U.S. patent application number 10/845514 was filed with the patent office on 2005-01-20 for collapsible bassinet/infant seat with canopy.
Invention is credited to Badger, Brian L., Canna, John S., Darling, Sandra M., Favorito (nee Wilkins), Julia, Von Felten, Kenneth.
Application Number | 20050011004 10/845514 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 25430389 |
Filed Date | 2005-01-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050011004 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Favorito (nee Wilkins), Julia ;
et al. |
January 20, 2005 |
Collapsible bassinet/infant seat with canopy
Abstract
The infant product of the invention is of the type having an
infant receptacle suspended from a frame. The infant product is
foldable between a deployed position for use and a compact
configuration for shipping and storage. In the assembled
configuration, the infant receptacle is convertible between a
bassinet configuration in which the infant receptacle has a
substantially planar support surface and an infant seat
configuration in which the support surface of the infant receptacle
is partially titled or disposed at an angle such that the infant
can be supported in an elevated or seated position. The infant
product may include a fabric canopy incorporating floating webs and
a quick connect system for securing the canopy in an open position.
When the canopy is closed, it is folded so as to lie flat against
the infant receptacle. The infant receptacle may also include a
lateral support assembly to cradle the infant.
Inventors: |
Favorito (nee Wilkins), Julia;
(Buffalo, NY) ; Canna, John S.; (Orchard Park,
NY) ; Darling, Sandra M.; (Niceville, FL) ;
Von Felten, Kenneth; (Cazenovia, NY) ; Badger, Brian
L.; (Erie, PA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MORGAN LEWIS & BOCKIUS LLP
1111 PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE NW
WASHINGTON
DC
20004
US
|
Family ID: |
25430389 |
Appl. No.: |
10/845514 |
Filed: |
May 14, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10845514 |
May 14, 2004 |
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10120844 |
Apr 12, 2002 |
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10120844 |
Apr 12, 2002 |
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09840083 |
Apr 24, 2001 |
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6390555 |
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09840083 |
Apr 24, 2001 |
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09339817 |
Jun 25, 1999 |
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6257659 |
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09339817 |
Jun 25, 1999 |
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08911524 |
Aug 14, 1997 |
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5947552 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
5/94 ; 5/655;
5/93.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47D 9/005 20130101;
A47D 13/02 20130101; A47C 7/66 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
005/094 ;
005/655; 005/093.1 |
International
Class: |
A47D 013/02 |
Claims
1-42. (Canceled)
43. An infant supporting device convertible between a compact
configuration and a deployed configuration, comprising: an upper
frame including opposed, first and second substantially U-shaped
members each having left and right ends, and a left and right frame
connector connecting the U-shaped members together at their
respective left and right ends, the frame connectors coupling at
least one of the U-shaped members for rotation relative to the
other of the U-shaped members, wherein the second U-shaped member
is disposed apart from the first U-shaped member in the deployed
configuration and substantially adjacent the first U-shaped member
in the compact configuration; a lower frame including a ground
engaging portion and left and right ends connected to a respective
one of the left and right frame connectors, wherein the lower frame
supports the upper frame in the deployed configuration and the
lower frame is disposed substantially adjacent the first member in
the compact configuration; and a receptacle for supporting an
infant including an infant support surface and an annular side wall
with an upper edge connected to the upper frame and a lower edge
connected to the infant support surface, the infant support surface
having a first end and a second end movably connected to the first
end, wherein the receptacle is suspended from the upper frame above
the supporting surface in the deployed configuration, the first end
of the infant support surface is disposable at an angle relative to
the second end and a pair of receptacle support members are
attached to the receptacle and are interconnected to support the
first end at the angle, wherein the upper frame, lower frame and
the receptacle are convertible together between the compact
configuration and the deployed configuration.
44. The infant supporting device of claim 43, wherein the
receptacle support members are a support strap assembly.
45. The infant supporting device of claim 43, wherein the
receptacle support members are receptacle support straps.
46. The infant supporting device of claim 43, wherein the lower
frame includes a third substantially U-shaped member comprising the
ground engaging portion.
47. The infant supporting device of claim 43, wherein the lower
frame includes a third and fourth substantially U-shaped member
comprising the ground engaging portion.
48. The infant supporting device of claim 43, wherein the left
frame connector is a left hub.
49. The infant supporting device of claim 43, wherein the left
frame connector is a left housing assembly.
50. The infant supporting device of claim 43, wherein the left
frame connector is a left frame connector assembly.
51. The infant supporting device of claim 50, wherein the left
frame connector assembly includes an upper part connected to each
of the first and second U-shaped members, wherein at least one of
the first and second U-shaped members is pivotally connected to the
upper part, and a lower part that is pivotally connected to the
left end of the lower frame.
52. The infant supporting device of claim 51, wherein the lower
frame comprises a third substantially U-shaped member pivotally
connected to the lower part.
53. The infant supporting device of claim 51, wherein the left
frame connector assembly includes a housing forming the lower
part.
54. The infant supporting device of claim 53, wherein the housing
forms both the upper and lower parts.
55. A child support, comprising: an upper frame including opposed,
first and second upper frame members each having left and right
ends, and a left and right frame connector connecting the upper
frame members together at their respective left and right ends, the
frame connectors coupling at least one of the upper frame members
for rotation relative to the other of the upper frame members; a
lower frame including a ground engaging portion and left and right
ends connected to a respective one of the left and right frame
connectors; soft goods including a support surface suspended from
the upper frame, the support surface including first and second
relatively movable parts, wherein the first part is movable among a
plurality of angular positions relative to the second part; and a
support assembly for positioning the first part in one of a
plurality of angular positions relative to the second part, the
support assembly including first and second support members secured
to the soft goods such that when the first and second support
members are engaged, the first part is positioned at one of the
plurality of angular positions and when the first and second
support members are disengaged, the first part is positioned at
another one of the plurality of angular positions.
56. The child support of claim 55, wherein the support members are
a support strap assembly.
57. The child support of claim 55, wherein the support members are
support straps.
58. The child support of claim 55, wherein the left frame connector
is a left hub.
59. The child support of claim 55, wherein the left frame connector
is a left housing assembly.
60. The child support of claim 55, wherein the left frame connector
is a left frame connector assembly.
61. The child support of claim 55, wherein the left frame connector
assembly includes an upper part connected to each of the first and
second frame members, wherein at least one of the first and second
frame members is pivotally connected to the upper part, and a lower
part that is pivotally connected to the left end of the lower
frame.
62. The child support of claim 61, wherein the lower frame
comprises a third substantially U-shaped member pivotally connected
to the lower part.
63. The child support of claim 61, wherein the left frame connector
assembly includes a housing forming the lower part.
64. The child support of claim 63, wherein the housing forms both
the upper and lower parts.
65. A child support, comprising: an upper frame including opposed,
first and second upper frame members each having left and right
ends, and a left and right frame connector connecting the upper
frame members together at their respective left and right ends, the
frame connectors coupling at least one of the upper frame members
for rotation relative to the other of the upper frame members; a
lower frame including a ground engaging portion and left and right
ends connected to a respective one of the left and right frame
connectors; soft goods including a support surface suspended from
the upper frame, the support surface including first and second
relatively movable parts, wherein the first part is movable among a
plurality of angular positions relative to the second part; and a
support member configurable between at least a first and second
configuration, wherein when the support member is in the first
configuration, the first part is positioned at one of the plurality
of angular positions and when the support member is in the second
configuration, the first part is positioned at another one of the
plurality of angular positions.
66. The child support of claim 65, wherein the support member
comprises a pair of straps.
67. The child support of claim 65, wherein the support member
comprises a first and second portion.
68. The child support of claim 67, wherein the second configuration
corresponds to the first and second portions being disengaged.
69. The child support of claim 67, wherein at least the first
configuration corresponds to the first and second portions being
engaged.
70. The child support of claim 67, wherein the first and second
portions are first and second straps.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention relates to a convertible infant product and,
more particularly, to a collapsible bassinet/infant seat having a
canopy.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Sleep products are generally tailored to the age and size of
the user. Infants generally start out sleeping in a bassinet or
cradle. Toddlers use cribs up until they are ready to sleep in a
conventional bed.
[0003] Bassinets and cradles are generally small and can be kept in
a parent's room so that the infant is close to the parents during
its first few months. Known bassinets and cradles are not
collapsible into a compact configuration and only function as sleep
products. Moreover, bassinets and cradles have a limited life and
use because they are quickly outgrown by infants. However, cribs
are generally too large to fit into a parent's room. Thus, there is
a need for a smaller sleep product for use in a parent's room that
has a sleep surface and sufficient depth to laterally restrain the
infant during use, but that overcomes the limited life and use
associated with known bassinets and cradles.
[0004] U.S. Pat. No. 4,967,432 to Kujawski et al., which is
assigned to the assignee of this invention, discloses a multi-use
product including a bassinet and playpen in one product. The
playpen is of the type including a frame covered by playpen fabric.
The flat bassinet/diaper changing surface is inset into the open
end of the playpen to make it more accessible for naps and diaper
changing. The bassinet/diaper changing surface is a fabric
enclosure with a rigid floor mat. The fabric is draped over the
upper edge of the playpen and rigid hook-shaped clips sewn to the
fabric are secured to the upper edge of the playpen. As this
product is on the scale of a playpen, it is larger than a
bassinet.
[0005] In the vein of portability, but apart from sleep products,
infant seats are available that are usually formed from rigid
shells that are portable but not collapsible into a compact
configuration. In one type of infant seat proposed in U.S. Pat.
Nos. 5,115,523; 5,092,004; and 4,998,307 all to Cone, the infant
seat includes a rigid shell assembly having upper and lower shell
portions pivotally coupled together so as to be convertible between
a flat configuration and a seated configuration. Although this seat
is portable it is cumbersome and is not collapsible into a compact
configuration.
[0006] Known bouncer seats of the type disclosed, for example, in
U.S. Pat. No. 5,207,478 to Freese et al. include a portable infant
seat where the back is convertible between an upright and a tilted
position. Although these bouncer seats can be collapsed for
portability, they are not intended for use as a sleep product, for
example, they are not convertible into a horizontal position.
[0007] Accordingly, what is needed is a small, lightweight,
collapsible infant product that has a range of utilities including
a sleep product and a seating product.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The invention is generally directed to an infant product. An
aspect of the invention is directed to the combination
bassinet/infant seat feature. In particular, the infant product
includes a frame having an infant receptacle suspended from the
frame. The infant receptacle is convertible between a bassinet
configuration and an infant seat configuration. This conversion
between the reclined and upright configurations may be accomplished
using only parts of the soft goods. In the bassinet configuration,
the support surface of the infant receptacle is substantially
planar, such that the infant is positioned in a reclined or flat
position. In the infant seat configuration, the back portion of the
infant support surface may be tilted or disposed at an angle
whereby the infant can be supported in an elevated or seated
position. In one aspect of the invention, this conversion is
accomplished through the use of a support strap assembly. In yet
another aspect of the invention, the support strap assembly and
infant support surface cooperate to provide improved lateral head
support for the infant.
[0009] In another aspect of the invention, the infant product is
foldable or collapsible, such that the infant product is
convertible between an assembled configuration for use with the
infant in either of the reclined or upright positions just
described and a compact collapsed configuration for travel and
storage. In one aspect of the invention, a simple three-step
folding method may be used to convert the infant product between
the assembled erect position and compact folded configurations. The
suspended soft goods are folded-up along with the frame; Moreover,
part of the frame that is used to support the infant product in the
assembled erect position serves the dual purpose as a handle in the
compact configuration. A lightweight carrying case may be provided
to cover the main portion of the compact infant product.
[0010] In yet another aspect of the invention, the infant product
may include a canopy. The canopy is of the type made of a fabric
having floating ribs or stays disposed in tunnels sewn into the
fabric of the canopy. With the use of a quick connect system, the
canopy can be easily converted between an expanded open position
and a closed position.
[0011] Other features and advantages of this invention will be
apparent from the following description, the accompanying drawings
and from the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] FIGS. 1-4 are side, front end, back end, and top front
perspective views, respectively, of the infant product in
accordance with the invention in the assembled bassinet
position.
[0013] FIGS. 5-9 are is a perspective, side, back end, top and
bottom views, respectively, of the infant product in accordance
with the invention in the infant seat position.
[0014] FIGS. 10-12 are perspective front end, perspective back end,
and side views, respectively, of the frame for the infant product
in accordance with the invention.
[0015] FIG. 13 is a side view of one of the structural hubs which
forms part of the frame of FIGS. 10-12.
[0016] FIG. 14 is a side view of a leg bracket used in the frame of
FIGS. 10-12.
[0017] FIG. 15 is a top view of the infant product in accordance
with the invention where the removable pad has been removed.
[0018] FIG. 16 is a partial top view of the infant product shown in
FIG. 15.
[0019] FIG. 16A is an exploded view of the bottom wall of the
infant product in accordance with the invention.
[0020] FIG. 17 is a back end view of the infant product in
accordance with the invention showing the support strap system for
the infant recline/seat feature.
[0021] FIG. 18 is a partial view of the support strap system shown
in FIG. 17.
[0022] FIG. 18A is a cross-sectional view taken along line 18A-18A
in FIG. 9.
[0023] FIG. 18B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 18B-18B
in FIG. 1.
[0024] FIG. 18C is a partial cross-sectional view taking along line
18C-18C in FIG. 9.
[0025] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the canopy in accordance
with the invention.
[0026] FIG. 19A is a partial view of the canopy in accordance with
the invention in the expanded and secured position.
[0027] FIG. 20 is a partial view of the canopy in accordance with
the invention in the unsecured position.
[0028] FIG. 21 is a side view of the canopy in accordance with the
invention in the closed position.
[0029] FIGS. 21A-B are front views of an alternate embodiment of an
infant product incorporating the canopy in accordance with the
invention where the canopy is in the closed and open positions,
respectively.
[0030] FIG. 22 is a side view of the conversion of the front leg of
the frame from the assembled position to the compact position.
[0031] FIG. 23 is a side view of the conversion of the rear leg
from the assembled position to the compact position.
[0032] FIG. 24 is a side view of the conversion of the front
arcuate member from the assembled position to the compact position
such that the frame is in its compact configuration.
[0033] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the frame in the compact
configuration.
[0034] FIG. 26 is a side view of the infant product in accordance
with the invention where only the front leg is disposed in the
compact configuration.
[0035] FIG. 27 is a side view of the infant product in accordance
with the invention where both the front and rear legs are in the
compact position.
[0036] FIGS. 28-30 are side, top and back views, respectively, of
the infant product in the compact configuration.
[0037] FIG. 31 is a top view of the infant product in the compact
configuration with the main portion disposed in a carrying case in
accordance with the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0038] Reference will now be made in detail to the presently
preferred embodiments of the invention, examples of which are
illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In particular, the
invention is directed to an infant product, the presently preferred
embodiments of which are shown generally in FIGS. 1, 5 and 31, for
example. More particularly, the infant product in accordance with
the invention is directed to: 1) a collapsible infant product that
is configurable between: a) an in-use, deployed or unfolded
configuration, shown generally at 11 in FIGS. 1-9 and b) a storage,
stowed or folded configuration shown generally at 16 in FIGS.
27-31; and 2) deployed infant product 11, which may be disposed in
either of two configurations: a) a deployed bassinet configuration
shown generally at 12 in FIGS. 1-4, and b) an deployed infant seat
configuration shown generally at 14 in FIGS. 5-9.
[0039] Regardless of the respective configuration, however, the
infant product in accordance with the invention includes a foldable
frame shown generally 100 in FIGS. 10-14 and soft goods shown
generally at 200 in FIGS. 1-9 which are suspended from frame 100.
Accordingly, a detailed discussion of frame 100 and soft goods 200
follows. Then, the method of converting the infant product between
deployed bassinet configuration 12 and deployed infant seat
configuration 14 will be described, as well as, the conversion
between deployed configuration 11 and compact folded configuration
16.
[0040] The Foldable Frame
[0041] Referring now to FIGS. 10-14, frame 100 will be described.
Frame 100 has a construction that suspends soft goods 200 and is
convertible between deployed configuration 11 as shown in FIGS.
10-12, for example, and compact folded configuration 16 as shown,
for example, in FIG. 27. Frame 100 is preferably converted by
folding frame 100 along with soft goods 200. Therefore, the frame
is not limited to a particular configuration so long as it can
suspend soft goods 200 and can be easily converted between a
compact configuration and a deployed configuration in accordance
with the invention.
[0042] Frame 100 has a longitudinal axis L (FIG. 12) and a
transverse axis T substantially perpendicular to longitudinal axis
L. As shown, frame 100 generally includes an annular upper rim
frame 102, a front leg 104, a back leg 106, structural hubs 108,
110 and back leg brackets 112, 114.
[0043] Annular upper rim frame 102, front leg 104 and back leg 106
may be made of any lightweight rigid and durable material. In the
illustrated embodiment, these members are 18-gauge, powder-coated,
hollow, cylindrical steel tubing. Upper rim frame 102 may have a
0.5" (1.2 cm) outer diameter and front and back legs 104, 106 may
have 5/8" (1.7 cm.) outer diameter. However, other types of
materials may be used in accordance with the invention, such as
rectangular tubing, aluminum, wood, or plastic tubing or channel,
etc.
[0044] Annular upper rim frame 102 provides the support from which
soft goods are suspended. Annular upper rim frame 102 as shown
includes a front rim tube 116 and a back rim tube 122, both of
which have a generally U-shaped configuration. Front rim tube 116
has two ends 118, 120 pivotally coupled to structural hubs 108,
110, respectively, such that front rim tube 116 is pivotal relative
to back rim tube 122 as discussed in more detail below. Back rim
tube 122 has two ends 124, 126 non-pivotally secured to structural
hubs 108, 110 as discussed in more detail below. As illustrated in
FIG. 12, in the deployed position front rim tube 116 is disposed
substantially parallel to transverse axis T, while back rim tube
122 is disposed at an angle relative to front rim tube 116. Back
rim tube 122 is disposed at a slight angle such that infant
recline/seat feature 222 (see, e.g. FIGS. 17 and 18) can be
positioned high enough to form deployed infant seat configuration
14, as discussed in more detail below. However, other
configurations are within the scope of the invention to accommodate
infant recline/seat feature 222, and if the recline/seat feature
222 is not used, back rim tube 122 may also be parallel to
transverse axis T.
[0045] Front leg 104 and back leg 106 are disposed to support
annular upper rim frame 102 in deployed configuration 11 at a
suitable height above a supporting surface to suspend soft goods
200 above the supporting surface. For example, front and back legs
104, 106 are disposed at angles opposing each other, with their
upper ends relatively close together and their lower,
support-surface engaging ends relatively far apart to provide a
broad, stable base. Front leg 104 has a generally U-shaped
configuration including a base 128 and two side legs 130, 132
extending substantially perpendicular from base 128. Side legs 130,
132 have ends 134, 136 respectively, which are pivotally attached
to structural hubs 108, 110, respectively, as discussed in more
detail below. Back leg 106 is also of a generally U-shaped
configuration and includes a base 138 including two side legs 140,
142 extending substantially perpendicular from base 138. Side legs
140, 142 have two ends 144, 146 respectively, pivotally attached to
back leg brackets 112, 114, respectively, as discussed in more
detail below. Side legs 140, 142 of back leg 106 include transition
portions 148, 150 in the vicinity of ends 144, 146 whereby the
lateral spacing or distance between side legs 140,142 is increased
such that back leg 106 does not interfere with the folding movement
of front leg 104 (front leg 104 pivots inside of back leg 106) and
such that back leg 106 can detent against the outside of structural
hubs 108, 110 in compact folded configuration 16 as discussed
later. Although front and back legs 104, 106 have been described as
being pivotally coupled relative to upper rim frame 102, any type
of releasable connection may be used.
[0046] To increase resistance to sliding of the legs with respect
to the support surface in deployed configuration 11, rubber feet
152 may be disposed, two each, on bases 128, 138 of back leg 106
and front leg 104, respectively. Rubber feet 152 may be formed of
any rubber material including, for example, a synthetic rubber such
as a thermoplastic elastomers (TPE). Rubber feet 152 also prevent
the infant product in its deployed configuration 11 from shifting
or "walking," for example, when a vibration unit is used, as
discussed below.
[0047] Annular upper rim frame 102, front leg 104 and back leg 106
just described are deployed and interconnected using structural
hubs 108, 110 and back leg brackets 112, 114. Accordingly,
structural hubs 108, 110 and back leg brackets 112, 114 will now be
discussed in detail along with the assembly of frame 100.
Structural hubs 108, 110 and back leg brackets 112, 114 may be made
of a lightweight plastic material, such as, structural nylon.
[0048] Referring now to FIG. 13 in combination with FIGS. 10-12,
structural hubs 108, 110 will be discussed in detail. Structural
hubs 108, 110 include hollow box-shaped housings 154, 156. One of
structural hubs 108, 110 may include a vibration unit integrated
into its housing 154, 156 to sooth the infant. Such a vibration
unit may include, for example, a motor, a weight, an on/off switch,
battery contacts and wiring. It is preferable to place the
vibration unit on one of structural hubs 108, 110 because
structural hubs 108, 110 are in structural communication with the
entire frame 100 and therefore distribute the vibration most
effectively, however, other configurations may be used in
accordance with the invention.
[0049] As structural hubs 108, 110 are laterally disposed on frame
100, they are mirror images of each other. Accordingly, the
following discussion only describes structural hub 108 in detail,
because the construction of structural hub 110 is readily apparent
from the detailed description of structural hub 108.
[0050] Housing 154 of structural hub 108 includes an interior side
wall 158 and an exterior side wall 160 (FIG. 12) opposing and
substantially parallel to interior side wall 158. Housing 154
further includes an upper side 162 substantially parallel to
transverse axis T, a lower side 164 disposed at an angle relative
to transverse axis T, front side 166 and back side 168. Other
configurations are within the scope of the invention.
[0051] Exterior side wall 160 includes a carrying handle 170 formed
integrally therewith and extending outwardly therefrom. Carrying
handle 170 includes a recess on its lower side for being gripped by
the hand such that the infant product in deployed configuration 11
may be moved. Carrying handle 170 is preferably positioned such
that it is at or near the center of gravity of deployed
configuration 11 when the infant is in the infant product. Exterior
side wall 160 further includes a detent 171, formed as, for
example, a slightly raised surface area, and an abutment portion
172 (FIG. 12) to position and releasably hold back leg 106 in
compact folded configuration 16, as discussed in more detail
below.
[0052] The upper end of back side 168 of housing 154 is adapted to
fixedly mount end 124 of back rim tube 122. For example, housing
154 may include hollow tubular projection 174 having a hollow
tubular opening 175 to receive end 124 of back rim tube 122. Hollow
tubular opening 175 extends though projection 174 and into the
interior of housing 154 for a distance sufficient to adequately
support back rim tube 122, and has an inner diameter substantially
equal to the outer diameter of end 124 of back rim tube 122. End
124 of back rim tube 122 is slidably disposed within hollow tubular
projection 174 and may be secured by a screw (not shown), for
example.
[0053] At upper side 162 of housing 154 is formed a channel 176
extending substantially parallel to transverse axis T and between
front side 166 and back side 168. End 118 of front rim tube 116 is
pivotally secured to housing 154 within channel 176 by a known
pivotal connector, such as, a pin. This pivotal attachment is
represented in FIG. 13 by pivot point P.sub.1. In deployed
configuration 11 of the infant product, front rim tube 116 is
positioned within channel 176 as shown so as to extend
substantially parallel to transverse axis T. As discussed in
greater detail below, to collapse the deployed infant product,
front rim tube 116 is rotated about pivot point P.sub.1 in the
direction illustrated by the directional arrow D.sub.1.
Accordingly, to deploy the infant product, front rim tube 116 would
be rotated from its compact folded configuration 16 in a direction
opposite to directional arrow D.sub.1 into deployed configuration
11 as shown.
[0054] Lower side 164 of housing 154 includes another channel 178
extending between front side 166 and back side 168 of housing 154.
Channel 178 extends at an angle relative to transverse axis T. For
example, this angle may be approximately 35.degree. from transverse
axis T. End 134 of front leg 104 is pivotally attached to housing
154 within channel 178 using any known pivotal connector. This
pivotal attachment is illustrated by pivot point P.sub.2. To
collapse the deployed infant product, front leg 104 is pivoted
about pivot point P.sub.2 in the direction illustrated by
directional arrow D.sub.2 until front leg 104 is disposed in a
position opposing the position shown in FIG. 13 (i.e. 180.degree.),
as will be discussed in greater detail below.
[0055] Referring now to FIG. 14, back leg brackets 112, 114 will be
discussed. Back leg brackets 112, 114 are disposed laterally on
frame 100 and are mirror images of each other. Accordingly, only
back leg bracket 112 will be discussed in detail as the
construction of back leg bracket 114 will be readily apparent from
the discussion of back leg bracket 112.
[0056] Back leg bracket 112 includes an exterior side wall 180, an
interior side wall 181 (see also FIG. 11), an upper end 182, a
lower end 184, a front end 186 and a back end 188. At upper end 182
it is formed a hollow tubular sleeve through which back rim tube
122 is slidably disposed. In comer 192 between lower end 184 and
front end 186 is formed a channel 194 disposed at an angle, for
example, 45.degree., relative to transverse axis T to support back
rim tube 122. End 144 of back leg 106 is pivotally attached to back
leg bracket 112 and is disposed within channel 194 when back leg
106 is disposed in deployed configuration 11 of the infant product.
End 144 of back leg 106 is pivotally attached to back leg bracket
112 by any known pivotal connector. This pivotal connection is
represented in FIG. 14 by pivot point P.sub.3.
[0057] As discussed in detail below, when deployed configuration 11
is collapsed, back leg 106 is pivoted about pivot point P.sub.3 in
the direction represented by directional arrow D.sub.3.
Accordingly, to position back leg 106 in deployed configuration 11
from compact folded configuration 16, back leg 106 is moved in a
direction opposite to the direction represented by directional
arrow D.sub.3 until its detents on detent 171 on exterior sidewall
160 of housing 154. As discussed below, in compact folded
configuration 16, back leg 106 is disposed substantially parallel
to back rim tube 122.
[0058] A detent 198 (FIG. 11) is also formed on interior side wall
181 of back leg bracket 112 to releasably secure front leg 104 in
compact folded configuration 16. For example, detent 198 may
include a raised surface or a raised surface with a depression
corresponding to the shape of front leg 104.
[0059] To properly and releasably position back leg 106 relative to
back rim tube 122 in the deployed configuration, a spring or Valco
button connection 196 may be used. In particular, spring button
connection 196 includes spring button 195 formed on end 144 of rear
leg 106 that is spring biased in an extended position, and a hole
197 formed in exterior side wall 180 of back leg bracket 112. As
back leg 106 is rotated into its assembly configuration, spring
button 195 will become aligned with hole 197 and engage or lock
into hole 197. Therefore, rear leg 106 can be easily locked into
its proper deployed position, yet is easily unlocked by simply
depressing spring button 195. Although illustrated with a Valco
button, any suitable latching or locking mechanism can be used.
[0060] The Soft Goods
[0061] Referring now to FIGS. 1-9 and 15-21, soft goods 200 in
accordance with the invention will be discussed in detail. Soft
goods 200 generally include a bassinet shell 202, a canopy 212, and
a removable pad 216.
[0062] Referring to FIGS. 1-9, bassinet shell 202 is constructed
such that, in deployed configuration 11, it is suspended from frame
100 and naturally falls into deployed bassinet configuration 12 due
to its own weight and gravity as shown in FIG. 1, for example.
Thus, bassinet shell 202 is preferably formed of pliable and/or
foldable construction such that bassinet shell 202 is conveniently
collapsed and folded into deployed bassinet configuration 12.
Bassinet shell 202 is constructed such that infant recline/seat
feature 222 can be incorporated into soft goods 200 and operated
independently of frame 100, as discussed in more detail later. By
minimizing the connections between frame 100 and soft goods 200,
bassinet shell 202 can be folded-up into compact folded
configuration 14 without having to disassemble or disconnect any
parts, which is time consuming and inconvenient.
[0063] Bassinet shell 202 generally includes a front end 203, a
back end 201, a bottom wall 204, an annular side wall 206, and
structure to suspend bassinet shell 202 from frame 100 which may
include a front tunnel 208 formed on upper annular edge 220 of
annular side wall 206 at front end 2.03 of bassinet shell 202, and
a back tunnel 210 formed on upper annular edge 220 of annular side
wall 206 at back end 201 of bassinet shell 202.
[0064] Referring to FIGS. 9, 15 and 16, bottom wall 204 of bassinet
shell 202 has a generally elliptical shape with an outer perimeter
218, a front end 224, a back end 226, a top surface 228 and a
bottom surface 230. Top surface 228 of bottom wall 240 as
illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 16, is shown with removable pad 216
removed. As discussed later, removable pad 216 is disposed on top
surface 228 of bottom wall 240.
[0065] Bottom wall 204 has a jointed rigid construction whereby a
substantially rigid flat surface can be maintained in deployed
bassinet configuration 12 (FIGS. 1-4), however, which also can be
repositioned into deployed infant seat configuration 14 (FIGS.
5-9).
[0066] In particular, with reference to FIG. 16A, bottom wall 204
is a multi-layer construction including flexible upper cover 232,
flexible lower cover 234 and front, intermediate, and back rigid
panels 236, 238, 240 interposed between upper cover 232 and lower
cover 234. This rigid panel construction also has the advantage of
providing a minimal weight bias (relative to lightweight annular
side wall 206) in bottom wall 204 which will help bassinet shell
202 naturally fall into deployed bassinet configuration 12 and
provide a slight tension on annular side wall 206. Of course, this
tension on annular side wall 206 is increased when the infant is
placed in bassinet shell 202.
[0067] Upper cover 232 is preferably made of an easily cleanable
material such as vinyl. It includes a pair of laterally disposed
V-shaped notches 246, 248 of elastic material at back end 226.
Lower cover 232 is made of a generally non-elastic cloth material
and also has a pair of laterally disposed V-shaped notches 242, 244
of elastic material at back end 226. Notches 242, 244, 246, 248 are
provided for purposes of infant recline/seat feature 222, discussed
in more detail below.
[0068] Front, intermediate, and back rigid panels 236, 238, 240 are
flat, thin, rigid panels made of any type of rigid relatively
lightweight material, such as, hardboard. Front rigid panel 236 is
semi-circular in shape, intermediate rigid panel 238 is rectangular
in shape and back rigid panel 240 is a partial elliptical shape
with laterally disposed V-shaped notches 258, 260. Front,
intermediate, and back rigid panels 236, 238 and 240 are disposed
in spaced relationship such that they may be rotated and folded
unencumbered. Also, seams 260, 262 (FIG. 15) may be provided to
separate rigid panels 236, 238, 240 to prevent displacement of
rigid panels 236, 238, 240. For example, back panel 240 in back end
226 of bottom wall 204 can be pivoted from deployed bassinet
configuration 12 substantially parallel to transverse axis T, to
deployed infant seat configuration, which is angled relative to
transverse axis T, for example, 30-35.degree. from transverse axis
T. Back rigid panel 240 is held in deployed infant seat
configuration 14 by infant recline/seat feature 222, as discussed
in more detail below.
[0069] Annular sidewall 206 is attached to outer perimeter 218 of
bottom wall 204 by, for example, stitching. Annular sidewall 206
forms a lateral restraint for the infant in addition to
contributing to suspending bottom wall 204. Annular sidewall 206 is
formed of soft flexible material and may include a patchwork of
solid cotton fabric panels 251 and breathable mesh fabric 252.
However, any type of material that will not scratch or injure an
infant may be used. Panels 251 may be formed of a solid cotton
fabric for durability. As discussed later, annular sidewall 206 can
be folded and formed into compact folded configuration 16, yet
serves as a semi-rigid wall for providing lateral support when
under tension in deployed configuration 11.
[0070] Front and back tunnels 208, 210 (FIG. 1) are formed to
suspend bassinet shell 202 from annular upper rim frame 102. Front
and back tunnels 208, 210 may be sewn onto upper annular edge 220
of annular side wall 206 or may be an extension of annular side
wall 206. Front and back tunnels 208, 210 may be formed of a soft
material padded with batting to cushion around front rim tube 116
and back rim tube 122. Front and back tunnels 208, 210 are
constructed to form a front passageway in front tunnel 208 having
open ends 264, 266 and a back passageway in back tunnel 210 having
open ends 268, 270 (FIG. 4). Accordingly, front rim tube 116 is
threaded through the front passageway in front tunnel 208 and back
rim tube 122 is threaded through the back passageway in back tunnel
210.
[0071] Removable pad 216 is disposed on top surface 228 of bottom
wall 204 of bassinet shell 202 and may include any conventional pad
having a substantially elliptical shape corresponding to the shape
of bassinet shell 202. Removable pad 216 may be made of a cloth
material having a batting filling. Crease 292 (FIG. 4) may be
formed in removable pad 216, for example, using a seam to provide
flexibility for lateral edges 288, 290 as discussed below with
reference to FIG. 18A.
[0072] A known nylon webbing three-point restraint may be
incorporated into bassinet shell 202 to support the infant in
deployed infant seat configuration 14.
[0073] Although a particular embodiment of bassinet shell 202 has
been described above, other configurations and materials may be
used so long as, for example, the bassinet shell is suspended from
the frame in a manner appropriate to support the infant in either
of the bassinet and infant seat configurations and the bassinet
shell is easily folded into compact folded configuration 16 along
with frame 100.
[0074] Referring now to FIGS. 17-19, infant recline/seat feature
222 will now be described. In particular, FIGS. 17, 18 and 18A
illustrate back end 226 of bottom wail 204 in deployed infant seat
configuration 14, whereas FIG. 1 and FIG. 18B illustrate the
deployed bassinet configuration 12. Infant recline/seat feature 222
includes a support strap assembly 214 of the type described for use
with a stroller in U.S. Pat. No. 5,590,896 issued Jan. 7, 1997 to
the same assignee as the instant application and the disclosure of
which is incorporated herein by reference. Support strap assembly
214 includes straps 272, 274. Each strap 272, 274 includes an end
276, 278, respectively, attached to upper annular edge 220 of
annular side wall 206 by a seam, for example. In addition, each
strap 272, 274 has an end 280, 282 to which a connector is
attached. The connector may include any conventional easy connect
connector such as a buckle as shown.
[0075] When straps 272, 274 are connected to each other, they form
a support raised above where bottom wall 204 of bassinet shell 202
would otherwise rest as illustrated by the comparison of FIGS. 18A
and 18B, for example. In use, back end 201 of bottom wall 204 is
raised to an angled position and straps 272, 274 are interconnected
to support back end 201 of bottom wall 204 in deployed infant seat
configuration 14. As illustrated in FIG. 1 and FIG. 18B, when
straps 272, 274 are not in use, they simply hang along side annular
side wall 206 of bassinet shell 202. Once straps 272, 274 have been
disconnected, the back end of bassinet shell 202 naturally returns
to bassinet configuration 12 due to its own weight and gravity.
[0076] It is within the scope of the invention to raise and/or tilt
bottom wall 204 of bassinet shell 202 in any manner desirable. For
example, the front end of bassinet shell 202 may also include a
strap and buckle connector that when joined will support front end
224 of bottom wall 204 of bassinet shell 202 in a raised position
to provide an alternate seating position for the infant. A variety
of known seat back recline mechanisms which could be adapted for
use with the disclosed bassinet shell in ways apparent to the
artisan.
[0077] Furthermore, in accordance with the invention and as also
illustrated in FIGS. 15, 16, 16A, 17, 18A and 18C, the infant
product may also be constructed to provide additional lateral
support at the back end of bassinet shell 202 to cradle the upper
end of the infant in the deployed infant seat configuration 14.
This may be accomplished, for example, through the use of straps
272, 274, just described, in combination with the V-shaped notches
242, 244, 246, 248 of elastic material formed in lower cover 234
and upper cover 232, respectively, and V-shaped notches 258, 260 in
rigid panel 240 of bottom wall 204. Accordingly, straps 272, 274
can compress against and into bottom wall 204 to create lateral
protuberances 271, 273 (FIGS. 18A, 18C) extending upwardly from
otherwise planar back end 226 of bottom wall 204. With
protuberances 271, 273, the portion of bottom wall 204
corresponding to the upper body and head of an infant forms a
V-shape or cradle (FIG. 18A). When removable pad 216 is positioned
on bottom wall 204, removable pad 216 conforms to the shape of
bottom wall 204, thereby also forming a cradle shown generally at
217 in FIG. 18A. Crease 292 facilitates the displacement of lateral
edges 288, 290 of removable pad 216. As illustrated in FIG. 18B,
when straps 272, 274 are not connected, removable pad 216 is
substantially flat.
[0078] This cradle feature may be implemented in variety of ways
and is not limited to the structure described herein. For example,
the back end 226 of bottom wall 204 may include a three-way fold,
which may be implemented using a three-piece rigid back panel 240.
Another way to provide lateral support for an infant, which also
may be used in accordance with the invention, is described in the
context of a stroller in U.S. Pat. No. 5,441,328 issued Aug. 15,
1995, which has the same assignee as the instant invention and the
disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
[0079] Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 19-21 canopy 212 will be
discussed in detail. Canopy 212 is attached to the back end of
bassinet shell 202 and is convertible between an open tensioned
position as shown, for example, in FIG. 1 and a closed relaxed
position shown, for example, in FIG. 21.
[0080] Canopy 212 generally includes fabric panel 300, ribs or
stays 302, 304 and connectors 306, 308. Fabric panel 300 can be
made of any lightweight material or cloth that is generally
inelastic. Sewn into fabric panel 300 are sleeves 310, 312 in
spaced relationship into which stays 302, 304 are threaded as
illustrated in FIG. 19. Accordingly, stays 302, 304 are separated
from each other. Stays 302, 304 may be made of resilient material
such as extruded plastic. Stays 302, 304, when inserted into
sleeves 310, 312 in fabric panel 300 hold the arcuate shape of
canopy 212. Connector 306 may include any suitable mechanism for
releasably coupling front edge 320 of fabric panel 300 to a
supporting structure so as to place fabric panel 300 in tension.
Suitable connectors include buckles, hook-and-loop fasteners,
zippers, magnetic catches, J-hooks, etc.
[0081] Canopy 212 is held in the open position by connectors 306,
308 as illustrated in FIGS. 19A and 20. FIG. 19A shows connector
306, for example, in a connected position and FIG. 20 shows
connector 306 in a released position. Connectors 306, 308 are
identical, accordingly, only connector 306 is described in detail.
Connector 306 includes tab 314 of cloth material sewn to front edge
320 of fabric panel 300, a male snap 316 provided on tab 314, and a
female snap 318 provided on bassinet shell 202. Accordingly, canopy
212 is held in the open tensioned position by engaging snaps 316,
318. When connectors 306, 308 are released, canopy 212 is foldable
into a flat configuration at back end 201 and rests along back rim
tube 122 as illustrated in FIG. 21.
[0082] Canopy 212 in accordance with the invention may be used on
any type of infant product. For example, as illustrated in FIGS.
21A and 21B, canopy 212 may be provided on a conventional bouncer
seat 400. FIG. 21A shows canopy 412 in the flat closed position and
FIG. 21B shows canopy 412 in the open expanded position.
Accordingly, it is within the scope of the invention to use the
canopy in a variety of infant products.
[0083] The Method of Folding and Unfolding the Infant Product
[0084] Referring now to FIGS. 22-25, the manner of converting frame
100 from deployed configuration 11 into compact folded
configuration 16 will now be described. Of course, the steps would
be performed in reverse to convert from compact folded
configuration 16 into deployed configuration 11.
[0085] To begin folding deployed configuration 11, it does not
matter whether bassinet shell 202 is in deployed bassinet
configuration 12 or deployed infant seat configuration 14. The
method is a three-step folding process. First, front leg 104 is
pivoted as illustrated by directional arrows in FIG. 22 about
180.degree. to its folded position at which point front leg 104
detents against back leg brackets 112, 114.
[0086] Referring now to FIG. 23, secondly, back leg 106 is pivoted
about 100.degree. into its folded position at which point side legs
130, 132 detent against the exterior side wall of housings 154, 156
of structural hubs 108, 110.
[0087] Finally, thirdly, referring to FIGS. 24-25, front rim tube
116 is pivoted about 150.degree. about structural hubs 108, 110
until it is positioned substantially adjacent and rests on back rim
tube 122.
[0088] FIGS. 26-29 show the same conversion, but with the finished
product, i.e., frame 100 and soft goods 200.
[0089] In the compact folded configuration 16, the infant product
includes a generally flat configuration having an end 500 and a
handle 504 which is formed by back leg 106. End 500 may be slidably
disposed within a carrying case 502 as illustrated in FIG. 31.
Accordingly, handle 504 which extends outwardly from carrying case
502 can be used for carrying the infant product in compact folded
configuration 16.
[0090] Carrying case 502 may be formed of nylon material and is
used to protect and keep clean the folded infant device. When
carrying case 502 is not in use, it may be stored on bassinet shell
202. In particular, a pocket may be formed, for example, by sewing
on bottom surface 230 of bottom wall 204 of bassinet shell 202.
Accordingly, carrying case 502 can be folded and slidably disposed
within the pocket for storage during use of the infant product.
* * * * *