US20130125304A1

US20130125304A1 - Assembly For Attachment To A Crib

Info

Publication number: US20130125304A1
Application number: US13/556,180
Authority: US
Inventors: Jon DeHart; Ken Hopkins; David Ellis; Paul Bias; Steve Wood
Original assignee: Summer Infant USA Inc
Current assignee: Summer Infant USA Inc
Priority date: 2011-07-21
Filing date: 2012-07-23
Publication date: 2013-05-23

Abstract

In one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to an assembly for attachment to a crib. The assembly may include a cross member configured to span a width of the crib. In addition, the assembly may include a substantially U-shaped cross member connector configured to receive one end of the cross member. Also, the assembly may include a substantially U-shaped crib rail connector configured for attachment of the cross member connector, the crib rail connector further configured to be non-destructively attached to and removed from a side rail of the crib.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/510,329, entitled “Assembly for Attachment to a Crib,” and filed on Jul. 21, 2011, which application is hereby incorporated in its entirety by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to an assembly for attachment to a crib and, more particularly, to a bassinet and/or diaper changing station assembly configured to be non-destructively attached to and removed from a crib.

BACKGROUND

A bassinet or portable play yard with a bassinet feature is often used by new parents in their own bedroom during their baby's first 0-6 months of life in order to keep the baby close when the parents are sleeping. Often, portable play yards used for such a purpose are used as a stationary bassinet/bed/playpen/diaper changer product. Many parents who utilize a play yard/bassinet in such a manner also utilize a separate crib for the nursery to provide a sleeping area for their baby after the baby has outgrown the bassinet. It can be expensive to purchase a play yard with a bassinet feature in addition to a separate crib, plus, in some cases, a diaper changing table/product as well. It would be advantageous to provide a single product including a bassinet, a changing table, and a full-size crib for use in the nursery as the baby grows.
The present disclosure is directed to improvements in existing bassinet and crib arrangements.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to an assembly for attachment to a crib. The assembly may include a cross member configured to span a width of the crib. In addition, the assembly may include a substantially U-shaped cross member connector configured to receive one end of the cross member. Also, the assembly may include a substantially U-shaped crib rail connector configured for attachment of the cross member connector, the crib rail connector further configured to be non-destructively attached to and removed from a side rail of the crib.
In another aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a softgoods component for a crib. The component may include an end panel configured to be attached to a cross member spanning from a top portion of one side rail of the crib to a top portion of a second side rail of the crib. The end panel may be further configured to extend upward from the cross member to completely cover all spaces in a headboard or footboard of the crib.
Advantages and features of novelty characterizing aspects of the presently disclosed embodiments are pointed out with particularity in the appended claims. Additional systems, methods, features, and advantages of the invention will be, or will become, apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following descriptive matter and accompanying figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention can be better understood with reference to the following drawings and description. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. Moreover, in the figures, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the different views.

FIG. 1 is an illustration of a crib with an exemplary removable bassinet and diaper changing station assembly;

FIG. 2 is an illustration of a crib with an exemplary removable bassinet and diaper changing station assembly shown without linens and other softgoods components;

FIG. 3 is an illustration of a side bar assembly of an exemplary bassinet and diaper changing station assembly;

FIG. 4 is an illustration of a cross member assembly of an exemplary bassinet and diaper changing station assembly;

FIG. 5 is another illustration of the crib with bassinet and diaper changing station assembly shown without linens and other softgoods components;

FIG. 6 is a close-up view of an exemplary bassinet frame attachment assembly;

FIG. 7 is a close-up end view of an exemplary bassinet frame attachment assembly;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an exemplary side rail connector;

FIG. 9 is another perspective view of an exemplary side rail connector;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary side bassinet frame attachment assembly;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an exemplary cross member connector;

FIG. 12 is another perspective view of an exemplary cross member connector;

FIG. 13 is an illustration of an exemplary bassinet/changer assembly;

FIG. 14 is a partial exploded view of the assembly shown in FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a partial cross-sectional view of a joint of the assembly shown in FIG. 13;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an exemplary side rail connector;

FIG. 17 is another perspective view of the side rail connector shown in FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an exemplary cross member connector;

FIG. 19 is another perspective view of the cross member connector shown in FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 is an illustration of an exemplary cross member;

FIG. 21 is an illustration of an exemplary side bar;

FIG. 22 is an illustration of an exemplary softgoods component of a bassinet and diaper changing station assembly;

FIG. 23 is an illustration of views of an exemplary bassinet mattress support tube having a male end configuration;

FIG. 24 is an illustration of views of an exemplary bassinet mattress support tube having a female end configuration;

FIG. 25 is an illustration of views of an exemplary bassinet mattress;

FIG. 26 is an illustration of views of an exemplary bassinet mattress board;

FIG. 27 is an illustration of views of an exemplary diaper changing station pad;

FIG. 28 is an illustration of views of an exemplary diaper changing station board;

FIG. 29 is an illustration of a crib having a bassinet and diaper changing assembly attached, including softgoods and linens;

FIG. 30 is another photograph of a bassinet and diaper changing station assembly attached to a crib;

FIG. 31 is an illustration of a bassinet attached to a crib, including softgoods and linens, and showing an accessory bar;

FIG. 32 is another photograph of a bassinet attached to a crib, including softgoods and linens, and showing an accessory bar with toys attached;

FIG. 33 is an illustration of an exemplary diaper stacker configured to be attached to a crib;

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a clip for attaching components to a bassinet/changer assembly;

FIG. 35 is a side view of the clip shown in FIG. 34; and

FIG. 36 is an illustration of an exemplary crib set up.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following discussion and accompanying figures are directed to an assembly for attachment to a crib. Specifically, the disclosed embodiments include a bassinet/diaper changing station assembly that is configured to attach firmly to a full-size crib in a secure, but removable manner. The bassinet/changer assembly may be configured to be non-destructively attached to and removed from the rails of the crib.
General Description of Crib and Bassinet/Diaper Changing Station Assembly
FIG. 1 is an illustration of a crib with an exemplary removable bassinet and diaper changing station assembly. The disclosed bassinet/diaper changing station assembly may be configured to be removably attached to the side rails of a crib. The assembly may be configured to attach to any type of crib having side rails. In some embodiments, the assembly may be configured to attach to a standard full-size crib.
For purposes of this disclosure, the term “full-size crib” shall refer to a crib configured in accordance with ASTM standards and/or regulations set forth by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) for full-size cribs. On of Dec. 28, 2010, the CPSC published 37 C.F.R. §1219, which adopts the voluntary standard promulgated by ASTM International, ASTM Standard F 1169-10a, 2010, “Standard Consumer Safety Specification for Full-Size Baby Cribs,” ASTM International, West Conshohocken, Pa. As set forth in ASTM F 1169-10a, the characteristic that most distinguishes a full-size crib from a non-full-size crib is the interior dimensions of the crib. Notably, as set forth in ASTM F 1169-10a, which is formally incorporated into 37 C.F.R. §1219 by reference, a full-size crib has specific interior dimensions of 28+/−⅝ inches (71+/−1.6 centimeters) in width and 52⅜+/−⅝ inches (133+/−1.6 centimeters), and is designed to provide sleeping accommodations for an infant. ASTM Standard F 1169-10a is incorporated herein by reference. According to the CPSC, a 2005 survey indicates that approximately 88 percent of crib models are full-size cribs. Thus, a full-size crib may also be referred to as a “standard” crib.
In addition, it will be appreciated by those having ordinary skill in the art that, also on Dec. 28, 2010, the CPSC published 37 C.F.R. §1220, which adopts ASTM F 406-10a, 2010, “Standard Consumer Safety Specification for Non-Full-Size Baby Cribs/Play Yards,” ASTM International, West Conshohocken, Pa. ASTM Standard F 406-10a is incorporated herein by reference. ASTM, and therefore the CPSC, distinguishes non-full-size baby cribs and play yards from full-size baby cribs. According to the CPSC, a non-full-size crib may be either smaller or larger than a full-size crib, or shaped differently than the usual rectangular crib. The category of non-full-size cribs includes oversized, specialty, undersized, and portable cribs, but does not include any product with mesh/net/screen siding, non-rigidly constructed cribs, cradles, car beds, baby baskets, or bassinets.
The ASTM standards for full-size and non-full-size cribs include standards for the width between slats of the side rails, head board, and foot board, as well as the minimum strength of the spindles/slats. Thus, the ASTM standards, and therefore the CPSC regulations incorporating the ASTM standards, limit full-size and non-full-size cribs to hard-sided cribs, and do not categorize play yards, playpens, and other soft-sided (for example, mesh or fabric-sided) products as cribs, either full-size or non-full-size. Accordingly, ASTM voluntary standards and CPSC regulations distinguish between full-size cribs and non-full-size cribs, and further distinguish between cribs (both full-size and non-full-size) and play yards and playpens. These distinctions are also generally recognized by those having ordinary skill in the art.
An additional difference between typical full-size cribs and play yards is that typical full-size cribs include rails made of wood, whereas play yards include rails made of metal. Therefore, the wooden rails of a full-size crib are more susceptible to damage from attaching equipment than are the metal rails of a play yard. Accordingly, attachments may often be readily attached to and removed from the metal rails of play yards without damaging the rails. In contrast, attachments to full-size cribs may often include clamps, screws, and/or other fasteners to attach, for example, accessories, such as toy bars, mobiles, music boxes and other equipment. The clamps, screws, and other fasteners may damage the frame aesthetically and/or structurally. Therefore, if such a piece of equipment is attached and then removed, the crib may be left with permanent damage.
The disclosed bassinet/changer assembly may include connectors that are configured to non-destructively attach the bassinet/changer frame to a wooden crib. In addition, the bassinet/changer assembly may be non-destructively removed from the crib. In some embodiments, the connectors may provide universal attachment to any of a variety of crib rail shapes. Also, in some embodiments, the bassinet/changer assembly may be assembled without using any tools. For example, as described in further detail below, the assembly may include claims that snap or clip onto the crib rails and to each other. In addition, other components, such as side bars and cross members may slide into and out of the connectors. Thus, the assembly may be assembled and attached to the crib with no tools, and without any fasteners (such as screws or bolts) to connect the assembly to the crib. Rather, the assembly components may simply snap and/or slide together, and the assembly may clip onto the crib rails. In addition, a finger release may enable the connectors to be detached from the crib rails, without damaging the crib rails.
As shown in FIG. 1, when the bassinet/changer assembly is attached to the crib, the crib mattress may remain in the bottom portion of the crib, inaccessible by the consumer. This may prevent misuse of the crib mattress with the bassinet/changer assembly situated above the mattress.
The bassinet/changer assembly may incorporate both hard and softgoods components. For example, the framework of the assembly may include connectors, side bars, and cross members formed of metal and/or hard plastic, and the sides and bottom of the bassinet and changing station may be formed of fabrics, meshes (or other breathable/ventilated panel materials), padding, and other relatively soft components. In addition, the assembly may include linens, such as a skirt that hangs over the rails, as shown in FIG. 1.
The crib may also include casters or another type of wheel, in order to facilitate moving the crib. For example, when used with the bassinet/changer assembly attached, the crib may be located in the parents' bedroom, in which case it may be desirable to move the crib to different portions of the room to permit the parents to utilize the floor space of the room for daily living and move the crib closer to the parents' bed at night.
Framework Overview
FIG. 2 is an illustration of a crib 100 with an exemplary removable bassinet and diaper changing station assembly 105 shown without linens and other softgoods components. As shown in FIG. 2, assembly 105 may include one or more cross members 110 configured to span a width of crib 100. Cross members 110 may be fastened to side rails 115 of crib 100 using connectors. For example, assembly 105 may include a substantially U-shaped cross member connector 120 configured to receive one end of cross member 110. In addition, assembly 105 may include a substantially U-shaped crib rail connector 125 configured for attachment of cross member connector 120. Crib rail connector 125 may be further configured to be non-destructively attached to and removed from side rail 115 of crib 100.
Framework Components Generally
FIG. 3 is an illustration of a side bar assembly 130 of an exemplary bassinet and diaper changing station assembly. Side bar assembly 130 may include a side bar 135 configured to be disposed in proximity to an upper portion of the crib side rail. Side bar 135 may be received within, and thus, be supported by a plurality of rail connectors 125. For example, in some embodiments, bassinet/changer assembly 105 may include six rail connectors 125 (three on each side of the crib). Further, assembly 105 may include two side bars 135 (one on each side of the crib). Side bars 135 may form side portions of the bassinet frame.
FIG. 4 is an illustration of a cross member assembly 140 of bassinet/changer assembly 105. As shown in FIG. 4, cross member assembly 140 may include cross member 110 and cross member connectors 120. Bassinet/changer assembly 105 may include a plurality of cross members 110. In some embodiments, assembly 105 may include two cross members 110, one at each end of the crib. In some embodiments, assembly 105 may include an additional cross member that may separate the bassinet and diaper changing station, thus forming end portions of the bassinet frame and the changing station frame.
FIG. 5 is another illustration of crib 100 with bassinet and diaper changing station assembly 105 shown without linens and other softgoods components. When assembled, the plurality of cross members 110, the plurality of cross member connectors 120, the plurality of rail connectors 125, and the two side bars 135 may form a bassinet frame 142 configured to be non-destructively attached to and removed from crib 100. In some embodiments, assembly 105 may further form a diaper changing station frame 145 adjacent bassinet frame 142.
Interlocking of Rail Connector and Cross Member Connector
FIG. 6 is a close-up view and FIG. 7 is a close-up, partial cross-sectional end view of an exemplary bassinet frame attachment assembly. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, bassinet/changer assembly 105 may include cross members 110, cross member connectors 120, crib rail connectors 125, and side bars 135.
Cross members 110 and side bars 135 may be formed of metal or hard plastic. In some embodiments, cross members 110 and/or side bars 135 may be tubular (hollow). In some embodiments, cross members 110 and/or side bars 135 may be solid. FIG. 7 illustrates a hollow/tubular version of side bar 135.
Cross member connectors 120 and rail connectors 125 may be formed of a suitably rigid material to provide strength and support to the assembly. Crib rail connectors 125 may be configured to be non-marking to the side rails of the crib. For example, in some embodiments, rail connectors 125 may be formed of a plastic material that is gentle on wooden side rails. In some embodiments, rail connectors 125 may be formed of a metal or plastic, and may further include a soft liner material, such as rubber or felt at contact points with the crib side rails.
In addition to non-marking rail connectors 125, bassinet/changer assembly 105 may also be configured to prevent damage to the crib, by having contact with the crib at relatively few points. For example, assembly 105 may contact the crib only at rail connectors 125 (for example, at six points corresponding with six rail connectors 125 in some embodiments).
Rail Connector Detail
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an exemplary side rail connector 125. As shown in FIG. 8, in some embodiments, rail connector 125 may include a first rail connector leg 145 configured to mate with a first side of a rail of a crib, a second rail connector leg 150 configured to mate with a second side of the rail, the second leg being flexible and including a distal tip 155 having a catch member 160 extending toward first rail connector leg 145. In some embodiments, catch member 160 may be configured to extend below the crib rail to secure rail connector 125 to the crib rail. In some embodiments, second rail connector leg 150 may be flexed away from first rail connector leg 145 to release catch member 160 from under the crib rail, thereby enabling non-destructive removal of rail connector 125 from the rail by lifting rail connector 125 in an upward direction. In some embodiments, second rail connector leg 150 may be flexed away from first rail connector leg 145 by hand, thus enabling disassembly without use of tools.
Rail connector 125 may further include a base portion 165 configured to join the first leg 145 and the second leg 150. Base portion 165 may include at least one indentation 170 configured to receive a portion of cross member connector 120. In some embodiments, second rail connector leg 150 may be longer than first rail connector leg 145, and may extend further from rail connector base portion 165 than first rail connector leg 145, for example, as shown in FIG. 8. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 8, rail connector 125 may be configured to mate with a crib rail having a substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape. In other embodiments, rail connector 125 may be configured to clip onto crib rails having other cross-sectional shapes.
FIG. 9 is another perspective view of rail connector 125. As illustrated in FIG. 9, rail connector 125 may include a through hole 175 configured to receive side bar 135. In addition, rail connector 125 may include a second through hole 180, which may be configured to receive a set screw or bolt configured to affix rail connector 125 to side bar 135. In some embodiments, a spring-loaded pin may be included on side bar 135 and may snap into place within rail connector 125 in order to affix rail connector 125 to side bar 135. Such spring loaded pins may be utilized to connect other components of assembly 105 to one another.
Cross Member Connector Detail
FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary side bassinet frame attachment assembly. As shown in FIG. 10, cross member connector 120 may clip onto rail connector 125, which may clip onto an upper bar 185 of side rail 115 of crib 100. Cross member connector 120 may include a base portion 190 having a cross member recess 195 configured to receive one end of cross member 110. In addition, cross member connector 120 may further include a first cross member connector leg 200 extending from cross member connector base portion 190 and a second cross member connector leg 205 extending from cross member connector base portion 190. As shown in FIG. 10, in some embodiments, cross member 110 may have a substantially circular cross-sectional shape, and recess 195 in cross member connector 120 may include a substantially cylindrical bore configured to receive the substantially circular cross member 110.
Recess 170 of rail connector 125 may be configured to receive one of the first and second cross member connector legs 200 and 205 to secure cross member connector 120 to rail connector 125. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, first cross member connector leg 200 may be configured to clip into recess 170 of rail connector 125.
As also shown in FIG. 10, assembly 105 may include a bolt configured to secure rail connector to side bar 135. In addition, assembly 105 may include a bolt configured to secure cross member connector 120 to cross member 110. In some embodiments, spring-loaded pins may be implemented in lieu of bolts or set screws for these connections.
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of cross member connector 120. FIG. 11 illustrates base portion 190, first cross member connector leg 200, and second cross member connector leg 205.
FIG. 12 is another perspective view of cross member connector 120. FIG. 12 illustrates first cross member connector leg 200, second cross member connector leg 205, base portion 190, and cross member recess 195.
Alternative Connector Configuration
FIG. 13 is an illustration of an exemplary bassinet and diaper changing station assembly 305 shown without linens and other softgoods components. As shown in FIG. 13, assembly 305 may include one or more cross members 310 configured to span a width of the crib. Cross members 310 may be fastened to the side rails of the crib using connectors. For example, assembly 305 may include a substantially U-shaped cross member connector 320 configured to receive one end of cross member 310. In addition, assembly 305 may include a substantially U-shaped crib rail connector 325 configured for attachment of cross member connector 320. Crib rail connector 325 may be further configured to be non-destructively attached to and removed from the side rails of a crib.
FIG. 14 is an exploded, partial view of assembly 305. As shown in FIG. 14, assembly 305 may include a plurality of cross member assemblies 340, which may include cross members 310 and cross member connectors 320. Assembly 305 may also include a plurality of side bar assemblies 345, which may include side bars 335 and crib rail connectors 325.
FIG. 15 is a close-up, partial cross-sectional end view of an exemplary bassinet frame attachment assembly 305 attached to side rail 115 of crib 100. As shown in FIG. 15, assembly 305 may include cross members 310, cross member connectors 320, crib rail connectors 325, and side bars 335.
FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an exemplary side rail connector 325. As shown in FIG. 16, in some embodiments, rail connector 325 may include a first rail connector leg 347 configured to mate with a first side of a rail of a crib, a second rail connector leg 350 configured to mate with a second side of the rail, the second leg being flexible and including a distal tip 355 having a catch member 360 extending toward first rail connector leg 345. In some embodiments, catch member 360 may be configured to extend below the crib rail to secure rail connector 325 to the crib rail. In some embodiments, second rail connector leg 350 may be flexed away from first rail connector leg 145 to release catch member 360 from under the crib rail, thereby enabling non-destructive removal of rail connector 325 from the rail by lifting rail connector 325 in an upward direction. In addition, in some embodiments, first rail connector leg 347 may include a distal end 361 that includes a flared tip 362, which flares away from second rail connector leg 350. Flared tip 362 may facilitate the process of clipping rail connector 325 onto the side rails of a crib.
FIG. 17 is another perspective view of rail connector 325. As illustrated in FIG. 17, rail connector 325 may include a base portion 365 configured to join the first leg 345 and the second leg 350. Base portion 365 may include at least one indentation 370 configured to receive a portion of cross member connector 320.
As also illustrated in FIG. 17, rail connector 325 may include a through hole 375 configured to receive side bar 335. In addition, rail connector 125 may include a second through hole 380, which may be configured to receive a set screw or bolt configured to affix rail connector 325 to side bar 335.
FIG. 18 shows a perspective view of an exemplary cross member connector 320. As shown in FIG. 18, cross member connector 320 may clip onto rail connector 325, which may clip onto an upper bar 185 of side rail 115 of crib 100. Cross member connector 320 may include a base portion 390 having a cross member recess 395 configured to receive one end of cross member 110. In addition, cross member connector 320 may further include a first cross member connector leg 400 extending from cross member connector base portion 390 and a second cross member connector leg 405 extending from cross member connector base portion 490. As shown in FIG. 18, in some embodiments, recess 395 in cross member connector 320 may include a substantially cylindrical bore configured to receive a substantially circular cross member 110.
Recess 370 of rail connector 325 may be configured to receive one of the first and second cross member connector legs 400 and 405 to secure cross member connector 320 to rail connector 325. For example, first cross member connector leg 400 may be configured to clip into recess 370 of rail connector 325.
As also shown in FIG. 18, cross member connector 320 may include a through hole 410, configured to receive a set screw, a bolt, a spring loaded pin, or other fixation mechanism, for fixing cross member 310 within recess 395.
Cross Members and Side Bars
FIG. 20 is an illustration of various views of an exemplary cross member 110. The dimensions of cross member 110 may vary depending on the configuration of cross member connectors 120. In some embodiments, the dimensions of cross member 110 may be suited for an assembly 105 configured to be attached to a full-size crib. Alternative dimensions may be possible for embodiments configured for attachment to other types of cribs.
FIG. 21 is an illustration of views of an exemplary side bar. The dimensions of side bar 135 may vary depending on the configuration of rail connectors 125. In some embodiments, the dimensions of side bar 135 may be suited for an assembly 105 configured to be attached to a full-size crib. Alternative dimensions may be possible for embodiments configured for attachment to other types of cribs.
Bassinet/Diaper Changing Station Fabric
FIG. 22 is an illustration of an exemplary softgoods component 210 of a bassinet and diaper changing station assembly 105. Softgoods component 210 may include fabric configured to be supported by cross members 110 and side bars 135. As shown in FIG. 22, softgoods component 210 may include elongated loops 215 configured to receive cross members 110 and side bars 135. For example, softgoods component 210 may include cross member loops 220 configured to receive cross members 110, and side bar loops 225 configured to receive side bars 135.
In some embodiments, the fabric of softgoods component 210 may be sewn around side bars 135 to form side bar loops 225. In other embodiments, side bar loops 225 may be pre-formed, and side bars 135 may be inserted through loops 225. In some embodiments, the fabric of softgoods component 210 may be sewn around cross members 110 to form cross member loops 220. In other embodiments, cross member loops 220 may be pre-formed, and cross members 110 may be inserted through loops 220. In some embodiments, side bar loops 225 may be sewn around side bars 135 during manufacturing, and cross members 110 may be inserted into cross member loops 220 by the consumer during assembly.
As also shown in FIG. 22, bassinet/changer assembly 105 may include a bassinet portion 230 and/or a diaper changing station portion 235. The side portions of softgoods component 210 may include bassinet panels extending between cross members 110 and side bars 135 of the bassinet/changer frame. The fabric forming the panels of softgoods component 210 may be any suitable fabric. In some embodiments, bassinet portion 230 may include breathable ventilation panels, formed of, for example, a mesh material. FIG. 22 illustrates openings 240 where such ventilation panels may be disposed. Such ventilation panels may also be provided on end panels 245 of softgoods component 210.
FIG. 22 also shows support tube loops 250 configured to receive bassinet mattress support tubes. Mattress support tubes are discussed in greater detail below.
The dimensions of softgoods component 210 may vary depending on the configuration of bassinet/changer assembly 105. Further, the dimensions of softgoods component 210 may be suited for an assembly 105 configured to be attached to a full-size crib. Alternative dimensions may be possible for embodiments configured for attachment to other types of cribs. In addition, the fabric/material selected for softgoods component 210 may be any suitable material including, for example, textiles, flexible plastics, and other suitable materials. Persons having ordinary skill in the art will recognize other suitable materials for softgoods component 210.
Mattress Support Members
FIG. 23 is an illustration of views of an exemplary bassinet mattress male support tube 255 having a male end configuration. FIG. 24 is an illustration of views of an exemplary bassinet mattress female support tube 260 having a female end configuration. Female support tube 260 may be configured to receive the male end of male support tube 255 to create a longer tube which may be disposed in support tube loops 250. Support tubes 255 and 260 may be configured to support a bassinet mattress in bassinet portion 230 and provide stability to the bassinet. Support tubes 255 and 260 may be formed of any construction and material suitably rigid to support at least the bassinet mattress and a child. In addition, support tubes 255 and 260 may have any suitable dimensions depending on the configuration of assembly 105.
In some embodiments, the components of bassinet/changer assembly 105 may be configured to be compactly stored when disassembled. For example, in some embodiments, disassembled bassinet/changer components may be configured to fold into a compact configuration that may be stored in a sack or storage bag. Accordingly, in some embodiments, side bars 135 and/or cross members 110 may be configured to break down into shorter length sections. For example, in some embodiments, side bars 135 and/or cross members 110 may include male and female ends configured to be assembled and disassembled in the manner shown and discussed with respect to male support tube 255 and female support tube 260.
Bassinet Mattress
FIG. 25 is an illustration of views of an exemplary bassinet mattress. As shown in FIG. 25, the mattress may include a multiple section bottom board similar to a play yard for the bassinet bottom. For example, as shown in FIG. 25, the mattress may include four relatively rigid bottom boards, and a mattress pad. FIG. 26 is an illustration of views of an exemplary bassinet mattress board. Dimensions of these components may vary depending on the configuration of assembly 105.
Diaper Changing Station Pad
FIG. 27 is an illustration of views of an exemplary diaper changing station pad. The pad may be formed of a semi-rigid foam material, or other suitable configuration. The changing station may also include a hard board provided to add firmness to the changing area. FIG. 28 is an illustration of views of an exemplary diaper changing station board. In some embodiments, the hard board and/or the changing station pad, may be removable. Dimensions of these components may vary depending on the configuration of assembly 105.
End Panel
FIG. 29 is an illustration of a crib having a bassinet and diaper changing assembly attached, including softgoods and linens. In some embodiments, the assembly may include a softgood end panel 265. End panels 265 may be provided at both ends of the assembly to cover the spindles/slats of the crib above the framework of assembly 105. End panel 265 may be configured to be attached to a cross member of assembly 105 spanning from a top portion of one side rail of the crib to a top portion of a second side rail of the crib. In addition, end panel 265 may be configured to extend upward from the cross member to completely cover all spaces in a headboard or footboard of the crib.
In some embodiments, an upper portion of end panel 265 may be shaped to substantially match the shape of the headboard or footboard. For example, in some embodiments, the upper portion of end panel 265 may be substantially curved to substantially match the shape of an arched headboard or footboard, as shown in FIG. 29.
In some embodiments, the upper portion of end panel 265 may include one or more ties that are configured to fasten end panel 265 to the headboard or footboard, as shown in FIG. 29. In addition, end panel 265 may include padding configured to provide cushioning against the headboard or footboard. In some embodiments, the padding may include rib members configured to be aligned between spaced-apart upright members (spindles or slats) of the headboard or footboard. Further, in some embodiments, end panel 265 may be formed, at least in part, from a breathable material, such as a mesh material.
FIG. 29 also illustrates an exemplary linen skirt configured to hang over the rails of the crib.
FIGS. 30 and 31 are additional photographs of a crib having an exemplary bassinet and diaper changing assembly attached, including softgoods and linens.
Accessories
Bassinet/changer assembly 105 may be configured to have one or more accessories connected to the components of assembly 105. For example, FIG. 30 is an illustration of a bassinet attached to a crib, including softgoods and linens, and showing an accessory bar 270. As shown, the accessory bar may be attached to side bars 135 and may have any suitable accessories attached to the accessory bar. In some embodiments, a canopy may be attached to the accessory bar.
FIG. 32 is another illustration of a bassinet attached to a crib, including softgoods and linens. FIG. 32 illustrates an accessory bar 270 connected to side bars 135, and having toys attached.
Additional accessories may be provided as part of a set with bassinet/changer assembly 105. For example, FIG. 33 is an illustration of an exemplary diaper stacker configured to be attached to a crib. As shown, the diaper stacker may be configured and/or styled similarly to other components of assembly 105, such as the skirt, accessories, and linens used in other portions of assembly 105.
FIGS. 34 and 35 illustrate a clip 500, which may be utilized to attach various accessories to assembly 105. For example, a plurality of clips 500 may be used to attach accessory bars, canopies, diaper stackers, and other such accessories to assembly 105.
FIG. 36 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a crib setup 600 having crib, 605, a bassinet/changer assembly 610, a canopy 615, accessory bar 620, and diaper stacker 625.
While various embodiments of the invention have been described, the description is intended to be exemplary, rather than limiting, and it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many more embodiments and implementations are possible that are within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the invention is not to be restricted except in light of the attached claims and their equivalents. Features of any embodiment described in the present disclosure may be included in any other embodiment described in the present disclosure. Also, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the attached claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. An assembly for attachment to a crib, comprising:

a cross member configured to span a width of the crib;

a substantially U-shaped cross member connector configured to receive one end of the cross member; and

a substantially U-shaped crib rail connector configured for attachment of the cross member connector, the crib rail connector further configured to be non-destructively attached to and removed from a side rail of the crib.

2. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein the substantially U-shaped crib rail connector includes a first rail connector leg configured to mate with a first side of a rail of a crib, a second rail connector leg configured to mate with a second side of the rail, the second leg being flexible and including a distal tip having a catch member extending toward the first rail connector leg, the catch member being configured to extend below the rail to secure the rail connector to the rail, wherein the second leg may be flexed away from the first leg to release the catch member from under the rail, thereby enabling non-destructive removal of the rail connector from the rail by lifting the rail connector in an upward direction.

3. The assembly according to claim 2, wherein the U-shaped crib rail connector further includes a base portion configured to join the first and second legs, the base portion including at least one indentation configured to receive a portion of the cross member connector.

4. The assembly according to claim 3, wherein the cross member connector includes a base portion having a cross member recess configured to receive one end of the cross member, and wherein the cross member connector further includes a first cross member connector leg extending from the cross member connector base portion and a second cross member connector leg extending from the cross member connector base portion; and

wherein the rail connector includes a recess configured to receive one of the first and second cross member connector legs to secure the cross member connector to the rail connector.

5. The assembly according to claim 3, wherein the second rail connector leg is longer than the first rail connector leg and extends further from the rail connector base portion than the first rail connector leg.

6. The assembly according to claim 2, wherein the rail connector is configured to mate with a crib rail having a substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape.

7. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein the cross member has a substantially circular cross-sectional shape, and the recess in the cross member connector includes a substantially cylindrical bore configured to receive the substantially circular cross member.

8. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein the assembly includes:

a plurality of cross members configured to span the width of the crib;

a plurality of substantially U-shaped cross member connectors configured to receive ends of the cross members; and

a plurality of substantially U-shaped crib rail connectors configured for attachment of the cross member connectors, the crib rail connectors further configured to be non-destructively attached to and removed from side rails of the crib;

wherein the plurality of cross members, the plurality of cross member connectors, and the plurality of rail connectors, when assembled, form a bassinet frame configured to be non-destructively attached to and removed from the crib.

9. The assembly according to claim 8, wherein the assembly further forms a diaper changing station frame adjacent the bassinet frame.

10. The assembly according to claim 8, further including first and second side bars, each side bar being configured to connect the rail connectors on one side of the crib, wherein the side bars form side portions of the bassinet frame, and wherein two of the plurality of cross members form end portions of the bassinet frame.

11. The assembly according to claim 8, further including one or more softgoods components configured to form bassinet panels extending between the cross members and side bars of the bassinet frame.

12. The assembly according to claim 11, wherein the bassinet panels formed by the softgoods components include side panels formed at least in part from a mesh material.

13. The assembly according to claim 12, wherein the bassinet panels formed by the softgoods components include end panels formed at least in part from a mesh material.

14. A softgoods component for a crib, comprising:

an end panel configured to be attached to a cross member spanning from a top portion of one side rail of the crib to a top portion of a second side rail of the crib, the end panel further configured to extend upward from the cross member to completely cover all spaces in a headboard or footboard of the crib.

15. The softgoods component according to claim 14, wherein an upper portion of the end panel is shaped to substantially match the shape of the headboard or footboard.

16. The softgoods component according to claim 15, wherein the upper portion of the end panel is substantially curved to substantially match the shape of an arched headboard or footboard.

17. The softgoods component according to claim 14, wherein an upper portion of the end panel includes one or more ties that are configured to fasten the end panel to the headboard or footboard.

18. The softgoods component according to claim 14, wherein the end panel includes padding, configured to provide cushioning against the headboard or footboard.

19. The softgoods component according to claim 18, wherein the padding includes rib members configured to be aligned between spaced-apart upright members of the headboard or footboard.

20. The softgoods component according to claim 19, wherein the end panel is formed at least in part from a mesh material.