WO2024097939A1

WO2024097939A1 - High chair

Info

Publication number: WO2024097939A1
Application number: PCT/US2023/078609
Authority: WO
Inventors: Nathanael Saint; Jonathan K. Mountz; Jonathan M. Pacella
Original assignee: Wonderland Switzerland Ag
Priority date: 2022-11-04
Filing date: 2023-11-03
Publication date: 2024-05-10
Also published as: TW202423346A

Abstract

A child seat includes at least one leg, a seat member supported by the at least one leg, and an armbar connected to the seat member. A tray is directly couplable to the armbar and is supported by the armbar.

Description

HIGH CHAIR

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Application No. 63/422,644, filed on November 4, 2022, U.S. Application No. 63/486,595, filed on February 23, 2023, and U.S. Application No. 63/583,064, filed on September 15, 2023, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

FIELD

[0001] Exemplary embodiments pertain to the art of high chairs.

BACKGROUND

[0002] High chairs provide a convenient and safe place for babies and children to eat food and occupy their time. Most high chairs are intended for children starting about 6 months old, when they are able to sit up unassisted and eat solid food. It is desirable to provide a high chair that is adaptable for use by a child over several years and/or sizes.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0003] According to an embodiment, a child seat includes at least one leg, a seat member supported by the at least one leg, and an armbar connected to the seat member. A tray is directly couplable to the armbar and is supported by the armbar.

[0004] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments when the armbar is connected to the seat member, the armbar extends across a front of the seat member.

[0005] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the armbar includes a bumper member and a crotch member extending from the bumper member.

[0006] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments only the bumper member is directly connectable to said seat member.

[0007] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the seat member further comprises a seat portion, a first upright sidewall, and a second upright sidewall. A first leg opening is formed between the crotch member and the first upright sidewall and a second leg opening is formed between the crotch member and the second upright sidewall. [0008] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the armbar is directly connected to the first upright sidewall and the second upright sidewall.

[0009] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the tray is positionable in overlapping arrangement with the armbar.

[0010] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the tray further comprises at least one latch operable to directly couple to said armbar.

[0011] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one latch is movable between an extended position and a retracted position and in the extended position, the at least one latch is operable to engage said armbar.

[0012] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the tray has a channel formed therein and the armbar is at least partially receivable within the channel, wherein in the extended position, said at least one latch extends across the channel.

[0013] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the tray further comprises at least one engagement tab extending across a portion of the channel, the at least one engagement tab being operable to contact the armbar.

[0014] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one latch and the at least one engagement tab are aligned about the channel.

[0015] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the armbar is permanently connected to the seat member.

[0016] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the armbar is removably connected to the seat member.

[0017] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the tray is supported by the armbar without any coupling to the seat member.

[0018] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the tray further comprises at least one rib, the at least one rib being supported by the seat member. [0019] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the armbar further comprises at least one slot, the at least one rib being receivable within the at least one slot to position the tray about the armbar.

[0020] According to an embodiment, a child seat includes at least one leg, a seat member supported by the at least one leg and a coupling mechanism for connecting the at least one leg to the seat member without use of an external tool.

[0021] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the coupling mechanism further includes a first portion affixed to the at least one leg and a second portion affixed to the seat member. The first portion including an engagement member and the second portion includes a groove for receiving the engagement member.

[0022] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the first portion further includes a support member mounted to the at least one leg. The support member is movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. A biasing member is operably coupled to the support member to bias the support member to the engaged position.

[0023] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments in the engaged position, the engagement member extends beyond a surface of the at least one leg and in the disengaged position, the engagement member does not extend beyond the surface of said at least one leg.

[0024] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the support member is rotatable about an axis between the engaged position and the disengaged position.

[0025] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the seat member further includes a horizontal seat portion, a seat back, and at least one upright sidewall. Each of the seat back and the at least one upright sidewall extends from the horizontal seat portion. The at least one leg is connectable to at least one of the seat back and the at least one upright sidewall.

[0026] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one leg is separable from the seat member without the external tool.

[0027] According to an embodiment, a child seat includes at least one leg, a seat member supported by the at least one leg, and a footrest. The footrest is connectable to said at least one leg, wherein said footrest includes at least one actuator operable to adjust a position of the footrest relative to the at least one leg.

[0028] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the footrest further includes a footrest body and at least one footrest mount. The at least one footrest mount is movable relative to the footrest body.

[0029] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one footrest mount further includes a latch movable relative to the at least one footrest mount in response to operation of the at least one actuator.

[0030] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one footrest mount is translatable from an extended position to a retracted position. The at least one footrest mount further includes a biasing mechanism operable to bias the at least one footrest mount into the extended position.

[0031] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one footrest mount is movable relative to the footrest body to releasably couple the footrest to said at least one leg in response to operation of the at least one actuator.

[0032] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one footrest mount includes a plurality of footrest mounts and the at least one actuator is a single actuator. Each of the plurality of footrest mounts is operably coupled to said single actuator.

[0033] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one footrest mount further includes a plurality of footrest mounts and the at least one actuator further includes a plurality of actuators. Each of the plurality of footrest mounts is operably coupled to a respective actuator of the plurality of actuators.

[0034] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments including a bracket mounted to the at least one leg. The bracket has at least one opening for receiving a portion of the footrest to couple the footrest to the at least one leg.

[0035] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one footrest mount further includes an engagement member receivable within the at least one opening.

[0036] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one opening includes a first portion and a second portion. The footrest is movable between the first portion and the second portion to couple the footrest to the at least one leg.

[0037] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the footrest is connectable to the at least one leg at a plurality of vertical positions.

[0038] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one leg further comprises a first leg and a second leg separated by a clearance. The first leg is arranged at an angle to the second leg such that the clearance varies over a height of the child seat.

[0039] According to an embodiment, a child seat includes at least one leg, a seat member supported by the at least one leg. The seat member includes a seat portion and a seat back. A seat back extension member is connectable to the seat member at a position above the seat back.

[0040] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the seat member includes a recess and the seat back extension member is receivable within the recess.

[0041] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments including at least one clip associated with the seat back extension member. The at least one clip is connectable to the seat member.

[0042] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one clip is permanently affixed to the seat back extension member.

[0043] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one clip is removably couplable to the seat back extension member.

[0044] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one clip further includes an opening and the seat member further includes a feature receivable within the opening when the seat back extension member is connected to the seat member.

[0045] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one clip is formed from a resilient material such that the at least one clip is flexible to separate the feature from the opening. [0046] According to an embodiment, a child seat includes at least one leg and a seat member supported by the at least one leg. A harness assembly is removably connectable directly to the seat member without use of an external tool.

[0047] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the harness assembly further includes a primary member including a buckle and at least one support member connectable to the primary member.

[0048] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the primary member further includes a clip connectable to the seat member and a piece of webbing affixed at a first end to the clip and at a second end to the buckle.

[0049] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the clip includes at least one prong. The at least one prong is insertable into an opening formed in the seat member and includes an outwardly extending protrusion.

[0050] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one prong is formed from a resilient material having an outward bias.

[0051] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one support member further includes a waist strap including a first buckle clip arranged at a first end thereof and a second buckle clip arranged at a second end thereof. The first buckle clip and the second buckle clip are connectable to the buckle. An anchor coupled to said waist strap is connectable to the seat member.

[0052] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the anchor includes at least one prong. The at least one prong is insertable into an opening formed in the seat member and includes an outwardly extending protrusion.

[0053] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one prong is formed from a resilient material having an outward bias.

[0054] A child seat includes at least one leg, a seat member supported by the at least one leg, an armbar connectable to the seat member, and a tray couplable to the armbar. The tray is incapable of being coupled to the seat member when the armbar is disengaged from the seat member. [0055] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the tray is translatable relative to the seat member while the tray is coupled to the seat member.

[0056] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the tray is directly connectable to the armbar.

[0057] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the armbar includes a plurality of adjustment ribs and the tray includes a latch having a plurality of slot. At least one of the plurality of adjustment ribs is receivable within at least one of the plurality of slots.

[0058] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the armbar includes at least one armbar mount configured to couple the armbar to the seat member.

[0059] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one armbar mount includes a protrusion and the seat member includes an opening and the protrusion is receivable within the opening.

[0060] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the seat member includes at least one sidewall and the at least one armbar mount includes an engagement feature configured to abut an undersurface of the sidewall.

[0061] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the armbar is slidably receivable about the seat member.

[0062] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments when the armbar is connected to the seat member, the armbar extends across a front of the seat member.

[0063] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the armbar includes a bumper member and a crotch member extending from the bumper member.

[0064] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments only the bumper member is directly connectable to the seat member.

[0065] According to an embodiment, a child seat includes at least one leg, a seat member supported by the at least one leg, an armbar connectable to the seat member, and a tray connectable to the armbar. The tray is movable relative to the armbar between a first position and a second position while connected to the armbar. [0066] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the tray is translatable between the first position and the second position.

[0067] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the tray is directly connectable to the armbar.

[0068] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the armbar includes an undersurface and the tray includes a latch. The latch has an engagement feature positionable in contact with the undersurface to couple the tray to the armbar.

[0069] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the armbar includes a plurality of adjustment ribs and the latch has a plurality of slots. At least one of the plurality of adjustment ribs is receivable within at least one of the plurality of slots in at least one of the first position and the second position.

[0070] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the armbar includes a bumper member and a crotch member extending from the bumper member. The bumper member includes a side and the plurality of adjustment ribs are formed at the side.

[0071] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the armbar is slidably receivable at a front of the seat member.

[0072] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the armbar includes at least one armbar mount configured to couple the armbar to the seat member.

[0073] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the at least one armbar mount includes a protrusion and the seat member includes an opening and the protrusion is receivable within the opening.

[0074] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the seat member includes at least one sidewall. The at least one armbar mount includes an engagement feature positionable in contact with an undersurface of the at least one sidewall.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0075] The following descriptions should not be considered limiting in any way. With reference to the accompanying drawings, like elements are numbered alike:

[0076] FIG. l is a perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment; [0077] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the child seat of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment;

[0078] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a child seat including an armbar according to an embodiment;

[0079] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a child seat including an armbar according to an embodiment;

[0080] FIG. 5 A is a side view of the child seat of FIG. 3 according to an embodiment;

[0081] FIG. 5B is a detailed side view of the child seat of FIG. 3 according to an embodiment;

[0082] FIG. 6 is a bottom perspective view of a tray connected to an armbar of a child seat according to an embodiment;

[0083] FIG. 7A is a bottom view of the tray of FIG. 6 in an unlatched position according to an embodiment;

[0084] FIG. 7B is a bottom view of the tray of FIG. 6 in latched position according to an embodiment;

[0085] FIG. 8 is a side view of a child seat during installation of a tray according to an embodiment;

[0086] FIG. 9 is bottom perspective view of the interface between the tray and an armbar of the child seat according to an embodiment;

[0087] FIG. 10A is a bottom view of the tray connected to an armbar in a latched position according to an embodiment;

[0088] FIG. 10B is a bottom view of the tray of FIG. 10A in an unlatched position according to an embodiment;

[0089] FIG. 11A is a transparent bottom view of the tray of FIG. 10A in a latched position according to an embodiment;

[0090] FIG. 1 IB is a transparent bottom view of the tray of FIG. 10B in an unlatched position according to an embodiment;

[0091] FIG. 11C is a transparent perspective view of the tray of FIG. 10A in a latched position according to an embodiment;

[0092] FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a tray during installation of the tray according to an embodiment;

[0093] FIG. 12B is a perspective view of an armbar during installation of the tray according to an embodiment; [0094] FIG. 13 is a side view of a child seat during installation of a tray according to an embodiment;

[0095] FIG. 14 is an exploded view of a seat member and a seat back extension member of the child seat according to an embodiment;

[0096] FIG. 15 is a bottom perspective view of a child seat according to an embodiment;

[0097] FIG. 16 is a bottom perspective view of the seat back of the seat member according to an embodiment;

[0098] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the seat back of the seat member according to an embodiment;

[0099] FIG. 18A is an exploded perspective view of a leg and seat member of a child seat according to an embodiment;

[00100] FIG. 18B is another exploded perspective view of the leg and seat member of FIG. 18A according to an embodiment;

[00101] FIG. 19A is a cross-sectional view of a leg attached to a seat member of a child seat according to an embodiment;

[00102] FIG. 19B is a detailed view of a coupling mechanism connecting the leg and the seat member of FIG. 19A according to an embodiment;

[00103] FIG. 20A is a perspective view of a leg as it is being connected to the seat member according to an embodiment;

[00104] FIG. 20B is a perspective view of a leg according to an embodiment;

[00105] FIG. 20C is a perspective view of a leg engaged with a seat member and connected to the seat member via a coupling mechanism according to an embodiment;

[00106] FIG. 21A is a front perspective view of a child seat including a harness assembly according to an embodiment;

[00107] FIG. 21B is a rear perspective of the child seat of FIG. 21 A according to an embodiment;

[00108] FIG. 22 is a detailed perspective view of the harness assembly of FIG. 21 A according to an embodiment;

[00109] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the primary member of a harness assembly according to an embodiment;

[00110] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a clip of the harness assembly according to an embodiment; [00111] FIG. 25 A is a perspective view of a child seat having a footrest in a first position according to an embodiment;

[00112] FIG. 25B is a perspective view of a child seat having a footrest in a second position according to an embodiment;

[00113] FIG. 26 is a front view of a child seat having a footrest movable between a first position and a second position according to an embodiment;

[00114] FIG. 27 is a bottom perspective view of a footrest according to an embodiment;

[00115] FIG. 28 is a bottom perspective view of a footrest according to another embodiment;

[00116] FIG. 29 is an exploded perspective view of the footrest and a leg of the child seat according to an embodiment;

[00117] FIG. 30 is another exploded perspective view of the footrest and the leg of FIG. 18 according to an embodiment;

[00118] FIG. 31 is a bottom perspective view of the footrest mounted to a leg of the child seat according to an embodiment;

[00119] FIG. 32 is a side perspective view of a footrest of the child seat according to an embodiment;

[00120] FIG. 33 is a top perspective view of a footrest according to another embodiment;

[0121] FIG. 34 is a bottom perspective view of the footrest of FIG. 33 according to an embodiment;

[0122] FIG. 35 is an exploded perspective view of the footrest of FIG. 33 according to an embodiment;

[0123] FIG. 36 is a perspective view of a leg including a height adjustment channel according to an embodiment;

[0124] FIG. 37 is a detailed perspective view of the height adjustment channel of FIG. 36 according to an embodiment;

[0125] FIG. 38 is an exploded perspective view of the height adjustment channel of FIG. 37 according to an embodiment;

[0126] FIG. 39 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the height adjustment channel of FIG. 37 according to an embodiment;

[0127] FIG. 40 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a footrest engaged with the height adjustment channel according to an embodiment; [0128] FIG. 41 illustrates a process for connecting a footrest mount to a height adjustment channel according to an embodiment;

[0129] FIG. 42 is a plan view of an interior of a footrest body according to an embodiment;

[0130] FIG. 43 is a perspective view of a footrest mount according to an embodiment;

[0131] FIG. 44 is an exploded perspective view of a footrest body according to an embodiment;

[0132] FIG. 45 is a detailed perspective view of a mechanism for moving the footrest mounts relative to the footrest body according to an embodiment;

[0133] FIG. 46 is a perspective view of the sliding blocks of FIG. 45 according to an embodiment;

[0134] FIG. 47 illustrates a process for disconnecting a footrest mount from a height adjustment channel according to an embodiment;

[0135] FIG. 48 is a perspective view of a child seat according to another embodiment;

[0136] FIG. 49 is a perspective view of a rear leg connected to a seat member according to an embodiment;

[0137] FIGS. 50A and 50B are exploded perspective views of the rear leg and the seat member shown in FIG. 49;

[0138] FIG. 51 is an exploded view of a coupling mechanism according to an embodiment;

[0139] FIGS. 52 A and 52B are bottom perspective views of the rear leg connected to the seat member;

[0140] FIGS. 53A and 53B are cross-sectional views of the rear leg and the seat member shown in FIGS. 52A and 52B, respectively.

[0141] FIG. 54 is a perspective, partially exploded view of a child seat according to another embodiment;

[0142] FIG. 55 is an exploded view of the armbar of FIG. 54 according to an embodiment;

[0143] FIG. 56 is a perspective view of a child seat during installation of an armbar according to an embodiment;

[0144] FIG. 57 is a perspective view of a child seat and an armbar prior to installation of an armbar to the child seat according to an embodiment;

[0145] FIG. 58 is a detailed view of an interface between the armbar and the seat member of the child seat of FIG. 57 according to an embodiment; [0146] FIG. 59 is a rear perspective view of a child seat having an armbar connected thereto according to an embodiment;

[0147] FIG. 60 is a detailed perspective view of an interface between the armbar and the seat member of the child seat according to an embodiment;

[0148] FIG. 61 is a plan view of a child seat having an armbar connected to a seat member according to an embodiment;

[0149] FIG. 62A is a cross-sectional view of the armbar of FIG. 61 according to an embodiment;

[0150] FIG. 62B is a cross-sectional view of the armbar mounted to the seat member of FIG. 61 according to an embodiment;

[0151] FIG. 63 is a partially exploded view of a child seat according to an embodiment;

[0152] FIG. 64 is a detailed perspective view of an interface between a tray and an armbar of the child seat of FIG. 63 according to an embodiment;

[0153] FIG. 65A is a side view of a child seat having a tray mounted in a first position according to an embodiment;

[0154] FIG. 65B is a side view of a child seat having a tray mounted in a second position according to an embodiment;

[0155] FIG. 66A is an example of a child seat configured as a booster seat; and

[0156] FIG. 66B is an example of a child seat configured as a youth seat.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0157] A detailed description of one or more embodiments of the disclosed apparatus and method are presented herein by way of exemplification and not limitation with reference to the Figures.

[0158] With reference to FIG. 1, an example of a child seat 20 is illustrated. As shown, the child seat 20 has a seat member 22 and at least one leg 24 for accommodating the child seat 20 on a support surface, such as a floor for example. The seat member 22 includes a generally horizontally oriented seat portion 26 and at least one upright sidewall, such as a first and second upright sidewall 28 arranged at opposing lateral sides of the seat portion, respectively. A seat back 30 may be connected to at least one of the horizontal seat portion 26 and to the upright sidewalls 28. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the vertical height of the seat back 30 is the same as the vertical height of one or both of the first and second upright sidewalls 28. However, embodiments where the seat back 30 extends vertically beyond the first and second upright sidewalls 28 are also contemplated herein. In an embodiment, the seat member 22, including the seat portion 26, the seat back 30, and the upright sidewalls 28, is formed as a single unitary component, such as molded from a plastic or composite material for example. However, embodiments where at least a portion of the seat member 22 is formed as a separate component permanently or removably connected to the remainder of the seat member 22 are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0159] The seat portion 26, upright sidewalls 28, and seat back 30 of the seat member 22 cooperate to define a generally hollow interior 32. Furthermore, a front 34 of the seat member 22 is open to accommodate the legs of a child when a child is seated within the hollow interior 32. In an embodiment, the seat member 22 is intended for use by a toddler or an infant capable of supporting themselves in an upright position, such as a child typically six months of age or older. Accordingly, the seat member 22 is suitable to receive a child sitting in contact with the seat portion 26 with the child’s back supported at least partially by the seat back 30.

[0160] With continued reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the seat member 22 is supported by a plurality of legs 24 spaced apart from one another. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, a leg 24 is arranged generally adjacent to each corner of the seat member 22. Accordingly, as shown, the child seat 20 includes a first, front right leg 24a, a second, front left leg 24b, a third, rear right leg 24c, and a fourth, rear left leg 24d. In an embodiment, each of the plurality of legs 24 may be substantially identical. However, in other embodiments, a configuration of the legs 24 may vary. For example, the rear legs 24c, 24d may have a first configuration and the front legs 24a, 24b may have a second configuration, different from the first configuration. For example, although the overall cross-sectional shape and size of the front and rear legs 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d appears identical, the axial length of the rear legs 24c, 24d is greater than the axial length of the front legs 24a, 24b.

[0161] A first end 36 of each of the front legs 24a, 24b and the rear legs 24c, 24d is configured to contact a support surface, such as a floor for example, to support the child seat 20 in an upright configuration. As shown, a second, opposite end 38 of each of the legs 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d is affixed to a corresponding portion of the seat member 22.

[0162] In an embodiment, the child seat 20 is configured as a high chair. With reference now to FIGS. 3-5B, in embodiments where the child seat 20 is a high chair, an armbar 40 may be connected to the child seat 20, such as to the seat member 22 for example. In an embodiment, the armbar 40 is permanently connected to the armbar 40. As used herein “permanently connected” is intended to represent embodiments where the armbar 40 is not intended to be disassembled from the seat member 22 by a user. Such a connection may be formed by rivets, molding, or another suitable connection mechanism. In another embodiment, the armbar 40 is removably connected to the seat member 22. In such embodiments, the armbar 40 may be connected to the child seat 20 by a user when the child seat is to be used by a smaller infant and may be removed from the child seat when the seat member 22 is to be used by an older toddler or child. This connection between the armbar and the seat member 22 may be formed by fasteners, a snap-fit connection, or another suitable connection mechanism, as will be described in more detail below.

[0163] As shown, the armbar 40 is intended to form a barrier extending across at least a portion, and in some embodiments, the entire front 34 of the seat member 22, thereby restricting movement of a child via the front 34 of the seat member 22. In the illustrated, nonlimiting embodiment, the armbar 40 includes an integrally formed bumper member 42 and crotch member 44 extending downwardly from the bumper member 42. However, embodiments where the bumper member 42 and the crotch member 44 are separable from one another are also contemplated herein. The armbar 40 may cooperate with the front 34 of the seat member 22 to define a first leg opening 46a and a separate or substantially separate second leg opening 46b arranged on opposite sides of the crotch member 44.

[0164] The armbar 40 may be connected to the seat member 22 via at least one armbar mount 48. As best shown in FIG. 4, in an embodiment, a first armbar mount 48 is arranged at a first end 50 of the bumper member 42 and a second armbar mount 48 is arranged at a second end 52 of the bumper member 42. Although the first and second armbar mounts 48 are illustrated as separate parts that are connectable to the armbar 40 via one or more fasteners or other couplers, embodiments where the armbar mounts 48 are permanently affixed or integrally formed with the armbar 40 are also within the scope of the disclosure. For example, the armbar mounts may be injection molded parts that are insert molded to the armbar 40. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the crotch member 44 of the armbar 40 itself is not configured to couple to the seat member 22. Rather, the crotch member 44 is located at a desired position as a result of the connection between the bumper member 42 and the seat member 22 via the one or more armbar mounts 48. However, embodiments where a portion of the crotch member 44 is also connectable to the seat member 22 are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0165] The at least one armbar mount 48 is receivable within a corresponding opening or cavity formed in a portion of the seat member. For example, the first armbar mount 48 may be slidably and/or rotatably received within a first opening 54a formed at the front surface of the first upright sidewall 28 and the second armbar mount 48 may be slidably and/or rotatably received within a second opening 54b formed at the front surface of the second upright sidewall 28. [0166] An example of an armbar mount 48 installed within a corresponding opening is illustrated in FIGS. 5A-B. As shown, each armbar mount 48 may include a body 56 having a first end 58 connectable the armbar 40 and a second end 60 connectable to the seat member 22. A gap 62 extends over a portion of the length of the body 56 such that the body 56 includes a main finger 64 and a secondary finger 66 at the second end 60 thereof. The main finger 64 and the secondary finger 66 are connected to one another at the first end 58 of the body 56 but are separate from one another over the length of the gap 62. The gap 62 may have a non-linear configuration, or alternatively, may have a linear configuration. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the gap 62 includes a first linear portion and a second arcuate or curved portion arranged at the second end 60 of the body 56. However, a gap 62 having any suitable configuration is contemplated herein. Accordingly, the resulting main and secondary fingers 64, 66 may have any suitable configuration. In an embodiment, the secondary finger 66 is flexible or bendable relative to the main finger 64, such as during installation or separation of the armbar mount 48 from the seat member 22.

[0167] In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the main finger 64 extends axially beyond the secondary finger 66. Accordingly, when the armbar mount 48 is installed within an opening 54a, 54b, the second end of the main finger 64 is configured to engage and rest upon a shelf 68 formed in the opening 54a, 54b. This engagement between the main finger 64 and the shelf 68 is configured to resist rotation of the armbar 40 and relieve stress on the secondary finger 66. For example, with reference to the orientation of the armbar 40 in FIG. 5 A, an upward force applied to the armbar 40 can be transferred to the engagement of the main finger 64 with the shelf 68, as opposed to being transferred to the secondary finger 66.

[0168] To connect the armbar 40 to the seat member 22, the at least one armbar mount 48 is inserted into the at least one opening 54a, 54b formed about the seat member 22. As the armbar mount 48 is slidably inserted into the opening 54a, 54b, the secondary finger 66 is configured to flex towards the main finger 64. When the armbar mount 48 reaches a fully inserted position, as shown in FIG. 5B, a portion of the secondary finger 66 may be arranged at an exterior of the seat member 22. At the exterior of the seat member 22, the secondary finger 66 is no longer constrained by the overall height of the opening 54a, 54b and therefore can bias to its original position. In an embodiment, the secondary finger 66 includes a notch 70 configured to cooperate with a surface of the seat member 22 to restrict lateral movement of the armbar 40 away from the seat member 22. To separate the armbar 40 from the seat member 22, an upward force, illustrated by Fl, is applied to the exposed portion of the secondary finger 66. This force causes the secondary finger 66 to flex towards the main finger 64, aligning both the main finger 64 and the secondary finger 66 of the armbar mount 48 with the opening 54a, 54b, for removal therethrough. The armbar mount 48 can comprise a flexible material, such as an engineering resin or thermoplastic material for example.

[0169] A tray 80 may be mountable to a portion of the child seat 20. The tray 80 may have a generally planar upper surface 82 configured to support items, such as food for example, at a location easily accessible by an occupant of the seat member 22. In the illustrated, nonlimiting embodiment, the tray 80 is positionable in overlapping arrangement with an upper surface 72 of the armbar 40. Although a portion of the tray 80 may contact or abut an adjacent surface of the seat member 22, such as the front of the upright sidewalls 28 for example, the tray 80 is not configured to couple to or be supported by any portion of the seat member 22. As used herein the term “couple” is intended to identify a mechanical connection or fastening that restricts relative motion between two or more components in at least one direction. Rather, in an embodiment, the tray 80 is only configured to directly couple or affix to the armbar 40. Accordingly, in an embodiment, the tray 80 cannot be connected to the child seat 20 when the armbar 40 is not connected thereto.

[0170] As best shown in FIGS. 7A-7B, a groove or channel 84 having a shape complementary to the contour of a portion of the armbar 40, such as the upper surface of the bumper member 42 for example, may be formed in an underside 86 of the tray 80. Accordingly, when the tray 80 is connected to the child seat 20, at least a portion of the armbar 40 is arranged within the channel 84. With continued reference to FIGS. 7A-7B, in the illustrated, nonlimiting embodiment, one or more engagement tabs 88 protrude from a back edge 90 of the channel 84 and extend over a portion of the width of the channel 84. Although two engagement tabs 88 are illustrated, it should be understood that embodiments including a single tab or more than two tabs are also contemplated herein. However, in other embodiment, such as shown in FIGS. 10A-11C, the tray 80 need not include an engagement tab positioned adjacent to the channel 84.

[0171] The tray 80 includes at least one latch 92 configured to connect the tray 80 to a portion of the armbar 40. As shown, the at least one latch 92 is positioned adjacent to a front edge 94 of the channel 84 and is arranged to extend over a portion of the width of the channel 84. The at least one latch 92 may but need not be aligned with the at least one engagement tab 88. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the at least one latch 92 includes a first latch and a second latch configured to engage the bumper member 42 of the armbar 40 to couple the tray 80 thereto. [0172] The at least one latch 92 may be movable relative to the tray 80 in response to operation of an actuator 96. In an embodiment, a single actuator 96 may be operably coupled to a plurality of latches 92. As shown, when the actuator 96 is pressed or operated, such as via a force indicated by arrow F2, both the first and second latches 92 are configured to rotate about a respective axis from a first extended position (FIG. 7A) in which the latches 92 generally extend across the channel 84 to a second retracted position (FIG. 7B) in which the latches 92 minimally overlap the channel 84. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment of FIGS. 7 A and 7B, the first and second latches 92 are configured to rotate inwardly. However, in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 10A-11C, the latches 92 are configured to rotate outwardly in response to operation of the actuator 96.

[0173] With continued reference to FIGS. 10A-11C, in an embodiment, the actuator 96 is part of an actuation assembly including a drive gear 97. As best shown in FIGS. 11 A-l 1C, the drive gear 97 includes a plurality of first teeth 99 and an edge of the actuator 96 facing towards the drive gear 97 includes a plurality of second teeth 101. The first teeth 99 may be intermeshed with the second teeth 101 such that linear translation of the actuator 96 causes the drive gear 97 to rotate about an axis, similar to the configuration of a rack and pinion. A driven gear 103 including a plurality of third teeth 105 is also engaged with the second teeth 101 of the drive gear 97. Although the driven gear 103 is illustrated as a separate component mounted coaxially with a latch 92, in other embodiments, the plurality of third teeth 105 may be directly formed into the body of the latch 92 such that the latch itself functions as the driven gear 103.

[0174] Embodiments where each of the latches 92 is independently movable relative to the tray 80, such as via a respective actuator for example, are also contemplated herein. Further, although the latches 92 are illustrated and described herein as rotating between the extended position and the retracted position, it should be understood that in other embodiment, the latches 92 may alternatively or additionally be configured to translate or slide relative to the tray 80.

[0175] In an embodiment, a biasing member 98 (see FIG. 7A and FIGS. 11A-11C), such as a torsion spring for example, is coupled to each latch 92 and is operable to bias the at least one latch 92 to the extended position to facilitate engagement with the armbar 40. In such embodiments, upon release of the at least one actuator 96, the at least one latch 92 associated with the at least one actuator 96 will be biased back to the extended position by a corresponding biasing member 98.

[0176] During installation of the tray 80, a user will operate the at least one actuator 96 associated with the one or more latches 92, such as by applying a force F2 to the actuator 96, causing the latches 92 to retract. While holding the actuator 96 in the actuated position, the tray 80 may then be positioned over the upper surface 72 of the armbar 40. As best shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, in an embodiment, the front 100 of the tray 80 is lowered relative to the back 102 of the tray 80 when positioned about the armbar 40 to facilitate positioning of the engagement tabs 88 at an underside 74 of the bumper member 42. Once engaged, the front 100 of the tray 80 may be rotated upwardly to a generally horizontal configuration, and the actuator 96 may be released. Upon releasing the actuator 96, the latches 92 will be biased into the extended position such that a portion of each of the latches 92 overlaps the underside 74 of the bumper member 42. This overlapping engagement between the underside 74 of the bumper member 42 and the at least one latch 92 and the at least one engagement tab 88 extending from the tray 80 restricts movement of the tray 80 relative to the armbar 40, and therefore the seat member 22.

[0177] With reference again to FIGS. 11A-11C and further reference to FIGS. 12A-13, the tray 80 may include at least one rib 107, such as extending from the underside 86 thereof for example. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the tray 80 includes a first rib 107 arranged at the rear 102 of the tray 80 near a first lateral side and a second rib 107 arranged at the rear of the tray 80 near a second lateral side. A contour of the ribs 107 may be generally complementary to an adjacent surface of the seat member 22, such as of the upright sidewalls 28. In an embodiment, at least one slot 109 corresponding to each rib 107 may be formed in the bumper member 42 of the armbar 40 to guide the tray 80 into a seated position along the front of the left and right upright sidewalls 28 of the seat member 22. In such embodiments, a user will initially raise the front 100 of the tray 80 above the back 102 of the tray 80 during installation of the tray 80 to facilitate receipt of the ribs 107 within the slots 109. Once engaged, the front 100 of the tray 80 may be rotated downwardly to seat the armbar 40 within the channel 84. The actuator 96 may then be released to allow the latches 92 to rotate into overlapping engagement with the underside 74 of the bumper member 42. Positioning the ribs 107 of the tray 80 within the slots 109 of the armbar 40 can help align the tray with the seat member 22 and secure the tray 80 to the armbar 40.

[0178] With reference now to FIGS. 54-61, another example of an armbar 500 connectable to the seat member 22 of the child seat 20 is illustrated. Similar to the previous embodiment, the armbar 500 includes a bumper member 502 and crotch member 504 extending downwardly from the bumper member 502. The armbar 500 may cooperate with the front 34 of the seat member 22 to define a first leg opening 46a and a separate or substantially separate second leg opening 46b arranged on opposite sides of the crotch member 44. [0179] The armbar 500 may be formed as a single unitary body. In other embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 49, the armbar 500 may be an assembly. As shown, a first piece 503 may include the crotch member 504, and also form a portion, such as the bottom and the sides for example, of the bumper member 502. A second piece 505 may be positioned at an upper surface of the first piece 503 to form the upper surface of the bumper member 502. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the first piece 503 and the second piece 505 may be connected via one or more fasteners for example. However, an armbar assembly having any suitable configuration is within the scope of the disclosure. For example, an armbar assembly where the first piece 503 includes some or all of the bumper member 502 and a second piece 505 includes some or all of the crotch member 504 is contemplated herein. In addition, although the pieces of the assembly as described as being fastened together, it should be understood that any suitable connection, such as a snap fit, adhesive, or other quick connect mechanism may be used to couple the pieces together.

[0180] The armbar 500 may be connectable to the seat member 22 via at least one armbar mount. As best shown in FIGS. 56-58, in an embodiment, at least one first armbar mount is associated with the bumper member 502. For example, a first armbar mount 508 (See FIGS. 57 and 58) may be arranged at the opposing ends 510 of the bumper member 502. Each first armbar mount 508 may include a tab or protrusion receivable within a corresponding opening 512 formed in an adjacent portion of the seat member 22, such as a portion of the sidewalls of the seat member for example. When the first armbar mounts 508 are arranged within the openings 512, the ends 510 of the bumper member 502 may be positioned directly adjacent to, and in some embodiments in contact with, a raised edge of the sidewall 28.

[0181] The armbar 500 may alternatively, or additionally include at least one second armbar mount 514 operable to selectively couple the armbar 500 to the seat member 22. In an embodiment the at least one second armbar mount 514 includes a flap or clip operable to selectively couple to a portion of the seat member 22 (see FIGS. 56, 59, 60). As shown, each second armbar mount 514 is insertable into a corresponding opening 516 formed in a ledge 29 of the sidewall 28 of the seat member 22. A hook or other engagement feature 518 (see FIG. 60) may be formed at the distal end 520 of the second armbar mount 514. When the armbar 500 is installed about the seat member 22, such as via insertion of the second armbar mount 514 within the corresponding opening 516, the engagement feature 518 is configured to abut against a bottom surface 522 of the sidewall 28 located adjacent to the opening 516. The engagement between the bottom surface 522 of the ledge 29 of the sidewall 28 and the engagement feature 518 restricts vertical movement of the armbar 500 away from the seat member 22.

[0182] By forming the second armbar mount 514 from a resilient material, at least a portion of the second armbar mount 514, such as the distal end 520 thereof, may be configured to flex relative to the armbar 500 to decouple the engagement feature 518 from the surface 522 of the sidewall 28. With continued reference to FIGS. 59 and 60, to remove the armbar 500 from the seat member 22, a user applies a force to the distal end 520 of the second armbar mount 514, such as in an outward direction away from the sidewall, illustrated by arrow F6. It should be appreciated that the direction of the force will vary based on the position of the engagement feature 518 about the second armbar mount 514. As shown, the end 520 of the second armbar mount 514 may be arranged adjacent to an exposed surface of the sidewall 28 easily accessible by a user. This force F6 causes the distal end 520 of the second armbar mount 514 to flex or rotate, thereby moving the engagement feature 518 out of contact with the adjacent surface 522 and into alignment with the opening 516. While the engagement feature 518 is in this flexed position, the second armbar mount 514 can be removed from the opening 516, thereby separating the armbar 500 from the seat member 22. It should be understood that the clip illustrated in the non-limiting embodiment as the second armbar mounts 514 used the couple the armbar 500 to the seat member 22 are intended as an example only and that any suitable connector or coupling mechanism, such as a snap fit connection for example, is within the scope of the disclosure.

[0183] With reference now to FIGS. 61 and 62, in another embodiment, the armbar 500 may be slidably connectable to the seat member 22. As shown in the cross-sectional view of FIGS. 62A & 62B, the sides 524 of the bumper member 502 of the armbar 500 may be contoured to define a recess 525 within which a portion of the sidewall 28 of the seat member 22 is receivable. Accordingly, the armbar 500 may be connected to and removed from the seat member 22 via the front 34 of the seat member 22 thereof. In an embodiment, one or both sides of the bumper member 502 include at least one rib 526 protruding therefrom and a corresponding portion of the sidewall 28 includes a recess or undercut 528 within which the rib 526 is slidably receivable. This engagement between the rib 526 of the armbar 500 and the undercut 528 of the sidewall 28 restricts vertical movement of the armbar 500 relative to the seat member 22.

[0184] Similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 3-5, in the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment of FIGS. 54-60, the crotch member 504 of the armbar 500 itself is not configured to couple to the seat member 22. Rather, the crotch member 504 is located at a desired position as a result of the connection between the bumper member 502 and the seat member 22 via the one or more armbar mounts 508. However, embodiments where a portion of the crotch member 504 is also connectable to the seat member 22 are also within the scope of the disclosure.

[0185] Regardless of the mechanism for connecting the armbar 500 to the seat member 22, a portion of the armbar 500 may form part of at least one of the sidewalls 28 of the seat member 22, such as part of an upper surface thereof. As shown, a portion of the sidewalls 28 near the front 34 of the seat member 22 have an undercut or otherwise contoured region 530 with one or more reduced dimensions compared to the remainder of the sidewall 28 (See FIG. 54). A portion of the armbar 500, such as the sides 524 of the bumper member 502 for example, are positionable in overlapping arrangement with the undercut region 530. In an embodiment, when the armbar 500 is mounted to the seat member 22, the sides 524 of the bumper member 502 are substantially flush with one or more adjacent surfaces of the sidewall 28.

[0186] As previously described, a tray 540 for supporting one or more items may be mountable to a portion of the child seat 20, such as an upper portion or the armbar 400. With reference now to FIGS. 63-65B, the illustrated tray 540 is only shown to directly couple or affix to the armbar 400. In such embodiments, the tray 540 may be is incapable of being coupled to the seat member 22 when the armbar 500 is disengaged from the seat member 22. However, embodiments where the tray 540 is alternatively or additionally couplable to the seat member 22 are also contemplated herein. As shown, the tray 540 may include one or more latches operable to engage a portion of the armbar 500 to couple the tray 540 to the seat member 22. The at least one latch may be arranged near a back edge 544 of the tray 540. For example, a first latch 542a may be located about the tray 540 such that the first latch 542a is arranged generally adjacent to a first sidewall 28 of the seat member 22, and a second latch 542b may be located about the tray 540 such that the second latch 542b is arranged generally adjacent to the second, opposite sidewall 28 of the seat member 22.

[0187] In an embodiment, the first latch 542a and second latch 542b are engageable with a portion of the armbar 500 arranged at an outwardly facing surface of the sidewall 28. As shown, the latches 542a and 542b may be engageable with the outwardly facing surface of a side 524 of the bumper member 502. A groove 550 may be formed in the outwardly facing surface so as to define an undersurface 552 of the side 524. A portion of each of the latches 542a and 542b, such as an ends 554 thereof may be positionable in contact with the undersurface 552 to restrict movement of the tray 540 relative to the seat member 22.

[0188] The latches 542a and 542b may be movable between a first, engaged position and a second, disengaged position. In an embodiment, a biasing member 556 is operably coupled to the latches 542a and 542b. The biasing force of the biasing member 556 is configured to bias each respective latch toward the first, engaged position. When a user applies a force to either of the latches 542a and 542b, this force opposes the biasing force of the biasing member 556 causing the latch to transform, for example translate, from the engaged position to the disengaged position. As the latches 542a and/or 542b moves towards the disengaged position, the end 554 of that latch moves out of engagement with the undersurface 552. In this retracted position, the tray 540 can be separated from the seat member 22, and specifically the armbar 500. To connect the tray 540 to the armbar 500, upon removal of the force, the biasing member 556 will bias the latches 542a and 542b back into the first engaged position and into contact with the undersurface 552.

[0189] With reference to FIGS. 64 and 65A-65B, the tray 540 may be connectable to the armbar 500 at a plurality of positions. In an embodiment, one or more adjustment ribs 560 are formed within and extend outwardly from the groove 550 of the armbar 500. The ends 554 of the latches 542a and 542b that engage the armbar 500 may include one or more slots 562 complementary to the plurality of adjustment ribs 560. Accordingly, one or more of the adjustment ribs 560 are receivable within a corresponding slot 562 of the latches 542a and 542b when the latches 542a and 542b are in the first engaged position. In other embodiments, the adjustment ribs 560 may be formed in the latches 542a and 542b and the slots 562 may be formed in the armbar 500. When the tray 540 is coupled to the armbar 500, the slots 562 and adjustment ribs 560 cooperate to position the tray 540 relative to the armbar 500. For example, in FIG. 65A, the tray 540 is shown arranged at a foremost position relative to the seat member 22, such as adjacent the front 34 of the seat member 22 for example, and in FIG. 65B, the tray 540 is shown at a rearmost position relative to the seat member 22. It should be appreciated that the tray 540 may also be arranged at one or more positions between the foremost and rearmost positions illustrated.

[0190] In an embodiment, the tray 540 need not be separated from the armbar 500 to adjust the position of the tray 540 relative to the seat member 22. Rather, the tray 540 may remain positioned in overlapping arrangement with the armbar 500 during translational movement thereof between the plurality of positions. The latches 542a and 542b are operated to decouple the ribs 560 from the slots 562, but the tray 540 is not lifted or moved vertically relative to the seat member 22. Once in the desired position, the force is removed from the latches 542a and 542b, such that the slots 562 are biased into engagement with one or more adjustment ribs 560. Accordingly, different adjustment ribs 560 are receivable within different slots 562 of the latch 542 based on the position of the tray 540 relative to the armbar 500 and therefore the seat member 22. By allowing the tray 540 to be installed at one of several positions about the seat member 22, the position of the tray 540 may be adjusted based on the size of the child positioned within the child seat 20.

[0191] With reference to FIGS. 14-17, alternatively or in addition to the armbar 40 and tray 80, a seat back extension member 110 may be removably connectable to the seat member 22 to increase the vertical height of the seat back 30. When connected, the seat back 30 and seat back extension member 110, in combination, extends vertically beyond the upright sidewalls 28. In such embodiments, a contour of the seat back extension member 110 may but need not be generally complementary or identical to the contour of the seat back 30. The seat back extension member 110 may be formed from the same material, or alternatively, from a different material as the seat member 22. In an embodiment, a first portion 112 of the seat back extension member 110 is receivable within a corresponding recess 114 formed in the seat back 30 of the seat member 22.

[0192] In an embodiment, best shown in FIGS. 14, 16 and 17, one or more clips 116 may be used to selectively couple the seat back extension member 110 to the seat member 22. As shown, each of the clips 116 is insertable into a corresponding opening 118 (FIG. 14) formed in the seat back extension member 110, such as in the first portion 112 of the seat back extension member 110 receivable within the recess 114 for example. The shape of each clip 116 may be selected to prevent separation of the clip 116 from the seat back extension member 110 due to gravity. For example, the clips 116 may include a head 120 extending in a first direction and a connector 122 extending from the head 120 in a second direction and having a reduced dimension relative to the head 120 in the first direction.

[0193] As shown in FIG. 17, an undercut or other feature 124 may be formed in a portion of the seat member 22 positioned adjacent to the seat back extension member 110. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the feature 124 is formed at a sidewall 126 of the recess 114; however, embodiments where the feature 124 is formed at another suitable location about the seat member 22 are also contemplated herein. A portion of the clip 116, such as the connector 122 for example, may include a through hole 128 (see FIG. 14) configured to cooperate with the feature 124 to couple the seat back extension member 110 to the seat member 22. When the seat back extension member 110 is installed about the seat member 22 (e.g., the first portion 112 of the seat back extension member 110 including at least one clip 116 is inserted into the recess 114), the undercut or feature 124 is receivable within the through hole 128 of the clip 116. The engagement between the through hole 128 and the feature 124 restricts vertical movement of the seat back extension member 110 from the seat member 22. [0194] By forming the clip 116 from a resilient material, the connector 122 may be configured to flex relative to the head 120 of the clip 116 to decouple the feature 124 and the through hole 128. With continued reference to FIG. 17, to remove the seat back extension member 110 from the seat member 22, a user applies a force in a direction away from the feature 124, illustrated by arrow F3, to an exposed end of the connector 122. As shown, the end of the connector 122 may be arranged adjacent to an exposed surface 130 of the seat member 22 (FIGS. 15 and 16) easily accessible by a user. This force F3 causes the connector 122 to flex or rotate, moving the through hole 128 away from and out of engagement with the undercut or feature 124. While the connector 122 is in this flexed position, the seat back extension member 110 can be removed from the recess 114. It should be understood that the clips 116 used to couple the seat back extension member 110 to the seat member 22 are intended as an example only and that any suitable connector or coupling mechanism is within the scope of the disclosure.

[0195] In an embodiment, the second end 38 of at least one of the legs 24a, 24b, 24c, 24d is removably connectable to a corresponding portion of the seat member 22. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, at least one of the plurality of legs, such as the rear legs 24c, 24d for example, are connectable to the seat member 22 via a quick-connect coupling mechanism 140 (FIG. 1) that does not require the use of any additional or external tools, such as a screwdriver for example.

[0196] With reference to FIGS. 18A-19B, an example of such a quick-connect coupling mechanism 140 is illustrated in more detail. As shown, a first portion 142 of the coupling mechanism 140 is mounted near the second end 38 of a leg, such as rear left leg 24d. The first portion 142 of the coupling mechanism 140 includes a housing 144 and a support member 146 associated with the housing 144 and movably mounted to the rear left leg 24d. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the support member 146 is rotatable relative to the rear left leg 24d about a pivot axis X (FIG. 19B) between an engaged position and a disengaged position (not shown). The pivot axis X may be defined at a central portion of the support member 146 or near an end of the support member 146. A biasing member 148, such as a coil or torsion spring for example, is configured to exert a biasing force on the support member 146 to maintain the support member in the engaged position. In an embodiment, a torsion spring 148 is mounted coaxially with the support member 146 about the pivot axis X. However, in other embodiments, the biasing member 148 may be connected to another portion of the support member 146.

[0197] With continued reference to FIG. 19B, an engagement member 150 protrudes from a surface 152 of the support member 146. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the engagement member 150 is generally conical or frustoconical in shape. However, it should be appreciated that an engagement member 150 having any suitable shape is contemplated herein. When the support member 146 is the engaged position, the engagement member 150 extends beyond an adjacent surface 154 of the housing 144 and the rear left leg 24d.

[0198] A second portion 156 of the quick-connect coupling mechanism 140, complementary to the first portion 142, is located at a surface of the seat member 22, such as at an exterior surface thereof. In an embodiment, the second portion 156 is affixed to the seat member 22 via one or more fasteners, such as screws for example. The second portion 156 of the quick-connect coupling mechanism 140 includes a body 158 having at least one groove 160 configured to receive a portion of the engagement member 150 therein to couple or lock the rear left leg 24d to the seat member 22. In an embodiment, the shape of the at least one groove 160 is selected such that an area of engagement defined between the engagement member 150 and the groove 160 restricts movement of the rear left leg 24d relative to the seat member 22.

[0199] With continued reference to FIG. 19B, to couple a leg, such as the rear left leg 24d for example, to the seat member 22, a user applies a force, represented by arrow F4, to a portion of the support member 146 remote from the engagement member 150, such as at or near end 162 for example. The force F4 applied by the user opposes the biasing force of the biasing member 148, thereby causing the support member 146 to rotate about the pivot axis X in a first direction. In this rotated position, the engagement member 150 is generally retracted within the housing 144 and does not extend beyond the surface 154 of the rear left leg 24d. A user then positions the rear left leg 24d such that the first portion 142 of the coupling mechanism 140 is adjacent to the second portion 156 of the coupling mechanism 140. The engagement member 150 may be generally aligned with the groove 160 formed in the second portion 156. Once aligned, the user can remove the force F4 from the support member 146. The biasing force of the biasing member 148 will cause the support member 146 to rotate about the pivot axis X in a second direction, toward the engaged position. As the support member 146 rotates toward the engaged position, the distal end of the engagement member 150 is received within the groove 160, thereby coupling the rear left leg 24d to the seat member 22. The rear left leg 24d may be decoupled from the seat member 22 via a similar process. It should be appreciated that the coupling mechanism 140 illustrated and described herein is intended as an example only and that a coupling mechanism having any suitable configuration that allows any leg of the child seat 20 to be easily coupled to and decoupled from the seat member 22 without the use of an external tool is within the scope of the disclosure. [0200] With reference now to FIGS. 20A-20C, the leg 24d may include a protrusion 164, such as extending beyond the end 38 of the leg 24d. As shown (see FIG. 20B), the protrusion 164 may be integrally formed with the first portion 142 of the coupling mechanism, such as with the housing 144 thereof for example. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the protrusion 164 is generally frustoconical in shape. However, it should be understood that a protrusion 164 having any suitable shape is contemplated herein. In such embodiments, a pocket 166 is also formed in a surface of the seat member 22 that the end 38 of the leg is configured to abut. In an embodiment, best shown in FIG. 20A, the outer surface of the sidewalls 28 may be partially recessed resulting in the formation of a flange or lip at or near the top of the seat member 22. The pocket 166 may be formed in an underside 168 of this lip. However, a pocket 166 may be formed at any surface adjacent a corresponding portion of the leg 24.

[0201] The size and shape of the pocket 166 may be substantially identical to the size and shape of the protrusion 164. As a result of these substantially identical shapes and sizes, when the leg 24d is properly connected to the seat member 22, the sidewalls of the protrusion 164 are arranged in contact with one or more of the sidewalls defining the pocket 166. This contact between the sidewalls of the protrusion 164 and the sidewalls of the pocket 166 resists rotation of the leg 24d in both a front-to-back and a side-to-side direction. Further, this engagement may relieve some of the load acting on the one or more fasteners connecting the second portion 156 to the seat member 22.

[0202] Although the legs 24a-d of the child seat 20 are generally illustrated and described as a single unitary body, in an embodiment, shown in FIG. 54 and, one or more of the legs 24a-d may be formed from a leg assembly having multiple components or parts that may be selectively included or omitted to provide various modes disclosed herein. In embodiments where a leg 24a-24d is formed as an assembly including multiple pieces, the child seat 20 may be capable of transforming to additional modes that are not otherwise achievable when the legs 24a-24d are formed from a single body. In an embodiment, each of the legs 24a- d is a leg assembly including an upper leg section and a lower leg section. Further, in some embodiments, a leg 24 may additionally include an intermediate leg or leg extension section positionable between the upper leg section and the lower leg section. It should be appreciated that embodiments where at least one of the legs 24a-d is a leg assembly including multiple pieces and at least one of the legs 24a-d is a unitary leg are also within the scope of the disclosure. Further, it should be appreciated that in embodiments where multiple legs 24a-d are formed by a leg assembly, the components of each leg 24 may not be the same. In embodiments where one or more of the legs 24 is formed as a leg assembly, the child seat 20 may be transformable between a plurality of modes such as a first high chair mode (FIG. 54), a second booster mode (FIG. 66A), and a third youth chair mode (Fig. 66B).

[0203] With reference now to FIGS. 21A-24, to selectively restrain a child seated within the hollow interior 32 of the seat member 22, the child seat 20 may include a harness assembly 170 associated with the seat member 22. The harness assembly 170 is removably mounted to the seat member 22, or has portions thereof that are removably mounted from the seat member, without requiring the use of an external tool. The harness assembly 170 includes a primary member 172 (FIG. 23) and one or more support members 174 connectable to the primary member 172. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the primary member 172 includes a buckle 176 and a retention clip 178 connected to opposite ends of a strap or piece of soft webbing 180. As shown in the FIGS., the one or more support members 174 may include at least one waist strap. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the harness assembly 170 includes a single support member 174 including a waist strap 182 formed form a piece of webbing having a first buckle clip 184 arranged at a first end 186 thereof and a second buckle clip 188 arranged at a second opposite end 190 thereof. The first buckle clip 184 and the second buckle clip 188 are both releasably connectable to the buckle 176 of the primary member 172 to form a continuous strap encircling a child’s torso.

[0204] In embodiments including a single waist strap 182, to prevent movement of the child relative to the seat portion 26 of the seat member 22, the harness assembly 170 may additionally include an anchor 192 connected to the waist strap 182 and removably mountable to the seat member 22 via a retention clip 194. The anchor 192 is illustrated as being mounted to the seat portion 26 and/or to the seat back 30, at a position behind the buckle 176. However, embodiments where the anchor 192 is positioned at another location about the seat member 22, such as at an upright sidewall 28 for example, are also contemplated herein. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the waist strap 182 extends through a slot (not shown) formed in the anchor 192. However, it should be appreciated that the waist strap 182 and the anchor 192 may be coupled via in any suitable manner.

[0205] In other embodiments, the one or more support members 174 may include a distinct first waist strap and second waist strap, for example arranged at the lateral sides of a child. In such embodiments, the first and second buckle clips 184, 188 may be arranged at a respective first end of the waist straps and a retention clip, similar to retention clip 178 or 194, for securing the waist straps to the seat member 22 may be arranged at a second opposite end of each of the waist straps. Additionally, it should be appreciated that although not illustrated and described herein, the harness assembly 170 may include alternative or additional support straps connectable to the buckle 176, such as a support strap configured to wrap about a shoulder of the child for example.

[0206] The buckle 176, buckle clips 184, 188, and/or the retention clips 178 and 194 may be made from any suitable material, such as injection molded plastic, for example polypropylene or styrene. With reference to FIG. 23, the buckle 176 includes a buckle housing 195 having a plurality of openings 196 for receiving the one or more buckle clips 184, 188 attached to the one or more support members 174 of the harness assembly 170. A button 198 is arranged at the center of the buckle housing 195 and is configured to cooperate with each of the buckle clips 184, 188 to selectively release the buckle clips 184, 188 from the buckle housing 195. Any suitable releasable engagement between the buckle clips 184, 188 and the buckle 176 is within the scope of the disclosure. For example, each of the buckle clips 184, 188 may include may a flexible snap (not shown) configured to engage a rib when inserted into a respective opening 196 formed in the buckle housing 195. When the button 198 is pressed, the flexible snaps are bent, causing the flexible snaps to disengage from the rib, thereby allowing the buckle clips 184, 188 to separate from the interior of the buckle housing 195.

[0207] A retention clip 178 or 194, such as associated with the primary member 172, the anchor 192, and/or the one or more support members 174 may be removably connectable to a portion of the seat member 22, such as via a snap fit connection. As best shown in FIG. 24, an example of the retention clip 194, such as that of the anchor 192 is illustrated. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the retention clip 194 includes at least one prong, for example two prongs 200, receivable within an opening 202 formed in the seat member 22. Each prong 200 is formed from a flexible or resilient material having an outward bias and has a protrusion or rib 204 configured to abut an adjacent surface 206 of the seat member 22 to restrict separation of the retention clip 194 therefrom. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, to separate the retention clip 194 from the seat member 22, a user simply flexes or squeezes the prongs 200 toward one another such that the ribs 204 are wholly aligned with the opening 202. In this squeezed configuration, the retention clip 194 including the ribs 204 is configured to slide through the opening 202. It should be appreciated that although the retention clip 194 is illustrated and described with respect to the anchor 192, the retention clip 178 associated with the primary member 172, and/or a retention clip associated with one or more support members 174 may have a similar construction. Further, the retention clip 194 illustrated and described herein is intended as an example only and it should be understood that a retention clip 178, 194 having any suitable configuration that allows for easy installation and removal relative to a seat member 22, such as without the use of additional tools, is within the scope of the disclosure.

[0208] With continued reference to FIG. 1, and further reference to FIGS. 25A-47, in an embodiment, the child seat 20 includes a footrest 210 connectable to one or more legs 24 at a position vertically offset from the front 34 of the seat member 22. The position of the footrest 210 may be fixed or may be adjustable relative to the seat portion 26 of the seat member 22. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment of FIGS. 25A-31, the footrest 210 is positionable at either a first position (FIG. 24A) or a second position (FIG. 24B) relative to the front legs 24a, 24b, and in the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment of FIGS. 32-47, the footrest 210 is positionable at a first, second, or third position. However, it should be appreciated that embodiments where the footrest 210 is positionable at only a single location or more than three locations are also contemplated herein. Further, it should be appreciated that in some embodiments, the footrest 210 is removable from the child seat 20, and therefore the child seat 20 may be used without the footrest 210 attached thereto.

[0209] With reference now to FIG. 27, an example of a footrest 210 according to an embodiment is illustrated. As shown, the footrest 210 includes a footrest body 212 having a generally planar upper surface 214 upon which a child may position one or more feet. The footrest body 212 is supported relative to the child seat 20 by at least one footrest mount 216. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, a first footrest mount 216 is connected to a lower surface 218 of the footrest body 212, near a first lateral side 220 thereof, and a second substantially identical footrest mount 216 is connected to the lower surface 218 of the footrest body 212 near an opposite, second lateral side 222 thereof. However, embodiments where only a single footrest mount or more than two footrest mounts are used to mount the footrest body 212 and/or embodiments where one or more footrest mounts 216 are connected to another portion of the footrest body 212 are also contemplated herein.

[0210] In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, each footrest mount 216 has a generally L-shaped configuration including a base 224 connectable to the footrest body 212 and a connector 226 extending at an angle from the base 224. As shown, the base 224 of the footrest mount 216 may be oriented generally parallel to the lower surface 218 of the footrest body 212 and the connector 226 may extend generally vertically, such as parallel to one of the front legs 24a, 24b for example.

[0211] The at least one footrest mount 216 is connectable to a corresponding front leg 24a, 24b to couple the footrest 210 to the leg. As shown in FIG. 29, the at least one footrest mount 216 may include an engagement member 228, for example arranged at an exterior surface of the connector 226 facing towards an interior surface of a respective front leg 24a, 24b. A bracket 230 having one or more openings 232 for receiving a portion of the at least one footrest mount 216, such as the engagement member 228 for example, may be mounted to an inwardly facing surface 233 of each of the front legs 24a, 24b.

[0212] With reference to the non-limiting embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 24A-31 the brackets 230 may be positioned such that the at least one opening 232 is mounted in overlapping arrangement with a groove (not shown) formed in the front leg 24a, 24b. As shown, the bracket 230 includes a first opening 232a arranged at a first vertical position and a separate second opening 232b arranged at a second vertical position, vertically offset from the first vertical position. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the footrest 210 is separated from the child seat 20 to transition the footrest 210 between the first position (first opening 232a) and the second position (second opening 232b). However, it should be understood that embodiments where the footrest 210 remains connected to one or more of the front legs 24a, 24b of the child seat 20 as the footrest 210 transitions between a plurality of vertical positions are also contemplated herein.

[0213] In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the engagement member 228 (see FIG. 29) includes an elongated protrusion or rib 234 having a flange 236 formed at the distal end of the rib 234 such that the cross-section of the engagement member 228 has a general T- shape. However, an engagement member 228 having any suitable configuration is within the scope of the disclosure. Similarly, each opening 232a, 232b formed in the bracket 230 may be a key way or slot having a connected first portion 238 and second portion 240. The size and shape of the first portion 238 of the opening 232a, 232b is selected such that both the rib 234 and the flange 236 of the engagement member 228 are receivable therein, and may extend therethrough, into the adjacent groove formed in the front leg 24a, 24b. The size and shape of the second portion 240 of the opening 232a, 232b is narrowed relative to the first portion 238 of the opening. The rib 234 is receivable within the second portion 240 of the opening 232a, 232b, but the flange 236 is not. As a result, when the engagement member 228 is arranged within the second portion 240 of the opening 232a, 232b, the flange 236 of the engagement member 228 is retained in a position between the front leg 24a, 24b and the bracket 230, thereby restricting separation of the footrest mount 216 from the front leg 24a, 24b.

[0214] To install the footrest 210 at one of the plurality of positions, the engagement member 228 is inserted through the first portion 238 of an opening 232a, 232b into the adjacent groove. A user then manually manipulates the engagement member 228 causing the engagement member 228 to translate from the first portion 238 of the opening 232a, 232b to the second portion 240 thereof. As noted above, during this translation, only the rib 234 of the engagement member 228 is receivable within the second portion 240 of the opening, thereby coupling the engagement member 228 to the front leg 24a, 24b. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the engagement member 228 of the footrest 210 is configured to slide vertically downwardly when transitioning from the first portion 238 to the second portion 240 of an opening 232a, 232b. However, in other embodiments, the engagement member 228 may be configured to translate within a horizontal plane, or alternatively, rotate about an axis between the first portion 238 and the second portion 240 of an opening 232a, 232b. Removal of the footrest 210 from a position about the child seat 20 may be completed by performing these same steps in reverse.

[0215] In an embodiment, best shown in FIG. 26, the front legs 24a, 24b of the child seat 20 are arranged at a non-parallel angle to one another. As a result, the horizontal clearance defined between the front legs 24a, 24b varies, e.g. gradually reduces, from the support surface towards the seat member 22. Accordingly, in such embodiments, the horizontal clearance associated with the first position of the footrest 210 is different than the horizontal clearance associated with a second position of the footrest 210. To accommodate this difference, in an embodiment, the at least one footrest mount 216 is movably coupled to the footrest body 212. For example, the at least one footrest mount 216 may be slidable or translatable relative to the footrest body 212 between a first extended position (FIGS. 26 and 27) and a second retracted position (not shown). In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment of FIGS. 30 and 31, a channel 242 is formed in the base 224 of the footrest mount 216 and a corresponding member 244, such as a T-shaped member for example, extending from the lower surface 218 of the footrest body 212 is receivable within the channel 242. However, any suitable interface that allows for movement of the at least one footrest mount 216 relative to the footrest body 212 is contemplated herein.

[0216] The one or more footrest mounts 216 may be movable relative to the footrest body 212 in response to operation of an actuator 246. With reference to FIG. 27, in an embodiment, each of the plurality of footrest mounts 216 is independently movable. As shown, each of the footrest mounts 216 includes a respective button or actuator 246 that when pressed or operated causes the footrest mount 216 to move relative to the footrest body 212, such as from the extended position to the retracted position. In another embodiment, best shown in FIG. 28, a single actuator 246 may be operably coupled to a plurality of footrest mounts 216. As shown, when the actuator 246 is operated, such as via application of a force illustrated as arrow F5, both the first and second footrest mounts 216 are configured to translate inwardly, toward the retracted position. It should be appreciated that regardless of whether the footrest mounts 216 are operable independently or in unison, the footrest mounts may not be movable relative to the footrest body 212 in response to operation of an actuator 246 when the engagement member 228 is arranged within the second portion 240 of an opening 232a, 232b. Rather, such movement may only be possible when an engagement member 228 of the footrest mount 216 is separated from the front leg 24a, 24b or is arranged within the first portion 238 of an opening 232a, 232b.

[0217] In an embodiment, a biasing member (not shown), such as a coil spring for example, is operable to bias the at least one footrest mount 216 outwardly to the extended position to facilitate engagement with a front leg 24a, 24b. In such embodiments, upon release of the at least one actuator 246, the one or more footrest mounts 216 associated with the at least one actuator 246 will be biased back to the extended position by a corresponding biasing mechanism. Accordingly, during installation of the footrest 210 at a desired position, a user will operate the at least one actuator 246 associated with the one or more footrest mounts 216 causing the footrest mounts 216 to move inwardly to the retracted position. The user will then align the engagement member 228 of each footrest mount 216 with a corresponding opening 232a, 232b and once aligned will release the at least one actuator 246. The biasing force will move the footrest mounts 216 outwardly to the extended position such that the engagement member 228 is received within the respective openings 232a, 232b. In embodiments where the opening 232a, 232b is a keyway having a first portion 238 and a second portion 240, a user may then transition the engagement member 228 within the opening 232a, 232b as previously described.

[0218] With reference now to FIGS. 33-47, a footrest 210 according to another embodiment is illustrated. As previously described, the footrest body 212 is supported by at least one footrest mount 216 connectable to a corresponding front leg 24a, 24b to couple the footrest 210 to the leg. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the engagement member 228 of the footrest mount 216 includes an elongated protrusion or rib 234 having a flange 236 formed at only a portion of the distal end of the rib 234.

[0219] With reference to FIGS. 36-40, a bracket 230, also referred to herein as a height adjustment channel, is embedded or mounted within a groove formed at an inwardly facing surface 233 of each of the front legs 24a, 24b. As best shown in FIG. 38 and 39, the height adjustment channel 230 includes a generally hollow housing 300 having a front wall 302, a left side 304 and a right side 306. An end of the left side 304 and the right side 306 may be configured to abut one another to substantially seal an end of the housing 300. The front wall 302 of the housing 300 may include an elongated slot 308 extending over at least a portion, and in some embodiments, the majority of the front wall 302. An opening 310 is also formed in the front wall 302 of the housing 300, such as near an end 312 thereof, and is connected to the slot 308. The width or diameter of the opening 310 is substantially larger than the width of the slot 308. In combination, the opening, and the slot 308 may be considered a single opening with the opening 310 forming a first portion thereof and the slot 308 forming a second portion thereof.

[0220] A height adjustment plate 314 is connected to the housing 300 to form a back or rear wall, opposite the front wall 302. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the left and right walls 304, 306 of the housing 300 have a plurality of pockets 316 formed therein and the height adjustment plate 314 is formed to include a plurality of tabs 318 at opposite sides thereof. Each of the plurality of tabs 318 is receivable within a corresponding pocket 316 of one of the left and right walls 304, 306 to affix the height adjustment plate 314 to the housing 300. The height adjustment plate 314 may have a plurality of substantially identical latch holes 320 formed therein. As shown, the latch holes 320 are spaced over the height of the height adjustment plate and are generally aligned with the slot 308 when the height adjustment plate 314 is connected to the housing 300.

[0221] A button 322 is arranged within the opening 310 and is biased into a first extended position, generally flush with the front wall 302 of the housing 300 by a biasing member 324, such as a coil spring. However, the button 322 is transformable to a second, recessed position when a force is applied thereto opposing the biasing force of the biasing member 324.

[0222] With continued reference to FIGS. 36-40 and further reference to FIG. 40, to couple the footrest to the child seat 20, a portion of the footrest mount 216 is receivable within the opening 310 and slot 308. In an embodiment, the size and shape of the opening 310 is substantially identical to the size and shape of the flange 236 of the engagement member 228. Accordingly, to install the footrest 210, the footrest mount 216 may be positioned such that the flange 236 applies a force to the button 322, causing the button 322 to compress. As a result, the flange 236 is configured to extend through the opening 310. The elongated slot 308 is sized to receive the rib 234, but not the flange 236. Accordingly, once the flange 236 is arranged within the hollow interior of the housing 300, the vertical position of the footrest mount 216 may be adjusted by sliding the rib 234 over the length of the elongated slot 308. Once the engagement member 228 has moved out of engagement with the button 322, the biasing member 324 will bias the button 322 back to the extended position. [0223] In an embodiment, the footrest mount 216 includes a latch 330 having an end 332 operable to selectively engage a corresponding latch hole 320 formed in the height adjustment plate 314 to lock the footrest mount 216 in position relative to the height adjustment channel 230. Accordingly, each of the latch holes 320 formed in the height adjustment plate 314 defines a different vertical position of the footrest 210 relative to the legs 24a, 24b of the child seat 20. The latch 330 may be movable manually or via one or more actuators 246 between an extended position and a retracted position. In the extended position, as shown in FIG. 34 and 42, the end 332 of the latch 330 protrudes from the footrest mount 216, for example beyond the engagement member 228. The latch 330 may be biased by a biasing mechanism 334 into the extended position. In an embodiment, a cable 336 is operably coupled to the actuator 246 and to the latch 330. Accordingly, when a force F5 is applied to the actuator 246 to operate the actuator, the force may be transmitted to the latch 330 via the cable 336. When applied, the force may oppose the biasing force of the biasing mechanism 334, causing the latch 330 to retract inwardly into the footrest mount 216. Upon release of the actuator 246, the biasing force of the biasing mechanism 334 will return the latch 330 to the extended position. In an embodiment, a sheath 337 can be coupled between the actuator 246 and the latch 330. The cable 336 can extend through the sheath 337 from the actuator 246 to the latch 330.

[0224] As a user moves the footrest mount 216, and therefore the engagement member 228, within the housing 300 of the height adjustment channel 230, the latch 330 will be received within one of the latch holes 320. To adjust the height of the footrest 210, a user operates the actuator 246 and moves the footrest mount 216 while the latch 330 is retracted and therefore disengaged from the current latch hole 320. Once disengaged, the user may release the actuator 246 and move the footrest mount 216 to the desired position. Alternatively, the user may hold the actuator 246 in the operated position until the footrest mount 216 reaches the desired position and then release the actuator 246.

[0225] As previously noted, the front legs 24, 24b may be arranged at an angle such that the horizontal clearance between the legs 24, 24b varies between each respective position of the footrest 210. To accommodate this difference, in an embodiment, the at least one footrest mount 216 is movably coupled to the footrest body 212. With reference now to FIGS. 44-45, a generally hollow tube or channel 340 is arranged centrally within the interior 342 of the footrest body 212, in overlapping arrangement with an opening 344 associated with each footrest mount 216. A sliding block 346 is arranged within the interior of the hollow channel 340 and is connected to a corresponding footrest mount 216. As shown, in the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, a snap finger 348 formed at a first end 350 of the sliding block 346 is rigidly connected to the footrest mount 216. A second opposite end of the sliding block 346 includes a pivot point 352 operably coupled to a component 354 rotatable about a pivot axis P (see FIG. 45), such as a bellcrank for example. A biasing mechanism (not shown), such as a coil spring, may be operably coupled to the bellcrank 354 to bias the sliding blocks 346, and therefore the footrest mounts 216 coupled to the sliding blocks 346 via the snap fingers 348, into an extended position relative to the footrest body 212. It will be appreciated that the footrest mounts 216 may not include a biasing member to bias the footrest mounts 216 into an extended position, such that the footrest mounts 216 can move between the extended and retracted positions without a biasing force.

[0226] With continued reference to FIGS. 44-46 and further reference to FIG. 47, in operation, as a footrest mount 216 is translated vertically upward within the elongated slot 308, the height adjustment channel 230 will apply a force to the footrest mount 216, for example via the flange 236 of the engagement member 228. This force causes the bellcrank 354 to rotate about its axis P such that the footrest mount 216 translates inwardly as needed. To separate the footrest mount 216 from the height adjustment channel 230, a user can apply a force to the button 322, causing the button to retract, while lifting the footrest mount 216. The engagement member 228 of the footrest mount 216 will align with the opening 310, allowing the engagement member 228 to be moved horizontally out of engagement with the leg 24a.

[0227] FIGS. 48-53B illustrate another embodiment of a child seat 420, such as a high chair for example, including a quick-connect coupling mechanism 440 configured to couple a rear leg 424d to a seat member 422. Although only rear leg 424d is shown, it will be appreciated that other legs can be included in the high chair 420, and the other legs can include portions of the quick-connect coupling mechanism 440 to couple the respective leg to the seat member 422. As shown, a first portion 442 of the coupling mechanism 440 is mounted near a second end 438 of the rear leg 424d. The first portion 442 of the coupling mechanism 440 includes a housing 444 and a support member 446. The housing 444 is positioned on an inside of the rear leg 424d. The housing 444 extends from an outer surface of the rear leg 424d. In an aspect, the housing 444 forms a T-shape that extends along a length of the outer surface of the rear leg 424d. The housing 444 is shaped to removably connect the rear leg 424d to the seat member 422, as further described below. The housing 444 can include a lock element 445. In an aspect, the lock element 445 comprises a recess defined by an outer surface of the housing 444. The housing 444 can be connected to the support member 446 via at least one fastening element 447, such as a bolt screw, adhesive, or other fastening element, extending between the support member 446 and the housing 444 through the rear leg 424d. [0228] FIG. 51 illustrates an exploded view of the coupling mechanism 440. The coupling mechanism 440 further includes a seat coupling assembly 450 connected to the seat member 422. The seat coupling assembly 450 includes a first mount member 452, a second mount member 454, a lock actuator 456, and a lock member 458. The first mount member 452 can be connected to the seat member 422 by at least one fastening element 459, such as a bolt, screw, adhesive, combinations thereof or still other fastening elements. The second mount member 454 can be connected to the first mount member 452 by a snap-fit connection. It will be appreciated that the second mount member 454 can be connected to the first mount member 452 by other fastening means, formed with the first mount member 452 to form an integral single unitary part, or can be connected directly to the seat member 422. The first mount member 452 defines a receiving portion 460. In an aspect, the receiving portion 460 includes a track that extends along an outer surface of the first mount member 452. The receiving portion 460 can be sized to receive a portion of the housing 444 within to connect the rear leg 424d to the seat member 422. In an aspect, the track defines a T-shape channel.

[0229] The lock member 458 can be positioned within one or both of the first and second mount members 452 and 454. The lock member 458 is sized and positioned to transition between a locked position and an unlocked position. In the locked position, the lock member 458 extends at least partially into the receiving portion 460. In the unlocking position, the lock member 458 is removed from the receiving portion 460. The seat coupling assembly 450 can further include a biasing element 462. The biasing element can be connected to the lock member 458 to bias the lock member 458 toward the locked position. The lock actuator 456 is operably connected to the lock member 458. The lock actuator 456 is accessible by a user on an exterior the seat coupling assembly 450. The lock actuator 456 can be actuated to transition the lock member 458 from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0230] FIGS. 52A and 52B illustrate bottom perspective views of the rear leg 424d connected to the seat member 422. FIG. 52A shows the lock actuator 456 not being actuated, whereby the lock member 458 is in the locked position. FIG. 52B shows the lock actuator 456 being actuated, whereby the lock member 458 is in the unlocked position.

[0231] FIGS. 53 A and 53B illustrate a cross sectional view of FIGS. 52A and 52B, respectively. FIG. 53A shows the lock member 458 in the locked position, in which the lock member 458 is positioned within the receiving portion 460 of the first mount member 452 and in engagement with the lock element 445. The engagement between the lock member 458 and the lock element 445 can prevent the rear leg 424d from being removed from the seat member 422. FIG. 53B shows the lock member 458 in the unlocked position, in which the lock member 458 is removed from the receiving portion 460 and out of engagement with the lock element 445. In the unlocked position, the rear leg 424d can be removed from the seat member 422.

[0232] In embodiments including a biasing mechanism, once the engagement member 228 of the footrest mount 216 is separated from the height adjustment channel 230, the biasing force of the biasing mechanism will cause the footrest mount 216 to translate outwardly towards the first and second lateral sides 220, 222 of the footrest body 212. In embodiments including a first footrest mount 216 arranged at the first lateral side 220 of the footrest body 212 and a second footrest mount 216 arranged at a second lateral side 222 of the footrest body 212, the sliding blocks 346 associated with both footrest mounts 216 may be operable simultaneously via the same rotatable component 354. Accordingly, the distance between each footrest mount 216 and the pivot axis P remains equal as the bellcrank 354 is rotated.

[0233] The term “about” is intended to include the degree of error associated with measurement of the particular quantity based upon the equipment available at the time of filing the application.

[0234] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, element components, and/or groups thereof.

[0235] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to an exemplary embodiment or embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this present disclosure, but that the present disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A child seat comprising: at least one leg; a seat member supported by said at least one leg; an armbar connected to said seat member; and a tray directly couplable to said armbar and supported by said armbar.

2. The child seat of claim 1, wherein when said armbar is connected to said seat member, said armbar extends across a front of said seat member.

3. The child seat of claim 1, wherein said armbar includes a bumper member and a crotch member extending from said bumper member.

4. The child seat of claim 3, wherein only said bumper member is directly connectable to said seat member.

5. The child seat of claim 3, wherein said seat member further comprises a seat portion, a first upright sidewall, and a second upright sidewall, and a first leg opening is formed between said crotch member and said first upright sidewall and a second leg opening is formed between said crotch member and said second upright sidewall.

6. The child seat of claim 5, wherein said armbar is directly connected to said first upright sidewall and said second upright sidewall.

7. The child seat of claim 1, wherein said tray is positionable in overlapping arrangement with said armbar.

8. The child seat of claim 1, wherein said tray further comprises at least one latch operable to directly couple to said armbar.

9. The child seat of claim 8, wherein said at least one latch is movable between an extended position and a retracted position and in said extended position, said at least one latch is operable to engage said armbar.

10. The child seat of claim 9, wherein said tray has a channel formed therein and said armbar is at least partially receivable within said channel, wherein in said extended position, said at least one latch extends across said channel.

11. The child seat of claim 10, wherein said tray further comprises at least one engagement tab extending across a portion of said channel, said at least one engagement tab being operable to contact said armbar.

12. The child seat of claim 11, wherein said at least one latch and said at least one engagement tab are aligned about said channel.

13. The child seat of claim 1, wherein said armbar is permanently connected to said seat member.

14. The child seat of claim 1, wherein said armbar is removably connected to said seat member.

15. The child seat of claim 1, wherein said tray is supported by said armbar without any coupling to said seat member.

16. The child seat of claim 1, wherein said tray further comprises at least one rib, said at least one rib being supported by said seat member.

17. The child seat of claim 16, wherein said armbar further comprises at least one slot, said at least one rib being receivable within said at least one slot to position said tray about said armbar.

18. A child seat comprising: at least one leg; a seat member supported by said at least one leg; and a coupling mechanism for connecting said at least one leg to said seat member without use of an external tool.

19. The child seat of claim 18, wherein said coupling mechanism further comprises: a first portion affixed to said at least one leg, said first portion including an engagement member; and a second portion affixed to said seat member, said second portion including a groove for receiving said engagement member.

20. The child seat of claim 19, wherein said first portion further comprises: a support member mounted to said at least one leg, said support member being movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position; and a biasing member operably coupled to said support member to bias said support member to said engaged position.

21. The child seat of claim 20, wherein in said engaged position, said engagement member extends beyond a surface of said at least one leg and in said disengaged position, said engagement member does not extend beyond said surface of said at least one leg.

22. The child seat of claim 20, wherein said support member is rotatable about an axis between said engaged position and said disengaged position.

23. The child seat of claim 18, wherein said seat member further comprises: a horizontal seat portion; and a seat back and at least one upright sidewall, each of said seat back and said at least one upright sidewall extending from said horizontal seat portion, wherein said at least one leg is connectable to at least one of said seat back and said at least one upright sidewall.

24. The child seat of claim 18, wherein said at least one leg is separable from said seat member without said external tool.

25. A child seat comprising: at least one leg; a seat member supported by said at least one leg; and a footrest, said footrest being connectable to said at least one leg, wherein said footrest includes at least one actuator operable to adjust a position of said footrest relative to said at least one leg.

26. The child seat of claim 25, wherein said footrest further comprises: a footrest body; at least one footrest mount, wherein said at least one footrest mount movable relative to said footrest body.

27. The child seat of claim 26, wherein said at least one footrest mount further comprises a latch movable relative to said at least one footrest mount in response to operation of said at least one actuator.

28. The child seat of claim 26, wherein said at least one footrest mount is translatable from an extended position to a retracted position, said at least one footrest mount further comprising a biasing mechanism operable to bias said at least one footrest mount into said extended position.

29. The child seat of claim 26, wherein said at least one footrest mount is movable relative to said footrest body to releasably couple said footrest to said at least one leg in response to operation of said at least one actuator.

30. The child seat of claim 29, wherein said at least one footrest mount includes a plurality of footrest mounts and said at least one actuator is a single actuator, each of said plurality of footrest mounts being operably coupled to said single actuator.

31. The child seat of claim 29, wherein said at least one footrest mount further comprises a plurality of footrest mounts and said at least one actuator further comprises a plurality of actuators, each of said plurality of footrest mounts being operably coupled to a respective actuator of said plurality of actuators.

32. The child seat of claim 26, further comprising a bracket mounted to said at least one leg, said bracket having at least one opening for receiving a portion of said footrest to couple said footrest to said at least one leg.

33. The child seat of claim 32, wherein said at least one footrest mount further comprises an engagement member receivable within said at least one opening.

34. The child seat of claim 32, wherein said at least one opening includes a first portion and a second portion, said footrest being movable between said first portion and said second portion to couple said footrest to said at least one leg.

35. The child seat of claim 25, wherein said footrest is connectable to said at least one leg at a plurality of vertical positions.

36. The child seat of claim 25, wherein said at least one leg further comprises a first leg and a second leg separated by a clearance, wherein said first leg is arranged at an angle to said second leg such that said clearance varies over a height of said child seat.

37. A child seat comprising: at least one leg; a seat member supported by said at least one leg, said seat member including a seat portion and a seat back; and a seat back extension member connectable to said seat member at a position above said seat back.

38. The child seat of claim 37, wherein said seat member includes a recess and said seat back extension member is receivable within said recess.

39. The child seat of claim 37, further comprising at least one clip associated with said seat back extension member, said at least one clip being connectable to said seat member.

40. The child seat of claim 39, wherein said at least one clip is permanently affixed to said seat back extension member.

41. The child seat of claim 39, wherein said at least one clip is removably couplable to said seat back extension member.

42. The child seat of claim 39, wherein said at least one clip further comprises an opening and said seat member further comprises a feature receivable within said opening when said seat back extension member is connected to said seat member.

43. The child seat of claim 42, wherein said at least one clip is formed from a resilient material such that said at least one clip is flexible to separate said feature from said opening.

44. A child seat comprising: at least one leg; a seat member supported by said at least one leg; and a harness assembly removably connectable directly to said seat member without use of an external tool.

45. The child seat of claim 44, wherein said harness assembly further comprises: a primary member including a buckle; and at least one support member connectable to said primary member.

46. The child seat of claim 45, wherein said primary member further comprises: a clip connectable to said seat member; and a piece of webbing affixed at a first end to said clip and at a second end to said buckle.

47. The child seat of claim 46, wherein said clip includes at least one prong, said at least one prong being insertable into an opening formed in said seat member and including an outwardly extending protrusion.

48. The child seat of claim 47, wherein said at least one prong is formed from a resilient material having an outward bias.

49. The child seat of claim 45, where said at least one support member further comprises: a waist strap including a first buckle clip arranged at a first end thereof and a second buckle clip arranged at a second end thereof, said first buckle clip and said second buckle clip being connectable to said buckle; and an anchor coupled to said waist strap and connectable to said seat member.

50. The child seat of claim 49, wherein said anchor includes at least one prong, said at least one prong being insertable into an opening formed in said seat member and including an outwardly extending protrusion.

51. The child seat of claim 50, wherein said at least one prong is formed from a resilient material having an outward bias.

52. A child seat comprising: at least one leg; a seat member supported by said at least one leg; an armbar connectable to said seat member; a tray couplable to said armbar; wherein said tray is incapable of being coupled to said seat member when said armbar is disengaged from said seat member.

53. The child seat of claim 52, wherein said tray is translatable relative to said seat member while said tray is coupled to said seat member.

54. The child seat of claim 52, wherein said tray is directly connectable to said armbar.

55. The child seat of claim 54, wherein said armbar includes a plurality of adjustment ribs and said tray includes a latch having a plurality of slots, at least one of said plurality of adjustment ribs is receivable within at least one of said plurality of slots.

56. The child seat of claim 55, wherein said armbar includes at least one armbar mount configured to couple said armbar to said seat member.

57. The child seat of claim 56, wherein said at least one armbar mount includes a protrusion and said seat member includes an opening, said protrusion being receivable within said opening.

58. The child seat of claim 56, wherein said seat member includes at least one sidewall, said at least one armbar mount includes an engagement feature configured to abut an undersurface of said sidewall.

59. The child seat of claim 55, wherein said armbar is slidably receivable about said seat member.

60. The child seat of claim 52, wherein when said armbar is connected to said seat member, said armbar extends across a front of said seat member.

61. The child seat of claim 52, wherein said armbar includes a bumper member and a crotch member extending from said bumper member.

62. The child seat of claim 61, wherein only said bumper member is directly connectable to said seat member.

63. A child seat comprising: at least one leg; a seat member supported by said at least one leg; an armbar connectable to said seat member; and a tray connectable to said armbar, said tray being movable relative to said armbar between a first position and a second position while connected to said armbar.

64. The child seat of claim 63, wherein said tray is translatable between said first position and said second position.

65. The child seat of claim 63, wherein said tray is directly connectable to said armbar.

66. The child seat of claim 65, wherein said armbar includes an undersurface and said tray includes a latch, said latch having an engagement feature positionable in contact with said undersurface to couple said tray to said armbar.

67. The child seat of claim 66, wherein said armbar includes a plurality of adjustment ribs and said latch has a plurality of slots, at least one of said plurality of adjustment ribs is receivable within at least one of said plurality of slots in at least one of said first position and said second position.

68. The child seat of claim 67, wherein said armbar includes a bumper member and a crotch member extending from said bumper member, said bumper member includes a side and said plurality of adjustment ribs are formed at said side.

69. The child seat of claim 63, wherein said armbar is slidably receivable at a front of said seat member.

70. The child seat of claim 63, wherein said armbar includes at least one armbar mount configured to couple said armbar to said seat member.

71. The child seat of claim 70, wherein said at least one armbar mount includes a protrusion and said seat member includes an opening, said protrusion being receivable within said opening.

72. The child seat of claim 70, wherein said seat member includes at least one sidewall, said at least one armbar mount includes an engagement feature positionable in contact with an undersurface of said at least one sidewall.