - The
brace 800 may be formed from resilient or substantially rigid materials. By way of example, the brace may be formed from plastic. Thebrace 800, moreover, may possess a unitary (continuous/one-piece) structure or may be formed from multiple pieces connected together. - Referring to
FIG. 7A , theseat 120 may include a strap assembly (as illustrated) and other restraint mechanisms to secure the infant within the seat. In this embodiment, thestrap assembly 1100 may includestrap portions buckles main strap portion 1130 with acoupling portion 1132. Thestrap portions seat 120. - Referring to
FIGS. 10-15 , the mounting or coupling of a softgoods portion to theframe assembly 110 ofdevice 100 is illustrated. The softgoods may be used to provide an additional layer of support for the infant. Referring toFIG. 10 , a softgoods or paddedportion 900 is removably coupled to theframe assembly 110. As a result, thesoftgoods 900 can be easily removed from theframe assembly 110 and washed and cleaned. In this embodiment, thesoftgoods 900 hasseveral coupling portions softgoods 900. Each of thecoupling portions coupling portion 910 applies to theother coupling portions - Coupling
portion 910 includes anedge 912 formed in thebody 902 of thesoftgoods 900. Theedge 912 defines andopening 914 that extends through thebody 902. A binding or layer of fabric 916 (seeFIG. 15 ) is sewn around theedge 912 to prevent theedge 912 from unraveling. Thesoftgoods 900 includescoupling portions openings - The
frame assembly 110 includes a mountingassembly 1000 that includes several mountingcomponents FIGS. 10-15 ). The mountingcomponents headers coupling portions softgoods 900. In particular, mountingcomponents coupling portions - Referring to
FIG. 11 , a close-up view of mountingcomponent 1010 andheader 230A is shown. Theseat 120 includes afabric portion 948 that is coupled to theheaders fabric portion 948, there is asleeve 950 that defines achannel 952 and is coupled to thefabric portion 948 atend 954. Thesleeve 950 is configured to be slid onto one of theheaders component 1010 is positioned proximate to thesleeve 950 and then coupled to theheader 230A using a connector. The other mountingcomponents headers - Referring to
FIGS. 12 and 13 , a perspective view and an end view of mountingcomponent 1010 are illustrated, respectively. In this embodiment, mountingcomponent 1010 is molded plastic and has abody portion 1050 withends sides body portion 1050 has a curved configuration that matches the configuration of the portion of the frame to which the mountingportion 1010 is coupled. Integrally formed with thebody portion 1050 areprojections projections projections sides body portion 1050 instead of theends - The
body portion 1050 includes aboss 1056 defining anopening 1058 through which a connector 1059 (such as a screw) is inserted to couple themounting component 1050 to theframe assembly 110. Thebody portion 1050 has aninner surface 1070 that defines areceptacle 1072 and is placed in contact with theheader 230A or fabric (such as sleeve 950) mounted on theheader 230A. Thebody portion 1050 also has anouter surface 1074 that can be engaged by a portion of thesoftgoods 900. - Referring to
FIG. 14 , in this embodiment, theprojections regions softgoods 900 on themounting component 1010, the length of the opening 914 (distance “d2”) is less than the length of the mountingcomponent 1010 as measured from theends projections 1060 and 1062 (distance “d1”). When the softgoods orfabric portion 900 is moved so that thecoupling portion 910 is aligned with the mountingcomponent 1010, theopening 914 is manipulated so that theprojections edge 912 is located beneath theprojections areas FIG. 15 , theprojections body portion 1080 of mountingcomponent 1020 extend over the binding 916, thereby coupling thesoftgoods 900 to themounting component 1020 and theframe assembly 110. - The mounting
assembly 1000 facilitates the coupling and decoupling of thesoftgoods 900 from theframe assembly 110. In various embodiments, the quantity of mounting components used with a particular frame can vary. For example, in one embodiment, only one mounting component may be included on each side of a frame. In another embodiment, the mounting components may be spaced relatively equally about a substantially circular frame. In another embodiment, each mounting component may include three or four projections extending from a body portion. Thus, the mounting assembly including mounting components can be used to couple or mount a softgoods or fabric portion to a frame having any shape or configuration and used for any type of infant support structure. - Referring to
FIGS. 16 and 17 , an alternative embodiment of an infant support device or structure is illustrated. In this embodiment, the device orstructure 1200 includes aframe assembly 1210 that includes an infant seat assembly orreceptacle 1220 with a head stop or paddedportion 1222 that can provide additional support and/or cushioning for an infant. In this embodiment, theframe assembly 1210 includes afirst frame member 1230 and asecond frame member 1235. Theframe members hub assemblies frame members frame assembly 1210 to be deployed or collapsed. Theframe members members headers - As discussed above,
headers frame assembly 110 haveend portions header 1240 hasend portions header 1250 hasend portions end portions end portions longer end portions rear corners headers hub assembly 1270 than the upperfront corners headers hub assembly 1260. - Referring to
FIG. 17 , the upperfront corners hub assembly 1260 and upperrear corners hub assembly 1270. Distance “d6” is greater than distance “d5” and theframe assembly 1210 has a tapered or sloped configuration from the rear 1211 of theframe assembly 1210 to thefront 1213 of theframe assembly 1210. This sloped configuration results in the rear 1211 being higher than the front 1213 relative to a support surface, and theseat portion 1220 having a higher upper end which provides additional support length for an infant and increases the angle of inclination of the trunk or torso portion of theseat portion 1220 to position an infant in a more upright orientation. - The
seat portion 1220 may be substantially similar to theinfant seat 120 as described above, and with the addition of the paddedportion 1222. Accordingly,receptacle 1220 is suspended from theheaders frame assembly 1210 may be similar to that described above and shown inFIG. 15 . The softgoods may be used to provide an additional layer of support for the infant. - Referring to
FIGS. 18 and 19 , a softgoods or paddedportion 1900 is removably coupled to theframe assembly 1210. As a result, thesoftgoods 1900 can be easily removed from theframe assembly 1210 and washed and cleaned. Thesoftgoods 1900 includesseveral coupling portions softgoods 1900. In one embodiment, thecoupling portions coupling portions coupling portions coupling portions - The
frame assembly 1210 includes a mounting assembly that includes mounting components located onheaders coupling portions headers components FIGS. 16 , 18 and 19. Each of mountingcomponents mounting component 1010, as described above. Accordingly,coupling portions components - The
seat portion 1220 may include mounting components that align with thecoupling portions components underside 1220 a and are aligned withcoupling portions seat portion 1220, as shown inFIGS. 18 and 19 . For example, the mountingcomponents seat portion 1220 via webbing, or webbing releasably securable to cam or spring buckles, or associated hook and loop fastener material, or the like. - The mounting assembly facilitates the coupling and decoupling of the
softgoods 1900 from theframe assembly 1210. In various embodiments, the quantity of coupling portions and associated mounting components used with a particular frame can vary. Moreover, all mounting components may be identically configured, or have different configurations. Thus, the mounting assembly including mounting components can be used to couple or mount a softgoods or fabric portion to a frame having any shape or configuration and used for any type of infant support structure. - In an alternative embodiment, the lengths of the lateral bars at one end of the frame assembly (such as the rear end) can be longer than the lateral bars at the other end of the frame assembly (such as the front end). This difference in length would enable the end portions of the headers to have the same length, but the upper corners of the headers at the rear of the frame assembly can be spaced further from the rear hub assembly than the front hub assembly, thereby giving the headers and the frame assembly a sloped or tapered configuration from rear to front.
- While the invention has been described in detail and with reference to specific embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope thereof. For example, the infant support may be formed of any suitable materials. Each
hub hub hubs - Thus, it is intended that the present invention cover the modifications and variations of this invention that come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. It is to be understood that terms such as “left”, “right” “top”, “bottom”, “front”, “rear”, “side”, “height”, “length”, “width”, “upper”, “lower”, “interior”, “exterior”, “inner”, “outer” and the like as may be used herein, merely describe points of reference and do not limit the present invention to any particular orientation or configuration.
Claims (20)
Priority Applications (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/644,311 US20110148155A1 (en) | 2009-12-22 | 2009-12-22 | Collapsible Infant Support |
CA2724964A CA2724964C (en) | 2009-12-22 | 2010-12-10 | Collapsible infant support |
US13/848,331 US20130214574A1 (en) | 2009-12-22 | 2013-03-21 | Collapsible infant support |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/644,311 US20110148155A1 (en) | 2009-12-22 | 2009-12-22 | Collapsible Infant Support |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/848,331 Continuation-In-Part US20130214574A1 (en) | 2009-12-22 | 2013-03-21 | Collapsible infant support |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20110148155A1 true US20110148155A1 (en) | 2011-06-23 |
Family
ID=44150004
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US12/644,311 Abandoned US20110148155A1 (en) | 2009-12-22 | 2009-12-22 | Collapsible Infant Support |
Country Status (2)
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US (1) | US20110148155A1 (en) |
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WO2014153490A1 (en) * | 2013-03-21 | 2014-09-25 | Mattel, Inc. | Collapsible infant support |
US8844072B2 (en) | 2012-06-05 | 2014-09-30 | Wonderland Nurserygoods Company Limited | Infant supporting apparatus |
CN104305769A (en) * | 2014-10-31 | 2015-01-28 | 广东乐美达集团有限公司 | Folding infant bed |
US9055847B1 (en) * | 2011-02-12 | 2015-06-16 | Regalo International, Llc | Flexible folding infant bather |
US9127709B2 (en) | 2012-07-13 | 2015-09-08 | Wonderland Nurserygoods Company Limited | Joint mechanism and supporting device therewith |
US9486086B2 (en) | 2014-04-14 | 2016-11-08 | Mattel, Inc. | Reconfigurable infant support structure |
USD772625S1 (en) | 2014-11-26 | 2016-11-29 | Mattel, Inc. | Infant support structure with a rocking device |
US9585494B2 (en) | 2011-08-10 | 2017-03-07 | Kids Ii, Inc. | Infant lounger |
US9693639B2 (en) | 2014-05-29 | 2017-07-04 | Kids Ii, Inc. | Child sleeping and rocking apparatuses |
US20170251828A1 (en) * | 2016-03-07 | 2017-09-07 | Kids Ii, Inc. | Folding elevated sleeper |
US9801473B2 (en) | 2012-09-13 | 2017-10-31 | Kids Ii, Inc. | Play yard with removable liner |
US9848715B2 (en) | 2013-07-12 | 2017-12-26 | Kids Ii, Inc. | Rocker |
US9888786B2 (en) | 2014-05-29 | 2018-02-13 | Kids Ii, Inc. | Child sleeping apparatus |
US9918561B2 (en) | 2013-08-09 | 2018-03-20 | Kids Ii, Inc. | Access optimized child support device |
US9986849B2 (en) | 2015-03-30 | 2018-06-05 | Kids Ii, Inc. | Depth-adjustable bassinet |
USD826590S1 (en) | 2017-06-16 | 2018-08-28 | Kids Ii, Inc. | Child support device |
USD826592S1 (en) | 2017-06-16 | 2018-08-28 | Kids Ii, Inc. | Child support device |
USD826591S1 (en) | 2017-06-16 | 2018-08-28 | Kids Ii, Inc. | Child support device |
US10653244B2 (en) * | 2017-07-27 | 2020-05-19 | Zhejiang Hengfeng Top Leisure Co., Ltd. | Portable rocking chair |
US11122913B2 (en) * | 2017-06-14 | 2021-09-21 | Wonderland Switzerland Ag | Bassinet locking mechanism, bassinet releasing mechanism, foldable bassinet apparatus |
US11364167B2 (en) * | 2019-02-12 | 2022-06-21 | GE Precision Healthcare LLC | Neonatal care system with sling sleep device |
US20220225773A1 (en) * | 2021-01-15 | 2022-07-21 | Gci Outdoor Llc | Stowaway compact rocker |
US20220312950A1 (en) * | 2021-03-31 | 2022-10-06 | Jiangxi Rasson Billiard Manufacturing Co., Ltd | Connecting device having retractable rods |
US12030411B2 (en) | 2022-01-28 | 2024-07-09 | Britax Child Safety, Inc. | Child restraint system with posture fit mechanism |
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US9962041B1 (en) * | 2011-02-12 | 2018-05-08 | Regalo International, Llc | Flexible folding infant bather |
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CA2724964C (en) | 2018-04-10 |
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